Seriously...are you serious?

Merry Christmas and may the New Year always find you laughing!

2011-12-27T21:17:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!!!!

My heros aren't only Cowboys!

2011-11-11T09:44:00.000-08:00

My heros aren't only cowboys!

My Thanks and God's blessings to ALL the SPECIAL heros serving in ALL the branches of the United States Armed Forces. Your sacrifices and your willingness to serve our country is greatly appreciated by so many.

In remembrance, it's an honor to have had family members serve, as so many of us Americans have. Their patriotism will always be remembered and highly regarded..... my thanks and God's Blessings.

To All who have fought, seen action , or not..but served their time, away from their families and homes... to help protect this country.....my thanks and God's blessings.

And to those and their families ..who have suffered or are suffering with injuries, or have lost a loved one in the line of duty.....my deep thanks and May God Bless you.

PEARLS OF WISDOM

2011-08-09T12:46:00.000-07:00

I just came across what I think is the most thoughtful and rich inheritance anyone could ever recieve or pass on....... some Pearls of Wisdom.

It was a letter from a grandma to her newborn grandchild........."because it is important we pass on to our children the pearls of wisdom we have learned from the kindness of others".

My Dearest Jordan,

As you learn and grow, hopefully some of the following thoughts written in this letter will help as you begin your journey to be the best you can be while experiencing a rich and happy life filled with family, friends and those you interact with in the years to come.

If someone treats you with kindness, a warm smile and a quiet thank you..speak volumes.

Please learn to accept people for who they are, not who you think they should be.

Never leave the house without your sense of humor.

Limit your use of sarcasm. It is often used as a disguise to hurt others.

Believe in yourself. Others may question your integrity, honesty,optimism and faith. always remember that you are special, unique and the only you that will ever exist. Make friends with that as soon as possible.

Don't put yourself down. There are enough people in the world who will want to do that for you.

You can grow up and become anything you want.

Embrace changes that enrich your life. Learn to tolerate and make the best of those that don't.

Work to help those less fortunate and also work to ease the burden of others by treating them with respect, praise, kindness and good manners.

Each day, show people you love how much you care. They won't be around forever.

Learn from the past, live in the present, and plan for the future.

Respect and learn from your teachers. They are heroes.

Practice forgiveness. Not for the person you believe harmed you, but for yourself. Anger, pain and resentment are a heavy burden to carry throughout your life.

Work on developing an appreciation for music, art, literature and other forms of expression. It will nurture your soul.

Embrace the differences in others and learn from them.

And always love and respect your parents. You are the greatest gift they will ever receive.

You already have learned how to create happiness by receiving and giving unconditional live to everyone you come in contact with. My heartfelt wish for you is that it continues everyday of your life. And with the way your young life has begun, it most assuredly will.

with much love,

Your Grandmother

Kissing the Blarney Stone.

2011-03-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

Well..it's been a hell-of-a couple of months...so much calamity goes on in my life... again..I think the universe is trying to tell me it's time for a Really BIG CHANGE!!!!! I know..i know.. I could use a small "quick lift".....but I think I'll just start with this blog. hey..maybe I should change the name to "Calamity Kay's"!

Well, after the grandchildren told me they were settin' out traps to catch a leprechaun on St. Paddy's Day ..I thought, .."Yea..what better way to use the brilliantly honed skills I'll developed over the years (snooping in my 3 kid's private life's and trapping the marauding mice in the garage).. to seriously..nab the little green bugger that must be making those questionable messes thru out the house during the night when I am fast asleep......

(Nooo... I'm not talking about my peeing-pug -Oscar.. and Mike is more of the tan- yellowish color..)

.. I'm making it me job to capture the clever little Irish guy with the pot-o-gold! .... Oh yea..I'd settle for Gerald Butler as I 've a luvin' heart for him ..but isn't he Scottish?

...anyhoo...as soon as it stops it's raining here and the darn sun comes out...me and me leprechaun.......will be sitting crosslegged, at the end of that rainbow.. sippin' on a big glass of green Guinness .......... or two.....before heading off to me long forgotten homeland.. thee emerald green Isles of me Ireland!

"Erin go Braga!"

yea ..didn't I tell ya...I'm a lass ..with a wee bit of Irish in me blood! I called my dear sweet MAM..er.. ah..mom ... as I wanted some true verification of exactly what % of Irish blood I had running in me Celtic veins before I put any % of Irish whiskey in me Celtic belly! Her.. (in her full German brogue) ..said, "Now, McKay, my O'dear...you know your father was mostly German but I do know that your father's grandfather was a true blooded Irish, esp. after your own father naming your sister's a boy's name "KERRY"! The story goes your great-grandfather went off one day into the hills....and was never to be heard of again!..... leaving your poor great- grandmother and your grandmother and all her younger brothers and sisters to fend for themselves ..so your great-grandmother packed up all her meager belongings in a covered wagon and headed across country to a better life in Texas. Your grandma always said that they thought he was surely killed in those woods by the revenue agents for making "Poitin"....better known as White Lightening! wow!! My great-grandfather was a moon shiner!! "Faith and Begarra!"

Well...Hurray!!! My Irish eyes are smiling!

... I now know why my favorite color is green and why my polka looks just like the Irish jig!

.......so as the luck of the Irish would have it..me plan is to get me gold and get to the Blarney Castle and give that Old ROCK one smacker and bring back .........

.....BUT.... don't sit on your hands waiting for me...I love your blogs so much so if you don't see me here .....know I read yours everyday.

TOO RA LOO RA LOO RAL

TOO RA LOO RA LI!

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

Don't You Just Love Santa Claus?

2010-12-20T18:10:00.000-08:00

Don't you JUST LOVE... SANTA CLAUS......such as when you...

........ go to ....The Reno Santa Crawl.....

where thousands and thousands of HAPPY ..sappy...(and maybe alittle drunk) ...Santas...... gather down town Reno under the Arch at midnight to celebrate the joy of Christmas!

.....gaze at a "SANTA ONLY" Christmas tree.......

with all the different Kris Kringle's..and Saint Nickolaus', Niklo's,
and Sint Niklaes'
ornamentsare hung..

and where believing is the only way.....

....................get a hug from A REAL Victorian ST NICK in Nevada City........

...or remember the good ole days with your silly siblings.. on Christmas morning...........................................
...can spend the eve with your newlywed.....

..or a newly friend.......

.. watch the joy through the eyes of a few of Santa's ..............little .......

helpers..

............................OR watch Santa Helping Himself..with his little Helper!!!!!!

Don't ..........

WE ALL LOVE just SANTA CLAUS!!!!!!!!!

( Well..most of the time!!!!!!!!!)

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Where would you be?

2010-08-25T20:25:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July AMERICA!

2010-07-13T23:20:00.000-07:00

WHAT DOES....

LOVING this GREAT and WONDERFUL COUNTRY WE LIVE IN, ......

A WEEKEND of COOKING and EATING FRIED POTATOES, SAUSAGE and EGGS for BREAKFAST ..and OVER the TOP.. amounts of USDA PRIME GRADE .. BBQ'd ..BEEF STEAK for DINNER , ...........

CAMPING in the HOT 99 degree HEAT of the HIGH SIERRA Nevada Desert ...... SWIMMING in it's WARM and MYSTERIOUS INDIAN LAKE and SLEEPING UNDER the BRIGHT STARS with the BEAUTIFUL MOON as your ONLY GUIDING LIGHT,....

WAKING up VERY EARLY and FINDING.. SAND STILL in your UNDERPANTS and MARSHMALLOW STUCK to your CHIN..CUZ YOU made SAND ANGELS with your ADULT DAUGHTER....

and MADE S'MORES with your GRANDCHILDREN by the FIRE,....................

BEING STUNG by a the reclusive DESERT SCORPION on the top of your RIGHT FOOT.... earning a BIG, PAINFUL, RED WHELT to go along with the DRY, CALLUSED SOLES of ONE'S FEET from DAYS of GOING BAREFOOT in the HOT, DEEP BEDDED SAND made of SHELLS and SHALE,.............

STAYING HOPELESSLY AND HAPPILY DRUNK FOR 3 DAYS ON MEXICAN TEQUILA (proper name: TO-KILL YA) ..CHASED BY COPIOUS AMOUNTS OF GOOD OLE ICE-PACKED, AMERICAN BEER.....followed by AND CHIPS and lots of HOT SALSA and WATERMELON,.......

WAITING and WATCHING for the many ILLEGAL FIREWORKS to FILL the AIR OVER the STILL WATERS of the BEAUTIFUL PYRAMID LAKE ..WHILST SINGING an OUT-OF TUNE "GOD BLESS AMERICA", ...........................

WELL??????

WHAT do THEY have in COMMON... you WONDER??????

LITTLE OLE ........me!

HOPE U ALL HAD A
HAPPY 4TH OF JULY..I DID!

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-07T18:49:00.000-07:00

Me.... and my 82 year old Mom... Mary

MOTHERS

real Mothers don't eat quiche;

they don't have time to make it.

real Mothers know that their kitchen utensils

are probably in the sandbox.

real Mothers know that dried play dough

doesn't come out of carpets.

real Mothers don't want to know what

the vacum just sucked up...

real Mothers sometimes ask 'Why me, Lord?'

and get their answer when a little voice says,

'Because I love You best.'

real Mothers know that a child's growth

is not measured by the height or years or grade...

it is marked by the progression of Mommy to Mom to Mother.......

The Images of Mother:

4 Yearsof Age- My Mommy can do Anything!

8 years of Age- My Mom knows alot! A whole Lot!

12 Years of Age- My Mother? She wouldn't have a Clue.

14 years of Age- My Mother? She so five minutes ago.

18 years of age- That old woman? She's way out of date!

25 years of age- Well, she might know just a litttle bit about it.

35 years of age- Before we decide, let's go get Mom's opinion.

45 years of age- Wonder what Mom would have thought about it?

65 years of age- Wish I could talk it over with Mom..(soo true!)

The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure she carries, or the way she combs her hair.

The beauty of a woman must be from in her eyes,

because that is the doorway to her heart,

the place where love resides.

But true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul.

It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she

shows, and the beauty of a woman with passing years only grows!

Happy Mother's Day to all You Mothers out There!

ps... I love you best..Mom!

Happy Easter!

2010-03-31T23:30:00.000-07:00

My blessings....and may God's Love and Peace be with you.

Tax Time

2010-03-20T20:23:00.000-07:00

((can ya even read the small print circled in red??))

Yes ..it is THAT time of year again! THAT dark and dreaded time.

That time when Wesly, my son banishes me to the cold , dark recesses of the dungeon-like office and says, "NEVER COME OUT! UNTILL THE fricking Ta567372##41 ARE DONE AND READY TO GO!"

ooohh there's that.... FIVE LETTER WORD!, again! Nooo..don't say it! It's like acid on your tongue! Not even at a whisper..I might hear you. ..then it would burn my ear. (I only have one left..Mike burned up the other one from asking one too many times " Are the fricking *TA76%6$#!7 done..YET?" My poor little fingers are so frightened..they won't even type the word. see...TTaaaaa%5222###3. Hating it ! hate! hate! Yep..I'm a hater!

This is the time when I have to pay the piper for my long year of procrastination! (Where is the local Procrastinators Anonymous?) And what have I been doing all year when I should have been keeping up with the books... you ask?? Reading you'alls wonderful and ingenious blogs! Yep..I'm addicted....and what a great addicted diversion its been!

I have spent so much of my work-I mean- spare time enjoying intelligent, talented, thoughtful, virtuous, educational, spiritual, funny and and sometimes sad postings. Not even to mention the beautiful pictures you all take. Who needs a vacation or "Calcon to be taken away! when I have the blogg-o-sphere at my fingertips !! I just grab a blanket, a snack, curl up with my pug, Oscar, turn on the space heater, and I'm where-ever I want to go! (that is until my back starts hurtin', or my legs fall asleep, or yikes..the sun comes up!)

But when am I gonna learn! Can you answer me that? ..after all, I am (barely) old enuff to know better! (Shut up Wesly! I am your Mother!)

Well, here Iam blogging, again..

sooo...I better pull my head out of where it doesn't belong ( before they bury me that way) so as the government can get to doing what it knows how to do best!

But don't think for a moment.. I won't be lurking!!

Things aren't always what they seem..

2010-02-26T14:36:00.000-08:00

Two traveling Angels stopped to spend the night in the home of a wealthy family. The family was rude and refused to let the Angels stay in the guest room of the mansion. Instead, they were gave a spare room in the cold basement.

As they made their bed on the hard floor the older Angel saw a hole in the wall and repaired it. When the younger Angel asked why? The older Angle replied, "Things aren't always what they seem."

The next night the pair came to rest at the house of a very poor, but very hospitable farmer and his wife. After sharing what little food they could, the couple let the Angels sleep in their bed, where they could have a good night's rest.

When the sun came up the next morning the Angels found the farmer and his wife in tears. Their only cow, whose milk had been their sole income, lay dead in the field.

The younger Angel was furious and asked the older Angel , "How could you have let this happen? The first man had everything, yet you helped him. The second family had little but was willing to share everything and you let their cow die?"

The older Angel replied, " Things aren't always what they seem."

" When we stayed at the basement of the mansion, I noticed there was gold in that hole in the wall. Since the owner was so obsessed with greed and unwilling to share his good fortune, I sealed the wall so he wouldn't be able to find it. Then last night as we slept in the farmer's bed, the Angel of Death came for his wife and I gave her the cow instead."

~author unknown~

Makes one think that we should really be alot more generous with ourselves then we are..doesn't it?

Do you believe Angels walk amongst us? I sure do ....

