Wednesday's Hodgepodge

 

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1. Time magazine has selected The Ebola Fighters as their person of the year for 2014. Do you agree, and if so who would you say is a close second? If you disagree with their choice, who do you think should have been chosen?

Well, certainly The Ebola Fighters deserve recognition, but I don't know if I'd say person of the year.  I don't have a particular person in mind, but there are heroes everyday that go unnoticed.  I'm sure after I read some other answers from the hodgepodgers I'll be agreeing with them ;) 

2. This question comes to you courtesy of Susan who blogs over at Stew Mama Says. She knows we have a wedding happening any minute now, and she asks, 'What's your favorite-something old? something new? something borrowed? something blue in your home?  Be sure you hop over and say hi to Susan today!

Something old would be my Grandmother's Christmas ornaments.  My aunt gave them to me after my Grandma passed and I put them near the top of our Christmas tree every year.  
Something new would be a sweater I ordered myself for Christmas.  It is black with 3/4 sleeves and soft and comfy.  I gave it to my husband to wrap up.  I  picked up a few things for him and the kids to give me :)
Something borrowed....can't think of anything.  If I borrow something I like to give it back as soon as possible.  It bugs me when people borrow things and don't return them.  Hopefully I don't have anything that hasn't been returned ;)
I don't have any rooms that are decorated with blue in my home.  When we were first married I picked out a beautiful blue and white floral Laura Ashley bedroom set.  I had the comforter set and matching curtains but I've since changed it.  
 

3. Fudge-yay or nay? Your favorite flavor? Do you make it yourself? With nuts or without?

Yay for fudge.  My favorite is maple walnut although I haven't had it in years.  I've made chocolate fudge a few times but it isn't something I make regularly.   I prefer it with nuts. 
 

4. December 17th is Wright Brothers Day, commemorating the first successful flights made by Orville and Wilbur Wright in 1903 in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.  How old were you when you made your first flight? Do you like to fly? Have you ever been to Kitty Hawk or other parts of the North Carolina Outer Banks?

 I was 12 when I took my first flight.  It was to Florida to see my aunt and grandparents and I was alone.  The flight didn't bother me so much then, but I do not like to fly.  I have flown several times since then, but I prefer driving.  Actually the thought of flying makes me sick to my stomach.  I've been to North Carolina but never to Kitty Hawk or the Outer Banks.  I would love to go there and rent a house on the beach someday.  Since we are only minutes from the beach here, my husband doesn't think it makes much sense. 

5. Do the people in your family tend to follow a particular career path, and if so what's the path?

No, everyone seems to do something different.  There are many who are good with business type jobs though although I don't understand exactly what they all do.  As far as I know I am the first teacher in the family.  If I didn't do that, I may have gone to college for accounting.  I think that is an important skill to have and I did work part-time in an accounting department when I was in high school and enjoyed it.  
 
6. What is one thing you absolutely, positively must accomplish today?

I must bake Christmas cookies today.  On the list are thumb prints, wedding cakes, M&Ms, chocolate chips, maple walnut balls and Linzer Torte bars.  I'm not sure if I'll make sour cream cookies this year, although one recipe makes a lot so those are good to have on hand.  I don't know how much I will get done but need to start.  
 
7. This Christmas I hope___________________________________.

To stay focused on the true meaning of Christmas.  
 
8. Insert your own random thought here.

Has anyone else noticed the sales seem to be getting better the closer it gets to Christmas?  I'm glad since I still have a few things to pick up.  Since there won't be a Hodgepodge next week, Merry Christmas! 
~Theresa 

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

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1. What is one new holiday tradition you'd like to establish, or one you've established recently, say in the last year or two?

I've seen lots of Advent activities online and while we do Advent calendars with the kids, I'd like to incorporate more.  I like the idea of writing down all the things you'd like to do in December and then choosing one a day.  I haven't been able to figure out how to do it in a way that works well for me yet. 

2. It's the second week of December. Have you sipped a cup of eggnog yet this month? Wrapped a gift? Opened a gift? Kissed someone under the mistletoe? Lit a candle? Eaten a Christmas cookie? Seen Santa in person? Watched a Christmas movie or special? Read scripture relating to the birth of Jesus?

