Miss Goody Two Shoes And The Filthy Beast

In Honor of Cinco de Mayo

2010-05-05T09:04:00.002-05:00

Most people don't know that back in 1912, Hellmann's mayonnaise was manufactured in England. In fact, the Titanic was carrying 12,000 jars of the condiment scheduled for delivery in Vera Cruz, Mexico, which was to be the next port of call for the great ship after its stop in New York. This would have been the largest single shipment of mayonnaise ever delivered to Mexico. But as we know, the great ship did not make it to New York. The ship hit an iceberg and sank, and the cargo was forever lost. The people of Mexico, who were crazy about mayonnaise, and were eagerly awaiting its delivery, were disconsolate at the loss. Their anguish was so great, that they declared a National Day of Mourning, which they still observe to this day. The National Day of Mourning occurs each year on May 5th and is known, of course, as Sinko de Mayo.

Don't blame me, I just did a "copy/paste" function. :-)

I can think of a couple of people this could work on...

2010-05-03T15:43:00.003-05:00

Since I've taken on a new role with our company, part of my duties include being responsible for our 4 elevators.

Today was "State of Nebraska annual inspection day" and our elevators passed with flying colors.

After the inspector had left and I settled down at my desk to continue work, one of my employees sent me this..........................

A fifteen year old Amish boy and his father were in a mall. They were amazed by almost everything they saw, but especially by two shiny, silver walls that could move apart and then slide back together again.

The boy asked, 'What is this Father?'The father (never having seen an elevator) responded, 'Son, I have never seen anything like this in my life, I don't know what it is.'

While the boy and his father were watching with amazement, a fat old lady in a wheel chair moved up to the moving walls and pressed a button. The walls opened, and the lady rolled between them into a small room. The walls closed, and the boy and his father watched the small numbers above the walls light up sequentially.

They continued to watch until it reached the last number, and then the numbers began to light in the reverse order.

Finally the walls opened up again and a gorgeous 24-year-old blond stepped out.
The father, not taking his eyes off the young woman, said quietly to his son...

'Go get your mother.'

I can think of a couple of people this could work on................:-)

Where have I been???

2010-04-15T07:38:00.002-05:00

God, it has been ages since I've posted and with no better excuse than I've been "busy".

Work has been pretty busy, with losing my boss to layoffs and then getting transferred to the Corporate Headquarters.

Now spring is here and that bring with it, camping season. Campground flooded this spring, so I'm spending lots of time there doing clean-up work. I promise I'll post some pictures later.

Anyway, a friend at work sent me this jewel of wisdom, so thought I'd share it and call it good for now.

I went down to the welfare office this morning to sign up my Dog. At first the lady said, "Dogs are not eligible to draw welfare". But then I explained to her that my Dog is unemployed, lazy, can't speak English and has no clue who his Daddy is. Yet, he expects me to feed him, provide him with housing, food and medical care. So she looked in her policy book to see what it takes to qualify. My Dog gets his first check Friday. Dang, is this is a great country or what?

I'll leave you with that and get to work.

Old Photo Wed # 20.....Who's Up For Chicken???

2010-02-03T05:00:00.002-06:00

Last Sunday Pastor's Sermon talked about how he loved to go to a friend's farm when it was time to "harvest" the chickens. It got me to thinking about some old photos I found at mom's.

Anyone want some chicken????

Welcome Baby Koesters!!!

2010-01-30T13:13:00.007-06:00

I guess it's about time I posted pictures of Emily's baby shower. I guess I've been pretty lazy, and most of my computer time has been spent on Facebook. (That's another addiction we can talk about later, much later.)

Anyway, a week ago Melissa planned a great baby shower for our department admin, Emily Koesters, at Spaghetti Works.

Not alot of people showed up, but we had a good time. Good food, good company, good cause.

Presents, presents and more presents!!!

Emily will probably hate this picture.

Cute gift bags. What did we do before gift bags??

Here's the whole group, minus me, of course.

There always has to be one silly shot.

Now, I just can't wait to know............................

Boy or Girl????

And...............Do I win the baby pool???

Never Again........But I Think I've Said That Before!!

2010-01-25T18:47:00.003-06:00

The weekend's coming and what to do........................

This was me this past Friday. What shall I do.

Text arrives from oldest daughter. "Want to go to the Hockey game with me?"

"Yes, Yes, Yes" I replied.

So...........after I work, I headed to Jen's. She and Tom suggested going to the "Worm" (translation: Eat The Worm. Bar in the Old Market)

So to the "Worm" we go. After one drink and 2 tacos it's time to head to the game, but after checking to see if the game was on TV. (It wasn't) and debating how badly we're gonna get beat (we didn't) we decided to skip the game and hang at "The Worm". OK, this is where the story gets ugly.

We stayed at the bar and had a few more drinks. Steve had brought Chris and it was apparently our job to give him dating advice, at least I think that's what we did.

When the evening ended I found myself unable to drive home, so up to Jen and Tom's guest room I go. (with a little help from Jen, I think)

I worke up and headed downstairs, carefully, to use the bathroom. Since my stomach couldn't decide whether or not to hurl, I didn't go back up. I just landed on the couch and that's where Tom found me the next morning.

It was almost noon before I decided I would be able to drive home by myself.

I did get home safely and spent the rest of the day sleeping.

Moral to the story. Never again, but then I've said that before.

Sunday Funnies # 17.............The Garden Snake

2010-01-17T04:51:00.000-06:00

GARDEN SNAKES CAN BE DANGEROUS....
Snakes also known as Garter Snakes (Thamnophissirtalis) can be dangerous. Yes, grass snakes, not rattlesnakes. Here's why.

A couple in Sweetwater , Texas , had a lot of potted plants. During a recent cold spell, the wife was bringing a lot of them indoors to protect them from a possible freeze. It turned out that a little green garden grass snake was hidden in one of the plants.

When it had warmed up, it slithered out and the wife saw it go under the sofa. She let out a very loud scream.

The husband (who was taking a shower) ran out into the living room naked to see what the problem was. She told him there was a snake under the sofa. He got down on the floor on his hands and knees to look for it. About that time the family dog came and cold-nosed him on the behind. He thought the snake had bitten him, so he screamed and fell over on the floor.

His wife thought he had had a heart attack, so she covered him up, told him to lie still and called an ambulance.

The attendants rushed in, would not listen to his protests, loaded him on the stretcher, and started carrying him out. About that time, the snake came out from under the sofa and the Emergency Medical Technician saw it and dropped his end of the stretcher. That's when the man broke his leg and why he is still in the hospital.

The wife still had the problem of the snake in the house, so she called on a neighbor who volunteered to capture the snake. He armed himself with a rolled-up newspaper and began poking under the couch. Soon he decided it was gone and told the woman, who sat down on the sofa in relief.

But while relaxing, her hand dangled in between the cushions, where she felt the snake wriggling around. She screamed and fainted, the snake rushed back under the sofa.

The neighbor man, seeing her lying there passed out, tried to use CPR to revive her. The neighbor's wife, who had just returned from shopping at the grocery store, saw her husband's mouth on the woman's mouth and slammed her husband in the back of the head with a bag of canned goods, knocking him out and cutting his scalp to a point where it needed stitches.

The noise woke the woman from her dead faint and she saw her neighbor lying on the floor with his wife bending over him, so she assumed that the snake had bitten him. She went to the kitchen and got a small bottle of whiskey, and began pouring it down the man's throat.

By now, the police had arrived.

Breathe here...

They saw the unconscious man, smelled the whiskey, and assumed that a drunken fight had occurred. They were about to arrest them all, when the women tried to explain how it all happened over a little garden snake! The police called an ambulance, which took away the neighbor and his sobbing wife.

Now, the little snake again crawled out from under the sofa and one of the policemen drew his gun and fired at it. He missed the snake and hit the leg of the end table. The table fell over, the lamp on it shattered and, as the bulb broke, it started a fire in the drapes.. The other policeman tried to beat out the flames, and fell through the window into the yard on top of the family dog who, startled, jumped out and raced into the street, where an oncoming car swerved to avoid it and smashed into the parked police car.

Meanwhile, neighbors saw the burning drapes and called in the fire department. The firemen had started raising the fire ladder when they were halfway down the street. The rising ladder tore out the overhead wires, put out the power, and disconnected the telephones in a ten-square city block area (but they did get the house fire out).

Time passed!

Both men were discharged from the hospital, the house was repaired, the dog came home, the police acquired a new car and all was right with their world.

A while later they were watching TV and the weatherman announced a cold snap for that night. The wife asked her husband if he thought they should bring in their plants for the night.

And THAT's when he shot her.

Sunday Funnies # 18...............Shopping

2010-01-13T13:39:00.002-06:00

*WHY WOMEN SHOULDN'T TAKE MEN SHOPPING*
After I retired, my wife insisted that I accompany her on her trips to Target. Unfortunately, like most men, I found shopping boring and preferred to get in and get out. Equally unfortunate, my wife is like most women - she loves to browse. Yesterday my dear wife received the following letter from the local Target.
Dear Mrs.. Samuel,Over the past six months, your husband has caused quite a commotion in our store. We cannot tolerate this behavior and have been forced to ban both of you from the store. Our complaints against your husband, Mr. Samuel, are listed below and are documented by our video surveillance cameras.
1.* June 15: Took 24 boxes of condoms and randomly put them in other people's carts when they weren't looking.*
2.* July 2: Set all the alarm clocks in Housewares to go off at 5-minute intervals.*
3.* July 7: He made a trail of tomato juice on the floor leading to the women's restroom.*
4.* July 19: Walked up to an employee and told her in an official voice, 'Code 3 in Housewares. Get on it right away'. This caused the employee to leave her assigned station and receive a reprimand from her Supervisor that in turn resulted with a union grievance, causing management to lose time and costing the company money.*
5.* August 4: Went to the Service Desk and tried to put a bag of M&Ms on layaway.*
6.* August 14: Moved a 'CAUTION - WET FLOOR' sign to a carpeted area.*
7.* August 15: Set up a tent in the camping department and told the children shoppers he'd invite them in if they would bring pillows and blankets from the bedding department to which twenty children obliged.
8. August 23: When a clerk asked if they could help him he began crying and screamed, 'Why can't you people just leave me alone?' EMTs were called..*
9.* September 4: Looked right into the security camera and used it as a mirror while he picked his nose.*
10.* September 10: While handling guns in the hunting department, he asked the clerk where the antidepressants were.*
11.* October 3: Darted around the store suspiciously while loudly humming the 'Mission Impossible' theme.*
12.* October 6: In the auto department, he practiced his 'Madonna look' by using different sizes of funnels.*
13.* October 18: Hid in a clothing rack and when people browsed through, yelled 'PICK ME! PICK ME!'*
14.* October 21: When an announcement came over the loud speaker, he assumed a fetal position and screamed 'OH NO! IT'S THOSE VOICES AGAIN!'
And last, but not least:*
15.* October 23: Went into a fitting room, shut the door, waited awhile, then yelled very loudly, 'Hey! There's no toilet paper in here.' One of the clerks passed out.

Happy Shopping :-)

Sunday Funnies # 16........Dear God,

2010-01-10T04:47:00.000-06:00

There was a man who worked for the Post Office whose job was to process all the mail that had illegible addresses.
One day, a letter came addressed in a shaky handwriting to God with no actual address. He thought he should open it to see what it was about. The letter read:
Dear God, I am an 83 year old widow, living on a very small pension. Yesterday someone stole my purse. It had $100 in it, which was all the money I had until my next pension payment. Next Sunday is Christmas, and I had invited two of my friends over for dinner. Without that money, I have nothing to buy food with, have no family to turn to, and you are my only hope. Can you please help me?
Sincerely,
Edna
The postal worker was touched. He showed the letter to all the other workers. Each one dug into his or her wallet and came up with a few dollars. By the time he made the rounds, he had collected $96, which they put into an envelope and sent to the woman. The rest of the day, all the workers felt a warm glow thinking of Edna and the dinner she would be able to share with her friends.Christmas came and went. A few days later, another letter came from the same old lady to God. All the workers gathered around while the letter was opened. It read:
Dear God,
How can I ever thank you enough for what you did for me? Because of your gift of love, I was able to fix a glorious dinner for my friends. We had a very nice day and I told my friends of your wonderful gift. By the way, there was $4 missing. I think it might have been those bastards at the post office.
Sincerely,Edna

Mice beware............Sugar is in the house!!!!!

2010-01-07T21:44:00.003-06:00

I wish I had a picture, but just the narrative will have to do.

When I got up this morning (5:45 AM)Sugar was crouched between the bookshelf and the humidifier. Just sitting there staring at the wall.

Strange I said to myself, but proceeded to check the weather (cold and windy as predicted)and waited for Michael to get home from work.

When he finally got home (30 minutes late due to crappy road conditions, again)he asked where she was and I pointed out her "spot". Strange he said.

We had breakfast, he went to bed and I decided not to drive in to work, road conditions being what they were.

Later in the morning, I again started looking for the cat and again she was crouched between the bookshelf and the humidifier. Strange I thought.

Michael got up about 11:30 for lunch and Sugar was still in the same spot, staring at the wall peeking into the gap between the bookshelf and the wall once in awhile. I figured one of her toy mice was back there and she wanted it, so I got my stick (used for pulling toy mice out from under all the furniture, where Sugar likes to hide them) and poked around. I finally pulled out one of her toys, all chewed up and the stuffing pulled out. Obviously the victim of, you got it, a mouse.

