Hodgepodge, 2015: A Ten

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1. Share a favorite memory/moment from the week of Christmas.

Sitting around the table for Christmas dinner with my family.  I love when everyone is together and we have to scrunch in so everyone can fit.  One of the best things about celebrating Christmas is being with the ones you love.

2.  If someone wrote a book about your life based on the past year, what genre would it fall under? What would the title be?

Adventure.  "To Move or Not To Move".

3. What made you feel patriotic this year?

I always feel patriotic when "Our Country 'Tis of Thee" or "America, the Beautiful" is sung.  We sing a patriotic song at our homeschool group each week.  I often get choked up or teary eyed while singing and thinking about the lyrics.

4. What experience from this past year would you like to do all over again?

Well, I hate to even think about it....but I said some things I shouldn't have and the phone never hung up.  I was overwhelmed and it was someone trying to set up an appointment and that was the last thing I had time for.  We were in the car and I picked up the cell phone and was sorry I answered instead of letting it go to voicemail.  I thought I hung up and then started ranting and raving to my husband for a few minutes.  I looked down and saw the phone never disconnected the call.  I was sick about it.  And still feel sick to my stomach thinking about it.  If I had to do all over again, I'd let the call go to voicemail and call back at a time when I was better able to communicate clearly.

5. What song lyric sums up or is a reflection of your 2015?

"Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me"!

6. On a scale of 1-10 how would you rate 2015?  (10=stellar) Why?

I want to say 10 because I don't want to be ungrateful for the many blessings we take for granted every day.  We have food, clothing, and shelter and with these we are to be content.  We live in a country where we are free to worship (at least for the time being).  I have family and friends that I love and that love me.  His mercies are new every morning.  I'm going with a 10.

7. What part of the upcoming year are you most excited about?

Getting back to exercising and eating well.  I feel so much better when I do.  I know it will be a struggle to get started and I will likely not feel well for the first week or so, but I have to remind myself how good it feels after that.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

~Theresa

Wednesday's Christmas Hodgepodge

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1. What's your biggest 'first world' problem?

Trying to find enough space to store all our non-refrigerated food items.  Since moving in September I have a hard time trying to put away my groceries after shopping.  Our old house was much smaller but had a closet that we made into a pantry so there was always room to put "one more thing".  This house has more cabinets but I have to use them to store everything.  I must remember to be grateful for the things I am trying to find a place for.

2.  Each year Time Magazine names a 'Person of the Year', someone who has 'for better or worse...done the most to influence the events of the year.' It was recently announced they've named Angela Merkel Person of the Year for 2015. You can read more about this year's selection here. Your thoughts? If you were in charge, who would you declare Person of the Year? 

I don't really have a feeling about it one way or the other.  I'm glad I'm not in charge because I don't think I could find just one person to declare Person of the Year.  I think of the many ordinary people doing extraordinary things each day.

3. Do you have a nativity set in your home? If so share it's history and how you display the pieces.

Yes, I do.  My mother-in-law made it in ceramics several years ago.  She gave a set to each of her children and my husband packed his away (he was single then).  Since we've been married we display it each year.  It is on the top of an antique bookcase we have in our living room.

4.  Do you make an extra effort to give back in some way during the holiday season? How do you encourage those who need encouragement this time of year?

Yes I do, although I could always be doing more.  We fill shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child.  I also bake cookies and love making up platters to share with others.  I try to make sure I smile at store clerks and say "Merry Christmas" as often as I can.

5. Who is your favorite person to shop for? Why?

My favorite people to shop for are my children.  I love to see them open their presents and the smiles on their faces.

6. What's the last delicious thing you ate?

Do Junior Mints count?  I popped a few of those in my mouth yesterday and they were delicious.  If I am supposed to pick a real food item then it would be the sausage, peppers and onions I made over the weekend.

7. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is________________.

Singing loud for all to hear.  Sorry, I couldn't resist.  But there is some truth to that.  Listening to Christmas music is a great way to remember what the season is all about.

8. Insert your own random thought here.* 

Since there won't be a Hodgepodge next week I wish you all a Merry Christmas!  Enjoy :)

~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge: Hear The Angels Sing!

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1.  Many families have a story they love to tell every year around a holiday. Does your family have one? Are you the star of that story, or does another family member take center stage? Share your story if you want.

No, I can't think of a specific story that is told every year.

