Friday, January 25, 2019

TRIVIA & TREATS

Do you remember getting that one gift as a kid that either defined who you were later in life, or played with until every piece of it was hanging on by a thread or all taped up to prolong its life?(lol)  

Mine was a microscope.  Nothing was safe from being analyzed. Leaves, blood, pencils, hair, pebbles, an eyelash and, a piece of cotton, fingernails are just a few of the things I checked out every single day, and it drove my parents bonkers!(lol)


What about you?  Was there a toy or item that you were obsessed with as a child?

VEGGIE LOVE
More and more people are eating vegetarian or vegan meals, and there are lots of cool recipes to try.  Even better, going out is a lot easier for those who don't eat meat, and restaurants around the country are jumping on the bandwagon with mouth watering plant based main courses, and decadent desserts.

Plant - Hazelnut Cream Cake
Radish-Miso Butter Noodles (Laura Hayes)
Fancy Radish - Washington DC
Gracias Madre - San Francisco CA
Ground Control - Chicago IL
Leaf - Boulder Colorado
Plant - Asheville NC
Seva - Ann Arbor Michigan


SAVING MONEY
Thinking about making some changes with your Internet service?  Check out what works best for you and your family by visiting www.broadbandnow.com.  

Find out about every provider in your area as well as their rates and various plans.


ICE SKATING
Who remembers Peggy Fleming?  In 1968, she took home the only gold medal for the United States in the Winter Olympics.  Se was also 1st in the World Championships and the US Championships the same year.  It's so romantic  that she married her high school sweetheart, and have been together since 1970!

YIKES!
Speaking of relationships, in 1960 the divorce rate among men was 1.1%, and with women it was 1.7%.  Fast forward to 2017 where the rate with men was 10.9%, and among women it was 14.6%.    The state with the highest divorce rate as of 2016 was Oklahoma at 4.4%!  Apparently, the high divorce in this date are due to financial reasons.Almanac 2019

DOG FUN
Are you a puppy person?  The Westminster Dog Show will be the place to find plenty of purebreds in New York City from February 11 - 12, 2019.

CENSORSHIP
It's 2019, and there are still requests for books in a school or library to be removed based on content, and include To Kill a Mockingbird, The Hate U Give, Thirteen Reasons Why, I am Jazz, and Drama.

BLOOD NEWS
Did you know there is an age limit to give blood? James Harrison of Australia has donated blood 
1,173 times, and at 81, gave for the last time due to his age on in May 2018.

Anyone over 70 and healthy can only continue to donate blood if they have done so within a 2 year period, but for those donating blood for the first time, the age limit is 66.  Don't forget, the American Red Cross is always looking for donors to help those in need.


VIRUS
If you're trying to avoid the flu, University of Arizona researchers suggest wiping off that grocery cart handle with a sanitizing wipe to kill off any lurking bacteria.  Also, mine is always a disaster on the inside, but did you know that 80% of the bottoms of our purses are friends with the flu virus?  Be sure to clean purses regularly, and avoid laying them down on dining room tables or kitchen counters at home or in restaurants to avoid germs.

BLACK FOREST TRUFFLE - MINI (David Venable)

Ingredients:

  • 1 pkg instant chocolate pudding
  • 1 pkg brownie mix
  • 2 oz cherry brandy
  • 1 container whipped cream topping
  • 1 jar dark cherries
  • 1 (8 oz) dark chocolate bar
  • 4 Amaretto cookies
  • 8 small straight-sided glasses

Preparation:

  • Prepare the pudding & brownies according to the directions on the package. Let brownies cool.


  • Drain the cherries, reserving the liquid and 8 cherries for garnishing. Rough chop the remaining cherries. Crumble about half of the brownies into a bowl, sprinkle on the cherry brandy, and mix gently.


  • With a knife, shave the chocolate bar into thin shavings. Set aside.


  • Lightly crumble the Amaretto cookies. Set aside.


  • With all of the ingredients organized, begin layering them in the glasses. Start with the brownie mixture, followed by the whipped topping and chopped cherries. Drizzle on some cherry syrup. Repeat the same 4 layers again. Finish with chocolate pudding on top. Garnish with crumbled cookies, chocolate shavings, and a cherry.

Speaking of chocolate - January 27 is National Chocolate Cake Day.




Did you know that it's considered offensive to feed alcoholic beverages to a moose in Fairbanks, Alaska?


