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 |   You never know what you'll find - humor, ramblings, rants, randomness- it's all me! |
This description part is challenging. I never know what I will blog about until I start typing. I do know there will be typos. I don't reread or correct my blog. Otherwise it turns technical instead of my feelings and thoughts. Trust me, on stories and poems I'm a grammaraholic, but this is freedom. Sometimes to keep it from getting too personal, I even turn my head away while I type. Weird, right?. I hope you find this somewhat entertaining, thought-provoking, and humorous.   A little about me. The most important things in my life are family, especially my son, Reese, and my husband, Bruce, my walk with God, and making a positive impact in some way. I am a teacher, currently teaching 6th grade Language Arts. While at times my job can be trying, overall, it is one of the most rewarding passions in my life.   This is my wonderful son, Reese. He is now 20 and and a junior at Oklahoma State University. I may be partial, but he is an exceptional kid with the best heart I've ever known. He makes me laugh, think, and want to be a better person. We are both huge Oklahoma State Cowboy fans - Gooooooo Pokes!  This is Reese's dog, Betty. She shares a name with my mother. Reese named her that because she was beautiful and kind just like his Nanny (my mom). I'm not sure my mom is quite convinced it is a compliment though. Betty is a huge part of our family. She even had her own blog for awhile. Poke around at your leisure and shake your head at some of things that go through mine. I always return reviews/comments, though admittedly, sometimes it does take me awhile depending on what life is serving me at that point. Keeping the faith, Audra  |
| 100 Things About Me 1. My name is Audra. 2. I was named after a character on the television show The Big Valley. 3. I have an older sister, named Amy, and an older brother, named Will. 4. I have a 19 year old son, Reese. 5. I am married to the love of my life, Bruce. 6. We attended kindergarten through high school graduation together, but only married 8 months ago. 7. I am 47. 8. My birthday is February 8, 1969. 9. I am a middle school and high school teacher. This year I was teaching 8th grade English, 7th &8th grade home economics, and high school Psychology. 10. I have taken off this semester to help my husband. He suffered a massive stroke on December 31st. 11. I like outside the super small town if Mulhall in Oklahoma. 12. My favorite color is blue. 13. I graduated from Arizona State University in 1992 with a B.A. in Psychology. 14. My freshman year I attended Oklahoma State University. 15. I was a feature twirler at both schools. 16. When I was growing up my dad was a meat market manager at Safeway and farmed, and my mom taught kindergarten (and told me never to become a teacher .) 17. We live on 80 acres about five miles out of town. 18. Growing up, I lived on 160 acres about five miles from Crescent, Oklahoma. I couldn’t wait to move to the city. 19. We have three inside cats: Matt, Indy, and Ty. My son’s dog, Betty stays with us while he attends OSU. We have a plethora of outside cats and 3 horses. 20. I’ve never even been on a horse. 21. I don’t know how to ride a bicycle. 22. I detest peas. 23. I have blonde hair. 24. I have blue eyes. 25. I am a little over 5’6”. 26. I was valedictorian of my high school. (It was small). 27. I have three younger adopted sisters: Rose, Violet, a d Daisey. 28. I am afraid of mice and white vans. 29. I am certified to teach middle school Social Studies, elementary 1St thru 6th, and 6th thru 12th English, Family and Consumer Science (Home Ec), Speech/Drama, Journalism, Psychology, and I think that’s it. 30. Change makes me anxious but when it occurs I most often embrace it. I mean there is no use fighting it, right? 31. I’m not much of a house cleaner, but I love to organize. 32. My faith and love for God are what keep me going and smiling. 33. I enjoy doing random acts of kindness. 34. I love to write. 35. I’ve had a short story published in a anthology of short stories and several stories and poems published on online sites. 36. My favorite drink is unsweetened tea. 37. One of my favorite relatives is my first 96 year old grandmother, Mema. She still lives in her own house and miss her own lawn if my brother doesn’t beat her to it. 38. My middle name is Lea pro ounces lee. 39. I have insomnia. (One reason that I am writing this list.) 40. When I do sleep, I have vivid dreams, sleep walk, talk in my sleep, and eat in my sleep. My husband is a lucky man, huh? 41. I have two uvulas. It is my freak factor. 42. I love online shopping, but would just as soon go to the dentist as to go to a mall or outlet center. 43. I still look forward to mail even when I know most days it will be bills or advertisements. 44. I have been in a plane, train, and bus but not on a boat. 45. Favorite TV shows are Criminal Minds and So You Think You Can Dance, and of course, Big Bang Theory. 46. I had both my knees replaced at the same time. It was a great decision. For real, I’m not being sarcastic. 47. I think letter writing is becoming a lost art and that saddens me. 48. I love the water. 49. My favorite season is winter. I’m not a big fan of heat and feeling nasty sweaty the minute you walk outside. 50. I got and paid for my first car when I was 16. It was a blue Ford EXP 1982. I rolled it three months later. 51. I started teaching baton twirling and dance when I was 13 and continued throughout college and after until I decided to go into education. Sadly, I made more money teaching dance than I do teaching school. 52. I had state and national winners in both twirling and dance. 53. I was a three time national baton twirler back in the day. 54. In high school, I was a cheerleader. 55. I didn’t fit into any one group in school so I didn’t have that best friend forever experience until later in life. 56. In college, unbeknownst to me I taught for a man who was wanted by the FBI and was later featured on Unsolved Mysteries. I don’t know if he was ever caught. 57. I can’t stand to have my feet trapped under the covers. 58. My social security number is … Lol just kidding. I have an odd sense of humor. 