Hello!!
I wanted to give you an update on how things are going!
My new job is going very well - everyone is so nice. We have lots of fun - especially on Fridays!!! I listened to Johnny this morning (he actually woke me up - like he does many of you) and it was kind of fun to be a listener. It was hard not to put my 2-cents in, but I think I'll manage!!
Heart Moms is going great! That's actually why I am posting. I noticed many of you are checking out my Heart Mom's blog from here. THANK YOU SO MUCH!! Please pass the link along to as many people as you know!
I have posted two heart mom stories and have one group starting in Minooka, IL next month!! I am so excited and blessed to see what God is doing through Heart Moms!!
http://heartmoms.blogspot.com
heartmoms@gmail.com
I would love to hear from you!!
Friday, April 27, 2007
Friday, April 13, 2007
My Last Day
Yes, the rumor is true...today is my last day on the Rise & Shine Morning Show. God has been opening doors in other areas of my life. First, I've started a new organization - Heart Moms, which you can check out on my blog www.heartmoms.blogspot.com
Also, I have accepted a full time job with a great company in Frankfort. They are a church building company called the Aspen Group. I will be assisting their Project Developer, who is the point person for all the churches that are interested in building. I'm really looking forward to joining their team!
It will be a change, but I know that now is the right time for it. It doesn't make saying goodbye any easier. I have enjoyed my time here at the station, especially getting to know each of you, the listeners. Your calls over the past couple of years have meant so much to me. We've laughed, we've cried, it moved me Bob! (I told you goodbyes aren't easy).
So, thanks for some great memories! I'll miss you!
Also, I have accepted a full time job with a great company in Frankfort. They are a church building company called the Aspen Group. I will be assisting their Project Developer, who is the point person for all the churches that are interested in building. I'm really looking forward to joining their team!
It will be a change, but I know that now is the right time for it. It doesn't make saying goodbye any easier. I have enjoyed my time here at the station, especially getting to know each of you, the listeners. Your calls over the past couple of years have meant so much to me. We've laughed, we've cried, it moved me Bob! (I told you goodbyes aren't easy).
So, thanks for some great memories! I'll miss you!
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Thirsty??
We spoke to Deanna Michalopolous, Editor of Women's Health Magazine about great drinks for summer. These are her suggestions:
HEALTHY-DRINK TIP #1: REACH FOR CRANBERRY-GRAPE JUICE
Whether you buy it pre-mixed in a jar or mix it yourself...
...a blend of cranberry and grape bursts with healthy benefits.
Like what?
· New research shows that antioxidants in GRAPE juice lower the risk of heart disease by slowing the oxidation of LDL (or bad) cholesterol...
...this is important because oxidation is a process that leads to blockage in artery walls.
· And the CRANBERRY juice?
· It protects against URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
· It protects against E. COLI BACTERIA
· It protects against TOOTH DECAY
· And it also boosts HDL (good) cholesterol.
Worried about the calories in this cranberry-grape mix?
Then choose "no sugar added" versions like Apple & Eve Cranberry Grape 100% Juice...
...you can find it at amazon.com for $5.20 for 64 oz
HEALTHY-DRINK TIP #2: REACH FOR ICED GREEN-TEA
You already know that green tea revs your metabolism...
...and therefore can help you lose weight,
But did you know that green tea may also help you live longer?
That’s re news from a recent issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA)...
...which reports that women who sip just over 3 ounces of green tea daily had a 31% lower risk of death from heart disease than those who drank less.
Why?
Researchers say it’s because of an antioxidant called EGCG in the green tea....
...which can slow your body from creating plaque that can clog your arteries.
And here’s how we take OUR iced green-tea:
· We either steep four green tea bags per cup of boiling water, then chill...
· ...or when we’re feeling lazy or not at home, we grab a Crystal Light Green Tea on the Go packet in raspberry or honey lemon flavor ($3.30 for 10 packets, in stores)
HEALTHY-DRINK TIP #3: REACH FOR FRUIT-SPIKED H2O
Of course water is GOOD for you...
...but do you REALLY know just how good?
For instance...
...did you know that drinking water can help curb cancer?
In fact, in one study women who drank six-plus glasses each day...
...had a 45% lower risk of colon cancer than those who drank fewer than two glasses of water every day.
And then there's water’s “beauty” factor...
...since water hydrates skin, and keeps your complexion looking smooth and glowing.
But here’s the problem with water:
Gulping the recommended eight daily glasses can feel like a chore...
...especially when what you REALLY want is something sweet.
So to get your daily quota of water and to get a sweet fix at the same time...
...try drinking water that’s all jazzed up with calorie-free flavors, like Dasani Raspberry sweetened with Splenda. ($4 for six 16.9-oz bottles, dasani.com).
HEALTHY-DRINK TIP #4: LIGHT SOY MILK
Like skim cow's milk...
...light soy milk is rich in protein and vitamin D and has no saturated fat.
And when it comes to calories...
...it only has 70 per cup (versus 80 to 90 calories in fat-free milk.
But wait, there’s more!
Soy also delivers half the recommended daily value of energizing B vitamins...
...and it may also keep you out of the hospital.
Why?
Because soy contains phytoestrogens like isoflavones; and it’s believed that these phytoestrogens can help prevent disease and illness.
In fact, and one study of 65,000 women found that 16 grams of soy protein daily (about 2 cups of soy milk)...
...reduced risk of heart disease by 75% and reduced risk of heart attack by 86%.
Here at WOMEN'S HEALTH, when it comes to drinking light soy milk...
...we prefer the plain light kind has a delicate, nutty flavor.
You can also try the rich Silk Light vanilla or chocolate varieties ($2 for 32 oz, silksoymilk.com).
HEALTHY-DRINK TIP #1: REACH FOR CRANBERRY-GRAPE JUICE
Whether you buy it pre-mixed in a jar or mix it yourself...
...a blend of cranberry and grape bursts with healthy benefits.
Like what?
· New research shows that antioxidants in GRAPE juice lower the risk of heart disease by slowing the oxidation of LDL (or bad) cholesterol...
...this is important because oxidation is a process that leads to blockage in artery walls.
