TrailBoss

Still here

2012-02-11T20:07:00.002-06:00

In the hospital that is. I am getting better, it is just taking a while longer than I thought. This damn fluid restriction is driving me insane. I am getting a sore throat and NOT being to even drink water is hurting me. It is almost enough for me to tell the doctor to get me the heck out of here tomorrow. I am not ready to go back to work yet but I think I will recover better at home.

I miss my daughter, not to mention my girls. I just miss home. I'll see what the dr says tomorrow. I am going to push to go home though.

I didn't know what hit me!

2012-02-10T10:07:00.002-06:00

I hadn't been feeling up to snuff for a few days but was surprised to find out that my Sodium count was low along with my blood pressure. Good ole Doc put me in the hospital for a bunch of tests. Today I was told that it appears that part of the problem are 2 medications that I have been taking. The answer is to stop taking them and see what happens.

Day 2 and so far so good. It has been a somewhat pleasant hospital stay so far. Kinda nice to be told to relax and do nothing. Yes, I can do that!

Monday is my next appt. at the Pain Mdmt. place for more shots to ease my back pain. That crap is getting really old. But aside from surgery it's about all I can do for now.

I am having some very grateful days lately. My family and I are very blessed and I have very aware of that point. With so much sadness in the world I am glad to find my own joy.

My eyelids are getting heavy, time for a little nap.

Last day on vacation

2012-01-15T08:50:00.002-06:00

This past week has been very interesting. I had extensive dental work done and it has been a true challenge. It is hard to believe how sore my mouth continues to be. But the worst part is over. I go back to my wonderful dentist Tuesday for suture removal and no doubt a few more adjustments on these pearly whites. I have a few sore spots that will need to be addressed. But I have every confidence that it will all work out well. UGH, it's just getting to that point that I have to be patient about. But it is worth it in the long run.

I look forward to getting back to work. I am definitely nowhere near ready for the days of not working. I guess that is what happens when a 54yr old has worked since I was 16.

Sophie played and played with a squeaker toy yesterday. She went on for probably an hour before she finally settled down to a much needed nap. Of course she had her squeaker right next to her. After all, she couldn't take a chance of Pattykins getting ah old of it. Such a silly puppy.

Another good day!

2012-01-13T20:06:00.002-06:00

We went to our local Walmart and Stephanie was able to get a good baby registry completed. Of course there were some rather large items (such as a crib) that I told her to NOT include on her wish list since I will take care of those. But she did pick out some good items that will be used and appreciated.

Her good friend Ashley has taken over the planning of the baby shower and can I say I am so grateful for that. We will get the invitations in the mail soon so that her friends can schedule time off of work.

I have to admit that I was in baby Heaven today! Just actually looking at the clothes, pj's and everything else brought back so many memories for me.

When my precious grandson arrives it will be so wonderful! I can't wait to hold that bundle of joy in my arms!!!!!

Let it snow!!

2012-01-12T13:33:00.002-06:00

We received a small amount of snow overnight. It is really cold outside so I intend on staying in my nice warm house. The girls went out a bit ago and they played and played. I love watching them from the kitchen window. It warms my heart to see them having so much fun.

I am trying to decide what I am going to do about Sophie. I know she will not get better but when I see her playing and talking and seemingly so happy it makes the decision that much harder. I know that when the time comes my Pattykins will be so lost. She doesn't know any other life except the one she has shared with Sophie for the past 2 yrs. I have been keeping my eyes open to pups for sale around these parts. I will probably get another boxer as they are the breed that I adore. However my brother has a Boston Terrier that seems to be a total clown. Kinda reminds me of a miniature boxer. Stephanie has always wanted a Golden Retriever which would be fine as they are wonderful family dogs. I am even considering adopting a puppy from the local Animal Shelter. I don't want to have to deal with a short lifetime again and since boxers typically only live about 9 years I am thinking that a mutt would be so much healthier and live a lot longer. I am considering all of these options and I do believe that I will find the answer.

What go you folks think?

Good day!

2012-01-11T21:05:00.003-06:00

My daughter had her monthly appt with her OBGYN today. That equates to me hearing my precious grandson's heartbeat and good new from the doctor. Steph has kept her weight down and very much in control. She is doing very well and I couldn't be more proud of her.

Next month will be very exciting. She will have her 3-D ultrasound done. Duh, how exciting is that? Her friends are starting to plan her baby shower. I have to tell you that I can't wait! But mostly I can't wait to hold that precious bundle of joy in my arms. Like Steph said......no one will take my grandson from me. That means a lot to me.

For anyone that has read me for a while knows how much I miss my grandkids. But divorce seems to take that away. I think of them every day and miss the time I have and will miss with them. It is what it is and I cannot control that.

My future includes a grandchild, a new mommy and lots of new adventures. Dare I say that is what life is all about? Life just continues to get better and better.

What a fun day!

2012-01-09T18:42:00.002-06:00

Not really a fun day but a good one. Nothing like having teeth yanked out and new ones in that feel just too darn weird. It is all part of the process though. This week will be filled with more visits to the dentist and at least one next week for suture removal. I am thankful that I have an excellent dentist with an equally excellent staff. It was kind of funny because when he first walked into the room he had some mail for me. You see, he bought my last house out in the country so he just brought it into his office.

My electrician is coming tomorrow to update all of the electrical in my new house. I am so excited about that. I'm not excited about paying him for it but it is a very necessary item. Yep, going to 200 amp.

Time will tell

2012-01-08T08:28:00.002-06:00

I had the shots in my back last week to try and get this pain from a bulging disk under control. Oh Momma.......did it ever HURT! Thank goodness the procedure only lasted about 4 minutes. Good thing too because I am not a violent person but I was ready to dropkick that Dr across the room! I don't understand why he someone didn't forewarn me how painful it would be. Anyway, I got through it fine and that is where time will tell.

The very next day the pain was back. Not as bad but pretty close to the same level as before. A nurse from the Dr's office called me later on that day so I was able to tell her how it still was so painful. She assured me that it can take a while to get the relief. I don't know what else to do except wait and hope for the best.

I am on vacation this next week so I will have some down time to rest and see if the pain gets better. Meanwhile, tomorrow I will visit my wonderful dentist and have the rest of my dental work completed. I have put it off for way too long.

This past year has been one of the hardest for many of my loved ones. But it is over now and it's time for a better year.

Time to get some things DONE!

2012-01-02T18:39:00.002-06:00

I have scheduled a local company to come out tomorrow for an estimate for gutters on my new house. It is a much needed item, especially after we got about 7' of rain last year.

I will have shots into my back this week to try and get this awful pain from my bulging disk under control. I don't know how well it will block the pain but I hope for the best. I am ready to kick these pain pills to the curb!

I will have a busy day at work tomorrow and am happy about that. I have enjoyed 2 four day weekends off for the past 2 weeks but I am ready to get things back to normal.

My daughter is feeling my grandson kick up a storm these days. He is quite stubborn though when it comes to me feeling him. But that's ok......it won't be too much longer (about 4 months) when I will be able to hold him and start my journey to spoiling him. Just kidding about the spoiling part.......maybe!!!

My sweet pups keep me so entertained these days. There just isn't anything like 2 boxers playing. It truly warms my heart so much.

Next week I will have my dental work completed and will be off of work all week. I have put this off for over a year and it is way past time to get it done! It will be an interesting week learning how to talk with way too many teeth in my mouth than what I am used to. I am anxious to have it all behind me and move forward with my life.

Hapy New Year!

2012-01-01T12:37:00.002-06:00

I welcome a new year more than I ever have in my entire life. Time for a new start. A new life free from all of the BS that 2011 brought to so many people that I love. I am happy to report that I have put all of that behind ne and look forward to a drama free year.

My girls continue to fill our house with love and comedy. I watched them playing in the backyard and it was hilarious! They ran and played and it filled my heart with pure joy. For me, there is no love that compares to that of a dog.

I am getting caught up on laundry and getting the house in order after the holidays.

I hope you all have the best year yet.

Bring in a better year............PLEASE!

2011-12-31T11:23:00.002-06:00

I am so anxious to say goodbye to 2011 and start a brand new year. A year that will bring my grandson into the world. A year of drama free days. The best year of my life. That is my goal.

Sometimes I wish that life came with a big fat eraser so I could just erase the BS that was 2011 away. But life doesn't work like that.

I am excited to be done forever with people that have caused me and my daughter nothing but grief. Oh yes, a new start and a new year.

If yall plan on going out tonight please be careful. Use your head and don't do anything stupid. It's just not worth it.

I am going to have lunch with my sober son today. I look forward to some one on one time with him.

Happy New Year everyone. I hope 2012 is the best year of your lives!

I contine to be amazed

2011-12-30T19:40:00.002-06:00

As I stated in my last post my 'former' family just keep the shit coming. Yeppers I am done with the lot of them. I will always love the grandkids and hope and pray for the best. I do REFUSE to deal with a certain person who is convinced that her dad did nothing. I guess some people are just blind to the facts. But it is what it is and I am letting it all go.

My life is better than it has been in a long time. No more dealing with lies and bullshit. I put up with it for way too long. What a relief it is to know that I am free from the life I had. I can honestly say that I never thought things would turn out like they have. But life goes on and I am proud to say that I am over it all.

I own my house, I have a precious grand baby coming and life is good. I love my son and daughter and anyone else that has negative things to say can just get over it.

Oh yes I am so done!

2011-12-30T00:00:00.002-06:00

I am finally cutting all ties wit my 'former' family. Too much drama and too much BS that I refuse to deal with. I want a peaceful life and I am determined to have it. I have blocked everyone that continues to crawl in my business and I won't deal w/it anymore. Anyone that reads this will know who I am referring to. I don't need it and I WILL NOT let the negative in my life.

UGH!

2011-12-27T21:19:00.002-06:00

Even though I have been so very busy at work things are good. I am no longer bothered by my X husband (thank God) I continue to miss my grand kids. I realize that nothing will ever be even near the same it doesn't take away the love I have for them. Sometimes life just takes a big ole dump on your life and all you can do is take it a day at a time.

I look so forward to being able to hold my precious grandson in my arms next Spring! I am going to try and NOT spoil him but I won't make any promises!

I continue to look for the best in my life and not dwell on the negative. It does no good to dwell anyway. All that does is bring me down. Goodness knows I don't need that.

Awwwwwwww.....another day off

2011-12-26T08:36:00.002-06:00

We had a wonderful Christmas. I am so thankful for what I have been blessed with. All I wanted for Christmas was time with my loved ones. I do continue to miss my granddaughters and am always hopeful that some day I will be able to be in their lives again. I turn it over to God for that is all I can do about it.

My son has his apartment looking great! He is very proud of it and he should be. It is decorated well and I swear you could eat off of the floor because he keeps it spotless.

I have another short work week (3 days!) and then another 4 day weekend. Awwwwwwwwww. Time off of work is divine.

As I sit here my sweet girls are asleep on my bed. Sophie's leg isn't getting better but it doesn't seem to be getting worse. We continue to give her meds and hope for the best. They both also had a wonderful Christmas. Lots of new pretties to play with and some good ole chewable teeth cleaning bones. Their stockings were full of them.

I really should take advantage of the sale items today. I need to get a new bed for the guestroom. But I am taking this day for me! After a very busy weekend I am going to rest all day.

I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas. I sure did!

Twas a good day

2011-12-23T17:53:00.002-06:00

I finally got all of my Christmas shopping done today. Steph is busy wrapping them and getting them under the tree. I went ahead and let her pick out some of the things she wanted. After all, my taste and hers are miles apart.

Tomorrow my sober son will be here and Christmas will be wonderful. Tough year or not I look forward to the future and don't dwell on the past. We will have a delicious meal of ham, baked beans, green bean casserole and plenty of other goodies. I did get a cheese ball along with a box of Sociables which my son always devours.

It will be a huge change from the past 17 Christmas days since so much has changed since March 3rd when I kicked my husband to the curb. But it will be ok. I do wish him and his family (which includes my precious granddaughters and my step daughters) well and I wish them all a Merry Christmas. I decided a long time ago to let it be.

I predict that 2012 will be a wonderful year for my family. I will have my grandson here and I couldn't be happier about that. Life is good and I plan on making it a good year. After all, only I can do that. Positive attitude and prayer will get me through anything.

Merry Christmas everyone. May you find the peace and serenity that makes you happy.

Is it really almost Christmas?

2011-12-17T20:53:00.002-06:00

I dare say that it is! I have some serious shopping to do. I have a good idea what I am buying I just need to do it. Me thinks I'm going to be very busy this week. At least the tree is up and beautiful.

My son is thriving in his new apartment and his new job. I visited him today and I was very impressed. He has it looking very nice and homey. He is such a good person and is well on his way to a new and sober life. I don't think I could be more proud of him.

My daughter is 21 weeks pregnant with my precious grandbaby. She is also doing very well. I have so much to be thankful for. I continue to miss my grandkids so much but it is what it is. I can't control their mother's decisions to keep me out of their lives. All I can do is continue to pray for them and their families. I will never stop loving them no matter what. I miss my Abby so much. I was just getting to know my sweetness Leah when all of this happened this year.

I love my new house. I don't even miss the old one. Too many memories there. I am making new memories as a single woman. Occasionally I hear from the gentleman who has my last horse Jones. She is doing very well. I am happy that I was able to find her a good home where she has made new horsey friends. She had been so lonely since I sold Dakota. Horses are herd animals and do so much better with other equines around.

My sweet dogs give me so much love and happiness. Sophie isn't doing any better with her arthritis. I dread the decision I will have to make soon. I can't make it during the holidays. That is probably selfish of me but I just can't do it. We just keep spoiling her and I spend a lot of one on one time with her.

I have wanted to post more often but after working on a computer all day and such a busy life I haven't seemed to find the time. I'm going to work on that. I can't remember the last time I posted a new picture. My blog used to be mostly pictures and I miss that.

So for now I will say Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

It's a boy!

2011-12-15T06:42:00.003-06:00

Steph had her ultrasound yesterday. We waiting and waited for the little one to wake up and show his/her stuff and it finally paid off. IT'S A BOY!!!!!!!!!!!! Cameron Scott is his name. Middle name after her uncle. We all squealed with joy when we saw his stuff. It was something that I will never forget.

I cried happy tears half of the way home and then you couldn't get that smile off of my face. Still can't! Like Steph said, no one will be able to take him away from me. This is glorious news in a year that has had its challenges. What a wonderful way to end the year.

Tomorrow!!!

2011-12-13T11:15:00.002-06:00

Tomorrow my daughter just might be able to find out if she is having a boy or a girl. How exciting! Hopefully the little one will cooperate and show his/her stuff so we can know. I never did want to know the sex of my babies before they were born. I could have found out with my daughter but I choose to not know. I knew in my mind what they were. Mother's intuition I guess, that or just good luck.

My son is now in his own apt and is doing well. He is gainfully employed and looking for another part time job in order to build up some money. So far he is really enjoying it. His room at home no longer has a bed or his things in it but it was time for him to be on his own.

Steph and I are doing well. She made a from scratch chocolate cake the other night that is to die for. I'm not much of a sweet eater but good gosh this cake is good. I'll be glad when it's all gone so I won't be tempted anymore! She has been cooking up a storm lately and doing a good job if I do say so myself.

Pattykins is doing well but Sophie is not. She has really bad arthritis in her back leg up into her hip and spine. We continue to give her the medicine to help with it but it isn't doing much good. I am going to have a really really hard decision to make soon. I told Steph that there is no way I can make that decision during the holidays. It is just too sad. Sophie still wants to play and has started the funniest way of talking and howling. She loves her pretties (toys) and of course we continue to spoil her and her sister rotten. I dread the day as I know it is coming sooner than later but that is part of being a responsible pet owner. She will let me know when it is time just like my Annie did. Until then I am going to get every loving minute with her that I can.

This past year has been a hard one for me and my family as well as a lot of other people I know. I don't know what's going but there seems to be trouble and heartache everywhere people turn. I am thankful to have found the strength to get through it and continue to put one foot in front of the other and do what I can. The rest, well, I just can't do anything about it. I miss my grandchildren so much but have come to accept that they will not be a part of my life anymore. It is sad for them (and me of course) but I have to respect their mothers decisions. I would never dream of disrespecting them like that. Before long I will have my own grandbaby that no one will ever be able to take from me. That in itself has gotten me through this rough time.

I have an electrician scheduled to come to the house next week and update all of the electrical system. He is going to change it from 100amp to 200amp with breakers, not the fuses that I have now. It is a huge safety concern for me and even though it will cost a fortune to have completed it is worth it. After all, safety does come first!