Relationships..A reason, a Season and a Lifetime

2010-02-19T20:14:00.000-08:00

Someone posted this on their blog and although I have read it many times before.. this time the words really sunk in. It actually felt comforting to me ...somehow! So I thought I would pass it on. What do you think?

People come into your life for a REASON...it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally, or spiritually.

They may seem like a Godsend, and they are!

They are there for the reason you need them to be, then, without any wrong doing on your part, or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end.

Sometimes they die.

Sometimes they walk away.

Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand.

What we must realise is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered.

And now it is time to move on.

When people come into your life for a SEASON... it's because your turn has come to share, grow, or learn.

They bring you an experience of peace, or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.

Believe it! It is real.

But, only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons; things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation.

Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person, and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life.

It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

~AUTHOR UNKNOWN~

Budding Artist??

2010-02-06T14:47:00.000-08:00

Titled: "What Do You Do When You Are Bored at Work?

...and finally!!!

Happy Birthday Trainwreck!!

2010-01-21T12:47:00.000-08:00

Well..when I heard Trainwreck over at http://Cowboys,Kids and Sunsets was celebrating her birthday and inviting her bestest of friends to get dressed up and join in on her party....I just couldn't help my self!

First of all..let me tell you.......Kim is one of the most beautifulEST gals on the blogging circuit..inside and out! She is so kind and caring, and a fantastic photographer! Oh no! wait a minute...I wouldn't forget to mention ..and she's a real hoot, too! Sooo...I couldn't imagine missing her party! I tried real hard to dress to the 9's for ya, Kim!!

How'd I do?

(I had to borrow a few accessories, but you know..a girl has gotta do what a girl has gotta do! Right?)

Paris...eat your heart out!

So, hope you don't mind that my phone call is alittle late..(my phone is alittle antiquidated...just like me!) but my heart and spirit is with ya on your special day!

SINGING you a "HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!"
lalala

along with

God's blessings and my love.

kay

Merry Christmas from Us!

2009-12-24T11:17:00.000-08:00

MERRY
CHRISTMAS

FROM US ALL

and have a happy new year!

25 days of Christmas!

2009-12-14T20:50:00.000-08:00

Here is a Christmas meme for ya ..You know what do do ...

1.What is your favorite Christmas song?

Santa Baby!

2. What's is your least favorite song?

Santa Baby!

3. What tops your Christmas tree?...angel..star??

....an very old Angel, a SANTA, and a red cardinal..I like to LOOK at decorated christmas trees , so I put up 3!

4. What annoys you most about the holidays?

..people not wanting to let go of their ego trips at this time......

5. What is your favorite Holiday drink?

..alcohol with some brandy in it..I mean eggnog with brandy in it....

6. Who is your most favorite Christmas character?

..the guy with the jelly-belly! I have a tree full of him!

7. What was your favorite Christmas memory?

..my brother waking us kids up before dawn, lining us on the sofa in the dark waiting for our parents to get up so we could go look and see what Santa brought! The little General would line us all up and would not let us tilt our head over lest we drift off back to sleep... the excitement of sitting there in the dark looking at the beautiful lit tree with all my brothers and sisters...with it's smell and the smell of bags of fresh oranges, candy canes and nuts! Boy...I loved my brother so!

8. Do you find sitting on Santa's lap fun or creepy?

The older I got the funner it became! Ho! Ho! Ho!!

9. What would make you happy this Christmas?

...Understanding....forgiviness and Peace!

10. Out of the 12 days of Christmas..which day and gift would you want your true love to give to you?

....Give me them milking cows! We drink alot of milk around here! and...I'll keep those hard workin' maids, too!

11. When do you put your tree up and when do you take it down?

hopefully... up by the 6th and down by the 6th...(as soon as the 3 Kings come and fill our shoes!)

12.Why do you think Grandma got ran over by a reindeer?

...obviously.....Santa was celebrating New Years alittle early!

13. What is your favorite Christmas recipe?

..Dulce Leche yellow cake with Chocolate frosting!

14. Do you believe in Santa Claus?

...Yes...If you believe ...he will come!

15. What was the best Christmas toy/ gift you have ever received?

...my husband home for Christmas...

16. Real tree or fake tree?

...I have ..one ice-cycle fake tree for my bedroom, one fake Santa tree for the living room and one real Cowboy tree for the family room. I LOVE decorated TREES!

17. Do you leave alittle something-something out for Rudolf or for Santa on Christmas Eve?

Nah.. no more ..not since the grandchildren found the carrots and brownies un-eaten... Santa forgot...bad, bad Santa!

18. Do you believe in Christ?

....well......Hello...... Tis the Reason for the Season!

19. Do you wrap gifts for your pets? and then let them unwrap them? What do you get them?

...... bones and sweaters! bones and sweaters....Doesn't everybody?

20. Are you still reading this?

......I quit along time ago.

21. What is your favorite Christmas dinner?

...prime Rib!...mashed potatoes

22. Do you decorate your house with Holiday Blow-ups?

.....Don't even go there!

23. Did you buy your dog coat or sweater this year?

...Nah ..my old , skinny horse needed one far worse!

24. Are you a Grinch or a Who?

......nether....I'm more like the little dog!!

25. What do you really want for Christmas?

That you all have a Happy and Loving Christmas!

I am Thankful for Pumpkin Pie!

2009-11-23T10:34:00.000-08:00

BE THANKFUL

Be Thankful that you don't already have everything you desire,

If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be Thankful when you don't know something,

For it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be Thankful for the difficult times,

during those times you grow.

Be Thankful for your limitations,

Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be Thankful for your mistakes,

They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be Thankful when you are tired and weary,

Because it means you made a difference.

It is easy to be Thankful for all the good things,

A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who also are Thankful for the setbacks.

Gratitude can turn negatives into positives. Find a way to be Thankful for your trouble and they can become blessings.

~AUTHOR UNKNOWN~

Happy Thankgivings to you all! Enjoy your PIE!

Bank account of Happiness...

2009-11-05T11:37:00.000-08:00

"a 92 year old, petite well-poised and proud man, who was fully dressed each morning by 8 o'clock, with his hair fashionably combed and was shaved perfectly even though legally blind moved to a nursing home today...

..his wife of 70 years recently passed away making the move necessary.

After many hours of waiting patiently in the lobby of the nursing home, he smiled sweetly as he was told his room was ready.

As he maneuvered his walker to the elevator, he was provided a visual description of his tiny room, including the eyelet sheets that had been hung on the window....

.."I Love It", he stated with the enthusiasm of a eight- year old just having been presented a new puppy! "Mr. Jones, you haven't see the room, just wait."

"That doesn't have anything to do with it," he replied. "Happiness is something you decide on ahead of time. Whether I like my room or not doesn't depend on how the furniture is arranged. It's how I arrange my mind. I already decided to love it."

It is a decision I make every morning when I wake up. I have choices, I can spend the day in bed recounting the difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of bed and be thankful for the ones that do."

Each day is a gift, and as long as my eyes open, I'll focus on the new day and all the happy memories I've stored away... just for this time in my life"

Old age is life's bank account. You withdraw from what you've put in. So my advice to you would be to deposit alot of happiness in the bank account of memories. "

Remember the 5 Simple rules to be HAPPY:

1: Free your heart from hatred.

2: Free your mind from worries.

3: Live simply.

4: Give more.

5: Expect less.

Thank you for your part of filling my memory bank I'm still depositing!

BOO!

2009-10-28T09:10:00.000-07:00

Hope Your's is a.........................

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We are OK!

2009-10-03T09:51:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have showed concern or are wondering why I haven't posted lately, please ..rest assured we all are fine. (although we have had a few clowns try and get us bucked off ..we know how to hang on ..this ain't our first rodeo!..you know!)

Mike is doing very well with his dialysis, as he's had only a few minor problems. The cleansing of the toxins from his body is showing now as his mind is clearing and he is feeling much better, although he really hates being stuck there in that chair, tied to a machine for so much of his day. Yet he looks forward to the conversations with the nurses and has made some friendships, and I am thankful as it gets him up and showered..the bane of his existence! But Mike's not a complainer... he is so strong...but I've sure learned that peroxide works well on getting blood out of your clothes!

We're waiting on the latest scan results, as he gets them tri-monthly and so far they have been clear. He will have his usual colonosopy in the next couple of weeks.

Other than that... we have been staying busy going to our grandkids many soccer games as Kaitlyn is on a elite soccer team and travels alot and Buddy Bear's games fill in the spare time...we love watching them play sports. They are so cute!

And Oscar..well he's learned how to tunnel under the covers ..its been cold lately!

I also have working a second job. I am loving it as I get to get out of my PJS and dress up like a real female! I get to get out of our home office for a couple of hours EVERY day. I know..Thank you, Lord! He does answer your prayers.

Tom is doing great in college and living at home... Amber is working on her masters, Wes is still running the family construction business as we are still in business, (hurray!!!!!!!with me still doing the books.

Bryce never did see that elk he wanted to mount beside Keely's elk, but they soon they will be going after their deer. And..Keely has gotten a new job, also.

So we all are thankful for keeping busy!

And today is my Mom's 81st Birthday! yeah! Hope to do something special for her!

Happy Bday Mom! We love you.

Thank you to those who have sent prayers and best wishes for Mike... and for me....it is sooo appreciated. God is listening because we are so blessed. I hope you too are doing well with yours.

ps. Don't forget me..as I never forget you..just been busy.....I love reading your blogs!

Those little Katydids are Gonners!

2009-09-03T04:33:00.000-07:00

The old story goes something like this: A woman named Katy fell in love with a handsome man who scorned her and instead married someone else. After the honeymoon, the couple were found DEAD in bed! The bugs began debating whether Katy could have done it or not. So if you listen carefully you can hear them debating .."KATY DID..KATY DIDN'T"

Well ..Katy...you're not the only one to hate these loud little blabber-mouths! I have become to detest the bug-gers and there won't be any debating whether 'KayKay did or KayKay didn't'..'cause this summer...I seriously..got serious and brought out the big ammo and sprayed those bug-gers with some dreaded potent neurotoxin! And those katydids are gonners! I mean... geesh.. I don't like doing chemical warfare but ..come- oonnn.. it was them or my wonderful shade! ..and so far.. they were winning! So when the tuff gets going ..the going gets tuffer...no, that's not it..well you know what I mean! see some of the damage they cause!

So now... THOSE KATYDIDS ARE GONNERS!

My sad story started last fall when my kids thought it was pretty funny when they came over and heard lots of very loud and strange noises coming from my trees. The kids were saying the noise sounded like a hissing..maybe a jet sprinkler system. Possibly UFS's?? (Unidentified Flying Snakes) I figured they were teasing me...they like to gang up on ONCE in awhile.... cause I COULD NOT HEAR ANYTHING!

I mean Really! Nothing!

(could I really be in need of a hearing aid?)

Super-Sleuth that I am..I had to do a little of my own investigating..couldn't take my kid's word for it.. I figured they just wanted me to think I was crazy so they could get their hands on my money! (Bwaaha! ha! I've got them fooled... ..I've spent all my money!) So...the next day I went out ...at dusk..and sprayed the trees with a very hard stream of water and knocked out a whole freaking village of... them large

..GREEN grasshop..I mean..crickets .... aptly named Katydids...out of the trees! Theese things exhibit mimcry and have fantastic camoflauge, with shapes and color of GREEN leaves! They hide high in the trees so you can't see them.

( HELLO! Earth to Mars...I thought the trees looked a little bedraggled and needy.....but in defense of moi..it had been really HOT!) Well, they're not fooling me anymore! I'm on to 'em.
So, then I knew .. a trip to the ear-doctor was in order..'cuz not only did my kids now think they had proof I was a little senile ..they were also telling me that this hearing- loss thing was "just part of growing old"! "Oh..no...wait a minute there kiddos...I don't think so" I said.. "you don't lose your hearing at the prime age of 36! *snort* snort*

But then.. we have over 75 trees surrounding the place so I guess these bug-ger's songs were sounding off pretty loud!

Newsflash to My Adult Children: Our human hearing is not sensitive enough to hear the Katydids entire melody because their untrasonic range exceeds above the 20KHZ upper limit of our hearing.

Not only did we have a slow start for our growing season but this spring was filled with such horrid winds along with bursts of thundering rain so bad that after my lovely lilacs bushes finally sprouted with their heavenly scented blooms, the cold gusts ripped through them..leaving only barren branches. And now sadly... these long horned grasshoppers-hybrids (although they are more closely related to crickets)were growing fat on the leaves of my lilacs, vines, flowers, plums, apple, cherry and other trees! And to think...the poor little quail kept taking the heat every time a plant would disappear over night!

Don't get these bug-gers confused with the infamous Mormon crickets that keep been moving across Nevada -which by the way are closely related to Katydids- or even the related spittle bug,the ever sooo-loud Cicadas! The katydid can be just as devastating.

Katydids are in the family of Tettigoniidae and are also known as brush crickets. They are easily distinguished from grasshoppers by the length of their filamentous antennae, which may exceed their own body length. They are nocturnal and arboreally sing in the evening, as they have sound producing organs (via striation) located on the hindquarters of their wings, the males are song producing and the females chirp in response which supposedly sounds like "Katy did..Katy didn't" ..hence the name!

I thought last fall's blast of crop protection would have been enough.. I really..thought I had them licked... ..well..not really licked..licked ..although I think I did get a little malathion in my mouth! hack! hack! My toxicological tests did come back and the dr, said I had only killed a few millions neurotransmitters, the paralysis only lasted a day and the convulsions and tremors have pretty much stopped. (just kidding!) To my dismay...those musical mating rituals, last fall, produced more than a just few summer recitals.. as their green..little offspring made their existence know this fall! If there is one thing I have learned.. is TO COUNT your bugs before they're hatched! (uhmm..do bugs really hatch?) and spray..spray..spray! and then spray some more!