Also, if you own a flamingo and live in Juneau Alaska, please don't take them to a barbershop.
www.dumblaws.com










124 comments:

  1. HaHa! Gifts as a kid...Goodness! I'm still getting gifts
    as a kid to~day! Why! Should anything be different..when
    family and friends are out shopping, and see summat that
    'Willie would like' they buy it..even better if it's pink..! :).
    And..l was taught to keep things, even have a train set 68yrs
    old, an army fort 60yrs old..and loads more..even have a wardrobe
    from the 60's filled with 60's cloths, flares, loud waistcoats,
    dicky~bows, coat jacket suits..etc..etc..The 60's are always voted
    the very best decade of 'ALL' time..HeHe! We used to say.."If you
    remember the 60's..you were'nt their"..! :). Love It..!!!

    Don't do statistics..Don't like them..never believe them..wast of
    space..the divorce figures above..how can you have different %'s
    from men and women..the figure must be 50/50..Oh! Hang on! Yes!
    Of course..men marry men now..women marry women..Jeeeeeese! :(.
    The mind boggles...WELL..Not mine anyway!

    And! Yes! I love puppies...Could'nt eat a whole though...! :o).
    And! I went to give blood once, when they found out it was pink,
    they asked me to leave..! :).
    And! I don't get colds..don't get flu..! :).
    And! Did Marie-Antoinette really say “Let them eat cake”?
    And! The puppy in the mug at the bottom..is'nt moving..! :).

    Lovely post! Bit of a laugh..hope my comment won't be censored..
    HeHe! Bless..! 😹 😼 😿 😾 😻 😺

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wonderful Willie, I always love your posts and no censorship here(lol) That strange person was deleted, and knew she wasn't with you. Wow! To have a train set from 68 years ago, is pretty phenomenal, and I'd love to take a peek at all the cool toys and clothes you have. I adore puppies, but cats are my faves. Always love when you stop by, and Happy National Chocolate Cake Day! RO

      Delete
  2. Those were all good ones! The Dad here remembers Peggy Fleming, she was an amazing skater he says! Have a terrific weekend.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ms. Fleming was quite the talent for sure, and I love that she's been happily married for so long. Hope you and hte family are doing well! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  3. Well, in future I will not give alcohol to any moose I might meet here at the Rhine - which would be a first - or take my pelican to the barber's shop! We didn't get many things as presents as kids, and if we did it was old stuff that others had thrown out, but I was always happy if there was a tatty book or two, some of which I still have. Enjoy your weekend, Valerie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. LOL! I hear you on that one Valerie. Sure wouldn't want you to get in any trouble. Books are totally fab and quite the treasures. Very cool that you still have some of them too! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  4. My favorite "toys" were books and decorating Barbie's home made from shoe boxes and clothes box and assorted fabrics I got from a sewer next door. Yes, I was into decorating then too. I did not get a Barbie dream house so I made one. And all the girls in the neighborhood wanted me to make them one. I am a frustrated interior designer. :-)
    If a flamingo, a warm weather bird, is found in Alaska they least they could do is not cut his/her feathers. :-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's so cool that even at a young age you were crafting and decorating. Awesome that the other kids in the neighborhood saw your talent and wanted to get exclusive deals too! I loved, loved loved books and still do, and when I was really young I got books. As I got older, I got my own books from the library or purchased them. I don't know where I would be without books(toys) in the world. LOL on the flamingo!! Always enjoy your sense of humor. Hugs...RO

      Delete
  5. Virus!!!! Oh yes, use the sanitary wipes, on grocery cart handles! Actually I leave my gloves on, in grocery store. Everything in there, food included, has been handled by others! Yish...

    And we wear face germ masks in stores, all this winter. He was so sick, in Dec. I decreed, we wear masks.

    Talked to a younger woman in store, who was wearing a mask. She also said, she was not sick. Like us, was avoiding getting sick. As she said... "Don't care what people "think." They aren't going to take care of me, is I get the flu!"

    Can't eat chocolate so I am not going to pay attention, to Nat. Chocolate Cake Day!!!!! -grimble-grumble-grumble- -grin-

    Good to see you Hon. You have been missing. Hope all was well, and you were just busy. Hugs...

    ✨✨✨✨

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much for sending well wishes, and unfortunately I was sick, but not from the flu, thank goodness.(lol) I hate that hubby suffered so much during the holidays, and nothing wrong with protecting yourself from the germies. I'm not supposed to eat much of it either, but occasionally I grab a piece of chocolate.(lol) Sending lots of hugs your way! RO

      Delete
  6. I loved my Barbie camper. I confess, I played with my Barbies until I was 13. I know, I know. But playing with them helped me through some tough times.

