Just A Thought

So Happy To Be Back!

2009-11-08T23:27:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone. My computer was out of commision for a few months but it seems to be back to normal now. Soooo much has happened since last time I posted, so little time to tell all. I'm sure glad we're in my very favorite season of all. The days are so beautiful, so colorful & the best is when the days are chilly. I will share a few new pictures soon & I'll be changing the outdated pics of my family. Its taken me a few hours to go through my friends' blogs & see all the pictures I've missed, that was fun. Well, they'll be more to come! Happy fall everyone.

I'd Like To Share?...

2009-07-22T08:34:00.004-04:00

Part of my morning devotional if I may. You know, sometimes days can be so ordinary, then there are days when you read something, even as much as a few sentences and it can transform your entire being in just a few short words. We don't all receive things the same, for example what may speak to me, won't necessarily speak to the other person, it usually depends on circumstance. I'm not the type that's easily impressed or struck however this morn I'm compelled to share this with you what grabbed a hold on my heart in the hopes that it can bless your heart as it did me. This is from my book "One Day At A Time" by William Macdonald. If you don't have it, get it & read it. This is no advertisement, just a recommendation.
Herman Melville wrote: "We cannot live for ourselves alone. Our lives are connected by thousand invisible threads, and along these sympathetic fibers, our actions run as causes and return to us as results."
You are writing a Gospel, a chapter each day, By the deeds that you do, by the words that you say, Men read what you write whether faithless or true: Say! What is the Gospel according to you?
When asked which of the Gospels was his favorite, one man answered, "The Gospel according to my mother." John Wesley once said, "I learned more about Christianity from my mother than from all the theologians of England." It is sobering to realize that someone looks at each one of us and thinks, "That's just what a Christian should be." It may be son or daughter, a friend or neighbor, a teacher or student. You are his hero, his model, his ideal. He watches you more closely than you think. Your business life, church life, family life, prayer life - all these set a pattern for him to imitate.
Robert G. Lee wrote: "You can no mere prevent what you are, what you say, and what you do from affecting other people than you can prevent your body from casting a shadow in sunlight. What you are within you shows without, with no ambiguous. You exert an influence which mere language and strong persuasion are feeble to express."
{Indeed sobering thoughts}

I'd like to recognize a dear, sweet friend that for the sake of embarrassment I won't reveal any names. (I know you read my blog) Anyway, this friend came looking for me & was there for me when I least expect it. My dear friend came when I really needed someone during these past weeks of serious trials & conflicts in my life. This persons concern, willingness to listen, & compassion has been a wonderful testimony to me of genuine Christlike behavior. I could only want to "imitate" & follow this example. I can only hope that when your time of grief or trials come, dear friend, that I would be there to catch you as you were to me. Thank you again, for caring for me (don't know why), & for helping emotionally & spiritually.
Prov. 18:24.

I Had fun with this!

2009-07-03T16:45:00.001-04:00

40 words

Here's A Thought...

2009-06-22T17:06:00.003-04:00

Today I was watching Kent Hovind's seminar on YouTube & he was talking about the age of the earth. He's a great expounder on the subjects of creation vs evolution. I highly recommend it. Anyway, he said, which I thought was just fabulous! Maybe some of you won't think much of it but as for me I thought Amen! Regarding the universe and how it was created he mentioned that if you look up the word "uni" in the dictionary it means "one". If you look up the word "verse" it means "a sentence or part of a sentence". So you have "universe" & it means "one-sentence", well, the Bible says in Genesis 1:1 - In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth". That's creation in "one-sentence" or one-verse, if you will. Am I right or have I gone off the deep end? I thought that was great. Tell me your thoughts.

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T01:08:00.008-04:00

I dedicate this little poem to all the hardworking, loving, devoted fathers, specially to my sweet husband who is my love and my best friend.

Fathers are wonderful people,
too little understood,
And we do not sing their praises
as often as we should,
For Father struggles daily
to live up to his image
As protector and provider
and hero of the scrimmage,
And perhaps that is the reason
we sometimes get the notion
That fathers are not subject
to the thing we call emotion.
But if you look inside Dad's heart,
where no one else can see,
You'll find he's sentimental
and soft as he can be.
Fathers are just wonderful
in a million different ways,
And they merit loving compliments
and accolades of praise,
For the only reason Dad aspires
to fortune and success
Is to make the family proud of him
and bring them happiness,
And like our heavenly Father,
he's a guardian and a guide,
Someone we can count onto be always on our side. Author unknown

You Have to See these amazing animals just click below

2009-06-13T17:38:00.001-04:00

Top 10 Most Talented Pets : Videos : Animal Planet

(the grey parrot and the skate boarding bull dog had me in stiches!)

Want Ideas On What to Do This Summer?

2009-06-03T14:23:00.003-04:00

Click below...
101 Things To Do This Summer - Homeschooling Articles - Homeschool.com - Your Virtual Homeschool

Shared via AddThis

A Very Interesting Read

2009-06-01T23:35:00.002-04:00

Why does happiness elude modern women? Opinion Articles - Meghan Cox Gurdon Editorials on Top News Stories Washington Examiner

Shared via AddThis

More of sweet Natalie...

2009-05-29T21:31:00.002-04:00

Proud daddy. This is my nephew Jaime.

The happy grandparents. My sister Annabelle and my bro. in law Jimmy.

Little Blessings...

2009-05-27T08:31:00.004-04:00

Hi all. I sure have missed blogging. Alot has happened since the last time I blogged. I'm working now as a Home Health aide for those who weren't aware & my day is packed with things to do, from loads of laundry just waiting there for me to school papers ready to be corrected. My sweetheart of a daughter has been a great help to me though, I must say. She's learned to prepare light dinners, help load -dry and fold laundry and she make sure her dad and brothers get their dinners on time when I'm not able to do it. I'm certainly blessed. Speaking of blessings, I am happy to announce the arrival of my great-niece, from my sisters eldest son. Her name is Natalie Anne Gonzalez. I'm so happy to be a "great-aunt". Do you know that where I was born I wouldn't be called a great-aunt but it would be translated as "auntie grandma"! Umm... I think I'll stick to the the good ol' American translation ;). Anyway, for now, this is the only picture of her, I don't think it does her justice. Isn't she beautiful? Even if you can only see her eyes & nose? Here she's waving hello. I will be posting more in the weeks to come.

On another note, since warm weather is coming our way I've been searching through web for some modest swimwear for my daughter & I. I came across some good ones, some expensive, some reasonable, some I have no comment on (if you get my drift) & some that have the sewing patterns for those of you who prefer making your own. I myself prefer the "already-made" ones.

http://www.dressingforhisglory.com/store/

http://www.modestswimwearsolutions.com/

http://www.wholesomewear.com/

http://www.modestswimwear4u.com/english/english.html

http://www.hydrochic.com/

http://www.fashionablymodestpatterns.com/

And may I leave you with this definition of modesty that I found and I liked very much:

"What is Modesty and why is it so important for the Christian woman to understand, dress & behave modestly? Modesty is the voluntary personal responsibility to behave & dress in such a manner as to not purposely draw attention to oneself, to not think proudly of oneself and it's a decision to protect from purposeful or "unintended" enticement in inappropriate ways & places."

Of course theres nothing more important & more accurate than what the Bible says regarding modesty in 1Timothy 2:9-10.

Have a blessed day and thanks for stopping by.

End Times...

2009-04-02T19:38:00.004-04:00

To family & friends;
I just had to make time for this. I can't think of anything else more important. Please, please take a few minutes and listen to this video. Look around, times are changing and its because the Lord Jesus is coming back soon and we all need to be ready.
with love,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwiH4cBG7bg

See ya soon!