No eggnog for me.  I like it but have an intolerance to eggs.  I haven't wrapped any gifts yet, although I'm working on organizing them as they come in the mail.  I haven't opened any gifts yet either.  I haven't even seen mistletoe this season, but I have lit a candle.  I took out my Yankee Candle Red Apple Wreath candle and love the smell.  I haven't started baking Christmas cookies yet or seen Santa.  We've watched lots of Christmas movies and read scriptures relating to the birth of Jesus. 

3. Do you think it's better to be an adult or a child at Christmastime? Explain.

Tough question.  I think children get more excited about Christmas but to see their excitement as an adult is precious. 

4. It's often said, 'Good things come to those who wait'...agree or disagree? Why?

Well, I agree in the sense that some things are worth the wait.  We shouldn't always jump on the first opportunity that comes our way.  Does that make sense? 

5. What's the last sweet thing you baked? Did you keep it, take it to a party/event, or give it away?

I baked a chocolate chip cookie cake on Sunday to take to church for dessert.  It was good but I think I could have cut back on the sugar and it would still taste delicious. 

6.  This question comes to us courtesy of Jhona who blogs over at The Red House at the End of the Lane. Everyone hop over and say hi to Jhona this week!  Here is her question... "I heard an actor talk about how he makes a conscious choice to talk to people in elevators.  He chooses to connect, make eye contact, and converse. Do you talk to people/strangers when you're in an elevator or any other place where you might have to wait together? Why or why not?"

I don't usually talk to strangers in elevators.  I stare at the door waiting for it to open.  I don't like elevators.  In other places I will sometimes talk to strangers, like on line in a store.  Many times it isn't that easy since it seems everyone is always on their phone.

7. Are you on the naughty or nice list this year? What put you there?

I'd say nice although maybe not everyone would agree.  Who wants to think of themselves as being on the naughty list?  Not me.  I try to be kind and follow The Golden Rule. 

8. Insert your own random thought here.

 Did anyone watch The Voice this week?   Craig Wayne Boyd sang "The Old Rugged Cross" and it was AMAZING!  Then Pharall's comments were incredible.  God was praised right there on NBC.

Have a great week :)
~Theresa

Back to Wednesday's Hodgepodge

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It's been a long while since I participated in the Hodgepodge, so I thought... the holidays are a great time to jump right back in.  Plus I've heard that Joyce is having a great giveaway ;)  Thanks Joyce!

1. What is something in your life right now that feels a little 'hodgepodge'?

My house.  We are in the process of decorating for Christmas.  Yesterday I took down my Thanksgiving and Fall decorations, even though it felt too soon.  We bought our tree from Costco and put it up but it isn't decorated yet.  We give it a couple of days for the branches to settle.  I put away some things to make room for our Christmas decorations but haven't brought up all the boxes from the basement yet.  I usually say we'll do a little at a time, but once those boxes come up, I can't stand the mess and get them back downstairs as quickly as possible. 


2. What does 'peace on earth, goodwill to men' mean to you?

It means the birth of Jesus, our Savior.  Peace between God and man through His Son, Jesus Christ.  Goodwill to men because it is the greatest gift ever. 


3. Which edible treat you are most looking forward to sampling this December?

Christmas cookies, of course!  I love to bake many different types of cookies for Christmas.  I will probably try a few new grain free recipes this year.  


4. It's that most wonderful time of the year...do you agree, and if so why is it so wonderful?  If not, what would you say is the most wonderful time of the year?

Yes, I agree.  It is the most wonderful time of the year because of the answer to #2.  Also, there is something special about all of the decorating, activity, and getting together with friends and family this time of the year.  


5. What was the last word you looked up in a dictionary (actual or online) and why?

I can't remember but I often have to look up the words in my daughter's Classical Vocabulary book.  Good thing they give the definitions in the beginning of each lesson ;)  


6. Besides a Christmas tree, what is your favorite thing to decorate this time of year?

I would say the outside of our house, but to be honest I love the way it looks when it is done but don't really enjoy doing it so leave that to my husband.  I like to decorate the bay window in my kitchen with crocheted snowflakes and then Christmas decorations on the shelf below it.  


