Thank you Angie and an update

The sweet Angie from Sandals and Daisies gave me this award and I am just tickled pink.
I just love every blog I visit and have found a great group of people out in blogland. I only wish I had more time in the day to visit everyone. Since I love everyone's blog, I am passing this on to every one that stops by. I know the rules don't state that but it would take forever (for me at least) to link this to every one. So please, if you read this post, feel free to put this on your blog from me. Sorry Angie, for not playing by the rules but it is too difficult to link to everyone .O.k, now for some updates. Above is one of my favorite places especially during the Holiday season. It is one of those stores that you could spend days in and still not see everything!
The Holidays are right around the corner. 4 months away, OH MY. I am busy working on getting things ready to go. I am also busy working on some items for Etsy. Hopefully I will have that up and running soon.

Quite a few of you have asked about the health situation with my family. There is some good news for me. I had a colonoscopy yesterday and all went well! Yayyy, doing the happy dance. I no longer need to have one yearly. That was prayer answered. The procedure isn't bad but the prep is not the way to spend a day-hehe.

My husband has his results back from the endoscopy and he has Barrett's Esophagus. This is something that can be watched by the doctor. We are thrilled there is no cancer and no surgery at this time. Again, doing the happy dance.

My son continues to have more bad days than good days. Bless his heart. He has endured so much in his 25 years. I can't imagine going through everything he goes through. I know there is a reason and someday it will be revealed but it is very hard for a mother to watch her child suffer so (regardless of how old he is). He really is my hero.

So, there you have it my friends.
I hope you all have a marvelous week if I don't get around to visiting every one I would like to.

Lots of hugs to each of you.

A Short Commercial Break

A few months ago, I told the tale
of how "my " car was going to be in a Toyota Scion commercial. I kind of "dissed" hubby, so I was told-hehe.
It is a quick read.

The lovely resort that the company put us at was just incredible. I'd go back there in a heartbeat. Very good vibe!

Well, the commercial is finally out. It turned out well (I'm no expert, but I like it). I thought I'd share it here in case anyone might be interested in seeing it. If you are interested in taking a peek, click on GRID SPOT, when the site is pulled up.


As usual, this proves to be a very busy weekend but I will be making my way around blogland.
I hope all of you have a truly wonderful weekend and week ahead.

A BIG MERCI

I just wanted to take a little time to thank all of you for your well wishes. They mean the world to the two of us.


We are waiting on the news from the biopsies.
One lesson I have learned over the years is the lesson of patience. Not the easiest thing to do.
I know there is a time for everything and I've learned that includes medical reports.

I've also learned over the years that every moment has it's place in the "big plan" of life.
Every moment needs to be savored and enjoyed. You can be anxious or you can be in peace. I can tell you from experience, peace is a whole lot better!

Again, thank you. thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

Thank you, thank you Theresa

Yayy!!!! Look what came in the mail.

I won Theresa's giveaway and it could not have come at a better time.

The packaging was beautiful and she tucked in lots of little goodies which my husband snatched right up. I am so excited about finding some great new recipes. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I am still walking on air.

I can't wait to visit everyone.

Happy Anniversary Jeff and Dorothy

Happy Anniversary to my sweet ones. I have to be very honest with you here. When the kids first started talking about getting married, I thought they were too young. Give it a little more time, how about 6 more months? We discussed it in detail. I decided if they were going to get married, it was their business, not mine and I could totally be on board or not. Well, guess what?
I jumped on the band wagon and never looked back. Today is their 9th anniversary and I couldn't be happier for them. The years have flown by and produced many blessings.



Jayde and Hailey (my dancing Queens), are just 2 of those blessings.
Any woman that is a grandma, knows what I am talking about.

Two years ago, Annika came on board. This is an old picture but one of my favorites.
Three precious little girls. What could be better than that?

I am so glad the kids didn't listen to me and went ahead to start their life together. Mother always doesn't know best.

Happy Anniversary, I love you both very much!

Yay!!! Thank you Theresa!

WHOO HOO! Thank you Theresa! I feel very blessed to have won your giveaway.

I love to cook and so does my husband. We are so excited. I honestly can't remember the last time I won anything. Thank you for drawing my name.

Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale....

a tale about a tag on embarrassing songs!

Nana Trish has tagged me to share 5 songs that I am embarrassed to say that I enjoy.

I can't think of any that embarrass me so I will share some that make me smile.

