Hi goils!

BJ--no, I don't, although I have heard of them (where exactly, I don't know). Man! No more periods/cramps/all the other fun stuff that comes with Aunt Flo--gone--where do I sign up??? (No, I'm not making light of your situation, just wishing it was me! (I have always had horrible TOMs--no doctor will do anything--I've tried)) (((((hugs, my wonderful sister!))))) (Oh, and from one who has sculpted for years--don't let anyone critize your work--it is a part of you, and you are much too beatiful to have anyone degrade it. After all, Michangelo was critized, too.)

Raeanne--I didn't mention it b/c i didn't think it would happen. A state director is one of 8/10 people in the state that is one the board of directors that oversees the statewide organization (membership, charties, etc...). I had to make a speech, and then sit there while 3 men were elected. Oh well--maybe later-- :):) (One of the members of the nominating committee that I interviewed with (and who is an auctioneer) told me that I talked too fast. Well--we wouldn't want an auctioneer that does **that** do we???? (insert much eye-rolling here))

Well, a friend that I used to work with and 2 of her other friends went to see "A Tuna Christmas" last night. For those that haven't seen it--run--get thee hence and see it! It's a riot, and the whole play is done by 2 men, and these 2 are just too much--one started laughing during one of his monologues, which got us laughing even harder. I needed that! :)

Things are the same here--nad you know, i'm enjoying every precious minute that I am off. Yeah, the lack of $$$ is lousy, but the perks are wonderful! :):)

Hope all is well wit heveryone--

Hugs,

Maddie

Hi All,

BJ, I have never heard of that procedure. Is it done to alleviate menstrual distress? Cramps, headaches, etc? If so and your doctor recommends it I say go for it! I with Maddie, where do I sign up LOL. You mentioned the pros - what about the cons??

Maddie, you are too funny! when are you giving us the Christmas hit list?

Raeanne, hope you had a great weekend. My shoe size is 8. I am excited that you have my name.

I spent most of the last four days at Equine Affaire. It's a four day equine extravaganza and is fun but for me it's alot of work. Trade show stuff, standing all day, pretending to be charming and interested in what people are saying! LOL I am so tired and so behind in everything but the good news is that it's over for another year. Need to get caught up with everything like that's going to happen.
Today it was like spring and I am hoping that the weather holds out like this because Friday morning my equine group is taking off for our last hurah for the year. We have rented a nice house in western, MA and will have three days of riding and eating and fun! Can't wait. I have a massage therapist scheduled to come give me a massage after I have had a long hot tub session on Saturday. Oh yeah!

BJ, let us know what you decide to do.

BJ - I just came back from dinner and my friend's doctor just recommended that procedure to her TODAY!!! She suffers from very severe PMS symptoms and he said the procedure would rid her of them. HOWEVER, this doctor has only done 40 of them - I would say your doctor is more than qualified.

Suzanne - thanks for the shoe size LOL. You have been treating yourself pretty good these days with all the riding and I love the massage WTG!!!

Good Morning All,

BJ, I am curious to know what the cons of this procedure are. Did the Dr. tell you of any? I would want to know. Raeanne, did you read of any?

I am off. Have lots to get done by Thursday and work is interfering with it! LOL

Hope we hear from some MIA's today.

Suzanne - the only risks I saw were the normal risks with any surgery, excessive bleeding or infection. I would feel very confident with a doctor that has done 4000 procedures. I don't think I would go to the doctor that has done 40. I feel bad because I just realized you will be away when your package arrives - but now you will have an extended birthday.

I have to go and check to see where DeeMarie is today LOL.

BJ~I haven't heard anything about that procedure but it sounds like it would beat having a hysterectomy & if I have heard of it, (it is possible, lol), then it was for that very fact. They have some interesting things on tv around here telling what procedures have taken the place of others.

Maddie~I hear you about the money. I cannot believe they used that excuse! Talked too fast? I thought that was the point! I'm looking forward to the list.

NH Suzanne~It was even what I would call almost cool here last night. Glad that you are getting your last hurah!

Raeanne~What is new with you?

Well, I'm giving a shout out to everyone & hoping everyone has a great day! Patti :)

Hi Patti - glad you gave a shout out. Not much new here, just the same old work, housework, working out - too much work in my life LOL.

I just received this challenge in an email and I can't do it - not even close:

While sitting at your desk, lift your right foot off the floor and make clockwise circles.

Now, while doing this, draw the number "6" in the air with your right hand.

Your foot will change direction and there's nothing you can do about it.

Raeanne~ That's a funny challege. I've done it with my kiddies, but the best fun I've had with it is at parties where people are enjoying a cocktail or two! lol!

I spent the morning making pilgrim hats for the kindergarten play. Real fun. Now, I gotta get some real work done!