7. Share one thing you've learned (about yourself, people, or anything at all) in the Wednesday Hodgepodge, or through blogging in general.

I've learned that there are people who you have never met in real life, yet you still consider them friends;  that there are many differences among us and at the same time many similarities. 


8.  Insert your own random thought here.

It's nice to be back at the Hodgepodge.  Thanks again, Joyce.
~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

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1.  Thursday marks the first day of spring...to celebrate would you rather plant a garden or go for a walk in the woods? Would either of those activities be possible on Thursday where you live?
I'd rather go for a walk in the woods.  I don't like gardening.  I've tried a few times but as soon as I see a worm I get all grossed out.  There are lots of woods to walk in just a few minutes from my house so yes it is possible.  

2. When did someone last spring something on you? (or when did you last spring something on someone?)

I can't remember.  I don't like surprises.  I try not to spring something on someone else either.

3.  We often think of spring as a time for new beginnings. What's something you'd like to start doing this spring?
I'd like to start exercising and stick with it.

4. Where do you like to sit in a movie theatre? When did you last sit there, and what were you watching?
In the center near the back.  I haven't gone to a movie theatre in years, yes years!  I don't remember the last movie I saw but I am sure it was a kids movie like Curious George or Veggie Tales' Jonah and we went as a family.  I prefer to watch movies at home where I can hit pause as needed.  Plus all that visual stimulation and loud noise makes me dizzy.

5. When you meet someone for the very first time, what do you want them to think about you?
I want them to think that I am kind and care about others.

6. March is frozen food month (yes, really!). Besides ice cream (gotta make you think a little) what's your most often purchased frozen food item?
Frozen vegetables from Trader Joe's.  We buy broccoli, green beans, corn and mixed veggies regularly.  

 

7. What's something you avoid?
Going to the grocery store on Saturdays.  It is so crowded and the check out lines are way too long.

8. Insert your own random thought here.
This morning the birds are chirping and I hear the landscapers busy at work with spring cleanups but it is bitterly cold.  I don't think the weather is going to feel like Spring for a while yet, but I think I am going to put up my Easter decorations and enjoy them for a while :)
~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

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1. The expression 'mad as a March hare' originated with a fictional character who is distracted and frantic. When were you last 'mad as a March hare' and what was it that made you that way?

I haven't heard that expression before but sadly I was that way yesterday.  Let's just say being tired and hormonal are not a good mix and leave it at that ;)

2. Mardi Gras this year falls on Tuesday, March 4th. Have you ever been to Mardi Gras, and if so what did you think? If not, do you have any interest in going?  Purple, green, and gold are the colors of Mardi Gras. Which one is most prevalent in your wardrobe? How about in your home?

No, I've never been to Mardi Gras and I don't have any interest in going.  I think the behavior of many of the people that attend is beyond disguisting and wouldn't want to try to shield my eyes from that.
Purple and green are my two favorite colors.  I prefer silver over gold though.  I have more purple in my wardrobe of the three.  My bathroom is light purple and green.  I also have some green in my living room and kitchen.

3. Are you old fashioned?

Yes, I think most would say so.  I like when my husband and I are walking on the sidewalk and he walks on the outside.  I think men should open doors for women, people should give up their seats for the elderly, when calling for a person one should come to the door not honk the horn, young ladies should be walked to their door and not let out of a car at the curb, and men should be paying for dates.  From what I've seen in today's society, those things are old fashioned.

4. Do you carefully plan your vacations, or do you prefer the days to be more spontaneous?

I do like to plan, but also allow for some free time so we don't get stressed from following a strict schedule.  Afterall vacations are supposed to be relaxing.

5.  March is National Sauce Month...what's your favorite sauce, and what do you most often top with this sauce?

My favorite sauce is my homemade Marinara sauce.  Spaghetti is my family's favorite to top with my sauce, but also homemade pizza, meatballs, sausage and stuffed shells.  I think my husband likes anything topped with sauce and eats it right out of the pot with a spoon!