59. I can’t seem to keep plants alive. 60. A far out there dream I have is to be on the Ellen show. She’s funny and generous. I admire that. 61. I type correctly (thank you, Mrs. Jacobs) and pretty quickly. 62. Given time, I enjoy reading almost anything. Well, I’m not a big sci-fi fan, but who knows? 63. I have been teacher is the year 3 times at our school. 64. I don’t know how to drive a stick shift. 65. I have always loved to color, long before the adult coloring dad began. 66. I enjoy sewing but I’m relatively new to it so I’m not very good yet. 67. I love to hold hands in public. And even kiss my husband. I mean not a tongue swapping show at Olive Garden or anything, but a reminder to him that I’m glad we are sharing this moment. 68. I have a creative side but often it ends up in a big mess I’m too lazy to finish or clean up. 69. I am obsessed with Sharpies. 70. My first word were ‘dummy, stupid baby’ thanks to my older sister and brother. They found it hilarious. 71. I had a kidney stone the size of a golf ball. Yeah, that was not fun even with the morphine. 72. My husband, son, and I are saving for a road trip to Montana. Whenever we get a five dollar bill, we put it in the tip box. Since August, we have saved around $800. 73. I think everyone should be met with a smile. It might be the first one they have seen that day. 74. Politics make my head hurt. 75. We don’t have cable, but I’m working to convince my husband. 76. I’ve been to about 20 states. 77. I love a rainy night. Thank you, Eddie Rabbit for expressing my feelings so well. 78. My music taste is eclectic. George Strait, Puddle of Mudd, The Guess Who, B.B. King, Kermit the Frog, Prince, Curtis Stingers, Kathy Trocolli, big band, etc. Just keep the rap, screaming, and classical away, please. 79. Favorite pro team is the Carolina Panthers. Sad, sad Super Bowl. 80. Favorite college team is OSU Cowboys. Go Pokes! 81. I am on my cell phone too much. 82. I love researching things. 83. I’m right handed when I write but if it is an athletic thing my left hand is dominate. 84. I think sex is a wonderful thing. I mean as long as it is consensual. Good communication is the key to…well, you get the idea. I won’t draw you a picture. 85. I am horrible at drawing. 86. My favorite holiday is Christmas. 87. I used to dislike Valentine’s Day because I think it is a set up for couples to fight and singles to feel inadequate. However, my husband and I started a tradition where we don’t get each other things but instead make cupcakes and deliver them to people in our lives that are special or people we know are having a hard time. I love February 14th now. 88. I would rather wash than dry the dishes. 89. I have changed a thermocoupler on a hot water heater twice. (The things you must learn to do as a single woman…whew) 90. I have never been a fan of physical labor or even the outdoors. But lately I have found out that I am stronger physically and mentally than I thought. And while I don’t jump up and down at the opportunities to make my body sore, I don’t dread it either 91. I can touch my tongue to my nose. 92. My second toe is much longer than my big toe. In fact, my third toe is almost longer than it too. Freakazoid me. 93. I love to buy shoes but prefer to walk around barefoot. 94. Grammar/spelling mistakes drive me crazy in books or on signs. I guess you could say I am a grammaraholic. (I know there are mistakes in here but it’s a blog and four in the morning so it doesn’t count. 95. I wish I had a hot tub, a turtle, a puppy, cable, and unlimited Wi-Fi, but I am happy and content without them. 96. My skin is pale white without the ability to tan, but my bruises do bring some color to it. 97. The first thing I do when I come home is take off my shoes and bra. If my husband beats me home, I do kiss him first. 98. I use a cpap machine at night. I am one sexy lady, huh? Lol. 99. I love star gazing but don’t do it often enough. 100. I am capable of coming up with a 100 things about me! Whew, time for a glass of wine and a nap. Audra |
| To say I'm tired is more of an understatement than saying the hulk is slightly larger than Denace the menace. If I sleep, I have reoccurring nightmares of losing my husband. They are not always the same but the theme is. I awake finally gasping for air, crying, and with my whole being filled with terror. I lay the rest of the night listening to Bruce's breathing as he sleeps soundly. It is a never ending cycle. I will be unable to go to sleep some nights for fear of my dreams. And trust me, my body craves sleep. Before his stroke, I will come home from teaching middle school physically and mentally exhausted; that was a cake waLk compared to now. Everyone says, "Make sure you take time for yourself.". Pffft! I mean in theory it sounds nice, but which time should I do that? When Bruce needs assistance going to the bathroom? When appointments need to be made? When lesson plans must be prepared for my substitute? Dressing? (Maybe that one. We can just be a bundle of outpouring flesh all day). When animals need fed? House chores? (This one is already badly suffering.). I'm not complaining; I'm just being realistic. I know it will get better. We will get the schedule down and eventually my body will adjust and all my limbs will quit feeling like the muscles and bones are having a bonfire in me. But when will the nightmares stop? When will I allow my mind and heart relax from fear? I do pray and try to turn it over to God. I wonder if the fear and images of the day of his stroke will ever diminish. He doesn't remember much which is a blessing. My mind however is a flash of Polaroid moments and pieces of conversations that weave in and out my mind daily and obviously nightly. Always leave with a positive note: Yesterday we visited a Christian free clinic one of the stroke nurse had recommended. Everyone who works there is a volunteer. It was amazing. We left with free meds that would have cost us several hundred dollars and an appointment with the head of neurology at a major hospital for tomorrow. All free of charge! People are good. Audra