2009-03-24T09:02:00.003-04:00

Hi all. I'm taking a little leave of absense from blogging, probably till the summer. (I know, I know, I haven't been a blogging machine either) I'll miss you all, but at the moment there are things that need my full attention & time. Take care all & see you when the weather is warm or "warmer". However, I will be visiting my blog archive from time to time, so keep me posted.

Happy Birthday To My Hubby!

2009-03-08T22:20:00.006-04:00

Happy Birthday to my love and my best friend & may there be many more! We had a small surprise party just between friends today after church, unfortunately my mind was so preoccupied with the occasion that I dint remember to get batteries for Giovanna's camera. I wish I would of taken a picture of his face when he came through the door, he was definitely surprised. Oh well... :)

Great Flick!

2009-03-05T20:52:00.004-05:00

Last time I found a good movie to watch it was the 5 part series of Janette Oke's "Love Comes Softly", because honestly its very hard to find a movie that is wholesome & safe to watch.
If you're looking for a love story without the filth then this ones for you. I recommend "Fireproof" it is very good, you don't have to worry about any suggestive themes or language. I'd have to say the only thing I din't like was the soundtrack. If anyone has seen it I'd like to know what you thought. Or you can watch the trailer at http://www.fireproofthemovie.com/
Thanks for stopping by :)

Our 13th Wedding Anniversary

2009-03-02T16:38:00.008-05:00

Today my husband & I are celebrating our 13th wedding anniversary. We met in May of 1995, in Ronkonkoma deli on vets hwy. Where he worked. I'd go to get coffee every morning before work and I use to think it was funny that there were about 8 people behind the counter of this very busy deli & when I'd come in magically they'd all disappear? "Hmm," I thought to myself. And there my beloved would be always at the register with a big smile on his face just waiting there for me. To make a long story short we became engaged in October 1995 & then married in March 2, 1996, during a blizzard, kind of like the one we had today. Today we think back to that blizzard and I remember that day everyone would say, "oh what a shame its snowing". But you know what... That day I could care less, all I knew is that the snow made everything all the more beautiful. My beloved husband & I have discovered after 13 yrs. that when we first met of course theres the initial attraction, but as time goes by, with the day to day living thats when true love begins, but nothing compares to a husband in the Lord. Anyway, sorry about the little pictures but I don't have much practice with scanning and sizing ect. I put in a silly pic, the one where Gary is wearing those big sun glasses, that was taken after his wrestling match a few months after we first met(he-he).

Spring Is In The Air

2009-02-27T18:07:00.005-05:00

What is it about daisies? I don't know but they just make me happy. It was difficult to find a spring background I liked but when I did I saw daisies & I thought, "why not stick with the daisy theme?" I'm glad I did. Plus I was getting kind of tired of dark colors I felt like something bright and springy.

Anywho, to those of Irish descent... Happy St. Patricks day laddies! Ok ok I know its not St. Patty's day yet but this is just incase I forget. For those who might be interested, heres a little info. on St. Patrick. Saint Patrick was a saint in the Biblical sense according to Romans 1:7; 1st Cor. 1:2; & Eph. 1:1. He was a great Bible quoting preacher of the gospel. Patrick never appealed to any creed, Pope or council, yet in his writings brief as they were - no fewer than 113 passages of scripture are either quoted or mentioned. As a lad of 16, he was made to tend the flocks of his pagan Irish master on the mountains of Slemish. He was converted calling upon the Lord, escaped his slavery and went back to live with his family in Britain again. The Lord called him back to Ireland with the message of salvation through faith in the Lord Jesus. Today he is known around the world as the man who brought the gospel back to Ireland.

"Thinking Out Of the Box..."

2009-02-13T18:15:00.007-05:00

My daughter has been studying the planets in Science. I started to remember when I was in school I loved when I got to learn about the planets, stars, different galaxies ect. I also thought about how comical it is that there are some who are so uninterested with this subject, its almost like to them its enough that the earth is round, it turns & its where they live. Then I think, how is it that they just don't find it interesting? And well, that's ok, I mean we can't expect everyone to think alike. And others like myself love watching Nova, Nat.-Geo., or Discovery channel just to learn more about these hidden wonders. I say "hidden" because they are not in out eye view everyday, unless we own a microscope. I know now being a child of God I see everything differently. I can certainly appreciate these things much more. I look at these wonderous masses in space with awe & delight & I think my God made them, how great is He. Psalm 8:3,4-
When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained ;4- What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?
Anyway, here's to you all who are fascinated with space. The other day I was reading about the size scale of stars bigger than our sun. I was so amazed about what I learned. No doubt some of you probably know this but I read about the biggest star known to man. Here we think how huge our sun is, well nothing compared to Canis Majoris, located about 5,000 light-years from Earth. Placed in our Solar System, its surface would extend out past the orbit of Saturn. Light takes more than 8 hours to cross its circumference! Still, I'm sure there are still bigger stars out there we don't know about. One of these giants, 10th place in the count down from Canis Majoris is a star called Betlegeuse.
If Earth was the size of a golfball. Betlegeuse would be the diameter of 6 Empire State Buildings. If the Earth was the size of a golfball, and you were the tiniest little person on that golfball. Wow thats incredibly big, imagine how big Majoris could be? I think even if we had exact figures we wouldn't be able to begin comprehending.
I have a video here of the size scale, I promise its short & interesting & will give you a whole new perspective, well, at least for the rest of the day anyway. Thanks for stopping by. Good day all.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GM0blsuCjlA

Happy Birthday Giovanna

2009-02-07T08:36:00.016-05:00

Here are some of my favorite pics throughout the years of her. Born February 7, 1998, 11:am, 7 lbs. & 15 ozs.

Happy Birthday to my favorite girl!

Here Giovanna is showing us her b-day gift from Brooke. Its a best friend necklace and they both have half of the heart. How precious these 2 are!

What Is Your Learning Style?

2009-01-29T10:36:00.008-05:00

Ever wonder why in school you were the type of person who practically killed themselves studying for a test and when you thought your brain was about to explode, you take the test and you get not an excellent grade but an "ok" grade. Meanwhile, a friend of yours studying the same material, heard the same lesson, copied the same notes, you know for a fact they hardly studied & to your amazement when they get their test back their score is an A+?! Or vice versa of course. Yep, you guessed it, that was my dilemma all throughout school. I took scores of pages of notes, loved it & hated when some of my teachers spoke for 45 min. My avarage test score was 70's or 80's & I'd study for hours. When I got older & worked in offices sticky notes were my best friends, I wrote everything down! (great invention by the way), well if by chance I din't write a phone # down or anything else, within seconds it was gone from my mind. On the other hand my husband, when he was in school did a little studying, scored great on his tests & actually liked it when teachers spoke the entire length of the class. He never took notes, still doesn't, & never writes down a phone number! I'd usually be the one saying things like, "hun, remember this #." I don't need a calculator when he goes food shopping with me because he's done the math in his head already. I've heard of people memorizing Bible chapter & verses & when you ask them they know exactly what to say. Now, I find this extremely interesting. I mean, how does that happen? You can attribute this to much dedication, self discipline, or even luck (which I don't really rely on anyway). Well a while ago I learned about different learning styles we all have. There are 3 major styles.
1. Visual learners:
-take numerous detailed notes
-tend to sit in the front
-are usually neat and clean
-often close their eyes to visualize or remember something
-find something to watch if they are bored
2. Auditory learners:
-sit where they can hear but needn't pay attention to what is happening in front
-may not coordinate colors or clothes, but can explain why they are wearing what they are wearing and why
-hum or talk to themselves or others when bored
-acquire knowledge by reading aloud
3. Kinesthetic learners:
- need to be active and take frequent breaks
-speak with their hands and with gestures
-remember what was done, but have difficulty recalling what was said or seen
-find reasons to tinker or move when bored

I took this quiz and here is my result below. I am a visual learner. Though believe me I have no interest in being the next Bill Gates. I'm interested to know your learning style & any other comments. Thanks for stopping by.