So I have and did... that is ..kaykay did....but this time I have used a bad-As#..wide-spectrum insecticide! Nope..no more messing around...(and no it wasn't the product you see to your right..a good product in it's own right..as I also have alot of spiders and ants, but that's a whole 'nother story!)

Disclaimer: Do not use if irration persists or if visual changes occur ..seek medical medical attention. If you are pregnant or nursing ..consult physician before using.

E.S.E.T.J.F.Y.

Extra Special Educational Tip Just For You: here in case you did want to know and if you didn't..I won't debate it: Did you know that some say that Katydids are weather forecasters. According to wise observers..it's 3 months until the first frost after they start singing..and during the late summer when they begin calling during the day from the deep shade..you can expect frost in 6 weeks!

(This one is trying to suck up to me ..well.. I didn't buy it!)

Shoot..I didn't expect to hafta take a class in entomology..or learn the life cycles of the Tettigoniidae....and I realize my vision will never be the same..but still..I bravely took one for the team (the trees, in this case)..only next time I must wear a mask .. ....

I think I have won the battle .. (yet to be seen if I have won the war..) Although I still walk with a limp ..I think it was worth it cuz.....those Katydid's better be gonners!!!

....and oh yeah.. my doctor confirmed ..I AM TOO YOUNG TO LOSE MY HEARING DUE TO OLD AGE! Sorry..I didn't mean to yell..it's just that I wanted to make sure my kids could hear that! Doc said it was the bug-ger's high frequencing and I was experiencing a slight loss of hearing stemming from inflammation from Lupus. So there my dear offspring!

Go Granny Go!

2009-08-18T10:19:00.000-07:00

"A lady was video taping her son riding a skate board when her attention switched to an old woman trying to cross the road. You might need to watch it twice to get the full effect on the driver.

You can hear the photographer giggling as she records the event.

This is hysterical."

Is it my age or what but I can so relate to Granny!
I know, I know... I have been guilty of feelings of impatience, too, when it comes to how seemingly slow this world seems to work .. like the driver in the car.. we always seem to have someplace we need to be in a hurry!But...leave it to the elderly with their lifetime of experiences, to remind us that life will go on whether we get there on time or not. Old people are great for calling attention to the fact that we should respect our elders for all they have contributed to our life's and that we still have so much to learn about the world around us. That whatever it is of the most importance to you at any given moment is most likely not life threatening or even life altering. You know..remind us to stop and smell the roses! The world needs to slow down a bit. And allow us all to cross the road of life..more slowly and safely!

Simple Minds

2009-08-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

Hey..hey..hey..hey..Ohhhh

Won't you come see about me..
I'll be alone, dancing ..you know it..
baby!

Tell me..your troubles and doubts..
Giving me everything, inside and out...
and...

love's strange, so real in the dark..

Think of the tender things that we were working on...
Slow change may pull us apart
When the light gets into your heart..baby

Don't you forget about me
Look my way, never love me

Rain keeps falling..rain keeps falling .. Down ..down ..down..down..

Will you reconize me? call my name or walk on by?

Rain keeps falling..rain keeps falling.. Down..down..down..down

Don't..don't..don't

~the Simple Minds~

Bliss and her tiny new daughter!

2009-08-07T19:26:00.001-07:00

"Born ten days ago at a stud farm in the Southern State of Australia, this 15 inch miniature horse is yet to be named, but has already bonded with 12 year old Sam.
Silver dun tovero in color, she was given a clean bill of health and should reach 24 inches when grown.

The birth has generated such an excirement in the community that local people are entering a competition to give the horse a name. Owner Lee Scown said she wanted a name that reflected the tiny unique nature of the horse.

"It's the smallest horse I've ever had and she's so gorgeous," Ms. Scown said.

The horse is the smallest born at River Dance and it's arrival surprised even the breeder. "We were told the mare wasn't due for another four weeks but on Sunday morning, I walked outside and called her, and out ran the little foal behind her."

Going for a walk: Sam leads the way, followed by Bliss and her tiny new daughter."

My sister sent this adorable email and I just had to share it! She is so cute..what name(s) do you think would suit Bliss' little foal?

(my grand-daughter is good at coming up with names)

Lunar Eclipse

2009-08-05T11:30:00.000-07:00

I don't know if you follow astrology or read your daily horoscope..I usually don't except this time I found this interesting...see if you do.

"On August 5, 2009, the rays from our Leo sun will be blocked from reaching our Aquarius Full Moon, by the Earth and its shadow at 8:55 pm EST... time for another Lunar Eclipse. Unless you happen to be awake in parts of Africa, Europe, or South America, you aren't going to be able to see this shadowy show - but we will all feel the vibes!

The science of astronomy quickly explains that these occurrences are simply about celestial placement and orbital paths, but the art of Astrology delves into the esoteric side of things, clarifying the subtle and not-so-subtle shifts of energy. A Lunar Eclipse, besides being cool to watch, is an opportunity to assess who you are, and to recognize those concepts or areas of life that you may need to change.

Leo energy is lavish and bold, generous and kind. Yet Leo's gifts can often be colored by selfishness and drama. Aquarius energy is the most humanitarian in the zodiac - and is also known for its inventive and intellectual vibe. There is an Aquarian duality, though, which can sometimes be displayed through a detached and unemotional essence. Since the Sun is in Leo, the Moon is in Aquarius, and Earth is going to be smack in the middle - most of us are going to be in for an interesting, possibly challenging, emotional ride!

Eclipse energy can start to make itself known to us on an unconscious, sometimes conscious, level as early as a month before the event. So, if you have been feeling stuck, conflicted, overwhelmed, or depressed - these feelings may have been being amplified with the nearing of this Lunar event. Fasten your seatbelt, because all this inner turmoil is about to come to a head. The energy of this Eclipse is going to be an enlightening time, as personal blockages crumble and new ideas are perceived. Our psychic awareness is going to increase, and we will all be a bit more in tune with our emotional (and overly emotional) reactions. While it is a time of tremendous personal transformation, it is also an awakening of sorts - guiding us all to be more aware of the world in which we live.

Being selfless doesn't mean that your purpose is to serve, or that you should give away all that you have - material, emotional or spiritual. It is more of a transition into understanding that all things are connected, and therefore affected by all that you do."

The Leo influence is likely to inspire shopping sprees, makeovers, and replacing worn-out items (and ideas!) with things that are fresh and new.

The Aquarian influence will promote lending a helping hand, so you might donate items you may normally just toss. You could find yourself going "greener" than you thought you would. You will be inspired to give back where and how you can - and, if you pay attention, you'll realize that your good deeds are coming back to you.

Because the energy of an Eclipse is likely to flow for about six months, a lot of things can take shape and change. With a little effort and mindful living, we can make our lives, the lives of others, and our world into a better place.

Aquarius and Leo are going to be affected by this Eclipse more strongly than most, but each of us is likely have some things we need to deal with.

Leos may feel as if they are being tested - or pulled in several directions at once - and will draw on their spiritual sides for additional support. Partnerships formed now have a chance to endure, and Leos who are in love may find themselves making wedding plans.

Virgo will quietly observe, formulating plans. With home life happy and settled, it's all about career plans. There will be changes at work, and turnover of staff can lead to promotions… or possibly a new career direction.

Libra will be rewarded for not giving up, and kudos will be handed out for a job well done. Creative answers will simplify problems at home.

Scorpio may have to face some personal dramas they'd rather not deal with, but once it's out in the open things will improve. The power-play in the career field is about to pay off, and positive recognition is on the way.

Sagittarius will be enjoying a social high, and new friends and family are likely to stop in. If a different vehicle or an excursion of some sort has been on your mind, things are lining up to make "now" the time.

Capricorn will see opportunity everywhere they look. With planning and strategy this can be a very prosperous time. So time to start formulating one of your brilliant, big-picture plans.

Aquarius may realize that it's time to slow down and take fewer risks, while recognizing and releasing the emotional blockages that have been getting in their way. The tides are turning for the better, and Aquarius will share in the wealth.

Pisces may realize they have some growing to do, and will implement a more spiritual approach to help them achieve those goals.

Aries will be finding solutions to the problems that plague them - both in their personal and professional lives. Focus is important now, because scattered energies could create problems at a later date.

Taurus may be feeling a financial pinch, but better economic opportunities are on the way. Try and be mindful of creating a balance - you don't want to be all work, with no time left over to play.

Gemini needs to center and ground, because creative wants and ideas may have their heads in the clouds. Choose to follow-up and follow-through on the things you're starting now, and it will pave the way and make things much easier.

Cancer will let go of some old relationship hurts, and find that when they are fully present, life is filled with love and support.

Source: california/">http://www.californiapsychics.com'>California

Pyramid Lake

2009-08-03T21:30:00.000-07:00

This is my grandson, Buddy Bear, during what he commented to be one "of the best weekends in his whole life." LOL!!! The little monkey girl and Wyatt got to babysit Grandpa and Nana for a long weekend. We played restaurant where he gets to be: the waiter, chef and top bottle washer.. dog show: where they take turns being the judge and contestant of one of the many classes where Miley, Oscar and Otis were awarded the pug with the curliest tail, the heeler who sat the best on command, and the pug who gave the best luvins! or he practiced roping the water faucet! we were even treated to Kaitlyn's special mickey mouse shaped pancake breakfast! yummy!..but I know that's not what made that the "best weekend of his whole life!" It was because.... he to spend the whole afternoon with his aunt's and uncle's on their boat at Pyramid Lake.

My son and our daughter (by marriage) invited us out to their favorite spot on the lake. It is aptly named Windless Beach. They took us out on their boat ...only this time we stayed on the lake and never beached the boat once! The water was so blue and calm it look like.. (what the locals like to call).. GLASS! When there is no wind on this sometimes dreadfully WINDY lake..it is excellent for skiing or water boarding, because it's not choppy with waves! The temperature that day was over 100 degrees .. the water is warm and felt so comfortable.. you really didn't want to get back in the boat! Except we had a spine-tingling ride while watching the picturesque dessert landscape go by. I know beauty is in the eye of the beholder but this huge lake in the middle of the desert with it's deep blues and dark greens can be breathtakingly stunning.. even Mike thought the view was esthetically beautuful !

Yep! that's that ole man!..I know..can you believe it ..we somehow got him to get in the boat and onto the water! Those white legs haven't seen sun in a ka-trillion years and he usually won't even get his feet wet in the shower! (he's a little scar-dy cat of the water) He is a dry land animal, he only came cause he loves our company so. Don't worry..we lubed those alabaster legs up with sun-screen..but remember... he tans better than most cuz he 's got that gorgeous Latin skin!

So today.. it would be was just the 6 of us..we packed a lite lunch of bagels, hard salami, and peppered Jack cheese, some water-melon, apples, water and juice. The kids got to pick something special ie; gummy bears and sour worms, and they surprised grandpa with some m&m's (his favorite).

Most of the rest of the family are fish(es) and love to be in the water. The kid's mom-my daughter was a life-guard and is a natural in the water! And as you can see these two might just have a few fins growing!

Here's grand-daughter Kaitlyn swimming to say " "Hi" to a hungry seagull that wanted to join our party. Do ya think she ever caught up with him?

Auntie Am and Uncle We helped her swim around without her vest as she is still learning from taking her swim lessons, she is getting better with each season.

She even rode on the inner-tube while being pulled by the boat with her Auntie! We were proud of this new step . (Sorry, Mommy, I was so excited, I didn't get a picture of it!)

Of course, her ole Nana had to.. first..show her how there was nothing to fear!

But... this ole lady forgot that what she should've feared.... the pain she'd be feeling the next day.... cuz you have to really hang on hard to that sucker!!!

Wyatt, is a big boy but he is only 6 and is just learning how to swim so he wants to keep his life jacket on at all times, and he has been a little frightened of the deep water! We have all been working with him to get him used to being comfortable in the lake!

Isn't the water so clear and blue?

Wyatt wasn't too sure about paddling out to meet his uncle on the inner-tube in such deep water but with alot of friendly coaxing.... he got up his nerve. He wanted it bad and knew he had to man up!

His sissy was there to show him how it was done! He was so brave.
Thanks to Auntie Am and Uncle We, he finally swam on over by himself .

Later.. although he was very tired...he didn't want to go home, and he said, "Come on .Nana, let's jump in one more time!"

He was heard saying later in his deepest breath " Mom and Dad are gonna be so proud of me."

You know Buddy Bear and Monkey Girl weren't the only ones having fun...here is Wes boarding...... I know.. where's that big grin of his?

And Amberlynn... I love watching them board! They are usually pulling everyone else around !

Amber.. you ARE lookin' good!!

It was a fun day! Thanks Wes and Amber!

But we always have fun at Pramid Lake, my family and I been going to this lake since I was 13 years old!

This is a picture of the infamous "Pyramid" that crops out of the lake.

It might take you some gas, and some time but it is interesting to boat over and see the TUFA formations and while you're there check out the island of Anaho, home to the large colony of American White Pelicans. The island is highly restricted for ecological reasons. This lake is on the Paiute Indian Reservation in the middle of the Nevada dessert, the lake has many of these tufa formations. In many boater's opinons, it is one of the better lakes for skiing and water boarding as the lake can get as smooth as glass and it warms up just like bath water.

This beach is often Wes and Amber's home away from home. They camp many weekends over the summer months and have gotten to know many of the other campers up and down the beach. Family and friends are always welcome, as this lake is only 20 minutes from our house.