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| To say I'm tired is more of an understatement than saying the hulk is slightly larger than Denace the menace. If I sleep, I have reoccurring nightmares of losing my husband. They are not always the same but the theme is. I awake finally gasping for air, crying, and with my whole being filled with terror. I lay the rest of the night listening to Bruce's breathing as he sleeps soundly. It is a never ending cycle. I will be unable to go to sleep some nights for fear of my dreams. And trust me, my body craves sleep. Before his stroke, I will come home from teaching middle school physically and mentally exhausted; that was a cake waLk compared to now. Everyone says, "Make sure you take time for yourself.". Pffft! I mean in theory it sounds nice, but which time should I do that? When Bruce needs assistance going to the bathroom? When appointments need to be made? When lesson plans must be prepared for my substitute? Dressing? (Maybe that one. We can just be a bundle of outpouring flesh all day). When animals need fed? House chores? (This one is already badly suffering.). I'm not complaining; I'm just being realistic. I know it will get better. We will get the schedule down and eventually my body will adjust and all my limbs will quit feeling like the muscles and bones are having a bonfire in me. But when will the nightmares stop? When will I allow my mind and heart relax from fear? I do pray and try to turn it over to God. I wonder if the fear and images of the day of his stroke will ever diminish. He doesn't remember much which is a blessing. My mind however is a flash of Polaroid moments and pieces of conversations that weave in and out my mind daily and obviously nightly. Always leave with a positive note: Yesterday we visited a Christian free clinic one of the stroke nurse had recommended. Everyone who works there is a volunteer. It was amazing. We left with free meds that would have cost us several hundred dollars and an appointment with the head of neurology at a major hospital for tomorrow. All free of charge! People are good. Audra
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| It's my fault. I was trying to save a few cents. I mostly convinced myself it would be invisible when used. Wrong! I got it to assist in decorating husband's door at the stroke rehab facility. I figured I would try to make things as cheery as possible; plus it would keep my mind and hands busy. So anyway, invisible tape my ass! Invisible to who? Stevie Wonder? The three blind mice! Bocelli? Ray Charles? It looks like a kindergarten that needed to repeat pre-k decorated the door. The nurses are so nice. "Oh, are you a preschool teacher?" Me: No, I teach 7th thru 12th grade. As I'm trying to get the crappy noninvisible tape off my fingers and shirt, they share a look of confusion and fear. I am kind of proud of my saying though: This is a room of positive thoughts and words. If you can't comply, say a quick hello and a quicker goodbye. This is the noninvisible Branson shutting down, Audra  |
| PRE-WARNING:THIS IS MY SECOND TIME TO TYPE THIS SO WHO KNOWS HOW MUCH SENSE I WILL MAKE. goldenautumnhad this challenge in her blog that got me thinking: Have you ever created a list of the things you are proud of in your life? Create a list of ten things... Why did I accept this challenge? I have no real idea. First off, I'm in no mental state to probably form a sentence. I am sitting beside my 46 year old husband who had a stroke 2 or is it 3 days ago? My mind is a numbing fog. Secondly, I am not very good at recognizing things I do well. According to others, I minimalize it or some other nonsense. Well, here I go giving it a shot. 1. I am proud of the job I've done helping my son become the amazing young man he is. Of course, I don't think it was all my doing, but I am proud of the example I set for him and providing him with consistency and support to have conthough,e to be the person he truly is whether the world is watching or not. To let those you love know that you value and appreciate them. And being able to write an impressive essay! 2. To have a strong command of the English language.?.? How ironic is it to question the wording of that sentence? Whether it is a sarcastic/witty comment or comeback, bs-ing my way through an essay on a topic I know little about, or writing something decent that gives me a sense of accomplishment and maybe somewhere in the world someone else enjoys too. 3. Being valedictorian of my high school graduating class makes me proud. I do always downplay it though, because I went to a small school with only 64 in our graduating class. But a 4.0 is a 4.0. Honestly though, it is more about setting a goal and seeing it through. I'm not one of those genius people who is smart in every area. I had to put in some work and quite a bit of kissing up. :) 4. Conquering well-built, industrial-strength, emotional walls. With much encouragement and even more patience from my wonderful husband, I found the strength, faith, and desire to tear down these walls brick by brick that had served as my fortress against potential pain, rejection, and disappointment. I am proud that I trusted enough and loved myself enough to take the risk so that I was not just existing but allowing myself to once again live, feel worthy of love, and actually just quit being emotionally vacant. 5. I'm proud that I have gotten halfway through this. Lol no, that's cheating..true but cheating. I'm proud that at the age of 46 I've learned new skills. Mainly, it is because I was given a home ec class to teach which is hilarious in itself. But, I have learned to sew by hand and machine, cook more than 2 meals, check the oil and tire tread, etc. Etc. Etc. I can make a pretty decent pillow and on a good day you might get your name embroidered on it. 6. I am proud of my baton twirling accomplishments of yonder years. Seriously, YouTube competitive baton twirling; I think you will be surprised. Anyway, I'm proud of my accomplishments in it, the sacrifices I made to do something I loved. Being a feature twirler at OSU and later ASU. And finally I'm proud that I was able and chose to pass the knowledge, sportsmanship, goal setting, and love of twirling to many kids for many years. 