UGH, I have not done ANY Christmas shopping yet. I do know what I am going to get it is just a matter of getting to the stores to get them. The tree is up and the living room is filled with stockings on every wall. Naturally the dogs have stockings too. Treats and pretties for them. Meanwhile yall be good and keep the holiday cheer. Smile when you see a complete stranger. I try to do that all of the time and I get so many smiles back. I just think it makes the world a happier place.

I'm trying

2011-11-26T09:29:00.002-06:00

To be mature about something. My X-stepdaughter who lives in Ohio left a very rude comment on my blog last week which has caused me to make some changes on who & who cannot read or comment in my blog. I started to just start another one but decided that I wasn't going to let her win. It seems that she gets pleasure from being rude & I'm not going to put up with it.

I have accepted the fact that I will not be able to be a part of my grandaughter's lives and just have to move on. It is a sad situation but one that I have no control over so I'll just leave it alone. It is a relief to know that I don't ever have to be a part of her or her dad's life again. Sad, but a relief.

Steph & I finally saw Breaking Dawn yesterday. Afterwards we went to one of our favorite chinese restaurants. The movie was awesome and we had a really good day.

I had my first appt. at Pain Mgmt this week. The dr there wants to do what he calls an epidural on my back. This will involve a series of shots that hopefully will block the pain from this back problem. The problem is that I can't have it done until January. But at least it's a start. Meanwhile I continue to take this way too strong pain medicine which I hate. I don't like my thinking clouded like it has been lately but what do you do? I'll heed the dr's advise and do what I can until then.

I have been sitting here paying bills online and suddenly I feel broke! Dang things do add up don't they? I think it's time to get on that heating pad for a while.

Monday Monday

2011-11-14T17:14:00.002-06:00

It always comes doesn't it? I was so busy at work the day flew by. That is always nice when that happens. Stephanie made some delicious stir-fry for dinner. She is really becoming quite a good cook. Of course anything I don't have to make is just fine by me.

I love living so close to work. My fuel bill loves it even better! We live in a nice neighborhood, nothing fancy mind you but I like it. The house is laid out well and I am grateful to have found it.

Since the backyard has been fenced the girls have had a ball! That makes me happy. I am going to have to take my Sophie to the vet soon. Her back leg is getting worse & the meds aren't helping like they first did. She gets her exercise daily but not all of that running like at the other house. Speaking of the other house I don't miss it anymore. I am so proud to have MY house that I own. I don't have to deal with anyone else & what they want. Plus my house stays clean, unlike the other house. My X rarely cleaned. He was too busy lying on his bed & watching tv. But no worries about that anymore. It is quite a relief. It sure did get old to work all day long just to come home to a dirty house.

I am anxious to go to my appt. at Pain Mgmt soon. I hope they can give me shots for this ruptured disk in my back. Then I won't be able to feel the pain for a few weeks or months. I am tired of taking pain meds, especially when I work full time. They cloud my thinking and I don't like that. Wish me luck!

Sunday, a day to relax

2011-11-13T15:31:00.002-06:00

Or at least it is supposed to be. I way too much to do for any slowing down. The new furniture did get here and it looks great! I have enjoyed my chair and a half a lot. The girls have enjoyed as much if not more than me!

Peace and Serenity is all I want

2011-11-08T11:12:00.002-06:00

But I can't seem to get it until I completely rid myself of my former husband. He has texted me from a strip club offering to buy me a drink, told no telling how many lies to my stepdaughters so that I am sure that I will never see my Abby and Leah again, much less the Ohio grandkids. All I can do is feel sorry for him. He is one of those people that want other people to be as miserable as he is.

It saddens me so much to know that I won't be able to see my Abby and Leah grow up. I love them so much. But one thing I do know is that no one can take away the memories I have of them, especially my Abby. We were so close for so long. I miss her every day and was just starting to get to know Leah when all of this happened. But life goes on and I can't control other's actions. I just hope and pray that someday I can see my grandkids again. God's will be done.

He has found out where I live also. Whatever. If he comes close to Stephanie he will be arrested. That is court ordered. The best thing I can do is let it all go and move forward from here. Isn't it sad though? I loved this man for 17 years. I put up with his lies and cheating (not cheating with other women, just being dishonest) for way too long. I realize now that he never really deserved me. We did have some good years, I don't want to take away from that. But in the end the innocent ones (me and my daughter) suffer because of him. Sorry folks. I don't usually have negative posts on here but I just felt the need to vent. You guys that have followed me for years know how much I loved him and my grandkids. It is sad that kids have to be drug through such ignorance. But that is out of my control. I will always be there for my stepdaughters and their families because I love them all. There are no telling what lies have been told to them to change their minds about me. But I can't worry about that.

Finally!

2011-11-06T14:21:00.002-06:00

I finally have internet access at home. The Comcast man just left and it looks like we are all fixed up! Now I need to get used to using a laptop. I'm sure it will get easier, I'm just used to a desktop both at home and work.

We finally got our new furniture yesterday and I must say that the living room looks great. have spent quite a bit of quality time in my chair & 1/2 with my girls. I think they love it more than me!

Now I am off to catch up on the blogs that I haven't been able to read in a long time.

TGIF! and Daddy's Birthday!

2011-11-04T11:24:00.003-05:00

My wonderful father's birthday is today. Don't ask me how old he would be because I'm not sure. Actually I think he would be 89, I'm sure that So will correct me if I am wrong on that item. I miss him terribly as his death was the one that really hit me hard during that 6 months in 1999 when we lost our stepmother Linda, Mom and then Dad. How I ever got through that time only God knows.

My new furniture is finally being delivered tomorrow! Can I get an amen? It's only been a FULL 8 WEEKS since I ordered it. I can't wait to finally have the living room as an actual room and not just a place for things that I haven't put where they belong yet. The den is furnished but I just can't get comfy on that furniture. It sure will make a wonderful play room for my new grandbaby though!

Speaking of my new grandbaby I just can't wait until that little whippersnapper is born and I can get my hands on him/her. Steph has been having some morning sickness lately which is a real bummer. I thought that was supposed to be in the first trimester but what do I know? I was lucky and never had it. She is doing ok though and understands that it is just part of a baby in the oven.

Work continues to be steady which is good. Things have been getting a little smoother in my private life but I do have days/nights that I can't help thinking about things. I try to not dwell on that and look toward the future. After all, I am only hurting myself if I don't.

My X-brother in law passed away on Tuesday. He has been sick for a long time with heart problems and honestly I think he lived a lot longer than anyone expected. Joe found him after he had passed away which had to be a most traumatic thing. I can't imagine what that was like. It seems he had passed several hours before he was found. But he did get to see his beloved St. Louis Cardinals win the World Series and I know that made him happy. I can only hope and pray that he is at peace now.

I should have internet at home this Sunday. YEA!!! I have missed it a great deal. My desktop computer is fried as far as internet access and I am thinking of just going completely wireless. I already have a laptop and I was looking online at prices and I think they are as cheap or maybe cheaper than a desktop. What do yall think? I love the fact that I could be anywhere around the house and access the internet in a moment's notice. I just think that is pretty dadgum cool!

Well that was just a large bummer

2011-11-01T12:34:00.002-05:00

Hey guys and gals.....wanna know how many trick or treaters we had last night? ZERO! Yet again I apparently live in a neighborhood where trick or treaters just don't, well, just don't trick or treat. Now we are stuck with all of that candy. That wonderful candy that I can't seem to get enough of. Actually I brought some to work w/me yesterday and quickly learned that I have no control when there are Reese's cups at my fingertips. I grabbed them, threw them in my purse and emptied them into the lonely Halloween candy bowl at home. Now the trick will be to stay away from the living room where the evil candy is lurking, crying softly to me "eat me......I am sooooo good.......it's ok, no calories if no one sees you eat it" and all of those lies that good candy does.

I finally broke down and ordered internet at home. It will be installed tomorrow and I just couldn't be happier! I have really missed it. I actually lasted longer than I thought I would not having it! But I got a pretty good 2 yr deal so I am a happy camper.

Next will be the new furniture which should be delivered this week. I can't wait for that. The den is fully furnished but I am longing for the chair and a half along with the large ottoman that comes with it. My girls will be able to be in my lap at the same time w/o stepping all over me and each other!! Not to mention we all need to get out of our respective rooms and be a family, at least for a while! Since we all have such different tastes in television programs I'm sure I will be in there alone quite a bit (except for my girls) but that's ok. I will still enjoy my Archie Bunker recliner in my bedroom too! It is so old and ugly but it is soooooooo comfortable! It fits me like a glove so it is here to stay, that's for sure.

We have had some really decent weather here this week. It is supposed to turn fairly cold toward the latter part of the week but meanwhile I have tried to enjoy as much time outside with my girls as possible. They just love running and playing in the backyard. Nothing warms me more than to see my babies having fun like they used to when we lived in the country. That darned neighbor cat still comes around but I think that he has learned he had best stay outside of the fence unless he wants to be treed again. I am sure that he could take care of himself even if both girls were out there but I would feel so bad if something were to happen to him because of my dogs. But cat claws usually win in the long run!

Work continues to be busy busy busy. Home life is good. I am happy to be divorced, as hard as it has all been, but it is for the best. He can go his way and I will go mine. He texted me from a "gentleman's club" the other night wanting to buy me a drink. I think he was kidding (how tacky huh) but who knows. Actually, who cares? Not me! He is free to do whatever he wants. We still have a couple of issues to work out. He has not returned my father's pistol claiming that he sold it. Not a good thing. I can only hope that he was not telling the truth because I really don't want to get nasty with this. But right is right and I refuse to be walked on or taken advantage of by him or anyone else for that matter.

Well, enough of that kind of talk. Time to get back to work so yall take care and drop by and say howdy once in a while!

Happy Halloween!!

2011-10-31T11:41:00.003-05:00

Oh how I hope to get some trick or treaters tonight. We thought there might be some Saturday night but noone came. Come to find out our town is actually doing it right and having the kids go tonight! We live in a nice neighborhood and I am looking forward to seeing some spooks!

I knew it would happen!

2011-10-24T11:34:00.002-05:00

My alarm clock didn't go off this morning and I still can't believe that I made it to work exactly on time. I woke up with only 25 minutes to shower, get dressed and get to work. I made it and I was safe doing so. Had I still lived in Kansas there is no way I would have made it on time. I can't stand to be late for anything, especially work. In fact I can't remember the last time I was late for work.

We were able to get quite a bit accomplished this weekend. As I type this the heat/air man is at the house servicing the unit. It has sat idle for so long and needed to be cleaned out. In the meantime we have had a few chilly nights so we have all been bundling up and making the best of it.

The girls LOVE LOVE LOVE being able to run and play in the backyard. That neighbor cat best learn to stay out of the yard. Of course most dogs are no match for a cat but I would feel so bad if anything happened to her. She is a sweet cat and she doesn't understand that my girls don't know what a cat is. Patty went running across the yard yesterday when I let her out and treed the cat. She didn't actually see the cat but she knew something was there. I made her come in the house and then got the cat out of the yard.

I still have not broken down and ordered internet for the house yet. I did however order a new cellphone. It's a Smart Phone. I have never had a 'fancy' phone and I am tired of seeing 15yr olds with better phones than me so I got what I wanted. It should be here this week. I'm looking forward to getting it and figuring out how to use it.

Work is still steady. In fact I am just about to relieve the scale master for lunch so I'd best get off of here. I just wanted to check in and say howdy. Hopefully I will get my internet soon and I can get some pictures on here. It just doesn't seem normal for me to NOT have pics on my blog!

Heartbeat day!

2011-10-19T11:05:00.002-05:00

Today is going to be very exciting. I get to hear my grand baby's heartbeat again!!!! Ryan is going also. He promised Stephanie that he would. He will probably feel a bit on the 'weird' side but I think that once he hears it he will be amazed. I might be wrong but I don't think so. So you can bet that I'll be wearing a smile on my face for the rest of the day and the next day and the next day and the........oh sorry. I get a little carried away when it comes to this sweet thing coming into our lives.

Otherwise things are going well. Work is good and steady. I have been very moody lately but after yesterday I must say I am quite proud of myself and how I handled what could have been an emotional situation. Joe and I met at the bank to cash yet again another check that came in both of our names from the old house. I wasn't rude just was to the point. Into the bank, handled the business and out the door for me.

The fence at home is complete and the girls could NOT be happier! It turned out really looking good. Privacy on both sides and an extra high chain link at the back so the rest of the yard can be seen and feel the openness of that huge backyard. I must say that it warms my heart to no end to see them finally being able to run and play like they used to. This weekend is supposed to have some decent warm temps so I am hoping to spend a lot of time out back with my girls. I love them so!

Ok, I have to brag on Steph. She made fried chicken for the 1st time for dinner last night. Boneless chicken breasts (not pounded but thick like you get them at the store) and it was delicious. I didn't learn how to fry decent chicken until I was in my 40's so needless to say I was impressed. That along with carrots, green beans and fried taters was really good. I don't eat much fried food at all lately and I plan on keeping it that way but Ryan wanted it so she made it. She told me that she is glad that I showed her a lot of cooking tips as she has grown up. Apparently it sunk in! Now don't get me wrong, she has made plenty of most delicious meals lately. I was just really impressed at how well the chicken came out.

I am having a hard time getting out of my wonderful Sleep Number bed these days. Oh my goodness.............why did I wait so long! Probably because the store just opened recently and it wasn't cheap. Worth it but not cheap! It is honestly helping my back feel much better. I still have pain from the bulging disk but at least I am able to sleep through the night with no pain. Don't think I can ask for more than that.

Life is good!!!

Moving right along

2011-10-16T09:55:00.002-05:00

The fence should be up this week, pending the weather. All of the posts are set and the material has been delivered. It's just a matter of if Mother Nature cooperates or not if they get it completed this week. Meanwhile the girls are making due and continuing to get tangled up in their leads! But at least they are starting to act like this is home. The past few months have been so hard on everyone, including them. At least now they have a constant in their lives. They know where they thebelong and have adjusted well.

I continue to miss internet greatly! I think I am about ready to break down and get it at home. Right now I am sitting at the foot of Broadway overlooking the Ohio River. It is a glorious clear and sunny day with a nice breeze blowing. I was to just able to get some internet service from somewhere down here. I'm not complaining! I wish I had brought my camera to take some pictures of this view. As I look out at the river I see a barge sitting in tow in the distance. I can't tell what is on it but I do know that it is full since it is sitting so low in the water. I am lucky to live where I do. We have so many things available here in Paducah.

I am anxious for Halloween this year. I hope to get some trick or treaters. I love handing out candy and seeing all of the costumes the kids wear. It has been years since I have been able to do that. I am hoping that my Abby and Leah will come see their Grandmother so I can load them up and take their pictures! Nothing would make me happier than that.

Just wanted to say hello to the 3 of you who still ready my blog. Hee hee. I promise I will get better at posting. I really do miss it. Meanwhile take care and remember to smile. It makes life so much better.

I'm still alive!

2011-10-11T11:28:00.002-05:00

If I don't hurry up and get Internet access at home I am going to go insane! But there are other things to attend to so I will focus on them first. One good thing is that the fence company is finally coming out this week to put my privacy fence up. Thank goodness my girl will have a yard to play in again and get their exercise. I have had to keep them on 40' leads and they keep getting all caught up together. It is just a pain in the butt. Not to mention they are country dogs and still can't figure out where all of these people around us came from and why they are there!

My neighbor's cat used to come over and check things out but now that she knows about the dogs she has decided to visit other neighbors. My girls don't even know what a cat is but they sure have barked at her. I can't wait to let them loose in the new fenced yard and let them get the running that they are used to. There is a huge tree in the backyard with the neatest area underneath it that is cleared out. It's the kind of place that I, as a kid, would have spend hours in. Who knows, I might do that anyway.

My precious daughter is pregnant. I can't remember if I posted about this or not. Let me tell you this..............she is M.O.O.D.Y!!!! But it happens. When a woman is pregnant those stinking hormones are going crazy and sometimes we just can't help it. She is doing her best and I'm sure it will get better soon. The main thing is that precious cargo she is carrying. She is wanting a girl. She asked me what I wanted and I said twins, one boy and one girl. She frowned at me! I said "well, you asked me so I told you!" I got to hear the heartbeat last week. Oh my! I could not get the smile off of my face. Even though it isn't the ideal situation I don't care. I miss all of my grandbabies so much. I did get to see Abby recently. Leah was asleep but Abby was glad to see me. I had a nice conversation with Beth (her mommy) and enjoyed seeing her and her husband.

