Music Is In Our Blood

If you know me, you know that I love to sing.  Not only at home, but, if I'm in the grocery store and someone says something to or near me that triggers a line in a song, I start singing it.  Well, that is until Abby was old enough to warn me not to as we walk into the store.  Then when it happens we just look at each other and burst out laughing cause she knows I REALLY want to sing that line.

The other 3 kids never told me that I embarrassed them when doing that.  I think they just got used to it.  I sang a few times in church (Heather and me), was in the choir at 1st AofG, at my Dad's funeral, and in my niece's wedding.  Really, I'm not that great.  Both of my daughters sing better than I do.  My voice was a lot better when I was young.

Heather actually had a microphone and a sound system to sing with.  She actually had a full music scholarship to go to Drake.  I didn't realize how beautiful Abby sang until she and Heather sang a song in the backyard together.  She's pretty shy about singing in front of people, I think.  Heather sings with confidence (her voice).  I'm hoping some day she'll do a song at church (when she gets the nerve up.)

Now my granddaughter, Taylor, and grandson, Jordan, are singing in school choir.  Sydney sings too, I think.  I can't wait to see this new generation bloom in song.

Heather played the clarinet and piano; but, she could pick up any instrument and play it.  Taylor plays the clarinet now or base clarinet, I can't remember.  Jordan wants to learn how to play the guitar.  My husband plays chords on the guitar and Jordan wants Grandpa to teach him.  Josh played the drums when he was young.

Heather and I took piano lessons at the same time.  I would always play songs first in front of my family, then let Heather play as she was so much better than me.  I've always wanted to have our family be a band, playing and singing together.  Oh, well, maybe my grandkids will do that!

The Weather

I know I rant about living in Iowa, but, seriously, another week of frigid weather?  I am so sick of it and I am not alone.

I think we will be getting snow the next four days.  Yuck.  Lord, are you listening to your followers?  It is too cold in the Midwest and probably the East, too.

It seems like there are crisis all over the US.  California was having a drought, now they are getting too much, too late.  Brother.  Life is not fair.

The Invention of the Keyboard

Who invented the music keyboard and when was it invented?  Robert Moog introduced the  modular synthesizer in 1964 which led to modern day electric keyboard.  It can function in the same way as an acoustic piano.  It can sound like many different instruments and so much easier than hauling a piano around.

My daughter has a keyboard, but I'm sure it is not as nice or new as the keyboards you will find here.

I Hate Being Sick

Two nights ago I started feeling like there was water running down the back of my throat.  Steve, my hubby, had been taking Emergen-C for over a week, fighting being sick.  I started sneezing over and over, then having to blow my nose.  Puffs Plus, where are you?

I finally took a Benedryl as we didn't have any Sudaphed.  And I took one packet of Emergen-C.  After about two hours, I started feeling better.  I need to buy stock in Emergen-C.  The Benedryl was expired but it must have helped some.

Steve remembered I had drank out of a water bottle that was his, probably why I got sick.  Thanks a lot!
He just called me after he went to the doctor (finally).  She gave him a prescription for an antibiotic.  Yay!

Here's hoping none of you have this crud!

Headphones are a necessary part of every musician's toolbox. They used to be considered just an accessory.  With them you can track and practice sessions or monitor live – even to mixing – you need at least one great-sounding pair of headphones.

 In-ear phones wouldn't be the first choice for mixing or any sort of reference-quality listening.
Long session can get uncomfortable, which is why supra-aural phones with ear pads have become common.

While I didn't notice if anyone in the band at the last sermon I saw had headphones, the sound was supreme.

But if I needed headphones, those are the type I would invest in.  I wish I could sing like I did when I was young.

Five years ago today Jordan got the birthday gift he wanted.  Christian was born on Jordan's birthday.  Let me tell you, Heather tried to have that baby many times before he finally appeared.  She really didn't want him born on Jordan's birthday.

I wonder, as does his Mama, how Jordan feels about that today.  Jordan turned 15 (wow) and Christiano turned 5 (another wow).  Man, my family just keeps growing up.

We're supposed to go to Buzzard Billies for supper in honor of their birthdays, but Grandpa is very sick and I really don't want to go to a place that serves a lot of fish, even though Heather assures me it doesn't smell fishy.  I cannot even walk into Red Lobster...my lungs start closing up.

Here's a happy birthday to you boys, Grandma hopes your day is wonderful.

The Sermon

I went to my oldest son's house yesterday around 3 PM.  I knew we wouldn't be having a Bible study because he and his youngest were going to a Daddy Daughter Dance.  But, he wanted to share with me a DVD he had of a friend who was actually preaching at his (the friend's) church.

Amber made us chocolate chip banana pancakes and eggs which were yummy.  Felt like a surprise in every bite.  By the time supper was over, Jadah and Steve needed to get ready for the dance.  So, Amber, Sydney, and I watched the DVD.

First I was surprised by the equipment this small church had.  A piano, a guitarist, and what I thought were a great set of drums.  The music was wonderful and it just went on an on.  The musicians were very good, so in all that was a pleasant experience.

