The Queen's Castle

It's all RANDOM

2010-02-09T09:53:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness, where do I start? What a jumble of thoughts and ideas that are running through my mind. I want to blog about SO many things! Let’s see how much stuff I can say in this one post! Here goes…

First off, can I just state the obvious? I love my husband. I’ll be transparent and admit that there were times early on in our marriage that I worried that I didn’t feel that true love forever feelings like I should, to be married to someone for the rest of my life, or that my husband even loved me enough either. Of course, this idea was measured in my mind by what I ‘perceived’ to be ‘true love’, based on all those romance novels that we gals seem to eat up on a daily basis. Those and epic films like Casablanca, Sixteen Candles and The Notebook! LOL (okay, Sixteen Candles is a stretch, but I always loved Jake Ryan and wanted to be his bride! LOL)

Boy was I ever wrong.

My love for my husband is a river that runs through every vein, every nerve, every thought, and every heartbeat that is in me. And not just in the romantic, swooning kind of way, although, I do still get butterflies when he is near. But in a steady, sweet, quiet, trusting way that has changed my life. Even in the midst of an argument or a blah phase of our life, I find that love can run very, very deep. Love doesn’t always have a ten-piece orchestra playing in the background. Usually the sounds of bill collectors, car trouble, clogged drains and piling up dishes and laundry are a steady beat throughout our days. But what I hear mostly in the foreground is laughter. Lots of laughter… the very best kind. The kind only true love can generate. What a beautiful life I lead! Completely imperfect and flawed and completely beautiful! Oh, and here’s a fun fact! We’ve been married for seven months now, and this Sunday will be our very first Valentine’s Day that we spend together as a couple! LOL. Life sure is colorful and full of surprises and variety isn’t it?? Gotta love it!

Okay, so for my sister’s sake, I’ll move on to my next subject! LOL (Deb can only take so much of her sister’s sappiness and believe me, she’s endured a lot of it!)

Living in “The South” has proven to be a test, a trial, a blessing, a gift and an adventure all rolled into one. We live in a town 45ish miles west of Jackson, MS called Vicksburg (also in Mississippi). For you history buffs, the famous Battle at Vicksburg was fought here during the civil war and the confederates surrendered on July 4th! Of all days! It took many years before this town recognized and celebrated Independence Day! I live within walking distance of the military park that is the actual battlefield. It is breathtaking! When I can, I’ll have to post some pictures on here. We have found that it is the perfect place to drive through after a long hard day at work. It’s peaceful, serene and scenic. When you finally exit, you feel rejuvenated and refreshed. We love it. And we love this town. It’s really cute and quaint, but with most of the conveniences that we need to make living easier and enjoyable. I just wish Sam’s Club wasn’t 38 miles away!! I love to shop there and have to make monthly trips.

Another cool thing is we live on the actual banks (or bluffs actually) of the Mighty Mississippi River! Yes it is a little bit brown at times… not the most pristine color of water, I admit, but still so beautiful! The interstate crosses it on a magnificent bridge, where when you get halfway across, lo and behold, you are now in Louisiana!! Yep, I live about 4 miles away from Louisiana. It’s so weird for me to think that I can cross state lines every day just like that. Needless to say, I’m enjoying discovering a new world and culture and a new life, even at the ripe old age of 34… LOL! (yes, yes, I know I’m a spring chicken!)

With all this newness, I’ve had a bout of losing myself. I forgot who I was and how much of me that I was letting fall to the wayside as I’ve tried to fit in and figure out where I belong in this sea of the unknown. And I did the worse thing possible. I allowed ME to disappear. My personality, my independence, my spunk and drive… withered away. Not completely, but enough that I was becoming unrecognizable. What a pitiful state to find yourself in. Well, no longer. I have come to the realization that I’m only at my best when I’m completely ME. Figuring that out was like a window opening and a cool spring breeze blowing in. Liberating. I’m getting my confidence back. My mojo. My strut in my stuff and swing in my step back. Thank God! I sure missed her!!

I can go on and on with this post. I can talk about how much I miss my family, how I long to go on a shopping spree at Macy’s, or how much I crave Del Taco! LOL! I can go on and on for paragraphs about my step-son Scott and how much I enjoy being his 2nd mom and how much I love that rascal! I can talk about my beautiful mother and how only now do I truly understand and appreciate the amazing woman that she is. I can talk about the infamous DEB and how she dazzles me daily with her talent and beauty and drive. I can talk about how sad I am to have missed the birth of my new niece and how much I miss one of my very best friends, Eileen. I could, but for now I’ll leave with one more thought.

How Great is Our God?! Words cannot even begin to describe His Greatness. As high as the heavens and as deep as earth, sky and space, He expands and exceeds our human capabilities of measurement. Not just His being, but His attributes and His ways and thoughts and acts. Incredible. Most importantly, His love is perfect, complete and flawless in every way. And all for me. I have no words. I have no way to live up to it or return even a fraction of it. All I can do is accept it. Allow Him to love me and to try to love Him with all that He put in me. Wow, allowing God to love me?? Yes, He is a gentleman and won’t force His way into my life. Who can possible refuse this type of love? I certainly can’t. And I won’t. Love me Lord… forever, love me!

Amazing Grace…. How Sweet The Sound.

Food from…
The Queen’s Table of Thought

(Photo: Aftab Uzzaman)

October 16th... for the 59th time!

2009-10-19T07:25:00.000-07:00

So this post is a tad late... can't say I have a grand excuse, just got busy doing stuff.

Oct 16th, 1950... what a day that was! Of course, I wasn't there to celebrate the spectacular event that took place, but I've had great benefits from it.

Like being born. LOL!

Yes, that was the day that my father, Peter Robert, was born. He was born to Peter Raymond and Elizabeth Ann, my grandparents. Being the first child and the product of a great love story is something to celebrate indeed. Whirlwind romance, short engagement, apparently they couldn't live without each other, resulting in marriage and then came my dad, the first of four!

This year, we celebrate birthday number 59. I have to say, it's hard for me to imagine that my parents are no longer in their 30's. I know that sounds funny considering I am in my 30's, but of course when I'm around my parents, I still feel like a kid. And to think my parents were younger than I am right now when I made my grand entrance into the world. My dad was 25 when I was born, and I was so close to having the same birthday as him, but was 5 days too late. I've always loved the fact that we share the same birth month. Somehow, being a daddy's girl, it always made me feel special and unique.

It's true. I grew up a daddy's girl. We did so many things together, or I'd always be tagging along whether he wanted me to or not! I remember loving to watch him shave and he'd put a dab of shaving cream on my nose. (I used to wonder how come I couldn't shave my face too!) Whenever he would leave to pick up people for church, I'd be riding right beside him. Sometimes we'd be in a car, and sometimes we'd be in a van because we'd be picking people up that were in wheelchairs. I'd try to help him set up the ramps, but usually ended up just being in the way. Still, he'd let me come along every time. I'd ride with him to pick up Sunday School kids or go on bus ministry. I'd sit in a hard plastic chair to watch him get his hair cut at the barbershop by Country Cousin's Market in Costa Mesa, CA. He would let me work the fireworks booth with him every July and as I grew into an adult, eventually we started a new tradition. The two of us would be the ones to go every year and buy the fireworks for the family.

As I am typing this blog, so many memories are coming to the surface. Looking back, I'm realizing the many things that my dad and I used to do together.

I'll save you all from reading a very long list, but I have to keep my blog tradition!

So here is just a partial list of things that were all about my daddy and me!

1. Watching Lakers games together
2. Slowly I turn... step by step...
3. Singing Duets
4. Going to teach Bible Studies (he'd teach, I'd babysit the kids)
5. House hunting
6. Talking about movies
7. UFC Nights!
8. Buying Fireworks
9. Shopping for Perfume for Mom for Christmas (Giorgio Beverly Hills anyone??)
10. Browsing FedCo
11. Combing out Deborah's hair! (LOL)
12. Taking care of the kids while Mom was away (Ladies Retreat!)
13. Picking up people for church
14. Debating (no one ever won!)
15. Going to Twinkle Park (with Mom too!)
16. Riding bikes at the Back Bay
17. Working in the fireworks stand
18. Eating lunch at the Hilton Hotel at General Conference in Anaheim, CA 1984
19. Going to the barbershop (at least until Peter came along!)
20. Watching him shave in the morning
21. Reading bedtime stories when Mom was too tired or busy (he's skip pages!)
22. Sitting in his lap at church
24. Going on Space Mountain (or NOT going on it after 1 hour wait!)
25. Driving in the truck on long trips listening to Chicago and talking about everything!

Happy Birthday Dad!! I can't believe this is the first birthday (since I've been around) that I haven't been there to celebrate with you!! I know that may sound sad, but when you think about it, it doesn't really matter where I am or where you are, we can celebrate together in our hearts! That's the power of love and I love you very much Dad! I wish you so much joy and blessings this coming year. The best is yet to come, I just know it!!

Love always,
your #1 girl,
Catherine Elizabeth

Pedroline... The 28th year

2009-10-08T07:47:00.000-07:00

Pedroline (pronounced pA-drO-leen) is a name that just rolls off the tongue. Half masculine, half feminine, it completely describes the fashionista that is my brother! Okay, so he loves fashion, but let me set the record straight, Peter is not feminine in any way, shape or form!! (oh my, I better stop while I'm ahead, the jokes just keep coming... I'll leave the 'shape' part of that statement alone! HA HA HA)

I have no idea who or why we came up with that nickname for Peter, but nevertheless, he is stuck with it. Of course it is just one of many nicknames for our complex brother.

28 years ago today, Peter made his grand entrance into the world. 45 minute labor and boom there he was... perfectly pink and healthy. He really is a miracle baby (in fact all my siblings are miracles) and it wasn't until later in life that we've realized that the perfectly pink was hiding the truth... Peter is a bit off, a bit slow, a bit flawed, a bit, shall we say... SPECIAL. But we love him just the same, just as if he were normal like us!! Of course none of that is entirely true, but we've always had a too much fun giving him a hard time. LOL.

Today I salute my brother Peter on his birthday. It's hard to believe that he is 28. That's a serious age. 30 is looming ahead and responsibilities and taking life seriously are the daily pressures that come as you start to leave your 20's behind. So Peter, as you celebrate the day of your birth, ask yourself this... What Would SpongeBob Do?????

In usual blogger style... here is a list of Pedo Stuff. (does anyone else notice how these lists get longer and longer each year?? funny that.) ;-)

28 moments of Peter's 28 years:

1. Goose Egg Forehead with 2 black eyes
2. Pneumonia on Christmas Day
3. Beside bell ringing
4. Jerry Macguire and a girl
5. Beating up 5 guys on the corner
6. BMX Madness
7. Standing in the corner
8. Cammo in the backyard
9. Shooting the wife in Big Bear
10. Laugh attacks in the middle of the story
11. Singing the testimony
12. Sam Ash Limelight Nights
13. Label swapping
14. Dribble Shirts
15. Goodwill Hunting (or Thrifting)
16. Carebear hugs
17. The mouse and the giant strawberry
18. Headlock sleep wrestling
19. Boonsters!
20. Spongebob bedtimes
21. D2E
22. Drive by healings
23. Cruising to Mr. & Mrs.
24. Backscratch Begging
25. Poker face
26. Madlib crying
27. Bee running (ending in TIMBER!!!)
28. What about JIM??

In case none of you know this.. #28 is actually a serious one. Peter spent his time and money looking out for a homeless man named Jim. He bought him meals and even went and would buy him new pairs of pants. This is the epitome of my brother. His compassion showed up early in life and he's maintained that sensitivity to others needs up to this point. Peter, you make me proud to be your sister!

I hope this year is abundant in blessings and that you receive your deepest heart's desires!! Happy 28th Birthday!!

Love
The Big Queen Sister! :-)

SUPERHEROES

2009-06-21T15:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to every dad who makes a difference every day!!

Dad, I wish you a wonderful day and want to say thank you for all you've done for me. Even though the miles may separate us, I will always be your daughter and you will always be my daddy. I hope the rest of the 'kids' treat you well and you get a dip in the pool and some yummy bbq food to celebrate!! I love you!!

Gramps, my first father's day without you. I thought about you often today and remembered a lot of the words of wisdom you passed down to me. I miss your smiling Irish eyes. There is so much I would share with you if I could, but alas, the time of sharing is done. Thank you for the many father's days I got to spend with you! I love you.

Paul, you are the newest man in my life and I know you've been bombarded today by the many avenues I've taken to say happy father's day. So I will simply say that seeing you as a father just shows me more and more of who you are. A man of integrity and character and wisdom. I love you more and more and look forward to a lifetime of celebrations with you!

Pastor Morgan, you have been my 'spiritual' father for 12 years. I want to just say thanks for being there for me and helping me through the good and bad times. You are a rock and I am forever grateful!! I love you!

Happy Father's Day Blogger World... CELEBRATE!!!
The Queen

Toto, I'm not in Cali anymore!!

2009-06-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

Boy, have I landed in a different world! It's not bad, not in the least. I find it interesting and exciting. (If you can call quiet, peaceful & small exciting!! LOL)

I had crawfish for the first time!! I'll admit, when I saw them scooping the crawfish out of the boiling water into our bag, I thought to myself, can I really eat that? Can I?? But once we got all 5 pounds home, (for just the two of us!!!), I forgot my original thought and dug in. That is, once Paul showed me how to pinch the tail off and get the meat out and then suck the head. Once I got the hang of it, I was chowing down! Mmmm Mmmm Good. With sweet corn on the cob and red potatoes soaking up the juices and spices, it was a feast fit for a Queen! ;-)

I'm experiencing so many different things. Like having to walk into the post office to mail anything! Unless you can catch the mailman in the morning as he goes by. There are no drive up post office boxes or boxes at the corner to drop your mail. It's a bit of hassle, until you realize you really have no other pressing engagement, so why the impatience?!

Another thing is the leisurely way of doing things. Everyone is very meticulous and slow. However, things actually get done. How does that happen?? I don't get it. But I like it! LOL The only thing that tries my patience every day is the stop signs. You have to make a complete stop. And if other cars stop at the other corners, everyone sits there and figures out who goes next and they are super courteous and try to let you go first. O.M.W. I don't have the leisure of zipping through stop signs and beating everyone to the punch anymore. It definitely "worketh patience"!!

Also, the women around here are mostly very feminine. I see skirts and dresses and jewelry and "done" hair and "pumps" everywhere. These women take their femininity very seriously! Now mind you, it's not the high fashion capital of the south by any stretch of the imagination, but still, I think in California the ratio of women in pants or suits or men's jeans versus skirts is about 95 to 5. Here dresses are about 90 to 10. It's just strange for me to see that. It is definitely noticeable.

Also, bugs love me in the south. I had a couple of VERY miserable and itchy days, when I had sat outside too long and got 7 bites! I'm guessing mesquitos, but whatever they were, they swelled and itched like nobody's business!! I hope they don't leave marks!!! I also found a lizard skeleton in my closet! (And Paul had cleaned out the closet fairly recently!) It had a skull and a spine and legs and toes. The skull was the weirdest thing to see. I scooped it up on a piece of paper and tried to take pictures of it without getting too close. It was grossing me out big time!

Also, did I mention the real estate? You can find a major fixer upper for $17,500.00!! That's less than what I paid for my car! And I got a simple Toyota Corrolla. For a move in ready house, you can easily find something around $70,000.00. Again, less than some cars I am acquainted with. The rent here for a 2-3 bedroom with 2 baths is in the $550.00 range. It just amazings me the difference of cost here. Although, a gallon of milk is about $3.50 here and in my hometown in California the current price is $1.99. I'm not sure why that is. Hmmmm. Something to ponder.

And the thing that gets me the most. When people go shopping, they don't grab a shopping cart, they get a "buggy". A what?? Yep, a BUGGY. I know. I refuse to say it. I will always say shopping cart no matter who points and laughs at me!! ;-)

There's so much to tell, I could ramble on forever. I can't even keep track of all the new things I am seeing and experiencing. I'm sure as new things come to me, you will hear alllllllllll about it! It's too fun NOT to share!

TGIF!!

Queen Cat

Twenty-Six

2009-06-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my sister's birthday.
What a whirlwind day it was.
I didn't have a chance to post until now. So sorry!

Deborah, my baby sister, I hope your birthday was meaningful and full of love and laughter. I know it probably wasn't the grandest birthday you've ever had. It wasn't the least stressful or most exciting time I'm sure. But, to celebrate another year of growth and family and friends and changes and all the in-between is a blessing nonetheless.

I am sad to think I did not get to share it with you. I would have never known that #25 would be the last birthday we'd spend living, working & playing together. Change is hard, but remember it's all things work together for good...

So here is my ode to Deb... 26 things that she does that makes me miss her most!!

