Happy New Year

This year is almost gone...

a new year is on its way,

Time to put the past behind us

and look forward to a promising year ahead!

My, has this been a crazy year for us. A huge prayer answered ending with our little blessing and early Christmas present! We had a lot to be thankful for this year. We look forward to an exciting future with our son!

May God bless you all with a promising new year!

Tyler's First Christmas

We survived Tyler's first Christmas.

We had so much to be thankful for this year - especially our special Christmas present. ;-)

The holidays started out with our traditional Christmas Eve with family from Troy's dad's side. It's a traditional going back 3 generations where we get together and have chilli and cornbread. We usually go to Trina's (Troy's sister) house but this year, it was at our house. That meant that I had to get all my Christmas decorations ou and put up the tree. We hadn't decorated for the last few years as we're hardly home because of Christmas rehearsals and such. We didn't have a big production this year, and we now have a reason to decorate.

Christmas day was a busy one, as most holidays are. In the afternoon, we went to my sister's house up in the mountains, and then came down and went to Troy's mom's (Judy's) house that evening. It was quite a day and Tyler was awake through most of it. He got a little cranky at Judy's house, I'm thinking because there was a lot of people there.

We had 3 different 'Baby's first Christmas' outfits that we put Tyler in for the holidays including a Santa hat that was unfortunately too big on him. He looked so cute in them. We found one onesey that said, "Who needs Santa when I have Grandma." That's especially true for Tyler since grandma Judy is already spoiling him. We saved that one for Christmas day so we could show the grandmas.

Among Tyler's gifts were clothes, toys, and a cute little overnight backpack with Mickey Mouse on it. It was way cute and I was tempted to keep it for myself. One special gift we gave to all the grandparents was a double picture frame. On one side, it had a cute picture of Tyler smiling. On the other, was his footprint imprinted in a clay-like substance that turned rubbery when dried. It was specifically designed to hold a footprint image on one side. It was quite a chore to get his footprint, but based on their reaction, it was worth it.

I took a few pictures, but not many. You would think I'd be going picture crazy since this was Tyler's first Christmas. It'll be more fun next year when he's able to open his gifts on his own. Tyler's is growing so quick. He turned 2 months old on December 18th. According to the last doctor's appointment he's now weighing 11 lbs, 5 oz. Believe it or not, that's just one ounce more then I weighed when I was born (I was a month overdue).

With the new year right around the corner, that means I'll be back at work soon too. I've gotten used to staying at home with him, but actually look forward to getting back into the swing of things. My mom will watch Tyler while I'm at work. They live close to campus so I can go check on Tyler during lunch and it's on my way to and from work.

I'll post pictures soon, when I get them downloaded.

Until then, Happy New Year to everyone!

May God Bless each and every one of you for 2008!

A new adventure

A new adventure began today... our first service in our new building.
For the past 6 years, New Harvest Church has met and worshipped in a high school cafeteria. Four years ago, we purchased an old citrus packing plant and TODAY

WE HAD OUR FIRST SERVICE IN OUR NEW HOME!

We have done Christmas and Easter productions over there but it has never felt the way it felt today. Allbeit, there were a few first day hickups but overall, everything ran well and the music was awesome! Our pastor, Mitch, was nearly in tears talking about how much he's prayed for this day and thanked all of us who have helped to make it come true.

The 'plant', as we called it, has a lot more to come (a huge event/main worship center to seat 3,000 and a fully functional commercial kitchen for catering) to come in the next few years. In the next year or so, we will have a fully-staffed child care center on site for our members and open to the public.

One dream of mine will soon come true as well. Now that we've moved in to the 'plant', I can start marketing the facility for concerts and events. It has always been a desire of mine to bring more Christian talent to the Fresno area. Once the event center is complete, I plan on bringing some full-on concerts in. Until that's complete, I have our smaller worship center that seats an estimated 800 people.

I just have to continue to be patient and prayerful on what God wants me to do in our new building.

The Future is Looking Bright!

2 months

My baby is 8 weeks old today. In my eyes, it's been 2 months eventhough he doesn't technically turn 2 months until the 18th. Went to the doctor the other day and he is now weighing 11 lbs, 3.5 oz. Ironically, that is how much I weighed when I was born and I was a month late.

We are looking forward to Tyler's first Christmas. Eventhough he won't remember it, this Christmas will be very memorable because we thank God every day for our precious baby.
Grandma Judy has already went nuts on presents... and Troy and I have even gotten him a few things already. :-)

He's beginning to smile, which is so cute when we talk to him. We can see when he reacts to us now. He also is almost sleeping through the night. He's sleeping about 6 hours at night and taking short naps during the day. This makes us VERY happy!!!!

We can't help but say again that we are so blessed with this child!!! He is sooo good.
He hardly cries, he sleeps REALLY well, he is a healthy eater and can sit still and be content by just staring at the ceiling or looking at lights.

We love our precious one!!!

Our First Family pic

Here's our first family photo.

Just wish Tyler had his eyes open!

Here's some new pics of Tyler by himself. He's just so adorable, I love taking his picture. So sue me, I'm a proud mom! :-)

The boy LOVES to sleep!

Very Thankful

Happy Thanksgiving!!

This year, we have so much to be thankful for. Every year we are thankful for the many blessings God has bestowed upon us, for taking care of us and providing for our needs.

This year, we have a very special reason to be thankful. God has given us the wonderful opportunity and duty of raising a child.... HIS child! And a precious one his is too! I am incredible humbled everyday on how our faith, patience and trust in God's timing has brought us what we've been praying for for so long! A son!

We started the year still discouraged about not being able to conceive, and a few months later... I was carrying a precious bundle of joy. This will be Tyler's first Thanksgiving and we are very thankful that he is here with us.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

Eat, Drink and Be Blessed!

One Month Today

One month today, my baby was born.
A lot has changed in one month!
Coming off a good pregnancy (except for the minor back pain the last few months) I had a good delivery. God bless epidurals!! :-)
Eventhough I had issues after the delivery, I have a precious baby boy to show for it now.
Even being a few week early, he was a good 7 pounds, 7 ounces.
He's grown so much already!
Can't wait til his personality starts to appear. Right now he just still eats, sleeps and poops. I can tell he's starting to get ticklish when I touch his feet and he smiles slightly (mostly from passing gas).
My little man is growing up!
New photos coming soon.

Happy Birthday Tyler!!

1st pediatric appt

Tyler had his first appointment with the pediatrician on Thursday. .. his 3 week birthday.