I decided to help Sugar out, and I emptied everything off the shelf and pulled it out. Guess what we found???? One large mouse. Sugar got it and carried it away and I, in typical girl fashion, squealed and yelled at Michael to get it away from her before she let it loose in the house. He did and put the mouse outside, much to Sugar's displeasure.

Now the shelf is back in place with everything dusted and returned to it's place. Sugar has been napping the rest of the day. Mouse hunting is tiring work.

I just wish I had pictures of the whole thing. Maybe next time. :-)

My Cat...................Is she trying to kill me???

2010-01-05T16:25:00.002-06:00

How to Tell if Your Cat is Trying to Kill You!!

1. Kneading on you.
You may think this is a sign of affection, but your cat is actually checking your internal organs for weaknesses.
2. Excessive Shoveling of Kitty Litter.
After using the litter box, your cat needlessly kicks litter around, most of it ending up all over the room. (THIS IS PRACTICE FOR BURYING THE BODIES!!!!)
3. Staring Contests.
If you get caught in a staring contest with your cat, DO NOT look away. Looking away will signal to your cat that you are weak, and an attack is likely to follow.
4. Throwing Up Grass.
Through this painful feeding and purging process, cats prepare their minds and bodies for combat.
5. Hiding in Dark Places and Watching You.
Your cat will often hide in order to study you in your natural habitat.
6. Sleeping on Your electronics.
Humans have superior technology. Your cat knows this and will attempt to disrupt all communications to the outside world.
7. Pawing at Your Face While You Sleep.
Cats aren't very good at smothering people, but this won't stop them from trying.
8. Sprinting at Light Speed Out of any Room You Enter.
When your cat does this, it's actually a failed ambush.

Watch for these signs and be afraid, very afraid!!!!!!

Old Photo Wednesday # 19....Christmas Gifts!!

2009-12-30T05:00:00.000-06:00

I've never been a real big Christmas person. I love the music, lights, family and church. But the commercial part has never been my favorite. If it wasn't for Michael, no one in my family would ever get gifts. I'm getting better at the Christmas cards, but I hate shopping. On the other hand, I love getting gifts. I've never really grown up. But just to prove I'm not all bad I want to share my favorite Christmas gift/tradition.

My cousin Scott, started this a few years ago and bless his heart, he continues doing it every year. He goes through the box of OLD family photos and chooses one, makes copies and sends them in his Christmas card. Each year when I open the card it's like opening a door to the past. I LOVE it!!!!!

So, this year when the card arrived, I wasn't disappointed. Actually, this year he sent 4 photos. Can you say "Bonus"????

OK so here they are.

This is my Mom and Dad with my older sister Carol.

This is my dad and my Uncle Jim.

This is my Aunt Velma, my dad and my Aunt Joyce. On the back it says this was taken in 1936.

I think this last one is my favorite. It's my Grandpa Sam and cousin Scott. I don't have very many pictures of my grandpa, and this is a good one.

Hope you had a Happy Holiday Season!!!! :-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 18..........The girls!!!

2009-12-23T06:31:00.000-06:00

If my girls are anything like me, and I think they are, they're probably gonna hate these pictures. Just a few shots of them together thru the years.

And my personal favorite.......................

Ok, so I hope they don't kill me.....

:-)

Don't All Kids Just Love Santa?????

2009-12-22T20:28:00.002-06:00

I got an email today from a friend at work. You know the one, pictures of kids sitting on Santa's lap, bawling their heads off.

It got me to thinking, I have one of those.

So, here's my contribution to the "Santa Photos".

Jen, the oldest is ok with the whole thing, but Cindy didn't think too much of it. There are really some terrible things the we, as parents, put our kids through.

Sorry Cindy, I never meant to traumatize you.

Have a Merry Christmas!!!! :-)

Sunday Funnies # 15....The Ecomony is so bad!!

2009-12-20T05:00:00.000-06:00

Subject: The economy is so bad......

That I got a pre-declined credit card in the mail.

I ordered a burger at McDonalds and the kid behind the counter asked,"Can you afford fries with that?"

CEO's are now playing miniature golf.

If the bank returns your check marked "Insufficient Funds," you call them and ask if they meant you or them.

Hot Wheels and Matchbox stocks are trading higher than GM.

McDonalds is selling the 1/4 ouncer.

Parents in Beverly Hills fired their nannies and learned their children's names.

A truckload of Americans was caught sneaking into Mexico.

Motel Six won't leave the light on anymore.

The Mafia is laying off judges.

Exxon-Mobil laid off 25 Congressmen.

And finally, Congress says they are looking into this Bernard Madoffscandal. Oh Great! The guy who made $50 Billion disappear is being investigatedby the people who made Trillions $$$ disappear! .

:-)

This might keep you up nights!!!

2009-12-18T15:35:00.005-06:00

What is the medium used???

Try to figure what the picture is made of !!!???

Give up????

Really??? No idea????

Artist assistants stand next to 3,604 cups of coffee which have been made into a giant Mona Lisa in Sydney, Australia. The 3,604 cups of coffee were each filled with different amounts of milk to create the different shades!!

Crazy!!!!!

(sorry you almost have to stand on your head to view pictures. They just wouldn't orient right):-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 17......Thanksgivings past

2009-12-16T06:19:00.001-06:00

I have been transferring alot of old pictures over to my new external hard drive for safe keeping. I ran across these shots from Thanksgiving in St. Louis about 12 years ago. Brandon is just a little guy. The weather was beautiful so we went to the Botanical Gardens before dinner and hit Ted Drews for ice cream in the evening. I don't have any pictures of the ice cream, but here are a few from the Botanical Gardens.

It's a really beautiful place. If you're ever in St. Louis you should check it out.

:-)

Those Darn Hunters

2009-12-14T08:12:00.000-06:00

Yesterday would have been a perfect day for a snowy walk in the woods except for one thing.

HUNTERS!!!!

They were everywhere. I don't think I've ever seen so many people wearing orange in one place before in my life.

I tried Hitchcock and they were there (along with the Hawkwatchers).

Then I tried Wilson Island and they were there.

So I tried DeSoto and they were there.

I'm beginning to hate hunters. Don't get me wrong, some of the people I love most are hunters, but really, can't we save just a little space for those of us who only "hunt" with a camera. I didn't even get out of the car for fear of being shot. I wasn't sure I was even safe in the car (and I drive a bright red Ford Focus)

Anyway, I ended up doing all of my "hiking" from inside my car. I did get a few good pictures.

I guess next time I'll try Fontenelle (not sure about that spelling)Nature Center. Maybe they don't let hunters in there.

Anyway, here's a few shots that I did manage to get.

Well, happy hunting, I guess. For now I'm staying in the car!!!!

:-)

Sunday Funnies # 14...................The Dam

2009-12-13T05:00:00.002-06:00

An elderly man in Queensland had owned a large property for several years. He had a dam in one of the lower paddocks where he had planted mango and avocado trees. The dam had been fixed up for swimming when it was built and he also had some picnic tables placed there in the shade of the fruit trees.One evening the old farmer decided to go down to the dam to look it over, as he hadn't been there for a while. He grabbed a ten litre bucket to bring back some fruit. As he neared the dam, he heard voices shouting and laughing with glee. As he came closer he saw it was a bunch of young women skinny-dipping in his dam.He made the women aware of his presence and they all went to the deep end. One of the women shouted to him, 'We're not coming out until you leave!' The old man frowned, 'I didn't come down here to watch you ladies swim naked or make you get out of the dam naked.' Holding the bucket up he said, 'I'm here to feed the crocodile.'

Moral: Older men may walk slow, but they can still think fast

:-)

The weather outside was frightful..............

2009-12-12T18:23:00.007-06:00

And we don't have a fire to be delightful.

The first major snow of the season, beautiful coming down, but I hate to miss work.

But, I'm getting ahead of myself. The story actually starts on Friday, so let's start at the beginning.

My company Christmas party was scheduled for Dec. 4th at the Holiday Inn Central in Omaha. I was excited about it, 'cause it's usually alot of fun.

So, I headed to work on Friday and Michael, having the day off, did some chores a home and then headed to the city. He got us a room at the hotel since, well let's face it, it's a long drive home late at night and we'd probably be drinking a bit. We were also taking the kids shopping on Saturday, so staying just made sense. Or so it seemed at the time.

Party................great. Lots of fun, good food, great band, dancing 'til midnight and a good night's sleep.

Up Saturday morning early, went down for breakfast and were ready to head out about 8:30.

Ok, so that's where staying started to seem like a not such a good idea. When I got to my car there was frost on the windowshield, so I turned on the wipers to clear it and....................nothing happened!!!!

That's weird.

An inspection showed...........................wait for it....................................................

No windshield wipers. I mean no wipers, at all!!! Arms and all had been stolen.

I was pissed!!!! Reported it to the hotel, filled out a report and headed to the dealership to get them replaced.

That's when I really got pissed. Couldn't get replacements before Tuesday. And snow was in the forecast.

We went on and spent the rest of the day with the grandkids, shopping, which will be another post, but I was really upset about the car situation.

Well, Monday Michael was still off work so he took me to work, but Tuesday was going to be a challange. I ended up working from home, because the predicted snow had arrived. I already was scheduled to have Wednesday off as our Women's dinner at church was scheduled. Of course, it got cancelled due to the weather.

Things worked out ok though. Michael picked up my new wipers on his way to work on Tuesday and installed them on Wednesday afternoon. I made it to work the rest of the week, so all's well that ends well.

We ended up with about a foot of snow, which was pretty cool. Pictures tell the rest of the story.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!!!!!

:-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 16...First camper

2009-12-09T05:00:00.000-06:00

Our first camper was an older model. We decided to buy used, try it out and see if camping was for us.

Guess what???? It was.

:-)

And the legend continues............

2009-12-08T17:44:00.007-06:00

As I have mentioned in previous posts, the train set that Michael's dad had created in New Mexico was stolen this summer. We were going to bring everything home so Doug and Brandon (and Lauren, too) could recreate the layout and add to it.

Well, that wasn't to be, but Brandon was still determined to have a railroad layout and he was going to use the few things we were able to bring back for him.

This past Saturday Michael and I took Brandon and Lauren shopping and they got a started set and some track and got started on the project.

So, here is the humble beginning of the next generation of the legend...........................

This is one of the buildings that wasn't stolen.

Looking for treasures in the chest of stuff we brought back from New Mexico.

I'll keep you updated as things move along. Should be interesting to see what the next generation does.

:-)

If I had wings I could fly.......Well these guys can!!

2009-12-07T10:47:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving weekend was a weekend full of activities.

Cooking, eating, shopping and then hiking.

I hadn't had a chance to take the new camera out for a spin and the Saturday after Thanksgiving proved to be perfect for a hike. Temps were in the 60's, the sun was shining, no clouds and no wind. PERFECT!!!!

I took lots of pictures, but I was loving the birds I saw. I don't know for sure what kind they were, but they were cute.

Wow, I'm worn out just thinking about this busy weekend!!! I think I need a nap.

Happy hiking!!!

:-)

Sunday Funnies # 13, There.......... I fixed it!

2009-12-06T10:53:00.001-06:00

I have no words for these.

:-)

Puppy Bathing

2009-12-06T09:47:00.000-06:00

Ok, so that's kind of a weird title, but I didn't have any better ideas.

One of the things I like most about Thanksgiving, is spending time with my family. This year was no exception.

I got off work early on Wedneaday, 1:30 to be exact and I headed to Jen's to help with preperations. We did alot of stuff including shopping, cooking, setting up tables, a little decorating and dog baths.

Yes, Jen and Tom have 2 adorable Scottish Terriers and they both needed baths. Now that colder weather has hit the midwest, the dogs are spending more time in the house and really needed baths.

Jen took them into the bathroom one at a time and well pictures tell a better story..............

They love their baths!!!!!

:-)

Black Friday...........I keep asking myself, Why????

2009-12-05T21:36:00.002-06:00

Looks like I have some catching up to do. Haven't posted in awhile.

Let's see, I left off at Thanksgiving evening. Everyone was totally stuffed with Jen's fabulous meal and we spent the rest of the day just vegging.

We were going to be up early for our next adventure of the weekend. Black Friday shopping.

Last year was my first Black Friday experience and I decided to give it a try again this year. I got a little freaked out by the insanity last year, figured this year had to be better.

I need to rethink that.

We were up at 1:30 out of the house by 2:00 and were to our first stop, Old Navy, by 2:30. The line was insane and we decided to skip it and try stop 2, which was Kohl's. Cindy's sister-in-laws were in line at Old Navy so we gave them our list and some money and left it in their capable hands.

No one was in line at Kohl's when we got there so we waited in the car for awhile. When the first people got in line, we followed. I wimped out and went back to the car to wait until about the last 10 minutes, then joined the girls. This was really the only crazy point in the morning. Line jumpers caused a little stir and we got pushed around a little, but we made it in and got what we were looking for.

Next up was Target, then Ulta and Shoe Carnival. All good experiences.

Then we headed back to Jen's to unload the jeep and wait for the next stop to open which was Rockbrook Camera at 9:00 AM. We traded vehicles, so Tom could pack the Jeep. He and Jen were heading to North Platte as soon as we got back. Jen took her car and Cindy and I followed in mine. After Rockbrook, which was really fun, Jen headed home and I took Cindy home.

After having lunch with the Bertelsen's (Doug's awesome bisciuts and gravy) I headed home and to bed for a nap.