Makes me wish my family had been all involved in music.  My hubby on guitar, my two daughters singing, and Josh on the drums.  Not sure what Steve II would play as he never played an instrument in school.

The sermon, although it was very good, made me know I would never go to their church.  People screaming out during the whole sermon.  And I mean screaming.  I'm sure God could hear you without you screaming.  One lady, I thought was really into it.  Just a little too much for me.  But, I know God loved the music.  We'll leave it at that.

Today is Friday

This is normally the day I meet my oldest son in Des Moines (TacoBell).  And today I actually picked him up and we met my husband there.  He had already eaten but it was fun just to sit and visit.

Steve II went to the doctor today and was diagnosed with ear and sinus infections.  I've been feeling like I'm getting a sinus infection.  This is the first time in over a month we've been to Taco Bell, so it was a very special time.

Where's your favorite place to eat?

New Trumpets

Have you ever had that one song on your playlist of favorites that is different than the rest? One that you could not hear for a few months, or even years, and then when you listen to it again it was like no time was lost? I have had a couple of songs like that. Those treasures are fun to cherish. Just recently I have discovered new types of music. These experiences have been different and amazing. I am listening to different radio stations I didn't know existed. It is always fun to discover new sounds and melodies. Sometimes they are so transparent and real that it is refreshing! I feel like I can be myself when I am listening to music and not pretend or apologize for who I am.

It is so neat to make these new discoveries as the years go by. I look forward to expanding my horizons and opening up to new genres in the future. 
Until Next Time,
-Abby

Heather's Day

Heather had a rough morning.  They needed to get into the shed to get Jordan’s moped out.  Pato lost both keys to the shed.  Jordan tried to break the ice in front of the shed which didn’t work.  He figured he would just break the lock.

Heather’s car had a flat tire.  Pato needed to get into the shed to get the air pressure cannister out to fix it….no key and doors are still iced up.  It’s tough living in Iowa with its unpredictable weather.

A Good Deal

Have you ever had an addiction to shopping? I have never been one to spend money (thanks, Dad), but once I found out how to coupon, it was all downhill from there. I was getting makeup for less than a dollar each. I was getting juice for $1.25. I got hair dye for 28 cents! I would receive gift cards in one purchase, and use them 2 seconds later in my next transaction in the same trip. I got some amazing deals, and more than 4 months later, I still have shampoo, conditioner, ketchup, and other items that I haven't even used yet. The problem was, I got addicted to it. The rush of getting a good deal felt so good! I would drop the kids off at daycare, go to the store, then go to work. Every day. It was bad. If I was in a really good mood, my coworkers would ask, "What deal did you get today?" They knew my good mood was because of my good score. It is like when I found an English Horn.   Now, mind you, the coupon wasn't for a french horn, but just finding a great price on one is awesome.

When you love music like I do, singing, at least, finding a great price on an English Horn is an awesome find.  My brother, Josh, used to play the French Horn, wonder what made him stop.  I wished he still played it.
        Anyway life started getting busier, and I was getting a little burnt out trying to maintain my speed and efficiency. I gradually gave up, doing less and less until I completely stopped cutting the coupons. I feel less stressed, but am also sad that I don't feel that high any more. I know it is for the best, though. If I could just find a happy medium...
Until Next Time.

I'm Missing CSI

This shows you how dedicated I am, I am missing one of the shows I normally watch.  Which is not really a big deal as it's not my favorite, but, oh well.

Have you seen the weather in Iowa?  Another 50 degree day today, water is flowing everywhere.  Tomorrow it is supposed to rain early, then at 11:00 AM it will turn to snow.  We may get 5 inches.  Oh brother.

Have I told you how much I hate winter?

A Minor Setback

Today at work I discovered something very disheartening. My company decided to change it's settings for their wi-fi and make it so I can't get onto any websites on my kindle! I am so sad. I typically keep my headphone with songs playing in my left ear and my headset on my right ear. That way I can hear people through the phone, and I can drown out my coworkers. It makes it easier to concentrate and stay positive. Especially when listening to encouraging music. 
With the new constraints, I can only go to certain websites, and streaming music through an app does not work. I went to one of the tech guys and told him I need that music. He said he will get with IT and see what they can do. I don't think I will be able to get through my work day as easily without that release.
Until Next Time,
-Abby

America's Got Talent

Are you keeping up with America's Got Talent this season?  I haven't been watching from the beginning of the season, but I have watched the last two nights.  That's when they picked ten out of fifteen, both guys and girls.

I don't see how they can choose when they are all pretty good.  I feel sorry for the ten guys and girls that will be going home now.

Do you have any favorites?

Are You Musically Talented?

     Are you one of those people that can play musical instruments? I know I'm not. I would like to think that I can feel the music, and it would be amazing if I could just pick up an instrument and play expertly. But, that is not how it works. Some people are born with that sense of creativity built right into them. I think it is amazing to watch someone rock out on the guitar, or beat the drums like its nobody's business. To just feel that passion flowing out of them and into their music is awe-inspiring.
     Just last week, at church, there was an amazing worship service. I think a lot of what sets the mood for that is the people that are placed up front to lead us in worship. There was a drummer smashing out the beats while 3 guys played on their guitars, and a man and woman sang.  Their talents help pump up the crowd to sing praises! Of course, the man upstairs definitely gave them their skills to share with us.
-Abby

What Do You Read?