NHSuzanne~ Side effects include cramping and nausea. There is some bloating for a couple to a few weeks afterwards from fluid collecting during the healing process. Women say it appears to look like a small roll of fat---like I need another!, but it disappears after healing. The risks are infection, blood loss (both rare), and the rarest risk of all is the device used to laser the lining off may pass through the uterine wall. Not good, but very rare. The last risk is that the fluid used to expand your uterus for the procedure may be absorbed into your bloodstream, diluting your blood and causing a serious problem.

That said, the plusses are no more pregnancies, periods, headaches, cramps, and no invasive surgery. The procedure is done as out patient and recovery is about 2 hours. Normal exercise and activity can begin again in a day or two.

It sounds like it is a proven, great option for someone who doesn't desire to get pregnant and who has bad monthly female cycles.

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOO-kay! -----

Now back to our regularly scheduled diets......!

I say go for it BJ!! WOW, not that I am nearly in menoupause I hear of some good method to get rid of all those symptoms!

BJ - my friend says to go for it too LOL. She wants to know of someone that had the procedure before she does it. Honestly, it does sound very safe and the side effects don't sound so bad, of course I'm not the one having it done - so it's easy for me to say. Are you still doing South Beach or have you given up since you weren't losing?

Did my water aerobics today, but I think I need more than that.

Once again I've been having a hard time sticking with SS. I do make sure I do some physical activity everyday and I have reduced my funky carb intake, but I allow myself a handful of almonds a day. I wish there was an easier way...

I will be going to Cancun in 2 1/2 weeks and I dread getting into a swimsuit and facing all those temptations.

Hi Ladies!

Yes, we were in the Grand Caymans today; we just set sail for Cozumel. There was so much devastation here after the hurricanes of September, but they are fighting back.

We had a nice tour and some shopping (DH bought a watch, what else is new?! LOL)

Tonight, I thought I'd get our little group into the Wedding Chapel on board at 8pm (EST) to wave into the web cam. I told the kids to have a looksee, but I'm not sure they'll let us in. I'll be sure to blow you all kisses if I get in there!!!

I've got to go back and see who I got in the exchange! Did you guys pull the names already? Seems like you did.

will check in later this week when I get the chance...until then.

Take care, eat healthy, and NEVER NEVER GIVE UP!
DeeMarie

OK Ladies:

THE OFFICIAL, NO-SH!T SHERLOCK, GEN-U-WINE, WOULDN'T LIE TO YA EVEN IF I COULD, 2004 CHRISTMAS EXCHANGE LIST:

(ahem...)

Joanne sends to Patti
Maddie sends to BJ
Besh sends to Marci
NHSuzanne sends to Maddie
Raeanne sends to Joanne
Dee sends to Tikanas
Marci sends to Gretchen
BJ sends to Lynn
Tikanas sends to Raeanne
Gretchen sends to Jen
Lynn sends to Dee
Jen sends to NHSuzanne
Patti sends to Besh

Alrighty--how about the opening be on Dec. 20th?

And Marci--for our new friends, how about you post your list of questions (remember from a couple of years ago?), and that will not only refresh memories, it will give everyone some good ideals--

Hope all is well!

hugs,

Maddie

Maddie~Kewl! Thanks for doing this for us!

BJ~Did you see the ads on the sides? It is always pretty funny to see especially after all our talk this time.

DeeMarie~I hope that I remember to look for you. What time would that be here? Hmmmm......

Raeanne~I'm doing physical activity but we still don't have our sports complex back up & running again including the pool. They originally said that it would be 1 1/2 to 2 years before they have the pool back up & operating but now it was supposed to be back in operation yesterday so I will have to go check it out.

Well, check in everyone or else I'll think that I scared you all away! LOL Patti ;)

Har! Har! I never noticed the ads. That's hilarious!

I've noticed the pop up links. On Saturdays there are ads for laundry related things!! When I was having my permanent cap put on there were dental related things. Ain't technology grand!

Maddie, thanks for setting up the exchange. We should try to think up some more provacative questions for the survey.
Any ideas?

What KIND of provacative questions???????

If you had an extra hour in your day, one hour, what would you do with it? Work out or have sex?

One night doing whatever you wanted with George Clooney or the ability to eat whatever you want, hamburgers, you name it, without gaining a pound. Which one would you choose?

And when it comes to plastic surgery...
If plastic surgery was free of charge, what would you have done?

If you could change one thing about your body, butt, thighs?

Lights on or light off?

Why do you give up on exercise? Time? Results not fast enough? Not enough discipline? Gym costs too much? Unrealistic goals? Or something else?

1 month to live- what will you do?

Does science matter?

Are men necessary? Are women?

What will be the next plague?

How much nature is enough?

How will you be remembered?

What IS friendship?

