Denise Thinks Green

I Am Thankful For..................

2011-11-12T00:39:00.000-06:00

This is the view that I saw today out the window of the Cancer Center in Mason City, Iowa. Today this little squirrel was getting ready for winter by hiding his nuts and I got the pleasure of watching him. Got me thinking about how grateful he must be when he finds them again this winter when he is hungry. I have lots to be grateful for also.
Today I had my sandostatin injection that I get every 21 days for the rest of my life. It is for the type of cancer that I had surgery for 2 years ago November 17, the cancer is called carcinoid. You can google carcinoid to learn more about it if you want to or go to carcinoid.org to learn more.
What I am grateful for is the fact that I am alive and that there is this drug to keep me alive and to relieve the symptoms of carcinoid syndrome which I will deal with for the rest of my life.
I am grateful because I was given a second chance to live my life and I am living it differently than I did before the discovery of carcinoid. I am enjoying life in a whole new way and seeing things in a different light. I am enjoying my life more and loving every minute. I am doing things I would not have done in the past living each and every moment to the fullest.
It takes a major event like cancer to change a person. I know I have changed and continue to change every day.
If I haven't seen you lately or talked to you please forgive me. I want to tell you all how important you are in my life and how much I love you.
Have a great day!

Bean Soup

2011-11-08T19:15:00.000-06:00

The weather is getting chilly out and the nights are getting dark earlier. To me it is soup time of year. Tonight I made this bean soup and I loved every bite. This recipe is courtesy of watkinsonline.com/denisepassehl in the recipe section. Enjoy!

Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds/680 g (3-1/2 cups/875 ml) dry navy or great northern beans
2 cups/500 mL coarsely chopped onion
2 tbsp/30 mL Watkins Original Grapeseed Oil
10 cups/2.5 liters water
1 cup/250 mL sliced carrots
1 cup/250 mL sliced celery
1/2 cup/125 mL Watkins Chicken Soup & Gravy
1 tsp/5 mL Watkins Thyme (Tin)
1 tsp/5 mL Watkins Garlic Powder (Tin)
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL Watkins Black Pepper 6 oz
1/4 tsp/1.2 mL Watkins Ground Cloves (Tin)
1-1/2 pounds/680 g ham bone or ham hocks or 1 to 2 cups/250 to 500 mL diced ham
Salt, if desired to taste

Cooking Directions
Soak beans overnight in enough water to cover. The next day, drain beans and rinse. Sauté onions in oil in large soup kettle. Add beans and 10 cups/2.5 liters water; bring to a boil. Add remaining ingredients, return to boiling. Reduce heat; cover and simmer at least 4 hours. If using ham bone or hocks, remove and strip off meat. Discard bones, skin, and fat. Chop meat; return to soup. Adjust seasonings at this point. Serve hot with crusty French bread or Italian rolls.

Makes 8 servings.

Nutrition Facts
Makes 8 servings.

Nutritional Information Per Serving:
Calories 440
Protein 27 g
Carbohydrates 63 g
Sodium 1250 mg
Fat 10 g
Saturated Fat 4 g
Cholesterol 25 mg
Dietary Fiber 4 g

Independent Watkins Associate #300500

Cinnamon-Scented Grilled Chicken Breasts

2011-11-04T21:03:00.000-05:00

I love cinnamon and I love chicken, never thought the two would go together. You will enjoy this recipe. Your mouth will be happy!
This recipe and many more can be found at watkinsonline.com/denisepassehl

Ingredients
2-1/2 to 3 tbsp/40 to 45 mL fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL Watkins Garlic Powder (Tin)
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL
1/4 tsp/1.2 mL Watkins Purest Ground
Cinnamon 6 oz.
1/8 tsp/0.6 mL Watkins Black Pepper 6 oz
Freshly ground, to taste
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

Cooking Directions
Combine lemon juice with all ingredients except chicken; mix well. Add chicken and turn to coat all sides. Allow to marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes. Grill or broil chicken 5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Makes 4 servings.

Nutrition Facts
Makes 4 servings.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

Calories 130
Protein 27 g
Carbohydrates 2 g
Sodium 80 mg
Fat 2 g
Saturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 68 mg
Dietary Fiber 0 g

Independent Watkins Associate #300500

Watkins Spaghetti Night

2011-11-03T18:43:00.000-05:00

It's a spaghetti night in our house tonight. Watkins has a new product Watkins Pizza & Pasta Seasoning Grinder Article No. 00540 that makes the best spaghetti sauce and it is so easy.
I canned all my tomatoes this summer so I have jars of canned crushed tomatoes on my shelf waiting for me to create something delicious with them. If you don't have your own you can buy a can of crushed tomatoes, whatever size you want. I used a quart jar for my sauce adding 2-3 tablespoons of Watkins Pizza & Pasta Seasoning to my jar of canned crushed tomatoes. You can adjust the amount to taste. Heat to desired temperature. Once the spaghetti noodles were cooked and drained I put the sauce on top and shredded fresh parmesan cheese.
It took less than 20 minutes to prepare this meal tonight. Mama Mia this is good!

Want to order this product or view my online catalog visit my website:
watkinsonline/denisepassehl
Independent Watkins Associate #300500

Marbled Pumpkin Cheesecake

2011-11-02T19:40:00.000-05:00

If you love cheesecake this is the recipe for you! Courtesty of watkinsonline.com/denisepassehl
Ingredients
1-1/2 cups/375 mL gingersnap cookie crumbs (about 32 cookies)
1/4 cup/60 mL unsalted butter, melted
2 packages (8 oz/227 g each) cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup/180 mL sugar, divided
1 tsp/5 mL Watkins Original Double-Strength Vanilla
3 eggs
1 cup/250 mL canned or cooked pumpkin
1-1/2 tsp/7.5 mL pumpkin pie spice

To make your own Watkins pumpkin pie spice:
1-1/2 tsp Watkins Purest Ground
Cinnamon 6 oz.
1/2 tsp Watkins Ground Nutmeg (Tin)
1/4 tsp Watkins Ground Cloves (Tin)
1/2 tsp Watkins Ginger (Tin)
Combine all ingredients. If you make extra, store in air tight container.

Cooking Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F/200°C. Combine crumbs and butter. Press firmly over bottom and up sides of pie plate. Bake for 5 minutes; remove from oven and let cool. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F/170°C. In large mixer bowl, beat cream cheese, 1/2 cup/120 mL sugar and vanilla until blended. Beat in eggs one at a time. Reserve 1 cup/250 mL batter. Add remaining sugar, pumpkin and Pumpkin Pie Spice to remaining batter; mix well. Alternately layer pumpkin and cream cheese batters over crust. Cut through batters with knife several times for marbled effect. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until cheesecake springs back lightly when slightly touched. Loose cheesecake from rim of pan. Let cool to room temperature, then chill.

Makes 12 servings.

Watkins Independent Associate #300500

Beth’s Apple Crisp

2011-11-01T20:11:00.000-05:00

This recipe is a courtesy recipe from watkinsonline.com/denisepassehl under the recipes section. It is a very good recipe and easy to make. With apples so abundant right now I thought I would make this. Enjoy!

Ingredients
4 cups/1 liter tart cooking apples
1/4 cup/60 mL sugar
1 tsp/5 mL Watkins Purest Ground
Cinnamon 6 oz.

1/2 tsp/2.5 mL Watkins Caramel Extract
3/4 cup/125 mL brown sugar
1/2 cup/60 mL all-purpose flour
1/4 cup/60 mL butter, melted
Watkins Cooking Spray

Cooking Directions
Place apples into an oiled (you can use Watkins Cooking Spray) 9 × 9-inch/23 × 23-cm pan. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle lightly with Apple Bake Seasoning. Mix caramel extract, brown sugar, flour and butter together; mix until crumbly. Spread over apples. Bake at 375ºF/190ºC for 30 to 35 minutes.

Makes 6 servings.

Nutrition Facts
Makes 6 servings.

Nutritional Information Per Serving:
Calories 290
Protein 1 g
Carbohydrates 54 g
Sodium 80 mg
Fat 8 g
Saturated Fat 5 g
Cholesterol 20 mg
Dietary Fiber 2 g

Independent Watkins Associate #300500

Apple Butter made the Crock Pot Way

2011-09-24T16:36:00.002-05:00

Being an Independent Watkins Associate gives me the best possible spices and herbs on the market. No added fillers, no preservatives, just all natural spices and herbs.
I love canning and making my own foods so I made apple butter this week in the crock pot. Very simple, cut up and core your apples, if you want to peel them that is fine, I tend to leave the peel on for the nutrition. Then add your sweetener, Watkins Cinnamon to taste and Watkins Ground Cloves. I'm one of those cooks that doesn't measure, just use my own judgement so I am sorry I cannot give you the exact amount since it will vary with the amount of cut up apples that you have. That's it. Turn the crock pot on low for about 9 hours, I actually did mine over night while I slept. When they are cooked, I mashed them up and run my hand held food pureer through the crock pot till smooth. I then put in clean sterilized pint jars, sealed them and processed in the canner. That is how simple it is.
I use apple butter on cooked pork and many other things. My husband likes it on toast, french toast, english muffins or whatever he decides to put it on.

Popcorn

2011-09-09T23:55:00.000-05:00

I love popcorn, it is my favorite snack. When I am traveling I like to get a bag and munch on that verses candy, chips or anything else. So today, on my travels to Clarinda, Iowa we stop at a Casey's in Villisca, Iowa to get a bite to eat. I grab a bag of popcorn, Smartfood Popcorn Movie Theater Butter Flavored made by Frito-Lay. Says it is made with all-natural ingredients so I thought I was going to have a great snack. I really got excited when it said Movie Theater Butter Flavored. I visit the Windsor Theatre in Hampton, Iowa the most and they have the best movie theater popcorn (I know they say it isn't the best for us, but I sure do like it). Well Frito-Lay needs to take some popcorn cooking lessons because the bag of popcorn I bought at Casey's is the worst tasting popcorn I have ever ate. I doubt the birds will eat this. Either the people who made this go to a really bad movie theater that doesn't know how to make good popcorn or they just plain don't know what good popcorn tastes like. Their product is not to be compared to Windsor Theatre popcorn because there is no comparison. So Frito-Lay, I will never buy another bag of your popcorn because it is not good, you disappointed me. This is only my opinion. You might like it, just does not taste good to me. Taste it for yourself and make up your own mind.

Zuchinni, Zuchinni Everywhere!

2011-08-02T21:58:00.000-05:00

There is one thing about zucchini, you plant a few plants and your cup runneth over. It is easy to miss one under those big leaves they have on the plants, when that happens I don't let them go to waste. I pick them smaller for stif fry and just eating raw with dip also, that is my favorite way to eat zucchini. If one does get too large I will shred it and put them in vacuum seal bags and seal with my Foodsaver. I freeze the bags and have zucchini for the winter time that can be made into bread, cakes, bars, cookies and I will also put it in soups and casseroles to get those important nutrients. Nothing will be wasted from my garden that I tenderly grow and take care of throughout the season. It gives me great pleasure to serve a dish using the products I freeze or can from my garden knowing they were raised with love and no chemicals on them.

Freezing Sweet Corn

2011-08-02T20:47:00.000-05:00

We live on a farm, raise field corn, soy beans and sweet corn. Plus I have a very large garden that I love to spend time in and reap the harvest. I have been picking produce for a couple weeks now and can and freeze what I can to get us by for the winter. There is nothing like fresh produce that you raise and process yourself. I know that what I eat is the best there is with no chemicals added.
Tonight I froze sweet corn. I work full time during the day so have to make use of the time I have in the evening. I only do a small amount each night until I have all that I need for the winter.
I have a Foodsaver vacuum sealer with bags. It makes freezing a breeze. I use this handy little tool that I got from Pampered Chef to cut the corn off the cob, this is one item everyone should have if they freeze corn. It makes life a whole lot easier. It is a corn kernel cutter and it works. Here is a picture of it.

My recipe is very easy and takes no time at all. Tonight I got ten 2 cup bags. Each night I will do about that much and by the weekend I will have it all done.
FREEZING CORN
15 c raw corn
3/4 c sugar
1/8 c salt
4 c cold water
Husk and wash ears of corn. Cut corn off cob and mix all together: freeze in freezer bags, the size of your choice.
ENJOY!

Pizza Night

2011-07-17T20:35:00.000-05:00

Cooking is something I love to do and I love the look on the people faces when I create a dish that they really like. Both of my parents and grandmothers were great cooks. I also had a very good Home Ec teacher who taught my many useful tips. My motto is 'If it doesn't look good or taste good, then I wouldn't feed it to anybody'. I take pride in what I make and only use the best products. I can make a meal for much less than if we had gone out or ordered take out. Tonight I decided pizza sounded good. Below is how I made this delicious pizza.
I used Watkins Pizza Dough Mix, put it in my bread maker and let the machine do the kneading and raising. You don't have to use a bread maker, I have one so put it to work. You can do it by hand also, it is very simple.
I then sprayed my Pampered Chef Pizza Stone with Watkins Pan Spray. I rolled out the dough on my stone with my Pampered Chef roller. I made pizza sauce using Watkins new Pizza & Pasta Seasoning Blend in a very handy grinder. I put tomato sauce on the crust and sprinkled the seasoning on top. I then spread mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce, then added cooked ground beef, chopped onions & chopped green peppers. I then sprinkled more of the Watkins Pizza & Pasta Seasoning Blend on top of the pizza again.
You can use any topping you want, I love to do something different each time
I put the pizza into a pre heated 400 degree oven on the bottom rack, baked for 20 minutes. Done to perfection!
My husband is enjoying every bite!

Deviled Eggs

2011-07-02T05:33:00.001-05:00

I love making deviled eggs. I take them to about any gathering we have. This is a simple recipe I use.

Ingredients
6 hard-cooked eggs
1/2 tsp/2.5 ml Watkins Dry Mustard (Tin)
1/4 to 1/2 tsp/1.2 to 2.5 ml salt
1/4 tsp/1.2 ml Watkins Black Pepper 6 oz
3 tbsp/45 ml mayonnaise or salad dressing
Watkins Paprika (Tin)

Cooking Directions
Cut peeled eggs in half lengthwise. Slip out yolks and mash with a fork. Mix in dry mustard, salt, pepper and mayonnaise; mix well. Fill whites with egg yolk mixture, heaping slightly. Arrange on serving platter and sprinkle with paprika. Cover and refrigerate no longer than 24 hours.

Makes 6 servings.

Nutrition Facts
Makes 6 servings.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:
Calories 130
Protein 7 g
Carbohydrates 1 g
Sodium 280 mg
Fat 11 g
Saturated Fat 2 g
Cholesterol 220 mg
Dietary Fiber 0 g

Denise Passehl
Independent Watkins Associate #300500

Strawberry Smoothie

2011-06-27T21:41:00.000-05:00

I was longing for a strawberry smoothie so here is a very simple and delicious recipe that I make. In my blender I added 1 cup ice cubes, 1 cup fresh strawberries, 1 carton Greek Plain yogurt, a cap full of Watkins Strawberry Flavoring and 2 teaspoons honey. Blended it all together until ice is crushed. Oh so good! Enjoy!
Independent Watkins Associate #300500

Dilled Vegetable Salad

2011-06-19T17:55:00.000-05:00

Everyone who knows me, knows that I like to cook and I like quality when I cook. I use the best ingredients and want to make a product that looks good also. I am sharing a recipe from the Watkinsonline.com website. It is great for summer picnics or just anytime you want a great tasting salad.

Ingredients
1 pound/454 g fresh green beans
1 small head cauliflower, cut into small florets
1 small red onion
3/4 cup/180 mL Watkins Original Grapeseed Oil
1/4 cup/60 mL white wine vinegar
2 tbsp/30 mL Watkins Dill (Tin)
2 tsp/10 mL Watkins Italian seasoning
2 tsp/10 mL red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL Watkins Garlic Powder (Tin)
1/4 cup/60 mL feta cheese, crumbled

Cooking Directions
Wash vegetables. Cut ends off beans and cut cauliflower into small florets. Steam beans and cauliflower until crisp-tender, being careful not to overcook the cauliflower. Cut red onion into thin rings. In a small bowl, combine oil, vinegar and seasonings. Pour over vegetables and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight. Top with feta cheese before serving.

Other uses for Dill Dressing:
Be sure to make extra dressing; it keeps well in the fridge and can be used to enhance other quickly-prepared ingredients for side dishes in the coming days. Here are some ideas:

•Combine dressing with feta cheese and serve with pita slices or wedges.
•Roast bell peppers, slice and toss with dressing to use on bruschetta (or use tomatoes).
•Roast tomatoes, slice and toss with dressing to use as a warm salad or side dish (or use bell peppers). Add feta or Parmesan cheese, if you like.

Denise Passehl
#300500 Independent Watkins Associate

Photo curtesy Watkinsonine.com

Italian Spaghetti Sauce

2011-06-17T19:12:00.000-05:00

Here is a great recipe for spaghetti sauce curtesy Watkinsonline.com in the recipe section. This tastes great and is very easy to make. Enjoy!

