What's in a Name Hodgepodge

 

Join here 

1. Do you like your name? 

It's okay 

Are you named after someone (grandparent, etc)?

No. 

 If you have children, how did you choose their names? 

I have three sons. 

I picked their names long before I had them. I always knew what the names would be and the order. 

2.  A piece of red velvet cake, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of blueberry pie? 

You can only have one...which will you choose?

 A scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream 

If you could pick any red, white, or blue dessert other than those listed here, what would you choose? 

Luscious strawberries, New York-style cheesecake, and I can't think of anything blue...

3.  What's a job you'd like to try for just one day?

 I can't think of any. 

4. Any patriotic decor in your home currently or coming up this summer? 

My husband placed a string of patriotic flags on our front patio, but we need more, and I can't remember where I bought these?? 

Dollar Tree? Target?? 

5. It's the end of May, so let's exercise our brains. Sum up your month with an acrostic using the word MAY. We can do it!!  

M - Moving on from one place to volunteer at another

A Arranging my home, cleaning, and minimizing

Y - Yes to WordPress. I'm thrilled to finally embrace the WP platform. I never thought I would be able to pull it off, yet I'm doing it. Wow. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

When I thought about May, I realized that I had many big changes within the month. 

I'm particularly pleased that I finally took the plunge and embraced WordPress. There were two previous occasions where I attempted to dive in, only to retreat in frustration. However, this time, I was resolute in my determination to push through the challenges. I am so thrilled that I overcame that mental barrier. 

It wasn't easy, but I kept at it...This has reaffirmed for me that age does not equate to a slowing mind. After the first two failures, I was just believing that I wasn't capable (due to age). BUT I am still fully capable of tackling complex subjects and expanding my knowledge, proving that the desire to learn remains alive and vibrant within me. It's been a big WIN for me. Conquering something new, but most of all, it's given me back my confidence. 

Some people work puzzles on their phone - I started a WordPress blog! 

Pardon the plug for my new WordPress blog, From My Shasta Home 

Think of it as this blog’s 2.0 version. After dealing with plenty of frustrations on Blogger, I’ve decided to keep this one for light and fun linky-type posts, while moving my other writings over there.

I’m still tinkering with all the knobs, handles, and levers, making little tweaks here and there, but at least the blog is finally up and running.

Thanks for dropping by - Until Next time...

Debby

The Hodgepodge on Friday

Okay, so I might have missed opening day (Wednesday), but the Hodgepodge is still rolling out the red carpet for all of us fashionable latecomers.

Join here. 

1. What do you make more complicated than it needs to be?  

I don’t intentionally try to complicate things, but sometimes I do, mostly in the past. I've learned that when that happens, it is usually because I am sticking my nose in where it doesn't belong. I don’t do that anymore, or at least I try. 

2. What impresses you?  

The more I learn of the character of God, the more impressed by Him that I am. I am impressed by individuals who have overcome difficult lives, including addiction and crime, and have become warriors for God. It's amazing to me, not just because they accomplished it, but because God continually shows me how He works in the lives of His people.  

Now that's IMPRESSIVE! 

3. On a scale of 1-10, how picky of an eater are you? (1=extremely picky and 10=not picky at all) If you had to eat a meal made entirely of one color, what color would you choose?  

I used to be less picky, but I'm becoming more so, mostly due to my GERD. I would rate myself a 6-7. 

My preferred colors for a meal are reds or greens 

4. What does balance in life mean to you? Does your life currently feel 'balanced'?  

Once one becomes enslaved to something, life can feel unbalanced and hard to manage. So the opposite would be freedom from all that would keep us from our purpose. 

Yes, I feel my life is balanced. But take your eye off of it, and it can can a turn...

5. If you could travel the world for a year, what would be your first destination?  

 I am content right where I am and wouldn’t really care to travel for a year. So I'll take a hard pass. 