1. JOHN WAYNE!
2. Peeking from the supply closet door while I'm "trying" to work
3. Talking to the cars while merging into the carpool lane on the I-5 after work
4. Eating Paul's Place even though she knows it makes her sick
5. Singing soprano
6. "Cooking" nachos in the microwave
7. Always examining if she has swollen ankles
8. Using a whole bottle of bleach to clean a bathroom
9. Laying on the couch reading a Julie Lessman book
10. Making pesto pizza and stuffed mushrooms
11. Reading her Bible before going to bed
12. Singing and praying in the shower
13. Making 'another' doctor's appointment
14. Saying she doesn't feel good
15. Snort laughing
16. Picking on Sonia
17. Sideseat driving
18. Ordering the most expensive thing on the menu
19. Craving gelato from Luccia's
20. Borrowing church clothes from my closet
21. Playing with Zee Zee
22. Yelling at the dog (used to be Tiffany!)
23. Fighting with Peter in her sleep
24. Fixing mom's hair
25. Laying across my lap watching TV in the bonus room
26. Sitting next to me at church

Happy Belated Birthday Deb! Your gift is in the mail!! Hope you like it!!!

Love you lots!

Queen Cat

A Friday TAG!!

2009-06-05T07:15:00.000-07:00

I'm trying really hard to keep up with my blog!! Sooo glad it's Friday. Not sure why I'm glad, maybe it's just programmed in us to be extra happy on Friday... but for whatever the reason, I am ecstatic to see Friday arrive. Looking forward to another fabulous weekend here in Small Town USA!! :-)

So... on to the business at hand:

I was tagged by Deb at The Daily Bee!

Rules of the Tag

::List Six Unimportant Things that Make you Happy::
Mention and link to the person who tagged you::
Tag six of your favorite bloggers to play along, and comment on their blog to let them know they've been tagged.

Here goes: Six unimportant things that make me happy!

1. Holding hands across recliner armrests!
2. New Shoes!!!!
3. Actually being Queen of my very own castle!! ;-)
4. Hats!! (I love hats, and when I need a pick-me-up, I just slap a hat on and away I go!)
5. Pedicures... they are pure bliss!
6. Good morning texts (It really doesn't matter if we are in the same room, they still make me smile!!)

There you have it!!! Six unimportant things that make me happy... although if they make me happy, they are definitely important to me, even on the smallest scale!!

Now to the tagging...

Mom @ Nana's Words
Eileen @ Say What?!?!
Yvonne @ Aune's Adventures
Rita @ Macias Moments

TGIF everyone!!!! We are survivors!!! :-)

Hope everyone's weekend plans include some rest and relaxation, laughs and giggles, good company and everything unimportant that makes you happy!!

Queen B.

Completely Confused!

2009-06-02T11:43:00.000-07:00

This is my first post from the good old state of Mississippi!!! The state I now call home! Who woulda thunk it!! But, yes, it is true. I now live in the deep south. It's humid and warm and green and plush and chalk full of history. It's long drives of rolling plains and tiny towns in between. It's water towers galore and picturesque courthouses. The after work traffic lasts about 15 minutes and after 7 p.m. the streets are quiet. Scattered thunderstorms are about every 1/4 mile and happen mostly in the summer. It truly is a different place. Yet, somehow I feel at home. I think the added element that my heart is here has something to do with it. Home is truly where your heart is!

Surprisingly, the one hiccup in this state of complete bliss is an inner struggle that has crept up on me. I've never quite been in this situation before and had no idea what to expect, this moving across country. In the deepest part of my heart of hearts, I am completely content and happy and joyful and know I'm exactly where I need to be. But my surface is an emotional wreck. Tears threaten at every turn, without notice and usually without legitimate cause. I hate it. And totally not used to it at all. I'll be the first to tell you how annoying I am. I annoy myself with these emotional outbursts. When will it stop?? Please say soon.

Everything seems topsy turvy here. I am wondering where that strong independent woman who could handle anything set before her has gone. At times I feel like a 5 year old about to throw a pity party or temper tantrum. And I used to be efficient. Now I'm all thumbs and left feet. I even open packages from the wrong end and forget things. Paul has taken to leaving me notes for reminders. I'm starting to wonder how I managed to make it through a day without him. I'm hoping one of these days I'll actually be able to finally at least feed myself and change my own diaper!! LOL. Seriously, that's how I feel!!

See, Completely Confused. why me?? Huh? Huh? huh?...

Maybe I'm trying too hard. I need to relax and just live life, I know. Now that's just preaching to the choir! I guess I'll try harder to not try too hard. HA. Catch 22!!

If you know me at all or have read my blog at all, you know I overthink EVERYTHING. And here I am doing it again. Deep breath. Whew.

Emotions mixed with Imagination is a lethal combination.

Selfish, Petty, Ungrateful. Yep, I'd use those words to describe my silliness too. But give me a chance. Isn't acknowledgment the first step to recovery?? LOL. Fingers Crossed!!

For now, my confused self is gonna pamper herself with a relaxing evening!

Hasta La Vista Baby!
The Queen

Communication Crisis

2009-05-13T12:28:00.000-07:00

I've had communication on the brain these past few days. It amazes me how many avenues of connecting with someone that are available to us today.

The spoken word has taken on a whole new meaning in our advanced age of technology. Since the invention of the telephone, where for the first time people did not have to be face to face or in close proximity to hear each other's voice, communication has reached a level that exceeds what was ever thought possible. And every day we find more and more ways to further our connection with each other. We can use a telephone, computer, television, intercom system, voicemail, even electronic birthday cards to carry on a conversation or speak to a person who is not physically in our presence.

The written word has moved beyond the ink and paper. There was a time when a letter or book was viewed and respected as a treasure, handled carefully and proudly shared with anyone who would listen. We can now send 'letters' all over the world with the push of a button. We text, email, instant message and blog with ease.

Humanity has not been such a close knit group since the days following the great flood!

Still, my wonderings have taken me to the thought, If communication is so accessible then why do we still fail so miserably? It seems these days that there is an undeniable lack of communication amongst families, coworkers, friends, governments, communities and really, society in general. Has the English language become too difficult and complicated for us to put together a cohesive sentence? Have we lost the art of speech and conversation? Have we dumbed ourselves down with the 'shortcuts' of communication because we are in too much of a hurry? Has OMG and TTYL turned our brains to mush?

I don't think that is the issue.

We are strong intricate creations with enough brain power and emotion and heart and soul to easily "reach out and touch someone" in any way we so choose. So what is the real problem? Why do we miss the mark so badly and so often? In my humble opinion, the true reason is, we've stopped saying what we mean and meaning what we say. We have the tools to successfully execute and we have the words to speak, what we don't have is the sense of value in what we say. We've lowered ourselves to pretty speech and empty words of promise or compliments that hold no worth. We smile on the outside while we are crying on the inside. We laugh when what we really want to do is cringe. We grin and bear it. We conjure up big words to sound like we've got it all together, when in reality, we have no clue what we are doing.

It may work for a while, however, in time we realize just how far away from honestly knowing someone or being known for our true selves we really are.

I want to be a person that you would always know where you stand. That when I say I love you, you know I mean it. When I say I'm sorry, you would know it's from the heart. Good communication breeds a level of trust that most people only dream about... I plan on keeping that dream my every day reality!!

~ The Queen~

News Worthy!!

2009-05-06T11:32:00.001-07:00

So I know it's been a while since I've blogged. I've been up to my eyeballs in wedding plans the past few months. I've also been busy blogging on our wedding website. I guess for while it will take the place of this blog, until I finally descend off of Cloud 9... ;-)

I just wanted to share some fun pictures with everyone. My work corkboard is like a breaking news bulletin with all kinds of Paul & I 'stuff'! I still wonder at the hand of God and how much creative power He has. Never in my wildest imagination (and believe me, I've got a very healthy imagination!!) did I ever conjure up a scenario as spectacular as these past few months. All I did was tell God that I would enjoy every step of the desert place and allow Him to prepare me for what He had in store for me. Once I took my hands off of my life, God stepped in and gave me my heart's desire... and then some!!

So now, I am happily engaged to a man beyond my dreams and ready to start a new life. Which means... I am moving away from California. Something I never, ever thought I'd do. And, I'm leaving it for... Mississippi! WHAT?? Now that is just strange. No mountains! No OCEAN! No Palm Trees! No DISNEYLAND!!! No Del Taco and IN-N-OUT! Oy Vey!! (and that's just scratching the surface.) But if I stayed in California.... that means, No Paul. And that's not even an option. So, I will be living (at least for the time being) in Mississippi, where my heart is.

(as you can see, he's been VERY good to me!!)

Here is a glimpse of the beach where we will be getting married... that's the Gulf of Mexico in the background. The sand is a beautiful pure white with enough seashells to keep any scavenger content all day long! We were there that day to check out the house we would be staying at and to take our engagement pictures.

So, tonight (in less than 12 hours) I head back to Mississippi for quick trip to interview for a company that actually paid for my plane ticket! Of course I really really want to make sure and land a job before I come home, but also, the best thing is seeing Paul again for a couple of days... which is the highlight of my trip!!

So stay tuned for more News Worthy stories in a couple of days!!

The Queen 'B'

Life and the Living of it!

2009-03-24T19:49:00.000-07:00

Well, as promised, here is a post about Life, my Life...

Boy has my life taken a right turn... So much has happened in such a short time and I couldn't be happier.... (well, I could be happier, but I know I just have to be patient, it's just around the corner!!)

Cryptic enough for you?

Alright, well since I've got to get back to living life (see previous posts to understand that!), I'll leave you with a link... read the story and you will understand ...

http://www.momentville.com/PaulandCatherine

LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL!!!

The Queen

Instead of Talking...

2009-02-10T10:54:00.000-08:00

I love to talk.

at times.

When it's a subject that interests me.

Or when it's with a person that stimulates my thought processes.

And I got to thinking... a blog is a lot like talking. Granted it's a one sided conversation, but nevertheless, there's a subject being "discussed".

I like to discuss life and living and current events and values and favorites and lists and music and movies and books... you name it, I'll have something to say about it! But as much as I enjoy sharing my opinions and view points (and if you know me even a little bit, you will agree that I can exhaust a subject at any given time!), I realized that I've been doing something a lot lately in place of talking.

Instead of talking about life, I've been living it. Really, truly living life. All in, up to my eyeballs, grab the bull by the horns and hang on living. How scary! But talk about having the best time! Or, wait, not "talking about having the best time, HAVING the best time!

So, if you've wondered why I'm not around as much... there's your answer. The life I've discussed over and over on this blog is now being lived, and lived to the fullest.

(of course, I promise to come back from time to time just to update you on what a great time I'm having.... maybe.) :)

Q. Cat

100th Post, & Patience....

2009-01-23T20:12:00.000-08:00

I tried to keep track of when my 100th post would come up and then life just carried me away and I forgot all about it! So even though this is 105, I want to just stop and commemorate reaching 100.

When I first started blogging, I had a very different viewpoint of how I would go about writing about my life. I have had a lot of fun sharing facts, fiction, opinions & feelings with whomever was willing to read it.

I generally love to give my viewpoint anyways, so a blog is right up my alley. But then I didn't keep up with like I should... that's my procrastination side of me. LOL. Regardless, here I am with, finally, 100+ posts in the bag.

I'll try to make sure there are plenty more where these came from!

So today for my post I wanted to talk about impatience.

I'm a very internalizing type of person. Not many people get a chance to really know how I'm feeling deep down inside. I seem to manage my emotions best when I keep them to myself. Some people have to talk things out. That is not me. I need to let them stew and sit inside as I look them over and try to figure them all out. Every once in a while they will boil over and spew all over the unlucky victim at the time, but for the most part, I'm a pretty even keeled person.

So back to impatience. I've noticed even more lately how impatient I've become. I can't tell you the conversations I've had with people who try my patience. Of course, they would never know because those conversations are all in my head! I am impatient for an event to happen, I'm impatient for time to pass, for the results to come in, for someone to spit out a sentence. For someone to figure out what they want to do. For the phone to ring. For food to finish cooking. For stoplights to turn green. I tell you. It's bad. It's something I know I need to work on, but I get too impatient to let the process take place. Yes, it's a vicious circle.

Internally, I groan and complain and let whatever is going on around me pass me by. I want to stop and smell the roses. To take time to enjoy or live in the moment. My pastor spoke about being in the desert place (like when the Israelites were wandering in the wilderness). That we shouldn't scorn that place in our lives. It's a place of preparation for things to come. A place of growing and learning. I used to think that being in a desert place in life (when nothing is happening or things aren't coming to fruition like they should) was a bad thing. That I did something wrong... but now, I realize that the only way to get to where I want to go, is through the desert. But, impatient me wants to run, not walk, even fly through that stage of life and get to the next place quickly. I'm starting to realize that this would only handicap me once I got there, and I would not be able to handle all that is in store for me. Lord help me achieve the virtue of patience.

I've been in the desert. I do want to get to the promised land. But I guess I should stop, relax and look at the scenery. There's nothing like a desert sunset. And the stars shine so much brighter in the desert! I know the dreams I have are just beyond the horizon, if I'm patient enough to survive the desert long enough to get there....

The Q.

An Amazing Day To Be Alive...

2009-01-20T11:40:00.001-08:00

I am reminded again today, what an amazing time in history I live in.

As I've watched all morning the Inauguration events of the 44th president of the United States of America and witnessed the historical moments taking place, I feel alive.

I feel alive because of the concern I have for our country and our world. For the feeling of expectancy that has come over me for the future. For the dismay I feel as I listen to the wording of speeches and interviews, knowing none is said by accident or coincidence. For the joy that I have for a future brighter than ever before. For the peace I feel knowing that nevertheless, God is in control. For the patriotism I feel for the country I love despite our flaws.

I am alive because I can feel. No matter the range of emotions, it's exhilarating to live in such exciting times.

Agree or disagree with our new president, it's time to back the office, which is different then backing an individual. With respect to the different views of other bloggers who may read this, I have reasons to feel trepidation toward the man now holding the highest office in the world. But, I believe that this nation still finds favor with God and so I back the office and administration that leads our nation. I urge everyone to do the same.

Breathe.

All is well.

No reason for fear or doubt.

The world is in His hands.

I am in His hands.

...And He has allowed me to live.

What an Amazing Day to be Alive!

I'M ALIVE

(Celine Dion)

I get wings to fly
Oh I'm alive...

When you call on me
When I hear you breathe
I get wings to fly
I feel that I’m alive

When you look at me
I can touch the sky
I know that I’m alive

When you bless the day
I just drift away
All my worries die
I’m glad that I’m alive

You’ve set my heart on fire
Filled me with love
Made me a woman
On clouds above

I couldn’t get much higher
My spirit takes flight
Cause I am alive

When you call on me
When I hear you breathe
I feel that I’m alive
I am alive

When you reach for me
Raising spirits high
God knows that

That I’ll be the one
Standing by
Through good and
Through trying times

And it’s only begun
I can’t wait for the
Rest of my life

I know that I’m alive

I get wings to fly
God knows that I’m alive

God Bless America!

~The Queen~

My Favorite Way to Start the Year... Blogger Style!

2009-01-05T10:25:00.000-08:00

So, it's been 12 very short months and here I am again to write down my current favorite things.... you can go back to the one I did in December 2007 (for 2008) to see the similarities and differences that a year makes.... here goes:

My Favorite Book: I don't have just one favorite this year!