I was supposed to go to a Hockey game on Friday night, but was just too tired to make the drive so stayed home and played on the computer instead.

If asked, I'll probably make the Black Friday shopping trip again next year. I'm crazy!!!

:-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 15..........Those cousins.

2009-12-02T09:06:00.001-06:00

This is a picture of me, my sisters and my 3 cousins.

Carol, my sister and the oldest of the group is in the back on the left.

I'm the goofy looking one in back in the middle. I think I was in 4th of 5th grade when this was taken.

Next to me is my cousin Barb. We are only 11 months apart in age, but light years apart in lifestyles. She's the city mouse and I'm the country bumpkin mouse. I really like it that way.

In front of Carol is our cousin Scott. He's really a "double cousin" I guess. His mom is my dad's sister and his dad is my mom's brother. If you can figure that one out, you're smarter than me.

In the middle is the trouble maker of the group, my cousin Bill. He's Barb's brother, but not a city boy at heart. I love him for that. Oh, and he's not the trouble maker any more!!!!

And last, but definately not least is the littlest of the group, my baby sister Annette. It seems to sad, strange, unfair, etc. that she's the youngest but she's already gone and definately too soon.

I wish I had picture of us together as adults, but sadly there isn't one that exists.

Well, that's the group.

Until next time.

:-)

Part 2: Who wants more Turkey?

2009-12-01T05:00:00.001-06:00

After dinner and desert everyone did what everyone does after eating to near bursting.

Tom, Doug and Lauren played "Spore".

And the girls looked at the "Black Friday" ads and plotted their shopping strategy.

We headed to bed and I prayed for strength for "BLACK FRIDAY".

:-)

Part 1: Who wants more turkey?

2009-11-30T19:01:00.010-06:00

I love Thanksgiving!!!

It's a fairly low stress holiday and then there's the food.

This year was no different. Dinner at Jen and Tom's. Michael and I, Doug Cindy and the kids, Tom's parents and grandmother.

I got off work at 1:30 on Wednesday and headed to the grocery store for "last minute stuff" and then to Jen's. She and I were going to do some prep for Thanksgiving dinner and then just chill.

I was going to spend the night to eliminate some driving back and forth.

By the time I arrived, Jen had most of the cooking done and we headed out to rent movies for an evening of "vegging".

Movie one was "The Ugly Truth". An ok movie, but not one I'd want to see again.

We headed to bed fairly early and I read and played on the computer.

I awoke to footsteps downstairs, Tom was home, so I headed down to join the fun.

First up was getting the tables set up and putting on tablecloths.

Next was getting the turkey in the oven.

After the turkey was safely cooking away, we sat down to watch some recorded "So You Think You Can Dance".

Next up was the Green Beans. This is a tradition that Jen loves and was started by my Mom, years ago.

Tom browning the onions and bacon for the beans.

Then we watched some more "So You Think You Can Dance" and after awhile I headed back upstairs to get dressed. (So far I'd spent the morning in my jammies.)

While I was upstairs I heard some commotion from the kitchen and then I heard, OWW,OWW, OWW. (Coming from Jen). I headed back downstairs to see this.

Yep, that's blood. Jen cut her finger pretty good on the slicer and as is tradition, a picture had to be taken. Does this seem a little goulish???? Well, that's us..............

Potatoes were next up. Jen was trying a new recipe. It looked really pretty in the pan, but (and don't tell Jen this)I really didn't enjoy them. Sorry Jen!! I love that you like to try new things.

Tom made some rockin' homemade sourdough bread.

Jen and Cindy carved the Turkey, which was delicious by the way.

Here's the whole spread.

Here's the whole gang.

And you have to have desert.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of "Who wants more Turkey"

:-)

Sunday Funnies # 12, You're not a monk...........

2009-11-29T08:00:00.000-06:00

Don't shoot me for this one. It's all Tom's (Hill that is) fault!!!!
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A man is driving down the road and breaks down near a monastery. He goes to the monastery, knocks on the door, and says, My car broke down. Do you think I could stay the night?

The monks graciously accept him, feed him dinner, and even fix his car.

As the man tries to fall asleep, he hears a strange sound; a sound like no other that he has ever heard.

The next morning, he asks the monks what the sound was, but they say, We can't tell you because you're not a monk.

The man is disappointed but thanks them anyway and goes about his merry way.

Some years later, the same man breaks down in front of the same monastery. The monks again accept him, feed him, and even fix his car..

That night, he hears the same strange mesmerizing sound that he had heard years earlier. The next morning, he asks what the sound was, but the monks reply, We can't tell you because you're not a monk.

The man says, all right, all right. I'm dying to know. If the only way I can find out what that sound was is to become a monk, how do I become a monk? The monks reply, you must travel the earth and tell us how many blades of grass there are and the exact number of sand pebbles. When you find these numbers, you will become a monk.

The man sets about his task. Some forty-five years later, he returns and knocks on the door of the monastery. He says, I have travelled the earth and devoted my life to the task demanded and have found what you had asked for. There are 371,145,236,284,232 blades of grass and 231,281,219,999,129,382 sand pebbles on the earth.

The monks reply, congratulations, you are correct, and you are now considered a monk .

We shall now show you the way to the sound. The monks lead the man to a wooden door, where the head monk says, the sound is behind that door.

The man reaches for the knob, but the door is locked. He asks, May I have the key ?

The monks give him the key, and he opens the door.

Behind the wooden door is another door made of stone... The man requests the key to the stone door.

The monks give him the key, and he opens it, only to find a door made of ruby. He demands another key from the monks, who provide it. Behind that door is another door, this one made of sapphire.

And so it went on until the man had gone through doors of emerald,...

...silver, topaz, and amethyst.

Finally, the monks say, This is the key to the last door.

The man is relieved to be at the end. He unlocks the door, turns the knob, and behind that door he is astonished to find the source of that strange sound. It is truly an amazing and unbelievable sight....
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Keep going.......
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Don't give up................
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It's worth it..................I promise.
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.....But I can't tell you what it is because you're not a monk.

DON'T SWEAR AT ME; I'M STILL HUNTING FOR THE IDIOT WHO STARTED THIS!

:-)

2 phones??????

2009-11-26T09:27:00.002-06:00

Yep, I'm now carrying 2 phones.

I had to get a new work phone and they wouldn't let me use my old phone number. It had to be a "company" number, so, in order to keep my phone number, 2 phones.

Company phone, Blackberry Curve

Personal phone, Blackberry Storm2

I don't carry them both at the same time, that would just be silly, but the second one is always close at hand.

From technology challanged to this.

What next?????

Wait, forget I asked that. I don't want to know.

:-)

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!

2009-11-26T08:00:00.001-06:00

Too full of turkey to post much, but this about says it all.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM ONE TURKEY TO ANOTHER!!!!!!

:-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 14................Let's go for a Swim

2009-11-25T05:52:00.002-06:00

These photos were taken almost 30 years ago.

Jen, Cindy, Mo and Josh enjoying the pool at Kraushaar's. Hard to believe they're all grown up, some with kids of their own.

Where does the time go?????

:-)

Three Blind Mice...............

2009-11-24T22:00:00.001-06:00

We've been having a minor mouse problem at work and the last one we caught was in a trap by my cubicle.

When I came to work today, these 3 guys were waiting for me.

Now, that kind of mouse problem I can handle!!!1

:-)

I'm still shaking a little!!!!

2009-11-24T09:22:00.000-06:00

Why?

Well, I took the plunge today and bought a new camera. My old Cannon (at least 10 years old) finally quit working and I just couldn't be without a camera, especially with the Holidays coming up.

So, Rockbrook Camera and I did a little business and I'm still shaking from writing that check.

It was worth it though. New Cannon Rebel T1i. It's awesome!!!!

My next post should have pictures attached that were taken with it. Right now I'm still practicing.

:-)

Welcome Erik Spencer Berney

2009-11-23T21:07:00.004-06:00

I have a new Great Nephew, and he's so cute.

Michael and I went to a "Meet and Greet" on Saturday at my brother-in-law Clyde's house. Clyde is the Grandpa, but he doesn't like being called one. I'm sure he'll get over that.

So, here he is.............Introducing Erik Spencer Berney.

And his Mom and Dad, Jerry and Allie.

Welcome to the family!!! :-)

Sunday Funnies # 11, Dear Diary..................

2009-11-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

For all you people that want to retire to a warmer climate................enjoy!!!!

Dear Diary
Just moved to Las Vegas, Nevada! Now this is a state that knows how to live!! Beautiful sunny days and warm balmy evenings. It is beautiful. I've finally found my home. I love it here!!!

June 14th:
Really heating up. Got to 100 today. Not a problem. Live in an air-conditioned home, drive an air-conditioned car. What a pleasure to see the sun everyday like this. I'm turning into a sun worshipper!!!!

June 30th:
Had the backyard landscaped with western plants today. Lots of cactus and rocks. What a breeze to maintain. No more mowing the lawn for me. Another scorcher today, but I love it here.

July 10th:
The temperature hasn't been below 105 all week. How do people get used to this kind of heat? At least, it's kind of windy though. But getting used to the heat is taking longer than I expected.

July 15th:
Fell asleep by the country club pool. (Got 3rd degree burns over 60% of my body). Missed 3 days of work. What a dumb thing to do. I learned my lesson though. Got to respect the ol' sun in a climate like this.

July 20th:
I missed Lomita (my cat) sneaking into the car when I left this morning. By the time I got to the hot car at noon, Lomita had died and swollen up to the size of a shopping bag, then popped like a water balloon. The car now smells like Kibbles and Shits. I learned my lesson though. No more pets in this heat. Good ol' Mr. Sun strikes again.

July 25th:
The wind sucks. It feels like a giant freaking blow dryer!! And it's hot as hell. The home air-conditioner is on the fritz and the AC repairman charged $200 just to drive by and tell me he needed to order parts.

July 30th:
Been sleeping outside on the patio for 3 nights now, $725,000 house and I can't even go inside. Lomita is the lucky one. Why did I ever come here?

Aug. 4th:
It's 115 degrees. Finally got the air-conditioner fixed today. It cost $500 and gets the temperature down to 85. I hate this stupid place.

Aug. 8th:
If another wise ass cracks, 'Hot enough for you today?' I'm going to strangle him... Damn heat. By the time I get to work, the radiator is boiling over, my clothes are soaking wet, and I smell like baked cat!!

Aug. 9th:
Tried to run some errands after work. Wore shorts, and when sat on the seats in the car, I thought my ass was on fire. My skin melted to the seat. I lost 2 layers of flesh and all the hair on the back of my legs and ass . . . Now my car smells like burnt hair, fried ass, and baked cat.

Aug 10th:
The weather report might as well be a damn recording. Hot and sunny. Hot and sunny... Hot and sunny. It's been too hot to do shit for 2 damn months and the weatherman says it might really warm up next week. Doesn't it ever rain in this damn place? Water rationing will be next, so my $1700 worth of cactus will just dry up and blow over. Even the cactus can't live in this damn heat.

Aug. 14th:
Welcome to HELL! Temperature got to 120 today. Cactus are dead. Forgot to crack the window and blew the damn windshield out of the car. The installer came to fix it and guess what he asked me??? "Hot enough for you today?" My sister had to spend $1,500 to bail me out of jail. Freaking desert . What kind of a sick demented idiot would want to live here??

Will write later to let you know how the trial goes.

:-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 13...........Happy Thanksgiving!!

2009-11-18T05:41:00.001-06:00

Here's a great Thanksgiving memory for me.

This was taken in St. Louis several years ago. I like it for alot of reasons. We all look so young, it's one of the few pictues I have when Michael had a beard and it brings back happy memories.

This Thanksgiving Linda asked me to bring pies. I had my pies all made (yes, I made them from scratch) and they were sitting on the counter cooling and luckily were covered with towels. Our cat, I don't remember which at the time, decided to walk over them. That Thanksgiving I served pie with little cat pawprints in it. It was GREAT!!!!

I LOVE family memories!!!

:-)

Part 2, Is it over yet?

2009-11-16T05:00:00.000-06:00

Sunday started out badly. I woke up with a terrible headache. I had to got back to sleep and try to get rid of it, which meant less time that I could spend with Lauren. Brandon had gone home wth Cindy and Lauren had stayed with me. Well, anyway, it couldn't be helped, I went back to sleep and Lauren went in a watched TV.

She woke me up at 11:00 AM asking for lunch. Thank God I felt better, so she and I headed off to McDonald's and a quick stop at the store.

When we got home it was off to do the things we love to do when we're together. Play games and bake.

We baked first. Our favorite, Chocolate Cupcakes!!!!!

Which, of course, includes licking the bowl!!!!!

Then on the the game playing. Today we decided to play on the computer. She loved playing with my Facebook Zoo and Fish Tank.

This weekend our playing included play with Sugar, the cat. Lauren and Sugar get alot very well and loved played together. Lauren even helped Sugar find her lost toys under the dryer.

Our day together ended all too soon. Michael took Lauren home on his way to work, so she had to leave at 3:30. I can't wait until Thanksgiving, when I get to spend more time with both Brandon and Lauren!!!!

:-)

Is it over yet?................or, boy do my feet hurt!!!!

2009-11-15T16:16:00.011-06:00

What a weekend!!!

Got off work on Friday and headed straight for Gretna. Had to pick up Brandon and head to the church in Modale. It's that time of year again. Our church's annual Harvest Dinner. Turkey dinner with all the trimmings for 250 people.