You Are a Visual Learner

You tend to remember what you see, and you have a good eye for aesthetics.
You excel at art, design, and computer programming.
You would be an excellent film director - or the next Bill Gates!

What's" Your Learning Style?

Snowman Making This morning

2009-01-28T14:57:00.010-05:00

Hard at work.

Pretty fashionable huh?

Till tragedy struck.

Toby & Timber

2009-01-24T10:40:00.007-05:00

Meet these little "sweetie pies", which is what I call them everytime I see them. Aren't they just precious? Toby (left) & Timber (right) are male Pomeranians, they are the Rivera's dogs. I had to take this picture from my window while they were out. Contrary to the bad reputation this breed gets such as being feisty, nasty, ankle bitters these little guys are extremely friendly, sweet as can be & would be basically go with anyone who gives them the time of day.

Happy Birthday Missy!

2009-01-23T09:18:00.002-05:00

Happy birthday to my dearest friend. You are very special to me and I am so thankful the Lord put you in my my life. Thank you for being there for me. Love you & I hope you have a wonderful day!

Prov. 27:9- Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.

Picture Tag!

2009-01-11T15:19:00.005-05:00

I've been tagged by Giovanna. Thanks for letting me play ;)

The Rules:
1. Choose the 4th folder, where you store pictures on your computer.

2. Select the 4th picture in the folder.

3. Explain the picture.

4.Tag four people to do the same.

5. NO CHEATING!! (CROPPING,EDITING, ETC..)

This was my 4th pic and its of Cotopaxi Volcano, the World's Highest Active Volcano in Ecuador. I love to collect and view images of high mountains & pretty snow capped volcanoes. I'm a huge fan.

Ok, so I'd like to tag...

1. Gina - FG Radfam

2. Maritza - One day at a time

3. Mary - The Way It Is

4. Counselor Ty - CT Lets Go Stars!

Something I came across,

2009-01-08T12:04:00.005-05:00

very interesting. This is suppose to be a post card from 1917. Its my old elementary school, I attended 1st-5th grades here. The town of Elmhurst in Queens has named it a landmark. I was reminiscing with my kids about some of the highlights that I remember. Like having assembly every Tuesday & even though we weren't required to wear uniforms everyday we were required to dress for assembly; girls were required to wear a white blouse, a red scarf & a navy blue skirt, boys navy pants, white dress shirt & red tie. I also remember my class play (2nd gr. I think), where we sang "raining drops keep falling on my head" with yellow raincoats & umbrellas. On a sad note I do recall some of my teachers weren't very nice & that's putting it mildly but its not worth getting into that now. Once again, I'm just thankful that my kids don't have to go through that.

This is only a test

2009-01-07T15:15:00.001-05:00

Hi there. Just testing to see how my signature came out. Have a nice day. (he-he)

Just Thought I'd Share...

2009-01-06T09:06:00.006-05:00

I know its Jan. 6th, but when I read this devotional on the 1st I haven't been able to get it out of my mind. Its from the devotional book "One Day At A Time" by William Macdonald. Its simple, to the point & I sure needed it. When I read it I thought, "what a great way to start off the year". This is the best I can do with the pic but if you click on it you'd be able to see it a bit better. Have a good day.

I've been nominated!

2008-12-30T10:38:00.004-05:00

I've received an award from Melissa from What A Wonderful Life, thank you for nominating my blog.

I'd like to nominate:

1. Joel Hazra : Where I Walked

2. Biblicalwomanhood

3. Giovanna : Sunny Days!

The Rules for this award are:

1. Put the logo on your blog or post.
2. Nominate Blogs that you think are super.
3. Let them know that you have given them this Uber Amazing Blog Award by commenting on their blog.
4. Share the love and link to this post and to the person you received your award from.

Happy Birthday Chris!

2008-12-29T18:49:00.007-05:00

Wow time sure flies! Now I know what my mom meant & it only took me 36 yrs. to realize it (ha-ha).

Sorry if its repeated but I love this pic. It seemed like just "yesterday" (another expression I've learned to understand) that I was a very young mother. He was born on a chilly Dec. 29th morn., at 5:03 am, 7 lbs.- 13 oz. And here I was in my room, on New Years eve of 1989 when I came home from the hospital & in my arms I was feeding this tiny being that managed to steal my heart. I remember thinking, "how in the world am I gonna do this"? I din't mean taking care of a baby because I did have practice with alot of babysitting & believe me, now I know its still not the same. I meant taking care of this little life that depended on me for everything! It was scary & very overwhelming, but somehow we made it through. And... on a side note, I got news for you, in my opinion giving birth is the easy part, its raising the kids that's where the real challenge is. I said "we" because the first 6 yrs. of his life it was just him & I, before I met my sweet husband. "Sweet" because he took him in as if he were his own. Chris, till this day, has a unique "people friendly" quality that makes most people just at ease when he's around them. I admire it, but I can tell you it din't come from me. He was happy as a baby, happy all through school, well, just a happy person. He knows what I've always said to him & about him, "you'd be-friend a lamp post if you could". After countless soccer & baseball practices, games, school activities, colds, first days' of school, late night talks, ect... I'd be glad to do it all over again. Chris have a great day. I pray for you everyday. Love you & miss you.

P.S. - you still have my heart!

Oh' Christmas Tree..

2008-12-25T22:47:00.009-05:00

So much to be thankful for.

Christmas Morn,

My brother & me

My boy & me. And more pics to come...

Merry Christmas Eve !

2008-12-24T11:03:00.004-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone!! My family & I would like to wish everyone a blessed, safe & wonderful day. Cherish old memories, make new ones, hold fast to loved ones.

Tis The Season...

2008-12-06T10:20:00.001-05:00

To change my blog background

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2008-11-29T15:35:00.004-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful, enjoyable, warm & might I add, delicious holiday! I was so incredibily busy this day that I could just cry at the thought of forgetting to take pictures :( I must remember next time.

I'm thankful for so many things but just to name a few; My good/sweet husband, my dear kids Chris, Joey & Giovanna, my Pastor & his family, my church family, my dear friends & most of all my Lord & Saviour who, without Him nothing or nobody I just mentioned could be possible.

Happy Birthday Joey

2008-11-24T22:12:00.007-05:00

Where does the time go? I think on every birthday I start thinking to myself, "oh I remember how little he/she was" which ever one of my kids is having a birthday on that particular day. Joseph Calogero Rannazzisi was born Nov. 23, 2000 at 11am. I remember going to the hospital at 4am on a bitter cold night (all of my kids just don't like to be born in warm weather). He weighed a shocking 9lbs -5 ozs. & 23 in. long. The nurses even gave him a nick name, they called him "Mighty Joe" after the huge gorilla in the famous movie Mighty Joe Young. I just love these pics of Joey sorry they might look a bit blurry since I don't have a scanner & I re-took them. He had a huge birthday cookie which we all shared with some of our good friends. Joey later said daddy "this was the best birthday I ever had".

First Islanders Game

2008-11-20T10:15:00.006-05:00

Giovanna had such a good time last Saturday when she went to the Islanders with her dad. She's not much of a sports fan but I know that just the fact that she was spending time with her dad it din't matter to her where she was.