Just wondering what your reading taste is.  Myself, I get tons of free e-books on my Kindle.  However, I tend to read the books that are paranormal. Give me vampires and werewolves, every time and I am happy.

 I used to envy Heather when she has to read and review a book, but I've decided I'm better off not having the pressure of making a deadline.  As it is I have two books going at the same time.  One for bath time, which has to be a paperback (in case I drop it).  And one on my Kindle for the rest of the day and evening.  Am I the only one who does this?

Sometimes, I have to stop and think what the story line is on the book I'm reading, since I read two each day.

Speaking of Relaxing

I had to cancel my last massage due to illness and was very disappointed.  It's always hard to make myself get in the car and go somewhere again after I have been home for days on end.

Since I cancelled my appointment, Abby has had a massage (and loved it).  Now Amber will be having one on her birthday.  So I decided to rebook my appointment.  I can hardly wait for next week to come.

Now, on to what we also need to get done.  We still haven't sent our income taxes for 2012 yet.  We're missing one page that I am questioning.  Just not sure if we really need it.  Now it's time to get taxes done for 2013.Hopefully, we won't need an administrative lawyer to figure them out.

Do you have 2013 taxes done?  How about 2012?


Sick of Winter

Iowa has crazy weather.  This year has been no different.  For instance, yesterday the day started out snowing...a lot.  Then the sun came out and the temperature went up to 50 degrees and the ground is too frozen for the melted snow to be absorbed, so there are flooded areas around the yard.

We went to my granddaughter's concert last night and by the time we got there, the water was freezing again on the street and sidewalks.  It is supposed to get up to 50 today and the T.V. just showed a blizzard watch for our county.....I don't get it!

Music is All Around

I get on Facebook daily and I have seen so many kids singing songs and they really have good voices.  One was a mother/daughter duet and man, I could see why the kid had so much talent when I listened to her Mom.

These kids are hoping by people sharing their songs, they will somehow get noticed by the music industry.  The sound is so clear. That is the type of amp I'd like to get if I ever find Heather's microphone.  She had one when she was a senior in high school, I think.

Well, good luck to those kids, they deserve a chance in the music world.

Snow, Snow, and More Snow

We've had cold, cold days and now we're getting snow again.  By snow, I mean four to five inches, which in and of itself isn't bad, we need the moisture in the ground.  What is bad is when the wind starts blowing and we have whiteout conditions again.

My nephew commented on Facebook that CB just got a dusting, but seeing the news, looks like they have almost as much as we do (unless he considers that just a dusting). I'm so sick of winter.

Feeling a Little Better...

so I thought I'd get back on my blog.  I've been trying to win a karaoke system as a lot of us in our family love to sing.  So far, nothing won.

I guess the next step is to get his consult on this before I go any further, right?  I've never heard him play his electric guitar which is another thing I'd like to have him do.  It would be awesome.  However, he's been having arthritis pain in both of his hands so he doesn't spend much time on the guitar.  We've been praying the Lord will hill his hands (and my knees), but so far, no answer.

Are any of you into music, whether it's singing, or instrumental?

Lunch Break

The nausea is getting stronger, so I'd best go get something to eat.  What are you having for lunch today?  I imagine I'll just have a sandwich (ham and cheese) and some chips and dip.

When Steve came home from the grocery store with 2 bags of potato chips, I told him we were out of dip.  He smiled and said he bought some.  What a husband!

Let The Games Continue

Although I have come home from my sister's house after visiting, we are continuing playing games with each other.

The draw some? game is not as fun but it takes your mind off of other things.  Spin to Win game is my favorite.  It is similar to Wheel of Fortune and we play against each other.

Have you played either one?

It's Getting Worse

The nausea stayed away for a short while (an hour maybe), but now it is back with a vengeance.  I am really bummed as I had a massage scheduled for 3:50 PM and I really wanted to go to it.  But, I don't want to get sicker on the road.  And I also don't want to spread it to them.

Man, I don't get it.  I hope this is a one time thing and not a revisitation of the nausea that I had for over 6 months a while back.

I think I will take some Aloe Juice and see if that helps.

Gross

Yesterday morning, I woke up nauseated, then a headache started.....and on.  I won't get specific, but you know how bad it can get.

At first, I thought it was the soup I made the night before.  Then, Steve came home and said his stomach felt bad, and he hadn't had any of the soup.  So we both spent the evening feeling ill.  This morning, I'm still nauseated.  After I ate breakfast, I felt better, but now it feels like it's returning.

I've decided I want to invent something.  After all, I thought of windshield wipers on the back window before VW brought them out.  I also sent a letter to Crisco regarding putting it in sticks like butter.  Never heard from them.  Then they came out with the butter flavor in sticks.  Not fair.

I'm not sure what I'll figure out but I'll probably need bending machines from here.  You know, to bend the form into the right shape.

Do any of you have things you thought of first?  Now they actually have sites you can go to to get help with your invention.  Man.