· And the CRANBERRY juice?
· It protects against URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
· It protects against E. COLI BACTERIA
· It protects against TOOTH DECAY
· And it also boosts HDL (good) cholesterol.
Worried about the calories in this cranberry-grape mix?
Then choose "no sugar added" versions like Apple & Eve Cranberry Grape 100% Juice...
...you can find it at amazon.com for $5.20 for 64 oz
HEALTHY-DRINK TIP #2: REACH FOR ICED GREEN-TEA
You already know that green tea revs your metabolism...
...and therefore can help you lose weight,
But did you know that green tea may also help you live longer?
That’s re news from a recent issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA)...
...which reports that women who sip just over 3 ounces of green tea daily had a 31% lower risk of death from heart disease than those who drank less.
Why?
Researchers say it’s because of an antioxidant called EGCG in the green tea....
...which can slow your body from creating plaque that can clog your arteries.
And here’s how we take OUR iced green-tea:
· We either steep four green tea bags per cup of boiling water, then chill...
· ...or when we’re feeling lazy or not at home, we grab a Crystal Light Green Tea on the Go packet in raspberry or honey lemon flavor ($3.30 for 10 packets, in stores)
HEALTHY-DRINK TIP #3: REACH FOR FRUIT-SPIKED H2O
Of course water is GOOD for you...
...but do you REALLY know just how good?
For instance...
...did you know that drinking water can help curb cancer?
In fact, in one study women who drank six-plus glasses each day...
...had a 45% lower risk of colon cancer than those who drank fewer than two glasses of water every day.
And then there's water’s “beauty” factor...
...since water hydrates skin, and keeps your complexion looking smooth and glowing.
But here’s the problem with water:
Gulping the recommended eight daily glasses can feel like a chore...
...especially when what you REALLY want is something sweet.
So to get your daily quota of water and to get a sweet fix at the same time...
...try drinking water that’s all jazzed up with calorie-free flavors, like Dasani Raspberry sweetened with Splenda. ($4 for six 16.9-oz bottles, dasani.com).
HEALTHY-DRINK TIP #4: LIGHT SOY MILK
Like skim cow's milk...
...light soy milk is rich in protein and vitamin D and has no saturated fat.
And when it comes to calories...
...it only has 70 per cup (versus 80 to 90 calories in fat-free milk.
But wait, there’s more!
Soy also delivers half the recommended daily value of energizing B vitamins...
...and it may also keep you out of the hospital.
Why?
Because soy contains phytoestrogens like isoflavones; and it’s believed that these phytoestrogens can help prevent disease and illness.
In fact, and one study of 65,000 women found that 16 grams of soy protein daily (about 2 cups of soy milk)...
...reduced risk of heart disease by 75% and reduced risk of heart attack by 86%.
Here at WOMEN'S HEALTH, when it comes to drinking light soy milk...
...we prefer the plain light kind has a delicate, nutty flavor.
You can also try the rich Silk Light vanilla or chocolate varieties ($2 for 32 oz, silksoymilk.com).
Friday, April 6, 2007
My Addition to Free Plug Friday
Each Friday we open up the airways for you to plug your business or event. Sometimes I even have one. When that happens, I also add it to my blog!! :)
Today's addition:
River Valley Pregnancy Resource Center - Fundraising Banquet
Thursday April 26,th 2007
6:30 - 9:00 PM
Quality Inn and Suites, Bradley
(No cost for tickets, but it is a fundraiser. Adults only, please)
Special Guest Speaker: Sydna Masse, Founder Ramah International
Mistress of Ceremonies: ME
RSVP to me (amantor@olivet.edu) by April 10th
Also, the Center is looking for BUSINESSES to sponsor the event. Their support pays for the expenses of the event so every dollar raised that night goes directly to the ministry.
You can also email me (amantor@olivet.edu) for more details.
I recently became a member of their Board of Directors and strongly believe in the work of the River Valley Pregnancy Resource Center. Come hear what incredible things God is doing through this center.
You can also contact the center at 815-802-9917 or www.rivervalleyprc.org
Today's addition:
River Valley Pregnancy Resource Center - Fundraising Banquet
Thursday April 26,th 2007
6:30 - 9:00 PM
Quality Inn and Suites, Bradley
(No cost for tickets, but it is a fundraiser. Adults only, please)
Special Guest Speaker: Sydna Masse, Founder Ramah International
Mistress of Ceremonies: ME
RSVP to me (amantor@olivet.edu) by April 10th
Also, the Center is looking for BUSINESSES to sponsor the event. Their support pays for the expenses of the event so every dollar raised that night goes directly to the ministry.
You can also email me (amantor@olivet.edu) for more details.
I recently became a member of their Board of Directors and strongly believe in the work of the River Valley Pregnancy Resource Center. Come hear what incredible things God is doing through this center.
You can also contact the center at 815-802-9917 or www.rivervalleyprc.org
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Terms of Endearment
Top 10 Terms Of Endearment:
Honey, 48%
Baby, 44%
Sweetheart, 41%
Dear, 39%
Lover, 32%
Darling, 31%
Sugar, 24%
Angel, 20
Pumpkin, 13%
Beautiful, 6%
And a special shout out to my friend whose husband calls her "stinkweed."
Honey, 48%
Baby, 44%
Sweetheart, 41%
Dear, 39%
Lover, 32%
Darling, 31%
Sugar, 24%
Angel, 20
Pumpkin, 13%
Beautiful, 6%
And a special shout out to my friend whose husband calls her "stinkweed."
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Heart Moms Info
I've started an organization called Heart Moms - for mothers that are raising kids that are not biologically their own - like my son Hunter is to me!
Check out a brief explanation at my blog http://www.heartmoms.blogspot.com/
Over the next few months it's my hope to spread the word. I'm available to speak to your church or organization about my story and Heart Moms. I'm also raising funds to create and online community for Heart Moms! For more details email me at HeartMoms@gmail.com
Thanks for your support!