My Favorite DVD: P.S. I Love You and Dan in Real Life
My Favorite CD: Gavin DeGraw
My Favorite "Toy": My new laptop (yay me!)
My Favorite Color: Green
My Favorite Skirt: Black short skirt with ruffled bottom
My Favorite Shoes: Black Marc Fisher Heels
My Favorite Lunch: a Lean Cuisine
My Favorite Website to browse: Facebook!
My Favorite Song: Gavin DeGraw - "I Have You To Thank"
My Favorite Church Song: "Beautiful" / "God With Us"
My Favorite Comfort Quirk: Scratching my ears with a bobbypin (seriously it's so relaxing)(same as 2007/2008)
My Favorite P.J.'s: My .04 Seconds Derek Fisher T-Shirt

My Favorite Blanket: Leopard Fuzzy Blanket
My Favorite Cable Channel: Food Network/HGTV/Style Network
My Favorite Cable Show (non-food network): Jon & Kate Plus 8 / Top Chef / Who's Wedding is it Anyways / What Not To Wear

My Favorite Food Network Show: Iron Chef (same as 2007/2008)
My Favorite TV Sitcom: The Office!
My Favorite Athlete: Kobe Bryant / Derek Fisher
My Favorite Current Singer: Michael Buble (same as 2007/2008)
My Favorite American Idol Contestant: Elliott Yamin & David Cook

My Favorite Candy Bar: Big Chunk
My Favorite Restaurant: Steakhouse 55 / Lucca's
My Favorite Food: Lobster Bisque / Caesar Salad
My Favorite Drink: Tied between Iced Tea / Diet Coke (same as 2007/2008) & Cherry Coke!
My Favorite Starbucks Drink: Grande Hazelnut Hot Chocolate
My Favorite Eye Candy: Michael Buble & Wenworth Miller

My Favorite Clothing: My camis, jean jackets, belted tops

My Favorite Screen Legend (Male): James Stewart (same as 2007/2008)
My Favorite Screen Legend (Female): Doris Day (same as 2007/2008)
My Favorite Current Actor: Steve Carrell
My Favorite Current Actress: Reese Witherspoon
My Favorite Time of Day: Early Evening
My Favorite Show to Watch at Bedtime: Friends
My Favorite Daydream: Moving, Working for RTD Productions full time, One or two other dreams... lol
My Favorite Romantic Daydream: Hmmm... having Michael Buble and Wentworth Miller fight for my affections! LOL
My Favorite Online Service: Paying my bills and reconnecting with old friends!
My Favorite Fun Website: FACEBOOK, Blogger, Myspace, NBA.com
My Favorite Blog: The Daily Bee, and my own!
My Favorite Accessory: HATS!, Belts, Headbands & Sunglasses
My Favorite Blast from the Past: Where to start?! Kamye, Rebekah, Paul, Yvonne, Rita, John, Phillip, Michael, Jennifer, etc....
My Favorite Friend: Brenda Nicklas (same as 2008)
My Favorite Indulgence: European Pedicures and Spa Facials
My Favorite Scent: Pineapple Cilantro (same as 2008)
My Favorite Body Scent: Victoria Secret's "Pure Seduction"
My Favorite Scripture: II Corinthians 4:7-9 (same as 2008)
My Favorite Store: Macy's / Nordstrom

New for 2009

My Favorite Activity: Being with my family and friends.. doesn't matter what we do!

My Favorite Place to Spend a Saturday Afternoon: Either on a picnic or at the mall

My Favorite OC Place: Orange Circle

My Favorite Facebook Friend: Has to be John Aoki! He is so entertaining! ha ha ha

My Favorite Long Distance Friend: Hmm, I'd say Yvonne Aune. Although San Diego isn't too far!

Once again, there you have it! Some things are the same, others have really changed drastically....

So we shall see in 12 months what changes are made...

The Queen

2008-12-23T17:00:00.000-08:00

Happy 80th Birthday Gramps ..
Our Favorite Christmas Angel...

...I miss you more than words can say...

Wintery Days in Southern California, Christmas Photoshoots and Christmas Decor...

2008-12-19T12:45:00.000-08:00

I had nothing Christmasy on here I thought I would just post some pictures taken recently during this holiday season...

So yes, it really does snow in Southern California... granted it's way up in the San Bernardino Mountains (Home to Lake Arrowhead, Arrow Bear and Big Bear City, Big Bear Lake and Bladwin Lake (where our mountain house is located.)) ... but the spectacular scenery alone makes the drive to work on a clear crisp morning so very enjoyable! Here's some pictures taken a couple of days ago ...

Rainy Days

Very SoCal! Palm Trees and Snowy Mountains...

In the left hand mid corner there is a church steeple.. that's the famous Crystal Catherdral where they have Glory of Christmas playing nightly....

~~~~

So! I finally decorated my office today... I've been under the weather and haven't felt like doing much, but finally felt festive enough to get things decorated... now I feel so much more cheery sitting here at my desk for 8 hours a day!! I've been with this company for over 4 years and have spent 5 christmases with them... and these are the SAME decorations from every year! Next year I vow to get new decorations!! (I just keep arranging them differently so it feels new and fresh. Ha!)

I wish my computer screen was magic and I could jump in and be there by the fire with all that beautiful decor and ambience!

My pitiful little tree... ha ha ha

A little vintage twist of my office...

He's so cute and round... (o:

~~~~

As is becoming our custom, the siblings went off to an exotic, amazing gorgeous location to take their annual Christmas photo for the folks.... okay, so it was a local regional park.... still, it was pretty amazing. I think we all managed to get behind the camera at least once, with many of us in FRONT of the camera more often than not... (okay, so we are somewhat of the "ham" variety when it comes to picture time!) Well, the scenery really shines through and we all really liked the pictures. And, believe it or not, we did not coordinate our outfits! We just naturally all picked something similar... I guess that's how strong our bond is as a family... ha ha ha.

My Sister-in-law Sonia and I... vamping it up (accidentally of course!)

My best friend and cousin, Eileen & I

Peter and I on a bridge... apparently holding on for dear life for some reason... ha ha ha

The Clan - Sonia, Peter, Catherine, Deborah & David....

What a wonderful morning that was.. the memories alone were worth more than the picture (which is apparently worth 1,000 words....) ... (o:

Until next time, I hope everyone is wrapping up their Christmas shopping and getting ready to enjoy the best reason for the season - LOVE.

tootles!

The Queen..

Thanksgiving at its Best....

2008-11-27T15:00:00.000-08:00

Oh Happy Turkey Day .. Oh Happy Turkey Day!!!

So much to write about and the day is only half over... but I wanted to say Happy Thanksgiving and reflect on this year a little...

One thing that really sticks out in my mind are the friends I've made this past year... Now that I look back, I've met some amazing people this year. And none in the conventional way! There are people that I've met along the way this year that have found a way into my heart like my blogger buddies... friends of friends that I've met on facebook or myspace or blogger... people whom I've worked with and stayed in touch for once.. ha ha ha. Friends from the past who have either found me or I found them again after more than 10 years of separation. Even long distance cousins whom I've built a new friendship with... there are even people I would consider my friend that I've never even met in person...

Friends are the people you can run to when your family is driving you crazy! Friends are the people who make you laugh and hug it out when you feel like crying. Or the people who compliment and cheer you on with sincere enthusiasm. Or the people who can drop you a word of encouragement without needing to know the whole story....

I love these people. If you are reading this, you are probably one of them.

So today, as I thank God for my family and my life and all His bountiful blessings, I say a very extra special Thank You for Friendship... I've never valued it quite like I do today and I sincerely appreciate all those who call me friend.

Also, to all my tried and true old friends... having all these new friends has taken me back to the beginning of our friendships and if I've never said thank you before, I want you to know that I know what it takes to put up with me and I don't think there are words to adequately show you my love and appreciation for sticking by me at all times. So simply today, Thanksgiving... Thank You.

I love you all and wish you bountiful baskets of blessings this season...

The Queen.

Can I Tell You A Secret?

2008-11-17T11:30:00.000-08:00

So, I try to keep as far away from teenage drama and angst and growing pains and all that for the sake of not dredging up all the embarrassing memories that come with it. However, last night, I was once again reminded as to why I'm so happy to have left those years far behind. Granted, there are days and moments that I realize some things just never change... but this is one story that can stay in the teenage years.

Okay so, let's start at the very beginning...
Only the names have been changed to protect
the daft corny person who this story is about!
LOL.

Last night I was sitting in our bonus room watching the Thanksgiving Iron Chef showdown and kind of dozing in and out of sleep. (it was well after midnight at this point...) I felt so cozy and comfy in my fuzzy robe with visions of a Thanksgiving feast before my eyes.

Someone, male, 17 years old... let's call him Bill, was in the family room talking on the phone and playing music on his laptop.

For a long time.

It was obvious he was talking to a girl, and every now and again I could hear snippets of his conversation at which point I'd shush him and tell him he was too loud. (Hello, Iron Chef's are battling here... way more important than a teenager's phone conversation!)

I really started to sink into dreamland when I was awakened by movement. I think Bill had gotten up and was either in the kitchen or bathroom or something, but my eyes were closed so I couldn't be sure. Then I heard it...
"Can I tell you a secret?" WHAT?! ha ha ha... I was a bit more awake when he said it again..."Can I tell you a secret?" Great. Now I was easedropping unintentionally (the worse kind of easedropping!). But what was I to do. I groggily tried to register what Bill was saying to this mystery girl.

I don't think she could hear him to well either because he had to repeat himself again.

"Can I tell you a secret?" *long pause* "I like you." *embarrassed chuckle*

Awwwww. Bill usually plays the suave 17 going on 37 type of guy. To hear him be so vulnerable and embarrassed was... disconcerting and weird. An uncomfortable squirm went through me. I shouldn't be hearing this. Yet, it was a car wreck... now I had to know who he was talking to.

I contemplated getting up to go to bed, but the couch was so comfy and plus it was such an akward moment for Bill, that I felt glued in place. I must have dozed a bit more. Then Bill's music came on again and I was once again easedropping on this uncomfortable teenage conversation.

Bill: "So, I know this girl... her name starts with a P. She is very nice, has beautiful eyes, is kind of masculine, but not too much (okay at this point I think that's what I heard (the masculine part) but, please God I hope I just didn't hear right!), she is amazing, unlike any girl I've ever known... Do you know anyone like that? Do you know who this chick is that I'm talking about? Yeah her name is Prudy. You know her?"

(uh, it was obvious he was talking to Prudy about Prudy...)

More chuckles and low laughs. More "what"s and "huh?"s. (Seriously, I think they need to invest in a hearing aid or two. Or, maybe they thought what the other person was saying was too good to be true and they wanted to hear it again just to make sure. Bill sure was repeating himself a lot I noticed.)

Then silence. (man that girl sure can talk a lot.) Then Bill says, "Oh she's more than interesting, she's, she's, she's, ..... well, she's like a diamond. Beautiful and sparkling in every way." (this was said very smugly, like... "yeah, she's hooked now....)

(It reminded ME of Mary Poppins.

"Simply Perfect in Every Way." CORNY.)

Okay. That did it. It was too painful to listen to any more of this corny business. I was wide awake now and my pillows were calling for me. I got up, turned everything off and walked past Bill to go down the hall. He waved and said goodnight to me and looked a little startled. (I bet he forgot I was there.) I reminded him of how late it was and he shooed me away with a flick of his wrist. As I exited the room a looked back and said... "Say hello to Prudy for me."

And I marched off to bed shaking my head ... teenagers. LOL.

So now I'm contemplating...
What I really want to do so badly is when I get home from work, walk right up to Bill and with a very serious face ask him...

"Can I Tell You A Secret?"

hmmm. I just might have to do that.
Too good of an opportunity to miss...
The Queen.

The Speculation of a Chicken

2008-11-11T09:50:00.000-08:00

So, now that the elections are over and the horror and dismay or elation and excitement have subsided... it's time to get down to the nitty gritty issues of our country. There is a burning question that has plagued politicians, celebrities, therapists, doctors, chefs, newscasters and the common man.

Who has the right answer?

Who can bring a solution to that age old question:

Why Did The Chicken Cross The Road???

And the Answers are In:

SARAH PALIN: Before it got to the other side, I shot the chicken, cleaned and dressed it, and had chicken burgers for lunch.

BARACK OBAMA: The chicken crossed the road because it was time for a change! The chicken wanted change! And that is what you will have in your pocket after I'm done....a little change.

JOHN MC CAIN: My friends, that chicken crossed the road because he recognized the need to engage in cooperation and dialogue with all the chickens on the other side of the road.

HILLARY CLINTON: When I was First Lady, I personally helped that little chicken to cross the road. This experience makes me uniquely qualified to ensure right from Day One that every chicken in this country gets the chance it deserves to cross the road. But then, this really isn't about me.

GEORGE W. BUSH: We don't really care why the chicken crossed the road. We just want to know if the chicken is on our side of the road, or not. The chicken is either against us, or for us. There is no middle ground here.

DICK CHENEY: Where's my gun?

COLIN POWELL: Now to the left of the screen, you can clearly see the satellite image of the chicken crossing the road.

BILL CLINTON: I did not cross the road with that chicken. What is your definition of chicken?

AL GORE: I invented the chicken..

JOHN KERRY: Although I voted to let the chicken cross the road, I am now against it! It was the wrong road to cross, and I was misled about the chicken's intentions. I am not for it now and will remain against it.

AL SHARPTON: Why are all the chickens white? We need some black chickens.

DR. PHIL: The problem we have here is that this chicken doesn't realize that he must first deal with the problem on this side of the road before it goes after the problem on the other side of the road. What we need to do is help him realize how stupid he's acting by not taking on his current problems before adding new problems.

OPRAH: Well, I understand that the chicken is having problems, which is why he wants to cross this road so bad. So instead of having the chicken learn from his mistakes and take falls, which is a part of life, I'm going to give this chicken a car so that he can just drive across the road and not live his life like the rest of the chickens.

ANDERSON COOPER, CNN: We have reason to believe there is a chicken, but we have not yet been allowed access to the other side of the road.

NANCY GRACE: That chicken crossed the road because he's guilty! You can see it in his eyes and the way he walks.

PAT BUCHANAN: To steal the job of a decent, hardworking American.

MARTHA STEWART: No one called me to warn me which way that chicken was going. I had a standing order at the Farmer's Market to sell my eggs when the price dropped to a certain level. No little bird gave me any insider information.

DR SEUSS: Did the chicken cross the road? Did he cross it with a toad? Yes, the chicken crossed the road, but why it crossed I've not been told.

ERNEST HEMINGWAY: To die in the rain, alone.

GRANDPA: In my day we didn't ask why the chicken crossed the road. Somebody told us the chicken crossed the road, and that was good enough.

BARBARA WALTERS: Isn't that interesting? In a few moments, we will be listening to the chicken tell, for the first time, the heart-warming story of how it experienced a serious case of molting, and went on to accomplish its lifelong dream of crossing the road.

ARISTOTLE: It is the nature of chickens to cross the road.

JOHN LENNON: Imagine all the chickens in the world crossing roads together, in peace.

BILL GATES: I have just released eChicken 2008, which will not only cross roads, but will lay eggs, file your important documents, and balance your checkbook. Internet Explorer is an integral part of eChicken 2008. This new platform is much more stable and will never crash or need to be rebooted..

ALBERT EINSTEIN: Did the chicken really cross the road, or did the road move beneath the chicken?

COLONEL SANDERS: Did I miss one?

WHO'S RIGHT? WHO'S WRONG? NO ONE KNOWS......

Chicken Soup for Your Funny Bone...
The Queen!

McVoted!

2008-11-04T16:34:00.001-08:00

Today, Election Day.

Wow.

A page out of the History Books of America the Beautiful.

I Voted For the "Best" Man!

I Voted for Life!

I Voted for Marriage!

I Voted because I love my country.

I McVoted!!!

Did you?

~The Queen~

Let's Face It....

2008-10-30T09:43:00.000-07:00

Let's face it. Life never goes according to plan. I've come to realize that no matter how hard I plan something out on paper, the end result usually only has a vague resemblance to the image I pictured when I started out.

Take my LIFE for instance. Boy, have things really not gone the way I had imagined them to go. I started planning my wedding when I was 13 years old. I subscribed to Modern Bride and meticulously tore out my "favorites". I still have a few of those pages tucked in a binder and let me tell you, those 80's shoulder pads will NEVER be stylish in my eyes again. (please, oh please don't bring them back... please...!) The gaudy beading and lace and rhinestones and puffy mutton legged sleeves. Hilarious. I had my songs picked out (a little vintage Michael Bolton anyone?). I had my colors picked out. Even my menu was carefully selected and written down.

Needless to say. None of those items happened. No shoulder pads, no mutton legs, no peach cobbler served in a martini glass.

No wedding. (and it's now 20 years later.)

Okay, so what.

I've survived.

I'm fine.

I didn't combust or explode or die a slow, romantic, lonely, painful death from a broken heart. Luckily, the longing is a slight whisper now, instead of this nagging bullhorn in my ear.

Moving on.

So, I had always thought I would be a young mother and a housewife. Well, with no man in sight, those ideas never left the page either.

Okay, so career. I thought, hmmm. Maybe, I'll be a teacher or a boutique owner or a musician.

ixNay on the areerCay... Those didn't really happen either.

Yes, I did teach briefly (realizing, a teacher's salary works best when it's a secondary income.. but hellloooo... no man, no primary income to fall back on!), and I do play the piano and sing - (my piano playing is all smoke and mirrors).

Oy Vey! Sounds too depressing... moving on quickly now...

Now, on to the unexpected. Yes, life is not what I planned it out to be. I'd be lying if I said with extreme enthusiam, "It's Way Better!!!!".

But I can confidently say, life is good.

The aspects of my life that are unplanned, make life worth living and oh so much more interesting. I never expected to go from a shy timid girl to working on starring in a tv show. Or to have actually made it to a recording studio, or produce a short film, or head up a ministry at church, or to have authored my own line of children's lesson series. I never expected to find my best friends right under my nose. Who knew these three bratty, annoying, much younger siblings would be the best part of my life? I never expected to find out what an awesome person I really am. Who knew I had such a killer personality? I didn't! LOL!!! I never expected to be independent and strong. (remember, my plan was to rely on someone forever.) I never expected to experience life in such an interesting, broad manner. I never expected to be fearless or to leave the secure emotional bubble I lived in.