Everything checked out well. He's now weighing close to his birth weight - now at 7 lbs, 8 oz. (He had lost some weight being in the nursery for a week.) He's now an inch longer at 22 in. long and we can now feed him when he wakes up (provided it's not longer then every 4 hours). That means Troy and I (mostly ME!) get a little more sleep. He also now eating double the amount he was before. This child is a little piggy when he eats (more like inhales) his formula. :-)

The doctor has given us the ok to take him off all his prescription medication given by the hospital - 3 medicated creams for his rash, and 1 for his acid reflux. The acid reflux medicine was actually making Tyler spit up more then without it anyways. He's been doing much better without it. He also got his circumcision done. He slept right through that. This boy can sleep through anything.

We've started taking him out more, and he made his grand appearance at church last Sunday. He slept through the whole worship set. Like I said, this boy can sleep! Many people at church were thrilled to see us up & around, and also loved to see how well Tyler was doing. We had a lot of people praying for us and for him during my pregnancy and his time in the nursery.

Every day, he grows and every day he becomes more precious!!
I thank God every day for my precious baby boy!!
He is truely a miracle and blessing from God!

He's Home!

Our sweet baby is finally home. He's one week and 5 days old.
After waiting all day, we were able to finally take Tyler home yesterday. It was a bit surreal having him home, and I didn't get much sleep last night being overly cautious about his every sound.

I did hate to wake him up for his feedings, he seemed to be sleeping so peacefully.
He is quite an eater and gets a little acid reflux from the formula. At the moment, I'm combining breast milk and the formula because he doesn't seem to get enough just with my milk alone.

I'm sure we'll get into a routine after he's home for awhile.

New pictures

We should be able to bring Tyler home soon, provided his next round of tests come out good.

Here's some new pics.

daddy feeding tyler. he tends to fall asleep alot while feeding. poor guy gets exhausted by all the nurses proding prior to his feedings.

me holding my precious baby boy! he's actually awake.

closer picture of tyler. he likes to look around aloot when he's awake. they call that a reflective personality. both troy and i are that way.

OH, SO CUTE

YOU ARE!!

Tyler is Here!

Sorry for the delay in posting our son's blessed arrival. It's been quite an interesting few days.

Tyler Steven Root

born Thursday, October 18, 2007

at 6:52 am

Weight: 7 lb, 7 oz

Height: 20 1/2 in. long

The inducement period was LONG, and delivery went somewhat smoothly. Was given the epidural (thank you God for drugs!!) but had to have an episiotamy to help get Tyler out. I'm doing much better now and I was discharged from the hospital yesterday. I suffered from a minor headache which is a side effect of the epidural but am doing better now.

Tyler remains in the nursery, although he's just fine. He still had a bit of fluid in his lungs and was having problems breathing on his own with he first came out. He was also suffering from a bit of jaundas. He was on oxygen and was being fed introveniously for the first couple days but is now now eating a small bit of formula and is breathing on his own.

Troy has contstantly looked in on him and given me updates, as I have only been able to see him a few times due to my issues. Now that I'm feeling better, I can go try to see him tomorrow.

He is growing stronger day by day and we pray that we can bring him home soon!
Please pray for his continued strength and that we can hold him in our arms ASAP!


He is in good hands withthe nurses in the nursery and we both know God is caring for this little blessing every step of the way!

28 days turning into 7 days

Because of the pain in my back, my 28 days is now turning into 7 days.
There is NO way I could make a whole month with dealing with this pain in my back. As of Sunday, Tyler is full term so we scheduled to induce labor on Wednesday, Oct 17.

He's still very healthy and active so delivery early shouldn't be a problem for him... and hopefully relieve the pressure in my back.

Troy is rushing about getting last minute things for Tyler's room and he's getting a bit nervous as it coming closer. That's a new dad for you. :-)

Pray for us on Wednesday, as I'm sure it will be grueling experience (although the epidural will help tremendously). Stay tuned!

At 36 weeks - Now on Maternity Leave

I'm officially at 36 weeks - about 28 days to go until my due date.

I am officially on maternity leave, 2 weeks earlier then expected thanks to a pinched sciatic nerve in my back that the baby is pressing against.

I had an overnight stay in the birthing center at Kaiser and they took great care of me. The baby is doing well, I was just in severe pain. I'm doing better now and the pain is more like a stretch muscle. It will make the next few weeks very painful and uncomfortable.

Along with some other issues (I won't go into due to TMI) I actually hope little Tyler comes earlier, eventhough I did say I didn't way an Oct. baby.God is in control and he knows just the right time for him to come.

Please keep me, Troy and Tyler in your prayers as we get closer to the birth. School will be tremendously difficult as the time goes on as I still need to try to get my assignments done through all this.
I'll keep you updated as I can.

Blessings,
Sheryl

Baby Shower pictures

The shower was quite an event. The theme was classic Disney characters. The table centerpieces was each of the 5 main characters on Ryder wagons. The favors were little stuffed characters with a candied apple attached.

I had quite a bit of gifts to open since there were nearly 90 people there. We broke up the opening with games every dozen gifts or so. You can get an idea of how many gifts I have from these pictures.

Surprisingly, I didn't get any pictures showing off how big my belly is getting (my niece took the pictures) but you might be able to tell from these. The last picture is of me and my cousin, Lisa. We were always told we looked like twins.

33 weeks down and I'm so ready! It's getting harder to move, sleep and work. I going to try to work up until the end of October, if I can last that long.

The light at the end of the tunnel

There's a light at the end of the tunnel...
In just about two months, my life will change as I know it.

I'll be able to sleep on my back and stomach again.
I'll work at getting my girlish figure back.

and I'll be able to move, stretch and do things I was able to before.

Our little Tyler is growing strong and starting to stretch out more as he's getting confined in his small little sack. He is moving more and presses against my sides. We got our 3-D ultrasound done last week. If you know of someone who is pregnant, this is a must-do as it is an incredible exprience and the pictures are so real.

His room is almost done - getting painted in a few day. My shower is this next weekend and soon the room will be showered with gifts and supplies to get us through the first year and beyond. I have no idea where I'll put it all.

Where am I??

A summer thunder storm has hit the Valley and its making me think I'm on the East coast.

Beside the fact that its been really hot and humid in the Fresno area for the last couple of week, last night, we were surprised with a huge thunderstorm, along with a very bright lightning storm.

Although we need the rain desperate in the drouted San Joaquin Valley, the lightning usually causes havic for our firefighters, causing at least a hand full of fires.

It was my wake-up call at 3:30 AM this morning. Actually, I was already awake thanks to all my tossing & turning. I think it went on for a good hour and a half watching the lightning show for our bedroom window, watching the trees sway in the wind and counting the distance between the lightning and thunder.

Reminding me of my dear summers in Virginia, I wondered.... am I in California?? Or Virginia??