Painting

2008-11-18T11:24:00.008-05:00

Dear readers,
As part of my preparation for Thanksgiving I'm painting my livingroom. As you can see I am very partial to warm colors but I've come to dilema where I have to decide on what color would go best on my next wall (that would be the white wall next to the newly painted wall.) I don't want to paint the entire L/R the same color, I'd like a little accent. I've enclosed color swatches & I think if you click on it you can get a close up on the colors. Heres a sneak peek into my livingroom to show you what I mean. Oh, decisions decisions! Would someone please help me out & I'll post my results for the winning color on Thanksgiving. Thank you in advance.
PS. -Please excuse my L/R appearance I'm waiting for furniture too ;)

Arts n' Crafts

2008-11-15T18:05:00.004-05:00

We're getting ready for the Thanksgiving festivities in our home. For Thanksgiving day 2 families are going to share a wonderful meal, laughs & memories. A total 36 family & friends, I can't wait, I just love being surrounded by my loved ones. Anyway, here the kids are making Thanksgiving place mats, which later on we'll laminate & they could actually use at dinner time & keep for years to come. I'll post the finished product with the rest of my Thanksgiving pics. Even the beloved Toby (the Pomeranian) got in this shot.

Happy Birthday Naty

2008-11-14T14:33:00.003-05:00

This is my first cousin on my moms side. She lives all the way in Ecuador & unfortunatley I couldn't find a recent picture of her. And I haven't seen her since 1987 I think. But we still keep in touch through emails.

I'm Stuffin?

2008-11-12T08:39:00.003-05:00

This is my result from a Thanksgiving quiz that I took from a friend's blog. Thanks Melissa that was fun! I recommend it.

You Are The Stuffing

You're complicated and complex, yet all your pieces fit together.
People miss you if you're gone - but they're not sure why.

http://www.blogthings.com/whatpartofthanksgivingareyouquiz/">What Part of Thanksgiving Are You?

Heres A Thought:

2008-11-11T19:27:00.002-05:00

As a homeschooling mom, I've been asked the world famous question, that from what I've read, every homeschooling parent gets asked sooner or later. Can you guess what it might be? Yes... what about socialization? Oh boy! It makes my eye twitch. But I try to answer it the best that I can. In the meantime, I found this little bit of info. about people were homeschooled & who, in my opinion, din't appear to have a socialization issue?

Famous Homeschoolers:

PRESIDENTS:
John Quincy Adams
William Henry Harrison
Thomas Jefferson
Abraham Lincoln
James Madison
Franklin Delano Roosevelt
Theodore Roosevelt
John Tyler
George Washington
Woodrow Wilson

PREACHERS & RELIGIOUS LEADERS:
Moses
Joan of Arc
John the Baptist
William Cary
Jonathan Edwards
Phillip Melanchthon
Dwight L. Moody
John Newton
John Owen
Charles Wesley
John Wesley
Brigham Young

SCIENTISTS:
George Washington Carver
Pierre Curie
Albert Einstein
Blaise Pascal
Booker T. Washington

STATESMEN:
Konrad Adenauer
Winston Churchill
Benjamin Franklin
Patrick Henry
William Penn
Henry Clay

U.S SUPPREME COURT JUDGES:
John Jay
John Marshall
John Rutledge
WRITERS:
Hans Christian Andersen
Pearl S. Buck
Agatha Christie
Charles Dickens
Bret Harte
C.S. Lewis
Sean O'Casey
George Bernard Shaw
Mark Twain
Mercy Warren
Daniel Webster
Phillis Wheatley

CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION DELEGATES:
Richard Basset (Governor of Delaware)
William Blount (U.S. Senator)
George Clymer (U.S. Representative)
William Few (U.S. Senator)
Benjamin Franklin (Inventor and Statesman)
William Houston (Lawyer)
William S. Johnson (President of Columbia C.)
William Livingston (Governor of New Jersey)
James Madison - 4th President of the U.S.
George Mason
John Francis Mercer (U.S. Representative)
Charles Pickney III (Governor of S. Carolina)
John Rutledge (Chief Justice U.S. Supreme Court)
Richard D. Spaight (Governor of N. Carolina)
George Washington - 1st President of the U.S.
John Witherspoon (President of Princeton U.)
George Wythe (Justice of Virginia High Court)

A New Look!

2008-11-11T17:28:00.002-05:00

Again. I think that website with the free blog backgrounds is awesome, I love the idea of changing backgrounds according to your liking. I can't wait till Christmas. As always thanks for stopping by. ;o)

Just Love The Fall...

2008-11-10T10:44:00.010-05:00

and the beauty it brings from my bedroom window on a quiet Sunday afternoon. Sorry if I've mentioned loving the fall a few dozen times, I guess we'd all get the picture. Ok, I'll move on.

And we're back to Monday mornings.

I find it so interesting the way kids, or "Joey" in this case, can be so resourceful when they want to be. For those relatives who've asked what he'd like for his birthday, please save your capital & just get the kid a box & some wheels please! (just kidding folks). Seriously, he found some wheels & an old empty box so he decided to make a little cart for himself. He even supplied himself with some pliers to poke the holes in the boxes. I don't remember being this way as a child. Come to think of it he probably gets this from his dad. As I recall, from the stories my mother in law has told me, my husband use to make little homemade wrestling rink with some cardboard & some rubber bands & he'd play endlessly with his wrestling figures. The other day Joey asks, "mommy can I use some duct tape"? Now, I'm thinking, um... duct tape? Well now I regret not having taken a picture of that creation. He wrapped some tape around some trees outside & said it was a giant spider web?

A Little Bit Of History

2008-10-22T09:11:00.011-04:00

By sharing this bit of history I wish to communicate the dangers of celebrating Halloween, why it should be a big deal & why our family chooses not to have any part in it no matter how cute or safe it may appear. Some may innocently not know all the facts & wisely choose not celebrate it, & some may know very well choose to ignore the evil thereof. I will simply explain basic history which I suggest you research. There are so many fun things to do during the fall season with your kids, this shouldn't be one of them! I've shared with my kids that my life has not benefited one bit from when I was a child from celebrating that holiday, from dressing up as something hideous to watching scary - bloody movies that made me experience things that as a young child I should have never seen. Now, regardless whether these things sound too far fetched, to me it is enough with all this holiday is linked to to see its wickedness. So to those who seek wisdom, as I myself once did, I hope this helps.

Many celebrate holidays, such as Halloween, without thinking about their origins or true meaning.

For several hundred years before Christ, the Celts inhabited what is now France, Germany, England, Scotland and Ireland. Celtic priests were called Druids. The ancient Irish texts say little about human sacrifices, but detail the Druids' use of magic to raise storms, lay curses on places, kill by the use of spells, and create magical obstacles.

These Druids believed that on the night before Nov. 1 (Oct. 31) Samhain called together wicked souls or spirits which had been condemned to live in the bodies of animals during the year which had just transpired. Since they were afraid of these spirits, they chose Oct. 31st as a day to sacrifice to their gods, hoping they would protect them. They really believed that on this day they were surrounded by strange spirits, ghosts, witches, fairies, and elves, who came out to hurt them. Also they believed that cats were holy animals, they considered them to represent people who were once alive, and as punishment for evil deeds were reincarnated as a cat. All this explains why witches, ghosts, and cats are a part of Halloween today.
During the Middle Ages (about 600 years ago), the Roman Catholic Church at that time, decided to make the change-over from pagan religion to Christianity a bit easier, and therefore allowed the new converts to maintain some of their pagan feasts. It was agreed, however, that from now on they would be celebrated as "Christian" feasts. So instead, they would now pray to, and remember the deaths of saints. For this reason the church decided to call Nov. 1 the "Day of All Saints," and the mass to be celebrated on that day "Alhallowmass." As a result of this, the evening prior to this day was named, "All Hallowed Evening" which subsequently was abbreviated as "Halloween." In spite of this effort to make Oct. 31 a "holy evening," all the old customs continued to be practiced, and made this evening anything BUT a holy evening!

(In case you thought this only took place years ago".)