Ingredients
1 pound/454 g mild or hot Italian sausage
2 cans (15 oz/425 g each) tomato purée*
1-3/4 cups/450 mL water
1 tbsp/15 mL sugar
1-1/2 tsp/7.5 mL Watkins Beef Soup & Gravy
1 tsp/5 mL Watkins Parsley (Tin)
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL Watkins Basil (Tin)
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL Watkins Garlic Liquid Spice
1/4 tsp/1.2 mL Watkins Oregano (Tin)
1/4 tsp/1.2 mL Watkins Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp/1.2 mL Watkins Black Pepper 6 oz

Cooking Directions
Brown sausage in large saucepan until lightly browned; drain grease. Add all remaining ingredients. Simmer over low heat about 1 hour. Serve over hot cooked spaghetti noodles with a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese on top.

Makes about 2 quarts/liters sauce, 1/2 cup/125 ml per serving.

*For a chunkier sauce, substitute canned diced tomatoes for tomato purée.

Nutrition Facts
1/2 cup/125 ml per serving

Nutritional Information Per Serving:
Calories 120
Protein 7 g
Carbohydrates 6 g
Sodium 500 mg
Fat 8 g
Saturated Fat 3 g
Cholesterol 22 mg
Dietary Fiber 1 g

Denise Passehl
Independent Watkins Associate #300500

Marilyn Monroe Contest-Why Would You Do That Denise?

2011-06-02T21:24:00.000-05:00

June 1, 2011 I entered a Marilyn Monroe contest put on by KLMJ radio station from Hampton, IA. The contest was held at the Chit Chat Cafe in Thornton, IA which is 10 miles from my home. Two other friends, Deb and Mel, also dressed up for the event with blonde wigs and all the trimmings. We decided we looked like what Marilyn would look like as she was older. So off we went, 3 blonde bomb shells in my car headed to a contest.
The Chit Chat was packed-full house. I had no idea what we were up for but soon found out. There was only one other contestant and she was a knock out. She dressed exactly as Marilyn looked like, gown and all. She did win and she deserved to. As a contestant I did win 2 tickets to the REO Speedwagon concert. I am excited about that!
I had so many people ask me why would you do such a thing? We had to stroll down the run way for everyone to see us. We mingled with the customers and we even sang Happy Birthday do the owner. All in all we had a great time.
My reason for why I did this is simple. Since my cancer surgery and recovery I have done more things in my life that I would never have done before. Life has changed, I appreciate so much more and love every moment of life and the adventures I have had and more to come. I have gone way out of my comfort zone and never in my life would I have been so brave as do to this.
My message today, enjoy life. You make your happiness, either you choose to be or not. I choose to be happy.

Give Me Coffee!

2011-05-15T07:35:00.000-05:00

I am now on my second cup of coffee this morning and I love every sip of it. I love the smell and I love the taste.
I own a Keurig Coffee Brewer and that makes my mornings easy when I am in a hurry or not. One of my favorite K Cups is Green Mountain French Roast Decaf. Nothing compares.
So if you want to come on over for a cup of coffee I would love to see you!

Pancakes Anyone?

2011-05-13T19:57:00.000-05:00

Since I started eating Gluten Free for my health I have been on a mission to find products that taste good and look good. They also have to satisfy my tummy. Today I was in Ames, Iowa and went to Wheatsfield Grocery and purchased Pamela's Gluten Free Pancake Mix. Couldn't wait to get home to make some and eat them.
I am giving this product a thumb's up! They are excellent and I feel like I am eating regular pancakes. I topped them with Real Natural Maple Syrup, my mouth was having a party. So come on over and let's have some pancakes.

Gluten Free for Me Please

2011-05-11T21:21:00.000-05:00

Why do I eat gluten free? I have lots of reasons but the main one is I feel really great eating this way and my health is improving every day. Since I had cancer surgery in 2009 eating has been a challenge until I did so much research and testing to figure out what was causing all my stomach and other(if you know what I mean) problems.
I have even lost weight and have more energy than I ever have. There really is so much more available for those of us who do eat this way. I never feel deprived, even when somebody says "Don't you miss eating _ _ _ _ _?" My answer is a definite NO. Not when you feel miserable, sick and takes hours to get back to normal. I never have those days anymore.
The stores are becoming more gluten free friendly also. I have so many more options to try now and haven't tried them all.
I am looking for more recipes from others who eat gluten free. Please send them to me. I love to cook and of course love to eat what is good for me.
Look forward to many more wonderful delicious meals and snacks.

Garden Time is Here!

2011-05-10T19:53:00.000-05:00

Ok, garden just got tilled and I am going to be a happy camper soon. I bought some plants, my Burpee & NK seeds, and onion sets. That is only the beginning, there will be lots more to be planted. I can hardly wait to get them in the ground and reap the harvest.
Once in the ground, I anxiously await for the first sprout. I run outside every day to see if anything has popped through the ground. What a glorious site, the first tiny sprout that is soon to be loaded with mouth watering vegetables and fruits.
My two dogs go out with me to tend to the garden every day, they act like they know what to look for. I have had them steal the cut up potatoes out of the hole that was dug for my potato plants. They look like they are laughing as they run away.
Now that the weather is warmer I am ready to plant, love getting my hands in the soil and the smell of the dirt. I really don't mind weeding until the humidity and heat get up high and of course the mosquito's tend to cause some problems. The best part of it all is the produce that I harvest and preserve for us. It gives me great joy knowing I helped to make our life a little more easier.

Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company in Des Moines, IA

2011-05-09T21:43:00.000-05:00

Mother's Day, May 8, 2011 my sister Dyanne and I took a road trip to Des Moines, IA to visit the Science Center, meet with her daughter Megan (my favorite niece also), meet friends and eat out.
We live in a small rural area in Franklin County so going to the city was exciting. Eating out is also something we love to do when we get out and about.
After all the fun things we did that day we decided to eat at Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company. We all had something different and the menu had some great looking dishes. I decided to go with the Blackened Salmon Ceasar Salad. Let me tell you this, I was so happy I made that choice. It was wonderful and the dishes my sister and niece had looked equally as good.
We had a great waitress who did a wonderful job, I wish I could remember her name to give her the credit she deserves.
So next time I am in Des Moines, IA I will be visiting Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company. I saw many dishes I would love to try. This picture is my beautiful tasty salad. Eat your hearts out!

Prayers for a Friend

2011-04-01T22:13:00.000-05:00

I am sitting here with a cup of tea, reading my bible and thinking about a dear friend of mine who needs some prayers. Her name is Linda Brady Mollenbeck and she has been in Iowa City since the beginning of January dealing with cancer. She has been in bed the whole time. What I am asking is that all of you take a few minutes out of your time to pray for her, she needs us.
My heart is heavy thinking about her and wish that I could do more for her. I have known Linda since I moved to Latimer in 1981. She is a joy to be around and has twinkle in her eye all the time.
I was down to see her in February when I went to Iowa City for an appointment with my cancer doctor. She still had that twinkle even though she has been going through so much.
If we all lifted her up in prayer I imagine she would feel it.
Thank you
Denise

"Carcinoid Cancer" I am Thankful For It

2011-03-14T20:23:00.000-05:00

Okay, you wonder why I wrote that for a title, well it is true. I am so thankful that I got carcinoid cancer. Want to know why? Here's my why.
I am thankful because this experience has brought me so much closer to God. Without him in my life I would not have been able to be so grateful. He promises to walk with us and he did with me. He never left my side the whole time, I learned to depend on him for everything in my life and I am so glad that I did. He is there to help us with our trials and tribulations.
I am thankful because I have learned who my true friends and family are. The ones who have been there for me and continue to listen to me when I tell them about my experience. I now know what true friendship is. When you go through something like this that is life threatening you want somebody to share the ups and downs with.
I am thankful for our medical teams who operated on me and had the knowledge to treat this very rare form of cancer. I am thankful for the doctors who continue to monitor me and ask me how I am doing. I have some side effects which will be with me forever, but it is a reminder that I am alive and well.
I am thankful for the drug that I have as an injection every 3 weeks for the rest of my life. Without it my cancer would come back.
I am thankful I have insurance to help me.
I am thankful because I am now healthier than I have ever been in my entire life. I thought I was healthy before but now I am aware of everything my body tells me. I eat a healthy diet, I walk daily and I enjoy life more than I ever have.
I am thankful because I have learned to enjoy life a lot more. I laugh, I play and I do what makes me happy. I love each day of my life, it is an adventure and I look forward to what God has in store for me every day. I see things in a different way, like a child sees things. I don't take anything for granted anymore.
Most of all I am thankful that I am alive. My heart is so full of gratitude. Enjoy each day of your life, I pray that I can touch your hearts as much as you have mine.

Mother's Journey

2011-01-28T20:38:00.011-06:00

As I sit beside my mothers bedside, looking into the gentle face that I have known for nearly 56 years I think back to all the memories I have had with her. A gentle, kind, loving, and gracious person. She never thought of herself, she only wanted to help others and make them happy. She loved her family so much, Dyanne and I, our children, her great grandchildren, our father and the rest of her loved ones.
Mom's journey with her life is nearly done. She suffered brain damage 2 1/2 years ago after surgery, leaving her unable to take care of herself. Dyanne and I found the Rehabilitation Center in Hampton, IA to be the best place for her. She has been in the Unit as they call it for Alzheimer's and those who cannot take care of themselves. The women who take care of mom have been wonderful.
About 3 weeks ago she got an infection and it has been very hard on her, leaving her bedridden. She seems to be in so much pain but is unable to tell us, I can see the pain in her face as she moans with anguish. My heart aches for her. She never wanted Dyanne and I to ever worry about anything. She was so proud of us even when I felt I didn't deserve her praises.
The pain medication only lasts so long before they give her more. It doesn't keep her as pain free as I would like it to. If I could take her pain I would.
I cherish the quiet times holding her hand, singing her favorite church hymns to her. I know she has to hear me but there is no sign of it. They say hearing is the last to go so I pray she is hearing my voice. I hold her hand next to my heart so she can feel the love I have for her.
Mom's life has not been easy since her brain damage, but she has been taken care of. Between Dyanne and I one of has been with her nearly every day. I will miss the mother I once knew. Her life's journey is coming to an end, God is in charge of her last day on earth. Her faith has always been strong, she loved her church and her church family so much. I have prayed for peace for her as she goes through this. I whisper to her about all the fond memories I have of our life and how proud I am to have a mother like her.
I mourned the loss of my mother 2 1/2 years ago after the brain damage happened. I lost my mother then, she has been like a child to me now. The roles have reversed, holding her hand as we walked down the hall, looking in the mirror making funny faces and talking about who knows what because she was not able to talk normal after that. Now I miss the voice, the smile and the touch. She loved to rub your back or your leg as you sit with her.
My prayers for her now are for a peaceful journey as she goes home to her Heavenly Father. No more pain, no more sorrow, healthy and seeing the family and friends she has lost. Good bye mother, I love you more than you will ever know. Godspeed mom, I will see you someday again.
Love your daughter Denise

I AM A MANAGER!

2011-01-06T20:20:00.006-06:00

Today I got a card in the mail congratulating me on my success as a Watkins Independent Associate. I have made it to Manager level and I am so happy and excited. This puts me at a whole new level and I am looking forward to what lays ahead.
I would love to share this business with others, if only to use the products and to get a 25% discount. What other store do you get 25% off your purchases every day of the year? Besides if for any reason a product does not meet your standards or you want something different it is 100% money back guaranteed, no questions asked. Seriously, I have never found a product I didn't like with Watkins. They strive to produce the very best and everything is manufactured in the USA, right in Minnesota, not shipped from another country.
I have been with this company since 1982. I wouldn't stay with them if I didn't believe in the products and company. I don't need to shop elsewhere for cooking, cleaning, personal care and apothecary items that I use every day. I have a warehouse at my fingertips. Ordering online is so easy, saves me money on gas and time.
Visit www.watkinsonline.com today and read about it all. I know you will get as excited as I do. If you want to learn more, contact me 641-580-4052 or email denisepassehl@gmail.com. If you decide you would like to start your own business or just get products at a discount you can sign up online and use this number #300500.
Who doesn't want quality and learn how to save money?

Organizing Madness!

2011-01-01T20:34:00.004-06:00

I love to declutter and organize. Once I start I cannot stop. It gives me a rush to see how organized everything looks when I am done. I do this a couple times a year. Out with the old and in with the new. If I haven't used it, don't love it and never think of it then it is out of the house. It is a great burden off my shoulders when I don't have clutter sitting around. Of course I have to take care of the small hot spots every day, that makes it easier to do a larger project a couple times a year.
My office is almost the way I want it, my kitchen is done, I am thinking my utility room needs some attention so that will be the next project. It is so nice to walk into a clean uncluttered room.
My dogs like to watch me as I work. Don't understand why but I secretly think they like order also.
One of my resolutions for 2011 is to keep my castle organized. I love my home and I think it deserves respect also.

“Three Rules of Work: Out of clutter find simplicity; From discord find harmony; In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” - Albert Einstein

Here I come 2011!

2010-12-31T16:49:00.004-06:00

Let's see, I am supposed to set goals for the New Year. Well I am a goal setter and I do accomplish my goals. I can honestly say 2010 was a great year for me. Each year I look back and take check of what I did accomplish and what I want to this year. Last year mine were a lot different than what I am going to write down this year. So where do I begin?

1. I am aiming to grow my home based businesses. I believe in what I do and want to share the opportunity with everyone. I will work harder than I ever have.

2. Love more, laugh more, play more!

3. Get more sleep, I tend to be like the energizer bunny and don't slow down.

4. Become closer to God, he has been so good to me.

5. Simplify my life.

6. Organize my life better.

I know there will be more but these are just some of the basic things I have been thinking about.

Happy New Year!

Recap of 2010! What a journey!

2010-12-31T16:11:00.004-06:00

I still cannot believe that a year ago I was recovering form major cancer surgery, wondering what 2010 would be like for me. I didn't know how I was going to be feeling and didn't know if I would still be here today. Hearing the diagnosis of cancer in the fall of 2009 is still like a blur to me. I have come so far since that day and feel blessed beyond all means. My life means more to me now and I have become closer to God and the ones I love.
January I was fresh from the surgery, having my whole abdomen split open, removing 2 large tumors, 3/4 my stomach, 2 sections of my intestines, my right ovary, rerouting my intestines, 19 lymph nodes and burning the cancer from my liver, I wasn't sure what was next. To my amazement I healed wonderfully, I am doing great, take an injection every 3 weeks and live a very full and active life. Right then and there I decided there would be nothing I could not do and nothing was going to be left undone in my life. I have done so many new things in my life and have had some great adventures. I have stepped out of my comfort zone and have explored all my options in life.
February 4th I had my 55th birthday. I didn't think I would be here to celebrate it. It was probably one of the best birthdays I have ever had.
March, spring is in the air. I felt like I was born a new person, breathing the spring air and preparing for the summer to come.
April, not a fool, just someone who loves to have fun and appreciates every day of my life.
May, the smell of new grass, flowers popping out the ground and the birds singing. It felt like I had never felt this way before.
June, digging in the dirt, planting vegetables and flowers. I have done this in the past but never had this energy before.
July, having friends over for BBQ's, watching the garden grow, mowing the lawn, feeling the heat. Grandchildren coming to visit. I loved every minute of it.
August, the crops are mature, almost ready to harvest. The grass is changing, signs of fall are approaching. Haven't I noticed this before? Feels like the first time to me.
September, children going back to school, crops being harvested, trees turning colors, the smell of autumn in the air. Loving the cooler temps and all of God's glory as our season changes. My eyes can hardly take it all in.
October, my husband Gordon and I celebrated our 29th anniversary together. He has been so supportive of me and loves me. He has been there for me when I didn't know if I would be here to celebrate another anniversary. Taking the grandchildren to the pumpkin patch to pick out our pumpkins, I felt like a child myself.
November, one year after my surgery I had in 2009. Spent 8 days in Iowa City, doctors were unsure of my kind of cancer until the surgery was done. It is such a rare kind, I was in advanced stages of cancer since it had spread to my liver. Eight days later I walked out of the hospital feeling like a new person. They got it all they said and no chemo, only an injection which prevents new cancer cells from growing. Tears of joy, thanks be to God. Thanksgiving this year was wonderful.
December, Christmas is here, I am here. Spending time with my family whom I love so much, I didn't know if I would be here today to be with them all. God is not done with me yet. Watch out 2011 because it is going to be more glorious than 2010! Peace and love be with you all.

How I Make Granola

2010-09-17T20:06:00.004-05:00

I love cooking and making my own food, it is so satisfying to me. I make just about anything home made. My husband loves my cooking and every day is a new experience eating in our home. I also take great pride in how the finished product looks and tastes.
I hope you enjoy this as much as I do. Cooking healthy and using the Watkins products that I love make all the difference to me. Enjoy!