What is "the good life"?

What is your most precious memory?

What do you strive for in life: money, power, knowledge, love, or something else?

Would you rather be gossiped about or lied to?

You're asked for your best piece of advice---what is it?

Just goofin' off in Seattle......nighty night... :)

Wow BJ, like you have time to goof off!! Great questions and I will answer them soon but some require some thought!

BJ~Did you just pop those questions up off the top of your head? You blow me away!

Shout out to everyone! Patti :)

BJ - you've outdone yourself again! Thanks for the questions, it was fun.

If you had an extra hour in your day, one hour, what would you do with it? Work out or have sex?
Sadly for DH, I would workout, sex doesn't require an hour for us anymore LOL.

One night doing whatever you wanted with George Clooney or the ability to eat whatever you want, hamburgers, you name it, without gaining a pound. Which one would you choose? Sadly again, I would take the food over George - give me more than 1 night and maybe I would revise that answer (or throw in Brad Pitt)

And when it comes to plastic surgery...
If plastic surgery was free of charge, what would you have done?
No, because I am chicken.

If you could change one thing about your body, butt, thighs?
Yes, Yes

Lights on or light off?
on in the daytime, off at night (don't like to show off my lumps and rolls.

Why do you give up on exercise? Time? Results not fast enough? Not enough discipline? Gym costs too much? Unrealistic goals? Or something else?
I feel I do exercise pretty regularly, but if I am invited to do something fun and I have to skip exercise, I go for the fun.

1 month to live- what will you do?
mmmmmmm.... not sure, but would do it with my closest relatives and friends.

Does science matter?
isn't everything matter?

Are men necessary? Are women? yes, yes.

What will be the next plague? War

How much nature is enough? never enough for me, but I do require clothing.

How will you be remembered? I don't know, but I hope it includes words like loyal friend, devoted mother, loving wife and could really shoot down a lot of tequilla.

What IS friendship? someone who loves you without juding you, someone who knows when you need a laugh or a hug and you do the same for them without thinking twice about it.

What is "the good life"? I think I'm living it. Just being grateful for what you have and not dwelling on what you don't have.

What is your most precious memory?

What do you strive for in life: money, power, knowledge, love, or something else? I'm not sure, maybe acceptance for who I am. I always had an inferiority complex.

Would you rather be gossiped about or lied to? gossiped about, because I don't care what other people say about me.

You're asked for your best piece of advice---what is it?
It would either be "trust yourself" or "ask questions".

I hope this wasn't too much info.

BJ - I know you did these questions as a joke, but they really make you think - thanks.

I realized I left one off and I don't think I'm ready to answer it. Name one precious memory? I don't know why, but that is a tough one for me and it requires more thought than I can give it right now, the other answers were spontaneous.

Have a great day...

What the heck!

If you had an extra hour in your day, one hour, what would you do with it? Work out or have sex? Work out for sure.

One night doing whatever you wanted with George Clooney or the ability to eat whatever you want, hamburgers, you name it, without gaining a pound. Which one would you choose? Eat, eat---George Clooney doesn't do much for me. I'd love to have lunch with Hugh Grant tho' - he's such a scoundrel.

And when it comes to plastic surgery...
If plastic surgery was free of charge, what would you have done? Dermabrasion on my face.

If you could change one thing about your body, butt, thighs? Thighs, for sure. Goodbye side cars.

Lights on or light off? Off, unless I'm feeling pretty darn fantastic.

Why do you give up on exercise? Time? Results not fast enough? Not enough discipline? Gym costs too much? Unrealistic goals? Or something else? Not enough discipine, for sure.

1 month to live- what will you do? Go to the Red Center of Australia and hike with the locals and guides until I croaked. I wouldn't tell my family or friends I was dying- they'd treat me so differently. I'd just write them all farewell letters to be delivered upon my death.

Does science matter? Yea.

Are men necessary? Are women? I don't know about the men, but I like the women. lol.

What will be the next plague? I think it's here - Ebola and AIDS

How much nature is enough? Hmmmm. I love it, but I believe in property rights as well.

How will you be remembered? I gave a great illusion of being organized. They'll find out after I'm gone about the illusion part.

What IS friendship? Hooking up with a friend after not calling for a few months (or years) and starting right back up again where you left off. Oh, and forgiveness acceptance- those are biggies.

What is "the good life"? Being able to have a baby (anybody's baby) sleep in your arms. Or making a small kid smile and giggle...

What is your most precious memory? Having my gramps say, "C'mere sweetheart!" and when I went over to him, he'd always give me a quarter. ---His kind of old fashioned love.

What do you strive for in life: money, power, knowledge, love, or something else? All of it at one time or another.

Would you rather be gossiped about or lied to? Gossiped about; that over a lie any day.