Check out a brief explanation at my blog http://www.heartmoms.blogspot.com/
Over the next few months it's my hope to spread the word. I'm available to speak to your church or organization about my story and Heart Moms. I'm also raising funds to create and online community for Heart Moms! For more details email me at HeartMoms@gmail.com
Thanks for your support!
A shout out to lunch ladies
I've gotta say thanks to the wonderful lunch ladies at Starmont Community School District in Arlington, IA - who made my school days pleasant with homemade pizza with corn and strawberries! Also, homemade granola bars and cinnamon rolls! You ladies rock!!
Thanks to everyone who called in and shared their favorite school lunches!!
Thanks to everyone who called in and shared their favorite school lunches!!
Too Early Trivia
37 % of people say this is the rudest thing you can do in the workplace!
Some of the guesses ~
Dawn in Lemont .... someone stealing your lunch
Dan in Aurora ... not refilling the coffee pot
Rick in Bradley ... gossip
Bill in Valpo ... being lied about
Laura in Indiana ... not being invited to a party
The real answer ~
Reprimanding someone in front of other co-workers
Congrats to Russ from Lowell for guessing right
Some of the guesses ~
Dawn in Lemont .... someone stealing your lunch
Dan in Aurora ... not refilling the coffee pot
Rick in Bradley ... gossip
Bill in Valpo ... being lied about
Laura in Indiana ... not being invited to a party
The real answer ~
Reprimanding someone in front of other co-workers
Congrats to Russ from Lowell for guessing right
Monday, April 2, 2007
Did Abbie Forget How to Write??
No, I did not loose my fingers in a freak farming accident (although I know people who have). It's just been a while since I've taken the time to write.
It's been great to have a week off. Although, I have to say it's also nice to be back. Johnny even brought us all some souvenirs from his vacation. I got a CD-ROM filled with recipes! How exciting. Not quite sand from the beach in Maui, but hey - I'd rather go and get it myself!!
Keep checking back - I may just be writing more in the next week or so. Maybe....
It's been great to have a week off. Although, I have to say it's also nice to be back. Johnny even brought us all some souvenirs from his vacation. I got a CD-ROM filled with recipes! How exciting. Not quite sand from the beach in Maui, but hey - I'd rather go and get it myself!!
Keep checking back - I may just be writing more in the next week or so. Maybe....
Friday, March 9, 2007
Equal Parenting for Illinois
Tim Brown from Equal Parenting for Illinois joined us this morning. He talked about the need for children in divorce situations to have close contact for both parents.
You can get more info at www.equalparentingillinois.org or email equalparentingillinois@yahoo.com
You can get more info at www.equalparentingillinois.org or email equalparentingillinois@yahoo.com
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Ryan's First Bandaid
Last might my 9 month old had his first injury - he pulled a Tiffany lamp onto himself. You can see the band aid on his forehead! He took it pretty well - and so did I! He is the 3rd kid, though - they never get as much sympathy as the first!!Thanks to everyone who called in and shared about their kid's first injury!!
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Camp Mani...what???
I'm not a great speller - so, I thought I'd give you the website for our Tuesday Weather Sponsor - Camp Manitoqua, just in case you have a spelling problem like myself!!
www.manitoqua.org
www.manitoqua.org
Ignite Your Faith Magazine's Golden Ear Awards Winners
Best Christian Female Vocalist
1) Tricia Brock, Superchic[k]
2) Alyssa Barlow, BarlowGirl
3) Krystal Meyers
4) Rebecca St. James
5) Stacie Orrico
honorable mentions: Dawn Richardson, Fireflight; Lacey Mosley, Flyleaf
Best Christian Male Vocalist
1) Jeremy Camp
2) Matthew Thiessen, Relient K
3) Jason Dunn, Hawk Nelson
4) Jon Foreman, Switchfoot
5) Jon-Micah Sumrall, Kutless
honorable mentions: David Crowder; Mark Hall, Casting Crowns
Best Album of the Year
1) Beauty from Pain 1.1, Superchic[k]
2) It's About Time, The Jonas Brothers
3) Beyond Measure, Jeremy Camp
4) Comatose, Skillet
5) Go, Newsboys
honorable mentions: Smile, It's the End of the World, Hawk Nelson; Dying for a Heart, Krystal Meyers
Best New Christian Artist
1) The Jonas Brothers
2) Family Force 5
3) Fireflight
4) Brian Littrell
5) Red
honorable mentions: Adie, Leeland
Best Hard Rock or Punk Artist
1) Relient K
2) Hawk Nelson
3) Kutless
4) Skillet
5) Stellar Kart
honorable mentions: Flyleaf, Fireflight
Best Rap/Hip Hop Artist
1) TobyMac
2) KJ-52
3) Grits
4) John Reuben
5) T-Bone
honorable mentions: 4th Avenue Jones, The Cross Movement
Best Worship Artist
1) Chris Tomlin
2) David Crowder
3) Todd Agnew
4) Delirious
5) Shane & Shane
honorable mentions: Vicky Beeching, Matt Redman
Best Rock/Pop Artist
1) Superchic[k]
2) Jeremy Camp
3) Aly & AJ
4) BarlowGirl
5) Switchfoot
honorable mentions: Newsboys, Audio Adrenaline
Best Overall Artist of the Year
1) Superchic[k]
2) The Jonas Brothers
3) Jeremy Camp
4) Skillet
5) BarlowGirl
honorable mentions: Newsboys, Hawk Nelson
Check out the March/April edition of Ignite Your Faith Magazine for the full story!!
