Question of the day . . .

Today's question of the day for this challenge is; If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I had to ponder for a while on this one. It seems to me that a great place to live is more about the people around you than the spot on a map. So, I guess I would say that if I could live anywhere in the world I would want to live in a small sized town with low crime that is filled with friendly people, a great church, some shopping but not so much that there is a lot of traffic, and no large industries that make the town smell bad. It would be an area with a lot of trees (preferably oak) and we would live in a big OLD house with a huge front porch and a pond on our land. Oh yeah - one thing - it would have to be in the USA!

That, my friends, is where I would like to live if I could live anywhere in the world.

Do you have any weaknesses?

Today's Challenge: Describe 5 weaknesses you have.

This is a tough one. Not sure I like being this vulnerable to everyone but here I go:

1. I am ashamed to say that I have very little self control. I have been fat since I was in 4th grade and have ALWAYS been embarrassed and ashamed of my physical appearance.As much as I hate it, as much as I dream of being a different me, I just can't seem to get off my butt and do what needs to be done or push away food that I don't need.
2. I am a very sensitive person. I can get my feelings hurt easily. On the bright side that also means I am sensitive to the needs of others.
3. I am a procrastonator at home. At work I stay on top of my game and keep things done. At home, it seems that I get to the last minute then make myself crazy trying to pull of the task.
4. I am late, A LOT. This probably falls into the same category as #3. I always underestimate how long it will take me to get ready, gather my things, walk out to the car, and travel where I'm going. Yet another weakness that causes me stress. Driving somewhere when you are trying not to be, and worrying about being, late could possibly cause road rage with some people.
5. If I can't do something perfectly I don't like to do it all. I hate failing or doing a bad job at something.

There you go. Please don't judge me. ;-)

FEAR

Today's challenge: describe 3 legitimate fears you have and explain how they became fears.

1. My biggest fear is of suffering and dying alone. I watched my mom and her siblings take care of my grandparents for several years. All quality of life was gone for my wonderful grandparents and the only bright spot in their days was a visit from one of their 4 children. I also saw many elderly people in the assisted care center who had no visitors and only had the paid employees to care for them. Since we have no children I pray God takes us home before we lose our quality of life and spare us both a long, lonely ending.
2. I used to be terrified of storms. When I was very young we lived in a trailer house that rocked back and forth and went up and down during a storm. That house moved several inches from the front porch while we sat on the couch. It wasn't until I educated myself about storm types. I keep a close eye/ear on the weather and have a plan of action if things get serious. This has eased that fear and I now actually enjoy listening to a good thunderstorm.
3. I honestly can't think of a 3rd fear. It seems that as you live life, gain experiences, survive difficult times, and learn to rely on God, most fears become a thing of the past.

20 Random Facts About Myself

My sister is doing this challenge thing on her blog. This is day 1. She threw a challenge out there for others to do it as well so I'm joining in the fun. Why don't you join us too!

20 Random Facts About Me:

1. It's been 11 days since my last Pepsi. Those of you who know me well, know this is HUGE!
2. The most joyful times in my life have been "special times" with my nieces and nephew.
3. I have the most patient, loving husband on earth.
4. My biggest regret in life is not trying harder to have a family.
5. I LOVE royal purple.
6. My favorite vacation was a trip to Albuquerque NM to see the Balloon Fiesta.
7. I hate being fat, mostly because I'm not strong enough to make the changes that need to be made.
8. I have 1 dog and 3 cats and love every single one of them.
9. I'm super proud of every one of my nieces and nephews.
10. I love Mexican Food.
11. Swimming is my favorite outdoor activity.
12. I am terrified to go to the dentist.
13. I love when Noel and Dianna have time to go for 'girl weekends' and we laugh non-stop until late into the night.
14. I enjoy Facebook because it helps me keep up with family and friends that we don't get to see often.
15. Someday I would like to go to the Smokey Mountains.
16. I bought my first brand new car in 2002. We still drive it and I love it as much today as I did the day we drove it off the lot.
17. I love our neighborhood.
18. I love that my house has a front porch and a porch swing. So relaxing to sit out there and swing. Also love it because many times a neighbor will stop by and visit for a while.
19. I'm proud that I got my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education but sad that being a teacher is such a low paying, unappreciated, life consuming job that I didn't pursue it.
20. I am a Christian who works hard to be a good person. I fail a lot but I do try.

So that's 20 things about me. Now take a minute and post 20 things about you!

Pinterest Recipe Test #4 - Sopapilla Cheesecake

Tonight Don has a get together with the men at church for a Mexican Food Dinner. I tested a Sopapilla Cheesecake recipe and it was awesome! Since I forgot to take a photo before Don left with the dish I have posted the picture from the website:


I'm pretty sure this is the same dessert that my cousin, Tana Morgan, brings to the Krout Family Reunion every year.

It was super easy to make and it tasted delicious. I suggest you try it for yourself.