2. Are you afraid to speak your own opinion?

Not usually.  If it isn't asked for and the topic isn't important I will try to keep quiet.  If it is an important matter I usually share my opinion, even if I'm not asked.

3. Pantone has announced the color of the year for 2016, and for the first time have chosen two shades-rose quartz and serenity. Hmmm...did you know serenity was a color? You can read the thought behind their selection here, but essentially it's blending the warmth of rose quartz with the tranquility of a very soft shade of blue. So what do you think? Are these colors I'd find in your home or wardrobe? Will you add something in these shades to either place in the new year?

I like the name serenity for a color and it sounds nice.  I don't think I have anything in those colors in my home, although my bathroom paint color may be close.  We haven't painted yet so I can't say for sure ;)  I try to stay away from pastel type colors in my wardrobe unless it is an accent color and mixed with white, black or gray.  I have a shirt that my sister lent me that is close to serenity but I usually only wear it when I'm home since I don't think it does anything for my face.  I will not go out of my way to add those colors in the new year.

4. If you could be in a Christmas carol, which one would you choose? Why?

"It Came upon the Midnight Clear"

"It came upon the midnight clear, 
that glorious song of old, 
from angels bending near the earth 
to touch their harps of gold: 
"Peace on the earth, good will to men, 
from heaven's all-gracious King." 
The world in solemn stillness lay, 
to hear the angels sing." 

It sounds so peaceful, with the angels and their harps and the word in solemn stillness.  And the birth of Jesus, Lord and Savior, Prince of Peace.

5. December 9th is National Pastry Day. Will you celebrate? When did you last purchase something from a bakery? What's your favorite treat that falls under the heading of pastry? Do you make it yourself or buy from the professionals?

Now that I know, yes I will celebrate.  We have a wonderful bakery here in our town.  One of the best things about NY is the bakeries.  I was shocked to find out that some states do not have bakeries (or delis). The last thing I purchased was bread.  They have the best Italian bread and Rye bread (no seeds, please).

If I could eat it I would choose a Napolean from the bakery.  On special occasions someone usually brings an assortment of Italian pastries from the bakery.  Since I avoid eggs I try to make my own desserts for special occasions, but never tried to make my own Napoleans.  We do make cream puffs though.

6. When it comes to holiday decorating_____________________________.

I'm almost finished.  Yesterday we decorated inside and outside.  We just have to put the ornaments on the tree and I have a few finishing touches to add.

7. When did you last laugh so much it hurt? Explain.

It was a few months ago.  I don't even remember what it was about but I started laughing with the kids and could not stop.  They were hysterical watching my laugh and that just made me laugh harder.  My stomach was hurting from laughing and my abs were sore afterwards (I know that is pathetic!).

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

~Theresa

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

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1. Did you watch The Charlie Brown Christmas special Monday night? Who's your favorite Peanuts character and why?

No, I didn't, but I would have recorded it on the DVR if I knew it was going to be on.  My favorite character is Charlie Brown just because.  

"Most psychiatrists agree that sitting in a pumpkin patch is excellent therapy for a troubled mind."~Linus  

Would you agree? 

Yes, I would.  A pumpkin patch is part of nature and there is something about being out in nature that helps to clear your mind.  Remembering God's creation and just how awesome it is puts things back into perspective.  

2. Describe a sound from your childhood. What does this sound bring to mind? 

The 6:00 whistle.  Every night at 6:00 the fire sirens would go off letting everyone know what time it was.  As kids if we were still out playing we would usually break up and run home for dinner.  

3. You've won a trip to a winter wonderland...would that excite you? Which one of the following would you most want to experience (or which one would you dislike the least)-see the Aurora Borealis in Norway, stay in Sweden's Ice Hotel, go dogsledding in Lapland Finland, take a winter wildlife safari in Yellowstone or celebrate Winter Carnival in Quebec? 

Yes, that would because I love winter.  I would probably take a winter wildlife safari in Yellowstone because I've never been there and there is so much to see right here in the good old USA.  

4. Who or what keeps you humble? 

God's Word.  I try to remember not to think too highly of myself and the verse about let those who stand take heed lest they fall.  

5. What part of preparing for Christmas do you like the most? Explain. 

I like baking the most.  It gets everyone excited for Christmas and I love how much everyone enjoys something that I have baked.  

6. Gingerbread-yay or nay? Is making a gingerbread house part of your family holiday tradition?

Nay.  I don't like gingerbread although we usually buy kits from Trader Joes so the kids can make a house, because it is fun to do.  