    While I'm not a vegan or anything, I have changed my diet the last month or so. I started eating better things. I love my fruit shakes and have found a new appreciation for Kashi fiber bars.

    Elsie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Barbie was the rage back then, and I'm not mad that you played with yours until 13(lol) I collect them, and still do their hair and dress them up on occasion. OMG - aren't those Kashi Bars addictive?!!! I love them so much Elsie! Hugs and Happy Tuesday! RO

      Delete
    2. Yes! So addicting. I love them so much. Nutrigrain is good but not *that* good! :)


      Elsie

      Delete
    3. You've reminded me to get my chocolate Kashi right now!(lol) Hugs and Happy Saturday! RO

      Delete
  7. I so love your posts RO, few and far between but always chock full of great stuff. I really never had any identifying gift as a child and really didn't come into my passion (all things booky) until I was well in my 40s, guess I"m a late bloomer :). Even though we're meat eaters I do try to sneak in a veg only meal now and then, my favorite is Pasta con Broccoli that I kind of based on a Pasta House recipe. I did know that about bottom of purses xo

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I know I've been MIA for awhile, Debbie.(lol) Some of it was due to illness, and some was due to other stuff. You always say the kindest things about my posts, which I truly appreciate. Wow! That's interesting that you didn't get into books until much later in life, and would love to hear the backstory on that. Not bad with that broccoli treat, and one I'll need to look up. Sure hope things are going well and sending some hugs your way! RO

      Delete
  8. You pose the funniest questions and find the best statistics. I think my portable record player and tidy stack of readalong records was my go-to toy the longest.
    I will have to go try Seva some day for their veggie/vegan menu.
    The Black Forest torte looks delish
    That is hilarious about moose and flamingo etiquette.

    Have a great weekend, Radiant Ro!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for the kind words, as always. My friends will tell you that I'm always thinking of weird things, and now have the blog to push my quirky thoughts off on others.(lol) Yes, I remember the record player, and what a treasure. I can see you playing those 45's and reading a good book.(lol) I hope you can go to tell us all about it. Some of those pics in the restaurants look pretty yummy. I sure have fun finding those crazy laws(lol) Happy Tuesday and Hugs...RO

      Delete
  9. I am pretty sure I saw something last week where it said that last year divorce bs marriage was almost 50/50 here

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I love looking at statistics, but I always wish that every marriage can be like the really good romance novels we read. Hugs...RO

      Delete
  10. My favorite thing to play with as a kid was Lincoln Logs. I had several sets of them and would make log cabins and garages that I would make my brother give me one of his stuffed animals if he wanted to play with the cabins and garages I made. lol

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh wow, that sounds really cool and like it was really fun. I'll bet that kept your creative juices flowing. Very cool that you figured out a great way to get some of those stuffed animals too.(lol) Hugs...RO

      Delete
  11. Books were always my favourite gifts. And they still are. I have read some books so many times that I know slabs of them off by heart.
    The youngest of my brothers donates plasma once a fortnight. I was a donor until the bloodbank slapped a lifetime ban on me.
    National Chocolate Day? Count me in.
    I love that more places are offering vegetarian dishes, but a lot of them still only offer a choice of two dishes here.
    Enjoy your weekend, and hugs.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Like you, I'm a serious bookaholic, but for Christmas, I didn't get a lot of books for some reason. As I got older, I started getting a lot of my books from the library, or I would buy my own. I just can't imagine a world without books, so I'm thrilled that you received such treasures. Like you, I'm on the lifetime ban too. Kudos that your baby brother is able to help out. Even though I'm not really supposed to eat a lot of it, I still can't help myself EC(lol) Sure hope your day is as amazing as you are! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  12. Damn Alaska, I'm sorry, I thought this was America!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. LOL!!!! Adam, your sense of humor always keeps me laughing. Hugs and Happy Tuesday! RO

      Delete
  13. Maybe I was quite interested in Matchbox Cars, but not really obsessed. I am a little puzzled how the divorce rate between men and women can be different. Re the virus, there is so much you can do to avoid and to cleanse, but there will always be something where you can pick it up. Toilets can be comparatively clean compared to the many things we touch each day.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Same sex marriages, mixed sex marriages, etc. That could be why the numbers are higher too. You're so right Andrew, germies seem to be everywhere, and all we can do is try to do what we can to avoid them. Still, something can creep up and grab us. I didn't collect or receive matchbox cars as a kid, but I have as a adult, and got quite a collection. I'll bet you managed to get quite a few good cars back in the day too! Hugs and Happy Tuesday!