Gone Where Most Women Don't Dare To Go

Very few women have gone... a place where definately too much testosterone flying around.

Promise Keepers!

The weekend conference more men was held in Fresno this weekend and I attended, helping out at the KLOVE booth. Well actually, just attended Friday night, not on Saturday due to having a lot of homework to finish up. Even going for the few hours on Friday night, I saw plenty displays of machoism.

Being at the KLOVE booth, we were near the Army booth. The challenged men who pass by to do 50 push-ups to get a free T-shirt. I saw hords of younger, and older men do the push-up challenge. It was actually quite comical.



Overall, Promise Keepers is a wonderful tool to forge male bonding experiences, encouraging them to be better men, husbands and fathers. No other place can a grown man wheep hysterically and be comforted by the loving men around them.



If Promise Keepers is coming to your area, I strongly encourage all men to go experience the incredible feeling they'll receive from Promise Keepers conferences.

SLC pictures - FINALLY

Here's a few shots from my trip to Salt Lake City and the tour of the Temple Square. Unfortunately, since I'm the one with a camera (acutally had to use my cell phone camera for these shots) they are only scenic ones.

First, this is a picture of the temple from the convention center roof.
Second is from inside the tabernacle, where the famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir rehearses and performs. Although the photo can't show, the roof is dome shaped which makes the accoustics in the room incredible. From the back of the room, you can hear paper tearing, and a pin drop from the front podium.

These two pictures are from the SLC Convention Center which is across the street to the Temple Square. This convention center is specifical used for the major conventions of the Later Day Saints (aka Mormons) and is incredible HUGE. From the first picture you can tell that it seats a number of people. From the second picture, it shows that the front is similar to the tabernacle but larger.

Here is the views of the balconys. There are three levels of seating, none of which has abstructed view. Above the seating is two rows of lighting. The photos don't do this place justice - it is HUGE!

Back from SLC

I made it back from Salt Lake City fine and very tired. It was a very interesting experience.
The conference was very informative and I brought back a lot of info on how to improve our database and the security of the information we handle.

While I was there, me and one of the guys took a tour of the Temple Courtyard, which includes the tabernacle (where the Mormon Tabernacle Choir sings) and their very huge convention center. Yes, the mormon's have their own convention center! The tabernacle was very catholic church-like and had a huge pipe organ behind the choir loft. The convention center was HUGE and was constructed so that wherever someone sits in there, it's a good seat and not obstructed. Huge is actually an understatement for how big this thing is. It also features a stage with choir loft and a big pipe organ. It's very unique as it has a park on the roof. Although the grass was a little brown and the flowers weren't in bloom, it was cool to see and from pictures I saw, it's gorgeous when in season. Of course, we couldn't go into the temple, as it is reserved for LDS only and there was a wedding going on that day.

Trying to stay respectful to the tour guides and their beliefs, I kept my mouth shut about debating my beliefs vs. theirs. I'm knowledgeable but not nearly qualified enough to disprove their strong beliefs. Although we couldn't help but discuss the obvious misinterpretations on the way back to the hotel. Out of curiousity, I did ask one of the very nice tour guides if they believe in the holiness of the Bible as well as their Book of Mormon, why is it that they don't carry the Bible along with their 'other book'. I noticed that all the missionaries that work at the courtyard, and do the tours, held snugly to their B.O.M.

I took lots of pictures, although they were on my phone (I forgot to take my digital on the tour). I'll download them soon and post them.

Flying while pregnant

This week, I'm in Salt Lake City, UT at a conference for work.
I had to make preparation with my OB to get an 'ok to fly' note for the airlines. I'm at 29 weeks and it wasn't an intersting experience flying with a baby inside. Although the most of the flight was the same as the many others I've taken, When there was turbulunce or a slight altitude change, I was more sensitive to it - and so was Tyler. Luckily, the flight from Fresno to Salt Lake City was only about an hour and a 1/2 long (if even that) so it wasn't too bad.

I'm here with three other guys from work. It's been an interesting experience being with 'the boys' but it did guarantee that I got my own room. No worries with the guys, as two are very happily married (as am I) and the other is seriously dating someone. No temptation here. It's been a great experience so far, although being in SLC wasn't necessarily my top choice to come to a work conference. I've met some great people and have taken some very informative notes to take back to the office and hope to initiate with our group there.

Salt Lake City is an interesting city. From my hotel room, I have a unique view of the Mormon temple, and through the steeples, I see the capitol building. Eventhough we can't go into the temple, the mormon church where the Mormon Tabernacle Choir rehearses and sings, has tours for the public. We're within a block away from it so I plan on walking down there and checking it out. I've heard the accoustics in there are incredible.

The conference ends tomorrow, and we'll fly back to Fresno.
I am looking forward to going home, but on the other hand, I know there will be much to do.
One good thing is that summer hours at work have ended and we're back to an 8-5 schedule. Sleeping in an extra hour will be nice but working til 5 will be tough, as I barely made it to 3:30 during the summer. The weather has been nice here - warm with a slight breeze. Not looking forward to going back to the Valley heat.

Are YOU Ready for some FOOTBALL???

Are YOU ready for some football?? The preseason has begun! Wooohoooo!!!

Although my team is no long the Houston Texans since they released my dearest David Carr, I harbor no ill-will toward them and wish them a good season. I hope they can do better with their new QB (I doubt it).

Since David now plays for the Carolina Panthers, I'll be watching how they perform, although David probably won't get much play time this season unless the lead QB gets injured. I'll also be keeping my eye on the incredible Trent Dilfer, who is backup QB for the 49ers. Both are alumni of Fresno State and veterans in the NFL now.

Keep an eye one new rookies who will most asuredly make thier mark in the NFL - Dwayne Wright, a running back for the Buffalo Bills. This guy was amazing for the Bulldogs and with his talent and speed, will be a star - GUARANTEED!!

Let's get ready to Rock! Let's get ready for some FOOTBALL!!!!

SWC - Saturday update

Saturay: Saturday was a brand new day. We had the late shift again, and didn't need to be here until 1. It's hard to work on homework when there is so much I want to see and do. I did a little bit of homework once I got there, and then finished up later that night.

It was cold and overcast yesterday. I was glad I decided to wear jeans instead of my shorts. Good Call!! We had a lot of traffic at the booth, since it was the last day of the festival. One of the things we got while there was a personalized sing-a-long Veggie Tales CD. It was so cute! What they do is digitally put in the kids name and the Veggie Tales characters pretend like they are actually there with you, singing children's songs and introducing the child to other characters on the CD. We was so cute, we had to get one for Tyler. Since it's songs that I would know, I could sing them to him until he can sing along with me. I'll have V.T. DVDs so he'll know who the characters are. Besides 2 CDs (BarlowGirl and Todd Agnew's newest ones) that's all we purchased - besides all the good food!