6.  What's something that easily brings a tear to your eye?

The playing of Taps and a military salute.

7. If you could own any sports team, which one would it be and why?

The NY Yankees because it is a NY team.  I have no interest in being the owner of a sports team but if I had that much money I could hire people to run it because I'd be clueless.

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

Have a great rest of the week :)
~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

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1. What is something you'll never forget about the age you are right now?

I can't seem to come up with an answer for this one.  I'm sure after I read everyone else's answers something will come to me.

2. What's a household chore you've never done? How have you managed that???

I don't think there is one that I've never done.  I don't usually shampoo the carpets but can't say I've never done it.  My husband usually does that job since we have to carry the machine up and down the stairs.  Also we shampoo our carpets late at night so they can dry overnight while we aren't walking on them and he is more of a night owl than me.

3. Does nature shape our personalities more than nurture? Explain? 

I feel like there is no right way to answer this question.  I believe we are all influenced by our sin nature and that our surroundings influence us as well.

4. Friday (February 28th) is 'Something on a Stick Day'...funny because Zoanna over at A Penchant for Pens recently sent me an idea for a question relating to this topic. What's your favorite food eaten on a stick? 

Toasted marshmallows.  I like mine lightly and evenly toasted to a golden brown.  Although I won't turn down a burnt one either ;)

5. Which of your five senses do you treasure most, and why?

I treasure all of them and the wonderful gifts they are but to pick one I'd say sight.  One of the greatest gifts is to see God's beautiful creation.

6. What's the best music, theatre, or sporting venue you've been to? What made it great?

Madison Square Garden in NYC.  It's in NYC!

7. It's the last week of the month...in five words or less bid adieu to your February.

Thanks for all the snow!

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

Saturday is March 1st, and our town is having its St. Patrick's Day Parade.  We may have some light snow showers so that should be interesting.  Some years it is so warm that we don't even need jackets and this year looks like we'll have to bundle up.
Top of the morning to ya!  
~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

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1.What makes love last?

Committment, putting others first, communication.

2. The Beatles made their US debut fifty years ago this week. Are you a fan? If so, what's your favorite Beatles tune?

Who doesn't like The Beatles?  My favorite is "And I Love Her".  Since we watched The Bee Movie last night I have to add "Here Comes The Sun" for a great upbeat song.

3. Valentine's Day-your thoughts? Do you celebrate in any way? Do anything special for the people you love? Expect anything special from the people who love you? 

It's a fun day to celebrate but there is a too much focus on spending lots of money.  I try to make a special meal or treat for my family, make a lesson or two using conversation heart candies for the kids and of course buy some chocolate candies for those I love :)  I always look forward to receiving cards and chocolate from my husband and children.  Since I am pretty much dairy free I can't eat traditional Valentine chocolate hearts anymore.  My new favorite is Lindt 70% Cocoa bar.

4. Steak or burger...you have to choose. Now that that's settled, how do you like it? 

I love both steak and burgers but I have to choose a burger.  I crave burgers way more than I do a steak.  I like mine cooked medium, topped with ketchup, red onion, lettuce and pickles.

5. The Hodgepodge lands on the birthdate (February 12th) of Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the United States of America. Lincoln is quoted as saying,'Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test his character give him power.'  Do you agree? Why or why not?

 Yes, I agree.  Power can go to one's head and change them.  If they truly have good character they will withstand that temptation and remain unchanged.

6. Honest Abe's image is featured on the US penny (1 cent coin) so I'm wondering...what do you do with your pennies (or your country's equivalent)?  It's been suggested the US stop making the penny, and two bills have been introduced proposing just that, but neither were approved. What say you?

I throw them in my wallet, put them in the coin holder in my car or into my change jar on my dresser.  When paying cash I always try to give pennies to avoid getting them in change.  I don't think we should stop making the penny.  What would come next?  No more one dollar bills?

7.  Do you think pop culture deserves serious study?

No, I don't.  I think there are more important things to devote serious study to.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Have a wonderful Valentine's Day with those you love!
~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

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1. Are we always responsible for our actions? Are there any exceptions?

Yes, I think so.   I guess if you were being forced to do something at gunpoint there may be exceptions.