1) Tricia Brock, Superchic[k]
2) Alyssa Barlow, BarlowGirl
3) Krystal Meyers
4) Rebecca St. James
5) Stacie Orrico
honorable mentions: Dawn Richardson, Fireflight; Lacey Mosley, Flyleaf
Best Christian Male Vocalist
1) Jeremy Camp
2) Matthew Thiessen, Relient K
3) Jason Dunn, Hawk Nelson
4) Jon Foreman, Switchfoot
5) Jon-Micah Sumrall, Kutless
honorable mentions: David Crowder; Mark Hall, Casting Crowns
Best Album of the Year
1) Beauty from Pain 1.1, Superchic[k]
2) It's About Time, The Jonas Brothers
3) Beyond Measure, Jeremy Camp
4) Comatose, Skillet
5) Go, Newsboys
honorable mentions: Smile, It's the End of the World, Hawk Nelson; Dying for a Heart, Krystal Meyers
Best New Christian Artist
1) The Jonas Brothers
2) Family Force 5
3) Fireflight
4) Brian Littrell
5) Red
honorable mentions: Adie, Leeland
Best Hard Rock or Punk Artist
1) Relient K
2) Hawk Nelson
3) Kutless
4) Skillet
5) Stellar Kart
honorable mentions: Flyleaf, Fireflight
Best Rap/Hip Hop Artist
1) TobyMac
2) KJ-52
3) Grits
4) John Reuben
5) T-Bone
honorable mentions: 4th Avenue Jones, The Cross Movement
Best Worship Artist
1) Chris Tomlin
2) David Crowder
3) Todd Agnew
4) Delirious
5) Shane & Shane
honorable mentions: Vicky Beeching, Matt Redman
Best Rock/Pop Artist
1) Superchic[k]
2) Jeremy Camp
3) Aly & AJ
4) BarlowGirl
5) Switchfoot
honorable mentions: Newsboys, Audio Adrenaline
Best Overall Artist of the Year
1) Superchic[k]
2) The Jonas Brothers
3) Jeremy Camp
4) Skillet
5) BarlowGirl
honorable mentions: Newsboys, Hawk Nelson
Check out the March/April edition of Ignite Your Faith Magazine for the full story!!
In 2025...
1 in 4 public school students will speak only limited English!!
No hablo ingles. Tengo hambre.
No hablo ingles. Tengo hambre.
Thursday, March 1, 2007
March Book Club
Mountain Top by Robert WhitlowAfter several months of Christian Living books, I needed a break. So this month, we're ganna read some fiction.
If you've been around my blog, you have seen this book as one I recently read. Robert Whitlow is what I consider the Christian John Grisham (The Client, The Pelican Brief, etc), but I definitely think Robert is a better writer.
Mountain Top is about a southern lawyer, turned minister, who is lead to an old man named Sam Miller. Sam is a long time Christian who sees visions and gives messages to the townspeople based on those visions. Mike thinks Sam is a little "off" and resists when Sam wants Mike to represent him when he is accused of a crime he didn't commit.
My favorite genre - southern courtroom drama - I'm in heaven!!!!
A chance to help my friend...
I received an email from one of my best friends in high school, Emmaly. She currently resides in Houston, TX with her family. Her daughter, Erin (pictured left), underwent several heart surgeries as an infant, so Emmaly spent many hours at Texas Children's Hospital.Remembering how difficult it is for seriously ill children to remain in the hospital for long periods of time, Emmaly has asked me to pass along an opportunity for you to help those children. Colgate is sponsoring a program where one hospital in each region will receive money for children's recreation programs.
Help my friend out - vote for Texas Children's Hospital in Houston. (It's the 3rd on on the list) It only takes a second.
Thanks - I really appreciate it!!!
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Seattle Sutton's Healthy Eating
Seattle Sutton herself joined us this morning in studio. She told us all about her business that provides freshly cooked meals that are healthy and tastey as well!!This is her website: www.seattlesutton.com
Of course you can call her 1-800 number, which will call your local distributor directly.
1-800-442-DIET
God on Mute
This morning Pete Greig joined us to talk about his book God on Mute: Engaging the Silence of Unanswered Prayer. He is the co-founder of the 24/7 Prayer movement, but even surrounded with all the miracles that have come out of that, he has found that sometimes God doesn't answer even his prayers. When his wife was diagnosed with a brain tumor, he struggled to know how to pray and especially with the question of why! This book is a result of those struggles.
Friday, February 23, 2007
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Check out my Flip Flops
Thanks to Producer Adam, we all have our own M&M character! Mine is having a good hair day, a cup of coffee, and pink flip flops - what more can I ask for???
Oxygen by Keri Wyatt Kent
This morning we chatted with Keri Wyatt Kent about her new book.This is the description from her website www.keriwyattkent.com :
Oxygen: Deep Breathing for the Soul is a devotional unlike any other. Unlike most traditional devotionals, Oxygen guides readers through meditation and reflection on just one Gospel passage each week. Go deeper into Scripture while learning spiritual practices such as prayer, meditative reading, journaling and solitude. Oxygen is a tool that will help you deepen your understanding of Scripture and help you connect with Jesus in a meaningful way. It's also a great resource for small groups.
There's more details on her website, including a downloadable small group leader's guide. Check it out - it's a great book.
Monday, February 19, 2007
Check out this truck...
The Rise & Shine Crew live at the Auto Show!!Check out the wrap on that truck!! Go NFC Champs Chicago Bears!!
Too bad they didn't let us take it for a test drive. I've always wanted to drive a big rig. Okay, that's not true. In fact, growing up I said I would never marry a trucker - they are gone to much. That's why I'm happily married to a carpenter!!
Friday, February 16, 2007
Recalled Peanut Butter (Updated Addy)
If you have recalled peanut butter from Peter Pan of Great Value (the Wal-Mart Brand), you can get a refund...ConAgra
P.O. Box 3768
Omaha, NE 68103
****Send lids, name and address
The tainted lot number begins with 2111, which you can see in the picture.
PS-I just have to say, these are my favorite brands. I'm definitely checking the lid at home this afternoon, but will continue to buy this phenomenal brand of peanut butter. :)
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Fun in the Snow
My kids enjoyed the snow that fell over the past couple of days. They even volunteered to shovel the walk - a little crooked, but walkable!!!
Of course, Hunter did most of the work, while Andi threw snowballs...
Ryan just chilled inside and ate frosting!!!
Of course, Hunter did most of the work, while Andi threw snowballs...
Ryan just chilled inside and ate frosting!!!
Hunter the Punter's Band
Even though they beat us in the Super Bowl, we can all still be friends.Yesterday, DJ E talked to their Punter, Hunter Smith, about his band that was just signed w/ INO Records.
If you wanna check them out - here's their MySpace link...
Trivia Answer
Today's trivia question...
