Greenacre Cousins born 2 weeks apart in 2011!

Aren't Riley Faith & Annah Grace precious?!  I couldn't believe how much these two little dolls looked so much alike.  We are blessed!  These two additions give us 18 grandchildren.

Carrie & Jayson Married!

Our youngest daughter, Carrie married Jayson Salvador November 12, 2011 in Casa Grande, Arizona.  It certainly was a beautiful day for a very lovely wedding!

"Save the Date" Book Review

“Wedding” and “Save the Date” are buzz words around my house lately so I thought this might be a fun book to review.   Because of all the twists and turns I really was just anxious to see if Lucy really married Alex.   Thankfully, there was some mystery and intrigue along with real  “life and death” drama that held me through the repeated “Lucy tantrums”.

The author has a contemporary, quick wit that I can appreciate since it isn’t one of my strong points.  I didn’t appreciate though the character development of Julian and Clare.  After all this is a Christian romance with no boundaries on who should read it.  Since nothing was said to the contrary many readers would accept this “anything goes” in the name of Christian as acceptable.   

As a Christian, pastor’s wife, mother, grandmother and book reviewer I have to consider the impact of what I do and say, so although “Save the Date” was certainly entertaining I can’t recommend it as “Christian”, just “fairytale romance”!

I read "Save the Date" by Jenny B. Jones which was provided to me free by Thomas Nelson through the www.booksneeze.com program in exchange for my honest review.

I'm looking for new blog readers so I have a new copy of "Save the Date" to be given away in a drawing on Valentine's Day.  Just become one of my readers & leave a comment on this blog post with your email address and you might win your own copy!  I'd love to know if you have a different review.

Yogurt Maker Beats the Oven Method!

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

Features:

• Yogurt maker
• Comes with on and off switch and light indicating unit is working
• Timer on the side marks time as to when yogurt will be finished cooking
• Cord storage
• Make homemade with any kind of milk and different flavor in each glass ja...

Yogurt Maker

Yogurt Maker Beats the Oven Method

By Denise the Blogger from Queen Creek, Arizona on 1/2/2011

5out of 5

I had a yogurt maker years ago and wasn't always pleased because it didn't consistently make great yogurt. Recently I made a batch using the oven method and then another with an ice chest. They both turned out great, but quite a hassle! My new Cuisine Yogurt Maker, a review gift from CSN, was so easy to use and made the tastiest, thick and creamy yogurt. The easy to understand directions gave me the choice to use different fat percentages of milk as well as the option to add fruit or flavorings in advance. I love the 6 ounce jars that conveniently go from the machine... to refrigerator... to table.

(legalese)

Online Christmas Shopping? Try CSN first!

Flying with just a carry on? 

J World Sling Bag in Love Letter Black

Having tried the handheld version as I trudged through an airport or two, I'm all for sling backpacks  

or a backpack on wheels! 

I just found this "trendy" one on CSN on sale for $21.99.

FREE SHIPPING!

Jansport Driver 8 in New Chocolate Chip Saddles - TN897FD

     I may decide to review this backpack on wheels, though, since a new job suggests I carry in lots of 

reading material & snacks to keep me busy through the graveyard shift.

I'll be reviewing another great product

--a gift from CSN --

soon, but in the meantime 

check out the hundreds of their sale items, 

clearance and  some with free shipping 

on many products at their site, too!  

My Review of 6-Cup Brewstation Coffee Maker

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

Features:

• 6-cup capacity
• One-hand dispensing—no carafe, no pouring, no spills
• 24-Hour Programmable digital clock with automatic shutoff
• Coffee stays fresh longer

Dual heaters brew quickly, then...

6-Cup Brewstation Coffee Maker

Does what it claims

By Denise the Blogger from Queen Creek, Arizona on 11/15/2010

 

4out of 5

Pros: Stylish, Easy To Use, Easy To Clean, Brews Quickly

Cons: Too lightweight, Small Pot

Best Uses: Office, Everyday, Weekends, Home

Describe Yourself: Everyday Drinker

We use the Brewstation several times a day. Its quick, convenient, easy to clean and the coffee is always hot. Its perfect for two people. The only downside is that it only holds 6 cups.