Today a growing group of people claiming to be of direct Druid descent, still practice their religion, including human sacrifice. Those in England still perform ceremonies at Stonehenge. Nov. 1st was the Celtic new year; Oct. 31st was celebrated by the Druids with many human sacrifices and a festival honoring their sun god and Samhain, the lord of the dead. They believed that the sinful souls of those who died during the year were in a place of torment, and would be released only if Samhain was pleased with their sacrifices.
The apparently harmless lightened pumpkin face or "jack-o'-lantern" actually is an old Irish symbol of damned soul. The Irish were so afraid that they would receive the same punishment as the man named "Jack", that they began to hollow out pumpkins and place lighted candles inside to scare away evil spirits from their home.

The founding fathers of America refused to permit the holiday to be observed because they knew it was a pagan holiday. Halloween was not widely celebrated in the U.S. until about 1900. In the 1840's there was a terrible potato famine in Ireland which sent thousands of Catholic Irish to America. They brought Halloween with them.
The custom of going from door to door asking for food and candy goes back to the time of the Druids. They believed that sinful, lost souls were released upon the earth by Samhain for one night on Oct. 31st while they awaited their judgment. They were thought to travel the houses of the living and were greeted with banquet-laden tables. People greatly feared these spirits and thought that the spirits would harm and even kill them if the sacrifices they gave did not please Samhain.

Its no accident that every year we reap the problems of this holiday by harmful substances such as razor blades, drugs, poisons, needles, etc. being placed in the candy here in America. Today satanists throughout the world continue to perform human sacrifices on Halloween.

Tales from a Hyperactive Kid

2008-10-15T10:09:00.008-04:00

I received this newsletter in my email. I was so glad I did because having a hyperactive kid myself I've often wondered what they had to say as adults. And I could also use all the help I can get. My usual morning prayer is that I may be able to help my kids succeed in their homeschooling , that I may be the mother/teacher that ought to be. And well, here it is, the Lord is good. I wanted to share this news letter on my blog because it might be helpful to someone out there and also because I am in total agreement of NOT using drugs on my son for a "quick fix".

Help from a Former Hyperactive Kid
Israel Wayne

"That child has ADHD. He needs to be on Ritalin!"
Thankfully my mother wasn't one to take the advice of every well-meaning onlooker. As a hyperactive homeschooled student, I can honestly say that I never "suffered" with hyperactivity. In fact, I rather enjoyed it! It was the people around me who suffered.
There was the time I caught my bedroom carpet on fire while doing a science experiment, or the day I pelted our neighbor's new Cadillac with a well-aimed rock as he drove by, or the time I pulled the church fire alarm during call to worship, or the time...well, you get the point. If you have a hyperactive student, you know that it can be a real challenge to keep your own sanity and see anything but a prison record in your child's future!
I am living proof that a hyperactive child can live a productive and healthy adult life. Most of my hyperactive and attention deficit problems simply went away as I became an adult (which is common for many hyperactive people). I also have had the advantage of implementing some techniques that helped me tremendously.
My mother knew she needed to focus on four critical areas of my development.

1. My Emotional Life

I needed parental boundaries, predictability, order, and structure in which to counter-balance my free-for-all, haphazard, random life.
I needed security and assurance that I was loved just as much as my complacent, compliant siblings.
I needed to have a low-stress, non-stimulating environment to study or think (not a government-school classroom.)

2. My Spiritual Life
I needed to learn godly character and not allow my personality to be an excuse for bad behavior.
I needed to be disciplined and to learn to repent when I had been inconsiderate or had behaved improperly.
I needed to develop a relationship with Jesus Christ, the only One who could save me from my selfish tendencies.

3. My Physical Life
I needed to virtually eliminate sugar, caffeine, artificial colors and flavors, and any kind of candy or junk food from my diet.
I needed plenty of sleep, a healthy diet, and lots of exercise.
I needed to be drug-free so I could think and function as God created me to be.

4. My Mental Life
I needed not to fill my head with aggressive music, violent television programs, video/computer games, negative competitive settings, or other things that would cause me to be wild or unruly.
I needed to care enough about other people not to "forget" to do what I have been instructed. I needed to come out of myself and stop being so selfish.
I could hyper-focus on what I was interested in. My problem wasn't an inability to pay attention. If I were watching a TV show I liked, I would forget anyone else was even in the room. I was merely selective in choosing what to pay attention to.

Luke 10:27 instructs, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart (emotions), with all of your soul (spirit), with all of your strength (body) and with all of your mind (mental)." Part of the key to victory in the life of a hyperactive child is taking a comprehensive approach that factors all the facets of the child's being into account.
Remember, God made your child for a purpose. Patiently love and train your child to be godly. Never make excuses for him or allow him to excuse his bad behavior. (We never have the right to do what is wrong.) Pray for your child daily and allow him to channel his energies into productive efforts. Some of the greatest leaders in human history were hyperactive. If those energies can be harnessed properly, God can do mighty things through your active child.
Israel Wayne was home educated and currently serves as Marketing Director for the national publication Home School Digest.

Happy Birthday Paddington!

2008-10-13T10:12:00.002-04:00

This cutie brings back memories. As a child I loved reading Paddington bear stories and coloring his books. Even though he's 50 yrs. old, still in his prime, with all the creepy, strange cartoons kids watch today, this generation could use a little Paddington don't you think?

School Days

2008-09-26T14:32:00.006-04:00

I'm loving homeschooling. I wish I would of done this years ago. Abeka academy has a great program where my kids can be part of the "classroom" experience from home. I'm thankful that the teachers are organized, clean, & friendly & they teach various subjects which much diligence. I'm also thankful that I am not exactly on my own, honestly I don't think I could of been totally on my own with this "homeschooling thing". The academy is there if I need any assistance & I am accountable to them because Giovanna's tests scores & other work need to be mailed back to the academy, I like that.

Anniversary Sunday

2008-09-22T08:19:00.016-04:00

Here we are at our church's 20th Anniversary celebration. After morning church services we went to the home of our dear friends, The Johnston family. We had our evening services in their backyard inside a huge tent, we had delicious food & a beautiful bon-fire with songs, testimonies, laughter & some happy tears. I wish I could of taken more pics, the ones I took I feel din't do the evening justice, oh well next time I guess.

Cochlear Implant

2008-09-20T12:02:00.007-04:00

I hope you all don't mind but I wanted to share with you all how thankful I am that my daughter has a Cochlear Implant. I guess sometimes we actually have to be going through specific situations in order to appreciate them. Also, sometimes unless we are actually going through a certain situation is when we can actually be thankful of how God fearfully & wonderfully made us. Before the time Giovanna lost her hearing at the age of 2, like most people I never knew nor cared what a Cochlear implant does or that it even existed. My daughter was born in Feb. 7 1998 a bouncing 7lb. 15 oz healthy baby girl, with what I thought was normal hearing. She starting speaking 2-3 words (understandable) sentences by the time she was 24 mon. in her little 2 yr. old tongue. She knew the alphabet, colors & sang Barney songs. So suddenly, here I was 7 mon. pregnant with my 3rd child in October of 2000, after Giovanna had been horribly sick for 3wks. before, I was told my daughter was profoundly deaf. I was introduced to this foreign object with a few wires hanging from it which they said had to be surgically inserted inside my little 2 yr. old baby's head? Basically the audiologist explained I had a choice... Whether or not we wanted our daughter to use sign language for the rest of her life or get Cochlear Implant? Now I'm not one to make quick decisions, but I remember quickly thinking I wanted to hear, maybe not like us but if she had the opportunity to be able to speak with other kids, I wanted her to be able to speak to us, I wanted her to hear the simple things in life like a car drive by, birds singing or when she has babies of her own one day that she'd be able to hear them cry in the middle of the night, things we all take for granted. The choice was clear then. The morning of her surgery she was as cool as a cucumber & my husband & I were nervous wrecks. When her surgery was done she walked around the halls of the children's floor & waving hello to everyone as if nothing happened. Now hearing doesn't come overnight when you're first implanted. She spoke in muffled tones, she dint pronounce certain letter like the "c" sound in the word cat. I admit the first couple of years I was I bit disappointed, I thought, "is this as good as shes going to get?" She was still very hard to understand & I was becoming increasingly impatient. Years went by, shes now 10 & she not only speaks well but when I've told people shes profoundly deaf, they look at me like I have 5 heads. You see, usually when someone looses their hearing slightly or all the way their speech becomes muffled because they can't hear themselves speak. She not only speaks clearly but shes developed other talents that we're not able to do. She can read lips, & she can do it from across the room, at bed time she can feel her father's foot steps from her room when he comes home from work & her implant would be off her ear & she can also "feel" what kind of music is playing! The first Cochlear Implantation was in 1978 & before that when someone lost their hearing that was it, you had no other choice but to learn sign language! And it wasn't just the deaf person but the whole family had to learn! The more & more I learn and read success stories of the implant the thankful I become. Here are 2 short videos that I wanted to share, one is how the implant works & the other is of a cute little girl who was implanted. Thanks for stopping by.