36% of couples would only do this in an emergency.
The answer....
Share a toothbrush
Monday, February 12, 2007
Pics from the Auto Show
Johnny & I broadcasted live from the Chicago Auto Show on Friday. Chrystler sponsored Sebrings Says - a large game of Simon Says to win a Sebring. We also got to interview Simon himself. He really hit it off with Johnny!
We also got to look around the auto show! I'll post more pics later(like the one with me in the Corvette), but for right now I'll just brag about
meeting Toby Keith (sort of).
Thursday, February 8, 2007
The Lunch Box Deli
Johnny & I had the privilege of taking the Road Trip to the Lunch Box in Merrillville yesterday. The owners Dave & Cheryl welcomed us like family, and fed us the best food I've tasted in a while!! Here's the details about the Lunch Box:
Hours: Mon - Fri 10 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sat 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
****Carryout & local delivery available****
40 West 80th Place
Merrillville, IN 46410
(219) 769-0789
If you need directions - here's where it's located (thanks to my buddies at Google Maps)
The official Rise & Shine Review: The Paninis ROCK!! The ABC included grilled chicken breast, avocado (or guacamole), bacon, melted cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo. YUM!! The Chicken Florentine was also superb! Our favorite, though were the Wings!! WOW! I think I even heard Johnny say they were better than B-Dubs! (now that's a compliment)
Here's the pics .... 
Dave, Cheryl, Amanda, & Samantha (owners of the Lunch Box)
Dave, Cheryl, Amanda, & Samantha (owners of the Lunch Box)
When you stop in, look for my artwork behind the counter!!
Natalie stopped in with her mom, dad & baby sister (who slept through most of their visit). Little Natalie walked through the front door and announced that she was here to talk to Shine.FM! And that is exactly what she did!!!
A crowd shot of the early supper crowd!!
If you would like some info about having the Road Trip out to your business, check out our website - www.Shine.FM and click on Road Trip
Wednesday, February 7, 2007
Purple & Gold Days at Olivet
The lovely Kali Smith, Admissions Counselor for Olivet Nazarene University, stopped by this morning to tell us about a great opportunity for high school seniors.
Purple & Gold Days happens several times a year. Over a weekend high school seniors visit the campus, get to know other seniors from around the country, and learn more about education at Olivet Nazarene University.
The next Purple & Gold Days is February 23 - 24 and the last one for this school year is March 23 - 24. Students who attend get to meet with professors in their area of study, tour the campus, learn about financial aid, and spend the night in the dorms. Oh, and who could forget the Chicago sightseeing trip!!
For more information, or to reserve your spot, contact Olivet at 800-648-1463 or online at http://www.olivet.edu/ And don't forget to stop in and say hi to Johnny and me when you come and visit - we're right next door!!
Our Good-Lookin' New Producer
We had a guest producer this morning and if I do say so myself, he's pretty good looking, too! Check it out!
And yes, you can tell my husband I said that!! Wouldn't recognize him if you saw him??
He's sitting by Johnny
A View of our Impact Partners
You hear about them every day, I figured it was time for you to be able to visualize them as well. Of course, they are out Impact Partners that you can see from our studios.
First off - Sequels Upscale Resale
(former home of half my wardrobe)
And last but not least - the one, the only....Moon Monkey Coffee Company!!
First off - Sequels Upscale Resale(former home of half my wardrobe)
And, Sequels Home
And last but not least - the one, the only....Moon Monkey Coffee Company!!
(their sign is right below the Hertz sign - give me a break, I was taking the pic through a window before sun-up)
Please don't look at this one...
Okay Jonny Rob, stop nagging me - I'm posting the picture you created of me. I'm also ganna put one up that I created for you!!
But honestly, I think more people enjoyed my performance at the Super Bowl!
But honestly, I think more people enjoyed my performance at the Super Bowl!
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
New Music the Week
The Big Hurt - Todd Hertz joined us again this morning to let us know the latest releases in Christian music. For today...
John Reuben - Word of Mouth
An "eclectic" rap/hip hop album, which Todd says is John's best album yet.
John Reuben - Word of MouthAn "eclectic" rap/hip hop album, which Todd says is John's best album yet.
Far From Home: The FFH Collection
Contains 10 years with 17 radio hits
Great Website - COZI.com
Yesterday I discovered a great website in Parenting Magazine. The website is www.cozi.com, a free website dedicated to organizing you and your family.
You can download the free software to all of your computers or you can access it via the web. Anyone in your family with an email address is able to access the site (with the family password).
The program includes a color coded calendar, instant messages to the phone or email of all registered family members, and a place to write grocery lists or to-do lists - which can be texted or emailed to any member of the family!!
Check it out! It will help your busy family stay organized!
You can download the free software to all of your computers or you can access it via the web. Anyone in your family with an email address is able to access the site (with the family password).
The program includes a color coded calendar, instant messages to the phone or email of all registered family members, and a place to write grocery lists or to-do lists - which can be texted or emailed to any member of the family!!
Check it out! It will help your busy family stay organized!
Friday, February 2, 2007
Ground Dog Day
Johnny invited my lovable cat-dog to join us in the studio this morning. She was ECSTATIC!!!
Enjoy a couple pics of my buddy, Sparkie...
Once she finally settled down, Sparkie took a snooze
Sparkie and Producer Jonny Rob pose. It took a few minutes for Sparkie to stop growling at him, but now they are buddies.
Sparkie checks out the view
Enjoy a couple pics of my buddy, Sparkie...
Once she finally settled down, Sparkie took a snooze
Sparkie and Producer Jonny Rob pose. It took a few minutes for Sparkie to stop growling at him, but now they are buddies. Sparkie checks out the view
Thursday, February 1, 2007
More Hungarian Dancing
Obviously, Producer Jonny Rob needs more to do during the Morning Show!
(I think he missed his call into Graphic Design)
Feb Book Club
Oh! I'm excited about this one!! I have completed 3 of Beth's bible studies over the years (and found out last night that my church is starting another one)!! When I saw this book laying on my mother-in-law's end table, I knew I wanted to read it. I started it at 10:00 on Saturday night and finished it on Monday morning.