(legalese)

Naming An Heir...On Facebook????

What happens to your profile once you're gone?  

Should we care???

A FREE new Facebook application...What do you think?  Is this something we can all do, using the internet to leave a lasting memorial?  It's innovative!

Fast, Easy and FREE!

• Name an heir for your digital assets
• Describe how your Facebook account should be managed upon your death
• Help your next of kin save time and money by automatically
  - Sending out death notice to friends and family
  - Creating a tribute page / interactive online obituary
  
  
  Check it out at Otrib.com!!
  
  I'm a BzzAgent   I receive product samples, coupons, collateral or other special premium from BzzAgent for doing reviews

Review of Anne Bradstreet by D. B. Kellogg

 

     Anne Bradstreet has impacted my life!  I’ve read many biographies of many great people, but I identified with Anne, the Puritan more than any other.  The country she helped create is mine and her God is mine as well!  It was quite a shock to realize that I would have chosen to be a Puritan!  They were not what I’d always believed them to be, but were simply a courageous, God fearing people who paved the way for our religious freedom.  Anne Bradstreet was an integral part of the group who fled England to the Massachusetts Bay Colony, who chose to live according to the Word of God.

     Of course Anne’s life was very hard once she landed in America as she moved from place to place, struggling with a lifetime of sickness, tragedies and giving birth to her eight beloved children.  In the midst of it all she was a prolific poet who influenced her world.  Women in the 1600’s were typically NOT writers, nor educated.  One of the last things she wrote with a challenge, “Children do naturally rather follow the failings than the virtues of their predecessors, but I am persuaded better things of you” is one of my favorites.

     This Christian Encounter series biography of Anne Bradstreet can be a comfort and challenge to us all as we read of a Christian woman who recognized her own failings, yet in the midst of it all, humbly raised a family, honored her husband and loved God with all heart, while remaining “above reproach”.

To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, I must post that Thomas Nelson has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book to review. I also must say that the opinions are all mine.

Shopping Online--the way to go!

We currently live in an apartment—a challenge for the interior decorator

 “at heart” that I am, and I love that challenge!    

I have spent the last few days looking through many 

of the hundreds of products once again at 
CSNStores.com online.  

I always head straight to anything that will make my home cozier with a unique flair so checking out the  console tables was a great jumping off point.  

I love this coffee table!

Of course, since I’m a quilter I just had to take a look at the bedding and am tempted to make a quilt my next purchase.  I’m a purse collector though and can always use a new one in a new color!  What to do?!  If you had $35 to spend what would you order?

In a few days I’ll be reviewing one of my very own  products from one of the CSN Stores.  

I can hardly wait, but in the meantime I have to decide…is it a purse, quilt or something more practical.  You won’t be disappointed to check out their site with me!

Thanks to CSNstores.com I Have a Cleaner Stove!

My new chrome/black spoon holder is handy and classy!!

After blogging for csnstores.com on July 19 they immediately shipped out the item I chose from their "unlimited choice" sites.  I'd been looking for a vertical spoon holder for my stove.  I'd seen an eye catching chrome one on my daughter in law's stove and really liked it, but I couldn't find one anywhere!

When Csn Promo Team offered an item from their extensive shopping mall I was thrilled to find the 

Spectrum Italio Spoon Rest in Chrome. 

 It's heavy duty, matches my stove... and classy!  

The removable black base makes it easy to clean, as well!

Custom Sticker/Label Winner!

Congratulations, Dawn M.!!!

Random.org chose the winner for Celebrate Freedom's Custom Sticker Giveaway and she says:

 Dawn M. said...

I can't think of anything exciting at the moment so I'd probably just stick with address labels. I've been needing a larger size for mailing packages, anyway. :0)

That's good enough for me!

Dawn, watch your email for instructions to receive your 


250 Stickers/Labels on 70lb Label Matte 
 
2×3.5", 2×4", 3×3"   

Full Color Front and Blank back 


labels from DigitalRoom.com!

Blogging Gives Me Lots of Opportunities to Receive Wonderful Products!