This will be the second year we have been able to hold our annual fundraiser in our own fellowship hall. What a pleasure to have the event in our own building. God is good!!

Friday night is prep night. Setting up tables, peeling potatoes, cleaning the turkeys, wrapping the silverware, etc. Finished up about 8:30 and headed for home. Brandon and I were both beat so we headed straight to bed. Tomorrow was going to be a long, long, long day, and it starts early.

8:00 AM finds us back in Modale and ready to go to work. The first order of business is to get the big turkey set up.

That accomplished, it's back to the kitchen.

First up, getting the turkeys in the roasters and cooking.

Then, the stuffing!!!!

Once the stuffing is put together and ready for the oven, it's cooking the eggs for deviled eggs and then lunch!!!

After lunch the main event is picking the turkey meat off the bones. It's a group effort, so it's "all hands on deck" complete with gloves to help protect the hands from the HOT turkeys.

At this point the afternoon becomes sort of a blur.

Making the mashed potatoes. We use only real potatoes for our mashed potatoes. No instant potatoes for us.

Then it's get the corn ready and make the gravy.

And then there were pies. That's always my job. Cutting and serving the pies. This year Cindy and Lauren were my helpers. We had a good time and when it comes right down to it, how could you not have a good time serving pie?!!! Yum!!!!

So, we're ready to go and let the games begin. Here come the people.

By the way, Brandon helped too.

There's nothing like the rush of a successful event. Can't wait until next year.

Come back tomorrow for the conclusion of "Is it over yes?..............or, boy do my feet hurt!!!

:-)

Sunday Funnies # 10, Dear Tide...................

2009-11-15T10:36:00.000-06:00

An oldie but a goodie!!!!

Dear Tide...

I am writing to say what an excellent product you have! I've used it all of my married life, as my Mom always told me it was the best. Now that I am in my fifties I find it even better! In fact, about a month ago, I spilled some red wine on my new white blouse. My inconsiderate and uncaring husband started to belittle me about how clumsy I was, and generally started becoming a pain in the neck.

One thing led to another and somehow I ended up with his blood on my new white blouse! I grabbed my bottle of Tide with bleach alternative, to my surprise and satisfaction, all of the stains came out!

In fact, the stains came out so well the detectives who came by yesterday told me that the DNA tests on my blouse were negative and then my attorney called and said that I was no longer considered a suspect in the disappearance of my husband. What a relief!

Going through menopause is bad enough without being a murder suspect! I thank you, once again, for having a great product.

Well, gotta go, have to write to the Hefty bag people.

Have a great Sunday!!!! :-) :-)

Sunday Funnies # 9, How to Fail A Test With Dignity

2009-11-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

How to fail a test with dignity........................

That pretty much covers it!!!! :-)

Maybe I should charge them rent...........

2009-11-07T12:42:00.006-06:00

What a beautiful day!!!

I decided that I couldn't just sit around the house, so out I went to do a few chores. First on my list was cleaning up the flower garden in front of the house.

While I was trimming the bushes I found this.........................

Maybe I should have been charging them rent????

:-)

Facebook: A tool of the devil???

2009-11-05T23:24:00.002-06:00

Ok, as I've mentioned before, I'm a little behind the times electronically.

A couple of months ago Michael started talking about his Facebook account.

OK, stop the presses. My husband has a Facebook account and I didn't even know about it? This cannot continue, so I sign up for Facebook.

I visit the site, chat a little, make some friends, life is good. Then I start getting invitations to Farmville. I can start my own farm? Who knew.

Well, I say to myself (I talk to myself alot. Is that bad?)there is absolutely no reason for someone to be on Facebook that much. Taking all that time to start a farm just seems silly.

And those quizes. What's up with that? I'm never going to do something so silly as to take a quiz on Facebook.

OK. Fast forward a couple of months. To date I have:

Taken several quizes
Started my own fishtank in Fish World. In fact, I now have 3 tanks.
Own my own Cafe.
I'm now running an amusement park.
AND...........................

I now have a zoo with over 40 animals in it which is worth $284, 000.00. I've even bread a Bald Eagle.

It's the devil. I know it is!!!!! :-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 12, Those were the days......

2009-11-05T05:00:00.000-06:00

I found these pictures in a long forgotten box on the shelf the other day. This is one of the first camping trips we took as a family.

Location: Creston, IA

Date: Unknown, I'm guessing about 1983 or 84. Cindy is pretty young.

We all look so young!!!! :-)

Sunday Funnies # 8, The Brown Noser

2009-11-01T10:20:00.000-06:00

I think this pretty much speaks for itself.

:-)

CSI San Jon????? or What the heck happened here?

2009-10-30T00:30:00.000-05:00

What the heck indeed.

Michael and I went back to San Jon NM to clean out his dad's house and hopefully get it sold. Got to San Jon on the 22nd and this is the first thing we saw when we opened the front door.

We knew right away that something was wrong. Note the cabinet doors and drawers that are open. We didn't leave things that way when we left in August.

So....................we went further into the house and saw this.

And..............

Yep, as much as we didn't want to accept it, someone had broken into the house. But the worst was yet to come.

Milo's beloved train layout had been destroyed and all the rolling stock (cars, engines, etc.) were missing along with some large pieces of the scene. The whole family loved that layout and one of our main objectives in making the trip was to bring the layout back to Omaha for Brandon. Doug and Brandon were already making plans for the layout along with additions they wanted to make. I was speechless and knew Brandon was going to be devestated.

We called the Quay County Sheriff's department and Ben, a deputy on the force and good friend of Milo's arrived on the scene to investigate.

Dusting for prints

Discovering the point of entry.

As of the date of this post, we have gotten no news on anything that may have been recovered. We are guessing nothing will ever be found.

They got away with alot of "stuff", but the only thing that really mattered to us was the train. A reward is going to be offered.

We brought back as much train stuff as we could. Doug and Brandon will use it to start to rebuild. The legacy will continue in our memories of Milo and all the fun he gave us. They can never take that away.

But I will probably alway be mad. We are saying "if only". If only we had brought more pieces of the train back home with us in August. If only we had gone back to finish cleaning the house sooner. If only we had arranged for the Sheriff's office to check on the house regularly. So many "If onlys".

Life will go on. I just hope that whoever is responsible is caught before they can destroy other people's lives. We were lucky. Only stuff was taken. No damage was done to the house and no one was hurt. Others may not be so lucky.

On a brighter note, I saw Brandon tonight and he is disappointed but already making plans for the new layout. You just can't keep a good family down!!!!

:-)

Good Things Come To He Who Waits...........

2009-10-29T23:49:00.002-05:00

Don't know who said that, but it has really been proven true for me this week. My post from Monday was, to say the least, a downer. I apologize. I had really had a bad day and Tuesday and Wednesday weren't awhole lot better.

Then we get to today, and boy do I feel better.

Why.......................................?

Annual Shareholders Meeting was scheduled to be held at our Papillion campus (my building) and that meant ALOT of extra work the last couple of weeks. Meeting was held today and I'm happy to report................................

IT WAS AWESOME!!!!!!

Tons of fantastic comments from shareholders, board members and fellow employees about how nice the building looked. What a professional and slick set-up we had in the cafeteria for the meeting and for new product demos. And how smoothly everything went. Totally seamless. I'm am so relieved, happy, excited, and proud. All the hard work was worth it.

I think I should be able to sleep tonight without all the dreams about everything that could possibly go wrong.

Yeah!!!!!!

So...I'm off to dreamland. Good night. :-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 11, Springbrook.......

2009-10-28T05:00:00.000-05:00

With our annual campout just held a couple of weeks ago, I started looking through some old photos of Springbrooks past...........

Here are a few with my girls. Don't know the years for sure, but it's early 80's.

Cindy Rae and Aunt Emma

Jennifer and her best friend Mo

Jennifer and Cindy sitting on the bridge over the spillway.

Jennifer, Cindy and Grandma Margaret.

Jen and Cindy sitting in the window of the shelter. Looks like Cindy got into grandma's brownies!!!

I love family traditions. Springbrook has been a tradition with our family for almost 50 years and I know my girls will continue it long after I'm gone. It makes me feel good to know that.

Here's to your traditions. :-)

To put it mildly.........today sucked!!!!

2009-10-26T22:48:00.003-05:00

Just a quick note on how badly this day sucked!!!

I'm not kidding at all when I say, "I'm really glad this one is over!!" Why? Well it's that old "first day back after vacation" syndrome. You know. The emails stacked up, the boss is in a bad mood, the hot topic of discussion in the facilities world is: When should we clean out the refrigerators and what should be the rules regarding this topic, the shareholders meeting is Thursday and I'm not even close to ready for it, sucky day.

I know tomorrow will be better. I don't think it could possibly be any worse. (I didn't say that out loud, 'cause it just might be)

It was great to get home, sit on my couch and just veg. The best part was my kitty. She sat on my lap all evening and purred for me.

While we were away on "vacation" Sugar spent the week at Jen and Tom's house. She bonded with Tom and wasn't really happy about coming home last night, but tonight, she curled up on my lap and made all the bad stuff go away.

:-)

Sunday Funnies # 7, Boss driving you nuts................

2009-10-25T10:12:00.002-05:00

This was our solution. It might work for you.

:-)

Stuck where????

2009-10-24T21:48:00.004-05:00

This week hasn't been the best I've ever had, but that's another post. Probably several other posts. Anyway, Michael and I headed back to New Mexico again this week to empty out his dad's house and meet with some prospective buyers.

To put it mildly, nothing went right!!!!

But....................We did have a couple of light-hearted moments.

As I said we were cleaning out Michael's dad Milo's house (he passed away this summer) and we were going to borrow a trailer that belonged to a friend of Milo's. We went to Marlin's house to pick up the trailer and well, I think this picture says alot.

Yes, those are ruts in the desert. They've had alot of rain in San Jon this year.........but who would think you get stuck in mud up to the truck's axles in the desert????

It took some doing, but we did get out. Check out what the truck looks like. What a mess!!!!!

Thank God for 4wheel drive!!!!!

:-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 10, The Motorcycle

2009-10-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

Alot of people would look at this picture and say "Old hippie on a motorcycle" or something like that. It's really not. It's one of my favorite pictures of my dad taken back in 1974. My sister Carol and her husband Jim were traveling and we, and by we I mean my dad, were babysitting their motorcycle. Dad was usually clean shaven, but 1974 was Modale's centennial so he grew the beard for the "beard growing contest". It was shaved off the day after the contest.

We had alot of fun with that motorcycle. I was always surprised he didn't get one for himself.

:-)

Flu Shot Blues

2009-10-19T20:26:00.004-05:00

I like doing new things. At least I usually do. So, today I did another first. Not a really exciting one, but a first just the same.

I GOT A FLU SHOT!!!!!

I know, I know how lame is it that I've never had a flu shot before??

Our company is really making a push towards preventative health care. So, with that as their goal, they offered free flu shots (and rumor has it that when the H1N1 is available we're going to get that for free too.

Anyway, back to my "first"!!! I volunteered to go to our Carter Lake office this morning to set up for the large amount of people they expecting to show up for their shots. I volunteered 'cause I'd missed the opportunity to get my shot at both the Ralston and Papillion offices when they were available, so this was my last chance.

So, I showed up this morning, got everything set up and then I almost chickened out. It's not that I'm afraid of shots. I'm not. It's that I had always heard that there was a possibility that you could actually get the flu after or from getting the shot. Well, as I stood outside of the cubicle where they were giving the shots I kept hearing her say over and over again that this shot wasn't an active flu virus and you couldn't get the flu from the shot.

Well, after that I filled out my paperwork and got in line. I got the shot and now my arm's a little sore, but I'll survive.

Now, I have to remember to remind Michael to get his shot as I'm pretty sure he hasn't gotten it yet.

So, my story has a happy ending, at least so far. Hope I don't get the flu before the 2 weeks it takes for you to build up your immunity.

So, stay happy and healthy this winter and get your flu shot if you haven't done it yet. It really doesn't hurt. At least not all that much. :-)

Sunday Funnies # 6, Extreme Sports

2009-10-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

OK, I know Jen is going to read my blog and think I never have an original thought, but this is another funny she sent me years ago. At the time we were having a problem with mice in our building and it was so appropriate when I got it. I still chuckle when I see it.

Just remember, "Some days you're the mouse and some days you're the cheese". :-)

Boss's Day 2009

2009-10-16T12:43:00.008-05:00

This has been a GREAT Boss's Day. I had greetings from my employees before I even reached the office. An e-card from Tom and a text message from Donna. I had forgotten all about Boss's Day so had to improvise really quick for my bosses. So, here's what I did........................

To Scott and Kerri,

Happy Boss's Day from the whole "quacky" bunch!!!!!

The Party Girls!!!!!

Crystal "Feathers" Alexander

Sherry "Webfoot" Jantz

The crazy Pirates!!!!!

Tom "Quills" Hill

Donna "The Beek" Becker

Sharon "The Sexiest Duck on the Seven Seas" Johnson

So, go out and PARTY like a duck!!!!!!

Scott said, and I quote "Ha! That's just kind of wierd....but thanks!

Nobody gets us...............

So, I was just sitting at my desk, minding my own business when Donna came rushing in saying" You have to come with me, NOW!!!"

Who was I to argue, so I went with her........................

Yeah!!!!! Ice Cream cake from Dairy Queen. My employees ROCK!!!!!!