7. This seems more like a thing I like about myself rather than a proud thing but I'm running out of ideas so lets count it. I'm proud of myself for trying to bring a little happiness to others. It might just be a specific compliment or a note scribbled on a post-it, but I think it's important for people to be reminded that they aren't invisible. Who knows? Maybe they will do the same for someone else who might really need a smile that day. 8. I'm proud I loved to color before coloring was cool or the latest money making research based trend for adults. Save your research money, I could have told you what a great destressor, imagination building, sense of accomplishment tool it was for years and years. I have colored all my life -from the smurfs to the good old simple animal coloring book. And I still do. The only difference now is that people don't look at me like I'm crazy. 9. I'm proud to find out that I'm stronger than I thought I was. Moving to a real farm with real gates to open whether the temperature is 105 or 15 below. Realizing insects and mice might come in the house when I'm home alone e so I have to deal with it. The hot water and heat might not always work and you might have to boil water to do the dishes. And I can survive with a real smile ony face. I can see the blessings around me and appreciate them. I may not be Annie Oakley but I'm no city slicker either. 10. Is it cheating if I ask for suggestions from people? I guess I didn't read the fine print of the rules.:) shucks! I'm proud to be an American but I didnt really have anything to do with that decision. I'm proud that when Bruce and I picked a name from the angel tree at church for Christmas we worked very hard to make the gifts personalized and special as well as useful. I made a pillow from ninja turtle fabric with the child's name embroidered in the corner. We researched to get the most for what we could afford. We tried to focus on the little things that would not only light up a 4 year old's face but also his parents' faces from witnessing his excitement. Whew. I finally finished... For the second time. It was definitely thought provoking. Thank you, golden autumn! I'm proud to be me, Audra |
| Dear Bruce, You are always wanting me to blog so I pledge to you that I will blog every day this year. It may be shirt and complete nonsense but for you I will follow through. Yesterday you had a stroke. You are in ICU right now. This is the two hour period where the nurses change and they kick me out. I don't think you will remember much of this which is probably good. Truthfully I hope I'm able to forget some of it. Everyone has been wonderful. So many prayers and calls. And your nurse, Stephen, last night was wonderful. I actually was able to get a decent amount of sleep in the chair. According to fitbit, it was 2 hours and 25 minutes but I'm not trusting it because it says I've done 26 floors today and it is only 7:15 a.m. lol maybe the 4.2 earthquake this morning affected it. There is only one other person in the waiting room. I wonder where the other patients family and friends are. I'm not judging, just curious. I hope someone brings me a toothbrush and hairbrush today. Not that I want to look fabulous or anything but I have a kind of Medusa thing going on here. One of those times when you glance in the mirror and scare yourself. Bruce, I love you more than I know how to express. I need you to fight, sweetheart...for both of us. We have so much more to experience. We just talked about this the other day. Don't leave me, please sweetheart, please. Well, its time to start texting and calling people to update them on how you are doing. Hey, I had to use a five dollar bill for the vending machine no one was around to change it out. Grrrrr. Ibwonder how many $5.00 bills we have saved uobfor our Montana trio. I bet it is close to $600. I love you, Audra |
| Honestly I don't know why I am writing this except I have to do something. I thought I'd experienced grief, sadness, helplessness...I was wrong until today. My husband had a stroke shortly after I left home this morning and lay helpless on the floor for hours until I asked my dad to check on him when I found out he hadn't showed up for work and wasn't answering my calls. How does this happen? Why? I know I'm not supposed to question why but right now I fucking want to know why! We just found each other again. We held our heads high and stayed strong through 11 kidney surgeries in 10 months. It was our turn. We were laughing and being silly before my son and I left. Making jokes no one else would think we're funny. Now I sit outside the ICU while the nurses have shift change trying to comprehend the greif, to somehow put it in its place...wrap it up with unused Christmas paper and put it in its place. I pray. I beg others for prayers. The tears still come. The pleading of please let this be a dream. Childish wishes but yet I grasp on to it with hope. Please God, don't take him. Please I will be a better wife, a better person, I will appreciate what I have. Please God, you've given me so many miracles, one of which was the love of Bruce. Please with the rawest of feelings and desperation and fear, please heal him and give me the strength to be what he and everyone needs. I'm not asking not to feel. If this is what you need from me I shall bear it, just please touch my husband and make him heal... This fear literally grips my heart. Please God, please. |