Our weather has been so wonderful lately. Average highs in the low 80's or high 70's. We are actually having a fall this year. It's about time!

Life is good these days. We are settling into the new house nicely. My new living room furniture should arrive at the end of the month. That gives us plenty of time to get the rest of the boxes out of there and either thrown away or put up. The clutter is driving me insane!

I'll try to post a little more often but since I can only do it from work and on my lunch hour it makes it hard. In the meantime yall be happy and keep a smile on your face!

Busy weekend

2011-10-03T11:19:00.002-05:00

When I wasn't sitting on a heating pad for this dang back, I was busy busy busy this weekend. I have to admit that I can't do a lot around the house yet, but I do it anyway.

Ryan and I went to Lowe's Saturday and purchased paint for the living room, his room and my room. I am anxious to get the painting completed. I hate plain white walls. They have no character. They are like my high school art teacher Mrs. Floyd would say "they are a blank canvas and once you start on it you are committed to it", or something like that. She was a cool art teacher. You know the kind, that really gets into the artsy part of art. Well, they might all do that but I only had her so she is all I have to compare to. Anyway, the living room will be a nice shade of brown to match the new furniture (whenever it is delivered!). I am so anxious to have the house in order but I realize that it takes time. We have managed to get quite a bit done already but there is sooooo much left to do. It's ok, it will all work out in time. God's time I say.

Work is busy which is good. It makes the day go by fast. I would rather be super busy any day than to not have enough to do. I was so tempted to come in over the weekend on my own time to get some work caught up but I have been told by management that I can't do that. Liability reasons which I understand but sometimes it seems like it would make it easier on ME to try and get ahead or at least caught up. Oh well, I have enough to do at home to keep me more than busy.

I still don't have internet at home yet. It is driving my crazy but I haven't decided which I am going to go with yet. I am thinking of going wireless since I have a laptop now. I just can't decide which service to use. I will figure that out soon I'm sure.

Well, that's about it for now. It's just about time to get back to work. I hope to post again real soon, until then be nice to each other and the next time you see a stranger smile at them. You'd be amazed how people react to that.

Who ordered the veal cutlet?

2011-09-27T11:37:00.003-05:00

Pardon the title of this post. It is an old inside joke between myself and my oldest brother So. It pretty much means 'what the heck is going on and where am I, who am I and all other questions that involve me or my life'.

Things are so insane. Work is kicking in big time (it has been for a while), I still have so many boxes to go through and figure out where they go. The plumbing is fixed but now I need an electrician to do some updates with the system. I need to have the house sprayed for spiders and ants. UGH!

I am still suffering big time from this bulging disk smack in the middle of my spine. I don't know what my doctor is going to do about it. He changed some of my meds which seems to help some but that baby hurts! About the only thing that helps it feel better is a heating pad and being off of my feet. That is pretty impossible these days with so much to do however.

But we are all doing well. Ryan and Stephanie are still busy bees at home sorting out this and that and what not. My den is somewhat cleared out but the living room is another story. How in the world could I accumulate so much stuff? Oh well, it is what it is. I am glad the move is over and we are getting settled into our new house.

Ryan found a shortcut to work yesterday. It cuts about 7 minutes off of my drive time to work. YEA!!!!! Now, instead of taking 35 - 40 minutes to drive from Kansas it looks like it will take me about 5 minutes to get to work. How cool is that?

It is really odd to live back in the city again. Technically we are in the county but we're so close to everything!

I am so grateful for everything that The Lord has blessed me and my family with. I am really a lucky girl.

I feel like someone made me run 100 miles

2011-09-14T11:34:00.002-05:00

OMG! We are finally in the new house. It took F.O.R.E.V.E.R. to finally get everything loaded, unloaded and into the house.

But I am glad it is over. Last night my babies slept with me. Pattykins is weirded out by the new house. There's no telling what her sniffer is picking up. The house was built in 1947 but I really like it. Even my daughter admitted on her facebook that she likes the house. She hasn't told me anything yet! Unless she told me last night in which case I wouldn't remember because my 53 yr old body is soooooooooooooo tired. My eyes are aching. I should have brought my glasses to work but I didn't think about it. Imagine that.

I had my new Sleep Number bed delivered to the house yesterday. So far so good I think. I slept so hard who knows if it is better or not. Pattykins didn't complain!

I am so grateful to be blessed. I have put all of my faith in God and as usual He has taken care of me and my loved ones. Joe and I are both being very fair about the divorce and the property agreement. Neither one of us wanted it to get ugly. It is so much easier to be nice than to be the opposite.

My living room has about 1000 boxes in it. The den has its fair share of boxes as well. But everything is there and the move is over. I am about 5 miles from work which is a lot better than 22 miles from work. I could even go home and eat if I wanted to.

I took my lunch break early today to get the UHaul back. I drove that sucker. I was trying to get someone from work to help me but we are just too busy so I took the bull by the horns and did it myself. I have to say that I did a good job too. I had to stop by the gas station and fill it back to where it was when I rented it and I didn't have any problems at all.

Ryan and Stephanie are busy bees at home locating and unpacking boxes. The Direct TV person will be there any minute to take care of the transfer of service. Good thing too. Survivor comes on tonight! I'm sorry people, but some reality shows I like that Survivor is my all time favorite. Ok, stop rolling your eyes! I know who you are.

I am looking forward to the weekend and maybe I can get caught up on my sleep. I doubt it though. I imagine I will be working my tail off to get things unpacked and in some kind of order. The movers packed 12 boxes of my clothes. Me thinks it's time to start a Goodwill box (or shall I say boxes?)!

Will be off of here for a while

2011-09-11T08:20:00.003-05:00

That's because we are moving to our new house Tuesday. It will take me a while to get everything settled and the Internet working again. I can always check from time to time from work but when I am at work I don't use the computer for personal business except on my lunch break from time to time.

We have 99% of the house backed and ready. Moving van is reserved, 3 young men (plus no telling how many of Steph's friends) will be here to help. I close on my new house Monday and it's all uphill from then.

I am moving much closer to work into an older home but it is laid out very well with plenty of room for my family and my pups. I am so anxious to get out of this house and all of the memories that it holds.

That's about it since I have a million things to do today. I will be keeping up with yall's blogs and hopefully it won't be too far from now that I can start blogging on a regular basis. Right now my life is so full of stuff to do! But I know that God will get me and my family through it all. After all, He can do anything.

It's final

2011-09-02T06:56:00.002-05:00

Joe and I are officially divorced. We still have the property to sort out but we are both trying to be civil and fair about that. We are moving soon and honestly speaking I can't wait. I want to be far away from the memories of that house and everything that happened. It's time for a new start and that is exactly what I plan on doing.

Meanwhile I continue with my physical therapy for my ruptured disk in my back. It is time consuming and I am having to miss work some, but the good news is that it seems to be helping. My dr put me on Celebrex for the arthritis in my back and that too seems to be helping a bit.

I hope to get back into blogging real soon. Right now there is just TOO MUCH GOING ON!

Ya'll take care and I do continue to read your blogs. Wish me luck!

OUCH!

2011-08-21T16:47:00.002-05:00

About 3 months ago I was mowing the yard and hit a big hole. I felt it immediately. I hurt my back. Naturally I put off telling anyone or doing anything about it until the pain became unbearable. After finally having an MRI, my doctor diagnosed a disk in the middle of my spine was bulging.

I have started physical therapy and so far it seems to be helping. Every morning my son puts a pain patch on the area and that helps quite a bit.

My house has sold and the new owner takes posession the middle of September. In the meantime I am house hunting. I think I have found one that fits all of my family's needs. Plus it is super close to work which is a good thing.

Work is kicking my behind these days being so busy but I'm not complaining. I am so grateful to have a job that I love. I dare to say there aren't a lot of people that could say that.

Take care my friends and if you find it in your heart, please say a little prayer for me and my kids. It is a difficult time for my entire family, not just me and my 2 kids but everyone else. I love my grandkids and both of my stepdaughters and things are hard on everyone now. I put my faith in God because I know that He is watching over all of us.

Oh my, it has been a while!

2011-08-19T20:19:00.002-05:00

Oh yes indeed it has been a while since I have posted. My life is so busy these days. Between going through a divorce, selling my house, attempting to purchase another house, my daughter going through intense therapy and dealing with an estranged husband that seems to think that I owe him something, my days and nights have been quite full. The good thing is that I truly believe that The Lord is watching over myself and my precious kids. I am so grateful to my mother for 'making' me go to church when I was young. I have faith and to me, faith in God means everything.

I have had many sleepless nights but have still managed to get to work every day and never be late. I can't stand to be late for anything, especially work. Speaking of work, I have been so busy trying to keep up with everything is has been insane! But I am proud to be gainfully employed.

I just wanted to check in with my blogger friends and let everyone know that I am fine and will get through things just fine. Most of all I will have my diginity intact. To me, that is important.

Really? It's been that long?

2011-07-02T19:01:00.003-05:00

I know it has been that long since I posted an update here. There have been so many things going on in my life. In fact they continue to go on. But all I can say is that life goes on. All I can do is make the very best of every day. That's what I have been doing.

Meanwhile my precious daughter has a new boyfriend. He seems to be a good guy. She has known him for several years and he is a gentleman to her. And he WORKS!!!! They are going to shoot some fireworks tonight I think. Her boyfriend bought quite a bit of them today. This part of Kentucky now sells the "good kind" of fireworks. Most people usually had to make a trip to Boomland in Missouri in order to get them but now they are available locally. It is a bit worrisome for me because I am afraid there are going to be people hurt from them during the holiday weekend but there isn't anything that I can do about that.

For those of you who didn't know my husband and I are separated. He has filed for divorce. There is no chance of any reconciliation. I will spare you the details since it is graphic and not appropriate for a family blog. I will only say that what has happened is something that is an absolute deal breaker. I never thought that my life would turn the way it has but I know that The Lord never puts more on you than you can handle so I turn everything over to Him.

We have our house up for sale. I am getting ready to hire a realtor since the 'for sale by owner' doesn't seem to be working. The realtor I am going to hire is one of the best in town. I realize too that it could and more than likely will take 6 months or more to actually sell it. People just aren't spending money like they used to.

I have my mare for sale. I never ride anymore anyway. My back is getting worse and riding makes it even worse so it is necessary. I know I won't get much for her but that's ok. I just want to make sure that she gets a good home. The equine market has dropped so much in the last few years I might even end up giving her away as long as she has a good home. That is the most important thing to me. She is a good horse but is only green broke and needs a lot of work.

I plan on moving closer to work which means I will live in town. But I will have my babies (Sophie and Patty) with me along with my son who has been living with me for a few weeks now. He is working with his dad's business but his dad is shutting it down so that won't last long. It's ok though. I know that things will work out for the best and I just keep the faith. Every night I turn everything over to God and let Him handle what I can't. So far He is doing a pretty good job I must say.

I hope to get some pictures of my girls on here soon. They are doing so well. Sophie has lost her weight due to a change in diet and Pattykins is just a mess! She is such a talker. I love it. I have been trying for over a year to teach her to say 'I love momma' but she just can't do it. She tries but it doesn't come out like that. I guess ya can't have everything.

I am going to miss my life in the country and all of the peace and serenity that comes with it but I know in my heart that I am doing the right thing. It will all work out. I just keep the faith.

Memorial Day

2011-05-30T08:24:00.002-05:00

It's there in the summer

and it's there in the winter

Always flying

Always there to show what America is about. Freedom. We are so lucky to have the freedoms that we do in America. Everyone knows what I am talking about. We all stop to realize how fortunate we are to be Americans. Of course it wouldn't be possible if not for the men & women that have given the ultimate sacrifice for us. That is what today is about.

We get so caught up in our own everyday worlds that sometimes we tend to forget the sacrifices so many men, women and families have made in order to keep our country free for so many years. Today is about honoring those that have given everything they possibly could for freedom.

May God be with those that have lost loved ones and also with those who have loved ones still fighting for our freedoms. God be with those who are serving right now to maintain the freedom of the United States of America. There is no other place like it on Earth. I am proud to be an American.

Life is tough sometimes

2011-05-10T11:16:00.003-05:00

There is a lot going on my my life right now, none of it good. But having said that look what I can look forward to coming home to every night.

Let's hear it for unconditional love. In my opinion there is nothing like having a dog, or 2 in my case!

Derby Day!

2011-05-07T16:35:00.002-05:00

I have not missed a Kentucky Derby in many years. I never know which 3 yr olds are going to be in it, I just love watching it. Maybe it's because I'm a Kentucky gal? And a horsey gal? Anyway, it will be on shortly and I will love those 2 minutes.

I can remember Smarty Jones and how I, (among others) were so hopeful that he would win the triple crown. I hope to see another triple crown winner in my lifetime.

Has anyone wondered what it would be like to actually be a jockey on those little bitty saddles (if that is what you want to call them!) and going so fast on some horses that are literally only 2 yrs old. Every thoroughbred has the same birthday, Jan 1. Therefore some of the ones running could literally be only 2 yrs old.

Yall go on and watch it. Best be fast though cause they are getting ready to start their gorgeous march into the starting gate. Time for me to get in front of the TV!

The Water is a'risin

2011-05-01T12:04:00.003-05:00

I am from a river city. Broadway which goes through our downtown area literally ends at the Ohio River. We have had more than our fair share of rain this spring and the predictions for the next week or so is that a lot more is going to fall.

My office/warehouse is literally 10' from the floodwall. The City of Paducah and Corps of Engineers have installed the flood gates for the first time in many years. My co-worker and I were taking pictures of the rising Ohio last week with our cellphones when a man from the Corps of Engineers came driving up. Soon after that the flood gates we in and secured. Thankfully the river is supposed to crest next week at 2' lower than originally anticipated. Every little bit helps now.

There are many people from a surrounding county whose homes are already flooded. Sandbagging efforts continue and many people are using them to attempt to protect their homes. It is a very trying time for folks in West Kentucky. I am thankful that my house is far away from any of the flooding danger. I do however feel for the families that are having to deal with all of this.

What a day!

2011-04-22T20:31:00.002-05:00

I have been so busy today. But busy is good. For some odd reason this week has seemed to fly by. I have been somewhat busy at work but not like I would like it. I am however glad it is Friday. I imagine there are a lot of yall out there that agree.

Rain, rain, rain...........we have had so much rain this week. We have more predicted for several more days. Thank goodness the yard is somewhat under control. The lawnmower has required quite a bit of patience on my part and quite a bit of money on my part to get it back and running but it had to be done. I am grateful for Steph's (and my) friends TJ and Nick who came all the way out here in the middle of nowhere to diagnose the problems. Now there is a new belt and a new pulley and that ole' John Deere is running like a top. As I typed that I just realized that I need to get more gas for it. UGH! Unleaded is about $3.79 in these parts so that is going to be a chunk of money again. Oh well, it has to be done so I will do it.

Look who Steph and I saw recently!

I think this was the look when I told my precious to "stop that growing up!" She always replies with "I can't help it Grandmother!"

Note the RED HAIR!

Leah is such a gorgeous child. Steph swears that she is the cutest baby (toddler) she has ever seen. Who am I to argue?

I think her sister Abby is in the running along with her little sister. But then all of my grandkids are the most beautiful humans on this planet. I rest my case.

Have I mentioned I love my pups?

2011-04-16T22:37:00.002-05:00

Things are difficult now but these two girls get me through the worst of times. What is it about dogs? That unconditional love that they constantly give. I can go outside for 3 minutes and they act like they haven't seen me in a week. In my opinion, dogs think humans can do no wrong. That is unless they are mistreated. But I wouldn't know anything about that. I am too busy loving them and they are too busy reminding me that all they need is my love. I give that just as unconditionally as they do and you know what? I love every second of it. I have a funny feeling that they do too.

Pattykins

2011-04-13T19:06:00.001-05:00

misc 181, a photo by anniebettyjobunny on Flickr.

IMG_0728

2011-04-13T19:04:00.001-05:00

IMG_0728, a photo by anniebettyjobunny on Flickr.

Life is hard sometimes

2011-04-12T11:27:00.003-05:00

But like my precious mother used to say "no matter how bad things are there is always someone somewhere worse off." That simple phrase has helped me through some of the most difficult times of my life over the years. It is helping me now as well.

Without getting into any details at all I will simply say that my husband and I are separated. He has been gone from the house since March 4th. Times are quite tough right now but I know that I will get through it. I turn everything over to God and I know that He can handle it and WILL see me and Steph through everything.