Mostly, I never expected to be content with whatever life brings me. (ALMOST completely content...)

None of these surprises would have happened if I had sailed the course I had charted for myself... the life I love right now wouldn't exist.

So, lesson learned.

I'm a natural planner, so it's so difficult for me to sit back and let go of the control I so desparately want to maintain. However, as I struggle on, I do so with a smile, because who knows what could be "just around the riverbend?" (thanks for that line Disney!) There is something always just over the horizon, and I found out that my job isn't to place that "something" there, or map out the course to get to it. I've just got to put one foot in front of the other, no pen and paper, no lists, just Faith.

When, I finally let go and just live, Life is Beautiful.

Let's face it, the unexpected parts of life are the times we are truly alive...

Food for Thought~

The Queen

Tiffany & Co.

2008-10-27T09:07:00.000-07:00

Well... the day has come.

And not in any way that we would have expected it.

Tiffany, our beloved, old lady, almost 18 year old doggie has returned to her creator. I believe with all my heart that she was designed and created especially for our family. It never really dawned on me before, but the more I think about it, the more I am convinced that God does bless us with special creations just for us. Tiffany wasn't meant for any other family. She was a perfect fit. I always said that Love was what keep her going all these years. She exceeded her life expectation by a large margin and I think God just knew that we weren't ready to part with her yet...

As she got older and started to act elderly, we struggled with the best course of action for her life. What to do, what to do? She wasn't sickly or terminally ill. She had aches in her joints, her eyesight wasn't what it used to be, she never made it to the grass anymore and her hearing was about shot. But, that was no reason to put her down.

Well, last night, when we came home from church, Deb (poor poor Deb) happened to glance up the main street a bit and saw her, lying on the curb. Hit by a car. Gone.

We will never understand how that happened. She never left our house area, even though we gave her free range and never locked her in the back yard or anything. She could hardly walk because of her arthritis and the main street is very far from our house. (a good 700 or so feet.)

My parents say that they think she knew her time was coming and ran away from home (as animals will do that ... they go off by themselves to die). My mom had just fed her about 20 minutes before, so she was so shocked and sad.

We called my brother, David and he got to the house and just wept and wept. Peter (Tiffany was really his dog), cried like a baby. We loved her for 18 years and now she's gone. Now what? There's a doggie shaped hole in our hearts today...

Tiffany, dooters, boone, tiffbutt, boonsters, ---- you brought sunshine into our lives. Thank you Lord for such a precious gift. It's a blessing that we will be thankful for forever.

Deb wrote a post about Tiffany back in August called, It's A Dog's World

In it she said, "Our family dog, Tiffany, has to be the greatest dog that ever lived. I am not being bias, I am telling you, she really is the greatest dog and if you had a chance to meet her you would think so... Soon she will be gone and that may be one the hardest things, she's been our family for more than half my life. She still is the greatest dog alive."

Deb, you are so right on both points... Tiffany was the GREATEST dog that ever lived and it IS one of the hardest things, to say goodbye.

Goodbye Tiffany! I love you!

Q.C.

Dad's Day

2008-10-16T17:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Dad!

(he's the one to the far left...)

Another birthday...another year older. Sounds so gloomy... well not to add more to the gloom, but I know this may be a little tough this year... this is the first birthday my dad has had without his own father here on this earth.

But, luckily, my dad is not a huge celebrator of birthdays, he always says... "I just don't understand the fuss!"

Well, today, we want to fuss over you a little if you don't mind... because we just happen to think you are worth it! I love you dad! Have a wonderful day and a wonderful year!!!

Q.Cat

A-Buuuhhhhhh!!

2008-10-15T13:18:00.000-07:00

Something is attached to me.

It's pretty big and very noticeable.

Well noticeable to everyone but me.

It's right there facing me every time I'm in front of a mirror, yet, I never see it.

Lately it has come to my attention, just due to the sheer volume of self photos I've been posting on either facebook or myspace or EA or myworld.... too many social networks if you ask me. But seeing myself so much lately has made me notice things that I normally just look right past... hello double chineage and hello facial fuzz! But the one thing I've never stopped to even wonder about has got my attention.

Yes, that would be my birthmark. right there on my neck. for all to see.

Since I've had it my whole life, I never even see it anymore. Not too long ago when I was filming my screen test the director had the audacity to ask me if we could cover it up with makeup! I asked him, WHY??? He said, because it's distracting, when I look at you all I see is your birthmark. Pppsshhwww! Of course, it's too dark, so what makeup we had did nothing but lighten it and make it look more like bruise. Greeaaaat.

Little kids call it a "bug". "Oh, kill the bug! kill the bug!" they'd say as they poke at my neck, scratching and clawing at me, trying to save my life.

They've even specified the type of bug.
The most common bug?
The Roach.
Oy Vey!

Others say it looks a necklace pendant.
Some call it a beauty mark while others call is "guaca-Mooooole-ay"!
Some have said..."ooooh, sexy!" while others go, "eewwww, caca!" (seriously, I've had someone say that!)

But I love my "mark". I was born with it, and I don't think I'd be me without it. I've come to appreciate it's uniqueness....

...and be thankful every day that it's not on my forehead!

~Q.Cat

PEDO to the 27th Power!

2008-10-08T10:53:00.000-07:00

It's the beginning of the October birthdays... my dad is next and then (DREAD) mine....

But, today is my brother Peter's birthday. Peter is the next in line, behind me. We are only 13 days off of being 6 years apart. (you do the math!)

What to say about Peter? He has a bleeding heart for anything or anyone. He has befriended many a homeless person and would take them McDonalds and even new clothes. He feels deeply, sometimes even to a fault. He is faithful in all areas of his life and has a strong moral base that has helped make him the man he is today. There's too much to say about my younger brother. (go to Deb's blog and read what she says.. ha ha ha... that, plus this... is Peter.)

So, 27 years old today. I've been teasing him all week that he's only 3 years away from 30. He is not liking the sound of that. But, well, it happens to the best of us. He retorts that I'm only 7 years away from 40. But I don't believe him. He exaggerates a lot. (o:

So Peter, in fine Queen's Castle Tradition, here is 27 things about you today, October 8, 2008 - Your 27th Birthday.

1. Peter eats lettuce with ketchup

2. Peter is happiest when he's watching Spongebob

3. Peter can play the drums like a seasoned professional

4. Peter's band Down 2 Earth ROCKS

5. Peter taught himself how to play the acoustic guitar

6. Peter married his one and only serious girlfriend

7. Peter is a fashionista

8. Peter loves Thai food

9. Peter's heart is through a back scratch

10. Peter is a math whiz

11. Peter is an english flunky

12. Peter used to use a star for his middle initial in his signature

13. Peter once played in a band called The Puffs, and wore a huge afro

14. Peter's favorite food is Cheeseburgers

15. Peter is the epitome of a mama's boy

16. Peter is best friends with his siblings

17. Peter loves to sing opera

18. Peter always sings "His Eye is on the Sparrow" in the shower

19. Peter ends up weeping if he laughs too hard

20. Peter is a social butterfly

21. Peter drives a Lexus

22. Peter loves his neices and nephews

23. Peter is scared of bees

24. Peter doesn't have any patience to fish

25. Peter is an anointed minister for the Lord

26. Peter is Deb's kewpie doll

27. Peter is always wearing what he ate

That's my brother folks.... and one of the best people I know!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LITTLE BRO....

I pray God's riches blessings on you this year!

I love you!

The QUEEN!

Short Films & The 5 Song Weekend

2008-10-06T09:55:00.001-07:00

Yes, I am back (I hope).
Life (and facebook) has kept me from blogging this past month.
Every day I think to myself... oooh I've got to blog about this! But then, I get lazy and think, ugh, I don't want to type it all out... So now, here I am, with too much to blog about and not enough time.

I do want to say thanks to everyone for your heartfelt condolences and prayers for my family as we've had to deal with losing my gramps. You don't even know how much it has meant to me and my family. That is a mark of a true friend, and I love and appreciate you all the more for it.

Okay, so two things.

1. 2 weeks ago, I found myself smack dab in the middle of a casting call for a short film that I co-produced on. It practically fell from the sky, this opportunity, and I grabbed at it. The casting call was super fun, first off because it wasn't me this time having to read lines with the director and secondly because I got to sit there and scrutnize each actor and then make fun of them when they left! (no, really I didn't make fun of ALL of them. Just a few seriously funny guys who definitely came from somewhere over the rainbow, if you know what I mean.) Then, it was the arduous task of dwindling down our options and casting the parts. I was rooting for one guy because he was tall, dark, and handsome and had been an extra on several episodes of Prison Break... (Lock me up with Michael Scoffield Please!!!) But then, my common sense came back and there was a clear cut choice for the lead role.

Now on to the hectic weekend of shooting the film. (yes, we had to shoot the entire film in a 4 day span!) I had to miss the last day of filming because my real job got in the way of that... ha ha ha. But the other three days were 12 hours each of grueling, fast pace, sit and wait, sweaty, exciting, mundane, loud, quiet, brain taxing, exhausting work. (seriously, all that in 12 hours a day!) It was an amazing experience.

On the second day, our extras bailed on us, so the whole crew were on their cell phones trying to round up family and friends to come on location and shoot some scenes for us. My mom even got a principle extras part and her scene in the film is HILARIOUS. She had skillz! Who knew... well she's always enjoyed entertaining the masses ... lol. Even Deb came down to support us and got in a couple of group shots. My cousin, Eileen, is working on her acting resume, so we got her to play a waitress in a few coffee shop scenes. All in all it turned out to be a fun family experience. Well that's my perspective. If you ask Deb, she will say... too much work -- NEVER AGAIN! There is a lot of waiting around for the actors and then the same shot over and over again. Not her cup of tea. Ha ha ha.

So now the film is complete and shipped off to San Antonio, Texas where it is being judged at a film festival there. The festival is called San Antonio International Christian Film Festival. (SAICFF) It will be screened in January at the actual festival and up for a 100k cash prize. The whole reason why I did this project was not just to learn more about the industry, but ultimately, if ... no, WHEN we win that money, it will finance our pilot show of Kidz Praize Zone, which is where my heart truly lies.

That weekend was a bon-a-fide once in a lifetime experience and I know there is so much more to come!

Okay so now my second thing. My pastor's son got married this weekend at the Radisson Hotel in Newport Beach, CA. I've known Devin since he was eight years old, so this was kind of a sweet, but sad moment. He is the eldest of four boys and I know that he has really made his parents proud over the years. He is kind hearted and compassionate and is just a selfless happy go lucky human being. He is 19 years old now and has really proven himself this past year. When his girlfriend moved down here to Southern California from Modesto, I just knew that something was up. Sure enough they shortly after announced their engagement. Now some people may think -- but they are so young. Well, for them, it felt right. And his parents married when his mom was 18 and his dad 19 and they just celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary. What God joins together.... So I just say, well, God has a different plan for each of us.

So after a whirlwind engagement, the day was finally arriving. They asked me to sing in their wedding and I was truly honored. I was asked to sing a duet with our church's music director (Faith Hill & Tim McGraw's "It's Your Love") and then a solo (Shania Twain's "From This Moment On"). So I arrived at the wedding rehearsal to find 5... count them... FIVE songs sitting on the piano waiting for me to rehearse. Luckily I knew most of them, but one of them, I had never even heard in my whole life! The wedding coordinator just came up to me and said, but you'll learn it for tomorrow right? It's not a problem right? She gave me a pointed look like, don't even think of ruining the bride's day. She wants that song, so you will sing it. I meekly said Yes Ma'am and went on practicing.

Well, that night there was no time to get on the computer to find this unfamiliar song. So bright and early on Saturday morning, I found the music video on youtube and quickly learned the song. I had a noon time last minute practice and the wedding started at two o'clock. I can't believe it, but I actually pulled it off! I was able to sing all five songs and not ruin their wedding! All the way to the hotel on Saturday, I implored God to keep my emotions in check (crying and singing do not mix well for me) and to help me remember all the songs. God as usual was faithful and got me through it.

The wedding was so sweet and touching. Deb took some pictures which I'm sure she will post soon on her blog. The reception was fun and before you could blink, the day was over. At the reception I found Devin standing alone talking to people around him and I said, "Devin, where's your wife?" He shrugged his shoulders and said, "uh, I don't know". I said, "do you like to hear that... people calling her your wife?" He got that same big grin on his face that I've seen for the past 11 years and said in that lazy cowboy way of his, "yeaaahhh..." so sweet. Congratulations Devin & Kaitlin.

WHEW. Hopefully this will catch ya'all up with my busy, filled life and I won't wait another month to post on here.

THAT'S A WRAP!

The Screen Queen

Tagged MEME

2008-09-29T12:46:00.000-07:00

So... Tagged from The Daily B.... here goes....

Ten years ago I was:
Smack dab in the middle of my employment at B0fA. I was a closeted country music fan (I've since come out of that closet) and spent every weekend with my best friend Joel, movie hopping and drinking coffee.

Five things on today's To Do List:
Train a New Employee
Finish Lunch
Find Soundtrack Options for a Short Film
Watch DWTS
Stop off at the Burnett's house

Things I would do if I were a millionaire:
Invest it to quadruple my money... and then invest again and live and give off the interest. 1 mil is nothing these days.... I demand more!

Places I have lived:
Pasadena, CA
Mission Viejo, CA
El Toro, CA
Costa Mesa, CA
Garden Grove, CA

QC

The Handsomest Sailor of Them All...

2008-09-02T12:30:00.000-07:00

Sailor with your compass true
Let me Sail, Sail with you
Far Across the raging sea
Let your ship carry me
when the storm shall begin to rave
I will be very quick and brave
I'd like to see a whale!
Ahoy and avast on the starboard rail
With a ho heave ho, let all men know!

My Handsome Gramps!

Peter Raymond Bingley

A Gramps So Great...

2008-08-30T19:03:00.001-07:00

This is just a small tribute to a great man in my life.

11:15 p.m. last night.

Gramps wrote the last sentence of his life.

Dotted his "i"s.
Crossed his "t"s.

Ended with a period.

The End.

He told me 2 hours before he was gone... Bye Cath. I kissed him and rubbed his hair.

How much I love him, I hope he knew. I'm sure he did.

So here's to you Gramps, my biggest fan, my favorite Christmas day partner in crime, my egg mcmuffin bringer, my drive-thru car wash hero, my swimming instructor, my great "philosopher" and teacher... the list goes on and on.

I love you. I miss you. I'll always remember the lessons you've taught me. I carry your legacy.

Forever.

Peter Raymond Bingley

December 23, 1928 - August 29, 2008

Gramps's Girl.

TGIF!

2008-08-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

Hope all you Bloggers have a Blast this weekend!! And I hope to hear about it here on bloggerworld (o:

(Remember... Sunday is your last chance to wear white!) (If you follow that sort of nonsense! ha ha ha)

The Weekend Queen!

Can We Say WOW???

2008-08-27T16:59:00.000-07:00

....My Name's Hidden Meaning....

What Catherine Means

You are very open. You communicate well, and you connect with other people easily.

You are a naturally creative person. Ideas just flow from your mind.

A true chameleon, you are many things at different points in your life. You are very adaptable.

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.

You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.

You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are a seeker. You often find yourself restless - and you have a lot of questions about life.

You tend to travel often, to fairly random locations. You're most comfortable when you're far away from home.

You are quite passionate and easily tempted. Your impulses sometimes get you into trouble.
(ugh)

You are truly an original person. You have amazing ideas, and the power to carry them out. (yay me!)

Success comes rather easily for you... especially in business and academia.

Some people find you to be selfish and a bit overbearing. You're a strong person. (YIKES!)

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.

You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.

At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something.

You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense.

You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.

You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.

You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.

You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start. (yep)

You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people. (I hope so!)

You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts. (OY VEY!)

You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

the QUEEN!

Making Faces

2008-08-19T10:52:00.000-07:00

The kiss of death compliment seems to be, "You have such an interesting face...".

Interesting: (en-tu`-resting) adj. meaning- not beautiful, nor exotic, uncute, dispretty, strange, or facinatingly ugly.
(yes, I make up my own words from time to time --- dispretty?? ha ha ha)

So here's my predicament. I've been told to start making faces. I need an interesting face. So does this mean I am starting out with a pretty face? Or just plain jane? Or am I ugly in a non-interesting way? I don't know and I don't think I have the guts to want to know the answer. One thing is for sure. I have to work harder on my ugly faces.

Or so I'm told by the director of the kids show.