Ingredients:
4 c rolled oats
1 c wheat germ
1/2 c flax seed meal
1/2 c brown sugar
1/2 c raw sunflower seeds
1/2 c chopped pecans
1/2 c sliced almonds
1 tsp Watkins Cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp Watkins Sea Salt
1/3 c Watkins Original Grapeseed Oil
1/4 c honey
1 tsp Watkins Vanilla extract
1/2 c water

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, wheat germ, flax seed meal, brown sugar, sunflower seeds, pecans, almonds, cinnamon and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, honey, vanilla and water. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry, and mix until evenly blended. Spread in a greased 9x13 baking pan or roaster.
3. Bake for 1 hour in the preheated oven, stirring every 20 minutes, or until toasted. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

One Year

2010-09-12T14:59:00.010-05:00

One year ago, September 9th I found out I had cancer. My life flashed before my eyes, remembering my life, the good and bad. Why me? I have always tried to live healthy and not put my body in danger. What have I done wrong to deserve this?
For 2 months I went through test after test, fatigue racking my body and trying to live a somewhat normal life. Most of the tests did not hurt, but some really did. I was scanned by every imaginable type of scan, needles inserted trying to do biopsies, blood tests, etc. People kept asking my why it was taking so long. I was becoming immensely stressed until one day I could not take much more.
I decided then to turn my life completely over to God. Sure I am a believer and thought I knew I needed to pray. What I didn't know is how to turn my worries and troubles over to God. I was at a very low point at the moment I cried out to God to take over my life completely. I told him I would trust him in everything. If I wasn't going to live then I knew it was his will. I was ready for that. I succumbed to totally releasing all my troubles and a weight came off my shoulders. I no longer feared the outcome. Sure I wanted to live and I wanted to be healthy again. I wanted to see my grandchildren grow up and know that my son was going to be OK. At that moment that I broke down, turning over everything I knew in my heart that I was going to be okay, whether it meant I was not going to get better or I was going to be whole again.
After that day I never feared any of the tests or diagnosis that the doctors were telling me. I had times of good news and then the next visit was the complete opposite, but I never ever gave up believing that no matter what that God was in control. I never let fear creep in again, not even on the day that I went in for surgery on November 17, 2009. The doctors still had not come to any conclusion how this was going to turn out until they did the surgery, either it was going to be removable or if not they would close me back up and give me a 12% chance of living.
My surgery was 5 hours long, I remember waking up with 5 doctors looking down at me to see if I was going to come out of it or not. The surgeon told me how long it took and they got it all. I know I smiled but not once did I doubt that I wasn't going to be OK. I praised God for all of his glory.
After a 6 week recovery period at home and scans every 4 months since then I have been doing great. I take an injection every 3 weeks that prevents new cancer cells from growing, which is a small price to pay for life.
My last visit to Iowa City they said I didn't have to go back for 6 months for my next scans. I am feeling like a new person today, loving and living life to the fullest. Each day and moment I am thankful for, never taking life for granted again. Praise be to God.

My Pot of Gold

2010-07-25T20:20:00.004-05:00

I was driving home one day last week and this beautiful rainbow appeared in the sky after it had rained. I pulled over to take a picture. I love seeing nature at its best. The picture doesn't do justice but I wanted to share.
I kept thinking, where is my pot of gold at the end of that rainbow? I keep waiting to find it. What would I do if I did suddenly find it one day? I have so many things in my head that I would like to do with that pot of gold.
You know what? All the gold in the world cannot buy happiness. I know you say "But it sure would help". Temporarily it would probably help, but God, my family and friends are my pot of gold. I love them all and they bring me the most happiness that can be found.

Watkins Cinnamon

2010-07-25T07:40:00.005-05:00

Let's talk cinnamon. I love cinnamon so much I use it on as many things as I can. I have tried many brands before finding Watkins Cinnamon, there is no comparison. It is so good, you don't have to use as much in a recipe. All of the natural oils are in the cinnamon, no ground up twigs, branches or leaves, just pure cinnamon. Want a sample, I will send you one just for asking.

Cinnamon is one of the world’s oldest and most
popular spices; it is used in cuisines around the
world and is the most important “sweet spice.”
There are two kinds of cinnamon: Ceylon
cinnamon and cassia.
Ceylon cinnamon (sometimes called “true”
cinnamon) is native to Sri Lanka. It is a pale tan
color and has an exceptionally mild flavor; very
pleasant, but so delicate that it seems weak to
the North American palate. Most of the Ceylon
cinnamon imported into the United States is
re-exported to Mexico.
Almost all of what we in North America call
“cinnamon” is actually cassia, which has a
more intense flavor. Watkins purchases the best
cinnamon available on the market…specifically,
Korintje cassia. When the cinnamon is received,
it is inspected for cleanliness and freedom from
foreign matter before being ground. It is our strict
attention to detail that makes our cinnamon the
very best available.
• Korintje cassia: The strongest in flavor; Watkins
Cinnamon contains a minimum of 2% essential
oil; many others on the market contain 1 to 2%,
and inferior brands have as low as .5%.
• Strict quality control: Each shipment is tested
upon arrival for quality.
• Carefully ground and sifted: To assure uniform
particle size and quality.
Enjoy Watkins superior cassia cinnamon in apple
pies and on apple sauce, on ice cream and in milkshakes,
in French toast and pancake batter and on
cereal or oatmeal.

Fun Fact:
If you stacked all the containers of Cinnamon
Watkins has sold since 1895, it would be 15,766
times taller than the Eiffel Tower.

Independent Watkins Associate #300500

Watkins Black Pepper

2010-07-23T22:13:00.005-05:00

There is no doubt a difference in peppers. Watkins is by far the best. Did you know it is sneeze proof? It is, all of the natural oils are left in the pepper and it is not ground up twigs, branches, leaves, etc. Just pure pepper. Want a sample? I will send one to you just for asking.
Black pepper is, without a doubt, the world’s most
popular and important spice. Of the total spice
usage nationwide, about a third is devoted to pepper.
It is used in virtually every cuisine in the world.
Its versatility and popularity have earned it the title
“The King of Spices.”
Watkins has been famous for pepper for over a
hundred years, and has always purchased the best
peppercorns available on the market. These top
grade peppercorns are always clean and uniform,
and are carefully screened for twigs and other fillers
before being granulated.
Once granulated, the pepper is immediately
packed into our trademark black tin.
• Malabar and Lampong peppercorns: The strongest
in flavor; preferred for processing because
they retain more flavor. The Malabar variety
comes from the coast of India; Lampong is from
Indonesia.
• Exclusive granulating process: Watkins exclusive
process granulates each berry into distinct
particles rather than crushing or grinding them
into dust. Our process doesn’t create as much
friction, which can evaporate the essential oils
by generating heat. The result is better flavor
retention.
• Carefully screened: Stems and other debris are
meticulously removed to ensure the purest pepper
flavor.
Fun Fact:
If you stacked all the containers of Black Pepper
sold by Watkins since 1895, it would be 35,106
times taller than the Empire State Building.

Benefits of Watkins Original Grapeseed Oil

2010-07-20T20:52:00.003-05:00

This is one of my favorite and most used products from Watkins. I am going to share some of the benefits for you. I have been a Watkins Independent Associated since 1982 and love using the products.
Grapeseed oil is enjoying a rapid rise in popularity
today. Although this oil is relatively new to
our market, it has been produced and enjoyed in
Europe for many years—sold not only as a cooking
oil, but also in French pharmacies as a remedy
for high cholesterol. In fact, grapeseed oil is
one of the only foods shown to not only lower
LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, but also increase HDL
(“good”) cholesterol—a distinct advantage over
other oils. This wonderful oil is now available
from Watkins for the home cook concerned with
good health and great taste.
Our grapeseed oil is available unflavored or
with natural flavoring oils, and enhances your
favorite cooking:
• Original as a wonderfully light, neutral flavor
that complements any cuisine.
• Delicious: Unlike canola oil, grapeseed oil has a
wonderful, light flavor; unlike olive oil, its light,
neutral flavor won’t clash with certain foods.
• Versatile: Excellent as a dipping oil, on pastas,
for sautéing and stir-frying; as the primary oil in
salad dressings and marinades; anywhere you
would use cooking oil.
• Low in saturated fat: At 8%, it has only half the
saturated fat of olive oil; the lowest of all oils
except canola.
• Highest in polyunsaturated fat: (72%), all as
linoleic acid (Omega-6), which has the greatest
effect in raising HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering
LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides
(fat carried in the blood).
• Environmentally friendly: Pressed from grape
seeds in Italy after wine production, it requires
no new farmland or water to produce.
• Contains antioxidants: Contains vitamin E,
and a group of bioflavonoids known as proanthocyanadins,
some of the most powerful known
natural antioxidants.
• High flashpoint: Highest flashpoint of all cooking
oils; less smoke, less danger of burning.

Help, my Refrigerator Died!

2010-07-13T19:43:00.005-05:00

You know, I just wanted to come home, sit in my lawn chair and relax. Well, that isn't happening. I had a feeling things were only going to get worse as the day went on.
Got up this morning and the stuff in the freezer was all mushy and melted. Didn't have time to clean it before heading out the door to work, so just shut it and hoped it would kick back in. Was I ever dreaming. Got home, slowly opened the freezer door expecting a miracle to happen while I was at work today. Are you kidding me? Everything is melted and it stinks, so now I am cleaning it out. Throwing away some really good stuff that I had frozen and was going to use some day. The refrigerator isn't cooling like it should either so hope that by not getting into it it will last until the repair man comes.
I was just thinking last week I should clean that freezer section out. Well by golly I am doing it tonight. Next time I will not think about it so hard. Did I put karma out there?
So better get cleaning, that's why Denise Thinks Green.

Avon Lady Calling

2010-07-04T17:51:00.020-05:00

Many of you know I like to dabble in home based businesses and one that I have been with along with Watkins is Avon. I am an Avon Representative and I absolutely love Avon and the products. It is a great company and I meet so many new and interesting people with this part time business.
My main reason for joining Avon was because the jewelry is nickel free and I have skin allergies so I cannot wear anything but nickel free. Plus I love the price and I love the styles. I also use the makeup, I have sensitive skin and Avon works the best for me.
One of my favorite products is the Skin So Soft Bath Oil. There are so many uses for this product besides bathing with it. I do have a list if you want one that lists over 100 ways to use Skin So Soft Bath Oil so please visit www.youravon.com/dpassehl
Check out the great deals Avon has also. If you order online I have a gift for you. Have a great Avon day and that is why Denise Thinks Green.

I Need Your Help

2010-07-03T08:05:00.004-05:00

Has God ever put something in your heart and you know you just have to do something about it? Well he has done that to me and now I am on a mission to help someone. This is not for me that I am doing this so please read it and think about what I have to say. I have so many friends that have richly blessed my life and have done things for me when I least expected it. I call them God's angels and they show up right when I need them. What I am asking is for you to listen to your heart and if you can help me with this project please do. I would appreciate it so much.
I have a friend who lost his computer, his connection to the world. It got damaged in one of our many storms last week and he has been without his computer that connects him to his many friends and work that he has begun on his computer. He has a very high deductible on his insurance and his funds are just not there to purchase another one at this time.
I loaned him a small laptop that I have to help him get by. He is so happy to have that and I can see it in his face that he appreciates it. I could also see in his face before I loaned it to him how down he was and lost. Being someone who uses my computer all the time I could feel his pain.
What I am asking is this. If anyone has a computer tower that they no longer want or would like to donate please contact me. I have a monitor so all I am asking for is the tower and I want to be honest. If it isn't working or isn't in good condition I do not want it. If you don't want it then I don't want to give someone something that doesn't work or needs work or lots of upgrading. Please pass this onto your friends, forward my blog.
Your life will be blessed by helping someone who needs it. I believe in pay it forward. I have been blessed so many times and didn't feel like I deserved it, God is so good.
That is why Denise Thinks Green.

Forgiveness

2010-06-30T20:25:00.006-05:00

How does one go about asking forgiveness? First I pray to God to forgive me and for others to forgive me when I have done something I am not proud that I did. I had a bad day yesterday and in the midst of it all I was so upset I did things I am not proud of. I acted in a way that I should not of and I cannot say anymore than I am sorry.
I am a very tender hearted person and I don't like to make people upset. I tend to be the person who wants to fix problems and try to take on more than I should. I want peace and love, but some days just don't work out that way.
I also know that until someone has gone through major health issues in their lives like I have with my cancer you can never quite be comfortable with anything again. Every little ache or pain or issue that might make you think of cancer will always be in the back of your mind. I am getting closer to August 4th when I go back for my second set of scans to see if everything is still normal since my surgery in November. I pray daily all will be good. One can never get that thought out of their mind.
I pushed myself this week and became very worn down and fatigued, I think that is what made me act the way I did this week. My shot that I get for my cancer also has a side affect that it can lower blood sugar if you are diabetic. I had my shot last Friday and it takes about a week for my blood sugar to stabilize. I am diabetic and have been since 2008. When my blood sugar is messed up I tend to get very emotional and I cry easily.
Since my surgery for cancer I have become more sympathetic towards others who have had the same. I can relate to their feelings. I wish there was a support group near for my type of cancer, carcinoid. So many emotions run through your mind and body.
So if I am having a bad day, please understand it is not you. What would make things better for me is to just talk to me and ask if there is something you can do for me. An ear to listen, a hug, or just a smile to say you understand.

Mowing Lawn Again

2010-06-22T21:11:00.007-05:00

You know I love mowing the lawn, can't wait to start in the Spring. I have it all figured out that I will have to mow at least 26 times during the season. I have a very large yard and it takes me a good 4 hours. Those 4 hours give me lots of time to think and hash out things that I am thinking about. It is the best therapy for me to sit on that mower and dream, think and plan my days. Not everybody likes to mow like I do and I take great pride in making my lawn beautiful so I can enjoy it when I get done. I love to walk around the yard and look at all the things that I have planted and how good my garden is growing.
I am thankful that God has given me another summer to mow since I love it so much. When I found out I had cancer last fall I kept thinking of all the things I would not be able to do or would miss doing. He gave me another chance at life so that I can do all that and more. God is so good. I try to take care of his creation to the best of my ability. That is why Denise Thinks Green.

Coffee

2010-06-21T22:06:00.004-05:00

I love coffee, I cannot even start my day without it. I love the smell and the taste. I cannot even think without at least one cup of coffee first thing when I wake up. My favorite time is early in the morning hours on a sunny morning as I sit on my porch watching the sun come up, listening to the birds greeting me. I cannot pass a coffee shop without being drawn into it to get my favorite cup of java. I enjoy being with friends as we have our coffee, trying to solve the worlds problems. I cannot have the same feelings with a soda or tea, what about you? What is your favorite way to drink coffee and when do you enjoy it the most? Want to join me for coffee soon? Name the day and spot, I will be there.

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-09T08:30:00.007-05:00

Today is Mother's Day. I am so blessed to have a loving son and 2 beautiful twin grandchildren that mean so much to me. There is an unconditional love that goes with being a mother. Nothing in this world compares to the love you receive from your family.
My own mother has been the best mother in the world also. She has always been my strength when I needed advice. She taught me how to be a mother and what love is all about.
My mother is still living and I am blessed to have her in my life yet. She now resides at the Care Center in Hampton. She suffered permanent brain damage in 2008 due to lack of oxygen to the brain after surgery. She was a normal functioning person until the day of September 21, 2008. I lost the mother I knew the day before to a person who cannot be on her own anymore. She is like the child now and I grieved my loss for a long time. My sister and I are now the mother and she is like a child. I shed so many tears for her because she does know something went wrong and we cannot fix her.
I have asked God what my lesson is with this situation with my mother. He comes back to me often, the word is Patience. I never was a good one with patience, now I have learned how to be more patient with others and especially with her. I have had to learn a new way to communicate with her and loving her is so easy. She appreciates what we have done for her, I can see it in her face.
Today, love your mother as if there is no tomorrow. Be thankful for her. Give her a kiss and hug and tell her how much you love her. Being a mother is the hardest job there ever will be in your life but it is the most rewarding.

My New Facebook Page

2010-04-27T19:19:00.006-05:00

I decided to start something new, been wanting to do this since I watched the movie Julie & Julia so finally got it together and here I go. I am going to post recipes and make them, plus take a picture of everything I make and post it on Facebook. The thing is, since I am an Independent Watkins Associate #300500 I use only Watkins products so everything I make is made with Watkins. I hope you enjoy this as much as I am doing it. I love to cook and I love to share what I make. Cooking has been in my family on both sides so I come from a long line of great cooks, even my father was a cook (his birthday would have been today, he passed away in 1997).

So please visit my Facebook page, 365 Days Cooking with Watkins Products. I will give you the item number if you would like to order it from me. The products are great and 100% guaranteed or your money back. Enjoy the ride for the year. If you use Watkins products in any of your recipes please post it on the Facebook page and share it with us. I love trying new recipes and I know lots of other people do too.

The Dreaded Colonscopy

2010-04-26T16:44:00.002-05:00

Yep, that is what I am talking about. Had my very first one today. Started the prep yesterday of eating nothing and only drinking clear fluids. At 5:00 P.M. I started drinking that very "tasty" concoction. I was really glad to finish the last sip, but it wasn't that bad. I won't go into detail about the rest of the evening but it could have been worse. The actual procedure this morning wasn't that bad either. I heard too many people talk about theirs but to tell you the truth it is not that bad. I am happy to say I do not have to have another one for 10 years and all is well. So please, don't put this off because of other peoples stories.

The Spice Connection

2010-04-24T16:17:00.007-05:00

I recently took a trip to an Amish community and visited many of their stores. I love how you can buy in bulk and I could get about anything you could think of.