My precious daughter is living with me again. She continues to look for employment in this awful economy. She had an interview this morning at a local grocery store for a cashier position. Let's hope something comes from it, but if not, she'll just keep trying. She should know something today if she got the job or not. The next thing she is working on is driving and getting her license. Then it will be time for a vehicle in order to get back and forth to work. I know the right thing will happen as I put all of my trust in God and He never fails us. Even if we don't think our prayers have been answered because it's not what we want I know that it is what He wants.

I have also been able to come to terms with my son. We have been estranged for a long time now but his sister needs him and frankly I do too. That in itself is a blessing for he and I.

When you lay your head on your pillow tonight, if you are so inclined, please say a prayer for us. We are both having a hard time but together we will be fine.

I'm back!!!!

2011-04-09T20:25:00.002-05:00

Oh my goodness. What a crazy 8 weeks it has been. I got through my carpal tunnel surgery well. The surgeon told me that I really needed it done, there was quite a bit of damage in there once he was able to see it.

I did everything I was supposed to do, listened to the doctor and finally ended going to physical therapy for 5 days in order to get my wrists up to par in order to get my behind back to work! The scars have healed very well. I have exercises that I do daily that continue to improve the mobility in my wrists. After 2 days of typing at work I am a bit sore but I know that it will get better with time. At least I don't have that awful pain and tingling I had prior to the surgery. That makes it all worth it and since I had both done at the same time it is over with!

I have really enjoyed today as the weather was really beautiful outside. Sunny skies and a high of about 80 or so. There was snow on the roads the last day I worked before my surgery so I will take all of the sunshine and warm temps I can get! I love having the windows open day and night. The fresh country air is so clean and it just smells so good. That might sound weird to you but I love it. It reminds me of when I was a kid sleeping with the windows open, attic fan going and the country breeze blowing in my windows. Good memories.

I hope to download a bunch of pictures of my pups and get them on here soon. I still am taking things slowly (as far as typing) since I do so much at work. I hope everyone is doing well!

Coming up.......................

2011-02-08T18:40:00.003-06:00

Even though I haven't been posting on a regular basis I wanted to let anyone who cares know that it is going to probably be a while before I post again. I am having carpal tunnel surgery on both of my wrists this coming Thursday. I am being told that the recovery time will be a few weeks. I have no idea if I will be able to type during that recovery time or if by typing it will make the recovery process longer. I'll just have to play that one by ear.

I have had this problem for 4-5 years and have been sleeping every single night with wrist braces on both arms for longer than I care to remember. The last time I saw my primary doctor he suggested that we go ahead and get it fixed. I didn't think twice about it. I am so tired of the numbing and tingling in my fingers, not to mention the constant pain in my hands. It doesn't help that my job includes typing....lots of typing. I mentioned this in a post a couple of weeks ago.

I have a feeling that Joe and I are gonna get 'really close' in the next few weeks since I will not have the use of both hands for at least a few days. Oh my.......I will be so happy when this is behind me. But it is something that has to be done so I have decided to dig my heels in and get it done.

Until then my friends......behave yourselves!

We dodged the bullet

2011-02-01T13:37:00.004-06:00

This time that is. The Weather Channel was calling for ice and snow in this area. Needless to say we are glad that it has NOT come. We have already had our ice storm 2 years ago and we DON'T WANT ANOTHER ONE! It is raining cats and dogs outside right now and I welcome the rain. Anything is better than ice and snow.

Springfield, MO where my precious daughter is living, is expecting over 15" of snow today and tonight. I am thankful that she is with family that will make sure she is ok.

Look what we could have received

Folks around these parts will never forget the Ice Storm of 2009. It was HORRIBLE! No power for 10+ days for our family. No cellphone service for days. It was like we were living 150 yrs ago. I wouldn't wish that on anyone. I know that Chicago and St. Louis got a lot of snow but I seriously don't think anything can compare to what West Kentucky got in 2009. I am so thankful that all we got this time was some rain.

I miss my Annie so much.

Yes....we dodged the bullet. That's for sure!

A much needed visit from my Precious

2011-01-24T10:32:00.002-06:00

I am such a lucky girl. I have so much to be thankful for. I have so much to be grateful for. One of the best things I have been blessed with is my oldest grandaughter Abby. She came to see us this weekend for an overnight visit. Oh my.......it had been WAY too long inbetween visits so we made the most of it.

We still had some snow on the ground and Abby made sure to have some fun in it. As usual, pictures will tell the story. I hope you enjoy.

No News is Good News!

2011-01-21T08:21:00.002-06:00

Stephanie was able to catch the 6:30pm bus out of St. Louis last night. It arrived in Springfield sometime around 11pm. Her cousin was to pick her up at the bus station and take her precious self to her aunt's house where, I am sure she promptly passed out.

We have not heard anything from her after we were assured by her aunt that she WAS on the bus and that her cousin WAS picking her up at the station. Joe and I figure that no news is good news. Considering that the entire family was texting and calling all day yesterday, the fact that we have not heard anything equals STEPHANIE GOT TO HER DESTINATION JUST FINE!

I imagine we will hear later on today or this evening from her and hear all of the details. Until then we are fine with waiting patiently. I am at home today due to a good amount of snow we received yesterday and last night. The main roads are cleared but the 6 miles from my house to the main road have not been treated at all and this Trailboss isn't going to take the chance on hilly and curvy country roads.

I can't help but feel bad for my coworker however. He did make the 45 mile drive from his house to work but he lives right along the main roads. He is by himself today unloading and reloading trucks, attempting to do the paperwork correctly, etc. But with that said, I made the decision last night that my life was worth more than the risk. I rarely miss work and feel silly to feel the need to justify me not being there. I have a very strong work ethic of which I am grateful for, but today is my day. I was so tired last night (Joe and I both were) both mentally and physically that we both needed a good night's sleep and we both did get that. I feel like a new woman today.

It is a beautiful winter wonderland outside my front door today. I am getting ready to bundle up and see about Jones. I'm sure she could use a good dose of fresh water and good ole grain right about now. I might just take my camera along for some purty pictures.

She's stuck!

2011-01-20T08:57:00.003-06:00

Steph that is. Stuck at the bus station in St. Louis. But she got there safely, has plenty of snacks and is warm. Plus she has family with cellphones. My cellphone is my best friend right about now. She is bored but like I told her, good things are worth waiting for. The right time will come for her to catch the next bus out of there and on her way to her new life. Her aunt is keeping close tabs on her. Joe and I of course are as well. So is her Uncle Bill. Plus I have a pretty good idea that the Man Upstairs is looking over her as well.

What an adventure she is on. This is something that she will remember for the rest of her life. Something she will tell her kids and her grand kids.

She's leaving me!

2011-01-19T14:36:00.002-06:00

My daughter that is. She is moving! She is going to her aunt's house in Springfield Missouri. She is leaving me. What am I going to do?

Seriously, it is ok. She has not had any luck finding a job in this area. Her aunt and cousins live in Springfield and love her to death. They are so excited about her coming to live there. Joe and I are really happy for her. I am sure that the empty nest syndrome will hit me hard for a few days (or weeks, or months!) but I'll be ok. I have had a child in my home for the past 29 years so I'd say it's about time.

We are putting her on the bus this evening and have schooled her on what to do and say, not to trust ANYONE, even if it is a little old lady trying to befriend her. She will take all measures to make sure she is where she needs to be and do what she needs to do. And ask questions whenever necessary.

She is cooking one of her favorite dinners tonight. Shrimp Penne. It is SO good! Joe and she are at the grocery right now picking up the necessary items needed to make it.

She has her bus ticket, some money and a cellphone. And prayers going with her all along the way. If you feel like it please say a little prayer for my baby tonight. I know that The Lord will watch over her and that she will be aware of everything around her but prayer is a strong thing. While you're at it you might want to say a little prayer for her mama too. Goodness knows I will need it!

I'll keep yall updated on her progress as she begins a new life for herself. She is a sweet and beautiful young woman and she will be fine. I just know it.

Weeknight visit

2011-01-18T08:23:00.002-06:00

We were thrilled to have a wonderful weeknight visit with 2 of my favorite people in the world, Abby and Leah.

Abby and Steph started wrestling and having a big time. Meanwhile Leah was busy. She is always busy. Busy walking and looking.

Naturally Pattykins has to be right in the action. Sophie too!

"You talking to me Mom?"

Can you believe how gorgeous this child is?

Someone needs to stop growing up!!

Speaking of not growing up, how do you like my hat? Leah found the pair of plastic shoes and I made her think they were hats. That way she didn't get hurt. Aren't I a good grandmother?

It was so much fun to have them visit in the middle of the week. Since we live so far away it is rare for this to happen. But I am glad it did. Even though the only reason they came is because Beth needed a new cellphone and Joe gave her an old one of his. But I like to think they came just to see us. At least that is what I tell myself. It doesn't really matter anyway. They did come and I did enjoy it.

I wish she would need another cellphone really soon!

Let's hear it for 33 yrs of typing!

2011-01-13T08:06:00.003-06:00

I have worked in an office situation for the past 33 years. Working in an office generally requires one to type.....a lot. That is what I have been doing. Typing. I typed at The Chicago Motor Club in 1977 when I issued International Drivers Licenses to folks. I typed when I worked in a security position (actually called a Timekeeper) in Houston in 1977. That was in between asking employees to see their ID cAArd (that's for you So) as they passed by my office to clock in and go about their day.

I typed when I took trouble reports from not so happy people when their phone was not working for 2 years. I typed when I moved from that job to a clerical job in a Central Office when I worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. in Houston. I typed a lot when I moved to another job within that company to one of the District offices. I did a LOT of typing at that job.

I typed when I worked as an Account Manager for one of the local chemical companies around these parts. I wrote a lot at that job too. I loved that job. I was there for 9 years. In fact that is where I met my husband Joe. I am glad I worked there cause I got to meet my life partner.

I typed when I worked in Insurance for 5 1/2 years. State Farm usually requires a lot of forms to be completed and they had this handy thing called a computer that I grew to love.

I type at my current job all day long. Have I mentioned that I have typed a lot? Heck, I've typed a lot just during this post. Anyway, the point of all of this is that since I have typed so much for so long the repetitive actions of my fingers and the keyboard has resulted in me suffering for a few years from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. I have been wearing wrist braces for a number of years when I sleep but the problem has continued to get worse.

I mentioned it yet again to my wonderful Dr. Turnbo a couple of weeks ago at my 3 month appointment. He simply asked me if I would like to get it fixed. I was happy to say yes.

I saw the orthopedic surgeon Monday who will do the surgery. I have it in both hands and have decided to get them both fixed at the same time. The surgery is scheduled for Feb. 10th with a recovery time of 3-4 weeks. I asked Dr. Deweese about arthroscopic surgery he said that he doesn't do that type of surgery. He has found that the other way proves to be more effective and will most likely avoid nerve damage. I chose to put my trust in the man who knows what he is doing so I will have the old fashioned surgery.

I don't look forward to not being able to use my hands for a period of time but I do look forward to the relief that I will surely get from the simple snipping of the tendon.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T16:33:00.003-06:00

We celebrated our Christmas last night. The Ohio grandkids and their parents are staying the nights at Amy's mom's house since Joe has shingles again. But last night was one of the most wonderful nights I have ever had.

We had everyone here except Ryan. Long story, don't want to get into it. I'll tell the tale with pictures. It's been a while since I have posted pictures here.

My precious!

Emmeline

Mia

Aubriella (Auby)

Leah

Of course, no visit to Trailboss' house would be complete without visiting Jones. Apparently Auby and Mia ask about her a lot.

Don't forget me Grandmother!

Helping the girls give Jones sugar cubes was a bit difficult. They don't understand to keep their hands flat and fingers where she can't get them by accident.

Abby is a pro at feeding Jones

How gorgeous is this young lady?

Have I ever missed this sweet thing!

Aunt Stephy, Mia and Auby

Looks like Santa left one of his reindeer in Kansas!

We had a white Christmas this year. My son in law made this wonderful snowman

I mean really, how cute is that?

The girls got some must needed riding in

In more ways than one!

Dinner time was great

Time for more riding and some sit n' spin action

Busy busy busy!

The time finally came to start opening presents. None too soon for my precious!

See Leah there? Her goal in life is to put as many bows as possible on her head and/or in a box.

I hate pictures of myself but here I am thanking my sweet daughter for her presents for me.

This was one of Steph's favorite presents. It has men in it. Good looking men. I might have to borrow it for a while.

Love this mess!

Kids are so funny. The girls loved the little school buses more than anything!

It was so much fun. They are coming out tomorrow too. I am looking forward to it and have my Cannon ready for more picture taking!

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

2010-12-23T18:24:00.002-06:00

I have just spent the last several hours with my most favorite people in the world. Here is who was in attendance today:

Abby....my precious and first grandaughter
Her sister Leah...she is a redhead and I could just eat her up!
Mia.....my long legged grandaughter from Ohio
Aubriella (Auby) her twin who is only a few minutes younger than Mia
Emmeline....my sweet and growing way too fast for me grandaughter who is the sister of the Ohio girls

Oh, and their parents were here too...except for Abby and Leah's daddy who was hard at work. Actually, it was so good to see Amy and her husband Jeremy, not to mention Amy's sister Beth (mother of my precious Abby and Leah). Don't get me wrong. I love seeing all of my kids. It is just that I can not get enough of ALL of my grandkids. Anyone reading this that is a grandparent knows exactly what I mean.

They have left now for Amy's mom's house where they will be spending the nights while they are in town. My sweet Joe has shingles again. I have to give it to him to day though. I know he was hurting something awful, but no one would have ever known. He acted just like he was fine. We all had a good time.

All of the grandkids went with everyone up to see Jones. I didn't have as many sugar cubes as I would have liked but we made the best of what we had. Jones seemed to really enjoy it. Bless her heart, she loves any attention she gets. Stephanie took all the grandkids (plus my darling son-in-law Jeremy) on the golfcart around the yard. They screamed with delight!

Tomorrow we will gather together and have our Christmas. I can not wait to see all of the kids open their presents. There is nothing else on Earth to compare to watching these precious kids open their presents. It's gonna be a good time in Kansas.

Rainy days and Mondays

2010-12-11T15:39:00.002-06:00

It is raining like crazy in my neck of the woods today. Rainy days don't get me down but Monday sure can do the trick. Unless I am off of work that day which rarely happens. But I am happy to be gainfully employed and also that I enjoy my job. I have a lot to be thankful for in that regard. The past 3 jobs I have had literally landed in my lap. Well, that isn't true. They didn't actually appear in my lap but I received a phone call offering me the jobs which really is the same thing right? I guess I have done a good enough job with my past jobs that when these employers needed someone I was recommended. I have to say I am quite proud of that item.

I have 2 Christmas lunches to attend this coming week and I admit that I am looking forward to both of them. The first one is on Monday. It will consist of some very good chili and all the fixings, cupcakes, brownies and we all get a neat little gift bag. Plus all I have to do is literally walk across the street from my office and I am there. It is something that I have enjoyed for the past 4 years. The next one is on Wednesday given by my place of employment. We will enjoy some good ole bbq and all the fixings from a local restaurant by the name of Backyard BBQ. Oh my! Their food is to die for. At least I think so. Plus doesn't it always taste better when it is free? Or when you don't have to prepare it yourself? I think so.

I can hardly believe that Christmas is so close. We haven't even put our tree up yet! Steph is out of town for a few days visiting her aunt in Illinois. When she gets back we will get the tree down from the attic and get to decorating it. I love the evenings when it is dark in our great room with only the fireplace burning and the tree lit. We really need to get a new tree. I have had the same one for 17 yrs. I remember when I bought it. Steph was a baby and we had waited way too long to buy a real tree so Ryan and I ended up going to Walmart and buying it. It was $80.00 and has paid for itself over and over again. But it is really time for a new one. It's ok and all, I just would like to have one of the newer ones that look so much more real than this one does. Every year I look at the after Christmas sales on them but my word they are expensive. So we just keep pulling out the same one every year. I just had an idea. When I had my oral surgery last month I should have asked to keep one of the teeth and put it under my pillow with a note to the Tooth Fairy to please forgo the $1.00 and bring me a new fake Christmas tree. Drats.....foiled again.

We will have a nice Christmas this year. Due to some recent mending of fences we should have the whole family together. Except for one person. I'm not sure that my son will be here. I haven't heard from him in a few weeks so I'm not sure what is going on with that. It scares me, a lot, but I put it in God's hands. I surely can't do anything about it. Only He can look over him. I pray that he is ok. But I am not going to concentrate on that. He is a grown man and is responsible for himself.....I have raised him as well as I knew how. The rest is up to him. That's all I have to say about that.