We left around 11ish since we had a long drive and it was foggy. Staff & crew stuck around to tear everything down so we didn't have to stay long after the last concert ended. Good thing because I was really tired and was so sore.

Another year is almost gone. It's been fun and definately a different experience then past years. Next year will be quite an adventure will a baby on my arm. We're blessed to be working with KLOVE/Air 1 and the fabulous staff with SWC. They treat us well! We are definately blessed to be working with people who have the same desire we do - to reach lost souls for Christ through the influnce of music... and I must say, Christian music has some awesome representatives out there preaching the gospel through their music!

Spirit West Coast 2007

Another year, another music festival is just about over. On the last day of Spirit West Coast 2007 (SWC) in Monterey, I finally am able to sit down and reflect on my time here. It's been a busy week and boy, am I tired.

To sum up the fun:

Wednesday: We left Wednesday afternoon and drove to Santa Cruz (from Fresno) which is about a 2 1/2 hour drive. We stayed in Santa Cruz, since we have a rent-free vacation house there compliments of Troy's family. :-) Troy, myself and our friend Larrin kicked back with a pleasant evening at the house before starting our long day on Thursday. We grabbed some pizza, I worked on some homework and enjoyed the time together.



Thursday: We started our day early by having to get up at 6 am to get ready and head to Monterey. Of course, coffee was an absolute NEED!! Don't worry, mine was decaf. :-) We started our shift at the KLOVE/Air 1 booth at 9 and once the gates were open, hords of people from every direction kept running past, trying to find the best plae to plop their 'territory' for the day's concerts on the main stage. We had a lot of people stop by the booth, signing up for our contests and playing that dance revolution game that is all the crace with kids nowadays. One catch with this game though - they danced to Christian music. It was pretty cool. I might see if I can get that program for the house. No better way to dance off all the baby pounds but to dance to the best kind of music every written.

After our shift at the booth, we walked around alot, just checking things out. My body is definately telling me that I can't do all I used to do. Tyler takes a lot of out me - more then I thought he would. I guess this is just the beginning. I'm not letting him stop me from serving in my God-callen ministry though. In fact, next year, I'll be toting a 9-month old around, while I work. He will become very well accustomed to what mom & dad do, and will learn to love Christian music and love ministry as much as we do. We stayed until about 10ish that night then went back to the house. I was exhausted and my legs and feet were so sore.



Friday: Another long day, although we did get to sleep in a little bit. We got to SWC about 11:30 that morning in anxious anticipation of seeing my ultimate favorite band BarlowGirl and their wonderful family. We've become friends with them the last few years, since they did a concert in Fresno and Troy and I went above and beyond to make their stay a great and memorable one. We got to talk with them briefly and break the exciting news about my pregnancy. They were thrilled and excited for us... and I promised that I would call them once Tyler is born to let them know. We wanted to try to hook up with them before they left to catch their plane but wasn't able to. Their schedule while they are here is always so hectic, it's hard to get a moment with them. That' the life of rock stars. :-)

The rest of the afternoon, we did a lot of walking around. I tried to sit still and put my feet up every now and then but it's just too difficult to sit still in this environment. Concerts going on all-day, seeing people we know and visiting with other vendors we see every year. We found a cool vendor that was selling personalized Veggie Tales Cds. We tried it out with Tyler's name and it was very cute. One CD was full of silly songs that are familiar from Veggie Tales videos and the other was a sing-a-along CD with more familiar kids songs that he can learn to sing when he gets older. Knowing us, we'll probably get both. :-)

We had the late shift at the booth so we were on-site until about 11ish. Didn't get back to Santa Cruz until about midnight. I was really starting to feel the sorenes in my legs and my feet so I sat a lot during the shift (which I had permission to do - if I needed to). Traffic through the booth died down once the everyone started making their way to mainstage for the evening headliner concert - Third Day. There was an off-and-on crowd after that so it was an easy shift for me.


I'll post Saturday's review tomorrow, once the day passes and there is more to write about. I'll also post pictures soon.

To Be Young Again

I long for those younger years where we were excited about birthdays. The cakes, the parties, the family vacations.

As a kid, I'd usually spend my birthdays in Yosemite with my family and friends from church. My mom would cook me a home-made chocolate cake and we'd have a mini party right there in the campground. So much fun! Then, as I got older, I'd spend my birthdays in VA at my dear Camp WaMaVa with friends and co-counselors. A few times it was a disappointed day for me, but others would make up for it!

Those were the good ole days when we looked forward to birthdays!!

Yesterday, I turned 35, and it there was hardly a commotion. Believe me, I'm not complaining though... I wanted it that way. I tried to keep it quiet in the office but a few people found out and made a big spectacle. My parents were out of town (but we celebrated before they left); my sister Sherry was out of town with my brother-in-law and nephew (but she called me last night); and I got an e-card from my sister Sandy, in NY.
From Troy's side of the family, his mom & dad, and aunt called to wish me a happy birthday. They all sang to me (some better then others)... it was cute. I got many emails and text messages from friends that remembered!! I am greatful to my friends. I don't have many, but the ones I have are AWESOME!!

When I got home the little dork himself (Troy) had gotten me a musical card and some flowers.
The card played 'Always and Forever' which was appropriate for us... although that would've fit more with our anniversary but its the thought that counts. At least he went out to purchase something. :-) We went out to a nice dinner, just the two of us last night, and we're going out with his mom & step-dad tonight.

Instead of celebrating, we'd rather stay home, and work on getting Tyler's room ready (it's getting closer) but still have a lot to go so we can start painting.

All in all, it was a good birthday, and life goes on.
O-Bla-Dee, O-Bla-Dah.... La, la, la, la.... Life Goes On!

12 years

Yesterday was Troy and my 12 year anniversary. It's hard to believe that it's been 12 years since we got married, and 15 years since we first dated. Time does fly when you're having fun.
We have faced struggles in our marriage, but God gave us both patience and understanding through the years. This has been a big year for us. I finally got my AA degree (now working on my BA), work is began to pick up for Troy and bring in some really good employees that are actively producing good loans, and the biggest and best of all - we'll have a child this year. After so many years of trying, God has blessed us with a great joy.

We must be getting to be an old married couple because we didn't do much yesterday. We didn't give each other cards or gifts (well, actually I did get him a gift but haven't given it to him. It's actually a late Father's Day present). Troy took the Sunday off from church and we visited one of the other local congregations nearby. It was a nice feeling to be able to worship together, without him thinking about lighting cues, or me focusing on musical notes.

