I DON'T GET IT!

Anyone will tell you that there are some reality shows which literally keep me glued to my couch, but I'm not sure about, "I Want to Marry Harry".  How come these women don't know this isn't the real guy, and what's the big deal about wanting to marry him?  I don't get it.

Speaking of Reality TV - how come none of the women get along and they're supposed to be friends?  They spend exorbitant amounts of money on trips, go out to clubs drinking, have elegant dinner parties, yet everyone ends up having fist fights, throwing purses, cursing each other out and pulling hair.  I don't get it.

I love HBO, but why in the world do they show reruns over and over and over again?  This service isn't free so I'm expecting lots of movies I've never seen before, but it's not happening.  I don't get it.

How come grandmothers are madly in love with their grand babies and spoil them like crazy, refusing to follow the rules, but they never did that with their own kids?  I'm not really complaining about this one because I'm a grandmother myself, but still, I don't get it.

When you're caught cheating, how come people still lie about it?  You did it didn't you?  Why not admit it and move on?  I don't get it.

You've done something wrong and offended a friend, yet you blame the friend because you insulted him or her.  Why not apologize for the offense and move on?  Dragging it out and blaming it on someone else just seems pointless, don't you think? I don't get it. Take some accountability for Pete's sake.

It's 2014 and there are robots who can vacuum your house, we can see people we're talking to on cell phones, and our cars actually speak to us - so why can't someone find a cure for AIDS or cancer?  Not me , of course, because I'm definitely no scientist, but still - there are tons of really smart people out there.  I don't get it.

Is it just me?

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: THE GARDEN OF EDEN - The Beginning of a Relationsh...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: THE GARDEN OF EDEN - The Beginning of a Relationsh...: Do you remember walking on clouds during the beginning stages of your relationship?  Everything seemed rosy, and the person of your dreams c...

THE GARDEN OF EDEN - The Beginning of a Relationship with an Abuser

Do you remember walking on clouds during the beginning stages of your relationship?  Everything seemed rosy, and the person of your dreams could do no wrong.  The laughter, the compliments, those extravagant gifts, and the intense attention felt wonderful and truly perfect.

It took weeks, months or years before noticing the degrading complaints about your weight, the hurtful comments about the dinner you so lovingly prepared, humiliating you in public when offering an opinion. Perhaps lunch was late or you were visiting friends and not at home, causing you to be slapped for the first time.  Sure, you accepted the apology and roses, only to be pushed two days later when you didn't get off the telephone quickly enough.  You'll hear "I'm sorry" a lot - at first.

How could this have happened?  What in the world did you do wrong?  In a word - Nothing.  Are there warning signs you should look for?

1.  Bitter and out of control negative comments about an ex or almost every relationship from the past early on when you meet is a red flag.  This is particularly true if he or she says the ex made false accusations of abuse.

2.  If you are treated rudely in front of others, laughed at for your opinions or generally sarcastic, run quickly.

3.  Possessiveness and jealous behavior is not cute and spells upcoming trouble.  Remember, jealous feelings are normal, but not the behavior caused by those feelings.

4.  Controlling where you go, what you wear, who you spend time with, which can start simply by sharing that you need to spend more time at home, etc.

Unfortunately, many of these signs and others, are so subtle, that we're knee deep in the relationship, and unable to leave.  The broken arms, the loss of self-esteem, the fear of losing children or a source of income are crippling.

There is help, and when you're ready, take time to share your fears with someone you love and trust.

Know that it's NOT your fault and that you deserve the best.

Hugs...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: KALE SALAD W/ALMONDS - Super Simple

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: KALE SALAD W/ALMONDS - Super Simple: Anyone will tell you if there are too many steps in a recipe, I don't want to be bothered. (lol) This is a simple one that's great...

KALE SALAD W/ALMONDS - Super Simple

Anyone will tell you if there are too many steps in a recipe, I don't want to be bothered. (lol) This is a simple one that's great to show off for friends at a party or to whip up for dinner at home.  Thanks to Gina Neely for this one!

1 Bunch of Kale (About 8 Ounces), stemmed and chopped
1 Diced Gala or Pink Lady Apple
1/3 Cup Roasted Salted Almonds that have been chopped
1/4 Cup Red Onion, Thinly Sliced
1/2 Cup Crumbled Feta Cheese

SALAD DRESSING
1 Tablespoon Honey
2 Tablespoons of Champagne Vinegar
1/4 Cup Olive Oil
Kosher Salt and Pepper to Taste

If you like a little extra heat, feel free to add some cayenne pepper

In a large bowl, combine all of the kale with the apple, almonds and onion.  In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and vinegar until combined, then drizzle in the olive oil until it's all emulsified. Season with salt and pepper, and cayenne if you wish.  Pour the dressing over the kale and toss for about 2 minutes.  Add in the feta and toss again.  Cover with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes which will soften the kale. Serves about 6 people.  If you want your kale to be more crisp, serve right away intead of waiting the 30 minutes.  Yummy!

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: TEXAS TEA - Potent goodness!

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: TEXAS TEA - Potent goodness!: This is one of those drinks that will creep up on you when you least expect it, but it sure tastes yummy! 1/2 Cup Tequila 1/2 Cup Bourbon...

TEXAS TEA - Potent goodness!

This is one of those drinks that will creep up on you when you least expect it, but it sure tastes yummy!

1/2 Cup Tequila
1/2 Cup Bourbon
1/2 Cup Dark Rum
1/2 Cup Vodka
1/4 Cup Lime Juice
1/4 Cup Sweet & Sour Mix
6 Cups Coke or Cola of your choice

Combine all of the ingredients, then stir briskly.  Pour into cocktail glasses, add some crushed ice, then garnish with lemon or lime slices and mint.

If you'd like to make this ahead of time for an upcoming party, mix everything except for the coke, mix well and cover for up to 8 hours.  Once you're ready to serve, add the coke and mix, then pour over the crushed ice.  This recipe serves 12.

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: HAPPY MOM'S DAY!

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: HAPPY MOM'S DAY!: Today is traditionally all about the mothers in our lives.  But if you're a mom, you know that every day really should be about you an...

HAPPY MOM'S DAY!

Today is traditionally all about the mothers in our lives.  But if you're a mom, you know that every day really should be about you and the things you do.  Laundry, cooking, homework, speaking with teachers, working to pay bills, carpooling, and supporting your family. You do it all!  It's also about those who are wishing to be a mother, and for those who have acted in the role of mother for those who have needed you.  And for those who have nurtured animals as your family, we also salute you. Some may never understand the importance of loving a dog, or a cat as a valuable addition in the household.

To my son, who has moved on with a family of his own, I thank you for being a man I can truly be proud of.  There were many days I wondered if I got it right, but you've proved that I passed the test with flying colors.

Happy Mothers' Day to all of you for the very many things you do, and continue to do to make the world go round.

Hugs...