Amy and her family will be here for Christmas and I cannot wait to see the whole family. Oh who am I kidding? I can't wait to get my hands on those babies!!!! They are growing like weeds of course and talking up a storm. It's gonna be a good time. I am thankful to have a 4 day weekend so I can be here for all of the festivities.

I really need to post some pictures of my puppies on here. I haven't done that in a long time! I don't blog like I used to as many of my used to be fellow bloggers don't. Some of my favorites blogs are no more. I miss them but I also understand that blogging can take a lot of time. Maybe someday they'll start back again, if only for a while. I made a lot of blog friends and I wonder what is doing on in their lives.

Twlight Series

2010-12-06T11:29:00.003-06:00

Steph and I watched Eclipse yesterday afternoon. I couldn't believe that it was at Redbox. I don't know what it is about this series of movies that intrigues me so much. She and I have seen the first 3 movies together at the theater and we both have truly enjoyed them. Joe not so much but I understand that. He isn't a "going to the movies" type of person, much less a movie about vampires.

I think what fascinates me the most is that the relationship between Edward and Bella seems so pure. I admit that parts of it are a bit on the odd side and Heavens knows I don't believe in vampires but these movies hold my interest. I have not read the books, unlike Stephanie, so I never know what is going to happen next. She always knows though. Like when we were watching New Moon at the theater and I whispered to her that I just HAD to go potty. She said, "no Mom, wait a minute because it is almost over." I was glad she told me that because I would have missed the ending or at least most of it. I have never been much of a reader although I am a bit tempted by these stories. Steph told me yesterday that the author actually dreamed one of the meadow scenes. From that dream she wrote the entire story.

After we watched Eclipse she made chicken alfredo which was delicious. I was actually about to eat everything except the broccoli. I hated wasting it as I love broccoli but it was just too hard for my still sore mouth. Speaking of that, I am healing up well, it just takes time. I have to tell you that I am so tired of this. I have eaten my weight in potatoes and pimento cheese! It's a good thing I love both. But it will all be worth it in the long run. I keep looking at the big picture.

The temperates in West Kentucky are starting to feel a lot like Christmas. We even had some spitting snow over the weekend. Steph and I were out yesterday when I stopped to get gas. Let me tell you that wind was so cold that I got it started pumping using the debit card etc. and made Steph finish it! Isn't that why we have children? To do the things we don't want to do? I am only kidding of course. I love all of my kids. But I have to admit, Miss Stephanie does come in handy from time to time.

We are all doing well. The pups are happy, everyone is healthy and we are all looking forward to the holidays. It's going to be a fun on this year. It had been way too long since we have had toddlers in the house on Christmas morning. I can't wait to see (and of course take pictures) of the entire event. It's gonna be a good one!

Hillbilly:The Real Story

2010-11-28T10:42:00.002-06:00

Have you guys seen this documentary? Hillbilly:The Real Story is on the History Channel right now. It is narrated by Billy Ray Cyrus and it is worth watching. I found it very interesting the first time I watched it and every time since.

I love the History Channel. There are so many fascinating things that come on. It seems that just about every time this particular show is on I am glued to it. It's kind of like the movie Titanic or The Notebook. Every time I see either movie on TV I have to watch some of it, if not the entire thing. Why, just last weekend I watched Titanic again for about the 20th time (maybe more!).

I have enjoyed this long weekend more than you will ever know. I am wondering if this is what it's like to enjoy retirement. I guess I'll find out in about 14 years......UGH. I think I will be ready for it well before I reach retirement age. At least I have a job, and one that I enjoy. I am thankful for that.

My mouth is slowly but surely healing. I am going to the dentist tomorrow after work to have the stitches removed. I am anxious to see how they are healing. I can tell they are doing better. I am however still being careful of what I eat and always doing the warm salt water rinse every time after I eat.

A friend if Steph's is coming over again today to ride Jones. They got the bugs worked out of her a couple of weeks ago but another ride will do her well. I guess I'd best get out of my gown and robe and actually put some clothes on before he gets here. It's the hillbilly thing to do.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T21:16:00.002-06:00

I have had extensive dental work in the past week and still have quite a long road ahead on that item. Let me just tell you it is not fun at all. There are very few things I have been able to eat due to the extraction of 7 teeth last Friday. I have very sensitive gums and they have really taken a beating this week. The pain medicine helps but just for a while. Since it was still hurting so much my new wonderful dentist (who reminds me of my precious son-in-law Jeremy) wanted to check everything out to make sure there were no problems. I am happy to report everything is healing up nicely, but in the meantime Trailboss is not having a good time.

We decided to not cook Thanksgiving this year. We were going to go to a local restaurant but I didn't feel like it. Turns out the place was so busy that Joe ended up getting plates to go for all of us so we were still able to enjoy our dinner together, as a family at the dinner table. Eating at the table has always been a very important thing to me. It is where we all come together at the end of the day as a family. We are able to eat and talk about our day. It is the way I was raised and something that I have tried to pass on to my kids.

After I ate a little bit I laid down for a nap. I am not normally a nap person but I was not feeling well at all as eating irritates my mouth so much. I ended up sleeping for over 4 hours! It did feel wonderful though.

I am grateful to have the long weekend to try and recuperate from the trauma my mouth has been through. It will be worth it in the long run, it is just a bit hard to deal with until then.

Sunday morning

2010-11-14T10:57:00.002-06:00

We finally got our computer fixed. It needed yet another hard drive. Thank goodness the old one was still under warranty. It's amazing how much something can be missed by the entire family when it isn't working.

I haven't been doing much lately except working and sleeping, or that is what it feels like. I am so ready for retirement. I think. But, it isn't a possibility for a long time for me. That is probably a good thing, I just can't seem to convince myself that!

I haven't heard from my son in almost 2 weeks. All I know is that he doesn't have a job or a place to live. His 29th birthday was this past Friday and it was the first time in 29 years I have not talked to him on that day. It was a sad day for me. His Granny called me at work to ask if I had heard from him since no one else has. I was sad to tell her that I had not. I have no idea where he is but I do pray for him. It is all I can do.

Joe is out hunting as I type this. It is nice that he can just drive down the road to some of the best whitetail deer hunting in the entire county. Or at least that is what I'm told. He doesn't necessarily want to kill a deer, just the act of hunting itself is something that he has loved for a long time. We have 2 trophy bucks on our wall in the living room so he isn't still "looking for the big one" as so many other hunters are. We don't care for the gamy meat either (except deer sausage which is yummy) so there is no way he will come home with anything bloody.

We are hoping to be able to visit via webcam with our Ohio grandkids today. We have really missed that since the computer has been broken. That is if I can figure out how to make the camera work!

It seems like forever!!!

2010-11-04T11:37:00.002-05:00

Since I last posted. Our computer at home has died. I have tried everything I know myself to fix it. Thought I had it whopped but it crashed again. Where is my son in law when I need him? He's in Ohio. That's where he lives! I'm not sure if we are going to get this computer fixed here or send it to Ohio for Jeremy to work on. I, like everyone, has become so used to having online at my fingertips I miss it. I can get on here at work but not very often. They tend to frown on that item.

We are finally getting some winter type temperatures in West Kentucky the past few days. We even got a little rain yesterday. This has been the driest summer and fall since I can remember. It makes me think that the winter is going to make up for it. I just hope we don't have another ice storm like in 2009! That was horrible.

We have been doing fine. I am completely and utterly in love with my CPAP machine. I am ever so faithful to it every night which is resulting in a much happier and easier to be around Trailboss. At least that is what my family says. The night before last I didn't have the mask on properly and ended up yanking it off in my sleep. The result was horrible. I barely made it through the day I was so tired. Stephanie thought something was odd since she heard the loud snoring coming from my room. She told me that she thought to herself, "Mom isn't supposed to snore anymore?" I was sure to put it on exactly right last night and the results were amazing. I feel great today. I am so thankful to my doctor for being able to put two and two together and have this sleep apnea diagnosed.

We have had some sad news this week. The stepdad of my niece and nephews was involved in an accident in the woods which resulted in a severe head injury. He had to be life-flighted to Indiana but he didn't make it. He passed away last night. I never met him but knew of him. His name is Scott and he has overcome a lot. He had a drinking problem which he conquered. He had throat cancer which he beat and most recently he was in the hospital for a month with phenomena. Then this happened. It is a very sad situation. The family is in my prayers and would appreciate being in yours as well if you are so inclined. It is going to be rough for them.

Stephanie finally kicked her boyfriend to the curb. No need to get into the details, let's just say that Joe and I did a happy dance more than once. She has been cooking and cleaning her little fingers to the bone lately. She has planned almost all of the family dinners for the past 2 weeks or more. It is lovely to see her show an interest in something new. Pretty tasty too!

Sunday ride with my daughter

2010-10-18T13:04:00.002-05:00

Steph and I ventured out on the new golf cart yesterday. She drove as I directed her when to stop and where so I could snap some pictures. I have really missed taking pictures lately. It was such a lovely day that we decided to take advantage of it.

I really liked this tree. I wish I had a better camera in order to take the type of picture I would have liked. Maybe I just need to get a new lens. Hummmmmm....now there's a thought!

The next stop was a neighbor's house. He is an older gentleman and from the looks of his backyard he used to do quite a bit out back.

Oh look! A horsie!

What's that? More horsies?

This one's name was Mr. Cocklebur!

Hello there!

Hey....got an apple for me?

Or a hug?

I'm pretty sure this one was no older than two.

It quickly became harder and harder to take this sweet thing's picture because he kept following me wanting to be loved on.

Such a gorgeous gelding!

We finally got on our way but not without a gracious goodbye.

The only thing keeping them from escaping is a cattle guard. I can't say that I blame them though. If I had hooves I wouldn't want to cross one either.

We went on down the road. Then we turned the golf cart around and look what we saw!

"Please don't leave us. We would love an apple."

We didn't have any apples yet. We had not been to the apple tree. It was down the other road. Sorry boys, maybe next time!

"Fine then. See if we are nice next time!"

I was reminded by Steph that we needed to get going since we were going to watch a movie that started at 2pm. But not without a stop at the apple tree and a quick visit with another baby.

I picked a few apples for Jones and gave this baby 2. He was so sweet after the first one (he nickered for another) that I couldn't resist!

"Come back soon!"

Back home Jones enjoyed her apples.

What a fun ride that was. I can't wait for the next one!

A Must See................................

2010-10-17T09:13:00.003-05:00

Secretariat that is. Joe, Steph and I went to the matinee yesterday afternoon. I figured it would be a good movie and one that I would really enjoy. But what I didn't expect was just how good it was. It was funny, intense, thrilling and ever so exciting! Joe loved it. I loved it and I assume Steph loved it. She said she liked it....you know how teenagers are. This is one movie that I will buy when the DVD comes out. It was that good.

We stopped by Tractor Supply for dog food and sweet feed, then by the store for chili block. Joe made chili for dinner. It was most delicious. We had a really good day with the three of us. One little family just doing their thing on a Saturday. And I liked it.

How sweet it is!

2010-10-15T12:48:00.003-05:00

We have a new toy.

How cool is that???? We were so tired of the electric golf cart that was always losing its charge. The last time it happened to me I parked it and stormed into the house with fire in my eyes (not really, I am being dramatic) and barked to Joe 'I AM SO D*#%ED TIRED OF THAT GOLF CART I COULD SPIT!" I just left it there never to be ridden again by me. Well, that isn't exactly true. I did ride it a couple more times but the entire time I rode it I didn't stop until I was back at the porch parking it.

Last Friday Joe called me and asked me to meet him in Lone Oak at the golf cart store. He had found what he thought would be a perfect little number for us. After I finished at my wonderful Sleep Source (my best friends now!) I stopped by to take a gander at what he was talking about. It was cute. Really cute. It was gas, it was red and it was EXPENSIVE! But the main thing that I didn't like was that it was too small. I wanted to be able to take as many of my grandbabies with me when we go for fun golf cart rides. After all, someday they will be a lot bigger than they are now. I know I know....I can't believe it either but we have to keep it real right?

After the nice salesman (Royce) heard more of what we really wanted we wandered outside to look at some more. We definitely wanted gas. No more electric for us! He showed us one that was a one owner from a couple that lived locally and used as an actual golf cart to play golf! Imagine that. It had a good price but it still wasn't big enough for me. Royce went on to say that a back seat could be added for X amount of money. I then asked him about the small tear in the seat and he quickly told me that he could recover that for a minimal amount of money. What you see is what we ended up with. I could not believe it when I saw it. Everything about it is exactly what I wanted. I can't wait to take it down the road this weekend with camera in hand.

Now all I need are my grandbabies to come see us. Heck, I can't even get Beth to bring Abby and Leah to see us. I don't know what I'm going to do! But, until then we will have a lot of fun on this ride without having to worry about the batteries dying.

Anyone want to buy a used golf cart???

Big ole' fish!

2010-10-13T11:37:00.002-05:00

My almost brother-in-law caught a whopper bass in our pond last week.

It ended up measuring about 22". Joe let him take it home for dinner that night. More than likely it was one of the first babies from when the pond was stocked soon after we moved in 6 yrs ago. He caught it as he was reeling in a MUCH smaller bass. The big bass decided the little bass looked like a good snack so it bit and Lynn reeled it onto the bank. He didn't even hook it! Talk about luck.

I have never had bass. I hear it is some mighty fine eating and would love to try it sometimes. That is if I could ever get my husband to actually go fishing in the pond. Some crappie and bass, even some catfish sounds pretty good right about now. Our pond is in desperate need of fishing out. The catfish are HUGE! We have had such a drought this year it is really low. We might get a bit of rain this week but not near what we need in order to replenish the pond levels. I think I am going to remind my husband that he needs to bring home the "bacon" this week. Even though we have stayed far away from fried foods for the past couple of years some fresh caught fish sounds very yummy.

We bought another golf cart this week. I am so excited! We have an electric one that isn't cutting the mustard. I can't depend on it to run up and down the roads with my camera in hand. I have missed taking pictures and am ready to capture some of the beautiful fall weather around our place. We bought a gas cart and had another seat put on the rear. That way there is plenty of room for when our grandkids are there to go for many many rides. The gentleman we dealt with was such a great and honest guy. I would recommend his place to anyone looking for a good and honest deal. Apparently he charges us less for some items because I kept talking about how the grandkids will need this and the grandkids will need that. He is a grandpa himself so he took special care to really fix us up. I really appreciate that. Now, if I could just get some grandkids to Kansas I'll be a happy camper!

Butt Bob Day

2010-10-12T11:28:00.002-05:00

My husband had a butt bob yesterday. For those of you who are wondering what that means it is what he calls a colonoscopy. I think it's kinda catchy. I took the day off of work to go with him. Things didn't go as expected. But, in my opinion, it was Joe's fault. As anyone who has had one of these fine procedures done knows there are strict limitations to what you can and cannot eat the day prior to the butt bob. Apparently Joe interpreted the instructions how he wanted to read them, not how they were written. The diet the day before must consist of a liquid diet and nothing with any red color in it.

When I had mine done 2 years ago I made sure I had some sugar free jello and plenty of chicken and beef broth. After all, what goes in must come out. My thoughts were to put as little in and I would benefit from that the rest of the day. Joe didn't do that.

He did have chicken broth to eat and did make sure he didn't drink any diet cola, only diet lemon-lime but what he had for breakfast is what did him in. He decided that he could have scrambled eggs, corned beef hash and toast for breakfast. As he was preparing it I picked up the instructions and noted it indicated "starting WITH breakfast eat only blah blah blah" I pointed that out to him as he was about to plate his food but he chose to not listen and ate it anyway. The result was that he didn't get fully "cleaned out" as the dr. put it. He drank all of the right stuff in order to get the results he needed but in my opinion since he ate the breakfast he did all of it didn't make its way out the back door.

Imagine his disappointment when the dr. informed him that she wasn't able to complete the butt bob due to items being present that were not supposed to be. She didn't act very professional in my opinion. He was clearly frustrated and she was as well but she really got smart with him. She told him it would need to be rescheduled. He did not like that one bit. He told her that he was not having it done again today, that he was not going 2 days without eating. So they are going to reschedule it for another time. I am hoping that he changes doctors as I did not care for her bedside manner one bit. I thought she was rude and selfish. Frankly, I wouldn't put up with it but that is up to him. I told him how I felt on the way home and later on that evening he told me that he had thought about it and that I was right. We'll see what he does but the bottom line is it will have to be done again. So there will be another day off of work for me and a miserable day for Joe preparing for it. Hopefully this time he will listen and do like he is supposed to. We shall see.

TGIF!!!