My 4th of July was spent at Pyramid Lake. The kids had a BBQ, made a bon-fire and everyone shot off fireworks after dark.

The little kids had fun jumpimg off the boat into the water.

The big kids played their music, had a tournament of horse-shoes ....

...and some played an old fraternity game using a bucket and some balls!

........ the girls watched and caught some rays!

While others were having fun mastering the jumps and spins they have been practicing on the boards.

Check out these two's fantastic tattoos! These two youngins are married and (psst..can you believe she just had a baby 6 months ago? neither can I!) That's the baby's name on his belly! Awwh to be young again!!

Did you notice my son-law's, BIG- MAN-THERMOS!! Doesn't it make you wonder what it is he is drinking??

I'll never tell!!

Update On Smiley..Miley!

2009-07-31T16:10:00.000-07:00

Miley and I wanted everyone to know how she has been doing since her terrible "run in" with my truck ..as it has been a week today! She is doing so wonderfully ..it is so surprising! This little 2year old Queensland heeler has moving about and running quite a bit more. She laid low for a day or two but then it's been slowly getting back to business as usual. She was even barking at some-thing creeping around..last night! (although...it wasn't her usual back-off-coyote bark!) She takes her job sooo serious...don't cha know! Her appetite has returned to almost normal and she is following me ..again..on down to feed the horses ..one of her most favorite things to do, as she has always enjoyed clearing the place out of any jack rabbits or birds hiding in the haystacks or under the shelters. She also thinks it's her job to bring the horses around and in ..nippin at their heels all the way, esp Donk! ...as he gives her such a fun fight! But...I know she is not feeling confident enough right now..as she hasn't even disciplined them at all.

But then...she and Oscar are back to their usual "I'll chase you up on the sofa and down ..and up over on the chair and down ..and back up on the sofa and down..before Mom can can catch us" game !

"WHO US? NAH!!..NOT US...MOM"

Miley's insides must be feeling good enough to stand on her hind legs and beg for a treat! But...hey!..these snacks are special treats. They were sent by some very caring people and just for her.

The really nice women and men that work down at our Bank were so concerned for her that day she was hurt. I was in doing business with the branch manager after the accident and they could see I was very upset.

This is the letter we received in the mail today ...with good wishes and signatures from the all the bank managers and tellers ...along with a bag of yummy doggy snacks! Isn't that the greatest and sweetest thing? They took the time to show they cared. It made Miley's and my day!

It REALLY..........made her SMILE!!!!!

So...we really wanted to thank you all for your caring inquiries and concern for my little heeler. Ohh...Oscar thanks you, too!

I ran over my Dog!

2009-07-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

A lot of bad has been happening to me and my family lately! Could it be that someone put a curse on me? Or am I just having a run of bad luck? I started to think..... some one needs to put down the voodoo doll and just give us a break!

My family..my kids..they have always been very been very healthy ..by that I mean..no illness's..besides what scrapes they have got themselves into..you know..... the normal bumps and bruises? of being raised an active country boy or girl! They've crashed and burned..riding their bicycles.. straight down rocky, hillsides, jumped off tall, haystacks and climbed up on tall roofs, played slingshot with large rocks, been drug around arenas when halter breaking their show steers, drug through the mud by their hogs, have gotten their fingers caught in ropes and trailers hitches, knocked off their horses while roping calves and flung to the ground when trying to ride the occasional bull! They've been run over by four-wheelers and flipped off snowmobiles. Been hit in the head hard with baseballs and gotten a broken nose with a bat! They practiced backing up a trailer before they had a driver's license and then been pulled over for driving before they had that license (but they were wearing their seat beats!) ..the little girl even chipped her teeth four-wheeling before she was ten. They've gotten bite marks, contusions, concussions, sprains, strains and stitches playing high school football, one son sprained his wrist, while the other broke his butt (twice ..seriously) while racing motorcycles, but the worst that ever really happened was when the younger son had 12 metal pins put in his leg after he broke both his tibia and fibula going over a high-jump at a race-track. wheww!! (And where were their parents, you ask?) Some-one was watching out for them.

Needless to say... they've tried it all and we've been lucky through-out their years of growing up! Through it all we've been a happy and loving bunch! No illness' and never a fight amongst each other and I've always thanked the Lord for my family's health and ability to enjoy each other and life. And then I just got on with living.
I know life is full of lessons and as you can tell..our lives have always been busy and somtimes seemingly in peril *ha *ha! Now.. my life has never been fantastic, but it has been a good life with as many more ups than there have been downs... and overall..it usually has awarded me great lengths of time for rest(s) between the bad lessons and the good lessons. Lately... tho ..thru the last 5 years..I'm not getting enough rest. My lessons are comming more rapidly.

If you have been reading my blog at all ..you know my husband was stricken with bile-duct cancer a couple of years ago. That is when my life changed drastically. The beginning of some of the biggest changes and lessons in my life.

My husband and I never had much money.. we've worked hard for what little we have, my husband helped start a small construction company, worked hard and helped to build it up, then we borrowed to buy it's assets and continued to build on it. But ..times are tough now for construction and I really don't need to tell you how hard it's been to make ends meet. The same is true for so many small business owners.

Two weeks ago, we found out that the tumor the doctors found in Mike's father was indeed cancerous. Now, he is staring chemotherapy. It was just four years ago that he had decided to move back to his native country of Argentina, South America. That move so far away devastated my husband. His only family..leaving this family man.. alone in this country with a terminal illness. Soon his cancer set in. Mike is struggling with dialysis right now so news of his Father is extra painful. And both Mike and his father are battling with their diseases without being able to ever see each other again.

Then....my older son was cutting metal for signs in this last year when the grinder he was using jammed and jerked back..hit him in the face.. slicing his face from below his eye along his nose..into the bone of his face.. down into the palate..and through his lip. He doesn't know if it knocked him out but it knocked him on his back! Bits of the broken blade had to be taken out of the bone in his face in an emergency surgery. I was so afraid he was never going to smile again.

Then..last month..my daughter decided to leave her home that they have been trying to sell after the bottom fell out of the housing market here. She lost her all her jobs after needing surgery and her husband lost his job in construction. There has been no work in Construction here. They have been feeling sad and powerless.

Now.. my youngest son has come home with his third bruised face and blackened eye in 3 months. The second fight was so awful.. he had 6 staples put in (could not have stitches) and had a concussion and the plastic surgeon said he may still need surgery to pull the facial bones back out that were crushed in from the blows to his head and face. I cried for his anguish of fighting not for his pain.

Then...last week..I blew up my truck engine.

There were so many things that were coming at me that were going wrong. Family things were being said to hurt my Mom... and things happening too personal to tell here, but everything I seemed to touch turned to stone.

So..as I was really trying to meditate and trying to bring good energy to us all. Asking God to help and thanking the universe for all that I have..as I try to always do. I thought..maybe God is testing me or else ..someone out there really doesn't like me! (ya think?) ! Maybe sending some huge amount of bad energy my way! I was walking around ..telling everyone to "Stand Back!!" ..as I had a black cloud hanging over me! I was staring to fall into a deep despair!

My husband has always wore his gold cross even when I met him some 40 years or so ago..for what he's says brings him safe keeping. The only time he has ever taken it off is when he has had surgery or goes in for tests, then he gives it to me to wear.... and then I pray a lot.

So when.. Mike took his cross off over his head and handed it to me and told me I needed it more than him... I jumped at the opportunity and started praying.

Well.. then it happened... on Friday..I had just dropped my grand kids off at school...since I was keeping them over the weekend. I was coming up the hill to my house when I said thanks for being able to spend time with them since they were so cute that morning and they always make me feel better..and then I kissed my hubby's cross, and turned into my dirt driveway. I was using my son's truck and he warned me to drive slowly because of his special wheels. There she was.. my little heeler dog, Miley, guarding the place...like she normally does..when all of a sudden.. a rabbit dashed out from the brush beside the truck and Miley dodged after it ...Running..RIGHT UNDER MY TIRES! I felt the thud and I heard her let out a painful YELP! Then I knew I hit her..and I slammed it in park and got out to look.. She was pinned under the tire..so I quickly got back in and stuck it in reverse. I tried to remain calm but I had to step on the gas to get the truck back off of her! She took off and ran to the garage where I ran to her.

It was then that I just LOST IT! I was spent! I was done in! I wanted God to show me some mercy, and I wanted it..NOW! Miley was hurting so badly, I just started screaming and begging God for His help. I laid beside her and pleaded with Him to take her out of her pain and misery as she yelped and whined. I pleaded if He were ever to be here to help NOW is the time. I cried until she stopped whimpering. Then I went in and called my son and we took her to the vet, where he gave her immediate pain medication, took xrays and later said..

...............that NOTHING was seriously wrong with her but that she was very badly bruised! He showed me the xrays that showed some sever internal bruising on her lung and stomach areas... but no broken ribs ..no internal bleeding ..no broken bones!!

I know..can you believe that? Later that evening..the kids and I came back and picked her up (gently) and have been giving her pain meds twice day. By Sunday she went down to greet the horses! What do you think of that?

So my point would be..life is so full of lessons. When I thought I was all alone and life had no hope and was full of despair. God showed me how the good energies can out number the bad. Good things out weigh the bad things that have been happening to me and my loved ones... God reminded me ..He is with me. Even tho I felt like I have had too much on my plate.. He showed me again that He is present...we are not alone. He does answer your prayers. He is there helping you along our way...He doesn't stop life from happening but He helps you deal with what life hands you and sometimes gives you a little boost! He teaches you compasion, forgivenes, and you have the choice of whether you are going to choose good or evil. He will teach you how to be a better person. He answers your prayers..although..the answers might not be the answers you want to hear....or in the time frame you feel you want things answered in..but if you search you will find the answers..in your heart! He knows what is best! I have to remain positive. I have to forget about worrying about a black cloud! You can't hang on to negative energy or you will become it! I have to remember..He has been there for me through-out my whole life ..all I have to do is.....ask for Him. Some people might not get it and for them I have my regrets..I wish they could because life would be so much easier on those they love.

How easily now..I can look back on my problems and see:

I am lucky to have any vehicle to pick my precious grandchildren up from school. When taking home our 6 year old grandson, he told us, "that was the best weekend of my life!".. ( I'll tell you why in another post!) so that tells me my daughter's kids are happy ..they are making new friends in their new neighborhood..maybe this move has given them all a new lease on life..a new start. They are dealing healthily with what life has handed them.

My oldest son said something told him to put on his eye protection-goggle on that day he was working with the grinder and that grinder left a deep gouge all the way down through that protective eye-piece..he would have lost his eye if he had not wore those glasses. The plastic surgeon cleaned and stitched his face up so neatly and his scar has healed nicely... It's hard to tell he was cut so horribly. And ..he still has that beautiful grin that comes from within.

My youngest son's doctor said if the broken bones would have reached just a small fraction higher on his cheek..it would have fractured the whole structure of the eye socket and his eye would have drooped permanently. His eye is a long way from his broken heart.
He is still a young man and he is learning something about himself and how to deal with his anguish of the health of his father. We all are.

And ....I, still, have my ole man farting and sleeping next to me every night and although he is a bit of a pain..that is a good thing! I gave my husband back his gold cross and said some more thanks to God for helping us all through these crisis' we have been facing, lately. Everything could have been so much worse. And I thanked Him for once again for forgiving me and for restoring my Faith .

I think my little ass needs some Attention!

2009-07-19T18:05:00.000-07:00

I guess I haven't been paying enough attention to my little ass! (I kinda like saying that.. "my little ass!" I hardly ever cuss really but...who would get tired of saying that? .. my little ass...well..I'm talkin' about my donk..this ancestor to the "African Wild Ass"....my little jackass...he can really make himself a pain in my as&..er.... uuhhmm..he's very hard to ignore! He has been ' brayin' more than his usual holerin', and it seems his AW-EE! AW-EE has been getting earlier and earlier in the morning! His " long-ears -as donks are called- are much longer than a horse's and they can easily pick up far-distant sounds..so much that he can hear me all the way up to the house. I'm a early morning pee-er ..and the little bugger can even hear when the toilet gets flushed! AW EE ..AW EE! It's like Deju Vu' of raising my boys again. Often times, real early in the morning, before anyone was awake, my husband and I would quietly grab our coffee and tiptoe outside ..on down to the hay barn..alone. Then there'd they'd come..screeching and hollerin'..up on their bikes ..and wondering what was for breakfast! EE AW! EE AW!

This is Jacob, others around here like to call him DONK..amongst other unmentionable names. I guess he is what you'd call a standard donkey and was born to a wild burro from the Wild Horse and Burro adoption program here in Nevada.

Donkeys, naturally, live separated lives from each other -unlike wild horses, so that is why they have such a loud vocalization and such large ears..in order to find each other out in the dessert! Jake's never been around other donkeys, just people, horses and dogs.. so I'm not sure he knows what he is! Uhhmm...maybe .. Jake just has a little low-blood -sugar!

He is always ready to eat, but eats what he wants then just complains after that. Most times he acts like a dog .. but never a pig. But really..donkeys are very well adapted to the dessert and are less prone to colic than horses because of their tough digestive system.

Jacob..waiting impatiently for breakfast!

We had the doc out to castrate Jake when he was just old enough..but let me tell you.. he is still a lover... as Jakey is very tame, friendly, and always demanding attention. I'd bet he would just about sell his soul for you to come a give him a groom.

Some people like to keep donkeys around 'cause they are known for having a calming effect on a nervous horse or on newly weaned baby horses. He and young Chex hit it off right from the start but he can sure make the big Duke a little cranky. I think he is learning to be a horse.

Donkeys are quite intelligent, very cautious, friendly, totally playful, and always eager to learn. They are excellent with children. However they usually only do whatever they think is good for them.