CSN Stores ... in Review

As soon as CSN Stores asked me to consider reviewing for them I checked them out! I'd been looking for a particular item at a discount price. When I found it with a quick search... at a great price I decided to do the review. You'll have to wait of course, for my official review on the product I chose, but let me tell you a little about CSN Stores. With thousands of products like sewing tables, kid's furniture, cookware, home decor, dinnerware sets, toys, and much more, you will never run out of things to choose from!

Not only does CSN Stores have a fantastic website with an amazing variety

of products to choose from, but they have an additional 200 stores!

I found the CSN website so easy to navigate and SEARCH.

With so many categories to point you in the right direction it's a one stop shopping

mall online with a "clearance" aisle!!

Their Better Business Bureau accreditation is a big plus for me!

So keep an eye out, for my upcoming review from CSN Stores!

I can't wait to get my new !!!

Custom Sticker Giveaway

I have a FUN & PRACTICAL giveaway 

sponsored by DigitalRoom.com! Everyone uses stickers for something! One of my readers will win 250 Custom Stickers/Labels! There are tons of ideas that you can do with this prize!

My favorite use for custom stickers is for my music so I get them back!!

July 30th will be here before you know it, so please do not wait.. sign up today! :)

What Can YOU WIN?

                     250 Stickers/Labels

2x3.5; 2x4; 3x3

70 lb Label Matte coating

Full Color Front and Blank back (4/0)

Specification: 6 Business Days Turnaround

Shipping: FREE UPS Ground Shipping

Eligibility: Limited to US Residents only. Must be 18 years old and up.

Head over to DigitalRoom.com to learn more about the wholesale label printing!

How YOU CAN WIN?

1. Please leave a comment telling me how you would use the Custom Stickers or labels if you Win! (Mandatory)

All Extra Entries Please leave a separate comment for each one!

2. Subscribe to my Blog ( 2 entries)

3. Follow my BLOG

4. Grab my Button (right hand side) (3 entries)

5. Follow my on Twitter (2 entries)

6. Tweet about this giveaway, and leave your tweet link in a comment.

7. Blog about this giveaway linking back to my post and to

DigitalRoom.com! (5 entries)

8. Leave a comment on any post here on my Blog and let me know here in the comments. (2 entries)

Please remember to leave an email address in your comment. I will choose the winners via random.org and notify them by email.

I am receiving the same prize packet of Custom stickers for hosting the giveaway!

Giveaway Ends July 30th! 

Book review of She Still Calls Me Daddy

By Robert Wolgemuth

If you’re a Dad with one or more daughters She Still Calls Me Daddy is a must read! From the early years of doll houses to the day of their marriages, the author shares lots of practical experiences and stories that will cause you to laugh, cry and remember. You’ll be caught up in Wolgemuth’s journey as he bares his heart and soul sharing with his readers the lessons he learned about giving his daughters away to another man, adjusting to son-in laws and acknowledging the reality of getting older.

Whether you’re a new Dad just starting out, or one with years in the trenches this is a great read and one you shouldn’t miss! “This book will give you special insights and the tools you need to gracefully expand your family and continue to cherish the young woman who still calls you Daddy.”

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I Hate to Exercise, but I'm Losin' with Jillian!

I have tried so many "diets" and so-called lifestyle changes in the past 10 years. I decided to became a fan on Facebook, thus eligible for a free month on JillianMichaels.com.

I'm well into my second day with breakfast, an hour workout and lunch behind me. I've pushed through the two circuit training workouts these two days and so very THANKFUL when it was over. But you know when it was done, I wasn't damaged!! Rather, I was encouraged this morning to keep going when the scales showed I was 2 pounds lighter than yesterday. I'm hoping next Friday weigh-in will be just as encouraging!

I guess the weeks ahead will tell the story. With 109 pounds to lose and now the accountability of my readers I must keep going.

Oh well, now this has turned into FREE publicity for Jillian Michaels from Biggest Loser! Let's hope we feel the same way down the road .

Blog Winners!

Tamara B. is the winner of the Pillsbury Orange Sweet Rolls and Photo Album. Thanks to MyBlogSpark & Pillsbury her gifts will be on their way shortly!