Now, my mother-in-law couldn't "get into" this book. Of course, she is a sweet Christian woman who faithfully trusts in God for all things. Some people are just born that way. But for the rest of us, we find ourselves struggling to let God lead our life; trusting in ourselves rather than God.
If you can relate to that, you will love Beth's book. She is so honest about how God has transformed her life, that it will give you a new found hope.
Check it out - you won't regret it!!! And check back, I will be posting a personal message from Beth here soon.
Happy reading! :)
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
41 Things that have Changed Since the Bears were in the Super Bowl Last Time
In honor of the Chicago Bears going to Super Bowl 41. Here are 41 things
that have changed from the last time the Chicago Bears played in the Super
Bowl (which was Super Bowl 20 in 1986):
1. Brian Urlacher was in 2nd grade. Rex Grossman was in
kindergarten.
2. Peyton Manning was 10 years old. Eli Manning was 5 years old.
Their dad, Archie, had just retired from the NFL two years
earlier.
3. Lovie Smith was in his first college coaching job at University
of Tulsa.
4. Ronald Reagan was the President, and Harold Washington was the
Mayor. James R. Thompson was the Governor running for
re-election and his office was in the new State of Illinois
Center, which is now called the James R. Thompson Center.
5. George W. Bush was 39 years old. His father
would run for President two years later.
6. Rod Blagojevich was just out of law school and was a low-level
prosecutor working for the Cook County State's Attorney,
Richard M. Daley.
7. Barack Obama had just moved to Illinois, and Osama bin Laden
was fighting the Soviets in Afghanistan.
8. Red Grange and Sid Luckman were still alive.
9. The Colts had just moved to Indianapolis from Baltimore and
were the doormat of the AFC EAST. The Bears were the champions
of the NFC CENTRAL.
10. Property in Wicker Park and Bucktown was cheap because
they were really bad neighborhoods.
11. CD players, cellular phones and fax machines were
expensive, cutting edge technology and only a few people used
them.
12. "Surfing the net" meant a volleyball game at the beach,
and virtually no one used the "@" key on their TYPEWRITER.
13. Sam Walton was still alive and was wealthier than Bill
Gates. Windows were panes of glass...not a computer operating
system
14. The Soviet Union was our main enemy, and Saddam Hussein
was our ally.
15. There were no lights at Wrigley Field, and the oldest
park in baseball belonged to the White Sox.
16. Michael Jordan and Ozzie Guillen had just finished their
"Rookie of the Year" seasons. Jordan's coach was Stan Albeck
and Guillen's manager was Tony LaRussa. (Three out of four of
those guys are now wearing championship rings, but what ever
happened to Stan Albeck???)
17. Soldier Field had AstroTurf. The Houston Oilers played in
the AstroDome.
18. The Fox TV Network didn't exist, and ESPN had yet to air
a single live pro football, baseball, or basketball game.
19. MTV played music and so did some AM radio stations.
20. Lindsay Lohan and Hilary Duff weren't born yet; Jackie
Gleason and Richard Nixon were still alive.
21. Hillary Clinton had dark hair and was the First
Lady......of Arkansas!
22. "The Love Boat" and "Diff'rent Strokes" were still on
network TV every week.
23. Martin Luther King Day was about to be celebrated as a
National Holiday for the first time. "9-11" was a phone number
many cities were just adopting for emergency calls - not a date
of terror.
24. I-88 was called "Illinois Rt. 5" and I-355 hadn't been
built yet.
25. What the CTA now calls "The Blue Line" had just been
extended to O'Hare, and the Orange Line to Midway hadn't been
built yet.
26. Q101 played adult contemporary music and most teenagers
listened to WLS. Music from the 70s and 80s wasn't "retro" yet.
27. Tiger Woods hadn't won an amateur golf tournament yet.
28. Most people knew Seattle just as a city in the Northwest
U.S. - not the home of grunge or Starbucks.
29. Only Southerners went to NASCAR races and only
Northerners went to NHL games.
30. The Chicago area had no Wal-Marts, Targets or Home
Depots, and Walgreen's was only in the Midwest.
31. Depending on your bank, your ATM card was good at only
"Cash Station" machines or only at "Money Network" machines,
but there were no fees.
32. "The Phone Company" was Illinois Bell.
33. They still sold leaded gasoline and you couldn't pay for
your gas at the pump.
34. Discover Card hadn't been discovered yet
35. Stereo TVs were the rage that HDTVs are now. 8-track
tapes were still being made.
36. All of the Blockbuster Video stores that are now closing
hadn't opened yet. Betamax was still competing with VHS.
37. You paid cash for your groceries and fast food, and you
used a travel agent to book airline flights.
38. Bowl games didn't have corporate sponsors, and if the #1
ranked team was in a conference that played in one bowl game
and the #2 ranked team was in a conference that played in
another bowl game, then so be it! They let the sportswriters
vote on the national champion. (and no college football games
were played after New Year's Day)
39. The Baltimore Ravens were the Cleveland Browns. The
Tennessee Titans were the Houston Oilers. The Oakland Raiders
were the Los Angeles Raiders that had just left Oakland. The
Arizona Cardinals (the former Phoenix Cardinals) were the St.
Louis Cardinals, and the St. Louis Rams were the Los Angeles
Rams. The Jacksonville Jaguars, Carolina Panthers, Houston
Texans, and the Cleveland Browns (not to be confused with the
Cleveland Browns that are now the Baltimore Ravens) didn't
exist. The Seattle Seahawks (last year's NFC Champions) played
in the AFC.
40. Number 9 on the Bears was their Punky QB...not their
perky field goal kicker.
41. There were no iPods - just Sony Walkmen - so if you said
something about a "shuffle" on your Walkman, they assumed you
were listening to "The Super Bowl Shuffle"
and one thing that will be the same from the Chicago Bears last Super
Bowl appearance.....
THEY WILL WIN!!!! GO BEARS!!!!!!
that have changed from the last time the Chicago Bears played in the Super
Bowl (which was Super Bowl 20 in 1986):
1. Brian Urlacher was in 2nd grade. Rex Grossman was in
kindergarten.