Yet ..... sometimes Jacob gets himself and the others into a bit of trouble.. I think, more so than any horse would. he is very snoopy and has to investigate everything. Doesn't that sound like a goat? I'm sure to put halters on the gate latches as he knows how to slide them open. I have tried tying the gates with baling twine and these, too, have miraculously come un-done! There's been a few times he has treated his stable buddies to a few snacks and to a few country strolls!

Jacob can be stubborn, which really can get my goat ...................(HUH?) This stubbornness can be attributed to the donkey's strong sense of self-preservation -even more than a horse's! It is more difficult to force or fight a donkey into doing something it perceives as dangerous for whatever reason!

Jake is halter broke and we've always had plans..but that's as far as we've gotten, as donkeys can perform all gaits horses can..although... galloping is not something they're likely to do unless dinner is being served. So mostly he's just our pet...be it a dog, a goat, or a horse. And I think he knows it.

Legend has it that in Christian religion, the cross on the donkey's shoulders is the shadow of Christ's crucifixion, placing the donkey at the foot of the cross. This line of darker hair starts at the top of the head and goes to the end of the tail (the Dorsal Stripe) This line is crossed at the withers with another darker line of hair at the shoulder forming a cross. Most donkeys have this as it's a dominant trait ..with exception of the large Mammoth Jack. .

Also....
You know that a mating between a mare/ horse and a jack/donkey gets a Mule ...a stud/ horse and a jennet/ donkey gets a Hinney....but did you know that when you cross a zebra and a donkey ..it 's called a Zonkey? ..nether did I! I take my ownership serious and I think I should know this stuff. I hope Jake appreciates my educating myself.

Donkeys are ideal for guarding herds of sheep against predators. Since most have a natural wariness towards coyotes and canine and will keep them away. They defend themselves with powerful kicks of their hind legs as well as as biting and striking with their front legs. Donkeys can be friends with the family dog..just ask Miley,our heeler..who loves to nip at his heels.

But.. you ask.. how I know my little ass needs some more attention?? (I just wanted to say it one last time) Because he gave me a little itsy-bitsy NIP...and in a special place reserved for only my hubby.... (and long-lost boyfriends.) ok..ok..just kidding! geesh!

Don't laugh.. it was NOT FUNNY! It's not that it hurt at all.. but I could have been ruined and not been able to bear any more precious children! har! har!

Of course, any nip is bad and yeah..he got reprimanded and I did some rubbing on his face and muzzle. But don't ya think maybe he's trying to tell me something? Or was he just playing the alpha- male card?

Just the same...I love my little ass.. (sorry..I couldn't help myself) and besides...that is the legal and proper name.

I know he loves me,too.. cuz ... he loves everyone... who will give him a scratch or two.

Oh.. I could never leave without saying.. I love our other needy orphans too.. .....our granddaughter Kaitlyn's little gelding, sweet Chex..and the old Dukester..(who grandpa gave to grandson,Wyatt) You two up for some belly rubs?

Call me Faithful

2009-07-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

What is Faith?

Could it be..all Faith..religious or spiritual, is a belief that your life is worth living no matter what obstacles are thrown in your way? Whether it be losing your job, your house to foreclosure, family squabbles, death of your most beloved dog, cat or horse. Or perhaps..you have a child or husband fighting in our country's terrible wars or maybe fighting a war with cancer...Or maybe you are the one fighting for your life!
....but it is a fact...NO-ONE gets by without having to face life's overwhelming obstacles!

In the book, "Faith:Trusting Your Own Deepest Experience", meditation teacher Susan Salburg writes, "Faith is the animation of the heart that says, "I choose life, I align myself with the potential." This spark of faith ignites the moment we think.."I'm going for it..I'm going to try to have faith!"

"Whether we are aware of it or not, Faith permeates each day of our lives. Everything we believe is based on some form of it. Faith in ones self. Faith in life or the Higher Power."

Faith has given me the strength to meet new challenges in the face of great adversity. Challenges that were new to me and that I thought I could never meet, unbelievable problems I never thought I could ever overcome...accomplishments that I never thought I was ever capable of doing! When my husband was first diagnosed with hepatic pulmonary syndrome and was given 3 years before his kidneys would give out...he was told he needed a dual surgery for new transplantated liver and kidneys ...the news overwhelmed us and that alone sent me on my journey of Faith. Mike already had other serious illness's and he was one that never has liked hospitals or doctor poking around on him so he wasn't a very willing patient for "any doctor cutting up on him..alone putin' in someone else' organs." ha! This transplant thing was a big, scary, deal and he just was not ready emotionally or intellectionally. He really wanted no part of it.

Well, needless to say..alot has changed since then! One lesson that Salburg teaches is that life is ever changing and so are we and that change doesn't always feel good. Mike learned that the hard way!

Sometimes the opposite of Faith can be despair. Salburg writes about: "Without a sense of possibility, we would be stuck, isolated, hopeless, and unspeakably sad."

Five years later, my husband still has yet to get that dual transplant surgery although I was very proud of him as he went to San Francisco and applied for a new liver and kidneys. After a tough screening, he was accepted and listed for a year until those doctors found a metastisized cancer in his liver. He was very quickly scheduled for a double heart by-pass surgery to be quickly followed by removing of 60% of his cancer-ridden liver. These surgeries far outweighed any trepidation and pain the transplants would have laid ahead for him....they were far worse. He got seriously ill after those serguries and needed two more after getting an infection which turned into septic shock and spent many weeks recovering.

So when you are about to be plunge into the depths of despair it's important to consider the possibility that you are not really seeing the big picture! It's impossible to know all the factors that contribute to any difficult situation. You may think you are powerless... you may see injustices..or unfairness taking place or you may be just scared..but with faith you will have a purpose..a direction. Faith gives us a meaning to our existence.

I spent alot of time alone, watching life and death in those San Francisco ICU rooms..contemplating our lives.. with the hours and days ticking away as I sat beside my sick, weak, somnolent husband. I had no job or small kids to distract me. No husband coming home at 5:00 for dinner. No grass to water, no dog to feed, no house to clean.. ..no real socialization. Just me and my prayers and my Faith. I was by myself for the most part and had so much time to concentrate on him..us and what life meant to me. The rooms were usually quite small, often times not affording me barely enough space to squeeze in my coveted hard, metal chair some nurse had scrounged up for me. I was afraid to leave my husband's side in those 6 weeks he spent in the ICU's, except to hike the hills of S.F. back to my room to sleep. I ate off of his tray, slept with my head beside his, answered his delirious questions about seeing his dead family members and his wonderings about where he was and how long he had been there, rubbed lotion on his feet, powered his dirty hair, creamed his dry lips...... and tried never to miss any-one of the many doctors who would traipse in and out of his room at any given moment-as it is a teaching hospital-with questions or answers to what their next stradegy would be. I kept up my Faith but mostly I kept up his.

Susan Salburg writes: "Life is not likely to deliver only pleasant events. Faith entails the understanding that we don't know how things will unfold. Even so, Faith allows us to claim the possibility that we ourselves might change in ways that will allow us to recognize and trust the helping hands stretched towards us. It enables us to aspire to a better life than the one we have inherited."

Faith. I watched a few others die in that hospital and I watched many others go home to their families. I watched many who had Faith and, sadly, many who did not. Some had families would visit with care and concern but many patient's only consolation were the wonderful nurses who cared for them, but sadly many remained alone in their misery. Some died alone. Happily and thankfully, I got to bring my husband home. he wasn't the same man I took in..but he was coming home.

Although Mike is now on kidney dialysis and some doctors say he can't be a recipient for a transplanted liver and kidneys because of his cancer, they still call him their Miracle Man. I will never give up hope. God gave me Faith. Once you have it you don't want to ever lose it again! He is learning new things about himself, his life and he has changed through this ordeal...and so have I. God has a plan for us.. and I am a testament unto Him. I remain true to my Faith. How about you? Do you have a reason to be Faithful?

What is your philospy of life?

2009-07-14T07:29:00.000-07:00

What is your philosophy of life?

Do you believe that we are just living organism living on this planet taking up space until our bodies get so tired and sick that they die out and rot back into the ground?

Or do you believe that there is a Devine plan ..either of God's choice or our own to live out our time here on earth as a learning school?...maybe that we are predestined to experience certain losses and tragedies in order to learn our lessons in this lifetime? Or maybe you think the Universe just throws out random events to see how we will react? What does our choices make in our destiny and can those choices really change our destiny?

What about free will? If you are one to believe in God.. does he give us a clear idea of what He feels is the right way to live our lives..with love , understanding, forgiveness? The free will to choose our pathways to heaven or to hell?...

Most people believe everything happens for a reason! How does tragedy play into this and how do our lives unfold because of how tragedy effects our emotional journey and our spiritual growth?

I feel we should constantly be examining our motives..our desires, our values and priorities, because I believe intention wins out over all. Our intentions always come to light, good or bad so by being aware of what it is we really want out of life we can build our character, caring or indifferent-good or bad! Sometimes we aren't even aware of our own intentions ..they are buried under daily happenings and goings on, but if you stop and evaluate your actions and the situation you will see your true intention!

Big decisions can signify a moment of change and growth in our life. A- key turning point that usually leads to a better life. I try to reflect on what is important to me and get my priorities right-with God and with the spiritual Universe and usually the answer will make itself abundantly clear to me.

When I'm faced with difficult choices or decisions is when I try to listen to my body..what is it saying to me..are my neck and shoulders tense? Are my muscles rigid and does my stomach hurt? Do I have a headache? But most often...what is my gut feeling? I try to quiet myself by closing my eyes and listening to my inner self..tune in to my body as well as my mind and think about my choice to Change.... individually. Does my body get a calm and relaxed response or does it still feel tense and uncomfortable? I listen to it.

Change is not easy. But with grace and dignity... we build our character. I believe we need to learn the soul lessons first so instead of holding onto pain and resentment for an entire lifetime..I think we must let it go. Understanding the lessons of detachment, forgiveness and unconditional love is essential to growing spiritually.

It's when we learn from these difficult times in our lives that we understand why we need to have the experiences in the first place. I've read that " If you can change your mind.. you can change your life!" I believe that earth is a school and we evolve on a soul level through our character that we make.. that soon becomes our destiny.

We are offered so many choices, but one key is to try to stay aware of what is going on in our lives and what impact those choices have not only on ourselves but on those around us. We need to see those choices as they come by and seize them as opportunities...learn from them if they turn out to be mistakes in order to change our lives.

But you can't just can't just avoid difficulties that appear in your life because I think they are your lessons that you chose in the first place. Those difficulties in life can only be changed if the soul recognizes the lesson and sees a greater lesson and a more wonderful possibility that can be achieved in this lifetime.

It makes being here easier for me to believe this way, knowing I am growing. I truly am blessed. What do you think?

The Muffin Buster

2009-07-13T07:51:00.000-07:00

the MUFFIN BUSTER!

I am so jealous. My blogger- friend, Joy Heather, from across the pond, just bought herself this magnificent Muffin Buster! Doesn't it look fabulous? (No.. I didn't get a new job selling the muffin buster.. and that's not it's real name) but maybe she will let us know how well it works on her, or how well she works on it .. Joy, I am rooting for you. and proud that you are giving it a try ...you are such a sweetie. Here's a shout out for her. Woot! Woot! You Go! GIRL! You can do it!

She is so gonna have the ABs of steel that I have given up on long ago. My dream of a six pack has turned into twisting open 6 Bud Lites! Still since I am not working at a real job I should go to work on this piece of equipment cuz even after having my left- over baby-fat cut off a couple of years ago.. I now started baking a muffin top..cuz.... I really like to eat food...sometimes I even like to cook it first and now my muffin-dough won't stop rising!

Abdominoplasty removes all that fat and skin you have left over after losing all your "fully paid for and hard- earned poundage"..(you know, that floppy, hanging stuff that's left after you lose your mommy butt!)

If you knew that you would be left with all this empty and lonely skin after gaining a few (cough! cough!) pounds..how many of us would still be gulping down that Ben and Jerrys Chocolate Double Fudge Brownie double dipped with Chocolate Chunky Monkey? (watch out.. that is a trick question!) My stomach looked like one of those glad trash bags that was once streetched to the max full of cans, only when emptied looked like it deserved to be cramed into some overly tight pair of jeans and forgotten. Only my new companion became very needy and demanded to be pampered and powdered and carried around on my lap like some kinda of a newborn baby! Geesh.. I soothed it and talked to it more than I did my kids! "Are you ok with going under the panties today?" .. "I thought you were happiest when I wore a girdle?" ..."I can't help it these panties roll down!" (I had one lady ask me when my baby was due!) Arrg!

I worked hard to lose the 40/50 or something 'er ruther pounds.. I exercised up a sweat..every day..followed my diet plan and I thought.. I deserved whatever would make me feel good about myself........
So I decided I was going under the the KNIFE!

Now ..this part..isn't easy for me to talk about. Cuz ...I came outta surgery with TWO little BALLS!! Yep.. the doc gave me testicles..these balls were hanging about 6 inches and they were a-swinging! They were attached somewhere to my innards and when slightly touched..I would suffer and snarl like a Mad Dog in the heat of July! Of course..being the tuff woman my mother forced..I mean ..raised me to be ...I tried to hold my head up high..but I couldn't..cuz you can't straighten up for about 2 years! (slight exaggeration, folks) But..I just kept my eye on the prize! (literally) I was happy..there would be NO more powdering and tucking of my little friend "flappy" into my pants!