2010-10-08T11:27:00.002-05:00

We have been enjoying some gorgeous temperatures in W. Kentucky the past few weeks. It is such a nice break from the awful heat wave from this summer. I am contemplating meeting my family at the theater to see "Secretariat" after work. Steph and I both want to see it and for me, the only way to see a movie is the matinee. Who can afford the evening prices? Plus I really want to hear the thunder of the hooves on the big screen first. I love that sound!

I do have to leave work a few minutes early today in order to stop by the Sleep Source and pick up a new mask. The one I have been using is really irritating the skin around my nose plus I have noticed I am gritting my teeth at night. I have not done that in years! I have been sleeping wonderfully but I want to try the pillow mask. I am told that all the fine folks @ the Sleep Source that have sleep apnea use them and goodness gracious......who knows better than them!!?? It will take some adjusting and getting used to, just like anything, but I feel it will be worth it in the long run.

I noticed on the way home yesterday that the window and door lock on the door that was recently repaired (fender bender from 9/7) are not working. Not a good thing for me. I am grateful that no one was hurt in that accident. I am grateful that the lady that ran the red light actually HAD current insurance. What I am NOT grateful for is the hassle I have had to deal with because of this woman's carelessness. UGH! I know, I know. I shouldn't complain.

I lost half a day's work due to a coworker who cut his head. I volunteered to take him to the ER. Oh the joy! But I am thankful that he is ok and it didn't take that long. Especially considering how emergency room visits can be. He has gone home now after 6 stitches and a whopper of a headache.

I am looking forward to the weekend as usual. I hope everyone else had a good one!

On my way to rest...........................

2010-10-05T11:34:00.002-05:00

After getting my CPAP unit last week I had 3 good nights' sleep in a row. Then I ran into not good sleep. I was looking forward to the weekend where I could sleep without having to get up at a certain time (someday that alarm clock is going to be in the next county the way I hit the snooze button!). As it turns out I slept horribly. The mask felt way too big. I felt like it was trying to enter my head via my face. I finally just slept with it when I could and the rest of the time I removed it.

After talking with one of the sweet gals from the Sleep Source yesterday they gave me some pointers on a few things. I tried utilizing those last night. The changes along with my trusty Ambien (and my door closed) proved to be magical. I slept very well. Sunday night I slept without the CPAP at all and I paid for it Monday. Between my extremely sore throat (which was not helped since my mouth gaped wide open all night long) and I woke up so tired. I longed for a nap. Imagine my thoughts when Joe texted me to tell me he was getting ready to take a nap. UGH! I know, I know. He is retired and he can do that. He lets me know because otherwise if I can't get ahold of him while he is napping and I don't know that he is napping I get worried. He didn't sleep well the night before either. But I trudged on and made it until the magical hour of 3:30 when I clock out. By then I was feeling better. It's that midday hump that is so hard on me. But today I didn't have anything like that. At least for now I haven't. I am realizing just how much sleep and rest I have been deprived of for so many years now after using the CPAP only a few times. For that I am grateful.

I have rearranged my bedroom in order to accommodate a love seat. Joe got one free this past summer when he was looking for furniture for his brother Bill. This nice man just gave it to him! We are going to put it in my room which will be nice on those days that I just need some time for ME! Plus my girls can get up there with me and even sleep there if they want. I hated keeping my door shut last night since that means my girls can't sleep with me but it was important for me to get good quality sleep. Once I get things adjusted again hopefully I will be able to sleep with the door open. I don't like to shut it at night.

I will keep you guys posted on how things are going. Right now I am feeling grateful. I am a lucky girl and I need to keep reminding myself that.

850th post!

2010-10-01T11:39:00.002-05:00

I just noticed that this makes my 850th post. Let's have a party. Just kidding. I do want to share something with you however. Last night was my 3rd night sleeping with my "new best friend" aka CPAP machine. So far it is working great. I have been able to get to sleep with little or no problem and have slept incredibly well.

Last night the girls decided they wanted to join me for some slumber. Sophie has been sleeping with me most every night for a while now but Pattykins has betrayed me in favor of Stephanie.......NOW RUDE! Of course I am kidding. I am happy that Steph has a close bond with Patty. She always longed for that with Annie and Sophie so this time she was sure to spend a lot of time playing with and tending to Patty as she started to grow up. Anyway, Patty didn't know what to think of the CPAP machine. She kept trying to lick my face and the mask as if to say "MOM! Something has attached to your face and I can't get it off!" She finally settled down until I had to get up to use the restroom. I just unplug the hose when I get up and leave it on the bed. The hose continues to blow air out which really confused Pattykins. I must say it was quite amusing.

I am anxious to see what a full night's sleep with no alarm clock will bring. I have slept well and felt rested but I am looking forward to seeing how the weekend sleeps go.

I am so thankful to have been dianosed with sleep apnea. Now, don't get me wrong. I would rather not have to sleep with a machine hooked up to me. I am just grateful that there is treatment for the tiredness I have felt for so long.

2nd Sleep Study

2010-09-27T11:17:00.002-05:00

I arrived at The Sleep Source Thursday night promptly at 9pm for hopefully what was my last sleep study to be done. I was shown into my room for the night. It was just like the last one I had except turned around.

After I got ready for bed the technician gave me 3 different masks to play around with and see which one felt the most comfortable. After several tries at all three I finally settled on the one that we agreed seemed to fit my face well and was somewhat comfortable. Of course I was all wired up again. I took some pictures of myself on my cellphone but I am sparing you all when I tell you they are still ONLY on my phone! It is amazing where all the wires have to go in order for the readings to be correct.

I finally got to sleep after tossing and turning a bit. It took a little longer this time to get to sleep but once I did I was out. I woke up once and buzzed to go to the restroom. After that I didn't know anything until she woke me up at 5:08am the next morning. She went on to tell me what happened. She started the machine out on a 4 which is standard. She bumped it up to 7 for a while and at some time later on apparently I started exhibiting signs that I needed more air so she adjusted it to a 9. She told me that once she got it on 9 I slept pretty all night long.

Let me tell you something. Even though I didn't actually get enough sleep that night (since my appt. was later and it took a tad longer to get to sleep than last time) I felt the difference almost immediately. I showered before I left the facility and headed toward work. I felt fabulous! It was almost too good to believe. I thought there was a chance that I might feel a bit of a difference but I did not expect to feel this good!

I decided to treat myself to breakfast since I had over an hour before I needed to be at work. I found a nice breakfast place and enjoyed a really hardy breakfast of eggs, bacon, toast, biscuit and gravy and diet Pepsi. I sat at one of those little booths where you can see the cook while he was preparing other orders. It was like he was choreographed. The relationship that he had with the waitress' was really remarkable. I sat there thinking to myself about how there are so many different way for a person to make their way in this world. I felt that this young man really was enjoying his job. I wondered if he was married and had a family or if his Mom and Dad were still alive. The joy in the way he performed his job was inspiring. At least to me. There aren't very many times that I see someone really enjoy themselves like he was doing. I will definitely be back to eat there again some early morning!

It takes about a week in order to receive the CPAP unit that I will claim as my own. The doctor will go over all of the tests and results to ensure all was done correctly and that this is the device best suited for my needs. So I don't have the unit yet but that didn't stop me from having a great weekend. I had such a burst of energy this weekend like I have not had in a loooooong time! I slept fairly well and ended up cleaning my bedroom from top to bottom. Cleaned more around the house, baked pies, cooked breakfast both mornings, made dinner Saturday and Sunday night and even prepared dinner for this evening's dinner. It only has to be put into the oven for 45 minutes and dinner is ready!

It felt so good to be productive. I can't tell you how long it has been since I have felt like doing much of anything on my days off from work. I feel that in my mind I know now that there is hope. There is help for this sleeping problem that I have but actually didn't even know I had. It explains so many things to me. I had wondered if I would ever feel like doing anything again. I had wondered if it was just my age creeping up on me. I had found myself falling into moods that were not flattering. I had taken out my frustrations on the ones I love the most. My family. I hope they were able to see that this weekend I felt so much better. I will be so glad to leave that old tired grumpy Trailboss behind. She has overstayed her welcome, that's for sure!

We're on the hunt

2010-09-18T15:28:00.002-05:00

For a new pup that is! Joe promised me that if we had Pattykins neutered that we would get another puppy within about 2 yrs. Just the other day when I got home from work he and Steph had visited a sweet baby just longing for a new home!

When I saw these pictures I said "let's go!" So we did.

She was so beautiful....and sweet....and gorgeous. And oh, the puppy breath!!!! It was almost too much to bear!

But alas.....it was not meant to be. Oh there was nothing wrong with her of course. She was pretty and cheap! Only $100...but she wasn't what we were looking for since we want a mahagony fawn with a solid black mask. Like Annie was. It was a bit hard to say goodbye to the sweetness but we did. I was quite proud of myself actually. When it comes to pups they usually just tug on my heart strings so strong that I can't say no. But we want a certain color. We NEED a certain color.

After all.....

Our new pup

She's got some big ole paws to fill

Healthy breakfast is important

2010-09-12T19:19:00.002-05:00

I am so proud of how Amy and Jeremy choose the most healthy foods for my sweet Ohio grandbabies. They rarely eat fried foods, if ever. Breakfast almost always includes fresh fruits and cereal. Oh here....let me show you!

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm grape salad

Emmeline approves!

These pictures were taken the morning that my babies left to go to Amy's mother's house. They split their time here between us and her mom's house which to me is a very smart way to do it. Believe me, I have had experience with coming home when I lived in Texas. My beloved mother wanted us to stay with her. My dad wanted equal time with us. Then there were the other set of grandparents (Ryan's that is) who wanted to see us. By the time we got back home to Houston we needed another vacation! I finally came up with the idea to stay every night at Mom's and just visit from there. It made things a LOT easier on everyone.

I still call out to Ohio saying "kids....kids.....ahem. Come to Kentucky. Build a house on our land. Do it............PLEASE!"

Fun times

2010-09-11T14:50:00.003-05:00

Here are some more pictures of my sweet grandkids. Riding the golf cart, feeding Jones and generally just have fun in the sun!

Fall down go Boom!

Mia and Steph walked all the way around the pond

Jones didn't want to be left out. She came down to the pasture closest to the pond and hung out for a while.

Wheeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!

Miss Leah sporting a silly hat

Sister talk

Mia driving Papa Joe and Daddy around

"Hi Nama" said Mia

I would love to be able to have a do over for that day. It was so much fun! But, at least I have pictures to look at and share. I hope yall enjoy them.

It's official

2010-09-09T06:38:00.002-05:00

I have been so tired for the past few months. I get just about the same amount of sleep every night and should be enough to make me feel rested but lately I just haven't felt that way. When I went to the doctor last week I was sure that my blood work would show low iron levels or something else that would explain why I was so tired and had no energy at all. But the blood work was fine. In fact everything was really good. After discussing with my doctor a few things he decided I needed to have a sleep study performed. I did that last night @ The Sleep Source in town.

I didn't really know what to expect. I was able to take my own pillows which for me, was a must. I never sleep well without my own pillows. It was a nice little room with a big comfy bed, a tv and private bath. Much like a hotel room. I got ready for bed and Crystal, the sweet and funny attendant, explained to me what all was going to happen. I didn't ever look at myself after she wired me up but I can only imagine how silly it looked. I was sure I wouldn't be able to sleep with all of those wires and things on my head, legs up my nose, etc. but I actually did sleep well. When she woke me up at 5am she came into my room and gave me the results. Yeppers....I have sleep apnea. I think she said I breath very shallow while I am asleep. I don't really remember because I was just waking up. I will go back next week where the test will be fully explained and another sleep study will be set up. They will actually adjust the mask with be fitted and depending on how it works they will adjust the amounts of air that I will need. I never even imagined I suffered from this but it explains a lot of things. I have to admit that when she told me that I do have it I felt relief. At least now we know what it is and it can be treated. I don't know how long it has been since I have had a full night's rest. I imagine when I finally have it I will be amazed. We shall see.

This day couldn't get over with soon enough

2010-09-07T19:54:00.002-05:00

You know the Tuesday after a holiday weekend and how it usually is a bit busier at work and how things just seem to be "off" because we have lost a work day within the week? And when you take off the Friday before in order to have a nice 4 day weekend filled with love and laughter it almost makes it not worth taking that extra day because you don't know what was done on the day you weren't at work. And then you try and figure out what was or wasn't done that day you took off because the person that did or didn't do on that Friday wasn't in today because they had a dr's appt all day. And how it took 2 hours just to be able to come to the decision that you can't figure out what was done and had to do it completely over again.

That was part of my day today. The other part was that a woman not paying attention at an intersection by pulling way out into the turn lane. Same woman sat still while her light turned red while a certain person (me) waited at the green light to see if this certain woman was going to turn or not and when she didn't move decided to go ahead and make her left turn when all the while this certain woman decided to go ahead and turn left with a red light and somehow just didn't see the blue Camry turning directly in front of her. And how this same certain woman ran smack into the blue Camry's rear drivers side door. And how when we pulled over on the side of the road she told me that she had to catch a flight out of Nashville. Imagine her surprise when the owner of the blue Camry quipped to her "you just ran into my vehicle and I am calling the police, you aren't going anywhere."

That was part of my day today. After the police officer came and took his report, certain woman and the owner of the blue Camry exchanged information we were finally able to be on our way to work. When the owner of the blue Camry arrived at work (only 8 minutes late...it pays to leave a bit early) the air conditioner was not working AT ALL. It was 85 degrees in the office. The window unit wasn't working correctly either but was not noticed until after the heating and air guy left after determining the A/C unit was frozen up and would be back in 2-3 hours. And how the owner of the blue Camry worked all day in an office that just kept getting hotter and hotter. When the temperature in the office reached 93 the owner of the blue Camry called her boss and said "it is 93 degrees in my office. If something isn't done I am leaving." And how within 5 minutes her boss and the heating and air guy was suddenly there and checking out the unit again. And how the office finally started cooling off to a bone chilling 90 degrees when the owner of the blue Camry left early for a most annoying dr's appt.

That was my day today. I am grateful that no one was hurt and that there wasn't any more damage to my vehicle then there was. So many people are hurt or killed every day in traffic accidents so I was very lucky. But I guess the thing that just gets my goat is that this woman was so careless and "frazzled" as she said to myself and the police officer that she wasn't even able to pay attention to a vehicle directly in front of hers. It was such an unnecessary thing to happen. In fact, dare I say it was a stupid and careless act of just plain not paying attention. So, because this woman was so "frazzled" I will have to get estimates for my vehicle, take time out of my already busy schedule to have my vehicle repaired, not to mention I will need a rental car to get back and forth to work while the car is in the shop. It is all just such a waste of time and energy. Stupid really. Just plain stupid. But....it happened and there isn't a thing I can do about it now. But you can bet that if I find myself in that position again I will either wait until the idiot who has no business driving to stop their reckless behavior or I will be ready to blow my horn to loud it will make the driver wet their pants.

Sometimes I wish we still rode horses and drove wagons to get around. At least horses have more sense than this woman did.

Labor Day Weekend 2010

2010-09-06T17:18:00.002-05:00

It was a good one folks. My oldest and her family came in from Ohio bringing 3 of my precious grandkids! I took Friday off so I had a nice long 4 day weekend filled with fun and love.

Beth and her family came out Friday. The only person missing from everything was my son Ryan. He and I are estranged again. It's not how I want things, it is just how it has to be now. But this is a happy post, not one filled with sadness.

We all visited for a while and then decided to eat at Pizza Inn in town. After all, we had so much going on neither Joe nor I wanted to cook.

I set next to my precious.

My precious' Mama and Daddy plus sister Leah. You can tell her from the RED hair!

Can I get a big "aaaaaaaaawwwwww"

Miss Mia

Mia and Auby

After we ate we drove across the street to Noble Park. The kids love seeing the geese and ducks.

Have I mentioned that my son-in-law is insane?

Amy and I joked that these pictures WILL be used for blackmail....if necessary!

Then someone got the idea to get on this thing.....

Man..did this ever bring back memories for me. Mostly of being dizzy and throwing up. Aren't you glad I shared?

Most of the kids were a little dizzy when they got off. I have to admit that was a bit amusing!

As you can see from the last few pictures it was starting to get dark. Who am I kidding? It WAS dark. So we headed on home.

This was an evening that I will never forget. Filled with love and happiness and gratitude.

Leah is 1!!!!!!

2010-08-29T10:48:00.002-05:00

Her party was held at the local park Saturday.

I was thrilled to see that Leah's great grandparents were able to be there. They live in Michigan and made a special effort to be here for the happy occasion.