      Delete
  14. Happy Chocolate Day, count me in RO :)
    I used to play with barbies and make them clothes with bits of fabric until I was about 13 or so.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yay Sami! I still have lots of Barbies that I've fixed their hair and dressed them up. Isn't it fun? If only we still had those Barbies that we had as a kid, right?(lol) Hugs! RO

      Delete
  15. Oh I loved my microscope! I did quite a lot of squinting into the lens! I'm trying to avoid as many people as possible to help prevent the flu. I've only really had it once and I was not a fan. National chocolate day? Well now I need to go get some chocolate!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wasn't that microscope just the best thing ever, Katherine???! I'm with you and did my fair share of squinting too.(lol) I haven't had it since I was a kid, but everyone I know who's had it was miserable. I'm so glad you're feeling better these days, and yay to chocolate! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  16. Hi Ro! I had a few toys that were my go-tos as a kid, one of them was a bow and arrow. I fancied myself an explorer and adventurer as a kid and my sweet dog that I had at the time had to be my trusty sidekick. Lol. Hope you're doing well!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh wow, the bow and arrow sounds different and really cool for a life of adventure and fun! Hugs and I'm feeling much better these days. Happy Tuesday! RO

      Delete
  17. I got a microscope kit as a kid and it had like 30 something vile's of things to examine. i was in heaven lol

    And my dog Fonzi was in Westminster! He got second place for shelties (which is basically - he lost lol) But this was before we had him. He's a neutered/retired show dog/couch potato now.

    Karen @ For What It's Worth
    Karen @ For What It's Worth

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think we could have just spent hours looking at that thing, Karen.(lol) Wow! How cool to hear. I've never met anyone who had a puppy/dog in Westminster, and how neat that you have him while he's handsome, relaxing and just hanging out these days. I'll bet there are lots of great stories to tell about that. Hugs...RO

      Delete
  18. A passion for horses and books pretty much defined my childhood. My favorite gifts were the hard plastic horses, that used to be so popular, and books. And speaking of which, I just saw TDU on your side board. Smiling:)
    Hugs

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Horse are such beautiful animals for sure. If you ever watch American Housewife, her daughter is obsessed with those plastic horses too. Books are the best thing ever, right? I always love posting pics of some of my fave things over on Instagram, and it's so fun. Hope you're staying warm and comfy these days as we get ready for another heat wave.(lol) Hugs...RI

      Delete
  19. It's true there are many more restaurants offering a wide choice of vegetarian or vegan meals.
    I hadn't heard of National Chocolate Cake Day - hope all those who celebrated enjoyed their cakes :)

    Great post, full of good things again Ro, thanks.
    Enjoy this last week of January.

    All the best Jan

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I sure love my chocolate, but have to eat it in moderation these days. It's really impressive to see all the neat recipes that are being developed by chefs, and makes me want to try them too. Thanks for the kind words and hope your day is amazing! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  20. That chocolate cake looks amazing. Eeew on the bottom of purses. Never thought of that!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Love my chocolate, but definitely need to minimize my craving these days.(lol) It's pretty scary to see where germs lurk for sure. Hope you're feeling much better! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  21. Hey ravishing Ro! You always find fun stuff. :)

    I went vegetarian recently and it's been easier than I ever thought it would be. About the only time I have trouble is when I want Mexican food with meat in it. Or chili haha.

    I remember having a microscope as a kid and loving it. And viruses? I think it's amazing we don't get sick more than we do, considering how germs are everywhere!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Very brave of you Gorgeous Greg for going all veggie. I'm definitely not there yet.(lol) I am getting more impressed with some of the tasty vegetarian recipes, and they make me want to eat them a little more. I really enjoy raw radishes these days and collard greens. I'm a fan of Mexican too, and can relate.(lol) Wasn't that microscope totally fun? You're right - so many germs in so many places. Yucky! Hope your Thursday is amazing! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  22. Fun post! I don't remember being obsessed with any of my childhood toys, maybe with the exception of my Star Wars action figures.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Suzanne! I had lots of Star Wars figures several years ago, but most I sold or gave away to friends. I still have a few of Princess Leia though. Hope your day is great! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  23. It used to be so hard to find food I could eat while going out. All I could find was a salad on menus. I agree that places now are offering not only vegetarian options, but some even have vegan sections in their menu. <3