| Someone owes Jim Henson an apology. . . Not only Mr. Henson, but anyone with a television that ‘accidently’ turns to ABC when the ‘New Muppets’ is on. Oh, and if I’m mistaken about Jim Henson being dead, I guess I owe him an apology too. Not as big of one as the producers of this ‘show’. It is so deceiving – they look just like the real Muppets but they are obviously alien imposters. Kermit is having a drink; and I don’t mean a “Got Milk” commercial promoting the health benefits of a daily dose of calcium. Miss Piggy is shimmying what look like pasties on her exaggerated bosom. Hear me out, I’m not a prude. I don’t mind a little skin or insinuating dialogue – in fact, sometimes I quite enjoy it. . . But not when they are the fictional characters I grew up watching and coloring with my new set of crayons. Who is this show geared to? People who grew up in the ‘80’s and apparently are still smoking the wacky weed? Children with parents who have given up on the next generation having any morals or boundaries? Sad souls, like myself, who only get reception from one channel during an ice storm and were stupid/naïve enough to believe the goodness of The Muppets was being revived? I have to give it to the producers for their brilliance of playing with my feelings. Just as I’m ready to support a Muppets Massacre, they end the show with “Rainbow Connection”. It almost made me forget that Kermit had previously remarked that he wanted to get in touch with the feeling in his bottom. Freud would have a field day with a puppet having anal issues. Do we really need characters from our youth presenting us with issues such as espionage, internet theft, dangers of stress from our career, and inevitable marital problems? I mean if it weren’t storming out, I could just switch channels and watch that information from real people on the News or whichever talk show is currently being seen as reputable. Perhaps the writing was so bad that they couldn’t get a full cast of living, breathing humans to star in it, so they borrowed some puppets that missed being in the limelight. All I know is if I was the person with my hand up one of those puppet’s ass, I wouldn’t brag about it over Christmas dinner. In fact, I think I’d just lie and say I had gotten a holiday shift at Toys R Us. Even being toilet cleaner at a children’s dreamland/parents’ nightmare of a store as a middle-age adult with a college education would be less shameful than producing a show for a major network that promotes deceitful online dating via the use of past children’s heroes. Bah Humbug, ABC. I don’t know; maybe I just haven’t had enough whiskey tonight to ‘get it’. It’s time to play the music. It’s time for puppets to fight It’s time to ruin the Muppets on the Muppet Show tonight. It’s time to put on trashy make-up. It’s time to wear our dresses too tight. It’s time for sexual innuendos on the Muppet Show tonight. And now it’s time to scar your memories. Why don’t you stab my heart? No one will care because football is on tonight. On the most disappointing, uninspirable, non-Muppetational This is what we call the Muppet for Junkies Show! Signing off to color a picture of a Kermit that isn't wearing a speedo with a doobie hanging out of his mouth, Audra |
| Continuation of yesterday's 100 favorites challenge: (good thing I've had some coffee) 10 Games I do love games! And competing! And winning! I know this isn’t a ’things I dislike’ list, but I’m putting this in here anyway. I detest Monopoly and Risk. I swear they seem to last longer than chaperoning a twelve-year-old girl’s slumber party and equally make me want to cause physical and emotional harm to myself or someone near me. 1. Dominoes – Family tradition. I love hearing: Missy Lea Audra, she’s the best. Muhahahaha 2. Catch Phrase – so fun – from 2 to 26 people – it’s like electronic password. At some time in it, I will laugh until it hurts. For instance, the time Dad got the word ‘G spot’ and said, “I have no idea what this is.” Lol it still makes me giggle. 3. Online and in-person Spades – I prefer partners but any will work. Just bid your hand and all is good. 4. Clue – I remember playing this before I was 6. A thinking game. I loved it. It was Miss Peacock in the parlor with a revolver. 5. Football – of course; I’ve already spoken about this love. 6. Trivia – well, some types – it can’t be some subjects or too hard but I enjoy the challenge 7. Family Feud – I love to play along with the television show; and there is an electronic game. 8. Minesweeper was my first computer game, and it’s one I occasionally go to to kill time mindlessly. 9. Almost any card game – Crazy 8, Gin Rummy, Peeza (no idea how to spell it) 10. Charades or charades type games – I guess I like games that make me laugh, because if you don’t end up laughing with this one, you aren’t playing it right. :) 6 Drinks/Beverages: 1. UNSWEETENED iced tea – Never ever sweet. I think it is all what you grew up on. I love it – the taste, the refreshing feeling, and of course, the caffeine. 2. Water – though I may not always crave it, I love it. It is kind of like when you were a kid and you didn’t want to take a bath, but then when you got in you never wanted to get out. That’s how I feel about drinking water. 3. Wine – cheap in a box wine – not to get waste, but rather to achieve that I don’t give a shit feeling. It doesn’t happen very often now, but it is good to have on hand. 4. Coffee – with tons of caffeine and creamer – it makes me feel alive and like I’m able to face the day 5. Lemonade – not the can kind but real yummy pucker your lips lemonade 6. Texsun Grapefruit Juice – first discovered on Twirling Camp. It’s a small can full of pure delightful refreshing joy 4 Desserts: Only four? Come on, this would be much easier than the games or even the people! 1. Cheesecake – I love the texture and variety of flavors. The first bite feels like a first kiss and just keeps getting better. 2. Cherry Pie – mmmmmm Cherries – warm cherry pie and soft serve ice cream – the perfect treat 3. Mom’s Strawberry Cake – my birthday treat – the icing is to die for – only 2 more months until my birthday! 4. No Bake Cookies – I can never make them right, but I’m so glad other people can – they are amazing peanut butter goodness 5. Pecan Pie – too bad pecans are so expensive now. My mom is a great pecan pie maker – Maybe she will make one for Christmas Eve 10 Paintings – ummm, I can’t even name 10 paintings – do I get to research this one? Poll the audience? Call a friend? I am at a complete loss here. I guess I will try to fake it. Here goes: 1. Norman Rockwell – any of his paintings – they remind you life can be simple, pure, and just plain good. Try to look at one and not smile. It is nearly impossible. 2. Mona Lisa – it’s not particularly visually appealing to me, but I do wonder about the back story – I’ve heard many different theories, but I like to believe that no one really knows. 