I got an email yesterday specifically to remind me to work with a mirror and come up with some ugly/interesting faces. I'm accused of smiling all the time. Where's the crime in that?! Apparently it's a crime of the third-degree where film is concerned. Ugh.

So if you see me doing this:

Don't worry, it's my job!!

Tootles!
The "interesting" looking Queen

LIghts, Camera, Action!

2008-08-15T09:18:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, I went and shot my screen test for the kids show I'm working on. I had two simple introductory scenes, one song to sing and an interview... (sounds like a piece of cake right? HA!)

I had to be there at 11:00 a.m. and managed to be only 5 minutes late! (which is pretty good for me, I'm usually at a 10 minute late status)

Luckily the director was pulling up behind me, who is notoriously late, so I didn't sweat it.....

And I got to bring my sister Deb along to do my hair and makeup. Which is awesome, because she knows my face and hair better than anyone, so she'd know what would work best for me and won't make me look like a Country Western Singer, Hilary Clinton or Shirley Temple, just to name a few.

There is so much work involved in film. We had to check the lighting, the sound, the green screen, the outside noise level, the outfits, the script, the choreography, etc.... and all this with my head full of curlers! (nope, didn't get any pictures of me in curlers!)

(The "Scripts")

Finally, Deb did my hair and we went out to get the "approval" from the director.

He didn't like it.

(the tech guy thought it looked great... but he doesn't get a vote...)

Back to the drawing board.

4 more times.

Finally! We got the look right and now it's on to makeup. Nothing heavy, just some concealer, foundation and a touch of brightener pencil at the corners of my eyes. Oh, and a dab of Dr. Pepper lip gloss.

(you'll have to read Deb's blog post to hear about our makeup buying fiasco.)

Voile`! I'm ready to rock this thing!

(Ready for my close up!)

Five Hours and Fifty Takes Later....

Whew... all done. For now.

Five hours of work for about 6 minutes of film.

That just boggles my mind.

(Blinding Stage Lights)

Luckily Deb was there to run lines with me, que me, dab me, do my makeup, fix my hair, take pictures, dress me, and make faces at me from behind the director. Yes she sure did. She made faces at me. Yep. What a Brat! No really, she helped a lot. But afterward, she couldn't run fast enough to the car... "it's too long!" she says. Oy Vey, did I just lose my makeup, hair, que, dabber, face maker, dresser, fixer upper person?! I sure hope not! (This is not a public plea Deb, I promise!)

All in all, even though I literally stood for 5 hours under those blinding stage lights, forgot my lines, sweated my upper lip off and started off looking more like the tin man than loosy goosey (tin man- bad, loosy goosey - good), I had an absolute blast and can't wait to do it again!!

(Finally finishing up with my interview...)

Tootles!
The Screen Queen!

Carrying The Olympic Torch

2008-08-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

So it seems that like the majority of the nation,

I have developed Olympic Fever...

It started with randomly catching a swim match here, a volleyball set there, a parallel bars competition and some other random events. Then I moved on to my favorite sport, basketball.

I watched team USA slaughter China (boo hoo for Yao Ming).

It was cool to see the President sitting in the stands and the sheer pandimonium when Kobe entered the arena. Go USA!

I could feel the fever rising yesterday morning as I gleefully sat through a weight lifting competition. I thought to myself, "Would I normally sit and watch this?" No. But something about the Olympics just adds that touch of magic to even the boringest of events. Ha ha ha. I just couldn't tear myself away.

Then, last night, after a long day, a lengthy service at church, and a late night outing afterwards to El Torito (where I ate waaaay too much), I got home, got ready for bed, and turned on the Olympics.

Swimming. Cool!

I watched Katie Hoff lose the Gold and end up with the Silver Medal. Awww bummer. Well at least it's a step up from the Bronze she won the day before. (How do I know these things?! The fever has taken over it seems.)

Then it was time for the Men's Four 100 Freestyle Relay. I perked up when I heard that Michael Phelps was in the relay and that France had been talking trash about the U.S., saying that they would smash us.

Hmmmm, interesting. (Now during this time, I'm laying in bed, comfy and kind of lethargic.)

And they're off!

The U.S. was strong at the start, taking control of the lead... but halfway through it, here came France. France maintained the lead for the rest of the relay. Now they are down to the last man on the team, Jason Lezak, the team's captain. He was a good distance behind France and the announcers were talking about the U.S. team getting the silver medal.

But wait, what's this? Here comes Lezak, somehow gaining on France. The place is going crazy, the announcers are yelling almost incoherently. I find myself sitting up and yelling, GO GO GO GO! (Remember, it's 11:30 at night, and the whole house was asleep.) I'm bouncing up and down on the bed, holding my breath. The race is over. Who won? It's too close to tell.

France is anxiously looking up at the scoreboard. Lezak, Weber-Gale, Jones and Phelps all have hope on their faces. It only took a split second to reveal the Gold Medal Winners, but that split second felt like eternity.

We Won.

There I was, in my P.J.s, more than half a day away from this live event and I was yelling and clapping my hands as if I were right there and these were my best friends, not even realizing the ruckus I was making.

Wow. How exciting!

See I told you, Olympic Fever.

So how here I am at work... (yes, I blog at work! Isn't that horrible of me!?) and I'm going to find a live feed so I can watch/listen to the Olympics as I work.

AND - I'm trying to think of a way to hold my own Olympics with my family and friends. (hmmmm, pie eating contest anyone?)

So hats off to all you USA Athlete's.

May your time in Beijing be GOLDEN!

~The Gold Queen~

08.08.08

2008-08-08T09:20:00.000-07:00

It's that special day again... three identical consecutive numbers.

This year it's 08.08.08!

To commemorate this "momentous" occasion here are 8 things I'd rather be doing today....

The Countdown:

8. Walking around Disneyland with my favorite people

7. Chilling in Tahoe

6. On a cruise ship heading to Alaska

5. On a soundstage somewhere in L.A. working

4. In the recording studio

3. Moving into my new house

2. On my honeymoon

and #1? .....

1. Walking Streets of Gold!!

What 8 things would you rather be doing on 08.08.08?

Happy Friday!

The Queen

p.s. Congratulations to my cousin Emilie Hanlon who is actually getting married tonight in Las Vegas. Congrats to Emilie and Blake!!! much love and best wishes......

A Day To Remember

2008-08-06T10:36:00.001-07:00

Today, I reflect back to a shy, stubborn 11 year old girl... at summer camp in San Diego.

Sitting in the chapel for the evening service, I was wound up tight knowing that this was the last service before camp ended.

Every other night at the end of the service I always found some excuse not to go pray like all the other kids did. It wasn't that I didn't want to, because inside I was burning with the desire to know Jesus, but I was embarrassed and nervous and afraid of the unknown.

The end of the service neared and I made up my mind that if someone asked me to go down to the front to pray, I'd go. I could feel the tears in my throat as I anticipated what would happen next.

How I got to the altar is a blur to me now, but there I was, tears streaming down my face, my hands in the air, pouring my heart out to God. After praying for a little while, I started to feel that determination rise up in me. I wasn't going to leave that altar until I got what I needed. My cousin Eileen was crying her eyes out... she knew that this was an enormous step for me, the shy, timid one.

Then, my life changed forever. I could feel the burden lifting off of me, (even at 11 years old, I knew that I was a sinner and that I needed salvation) I could feel a wave of peace and relief and joy sweep over me. People were clapping and rejoicing, I couldn't stop praying, it was incredible. God filled me with His spirit that night, August 6, 1987. I could hear myself speaking in a heavenly language and a part of me stepped back and felt in awe of this momentous occasion.

Later that night at the snack bar, hanging out with my friends, and trying to catch my summer camp boy crush's eye (lol), my mind was somewhere else, I couldn't stop smiling. I did it. I finally did it. No more cringing when the wave of conviction would come over me. No more trying to disappear when I knew someone would ask me to pray. I crossed over to the "other side" ... that's how I viewed it.

The next day, the buses all headed out to take us home. Back to Orange County (about a 2 1/2 hour drive). All the way there, I plotted on how I'd tell my parents. I knew that this was something they had wanted for me for a long time. They never pushed me, but I still knew that this was their biggest wish for me. My dad came to pick Eileen and I up at the church and all of a sudden I got shy. How do I tell him? Do I blurt it out? Do I say GUESS WHAT?! I was at a loss for words. Luckily, Eileen has never been shy to speak up, so she started telling my dad and prodded me to tell him my big news. My dad's face lit up with the biggest grin. Luckily, since we were around a lot of people, he spared me any other bursts of emotion. Whew, one down, one to go.

My mom.

Oh boy. I didn't want any more emotional outbursts. I was emotional enough still from my experience. I was at that age where emotion made me uncomfortable. But I knew my mom wouldn't be able to help herself. I got home and walked in the house. My mom was doing dishes in the kitchen and I walked in, deciding to just get it over with.. ha ha ha (I was the kind of 11 year old that embarrassed easily!)

My mom literally threw her dish towel down and danced around the whole kitchen. (I'm talking a dance-like-David-danced type of dance) She managed to use up the whole kitchen floor as her dance floor.

Of course I was embarrassed, but also, I felt so good that my parents understood just how wonderful this was for me. My mom cried and called me her baby and hugged and kissed me until I had had enough.

Three days later at our church I was baptized in Jesus name, and I haven't looked back since.

Despite my ups and downs, mountain tops and valleys, this is the best life I could possibly have. 21 years of living for and with God... and this is just the beginning....

Happy Birthday to Me! and Thank You Jesus!!!

The Queen...

Head Shots & Screen Tests

2008-08-05T15:18:00.000-07:00

Okay here's the quick backstory... I am in the early stages of shooting a kids show for either TV or DVD (not sure what the producers have decided yet). Not only am I the host of the show, I also get writer and producer credits which is kind of neat. The show is Bible based and will basically bring Sunday School into homes across America and beyond.

It's a long tedious process and has taken months and months of preparation and hard work.

But I know it's gonna be worth it in the end. And even with the work, it has been a blast so far to be a part of the process.

Okay.. so all that to say....

This week the goal is to shoot my screen test for the show. Even though I've already done some screen work on it, I guess they need an "official" screen test to include in the "package". I don't know all the lingo quite yet... ha ha ha...

So today I get an email from the producer with a video clip that I had made about 2 years ago that was a kind of commercial for the upcoming show (see I told you it was a long process!!). So I hesitantly open it up and cringe as I watch myself on the screen.

UGH.
How come I've never notice how I tilt my head to one side almost constantly?? Jeez, can't I at least hold my own head up for a few seconds?

And what's with the dark circles under my eyes?

And how come I can't seem to pronounce my words without sounding like a valley girl teenager? Okay, that may be a bit extreme, but I did notice that I don't like the way I pronounce my words, or the sound of my own voice.

And this is who they want to front their new show? Oy Vey!

And on top of that they need me to go get my head shots done. Eeek. I'm not feeling that at all. My thinking is, I don't want some big close up of me sitting in different files where people can pull it out and examine my flaws at will.

Then I have to remind myself, I will be on TV screens in many homes where people will see my face in 30 minute increments.

Now that you put it that way... RUUUUUUUNNNNNNNNN! What am I thinking?! Plus they say the camera adds 5 pounds. In my case I bet you can add a zero to that......

See, this is what happens when you dwell on yourself instead of the cause.

So I've resigned myself to obey God's call, swallow my pride and try to do my best. If I don't have to watch myself on film, I just might make it.

And if this changes a child's life. I'll not only make it, I'll have WON!

Stay Tuned....
Queen Cat

The Jane Austen - O - Meter

2008-08-01T09:24:00.000-07:00

Have I never spoken of Jane Austen on this blog? For shame! Thanks to my good Blog Buddy Becky (say that three times fast!), I have discovered that I am more like her character(s) than I thought. Besides sharing the name Bingley with the affluent family in Pride & Prejudice that is...

So who are you most like? Take the quiz yourself...

As for me:

You are Marianne Dashwood of Sense & Sensibility! You are impulsive, romantic, impatient, and perhaps a bit too brutally honest. You enjoy romantic poetry and novels, and play the pianoforte beautifully. To boot, your singing voice is captivating. You feel deeply, and love passionately.

Take the Quiz here!

~Happy Friday~

Queen Cat

Around the World in 80 Days...

2008-07-31T16:09:00.000-07:00

So... I'm dashing in and dashing out to say Hi! ... What a whirlwind of a month... peaks and valleys for sure!

I need to get the blogging bug again...

So... in lieu of writing a book to catch up, here are some pictures from my latest and greatest escapades...

A picture is worth...

My mother the ice cream cone -- OC Fair 2008

The Gals and some redheaded hottie...ha ha ha (my cousin danny)

uh.. yum?

My brother's band D2E in concert in San Diego

Fat Free Cheeseburger, just for Sonia!!

Love to the People...

Peace Out...

The Queen

I'm Famous! (Sort of....)

2008-07-08T15:03:00.001-07:00

These girls ain't got nothin' on me! ha ha ha!!! Actually I look a little "slow" in this picture. I think I'm actually cross-eyed, which happens from time to time... ha ha ha.

My favorite look-a-like on here is Kate Winslet... I think she's very beautiful... so for this contraption to even post her picture with mine is totally flattering..hahahah it would be even better if Catherine Zeta-Jones or another glamourous person where on here... need a little ego boost here... hahahahhahaah

Who's your look-a-like????

The Queen!

F.R.E.E.D.O.M.

2008-07-04T12:35:00.000-07:00

We the people.... Four Score and Seven Years Ago... I Have A Dream....The United States Stands At This Time On The Pinnacle Of World Power.....We Have Nothing To Fear But Fear Itself...Ask Not What Your Country Can Do For You.....

So many famous speeches, declarations, proclamations and sermons... reminding us of the favor we have with God as a Christian Nation. God gave us freedom... freedom to live, to serve Him, to serve others, to reach our potential.

I am so thankful today to be an American. What a privilege. What an honor. Standing on the giants of past battles, past truimphs, past victories, I can hold my head up high and know that although freedom is not free or cheap, it is paid, in full, for me.

Ultimately, the thing I celebrate today is the freedom I have found through the cross. Blood bought, my debt has been paid. No IOU's. Paid for eternity. My personal Independence Day is August 6, 1987... the day God filled me with His Spirit and set me free from myself, the enemy and the world.

I feel so sentimental today thinking of what Independence truly means... and I am thankful...

Thankful to be an American
Thankful to be a Christian
Thankful to be me.

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY EVERYONE!!!

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

the Queen

365 Days of Missing You

2008-06-21T09:23:00.000-07:00

Today is 1 year.

Grandma ran Streets of Gold

Stubborn. She waited until the wee hours of the morning (her normal cleaning, relaxing, reading, embroidering, washing time) 2 am. She whispered goodbye.

No pain, no stress. no worries.

I miss her. I can't believe she's not a phone call away. Every time I hear juicy gossip, I think, Oh my word, wait until Grandma hears about this... Ha ha ha... I loved seeing her reactions. Well, now I play it in my head. Remembering how she would suck in her breath, raise her eyebrows and widen her eyes. Classic. I loved it. I cherished it. I wish I could see it one more time.

Interesting how time moves on. Today, ironically, one of her grandsons (Bruce Geoffrey Hanlon) is having a baby shower. For his unborn son, soon to enter the world. So her family will be together again today, celebrating life.

Thanks in part to her, we have a wonderful life to celebrate.

Missing you Grandma Chevy. I love you. Can't wait to see you again!

Genevieve Chavarria
January 3, 1927 - June 21, 2007

Much love,
Your Granddaughter...
Catherine Elizabeth

The Queen

2007-2008 Purple & Gold Retrospect

2008-06-18T11:22:00.000-07:00

Ah, The Wonderful Lakers.

They didn't quite have it last night, thus ending their surprisingly long season. The Celtics were desperate. They clawed and fought and won. It was apparently their year. Our glory days are still ahead. No let downs, no disappointments. The Lakers were amazing. Best in the West. Who's to say they aren't the best overall. It takes a complete season to judge a team's worth. The Lakers got it done. At the front line with only 7 games separating 1st seed from 8th seed. Celtics got it done with a mediocre East to contend with. From top to bottom, 1st throught 8th, a 29 game difference.... You do the math.

Paul Pierce received the finals MVP award meaning Most Vindictive Phony. ---- I never disliked him, until his oscar worthy act in the first game, where he willed his team to a win with his fake injury.

KOBE, the real MVP.

What an amazing player.

What an amazing work ethic.

Focus.

Determination.

Success.

Pau Gasol. Someone needs to meet him in a dark alley and beat some testosterone into him. Other than that, what a steal. what a trade. what finesse and grace on the floor. He'll be a lifer.