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's interesting how some restaurants don't cater at all to vegetarians, which is sad, then there are others who are full out vegetarian with no meat on the menu at all. I like seeing many of the creative recipes that chefs use these days which makes eating veggies more fun and tasty. Sure hope your day is wonderful! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  24. I love your posts Ro! So good to see you! I'm trying to think what my favourite toy was? Maybe the barbie airplane. I loved packing that up and taking it everywhere! LOL! Hazelnut cream cake sounds so good! I'm bad for my purse! I put it everywhere! Thanks for the recipe! Big Hugs!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wasn't that airplane so cool? Barbie had lots of cool trinkets that I really enjoyed. I'm trying to be more careful with my purse, but going to use lots more wipes!(lol) Yummy for the cake, and I thank you so much for the kind words. Hugs...RO

      Delete
  25. So much good stuff here Ro! We've been eating more veggies, and my husband just made the most delicious carrot soup - yum! I love ice skating and loved watching Peggy Fleming.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yay to hubby for making such a healthy treat, Lana, and glad you liked it. Ice skating is pretty amazing to watch for sure. I've had many falls when I tried to do it myself.(lol) Hugs...RO

      Delete
  26. Doesn't that hazelnut cake look yummy?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Too yummy, Super Sandra, and I should only eat a tiny sliver.(lol) Hugs and Happy Heatwave Saturday!(lol) RO

      Delete
  27. I can't think of a toy I liked as a child, but I loved going hunting with my grandfather in the winter where we shot game to eat. Now you know why I'm a vegetarian!

    Speaking of which, there are NO restaurants in the largest city in the state of Kansas that sells vegetarian fare. It's sad, but true, we are both the wheat state, so gluten free is seldom an option, and we are a beef state, so if you aren't eating beef, you are pretty much looked down on. Cheeseburgers are big here, though.

    Hope you are well. I miss you, dear friend.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Welcome back, you have been very much missed! I just posted to your place, and am still quite in awe of you as a person. A good friend is a hunter, but that's a big NO for me(lol) I've heard that Kansas is the barbeque spot, but as much as I love my cheeseburgers,(send them all to me Kansas-lol) it's a hard pass on any kind of barbeque. Just can't get into it. Oh, I just remembered, there should be something on your porch or in the mailbox from me that's a surprise. Hope you're able to rest today dear Elizabeth! Hugs and Happy Saturday! RO

      Delete
    2. So sorry! I just saw your email from 4 days ago, and clearly need to clean out my email box. Glad it arrived safely!

      Delete
  28. Replies
    1. Doesn't it look so yummy??? Happy Saturday and Hugs...RO

      Delete
  29. Oh chocolate chocolate chocolate, gimmeeeeee!!! :)
    As a kid I got a little keyboard as a gift one year and I just played forever, I learned the piano too. It's been years, but one day I'd love to buy an old piano and play again!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Rain, is there nothing you can't do?(lol) You're pretty dang amazing, and I sure wish you could send some of your talents to me here in NC! I just need to hang out with you for a week to soak up all our talent and good will. Yes, and more yes to chocolate, right?(lol) Sure hope the house hunting is going well, and that you find your forever home soon. Sending many hugs your way. RO

      Delete
  30. No booze for the moose! I am now craving hazelnut cake and ice cream cake. I love veggies but still eat protein. Although not as frequently. Sorry I've been so MIA. I have been ill since December and still sick. I need spring to arrive post haste.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm with you on the cake Kimberly! I know you've been so sick, and I feel so bad for you. Hoping that all the medicine kicked in so you're feeling much better soon. Sending some hugs out your way! RO

      Delete
  31. For me I don't think books like the classics should be taken out of libraries or schools. Books should be available to everyone.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I agree. Books are a way of expression, and I believe that our young people should have lots of books and choices in their libraries. Hugs...RO

      Delete
  32. I love that you were a budding young scientist. Is there still an interest in that direction?
    Hugs

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I may have mentioned it once in one of my posts a few years back, but once I planned to be a neurosurgeon because I was fascinated with why people did things, and how brain injuries could affect someone's actions. When I realized I wasn't as deft as I probably should be to be messing around in someone's actual brain,(lol) I switched to wanting to be a nurse. Never mind that I was always carrying around bandaids and iodine to patch up my friends when they got minor scrapes.(lol) Eventually, one of my nuns turned my love of reading into a love of English, so I wanted to become an English Professor and teach. A long story, but that didn't happen.(lol) Still, I'm that person who can listen to a person talking about their illnesses and pains for hours. That was a zillion years ago, but I still believe that we're all here on earth to provide service to others whenever possible. That was my short answer, Super Sandra! (lol) Hugs and Happy Wednesday. RO