3. The Dogs Playing Poker – Why? Because I think the first one to make it did it as a joke. . .like for a Dirty Santa party and then it became a fad. You know that artist is like, “What the hell, I spend my life trying to make a masterpiece and no one even bothers to give it a glance, but I put cigars and poker sticks in dogs’ paws and I’m the talk of the town." 4. Whistler’s Mother – Well, because that’s just nice to include your mom in your talent. Respectful and honest is what I think of when I see this picture. 5. The War Plane Painting in our Living Room – both my husband and son like it; it represents history, technology, and patriotism 6. Barn Picture – My parents have a painting of the century plus old barn we had before the tornado swept it away. The painting brings me peace and reflection. 7. A Single Dandelion – I don’t have a particular one; I’ve seen several – I’ve written short stories around this ‘weed’ and somehow feel a connection to it. 8. Kids Holding Hands – the view is of the back of them with their shadow following – it is black and white tinted/painted. A since of innocent, acceptance, and possibilities exist in it. 9. A Blank White Canvas – let me figuratively paint what I need and desire at that moment. 10. Jesus – the picture of just his face with his eyes both piercing and forgiving. 10 Web Sites: 1. Writing.com – well, duh; even if it weren’t true, I would have to say it, right? But it is true. It’s kind of seasonal though in relation to how often I am on it. It has not only provided a creative outlet for me but also support from the writing community. 2. Amazon.com – LOVE IT – way too much actually; but with Amazon Prime it can be an amazing value. It supports one of the activities I enjoy – online shopping 3. Brad’s Deals – also a great shopping app/websites – great deals 4. Facebook – because I’m a creeper (as the kids call it) and like to see what is going on with others. 5. Ebay – not as much as it once was but it still is useful for certain items – barely worn clothes, that out of production item, and just odd items 6. ask.com/health websites – I know I’m not supposed to, but I research illnesses and medicines. I like to think it keeps me ‘informed’ rather than a hypochondriac/over-worrier. 7. teacherspayteachers.com – When I need an additional source for whatever I’m teaching, I know I can find it there; of course, I will find more than I need but that goes along with most shopping excursions. 8. Wengage.com – our online teacher website for grades/attendance/etc. It has made my life so much easier NOT to HAVE to keep a paper grade book. 9. Pinterest – it has some great ideas, but mostly I find it a time consumer with wonderful ideas that I will buy the materials to do but never actually attempt. 10. Youtube – I’m a verbal/sight learner – so not only is it entertaining but a tool to say learn how to get the green out of your swimming pool, tie a tie, or even practice for my lip sync battle while looking at Rick Springfield (in the early years, not now). 10 Writers: This is a tough one –I’m not much of an ‘author’ follower. I just read what I looks interesting. But I’m not quitting now; so here goes, faking my way through again. 1. Stephen King: Now as a teen, I was definitely a follower . . . anxiously waiting for the next book. I still enjoy his writing, but when he said writer’s should not use adverbs, a part of my heart slowly (get it) died. Honestly, why obliterate a whole part of speech? As an English teacher, I must take a stand. 2. Dean Koontz: Are you getting the picture that I like creepy/horror/psychological thriller books? 3. Judy Blume: 5th – 7th grade, she was my hero. Until I ‘accidently’ read her adult book “Wifey”, and then I was slightly disturbed for a while. 4. Jim Ethridge: (my dad) – he only writes non-fiction and has such a great voice in his writing. His pacing is impressive and he adds just enough humor to keep you smiling all the way through. Check him out - duece   .5. All the writers of the Bible, which I guess would technically be God since He was the ‘muse’: I don’t turn to it often enough, but it is inspiring, brutally honest, and full of interesting stories. 6. James Patterson: I’m not sure if I would still enjoy him, but I did for a while. My Mema got me interested in his writing. I’m not sure why I stopped. I think it was either because they all began to sound the same or because I was having to read too many text books to have time. 7. My husband & my son: I’m putting them both together because neither of them truly consider themselves a writer. My husband has a talent of description and imagery that I envy. My son has such an honesty in his writing; I’m not sure how to explain it. His writing sounds just like he sounds. 8. Dr. Seuss: You have to love nonsensical writing that still flows off the tongue with no hesitation. 9. Wilson Rawls: “Where the Red Fern Grows” showed me the joy of love, hard work, simplicity and allowed me to see a soft side of my father when I was young. I was then able to share that experience with my students. 10. S.E. Hinton: “The Outsiders” – I have read it no less than 40 times, since my 8th graders read it for class every year and I usually have 4 different classes. I think what I love most about it besides the facts that the author is from Oklahoma and the book isn’t gender specific as far as who it appeals to is that I discover something new every year that I read it. Or, perhaps my memory is deteriorating. 10 Famous lines from books/movies – ugh, I might give up here. I am not a quoter of movies and books. Not to be sexist, but I think it is a guy thing. That and I don’t enjoy reading a book or watching the same movie more than once for the most part. There are too many others to explore. Honestly, I’m just going to try to come up with ten. 1. “Luke, I am your father.” – It’s fun to say into a microphone and sometimes at awkward moments. However, then a Star Wars fan might think you’ve actually paid attention all the way through one of the movies and start a conversation with you, making you smile and nod with fake agreement and understanding for a millennium. 2. “Stay gold, Ponyboy.” – However, it drives me insane when people quote it wrong by saying ‘stay golden’. If there is one quote I know for sure it is this one. 3. “To thine own self be true.” – Shakespeare has many memorable quotes but I think this is one that we all need to remember no matter what our age or stage in life. 4. “Willllssssooooon” (from the movie Castaway): It was such a sad moment but also revealing. It showed, at least to me, how vital even the seemingly unimportant can become to us. One man’s trash is another man’s lifeline. 