And after all was said and done...it wasn't all bad.. It gave my little dog something to chase after... as my new balls dangled when I walked, something for him to play tug of war with when I went to the bathroom and chew on when I slept. And then it gave me a slight bit of understanding of the opposite sex as I was struggling to tuck those suckers into my pants..I needed duck tape! There was no " free balling" for me! And I cried like a girl .. when my gonads got anywhere near being touched! ...I'll take two boobs any day.

(HELPFUL HINT: If you plan to have this surgery, DO NOT buy a new puppy at the same time)

That's about all I really remember of the experience because mostly..I was a drug addict at the time. Lots of drugs..all the time! My life became a mess. I stole money from my kids ..My husband left me..My mother hated me.. and I cut off all my hair! Eventually the dog didn't even want anything do do with me! No?..seriously..are you serious? just kidding.. It was painful..but so was childbirth and look what I got outta that experience! Living with two balls wasn't the worst part! Getting these dranage tubes with the little balls on the ends out was worse..but I won't horrify ya with those gory details!

So, lately my favorite cousin, Conni, inspired me to get back to doing some physical exercising. I am fast running/sorta/fast-walking/sorta /just really walking- thing-ing for a couple of miles here and there AND planning to do some kind of real marathon with my sisters and my daughter. Hey, you girls... remember ..we made a soleum oath! I don't care if we were all drunk on margaritas..it still counts! I like to set goals for myself that are within my reach...that way I can reach them! Smart..huh?

I am back on the same diet plan of sorts like when I lost the original poundage. Hey..it worked then ..and call me a fool ..but I'll try anything twice! (and sometimes three times) I never rush anything and I don't expect miracles, but I am thankful for them.. Thank you Lord for all you have given to me.

I do know staying healthy is a lifestyle that we have to acclimate ourselves to. It's not fun at first is it? (it's hard but you noticed I did say Bud LITE, didn't you?) I know exercise not only builds muscle and helps you to take the fat off but it helps prevent depresssion. I get off the beaten trail often but soon get tired of feeling yucky and push myself to get back on track because those endorphins from all that exercise gives my mind such a good feeling that beer and food can't even match!....YaY!....even when things around here aren't so happy.

So good luck Joy..I'm right there with you. And you too Sister Sue. Here's to bustin' some muffins!

Tick Warning!

2009-07-09T20:55:00.000-07:00

TICK WARNING!!!

"I hate it when people forward bogus warnings and i have even done it myself unintentionally ...BUT this one is real, and its IMPORTANT!

Please send this warning to everyone on your e-mail list.

If someone comes to your front door saying they are checking for TICKS due to the warm weather and asks for you to take your clothes off and dance around with your arms up..

DO NOT DO IT! THIS IS A SCAM!!!!!

They only want to see you NAKED!

I wish I'd gotten this yesterday..I feel so stupid."

Tee!! Hee!!

Tattoo..anyone?

2009-07-02T11:29:00.000-07:00

Ok, so you might think I am going through a mid-life crisis or something cuz... I've been thinking about getting a TATTOO! But I heard they really ..really hurt!

But seriously... can't hurt any worse than having your butt blown out while giving birth ... (cold turkey with no drugs what-so-ever..... while your coat is still wrapped tightly around your throat like a boa constrictor....and your legs are cramping cuz you are trying to clamp'em watertight-shut cuz your brother-in-law eyes are glued straight right on down into your whohaa) ..to a impatient 9 pound- something 'er ruther, hanger-on'er- to- the-inner- bones- of- your- pelvic type...with gangly, longer than neccessary to play basketball- armed and a very sharp pointy butted baby boy ? I didn't think so.

The problem is..I just can't think of the right location to put it!

I FEEL LIKE A PRICKLY PEAR!

2009-06-30T10:27:00.000-07:00

Lately... I think... I am a prickly pear...NO.. not a pricky bear.. I said PRICKLY PEAR........it's a guarded, very armoured cactus.. with long pointed, sharp spikes that can cause a painful and unforgiving punishment .It's delicate with leaves that are easily to be broken by someone..unaware ... but it's pointed spines can hurt just as bad when being pulled out as they did going in. And it is a smart, conservative little cactus!

Yep...me and that prickly pear's message are one and the same: "Don't mess with me! "

These Beaver Tail type of Cacti grow wild here in Nevada and I have them planted through out my property as they are one of the few plants the quail, the chukar, the hares and cotton tails, the doves, and the numerous other little varmits don't eat down to the nubs. So when I spot a cactus..as I've been riding my horse, I mark it's spot and have to go back, dig it up and replant it into my yard. I've come to know ..horse's aren't 'specially fond of prickly pears.. anymore than they are of 'pricky bears!')

I know I shouldn't disturb them but since I truly try to give them a good home where they can be seen and appreciated ...and I plant them in the dessert sand ... they seem to be content and are multiplying! they really don't require much care, just treat 'em right and leave 'em alone.

You know..we do have things in common and maybe..there is something I can learn from these cacti!

Over the last 4 years..it seems..... (just like my cactus).. that I've been able to withstand the harshest and driest elements that my life has become without shriveling up and dying, AND now I also...seem too be growing these long, sometimes mean, sharp spines! (not literally you guys!I can't even grow fingernails!) But some should beware of us cacti! I'm not the ole kay kay!

Cacti are tough little buggers, true to fact, but they can and do succumb to dyer hardships. You can plant your cactus in the wrong place, wrong soil type and they will not thrive like they do in nature... kinda like taking them away from what is the norm for them and throwing their world out of whack. Have you ever tried to grow one in a pot, only to watch it curl up and die?

And did you know they get sunburn? Something you'd think they would love..can really harm them! I find them hidden under and protected by the big overgrown sage brush. I guess everthing needs some kind of protection.

You can over water them, too! When overwatered they swell up and get real ..mushy! It's true..too much of a good thing will kill them. I hate that when I get real mushy and I too, have had parts of my body swell up! Haven't you?

But look..they get along so well along side with the iris' who are so different from them and like a lot of water. The iris' don't seem to mind their spikey spines! Funny huh?

They need to slowly soak up their moisture and utilize it for their needed growth before getting more water. They like to keep things on an even keel ..you know.. they kinda like to be prepared for a drought ..just in case. Sound like something we people need to learn?

I took theses pictures ... hoping to capture how beautiful the yellow flowers can be when they are showing off in the morning. (I just love a show-off!) I wait for them to bloom every year and was afraid I was going to miss them this year because we had soo much heavy rain, wind and storms..it seems they made it through. Tuff little guys. A lot of blooms have yet to open! They take their own sweet time. No rush. It does sadden me that the blooms don't stay around for long so you have to enjoy them when they are around. Just like some people I know.

Doesn't it make you think about why they need to develop such harsh spines and sharp little needles?.... and what are they protecting so fiercely? maybe it's because they break so easy and when their skin splits apart and they tear... the damage is permanent. There is nothing you can do..it's best to just let it scar over and try to not let it happen again.

Tho my life has been in sort of a drought for some time... me and the prickly pear still manage to open up and bloom. They also open and close their flowers accordingly..it's kinda like a big smile! Conserving themselves but letting their beauty and promise show. (That has been one of my mottos!)

Don't you think the flowers are quite pretty?

And don't they make you appreciate the hardy cactus a little more?

Right now...I thank God I am like the Prickly Pear. I need my spikey spines, and then maybe..someday I'll be ready to be a rose again, with small little thorns. Maybe ...I'll be ready to see what secrets it's beauty has to teach me.

Pennies From Heaven

2009-06-21T08:20:00.000-07:00

MY FATHER.......

My father was killed when I was 7months old, so I never knew him. Still.. I loved him so much. He was working as an electrical power lineman and traveled around repairing the high wires that lined the rural roads in Wyoming back in the 1940 and 50's. These beautiful and frightening, lightening storms we've all been having lately..are reminders of how my father died ..as he was electrocuted while working on those high wires up in the sky! A lightening strike had damaged some electrical wires and when he had climbed up one of those tall poles (they still did that back then) to repair the lines..he had come in contact with a live wire, it killed him instantly. We, kids always revered the comforting letter from the owner of the power company my father had been working for informing my Mother of that fact and telling her that to at least rest assured that he did not suffer. He died at 26 years of age and left behind a very naive and timid young wife and 4 little children under the age of 6. We still have the satin cloth that went across his coffin that read "We'll Miss Our Daddy" and we did miss out on so much!

my dad as a young wild, onery boy!

One of the very earliest things I ever really knew of my father, Richard, was that my only brother was ...JUST like him. My grandma, Dona, would travel up from Texas, pile us playful kids in what I think was her old 1956 Oldsmobile, with it's old camel-hair seats and drive, alone, with us monsters.. on up to my Aunt's ranch in the gorgeous Rocky Mountains of Colorado, whereas the whole time my brother teased us unmercifully.....just like my father was supposed to have done to his only sister.

(that's me in thw picture with my brother..he must of got dressed up for this pic!) My Grandma was a hoot, she talked way too fast and endlessly.. she rambled on in her southern drawl about this or that, but she always made sure she told us about all about her son and how our father loved us so! Funny.. she seemed to never take notice as we screeched and hollered from the back seat of that car while she painfully manuerved it through those steep, winding mountains OR how much our brother was either pincing, poking or prodding us into doing something stupid or funny, as we greedily ate ALL her cauliflowers, tomatoes and peppers from the box of fresh vegetables she was hoping to surprise our aunt with.

my dad... when his face was full of freckles! Ronny had lots of freckles too.. everyone used to say, "did you forget to dry your face?..sure looks like maybe you rusted!"

Me and my big brother!

As Ronny grew up, he came to possess my father's modest and demure mannerisms, his warm, funny, and very reliable and likable character and his indearing ...huge smile! And he never lost his desire to tease relentlessly! I adored my brother. He broke our hearts as he did sooo suffer, and he, too, died way too young. We lost him to dreadful melanoma cancer when he was just 52. He left behind 3 wonderful sons and a beautiful daughter. I know he was a fantastic father and his kids loved him tremendously .... so did I. I remember my Mom's words as my brother lay dying in his home, "We are going to miss him." And I do.

I think he liked me, too! He showed this pic to his Navy buddies.

He went into the navy in 1967 and would buy us groceries when he was home on leave.

Mom and Dad 1946.

I believe girls mostly end up marrying someone like their fathers. Boys mostly marry someone like their moms. I believe people choose someone that is within their comfort zone (bad or good)...someone like what they're used to being around..maybe growing up around. Now you can mix that up and choose a multi-family-character-such as a mate with a personality like your dominant mom mixed with traits like your favorite brother or sister.... cause people tend to settle in with what makes them feel comfortable-(sometimes even if it's that an abusive relationship! you know.. someone that's been raised in an abusive home..gets into an abusive relationship..never leaves the relationship..raises kids who enter into abusive relationships..and the legacy can get passed on....)...it's all what they are used to growing up around..people tend to head straight back into what feels normal.

I found someone kinda like my norm..a man kinda like my brother..and I hope..maybe like my father. My kids' dad is very likable, reliable, dependable, responsible, and certainly a relentless TEASE! He, too, is a sick man now . He has had a matastizised bile-duct adenocarcinoma tumor removed from his liver, has chronic liver disease, and is in kidney failure and has to suffer the routines of an artifical kidney- dialysis machine- 3 times a week. But he is doing so well because he is so strong. My 82 year old mom came over last week to have her infamous home-permanent hair treatment (done by "Kay"..me) but it took us awhile to get to that perm as she had something to look me in the eye and say! And to which she did with her most earnest regard. She has always paid the most sweetest compliments to Mike and has been consistent with her remarks about what a good man she has always thought my husband to be. I know that she prays for him more than once a day and I truly believe the Good Lord listens to her prayers, because we are genuinely blessed to have him around. But this time she was looking at me differently. She had some things to say and reminded me of some things Mike might be needing right now and told me that she thought Mike was staying around because my kids and I still needed his strength so much. I really needed to hear that. She remarked, "He has been and always will be a family man." He has always been the glue that held us together. It is easy to fall apart when someone is sick around you every day but I think we owe it to him to be strong too. And I will miss his strength..

Today is Father's Day. And my husband is still in bed as I write this. My kids and I always have a brunch or dinner for him on this day but we have passed it up this year for his boys are traveling to go to work for our company...and that is my husband's legacy to them. I know as they drive out of state to their destination it will bother them leaving him on this day but they know their dad is resting assured that they are taking care of his..their business. And..maybe I'll take him out for his favorite 'In- and Out' ...later!

Happy Fathers' Day to any of you dad's out there and really to anyone who has memories of a special father. I hope I reminded you of good and happy thoughts of the fathers in your life..so Please ..write to me if you have a memory you'd like to share of a Dad.... even if it's not your own..I'd love to hear your thoughts.

And what does that have to do with pennies from heaven ..you say??? Well..I have been finding alot of coins falling from heaven.... from my brother??? ..lately, but I'll tell you about the coins in my bed another time.

The Deadliest Catch

2009-06-04T09:41:00.000-07:00

This episode was to be simply about hunting for some raw shrimp, a Deadly Catch, in what I thought was the safe confines of my freezer -my favorite fishing grounds!

but OH.. how the tide turned on me! It became ONE OF THE MOST DANGEROUS JOBS!

I could say it all started with the lightning and the rain storms we have been having lately, winds blowing so hard they even battered and soaked my opened bedroom curtains and the edge of our poop-deck ..I mean..our bed -we always sleep with the windows open next to our bed.. yes....'cause we live on the edge every single day of our lives, people! Lucky for me it was the ole man's side cause I don't swim too well! I knew I should have battened down those hatches!

Anyway, these crazy storms have been knocking out the power, and so I'll just have to blame my whole ICE AGE delima on the fact that freezers don't work that way. You know..if they keep de-frosting and re-freezing... it gets them confused and over-worked and then they go into a deep depression! And really freeze UP!