New Look

2008-09-17T11:36:00.002-04:00

Hope you all like my blog's new look. I just thought I'd warm things up a bit & so I was inspired by the soon to come, beautiful season of autumn.

"In the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world". Phil. 2:15

2008-09-06T11:17:00.005-04:00

Its been a while but by the time I was done reading the first sentence of this mornings daily meditation of Spurgeon it spoke to my heart like as if a thunder bolt hit it. I hope you don't mind but I wanted to share it with you all even if you've read it or not.

"In the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world."—Philippians 2:15.
We use lights to make manifest. A Christian man should so shine in his life, that a person could not live with him a week without knowing the gospel. His conversation should be such that all who are about him should clearly perceive whose he is, and whom he serves; and should see the image of Jesus reflected in his daily actions. Lights are intended for guidance. We are to help those around us who are in the dark. We are to hold forth to them the Word of life. We are to point sinners to the Saviour, and the weary to a divine resting-place. Men sometimes read their Bibles, and fail to understand them; we should be ready, like Philip, to instruct the inquirer in the meaning of God's Word, the way of salvation, and the life of godliness. Lights are also used for warning. On our rocks and shoals a light-house is sure to be erected. Christian men should know that there are many false lights shown everywhere in the world, and therefore the right light is needed. The wreckers of Satan are always abroad, tempting the ungodly to sin under the name of pleasure; they hoist the wrong light, be it ours to put up the true light upon every dangerous rock, to point out every sin, and tell what it leads to, that so we may be clear of the blood of all men, shining as lights in the world. Lights also have a very cheering influence, and so have Christians. A Christian ought to be a comforter, with kind words on his lips, and sympathy in his heart; he should carry sunshine wherever he goes, and diffuse happiness around him.Gracious Spirit dwell with me; I myself would gracious be, And with words that help and heal Would thy life in mine reveal, And with actions bold and meek Would for Christ my Saviour speak.

Laminin?

2008-09-02T15:57:00.007-04:00

I heard someone say, "you just have to look up what is Laminin!" Well curiosity got the better of me & I looked it up in Wikipedia. What I found was very interesting, but not as interesting as when I Googled a picture of it, that blew me away.

Here's the defenition.

Laminin is the major non-collagenous component of the basal lamina, such as those on which cells of an epithelium sit.[1] Basically, laminin is a protein found in the "extracellular matrix", the sheets of protein that form the substrate of all internal organs also called the "basement membrane". It has four arms that can bind to four other molecules. The three shorter arms are particularly good at binding to other laminin molecules, which is what makes it so great at forming sheets. The long arm is capable of binding to cells, which helps anchor the actual organs to the membrane.

So in other words Laminin is a protein in our bodies that holds our skin, organs & everything else in our body in place. Sort of like the glue in our bodies & as you can see its in the shape of a cross.

Well, when I saw a picture of Laminin all I can think of is Psalm 139:14- "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well." The picture to the left is a drawing, but the picture on the right is what it actually looks like under the microscope. I don't know about you but that blew me away.

Days To Remember

2008-08-22T13:20:00.031-04:00

Please forgive the formatt for this post, I'm not sure what happend here. Anyway, it's so hard to believe that the end of summer vacation is here, I din't think it would go so fast. Now, regarding the commercial above, please don't misunderstand. I've loved spending time with my kids this summer. We've had alot of heart to hearts, ice cream, nature walks, story reading, plays, tire swings ect. However, I do believe that theres just so many times you can go to the park, build a fort, eat ice cream, do crafts, play with the hose, go in the pool, go to the library, go for walks, bike ride, collect rocks or bugs & well, you get the point. Still, I'm thankful that everything has its time and season. I remember when I saw this commercial for the first time, I said, "finally, someone understands!" I just thought it was hilarious! Now, even though my kids will be homeschooled this year & they'll be, well, at home, they'll still be subject to a school schedule, they'll be a certain time for everything, they'll be classes to listen to, work to be completed ect. During these summer months I've tried kept my kids busy with language arts and math workbooks that way we can try to be somewhat ahead of the game for next year. Still I believe that the schedule of a school year bring much more order to the home, which makes your home run like a well oiled machine, which in turn makes for a content household.
Two more reasons are, I am happy that the end of this season is at hand because it marks the beginning of autumn!!!! Yipee, I love the fall. My favorite season; I love the crisp cool air, the smell of someones' fireplace in the night air, the sweaters & the beautiful colors of the leaves. Last but not least ever since I was in elementary school (& you might think this a bit strange) I am fascinated with brand new school supplies. I would probably be the person in the commercial skipping and gliding through Staples. The smell of a clean crisp notebook page, the look of newly sharpened #2 pencils, putting your name on all your supplies with a Sharpie marker, I enjoy that! Ok, I know, I need to get out more. Below are some of the last pictures of our summer vacation. Thanks for stopping by ;)

Heres Emy!

While we were at the park the kids were busy looking for seashells & crabs. (yuk)

We actually found this little guy on Justin's shirt, I wish I would of taken that picture, you should of seen his face!

I think he was trying to challange us?

One of Emiy's creepy crawly friends.

The kids & I made a little habitat for the little guys in this container & as Joey said, "mom I want to see them turn into cristaluses". Well, I know what he meant.

My husband & I have planned to come here (for the summer) every Sunday night. And their strawberry cheesecake creamy ice is out of this world.

And heres the roundup gang.

My Girl's First Horseback Riding Lesson

2008-08-14T20:06:00.003-04:00

Giovanna is taking horseback riding lessons at Country Farms Equestrian Center in Medford. She loves it very much and I love that she loves it! I am happy for her, she's been wanting lessons ever since she first rode on a horse last Sept. at Roseland Ranch in upstate N.Y. There are a few more pics on her blog. I'll keep you upto date on her weekly progress.

Rainy Days

2008-08-07T13:17:00.007-04:00

I don't know about you all but I'm loving all this rain we're having. Most of all because thunder and lightning has always been one of my favorite things. Yes, I know, its weird but ever since I was very young thunderstorms have always fascinated me. I love the light show in the sky & the tremendous sounds that those clouds make. From the time my kids we're very little I never let them entertain, even for a minute, that it was something to be afraid of. Of course, I would let them know to take precaution, I would give them the scientific explanation (to their understanding) about what is really happening up there & I'd let them enjoy it from a place of complete safety. I never understood, however, why some parents would find it necessary to tell the story about angels bowling in heaven & such foolishness. I remember, in the first weeks of July, being outside with the kids on a steamy 90 degree day, & all of the sudden came the rain and we just stayed outside and cooled ourselves off in the rain, that was loads of fun. How about when you're sleeping in the middle of the night and you hear a heavy down pour by your window & with a nice cool breeze, whoa, great sleeping weather! And if that wasn't pleasant enough, the air after a good heavy down pour is, in my opinion, the purest & freshest. Today I managed to capture a little bit of the sky after the storm we had. The lightning picture isn't mine, I just thought it was an awesome picture!