      Delete
    2. You are a positive influence on many and you apply many bandages to the soul:)
      My mom went to nursing school when she was in her late 50s:)
      Hugs

      Delete
    3. Now this just brought tears of appreciation to my eyes this Monday morning and I thank you. A really close friend died on Saturday, and this lifted my spirits. You just reminded me that I still have time to be a nurse despite my age. I don't know why I didn't consider that earlier, and excited to look into it! I really do appreciate you so much! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  33. You had so much fun with that microscope! I don't think I had a single defining toy. The books I was given as gifts were probably the closest thing: the Prydain books, the Narnia books, and so on. And I loved my dollhouse. I still have some of my children's books, and my dollhouse furniture is somewhere, gathering dust, but the dollhouse itself, which was my aunt's before me, went on to some other child in the family.

    It saddens me that there are still calls for censorship, particularly of important books like To Kill a Mockingbird and The Hate U Give. (Which reminds me that I should read that one...)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I remember getting lots of my books from friends, the library or yard sales. My parents bought me books as a small child, but once I got older, I was pretty much on my own.(lol) By the way, when it came to being punished, I didn't get spankings, my books would be taken away so I couldn't read for 2-3 days. That microscope ws super exciting for sure Lark. Yay to passing on the dollhouse to another family member to be treasured. That's so cool. Some of those dollhouses from back in the day are pretty amazing. Censorship saddens me too. Saw the movie the Hate U Give and it was quite good. Hope you're doing well! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  34. Like, a million toys sprang to mind... I had SO MANY personality shaping gifts that meant so much to me growing up! - http://www.domesticgeekgirl.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. There were lots of fun ones to treasure for sure, Gingi. Hope your day is going well! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  35. Yes, I had many many toys which I taped to hold it together and played till it literally fell apart. But the best gift was books! And yes, it shaped me to be a reader and a writer and editor now!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I agree and love my books too. In fact, I'll be reading a new suspense novel most of the weekend, which I'm excited about. So cool that they were the building blocks to your career now. Hugs and Happy Day! RO

      Delete
  36. Watching the Westminster is always fun isn't it?
    Thanks so much for volunteering to Beta Read. I really appreciate it. It's still a ways out,I'll let you know when it gets closer.
    It's been averaging 74 here. Can you believe it?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I get amazed that there are so many different types of dogs in the world, and it's so fascinating to watch. No problem in the beta read, and looking forward to your latest! My goodness, I couldn't believe it when it 80 degrees here the other day. This morning I did get my 15 minutes with some arm exercises though, and the rest of the weekend will be one filled with finishing up a new novel. Hope your weekend is amazing as you are! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  37. That truffle looks delicious. Yum!

    I had no idea that there was a cut off for giving blood. I remember being excited when I turned 18 and could start giving blood.

    Some of my favorite toys were my play horses. I played with them ALL the time!

    Great information about the virus germs linking around our purses. Must clean mine. I try not to put it on any tables, etc. :)

    Have a great weekend!
    ~Jess

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Even though I can never give blood, it still fascinates me about the rules associated with it and tied to age. If you ever watch older editions of American Housewife, you'll see her daughter is truly obsessed with her horses, and she's so fun to watch. Just thinking about some of the places I've put my purse makes me cringe.(lol) Happy weekend to you too, Jess! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  38. Its interesting that there are still all these books waiting for censorship.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. it definitely saddens me that we're in 2019, and censorship still happens. Hope all is well where you are! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  39. I love all those random laws that states have. LOL I'm not the biggest chocolate cake fan, but I'll take vanilla cake. Yummm.