6. Insert your own random thought here.

I snapped this photo of a little cement elephant playfully shooting water from its trunk at the garden center.  Later, while looking at the picture, I noticed what seemed to be a Pacific lamprey. Do you see what I am talking about??? 

It's not - because it is at a nursery and this is a koi pond, so...

Freaky nevertheless. 

Okay, so what is a Pacific Lamprey? 

They are an indigenous West Coast species that historically occurred in nearly all salmon‑bearing rivers from Southern California to Alaska. 

Pacific lamprey have occupied the West Coast, including California, for thousands of years. They are culturally significant to many Indigenous tribes and ecologically important in river systems. 

While native, their numbers have declined sharply due to dams, habitat loss, and water management. Some southern California populations have been lost, but they remain present in many northern rivers, including the Klamath, Trinity, Eel, and Sacramento systems. 

I had no idea such monstrous river creatures existed. All those years of exploring and fishing, and not once did I hear of anyone encountering them. But one quick Google search, yikes! There are videos of them biting people. No thanks, I’ll pass on watching that. 

Did you notice it has prey within its name? Lamprey?

And that, dear friends, is precisely why I now stick to the safety of a nice, clean, sparkling swimming pool.

Until next time,

Debby

New Post WordPress

A one-room schoolhouse – From My Shasta Home

Packing for the Hodgepodge

Join with us here:  

1. Big week in the US of A...do you do your own taxes? My husband does them. 

Laydee 

What's something you've found 'taxing' lately? 

 Three weeks ago, we had to say goodbye to our beloved dog. While I’m coping as best as I can, I find that the evenings can be particularly challenging, and certain moments during the day bring a wave of sadness. I truly miss her presence. Thankfully, my cat has been a wonderful source of comfort. Though it still hurts my heart, I focus on staying busy.  

2. When it comes to travel, are you a last-minute packer or a lay it all out a week in advance type? 

I've tried packing both ways in my life, and I still can’t stand it. 

Do you struggle to pack light? No. 

I try to keep it chill and remind myself that I’m not heading somewhere to be a fashionista. I’ve got a purpose, and that’s way more important than looking flawless, so I just pack the essentials. Honestly, the worst that could happen is I forget something, but it’s really not a big deal. I can always purchase whatever I need later. I’ve only forgotten something once, and it wasn't major. I lived to talk about it. 

 Share a packing tip that has worked for you: A few times when I visited family out of state, I shipped my clothes to their place, which made flying so much easier - no hassle with checked bags or lugging around suitcases. Of course, that wouldn’t fly if I were staying in a hotel or resort.

3. April is National Grilled Cheese Month. Hmmm...who knew it got its own month? Do you like a grilled cheese sandwich? What ingredient do you add to take yours to the next level? 

No, I don't care for grilled cheese sandwiches, but I do like a good cheese quesadilla with pepperjack occasionally for lunch.  I add tomatoes, olives, onions, peppers - whatever I have on hand. So easy to prepare. 

4. There's a well known quote that says-

'A ship in the harbor is safe, but that's not what ships are built for." John A. Shedd  

Is constant growth necessary or do you think it's more important to prioritize stability and peace in your life? 

It really depends on what constant growth means to you, right? For me, it's all about growing spiritually and deepening my relationship with Christ. I love serving and truly believe that we can keep serving God no matter our age. There's no reason to stop! Spreading the gospel and serving God doesn't have a retirement age. You can absolutely do all that while finding rock-solid stability and enjoying His peace. 

2 Samuel 22:32 

“For who is God, but the Lord? And who is a rock, except our God?

5. Let's wrap this up with a fun spring this or that-

• daffodils or tulips - both
• lemonade or iced tea - lemonaid
• gardening or hiking - both 
• ladybugs or butterflies - both
• umbrella or raincoat - raincoat if I really have to. I don't do umbrellas. BIG hassle. 
• floral patterns or polka dots - definitely polka dots 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Think about it. If Noah had stayed in the dry dock because he was afraid of the "stormy seas" that lie ahead,  he would’ve missed the rainbow. 