But then.. I suspect.. that ..maybe someone.. ...and I'm not naming any names.. mind you..(Ahem..munchkins) may been in my freezer and left the door ajar! Uhmm..maybe someone was looking for Otter Pops?

Now, I don't live in Alaska, although I wouldn't mind moving up North.. And I don't have a crew, BUT I am the captain of my own boat and I decided I was going in! Ok.. this is not the Bering Sea but this job was not for the faint-at -heart. I should of had a starring role the Dirtiest Jobs.."Hey Mike Rowe ..YooHoo!..where are you?"

The camera angles were tough to get under these dangerous conditions, , since I'm not an octopus and I only have 2 hands.. or do octopus'ses have 8 feet?...anywho like I said..I don't have a crew! or a decent camera!

What I thought was to be a fishing derby turned into a full blown rescue attempt! It was truly scary and grueling..all that deep, cold white, sharp icy stuff everywhere, piled so high..I couldn't see a thing! I knew desperate conditions called for desperate measures..And I knew there just had to be something good under that ice that just needed to be freed! You save the whales..I'll save the OTTERS!

So I got out the old hammer .. MR. CLAWS! (I use him for everything..pulling weeds, stirring paint, throwing at the rabbits and itching my..um... head)

You know..this is kind of like raising kids..this job didn't come with a manuel and...

...then it happened..the injury.

Can you see it? The blood and guts ? ok ..the guts weren't mine but they could have been! .. I think... those were chicken livers?....anyway..I could have died out there alone! Couldn't someone have called for the Coast Guard?

Was all that blood from ME or was the 10 year roast beef defrosting?

Did I not have the right safety gear on? Was I using the wrong tools? Next time it's oven mitts and an a snow pick for me! (Psst! but don't tell OSSA about this 'cause if I don't stop bleeding I'm might hafta turn in a claim.) Oh well...life is short for us on the High Seas (insert theme music here: "Come Sail Away")

Yes, I was gravely injured but I persevered on. Chipping and clawing away at those treacherous ice flows! Then I saw a glimpse of THEM! hurray! The OTTERS! Their happy little faces where screaming to me to set them free! They had been in despair and darkness for so long!

With renewed inspiration, I forgot all about my dying finger and forged on and freed the colorful little critters, but sadly..not all stories end the way you want them to. The Otter Pops had been in the deep freeze too long! Baluck! yucky! So, sadly, I gave them a decent burial at sea..I mean, in garbage!

What some people will do for a little sweet ice!

My work here is done!

Reno-Tahoe Odyssey

2009-06-01T17:12:00.000-07:00

The 5th Annual Reno-Tahoe Odyssey Relay Run 2009!

Woo! Hoo! Jell-O Shots!!

Here's my version of a shout out to the 12 team members, appropriately named "Powered By Shots Of Jell-O", who's hard training and enthusiastic teamwork made this an unique event ..one event..I don't think my son, Wes and my daughter-in-law, Amber will soon forget. They ran representing Amber's Engineering Firm PBS&J. You have got to know.. although they have been training, building muscle and losing weight since October for a triathlon ..this is their 1st marathon run.

Their feelings of accomplishment came from this being a 178 mile course relay race that started in our little downtown city of Reno, here in Nevada along the beautiful Truckee River. We are proud of our small river, as it offers all kinds of summer fun. The course begins at 4490 feet elevation and reaches a maximum elevation of 7334 feet.

The scenic course travels through the high mountain peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains along side of gorgeous mountain lakes , streams and rivers, including the shores of the one and only.... breath-takingly clear-blue waters of Lake Tahoe.

Here's Amber's corporate boss, Dave, waiting for his hand off! He even runs the Boston Marathon and he likes this race.

The course runs along the emigrant trails of the Donner Party..you might remember this famous wagon train from the history books. In 1840, these migrants were going over the Sierras Nevadas ..on their way to California and got snowbound, ran out of food..and some people ended up cannibalizing each other!! But that's a sad story.

"Wes.. you look sleepy.....have you been up all night?" Yes..they run continuously and all night.....starting on day one ....... and ending the next day. They eat little and catch cat-naps where and when they can. Usually the naps are taken unintentionally on someone's else's shoulder! Showers are optional?
At 225 lbs, Wes is build more like a weight lifter- which he is..and has been for awhile..he weight trains and benches 370lbs. I know..impressive..Huh? Geezzsh..I love my son. But...does he look like a marathon runner to you?

Wes started his 1st 6 1/2 mile leg by getting a hand-off from fellow Jell-O Shot, Lee, at the picturesque Tahoe City. The runners were required to wear fluorescent vests and carry their own flashlights as they run at night along the side of some of the highways.
Some runners acclaimed at how beautiful it was running under the stars, past the neon's of the South Lake Tahoe's casinos, looking down at the bedecked lights of the famous Tahoe Queen as she makes her nightly dinner cruise around the Lake, and then watching the peaceful sunset over viridescent Emerald Bay, a beaconing cove with an island where the clear water has many shades of green.

Here's Amber receiving the baton and taking off again on Kinsbury Grade. The relay is divided into 36 legs with varying lengths and difficulty. Each runner has 3 legs. (ok..not literally..but I bet they wish they DID!)

While descending Kingsbury Grade..a runner can look down at the enticing lights of the Carson Valley. They go past the quiet and historic old town of Genoa, (known for it's annual fund-raising Candy Dance) and they can run along side of some of the largest generational- family owned ranches in the beautiful pasture lands of Jacks Valley.

Runners are now circling back through the Northern Nevada High Desert, full of pinion pines and sagebrush....and on to Reno again. Some even get visited by the wild mustangs and their cute litttle babies..as they lift up their tails and take off for the hills at the sight of a sole person running by.

Who's the guy in the crazy hat?

The course climbs the Comstock Highway into the historic Ghost town of Virginia City.....

then drops down Geiger Grade, where you can get an eyeful of Reno's backdrop..Mount Rose.

The course passes through Virginia City and neighboring ghost towns, where once the Comstock Lode Silver mines roared..where once miners and Mark Twain frequented many a saloon .......many still open.

A Fun Place! Home of the famous Camel Races and Rocky Mountain Oyster Eating Contest. This is Basque sheep country...so now you know what oysters are ..don't you?

The old ghost town of Virginia City is still hopping and full of excitement. So it really is not a ghost town at all. Yes... it's the same cowboy town depicted in the TV western "Bonanza". (I'll hafta take you on a tour in another blog.)

One of Amber's relay legs was this 6 1/2 mile run up and down these grades..talk about shin splints! Thank gooodness she also works out 2 hours aday!

Woo! Hoo! Amber..you've got buns of Steele! Feel the burn!

Amber...Are you having fun yet?
You go..... Girl! We are so proud of you!

The runners also travel along the Pony Express route. Neat huh?

The course ends back through the Biggest Little City in the World!
RENO!

.
This race was dedicated to the Angel Kiss Foundation that helps all families of children with cancer in Northern Nevada and the Tahoe Pyramid Bikeway-a future multi-use Recreational Trail from Lake Tahoe to Pyramid Lake.

I hope Wes and Amber had Fun, as they met up with old friends, shared laughs, stories, tips, and encouragement in the 2 days spent together in close quarters with team members as the camaraderie among competing teams and team members isn't something easily forgot.

Well... these two have gotten me inspired as Iam now walking at a fast pace every day and may be on course for my own little walk-athon.....LOL!

But for sure.. I hope to be at the finish line again next year to see Wes and Amber come across the line in 2010. Already the sore calves and injured feet, and the little sleep deprivation are all but gone..... and they are off training for their .... 15 mile bike ride, 3 1/2 mile run and 1/2 mile swim.... Triathlon Sprint...planned for this summer. Good luck you guys!

Oh..No! that's not a bottle of HOT DAM!

2009-05-28T23:18:00.000-07:00

That's jay, babykay (me) and ken..and it was pretty cold out!.. I needed something to warm up to... I mean.. WITH, I mean..well..you know what I mean. Ever try a little sip of 'Hot Dam' on a really cold day? It will toast your buns. Uhmm..I wonder where the Bossman was?

a Cowboy, who is visiting Wyoming from Texas, walks into a bar and orders three mugs of Bud. He sits in the back of the room, drinking a sip out of each one in turn. When he finishes them, he comes back to the bar and orders three more.

The bartender approaches and tells the cowboy, "You know, a mug goes flat after I draw it! It would taste better if you bought one at a time."

the Cowboy replies, "Well, you see, I have two brothers. One is in Arizona..the other is in Colorado. When we all left our home state in Texas, we promised that we'd drink this way to remember the days when we drank together. So I'm drinking one beer for each of my brothers and one for myself."

one day, he comes in and only orders two mugs. All the regulars take notice and fall silent.

When he comes back to the bar for the second round, the bartender says, " I don't want to intrude on your grief, but I wanted to offer my condolences on your loss."

the cowboy looks quite puzzled for a moment, then a light dawns in his eyes and he laughs!

"Oh no! every body's just fine." he explains, " It's just that my wife and I joined the Mormon Church and I had to quit drinking!"

"Hasn't affected my brothers though!"

Mr. Friendly

2009-05-23T14:09:00.000-07:00

This is a fleeting glimpse of what I was hoping was the last of Mr Friendly, the Bullsnake. I dropped him while giving him the royal escort out from his guest accommodations he had nicely set up in my garage last week. I had him gingerly perched on the end of my calf stick and OFF he slid and slithered behind the trunks........GONE!!

He WAS trying to curl under my dog's cool and comfy bed.. made of old sleeping bags. Well, Miley wasn't about to share her bed..or the garage! So I picked him up (with the broom and the calf stick , yah..I told you we belong in the circus)..and we were on our way out the back door to safer grounds. Mike grabbed the camera and got this blurred picture!
(My camera's battery is broke..I'm waiting on a new one)

Miley, our Queensland Heeler's only job around here is to obey and protect! and BOY!.. does she do her job well! ( awwhh...she's soo smart) The only time we will hear a bark from her is when she letting us know there is a strange intruder about and then when keeping said intruder at bay, "MOM..I've got my eyes on them." She barks at the coyotes every night.

That's how I knew..Mr friendly was back!!! and in the garage! We were eating breakfast this morning, when she sent out her alarm bark. When I stepped into the garage, I was greeted by a familiar hissing! When threatened.... Bullsnakes hiss very loudly and they vibrate their tail! YES, just like a rattlesnake. They have earned their name because of the snorting sound that kind of resembles the noise a bull makes!

Having lived in the sagebrush of Nevada for many years now (and we have a lot of rattlesnakes) .... I do run across these snakes every once in awhile trying to come in to get cool or sunning themselves on the warm concrete. I killed a large rattler on my porch a couple of years ago but I would rather not kill the bull snakes as they are excellent mousers ..... I have even heard of some people keeping them around their barns and under their porches as they will keep the rodent population down. But in my garage.... ..it's a little bit too close for comfort for me! Though, I am hoping Mr. Friendly did a litle bit of mouse cleaning ..or so house cleaning so to speak...while he was a guest here.

These snakes are not poisonous, like the deadly Rattlesnake but when cornered and frightened they will bite.

They are constrictors who kill by coiling around their prey and they eat their victims whole. They eat small animals and are sometimes called gopher snakes. They can grow to 8 feet but average 5 feet and are one of the largest species of snakes found in the U.S. (Do you think my little Pug better watch out?)

Bullsnakes and Rattlesnakes cannot breed with one another and create a hybrid. Rattlesnakes give live birth and Bullsnakes lay 3 to 24 eggs. The females lay them in sandy soil or beneath large rocks or logs..like some of the big rocks I have around here. Uhmmm..I saw Miley eating some egg shells the other day??!!!

So this time, Mr. Friendly got the full escort ..out the front and down to those big rocks..HISSING all the way. He was plenty mad at me....maybe this time he'll stay away! Do you think? Mike thinks not.

How do you tell a Bullsnake from a Rattlesnake, you ask?

Bullsnakes have a long, lithe body and a pointed tail.
Rattesnakes have a chunky body and a blunt tail with a rattle on the end.

Bullsnakes have a head and neck that are the same width.
Ratthesnakes have a wide head and a narrow neck.

Bullsnakes have round pupils..Rattlesnakes have vertical slits.

Don't forget Rattlesnakes are poisonous and the venom will kill you..Bullsnakes are not, but both hiss and vibrate their tails. If you hear the hiss of a snake the best thing to do is to slowly back off. The first best thing is to stay away from a rattlesnake!!!! Make sure you know what you are dealing with. There are serious steps you must do if you are bitten by a rattlesnake..but the second best thing is don't panic or run! You will need an antivenom quickly, and when applied in time, it reduces the death rate to less than 4%. So seek medical attention immediately.
GREAT BASIN RATTLESNAKE MOHAVE DESERT SIDEWINDER RATTLESNAKE

Memememememe ME?

2009-05-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

New meme. You know what to do if you want to play. Please... I want to hear what you have to say ..er write..er feel about things. OK?

1. What is your current obsession? "Only after obsessing about Mike's health? which is my life?...Washing clothes..I mean. I am obsessed with washing every piece fabric in my house, and car, and garage.. I'll even come to your house. Do you have some laundry you need done? I can be found..just wandering around and around...looking for something to fill the washing machine..I will even rip the socks off your feet while you're still wearing them."

Home-made soap~ just in case I run out!!!

1 quart of water (boiling)

2 cups bar soap (grated)

2 cups Borax

2 cups washing soda

Add finely grated bar soap to the boiling water and stir until soap is melted.pour the soap water into a large clear pail and add the Borax and washing soda. Stir well until all is dissolved,. Add 2 gallons of water and cover pail. add 1/4 cup for each load of laundry and stir the soap each time you use as it will gel!