Lamar, Lamar, Lamar..... Flashes of Greatness. Finally, he's playing the right position to showcase his talents. His happy relaxed face in game 4 will forever haunt me, as his team let that 24 point lead slip away.

Derek, the backbone. the wisdom. the sure confidence. Welcome back. We needed you. Plus, dang, running with the young bucks and keeping up or overtaking them. kudos.

Radmanovich. You are sneaky. Your great plays seem to blend in, unnoticed. Well, I noticed. There's something there. Work it out.

Sasha "The Machine". you earned the name. wow. defense. offense. Plus, dang boy, you clean up nice. whew!

Farmar --- take the ball with a second to go any day of the week. clutch shots are your specialty. You can be a starter for any team of your choosing. Of course, you love the Laker bench too much to leave, I know. Yay us!

Ronny. you're an animal. we love it.

Luke. well, i don't know what to say. i'm sadly disappointed in you. looking for you to change my mind. sooner than later.

Mbenga Brain. Strength.

Mihm. Nice to see you for a few minutes. Anticipating more.

Ariza. WOW. wish we had more time to watch you work. injuries suck.

Who am i forgetting... who am i forgetting????

Ira Newble. don't know much. hope to see more.

Coby Karl. Absolutely lovable. Welcome to LakerTown Rookie! Coby Coby Coby Coby....

and...

Andrew. Bynum. big guy. young. tough. get well soon. you are the missing piece of the puzzle. can't wait to see what the team will be like next year. in a word. UNSTOPPABLE.

So, that's it. I pay homage to a great team, a special team.

MY TEAM.

Thanks for a great, exciting, entertaining season.

See ya in the fall!

Queen Cat

Ahhh Bedi Bedi Bedi Bedi... Father!

2008-06-16T11:17:00.000-07:00

--- HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO ALL DADS TODAY---

(Dad at a Laker Game!)

Happy Father's Day Dad!

I know this is a day late... but better late than never!
You are my HERO

I love you and hope your day was GREAT!

And Happy Father's Day Gramps! I wish you didn't have to be back in that dumb ol' hospital bed, but it was still nice to spend time with you! Thank you for being you ! I love you!

(Dad and Gramps picking up pennies off the ground...

find a penny, pick it up, all day long, you'll have good luck!)

And of course, I have to say, that above all, I honor and praise my Heavenly Father, for without you, life is impossible... I am nothing without you and I know that all good things come from you. Thank you Jesus for leading and guiding me, for protecting me, for healing me, for raising me, for blessing me, and for loving me.

You have never failed me or forsaken me.

I am humbled to be a child of the King!
I love you Jesus!!!!

~Q.C.

My Native American Name

2008-06-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

Your Native American Name Is...

Makkitotosimew Malila

Your name means: Large Breasted Fast Salmon Swimming Up a Rippling Stream

What's Your Native American Name?

This is Hilarious! I didn't know that Salmon had breasts! ha ha ha.

btw. my middle name alone (Elizabeth) meant Evil Frog!

Oh me Oh my!

Happy Thursday!

Queen Makkitotosimew Malila

Milestones

2008-06-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

Today, June 11th is an anniversary of several occasions.

So starting with the most recent milestone would be my brother's highschool graduation. Peter graduated on June 11, 1999. Nine looooooong years ago. ha ha ha. When I reminded him this morning, he said it actually felt more lik 4 years. Well, much has happened to him since his cap and gown days. He is now a licensed minister with the United Pentecostal Church International organization and married to Sonia Orozco (Bingley). Not bad for someone who still acts like an 18 year old sometimes.... ha ha ha!

Case in Point -

Our second milestone today is my highschool graduation. I graduated on June 11, 1993. Fifteen years ago. Contrary to my brother, my time feels much longer than 15 years. I feel like it was a lifetime ago. Not just because of the time that has passed, but because of how I've evolved so much in that time. I am definitely not the same person I was when I was 17. I was shy and backwards and very inhibited. People who know me now think I am lying or exaggerating. Well, I've got witnesses... ha ha ha! I am proud of the accomplishments I've made thus far, but plan on bigger and better things for the future. Hey, I'm still young! Don't let the gray hair fool ya!

Alright. Now on to the last and biggest milestone of the day.

Today is my paternal grandparents 59th wedding anniversary! My Gramps and Grams Bingley were married on June 11, 1949. After a seriously short whirlwind of a romance. I believe they dated 6 weeks and then tied the knot! Love at first sight anyone?

And here we are 59 years later.

I know these years haven't been without their ups and downs, life has a way of throwing many curveballs your way. What doesn't kill you.... But all in all, they managed to make it through. Their 59 year union has produced 4 wonderful children (2 boys (the oldest is my dad) and 2 girls), 12 grandchildren, and recently their first great-grandchild. (Baby Hannah!) The family they have built is an amazing, talented, accomplished, caring group of people whom I'm so proud to be a part of.

So Grams and Gramps, Happy Anniversary! And thank you for giving me the best family and the best father. I love my Bingley heritage and wouldn't trade it for anything! Thank you for teaching me and loving me and giving me life lessons as I've grown up... I love you both and wish you the best day ever. (Gramps, so sorry that you had to spend this day in a dumb hospital bed! On second thought, did you get admitted just to have some relaxation and rest from all of us? ha ha ha! Very clever! woooow...)

Me with my Gramps and Grams

(both pictures were taken at my Grams's 76 birthday party in January.)

I hope that I can look back at a gigantic milestone and see the amazing things I've done.... (I think a 59 year marriage is about out of the question for me... considering if I married tomorrow I'd be 91 years old!) Whatever they may be, I want to follow your example of stick-to-itness!

Much Love to you both, congrats to my little brother Peter and Yay Me!!!

Queen Catherella

I Say Happy.... You Say Birthday!!

2008-06-10T09:07:00.000-07:00

Deb Deb Oh Sweet Corn Deb....

Twenty-Five Years of Deb! Wow.

I wish I could say that I remember when you were born... but I don't, which is odd, because I was 8 years old, and I remember when Peter was born and I was only 6. In fact, I remember things back to when I was 3 and maybe even younger.

So I don't know if you being the new SISTER made me block out the memory of your birth or if I had more important things on my little 8 year old mind, but for whatever the reason, it's the single most important memory that I do not have, and I really wish I did.

Luckily, I remember everything right up to you being born and after you came home. You were kind of crazy. Seriously. You were so stubborn even as a newborn. It was always your way or the highway. You prompted our pastor and his wife at the time to come to our house to teach our parents the Dr. Dobson series on tough love and they lingered on the lesson of the strong-willed child for your sake.

I think mom and dad knew at that moment that they were in for quite a ride. They would say with pride, she's our strong-willed one. Ha ha ha. I was the "second mom", Peter was the bleeding heart, david was the baby (was is not the right word... he's still the baby! at 23!), but you, you were the strong-willed one with steel in your eyes, iron in your feet and a set jaw.
Now I can honestly say that 25 years later, some things never change. You still get that crazy look in your face when you are getting into mischief and when it comes to the things that matter to you, you are as strong-willed as ever.

I know sometimes (a lot of times) we clash and fight and argue and turn into grumps because we are truly night and day when it comes to our whole human makeup.... but honestly... you are truly the best you that you can possibly be, and I wouldn't trade you or try to change you for anything or anyone! I am very proud of the woman you've become... I am very blessed to have an extraordinarily talented, accomplished and beautiful sister who is also my confidante and best friend.

So happy Quarter of a Century dear Deborah..... may the next 25 years be as much a blast as the first....

An Ode to Deb
There once was a girl named Deb
No follower, she's always led
She loves France and high heels
Colin Firth makes her squeal
She loves reading while snuggled in bed!

Lots of love,
Q.Cat

Book Tagged!

2008-05-23T09:33:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a while since I've blogged. I don't know... I just haven't been in the mood. Ha ha ha. But nothing could bring me out of hiding more than the invitation to talk about BOOKS!!

So Deb tagged me from The Daily Bee to share a book that I loved but may have forgotten over the years. This is hopefully the start of "Friday Recommendations" every week. I look forward to reading everyone's recommendations... I never get tired of finding new "leather bound" gems!

So anyways, my sister's recommendation was "Streiker's Bride" by Robin Hardy, which is an obscure book to say the least, but one of the most interesting, exciting and impacting books (sagas) I've ever read.

Bummer. How can I top that? Hmmmmm...

Yeah, I can't. But, I can tell you about two great books that were written in the 90's. There's an interesting back story to these books as well.

The first book is called "The Women of Catawba" by Hilda Stahl. The second book is called "The Winds of Catawba" by Laurie Stahl. Yes these book are book 1 and book 2 of the same story, with the first book written by the mother and the second by the daughter. However, the transition is practically seamless. I will give the book description for book one as the second will spoil some of the details for you.

The Women of Catabwa
by Hilda Stahl

Book Description:
An exciting tale of five courageous women and their fight to build a plantation home in the raw wilderness of South Carolina. Set in post-Revolutionary War days, Women of Catawba is an inspiring story of men and women whose faith, strength, and capacity to love are tested to the limit. (a side note from me: this book really showcases the inner and outer strength that women muster in times of need, hardship and necessity.)

(This is the only description I found... and it doesn't quite do the book justice. If you liked "A Bride Most Begrudging" by Deeanne Gist, you will really like this book!)

Buy the book here - Women of Catawba

The story is not complete without the second book -
The Winds of Catawba
by Laurie Stahl

buy the book here - The Winds of of Catawba

These are two great books that are musts in any avid Christian Romance reader's library!

-----------------------------------------------

I am tagging Eileen at Say What?!

When we were teenagers, we would book

swap all the time. We even discovered steamy

romance novels together and used to hide them from

our moms! ha ha ha....

The Reading Queen C.

Undone

2008-04-29T16:17:00.001-07:00

I had a successful trip to the recording studio this weekend, as I not only finished my first single, I also did some networking and made some great contacts!

Here is the rough demo of my song. This is from my first trip and is very rough without a lot of the instruments or any mixing done. I hope you all enjoy it!!

Q.C.

P.S., yes I did survive the D2E gang... hahahhaaha (aka my brother's band!) There were some crazy funny things going on, but I must say, they treated me with absolute respect and were very sweet and accomodating. They are a great group of guys and so very talented. You can hear one their rough demos here . That is my brother singing both lead and background vocals as well as playing the drums. The song they worked on and finished this weekend is an original song called, "I'm Yours". It's great and the music is phenomenal!

Quickie

2008-04-24T16:53:00.000-07:00

(me and the mic in the recording studio)

I wish I had more time. To blog. I have so much to say. About a variety of things. But, life gets in the way.

Going to Arizona tomorrow to continue polishing up my first single. I have to share the studio time with 6 smelly guys. The band D2E (Down 2 Earth) is also going... we are travelling together and I am bracing myself for flatulence jokes, odd smells and talk of nonsense. If they want to use a couple of those travelling hours (there are 5-6 to be exact) on discussing the La-la-Lakers and their great playoff start... then, I'll definitely forgive the smells and sounds that happen around me.

I'm so excited to be working again in the studio. It's been almost 6 months since I got to go in the last time. Things just got in the way. I have so many projects going, I don't know if I'M coming or going!

Anyways, say a quick prayer for me.. that I make the most of this weekend and come back still unscathed by my brother and his band of misfits!

The Queen... la-la-la- la la la.....

Emotion - Friend or Foe?

2008-04-16T23:07:00.000-07:00

Have you ever met Emotion? Allow me to introduce you....

Emotion is your friend when you hear good news, watch the winning shot your team makes at the NBA Finals, see your best friend get married, hear a baby's first cry, receive a marriage proposal or share your testimony with someone who is down and out. Even when you mourn the loss of a loved one, Emotion sticks by you coupled with Memory and Comfort.

Then Emotion takes a hypocritical turn, becoming your foe, refusing to let you to see a situation clearly. It takes front seat in a heated argument, holds you back when facing fear, overcomes you at the worse possible moments, or becomes MIA when you need it the most. ("if I can just get one tear... just one....! arghhhh!")

Ironic that I would ever feel that way, because I cry very easily, for the absolute stupidest things. I hate it, because it always alters the impact, meaning or true emotion of whatever it is that I am saying, doing or trying to convey.

Emotion has not always been kind to me.

Sometimes even leaving me out in the rain... but I've learned one thing.

Emotion is not my master.
Emotion is my subject.
I have the power to control, alter and command Emotion to obey me.
Now I just need to convince my brain (and Emotion) of that truth. Ugh. We are complex creatures aren't we?....

I need to strengthen the "muscle" that moves and stops Emotion a little bit more.

As of now... I fail miserably.

So for every emotional uprising, forgive me and remember... Mercy given... Mercy received.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT.

the q

Me me me me me..... MOI

2008-04-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Deb who was tagged by Jenster to do a Memoir Meme. I'll do a slight change, to suit me of course.... so here's 6 positive and 6 negative aspects of my life. My 32 year memoir....

Positive:

Jesus

Family

Teaching

Music

Knowledge

Strength

Negatives: Allergies, Gray, Procrastination, Knees, Walls, Clutter

Here are the rules:1. Write your own six word memoir. 2. Post it on your blog and include a visual illustration if you want. 3. Link to the person that tagged you in your post and to the original post if possible so we can track it as it travels across the blogosphere 4. Tag at least five more blogs with links. 5. Leave a comment on the tagged blogs with an invitation to play.

The only problem is ... I have no new blogs to tag.. Awww! I'm a dead end. BOO HOO!

How to Dance in the Rain

2008-04-12T19:38:00.001-07:00

My Pastor's Wife emailed this little story to me and I wanted to share it with you.
It sure helps get through life when you understand true love.

Whatever or Whomever you love today... love it/them with everything you have... dispite imperfections, circumstances or the effects of time....

ENJOY!!!!

How to Dance in the Rain

It was a busy morning, about 8:30, when an elderly gentleman in his 80's arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He said he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am.

I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound. On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound. While taking care of his wound, I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry.

The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife. I inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease. As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late.

He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now. I was surprised, and asked him, 'And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?'

He smiled as he patted my hand and said, 'She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is.' I had to hold back tears as he left. I had goose bumps on my arms and thought, 'That is the kind of love I want in my life.' True love is neither physical nor romantic.

True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be. The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have.

'Life isn't about how to survive the storm,

But how to dance in the rain.'

the queen

A Little Dumb Luck

2008-04-10T11:23:00.000-07:00

Boy, here I was, so excited to win that ARC on Deeanne Gist's blog (considering I NEVER, I repeat, NEVER win anything....), and all along all I needed was a little dumb luck!
Take a look at these lucky ducks who seem to have Lady Luck on their side!

Queen Cat

I'M A WINNER!

2008-04-07T10:03:00.000-07:00

Last night at church, my pastor preached "Fighting the Fight, Finishing the Course & Keeping the Faith"... it was an awesome message as it reminded me that my focus should be on Heaven and not on earthly gain. Because if our hope is in this world only, we are most miserable (to paraphrase the Scriptures loosely).

So now on to a little blessing that God gave me here on earth, as I wait for His coming... ha ha ha!

I posted comments on a blog on Deeanne Gist's website (www.deeannegist.com) on a couple of her posts. In case you don't know who she is... SHAME ON YOU! No, seriously, she is a Christian author who is absolutely amazing. Her fourth book, Deep in the Heart of Trouble is being released in May and if it's anything like her first three, I know we are all in for a treat!

Anyways, my sister (who is a moderator on Dee's chat room) received an ARC (advanced reader's copy) of the new book in the mail. Oh my, how jealous I was! She is such a lucky duck! This is her second ARC (she won "Courting Trouble" also by Deeanne Gist last year).

Well, she mentioned to me that if I leave a comment on Dee's blog, I could win an ARC for myself. (I've got a classic case of the Lurks... always lurking around blogs and hardly ever leaving a comment.)

So of course, I had to come out of hiding to get a chance to win my own ARC. So I posted my comments with my fingers crossed and waited out the weekend. The deadline was Friday so I knew there would be some news regarding the winner on Monday.

Well today rolled along and being Monday, I was my absentminded usual self as I am every Monday, not remembering anything that I needed to. All of a sudden a get a instant message from Deb, shouting (ALL CAPS!) at me to check Dee's blog.

Lo and Behold.... I won.

I won.

Uh, I won?!?!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?

My heart burst into song, the clouds in my brain cleared and I did a mental jig (I have bad knees, a physical jig would have put me out of commission for a while!). I WON!

So even though this win is so small compared to streets of gold, the Lord smiled on me and gave me a glimpse of Heaven. Being a winner sures feels great!

Thanks Dee! Thank you Lord! and thank you computer who picked my name!!!!

~The Queen Winner of the Day~

Lakerland

2008-03-27T18:46:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't really mentioned this before, but even with all my girly girlness and my feminine ways I love to watch sports.