    -Lauren
    www.shootingstarsmag.net

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Some of those laws really get me giggling Lauren.(lol) I love chocolate, but I don't eat a lot of cake these days. On occasion I may sneak a sliver.(lol) Vanilla cake sounds yummy too! Hugs and Happy Monday! RO

      Delete
  40. I didn't have anything as fancy as a microscope but I loved my teddy bear to bits. He was with me for years and still comes out from his box every Christmas. Interesting post, loved the recipes and the great read. Thanks so much and have a great week :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wow! How cool that you still have your treasured Teddy bear from when you were a kid! I hope you post some pics this Christmas, and thanks for the kind words. Happy Monday to you, Denise! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  41. Dang, I forgot to celebrate National Choc Cake Day by diving into one:) But I did have one for my bday:)
    Hugs

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Glad you were able to enjoy some chocolate on your birthday, Super Sandra! Hope all is well, and sending more hugs your way! RO

      Delete
  42. Lovely microscope, but I was obsessed with this tiny guitar from my uncle.
    The Glossychic
    Wonder Cottage

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wow! That sounds pretty cool about the guitar,a dn I'll bet you had lots of lovely memories too! Thanks so much for stopping by and Happy Monday! RO

      Delete
  43. Wonderful post RO!
    My favorite gifts were crayons, paints and thick coloring books a big rolls of butcher paper.
    I was always drawing and or coloring :)
    I will definitely have to watch where I set my purse down.

    Big Hugs ❤❤❤

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So thrilled to see you back around dear Jan, and I can picture you stretched out with your coloring books and crayons creating perfect works of art! I agree. I probably have all kinds of germies on my purse.(lol) Sending some HUGE Hugs your way! RO

      Delete
  44. Replies
    1. Hope yours was filled with lots of loves and goodies! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  45. Happy Chocolate Day Ro :)
    My favorite gifts are chocolate, something handmade and spa treatments, you can't go wrong with spa treatments.
    What a nice microscope.
    xoxo
    Mary

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I agree. I've never been to a spa, but it sure sounds like it would be heaven! Yes to reasons to have more chocolate.(lol) Hugs and Happy Monday! RO

      Delete
  46. You planted a lilac! Please keep me posted on its progress. If it flourishes I'll get one. I really miss lilacs.
    Have a good one, Rockin Ro.
    Hugs

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Who knows what will happen with that flower Super Sandra?(lol) I'll definitely keep you posted! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  47. Yes as a child my favourite toy was a tin full of light bulbs and batteries. :D

    ReplyDelete
  48. the one gift that I received that really impacted me was a stereo system that had a connection ipod attachment and CD player. Beautiful sound but it really got me into MUSIC so much. I would spend hours listening to it all day. And I love Ice Skating, its so elegant and beautiful to watch. The couple skating is my favorite (totally works for the romantic heart in me ) Great post darling.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. As a music fan, I can totally relate to listening to it all day. Something about it just soothes the soul. I've been known to dance around the living room quite often, and I love Maroon 5 and Ed Sheerhan. I agree that ice skating just seems so elegant to watch. Skating like that is hard work, but the skaters make it look so effortless. I adore your romantic soul so much. Hugs...RO

      Delete
  49. Replies
    1. Thanks for stopping by to say hello! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  50. Thanks for sharing such versatile and important information.

    The trend nowadays seems to be going vegetarian/vegan. Still, many call these people "nutters".
    It is sad that despite science advances, the germs seem to dominate the world. There are breakthroughs but no complete cure to anything.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I agree. Why in the world aren't there more cures despite a ton of technology? I've been trying to eat more veggies and love collard greens and green beans these days. Thanks so much for visiting, and I hope your day is amazing! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  51. Um... I don't think I had any gifts that I've kept since I was a kid, haha. I have a lot of notebooks, though, even if they've been replaced by new notebooks over the years (I collect them).

    I wasn't aware about the age limit with donating blood - due to my weight and height, I don't meet the requirements to donate blood (unless it's an absolute emergency and there's no one else).

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh wow! That's cool that you collect notebooks! I'll bet they've really changed a lot over the years, and I wouldn't mind seeing pics. It's amazing how many rules that are tied to giving blood. I can't give either - ever, but I have quite a few friends who have donated and been paid. Hugs and Happy Sunday! RO

      Delete
  52. Hey, lets find a spot and get some of those noodles and hazelnut crème cake:)
    How's that lilac tree doing (and your veggies)?
    Hope all is well in your corner of the world.
    Thanks for stopping by even when I wasn't home. I appreciate ya.
    Hugs

    ReplyDelete
  53. I missed international Chocolate Day! OMG!
    I love that BLACK FOREST TRUFFLE...
    I can't remember an item that defined me or my childhood... I got a car and fixed a few bits up myself to get it roadworthy...
    Great post RO!