Tara is the winner of the drawing for the Wanchai Ferry dinner, $25.00 Target gift card and the oriental placemats, dishes & chopsticks! Thanks to Wanchai Ferry and MyBlogSpark for this generous promotion for a wonderful product.

Pillsbury Came Through with the Perfect Dessert

A few nights ago we had unexpected dinner guests and no desserts. Since I had just gotten the Pillsbury Orange Sweet Rolls (in a can) for MyBlogSpark review...and it was all I had, I decided to use my guests as my testers!

Preparation was as quick as baking biscuits, but the rolls were as flaky as a gourmet pastry! They really were a big hit--so much that everyone was asking for seconds. Next time, I'm getting two!

For doing the review, MyBlogSpark sent me a gift pack which included the coupon for the FREE Pillsbury Orange Sweet Rolls and a photo album!

One of my readers can also receive the same gift pack from Pillsbury through MyBlogSpark. I'll be drawing for a winner on March 15. To qualify for the drawing, just become one of my readers and then leave a comment with your email address and tell me you've become a reader!
Orange Sweet Rolls before icing.

I Needed a Quick, Nutritious Meal for My Post Surgery Husband!

Last Wednesday my husband had major surgery for the removal of both of his adrenal glands. These weren't your average size adrenals resting above the kidneys...they were huge--the size of a baby!

I stayed with him in the hospital these last 6 days as noted in my previous posts so when we arrived home this evening I didn't want to think of preparing a meal, much less a nutritious one that he really needed.

I was so thankful to see the Wanchai Ferry Orange chicken in my freezer. I needed to prepare it for MyBlogSpark anyway so this was the test! I'm kind of picky about my oriental dishes so I was prepared not to like it! Preparation was so easy--I furnished the skillet and all ingredients were in the bag.

We loved it! There was just enough to serve both of us a complete meal of battered white meat chicken, broccoli, carrots and baby corn in a zesty orange sauce over a bed of Jasmine Rice.

I didn't have to pay for this meal since I am doing it for a blog review, but it's definitely a frozen meal I'm going to keep on hand. You can find it in the freezer section at Target and if you are the winner of my blog drawing this month you will win a coupon that covers the entire purchase, a $25.00 Target gift card (I bought curtains with mine!), 2 placemats, real chopsticks and 2 cute oriental dishes all pictured above. I almost forgot-- 4 fortune cookies, too.

The drawing for the Wanchai Ferry Orange Chicken meal,

$25.00 gift card,

place-mats,

chopsticks

oriental sauce dishes

will be held on March 15.

DRAWING RULES: To be in the drawing just become one of my readers and leave a comment saying you are a reader of my blog. Don't forget to include your email in your comment so I can contact you if you are a winner.

I have received some of the greatest gifts for trying products for MyBlogSpark. This prize pack for the winner and for me along with all the information was furnished through MyBlogSpark by Wanchai Ferry!

There is a $1.50 off coupon available at http://www.wanchaiferry.com/.

For meal tips to enhance your Wanchai Ferry frozen entrée check out their website at: http://www.wanchaiferry.com/MealTips.aspx.

Living at Mayo Clinic Hospital was like Tom Hanks in "Terminal"

Walking through the huge expanse of the Mayo Clinic Hospital Arizona at 3:30 in the morning made me realize I was like Tom Hanks living in the airport in "Terminal"!

I woke up in my recliner/bed in the Critical Care Waiting Room a few nights ago and reached for my empty bottle of water. I tried to go back to sleep hoping I could forget how thirsty I was. It didn't work! I remembered the vending machine down the hall... but first I had to find my keys to my lockers. I wasn't sure which one held my purse so I had to open both. Of course I ended up having to take everything out to find a dollar in the bottom of my purse...trying to do it quietly so I wouldn't wake the other ladies tossing and turning in the other chairs. It wasn't far to the vending machines on the same floor just around the corner. The wording didn't make sense, but I finally figured it out that they didn't work!