Finally, Wedding #4

2008-08-05T09:03:00.003-04:00

Congratualtions to Mr. and Mrs. Sides! Maria, my husbands' niece was married, in North Carolina, to Joshua Sides on Sat. Aug. 2nd. We weren't able to attend but thankfully my sister in law emailed some really nice pictures of the event.

Warning: The following material contains humorous & controversial material viewer discretion is advised ;)

2008-08-02T09:40:00.007-04:00

LET ME SEE IF I GOT THIS STRAIGHT

After being interviewed by the public school administration, the teaching prospect said, "Let me see if I've got this straight..."

You want me to go into that room with all those kids, correct their disruptive behavior, observe them for signs of abuse, monitor their dress habits, censor their T-shirt messages, and instill in them a love for learning?

You want me to check their backpacks for weapons, wage war on drugs and sexually transmitted diseases, and raise their sense of self esteem and personal pride?

You want me to teach them patriotism and good citizenship, sportsmanship and fair play, and how to register to vote, balance a checkbook, and apply for a job?

You want me to check their heads for lice, recognize signs of antisocial behavior, and make sure that they all pass the state exam?

You want me to provide them with an equal education regardless of their handicaps, communicate regularly with their parents by letter, phone, newsletter, and report card?

You want me to do all this with a piece of chalk, a blackboard, a bulletin board, a few books, a big smile.

You want want me to do all this and then you tell me... I CAN'T PRAY?"

~Hope you enjoyed that, I know I did.~

Congratulations John & Sarah

2008-07-28T23:18:00.010-04:00

Sorry... I do realize my congratulations is a very belated; but I just could not pass up the opportunity, now that I have the chance, of posting about the 3rd wedding of my summer! John and Sarah were married on the 4th of July, & I must say, what a unique and special way of spending the 4th of July holiday in being part of such a blessed event. It really was a beautiful wedding. What a handsome couple they make.

Here are just a few more pics we took from the wedding, with family & friends.

Here is my handsome hubby with the very happy groom!

One more thing... My daughter, Giovanna, wanted me to let you all know she has a new blog, its called "Sunny Days", it replaces the old one (Wonderful Life) and the website is http://giovannablog89.blogspot.com/.

Fried Green Tomatoes

2008-07-28T21:06:00.009-04:00

Hi everyone. My computer is up and running again and I'm happy to be back. Well, a couple of posts ago I mention my love for Fried Green Tomatoes and some of you have asked about the recipe. I wait all year for this anticipated trip out east for these tomatoes. Nobody else (that I know of) carries these tomatoes except those farms.

Today I finally got a chance to go out east, this year I picked Anderson's Farm in Riverhead right on Rt. 58 just past the outlets across from Wendys'. Most produce farms out east will carry green tomatoes in the months of July & August, still I recommend calling ahead. Just so you know, there are more than a few ways to make this dish. If you go to http://www.foodtv.com/ there are many recipes for F.G.T. and many ways to eat them. For example, in some recipes you can eat them with some sort of relish or salsa on top, or in some recipes you can use buttermilk instead of reg. milk for the batter. Anyway heres the way I make them.

3-4 green tomatoes

1 1/2 cups flour

1/2 cup corn meal

1/2 tsp salt & pepper

1/2 tsp garlic powder

milk

vegetable oil

Mix together flour, cornmeal, salt & pepper. Add enough milk to create a thick batter, the kind you'd make for pancakes. Heat 2 inches of oil in a large skillet. Batter each tomato slice, and wipe off excess. Carefully place in hot oil, browning on both sides. (may or may not need turning, depending on the amount of oil) To cool, drain in a colander to keep tomatoes from becoming soggy. Salt to taste. Enjoy!

Yum!

2008-07-08T22:20:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone. I apologize for my absence. My computer is down at the moment but hopefully it will be up & running soon. I look foward to sharing some more "thoughts" with you all. Boy, I've sure missed blogging. As always thank you for stopping by.

Happy First Day of Summer

2008-06-20T12:26:00.003-04:00

Though I am partial to the fall my most favorite time of the year. This summer I've chosen to look past the bugs, the uncomfortable stickiness, & the "bad hair days". I've made a few plans such as finishing up a good book, painting my home, being more devoted to my Bible reading, spending quality time doing quality things with my kids (all of them) & finally... something that I do look forward to is getting green tomatoes. Next week I'll be visiting J. Kings to feast on their farmers market! Oh yeah, the green tomatoes are for "fried green tomatoes" my family's favorite treat every summer. I strongly suggest you try them. Yummy!

Salinas

2008-06-16T14:41:00.003-04:00

I thought I'd give you all a little visual. Pretty, huh? This is the beach I spoke about in my previous post. You know, theres such an obvious difference between Atlantic and Pacific waters, then again I would be a little partial.

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-15T23:46:00.005-04:00

I hope all the fathers out there had a happy Father's Day. This week I was remenicing about my dad. I was thinking back to when I was about 3 or 4 yrs old and my dad would call my mom from work and tell her get ready because we'll leave as soon as I get home. He was talking about a place we called "Salinas" in Ecuador. It is a beach 2 hrs. away from where we lived, which I just loved and couldn't wait to get to. I remember my mom rushing around grabbing clothes, packing swimsuits, towels, & beach umbrellas. I remember dad putting a twin mattress in the back of his pick up truck (the one you see in the picture), & to me that was just the best because it meant that I could ride in the back all the way there just looking up at the stars & smelling the night air. I was accompanied by my sister back there, please don't think I was just left in back of a pick up truck. Today I would never consider letting my kids do that and I'm sure it illegal but in those days and in that part of the country it wasn't. So when he got home he meant what he said and we were off. It was usually night time when we got there and I would be sleeping. The morning I would wake up in the little bungalow we stayed in for the weekend and we would head straight for the beach. It was like a beach community. There were no lines, packed parking lot, parking fee ect. The best days of my youth I remember them there; the water was crystal blue and you'd see your feet in the water. My dad would hold my hand while walking me toward the shore and he'd say, "never face a wave, always turn on your side when you see it come." Then huge waves would come crashing toward us and he would pull me up by one hand. Then he'd take me in a bit further and he'd say, "this time when you see a wave come you dive right under it if you don't it will drag you". Needless to say I was dragged a few times but he was always there to fish me out of the water. I learned to love the ocean at a very early age. Sunday night we'd be on our way home. Today when I hear the ocean and smell hot sand my mind floods with memories of those days. Please forgive the blurry pictures, they are old. Thank you for stopping by.

Artistic Friday

2008-06-07T00:36:00.020-04:00

Hi all. Sorry for not blogging for a few weeks but I was sort of in a blogging slump. Today however, I got inspired. As I've previously mentioned I'm babysitting my good friends' daughter. Well, now that school is over for the summer I'm also I'm "watching" her older brothers Justin and Noel. They are great kids, lots of fun. Another reason for not blogging is I've been doing quite a bit of Google researching on "fun things to do on Long Island". I'm trying to find inexpensive, educational & constructive places or things where I can go or do with the kids. I really don't want them spending the summer watching TV. If anyone has any suggestions on what to do or where to go I'd sure appreciate it. So its obvious today were doing crafts. Anyway, please enjoy our little art exhibit.

unknown artist

Such concentration.

Joey's portrait of "daddy".
A cup of paint water and my cup of coffee side by side... Guess what I almost did?

Voilá... Behold the masterpiece!

The backyard, notice the underground pool.
Our talented artists Noel, Giovanna & Justin.

Sweet Emily helps out in the cleanup.