    Naomi @ Naomi’s Reading Palace

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Any reason is a great reason to eat chocolate Naomi(lol) Very cool that you did that with your first car. That's a big deal! Thanks so much for stopping by to say hello! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  54. I am drooling over the Hazelnut Cake. ((hugs))

    ReplyDelete
  55. Oh my gosh, that truffle is to die for:)
    Thank goodness we have sunshine today, we need roof work.
    YOU have a wonderful, creative week.
    Hugs

    ReplyDelete
  56. My favourite toy was the catapult, so much so that I purchased one recently to chase away the medling pigeons in my garden. (in my school days I used to make one)

    ReplyDelete
  57. The sanitizing tip to stay safe from flu is a good one. I always carry my small hand sanitizer!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Great idea! I need to remember to put some in my purse too! Hugs and Happy Sunday! RO

      Delete
  58. Hey! Just stopping by to say Hi! How you are well!
    xoxo
    Mary

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hope you are doing well Marvelous Mary! Hugs...RO

      Delete
  59. Hope your week is off to a grand start.
    Hugs,

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I forgot what day it is, Super Sandra, but now that I know, I'm off to a pretty good start.(lol) Hugs...RO

      Delete
  60. I trust you had a pleasant, productive, energy-filled day.
    Hugs

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. This weekend I had tons of energy I didn't know I had in me, but today is catch up on business day, hopefully. Sending over hugs...

      Delete
  61. Am so happy that I contacted Dr.Agbazara who was able to bring back my ex within 48hours, Now i am happy to make a good testimony about this powerful spell caster that helped my love life to be in existence once again, if you have any kind of problem you can contact Dr.Agbazara, through his WhatsApp/call number on +2348104102662, or email him on: ( agbazara@gmail.com )

    ReplyDelete
  62. GREAT NEWS, YOU'VE JUST FOUND A LEGIT HACKER,
    HAVE YOU LOST YOUR HARD EARNED FUNDS TO THE BINARY OPTION SCAM?
    Right now, millions of hackers, spammers and scammers are hard at work. They're after your Social Security number, bank account information and social media accounts. With any of these, they can steal your money or trick your friends into giving up theirs.
    Between semi-amateurs with automated systems and serious hackers who are masters of technology and trickery, how can you possibly hope to stay safe?

    The best way is to know how hackers do what they do. Once you know that, you can counter their malicious acts.
    Welcome to the ALEXGHACKLORD@GMAIL .com
    In the world of hacking we are the best when it comes to client satisfaction. Stop being scammed by fake hackers. Profound Hacks Tech is an experienced online Private Investigator/Ethical Hacker providing investigative solutions and related services to individuals. You might be curious that what hacking group services can provide? .. If you hire a hacker, you always have worried of losing your money. We won't keep a cent if we can't do your job. 100% refund if job is not completed. Contact - ALEXGHACKLORD@GMAIL. com We render
    +University Grades Hack,
    +Bank Account Hacks,
    +Control devices remotely hack,
    +Facebook Hacking Tricks,
    +Gmail, AOL, Yahoomail, inbox, mobile phone (call and text message Hacking are available)
    +Database Hacking,
    +PC Computer Tricks
    +Bank transfer, Western Union, Money Gram, Credit Card transfer
    +Wiping of Credit,
    +VPN Software,
    +ATM Hack
    email us now ::ALEXGHACKLORD@GMAIL. COM
    +Are you suspecting your partner of cheating or having an extramarital affair?
    As that could result in unnecessary confusion in your relationship or marriage. it's always advisable to consult a professional hacker to help you get concrete evidence by discreetly getting access to their phone or computers.
    ALEXGHACKLORD can also work on that.

    NOTE

    ReplyDelete
  63. This is the website I read about Prophet Abulele and contacted him to help me get my ex boyfriend back to marry me during the month of june this year and I have come back here to post about him. Prophet Abulele will help you solve your problem no matter what you are going through. My name is PATRICIA from Canada. Posting about a spell caster is very strange to me because I never believed i will be able to say that I was helped by a spell caster in bringing my ex boyfriend back to me after 5 years of no contact. I read about Prophet Abulele from other websites and contacted him to help me and in less than 48 hours my ex boyfriend called me and I was happy that he wants to get back to me. We met on Friday and he proposed to me,... It was the most beautiful ring. Please everyone out here, Contact Prophet Abulele to solve your problem for you and make you happy with your relationship that is hurting you. Love is the best feeling ever experienced. Email Prophet Abulele at prophetabulelehealingtemple@gmail.com or directly on whats App him +2349022406159.

    ReplyDelete

We love comments, feedback and YOU! Hugs...