We went to lunch after church with Troy's mom & stepdad. I can tell our dear, sweet baby-boy is getting an appetite because we ate BBQ and I ate nearly everything on my plate, which would have been impossible with me eating on my own. It was GOOD BBQ!! After lunch, we went to go see Evan Almight. We had been wanting to see it, but hadn't gotten to the movies in awhile.

I have got to say it was very funny, and connected the scriptural story with modern-day times. It definatley held a great message. Coming out of the theatre, Troy and I agreed we liked this one much more then the first. It was more direct with trusing in God's plan instead of our own, in spite of the ridicule and rejection you will face by people around you, including family and friends. I give it an A+!

So, why hasn't it do well in the box office?? It's been out for quite awhile and still gets a packed theatre. Ours, at least, was packed. Did Christian movie-goers give it a chance?? We, as a Chrisian community should reach out and really make a statement to Hollywood that we need more family-friendly and Christian-based movies. Do we need to disguise the true story with an imagination fantasy, as CS Lewis did with Chronicles of Narnia? I loved them both!!
Jesus taught the people in parables, that's a great way to connect with a society that does not know Him. The Bible itself have great stories, such as Noah and the Ark and Joseph with his amazing 'technicolor dreamcoat'. There's a common ground we can find between them both to entertain and teach.

Things to Know

I'm sure you moms out there might already know some of these. How many of these have you actually done?

THINGS TO KNOW

1. Budweiser beer conditions the hair.
2. Pam cooking spray will dry finger nail polish
3. Cool whip will condition your hair in 15 minutes
4. Mayonnaise will KILL LICE, it will also condition your hair
5. Elmer's Glue - paint on your face, allow it to dry, peel off and see the dead skin and blackheads if any
-- I've actually tried this when I was younger, but on my hand, not my face. I didn't necessarily see any dead skin but it did feel fresher and was fun to do!

6. Shiny Hair - use brewed Lipton Tea
7. Sunburn - empty a large size Nestea into your bath water
-- I've actually used Noxema to help soothe a sunburn.
8. Minor burn - Colgate or Crest toothpaste
9. Burn your tongue? Put sugar on it!
-- What about when you burn the roof of your mouth?

10. Arthritis WD-40 Spray and rub in, kill insect stings too
11. Bee stings - meat tenderizer
12. Chigger bite - Preparation H
-- don't think we have chiggers here in CA, do we?
13. Puffy eyes - Preparation H
14. Paper cut - crazy glue or Chap Stick (glue is used instead of sutures at most hospitals)
-- gotta try this one, I get paper cuts all the time?
15. Stinky feet - Jello!
16. Athletes feet - cornstarch
17. Fungus on toenails or fingernails - Vicks vapor rub
-- I've actually heard of this one but haven't tried it before.
18. Kool aid to clean dishwasher pipes. Just put in the detergent section and run a cycle, it will also clean a toilet. (Wow, and we drink this stuff)
19. Kool Aid can be used as a dye in paint also Kool Aid in Dannon plain yogurt as a finger paint, your kids will love it and it won't hurt them if they eat it!
20. Peanut butter - will get scratches out of CD's! Wipe off with a coffee filter paper
-- Cool!!
21. Sticking bicycle chain - Pam no-stick cooking spray
22. Pam will also remove paint, and grease from your hands!? Keep a can in your garage for your hubby
23. Peanut butter will remove ink from the face of dolls
24. When the doll clothes are hard to put on, sprinkle with corn starch and watch them slide on
25. Heavy dandruff - pour on the vinegar!
26. Body paint - Crisco mixed with food coloring. Heat the Crisco in the microwave, pour in to an empty film container and mix with the food color of your choice!
27. Tie Dye T-shirt - mix a solution of Kool Aid in a container, tie a rubber band around a section of the T-shirt and soak
28. Preserving a newspaper clipping - large bottle of club soda and cup of milk of magnesia, soak for 20 min. and let dry, will last for many years!
29. A Slinky will hold toast and CD's!
-- a good use for a fun toy
30. To keep goggles and glasses from fogging, coat with Colgate toothpaste
-- but how can we see through the toothpaste?? :-)
31. Wine stains, pour on the Morton salt and watch it absorb into the salt.
32. To remove wax - Take a paper towel and iron it over the wax stain, it will absorb into the towel.
33. Remove labels off glassware etc. rub with Peanut butter!
34. Baked on food - fill container with water, get a Bounce paper softener and the static from the Bounce towel will cause the baked on food to adhere to it.? Soak overnight. Also; you can use 2 Efferdent tablets, soak overnight!
35. Crayon on the wall - Colgate toothpaste and brush it!
36. Dirty grout - Listerine
37. Stains on clothes - Colgate
38. Grass stains - Karo Syrup
39. Grease Stains - Coca Cola, it will also remove grease stains from the driveway overnight. We know it will take corrosion from car batteries!
40. Fleas in your carpet 20 Mule Team Borax- sprinkle and let stand for 24 hours. Maybe this will work if you get them back again.
41. To keep FRESH FLOWERS longer Add a little Clorox, or Bayer aspirin, or just use 7-up instead of water.

And this one is a very interesting fact:

42. When you go to buy bread in the grocery store, have you ever wondered which is the freshest, so you "squeeze" for freshness or softness Did you know that bread is delivered fresh to the stores five days a week Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Each day has different color twist tie. They are: Monday: Blue, Tuesday: Green, Thursday: Red, Friday: White, and Saturday: Yellow. So if today was Thursday, you would want red twist tie; not white which is Fridays (almost a week old)!

The colors go alphabetically by color Blue, Green, Red, White, and Yellow, Monday through Saturday. Very easy to remember. I thought this was interesting. I looked in the grocery store and the bread wrappers DO have different twist ties, and even the ones with the plastic clips have different colors. You learn something new everyday!
Enjoy fresh bread when you buy bread with the right color on the day you are shopping.

It's HOT, HOT, HOT!!!

We're having a heat wave here in the Valley. Wow, it's warm. I thought I'd be ok with a mild summer but with the temps above 100 degrees, it'll be a scorcher of a summer for me and baby Tyler.

It was roughly about 110 yesterday so it's a bit cooler then yesterday.

God Bless America - Lee Greenwood

One of my favorite patriotic songs would be Lee Greenwood's version of "God Bless America".

Who doesn't love this song? It still makes me cry!

In honor of 4th of July, here is a reminder of this beloved song.

If tomorrow all the things were gone

I'd worked for all my life,

And I had to start again

with just my children and my wife,

I'd thank my lucky stars

to be living here today,

'Cause the flag still stands for freedom

and they can't take that away.