5. Galatians 6:4 – “Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job we done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else.” – I grew up in a competitive family; it wasn’t forced on me, but it was me – a big part at least. For a period of my life, I didn’t feel like doing my best was enough; I had to be the best. That is a difficult mantra to live. It started to become how I felt people judged me too. I don’t know how much that was in my own mind, but I still felt it. And since the best is often subjective, it was a stressful road to travel. This verse reminded me, that God doesn’t look at me compared to others, but only me and what I try to do and be and loves me even when I don’t succeed. 6. “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings.” – It’s just a nice thought – life on Earth connects to the spiritual world; and also that imagination is important to all generations. 7. “Please, sir, may I have some more.” – Okay, so I’m grasping at straws now. Believe it or not, I have read a few books and watched more than three movies, but I’m drawing a complete blank here. Here Oliver is asking for a second helping of food which doesn’t seem out of the question since he is homeless and not being well cared for, but at the same time I think it reminds us that sometimes we don’t get what we deserve and also it is better to wait for it to be offered than come across ungrateful and greedy. (Sorry, Oliver – I would have given you seconds though.) 8. “Live long and prosper.” – This is Star Trek. Considering my dislike of sci-fi, I’m perplexed on why 2 of my 10 quotes are from sci-fi. I blame The Big Bang Theory; they refer to it often on that show. But if you think about it, it is a nice message: Don’t die soon, and I hope you aren’t poor. Personally, I’m good with that. 9. “I’ll love you forever, I’ll like you for always; as long as I’m living my baby you’ll be.” – From the children’s book (which is really written to make mother’s sob) “I’ll love you forever”. This is book is wonderful from the time you know you are having a baby through every stage of life. And it does state it perfectly – no matter what happens, what you do, what is going on; I will always love and like you and you will always be my baby. 10. “Life is like a box of chocolates.” (Forrest Gump) – geez how much more cliché’ can I get? I know what he is getting at here, but I just like to think of the fact that chocolate is plain good no matter if it has nuts, coconut, cherries, or that weird gooey white stuff in it. I mean, let’s face it, even if it’s not your favorite kind it is still chocolate and chocolate can’t be all bad. So even when life gives you weird gooey white weird-texture filling, life is still chocolate; there is still a fantastic part to it. Finished!!!!! - Super happy about being able to finish one thing in my life. Now on to conquer the cleaning of the house, wrapping of presents, planning of life, and convincing myself I don’t need a nap. Thanks for hanging in there! Audra |
| I wanted to blog but was drawing a blank, so as usual I did an internet search - the answers to the big and small things in life - ASK.COM! The following is what caught my attention. Let's see if I can live up to the challenge. You’re going to make lists that will add up to 100 things you love. Make sure you give an explanation for each of the things you add to your list. For example, don’t just list your favorite restaurants, write down what you enjoy about each one (the warm bread they serve before the meal, the waiter who always remembers your favorite dish, the whimsical decor, and so on). I've been called out before on being a 'lister' on my blog; so this should be easy, right? I don't know - 100 things I love? That's a lot of lovin'. 10 Activities Yikes! I'm already beginning to sweat this challenge. These will be in no particular order since my brain is a pool of fog and ideas. Plus the fact that I'm not sure what constitutes an activity. The obvious answer would be something that requires you to be active; I sure hope mental activity qualifies. Here goes: 1. Writing - I mean, how could I not put that one? I've always loved to write. I remember at the age of maybe 6 or 7, writing songs as I played on the gate at the farm. This led to poetry. As education progressed and more writing was required, I quickly realized I could ace almost any essay test, yet bomb a true/false. I attribute it to my bull-shitting skills even at a young age. 2. Spending time with my loved ones - Yes, it is a generic response, but it is true. I love my husband, son, family (even when they don't care for each other) and my close friends. It doesn't really matter what we are doing as long as we are together. 3. Sleeping - Maybe this is more of an 'inactivity', but I do enjoy it. Besides with my sleep apnea and talking and walking in my sleep I think that makes it qualify as an activity. However, lately I have been plagued by nightmares that I do wish would become inactive. 4. Coloring - No, I haven't jumped on the adult coloring phase... I have always LOVED to color. It has been my stress reliever and outlet for a little creativity. Bring on the Sharpies. 5. Sewing/Embroidery - I'm not that good at it, but I enjoy it. I can hand sew a pretty decent pillow. When they add Home Ec to the subjects you teach, you better at least be able to keep up with the kids. Thank goodness for my Mema. The first year of teaching it, we would meet at least once a week so she could teach me something to teach. I love and cherish those evenings. 6. Watch TV - Shows from Criminal Minds to Family Feud to So You Think You Can Dance. I'm much more of a television girl than a radio listener. I didn't know if once I got married to Bruce and moved to the farm if I could make it without cable. I mean I didn't think I would die, but you don't know how you will react when something you have had most your life is deleted. I'm managing pretty well on the three or four stations we have. I do however miss the rewind and record buttons at times. 