I found the section of spices and it would have been tempting to pick up some of their plastic bags of spices and plastic containers of spices but being that I am an Independent Watkins Associate and have been since 1982 just didn't seem right to me. In the back of my mind I was being tempted by the devil to do it, but I am very proud of my business and what products we have. I am proud of how they are made right here in Minnesota and the quality is the best. Why would anyone want to bake or cook something that doesn't use the best products for their guests or family?

I am not only talking about their stores, you can go into many other stores and find spices in plastic containers. This of course is all my own opinions and from what I have read on the subject of keeping spices fresh. I get asked this question a lot because of what I do.

What you put into food and your emotions reflects on the person who eats it, if it is made with love people know it. I love the Watkins products and the quality they represent.

I just received the May/June AARP Magazine and ran across this paragraph:
" Supermarket Guru's Spice Advice--Most spices will last 6 to 12 months, if they're stored properly. The longer they sit in the cupboard, the more likely they will lose their health benefits. So always store spices in glass jars, says Phil Lempert (aka the Supermarket Guru)-and transfer those that come in plastic to glass."

Ah, so how long have those spices been sitting on their shelves in plastic bags and plastic containers? We will never know. Furthermore, if you do buy them and have to go and buy the glass jars is that really saving you money?

Watkins spices are so fresh and put in glass jars to begin with. I don't have to worry about their freshness, plus if you are not happy for any reason the products are 100% money back guarantee. Would a grocery store do that?

I can show you how to save 25% on the products you buy from Watkins and even how to start your own home based business from one of the oldest and first home based business companies around. Watkins is still in business since 1868 and still thriving. Let me show you how.

Knit, Knit, Knitting Away

2010-03-19T19:56:00.006-05:00

I love to knit, I love to knit anything and everything that I can do. Right now I am knitting a very cute baby blanket for a friend who will be having a grand baby real soon. I am making this baby blanket with love.
Knitting they say is very good for lowering your blood pressure. My blood pressure has always been good, but now it is even better since I picked up my knitting needles and can't seem to put them down.
I go in every store that has yarn and walk up and down the isle, feeling the yarn and visioning in my head what I could make with it. I love the feel of it and the smell of the yarn. I can hardly wait to get home to start my project, actually one of many that I have started and can't wait to finish.
I love watching how the project turns into something to wear, use or display. It is amazing how fast the needles fly and how comforting it is. I learned to knit when I was in Girl Scouts and have knitted various projects over the years but nothing like I am doing now. Does this mean I am getting old or more into making my own gifts and clothing. Whatever it might be I love it. So if you don't hear from me for awhile or wonder what I am doing in my free time it is knitting. I take it with me everywhere that I might have to sit for a few minutes or longer. It also is a great conversation started. I pull out my knitting and before you know people are asking me what I am making and admiring my project.
If you see me somewhere, ask me what I am knitting and I will pull it out of my bag and show you. I am addicted to knitting and loving it.

A Day at the Cancer Center for Me

2010-03-12T22:45:00.008-06:00

Today I went to Mason City to the Cancer Center for my Octreotide shot that I get every 3 weeks for the rest of my life. The shot doesn't hurt and I have had no side effects. I am grateful for such a drug that will prevent new cancer from growing. The cost is very high for the shots, to be exact they cost $7,723.80 per shot, I have a $5,000.00 deductible on my insurance so that comes out of my pocket. It is not easy to come up with that amount and will have to do this every year, but I am thankful I have insurance.

The picture above is what I see when I am waiting for them to mix the drug that is injected into my hip. Since it is so expensive and it has to be mixed I have about an hour to wait for it. There are several units to sit at and you have a great view out the window. Each unit has a tv if you want to watch it but I prefer to watch the ducks in the pond and the squirrels chase each other around the tree or chase away the ducks so they cannot eat the corn. I take my knitting with me and just relax, the nurses bring you whatever you want to drink and are so kind.

Before I have my shot I have to have blood work taken each time. Then I have a visit with the nurse and she takes my vitals. My cancer doctor in Mason City is Dr. Bate and he is so good. I look forward to visiting with him each time because I learn so much more about the type of cancer that was removed.

When he is done he sends me back to the unit where they do chemo and my injection. As I sit there watching the squirrels, ducks, knitting and listening to the other people I wonder what their story is. We each have our own story in life. What I have learned throughout this whole process is to have more compassion for others and to love them for what they are. We are all loved by someone and important in our own ways. I quietly say a prayer for them and myself and thank God for the advancements that have been made with cancer treatments.

I will be having my first CT scans in another week and then I will be going to Iowa City for a checkup with the doctors there that performed my surgery. I am so grateful to them and their knowledge. I have been given a second chance at life and I am making the best of it.

The picture below is the squirrel who looks to be well fed. He is boss it looks like to me because he chased the ducks right away from his food. It makes me laugh at how much they remind me of humans in a way. Truth is he provides great entertainment and makes people smile. We all need a smile, don't we?

Knitting, Knitting & More Knitting

2010-02-20T22:12:00.007-06:00

Today I had the pleasure of visiting Old Country Yarn Store in Iowa Falls, Iowa. The owners name is Cindy Maroney and she has the neatest yarn store I have seen. She has a wide assortment of yarns and all the items you need to make your favorite item. I was so excited and my mind was just spinning with all the ideas I could make. Knitting is my favorite past time now and I just can't seem to stop.
I bought several different kinds of really cool yarns and some new catalogs for some new patterns. If only I had the time to do them all. I find knitting to be so relaxing and calming. I don't want to put down my project at the end of the day.
Right now I am knitting for my twin grandchildren. They will be 4 in March so I am making them each their own pullover hooded sweater top. I have a boy and girl so I have green camo yarn for Thomas and pink camo yarn for Keagan. I hope when they put them on they will feel the love that grandma put into them as I knit each stitch.
If you ever get a chance visit the unique store in Iowa Falls, Old Country Yarn Store. You will be glad you did.

Which Hurts The Most, doing Taxes or My Octreotide Shot?

2010-02-19T21:13:00.005-06:00

Earlier today I posted on Twitter and Facebook that I wasn't sure which was going to hurt the most, getting our taxes done or my cancer shot Octreotide. I am happy to say I am glad our taxes are done and that my shot went really well today.
I get my shot every 3 weeks for the rest of my life. It prevents new cancer from growing. I have already had 4 shots since my surgery in November and this has been the best one. The others were painful and hurt afterwards and today I found out why. I had a different nurse administer the shot, she had me lay down on my side this time and felt on my hip where to give the injection. The other times the nurses just had me lean over and they would do it that way, well that would hurt and I would be in pain for a couple days. I asked her why she did it this way and she told that this is the correct way to do it and the goal is for no pain and not to hit a vein. It did not hurt and I do not feel that I had a shot today. I asked her if I could ask to have it done this way every time and she assured me that I could. So from now on I am going to tell them how I want it done. I didn't know I had this choice until today.
So I guess I have to say the shot didn't hurt and I really don't know how much we will have to pay into taxes yet but I am praying it will be as painless as my shot was today.
On a different subject I got results from the psychologist that evaluated my mother and ran some tests. She has been in the nursing home since November of 2008. She suffered brain damage after a surgery she had. The surgery went fine, but due to lack of oxygen after her surgery she suffered brain damage leaving her unable to be left alone. She went from a vibrant, active woman to someone who cannot take care of herself or remember from on minute to the next what is going on. My sister and I have noticed that in the last few weeks our mother has been getting worse. The results today told us why. The nurse from the nursing home called and I went into visit with them. The psychologist said she has cognitive impairment and it is one of the worse cases of brain damage he has ever seen. She is regressing and thinks she is in her 20's now. That explains to me why the day I went to see her and it was my birthday, I asked her what happened on February 4, 1955. She had no clue. Do you know how it felt to know my mother didn't know my birthday anymore? It broke my heart. I love my mother so much and I miss the mother that I knew who called me or I called her everyday just to say hi.
We never know when we sign those papers in the hospital telling us these things can happen.
So enjoy your parents and love them with all your hearts. I have a different relationship now as a daughter, I am the one along with my sister who is the mother now. She is in a special unit at the nursing home that takes great care of her, 24/7. I do not have to worry about her because she has the best care there is. I am grateful to them all.
Live each day to the fullest and love with all your hearts. My cancer surgery has changed me also. Never will I take life for granted, life if fragile.

Valentine's Day 2010

2010-02-14T19:01:00.018-06:00

For me this year every day and every holiday are wonderful. Since I had my cancer surgery in November and have been blessed with good health I am grateful for each and every day of my life. I feel my life started over once I woke up from surgery, it has been like a new beginning for me and I am enjoying life to the fullest.

Today was nothing romantic for Valentine's Day. My husband took me to the Latimer Firemen's Omelet breakfast and that was great. I didn't have to cook and got to visit with so many people that you don't see very much. Good company and good food.

We then went out to Dudley's Truck Stop before church since we had an hour. We had coffee and found more people to spend the morning with. More great conversations and friends.

Next stop was church and we had a great sermon today. Seems like the pastors have eyes in the back of their heads and know just what I need to hear on that Sunday. More visiting and more friends to see. Another great moment in life.

Now onto a wedding reception in Hampton. A good friend and his bride got married during their church service today and then had a reception afterwards. Great food and more people to visit with.

After I was done at the reception I went to the nursing home to visit my mother who has been there for a few months over a year. She suffered brain damage after surgery in 2008. She has since developed Alzheimer's and has been getting a little worse each day. I lost the mother I had before her surgery, she was a vibrant active person in society. Since the brain damage she is now like a 2 year old or less. I no longer have the conversations a mother daughter have. I am the one who takes her by the hand when I am there and watches her with her bizarre behavior. I long for the days when we could visit and laugh. I cherish the moments I am with her but miss her so much. She doesn't even know what is going on anymore. I visit with the women who take care of her, they are like family now because they take care of my mother and do a wonderful job. I don't have to worry about her because she is in good hands.

All the activites are over for the day, but the best part is coming home to my husband who loves me. If I doubted it before my surgery I shouldn't have, he has been so supportive of me and truly loves me. We are making the best of each day we have together. We laugh more, visit more, and enjoy each other more. Life started over for me November 17, 2009 when I woke up from surgery and they told me they got it all. I am blessed.

Happy Valentine's Day.

It's Complicated (My Health Care)

2010-02-09T18:31:00.005-06:00

Why should a person have to be concerned about the cost of their health care?

As most of you know I had surgery for cancer in November and if you saw me today you would not know that I had cancer removed and will be taking a special treatment for the rest of my life. I look very healthy and am very healthy now. They got all the cancer and to prevent new cancer from growing I have to take a special injection every 3 weeks for the rest of my life. The drug is a sandostatin drug and it is called Octreotide.

Do you know what this injection costs? Are you ready? $7,723.80 each injection every 3 weeks! I am in shock. My insurance has a $5,000.00 deductible that I have to meet first. None of this is a typo.

I am thankful there is such a drug but does it have to be so expensive? How can the pharmaceutical companies sleep at night knowing that most people cannot afford this and don't have insurance?

I am trying to find some kind of assistance to help me with the $5,000.00 deductible. Does anybody know where a person might go? I do think our Health Care programs need an overhaul, what do you think?

"Hardee's" Great Service with a Smile

2010-01-17T06:25:00.008-06:00

Friday, January 15, 2010 I went through the drive through at Hardee's in Hampton, Iowa. I had already ate supper so I decided to take home something for my husband. I placed my order and headed for home. When he opened the bag an item was missing. I live 15 miles from Hampton so going back to get the missing item was not something I would do at 7:00 p.m. on a snowy evening with slick roads.

I wasn't upset because I know how these things can happen. I simply called and talked to the manager Paulette and explained the situation. She was so pleasant and told me they would honor the missing item and to come in to get it when I was in town the next time. I knew she would do that because she is a great manager and we live in Franklin County in Iowa "where everybody knows your name". I am proud to be from Franklin County, small town businesses with a smile.

Next time you are in Hampton, Iowa stop in Hardee's and tell them how good of a job they do. We all need a smile and encouragement. I support our local businesses. By spending my money in Franklin County our tax dollars stay here.

Hats off to you Paulette for being a great manager of Hardee's!

2010-01-17T06:25:00.001-06:00

Snow Day

2010-01-07T11:29:00.004-06:00

Today I have a snow day at home. I hate to admit it but I am really enjoying it. I just took a great nap already. Going to do some other things that need done and just relax.

I went back to work this week after being home for 6 weeks recovering from surgery. I knew I would be tired because I was used to taking naps and we need that rest to recover. What I didn't realize is how tired I would be. It has been a challenge keeping up my energy, but what is more of a challenge is when I get home from work at 5 p.m. I make supper, get the dishes in the dishwasher, sit down in my recliner and I am asleep before you know it. So then I get up and go to bed. I have been sleeping so soundly at night and before you know it it is morning again. I wonder how long it will be before I am not so tired?

So I am going to get caught up on some sleep today. Have a great snow day!

Independent Watkins Associate Special from Denise

2009-12-28T15:13:00.006-06:00

Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas? If not check out my specials for Jan/Feb online in the Monthly Specials Column. I will be giving a 6 oz. can of Watkins Famous Cinnamon to anyone who orders $25.00 or more directly from me. Another bonus--no shipping or handling fee!

Check out the products and specials at watkinsonline.com
If you order from me no shipping or handling
ID#300500

Neighbors and Gratitude

2009-12-27T13:24:00.014-06:00

This morning I was awakened by the sound of a tractor outside my window. I thought for a moment it was the snowplow going by again cleaning off our gravel road. It kept going back and forth so I looked out the window. It was two of our neighbors, with two tractors with blades, cleaning out our lane and yard.

You see, my husband has been working on our tractor and snow blower for a couple days because it broke down and has not had the time to clean out the lane or yard. We have just been driving over it and waiting until he got it fixed. Well we were surprised by the neighbors, they dug us out. We have the best neighbors a person could ask for, it brought tears to my eyes because we love them like they are our family. I said "Thank you God for our neighbors, they have been a blessing to us".

We also woke up to no electricity. Don't really know why but it was off and my husband needed some coffee and something to eat. We asked our neighbors, Brenda, Dale and Zach if they would like to go since they were kind enough to clean out our yard. They were game so we picked them up and headed to our local favorite local place to eat, Dudley's. They had power, we called in advance to make sure.

The smell of breakfast wafted past our noses and the smell of coffee greeted us. The waitresses brought coffee immediately, warming our cold fingers. They took our orders and within no time at all our favorite breakfast was delivered to our table. Five of us sat around the table talking, laughing and enjoying each others company. As more and more locals came in we were all talking and enjoying the morning. It was heartwarming to my soul. By 9:00 a.m. we were done and ready to go home.

I have so much to be thankful for. Before I was diagnosed with cancer and had my surgery I don't really think I appreciated what God did for my as much as I do now. Every day there are blessings just waiting to come our way. I cherish them all now and can't wait to rise in the morning to see what he has in store for me. If I can be a blessing to someone I pray that the opportunity comes my way.

Have a great day, look for your blessings and cherish them all.

Christmas 2009

2009-12-24T14:03:00.007-06:00

Well, what can I say? The weather is in charge this year and it has made travel rough for those of us who want to go someplace. We have decided not to make the 4 hours trek down to my son's so we will wait until the weather is better. There are many others that are facing the same thing that we are right now. I would rather be safe at home. We can do Christmas a week later.

Everything is ready to go, presents all wrapped and baking all done. This is a special year for me and I am so excited and grateful. I have enjoyed getting ready this year, you see, I just had major surgery and I am doing so good and will not have to have chemo. I am having another treatment called sandostatin injections. I am so grateful to have made it through surgery and also for the outcome. Everyday has been Christmas to me since November 17.

So my husband and I will be at home with the two dogs, relaxing and enjoying each others company. Even though we won't be with the children our hearts are connected and we will talk often on the cell phone. Our day will come when we can get there.

We must not forget the real reason for Christmas, the birth of baby Jesus. He is the reason for the season.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and may 2010 be the best ever!

One Month Later

2009-12-17T19:54:00.021-06:00

Some of you probably have been wondering why I haven't written anything about what is going on since my surgery for cancer. I wanted to wait so I can write about what it is like being at home one month from the day that I had my surgery in Iowa City.

If you don't know what they did during my surgery I will explain it here. I had my surgery on November 17 in Iowa City. I had prayed so much and believed so much that God would be with me. I didn't really have any fear, I was at peace. The worse part of that day for me was the fact that I could not wear any makeup or fix my hair. If you know me, I don't leave the house without doing either one--never! That alone took more out of me than the upcoming surgery. So as we drove to Iowa City and stopped to use the rest room I would duck in and out as fast as I could so no one could see me.