It was, however, a Husker cake and I'm NOT a Husker fan so the knife stuck in it is symbolic.

Donna, with black teeth and lips from the cake.

Crystal and her cakesicle.

This day totally ROCKED!!!!!!:-)

You Collect What?????

2009-10-15T05:00:00.001-05:00

I always wonder what motivates people to collect the things they do. I used to collect refrigerator magnets. I don't know why. I guess because they were small and inexpensive but still reminded me of the places I'd been and the things I'd seen.

One of my employees collects ducks. You know like rubber duckies.

I can't help but wonder, WHY??????

:-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 9, Float Trip

2009-10-14T17:00:00.001-05:00

It's funny how you can be having a conversation about one thing and it totally makes you think of something else. I was talking to some friends at work today about our annual campout family reunion that's coming up. We were talking about camping so late in the season and how the weather is so unpredictable. One year it's freezing and the next year we're boating on the late, all the second week in October.

Anyway, the whole conversation suddenly made me think about the first float trip I ever took. I was with my family in Minnesota and the girls were pretty young. I think Cindy was maybe 4, anyway we were visiting my sister Carol and her family and we decided to take a float trip on a local river. We packed a picnic lunch and headed out. After we finished lunch we were ready to get in our canoes and head out. Cindy was thinking this was a really great idea 'til she found out we actually had to get into the canoes. Her reaction.....................

"No you can't make we go!!!!! I'll just stay here an wait for you."

We then had to explain that we weren't coming back here and she would have to come with us. Anyway, she did finally get in the canoe and ended up having a good time. Oh sweet memories..............

:-)

Sunday Funnies # 5, Which shade of blue.......

2009-10-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

Jen sent me an email along time ago with some pictures of clever ads companies have run. I thought this bill board was really cute.

Benjamin Moore ad.

:-)

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow............

2009-10-10T16:17:00.014-05:00

And snow it did. But I'm getting ahead of myself. Every good story should begin at the beginning. This might not be a good story, but to the beginning we go.

Maybe you remember, but maybe you don't, I mentioned in a previous post that "it's that time of year". Well, it is, or was, I guess. SPRINGBROOK!!!!!! Our annual family reunion, picnic, campout, etc. It's something I look forward to all year. We headed out on our adventure on Thursday. Packed up the camper, loaded the firewood and headed out. Guthrie Center and Springbrook State Park here we come.............

We arrived about 3:00 PM on Thursday and set up camp.

After we got our spot picked out and set up we headed back into Guthrie Center for supper. Primetime Cafe. Good food. I know, we're camping, but we decided we wanted to take it easy for the evening. After supper we went to the local farm supply store for a few supplies and then back to the campground. We took a quick walk, after dark of course, and then headed to bed.

Up early on Friday morning to head back into town for a couple of things we had forgotten. We got back just as Jennifer was arriving. She picked her spot, unloaded her car and then we took a hike. Springbrook has a really pretty lake with a trail all the way around it. We usually make this hike a few times while we're there, so there was no time like the present to make the first one.

Springbrook is a spring fed lake, hence the name. Here's the sping that feeds it.

Bambi was out for a walk too.

This is the bridge over the spillway.

When we got back from our hike, Michael, Jen and I finished setting up for the arrival of the rest of the gang.

And then Jen and I set up the Bocce court. (you can just see the white lines outlining the court)

Of course we took Sugar along. She really does like camping and discovered on this trip that she likes sleeping in a tent. She spent the afternoon in Jen's tent.

Cindy and Emalee arived later in the afternoon. I wish I had gotten pictures of Emalee. Cindy had bought her a fleece "jacket" to keep her warm and Jen had brought she a stuffed duck. She didn't really appreciate the jacket, but the duck was a hit.

Mel, Shelia and Mikie arrived about supper time. Michael and Jen helped them put up their tent.........

While I got the Chili going on the fire.

While the chili was cooking and the tent was going up I took a quick walk close to our campsite. Here's the brook from which Springbrook gets it's name. The spring feeds the lake, the water goes out of the lake and over the spillway (sorry no picture) and then travels on it's way in the brook. This part of the brook was right behind our camper.

(That's our pick-up in the distance)

Doug arrived with Brandon and Lauren just as we were finishing up supper. The campfire was going and everyone spent the evening sitting around the fire. Except Brandon, who spent some quality time with Sugar.

Before retiring for the night Jen, Mel and I took a walk on the dam to look at the stars. We saw some falling stars, visited for awhile and then headed back to bed.

During the night we could hear the wind picking up and Michael had to go out about 3 AM to put the awning away. Then about 5:30 Jen came to report that our shelter was taking flight. No damage done, but we had to put it away so it didn't try to run away again. And yes..........................................is was snowing.

So, while some got the fire going, I got breakfast going. We had to eat in shifts as our camper is pretty small.

We all decided that the snow and cold were making things pretty miserable, so we all started packing up to head home. We had to have a little fun though, so Jen and Cindy had a snowball fight.

So, here are a few snowy scenes from Springbrook 2009. Maybe next year we can go swimming in the lake. This time of year, you just never know.

So, there you have it................a first for us. Camping in the snow. We didn't get to do everything we wanted to and we had to leave early, but life's not perfect. Join us next year if you dare. On our trips you never know what might happen.

So, happy camping from us to you.

:-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 8

2009-10-07T17:00:00.001-05:00

My home town.

:-)

3 days and counting..................

2009-10-05T12:54:00.003-05:00

I can't wait until Wednesday. I'm getting off work early and Michael and I are headed for Springbrook for a couple of days of R & R, just the two of us.

Then on Friday and Saturday the insanity starts. It's not really insanity, it's just alot of fun and I can't wait. It's our Annual Springbrook family reunion campout.

I was going to head home tonight and start getting the camper ready, but Jen emailed this morning that she had............................HOCKEY TICKETS!!!!! That trumps getting the camper ready every time. Now, I just need to find someone to go to the game with me. Any volunteers??

:-)

Sunday Funnies # 4, My name is.........

2009-10-04T08:00:00.002-05:00

ATTORNEY: What was the first thing your husband said to you that morning?

WITNESS: He said, "Where am I, Cathy?"

ATTORNEY: And why did that upset you?

WITNESS: My name is Susan!

Every time I read this one I just shake my head. I just can't figure out what some people are thinking.

:-)

Lauren is in the house...............

2009-10-03T23:11:00.005-05:00

Everyone was busy this weekend and Lauren needed someplace to go, so...............

I win, she's spending the weekend with me!!!!!

I picked her up on Friday after work and we headed straight home, with a quick detour to the grocery store. Home sweet home, pizza for supper and lots of TV rounded out the evening.

Saturday morning found us sleeping in, playing cards and making cupcakes. Yummy!!!!!!

After lunch we were looking for something to do, so we decided to head out to Hitchcock Nature Center to leave some surprise cupcakes for Cindy and Jen. They were having a "sister's weekend, camping and hiking at the park". Nobody was home, at their tent, so we left the cupcakes and headed out for a hike. It was a beautiful afternooon for a walk in the woods.

After the hike we headed to Modale for a pot luck supper at church and a piano concert afterwards. The food was incredible and the concert was awesome. Brian Hansen, a friend of our pastor's, and a musician from Nashville does a great show.

We got home and decided to watch some TV, but Lauren didn't last very long.

Nothing better than snuggling up with a cat to round out a busy day!!!!!

:-) :-)

Full Moon

2009-10-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

I'm a definate believer in the moon phases. This has been the week from hell so I decided to check the calendar and see if by chance..........................

Well here's the answer.

Things will be better about next Friday. I think I'll hide in my closet until then.

:-)

Double duty litter box......

2009-09-30T21:34:00.003-05:00

When we decided to get another cat, our daughter Jen recommended this great new litter box. I know, I know.............What could possibly be so special about a litter box. It's just a cat "bathroom", right?

Well, this one really is pretty cool. There is virtually no odor, it's really easy to clean and it's pretty. See...............

But here's the neat part. See all the pellets? The litter is larger than what you use in most litter boxes and that's cool because it doesn't stick to the cat's paws and get spread all over the house. The large size makes it good for another reason. For Sugar, they have become a cat toy.

She has chased this one pellet all over the house tonight. Who knew................

:-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 7

2009-09-30T05:00:00.001-05:00

I've been thinking about my little sister alot lately. She passed away a little over a year ago and there are days when all I want to do is pick up the phone and talk to her. She probably wouldn't like this picture to be posted, but I like it. She'll always be a star to be.

And besides that, it just makes me smile. :-)

And the Winner is.....................

2009-09-28T17:00:00.000-05:00

Just call me a VERY proud grandma. Who knew that my grandkids could cook. This past Saturday was the 2nd Annual Friends of Wilson Island Dutch Oven Cookoff and Demo. Long name for a very successful event.

There were 24 entries in the cookoff, 2 of those being my 2 grandkids, Brandon and Lauren.

Lauren brought home the 1st place prize in the Youth Division. She just couldn't stop smiling. Even after she got stung by a bee.

Here's the winning recipe.

Mexican Casserole

1 - 15 oz can chili with no beans

1 - 15 oz can whole kernal corn (drained)

1 - 2cup package of shredded cheddar cheese

2 cups of crushed Doritos

Mix first 3 ingredients together in your Dutch Oven. Cover with crushed Doritos and press them down slightly.

Cover and cook for about 45 minutes.

Tasting the finished products.

Counting the votes.

Brandon's entry "Dutch Oven Pot Pie"

The proud winner!!!!!!

It was a beautiful day at the park. Hope to see you there next year!!! :-)

Sunday Funnies # 3, Church Bulletins

2009-09-27T14:30:00.000-05:00

They're Back!

Those wonderful Church bulletins! Thank God for church ladies with typewriters. These sentences (with all the BLOOPERS) actually appeared in church bulletins:

1. The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals.

2.; The sermon this morning: 'Jesus Walks on the Water.' The sermon tonight: 'Searching for Jesus.'

3. Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your husbands.

4. Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our community. Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say 'Hell' to someone who doesn't care much about you.

5. Don't let worry kill you off - let the Church help.

6. Miss Charlene Mason sang 'I will not pass this way again,' giving obvious pleasure to the congregation.

7. For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.

8. Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get.

9. Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on October 24 in the church. So ends a friendship that began in their school days.

10. A bean supper will be held on Tuesday evening in the church hall. Music will follow.

11. At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be 'What Is Hell?' Come early and listen to our choir practice.

12. Eight new choir robes are currently needed due to the addition of several new members and to the deterioration of some older ones.

13. Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.

14. Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered.

15. The church will host an evening of fine dining, super entertainment and gracious hostility.

16. Potluck supper Sunday at 5:00 PM - prayer and medication to follow.

17. The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.

18. This evening at 7 PM there will be a hymn singing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.

19. Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10 AM. All ladies are invited to lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B. S. is done.

20. The pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the Congregation would lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday.

21. Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM. Please use the back door.

22. The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement Friday at 7 PM. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.

23. Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.

24. The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new campaign slogan last Sunday: 'I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours.'

Have a good Sunday. :-)

New Dutch Oven Recipe.........Dutch Oven Pot Pie

2009-09-26T18:00:00.000-05:00

Our 2nd Annual Friends Of Wilson Island Dutch Oven Demo and Cookoff is this weekend. Saturday to be exact.

This is the recipe I'm going to try, or I should say, have the kids try.

Dutch Oven Pot Pie

1 - 16 oz. bags of frozen vegetables (your choice)
2 C milk
2 - 10 oz cans cream of chicken soup
1 C sour cream
1 can refrigerated biscuits
2 C chicken chopped and cooked (I'm going to cheat and use canned chicken)
1 small envelope Hidden Valley Ranch dressing
1 small onion chopped

In a large bowl, mis together, soup, milk, Hidden Valley and sour cream until smooth. Gently stir in vegetables and chicken, until well mixed. in a 12-inch Dutch oven, pour mixture and level with spoon. Place biscuits on top as a crust and bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees or until heated through and biscuits are browned.

It says this is "kid friendly" so I should be able to handle it.

See you at the park, I hope. :-)

Call me crazy!!!!

2009-09-25T11:52:00.004-05:00

OK, I've decided to make a confession, but I'm sure once you read it you'll think I'm crazy. Well, maybe I am, but I decided it was time to tell the world.

So, let's start at the beginning. My oldest daughter Jennifer and her hubby Tom have , or I should say had, 3 beautiful Scottish Terriers. Penny, Isaac and Rowan. I like them all, but Rowan was my special favorite. She loved it when grandma came to visit 'cause she liked to play ball and I would always play with her.

My beautiful Rowan passed away this summer. She had diabetes and it finally took it's toll. I have to admit we've lost some pets over the years and I've shed a few tears for all of them, but something about Rowan's passing was really hard. I still tear up when I think about her.

Anyway, and here's where the story takes a turn towards crazy, I drive on I-29 everyday to get to work in Omaha and there's this tree along the side of the road that caught my eye. I think it looks like a Scottish Terrier standing up on it's hind legs. I've decided that it's Rowan come back in tree form. And if that's not crazy enough, I talk to the stupid thing. Every morning when I pass by the tree I tell it good morning and to "have a great day"!!!

OK, so maybe some confessions are best kept a secret.

Anyway, today I decided to take a picture of said tree so you can judge for yourself. The picture isn't the best 'cause my windshield is really dirty and it was raining, but here is "The Rowan Tree"

Have a great day!!! :-)

Spirograph.........