7. Watching Football - live or on television, family football, middle school football, college, pro – I love it all. Go Pokes! And da..da..da..Panthers! Of course, part of the love of this sport is that it is a family event. There is always fun teasing and talking ‘smack’. . . Well, except when my Panthers are beating my son’s Packers; I was completely wrong about that being a fun-filled afternoon. 8. Going for drives – Not like to work drives, but drives where you listen to great music, aren’t rushed, and have great conversation. I mean if you are aimlessly driving, there is no visual reminder of all the chores and projects that need to be done at the house. 9. Teaching Something New to an Attentive Audience – most the time, though I love being a teacher, I view it as a job not an activity. But there are those moments when you come up with an interesting idea of how to teach something and the moon is in the right phase and the weather is stable so that the students are like a live audience. And they more than get it…they think about it later; talk about it later; their brains seem to embrace what I was trying to get across. 10. Online Shopping – I hate real world shopping, but I absolutely love on-line shopping. I crave the research of finding things others can’t, discovering a great buy, and of course receiving great mail! Well, that’s 10 out of 100. Only 90 more. This may have to be a two-parter; my favorite activity of sleep is calling me. 10 Restaurants: 1. Olive Garden: Because my son loves it and we always have a good time; plus, it doesn’t hurt that their salad is amazing. 2. Braums (Ice cream – I think it is only in the Midwest) – if I’m craving a sweet treat, it’s Braums for me. A double dip is less than $2.00. mmmmmm sounds soooo good right now. 3. Zios – I haven’t been there in years, but it is fantabulous Italian food. 4. Monterrey Jack's– We used to go there so often they knew my son’s order before we even sat down. Yep, chicken strips at a Mexican restaurant – dipped in nacho cheese of course. 5. Jason’s Deli – perfect salad bar and soft serve ice cream 6. Cracker Barrel – great comfort food and a fun store to look through 7. Texas Roadhouse – Only a once in a while treat, but even Bruce thinks their steaks are excellent. 8. Taco Bell – it qualifies as a favorite because sometimes the budget is super tight and even if all the food does taste the same sometimes super junk food just hits the spot. 9. Buffalo Wild Wings – it’s so good that once you have it, you keep craving it, but then you have it so much it starts to sound disgusting and plus you are out of money by then. 10. Hideaway Pizza – I think this is an Oklahoma founded pizza place and it is just great, filling pizza. 20 percent finished – yahoo! 10 People – yikes, this is a little uncomfortable – I mean I undoubtedly will just forget someone and later realize they should be in the top ten – Also, does this mean people I know or famous people or people from history? EEEEEkkk – the pressure. THESE OF COURSE ARE IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER – besides, it depends on the day with some of them. 1. Mema – I can always feel relaxed and de-stress just by going to her house. She’s a great woman. 96 years old with a lot to share and give. 2. Reese – my son; funny, loving, the greatest gift of my life 3. Bruce – my soul mate, husband, protector, and role model – more than I ever dreamed could exist 4. Dad – tries to be gruff, but can’t pull it off anymore; religious, honest, and full of life lessons. 5. Ma – my great-grandmother, she passed away when I was in the 6th grade. We were a pair; she the oldest in the family and me the youngest. Standing when the national anthem was played on the t.v., making clothes for my Raggedy Ann doll, and reading books to each other. 6. Mom – She needs me and she is ALWAYS there for me. She loves me even when I screw up. It is a different relationship, but I value it deeply. I will always stand by her side. 7. Amy – my sister – we go through phases of talking and hanging out but we know we are always there for each other. However, she didn’t acknowledge my existence until she was in college; but I guess that is normal. We are opposites in so many areas; but I think our core is similar. 8. Will – my brother – we aren’t as close as we once were for no real reason except I suppose that life happens and our family and jobs take the majority of our time and energy. He's a good man with a genuine heart and actions. 9. Papa – Mema’s husband – though he passed away many years ago, my thoughts go to him often. I wish so much when we were cleaning out his things that I would have taken one of the coats Mema offered us. It’s a silly regret I suppose, but one my mind drifts to. Bear traps, fishing, and tales of travels; I miss you, Papa. 10. Les Cole – our former minister and life-long friend. Through him, my faith really blossomed. I also realized that ministers were real people too . . . that being in the ministry didn’t mean that you had to be serious all the time. I’m not even half finished? Okay, just one more category and then I’mcalling it a night. Matt, our cat, is demanding attention and my eyes are getting heavy. 10 Foods 1. Nachos – no explanation needed – who doesn’t love nachos? 2. Fried Okra – mmmm Summer homegrown okra - no one comes close to making it like Mom's. 3. Chicken and Dumplin’s – definite comfort food – usually what I choose for my birthday dinner 4. Pizza – even the frozen kind – actually I think I prefer those sometimes 5. Soft serve ice cream – just so wonderful – the texture, taste, smoothness 6. Bacon – I know it is cliché’ but I do love crispy bacon 7. Cheese – almost all kinds on most things – especially cheese that is a little burnt – weird, I know 8. Soup – almost any kind – it makes me relax and smile 9. Enchiladas – homemade are the best – I need to learn to make them. Put that on the to-do list 10. Salted Caramel – not sure if it is really a favorite, but it sure sounds good right now. To be continued tomorrow…. 10 Games 6 Drinks/Beverages 4 Desserts 10 Paintings 10 Web Sites 10 Writers 10 Famous lines from books/movies |
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