When we got to the hospital things started rolling fast once I got in. They were running a little late which pushed things back a bit. After getting me signed in and taken to the waiting room where I had to put on the gown I sat patiently waiting, praying the whole time. Anesthesiologist came in and put the IV in and then they took me to where they would put in the spinal. They give me something to relax me which was mighty powerful, I didn't care what they would do at that point. I really didn't feel any pain, just some pressure as they inserted the epidural. Then they wheeled me to the operating room. I was doing really great, actually high as a kite because of the Demerol. They slid me onto the operating table, told me they were giving me a shot to make me sleep and put the mask on and before you know it, I was gone. I didn't realize how long surgery was until I came too, 5 1/2 hours. I really hate that feeling of waking up after surgery, it is like where am I and what is going on as these people are all looking at you and talking to you. They told me it was 1 a.m. and that they had taken a tumor from inside the stomach, one on the outside of the stomach, burned 2 holes in my liver, removed 3/4 of my stomach, took out my right ovary, took two spots off the intestines (which were benign) and then rerouted my intestines. The doctors informed me they got everything. I had a nice long incision the whole length of my abdomen, staples up and down, looked like a railroad track. I had a tube that went down my nose into my stomach, was on oxygen, IV drip, catheter and a feeding tube. They kept me well sedated the first several days, until about day 4 when they started removing tubes. One by one they came out, freeing me of all the things needed to keep me comfortable those first few days. That was a great feeling to be able to breath without things down my nose and in my throat which was getting sore because of them.

They had gotten me up to walk, of course that hurt my stomach like you wouldn't believe. After several times it got easier. Now that all the tubes and such were out I could walk without their help so took lots of walks to get my strength back. Besides, TV was boring, I was getting homesick and needed to keep busy. I was in the hospital 8 days and missed everyone so much. It was too far for people to just stop in so I didn't have any visitors except my pastor came by one day. I got very lonely and missed my home, family, friends, and my dogs.

After day 4 they introduced liquids to me, then day 5 semi soft foods, day 6 semi solid foods, day 7 normal food. I had to be able to go to the bathroom on my own before they would let me go home. It took awhile for the intestines to kick in after going through so much trauma. I worried that they wouldn't work and I couldn't go home. Finally they started working and I was so happy! They work! Eating was very hard to do since I didn't have much stomach, no appetite, and when I did eat would get indigestion. Of course the hospital food was nothing to get excited about. They gave me something for the indigestion and that helped. After day 4 I told them to stop the pain medication because it was making me very ill. They didn't like that but I refused the pain drugs and said Tylenol would be just fine and it worked for me.

Finally on day 8 the doctors came in, looked at everything, took out my drainage tube in my stomach and released me. The doctor told me I wouldn't have to have chemo because they found out what type of cancer this was and that I could do a monthly injection called sandostatin drugs. They told me the day before I probably would go home. I called Gordon so he and my sister Dyanne had gotten up and left early since I had to be out by 11:00 a.m. I could not wait for them to get there so I could be on my way HOME. Oh that word was so sweet to my lips. I was ready when they got there, Gordon was surprised to see how well I looked and I was walking around the room. I had taken a shower, applied my makeup and was ready to face the world. I felt human again. I was going home and no one was stopping me now. I got the usual ride in the wheelchair as we left to take me to the car. Fresh air swept across my face and I took in a deep breath, no hospital smell, it was heavenly.

It takes nearly 3 hours from Iowa City to home. I had some pain but not serious. I sat in the back and enjoyed the ride home. We stopped and got some soup which tasted so good, no more terrible hospital food. Once home I walked in and HOME SWEET HOME greeted me. I was home and it felt so good. Gordon brought everything in. I found my recliner calling my name, sunk into my chair and covered up with a blanket. I was so happy to be in my comfy chair. My chair became my bed for the next 2 weeks because sleeping in bed was very uncomfortable. I tried it and couldn't do it.

December 2nd I had to go back to Iowa City for a follow up and to have my staples removed. My neighbor and friend Brenda took me. They said I was doing great, had some blood work done and told me I could do the injections in Mason City but will return 3 times a year for scans in Iowa City. The injections are very expensive and will be given to me every 3 weeks for the rest of my life.

Each day brought healing. Eating has been a challenge, finding what would work for me and what wouldn't. Getting stronger but taking lots of naps. I am not allowed to drive because of the staples at first and then just needed to heal. I have had to rely on friends and family to get me places. Several people had brought food so I didn't need to worry about food for awhile. It was all very much appreciated.

Today is exactly a month later and I had my sandostatin shot this morning. The shot was given to me in the buttocks and I did not feel it. The only side effect I could possibly have would be that it either cause high blood sugar or hypoglycemia, neither one happened. Dyanne took me and we ate after we got out of the Cancer Center.

A month later and I feel wonderful. I have lost 18 pounds, eating is getting better every day. Our bodies are amazing, healing has gone well. I will be going back to work on January 4. I have enjoyed this time at home, I have gotten to know myself and have spent many hours talking to God about how grateful I am for what he has done for me. My husband loves having me here to have a hot meal ready when he gets up in the morning, when he comes home from lunch and for supper. He will miss all of this when I go back to work. He is getting a little tummy on him. I love spoiling him and this has given me that chance.

I am looking forward to Christmas. I have everything wrapped and can't wait to spend time with my grandchildren, Brandon and Machelle. It is going to be a glorious time and I thank God that he has given me a second chance at life.

Wishing you all a Very Merry Christmas and Healthy New Year!

Surgery Day

2009-11-17T05:34:00.005-06:00

I got up very early this morning so that I could have the quiet hours of the morning to myself before I go to Iowa City for surgery. I did some last minute things and took a look around the house to make sure I didn't leave anything undone. I have been preparing for this day since November 4th when they gave me the date for surgery. Each day I would take care of another item that needed to be done so that I wouldn't have to worry about it while I was in the hospital and I don't want my husband to have to worry about anything. He has enough on his plate so I wanted to make this easy for him.

Thanks to my Facebook friends there is a sign up sheet for people to bring food to the house while I am gone and when I get home. I am so blessed to have such great friends. If you want to know more you can check out Debworks on Facebook and she has a spread sheet designed for people to sign up.

As I walked around the house for the last several days I look at everything I have and relish the thoughts and memories. I feel very humble today and a little bit sad. I am praying this is an easy tumor to remove and it can be treated. I want to come home whole and healthy.

Last night we took my two dogs to Tony Pralle who is my dog sitter when I need her. She is great. I call it doggy day care, they really do like it there so I am very comfortable with them there. It was hard waking up to not having my two little fur babies under my feet greeting me with kisses and love in the morning. They mean so much to me, they comfort me when I need it and love me no matter what.

My son and many other people contacted me yesterday to wish me well. I went to work for a few hours and it was very sad leaving those I have learned to love as work mates. I got so many hugs from so many people and I appreciate them all. I felt loved and comforted. I shed tears as I hugged them each one by one and as I drove home I shed many tears, not tears of sadness, but tears of love and how I am going to miss everyone. Thank you my friends for being here when I need you.

I thank all my computer friends and those who aren't on the computer for giving me the support and love I need. So many people I never realized. Gordon has been shown the same love and support by his friends and family also. It is a blessing to have so many in our lives who care.

My house is clean, food is prepared, bills are paid, laundry is done. My checklist is complete and now I am ready. I will keep in touch, I have friends who are going to call others so you will be informed. I am taking my little laptop with, they said I could so I will be online when I can.

God speed my friends, I love you all. I will see you soon.

Back Home from Iowa City

2009-11-04T20:16:00.008-06:00

I am not going to say that I am not scared. I am very scared and I have to remember to trust God and keep being strong.

Today I went to Iowa City Cancer Center to visit with the surgeon who will be doing my surgery. My sister Dyanne took me, my mind isn't on driving right now and it is better for me not to drive that far. We left home at 7:30 a.m., allowing extra time to stop and eat. We decided to eat at Ihop, of course we ate too much but it was good at the time. My appointment was at 12:00 p.m. The doctor, Dr. Howe, came in along with his assistant. He asked me what I had been told so far by the other doctors and then explained to me what he was going to do for me. He left me with no questions because he explained it very well to me. I also had my physical done today, blood work, exam, EKG and visit with the anesthesiologist. We were there for four hours.

What they are going to do is an open surgery. They will have to remove half of my stomach, reroute my intestines and remove the tumor. They will also burn the part of the liver that has a spot on it. They told me all the things that could happen because that is what they have to do. If they find that this is removable once they get in there they will take it out, if not then it will be a different kind of cancer that cannot be removed.

I am having the surgery in Iowa City and they told me I will be there for a week, then sent home to recuperate for 6-8 weeks. After they have tested the tumor they will determine how to treat it.

I am tired tonight, been a very long day. My mind is so full of information and thoughts. I have so much to do before the surgery. I am drained and very tired tonight. Surgery is scheduled for November 17. I will keep you all informed.

My Two Days in Iowa City

2009-10-30T20:03:00.006-05:00

For those of you who have been following me now as I go along this journey in my life since I was diagnosed with cancer, this will tell you what is to come and what I did while in Iowa City for two days.

On my last visit with the Iowa City doctor he scheduled me for a Nuclear Medicine Imaging Scan to detect if there was anymore tumors or cancer cells in my body. Below is a description of what Nuclear Medicine is. The scan on Thursday took 1 hour and the scan on Friday took 1 1/2 hours. My arms were strapped to my body and a Velcro cover was placed over me so I felt like I was in a cocoon. I found it hard to breath because it was tightly wrapped around me. The scan machine was very close to my body and the tip of my nose was very close to touching the machine. I had my whole body scanned. Read this and you will understand what the test is:

What Is Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine specialists use safe, painless, and cost-effective techniques to image the body and treat disease. Nuclear medicine imaging is unique, because it provides doctors with information about both structure and function. It is a way to gather medical information that would otherwise be unavailable, require surgery, or necessitate more expensive diagnostic tests. Nuclear medicine imaging procedures often identify abnormalities very early in the progress of a disease?long before many medical problems are apparent with other diagnostic tests.

Nuclear medicine uses very small amounts of radioactive materials (radiopharmaceuticals) to diagnose and treat disease. In imaging, the radiopharmaceuticals are detected by special types of cameras that work with computers to provide very precise pictures about the area of the body being imaged. In treatment, the radiopharmaceuticals go directly to the organ being treated. The amount of radiation in a typical nuclear imaging procedure is comparable with that received during a diagnostic x-ray, and the amount received in a typical treatment procedure is kept within safe limits.

Today, nuclear medicine offers procedures that are essential in many medical specialties, from pediatrics to cardiology to psychiatry. New and innovative nuclear medicine treatments that target and pinpoint molecular levels within the body are revolutionizing our understanding of and approach to a range of diseases and conditions.

I also had blood work done and then a visit with the doctor. The first doctor came in and told me this was a very serious cancer and did not think surgery was an option. He said chemo would be the only way to treat it and it would be a hard one to treat. Did not give me much hope. My heart sank and I was almost in shock. He told me he would have 2 more doctors look at the tests to see what their opinion was and told me he would contact my doctor in Mason City to set up treatments.

I walked into the hall holding my tears back. My friend Dixie was with me and I could not hold it back anymore. I was trying to be so strong but I was in shock. She held me as I cried. She tried to comfort me but words were not there except to trust God.

As we got to the car I could not talk and we headed someplace to eat and discuss what was next. It wasn't long and I got a call from the doctor and he said he had shown it to the other cancer doctors and they disagreed with him completely. They said surgery was what they would do and then treat it. He apologized to me and said that is why they have such a good team, they help each other. So he said he would call me back after more was discussed.

I got another call while we were eating and he said he talked to a surgeon and he said he thought it was very removable and they could remove the tumor and the 2 spots on my liver. At first the doctor said they would have to do a complete open surgery but the surgeon said they could do it laproscopic. Things were starting to look better now. He wanted to know where I would like to have the surgery done. I asked him what he would do and he said he would want whoever did it to make sure they got it all. I thought about it for awhile, called my husband and he reminded me that Mason City did not want to do surgery on me and would not touch it. I called the Iowa City doctor back and told him I would have it done there since they are the ones who know what it is now and what to do. I began to feel a lightness in my chest and felt there was more hope now. I remembered Dixie's words, trust God.

I have an appointment Wednesday with the surgeon for a consultation. I suppose I will have to have a physical and then set up the surgery. So until then I continue to need your prayers and support. I also need to remember to TRUST GOD.

Shooting Stars & God

2009-10-24T06:44:00.008-05:00

I bet you wonder what has this got to do with anything! Well I am about to tell you about something amazing and wonderful to me.

This all started when I was young. My father loved nature and astrology. He taught us to respect God's creations and taught his grandchildren the same. God gave us this beautiful planet. Over the years I have learned to communicate with the earth and stars, what I am about to tell you is something that has happened to me.

When my father died in 1997 I needed a way to communicate with him to let him know I would be okay and to tell him how much I loved him. So I decided each evening to look up at the stars that he taught us about and pray to God for my father to hear me. Guess what, he did. Every time I would go outside in the dark evening hours before I would go to bed I would look up, say hello and the shooting stars would start. The first time brought tears to my eyes. He heard me! I was so excited and continued to do this often. Each time shooting stars would start.

One evening I had my niece with me staying overnight, she was younger and a very smart young lady. I told her about my experience and I asked her if she would like to say hello to grandpa. We went outside, looked up to the sky, said "Hello grandpa" and stars just started shooting all over. She was holding my hand and as we stood there watching the sky. She knew then that he was watching over her also.

So over the years I continue to do this but not as often as I did at first. This morning I got up early like I usually do, 5:00 a.m. I stepped outside to breath in the fresh air and see if the rain had stopped. As I looked up to the sky I was amazed at the beautiful sky full of bright shining stars. We have not seen them in awhile because it has been raining for days and days. This morning it was so clear and sharp, the air smelling of fall.

I decided to say my prayers and thank God for being in my life during this stressful time since I found out about the cancer. I told him how grateful I am and glad he is in my life. Guess what? Three shooting stars just like that. At that moment I knew my father and God are both watching over me and that I will be okay. I never had any doubt in the first place. This just showed me that I needed to communicate in the way I was taught many years ago with the universe and God. He sends his message in mysterious ways and we just need to watch for them. I look forward to many more conversations.

More Tests in Iowa City

2009-10-20T20:07:00.011-05:00

I am back from a day in Iowa City to get a second opinion about my cancer. My friend Dixie took me and she is a blessing. She knew her way around like a pro because she had been there with her husband when he went through his cancer. I am blessed to have her as a friend.

Everything was there for me so I did not have to take anything with me. We left at 7:00 a.m. so we would be there in plenty of time to have a bite to eat before I had my appointment at 11:00 a.m. I didn't have to wait very long once I was signed in to see 2 different doctors. Both had questions and I had questions. They did an exam and I felt very informed when I got done. I had to have blood tests and I got to see the cancer cell I have on my MRI. That made it all more real to me after seeing that.

They want to do another test (scan) next Thursday and Friday so I will have to stay over night. This will be a radioactive scan so they will inject a radioactive dye in me. The test will take 1 1/2 hours and then I will go back the next day and have it again without the dye. I might as well plan on a nap during that time as long as it is going to take. They want to make sure they are right on their decision as to what type of cancer and how to treat it. They said they don't know what it is, never have seen one like this before.

I had many questions and will have more after the tests are done next week. I suppose they will want to start treatments after that week. I will be able to do it all in Mason City so that will be easier for us. They are working with my doctor in Mason City.

Dixie will be going with me again. I booked a motel room that gives a rate discount for hospital patients. We are going to make this an adventure and do some sight seeing after the test and just have a great time. God has given me this opportunity to be with people I love.

I am not going to tell you that I am not a little scared but I have a deep faith and God is walking me through this, step by step. He is guiding me and I feel his presence. I truly am not fearing it because I know he will be with me. I am not asking why me, I would rather it be me than my son. I want to be an example of how to be strong and have faith. I will take this one day at a time and cherish each day that I have.

God is bigger than cancer.

Second Opinion

2009-10-14T19:52:00.005-05:00

Today I received my call for my appointment in Iowa City for a second opinion as to how to treat my cancer. Dr. Bate actually recommended it because he said this isn't normal (leave it to me). My appointment has been scheduled and I am registered so I just have to show up. I have faith that Dr. Bate knows what he is doing, God led me to him. I do want a second opinion since this is unusual. They have my records now and will be able to view the scans and MRI's that I have had.

I am not nervous about this. I have to deal with it and take charge of my health. I am keeping a positive attitude most of the time. As far as I am concerned when I do have a moment that I don't like the way I feel I know it is the devil working on me. I have to tell him to leave often. Don't you think he would get tired of me ignoring him and telling him to get out? God is bigger than him and my cancer.

My husband is going with me. He has been great and I know he always will be. He has put up with me all these years and still loves me. I can be a handful at times but I think I have mellowed out since this all came about. Some things that used to bother me really don't matter anymore.

Once again, thank you everyone for the support. I have been blessed.

Support & Understanding

2009-10-13T05:17:00.003-05:00

Since I was diagnosed with cancer I have so many people that have shown support for me in so many ways. Cards, phone calls, emails, offers to take me to my chemo treatments, you name it. I am so grateful for everyone and I have so many friends that I didn't even know that care about me. God sure does know how to show us in times of need how much we are loved and cared for. He sends his earthly angels to be there for us.

Today I had the pleasure of eating lunch at work with another woman in our building at work that was diagnosed with breast cancer a few weeks before me. I never really talked with her much before but an occasional hello. She works for another company in our building but we share the same lunch room so our break is at the same time. She had surgery and they removed both breasts, tomorrow she starts chemo and they are going to do radiation. I wanted to call her over the weekend but could not find her phone number. I felt we have a great deal in common right now and could probably be of help to each other. She came back to work last week and really looks great.