1. Gilligan's Island theme song. It was 1964 and I was 10 years old. Loved that show. I thought the whole island thing would be great!

2. Joy to the World- 3 dog night
When my youngest son was a toddler, bath time was not his favorite time. I would sing this song and it made bath time much easier. Every time I hear it, it takes me back in time.


3. Wake me up before you go go- Wham
This song came out in 1984. It was a difficult year and every time I heard it, it made me laugh.

4. Achy Breaky Heart- Billy Ray
I used to dance to this and truly embarrass my oldest son.

5. I'm Just a guy- Brad Paisley
I was driving home from the hospital when this came on the radio. It just made me laugh out loud.

Here are the rules if you decide to play along with the tag:

1. Link back to the person who tagged you and post the rules on your blog.
2. Share 5 songs that you are embarrassed to admit to others that you like and tell why.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post.

Pretty easy.

I tag: Amy

Diane

Patty

Lorrie

Brenda

Kelli

Sheila

Ladies, I know everyone is busy, so no worries if you pass.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Rocking Friday

Katy lin came up with the idea of My Husband Rocks as a Friday theme.
I've participated several times and today I thought I would take liberty with the theme.

My theme today is My Boys Rock!
I am thanking you in advance for indulging me.

My oldest son is on the right. He has been a real trooper throughout his life.
He is 29 (ouch, I can't believe I have a son that age) and has grown into an amazing young man. He is there for me and there for his precious family. He loves life, counts his blessings, and although his life has not always been easy, he continues on the right path. He can always make me laugh even when tears are flowing. He is a rock!

My youngest son (25) has had a life with many challenges. Just look at that smile though. It can light up a room. He has the ability to be laugh out loud funny at times. He has endured much and still keeps going.

This is my favorite picture from many years ago. It was taken in France and they were having a marvelous time in just being in the moment. I am so proud of both of them.

Do my boys rock? You betcha ya!

My little French vacation

Summer is here and while I would love to escape the Arizona heat, priorities with family and work keep us here.

I'm not complaining because I can always have a little virtual break. This morning before I get back to work I thought a little visit to the Paris Plage was appropriate.




This wonderful tradition started in 2002 and has grown tremendously over the years.
This year features a traditional beach like setting, a chic metro area and a water sport and boating area. Scuba-diving, kayaking and sailing are just a few of the water sports available.
Best of all, they are taught for free. Yayy!!! I don't know about you but I would really have to think hard before I went scuba-diving in the Seine.

I am catching up on last week's work but will make my way around to visit.
While I work, my heart will be in Paris. After all, French is a state of mind.

Counting Blessings

I have so much to be thankful for. A place to live, food on the table, faith, freedom, family, love.
There are so many things to think of and these are just a few.
Jayde and Hailey are (8 & 6) two of my biggest blessings ( along with younger sister Annika).

I love their honesty, their compassion at such an early age, and their insight into people.
They are generous with their spirits. I am blessed to be their grandma.
I also feel blessed by Sheila. She awarded me the Brillante Weblog. She has a lovely blog that you will enjoy visiting. Her spirit is generous as well, and talk about a big heart... That gal is the real deal. I told her it will take some time to pass the torch. I would love to give it to those who visit but I know that not everyone agrees with that.
While you go through your day, really take time to count your blessings.

A New Day and Thank you, Thank you.

Thank you so much for all your kind thoughts and prayers. It is so appreciated. They made a difference and lightened the load. This has been an extremely difficult couple of weeks but knowing there were so many keeping us in thought and prayer helped tremendously.



Andrea's funeral was Tuesday and the family is on their way to North Dakota where another service and burial are planned. The service here was lovely and I know Andrea was smiling down when Jayde took the microphone and gave an amazing impromptu talk.



Jayde and Hailey are staying here for a few days while mommy and daddy are taking care of business. I have missed my blogging friends but will be making my way around to visit.

Again, my heartfelt thanks to all.

The French Elements.com closed for the week

The French Elements.com will be closed this upcoming week.

Orders placed this week will ship out next week.

Thank you for your understanding.

Thank you and asking for additional prayer

Thank you for your love, support and prayers. I can't believe the emails, comments, and phone calls. My youngest son is home and doing a bit better. Thank God.

We are asking for additional prayers however. Last night my darling DIL Dorothy found her mother dead when she went over to visit. I am thankful that Dorothy's best friend was with her so she was not alone at such an unbelievable time. Her mother had a massive heart attack. I know Dorothy's mom is at peace. Please continue to keep my family in your prayers.