2.  Has anyone from your home town become famous?

My actual hometown, not that I know of.  But there are many famous people from Long Island.  Billy Joel and Mariah Carey come to mind.

3. January was National Slow Cooker month. Do you own a slow cooker/crock pot? Did you use it last month? What's a favorite dish you make using a slow cooker or crock pot?

Yes, I own a crock pot and I used it last month to keep chili warm for lunch at church.  My favorite dish has to be pot roast.  I just salt and pepper a roast, place it ontop of sliced onions and add 1/2 cup of water.

4. How do you feel about private companies collecting data about you?

I don't like it, but I think it is increasing.

5. The Games of the 2014 Winter Olympics kick off with their opening ceremony this coming Friday....will you be watching? Which Winter Olympic event would you most like to see in person? Have you ever been to Russia? Any desire to go, Olympics or otherwise?

I'll try to watch.  I would love to see figure skating in person since that is my favorite winter sport to watch.   No, I've never been to Russia.  I don't have any desire to go there.

6. Share a good or bad sports related memory from your childhood or teen years.

I was more into dance than sports as a kid.  I did play softball for a short while.  I did pretty well in gym class.  I did a lot of sit-ups in one minute.  Boy, I should have stuck with that ;)

7. What's a must have song for you on a work out play list? If you don't work out, run, swim, bike, walk, or anything else that could be construed as 'exercise', then what's a song that movtivates you to at least get up off the couch?

Thanks for the reminder that I need to get back to working out.  While watching the Superbowl, I got off the couch when Bruno Mars starting singing.  I tried to dance with my kids but they weren't interested.  They were too busy laughing!

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

I woke this morning to the tinging sound of freezing rain hitting my window.  It is a mess out there.  It looks like we got a few more inches of snow topped with ice.  That will count for my workout today :)
~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

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1. It's  been said that one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day. Do you think that's true? Do you find that an easy exercise most mornings? What's something positive you told yourself today? If you missed that boat, what's something positive you could tell yourself tomorrow?

Yes, I think it is true and an easy exercise most mornings.
"Through the LORD's mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not.  They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness."  Lamentations3:22-23

2. There will be karaoke at the next party you attend...are you in? Or will you be faking a sore throat?

Yes, I'm in!  I'll try to drag someone into singing with me though.  That way my voice won't be the only one heard.  Karaoke is a lot of fun.

3. January 29th is National Puzzle Day...what's something you've found puzzling recently?

Our healthcare system.  Need I say more?

4.  Jigsaw, crossword, acrostic, logic, sudoku, word search...what's your favorite kind of puzzle, and when did you last work one?

My favorite is crossword puzzles.  I was working on some Sunday night while I sipped tea under my warm covers.

5. Recently a writer by the name of Amy Glass ruffled feathers with a post she wrote saying she looks down on young women with husbands and kids and she's not sorry. Among other things, she says women will be equal with men when we stop saying house work and real work are equally important. You can read the whole piece by clicking here.

What say you? Do you think men and women are equal in the 21st century? Why or why not?

I say she is deceived.  I'd like to share with her the poem by William Ross Wallace, "The hand that rocks the cradle shall rule the world.".  If you haven't read it you can find it here.  Yes, I think men and women are equal in the 21st century.  Equal but different :)

6. What's a product you've noticed in the grocery store that you'd like to try, but haven't yet?

I actually saw it online, but that counts, right?  Colored carrots look interesting but I am a bit hesitant to try them.  If Trader Joe's still has them I think I'll give them a try.  They sound good roasted with a bit of olive oil and some salt and pepper. 

7. The author, Charles Lutwidge Dodgson (aka Lewis Carroll) was born this week in 1832 (January 27th).  Which character from his celebrated novel, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, would you most like to meet, and why? Here's a linkto a character list if you need help on this one. 

 I guess I'd have to say Alice since she is a little girl and who doesn't love little girls?  