I sat down with Jean and started to talk to her about how she was doing and then told her about me. Her face lit up and the words just flowed between us. Just like we have been close friends forever. She is further in her journey than I am but I think we will probably have lunch together every day that we can, when one of us isn't there it will be because we are on our week of chemo. You don't know how comforting it was to talk with someone who understands me and what I am going through. I know we can give each other support and a shoulder to lean on. We even had a good laugh about picking out wigs today, like we were going on a shopping spree.

So God has put us face to face with each other, but he has also shown me there are so many others that will give me support in ways that I can't even imagine yet. Life is amazing and I have so much to give to others also. Pay it forward is my motto.

The Process Begins

2009-10-08T20:54:00.004-05:00

Today was the visit with my cancer doctor, Dr. Bate. All the tests have been done for now and he came to a conclusion as to what we are going to do. My husband came with and he was so glad he did. Dr. Bate is a very good doctor and Gordon really was impressed. Gordon has been and will be there for me throughout this process.

Good news is, there is no other spots to be found that they are looking at. The original cell and then 2 little spots on the liver are what will be treated. We had already decided that we wanted a second opinion just for our piece of mind. Before we even got the words out he said he was considering it himself because he just wants to be sure he is going in the right direction. We all decided Iowa City would be the best. Next week we will make the trip there and see what they have to say. Dr. Bate said he has not seen something like what I have (leave it to me to have something different than anyone else).

Surgery is out. It is located between the stomach and liver and is very hard to get to and it can't be removed. Radiation is out also because it would damage the stomach and liver. Chemo is the only option. He wants to go at it a little more aggressively than if I were 70 or 80 years old. Right now it looks like 3 days of chemo and then 18 off, another 3 days and 18 off. Then they will do scans and see if it is working. This is where you all come in now. PRAY hard that it works. If it does then another 4 more treatments like what I did before.

He did say there would be side effects. I can't tell you how scared that makes me, but I am positive this is all going to be fine. I know where my heart is and I know who is in charge of my life.

I had my first pneumonia shot today. He suggested it along with the flu shot which I get anyway. My immune system will not be working very good and they want you to be protected. I am taking supplements and doing all the healthy things I can to boost my immune system. I am eating very healthy and have a positive attitude. NO STINKING THINKING!

So hang on for the ride. I will count on everyone for support and prayers. I will need a ride now and then and I am going to take you up on it. One thing I have found out, I have friends I didn't even know I had and I am liking that.

Love you all!

Denise Goddess of Wine

2009-10-07T21:06:00.006-05:00

Tomorrow I go back to Dr. Bate, the cancer doctor. I've had numerous tests and hopefully we are closer to finding out how to treat this. The thing is, I feel so healthy now, better than I have in a long time. I don't feel like there is cancer, nothing at all. Could I be in denial, could it just be a mistake on their part and I really don't have anything? I can only hope for the last part being their mistake.

If you pray at all, please pray for me tomorrow that they did make a mistake or this is just not as big a deal as they made it to be. I pray that I am already healed and on my way to health. God is bigger than cancer and I have turned this all over to him.

Whatever I do find out, I do know I have learned a lot about people during this time. We are all so different yet the same in many ways. God made us all different for a reason and we each have a story. Mine just happens to be cancer right now.

My friend Dixie called me today. We were talking about what our names mean. This is what my name means: Follower Of Dionysus (The God Of Wine).

Dionysus, Greek God
of Wine and Ecstasy

Dionysus, God of Wine,
Known by Many Names,
The Resurrection God,
The Wanderer, and The Wild Man
And Zagreus, the Underworld Dionysus.
The Greek god Dionysus is also
known as the Roman god Bacchus.

I have read that before, I really don't understand it. I hate wine and am allergic to it, so why would I follow someone like Dionysus. To me he sounded like a wild and crazy kind of person. I need to study more about that.

So what does this have to do with my cancer story--nothing. I just needed something else to talk about. I love finding the meaning of things and the truth so maybe it all does. I want to find the truth behind the diagnosis I have been given. I want to find out who, what, when, where, why and sometimes how it all happened. I will be going for a second opinion and the doctor will set that up tomorrow.

To sum it all up this is what has been decided with Dionysus:

The recurrent themes of life and death, run though the legends of Dionysus. They teach us that the journey from being the Divine Child to a fruitful kingship requires the "giving up" (death) of the old self and rebirth in a more mature form. The myths of the Greek god Dionysus remind us that the possibilities of intense, ecstatic experience (whether through alcohol, other drugs, dancing, or spiritual experience) include both a dark side with the potential for great harm to ourselves and others, as well as a bright potential for communion with others, including a greater power, and for works of healing.

Healing, that is what I am praying for.

More Tests

2009-10-06T18:56:00.006-05:00

Today I had more tests done, MRI and Ultra Sound. Checking some spots to make sure there isn't anything going on. I am tired tonight, in fact I am going to bed now and it is only 7:30. The combination of stress and the pills I was given to relax me while having the MRI are making me very sleepy. I will visit with the doctor on Thursday so I will let you know more. Pray I am healed already.

I am blessed to have this really great young lady that is my neighbor who is able to help me and my husband when we need her. Brenda can do just about anything. She is such a beautiful young lady and has a great heart. She has been here for us during other times and is the best. Our other neighbor had an accident recently and she was there for him also. Brenda is an angel sent from God.

I have decided to get a second opinion about my cancer results. Dr. Bate said for my piece of mind he recommends it. Called my insurance and they said Mary Greeley in Ames has a great center and so does John Stoddard in Des Moines. Have any of you been there and can you give me a good recommendation?

If they say the same thing Dr. Bate does then I know that is the answer. I will do what is best for me and what I feel in my heart is best. I have turned this all over to God so he really is in charge.

I had another friend give me something today that might possibly help with my healing process and I thank Deb for it. I have such a great support team and people I don't even know are asking how they can help. Like I said before, I am blessed. I thank God for everybody.

So now back to trying to live a normal life until the next go around. By the way, what is normal?

Something Good is Going to Happen!

2009-10-05T19:34:00.002-05:00

I don't know about you but I sure do feel that something good is about to happen! Don't know when and don't know what, but something is telling me to be ready for something great! So bring it on!

So what are you thankful for today? I have more than 5 things, but will only write down 5. If you look hard enough you will find them too. Here's mine, I would love to see yours also.

1. I am so proud of my niece Megan Pralle, she is my inspiration. If you ever need a picker upper from a down day she can help you out.
2. I organized all my bills and got them ready to be paid so now I don't have to worry about that.
3. A very dear friend loaned me a book that I want to read called "Your Life Follows Your Words" by Darlene Bishop.
4. I have friends who really care about me.
5. I feel healthy.

Guess that is all I am going to write about today. I can't wait to see what Miracles come my way.

Gratitude Journal

2009-10-02T21:49:00.010-05:00

Got a call from the cancer doctors office, set up my MRI and ultra sound for next week. They will do an MRI on the adrenal glands because they look enlarged. The ultra sound will be on the uterus to see what the shadows are there. I pray both are okay. Then I meet with the cancer doctor on Thursday. I will know more then.

I want to thank everyone who has called, prayed, sent messages and just plain gave me a hug during these past weeks. I am so grateful to all of you. I don't want you to stop, I need it. It is good for my soul.

Everybody that is in my life in there for a reason. I think often about how come this person is in my life and the person walking down the street who I do not know has nothing to do with my life. I believe we are all put in the place we are meant to be. I try to make the best of my life. I want to be able to help others. I will continue to give of myself to help others but I do plan to take better care of Denise. Right now I need to be here for myself also.

Tonight before I go to bed I am going to write down 5 things that I am grateful for today. I know I can find 5 things if not more. I try to do this every night. These are the things I am grateful for today:

1. The softness of my dogs coat as I pet him and the look in his face of the love he has for me.
2. I managed to get my mother to the doctor and back safely and that what she needed checked is nothing to be too concerned about.
3. My support team of friends at work and home, I feel loved.
4. I had a job to go to today, so many people don't.
5. I talked to my grandchildren and son on the phone today, I love them so much.

You see that was easy. So could you come up with 5 things to be grateful for each day? Why not give it a try, you will be surprised what is out there. No matter how bad of a day you are having, you can find 5 things to be grateful for.

I am letting go of some of the worries that I used to have. I am finding peace in the quiet of my home. I am spending more time seeing things from others eyes. I am soaking it all in. I can't wait what I will see tomorrow

Life as I Once Knew It

2009-10-01T21:00:00.005-05:00

Visited the cancer doctor today, I was in hopes that things would start rolling now so we could get this fixed. Boy was I wrong, he said there are some suspicious spots on uterus and adrenal glands that need to be looked at so I am having another MRI on these areas. The spot that they originally found is about 3 inches big, lays between liver and stomach. There is a spot on the liver also so will check this more also. He won't know how to treat this until I have an MRI and possibly more biopsies.

I asked if surgery was an option, NO. Radiation and chemo, now I really don't know if that is what I want. I am scared of it. I want to be positive but I have heard so many stories about both and literally I am scared.

The doctor did say that he is not offended by asking for a second opinion and said if he can't do anything or figure it out he will send me somewhere else.

Doctor is calling it small cell carcinoma. Linking it to lung cancer. What the heck is with that? I don't smoke. Only thing is I have been exposed to second hand smoke and a lot of it was when I worked as a waitress and smoking was allowed and there was a lot of it. I did that for many years. My parents both smoked, my husband does but not around me.

Life as I once knew it has changed. It will be forever different than it was a month ago before I had the scan. I have a whole new vocabulary to learn that deals with cancer, something I had not paid a lot of attention to in the past because I have had no one in my family with cancer.

I would like to wake up and find that this was all a nightmare. I have been trying to stay calm and positive but today was not one of those days. I wanted answers and a fix for it. My feelings are anger right now. Why me? I live a healthy lifestyle and take care of myself. I am angry because I wanted answers, I am angry because this is going to be a burden on my family, I am angry because I don't know how we are going to afford this.

My initial thoughts are I don't want to do anything. Let it run its course. Friends were calling me and I just wanted to be alone in my own thoughts. I haven't digested this enough. I know I will do what I have to but I sure don't want others to have to suffer because of me. Aren't I the one who makes it all better?

I got in my car and drove around a bit. I cried and talked to God. I need some answers from him. I can't move on with this until we get some answers how they are going to treat it.

Life as I once knew it will never be the same again.

Good Medicine

2009-09-30T21:10:00.008-05:00

If you are ever having a day when you don't just feel right or like yourself, spend a day with children at a park and your will be cured.

That is just what I did over the weekend, I went down to southern Iowa to visit my son and 3 1/2 year old twins. I always have a good time with them and this weekend I really needed a good time.

They kept me busy, doing all the things grandmas do with grandchildren. We played outside, we chased each other, we ate Cheetos, got out the little bikes, played ball, picked apples, played with the kitties, played with my dogs, picked up acorns, colored and all other kinds of fun things. They make a grandma laugh and that is the best medicine.

We went to the park Sunday before I headed home and they had so much fun and I did just watching them. They slid down slides, went on the teeter totter, got in the swings to go up to the sky, climbed ladders, and just plain had a good time. They started to slow down towards the end, but I was slowing down long before them, I just tried not to show it. Brandon and Machelle did most of the work and I just enjoyed the fun.

A good dose of medicine for the week is what I got. They brighten my day and make me feel good. Their smiles light up the place.

I got good news from the MRI and CAT Scan yesterday. No cancer anywhere except where they originally found it so that makes things easier. Now I meet with cancer doctor Thursday afternoon and we will figure out what the next step is. Whatever he says, I always have the smiles and hugs of my grandchildren to give me the best dose of medicine there is. "I love you Gramma Nee Nee" they say as we say good night or good bye. "Love you also my little ones".

Waiting, Waiting, Waiting

2009-09-28T21:03:00.010-05:00

So what do you mean by Waiting Denise? What I mean is all I do is wait for answers everyday, whether it is in my personal life or what other thing is going on with me. I am working on that big word PATIENCE yet. Some days I have it some days I don't.

Today I had a CAT Scan again to check if cancer is in any other organ. I had to have another IV so they could inject the dye. She did good, she found my one and only vein so we could do the IV. I have not had good luck with IV's in the past and this one worked great. Could it be so many others and myself have been praying hard over all of this? I believe so. The CAT Scan went well, didn't take but 15 minutes and then they take me to another part of the hospital for a MRI. They asked me if I was afraid of closed in places, I really don't know but didn't want to take any chances. I was given a mild sedative and of course had to wait to see if worked. About 15 minutes later the assistant came back to me and asked if it was working. I really didn't feel any different but I do believe it did.

She takes me back to the MRI machine, I have a gown on and am told to lay down on the table. This procedure was going to take 45 minutes. They were scanning my brain to make sure cancer hasn't gone there. I had some sort of helmet put on me with lots of padding so I would not move my face. They also put ear plugs in because this machine makes lots of noise they said. She asked me if I would like a cloth to put over my eyes so I would not have to see how close the conditions are in the MRI, I said I did because I really didn't want to see it.

So after I am all tucked in tight, arms resting on cushions I am slowly moving into the tunnel of the MRI. Since I did not see anything, I was doing okay. The air was nice and cool which made me happy. I guess I was sedated a little because as the 45 minutes went by, with all the clanking and noises it makes, I found myself dozing. Felt really nice to relax, my mind drifting to places I didn't have to worry about. I could hear her tell me how long each picture was going to take, but I didn't worry about it. I even caught myself snoring a little at one point.

In the middle of the procedure they had to bring me out so they could inject dye into the IV. I didn't even feel it. Back in I went and before you know it they were bringing me out and it was all done. Not bad at all.

I have heard so many bad things about MRI's, I am one to say for me it was not a bad experience. I stayed calm knowing God was right there beside me also. He held my hand and told me it would be alright. I trust him.

As I was walking out of the room to leave, my friend Brenda was waiting for me with a smile. She bought me a bottle of water because I had nothing after 9:00 a.m. She is great. She is my right hand. I was a little hungry so we got something to eat on the way home. It sure tasted good.

The feeling after the MRI is somewhat like a long Sunday afternoon nap, when you sleep really deep and just don't want to wake up but have to. Well that is how it felt for me. When I got home I slept an hour, very sound in fact. Decided I should go see my mother at the nursing home and then came home to fix supper. I am still very tired so I am now going to go to bed. I am going to sleep very well tonight.

Thanks for the prayers today. I waited all weekend for this day to come and now I have to wait until Thursday to meet with the cancer doctor to see what is next. More waiting. Keep praying for good test results and a miracle. Thank you all and God bless.

ALRIGHTY THEN

2009-09-25T05:20:00.004-05:00

So what do I mean by ALRIGHTY THEN?

To me if means, okay, alright, I have a diagnosis and the doctor said cancer. I can deal with that so let's get moving. No more wondering why I have felt so tired and fatigued for several months. Now I have a reason for the feelings going on in my body. For awhile I thought I might be going crazy because I just couldn't pin point what was wrong.

I have been doing some serious thinking and who doesn't when given something to deal with like this. I am no longer sad after the first day of crying until I had no more tears. I didn't think that was ever possible to have no more tears but honestly, once I shed that last tear day before I haven't (for now).

Yesterday I woke up feeling a lightness on my chest. As I was driving to work I was saying my prayers, that is my favorite time. Something hit me smack in the face and now I finally get it.

You see I tend to be a person who really wants to help others more than think about myself and I have been doing this for so long. I never felt like I was worthy of someone doing something for me because I am here to help them and to make their life better if I can. I really never take the time to LOVE myself like I do others. Therefore I could not see how others really do love me, until this all happened. I never put myself first, always the other person and I have neglected me. I never felt I could let my guard down, I don't like being hurt so it is better to put others first and not pay attention to Denise.

Well the words just flew at me while I was saying my prayers in the car, YOU ARE LOVED. NOW IT IS TIME TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF, LET OTHERS HELP YOU! It hit me square dab in the middle of my prayers. I stopped and said "ALRIGHTY THEN" I get it. You don't have to tell me again. I will accept this love and help. I will lean on others when I need support and I will be grateful. What a relief to know I have so many in my life that really care about ME! It is exciting. I felt a weight lift off my shoulders because now I don't have to do this alone, which is what I tend to do so I won't bother anybody with my problems.

So be prepared to hear from me when I need to talk, need a hug, need support, need a ride or whatever it might take to make things easier that day. "ALRIGHTY THEN" I get it now!

Alrighty

2009-09-25T05:20:00.000-05:00

Day Two

2009-09-23T21:12:00.010-05:00

Okay, this is the day after I was told by my doctor that they found cancer in my biopsy. Of course the whole night was a blurr, didn't sleep well and my mind kept wandering. It is hard not to think the What If's but it is best not to go there. I will be practicing the Law of Attraction during this time in my life more than any other time. I will be healthy and I will succeed at reaching this goal.

I got up very early today, went to work as usual. I knew it was going to be hard. I have so many friends at work, each and everyone of them came to me when they found out and hugged me, tears in their eyes, giving me tons of support. If I ever doubted that I have friends this is a true test. So many of us have our own stories with our lives, but each of them took the time to be there for me today and promise to be in the future. I am going to hold them to it. I will need them all.