Well not all sports... I really like to watch baseball (GO ANGELS), UFC fights, sometimes Hockey (GO DUCKS) and I LOVE LOVE LOVE the LAKERS.

Today my cousin told me she had a surprise for me... 4 tickets to tomorrow night's Laker game at the Staple Center courtesy of her company (who happen to be a huge sponsor of the Lakers.... free tacos anyone?).

The catch is, being the good sister I am, I offered my ticket to my brother since it's his birthday (well we are actually celebrating his birthday tomorrow night....) and my dad claimed a ticket and then my cousin and her boyfriend got the other two. If my brother doesn't go, then watch out Lakerland.... here I come!!!

OH! And in case you are wondering why I would be so excited... is because we get to sit 4 rows behind the visiting bench and 11 seats away from the JACK! (Jack Nicholson that is!)

Even though I live in So. Cali, I still get star struck... no matter how many celebrities I know or meet or run into, it doesn't get old. I know, so cliche`... but it's still fun to star watch....

So cross your fingers that the Best team in the NBA (not looking at the numbers.....) will pull out a win for us tomorrow (o:

#24-MVP

The Purple & Gold Queen

How I Survived Monday

2008-03-25T15:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Monday.

Enough said.

Usually Mondays are hard, just because I am more tired than usual and envisioning the long week ahead. But yesterday? Yesterday was another type of Monday all together.

First off, I was the normal amount if not more tired than usual. When I got to work, I found out that someone I had recommended for a position at our office quit without telling a soul, including me... leaving us with the mess of trying to figure their work out... that in itself gave my blood a good boiling level. OH! And my computer had decided that the hard drive was too old and too tired to keep working, so that was off for repairs, leaving me at a strange desk, with a strange computer lacking many vital programs that I needed to get my work done.

Whew... that was all before lunch.

Finally a break!

Or so I thought.

I got in my car to get Mrs. Bingley and I some lunch at Taco Bell and as I waited for the traffic to clear so I could turn right onto the main street I looked this way and that and then decided it was clear enough to go. WHAP!! In a split second, I turned my head, hit the accelerator, saw an elderly man in front of my car, slammed on my brakes, screamed out a feeble scream that no one heard and barely missed hitting this guy by mere inches, if not less.

He was dressed in a white undershirt and some old tattered jeans. He shoved the hood of my car with both hands, screaming and hollering at me. Then he ran over to my window (I was on the verge of rolling my window down to apologize and instead quickly checked the locks to make sure my door was locked!) and started yelling at me calling me terrible names that I can not write on my blog. I just stared at him until he turned his back and strutted across the street, spring in step. Whew, I'm glad he got that off his chest at least! ha ha ha!

I was visibly shaking and close to tears heading toward Taco Bell thinking... only bad things could happen today. I felt horrible.

Sure enough, my boss picked up my computer from repairs only to tell me that they could not save the hard drive and that everything had been erased. All I could think about was my extensive music collection that I had on that computer and the amount of time and work it took to get it all.

Finally, good news came toward the end of my day. I finally had my computer back and turned on. I sat down at my desk expecting the worse. Lo and behold, all my files, all my programs, all my memory, it was all there! Thank you Jesus!!!!!! A rainbow at the end of the day!

I went home to my Easter basket (actually it was a cute patent leather orange purse full of fun goodies) and devoured TOO much chocolate and tried to ride out the evening, hoping that the Monday storm had passed.

I survived.

So Happy Tuesday everyone! We are Survivors!!!

Queenie Cat

Picture Perfect

2008-03-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

This Picture was taken by my Uncle Danny Bingley. I thought it was so good and just wanted to share it with you all. Ironically, my sister Deb (the infamous Deb!) has a connection to bees. Her name - Deborah actually means BEE! Enjoy!

There is a Hope

2008-03-23T22:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter Fellow Bloggers!

I thank God today that I have a hope in this corrupt world.
There is joy after sorrow
There is Life after Death
There is a Rainbow after the Rain
And the brightness of morning will always follow the darkness of night...

And there is a Savior who paid my debt and the ransom for my soul.

I am forever indebted to the One who gave His life for me. Oh what a trade. I definitely got the better end of the deal!

Thank you Jesus! You are my everything!

Blessings to All!
Queen Cat

Happy Birthday Baby Brother!

2008-03-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

David Jonathan Bingley
Born March 19th 1985
In Orange County, CA

23 years!

wow.

Where has the time gone? When did I stop changing diapers and wiping snot and helping with homework and cleaning up scraps and making tuna sandwiches?

Happy Birthday David, my baby brother, my confidante, my dear friend!

I love you so much and can't believe the change in you this past year.
What a success you are and I know it's just the beginning...

So here's an ode to you, dearest Dave...

23 things I know and love about you!

1. Your sweet perfect nose!
2. The way you say "and then" which always sounds like "uh-then"
3. Your unique way of providing vibrato to your voice as you sing!
4. Your determination and resolve when you finally make up your mind.
5. Your sports superstitions
6. The Irish pride you have
7. Your conceited way of taking pictures of yourself! ha ha ha!
8. Your love of hats
9. Green Toes
10. You being a Mama's Boy
11. Your love of all things "testosterony" - Guns, Zippos, Cigars, Hunting, Fishing, Cars, etc....
12. Your loyalty to family and friends
13. Your unrelenting generosity!
14. Your hands that are so cushy and soft - perfect for back rubs and hugs
15. That little boy quality that still peeks through every now and again
16. Your dancing!
17. You are one of the bravest people I know!
18. Your love for God and the things of God
19. Your ability to see yourself in your true form and acknowledge your downfalls
20. Your high IQ - seriously, you are headed to MENSA!
21. Your nack for debating
22. Your devilishly handsome good looks and sauve personality
23. Your completely contagious laugh

I love you David. Happy Birthday.

(even though we are apart this year, well I will see you tomorrow, but still... I think this is the first birthday I haven't shared with you... I guess you really are growing up...)

MUAH
QC

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2008-03-17T15:55:00.000-07:00

I love St. Patrick's Day!

It's always been a big holiday in our family, as we are 1/2 Irish on my dad's side of the family. My Great- Grandmother is Irish, her maiden name was Carrig.

I love the traditions and colors and music and folklore that Ireland has to offer and hope one day to be able to visit there myself, like several of my family have already done.

This past Christmas, I purchased a VERY SMALL
plot of Irish countryside for my Gramps as his gift.
It's one of those gifts that you give someone who has
absolutely EVERYTHING!

It was so cool. The package I received came with
the land deed, a certificate of ownership, photos
of the land and a map on how to get there. Needless
to say, the leprechaun in my Gramps came to life on
Christmas morning! ha ha ha.

Seriously, I remember at annual Christmas parties
my gramps would have a wee bit o' drink and
immediately get an irish brogue. As a kid, I thought
it was hilarious and wanted to sit and talk to him all
night long!

Any hoo... Happy St. Patty's Day... may the road,
the sun, the sky and everything else rise as it should!

Q.C.

"The Kiss" by Rodin

2008-03-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

I just had to add this picture of the amazing work of Rodin, when it was really almost a supporting character in the book "Kissing Adrien" by Siri Mitchell. Seeing it stirred Claire's emotions like nothing else did (well, besides Adrien himself!) and cemented the notion that she needed to experience that one amazing kiss for herself.

I can feel your pain Claire...

Adrien? Where art thou? ha ha ha!!!

Passion, Longing and Kissing Adrien

2008-03-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

Wow, It's been a while since I posted! I didn't realize how long!

(SEMI-SPOILER ALERT)(I won't spoil it too much)

I just finished reading "Kissing Adrien" by Siri Mitchell last night. I looked at the clock. It said 12:00 a.m. exactly. It felt very strange to be finished with this book. The characters had become a daily companion to me, even though it only took me about 3 days of sporadic reading to start and finish the book, it felt like much longer, or much quicker. As you can read, I'm a little befuddled at the moment.

I had such a love/hate relationship with this book. Everyone had built it up to the point that I felt like I was missing out on the next great world wonder if I didn't read the book, only to find that I got bored, then impatient, then interested, then excited, then impatient, then uninterested, then engrossed, then enthralled, yada yada yada..... even when I had a negative view about the book, I couldn't put it down or I'd put it down and walk away, only to have it occupy my thoughts until I picked it up again.

I was about 2/3's of the way done when I looked at where I was in the book, thinking that I had barely started, that I hadn't even reached the middle yet. I was shocked to see how rapidly the end was approaching. What! Hurry Claire! Hurry Adrien! It was a moment of panic that all would not end well.

So, back to midnight last night. I hurried through the last 20 pages of the book, my eyes eating up the words like a starved person, until I got closer to the end... then I slowed down and digested each sentence and let it sink in deep the culmination of all the miscommunications and passion and longing and misguided views of these two amazing people.

The End.

I put down the book and stared at the wall. It wasn't until about a minute later that I realized that tears were coursing down my face. I wasn't sad, or angry or upset... but I couldn't stop the tears. It was like a dam had been released and all the raging emotions that were so subtly there throughout the whole book came to the surface in one great release.

That's exactly what it was, release. Now I look back and everything I loved and everything I hated about the book all made sense and came together... nothing could be added or subtracted from this story. It all fit.

and I hear that the second read-through is even better than the first...

s.w.a.k.

The Queen

Short and Sweet

2008-02-29T16:57:00.000-08:00

I won't get this chance for 4 more years... so...

Happy Leap Day!

Private Parts

2008-02-19T08:53:00.001-08:00

Okay, I know the title is throwing some of you, but let me 'splain. ha ha ha.

Yesterday at work, I had a good giggle over this incident.

Usually work is, well work. It's structured and mundane and unless Deb (who I also work with) is doing, saying or acting out something funny, there's not much to crack up about.

Most importantly, there are all adults in the workplace.

Well not so yesterday.

The owners of the business are husband and wife. And from time to time they will have friends or family pop in for a visit. Well yesterday, their neice, nephew and 8 year old great-nephew (great? grand-nephew? who knows.....) came in for a quick visit.

I have a small office in the back of the suite and I'll usually listen for a moment to see who it is and then continue working. So I just dismissed them as uninteresting and continued working.

A little while later, my boss walks by with the boy and I can cleary hear their conversation... it went a little like this:

Fred: Hey, let's go back here and get you a cup okay.

Boy: Okay! Hey! Did you know that there are two kinds of cups?! (he had that excited tone in his voice that all eight year olds have.)

Fred: Really?

Boy: Yep! One cup you drink out of, and the other cup, the other cup is for baseball, you know for baseball... so your, your TALLYWACKER doesn't get hurt!!

Fred: Uh-huh, uh okay, yeah, your, uh, private parts right?

Boy: Yeah!

Fred mumbled a couple of things in agreement, grabbed a cup and started to hurry the boy out of the supply closet.

I sat in my office in plain view of both of them, so I had to hold it together for a minute or two. After the boy (who I just found out his name is Ryan) ran back down the hall, my boss followed more slowly. I looked up, he looked at me and shrugged his shoulders, like, what are ya gonna do?, and that's when I lost it. I covered my mouth to muffle my burst of laughter. Throughout the day, I'd hear it in my head again, and the giggles would just bubble out.

Seriously, how many people can say they've ever heard the word tallywacker in the office place? It was definitely my first time.

Queen C

SURVIVING VDAY - A Single Girl's Survival Kit

2008-02-14T09:34:00.000-08:00

VDay Survival Kit includes:

1 Ray of hope that someone will send you a valentine

1 Mask of indifference as you watch your coworkers squeal over flower deliveries

1 Smile of tolerance as you hear everyone's dinner plans

1 Friend who's even more pathetic than you, which in turn makes you feel a bit better

1 Hundred pounds of Ghirardelli Chocolate Caramel Squares

1 Sappy Romantic movie to live vicariously through

1 CD of songs about jilted lovers

1 Smokin' outfit

1 Camera to capture all the bliss

1 Thought of denial that you even care what day it is

and last but not least....

1 Match to burn this ridiculous survival kit so you can move on and count your blessings

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY FRIENDS.... May you all own that perfect pair of high heeled shoes, may you eat all the chocolate you want and give the calories away and may you have the absolutely perfect pair of rose colored glasses to look through today!

The Queen

Deb's Ramblings

2008-02-13T09:10:00.000-08:00

My sister Deb is very interesting to say the least.

She is almost 8 years younger than me and a middle(ish) child.

Everyone says that each family has that one strongwilled child, well, Deb is ours. Ha ha ha. Of course, she is no longer a child, but a beautiful 24 year old woman. But the strongwillness (if that's even a word) has not ebated.

She's pretty quirky, our Deb. She sometimes marches to the beat of her own drum and sincerely finds herself to be very entertaining. She loves the smell of manure, can speak a very convincing "fake" Spanish and still ties bows using the "bunny ear" method.

But the best, most interesting, unique thing about Deb happens when she's asleep. Pretty much our whole family talks in our sleep. All 7 of us. I think. My dad has even been known to walk in his sleep. My mom and my brother pray in their sleep (literally!) and even my sister-in-law has said a word or two or three while sleeping. And yes, I've woken myself up many times rambling on about nonsense. But Deb has taken this to a whole new level.

When Deb talks in her sleep, there are props, storylines, arguments, laughter, yelling and movement. And she looks and acts just like she's awake. Usually after interacting with the sleeping Deb, I can't wait to tell her the next day, because it's so funny. Now I know some of you may be thinking, Oh My Word, that's SO SCARY! Ha ha ha. Well, since she's done it her whole life, it seems normal and actually funny, not scary at all.

Some of Deb's most memorable "talk times" where when she decided that the striped wallpaper by her bed was actually a board game and she proceeded to tell me how to play. She was looking at the wall and using her finger to point out the different areas on the wall that she imagined to be the game board. oy vey. Or the time she walked over to my stereo, picked up a cassette tape (yes, this was back in the days of cassette tapes!) and did the whole "bottoms up" motion like she was drinking out of a shot glass, complete with loud gulps as the "water" went down her throat. Ha ha ha! Or even more recently, she got up in the middle of the night and started going through some dress shirts, yelling and carrying on that my brother took some shoes and shirts out of the room. She was so mad at my brother I could almost see smoke coming out of her ears. (Actually now that I think of it, Deb would make an excellent cartoon character!)

Through the years, Deb has done some hilarious things. She's woken me up to hand me a glass of water. She's announced that my sister-in-law was releasing a record, she's constantly yelling at my brother, and she'll hold imaginary items in her hand and inspect them and ask how they got there.

Of course, each time I encounter the sleeping Deb, I immediately dismiss her by saying, "Deb, your talking in your sleep again", at which point that strongwilled part of her quickly glares at me and says, "NO I'M NOT!"

Sleeping Deb is actually pretty entertaining....

Queen C.

To See or not to See... that is the Question...

2008-02-04T10:20:00.000-08:00

Proverbs 29:18a - Where there is no vision, the people perish:

My church is in the process of moving into an newly purchased building (Only by the hand of God!!!) and yesterday, we were "homeless" so to speak. So, my pastor set up an online connection to speak to all of us last night. During his message he read this poem, and I was so inspired by it, I had to post it on my blog. This is in no way to detract from anything else he said. There were such words of faith, that I was stirred in my soul. If you need a pick-me-up this is the message for you! If you are interested to hear his message you can go to: http://www.scwclive.com/Site/Home.html

In the meantime, enjoy this poem!

I Am A Person Of Vision
By Mark Jordan

I’ve Been A Pew Warmer, A Fence Walker, A Spectator For Too Long
I’m Getting Up, Getting Right And Getting Going
I May Not See The Entire Picture, But I Do See The Picture
I Can’t Try Everything, But I Might As Well Try Something
I May Fail Trying, But I Won’t Fail To Try
I May Not Make Much Of My Investment, But I Won’t Bury My Talents In The Ground
I Will Act, Though I Receive No Thanks In Return
I Will Pray And Leave The Answer To God
I Will Witness And Leave The Response Up To The Person
I Will Smile Even Though No One Smiles Back
I Will Give Because It’s Right, Not Because I Expect Something In Exchange For What I Give
I’m Blood Bought, Word Taught, Miraculously Wrought
I Am Divinely Created, Spirit Filled, God Called And Heaven Sent
I’m Saved By Grace, Programmed To Succeed, Wired For Power And Mission Oriented
God Is My Commander-In-Chief, Christ Is My Savior, The Pastor’s My Coach, The Bible’s My Blueprint, The Holy Ghost Is My Guide, The World Is My Mission
I Will Be Immune To Criticism
Unbowed By Critics, Unmoved By Suffering, Unashamed Of The Gospel
I Will Obey Like Noah
Sacrifice Like Abraham
Fight Like David
Pray Like Daniel
Be Patient Like Job
And See God’s Greatness Like Isaiah
I’ll Even Weep Like Jeremiah
But I’ll Preach Like Peter
And I’ll Reach Out Like Paul
I Have Nothing Greater To Live For, And Nothing Better To Die For
For I Am A Person Of Vision!