I had passed by a drinking fountain, but thought it wasn't wise to drink water in any hospital where germs are said to lurk on every surface, where sanitizer machines hang from most walls. Now I was wide awake so I thought I'd just take the elevator to the lobby floor where the cafeteria was located thinking I would surely find another vending machine. It didn't happen! Hospitals are like any large building when there are no people around--creepy! Back upstairs by way of the elevator to the drinking fountain with all the hidden germs praying for protection. At 4:00 am I was back in bed thinking I wonder how many hidden cameras recorded my wanderings.

My only connection to the outside world, my cell phone was dying another night...so I made my way down the same elevator, through the lobby, and cafeteria doors to our car a few feet away. I located my phone charger and was anxious to get back to the warmth as evenings in the desert can be chilly, especially with no jacket and slippers. The doors refused to automatically open as I neared. I had no idea that no one is allowed to reenter the facilities after 9:00 pm. Some workers were watching television looking in the opposite direction while another was vacuuming close by. Knocking on the door failed to catch anyone's attention, but I eventually caught one guy's eye. He shook his head "no" and turned away.

I went to the front door and of course it was locked too with instructions to go to the emergency room... wherever that is! About that time I heard a raised voice in the distance calling me to come back. Somebody had a change of heart! Afraid he would change his mind, I hurried back to the cafeteria door where he was holding it open. He chided me saying "when you leave you are not allowed to reenter and I am not allowed to let you enter." I said, "You mean you aren't going to let me in?" He shrugged and told me to go ahead.

While the above stories were short lived challenges for me I have found living at the Mayo Clinic Hospital a great experience as I've observed the excellent care received by my husband. Everyone has served us with compassion and a smile, not to mention the medical skill and organization exhibited consistently on every hand. I know because I've lived in Mayo Clinic Hospital!

The Worth of Second Opinions...Medically

We were certainly caught by surprise in November 2009! That was only 3 months---a bumpy roller coaster ride-- ago! A routine ultra sound was ordered in October just to make sure my husband, Jim's pancreas had not been compromised from the polycythemia he has. The ultrasound was inconclusive so he had to have an iodine contrasted CAT scan--not an invasive procedure and certainly not something we worried about. A few days later on the way home from an errand Jim got a call from the hematologist.

"I have the results of your CAT in front of me. You have two huge masses sitting on the top of each kidney in your abdomen. I don't think they are cancer, but you need to see a surgeon as quickly as possible."

Our primary care physician sent us to a urologist who, after reading the radiology report recommended that we see a surgeon. The radiology report suggested that it was liposarcoma--cancer. Many days of conferring with friends, specialists, sarcoma support alliance groups and our PCP we began weeks of working with our insurance trying to find a surgeon who was very skilled in sarcomas.

We found that waiting at home for others to "get around to it" was not an option. Since we didn't know how fast they were growing and now he began experiencing periodic serious pain in the kidneys we took matters into our own hands. So...after many failed attempts to reach the schedulers we began picking up records to hand carry them ourselves to various offices in the Arizona Southeast Valley.

Surgeon #1 could not work with our insurance company but recommended another Surgeon #2 who had impressive credentials. That appointment with Surgeon #2 took place right before Christmas. We weren't prepared for his definitive Cancer diagnosis, nor his surgical plan which included removal of what he thought was only one tumor, both kidneys, partial removal of the pancreas and bowels. Following the appointment the surgery date was scheduled for January 24, 2010 with no pre-surgery biopsy option. He was very nice and confident that after the surgery Jim would feel better than ever and have a perfectly normal life! After we began sifting through that information, common sense told us that was not possible!

We began seeking advice from friends and called one cancer facility after another. All of those were dead ends for one reason or another--either they didn't accept our insurance or they didn't give second opinions. I don't even remember now when Mayo Clinic was first suggested, but with further research that seemed worthy of a pursuit. Maybe "pushing" is a more accurate word.