7. What's one thing you want to start, do, or complete before the calendar rolls into a new year? 

List a bunch of coats and boots on Ebay.  I keep putting it off but really would like to get that done.  

8.  Insert your own random thought here. 

I keep missing the Hodgepodge each Wednesday but this week I remembered while it is still Wednesday.  The weeks seem to fly by.  

~Theresa

Veterans Day Hodgepodge

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1. In two or three sentences tell us what Veteran's Day means to you?

For me Veteran's Day is about honoring and giving respect to those who have served and our serving our country.  It is about taking the time to think about the many sacrifices made by many to protect and serve so that we can live in the land of the free and home of the brave.

2. What's your favorite film with a patriotic theme woven into the storyline?

Top Gun.  Tom Cruise is a great actor and I don't get tired of watching this movie no matter how many times it is played on TV.

3. Flu shot-yes or no? If you answered no, do you plan to get a flu shot? If not, why not? Have you ever had the flu?

No, I have never had one and I do not plan on getting one.  I do not trust them nor want those chemicals injected into my body.  Plus they make the vaccine guessing what strain of flu will hit and it isn't always accurate.  So I use the risk vs. benefit question to make my choice.  Yes, I've had the flu although it's been some time.  I stick with the old prescription of homemade chicken soup, ginger ale, crackers and lots of rest.
4. I've seen lots of people posting pictures of their Christmas trees up and decorated. Many stores have had Christmas on display since well before Halloween. Red cups are back at Starbucks, sans the holiday decor, and that has some people up in arms. What are your thoughts on all the holiday ruckus this second week of November?

I think it is too early.  I want to be excited for Thanksgiving first.  A couple of weeks ago I went to the craft store and there were only a few shelves of fall stuff left and it was already on clearance!  Everything seems too rushed for my liking.  I love Christmas and the whole season, but for me it starts the Monday after Thanksgiving and lasts until the second week of January.  As for leaving out Merry Christmas....I do not like that one bit!

5. What 'critter' are you most afraid of encountering unexpectedly? Why that one?

Yuck, I do not like any critter but I guess I'd have to say a mouse.  They gross me out and the thought of one gives me a sick feeling in my stomach.

6. Do you like building things? What's the last thing you 'built'?

No, I don't.  It is not one of my strengths.  I do terrible with anything that comes and needs to be assembled with directions.  Thankfully my husband and son love that kind of thing so I just ask them.  The last thing I built was probably a tower of blocks when my children were small.

7. In keeping with this month's theme of gratitude...what are you most grateful for that brings beauty to your daily life?

My children.  I am so thankful I get to teach them at home and for the beauty they bring to my life.  Other things that bring beauty to my daily life right now are candles glowing and the beautiful colors of fall.

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

Happy Veterans Day!

~Theresa

Flying Fall Hodgepodge

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1. What's something that has recently 'tried your patience'?

Our move.  I am one who likes everything done decently and in order and of course ahead of time.  Well, that isn't how this move has gone.  There are many jobs that need to be done and unfortunately I do not have the skill to do them so I must wait.  I try to help but it seems the best I can do to help is to work on making the house our home.  So I unpack, organize, move things around and work on creating a warm, cozy, inviting home.

2. Do you think patience comes to us naturally or is it something you have to learn as you grow? On a scale of 1-10 generally how patient are you? (1=I blow up at the drop of a hat and 10=I've got all the time in the world).

I do not think patience comes naturally.  I think it takes discipline to apply patience and you can only get more patience through practice.  It's funny but I am very patient with certain things and really impatient with others.  I've been told I have the patience of a saint when it comes to helping children, the elderly or those with disabilities.  However, put me in a line at the store that isn't moving and I feel like a monster!

3. Share about a time when you felt like you could fly. Or a time you wished you could fly. Or a time you felt like you were flying.

Well I'm sure this question refers to flying as a good feeling but I think of when I had vertigo and felt like I was flying or drifting through the air and I did not like that feeling at all.  The thought of flying gives my stomach a sick feeling.

4. Your favorite song with the word fly in the title or lyrics, or your favorite song that relates to flying in some way?

"Come Fly With Me" by Frank Sinatra.  My mother-in-law often has this one playing and it just makes me happy.