The girls in my office sent me flowers to cheer me up. Of course I cried, I cry at about anything. That is how I am made. They said it was to cheer me up, it did, they were tears of happiness and gratefulness. I appreciate them all.

I got the call from my doctor for what is to come now. I go back to the hospital next Monday, September 28 for a CAT Scan to check other places and a MRI to make sure it has not spread. I will need a driver that day because I requested to be mildly sedated for the MRI. My neighbor Brenda is going to be with me that day. She is wonderful. I won't get any results back that day so it is just the scans and home.

October 1 I will be going to the cancer doctor at the Cancer Center in Mason City. Dr. Bate will be the doctor. I am told by many that he is wonderful and I have confidence in their opinion. I know he will be good. My husband Gordon will go with me that day so he can be a part of this journey.

Brandon, my son lives 225 miles from us. He calls Gordon and I frequently. It is hard being so far from the ones we love during times like this. He would be here if he could. I can depend on him for support and help as I need it also.

I don't know what to expect after I talk with Dr. Bate so I cannot worry about that. It seems like a long time away. Remember I have never had a lot of patience but God sure is testing me now. I need to change my wording now, I HAVE PATIENCE! I WILL BE PATIENT.

When I turned on the computer after I got home my Facebook page was loaded with prayers and positive thoughts. My email box was too, I am grateful for online and face to face friends for emails, phone calls and hugs. You are great.

The picture is of the beautiful flowers I received today from the girls in my office. I will enjoy them every day.

The Rest of The Story

2009-09-23T05:33:00.007-05:00

I got up earlier than usual this morning, could not sleep anymore. My mind is thinking about a lot right now. The last two weeks have been a whirl wind for me, now I have some answers.

My doctor called me yesterday when I got home, test results are back from my biopsy. It took them longer to read them because they had to do more testing on the biopsy.

She said unfortunately it is cancer. I calmly listened, asked some questions, then asked what was next. It is going to be fast and furious now. Appointments are being made today. I will receive several calls.

I called my friends and family to tell them. I appreciate all the prayers that are being sent up for me and I pray that you all keep praying. I know I can count on each and everyone of you for support during this process.

I am not claiming this thing called CANCER. I am not even saying I have it. For all who really know me, I am a strong person. I am not going to let this get me down. I had a short pitty party for myself last night, but that is over and now I am ready to kick this in the butt. I will fight for my life. So be prepared to go along on this ride in my life. I am going to keep you all posted.

I have been through bigger things than this. God is good, he didn't do this, it is the devils work. Guess what, I rebuke that devil and he is going to get out of here fast. God will be with me all the way, my faith is strong.

My husband is worried, I can see it in his face. He will be a part in all of my decisions, he will be strong for me. My son will be also, he is a great guy. Life is going to change for awhile around here, but I am looking forward to the healing that is already coming to me. I will be ok.

Patience

2009-09-18T21:23:00.016-05:00

I had my biopsy Wednesday and doctor said my doctor would probably have the results today and let me know. I have waited all day, never left my cell phone out of reach. No call. I know my doctor and she would have called me so I am guessing they didn't get mine read by the radiologist yet. I was looking forward to finding out what foreign object is in my gut.

I am not sick, have no pains, and really am quite healthy despite some normal things that come around at my age. I am very active and keep my brain working all the time. I love to learn. My feelings are this thing is something that can be taken care of without any problems. I feel very confident about it.

So I will continue to wait. My life has been a waiting game for quite awhile now. A year ago my mother had surgery and suffered severe brain damage due to lack of oxygen during her after care days while in the hospital. I took her to specialists to find out what happened to her. She is somewhat like how a 2 year old would act now. I have had to learn what patience is about, something I have never really had much of.

We finally got her house sold, new owner takes possession October 1 so we are in the process of cleaning out her home. It is sad, I have so many memories of my parents as they built this house. It was their dream. We have divided up most of the items we want as a family. What is left was valuable to mother. I wonder what of mine anyone would want when I die?

I try to keep clutter out of my house. I clean out closets and cupboards frequently so as not to have STUFF stashed away that I don't use. That way I am not buying things again because I can't find them.

Since mother is in the nursing home because of her brain damage, I am down to about four totes of clothing and some things that she likes to look at. How sad it is to accumulate our things to end up with so little that really matters. What does matter most is the people who love us and the people we love. Nothing else really matters at all as long as we have love.

Biopsy

2009-09-16T20:58:00.007-05:00

This has nothing to do with being GREEN but I had to write about it because it is a part of my life. Today I had a biopsy.

Two weeks ago my doctor called and told me they found a mass during a routine scan that I had. I had the scan to check for abdominal aneurysms which is hereditary and my mother had one that they did surgery on. Doctor called at 6:45 a.m. to tell me everything was great except they found a mass between my liver and stomach.

Of course my brain started working overtime and the first thing you think about it cancer. I won't know the results for two more days. Wish I did not have to wait, but my doctor will call me right away, she is good at that.

I do not feel it is cancer, my gut feelings are it is something that can be fixed. So I will continue to think positive. I do not claim this mass.

The biopsy wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be. I didn't need an IV, just gave me a local, Novocaine in the abdomen, a long needle inserted and then took several samples. I had the CAT Scan there too so the doctor could see where to go. I was a little nervous at first but as the procedure progressed I didn't have any problems and really no pain.

I will let you all know when I get the results. If you could pray for me I would appreciate it. It is truly in God's hands and I have prayed healing prayers for my body.

Go Green using Shopping Tote Bags

2009-09-15T05:37:00.005-05:00

You know what I think is really cool? I love TOTE BAGS, all these new bags are so neat to use while shopping now. I have bags of all colors and sizes, but my favorite is my new Watkins bag. It is very durable and stylish.

I use my own bags when I go shopping at the stores now to help save our landfills and I really don't need all those plastic bags taking up space in my house. I occassionally get one from a store that I didn't take my own bag into, then I use it in my garbage can.

I don't know why, but when I take my own bags I feel so good knowing that I am helping to keep our planet a little less cluttered and safer. I have even started going back to the stores that give me credit for my bags, I like that.

MORE Purging my House of Stuff

2009-09-13T15:33:00.005-05:00

Today I am continuing what I started yesterday. My house will be clean and organized. I have already donated to freecyle and those items are now picked up and in their new home. Today I am sorting clothing that has not been worn in a long time, cleaning drawers and closets.

I really don't like doing all this work but sure is nice when it is done. If only it would stay that way. How can two people create all these messes? Does someone come in while we are gone or sleeping to bring in this stuff?

What I have today will go to Goodwill. I only take clothing and items that are in great condition. The stuff that I wouldn't wear, torn or stained, goes in the trash. Why take something that is not fit enough for me to wear, then think someone else would. I am happy that another person will be able to use these items.

So back to work before the day is over. Had to take a break. I might find something that I didn't know I even had and could use myself!

Purging My House from Stuff!

2009-09-12T10:55:00.005-05:00

I have been in the mood to get rid of unused STUFF. I belong to a Yahoo Group called Freecycle.org, there is one for just about any county. It is a good way to recycle the items that are still in good working condition by giving it to someone else. I have also found some great items from others.

You can join by going to Yahoo Groups and type in freecycle.org in the search box. Then you can find the county or counties you want to join. I do belong to a couple. Everything must be free and the person who wants the item must make the arrangements.

I feel good knowing someone who needs these items can get them. Remember, somebodies trash is somebodies treasure!

Abundance & Blessings

2009-08-04T21:27:00.009-05:00

This morning on my way to work I said a prayer asking God to let me see his blessings today for me. I didn't ask for anything, I just wanted to be surprised and be able to recognize them.

As the day went along it was nothing special, another work day as usual. I really like what I do, I am a data processor at City Directory Inc. I love the computer and what it can do. Give me a challenge and I am up for it. I teach others how to do the job. I am blessed to have a job.

I am also blessed with many friends, each one special in their own way. I love to hear their stories and learn something new from them all. My father owned a small town grocery store as I was growing up so I was around many different people from the age of 5 on up. I have friends from all places and I love them all.

I was blessed with great weather today. It was supposed to be hot but I was picture perfect. I love to have the windows open to feel the breeze coming in the windows, smell the fresh air and listen to the birds sing in the tree outside my front door.

I am blessed with a husband who can do about anything. Tonight he was kind enough to go to my mothers house which is 23 miles from here to mow her lawn. I mow our lawn because I like too, but he loads the mower on the trailer and does hers which is very kind of him.

I was also blessed with my garden produce tonight. I picked so much that we can eat for quite awhile. I love this time of year with all the fresh garden produce. I don't have a big garden but I plant it close together and gets lots from it. This is the second time I have picked cucumbers in 3 days. I picked cucumbers, green beans, beets, kohlrabi, and onions. I can plan many meals around all of the fresh vegetables.

AS the night comes to an end I can count the many blessings one by one and am thankful for all that God has given me today.

A Grandmothers Love

2009-07-23T19:48:00.007-05:00

Take a few minutes and remember your grandmothers love for you. There is nothing like it.

Poem Written for Me & Bubba

2009-07-20T22:24:00.004-05:00

This beautiful poem was written by a coworker of mine. It is wonderful and I want to make sure he gets credit for this great writing. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Click on the poem and it will open in a new window large enough for you to read.

Rainbow Bridge Poem

2009-07-16T17:58:00.005-05:00

This was sent to me by a friend Lu, thank you. It is in memory of my beloved Bubba.

RainbowsBridge.com

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

In Memory of Bubba

2009-07-16T05:32:00.006-05:00

I had planned on writing a different Blog last night but things changed. Today's will be about my beloved Bug dog Bubba.

Coming home from work is always a joy because my dogs eagerly and lovingly meet me with wiggles, kisses and smiles every day. If I had a bad day they would instantly cheer me up with their loving eyes and understanding even if they did not understand a word I said.

I just recently wrote about Bubba as he helped me in the garden. Last night he was out there helping me again when I got home from work. My husband came in the yard and Bubba was so excited to see him he ran right in front of his truck. I saw the whole thing and there is nothing you can do to stop them as they are so excited to see everyone.

Unfortunately he got hit. I was in total shock, he took off running to the house which I thought was a good thing. After getting into the house I examined him and he just had a cut or two on his face and was walking fine. He looked like he was not feeling well and I assumed it was from being hit and had bruises. He went to his bed and stayed there for awhile until he came out and put his head on my foot and I thought he was doing better. I prayed over him and petted him, telling him how sorry I was and hoping he would get better.

When I went to bed he got up and went back to his bed. If he wasn't better in the morning I was going to take him to the vet. I came down the steps hoping he had bounced back a little more and was on the mend. To my utter dismay he had passed away during the night, laying in his bed. I had prayed he would be better.

So forgive me today if this might not be the best post but my heart is breaking. I have lost a love that cannot be replaced. My dogs are like family to me and they love me with all their hearts as I do them. A heaviness is in my heart today. I know I will be okay at some point but I need to grieve the loss of Bubba so forgive me if I am not up to par.

I need to find forgiveness in my heart also towards my husband who did not mean to do this. I am upset and I know he is too. Right now I need to look deep in my heart to bring that forgiveness up.

My other dog Bailey, which is Bubba's brother is acting very distant right now and won't go back to their beds. I hugged him and told him how sorry I was. He is acting real sad and of course he was sleeping next to Bubba during the night. I can only imagine what is going on in his mind right now.

So if you see me today or talk to me, I really could use a hug and some extra TLC. My heart is broken and needs to mend.

My Garden Produce

2009-07-13T20:04:00.012-05:00

So what is there to write about when it comes to gardens? For me a garden is therapeutic. I love working in the dirt, planting each seed, nurturing it, pulling weeds (yes I do like pulling weeds) and watching the tiny seeds sprout and grow. I love the smell of the dirt as it is freshly tilled before I put the seeds in the ground. I eagerly check the garden each and every day to see if anything has come up.

My two little Bug dogs, Bailey and Bubba love to help me when it comes to the garden. When I planted the potatoes I dug each hole and carefully put a piece of potato in that had an eye. Good thing I had extra because those two watched me and decided once I had my back turned they would grab them and run. So I learned to cover the eyes before I went to the next one so they couldn't see them. While I am weeding they have to be right there, sniffing under the leaves to see if there might be something they just couldn't live without. As I pull the weeds Bubba has decided it is his job to help me and he grabs the weed as it is being pulled from the ground and shakes it. You can just see the pride in his face because he knows he is doing a good job helping me. He has figured out what the weeds are and doesn't bother the garden plants. If only I could train him to go out and weed it for me.

I am an avid nature lover so being outside when the weather is good is my top priority. I don't like hot humid weather but love the rest. I am intrigued by the different bugs, don't necessarily like picking them up but do enjoy watching them.
This little green worm came crawling out of my garden goodies so he made his way up the chair as I was snapping beans.

Snapping beans is so relaxing to me. I sit out under my big maple tree and soak in all the beauty around me. My dogs love fresh green beans that are raw so Bubba waits anxiously for one to drop. Then he grabs it and runs, chews it up and comes back for more. Of course I drop a few more just so I can watch his little game. He actually smiles while he is waiting for the bean to fall.

The best part of the whole garden is eating the goodies that I pick. We live high on the hog in the summer eating vegetables at about every meal. I love to take my cucumbers and kohlrabi with me to work for my lunch break. I have become very creative when preparing the vegetables so as to not get boring.

This picture above is a portion of the vegetables from my garden I picked Sunday. God has abundantly blessed us this year. I can hardly wait for the first red succulent juicy tomato to sink my teeth into. There is nothing like the first bite of a tomato as it has ripened on the vine.

Sunset at Clear Lake, IA

2009-07-12T19:22:00.004-05:00

Saturday night we decided to drive to Clear Lake, IA after eating in Mason City, IA. It was such a beautiful evening, we had our wonderful neighbors with us Brenda and Dale. Having neighbors like them is so great, God blessed us neighbors whom we can laugh and have fun with.

Once we got to Clear Lake we could see there was some action in the City Park so we parked the car and took a stroll over to see what it was all about. The park was packed with people of all ages, lawn chairs, blankets, benches and picnic tables were being used by the many people enjoying the music and beautiful weather. I don't know who the band was but they were very good, playing some songs from the 70's which I grew up with and many others.

As we got there the sun was just setting and I couldn't resist taking a picture of the beautiful sunset over the lake. There was a very slight breeze so the water was quite calm, sails boats gliding over the water so quiet you couldn't hear them. We walked over to the beach front and sat on the wall for awhile. The air so fresh and smelling of the the lake water, every so lightly lapping at the docks. We could not have asked for a better night.

This is a picture of the sunset at Clear Lake, IA. I just want to sit and look at it and feel all the wonderful feelings of the evening. Fun, laughter, relaxing, and taking in God's beauty. I am so ever thankful.

Morning Glory

2009-07-12T18:50:00.011-05:00

I am an early riser in the morning, it is my best time of the day. I cherish the peace and quiet of the morning hours as I drink my coffee, read my newspaper online and stand on the porch taking in all of God's beauty that surrounds me. I thank God for all that he has given me and I appreciate it all.

I have always been the first one up in our family. My husband can sleep late and it doesn't even bother him when he wakes up and I have done a couple loads of laundry, folded them, done dishes or empty out the dishwasher, swept the floors, talked with the dogs and let them out to run in the morning air.

I rarely wait for my alarm to go off and I jump out of bed, ready to take on the tasks of the day. Now my husband, sleepily stumbles out of the room, eyes half shut, yawns and really can't make conversations until he has been up for an hour. He has to have his tea and Oreo cookies before he can even remotely make any sense. I enjoy eatting my old fashioned rolled oats with ground flax seeds every morning with coffee of course.

This is a picture looking out over our corn fields to the East. The sun is just rising, shining down on our crops to kiss their leaves with golden sunlight. The stalks reach up to greet the sun. It is a new day and a new beginning.

It is funny how we are all so different yet really are the same in so many ways. Life wouldn't be any fun if we were all the same. I thank God for the differences so I can learn something from others.

Good morning world!

Canadian Bacon and Pineapple Pizza

2009-05-05T20:16:00.004-05:00

Here is a great recipe using Watkins products. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does.

Ingredients
1 package (7 oz/198 g) Whole-Wheat Thin Pizza Crust Mix
1 can (8 oz/227 g) tomato sauce
1-1/2 tbsp/25 ml Pizza Seasoning
1 can (8 oz/227 g) pineapple tidbits, well drained
4 oz/113 g thinly sliced Canadian bacon
1/3 cup/80 ml chopped green pepper
1-1/2 cups/375 ml shredded mozzarella cheese

Cooking Directions
Prepare pizza crust per package directions. Combine tomato sauce and Pizza Seasoning and spread on top of prepared crust. Evenly top with pineapple, Canadian bacon, green pepper, and mozzarella cheese. Bake at 450ºF/235ºC for 12 to 15 minutes or until crust and cheese are a golden brown.

Makes 6 servings.

For more information about Watkins Products or the Watkins business opportunity please contact me at 641-579-6227 or email me at denisepassehl@watkinsonline.com

Watkins Booth At Iowa Falls Home and Business Expo

2009-04-19T18:40:00.019-05:00

Saturday, April 18, 2009 I had the pleasure of setting up at the Iowa Falls, Iowa Home and Business Expo with my Watkins Booth. It turned out to be an excellent adventure with 300 people stopping by, reminiscing about Watkins and tasting my samples and of course ordering product. I also had people ask about the business opportunity because they want to supplement their income. Being a company that has been around since 1868 they know it is a good one.