Everything about Mayo Clinic from start to finish has demonstrated thoroughness, caring, organised and skilled care. Surgeon #3--Dr. Wasif's specialty is liposarcoma. The appointment with Dr. Wasif took place one week before the scheduled surgery date with Surgeon #2. After a thorough exam which included listening to every aspect of Jim's medical history, he concluded that there needs to be more definitive testing before surgery. In that interview he heard what we had shared repeatedly with every other physician who did not "take note" of it. At the end of the appointment we asked, "should we cancel the other surgery?" He said, "I don't think you would survive it." We cancelled.

Jim was diagnosed at age 3 with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. He took cortisone, prednizone or dexamethazone since that time until an endocrinologist suggested it was all right to discontinue all medication at age 30, before we left for our first missionary term in the Philippines. He was still taking it on our arrival in the PI, but when he ran out and no longer could get it there, he stopped. He felt great so that was that! In all of the years that followed no PCP ever seemed concerned with his childhood disease until we met with Dr. Wasif in January.

In the days following Jim had appointments with the endocrinologist, tests and a biopsy. The new diagnosis was: no liposarcoma, no cancer; the massive tumors were NOT tumors at all, but were in fact the adrenal glands that had grown to massive sizes, previously undocumented. It's what Surgeon #3 thought all along. The surgery would not be without risk, but without removal the risks involved compromising the other organs and bleeding...they had to be removed.

Today, I write 4 days following the successful removal of both of Jim's adrenals, cancer free. He is recovering very well with all of his organs-in place-minus the adrenals of course. We will always encourage seeking 2nd opinions, but the bottom line is God is in control and directed our steps.

Blog Drawing Winners!

Amanda entered my blog giveaway for PINK TOGETHER and is the winner!

Amanda said...

Isn't it a wonderful yet simple gesture, sending a flower to these brave ladies?

Cancer has both brought together and torn apart our family. Any support is so appreciated.

One of my readers, Tina M. won my "Yoplait's Save Lids" drawing!

I'll have that sent out to you, Tina as soon as I receive your mailing address.

Tina M said...

Hello Denise,
I am one of your readers. :) I don't have a story or one to share which I guess is a good thing. I do think it's important for all women to have a mammogram. I know some women do not do this until they detect something but prevention is always the best.

"Pink Together" until the cure is found!

Pink Together sent this to me as MyBlogSpark this week. I love the gifts, but more than that, after perusing Pink Together I am compelled to help the cause --fight breast cancer!

Take a moment and look at just one cancer survivor on Pink Together, send a flower (free) to her for encouragement and leave a comment on this blog after you've become one of my readers--It's painless.

We'll draw for the winner of this great gift you see here on Thanksgiving!

Let's fight this cancer together. It's important to all of us.

Why Do I Hate a Mammogram?

I really don't "hate" the mammogram because I know it's really important for early detection of breast cancer. It's probably that I don't appreciate some of the impersonal technicians who are insensitive of this vulnerable state they just put me in! They aren't all impersonal, but I've had enough to have had more "push and shove" than I'd like to remember...but the bottom line is...the procedure is for my benefit and is worth it for early detection!

According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer within her lifetime; that's 12 percent of all women who will be personally impacted by the disease. I am posting this to raise awareness and funds for the fight against breast cancer. When participating in Yoplait's Save Lids to Save Lives® program, you too can make a difference.

Rinse, ba

El Paso, TX 88542-0704

MyBlogSpark and Yoplait just sent me the gifts you see pictured here.

One of my readers will receive this gift as well...

Leave a comment and become one of my readers. If you have your own breast cancer story or someone else's, please share it in your comments....OR, click on the link above to see Dr. Kristi Funk's short video and leave a comment here for the drawing.

In the meantime, save your Yoplait labels to send in by December 31.

The Latest Greenacre Wedding

"Greenacres is the Place to Be"

Jon & Addie's Wedding Reception

Our 3rd son, 6th born, 7th child to be married was indeed married on

Friday, September 25, 2009 at 7:00 pm.

Most weddings are beautiful, but this one was very beautiful with black bridesmaid gowns, red roses, a very happy, handsome groom and a glamorous bride in white!

This was a Fil-Am marriage!

Filipino-American, that is...

Jon, a twin, was born in the Philippines while we were missionaries.

Addie is one half Filipino, but born in Ohio, USA.

Jon says that makes him the Filipino!!