5. What's in your fall picnic basket and where are we picnicking in your neck of the woods this time of year?

Hot tea, cookies and apples.  We are picnicking at the beach.  I love the beach off season.  When I need to clear my mind and calm down the beach is my favorite place to be.  Sunday evening was one of those times.  I made a hot thermos of tea, threw some snacks in a bag and grabbed a blanket.  The kids played while I gazed at the clear blue fall sky and calm water while digging my toes in the sand.  It doesn't matter what the weather is like, if I'm at the beach I want my feet in the sand (well maybe not if there is snow on the ground).  Yes, I love the beach when it snows too :)

6.  Carpentry, electrical, plumbing, landscaping...which skill would you most like to possess and how would you put that skill to use today?

Electrical although live wires scare me.  I would redo the breaker box and update all the outlets in our new home.  I think I'll stick with changing the plate covers and leave the rest for an expert.

7. What's something you think is too expensive to justify buying lately?

A new couch and loveseat.  We do plan on buying new ones but I am watching the sales and waiting for the right time.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I've missed the Hodgepodge while I was busy packing, moving and settling in.  Joyce has a way bigger job with her move than I do.  I don't know how she manages to keep the Hodgepodge going but thankful she does!  So today I'm Hodgepodging from our new back deck, listening to the trees blow in the breeze and watching blue jays fly.  It's a beautiful fall day :)

~Theresa

ABCs and Three Rs Hodgepodge

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1. Way back when (the Hodgepodge bicentennial to be precise) several of you submitted questions as part of a giveaway I was hosting. I went back to that list for inspiration today and found a question  submitted by Marla, who blogs over at Marla's Musings. Thanks Marla! 

She asks-At what age did you feel like a 'grown-up'? What keeps you young now?   

I think I felt like a grown-up when I graduated high school.  I had my driver's license, a job, and I went to college.  I had many responsibilities and handled them well.  Well despite what society says, we are all aging.  I feel young when I play with my kids and laugh a lot.

2. When did you last buy a vehicle? Was this by design or because you had no other option? Was the car/truck purchased for your own personal use or was it bought for someone else to drive? On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being delightful and 1 being 'pass the Excedrin') how would you rate the experience?

Last summer we bought a vehicle.  We needed a reliable second vehicle that got good gas mileage.  It was bought mainly for my husband to drive but we chose something that would be comfortable for me to drive with the kids as well.  I would rate the experience a 7.

3. Corn bread, corn chips, corn pudding, corn on the cob, cornflakes, corn chowder-your favorite of the corn-y foods listed? What needs to be served alongside your selection?

I'd say corn bread.  I like it alongside chili, bbq chicken or with a turkey dinner.

4. What's something in your life that regularly requires you to 'put your thinking cap on'?

Lately it has been deciding what's for dinner.  It is hot and I'm busy packing and cleaning out stuff so I'm not much in the mood to cook.

5. Share a favorite movie set in a school or classroom, or whose theme relates to school days in some way.

The Breakfast Club is one of my favorites. I think everyone can relate to one of the characters in some way. Lean on Me with Morgan Freeman is another good one.  It inspired me as a teacher.

6. Reading, writing, and 'rithmatic' are commonly referred to as the three R's. What are the three R's in your life right now?

Relist, reheat and reorganize.  I've been trying to sell things on Craig's List and ebay and when they don't sell I relist them.  I've been reheating leftovers a lot.  We are getting ready to move and that involves a lot of reorganizing.

7. What's something you've learned or tried recently you can say was as 'easy as ABC'?

I can't think of anything I've learned recently that was easy, but I did go to the bank for a new debit card and that was easy as ABC.  I was dreading it but everything went quickly and smoothly and the lady who helped me was very pleasant.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

We still have a few more weeks of summer vacation before school starts here.  Hoping to get some summer fun in before we are back to the books.  I saw some beautiful fall decorations in the store last night and resisted buying them.  I love fall but want to focus on enjoying the rest of the summer :)

~Theresa

Summer Fun Hodgepodge

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1.  I recently read here about four secrets to happiness from around the world. They were-

Overcome your fears by facing them head on, allow yourself to relax and reset, work to live versus living to work, and find the good in life. Not sure if these are the actual secret to happiness, but which of the four do you struggle with most? Which one comes most easily to you?

The one I struggle with most is facing my fears head on.  That usually is not the first thing that comes to mind. Actually I'd prefer to avoid most of my fears (closed spaces, snakes, etc.).  The one that comes most easily to me is to find the good in life.  As crazy as the world seems there are still many good things in it for us to enjoy.