I'm proud to be an American

where at least I know I'm free,

And I won't forget the men who died

who gave that right to me,

And I gladly stand up next to you

and defend her still today,

'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land

God Bless the U.S.A.

From the lakes of Minnesota

to the hills of Tennessee,

Across the plains of Texas

from sea to shining sea.

From Detroit down to Houston

and New York to L.A.,

There's pride in every American heart

and it's time we stand and say:

I'm proud to be an American

where at least I know I'm free,

And I won't forget the men who died

who gave that right to me,

And I gladly stand up next to you

and defend her still today,

'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land

God Bless the U.S.A.

Lyrics found at Patriotic Songs & Hymns

What is true freedom?

What comes to find when you think of freedom?
4th of July, patriotic songs, fireworks, barbeque, picnics.... and the list goes on and on.
On this celebration of our country's independence, I pray for those service men and women fighting to protect our freedom and bring freedom to others around the world.

Here's some 4th of July Trivia for you....

1. The members of the Continental Congress ratified the Declaration of Independence, forming the United States as a new republic on July 4th, but did you know....
The group actually declared independence two days earlier.

2. The average fire works show only lasts approximately 20 minutes.
Mark Silveira, a show producer for Pyro Spectaculars by Souza, says "People get bored. If it goes longer than 20 minutes, people are saying, 'OK, that's nice. Where's the finale? Let's go home.' "
He says post-race NASCAR shows last 10 minutes, Las Vegas New Year's Eve shows maybe 13. "Fireworks don't last that long -- but it feels like they do," Silveira says. "I could shoot a 20-minute show, and people will swear it was an hour. People love the colors, and it mesmerizes them."

3. Rumor syas that a U.S. flag needs to be destroyed if it touches the ground.
Actually, that's is false. The flag code (which can be found at www.usflag.org) includes a couple of instructions that people often conflate into this myth: You should do everything possible to prevent the flag from touching the ground, and a flag no longer suitable for display should be destroyed, preferably by burning in a dignified manner.
If a flag accidentally touches the ground but remains in good condition, it should simply be raised so that it doesn't rest on anything.

4. How many Presidents were born on 4th of July?
Only one: Calvin Coolidge, the 30th president, in 1872. The next closest is the George W. Bush, who was born July 6, 1946.
BUT DID YOU KNOW: Three of the first five U.S. presidents -- John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe -- died on July 4. Monroe was the last to do so, in 1851.

5. What's the highest-grossing American movie related to the Fourth of July?
According to www.boxofficemojo.com,
1. "Independence Day" is the 23rd-highest domestic box-office success of all-time, pulling in
more than $306 million.
2. "The Patriot" (No. 279, $113 million);
3. "American Pie" (a stretch, but No. 335, $102 million); and
4. "Born on the Fourth of July" (No. 613, $70 million).

Have a wonderful and safe 4th of July!!

God Bless America!!

Source: The Why of Fourth of July, found at Fresnobee.com.

The I-phone cometh!

The I-Phone has arrived!!
So much commotion over a phone. On Friday, the much anticipated I-phone (from Mac) was available in store. Depending on where you go, some stores sold out in a matter of a few hours.

Is it really worth it get up at 0-dark thirty, and get in line at a local Apple or A.T. & T. stores for a phone that costs $500+ . I know of 3 people that were in those lines (although not quite that early) and got the phones on the first day out. Some claim they had issues with activation, while others were up & running in about an hour. And those who have wireless services other then A.T. & T are out of luck if they want to keep their original service. The I-phones won't work on anything but A.T. & T.

At first glance these phones look very neat, like a mini-computer (which most phones are leaning towad nowadays) and has a touch screen instead of a normal keypad. You have your regular phone features plus music, video and internet - all in one.

It's a neat little gadget - BUT.....

I think we'll wait til the price goes down a little AND all the little bugs that come with new technology are all fixed. Being I'll probably be using a Mac in my chosen field (once I graduate), it's probably inevitable that I'll get one - EVENTUALLY.

A precious gift

I just a received a special gift from my dear friend, Malia! I was pleasantly surprised to fin a special angel that was passed down to her from her dear frend prior to the birth of her son. She was inspired to pass on the blessing to me, as I continue my pregnancy and prepare for the birth of my son.

My son... that's still so hard to fathom!! I'm going to be a mother! And Troy is going to be a dad! I have no doubt that we'll be loving parents, I just hope and pray that we direct our son's life to be a servant of God, as Troy and I are.

Malia was very poetic in her words (she's always had a way with words, which is why she's such a great blogger) and her words brought tears to my eyes. Must be the hormones, since I'm not the emotional type. LOL

Malia and I met through camp many, many, MANY years ago. Eventhough we live so far away, she is still one of my most cherished friends. Our anniversaries are one week apart, and if it weren't for that, we would've been in each other's weddings. It's ironic that the gift comes this week, as I happened to notice that this is the first week of camp at WaMaVa.

My dear sweet friend thought of me and I will uphold the tradition after my son is born, but passing it on to another cherished soul!

Thank you so much, Malia! You mean so much to me!!!

New CA Driving Laws - effective 7/1/07

Not sure if it's just in CA, but all over that this will take into effect, but here's a few things to consider. The Police Dept will be on serious lookout!! Just wanted to make you aware!!!

New Driving Fines for 2007

1. Carpool lane - 1st time $1068.50 starting 7/1/07 (The $271 postedon the highway is old). Don't do it again because 2nd time is going to bedouble. 3rd time triple, and 4th time license suspended.
I see this alot when we're driving in the San Jose/San Francisco area. We don't have car pool lanes around Fresno.

2. Incorrect lane change - $380. Don't cross the lane on solid lines or intersections.
This happens all the time around here, too many people in a hurry and will pass on anything. Very dangerous and stupid on our country roads. Unfortunately, there's never a cop around to bust them when it happens.

3. Block intersection - $485
Too many people trying to get through the intersection during rush hour or conjested times. What people will do just to not sit at a red light.

4. Driving on the shoulder - $450

5. Cell phone use in the construction zone. - Double fine as of 07/01/07. Cell phone use must be "hands free" while driving. (Also see # 9)

6. Passengers over 18 not in their seatbelts - both passengers and drivers get tickets .

7. Speeders can only drive 3 miles above the limit.
Oh, come on!! This one is a bit ridiculous!! 3 miles over?? That's being a bit nit-picky in my opinion. The buffer is usually 5-10 mph over. I think that's good enough.