I had only met them once before and was so happy to see them again. Joe is still very close with them (they are his x-wife's parents). It is so nice to see that some folks can stay true to themselves and who they care about no matter what might have happened to a marriage. To me, that shows character like nothing else.

Steph hates to have her picture taken. Isn't she silly?

My precious and her cousin McKenzie. I tried stealing kenzie's ever so precious Disney hat several times. She giggled every time.

Abby loving on her great grandmother!

See that picture? That is my goal. To be able to hug MY great grandchildren. I can't even imagine how thrilling that must be!

There's the birthday girl!! Look at that red hair.

We were all thrilled that the pony showed up. All of the little kids were looking forward to pony rides.

It was finally time for the cake!

"Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Leah, happy birthday to you!!!!!"

She snuck a bite!!!!

Have at it Leah!!!

Mommy gave her a few pointers

And that was all she needed!

Daddy, Mommy & Leah

"Hi Grandmother!"

Beth had told us that Leah really loved this little pink rocking horse and could even get on it herself. Papa Joe promptly scored one at Toys R' Us. After all, he is married to Trailboss and this horse lover wants to make all of my grandkids horse lovers too!

I think she liked it.

What a fun day. All of the kids were good, no getting in trouble at all! The other kids had cupcakes (us adults too!). They were really tasty. Much better than storebought or the ones that come with a party. Much cheaper too!

Oh yes my friends.........a good time was had by all.

Halloween a LONG time ago!

2010-08-21T13:49:00.002-05:00

So recently scanned some old Polaroids from 1978 or 79 of me and a friend taken after we got all dressed up for Halloween. He and I actually made the headdress's ourselves!

I am in red and my friend Mark is in the blue.

Talk about blast from the past!

We did get to see them

2010-08-19T20:00:00.002-05:00

Last week, before Abby started back to school (she is in Kindergarten!) her Mommy & Daddy wanted to take her to the movies so I picked Leah up after work for a fun evening in the country (where she belongs I might add).

She is such a joy. Always happy, always smiling and just so glad to be around people that love her.

There just isn't much more in the world that makes me as happy as holding one of my precious grandbabies!

Dare I say I think someone else thinks the same thing!

What a doll!

Do you guys see the red hair? I thought it was a fluke when she was born. That the red wouldn't stay but it has! I think it is going to be gorgeous! I don't think, I know because it already is!

It didn't seem like anytime before Leah's parents showed up to take her home. But not before I was able to see my precious!!!!

Apparently the fireplace proved to be magical for the kids and the pups.

Now this is one thing that I just can't wrap my brain around. Wasn't it just last month that my precious was, well was like this

Getting her Grandmother a flower?

Attempting to take my picture?

Being such a sweetheart?

Talking to her Mommy on the phone while coming back to the country?

And spinning on her Sit N' Spin?

It is amazing how time flies by. Abby is growing up way too fast. Leah is almost a year old. The other grandkids are over 2 and just turned 1. Oh My! When will this nightmare end?

Someone has the life of Riley

2010-08-19T07:17:00.002-05:00

See that pup? That is what I would love to be doing right now. I woke up tired and sleepy this morning and no amount of caffeine seems to be making a dent yet.

There she is again, just doing whatever she wants to do while her big sister protects her.

Playing and just having a good ole time

But I reckon it's ok....after all, she is my baby. She sleeps with me every night without fail. I swear, she is a reincarnation of my Annie. And that my friends makes me a happy camper!

It has been to long!

2010-08-16T11:19:00.002-05:00

Since I have done this

and this

Not to mention this

and this

and don't EVEN get me started on this

What is a grandmother to do? I am tempted to kidnap the whole lot of them and bring the all to the country where they belong. At least in my opinion. Of course no one asked me for my opinion. That has rarely stopped me however. Some things are just never learned. Actually I have improved on that as the years go by. But not by much!

It seems like I read somewhere that grandparents have the right to snatch up their grandkids and just take them home with them. Don't you guys agree? I know I didn't dream that and I would never ever make up such a thing. Isn't this a law? Surely some elected official somewhere has done SOMETHING about this horrible dilemma I find myself in.

If anyone out there in blogland knows what I can do PLEASE let me know! I am missing my sweet grandbabies so very much. I cry myself to sleep every night. Really, I do. I promise, and never mind that my fingers and toes are crossed when I promise that. Heck fire, I'll even pinky promise. Anything to get my babies where they belong!!!!!!

Hello, it's me

2010-08-09T07:32:00.002-05:00

I haven't had much to blog about lately. Plus, after staring at a computer for 8 hrs every day at work it is usually the last thing I want to do when I get home. I have missed it though. I have some new pictures of the girls and the grandkids but my silly flickr is acting up on my even sillier computer. I fear the computer is about to die, a quick death. We'll see.

I am at work and really shouldn't be doing what I am doing but I'm doing it anyway. I know.....bad blogger = bad employee. I really don't believe that though. I think everyone should be able to have some time for themselves on a Monday morning at work. At least I don't have a job where I have to wear a headset and answer calls from customers. I have done way too much customer service work in my life. I am grateful for the job I have now and the fact that I feel very sure that I will be able to retire from here. There are a lot of things I am grateful for.

Abby started kindergarten last week. Tell me it cannot be. Wasn't it just last week that she was curly headed and calling me Graaaaaaaaaaaaaaandmother? Blowing bubbles and riding her tricycle? Just learning to use the big girl potty? Sitting in my lap and cuddling with me? Well, actually she still does that. I think she will always do that if I have anything to do with it. But of course it wasn't just yesterday. The kiddos are all growing up like they are supposed to.

Leah is walking (she has been for a while now). She has the most gorgeous smile and she absolutely loves everyone. She came out Tuesday evening while Beth and Thomas took Abby to the movies. I picked her up after work and brought her to the country where she belongs. We had a grand time. I have to brag on Patty too. She was so good around her. We were afraid she would get too jumpy and accidentally knock Leah down but she didn't. She knew Leah is a toddler and behaved so well. We were so proud of her. Sophie of course is an old hand at kids. She did wonderful as well.

Our Ohio grandkids are thriving. Mia and Auby are their usual silly selves. We haven't been able to get online for a while now to see/chat with them and I miss that. Emmeline is growing like a weed and we are not able to see that either. I hate that they live so dang far away. I can honestly say that I would give up my pastures and my Jones if they would build a house and live on our property. I keep hoping it will happen, someday perhaps. Jeremy recently got another promotion and I couldn't be prouder. Amy is enjoying her job very much. I just wish they could enjoy their jobs here. I put that in God's hands. He can make it happen. (((Pssssst.....PLEASE LORD!)))

It is still so hot around these parts that it makes it almost unbearable to be outside. Actual air temps in the triple digits. A/C has been our best friend for a while now. The barn and lean-to are Jones' best friends. That and nice cold clean water. But we are trudging along and making it just fine. We are in good health and have our family. We are lucky. There are far too many people with neither of those.

Is it over yet?

2010-07-26T11:32:00.002-05:00

The summer that is. It has been so hot in my neck of the woods for the past few weeks that it is hard to be able to do anything outside unless it is just before the sun comes up or just before it goes down.

I looked over at the indoor/outdoor thermometer on the table next to where I was sitting yesterday about 3:30 and it registered 100 degrees. WHAT?? When will it end? It was at that moment that Joe choose to take the girls and himself out to the garden to tie up some tomatoes. I thought to myself "you are insane!"

While he was outside doing this and that I started cooking dinner. Paula Deen's Chicken that we Love, that's what I call it anyway. It is so easy and delicious. In fact I just had some leftovers along with a salad for lunch today. Speaking of cooking, Stephanie is starting to explore my recipes these days and has even made one the other night for dinner. She has separated the ones we have had and made a new bunch for what we need to have. The pile seems to be growing on the latter. She asked me to bring some folders from work so she can get them organized. I am glad to see her doing this. I feel that the younger a person learns how to cook the better it is. I didn't learn how until I was in my 20's. Mom tried to get me interested but I never was. Steph loves to eat and wants to start trying new things. She is actually allowing her taste buds to explore all kinds of things that she usually wouldn't touch with a 10' pole. We finally got her to realize that our taste buds change ever so many years and she is realizing there are lots of things that she now likes. Now, if I can just get her to like onions cooked in things! She and Joe do not like onions. It makes it hard to cook sometimes.

I had thoughts a few years ago that she might want to learn to be a chef. I still think it is something that she would enjoy but she is so undecided on what she wants to do. Truth be known I think she is afraid to grow up. To assume the responsibility that comes with it. I guess I can't say that I blame her in a way though. Things are so much more difficult now days than what I remember.

I haven't been able to use the computer at work for posting lately and by the time I get home I am just so tired of looking at a computer screen it is the last thing I want to do. Therefore my posts have been very infrequent lately. Hopefully I will get better.

Meanwhile, I am dealing with this heat (like everyone else around here). Yall take care and stay cool!

It didn't work

2010-07-16T06:46:00.002-05:00

My tease with the flowers didn't work. My sweeties still have not come to see me. But I did get to see them!

Joe spent a week in Ohio earlier this month. I drove him to Shepardsville to meet Amy where she could take him the rest of the way. Boy did I have a surprise when we got there. Amy brought 2 of my 3 grand babies with her! Mia and Aubriella!

We met in the parking lot of a Blockbuster's Video store. I had not even thought of the possibility of her bringing them with her so I didn't think of bringing my camera with me. I took a few pictures with my phone though. In fact one is still my wallpaper.

We visited for about 15 minutes and then were on our way. I was anxious to get home since I was 4 hours from home. Joe spend a week there helping with the kids while Amy went to NYC on a business trip. He is home now and had a good time.

It is so hot here my coworker just told me that he got really sick last night and this morning. He works in the warehouse (somewhere I try to stay away from in this heat) driving a forklift and apparently got too hot yesterday. This heat is dangerous. In fact our last safety meeting at work was about heat stress and how to look for it on yourself or a fellow worker.

We are eating like crazy out of our garden. Joe didn't plant as much this year. No corn because our deer neighbors seem to like to eat it just before we pick an ear. We have bought some at the local farmer's market however and it is great. Speaking of that, I really need to stop today and get some more corn and peaches. OMG....some of the peaches grown around these parts are wonderful!

So, what have you guys been up to?

Flowers.....Pretty Flowers......

2010-06-22T20:47:00.002-05:00

I heard through the grapevine that my precious and wonderful Ohio grandkids love flowers. Well....what does this Trailboss do in a situation like that? She takes pictures of the flowers surrounding her house that she would love these sweet babes to pick for her.

They are oh so pretty

The grass growing between them drives Joe crazy but let's face it. It is next to impossible to keep all of the grass out of the flowers.

Do you see just how many flowers could be picked and delivered to their Gramma?

Oh look...a butterfly!

Every spring Joe plants these flowers from seed directly into the land and every year they are incredibility beautiful.

The next two are my whiskey barrels where I always plant annuals. This year it turned out quite nice but as usual, when the 99 degree weather sets in it changes a lot

So here is the challenge. I challenge my grandkids to convince their Mommy and Daddy to get their kahunas to Kentucky! And don't forget to bring who we really want to see. That would be Mia, Aubie & Emmeline!!!!!!!!!

Here is the video!

2010-06-21T18:53:00.000-05:00

Father's Day 2010

2010-06-21T11:30:00.004-05:00

Oh my...what a grand day it was. I have been keeping a secret from Joe for weeks now. It has been killing me to wait until Father's day to give him a very special present.

Several weeks ago I came up with a pretty cool idea I must say. We all know how much our Annie is missed. For anyone who doesn't follow this blog Annie was mine and Joe's heart dog. She died from cancer Sept 5th, 2009 just 1 month shy of her 8th birthday. And it just about killed us to have to let her go. My wonderful brother, So, is an artist. He has been quite successful in the past few years with his art. In fact is is the most successful artist I have ever known. Hee hee. Anyway, I asked him if he thought he could paint a painting of Annie. He said he thought he could. I went through my 13,000+ flicker pictures and came up with a few suggestions for him to use. I'm not sure which one he ended up using but let me tell you something. My Annie was guiding his hand the entire time he was painting her. It is her....her eyes, her soul....all there on canvas.

So shipped it to me the first part of June. I have been keeping it under my desk at work. I wanted to hang it up on the wall but as sure as I did Joe would come unexpectedly to my office and spoil the big surprise. Annie and I had several conversations while she was patiently waiting under my desk. At last the day came to take her home.

Friday during my lunch period I wrapped the painting. I put it in a big box along w/2 rolls of toilet paper and a roll of paper towels from work. I had tissue paper in it also. I took it home that afternoon and was actually able to get it in the house when Joe wasn't there! Saturday Joe decided to go into town for a few errands so I seized the opportunity. I got 2 binders that Steph didn't use for school and put them in the big box. Then I got a walmart bag with several reams of loose leaf paper and put that in it, along with a fake snake I had bought a long time ago and forgotten about. I wrapped the entire box and put a big bow on the top. Steph and I made out our Father's Day cards and had it all sitting on the table when he got home.

When he opened it yesterday it was absolutely priceless. I have it all on video and Steph is uploading it to YouTube. I can't wait for you guys to see it. Joe is so silly and you can tell from the video just how silly he is. When he pulled the painting out of the packaging he smiled and immediately kissed Annie and said "Annie, I miss you baby."

The only thing we need to do now is find out the best place to hang it. Joe wants us to all be able to enjoy it. I think that is a right fine idea.

I will post a picture of it as soon as I can figure out why my computer doesn't want to download my pictures like it normally does.

What is in the air?

2010-06-15T20:01:00.002-05:00

I don't know about you folks but my week has been horrible. From things at work to things at home.........I am about to lose my mind! I love my job. Love it a lot. But there are some things going on that have been a bit challenging lately. It seems to be spilling over to my home life as well. I know everything will work out, it is just hard. I haven't posted in almost a week. I just don't have the energy. When I get home from work I change my clothes, grab a cold drink and the girls and I go up to see my sweet horse. I find such peace with animals. No one to bother me. Nothing to think about except nature and animals. I don't think it gets much better than that. Anyway, it works for me.

On the good side of things it looks like we might be able to see our Ohio grandbabies next month. They are planning on coming to town the weekend of the 4th and I can't wait. I have already asked for the Friday before the holiday off which means a 4 day weekend. Oh my.....4 days off and my precious grandkids here? Dare I say life gets any better? I hope everything works out like planned. I think we all need it.

Joe is feeling better. He has found out that since he has had chronic shingles for so long he has a knot of nerves in his kidney area that has caused huge pain for him. He is going to have the nerve blocked (it is the only treatment to relieve the pain) but the dr he is supposed to see is one of those that takes forever to get into. The good news is that at dinner tonight he knocked on wood then told Steph and I that he was on day 2 of being pain free. I immediately knocked on wood again! That wood is the dining room table. The same one I ate on as a kid.

Water Water Everywhere!

2010-06-09T07:20:00.002-05:00

We have discovered something about Miss Pattykins. It is quite comical also. In fact, the other day Joe was cleaning off his John Deere after mowing the grass & it got my attention.

She kind of has a thing for water.

More please

Please ignore chicken legs over to the right

I really do need to have another Bible lesson with Patty. Thou Shalt Not Pray to the Water Gods.

MOOOOMMMMMYYYY!!!!!

Hi Mom! Did you see me? Did you see me?

Yes my dear Pattykins. I have been taking your picture for a few minutes now.

Ok, just wanted to make sure....BYE!

Are you watching Mommy?

That one is my new wallpaper at work

Mommy, Daddy is being mean to me

Deal with it you big baby

It's like she is trying to bite the water as though it is a critter or something!

She finally had enough and was ready to play. We laughed so hard at her antics. Have I said lately how much I love my dogs? I kinda like chicken legs too.

Awwwwwww.....what a difference animals make

2010-06-08T07:36:00.002-05:00

Yesterday when I left work my head and neck was aching all of the way home. I didn't even listen to any music or the radio at all the entire 20 miles. I did stop and get myself an ice cream Popsicle. Yummy. When I got home I spend a few minutes chatting with Joe then changed my clothes and hollered "Girls, wanna go see horses?"

We did. Jones nickered at me like she does every day when she sees me coming up the hill. I love the sound of a horse nickering. There is something so soft and gentle about it. Soothing. Nice. The girls played and ran around while I fetched Jones her grain. Then I did like I have been doing for most days lately and sat on my bench inside the dry lot relaxing. As I breathed in the smell of my sweet Jones & the fresh smells of spring, I could feel my stress leaving my body. It was wonderful. So calming and natural. There was a little yellow finch about 3' from where I was sitting pecking at the ground. The little fellow must have been a bit hurt because he was so close and didn't seem to be able to fly very well. I tossed him some of her grain but he didn't want it. He was enjoying whatever he was getting out of the dirt. It was so nice to sit there with these 2 beings close to me. Jones who compared tot he bird is huge and the little finch that was so beautiful. The most brilliant color of yellow and black.