2. How would you spend a found $20 bill today?

I would take the family out for ices or ice cream.

3. Ego trip, power trip, guilt trip, round trip, trip the light fantastic, or trip over your own two feet...which 'trip' have you experienced or dealt with most recently? Explain.

The other day I tripped over my own two feet.  I didn't fall but rather flew a few feet in front of me as I was walking.  I think it may have been the throw rug but it seemed as if it was my own two feet!

4. If you could master any physical skill in the world what would it be, and how would you use that skill?

I've always admired runners.  I guess that skill could be used to raise money for a good cause.

5. As July draws to a close, let's take inventory of our summer fun. Since the official first day of (North American) summer (June 20th) have you...been swimming? Yes.  enjoyed an ice cream cone? Yes.  seen a summer blockbuster? Yes.  camped?  No.   eaten corn on the cob? No.  gardened?   No.  deliberately unplugged?   No.  watched a ballgame?   No.  picked fruit off the vine?  No.   taken a road trip?   No.  read a book?  No.  Are any of these activities on your must-do-before-summer-ends list?

The only one I would like to do is eat corn on the cob.  We used to eat it a lot but since hearing that most of the corn grown in the USA is GMO that has changed.  I may try to find some fresh, organic corn on the cob before the end of the summer.  

6. The Republican Presidential candidates will debate on August 6th. What's your question?

It is very simple....what will you do to help America get out of the mess it is in?

7. What's your most listened to song so far this summer?

I don't think I have one.  I like to scan the radio stations when I am in the car but I don't have any playlists that I listen to regularly.  I am feeling so out of it when it comes to technology.  How that happened, I do not know.  I need a crash course.

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

How about a question?  I  know many of you at the Hodgepodge are quite talented in decorating and interior design.  Would you ever put a china cabinet and a server on the same wall, even if they would take up the entire length of the wall?

Thanks :)
~Theresa

Light and Airy Hodgepodge

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1. Is your home air conditioned? If it's not air conditioned, is that by choice? Did you grow up with air conditioning? If not how did you cope with the heat? Share about a time or place you remember as being too hot-the temperature kind of hot, lest anyone be confused.

Yes, we have air conditioning in the living room and bedrooms.  Yes, I grew up with air conditioning.  Our house was so cold that the throw blankets we had on our couches were often used by my friends.  They still remember that.  I do not tolerate the heat well.  I remember teaching in June and my classroom being so hot I would feel sick.  I had all kinds of fans, cooling neck wraps, even tried juicing watermelon.  

2. What's something in your life right now that falls under the heading 'up in the air'?

I can't say too much but general decision making for early Fall.

3. Your favorite light and airy dessert?

A root beer float.

4. When did you last feel like you were 'floating on air'?

I can't think of anything in particular.  In general I'd say those times when you see prayer answered in ways beyond what you thought.

5. Airport, airmail, airtight, airhead...which have you most recently encountered? Explain.

Airmail.  I was on the phone with my aunt who lives several states away yesterday and the post woman came to her door.  I sent her a small package and didn't put enough postage on it.  Instead of sending it back they just collected the remaining postage from her.  That is unlike me but I've had a lot on my mind and I guess I acted like an airhead.  Thankfully she knows me well enough that I wasn't embarrassed.

6.  Have you ever been to the Alps? If so where did you go? If not, is this a destination on your must-see list? If you were headed that direction this summer, which of the following would be your preferred activity...a gentle walk, a serious walk, a bike ride, a boat ride around one of the lakes, or summer snow skiing?

No, I haven't.  I am sure they are beautiful in person but it is not on my must-see list.  If I were there I would prefer a boat ride around one of the lakes.  I love snow, but have no desire to ski.

7. What is one saying or phrase that was considered 'cool' when you were growing up?

"Gag me with a spoon".  Yes, it was the 80s and Valley Girl talk was cool, even on Long Island.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

It has been very hot and humid the past few days.  Today is supposed to be less humid and oppressive and a nice summer day.  I'll still need the A/C though ;)

~Theresa

A Really Great Hodpepodge

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1.July 15th is National Give Something Away Day.  What can you give away? Will you?

I have lots to give away as I am cleaning out my storage areas.  Yes I will give away clothes, toys and baby items.  I'm not sure if I will give anything away on July 15th, but I have been giving away things for the past few weeks and will be giving away more this week.