You're asked for your best piece of advice---what is it? 1. Be prepared to only rely on yourself in life. 2. Never depend on anyone else's income! 3. Wind chimes are a very good thing.

BJ - loved your answers and I have to say that Hugh Grant is more my type too LOL.

If you had an extra hour in your day, one hour, what would you do with it? Work out or have sex? I would work out with my horse of course!

One night doing whatever you wanted with George Clooney or the ability to eat whatever you want, hamburgers, you name it, without gaining a pound. Which one would you choose?
I would choose the hamburger hands down over George.

And when it comes to plastic surgery...
If plastic surgery was free of charge, what would you have done?
I would not choose it. I am hoping to grow old gracefully!

If you could change one thing about your body, butt, thighs?
I would just want to be 20 lbs lighter. Just she said! LOL

Lights on or light off? Lights on!

Why do you give up on exercise? Time? Results not fast enough? Not enough discipline? Gym costs too much? Unrealistic goals? Or something else? I get lots of exercise but it's never enough. All of the above apply

1 month to live- what will you do? I have no idea. I would have to cross that bridge when I got to it but I too would want it to be with family and friends.

Does science matter? Yes

Are men necessary? Depends on which day we are speaking of! Are women? - Yes, I need my women friends.

What will be the next plague? Disease and hunger

How much nature is enough? You know me, I can't get enough of nature and if you ask me there isn't nearly enough of it anymore.

How will you be remembered? I don't know but I hope that I will be remembered as a kind person and a generous person. Of course I will be remembered as an animal crazy person!

What IS friendship? It is loving without judgement and being available no matter what. I have always said about my dearest friends is that they would be there for me anytime day or not and without question if I asked them to be.

What is "the good life"? I too think I have the good life. I think the good life is a life that one actually enjoys. It is not about having things, it's about enjoying what you have. I am living my passion for animals, (horses especially), I work in the industry and in spite of my stresses sometimes I enjoy my work. I have a wonderful husband who tries my patience alot but we have a good quality of life.

What is your most precious memory? I have alot of precious memories but one in particular stands out. When I was in the third or fourth grade a teacher said to me that being ignorant is not so much of a shame as being unwilling to learn. I didn't really understand it at the time but it always stuck with me.

What do you strive for in life: money, power, knowledge, love, or something else? Mostly knowledge because knowledge is power.

Would you rather be gossiped about or lied to? Gossiped about at least someone else would be getting a breaK! Lying to is one of the lowest things that a person can do.

You're asked for your best piece of advice---what is it? To your own self be true and know all the facts before you act.

My most precious memory? My father making Sunday morning breakfast. We always had pancakes and bacon and the Sunday papers would be strewn about, there would always be some singing and dancing involved.

Martha Stewart will not be dining with us this Thanksgiving. I'm telling
you in advance, so don't act surprised. Since Ms. Stewart won't be
coming, I've made a few small changes:

Our sidewalk will not be lined with homemade, paper bag lumieres. After
a trial run, it was decided that, no matter how cleverly done, rows of
flaming lunch sacks do not have the desired welcoming effect.

Once inside, our guests will note that the entry hall is not decorated
with the swags of Indian corn and fall foliage I had planned to make.
Instead, I've gotten the kids involved in the decorating by having them
track in colorful autumn leaves from the front yard. The mud was their
idea.

The dining table will not be covered with expensive linens, fancy
china, or crystal goblets. If possible, we will use dishes that match and
everyone will get a fork. Since this IS Thanksgiving, we will refrain
from using the plastic Peter Rabbit plates and the Santa napkins from last
Christmas.

Our centerpiece will not be the tower of fresh fruit and flowers that I
promised. Instead we will be displaying a hedgehog-like decoration
hand-crafted from the finest construction paper. The artist assures me
it is a turkey.

We will be dining fashionably late. The children will entertain you
while you wait. I'm sure they will be happy to share every choice comment I
have made regarding Thanksgiving, pilgrims, and the turkey hotline. Please
remember that most of these comments were made at 5:00 a.m. upon
discovering that the turkey was still hard enough to cut diamonds.

As accompaniment to the children's recital, I will play a recording of
tribal drumming. If the children should mention that I don't own a
recording of tribal drumming, or that the tribal drumming sounds
suspiciously like a frozen turkey in a clothes dryer, ignore them. T hey
are lying.

We toyed with the idea of ringing a dainty silver bell to announce the
start of our feast. In the end, we chose to keep our traditional method.
We've also decided against a formal seating arrangement. When the smoke
alarm sounds, please gather around the table and sit where you like. In
the spirit of harmony, we will ask the children to sit at a separate
table. In a separate room. Next door.