The Q

Leap Year

2008-02-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

Happy February 1st.

It's that leap time of the year. Ha ha ha. What better time than now to leap into something that you've been standing at the edge of? A little incentive to give you that final push. Even time is suggesting for us to "leap". And this opportunity only comes once every 4 years.

Leaping takes decisiveness. yikes. I am the worst when it comes to making a quick decision. I hate picking the restaurant we are going to eat at. I hate trying to decide on what kind of body wash to buy at the store. Give me more than 2 options and I'll stare blankly at them for a good 5 minutes, calculating all the pros and cons of each product.

Sure, I can make a decision after much pondering and calculated thought, but leaping? No, that is definitely not my strong suit.

My mother loves frogs. When I say love, I mean love. No, not the real, slimy, sit on big lily pads, disect in junior high things.... but figurines and on stationary, candleholder, windchime frogs. Ha ha ha. you know what I mean. She has some really cute stuff and I always marvelled at the fact that she picked the frog to love.

But now that I think about it, she may be even wiser than I thought. Loving a frog gives you the outlook of moving forward and leaping out into the unknown. Sometimes we need to leap before we look. Isn't that what faith is all about?

So what are we waiting for? Whether it's job related, personal, financial, spiritual, emotional. We are all standing at the edge of something, maybe even sticking a big toe out every once in a while to test the waters, so to speak.

I want to leap.
I want to forget all danger and risks.
I want to disregard critizism and naysayers.
I want to focus on Christ in me, not on my own abilities.
I want to be free.

Care to join me?

Matthew 6:33-34
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

Food for thought!
The Queen

Another One Bites The Dust

2008-01-22T14:22:00.000-08:00

Heath Ledger Found Dead at Home

This news came to me via an instant message from my cousin. Very sad. Several of Heath's films I found to be very enjoyable, he had a dynamic screen presence and that oh so adorable smile and beautiful eyes. Tragic.

The speculation was first drug related and now is suicide.

I can't even imagine.

How you do you get to the point where you have nothing to live for? Where you have no regard for the people who love and care about you and you feel trapped and alone? Is it psychological? Is it environmental? Is it circumstance or self inflicted? It is action or reaction? Either to be weak or desperate or devoid of life within your life to take you over that edge of reason.... it's pitiful, cowardly and even more tragically - Preventable.

Heath has a 2 year old daughter who will suffer greatly for his actions. The sins of the father visiting through the third generation and so on... the laws of God prevail. Poor child. Thank God for mercy and grace, I hope she reaches for out it at some point in her life.

No man is an island.

I love the message in the movie "It's a Wonderful Life". Every choice we make, effects those around us, either directly or indirectly. Wow, that makes me cringe when I take a look at my actions. My imperfections and bad choices alters and/or effects the course of my loved ones lives and beyond.

So, although Heath may have felt that to take his life was the best course of action or he carelessly handled his life and accidentally ended it, there will be many who will live out the repercussions of his death.

Hollywood's latest victim ladies and gentleman. A victim of the pressure the industry brings. Fame, Power, Money..... loneliness, fatigue, greed.

Was it worth it in the end? I think not.

So long Heath Ledger, maybe the end of your life will be the wake up call that helps another life start living.

The Queen.

The Revenge of the Thinker!

2008-01-16T09:36:00.000-08:00

So I've spent this week, thinking about how I'm not supposed to be thinking. See, obsessive/compulsive if you ask me.

So on a whim, here are 10 random thoughts going through my head right now....

1. I hate not being properly compensated for my job.

2. I need to get some more face wash.

3. I wonder if Joel will ever reply to my email.

4. I'm hungry.

5. I don't want to work.

6. Why does "Happy Hump Day" always sound dirty to me!?

7. How do I stop thinking about what I'm not supposed to be thinking about?

8. What are we going to do tomorrow for KidzNet?

9. Why are there 3 pimples on my chin, when I just got a facial?!

10. gray hair.

Random right?
I'm the true definition of a scatterbrain. ugh.

Happy HUMP Day people. Let's hope we make it to the other side.

Queen Catherella

Thinking is Over Rated

2008-01-14T16:31:00.000-08:00

I have the worse tenancy to over think things. My brain is like this big machine whose wheels never stop turning.

Sometimes, I most likely think my way out of some great opportunities, because I think so much and so hard about it that the opportunity passes me by.

I bet I even think my way out of the spontaneity of life. I think so thoroughly regarding certain situations, and try to be a step ahead that I don't leave room for surprises or the natural course of life.

I'm the one who tries to figure everything out before everyone else. I will actually be sitting there listening to a joke while my brain is trying to figure out the punchline before the joke is over. Pathetic and a bit annoying if you ask me.

I've got to come to the realization that despite my huge brain power and the nagging urge to think too much..., my ways are not God's ways or better, He's ways are not my ways, and just when I think I've got it all figured out, things never turn out like they did in my head.

So a good friend of mine told me very recently, just let it go. Whatever you are overthinking, just let it go. There's no point in wasting your thoughts on things you don't have control over the outcome anyways. And once you let go, you are ready to get your solution, your blessing, your answer, or whatever it is that is making you (me) think so long and hard.

So, I'm attempting to do just that. As a habitual "thinker" it's way easier said than done, in fact it borderlines on the impossible. I will definitely need God's help on this one.

Thought process shut down in 3, 2, 1.........

Q.Cat

The Elephant in the Room....

2008-01-08T14:44:00.000-08:00

I normally don't blog about particular people in my life.

And believe me, there are many people who are as important to me as breathing. I just can't exist without them.

But after much bugging, I feel the elephant in the room won't go away, until I do. (I know he's one of my newest blog readers and it doesn't hurt to give his large ego a bit more of a boost... ha ha ha!... or does it?) I've threatened several times to write about him and I guess now the time has come... ha ha ha

So who is this person?

His name is Joel.

I've known Joel since I was a wee babe of 19 years old, however it wasn't until I was 21 that we actually became friends. He was older, wiser and someone I didn't think I'd actually find common ground with. I was a kid searching for my life's purpose and he had a career, a mortgage and a 10 year plan.

(He sounds so old doesn't he?)

(Don't worry Joel, I won't give your elderly age away!)

If I believed in accidents, I'd say we became friends accidentally, thrown together on a Magic Mountain trip one warm September day. However, I know better than that and I know that God blessed me with a friend for life that day.

So for the past 11 plus years, we've shared ups and downs, absences and reunions, laughs and tears. And a little craziness thrown in for kicks and giggles.

(it would seriously take a book to recall all we've gone through!)

The most important thing about Joel for me is that I trust him completely and I know that his advice and criticisms are always in my best interest. He's usually the first person I call when I'm feeling a bit blue. I only hope I can be half the friend to him that he's been to me.

Joel is a man of integrity, honesty and values and I am blessed and proud to call him my friend.

So Joel, here's to you, my friend, whom I love so very much... and here's to 30 or more great years ahead of us! (that is, until your mind goes and you don't even remember your own name, let alone mine! ha ha ha!)

My wish to you - Blogger World, is that you have or find someone like this in your life.... and when you do, hang on for ride!

~The Queen~

A Crazy New Year's Eve Indeed!

2008-01-04T13:40:00.000-08:00

Oh my word... when the clock struck midnight and a new year started, the people of South Coast Worship Center were just a bit bonkers. I don't know if it was the excitement of the new year, the anticipation of greatness, the explosive response to confetti and martinelli's or just plain exhaustion.

Whatever the reason may be, it was a mad house for the first 10 minutes of 2008.

Yes, these people really are crazy.

Yes, these people really are churchgoers.

Yes, these people really are what makes my world complete.

Here's a video I took about 20 seconds after the new year started.

The crazy couples kissing are my Pastor and his wife and my Brother and his wife.

The rest, well, I just call them family.....

~enjoy~

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO THE WORLD!
May it be all you can imagine and more!

Q.C.

My Favorite Things - 2008 Edition

2007-12-31T14:11:00.000-08:00

So, it's been 12 very short months and here I am again to write down my current favorit things.... you can go back to the one I did in January 2007 to see the similarities and differences that a year makes.... here goes:

My Favorite Book: A Bride Most Begrudging (Deeanne Gist) (same as 2007)

My Favorite DVD: I don't have one this year

My Favorite CD: Call Me Irresponsible (Michael Buble)

My Favorite "Toy": My iPod (same as 2007)

My Favorite Color: Turquoise (same as 2007)

My Favorite Skirt: Dark Jean Skirt

My Favorite Shoes: Pewter Colored Sandals

My Favorite Lunch: BLT sandwich and fries from Fantastic Cafe

My Favorite Website to browse: Blogger / Myworld / AOL

My Favorite Song: Steve Holy - "Put Your Best Dress On" and John Mayer - "Your Body is a Wonderland"

My Favorite Church Song: "To Deserve"

My Favorite Kid at Church: Madison, Madison, M A D I S O N!

My Favorite Kidz Class: No Favorites (o:

My Favorite Student: Dillon Morgan

My Favorite Teacher: Deborah (same as 2007)

My Favorite Comfort Quirk: Scratching my ears with a bobbypin (seriously it's so relaxing)(same as 2007)

My Favorite P.J.'s: Winnie-The-Pooh pants set (awww and they are now ripping... bummer)(same as 2007)

My Favorite Blanket: Leopard Fuzzy Blanket

My Favorite Cable Channel: Bravo

My Favorite Cable Show (non-food): Project Runway / What Not To Wear / Househunters

My Favorite Food Network Show: Iron Chef (same as 2007)

My Favorite TV Sitcom: Grey's Anatomy / Friday Night Lights / Prison Break / October Road / Men in Trees (yeah... i know, too much tv!)

My Favorite Athlete: Kobe Bryant / Derek Fisher

My Favorite Current Singer: Michael Buble (same as 2007)

My Favorite American Idol Contestant: Elliott Yamin (same as 2007)

My Favorite Candy Bar: Snickers

My Favorite Restaurant: TGIF's / Claim Jumper

My Favorite Food: Lobster Bisque (same as 2007)

My Favorite Drink: Tied between Iced Tea / Diet Coke (same as 2007)

My Favorite Starbucks Drink: Hot Chocolate / Caramel Frappuchino

My Favorite Eye Candy: Michael Buble and Wentworth Miller (same as 2007)

My Favorite Clothing: My Camis and Belted Jackets

My Favorite Screen Legend (Male): James Stewart (same as 2007)

My Favorite Screen Legend (Female): Doris Day (same as 2007)

My Favorite Current Actor: Wentworth Miller

My Favorite Current Actress: Reese Witherspoon

My Favorite Time of Day: Late Afternoon (same as 2007)

My Favorite Show to Watch at Bedtime: Friends/Gilmore Girls

My Favorite Daydream: Moving to a New House (same as 2007)

My Favorite Romantic Daydream: Meeting Michael Buble or Wentworth Miller (and having a good man fall head over heels for me, just as I am)

My Favorite Online Service: Paying my bills

My Favorite Fun Website: Tickel.com and NBA.com / MLB.com

My Favorite Blog: My sister's, The Daily Bee, and my own.

Here's new ones for 2008:

My Favorite Accessory: Belts, Headbands & Sunglasses

My Favorite Blast from the Past: Joel L. Fierro

My Favorite Friend: Brenda Nicklas

My Favorite Indulgence: European Pedicures and Gel Nails

My Favorite Scent: Pineapple Cilantro

My Favorite Body Scent: Victoria Secret's "Forbidden Fantasy"

My Favorite Scripture: II Corinthians 4:7-9

My Favorite Store: Macy's / Target

Once again, there you have it! Some things are the same, other have really changed drastically....

So we shall see in 12 months what changes are made...

The Queen

Finishing Strong

2007-12-31T13:28:00.000-08:00

So, the phrase "Finishing Strong" is used for competitors who may not have won the Gold, but put in a decent effort. So that is how I am viewing the end of my 2007. I may not have come in first, or second, or tenth, but I can say that I finished strong in the 2007 race called life. I've had some falls (with bruises and scraps and cuts to prove it) and I've had some great leaps forward.

All in all, I loved 2007.

The good and the bad.

Humanity at its best.

And yes, as a matter of fact, I do have some New Year's Resolutions. For the first time in a long time. I've put some solid goals ahead of me.

I knew, going into 2007, that this would be an extraordinary year.

Boy, did I not even scratch the surface.... and now, I truly believe that it ended up to be the stepping stone for the new year to come.

2008 will be the greatest year of my life. 2008 will be in God's perfect will, therefore, being great, beyond logic or description.

So long 2007, it was fun while it lasted... thanks for the great times, the hard times and all the in between times .

But you are now the past, and I am a forward thinking kind of woman...

so.......

Watch out 2008, HERE I COME!

The Queen.

II Timothy 4:7 "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:"

Secret Santa Christmas Party

2007-12-18T10:20:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, December 15th, our little group of misfits got together and had a secret santa party. It was so much fun! I love everyone who was there so much ... (well mostly everyone! ha ha ha!) These are my friends, who I can be comfortable with, relax with and just have a good time.

We had a ton of food (which I love to do the displays and trays... it turned out pretty festive looking!)

We revealed our secret santa picks! (I had Sonya and I got her a year's supply of list pads and sticky notes... ha ha ha... she's a very organized person!)

We hung out and laughed and played games and just generally enjoyed each other's company...

And of course no party is complete without Maddy there!! (o:

And then of course everyone had to test out the mistletoe! Ha ha ha! We even got my parents to smooch under there! My brothers could have probably parked themselves there all night with their sweethearts! But it was Jeremiah and Jessica who showed us how it's really done!

Is it getting HOT in here?!?!?!

We ended the night by driving to go look at christmas lights. One house had a table set up with paper and pens to write letters to santa, so I made sure and put my request in before it was too late. Hopefully I've been good enough to get what I want this year! All in all, what a fun night, and what a great group of friends I have!

Merry Christmas!

Q.Catherella

Christmas Wish Lists

2007-12-13T12:57:00.000-08:00

Every year, the whole family submits their Christmas wish list for gift consideration. We usually start talking about it in September, but don't actually jot them down until after Thanksgiving. It's fun to see what everyone puts on their lists, because of course, we throw in that kooky wish or two that we know will make the rest of the family giggle.

My brother David has to be scolded, yelled at and pressured every year to get his list done. There is always an excuse why he doesn't have time to do his list (this year I'm sure being his brand spankin' new girlfriend!). Finally, yesterday he finished his list. The hilarious thing was, as we read the items off his list, it sounded more and more like a prayer request list than a Christmas shopping list! A few of his wishes were for me to get married (which would definitely require a miracle), for my other brother to lose weight (another miracle needed! lol!) and for a big stack of greenbacks to finally hit his wallet (a miracle already in the making).

So, while everyone is mailing their lists to Santa this year, I propose we take David's list and mail it to the Miracle Worker. You know, the One who this season is really all about....

A Skinny Peter? Now that would make this holiday worth celebrating! LOL!

Well David, for your sake, I hope you get all your wishes from your list, especially the ones I'd benefit from!

Amen.

Q.C.

On Line Shopping

2007-12-13T12:40:00.000-08:00

Shopping this year has taken an electronic turn.

I have made so many purchases online for my family and I love it. I can browse to get exactly what I want and I don't have worry about getting to a store and the item I'm looking for to be out of stock. I hate running around town to find the one much needed gift.

And, Hello... open 24 hours a day! I love that. No need to wait for the store to open or to miss closing by 30 minutes.

Needless to say, my family is going to have a good Christmas, thanks to this wonder called On Line Shopping!

Filling up the shopping cart as we speak.....

Happy Holidays,
Queen C

You've Lost that Lovin' Feeling

2007-11-28T09:05:00.000-08:00

Well it's Christmas time again.

I love love love the holidays.

I love feeling cozy and comfy and relaxed. Even when I'm out and about battling the crowds to buy presents, I have a sense of euphoria. Like the normal idiots that would make me cringe are somehow transformed into a riding buddy on this shopping rollercoaster.

The only hiccup in this state of happiness is that again as has been for the past few years, I don't have that special someone to share it with.

For some reason, it always hits the hardest at Christmas time. Usually I don't mind. It's nice to be on my own. But hello.... who's gonna go on a sleigh ride with me? Who's going to sample the mistletoe with me? I hate missing out on all those great romantic holiday gestures.

But alas.... I can't find anyone worthy enough to spend my time and effort on. And try as I might, I can't force myself to settle for anything less than the absolute best.

So, will this be the year that someone comes along to help me find that lovin' feeling? If they are planning on it, they've got 26 days, so they better get crackin'!

Merry Christmas to you.... whomever you are... or if you even exist.

The Queen