2009-09-24T20:00:00.000-05:00

Did you ever have a Spirograph when you were a kid?

We had one at our house. I think it belonged to my little sister.

We are getting the concrete floors at our building redone today. I think the guy running the machine must have had one when he was a kid.

You decide.........

:-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 6

2009-09-23T17:00:00.000-05:00

Don't you just love a man in uniform???

This is Michael's dad Milo in San Francisco.

:-)

It's That Time of Year Again........

2009-09-22T05:00:00.001-05:00

And I don't mean Christmas. It's almost October and that means our annual family reunion campout at Springbrook State Park is just around the corner. This is something I look forward to all year.

This trip actually started at least 45 years ago. I don't remember the exact year, but I was just a kid in grade school. Actually, when we started we weren't going to Springbrook either. The first park we went to was Ledges State Park near Boone IA. My grandmother found Springbrook and we started going there because it was pretty close to being central for everyone who was attending.

Over the years, things have changed. Alot.

It used to be an all day picnic on the second Sunday in October. We picked that date because both my dad and my aunt worked at the local Co-op and we waited until harvest was over. We would drive over, have breakfast, lunch and dinner at the park. Go for hikes, play games, take pictures and have lots of fun.

After my sisters and I got married and had families of our own, we started branching out even more. We invited friends and neighbors to come along.

In the last 10 years or so, it's turned into a weekend campout with a big picnic on Saturday for those that don't camp. The last 4 or 5 years, we've gone over for the whole week.

Now that the family has changed again, some have died, some have moved away, we have started inviting alot of friends and co-workers. We're all just one big happy family at Springbrook.

Some years the weather is great and we have even been known to go swimming or boating, even that late in the season. Some years it's cold and we all huddle around the campfire. You never know what's going to happen, but then, that's all part of the adventure.

So, the trip is just around the corner and it's a little bitter-sweet. I always get so excited, planning the meals and anticipating the fun. But, it's also the last campout of the season and that means putting the camper away until spring. I absolutely LOVE fall, but I hate winter with a passion. Springbrook is just another sign that winter is getting closer.

Well, for now, I'm not going to think about winter and cold and snow and ice. I'm just going to think about the fun, family, friends and food.

So, if you're near Guthrie Center IA the second weekend of October come out to Springbrook and look us up. We're pretty easy to find. We're the ones with tons of food and a HUGE campfire. :-)

Shoes for Jen

2009-09-21T05:00:00.000-05:00

Ok, this is pretty lame, but I thought I'd share it with you.

My daughter Jen is addicted to shoes. I'm sure there are people who have a worse case than she does, but she has alot. And she features them weekly in her blog.

Anyway, I had a haircut appointment last Wednesday and since I arrived early I decided to do a little "window" shopping. I was at Westroads and decided to check out DSW. I've starting following Jen's lead of taking my camera everywhere and taking pictures of interesting stuff. I'm even getting used to the weird looks you get sometimes. It makes life interesting.

Anyway, back to my story. I was at DSW and starting taking pictures of shoes that I thought Jen might like. Here are the entries in the "which shoes do you think Jen would buy" contest.

2

3

4

5

6

7

I sent the pictures on to Jen and the winner was.................

Drum Roll please.................................

Number 2.

Jen said "Sweet". So if you're shopping and have nothing better to do you can always take pictures of shoes for the "Jen" in your life.

Happy Shopping. :-)

The Real Survivor

2009-09-20T21:42:00.006-05:00

Nope, not someone sitting on the beach of some remote island, stabbing everyone in the back while smiling and burning socks. Sorry, just got done watching the first episode of Survivor this season. I'm addicted and I really hate to admit it.

No, the Survivor I'm talking about is me, today, after walking a total of six miles which should be easy. I thought it would be easy. I really looked forward to it, but now, sitting here on the couch because I really can't move, I'm feeling pretty stupid. I did finish the six miles, almost in last place. I can only console myself by saying, you did better than all the people who only did 2 miles, but that's a copout. I'm almost dead after walking, I repeat WALKING, 6 stupid miles. I finished but I feel like a loser. My shins are cramping up and I have blisters on the bottom of both feet. How stupid is that. We went out for brunch afterwards (I represented infoGROUP, my company, but walked with Jen's group from Majors Plastics) Anyway, we got to the restaurant and I almost passed out. A splash of cold water in the restroom and some OJ had me feeling pretty good again, but really, how wimpy is that?

Well, it does tell me one thing. When I can move again I need to get off this couch. Like actually working out on a regular basis and eating right. I've been such a bad girl this summer. Anyway, I did finish, I survived and I will do it again next year. Without the blisters and almost passing out part.

Anyway, here are a few highlights of the day.

The race started at 8:15 AM and Omaha was looking pretty good that early.

I always like checking out all the different shirts. Each company designs their own and try to stand out in the crowd. I'm not being prejudiced here, but the Major's Plastics team won hands down.

If you check out what their shirts say "Race Offical Do Not Pass" it would seem pretty clever. Well it was, but some people just didn't get it. They thought these guys were race officals and kept asking them questions. It was hysterical.

These would come in second and third.

Our shirts didn't really stand out much.

The gal in the middle with the white shirt with "Run With It" are ours.

One of the local businesses had a sign up to urge us all on.

I think the guy behind the police car was the winner. He was WAY ahead at the 4 mile mark. I mean nobody was even close and he was bookin'.

The finish line, finally. As you can see someone with a stroller came in ahead of me. Actually, alot of people with strollers came in ahead of me. I even saw a couple of blind people who came in ahead of me.

Brunch at Taxi's. Food was good but it was the OJ that saved the day.

Well, I think I may just sleep on the couch tonight. It will save me having to move again.

Here's to you and your race, whatever it might be. :-)

Sunday Funnies # 2, Aircraft Problems

2009-09-20T14:25:00.001-05:00

I got this a couple of years ago and I've kept it all this time. Sometimes I go back and read it just for a chuckle.

Aircraft Problem reports:
After every flight, pilots fill out a form called a gripe sheet, which conveys to the mechanics problems encountered with the aircraft during the flight that need repair or correction. The mechanics read and correct the problem, and then respond in writing on the lower half of the form what remedial action was taken, and the pilot reviews the gripe sheet before the next flight. Never let it be said that ground crews and engineers lack a sense of humor. Here are some actual logged maintenance complaints and problems as submitted by Qantas pilots and the solution recorded by maintenance engineers. By the way, Qantas is the only major airline that has never had an accident.
(P = The problem logged by the pilot.) >>(S = The solution and action taken by the engineers.)

P: Left inside main tyre almost needs replacement.

S: Almost replaced left inside main tyre.

P: Test flight OK, except auto-land very rough.

S: Auto-land not installed on this aircraft.

P: Something loose in cockpit.

S: Something tightened in cockpit.

P: Dead bugs on windshield.

S: Live bugs on back-order.

P: Autopilot in altitude-hold mode produces a 200 feet per minute descent.

S: Cannot reproduce problem on ground.

P: Evidence of leak on right main landing gear.

S: Evidence removed.

P: DME volume unbelievably loud.

S: DME volume set to more believable level.

P: Friction locks cause throttle levers to stick.

S: That's what they're there for.

P: IFF inoperative.

S: IFF always inoperative in OFF mode.

P: Suspected crack in windshield.

S: Suspect you're right.

P: Number 3 engine missing.

S: Engine found on right wing after brief search.

P: Aircraft handles funny.

S: Aircraft warned to straighten up, fly right, and be serious.

P: Target radar hums.

S: Reprogrammed target radar with lyrics.

P: Mouse in cockpit.

S: Cat installed.

P: Noise coming from under instrument panel. Sounds like a midget pounding on something with a hammer.

S: Took hammer away from midget.

Makes you wonder if you should ever fly again. :-)

Foggy Morning

2009-09-17T13:10:00.004-05:00

I love driving out of the campground early in the morning in the fall. It's always foggy and usually very pretty. Today was really nice and I tried to get some pictures. They didn't turn out all that great, but take my word for it, today was excellent.

Have a good one!!! :-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 5

2009-09-16T17:00:00.001-05:00

Only one photo today, but I think it's pretty cool.

This is my Grandpa, Samual Vittitoe during WWI.

How cool is that??? :-)

Welcoming Committee

2009-09-16T12:33:00.002-05:00

Just a really quick post today. As Jen would say it's "mostly wordless". Anyway, took Sugar to the campground a couple of days ago. We're determined she's going to be a "camping cat". Took this shot last night when I got home.

Isn't that a cute face to come home to? :-)

It's been a quiet weekend................

2009-09-15T18:14:00.005-05:00

It was a VERY quiet weekend at Wilson Island. Most of the electric sites were filled, but just very quiet people. That's always ok with me when we're camphosts. I don't need excitement.

Friday night was just Michael and Sharon at the campground. Hasn't happened in awhile and we enjoyed it. It was Michae's birthday but we didn't celebrate much. Party was to be on Saturday. Saturday was a beautiful day. Started out a little rainy, but cleared off later in the day. Jen and Tom couldn't come to the party in the evening so they came out for lunch.

Don't know what's with the look on Jen's face. Anyway, had a great visit with them. While they were there another unexpected guest stopped by.

Not sure what kind of bug this is, but I'm calling him Herman.

Mom, Doug, Cindy, Lauren, Kerri and Kevin (my boss and her husband and our camping buddies) and Kevin's sister Pam came out for birthday dinner for Michael. Had a great visit with everyone, but I didn't even get the camera out, so no photos of the gang. Doug and Cindy were running a little late, 'cause Cindy said they had to pick something up on the way. The something turned out to be a Cocker Spaniel puppy named Emalee. Cindy's reward for being a good girl at the dentist. She is a cutie!!!!!

Sunday was another quiet day. Most everyone packs up on Sunday morning and heads out, but we had a few that just didn't want to leave. The day was beautiful. Met a couple from upstate New York that is traveling the country this summer. They has chosen Wilson Island because they had heard about the museum next door at DeSoto Wildlife Refuge. They were anxious to get to see it.

Monday was back to work for Sharon, but Michael had one more day off. He spent it working on Friend of Wilson Island finances and getting our cat Sugar out to the campground. She is now officially a "camping cat". She seems to like it ok, but wants to get outside. I want to get her a leash before she starts exploring. She's a city cat and I don't know what she'll do in a forest. Time will tell.

:-)

Sunday Funnies # 1, Caught My Eye........

2009-09-13T07:36:00.000-05:00

I friend and co-worker sent me this yesterday. Loved it!!!!

The Redhead

A man is dining in a fancy restaurant and notices a gorgeous redhead sitting at the next table. He's been checking her out since he sat down, but lacks the nerve to talk with her. Suddenly she sneezes, and her glass eye comes flying out of its socket toward him. He reflexively reaches out, grabs it out of the air, and hands it back. "Oh my, I am so sorry," the woman says as she pops her eye back in place. "Let me buy your dinner to make it up to you," she says. They enjoy a wonderful dinner together, and afterwards they go to the theatre followed by drinks. They talk, they laugh, she shares her deepest dreams and he shares his. She listens. He listens. After paying for everything, she asks him if he would like to come to her place for a nightcap and stay for breakfast. They had a wonderful time.
The next morning, she cooks a gourmet breakfast fit for a king with all the trimmings. The guy is amazed. Everything had been SO incredible! "You know, he said, "you are the perfect woman, are you this nice to every guy you meet?" "No...she replies…’you just happened to catch my eye.”

“Perfection is not achievable, but in the
attempt to reach it…excellence is.”

Keep laughing, it makes everything better!!! :-)

I hate numbers!!!

2009-09-11T08:19:00.003-05:00

There's a reason I never became an accountant. Well, actually there's more than one, but the main one is "I HATE NUMBERS!"

Yesterday was budget day at work and that's all I thought about all day. I was so tired when I got home and I woke up with a headache. I really hate numbers. I mean the figuring and refiguring and refiguring. I admire people who can do it and really like to do it, but not me.

I'm glad today isn't going to be more of the same. I have other things to do this morning and this afternoon I'm heading to Carter Lake to help with a move.

And then, it's out to the campground. Michael's off work this weekend so I will have company and I won't have to clean the bathrooms all by myself. Hopefully, the weather will be nice so I can take some hikes and get some more pictures.

So, here's to the people who like numbers and long may they wave, or whatever. :-)

Old Photo Wednesday # 4

2009-09-09T17:00:00.007-05:00

Graduation

I was talking to a friend of mine about kids and grandkids the other day and the subject of Graduation came up. It suddenly occurred to me that Brandon would be graduating from high school in a relatively short amount of time. Granted, he's only 13, but graduation is just around the corner. It DOES NOT seem possible. Seems like only yesterday when I was graduating. Anyway, I decided that would make a good topic for Old Photo Wednesday. So here are some folks in my family on graduation day.

My mom.

Uncle Jim

My kindergarten graduation. I'm the cool one on the end with my legs crossed.

My 8th Grade graduation.

My Sister-In-Law Linda and her family. She was graduating from seminary. She's a United Methodist Pastor and we're VERY proud of her.

My oldest nephew David's High School graduation. His mom and dad, Jim and Carol, are with him. Carol's my older sister.

Youngest daughter Cindy's High School graduation. Sorry Jen, I couldn't find yours. I know I have them, but where is the question.

My niece Amanda's high school graduation. I didn't get to see her in cap and gown, but got this shot of her putting the cap on the flamingo. Amanda's the one in the while jacket.

My younger sister Annette with her oldest boy Tony at his graduation. I really miss her. ALOT!!!!!