Now, I know you have all seen pictures of one person carving a turkey in
front of a crowd of appreciative onlookers. This will not be happening
at our dinner. For safety reasons, the turkey will be carved in a private
ceremony. I stress "private," meaning: do not, under any circumstances,
enter the kitchen to laugh at me. Do not send small, unsuspecting
children to check on my progress. I have an electric knife. The turkey is
unarmed. It stands to reason that I will eventually win. When I do, we will eat.

Before I forget, there is one last change. Instead of offering a choice
between 12 different scrumptious desserts, we will be serving the
traditional pumpkin pie, garnished with whipped cream and small
fingerprints. You will still have a choice: take it or leave it.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING :-)

If you had an extra hour in your day, one hour, what would you do with it? Work out or have sex? Don't let my DH see this, but I would work out.

One night doing whatever you wanted with George Clooney or the ability to eat whatever you want, hamburgers, you name it, without gaining a pound. Which one would you choose? Easy, eat whatever I wanted. I would be too worried about trying to impress George Clooney to have a good time. Who needs to impress a piece of Tiramisu?! LOL

And when it comes to plastic surgery...
If plastic surgery was free of charge, what would you have done?
A boob job!!! And maybe some liposuction on the old thighs.

If you could change one thing about your body, butt or thighs? Thighs

Lights on or light off? Off

Why do you give up on exercise? Time? Results not fast enough? Not enough discipline? Gym costs too much? Unrealistic goals? Or something else? Boredom with the same old routine and changes in the weather. I love to walk outside first thing in the morning and winter puts a big damper on that.

1 month to live- what will you do? Visit every person I care about and spend some quality time with them and give them a piece of my life to remember me by.

Does science matter? Only if you are a scientist! LOL

Are men necessary? Are women? Sometimes and YES!!

What will be the next plague? Greed! Honestly, I think it is an epidemic.

How much nature is enough? Depends on the person and the situation. I could never spend the day in a boat fishing, but some people would consider that heaven. I love the beach and could spend hours on the beach, reading, walking, swimming, people watching and just breathing the salty air. My DH would think that was his worst nightmare come true.

How will you be remembered? Hopefully as a caring, nurturing Mom, wife and teacher.

What IS friendship? When you care enough to tell each other the truth. When you are there for the good times as well as the bad. When you are willing to give your friend that last piece of cake!!

What is "the good life"? Family, friends and a good glass of wine.

What is your most precious memory? When my grandparents came to my parent's house on Christmas Eve and waking up on Christmas morning as a kid.

What do you strive for in life: money, power, knowledge, love, or something else? Companionship, acceptance and peace of mind.

Would you rather be gossiped about or lied to? Tough choice. I guess lied to.

You're asked for your best piece of advice---what is it? This too shall pass. Every problem has a solution and time will reveal that solution.

This felt suspiciously like homework!! LOL But it was fun.

Maddie - Maybe I could just send Tikanas and Lynn the questionaire from the Birthday exchange and they can send it to their partner? Let me know. Also, is there a theme to this Christmas exchange. Are we doing ornaments again?

This hasn't been a very good week at school. The kids have been exceptionally squirrelly (sp?) and I am counting down the hours until the weekend. On Tuesday, one little girl got her finger caught in the door on the bathroom stall. I heard her scream and immediately knew what had happened. My stomach was in knots while I got her finger out of the door, put ice on her finger and tried to calm her down. I wanted to cry right along with her. It was a really bad bruise and the skin was broken. We haven't heard from her mother and I am hoping the bone wasn't broken. We should find out tomorrow. I know I am not responsible, but I kept thinking I should have somehow prevented it from happening.

Later,
Marci

I'm loving reading these answers!

Marci~ After seeing your answer on lying and gossip and thinking about it, I guess I might rather be lied to---especially if I ask DH,

"Does this make me look fat????"

LOL!

Hey All,
I've definitely strayed a little and then I come back and see my name as the start of a thread. I must answer her, but wanted to say hello to you guys first!

If you had an extra hour in your day, one hour, what would you do with it? Work out or have sex?
Definitely work out, we always seem to find time for the other! LOL

One night doing whatever you wanted with George Clooney or the ability to eat whatever you want, hamburgers, you name it, without gaining a pound. Which one would you choose?
Definitely the food. George does not impress me.

And when it comes to plastic surgery...
If plastic surgery was free of charge, what would you have done?
Well, lets pretend that I am brave enough to have anything done. If I was it would be some kind of eye lift (and maybe a boob lift while I was at it)

If you could change one thing about your body, butt or thighs? Thighs

Lights on or light off? Good Lord, off!

Why do you give up on exercise? Time? Results not fast enough? Not enough discipline? Gym costs too much? Unrealistic goals? Or something else?
No discipline, and very lazy!

1 month to live- what will you do? Spend time with the people I care about the most. Make sure that my children know everything that I wanted to teach them and write letters to my loved ones so they would have that memory to hold on to.