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Is anyone else looking forward to the Superbowl for the food?  I make a few things but my favorite is Buffalo Wings.  I follow this recipe and use Frank's Hot Sauce.  The only changes I make is to leave out the butter or coconut oil and toss the wings with hot sauce before doing the final bake.  If you are looking for an alternative to traditionally fried wings these are delicious.  
~Theresa

Wednesday's Snowy, Artic Hodgepodge

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1. It was decided on Sunday the Denver Broncos will meet the Seattle Seahawks in this year's  Superbowl. So when was the last time you bowled? Not where you thought this question was going is it?  Do you like to bowl? Are you any good? 

The last time I bowled was in March.  I do like to bowl but have to be careful with my back.  I'm not good but once in a while I do manage to get a strike or spare ;)

2.   Should sports stars be role models? 

It depends on which sports star it is.  If they are honest and hard working then why not?  If they are stuck up, full of themself and willing to do anything to further their career then no.

3. January is National Oatmeal month...are you a fan? How do you like your oats?

I do like oatmeal.  I like mine made with vanilla almond milk and sprinkled with cinnamon, chopped walnuts and fruit (blueberries, apples or pears).

4. What is one book on your reading list for 2014?

Sadly, I don't have a reading list.  I am reading my bible and working on finishing "Lies Women Believe and The Truth That Sets Them Free" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss.  Some of the women at church are planning on reading "Trusting God Even When Life Hurts" by Jerry Bridges.  I have read it before and my copy is falling apart but I may look into getting the study guide and digging deeeper.  Maybe I should start a reading list ;)

5. What would you like your future self to say to your present self?

You are doing a good job.  Keep being faithful.

6. When scrolling through the TV guide, what is one movie title that makes you want to stop, grab the popcorn, and watch for a while?

"The Wedding Planner" with Jennifer Lopez and Matthew McConaughey.  It is a romantic comedy and I love the character Jennifer Lopez plays.

7. What are two style trends you hope never come back into fashion?

1.  High waisted jeans, especially when they are tucked in or with a belt.  Check out Brenda and Kelly from Beverly Hills 90210.  That is what I'm talking about!

2. Shoulder pads.  What a pain they were to keep straight and why we thought it would look good to make our shoulders look bigger is beyond me.  Unless maybe it was to make our waists look smaller ;)

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

Today is a Snow Day :)  Looks like we have at least a foot of snow this morning.  The temperature is 7 degrees so I haven't ventured out yet.  I wanted to share a photo of how beautiful it looks but it's too cold to snap a photo from my door in my jammies.  Hopefully the sun will warm it up a few degrees before we dig out and have some fun :)

~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

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1.  Are you a force to be reckoned with? In what way?

Yes, I guess I am.  I am a very loyal person and protective of those I love.

2. What are two things you love about the wintertime? Or, if love feels like too strong a word, what are two things you 'like' about winter? 

Just two?  Okay, snow falling and sledding.  I love to watch the snow fall and how beautiful everything looks with snow all around.  There is nothing like a day of sledding- bundling up and trudging through the snow to find the perfect spot.  Then having hot cocoa, coffee or tea waiting to warm us up.

3. Pomegranate, kumquat, persimmon, kiwi, and guava are all fruits said to have health benefits, particularly during the winter months. Do you have a favorite on the list? Are there any on the list you haven't tried? 

I love pomegranate as a flavoring, like in seltzer water.  I can't help but think of my favorite sweets made with guava although I haven't had one in years.  Entenmann's makes Guava Cheese Puffs and they are delicious!  One of my teaching assistants used to bring them in for us to have with coffee for a snack.  They are difficult to find and it seems like only stores in certain neighborhoods carry them.  Good thing because I am sure they are not good for you ;)

4. I passed a local church yesterday and noticed they had this on their outdoor sign- 'When all else fails, do the right thing.' Your thoughts?

Hmmm....is that really true?  Shouldn't we do the right thing before all else fails?  Sounds like the right thing is an afterthought there.

5. Do you ski? According to one list I've seen, the top 5 ski destinations for 2014 are-St. Anton Austria, Whistler Canada, Cortina Italy, Tahoe USA, and Zermatt Switzerland.  Of the five listed, which would you most like to visit? We can make skiing optional if that helps the non-skiers with their answer. 