Yippee! My Accent Is Northeastern! Lets hear it for NY!

2008-05-29T21:17:00.004-04:00

What American accent do you have? Your Result: The Northeast Judging by how you talk you are probably from north Jersey, New York City, Connecticut or Rhode Island. Chances are, if you are from New York City (and not those other places) people would probably be able to tell if they actually heard you speak.
Philadelphia
The Inland North
The Midland
The South
Boston
The West
North Central
What American accent do you have? Quiz Created on GoToQuiz

I Love Lucy too

2008-05-28T09:39:00.002-04:00

Please have a few laughs & enjoy this classic!

Happy Memorial Day!

2008-05-26T21:08:00.006-04:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Memorial Day. Our dear friends, the Albani's kindly opened their home to us, the Riveras, Rachel V. & the Sengstocks and we all spend this holiday together. We had a delicious BBQ, the kids played their games & the adults played a most competitive game of volleyball. Thank you Mike & Kathleen for a glorious time!

The "Home Spot"

2008-05-25T21:13:00.010-04:00

Table for 17 please!? Some of you from our church family may of heard someone mention "The home spot". Well this is it, its a restaurant called Mi Tierrita in Main St. Patchogue, which translates to "My Land". I regret not having taken a picture of the restaurant sign to begin my blog, which would of been nice. Well, anyway, this is the favorite eatery of the (all) The Rivera's and the Rannazzisi's. Sometimes we'll stop by altogether after Sunday am church services, sometimes individually, or maybe on someones birthday. We just have the best time in fellowship laughing, & eating. The food is a delicious, affordable south American cuisine. I hope you enjoy Mi Tierrita sometime soon & who knows maybe I'll see you there!

Boys will be boys

Nap time after dinner

Smile!

2008-05-23T21:01:00.006-04:00

Monday through Friday for the passed 2 weeks I've been babysitting 4 yr. old Emily Rivera, our good friends' only daughter. She's a cutie pie, with such a warm spirit and a sunny smile that lights up a room. While I home school my kids, she easily entertains herself & she has quickly adapted to the fact that when the kids are working the TV is off; I thought she might not like the idea, but I was wrong. She just went on her merry way and picked up a toy and entertained herself until I was ready to work with her. This week she's been working on her ABC's and 123's. Here she is having lunch. By the way, I did mention she has a smile that lights up a room? Well, whats comical is that every time she comes in contact with a camera she either turns very serious or manages to crack a itsy bitsy smile through the side of her mouth, no matter how much we say smile! smile!

Weddin' #2

2008-05-22T16:50:00.002-04:00

Salvatore Rannazzisi ("Sal") and Brittany were married on Friday May 9, 2008

Have You Met The Duggars?

2008-05-19T21:39:00.003-04:00

17 kids! Meet the Duggar family

I just enjoy watching this sweet family. Its so refreshing & inspiring to see how they all work together, how they all pray together, how they all do schooling together & the kids usually look clean & sharp and for the most part seem to be very well behaved. I could be wrong but I just don't think its possible to fake such organization for so many!
Anyway, I highly recommend this show. If anyone out there has seen it, I'd sure like to hear your views on it.

Shame on me, this is the shoe I turned out to be...

2008-05-15T14:52:00.000-04:00

You Are Flip Flops

You are laid back and very friendly.
Cheery and sunny in disposition, you usually have something to smile about.

Style is important to you, as long as you can stay casual.
It takes a lot to get you to dress up!

You are a loyal and true person, though you can be a bit of a flake.
You tend to "play hooky" and blow off responsibilities a lot more than most people.

You should live: By the beach

You should work: At a casual up and coming company

http://www.blogthings.com/whatkindofshoeareyouquiz/">What Kind of Shoe Are You?

Weddings galore part 2

2008-05-14T22:26:00.001-04:00

On Friday April 25, 2008 my husband Garys' niece Diana married the love of her life James Schuller. Don't they make a handsome couple?

Gary with his brothers John and Joey. I really like how this picture came out.

This is dad (Gary's dad) or as the family likes to call him, Jo-Jo.

These are Gary's lovely sisters from left to right is Emily, Anna, Debbie, Frannie, Rosie, Maria & Connie.

Joey and Giovanna love their aunt Frannie from North Carolina. Here I am with the girls.

Here is one of the many faces of Joey; he's just being silly with his cousin Jackie.

Finally heres all of us, sorry I can't name everyone or else I'll be here for eternity. Lets just say here are all the sisters w/ their husbands, brothers w/ their wives, nieces, nephews ect. in my husbands family and still growing...

The end, for now...

Mothers Day

2008-05-12T10:47:00.000-04:00

Hi all. I hope everyone had a wonderful Mothers day. Sorry I'm a day late I was supposed to post this yesterday but I completely forgot to finish typing my post. My mom is here now and we're quite busy catching up on things, I must say I just love having her here. By the way I hope you enjoy the image of the momma lion and her cub. I just thought it was an adorable picture in celebration of Mothers day and I love the fact that these animals live such a simple existence; no bother of bills, what will they eat, where will they live ect., our Creator made them this way. Have a good day. :)

Weddings Galore

2008-05-10T14:24:00.000-04:00

Hi all. Yesterday our family went to the 2nd wedding of this year thus far. I absolutely adore weddings, I think their sweet, exciting, & the thought of 2 people starting off their new lives together is very emotional, (its a girl thing OK). Well we've been invited to 4 weddings this year! I don't know about anyone else but that's the most weddings I've been to in just one summer! Oh, did I mention there all this summer? Nonetheless I'm still excited for all these couples and am thankful to have been invited to share in their happiness. I just remembered, sadly I forgot to get pics of the 1st 2 weddings but I'll have some of the next one.

Well, I have even better news, my mom is coming over today to stay for about a week which am I'm very thankful for. Although I wish she'd stay a bit longer, she did promise me in a couple of months to stay longer. Have a good day.

Ecuador

2008-05-06T21:36:00.000-04:00

I've been thinking alot lately about going back to Ecuador. Last time I visited was in 1987 (I believe) but still I din't remember much then because I was only a little tyke of 6 when I came to the US. I've been researching & trying to get info. on the town I was born in and the whole country in general. I found out some interesting things. Have you ever wondered why it is that you get to a certain age & all of the sudden you want to go back to your roots, make a family tree or just find out where you came from? "just a thought"...

To the right (excuse my weird formatt) is snapshot of the city of Guayaquil where I was born. It looks pretty at night time I think. Guayaquil is Ecuadors' main port, here is where the US gets much of there seafood, I do remember eating alot of seafood as a small child. Its a very old fashioned city in their traditions & their architecture. Certain buildings, specially in the capital of Quito resemble those of historical Italy or Spain.

You know, doing this research all of the sudden fills my mind with flood of memories; I just remembered being around 6 yrs. old and being so excited to go to New York because I never saw snow! Isn't that histerical?

To the left is the place in Ecuador that I've wanted to visit for a very long time is call "Mitad del Mundo" and that's spanish for "the middle of the earth". But the biggest reason its such a tourist spot its because theres a big line drawn for tourist to take pictures on so that they say they had their foot was on the "equator-line", the middle of the earth.

My New Blog:

2008-05-05T23:11:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone. Today is the first day of my new blog. Please bear with me as I am still a learner in this area. I hope you visit often & please feel free to supply me with any suggestions or ideas for my blog because I sure could use it.
I pondered the title of my blog for several minutes, (I don't do well with those decisions, the possibilities are endless to me), so I finally came up with one that I find myself saying quite often before a conversation, or "just a thought". I have family in Pennsylvania, Florida and Ecuador so I thought this might also be a good way to keep in touch with them. From time to time I'll sharing ideas, thoughts on life, kids marriage, my family ect.
Thank you for stopping by.