Thanks for dropping by - I really appreciate it. 

Debby

Eggs with a side of Hodgepodge

Join here:  

 1. Egg on your face, putting all your eggs in one basket, a good egg, walk on eggshells, nest egg, or a tough egg to crack...which eggy idiom currently applies to your life in some way? Explain

I'm putting all my eggs in one basket because I have faith and trust in Jesus Christ. 

2. April 7 is National Beer Day...are you a beer drinker? If so, do you have a favorite? Beer-battered fish, beer bread, beer can chicken, beer brats...which one sounds good to you? Have you made any of these? 

I wouldn't call myself a beer drinker, but I've enjoyed a few with certain meals - Mexican food and pizza! Interestingly, my German pediatrician suggested giving me an ounce of beer in a bottle as an infant for colic, and it actually worked—back in 1954!

 

DISCLAIMER- 

It is imperative to refrain from offering beer or any alcoholic beverages to infants or children today. Our understanding has evolved significantly over the years, and such actions can result in serious consequences.

 

As for me, I like beer-battered cod, and I often toss a can of Guinness or any good beer into my corned beef. It really helps to tenderize the meat, plus a dark beer adds such a delicious, rich flavor!

3. Do you have siblings? 

an older half-brother who sadly passed away a few years ago, and a younger sister, 5 years younger than me, and she's been gone for about 10 years now. 

What's the best thing about being your sibling? 

I really couldn't say - I'd only be speculating. 

4. How do you feel about floral scents in products? Do you have a favorite?

I prefer mild natural fragrances for my skin products. 

5. What's one thing in your home that begins with the letter G that you would say is a keeper, something you'll hold on to? Tell us why. 

The GOOD Book is a definite keeper. 

I will hold on to The Good Book in my home because it is the only book truly worth reading and studying,  the one that gives me guidance for life. It’s where I go when my soul needs refreshing, and my heart needs reminding of the bigger plan. I return to it again and again, knowing it is the only truth I can fully depend on.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Just a little glimpse of God's handiwork 

Last January Hodgepodge

 

Every week, Joyce poses a series of thought-provoking, fun questions, inviting us to delve deep into our thoughts and experiences as we respond.

Don't be left out and join. 

1. Give us a weather report from where you live. 

Cooler than it has been - in the 50's and some rain is on the horizon. 

Does the kind of weather you're having today affect your mood in some way?  

No, not at all. 

2.  Avocados, kale, cauliflower, and cottage cheese have all had their time to shine. 2026 brings us the year of the cabbage. Is this a vegetable you like? If so, what are some of your favorite dishes that call for cabbage?  

I like cabbage -  it just doesn't like me, so I don't eat it as much as I used to. I do enjoy a slaw and kimchi. Even if I toss cabbage in a soup, it bothers me. 

3. Was a Cabbage Patch Doll a part of your childhood?  

No. 

Or maybe your children's childhood? 

No, my boys never showed an interest in dolls.

However, I did have one Cabbage Patch doll during that time in my daycare that captured the attention of all the little girls. (ages 2-4) Unfortunately, the doll's popularity spiraled out of control. Tantrums erupted, tempers flared, and there were instances of biting. After about a week, I removed the doll, and it never returned. 

 What's a toy trend from your childhood you remember wanting for your own? 

I had my heart set on a Chatty Cathy, but I received a Kissy Doll instead! Though I’m not quite sure why, I absolutely adored her. With a gentle squeeze, she would pucker up and give a sweet kiss. She was the last baby-type doll I received, and even as I outgrew playing with dolls, I held onto her, treasuring the "kisses" we shared.

4. Something you've spent a lot of time doing lately? 

Organizing my house and spring cleaning. 