Granddaughter Lauren's pre-school graduation. They all looked so cute in their little caps and gowns.

My high school graduation.

I've learned alot from looking back at these past graduations. Mostly I've learned that I need to do a better job of organizing my pictures. I've missed alot of people, and to them I can only say "I'm sorry".

Is this Wednesday?????

2009-09-09T16:45:00.002-05:00

I hate work weeks that start on a Tuesday. Don't get me wrong, I'll take any days off I can get, but I'm confused all week. Or maybe just more confused than usual. We have been doing some remodeling here at work, at our employee entrance and more work was scheduled for Wednesday. Well, I kinda forgot it was Wednesday today (felt like Tuesday to me). Anyway, I forgot to let everyone know the entrance was going to be closed for a couple of hours and people just went nuts. You'd think walking a few extra feet this morning was going to kill them or something.

Oh well, we got the carpet got laid in the entry and we had it opened up before 9:00 AM. It looks pretty good if I do say so myself.

Some people just have to have something to get excited about. Seems to make their lives better.

The rest of the day has gone pretty well, so far at least.

UMW (United Methodist Women) tonight. It's sad to say that I'm the youngest member of our group and I'm not exactly young. Always REALLY exciting.

Better get headed out of here. Happy WEDNESDAY to all. :-)

Weekend Update, Labor Day

2009-09-08T12:14:00.007-05:00

I didn't get out the camera much this past weekend and I really wish I had. I left work on Friday at about 2:00 and headed to the grocery store for some last minute necessities. Mom was coming out for supper on Friday and I needed a few things.

She came out and we had a nice supper of grilled salmon, steamed veggies and tomatoes. After we ate we took a drive through De Soto Wildlife refuge. Got a few nice shots.

Don't know what's going on with me lately. I've taken alot of pictures of bugs. Weird!!

Saturday morning was busy with the normal camp host morning stuff like cleaning the restrooms, stocking the outhouses, etc. Doug, Cindy and the kids came out late afternoon and not long after my mom and aunt and uncle showed up. We made supper in the dutch oven and spent the evening visiting. Everybody headed home about 9:00 except for Brandon and Lauren who were spending the rest of the weekend with me.

Sunday wasn't terribly exciting. The kids spent alot of time at the "park", that's what they call the playground and then came back and watched movies. I just sat around and read. Really laid back day.

We slept in on Monday and then Brandon surprised me at making breakfast and it was yummy!!!!

That's his version of Mountain Man Breakfast.

Michael took the kids home on his way to work and the rest of the day was all mine. I spent some time driving around the park in the ranger picking up trash and then just vegged, totally. I took the ranger back to the office at about 8:00 and took these pictures on my hike back to the campsite.

Hope you weekend was a good one. :)

Pioneer Village

2009-09-03T12:46:00.006-05:00

Somehow the conversation in our group at work turned to Pioneer Village yesterday. If you've never heard of it, Pioneer Village is a collection of buildings and artifacts from the midwest located at Minden NE. If you'd like to know more go to http://www.pioneervillage.org/. When I was a kid we went there and it seemed huge and really cool and full of people. They had exhibits of antique cars and trucks, buildings from the 1800's. A church, a country store, a one room school house, etc. And they had people dressed up in period costumes doing interesting things like making rope, brooms, a black smith, etc. Things you just don't see today. I remember taking all day to walk around with my parents looking at things I didn't recognize and mom or dad would explain what things were and, in some cases, tell us how they used stuff like that when they were kids.

A few years ago Michael and I took Brandon on vacation with us. We went to Texas and New Mexico to visit Michael's dad and on the way home we decided to take Brandon to Pioneer Village. We both remembered it from our childhoods and decided it would be fun to take him. It was so different seeing it as an adult. Everything seemed smaller, not as busy and just a little sad. And when Brandon asked us what things were we didn't always know the answer like mom and dad had and we had certainly never used this stuff when we were kids. It's funny how things change as you get older.

Anyway, I hope Brandon has good memories of the trip and of Pioneer Village. Maybe someday he'll take his kids there and they'll ask questions and maybe he'll even know the answers.

So, I thought I'd add a few pictures to give you an idea of what Pioneer Village is like. If I can find some pictures that were taken when we went there as kids I'll post them on Old Photo Wednesday.

Here to good memories. Have a good day. :)

Old Photo Wednesday # 3

2009-09-02T21:24:00.006-05:00

If you are a follower of "The Adventures of Mot and Nej" as I am and you read her post today you'll know where the inspiration for this post came from. If you haven't read her posts before, check it out. She's listed under my blog list. Anyway, she posted a black and white picture of an old storefront from a small town in New Mexico, San Jon. It reminded me of some photos I took a few years ago of a similiar town in Iowa. Blockton IA to be exact. It's also a VERY small town in the middle of nowhere with a declining population. Anyway, here are some photos taken in 2000 or there abouts. Enjoy.

So I guess the moral to the story, if there is one, is take the time to get off the interstate and visit a small town. They may be small but sometimes they hold some big treasures.

Have a great day :)

Ok, Jen here's some more bugs

2009-09-01T21:42:00.006-05:00

Since Jen commented on my last post that all the bugs had to die before they got in her hair, I thought I'd post some more pictures from my lunch outing to the park today.

There weren't only bugs out and about. These guys showed up too and I don't think we'd have to worry about them getting in the hair.

All in all, a great hour at the park. When I was leaving, this guy was just sitting right by the sidewalk. Absolutely, not afraid of me at all.

Well, I promise that I won't post pictures of bugs tomorrow. It's Wednesday, so it's theme day. Have a super evening and I'll see you tomorrow.:)

Little Creatures

2009-08-29T16:36:00.009-05:00

It was a beautiful day today so I decided to go for a hike. My destination was our favorite park, Wilson Island. I didn't see any wildlife, well not any large wildlife, but what I did see were some little creatures. These are the guys that we only pay attention to when we're swatting at them. So, here they are, the "little creatures".

I found this cikada (not sure on spelling) just as he was finishing sheding. You can see in pictures 2 and 3 that the wings are still curled up. Pretty cool.

Then I stopped by the chute, which is my favorite spot. I caught these guys getting a little sun.

And then I found these guys. I usually take alot of pictures of flowers, but the flowers aren't the focus of these shots.

I'm not even sure what to say about this shot. Bug Love????

Take the time to check out the "little creatures" you find. Have a great weekend :)

Friday lunch at the park

2009-08-28T16:35:00.006-05:00

I used to go to the park near my office to eat lunch nearly everyday, but stopped for some unknown reason. Well, today was so beautiful and Kerri and I were having a hard time concentrating at work, plus she just found out that her husband has to have heart surgery again. Anyway, we skipped out for a long lunch. A new Jimmy John's opened near us and today was their grand opening. $1.00 subs were calling our names. We braved the crowd, got our food and headed for the park.

As I said, I haven't been going there to eat lunch for quite awhile, and while I was away they have done alot of work. There was a very small lake, which they have enlarged, and there's a walking trail all the way around it.

We sat and ate our subs, talked about anything but work and enjoyed the view.

It wasn't long before this guy wandered by.

Surprisingly, he wasn't at all bothered by my presence. This last shot was taken using no zoom at all. I kept hoping he would catch a fish while we were watching. But alas, nope.

Anyway, across the lake from where we were sitting were some more residents of the park.

I was amazed by the variety of wildlife that call the park home. I wasn't quick enough to get pictures of the turtles or frogs. There were also some white ducks and a variety of birds. What a great way to spend a beautiful Friday afternoon, or at least part of one. Right before we left we also saw a muskrat swimming across the lake. He was pretty shy too and opted not to have his photo taken.

Mother Nature also provided some lovely flowers to decorate the lake banks.

Well, here's to Mother Nature. Now go out and find your own beautiful spot to enjoy the view. Have a great weekend. :)

Old Photo Wednesday (Thursday) # 2

2009-08-27T20:16:00.006-05:00

I think it's a little strange looking at photos of your parents when they were kids. It's not just the clothes, the older cars, etc, it's that you never really think of your parents as kids. I mean, they were, you just don't think about it. Anyway, here are my parents as kids.

This is my mom and her brother, my Uncle Jim, on their first day of school.

This is my dad with his sisters.

This is my dad in his high school baseball uniform.

This is my mom, her friend Phyllis and my Uncle Jim.

So here's to your parents and the "kid" within them. Have a beautiful day. :)

An oasis in Hell

2009-08-25T19:31:00.006-05:00

Yep, I said it. And guess what? I really mean it. If you've been reading any of my posts, you know that I've spent alot of time in the dessert lately. I've come to discover that I consider the dessert, or at least most of the dessert, hell. It's hot, it's dry, it's dusty, it's hot, it's scary, some parts are pretty in a hot dry dusty scary kind of way. But anyway, it's mostly hell.

After 3 trips to the dessert I really needed to find that "oasis" and I found it. Santa Fe New Mexico. Jen, Tom, Kent, Linda and I took off for Santa Fe and the temp in Tucumcari was hovering somewhere near 99. By the time we arrived in Santa Fe is was a balmy 68. Heaven on Earth or my Oasis in Hell. I loved every minute of it.

We discovered Canyon Drive, the art district. Every store was a new treasure chest, just waiting for me to open it. Of course every store had prices way beyond my budget, but the looking was s00000000000000 fun. And of course, the picture taking. Well, let's just let a few pictues do the talking, especially since I've run out of things to say.

Tom visiting with one of the artists.

This is my favorite shot of all. Something about this scene just looks so peaceful and calming.

This little guy reminded me so much of Brandon.

But I finally found a spot to shop where I could actually afford to buy something. The street vendors. Loved it!!!!

And while we were shopping there was a street band playing some really cool music. It was the perfect ending to my trip to my "oasis in hell"

I definately want to go back when I can stay longer.

I hope you can find your own oasis. Have a wonderful day and please come and visit again. :)

The Best Things in Life

2009-08-24T22:01:00.005-05:00

The best things in my life

1. My hubby. We don't alway see eye to eye, but when it really counts we are a great team.

(Michael and his dad, Milo)

2. My girls, Cindy and Jen. For someone who doesn't really like kids, my 2 girls are the best things that ever happened to me

3. My grandkids. The best part of getting older is Brandon and Lauren. They are definately keeping me young.

4. Family and Friends. What would life be without them? Someone to laugh or cry with.

5. EJ a.k.a. E.J.'s Legacy. Our camper, named for my Aunt Emma, whose bequest in her will allowed us to purchase the camper.

That's not the whole list, but definately the top 5.

Be sure to remember the best things in your life and have a great day!! :)

Family Pets

2009-08-23T16:54:00.007-05:00

Having Sugar in the house has started me thinking about all of the pets we've had over the years. There have been a few and, interestingly enough, most of them have been cats. We've had a couple of dogs, one bird and assorted fish, but mostly it's been cats. Sadly, as I've been looking through old pictures, I can't find pictures of all of them but I'll try to post as many as I can.

The first pet arrived on the scene way back in 1975 and was a pound kitty named Sylvester. He was really cute and curious. At Christmas time he tried to climb the Christmas tree and knocked it over. I knew that we were in for trouble. Sylvester had alot of attitude and we loved him alot.

Our next cat was a little yellow kitten named Harry. I don't know where we came up with all our pet names, but we weren't very original. We never knew what happened to Harry. He just came up missing one day.

After Harry we did a brief stint into dog ownership. We were actually adopted by a yellow lab mix that we named Sonny. We didn't get to keep Sonny very long. He discovered that our neighbors down the road had chickens and he decided it would be a good idea to kill them. Sonny ended up going to the pound before the neighbor caught him and did something worse to him.

Our next experience as pet owners came when a VERY skinny cat showed up on our doorstep on Christmas Eve, of all times. Michael, the big softie, let her in for the evening since it was pretty darn cold outside. Tigger became "our cat" and it wasn't long before we discovered that she was going to give us her own special Christmas gift.

4 kittens.

They were born on a March afternoon when everyone was gone to work or to school, right in the middle of my bedroom floor. It took awhile to convince her that our closet would be a better spot for her family than the middle of the floor. We promised the girls that they could each pick a kitten to keep and the rest of the family, mom included, were going to go live with a co-worker of mine on their farm. Having 4 kittens in the house was a blast. Once they were old enough to be away from their mom 2 of the kittens and mom left for their new home and we were left with Patches and Koko. Patches belonged to Jen.

And Koko was Cindy's.

They were best buddies.

There is always tragedy in life and our family had two at the same time. My dad had been ill for about a year with Cancer and on Christmas Eve (seems to be a theme in our family) he was hospitalized. We all knew he probably wouldn't be coming home. One evening while we were all at the hospital, I got a call from a sobbing Cindy. The neighborhood bully had injured Koko and they were taking her to the vet. Long story short, the cat had a broken back and died a couple of days later.

My dad died within the week as well. Life isn't always a happy place.

Cindy, of course, asked a couple of weeks later if she could have another cat. We said yes, but probably not right away. Fate of course stepped in and about a month later Fifi arrived at our house. Fifi was probably the coolest cat we have ever had. She was the sole survivor of her litter, mother included. They, unfortunately, froze to death. Again life isn't always a happy place. Fifi was however a very happy cat. We were pretty sure she had some brain damage from her exposure to the elements, but she was very loving and made Cindy very happy.