Does science matter? Ofcourse! I'm a librarian for goodness sakes!

Are men necessary? Are women? Yes, see question #1! Women, definitely. Who else would take care of everything?

What will be the next plague? Some sort of chemical warfare.

How much nature is enough? A nice long weekend of it. Then it is back to reality.

How will you be remembered? Hopefully as a kind human being with a great smile!

What IS friendship? Unconditional love.

What is "the good life"? No financial worries.

What is your most precious memory? Seeing DS #1, peek into the incubator and seeing his baby brother for the first time.

What do you strive for in life: Happiness.

Would you rather be gossiped about or lied to? Gossiped about definitely. I have no tolerance for lying.

You're asked for your best piece of advice---what is it? Don't put your bras in the dryer! LOL Seriously, think before you speak, you can never take those words back.

Thanks BJ, this was fun!

Love, Besh

Here is a link that might be useful: This is incredible!

Good Morning All,

Besh, thanks for posting that incredible link. Love you answers too.

MARCI, so good to hear from you.

I am supposed to be working!! Ha,ha! I am getting excited about my weekend. I finally got in touch with the woman who owns Sweet Peas filly. She lives in MA about 30 minutes from where I am staying this weekend so I will be going to meet my equine grandaughter!!! By all accounts she looks just like Sweet Pea and I just can't wait to see her and get to know her a little. She is five.

Okay, back to work but I will check in later.

If you had an extra hour in your day, one hour, what would you do with it? Work out or have sex? You know that say that having sex is like running a mile...soooo need I say more?

One night doing whatever you wanted with George Clooney or the ability to eat whatever you want, hamburgers, you name it, without gaining a pound. Which one would you choose? FOOD!

And when it comes to plastic surgery...
If plastic surgery was free of charge, what would you have done? Lipo on my thighs and spiders veins zapped

If you could change one thing about your body, butt, thighs? hmmmm calves...I think they are too big

Lights on or light off? doesn't matter to me

Why do you give up on exercise? Time? Results not fast enough? Not enough discipline? Gym costs too much? Unrealistic goals? Or something else? Not enough time..I need my sleep and I would have to get up pretty early to accomplish the workout - hence...question number 1..

1 month to live- what will you do? Spend time with the people in my life and cherish each moment I have. But I would also travel to the places that I have always wanted to visit.

Does science matter? Of course!

Are men necessary? Are women? Once again of course...

What will be the next plague? I think it will be a supervirus that does not respond to antibiotics. We as a country are over medicated when we should really save taking an antibiotic until it is really necessary.

How much nature is enough? Depends on the nature.

How will you be remembered? I would hope I would be remembered as a selfless person who gave when she could

What IS friendship? A call in the middle of the night when you need someone to talk to, a shoulder to cry on, a hand to hold, a laugh with no questions asked

What is "the good life"? A good friend, spouse, a good dinner and a glass of good wine...ahhhhh

What is your most precious memory?I can only pick one?? Hmmm I would have to say the look my son gave me when he held his sister for the very first time. The smile on his face melted my heart!

What do you strive for in life: money, power, knowledge, love, or something else? I strive to be happy and comfortable with who I am

Would you rather be gossiped about or lied to? Gossiped about. Gossip is trivial and people recognize gossip as just that gossip..

You're asked for your best piece of advice---what is it? Be true to yourself and don't compromise your values for the sake of acceptence.

I'm still enjoying the answers to the quippy questions posed. There are some very sensitive, deep-thinking people here! But then we always knew that! lol!

Hey, I just got through listening to a CD of the old band America. (Hint: big hit: Horse with No Name) Does that band joggle anybody's brain? Hope so....heehee. Yesterday, I was in a Sade mood, and the day before, it was Basia. My true love, though, is smooth jazz ---- or as my kids call it:

"Mom's kind of music - with no words".

What music have YOU been listening to lately?
What kind of music do you LOVE?

I love jazz and smooth jazz too. The other day someone had some techno music playing and it was kind of neat. Thought I should be at a rave or something! However, nothing beats the rock for me. I am die hard and true.

I would love to have some suggestions for some modern spanish guitar flamenco type (for want of another way of describing) music.

BJ - America certainly takes me back to my teen years. The last two days I have listened to a cd I made up of Dean Martin, Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra. I go through many a Sade phase too. My DH humored me and let me listen it to in the car tonight.

Suzanne - sorry, but the closest I come to Spanish music is Santana LOL.

Hi,

BJ, have you ever heard of the group called Stuff? I used to have their album way back when and could never find the CD. They just rereleased it not to long ago. The CD is now called the Right Stuff. If you go to Amazon.com you can listen some of the songs. I just love them. It is mostly instrumental. There is one song or maybe two with vocals. I just bought it not to long ago and listen to it all the time. I also have been listening to the Los Lonely Boys. Love those guys too. Drives my kids nuts!