8. DUI = JAIL (Stays on your driving record for 10 years!)
Yah baby!! They need serious jail time!! And a fine, and counseling, and rehab, and AA. Anything to get them to realize that driving while intoxicated (even a buzz) is dangerous and stupid! This one is a hot-button for me.

9. As of 07/01/07 cell phone use must be "hands free" while driving. Ticket is $285. They will be looking for this like crazy - easy money for police department.
I agree that cell phone use can distract a driver while driving (especially on the freeway) but a fine of $285 is a bit much. I know the police dept will start raking in the money of this one, as just about everyone I pass by coming & going from work is on their cell. Us Californian's can't seem to live without our cell phones. I do put myself in that category as well, but I am not nearly as hooked to my cell as some people are. It is my only way of communication, and is a good tool... but MUST we be on it 24/7??? Believe it or not I even see people at church that have their hands-free ear-pieces in during service. And many of the young people texting during service instead of listening.

10. Ok, I'm adding one more that SHOULD be a law!!
I think there should be a fine for motorcycles that 'share the lane' with cars. This is when a motorcycle driver feels the need to rush past all of the cars in between lanes. I've heard it is actually lawful to do this if the traffic is not moving, but it's dangerous and a pet-peave of mine. I have seen many motorcycles speed past even as we're moving. I can understand if traffic is backed up, and we're all at a standstill but when it's the normal flow of busy traffic, they need to wait like the rest of us. :-) Just my thoughts.

Ok, I've vented. I feel better now! :-)

Happy Father's Day to the new daddy

Although he doesn't see this, I wanted to express my deepest Happy Father's Day to my dearest husband. This is his first father's day with our expectant child.

Ironically, both this weekend and Mother's Day weekend, we spent together in Santa Cruz (just off the Central CA coast for those not familiar with CA). Eventhough I am technically a mother now, I don't feel the real job begins til next year.

I know how excited Troy is to become a daddy and how long we've been waiting for this so I wish him the happiest Father's Day. Next year will be quite a year!

Passing of a pastor's wife

Billy Graham's Wife, Ruth dies at 87.

By MIKE BAKER
Associated Press Writer

MONTREAT, N.C. (AP) -- Ruth Graham, who surrendered dreams of missionary work in Tibet to marry a suitor who became the world's most renowned evangelist, died Thursday. She was 87. Graham died at 5:05 p.m. at her home at Little Piney Cove, surrounded by her husband and all five of their children, said a statement released by Larry Ross, Billy Graham's spokesman.
"Ruth was my life partner, and we were called by God as a team," Billy Graham said in a statement. "No one else could have borne the load that she carried. She was a vital and integral part of our ministry, and my work through the years would have been impossible without her encouragement and support.
"I am so grateful to the Lord that He gave me Ruth, and especially for these last few years we've had in the mountains together. We've rekindled the romance of our youth, and my love for her continued to grow deeper every day. I will miss her terribly, and look forward even more to the day I can join her in Heaven."
Ruth Graham had been bedridden for months with degenerative osteoarthritis of the back and neck - the result of a serious fall from a tree in 1974 while fixing a swing for grandchildren - and underwent treatment for pneumonia two weeks ago. At her request, and in consultation with her family, she had stopped receiving nutrients through a feeding tube for the last few days, Ross said.
A public memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday at the Montreat Conference Center. A private interment service will be held the next day in Charlotte.
As Mrs. Billy Graham, Ruth Graham could lay claim to being the first lady of evangelical Protestantism, but neither exploited that unique status nor lusted for the limelight.
Behind the scenes, however, she was considered her husband's closest confidant during his spectacular global career - one rivaled only by her father, L. Nelson Bell, until his death in 1973.
"She would help my father prepare his messages, listening with an attentive ear, and if she saw something that wasn't right or heard something that she felt wasn't as strong as it could be, she was a voice to strengthen this or eliminate that," said her son, Franklin, who is now the head of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.
"Every person needs that kind of input in their life and she was that to my father."
Bell, a missionary doctor, headed the Presbyterian hospital in Qingjiang, China, that had been founded by the father of author Pearl Buck. Ruth grew up there and spent three high school years in what's now North Korea.
"What she witnessed in her family home, she practiced for herself - dependence on God in every circumstance, love for his word, concern for others above self, and an indomitable spirit displayed with a smile," said the Grahams' youngest daughter, also named Ruth.
Despite her reluctance to be a public personality herself, Ruth Graham met many of the powerful and famous through her husband - who was a spiritual adviser to presidents for decades. President Bush and first lady Laura Bush called her a "remarkable woman of faith" who "inspired people around the world with her humor, intelligence, elegance, and kindness."
She met Billy Graham at Wheaton College in Illinois. He recalled in 1997 memoirs, "If I had not been smitten with love at first sight of Ruth Bell I would certainly have been the exception. Many of the men at Wheaton thought she was stunning."
Billy Graham courted her, managing to coax her away from the foreign missions calling and into marriage after both graduated in 1943. In 1945, after a brief stint pastoring a suburban Chicago congregation, he became a roving speaker for the fledgling Youth for Christ organization.
From that point onward she had to endure her husband's frequent absences, remarking, "I'd rather have a little of Bill than a lot of any other man."
Ruth Graham moved the couple into her parents' home in Montreat, where they had relocated after fleeing wartime China. She stayed in western North Carolina mountain town the rest of her life.
The young couple later bought their own house across the street from the Bells. Then in 1956, needing protection from gawkers, the Grahams moved into Little Piney Cove, a comfortably rustic mountainside home she designed using logs from abandoned cabins. It became Billy's retreat between evangelistic forays.
Though the wife of a famous Baptist minister, the independent-minded Ruth Graham declined to undergo baptism by immersion and remained a loyal, lifelong Presbyterian. When in Montreat, a town built around a Presbyterian conference center, Billy Graham would attend the local Presbyterian church where his wife often taught the college-age Sunday School class.
Due to her husband's travels, she bore major responsibility for raising the couple's five children: Franklin (William Franklin III), Nelson, Virginia, Anne and Ruth.
Ruth Graham was the author or co-author of 14 books, including collections of poetry and the autobiographical scrapbook "Footprints of a Pilgrim."
In 1996, the Grahams were each awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for "outstanding and lasting contributions to morality, racial equality, family, philanthropy, and religion."
Crime novelist Patricia Cornwell began her writing career with a Ruth Graham biography that depicted many deeds of personal charity. Cornwell said as a youth in Montreat she thought Ruth Graham "was the loveliest, kindest person ever born. I still do."
She helped establish the Ruth and Billy Graham Children's Health Center in Asheville, and the Billy Graham Training Center near Montreat.
Ruth Graham will be buried at the new Billy Graham Library in Charlotte - a source of apparent discord within the family last year. This week, Billy Graham said he and Ruth had decided "after much prayer and discussion" they would be laid to rest at the foot of a cross-shaped walkway in the library's prayer garden.