5. Somehow it's the last week of January...sum up your month in just three sentences. 

1. January blessed us with generous sunshine and crisp, cold mornings. 

2. In the warm afternoon sun, we worked with our dog Laydee, in her mobility wheels, but she ended up not wanting to cooperate, so they were sent back. 

3. As disappointing as that was, it didn't take me long to appreciate my yellow daffodils on the hill, totally unbothered by winter and everything else.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

January is wrapping up with a whole lot of waiting for me. Waiting to be called for jury duty, waiting for Laydee to accept her new mobility wheels. None of it went the way I planned, but God was steady in the middle of it all. And just when I needed the reminder, the daffodils on the hill bloomed anyway -  quietly preaching that life, hope, and grace keep showing up even when I’m still waiting.

Thanks for stopping by. 

Take Care, Debby

Last Hodgepodge of 2025

 

Join here

1. Did you make resolutions  

 No Resolutions

Or set goals for the year we're waving goodbye? 

 Yes, on the home improvement/maintenance goals. 

How did that work out for you? 

We completed most of our tasks, but at the end of the year, we got distracted by more enjoyable activities. You know how that can happen. At least we focused on the most important things first. We will tackle the tasks we didn’t finish.

Will you set any goals for this new year? New season, or new month? 

We plan to get mobility wheels for Laydee.  

Share one or two if you'd like to share. 

I pretty much stick to my usual routine - the glamorous life of keeping up a home, which I find enjoyable, even if it is dull, to share as blog content. I like to garden and explore new hiking trails, taking pictures along the way. I try to avoid too many "have to's" unless, of course, it's a "really, really have to."  😬

2. When did you have the most fun this year? 

The Sundial Bridge

Castle Crags

On Mt Shasta in the summertime

I enjoyed this year. I pretty much have fun all the time. Living in my area has me always feeling as if I am on vacation. No traffic, no crowds...

3. What's a song or song lyric you'll associate with 2025? Tell us why. 

I have to admit, I don't really listen to the radio or keep up with popular songs. However, this year I discovered a fondness for Italian opera, and it’s been such a pleasant surprise! Who knew??

4. Best (or a favorite) bite of something delicious you tasted this year? 

I don’t typically remember the meals I’ve eaten over the past year. It all just blends together into a delicious blur, I guess.  Looking back this year, this is the only food photo I posted. 

5. What do you want to do more of in the new year? 

The first thing that comes to mind is that I want to cherish every moment I have with my sweet Laydee! She brings so much joy and makes me laugh every day.

 I'm really looking forward to January when, Lord willing,  Laydee will get her "wheels"! I can't wait to take her outside for some fun and new adventures together. Sadly, I have a feeling this might be her last year, and I truly hope I'm wrong.

Less of? 

While I can always hope for fewer fires and less smoke, the reality is we never quite know what each fire season will have in store for us.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Since I mentioned my precious Laydee, I wanted to share how she's been holding up. She had a challenging year, dealing with a large cyst on her neck that had to be surgically removed, and she started arthritis injections in February. It’s been sad to see her lose some mobility, and she even had three inches of her tail removed due to a growth. Despite this, she always manages to wag her tail and give me a lick. She’s eating well, her bodily functions are working fine, and her spirit remains bright and happy. There's no reason to say goodbye to a perfectly good dog just because she needs extra care. Of course, we keep a vigilant eye on her and trust that we will know when it's time. She loves her human-sized dog bed, where I can cuddle with her, and sometimes my kitty, Susie, joins us. 🥰

Thanks for stopping by. I wish you all a Happy New Year. 

See you next year! 

Debby

Chewing on the Hodgepodge

 

Join in here 

1. Do you feel like you have a 'full plate' at the moment? In what way? 

No. 

It’s okay to say no and let go of the non-essential, which allows me to focus on what truly matters.

How did you learn to cook? 

1. I learned from my mom by watching her cook. 

2. In high school, I took two years of home economics, and cooking classes prepared me for when I left home at 18. 

3. Then came the Culinary School of Hard Knocks, where I learned through trial and error. 

If you have children, did you teach or encourage them to cook? 