A second attempt at being dog owners started one afternoon when Michael called me and said "do you mind if I bring a friend home for supper"? I said of course I didn't and went home and made supper not sure who was coming home with Michael, but figuring whoever it was, they would just have to be happy with Hamburger Helper. (We didn't really have hamburger helper that night, but it is something we had alot back then) So, Michael's car pulls into the drive and I absolutely couldn't believe who, or more specifically what, got out of the car. A puppy. And not just any kind of puppy, no, a St. Bernard puppy. Brandy had arrived in our lives and I have never been sorry she came. We had her for eleven of the best years ever. She was, to put it mildly, the best dog in the world!!!

Somehow, while we already had a cat and a dog, we decided to get another cat and Buster arrived on the scene. We were a pretty happy family, until the unexpected happened. Fifi got pregnant. About the time her kittens were due, we discovered that Buster (who turned out to be a Busterette) was also expecting. We didn't end keeping any of the kittens from either litter, but our vet did keep one of Fifi's kittens. We got to see her for quite a few years, every time we visited the vet.

Sadly, we lost Brandy to cancer after eleven happy years.

As our girls grew up and eventunally moved out the pet population at our house changed again. Patches, of course, went to live with Jen and when Cindy moved in with Jen Fifi went to live with them. Leaving us petless. This situation continued for awhile and Michael and I were pretty happy with the situation. The girls, however, decided we were lonely. That's when Kit Kat came into our lives.

Jen's friend April had Kit Kat (then known as Guilty) and she turned out to be allergic. Anyway, we got a new cat that we hadn't really planned on, but we were ok with it. After awhile, Jen and Cindy decided they couldn't handle a house with 2 cats, especially since Jen was very allergic. So, Fifi came back to live with Grandpa and Grandma.

Fifi and Patches were good buddies.

Life isn't always a happy place, as our pet story seems to tell us. In 2000 my Aunt Emma passed away. She had never married and was a huge part of our lives. There is not one event in my life, big or small, that my Aunt Emma wasn't there. Her passing left a huge hole in our lives and an even larger one in her cat Grey's life. Michael had promised her years ago that she shouldn't worry about Grey. We would take care of her if anything ever happened to Emma. So, Grey came to live with us.

Fifi died of a heart attack one summer day while we were camping and Grey had a stroke and had to be "put down" a couple of years later, leaving us with Kit Kat. Kit Kat just passed away this spring leaving us petless once again and I said, no more pets for me.

That brings us to August 2009 and the arrival of Sugar. I really mean it this time. When she's gone, NO MORE PETS!!!!

Oh yes and somewhere in there we had 2 goldfish, Moby and Dick, and one yellow Canary, whose name sadly I can't remember.

Give your pet a hug and have a good day!!!! :)

The cat has arrived

2009-08-22T12:47:00.005-05:00

OK, she's here, the new cat that is, and I'm totally in love. I could hear her as soon as Michael opened the door and she wasn't pleased. Guess she didn't enjoy the car ride at ALL. Well she's going to need to get over that. I intend for her to go places with us. And she had better like camping.

Well, anyway, she's here and appears to have adjusted to her new surroundings already.

Apparently riding in the car makes her sleepy

I have been out this week buying things for her. The necessities like a new litter box (a new type recommended by Jen), a cat carrier, some toys of course and a new food dish.

Pretty fancy!!!!!

She is a very loving cat and I'm covered with the cat hair to prove it. If I sit down she's on my lap or right next to me, which has made typing interesting. I'm glad she finally decided to take a nap.

I bought her a couple of mice, and a ball and she came with a couple of her own toys. Every one of them is already under something. I had forgotten just how much energy a young cat has. She's about a year old and EVERYTHING seems to be a toy. Should be alot of fun.

Well, when she wakes up from her map I think we're going for a drive. She might as well start learning right away that she's going to be mobile. I'll let you know how that works out.

Have a great day :)

Sugar

2009-08-20T15:32:00.002-05:00

I told myself and Michael that when our last cat was gone I didn't want another one. I love cats, but we are getting to the point in our lives when we can just come and go as we please. Our last cat, Kit Kat, passed away this summer and although I know Michael missed her terribly, I had absolutely no intention of getting another one. Best laid plans.................as they say.

Well, a co-worker of Michael's has a cat that she rescued and it, of course, needs a home. I guess we're it. I have been buying things like cat carriers and litter boxes this week getting ready for her arrival. We had actually planned to get her a couple of weeks ago, but with Michael's dad's illness and death things have been delayed.

I haven't even seen a picture of Sugar, but I'm starting to get excited about her coming to live with us. I'll post pictures as soon as I get one.

I guess time will tell if Sugar is excited to live with us.

Have a great day!! :)

Old Photo Wednesday # 1

2009-08-19T21:45:00.010-05:00

I LOVE old photos. Going through my mom's old pictures is one of my favorite pasttimes. Seeing how people I know now looked when they were much younger is fascinating. As I've mentioned before, Michael's dad recently passed away and I have spent alot of time lately going through all Michael's old family photos. It's not as fun as going through my family's old photos because it's harder for me to identify who people are, but it's still interesting. My daughter Jennifer seems to have intereted my interest in these old photos. I've been sharing some with her and will be sharing alot more in the near future. I want to get as many to her as possible while I still remember who the people in the shots are.

I thought I'd share a few of my favorites with you, just for fun. So, here we go, the first installment of "Old Photo Wednesday".

This is my all-time favorite. This is my dad and was taken shortly after he graduated from High School. He was at the Nebraska State Capital in Lincoln.

This next shot is of my parents wedding. I think they are a gorgeous couple.

This is my mom. Isn't she the prettiest girl you've ever seen?

These next shots are of my older sister, Carol and I.

And lastly, to finish this installment, the 3 Vittitoe girls. Carol (the oldest), Sharon, (me, the middle child) and Annette (the very spoiled, blonde, youngest)

Have a great evening and I'll see you later :)

Things I thought I would never say

2009-08-18T11:58:00.005-05:00

You know how there are some things in life you just think that for one reason or another you'll never say? You just don't have any reason to...............Well here's my list.

1. Damn, I broke a nail!!!
(I have been a nail biter all my life)

2. My roots are showing. Time to color my hair again.
(I swore that I really liked my gray hair and would never color it)

3. I had this really weird dream last night....................there were these dancing peacocks.

Well, guess what..............I have now said them all.

After breaking my left elbow in Feburary I have lovely nails...............on my left hand. That's what happens when you can't get your hand in your mouth. The only problem is, I still bite the nails on my right hand. Oh well.........................

I started going to a new hairdresser (actually she's not new, I've just never had a regular stylist before) and she suggested coloring my hair. She told me, not only would I look younger, my hair would be more manageable. She's right.

If you want more details on the dancing peacock dream, refer to yesterday's post.

But the number one thing I never thought I'd ever say is.....................

Does this banana suit make me look fat?

Have a good day!!! :)

Wierd Dreams in New Mexico

2009-08-17T21:35:00.006-05:00

Michael and I just got home (well, actually we got home last night) from yet another road trip to New Mexico. Michael's dad has been very ill and in the hospital in Amarillo since early in July. Sadly, he passed away on August 5th. Hence, we have been making alot of trips to Texas and New Mexico to visit him and lastly this past week for the Memorial Service.

I have been working on a power point presentation for 2 or 3 weeks using old photos of Milo and his family to use for his memorial. I really didn't think we would be using it this soon. Anyway, Michael had picked out 3 songs that he thought were approptiate and I was setting the photos to the music. Keep this info in mind for reference later.

We left on Tuesday to head (the Evergreen Motel) for our first night's lodging. I loved it and got a great night's sleep.

We were up and on our way a little later than we planned on Wednesday morning. I guess we both needed the sleep, 'cause neither of us woke up early. Didn't get headed out until 8 AM. We arrived in Amarillo and went first to the mortuary to pick up Michael's dad's remains. That was a very strange experience as was having them in the truck with us. After a few more activites in Amarillo, we headed for San Jon. I was just ready to get out of the truck and not do alot of driving for a few hours. We were going to stay at Milo's house in San Jon and when we got there I decided that I had to do some cleaning. The house was nasty and that's being nice. I didn't want to touch anything. I worked on the sun room, thinking maybe there would be one room I could stand to be in. I don't think it worked. Still nasty. Went to bed late and slept fairly well.

I thought Thursday might be a bit of a stressful day. I was going to meet Michael's 1/2 sister Nancy for the first time. Jen and Tom arrived about 9 AM and Doug, Cindy and kids were't too far behind. Then, about 10:30 Nancy and Stan arrived with their dog Buster. Buster was a big hit with everyone and provided the days first excitement. Tom and Jen volunteered to take him for a walk and at some point he picked up a burr in his paw. Tom was very upset about it and it was a little exciting watching them remove it. Brandon loved him and wanted to play with him all day. Unfortunately, he's allergic and they had to leave early. Michael, Nancy Stan and I visited all afternoon. I really enjoyed getting to know them.

We all headed to Tucumcari (that spelling doesn't look right) for supper since there's absolutely no place in San Jon. We ended up going to Del's and met up with Doug, Cindy and the kids for supper. If you are ever in Tucumcari and looking for a place to eat, I recommend Del's. The food is excellent and the people are very friendly. After supper we were getting ready to head back to San Jon, but decided to call Michael's sister Linda and see if they were in town yet. They were just a few minutes away, so we headed to their hotel, which was where Jen and Tom were staying as well. They hadn't eaten yet, so we all headed back to Del's. They ate and we had desert. Yummy!!!!!!

We headed back to San Jon and we were both tired and ready to bed. Now is when I need you to think back to the videos I have been working on for the memorial service. Michael picked 3 songs (Cowgirls Don't Cry, Daddy let me Drive and Prop Me Up By The Juke Box) for the service and I have been setting pictures to the music. I must have listened to these songs a hundred time by this time and I was having trouble getting the music out of my head. Added to that were the peacocks. Yes, I said Peacocks.

Milo had a pair of peacock plaques hanging on his wall. They had been hanging in the family home for years and Michael was determined that He or Linda should take them home and hang them in the house. Linda had told Michael at dinner that she didn't want them and on the drive to San Jon, Michael was saying that we should take them and hang them in our dining room. Now here I was going to bed in a house that was VERY dirty and smelled horribly or cigarette smoke and I had this music stuck in my head. That's a bad combination when mixed with lemon merangine pie eaten at 10:30 at night. I had horrible dreams all night that featured Cowgirls Don't Cry with dancing peacocks. Needless to say, I was not in a good place when I woke up on Friday morning.

We had appointments in Tucumcari with the lawyer and the bank on Friday morning. I really didn't want to go, but didn't want to hurt Michael's feelings so I went and didn't say anything. He could tell something was wrong so I told him about the dreams and the fact that Milo's house was very depressing and the cigarette odor was giving me a sore throat, which was true. The whole situation was taking it's toll on me. I needed some time away from the whole situation. I needed some fun!!!! Things went well with the lawyer and the bank appointment was disappointing. There was NOTHING in the safety deposit box. Very disappointing for the kids. We decided to might at the hotel to discuss the appointments and what they should do next. They decided to call area car dealers and see if they would be interested in buying Milo's Blazer. Michael called the number found on the internet for the Ford dealer and started explaining the situation to the guy who answered. The call turned out to be a wrong number, but the guy who answered was looking for a vehicle. That has to be devine intervention. Then the conversation turned to auto insurance and several calls later plans were made to drop off the money to renew the policy. By this time I had had enough and everyone knew it. I was pretty much of a bitch.

Michael decided I needed to go play with Jen and Tom for the afternoon and Jen, Tom, Kent, Linda and I headed to Santa Fe. Glorious freedom from Michael and the whole funeral scene. I was very excited and we had a great time in Santa Fe except for Michael's phone calls. I bought a bracelet and necklace and took lots of pictures. When we got back to Tucumcari I found that Michael had booked us into the Days Inn for the night. That was the best news of all. I got an excellent night's sleep. No more dancing peacocks!!!! Actually, I talked to Linda on our way to Santa Fe and asked her if she would please take the peacocks home with her. I didn't care if they ended up in a dumpster along the way, they just wouldn't end up on my dining room wall. She totally understood and was able to tell Michael she wanted them and he didn't suspect a thing. What a relief.

Saturday morning we had made plans to meet at Denny's for breakfast. Michael's Aunt Jo and Uncle Walt had arrived Friday night and joined us. I totally love them. They are just the neatest people ever. AFter breakfast we headed back to the hotel to change for the memorial service and head to San Jon. We took the computer over and Doug hooked it up to his projector for the service. We had put him in charge of that part of the service. After that was set up we worked the memorial display. Milo was cremeated (again not spelled right) so we had a picture and some other things of his to display. The family was to meet in the fellowship hall before the service and Michael was visiting with the folks who were getting the food ready and may have sold the house. God is really looking out for us!!!

The service was very nice and very well attended by residents of San Jon. He was very popular. I really hadn't ever met anyone from San Jon, but definately have a different oponion of the town now. The people are wonderful!!!!

After the services and fellowship, we all put on our old clothes and started cleaning everything we wanted out of the house. It took some creative packing, but I think everyone got what they wanted, including plants. We will be making one trip back to finish up and hopefully, finanlize the sale of the house. Headed out of town about 8 PM and drove to Dalhart TX where we spent the night. Drove all day on Sunday and got home about 9 PM.

I'm really glad it's all over and life can get back to normal.

It was wonderful to see the whole family and Stan and Nancy are awesome!!! God does work in mysterious ways.

See you later :)