I am at a loss for words. God bless you all.

Please Pray

Many of you are aware of the fact that I have a physically and mentally challenged son.
Without going into details, he is having a very tough time and I am requesting prayer.
I know so many of you believe in the power of prayer and what it can do. I believe this also.

Please pray. Don't feel you need to leave a comment but please pray.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Party On...A little bit early

Happy Bastille Day

Happy Bastille Day to my French friends. I know the official day is July 14th but I also know the celebrations have begun. Years ago while living in Switzerland, I had the opportunity to attend a Bastille Day party given by a French friend. It was as Patriotic as any July 4th celebration at home in the U.S. I am quoting a French friend (You know who you are, lol) who gave me the cliff notes version of why Bastille day is celebrated. I apologize if the story is too brief but you can always fill in the blanks.



"The year was 1789. The mood was one of despair and hopelessness. A group of very upset Parisians stormed the Bastille (a prison and fortress where upscale prisoners were held). At the time, only 7 prisoners were being held there. The crowd was hoping to capture ammunition.

The storming of the Bastille gave the message that the King's (Louis XVI) power was no longer absolute. This was the beginning of the end for the monarchy". Remember, there is more to the story just like July4th has a very long story.

To celebrate there are parades, fireworks, picnic's and just plain old fun.
Many cities in the U.S. have Bastille Day celebrations. Since Phoenix doesn't celebrate, I will have to have a mini celebration.

Au Revoir, I am off to celebrate

The Beautiful Life... Necklaces for Hope

Recently I purchased some items from Ruth at
The Beautiful Life
She has a wonderful selection of products and I spotted several things I wanted to use in a gift that I am making for my son and DIL. Love her products, love the service, Love her heart!

Ruth is a woman on a mission. It is called Uganda Necklaces-for-Hope project. Can a necklace save a life? You bettcha! I contacted Ruth this morning to ask if I could post information concerning this project on my blog. She gave me the green light.
I won't tell you what these beads are made of but I think you will be surprised. Please visit and watch the slide show. Talk about indie businesses. This is it! These women are truly inspiring.

Enjoy your visit at The Beautiful Life.

Thank you Elizabeth!

Elizabeth over at French Village Life gave me this wonderful award.
I am so excited about it and it certainly helped make my day.
She has a fabulous blog and her posts are always interesting. Her pictures are pretty amazing too! Please take some time and visit her. She is a wonderful hostess.



Now it is my turn to pass this award to 7 fellow bloggers. But first, the rules.

1. Please put the logo on your blog.

2. Add a link to the person who awarded you.

3. You must nominate 7 fellow bloggers for this award.

4. Add links to the recipients.

5. Leave a comment so the recipients know they have received an award.

Now, the tough part. I love all the blogs I read and would love to give it to every one.
But since I can't, here goes.....

I nominate Becky
Sherry
Theresa
Nana Trish
Terrie
Tattingchic
Amanda Jo

Congrats to everyone! I am inspired by all your wonderful posts. CELEBRATE!!!!

The next few days are jam packed for me. I will be visiting every one later in the week.

Take good care!!!

Blessed Is the Nation....

Blessed is the Nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom He hath chosen for his own inheritance.
Psalms 33:12

Many years ago, my Grandma gave me this family Bible. It was printed in 1843 and as you can see is not in the best of condition. What I love is the fact that it has brought comfort and joy for 165 years. I can imagine my ancestors reading it, looking for guidance. Every time I see it, it gives me goose bumps. This weekend is the perfect time to reflect on psalm 33:12

Have a Safe and wonderful July 4th

I am hoping that each of us has a blessed 4th of July. God Bless America!

A friend sent me this firework link that I hope you enjoy. I had wayyyy too much fun with it.

You Know It's Hot When......

You know it's hot when:

1. Even the cactus are dead

2. The hot water heater is turned to vacation mode and you have scalding water

3. You cannot bribe Tommy to go outside to do his business

4. You take the clothes out of the washer and they are
already dry

5. You are dry when you step out of the shower.

6. Your low temperature is 90 degrees



All kidding aside, we are on a record heatwave this summer.

Please say a prayer for those that don't have a place to get out of the heat. The shelters are so crowded with those trying to get some relief. I'm very thankful that we have been blessed with what we have.