I do not ski.  I'd choose Austria since it looks so beautiful and is close to where many of my relatives are from.  I'd go sledding, tubing or snowmobiling  instead.  I haven't gone snowmobiling yet but would love to.  I'll take this one, thank you :)

http://www.srviper.com/

6.  What's the last thing you looked for online? (Besides my blog!)

A car.  I keep searching to see what types of cars are available and how much they cost.  Hoping to get a second car for us soon.  I have something in mind just not sure if my husband will agree with me ;)

7. What saying, slogan, quote, or motto have you seen lately that inspires you for the new year?

I'm drawing a blank on this one.  I'm sure after I visit some hodgepodges today I'll come up with one though.  

8.  Insert your own random thought here. 

Yesterday was in the 50s and this morning we were scraping ice off our windshields.  If it is going to be cold I prefer the snow :)  Is anyone else excited to see Harry Connick Jr. on American Idol tonight?
I think along with Keith Urban and Jennifer Lopez the show may be on its way back up.
~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

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1. Every January 1st since 1976 Lake Superior University has published a list of words they'd like to see banished from the Queen's English.  Words may be banished due to misuse, overuse or just general uselessness (go here to read more about how the words were chosen).  Here are the words/phrases they'd like to see banished in 2014-

selfie, twerk/twerking, hashtag, Twittersphere, Mr. Mom, T-bone, ____on steroids, the suffixes-ageddon, and -pocalypse added to anything and everything, from the world of politics the words-intellectually/morally bankrupt and Obamacare, and from the world of sports the words-adversity and fan base

Which of these words/phrases would you most like to see banished from everyday speech and why? Is there a word not on the list you'd like to add?

I'd like to see the phrase Mr. Mom banished from everyday speech.  It contradicts itself.  If a man is home caring for his children it doesn't make him a Mom.  He is still a Dad.  While there are many men who do a wonderful job raising their children it is not the same thing as a mother, even if you add a Mr. to it.  I think it is another attempt to take away from the high and noble calling of being a mother.

2. What one unfinished project nags at you begging to be completed in this new year?

The unfinished project that comes to mind is the quilt that is hidden somewhere at the bottom of my linen closet.  I started it before I was married (over 12 years ago) and never finished it.  The layers are all pinned together and the quilting just needs to be finished.  I have thought of paying someone to finish it but I think I would rather wait and be able to say I did it all by myself!

3. When did you last have a bowl of soup? What kind? Homemade or from a can? What's your favorite soup?

It's been a while, actually I can't remember exactly when.  I'm sure it was homemade chicken soup which was made because someone wasn't feeling well.  My favorite is chicken noodle soup but now I just have it without the noodles since I am avoiding gluten.

4. Snowed in, snowed under, snow job...which one most applies to your life in recent days, figuratively speaking.

I'd say snowed in.  We did have nine inches of snow last week but that wasn't enough to snow us in.  The temperature the past couple of days has been in the single digits and that makes me want to stay in.  I am feeling snowed in since my husband started a new job today and I am home without a car.  I'm praying for the Lord's provision of another car soon.

5. What's the funniest movie you've ever seen, or at least one of the funniest?

One of the funniest movies I can think of is Buddy the Elf.  I'm not much of a movie watcher but that one cracks me up!

6.  In general, would you say you're clumsy?

I don't think I am but once in a while I do something like walk into a piece of furniture when I come around a corner.

7. Elvis Presley was born on Hodgepodge Day (January 8th) back in 1935.  Are you an Elvis fan?  What's your favorite Elvis tune? If that's too hard, which Elvis tune do you dislike the least?  Click here for a list of his songs.

I can't say there is an Elvis song that I don't like, but Suspicious Minds is my favorite.  My niece received a Karaoke machine for Christmas and I had a blast singing that one!  

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I know it is January 8th but I am still enjoying my Christmas decorations.  I finally took down my kitchen decorations yesterday but my living room is still decorated.  Our tree is in such good shape still I think I'll leave it up a while longer.  We bought it at Costco this year and the needles are not falling off yet.  I love sitting by the light of the Christmas tree :)  I'm not ready to change my blog background yet either ;)
Happy New Year!
~Theresa