Today is the day

UPDATE: IT'S A BOY!

Today is the day that I find out if I'm having a boy or girl. I'm kinda nervous, and excited all in one. It's starting to really hit me that I'm going to be a mom, and my stomach grows bigger and I start feeling the changes going on within me. This is a defining moment.

It's been really sweet (and sometimes annoying) to see how excited Troy is. He's really look forward today and has been on me constantly to eat better, make sure I drink enough water and get a lot of rest, etc. He's going to make a good daddy, although it will be a growth experience for the both of us. I think especially for him.

Troy and I have been working on the baby's room and still have so much to do. We've made some headway getting all the junk out. Have gone through momory lane with old pictures, and momentos of our youth. I came across camp pictures that really took me back. Some really good memories!!

After this afternoon, we start really getting into gear turning our 'storage' room into a fine looking baby's room. We're going with a Disney theme for the room. Baby Disney for a boy (with more blues and browns) and Disney Princess for a girl (with more pinks).

Now, if we could decide on a name. I have a few ideas but nothing conclusive yet - as long as it begins with a T. Middle names are already decided, just trying to figure out a good first name.

For a boy: Tyler, Trey (although too close to 'Troy') Tristan, Trent, Trevor
For a girl: Talia, Taylor, Tricia, Tia

What are your thoughts?

Vanishing Act

From USA Today. Looking at items from the past 25 years that have seemed to vanish. I thought it was cute.



Times have changed for Michael Jackson (No. 24 below) and vinyl records (No. 5) since he released Thriller 25 years ago. Today, we look back at 25 years of other changes in our lives. Some things are still around (No. 4), some not (No. 6).

1 Indoor smoking
The workplace once had clouds of secondhand smoke and first-rate smokers. You could even puff away in the rear of jets. Attitudes have changed, forcing smokers outside, rain or shine.

2 Service stations
It's easier to find chips and a hot dog than free air or somebody to clean your windshield as service has transformed into convenience shopping and self-serve fill-ups. Want fries with that?

3 The Soviet threat
The United States' Cold War rival ended with the stroke of a pen in December 1991. The "evil empire" was undone by internal changes, the desire for independence by its satellites and economic pressures.


4 Typewriters
The computer keyboard on your desk used to be a thundering, hulking device. The electric model sank the manual, only to be trumped by a revolution in technology that continues to this day.

5 Vinyl records
Music used to be big. Literally. Before palm-sized CDs took over, songs were embedded in vinyl platters the size of hubcaps. And then there were 8-tracks and cassettes. But that's another story.

6 New Coke
Introduced in 1985 as a replacement for Coca-Cola's flagship brand, New Coke is considered one of marketing's all-time duds. New Coke evolved into Coca-Cola II before being discontinued in 2002.

7 Carbon paper
If you worked with typewriters, you're familiar with the flimsy, filthy filament. To make copies, you'd need a sheet of this purplish-looking stuff. Type "good riddance." In triplicate.

8 Betamax
Betamax was the most popular video format in the early 1980s. By the end of the decade, VHS was king. What happened? Some say Betamax's limited recording time was the culprit.

9 Phone booths
Don't tug on Superman's cape — especially when he's been trying to find a place to ditch his Clark Kent duds. The bulky boxes with a phone inside have gone away for the most part. Sorry, Clark.

10 Leaded gasoline
The EPA phased out leaded gas in the mid-1990s, citing threats to the environment and public health. Lead was blended into gasoline to boost octane levels and enhance engine performance.

11 Rotary dial phones
Imagine your cellphone, only stationary and way bulkier, with a numbered wheel that you had to spin seven to 10 times or more, depending on your call being local or long distance. Oy.

12 Videos on MTV
Before reality shows and the like filled its airtime, MTV forged its identity with wall-to-wall videos and the veejays who loved them. OK, who misses 1984's 99 Luftballoons by Nena? Anyone?

13 Baltimore Colts
One of the NFL's cornerstones ended its stay in Baltimore with a whimper in 1984, hitting the road for Indianapolis. The Colts' Marching Band lived on, even after the Ravens took the field, till 1998.

14 Oldsmobiles
The last Olds rolled off the assembly line in April 2004, signaling a shift in the U.S. auto marketplace and marking the end of a renowned brand. Also deceased: Plymouth (2001) and AMC (1987).

15 Civility
It can be rough out there — whether on TV, radio, the Web or at sporting arenas. Today’s discourse has plenty of “dis,” and it can be pretty “coarse,” too. And whatever happened to thank-you notes? We could go on.

16 'American Bandstand'
The TV dance show, a sensation in Philadelphia in the 1950s before going national on ABC, survived countless shifts in musical tastes. Bandstand ended its run in 1989.

17 Beverage pull tabs
Once, to open a beverage can, you'd pull a metal ring from a can, creating a tiny blade you'd rediscover walking barefoot. Tabs that stay attached to the can did away with pull-tabs.

18 West African black rhino
At 12 feet long and 3,000 pounds, the rhino might appear indestructible. Last summer, it was "tentatively declared as extinct" by the World Conservation Union. Blame illegal poaching.

19 Hand-crank car windows
Before your car was controlled by electronics, you could get a brisk workout just opening the window for a little air. No fingertip controls here, thank you. Crank, two, three. Repeat.

20 Home run kings
Roger Maris got a record and an asterisk in 1961 when he passed Babe Ruth's season record. He's been passed by Mark McGwire (70) in 1998 and Barry Bonds (73) in 2001. More asterisks to come?

21 Hair bands
The music: bad. The hair: worse. In the late '80s and early '90s, the mix was magical for bands such as Poison, Ratt and Cinderella. Some continue to tour, testing the endurance of leather pants.

22 The afternoon newspaper
Remember the kid on the bike who never quite reached the porch with your afternoon daily? He moved on, as did lifestyles and the media world. City afternoons became lonelier for newspaper readers.

23 Transistor radios
Before iPods, the handheld music-delivery system of choice was the transistor radio. The transistor tuned in to whatever your local radio station was dishing out. It's the very definition of "quaint."

24 Michael Jackson

The Jackson 5's lead singer evolved into, well, the "King of Pop," selling gazillion of copies of 1982's Thriller. Sales slowed as various accusations and trials came. Today, he is believed to reside in Bahrain.

25 Checker cabs
The iconic yellow Marathon cab — you know, like the ones in the movie Taxi Driver — stopped being produced in the early 1980s. The last Checker cab in New York City was retired in 1999. So it goes.