2. Peyton Manning was 10 years old. Eli Manning was 5 years old.
Their dad, Archie, had just retired from the NFL two years
earlier.
3. Lovie Smith was in his first college coaching job at University
of Tulsa.
4. Ronald Reagan was the President, and Harold Washington was the
Mayor. James R. Thompson was the Governor running for
re-election and his office was in the new State of Illinois
Center, which is now called the James R. Thompson Center.
5. George W. Bush was 39 years old. His father
would run for President two years later.
6. Rod Blagojevich was just out of law school and was a low-level
prosecutor working for the Cook County State's Attorney,
Richard M. Daley.
7. Barack Obama had just moved to Illinois, and Osama bin Laden
was fighting the Soviets in Afghanistan.
8. Red Grange and Sid Luckman were still alive.
9. The Colts had just moved to Indianapolis from Baltimore and
were the doormat of the AFC EAST. The Bears were the champions
of the NFC CENTRAL.
10. Property in Wicker Park and Bucktown was cheap because
they were really bad neighborhoods.
11. CD players, cellular phones and fax machines were
expensive, cutting edge technology and only a few people used
them.
12. "Surfing the net" meant a volleyball game at the beach,
and virtually no one used the "@" key on their TYPEWRITER.
13. Sam Walton was still alive and was wealthier than Bill
Gates. Windows were panes of glass...not a computer operating
system
14. The Soviet Union was our main enemy, and Saddam Hussein
was our ally.
15. There were no lights at Wrigley Field, and the oldest
park in baseball belonged to the White Sox.
16. Michael Jordan and Ozzie Guillen had just finished their
"Rookie of the Year" seasons. Jordan's coach was Stan Albeck
and Guillen's manager was Tony LaRussa. (Three out of four of
those guys are now wearing championship rings, but what ever
happened to Stan Albeck???)
17. Soldier Field had AstroTurf. The Houston Oilers played in
the AstroDome.
18. The Fox TV Network didn't exist, and ESPN had yet to air
a single live pro football, baseball, or basketball game.
19. MTV played music and so did some AM radio stations.
20. Lindsay Lohan and Hilary Duff weren't born yet; Jackie
Gleason and Richard Nixon were still alive.
21. Hillary Clinton had dark hair and was the First
Lady......of Arkansas!
22. "The Love Boat" and "Diff'rent Strokes" were still on
network TV every week.
23. Martin Luther King Day was about to be celebrated as a
National Holiday for the first time. "9-11" was a phone number
many cities were just adopting for emergency calls - not a date
of terror.
24. I-88 was called "Illinois Rt. 5" and I-355 hadn't been
built yet.
25. What the CTA now calls "The Blue Line" had just been
extended to O'Hare, and the Orange Line to Midway hadn't been
built yet.
26. Q101 played adult contemporary music and most teenagers
listened to WLS. Music from the 70s and 80s wasn't "retro" yet.
27. Tiger Woods hadn't won an amateur golf tournament yet.
28. Most people knew Seattle just as a city in the Northwest
U.S. - not the home of grunge or Starbucks.
29. Only Southerners went to NASCAR races and only
Northerners went to NHL games.
30. The Chicago area had no Wal-Marts, Targets or Home
Depots, and Walgreen's was only in the Midwest.
31. Depending on your bank, your ATM card was good at only
"Cash Station" machines or only at "Money Network" machines,
but there were no fees.
32. "The Phone Company" was Illinois Bell.
33. They still sold leaded gasoline and you couldn't pay for
your gas at the pump.
34. Discover Card hadn't been discovered yet
35. Stereo TVs were the rage that HDTVs are now. 8-track
tapes were still being made.
36. All of the Blockbuster Video stores that are now closing
hadn't opened yet. Betamax was still competing with VHS.
37. You paid cash for your groceries and fast food, and you
used a travel agent to book airline flights.
38. Bowl games didn't have corporate sponsors, and if the #1
ranked team was in a conference that played in one bowl game
and the #2 ranked team was in a conference that played in
another bowl game, then so be it! They let the sportswriters
vote on the national champion. (and no college football games
were played after New Year's Day)
39. The Baltimore Ravens were the Cleveland Browns. The
Tennessee Titans were the Houston Oilers. The Oakland Raiders
were the Los Angeles Raiders that had just left Oakland. The
Arizona Cardinals (the former Phoenix Cardinals) were the St.
Louis Cardinals, and the St. Louis Rams were the Los Angeles
Rams. The Jacksonville Jaguars, Carolina Panthers, Houston
Texans, and the Cleveland Browns (not to be confused with the
Cleveland Browns that are now the Baltimore Ravens) didn't
exist. The Seattle Seahawks (last year's NFC Champions) played
in the AFC.
40. Number 9 on the Bears was their Punky QB...not their
perky field goal kicker.
41. There were no iPods - just Sony Walkmen - so if you said
something about a "shuffle" on your Walkman, they assumed you
were listening to "The Super Bowl Shuffle"
and one thing that will be the same from the Chicago Bears last Super
Bowl appearance.....
THEY WILL WIN!!!! GO BEARS!!!!!!
Mourning a Miscarriage Interview
This morning we spoke with Laura Mills who wrote the article "Mourning a Miscarriage" in the Jan/Feb issue of Today's Christian Woman. In March of 2003, Laura and her husband experienced the loss of a miscarriage after months of trying to get pregnant.She told us about the grief and healing process she experienced in the months that followed; learning to trust and rely on God.
Check out the article in the magazine - available at your local Christian book store. The magazine website is http://www.christianitytoday.com/women/
Producer Adam's Sense of Humor
Ha ha! I'm quickly learning to do my own editing!! Producer Adam is great about keeping elements of an interview that were supposed to be edited out.
For example, I had him edit the New Year's Resolution bit with Debra Lund from Franklin Covey. Sometimes when I'm interviewing someone - my mind doesn't work very well. She asked me how to eat an elephant. The obvious answer is one bite at a time, which would lead very well into goal setting. But ditsy me - I didn't say one bite at a time. I said "make sure he's dead!" What kind of dumb answer is that??