2. Do you have a mantra? Please share with the class if you feel comfortable doing so.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."  Philippians 4:13

3. Who does the grocery shopping in your house? How many times a week do you shop? Do you make a list or pray for inspiration in the produce aisle?

My husband does most of the grocery shopping.  Usually once a week with maybe a quick stop once or twice during the week.  I make a list after looking through the circulars and coupons.  For the most part, I plan what we will eat according to what is on sale.

4. Is there a TV show you're embarrassed to say you watch? You're going to tell us what it is, right?

I like to watch judge shows like Judge Judy, Judge Mathis, Judge Faith, etc.  Some of the cases are so ridiculous but for some reason I find it all really interesting ;)  Maybe because at one point I actually wanted to be a lawyer?

5. A recent article listed fifteen words we should eliminate from our (written) vocabulary in order to sound smarter-

that, went, honestly, absolutely, very, really, amazing, always, never, literally, just, maybe, stuff, things, and irregardless

Of the fifteen, which word is your most overused?

I would say really.  I often use it as a question....really?

6. So apparently dying your hair gray (in your youth!) is a thing right now. It's called 'The Granny Hair' trend. Your thoughts? 

Really?  Absolutely ridiculous.  What will they think up next?

7. A while back Buzz Feed asked members to share the most beautiful sentence they've read in a piece of literature. A hard thing to narrow down, at least for me, but let's try. What's one of the most beautiful sentences you've ever read in a piece of literature?

This is a really difficult question.  I am almost embarrassed to admit it...but I haven't read a book that is literature in a long time.  I had to use Google for help.

""Doubt thou the stars are fire; Doubt that the sun doth move; Doubt truth to be a liar; But never doubt I love."  by William Shakespeare in Hamlet

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Today is Amazon Prime Day.  There should be some really great deals going on.  I have my eye on a monogram necklace and I hope I can find a good deal.  I love Amazon Prime and think it is well worth $99 a year.  

~Theresa

Against the Tide, Troubled Waters Hodgepodge

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1. When did you last 'swim against the tide'? Explain.

Last month when I spoke up and didn't agree with the rest of the group.  It had a good outcome but I felt like I couldn't just 'swim with the tide'.  I know that is vague but it wouldn't be appropriate to share details.

2. What's the last self-help or self-improvement book you read?

The bible.   
"as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue," 
2 Peter 1:3

3. "Tolerance is a tremendous virtue, but the immediate neighbors of tolerance are apathy and weakness." (Sir James Goldsmith) 

Agree or disagree? Discuss. With civility please, because I think we have a good thing going in our very diverse (in geography, age, religion, political persuasion, ethnicity, marital status, upbringing, and cooking abilities)neighborhood here on This Side of the Pond.

I agree.  There is a way to be respectful and kind towards others without being tolerant of a particular behavior that you don't agree with.  I'm interested to read everyone's answers on this one in the This Side of the Pond neighborhood.  

4. What is one of your most vivid memories of the kitchen from your childhood?

Cleaning with my mother.  I remember the kitchen being orange at one time, and green at another.  I used to get down on the floor and lay on my stomach to clean and touch up the paint on the moldings.  I didn't mind doing it and it was a nice way to spend time with my mother doing something she loves (cleaning).  

5. How did/do your own children's summers compare with your summers as a child? If you're not a parent, answer as it relates to what you've observed about the current generation of children vs. your own childhood.

When I was a child there was a lot more freedom.  We would roam the neighborhood, ride our bikes to the pool, take the bus to the shopping mall, walk to the movies, and basically be outside until the street lights came on.  Well times have changed and I don't allow my children to do any of those things.  Unless they are with me or another trustworthy adult they don't go anywhere.  As they are getting older it is becoming difficult to figure out the delicate balance of responsibility and wisdom.  

6. Tell us what body of water you would most like to be on or near today, and why?

The Atlantic Ocean.  I'm an east coast girl and the ocean is my favorite body of water.  There is nothing like the sound of waves crashing while my feet are in the sand and looking out at God's beautiful creation.  It reminds me of how big God is and how small I am.  

7.  Share a favorite song about water, or a favorite song with the word water in it's title, or a favorite song to listen to as you sit beside the water.

"Like a Bridge Over Troubled Water" by Simon & Garfunkel.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I feel like my answers today are very random.  Have a great rest of the week :)
~Theresa