I stayed there about a half hour and then took the girls back inside. By then my headache and neck ache were completely gone. I could be with my family without biting someones head off. I ended up having a very nice evening. We had grilled hot dogs and mac & cheese. Simple meal but good. I watched a little tv then went to bed fairly early. This morning I feel like a new person. I like when things work themselves out like that. That is with the help of animals. I never want to be without them.

It's about time!

2010-06-07T14:54:00.003-05:00

I don't know about you folks but I have not been able to log into blogger all day until now. I guess it happens.......well obviously it does!

There is so much stress going on right now. I don't know what else to do or how much more patient I can be with my daughter. Since she can't get a job yet (no permit/license) I have asked her to work around the house cleaning etc. OMG, I am such an awful parent. How dare I ask her to lift a finger. I am just blowing off steam right now.

I have such a stress headache I can't wait to get home and spend time with my Jones. I have tried to spend a while with her after work lately. It really helps to get away from everyone. Just me and my horse. And the girls of course. You should see them, especially Patty, when I say "Girls, wanna go see horses?" Patty literally jumps into the air 3 feet. Starts talking and having a FIT to get out of the door. Not to be outdone, Sophie holds her own too. They run up the hill and start playing with each other. Sometimes they get confused and run up the wrong hill but they are sure to correct themselves when they see my walking the other way. It really does allow me time to unwind from the day. I am trying to take advantage of it as much as I can before the days get way too hot to spend much time with her. The heat and I don't get along. Except in the winter time. Then it is wonderful!

It is just about time to get out of here. Work that is. I love my job, I'm just ready to go home.

Why does being a parent have to be so hard?????????????????????

TGIF!

2010-06-04T08:10:00.002-05:00

Ok folks. Why is it when we have a 4 day work week it seems like a 6 day work week? Come on, you know I'm not alone. Am I? Of course not. It has seemed like this week will never end, but it is close to being wrapped up since today is FRIDAY!

Joe has been not been feeling well for a couple of weeks. Yall might remember a while back he was in the hospital for a double whammy shingles plus kidney infection. The same area that hurt so badly then is acting up again. Our Dr Turnbo thinks that he has permanent nerve damage due to chronic shingles, many of which that area was effected. That might very well be the case but he is hurting so badly that he went back to the doctor this week. He is having a couple of scans done today. The dr is looking for a variety of things. The tests will start at 9:30am and the last one is at 1pm. He has to drink bunches of water in order to get the dye into all the nooks and crevasses for the 2nd scan to work correctly. He is hoping to be able to get Bill home during that time. Thankfully, my brother in law is ready to go home today. He is ready too! We won't find out any results from Joe's tests until Wednesday of next week but at least something is being done to see what the heck is going on.

Stephanie is doing much better. She is starting to move on and will be ok. She was talking yesterday about considering joining the Navy. She has talked about this before to me and Joe. I told her it was a HUGE decision but if she wanted to know more we would see to it that she go to a recruiting office and see what all is involved.

I have some drama going on with my son that I really don't want to deal with but it must be done. He has to be confronted with what he has done and he has to pay for it. Silly me......to think the drama was going to be over once Steph graduated.

At least it is Friday........after all, it could be Monday of next week and goodness knows I don't want that. Not yet anyway!

It's tough to let go

2010-06-01T10:30:00.002-05:00

My precious daughter's heart is heavy. Her boyfriend of 2 1/2 years broke up with her just before school was out this year. She was able to pick herself up and graduate. She had fun at Project Graduation and is proud that she has graduated high school. Glad that part is behind her.

She has been doing a pretty good job of dealing with the loss of what she thought was to be her future husband. Her entire world has had the bottom ripped right out from under her feet. Where she goes from here is up to her. But she has the rest of her life to live. She posted on her Facebook site last night that she is ready to live life to the fullest. I hope she is.

I can't help being reminded of being her age and thinking I had my future figured out. I was after all, over my high school boyfriend and dating a new guy. We had a bright future ahead of us and of course we would get married. It's just what everyone did right? WRONG!! It didn't work out even though we dated over 2 years. After a small stint of living and working in Chicago he kicked me to the curb. He found someone else and was done with me. It was a horrible feeling. I didn't know what do do. I didn't know where to go. Unlike Stephanie I had already moved out of my mother's house and out of town. What ever was I to do? Thank goodness I was able to call my beloved brother So who had previously moved to Houston of the same year that I moved to Chicago. I can still remember that Friday. I went to the corner phone booth in downtown Chicago and put my coins in and called him to tell him what was going on. I was so upset. I was in so much pain. My world had been rocked. So calmly told me what I was going to do. Move to Houston with him.

That is what I did. On October 16, 1977 I arrived in Houston on an airplane after a small stay with Mom here in Kentucky. I never looked back on my decision. I was and am so grateful to have had So to lean on. We lived together for 3 yrs in Houston and they were some of the best years of my life. Literally. I was able to grow up so much, learn so much not only about myself but others. How to treat other people. How to pretty much be an adult.

Stephanie has the best Dad in the world. His genes might not be in hers but he is her Dad. She and Joe have such a great relationship. They have a closeness that is rare to see, at least in my experience. She can talk to him about anything. Literally anything. She is more comfortable talking to him that me. Which is ok by me. As long as she is able to talk to someone. She thinks I don't understand and that's ok. She can think that all she wants. I tend to be the Mother from Hell when someone messes with my kids' feelings. Joe seems to be able to keep his head on straight a little better than me. My fangs and nails come out and I am ready to rip someone apart in a heartbeat whereas Joe is able to sit and calmly listen and give good advise. It is a good relationship. It is a healthy relationship.

Growing up is so hard. The life lessons we learn along the way can hurt to the very core of our being but somehow we get through them and if we are lucky, we are stronger and better because of them. I pray every night for all of my family and loved ones. Steph has had a special place in my prayers the last few weeks. Her heart is pure and she deserves to be happy. I am a lucky woman to be able to witness such a beautiful soul learn to go on. To make it through what seems like the most horrible situation with her head held high. It will take a while for her to get all of the way there but I truly do think that she is well on her way.

I'm ready to put my fangs and nails up for a while.

The Men in my life

2010-05-27T08:58:00.003-05:00

I have been inspired this morning. There is a very popular blog that I read daily called The Pioneer Woman. She gives away a lot of cool loot every week. Today she is giving away another of her favorite mixers. What she does is post a question and all you have to do to enter is just post something. Today, she asked "Who is your favorite man?" Oh my was I ever torn. But it did inspire me enough to write this post. I hope you enjoy it.

My dad was and still is my hero. He always, always made time for us kids. Even when he was busy tinkering with something (he loved to take things apart and put them back together) he could always stop what he was doing to listen to me. He was so patient also. He coached my brother Mike's little league baseball for years. When the concession stand at the ballpark was not able to be used (I can't remember what happened to it, So will tell us) he built a portable concession stand that he took back and forth to the ball fields. So and I worked in it and the original one for a couple of summers (I think...again, So will set me straight! His memory is better than mine). He built a treehouse for us kids. It was the coolest thing. It was not actually in a tree, it was supported by 6X6s. He built steps up and the way down was the coolest pole we slid down. There was a little wood thingy we would pull up which made it where we could slide down the pole. I will never forget the time our brother Mike slid down it and hurt his ankle or something. So and I laughed and laughed. Mike was a bit of a baby when we were small. The room of the treehouse was screened in and he even built the furniture that was in it. As a matter of fact, the last time I drove past our old house it was still there. Other children have been able to enjoy what my precious Daddy built over 40 years ago.

Dad also knew that I was born with an instant love for horses. He bartered with one of his employees at his dental office for my first pony LuckyPony. He was named Lucky because the folks who had him won him in a raffle and were keeping him in their garage. Oddly enough I actually sat next to the girl that had him a couple of years ago at a local horse auction. You can imagine my surprise to find that out!

When Dad passed away 10 1/2 years ago I was devastated. We had a tough year in 1999. My stepmother Linda, passed away in Feb 1999, my beloved Mother passed away May 3rd 1999 and Dad passed in August of that same year. Dad's was the hardest for me. Mother had ALS and had been bedridden for years. Linda had Aplastic Anemia of which there is no cure aside from a bone marrow transfer. I was fortunate enough to be with Dad in the emergency room that night and I am so grateful now for it taking so long to get his room ready. We were able to talk about everything under the sun. Things we had not talked about in years. I guess, somehow we knew it would be our last conversation.

Then there is my son Ryan. I love him so much. He has been through a lot in the last few years. Mostly of his own doing (actually ALL of his own doing) but hopefully he is on the right road now. That is up to him. He and I have been through a lot in his life. 2 divorces (the first from his father), being so poor I couldn't even afford one roll of toilet paper. But we got through it and were stronger because of it.

There is my brother Scott, but he is So to me. We have called each other that for many years. It started when we were kids and neither one of us can remember how we came up with it. There is no telling actually. So is my rock. He has been my rock my entire life. We played with trolls together, made clothes for them from felt, listened to our Dad's collection of Disney albums and read the scripts from the album cover inserts. I swear I think I could probably still recite Pollyanna in a heartbeat. I know he can. So helped me in so many ways and still does. When I was having so much trouble with Kevin, who was the boy next door (literally across the street) and how badly he treated me So helped me. I remember going to Nashville for a week when I was 16 and stayed with him and his roommates. I went to the club where Merna Turner performed using an ID from some girl from Alaska. I had no idea what to order to I had a Singapore Sling. Again I had to ask So what to order because I was clueless! The week away helped a great deal and I was finally able to put Kevin behind me. So also helped me with my hair! I hated my natural curls and was constantly trying to straighten it. I didn't have the cool straighteners that kids have now. He pin curled my hair and when I let took it out (or he did, I don't remember) it looked fabulous! There is nothing better than having a gay brother for me!

When my boyfriend kicked me out of his house in Chicago where I had moved with him So was the first person I called. He told me I was coming to Houston and that is what I did. I stayed for 13 yrs until it was time to come back home to raise my son. He is currently doing something for me that is priceless. Absolutely priceless in every way. I can't talk about it now because it is a surprise but I will soon.

I love my brother So more than I can put into words. Like I said, he is my rock, always has been and always will be.

Then there is Joe. My wonderful husband. He was my best friend for many years before we started dating. In one moment we went from being like siblings to instant love. We were on a platonic date and were dancing to "The Dance" by Garth Brooks, oddly being sung by my current boss and good friend Butch. Joe asked me if he could kiss me. I said yes and my knees buckled....literally. The rest is history. He took on a single mother with a 2 yr old and a 12 yr old and has been the best father to both of them. Even Ryan's dad (Kevin I spoke of earlier...long story) has told Joe that he was a better dad to Ryan that he was. He has taught me so many things. I have taught him so many things in the 16 yrs we have been together. He is still my best friend. He always will be. I can remember when I used to wish on the first star I saw at night. Yall know that little jingle don't you? I remember that last time I wished on a star. I was sitting on our (mine and Joe's) front porch when I realized I already had what I had been wishing for so many years. It was Joe. I knew right then the last name that would be on my tombstone. It still makes me smile to this day.

I am a lucky girl to have had so many wonderful men in my life. I am forever grateful to them all.

It was NOT a good day to piss me off!

2010-05-26T08:33:00.002-05:00

But it happened. It also happened yesterday. If you put the two together I was fit to be tied this morning.

It started yesterday when myself and another co-worker in our warehouse was not told about a good ole' BBQ lunch that everyone (except the 2 of us) were invited to attend. By the time I knew about it I was already eating my nasty low calorie frozen items. It isn't the first or even second time this has happened. It has happened numerous times. It wasn't the fact that I didn't have the delicious BBQ, it was the principal of it. Now, I do admit that the idea of that kind of a lunch sounded so very good, but the main reason I was upset was that we were forgotten about.

This morning we were scheduled to have a safety meeting. That requires me to get up at a much more unGodly hour than I normally do. 5:15am comes mighty soon for anyone, much less this grandmother who is still trying to recover from Project Graduation this past weekend. I arrived early, as usual, for the safety meeting. I was curious to see the lack of vehicles in the parking lot when I pulled in but I just thought folks were running a tad bit late. I walked on into the office, saw some donuts and thought "ok, everyone will be here in a minute or two." Then I decided to call my boss to find out if the meeting was being held at the other office where it is sometimes held. You can only imagine what I felt when he said "the meeting was cancelled, didn't Mark tell you?" Uh, no Mark didn't tell me. He was trying to work to leave yesterday since his brother in law dropped dead Sunday. He was trying to hurry up and get home to his wife who was obviously upset about the entire thing. About that time the guy who is the Traffic Manager at the sandyard came out of the restroom. He started to tell me the meeting was cancelled when I quipped "NO ONE TOLD ME JUST LIKE NO ONE TOLD ME AND JONATHAN ABOUT THE LUNCH YESTERDAY!" and I stormed out of the office, got in my vehicle and literally squealed my tires coming out of the parking lot.

Now I don't usually let things get to me like that. Well, let me be clear on that. I haven't reacted that way since I was in my 20's. My brother, So, used to say that I could clear the Astrodome if I wanted to. I had quite a temper when I was a late teenager and early into my 20's.

Not only that but for the last 3 years I have worked here I have not been recognized one bit on Administrative Professional Day even though the girl who worked here before me received flowers every year. The 2 ladies that work at the main office always receive lunch, flowers or this year they received a gift card. I have never said anything about it, just accepted the fact that it is what is it. Well no more. I am tired of being ignored and obviously not appreciated.

Bear with me for a minute while I say this. I put my heart and soul into my job. I work to constantly improve and make things easier and more efficient. I go out of my way to check inventory at other warehouses to make sure they are cooperating with the way my customer requires things to be done. Believe me, there are many times they don't. In fact just yesterday morning I let my customer know that so and so wasn't sending the oldest product like they were supposed to be doing. I have never been late to work in the almost 4 yrs I have been here. I have never called in sick when I wasn't. Believe me I have been tempted too. But I don't believe in that. I don't DO that. Apparently my boss and others don't give a rip.

Ok, I am getting off of my soapbox now. I just had to vent and get that out. Some things are just not right and for me, I think I have been taken for granted for far too long.

Now, as Joe and I say when the subject needs to be changed.......How are the plants?

OUCH

2010-05-25T09:50:00.002-05:00

I have had kind of a crick in my neck for about 2 weeks now. It really is more like I slept wrong and that side of my neck down to the shoulder area hurts. REALLY hurts. Ryan massaged it really well the other night when he was at the house. How I long for a professional massage. If anyone has any ideas on how I can get some relief please share immediately! I'm a hurtin' I have some muscle relaxers at home but when I take one I get so sleepy I can't work. I end up getting so sleepy and that is not a good idea at work. I wonder if heat would help? I might try the heating pad tonight. Come on friends.......do a gal a favor and share share share ideas!

Stephanie is thoroughly enjoying being out of school. She has slept and slept and then slept again. Then she took some naps. Last night I gave her some chores to accomplish today. We'll see how that works out.

Joe has been visiting Bill at the hospital daily. It is so amazing to see how well he is doing. Bill that is. When I think of how close he was to death just a couple of weeks ago and how he looks and acts now it is an absolute miracle. A miracle from God for sure. Bill has arranged for after care for himself as Joe just can't handle it again. We will, of course, bring him home if the after care doesn't work out. Bill has made a lot of mistakes in his life but you know what, who hasn't? He has recovered from several surgeries at our house in the past few years. What's one more time!

Steph's boyfriend of 2 1/2 yrs abruptly broke up with her last week, 3 days before school ended. I don't want to get into it here because she would be very upset. But Joe and I have tried to help her through it. Her friends at school helped more than anything. I fear now that she doesn't believe what she was told and will get back with him. It is her decision for sure. It just hurts so much to see my baby hurt. Steph thinks that I don't understand. But I dealt with a no good boyfriend in high school that I truly did love. In fact we ended up getting married years later. He is Ryan's daddy. But that marriage didn't work out. We just grew in such different ways. He has apologized for his part in the failed marriage (which was 90%!). We are still friends and truly do care for each other. I truly hope that she realizes the truth but that is up to her. It is her future and happiness. With that said that really is all that we want. For her to be happy.

I guess it is time for me to get some work done today. That is if I can stop my continual rolling of my neck trying to make it feel better. If I don't stop soon I'm going to fall on my arse when I get up from dizziness!