It was supposed to be edited out! But, Producer Adam with his sense of humor - left it in there, so now all of Chicagoland knows that I'm a dork!!
Thanks, buddy!!!
For example, I had him edit the New Year's Resolution bit with Debra Lund from Franklin Covey. Sometimes when I'm interviewing someone - my mind doesn't work very well. She asked me how to eat an elephant. The obvious answer is one bite at a time, which would lead very well into goal setting. But ditsy me - I didn't say one bite at a time. I said "make sure he's dead!" What kind of dumb answer is that??
It was supposed to be edited out! But, Producer Adam with his sense of humor - left it in there, so now all of Chicagoland knows that I'm a dork!!
Thanks, buddy!!!
Producer Adam - The Famous Hungarian Folk Dancer
What a guy! Not only is he a great producer - making sure Rob and Russ sound great, plus making coffee every morning - but he can dance!!
In fact, he's such a great Hungarian Folk dancer that he is going to do a demonstration for us on Friday. You may be thinking, oh, that'll be funny. I'm serious, this guy is so good that Producer Jonny Rob actually found a picture of him on the Internet performing live.
Check it out - and be listening Friday for his live performance.
PS - If you'd like to see REAL Hungarian Dancers, they will be performing at Governor's State Center for Perfoming Arts on Sunday February 11 @ 4:00. www.centertickets.net
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Valentine's Day Trivia
35% of men cannot remember this ... what is it??
What their wife got them for Valentine's Day last year!!
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
New Music Today
The Big Hurt - Todd Hertz joined us again this morning to talk about the new releases in the music world. Here's what he mentioned:
X 2007 Worship - Including Relient K, David Crowder Band, Hawk Nelson, Underoath, Kutless & more.
Can you imagine these bands breaking out in "Here I am to Worship?" Ya, neither can I. But this worship album isn't like traditional worship music you'd sing in church. These bands are redefining worship music. You'll have to take a listen.
X 2007 Worship - Including Relient K, David Crowder Band, Hawk Nelson, Underoath, Kutless & more.
Can you imagine these bands breaking out in "Here I am to Worship?" Ya, neither can I. But this worship album isn't like traditional worship music you'd sing in church. These bands are redefining worship music. You'll have to take a listen.
Future of Forestry - Twilight
Two former Something Like Silas members, joined forces with two new guys and is releasing their first album. The name of the band comes from a poem from the great C.S. Lewis. The four guys hail from San Diego. You can check out the review at:
Kind of a slow week...
I realized it was Tuesday and I hadn't posted anything for a while. I guess it's a slow week on the Morning Show. Today we did give DJ E a wake up call. Producer Adam gave him a jingle at 6:45 AM and told him that Johnny and I got mad at each other and stormed out leaving him here to do the show by himself.
Then he hung up.
No, ha ha ... no, this is your Rise & Shine Wake Up Call ... nothing
When we called him back - DJ E was dressed and ready to head out the door!! Poor guy. Of course, all those people he called and woke up when he was on the morning show may not agree. What goes around comes around!
Johnny said this morning that yesterday was calculated as the most depressing day of the year. It's calculated based on the fact that Christmas bills are coming due, the weather is gloomy and cold, and it was Monday!! Did any one besides me have a horrible day yesterday? Maybe they were right!
The good news...WE SURVIVED!!!!
Then he hung up.
No, ha ha ... no, this is your Rise & Shine Wake Up Call ... nothing
When we called him back - DJ E was dressed and ready to head out the door!! Poor guy. Of course, all those people he called and woke up when he was on the morning show may not agree. What goes around comes around!
Johnny said this morning that yesterday was calculated as the most depressing day of the year. It's calculated based on the fact that Christmas bills are coming due, the weather is gloomy and cold, and it was Monday!! Did any one besides me have a horrible day yesterday? Maybe they were right!
The good news...WE SURVIVED!!!!
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Roadway Fears
What are you scared of when you jump in your car for the morning commute?? Personally, I'm scared of a train crossing North St and making me late for work!
The question today was: What are 3% of drivers most scared of when they get behind the wheel??
We had some great guesses including -
~getting caught picking their nose
~getting a ticket
~hitting a deer
~having bad breath and needing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
~road rage
~making left turns
~running out of gas
But the winner was Donna from New Lenox who guessed "not having toll money"
The question today was: What are 3% of drivers most scared of when they get behind the wheel??
We had some great guesses including -
~getting caught picking their nose
~getting a ticket
~hitting a deer
~having bad breath and needing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
~road rage
~making left turns
~running out of gas
But the winner was Donna from New Lenox who guessed "not having toll money"
Jesus Freak Book
The past couple of days Johnny has shared stories from a book that has been out for a while, but is being re-released. It's all about people, young and old, around the world that have given their life for their belief in Jesus. The short stories are incredible and encouraging.Check it out!!
For the History Buff (like me)...
I have to say, I love history. Not enough to dedicate my life to it and defiantly not enough to be considered a history geek. (I have a friend who can tell you EVERYTHING you want to know about anything history related from creation to today!! He could probably tell you the name of all Napoleon's generals)But I do enjoy little snippets of history - like what happened on this day and celebrity birthdays. So, every morning at 6:10 I share just that. Most of the information comes from the book On This Day by Carl D. Windsor.
What I don't share from the book is the daily devotional that comes along with the trivia snippets. It's a great book - check it out!!
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
National Squirrel Appreciation Day
You think I'm joking, right? Who thinks of these holidays?? I have friends who are deathly afraid of these "beady-eyed" little monsters!! (I kinda think they are cute - from a distance)So - in honor of National Squirrel Appreciation Day on Sunday January 21st lets take a look at how people across the country celebrate this joyous occasion -
Some people write, some people sing to show their appreciation. This guy shapes balloons!
And then their are the truly bizarre people who enjoy dressing up (I hope) dead squirrels in cute little costumes and posing them. Something about this just seems wrong!
I hope you get a chance to enjoy National Squirrel Appreciation Day! I think I will celebrate by...mmm...I actually think I'll skip this holiday. I do love all of God's creatures, but a holiday?? Seriously, people!!
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