My sons were more interested in eating than cooking. My middle son, nicknamed "Foodie," turned his love for food into a career as a Dietitian. He started working at 16 at Round Table Pizza, and has since held various food-related jobs, including several years at Safeway. He’s a good cook who loves experimenting with new recipes. My youngest son enjoys barbecuing and preparing meals for his wife after her long shifts at the hospital. 

Do you like to follow a recipe or is your cooking style more 'let's wing it'.  

I enjoy at times, diving into new recipes and getting creative in the kitchen. Winging it often leads to delicious surprises, but I wish I could remember the exact measurements for my unique creations! 😕

3. Last time you bit off more than you could chew? Elaborate. 

In my younger days as a single mom to three energetic boys, I felt the pressure to do it all. I juggled my daycare business, sold Avon, and crafted to support us, pouring my heart into being their provider with absolutely no help from their father. 

Oh well - what doesn't kill you, only makes you stronger. 

4. When did you last say 'the more the merrier' and mean it? 

Just a few weeks back at our monthly church potluck, we had an overabundance of desserts (very little main dishes and salads), and I sarcastically remarked, “The More the Merrier!” as I was the one receiving the sweets to put into the kitchen. 

5. Write an acrostic using the word T-H-A-N-K-S. 

T - Trust in God's abundant provision.  

H - Cultivate a vibrant hope in Christ

A - Abide deeply in Christ

N - Nurture a grateful heart

K - Show kindness to others as a beautiful reflection of God's love within us. 

S - Find your strength in the Lord and smile. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

 

Though miles may lie between us, 

We are never far apart in heart. 💖

Happy Thanksgiving!🍗

Debby 

The Orange Hodgepodge

 1. What do you like most about your family? 

We’re all aligned and moving in the same direction where it counts 😍

2. What's something nice that's happened to you recently? 

I've mentioned before how the kindness of people in my area truly blesses and surprises me. Every time I go out and about, I experience many interactions with strangers who smile, help, and engage in conversation. Others open doors for me and chat while I'm in line. I'm not sure what's going on, but it's nice, and I enjoy it. 😍

3. Do you like the color orange? 

Lets just say, the trees wear orange much better than I do. 

Besides a pumpkin and an actual orange, what's something orange you love?

Carrots🥕 I enjoy raw carrots, a slice of carrot cake, or roasted carrots - 

4.  What's something you have now you couldn't have imagined having five years ago?  

Five years ago, in 2020 during the COVID pandemic, I felt angry and complacent in my walk with Christ. My friends were in the same boat, and I realized I was stagnating. I wanted my life to be infused with deeper meaning and purpose.

I prayed sincerely to God, expressing my desire to serve Him, and promised to trust, obey, and be patient. I sought personal revival to escape the Christian rut I had fallen into.

How does that make you feel? 

God has graciously answered my prayers, and I feel invigorated! I'm experiencing a personal revival, serving Him in unexpected ways and taking more risks. 

What's possible now because of it? 

* New and exciting opportunities. 

*I am utilizing my spiritual gifts 

*I'm living a more purposeful life. 

** My 44 year old son has found his way back to the Lord which is answered prayer. 😘

5. Let's wrap this one up with an October this or that...

• pumpkin bread or apple cider donut - pumpkin bread 
• cozy sweater or cozy hoodie. Cozy sweater 
• apple picking or pumpkin picking - apple picking 
• scary movie or Hallmark movie - hallmark movie although I don’t watch them either. 
• hay ride or corn maze - hay ride
• twinkle lights or candles - both
• autumn hike or autumn bonfire - autumn hike, then come home for a bonfire  🥾🔥 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

🐠 🎣 🐟

Christianity isn’t a TED talk. It’s not about polished words and perfect plans. It’s about fishermen who can’t stop talking about what they’ve seen and heard.

 I want to be a fisherman.