Besh

NH Suzanne - I was going to suggest going to Barnes and Nobel, go to the music section and look for Latin, they will break it down into more categories and you can listen to clips from several tracks. I do that all the time. I have to apologize, the item I was waiting for still hasn't arrived, even though it was shipped nearly a week ago... I am sending the other items today and you should have them tomorrow.

I know you will be off on the wild blue yonder, so I know you will have a great birthday and weekend. Looks like you are in for a treat with the weather, so enjoy and indulge.

WOW, you guys have been busy while I've been away...what questions! BJ, when I'm not paying by the minute to answer these questions, I'll give them a whirl.

well, we found out that the wedding chapel cam on board was fixed on Nov 12! We were idiots standing and posing in front of the cameras a few nights ago when no one could see us! We had fun anyway. Hope to have a few pictures to post (via Marci) when we return. Today is our last at-sea day. We land in Ft Laurderdale tomorrow morning, and then we need to head as fast as we can up the coast to Jersey in time to go to work on Monday. This cruise has been a blast!!! Next planned cruise is in late May 2005---to Alaska! Just gotta pay of this one first! Seems we go to work just to pay off the next and past cruise, but we just don't care! HaHa.

Tikanas, please e:mail me your address and anything you might like Santa to send you! Looking forward to our exchanges again.

Gotta run and fill out custom forms.

Take care, eat healthy, and NEVER NEVER GIVE UP!
DeeMarie

Hmmmmm... good point, Marci--a theme---how 'bout a free-for-all this year--whatever floats your boat, you send. BUT... one caveat--there must be (1) ***really*** tacky ornament thrown in. I mean, something so bad that the person getting it will say D@MN!!!, and the dog will howl. And the postman will be embarrassed to hand you the package. Something sooo incredibly horrible that you will be ashamed to have the cashier ring it up. ((heeheeheehee!!! I love this part!!! :):))

If you had an extra hour in your day, one hour, what would you do with it? Work out or have sex? Welllll, if done with...ahem... 'vigour', sex can be a good workout! :)

One night doing whatever you wanted with George Clooney or the ability to eat whatever you want, hamburgers, you name it, without gaining a pound. Which one would you choose? Alrighy, I'm the odd man out b/c I would pick ol' George, and it would involve his kekkid chest, a bottle of oil, and a back/foot rub for me!!

And when it comes to plastic surgery...
If plastic surgery was free of charge, what would you have done? What *wouldn't* I have done???? I'd be lifted, tucked, sucked, enlarged, scheech--I could spend all day on this one question!!

If you could change one thing about your body, butt, thighs? Butt

Lights on or light off? Candles, baby!

Why do you give up on exercise? Time? Results not fast enough? Not enough discipline? Gym costs too much? Unrealistic goals? Or something else? Yep.

1 month to live- what will you do? Drag Rog to England

Does science matter? Yes

Are men necessary? Are women? Somedays, and yes--

What will be the next plague? Apathy

How much nature is enough? When I hafta start making loud noises to keep the bears away

How will you be remembered? Well, my epitapth (sp) is "Wow!! Whatta ride!", so I hope I can live up to that.

What IS friendship? unconditional love and acceptance, and knowing that no matter what, my bud will be there--come h3ll or high water. I am blessed to have that in 2 lifelong friends.

What is "the good life"? The now. There may not be a 'later', so enjoy every now you can.

What is your most precious memory? The last thing my mom said to me before she died (and possibly the last words she ever spoke) was "I love you, (name she would call me)". After I had spend hours with her, taking care of her, bathing her, and just telling her how my day(s) were--and not knowing if she ever heard a word I said. She did. (and now I'm crying.)

What do you strive for in life: money, power, knowledge, love, or something else? Well, I have love, and it would be my first choice. Then money, b/c then you can get the power, and afford to get more knowledge

Would you rather be gossiped about or lied to? Gossiped about--it may be something good and juicy!!

You're asked for your best piece of advice---what is it? To thine own self be true---do what you want to do, and the heck with what anyone else thinks

BJ~I, too, like smooth jazz & we have it here from Tampa as well as Orlando. I have liked Basia for a long time. I even had a dog named for her at one time. Yesterday we listened to Quincy Jones who has produced almost every great song out there. Anita Baker was on Jane Pauley yesterday but we weren't able to watch.

Shout out to everyone! Patti :)

{{gwi:1505575}}

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUZANNE, HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUZANNE, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR WONDERFUL, SWEET, BEAUTIFUL, INTELLIGENT SISTER, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU.... Suzanne - I hope your weekend is gorgeous and filled with fun. Can't wait to hear you relive it. I hope my package is there when you return from your weekend.

HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUZANNE,
HOPE YOU ARE HAVING A GREAT WEEKEND!!!!!!!!!!

Love, Besh

PS - Marci, you outdid yourself! It is beautiful. :-)

Happy Birthday Suzanne!!!

May this be your best year yet!

Tikanas

bada bing.....

ahem...........

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOUUUU
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOUUUUUU
HAPPY BIRTHDAY YOU BEAUTIFUL, INCREDIBLE SISTER
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOUUUUUUUUUU!!!!

I hope you had a great day! :):)

AND LADIES--has anyone read my echange caveat in my last post????? :):)

Hugs,

Maddie

Happy Birthday NH Suzanne!! Hope you had a wonderful day!

Maddie - I saw the caveat! Tacky Tacky Ornaments!

Gretchen

PS: Marci: You're outrageous! That cake looks good enough to eat! Love it! Yummers!

Suzanne~ You are so special. You are a grounded, sensible, and outspoken (in a good way-lol) woman. I love the way you get in here and kick up the thread a notch when we need it. I look forward to you input and enthusiasm. I hafta tell you, I have never written a poem for anyone, but here's my shot at it - for your birthday, sis. I love your style more than marshmallow peeps. Hope you have a great b-day! ~BJ

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Our NHSuzanne~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

There once was a gal named NHSuzanne,

Her life had a definite plan

She set out to prove

that mountains could be moved,

"Everything is as it should be" is how it began

****

She worked with an Equine Publication

She said couldnÂt be run by Donations

Each month had a goal

And she knew in her soul

the end of each month held a stressful sensation.

****

She took her pleasure in riding a horse she dubbed Sweet Pea,

Who actually would have been more aptly named "Queen Bee"

Away they would ride

In the agreed-upon stride

The outcome of a great day was a guarantee.

****

One day she logged on to SS Daily Chat

She decided it was where sheÂd hang her internet hat

The theme was of diet

She chimed, "Sure, IÂll try it!"

And we were all thrilled that sheÂd said that.

****

Opinionated? You bet! - You better believe it

She knows what she wants and will fight to receive it.

She states her mind

SheÂs one-of-a-kind

SheÂs deserving and thatÂs to her credit.

****

WeÂre thrilled she chose us, it makes us feel neat,

Without horse stories, this thread, incomplete.

We look toward Monday

To hear where she rode on Sunday

On her pea of a horse called "Sweet".

****

:)

BJ, my eyes are watering. So sweet!

Yes, yes, yes Maddie. I can buy tacky ornaments! Not a problem. I love it!

Besh

Yeah, thanks. I won't quit my day job! :)

Maddie~ I have a few choice ideas in mind already. I'm sorry now, though, that I passed up those moose nugget oranaments in Alaska this summer. DURN!

Movie review!--We saw the Shark Tale a couple of weekends ago. Fabulous and very funny!

Sunday! We're off to see the new Sponge Bob movie, then a kiddie b-day party, then book sorting and purging, and then of course, LAUNDRY!

BJ - well done, bravo, you can quit your day job. Have a great day at the movies, bday party and most of all the laundry LOL.

Maddie - I think I started that ornament thing last year, I gave Besh a Margartaville ornament that some would call tacky - but it was the only Jimmy Buffet themed one I could find LOL.

Besh - don't think you can just pass the ornament I gave you last year off to someone else LOL.

Marci - I forgot to mention how beautiful your gif is - you keep outdoing yourself. Thanks for being in charge of decorations.

I did water Yoga this AM, then went off to the tanning salon (going away 12/4), home just long enough to eat some lunch and get to an art class.

Ah, good--I'm glad that you all saw that b/c that is part 1--part 2 will come at a later date!! heehee!! :):)

Gosh--Thanksgiving is Thursday--can you believe it??? I am so not ready for any of the holiday season, but I just love this time of the year. Even the crowded stores--and the decorations--what fun! I think there's this little kid still stuck in me that just seems to have such love for all of this time of the year--know what I mean? No matter how broke, or tired or whatever, I still have that spark--I think that's why when MIL went off a couple of years ago (like 5 days before Christams on a STUPID matter), it really crushed me--just took the wind outta my sails. I even love the gray, melancoly days--with the dead trees reaching up, and I love the smell of leaves. And I love the memories, and the music, and the opening of the carton of eggnog. Of running out of tape when wrapping gifts, and saying the h3ll with it, give me cookies and let me watch Frosty. :):)

Sorry--i'm just rambling on--I truly do love this time of year, and I hope that I will always see it for what it is--a season of love--

Hope all is wll with everyone--

Hugs,

Maddie

Oh, Raeanne, you are on to me. I will have to come up with something else! LOL

Besh