I gave a short presentation about the business and products. I was happy they had it all set up for us and it went very smoothly. In my picture here I am doing the presentation, talking to the people beside me.

I made some of the Beer Bread from Watkins for samples. The Beer Bread is made with a mix from Watkins and all you do is add a can of beer, soda or juice, then bake it. Very simple and yummy. It went over well. I had some left over so I cut it up and toasted it. Then I put Watkins Cinnamon and a little sugar on it. Yummy! Tastes like a cinnamon roll. I will do that again.

Lisa, one of my down lines, helped me with my booth for awhile. She had so much fun and cannot wait until we do it again. She loved meeting the people and hearing their stories. She is great and I would love to have her help me again. I am sharing a picture of her working at my booth.

Good food, new people, old friends, good times and laughter the whole day.

If you would like more information about the Watkins products or the Watkins Business opportunity please contact me.

Independent Watkins Associate
watkinsonline.com/denisepassehl
ID #300500
http://www.tsginfo.com/
then enter the code DP4739

Easter Eggs

2009-03-06T23:12:00.011-06:00

Being a grandmother of twins, boy and girl age 3, makes coloring Easter Eggs more fun. It will soon be time to do that and this grandma has the right ingredients to make beautiful colored eggs. Being an Independent Watkins Associate gives me just the right tools to color those eggs that the children will have so much fun dyeing and they will have some fond memories.

You will want to use food-safe dyes when coloring eggs. Watkins food coloring is food-safe, so it can be used in baking, frosting and even home made play dough. Always have an adult help the children because you will have boiling water to make the coloring. You will have to hard boil clean white eggs before you dye them, as many as you want to color. I have also blown out the center of the eggs and colored those as well. Watkins has four colors but you can also mix them to make other colors, the primary colors are blue, green, red and yellow.

Here is the recipe for Simple Egg Dye:
* Combine 1/2 cup boiling water with 1 tsp vinegar and 1/2 tsp Watkins Food Color of Choice.
* Dip eggs into dye for at least 5 minutes or until desired color is reached.
Long dips produce deeper, richer colors.

To make new colors mix the following colors together.
Red + Yellow = Orange
Yellow + Blue = Green
Blue + Red = Purple
Blue + Green = Teal
Yellow + Green = Lime

Here are some Color Tips:
* Use kitchen tongs to dip eggs
* Use color crayons to create fun shapes on eggs before dyeing them. The fun shapes and lines will show through the dye.
* Wrap a few eggs in rubber bands prior to dipping for a tie-dye effect.
* Paint eggs with Watkins undiluted Food Colors. Simply dip a paint brush in the desired color and let your creativity flow.

Make some memories this year, color eggs and let the children have fun doing it. They will be so proud of their work and you will be too.

Have fun with our line of food colors! Mix and match to create a rainbow of colors that are sure to brighten your eggs this season!

Watkins Original Double-Strength Vanilla

2009-02-28T23:25:00.006-06:00

Today I am going to talk about Watkins Original Double-Strength Vanilla. Some of you might remember the Watkins Man who would go door to door with all his goodies and samples. He would come to my grandmothers house and we would get excited to see what he pulled out of his bag.

Growing up with the products made me want to join Watkins so I could have access to it and enjoy the best vanilla I have tried. I have tried others but always came back to Watkins.

I am going to give a little history taken from the website www.watkinsonline.com
I am also going to give you a great recipe for
Chocolate Chip Cookies........enjoy!

Vanilla is the most popular flavor in the world today,
and few companies can claim a name association
with vanilla like Watkins can. Having produced
the world’s finest vanilla for more than 100 years,
Watkins is recognized as the name in vanilla by
hundreds of thousands of loyal customers. Our dedication
to quality begins with buying only the finest
vanilla beans…

The best vanilla beans in the world are those of
the Bourbon variety—specifically those grown
on the island of Madagascar off the coast of Africa.
This labor-intensive crop is of such high quality that
a single bean can retail for more than $3 (U.S.).
Watkins' signature blend of real vanilla extract
and rich fortifiers (including artificial flavorings)
give its award-winning Original Double Strength
Vanilla a delicious, concentrated flavor that is
economical to use and guarantees superior results.
Our dedication to quality is what makes Watkins
the best vanilla you can buy.

Watkins Original Chocolate Chip Cookies
1/2 cup/125 mL sugar
1/2 cup/125 mL brown sugar
1/3 cup/80 mL butter or margarine, softened
1/3 cup/80 mL vegetable shortening
1 egg
1 tsp/5 mL Watkins Original Double-Strength
Vanilla
1-1/2 cups/375 mL all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL baking soda
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL salt
1 package (6 oz/170 g) semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup/125 mL chopped walnuts, optional
Combine sugars, butter, shortening, egg, and
vanilla. Stir in remaining ingredients. Drop dough
by rounded tablespoonfuls onto ungreased cookie
sheet. Bake at 375°F/190°C for 8 to 10 minutes or
until lightly browned. Cool slightly before removing
from cookie sheet to wire rack to cool.
Makes approximately 40 cookies.

More Watkins recipes at www.WatkinsOnline.com/denisepassehl

My 'Bug' Dogs

2009-02-11T19:41:00.015-06:00

What do you get when you cross a Boston Terrier and a Pug dog?

You got it, a 'Bug'. If any of you know a Boston Terrier and a Pug are very unique dogs, but when you cross them you get the best of both. Well I have two of these fun loving wonderful little fur babies and they are the love of my life. Just don't tell my husband they come first most of the time.

I acquired my first Bug almost 5 years ago and his name is Bailey. Some friends of ours had a Pug female and their friend had a Boston Terrier and they ended up with 8 little Bugs. I have always raised Boston Terriers and my husband had Pugs, of course we both thought our breed was the best one. The night we went to pick out our new baby I walked into the house, 8 little black and brindle puppies were running from one room to the other. I fell in love immediately. I decided to let the perfect little one pick me out so I sat down, most of them looked at me and kept on running, but one in particular came over and pulled on my pant leg. I picked him up, he looked into my eyes and I knew it was love at first sight. I didn't even need to think about the others, he sat on my lap all evening and that was it. He was a chunk then, very healthy and full of energy. On the way home he sat in my lap and I looked at him and said okay little guy what are we going to name you? He sat so still and was very at ease, 6 weeks old and I could tell he was a smart one. So I started going down the alphabet and saying a name, came to the letter B, said a couple names and Bailey came out of my mouth. His ears perked up and he looked at me so I said "welcome to the family Bailey". Now that was easy.

Bailey has always been a very smart and obedient boy. He is a thinker and everything he does he has thought about it for awhile. He is serious, faithful and so loving. I saw both parents so I knew he was going to be a good looking Bug, what I didn't realize is how big he was going to get, he weighs 38 pounds. Solid as a rock and the vet says he is not fat, just the way he is built, very stocky. He is built like a Pug, but has Boston Terrier coloring black and white. He acts more like a Pug. He bonded with us and our other dog immediately, training was no problem. Three years went by and I just knew I had to have another one.

So 3 years later after Bailey was born the same family had more baby Bugs and guess what? I got my second Bug. I had already been to see the puppies and picked out another one that looked just like my Bailey. I was expecting the same traits and mannerisms as Bailey had, they came from the same parents so why wouldn't they be the same? Boy was I wrong. I named this one Bubba, he just looked like one. He was used to other dogs so he felt comfortable and settled right in. From the start I could tell he was going to be more of a challenge. Bubba is very much like a Boston Terrier, a little more nervous and very energetic. He needs a little more guidance and discipline. He loves to hog the food bowl, steal treats before Bailey can get to them, tear up the toys, steal the toys, run as fast as he can around Bailey, and plays tricks on all of us. He lives for his treats and toys. All the stuffed toys have the insides ripped out within a day, so he runs around with a flat stuffed toy, throws it in the air and plays keep away from Bailey. Of course Bailey acts like this is all child's play and doesn't really care but it bugs him so he pretends.
Bubba is 3 years old now but still acts like a puppy most of the time. He weighs the same as Bailey but a little taller and leaner looking like the Boston Terrier would look. He loves to come up to me and put his head on my leg and just stare at me with those big brown eyes. He is a lover but doesn't cuddle as much as Bailey does. He refuses to walk with a leash even though I have tried to work with him. Bailey loves it and struts like a little gentleman beside me. Bubba pulls on it, walks backwards and just plain makes walking with a leash a chore. He makes me laugh because his life is happy all the time. He smiles all the time and doesn't worry about anything except bothering his brother. People should learn a lesson from Bubba to not take life so serious because he sure doesn't.

What fascinates me the most is how they love each other so much. They sit with each other in the chair and sleep in the same bed most of the time. They are inseparable, if one wants to go for a ride or for a walk you better take both because they get so jealous. They want to be at my side at all times and I want them there also. These two guys have brought so much joy into my life.

I belong to a group on yahoo, http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/TheBugGroup/ which you can check out. Another site has pictures of all our fur babies, http://www.thebugmug.com/. We all share pictures and stories about our Bugs. I don't post often but love reading about everybody else's Bugs. One thing about us Bug owners, we love our Bugs. I do think we all agree, they love attention and they love to show off for us.

I entered them in a contest and they won first place. So if any of you are Jeff Gordon race fans you will appreciate their picture. Whether they won first place or not they will always be first place in my heart.

Being Frugal & Green is Cool!

2009-02-05T20:57:00.006-06:00

Calling all frugal and green people out there! I am looking for ideas on how to be frugal and green with today's economy. So if you have some great ideas I would love to hear from you. I am going to share some of my things I have done and I hope I don't forget any because in our house we have made many changes.

One of biggest moves to saving money and going green was to install a geothermal furnace in our big two story farm house built in 1905 by my husbands grandfather. Our old furnace had seen better days and we were in need of a new one. There was no repair and LP gas prices were on the rise. We did lots of research and decided to go with the geothermal. It has saved us considerable money and we have been very happy with our decision.

I have also switched to all natural plant based cleaning products which are concentrated so you add your own water saving you money. The products are versatile and can be used in so many different ways and they work. I bought some degreaser from Watkins and then a few more products and decided these were wonderful. I joined Watkins and am an Independent Watkins Associate. I love all of the cleaning products and feel safe using products that are good for the environment and my family. I have pets too and these products are safe and not harmful to them. I have been an Independent Watkins Associate since 1982. You can go to my website and see what all is available at www.watkinsonline.com/denisepassehl where you can browse around and read about the products.

Some other things that we have done in our house to save money is by turning off lights when we leave a room. Rooms that we do not use the vents are closed and not heated.

I dry most of our clothes on a clothes drying bar in the winter. In the summer I do hang them out when the weather is nice. I also wash my clothes in cold water using the Watkins laundry soap, a little goes a long way. My clothes stay new looking longer so I can wear them for a long time.

We work outside of the home so I take my lunch to work every day and my husband is able to come home for lunch. I cook extra food for supper and what is left I use for our lunch the next day. No food is wasted, if it not going to be eaten right away I freeze it. I am very imaginative when it comes to food and come up with some really great recipes using what we already have.

I am very organized so I know what foods I have in my cupboards, refrigerator and freezer. This saves buying more of an item you already have. Same goes for the rest of the house, if I keep things organized and cleaned up I know what I have and don't need to buy it again.

I take advantage of the sunshine to heat up the house more. With the geothermal furnace you leave it set on the same temperature at all times. Ours is set at 70 degrees. If we are chilly we put more clothes on to keep warm and move around more.

My husband is a mechanic so he can do all our automobile repairs. He is there when I need him to fix about anything really. That saves us money also. We were in need of a different vehicle this year also. I had a Jeep and it was 11 years old and over 200,000 miles on it needing some major repairs. With gas prices on the rise and only getting 18 miles per gallon we decided to purchase a car. We shopped around for almost a year deciding on the Chevy HHR and we both fell in love with it. In the summer I get 30-35 miles to the gallon, winter is 27-30 depending on how cold it is. We live in Iowa and the winters are cold and hard on cars. The HHR has back seats that fold down so you can haul larger items, it is smaller than the Jeep but it is a very comfortable car. We got our car from an auction which saved us lots of money also.

I shop local as much as possible, using coupons on items I use only. I love to use my coupons on paper products and coffee when our local Pamida has double coupons. I watch the ads and get my coupons organized. Pamida also has Senior Citizens day and my husband is that age so we can take advantage of that. I don't buy junk food, only healthy foods which are better for us.

We don't eat out often but treat ourselves once in awhile for a special occasion. Since I love to cook I can make a great meal at home and dress it up with candles, tablecloth, napkins and my nicer plates, but it is nice to be treated special once in awhile.

I know I am leaving some things out but maybe you can help me by letting me know what you do. I am open to some more great ideas.

Here's to saving money!

My Birthday is today February 4th!

2009-02-04T21:25:00.000-06:00

"Happy Birthday to me" I sang going down the stairs this morning as I was headed out the door to go to work. It is my special day! Today I am 54 years old but feel so much younger and better than I did a year ago, even 10 years ago. I have lost 70 pounds and being diagnosed with diabetes in May of 2008 has changed my life forever. I have taken my health into my own hands with the help of my doctor and my faith that I can win this battle.

I have a walking partner at work who shares the same birthday as I do. We both are Aquarius's so we get along really great and share much the same ideas about life. We have 2 breaks during the day and we walk so we get a good workout. I have toned my body and it is getting better every day. I look forward to my walks and good conversation. We are both dog lovers so we share our stories of our fur babies quite often.

I couldn't wait to get home from work and turn on my computer. I got all kinds of birthday wishes from my online friends and family. It meant so much to me to be remembered. The Internet has made it so much easier to keep in touch with everyone now.

My husband and I went to visit my mother in the nursing home this evening and then he took me out for supper. We went to a really great place in Hampton, Iowa called Pakoda's. I had the Terriaki chicken with roasted baby potatoes with herbs and butter on them. I also had a salad. It was very good and I couldn't eat it all so brought home some for my lunch tomorrow. In the old days I would have ate it all but after loosing this weight I don't eat as much. Our waitress was a friend, Katy, and she was great. If you ever get the chance you should eat there sometime. They have a great menu.

My husband also gave me a delicious smelling candle called Wild Cherry. I lit it when I got home and the house smells so good. He knows I love candles so it is a great gift for me. There's something about a candle burning that is calming and relaxing to me.

So now I am home reflecting on the day. I talked to my best friend Deb and she always makes me feel good. We are going to the movie Friday night to celebrate my birthday. I look forward to many more birthdays to come. Thank you everyone.

A Blog about me as an Independent Watkins Associate

2009-02-02T20:58:00.000-06:00

My Diabetes & How It Has Changed My Life

2009-01-28T21:02:00.000-06:00

I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in May of 2008. My A1c was 11.9 and my blood sugar was almost 400. I knew I had been feeling bad for a long time but could not figure out what was wrong with me. I drank lots of water, went to the bathroom constantly, felt tired and run down. I was upset most of the time and could not pin point what was wrong with me. One day I asked a friend if I could use her blood sugar monitor and we checked my blood, it was 385. I called my doctor immediately and she had blood drawn. I was put on medications immediately.

Within a couple days of the diagnosis my eye sight went bad. I was headed in a downward spiral with diabetes. When I was diagnosed I was determined to beat it and did everything possible to change my life. My father died at age 67 of diabetes complications and heart disease, I want to live healthier than he did and live longer because I have lots to live for.

I am on a computer all day and enter data, I read all the time but I knew something was happening and was scared. Called my doctor and eye doctor and made an appointment. I could not read, things were blurry. Eye doctor tested my eyes and told me how when your blood sugar is high a film develops and traps the sugar behind it and that is how you sight changes. He said it would go away when your blood sugars became normal. I had to get several different pairs of reading glasses in different strengths to use. It took almost 8 weeks for my eyes to return to almost normal. The eye doctor told me they maybe would not go back to what they were and they have changed. I need to get in and get them tested again since my blood sugar is normal now. My regular glasses do not work as well now so I need a different strength.

I started eating what I was supposed to after attending a diabetic education class. I have learned so much about my body and what really happens when you get diabetes. I have had to try several different medications until we found what worked for me. I have been on Byetta since June and it has worked the best, along with metphormin.

Since May I have lost 65 pounds and my A1C is now at 5.5 and my average blood sugar readings are around 97. I am feeling great, eat right and walk daily. Being diagnosed with diabetes has been a life saver to me. I am 54 years old and feel younger and healthier than I ever have. They say by the time you are diagnosed with diabetes you have probably already had it for 5 years and I believe it. I haven't felt good in a long time and now I am feeling the best I have ever felt. I have more energy, my skin looks better and losing weight has been fun.

So I am happy to say being diagnosed with diabetes has saved my life and I am healthier today because of it. I saw my doctor 2 weeks ago and have gone off Byetta and will be taking Janumet and Glimperide. In 3 months I go back and she said I probably will go off everything since I am doing so good. That is my goal and I am a goal maker and will reach this goal. I have 20 more pounds to lose and will do that also.