2.Where are you right now? "In the office, wisfully, looking out my window through my extremely overgrown rosebush, (got to prune that sucker..it's scratching the glass!) ...enjoying all the busy little birds flying in and out building their nest.. right in front of my window.. Such a peaceful sight...sweet..beautiful little birds..some red, some green, until the darn baby raven moves in...then I'm banging on the glass. BAH! Awwww..but then I find myself watching the very well-fed and fat momma pheasant, with her darling eight-hundred little chicks and the all the cute little cottontail bunnies as they come scurrying by...towards my porch..until I see they've planned a picnic on my plants, then I'm pounding on the glass (drats!) On occasion, I will watch the family of coyotes come through and ...clear out the place.....and I'm pounding on the glass. And Wes blames me for not getting any work done.

3.Coffee or Tea? "I stopped drinking coffee a couple years ago but I swear... I still love it. Now it's the green TEA that makes me run fast... and PEEEE!"

4.What is one of your favorite movies? "I seem not to have much time or interest in a lot of movies (lol)... so to choose just one would be like picking my favorite food out of a salad bar! I do like movies that I get can get lost in and that leave me in a deep contemplation. (I heard that! I can be a deep thinker!) But really..any kids' movie with my grand kids (we make popcorn ala mode) is my favorite."

5.What is the one thing you are looking forward to? "Mike feeling better and enjoying his life again. I can't wait for a time when he will be himself again!"

6.Who was your childhood crush? "When I was very little..I was in love with Zoro, but later..along came Ricky Nelson. .my sister and I would pretend the wall was our lovers and we would just smooch it up. "

7.What is your current favorite song? "I am a ROCK STAR by PINK. When I hear that song..I sing and everyone gets outta my way...cause I just know ..I CAN DANCE! Don't laugh .. you, too, can be a Rock Star!"

8.What would you like to get rid of? " ..what comes quickly to mind is the big fat bull snake I lost in the garage (I was escorting it out when I dropped it and it went behind the trunks)... but I will say the forgotten little frog sitting on my kitchen counter. No one plays with him anymore and I just keep cleaning his rock pile. But then, I think of all those weeds in the yard, and the junk piled in my garage, and sometimes I just hate those coyotes, and those damn giant, plant-eating hares.. .....then there's the fat on my theighs........"

9.What is your favorite book? "Whatever I'm reading at the time. If it's not my favorite, I will get bored and put it down. Hey.. now, I know that Mad is a magazine..and I do own a couple of books!"

10. Why did you start your blog? "I haven't figured that one out yet. A writer? an artist? a photographer? a ranter? or someone who thinks they can change the world with their words in a blog?...I guess.. I'm not!.... I must be a mystery!"

FRIENDSHIP~Ralph Waldo Emerson~

A ruddy drop of manly blood

The surging sea outweighs,

The world uncertain comes and goes,

the lover rooted stays.

I fancied he was fled.

Glowed unexhausted kindliness

Like daily sunrise there.

My careful heart was free again

O friend, my bosom said,

Through thee alone the sky is arched,

Through thee the rose is red,

All things through thee take nobler form,

And look beyond the earth,

And is the mill-round of our fate

A sun-path in thy worth.

Me too thy nobleness has taught

To master my despair;

The fountains of my hidden life

Are through thy friendships fair.

11. If money was not an issue, what is one thing you would purchase for yourself? "Easy..smeasy! ...a beautiful, family cattle ranch..large enough to support my whole FAM DAMILY, a place where anyone else of interest could come and have a place to visit, get to know some farm animals and stay for awhile. (you know.. come and I could put 'em to work) A place where my kids could tie my body to rockin' chair and put me under a big shady tree,leave me there for spell, and let me enjoy the sights and smells. (That is...only AFTER I got reeeally old and senile and then only as long as they promised not to paint a clown face on me.)"

12. If you could live in a foreign country, which one would it be? "Well, I'd hafta say Argentina? I'd like to take the ole man back to Buenos Aires.. his birthplace. It really is a beautiful country and.. I just love the passion of the tango! Don't you?"

13. What is the one trait about yourself you wish you could change? " Uhmm..my smile..I want a much bigger one with large white teeth so then you will KNOW I'm smiling at YOU."

14. Tipple of choice? "Now that is funny.I don't tipple when I drink ..I topple..and my topple of choice would be BEER!"

15. What is the one trait about yourself that you are proud of? " Used to be my cute little ba-donka-donk.....BUTT with old age.. I've had to develop a personality! So, I'd say my loyalty and stick-to-itiveness. I am true-blue die-hard. (and then there's my ability to make up words)"

16.What is your wish for the future? "I wish that I would win the LOTTERY!!! no?..just kidding! really..I wish for better heathcare for the sick....and warmth, shelter and enough food for all of those who are starving in the world...So I would want us all to become more compassionate to those who are in need, lots more understanding of those that might think differently than ourselves, and for our government to find smarter ways of how to get the proper job done that will benefit us all, and then of course I would want the world to have more giving hearts! Did I leave anything out? ....Do I hear an Amen?"

Your turn!

The Man-Date

2009-05-13T08:35:00.000-07:00

Last week, I blogged about my brother-in law having to be outta town to visit his brother in Idaho for awhile, and his warning to my 81 years old mother and us girls not to party too hard while he was away! Well, he said he went with his boss and enjoyed his "MAN-CATION" ..as he liked to call it!

That's the long version of a "MAN-DATE"! You know the male version of girls nite out! Only on a man-cation, the guys all get together for some fishing or hunting (doesn't matter what they are looking for.....birds, ducks, deer, women..no ...no...they wouldn't do THAT!) or/and just hang out with only MEN. I can see them, now...working up all that testosterone and tellin' their BIG fish stories. They get to talk dirty about their wives, brag way too much about their kids, some might even have a few too many beers. As a groomsman, my son was requested to go to Mexico for a long weekend bachelor party! Talk about a man-cation! You've all heard of it...it's called male bonding. I call it ..getting lucky!

But back to Lee...he is a good guy and deserves his vacations and he certainly is a man! And, this is one of the e-mails he sent to my little sister while he was away. It cracked me up, but Lee is a CRACK-UP, anyway...literally, always! We've all seen his back side and now we have it memorialized in the history books.... after he mooned 5 of my elderly Aunts this year while they were posing for a family picture. LOL!

We love you Lee.

Read what he wrote "My niece took this picture with her cell phone in Caldwell, Idaho last week. The picture is kind of small, but if you look close you can see a cowboy on his first blind date with a young lady.

Lee"

Mother-In-Laws

2009-05-11T16:23:00.000-07:00

My Mother-In- Law Happy Mother's Day. Nelida

We were riding in my car yesterday-Mothers Day... Mike and I.. the two boys and our daughter and....that's it. Just the five of us. It was weird. We joked about about how weird it was and wondered when the last time was... when only the five of us were together. It was when Mike was in San Francisco in a hospital bed in the ICU and we had just.. received some very scary news.

This afternoon we were on our way to the cemetery. Mike had asked his three grown children to take him to put fresh flowers on his mother, Nellida's, tomb for Mother's Day. Somehow, all three of them.. felt the importance of his new request. So even tho... at first..they only reluctantly agreed to go, I knew they got what their dad's point was. So, there we were.. all climbing into my car. As if .. they were little again.

Earlier that day, my daughter-in-law, Amberlynn, prepared her first Mothers Day brunch for ...me! Wes and she had cordially invited my mother, my daughter and my sisters to share in their heart-felt endeavor and treat. They worked hard on getting their yard in shape and planted pretty flowers on the patio where they served the lunch. Her dad, and the rest of our family came as well, as we seem to always do everything as a group. It was a delight.

Now, I realize Amber works hard at her job as a civil engineer, where lately she has been putting in many over- time hours ...as well as taking on additional school this semester towards earning a Masters degree at the University, so I know, this week she has been up to her elbows with finals. But Wes and she put out a lovely spread of fruits and cuts of various meats/cheeses for sandwiches. And their spectacular Greek salad was perfectly prepared. She finished off her table with homemade cupcake brownies and delicious cheesecakes! I was so impressed! She made me feel truly special and her effort to make my Mother's day and make everyone else's nice, too...it was filled with affection and it showed in her presentation. You might be pleased when your own kids do nice things for you, but it's esp. sweet when their spouses show they care. (I have a son-in-law..who is a treasure, too..I know, I'm so lucky.) Thanks, Wes and Amber, for inviting my family there.

Mothers are supposed to feel special as we all know on Mother's Day, and we (usually) unconditionally love them..........but mother-in-laws??..well that can be another story. Right? I mean how many of us have a loving, congenial relationship with our Mother-in-law?

I met mine when I was very young. So at first it was hard and I think I kind of resented her for her intrusion of our lives. And I always felt like I didn't somehow ever measure up to her expectations. Measure up to expectations of what??.... I surely didn't know at the time... I was just learning about who I was? And also.....because I didn't quite know who I was or wanted to be.....I couldn't possibly know what she could possibly expect me to be-I hardly knew what my new husband expected of me besides -uhmmm..well...you know.

One thing I was sure of...she loved her son! And wanted the best for him. And that meant for me to be a good wife. What did I know about being a good wife? Eh? What was a good wife? Dinner on the table at 6:00? He needed to be a good husband as far as I was concerned! I remember thinking she probably didn't like me because of how inadequate I was..I sure felt that way when I was around her sometimes. I just knew...I must have seemed that way to her, too. But when I had my own precious daughter, I knew I had the convidence to be a good mother and for that... she would just have to respect me. And so I did my job well.

As time went on.. my opinion of her began to change. Over the many years, I came to realize..... she was just being a good mother, too! It wasn't about liking me or not liking me! She probably always liked me, maybe even loved me from the start. We had so much in common! After all..we loved the same people!

I wish we could have had continued our relationship onto our older ages as I enjoy my own Mom so much, now. Nellie was a great lady. She taught me a lot about how to be a better wife, mother, grandmother, daughter and human being. I didn't really get it all way back then. I was learning. My heart aches when I think of how much... our family missed out....her wealth of knowledge..her guidance and her pure strength. This wonderful lady would have given my children so much as they grew through their lives. She showed me how to be a better person. Isn't it wonderful how people come into your life to teach you something, but you may not know what that lesson is until after you've learned it?

I miss her. She died when she was 52 years old and I was 28......Amber's age.

So, Sunday, after entering the mausoleum, the kids knew the routine. Wes went and got the ladder, while Tom held it for his dad as he climbed up the steps and pressed a gentle kiss on his mothers tomb, saying a prayer, giving the sign of trinity, then taking down the goblets of old spent flowers. Keely would walk back with me where we would clean the goblets and put in the fresh flowers. As I climbed the steps and rested my kissed fingers on my Mother-in-laws cold marble..I thanked her for raising such a decent man, and teaching him the morals and values that he has passed on to his kids ...along with his very large sense of love of FAMILY, even though he was an only child..and in spite of being an only child! I respect that about her more than anything else ... my Mother-in Law, Nellida.

I've opened my arms up to Amber....and I hope I can be the mother-in law that Nellie became to me..maybe even better. Amber you made me feel like you've opened up your arms to me this Sunday. Words won't convey how it made me feel. I appreciate being part of your life. I love you, Kay ....aka Mom.

ABC's of My Granddaughter

2009-05-05T16:55:00.000-07:00

My Grand-daughter..Kaitlyn just turned 10. (I know..I look way too young to have a 10 year old grand-daughter!)

Kaitlyn is very ADORABLE, of course! just ask me...her Nana!

Her mother and I, both think she's BEAUTIFUL and very BRIGHT.. maybe a few others might agree. Isn't she cute?

It goes without saying..she loves being a COWGIRL, she has loved all farm animals since she was old enough to sit on them..pet them, or help feed them. .........Esp. the baby CALVES and her sweet, sweet quarterhorse, CHEX. She learning to ride!!!

She was so tiny .... she had fun catching the CHICKENS! and COLLECTING the eggs.

(This was her little red angus CALF named ((HER))-"MANDY"..(yea... she was an oops..our good friends red bull got in with our black heifer!)

.....by the way...Kaitlyn does all the naming around here.

She even named the Bull.."BUTT HEAD". Go Figure!

Hey, ok, I know I'm out of order. I have alittle ADD (shouldn't that be under A??)

She has very naturally ..CURLY hair! Her parents should own stock in a detangler company. (Don't look at me..I wish she got it from my side of the family!) It is so ADORABLE. ...there's that A word again.

Although her real passion is to be a DOG-WHISPERER, as I think her favorite animals are her DOGS, one is named Otis and her lab is Cahill..she is 12 years old.

We love to watch her Sing and DANCE at her recitals, ( apparently on her side..sorry.....I am still working out the bugs in this blogging!.. can you tell me what I'm doing wrong?)

this is not a quiz? I really do need help!

Her middle name is ELIZABETH, a FAMILY name.. given to her after my GERMAN GRANDMOTHER but mostly because my daughter just liked the name. So do I. Don't you?

Her b-room is painted lime GREEN!!! (Hello...It will really wake you up in the morning!!)

FUNNY...why, yes.. she is! She will make you laugh just listening to her cute little GIGGLE

She is real cute...but she better not be HOT... at least not yet, right Dad? And as far as being IN-STYLE..her Mom still wants to dress her "pretty in pink" BUT she wants her JEANS and JELLIES to be "KRAZY KOOL".

KAITLYN is so LOVABLE and so LOYAL, so LOGICAL and so LUCKY... and sometimes

soooo LOUD, like the rest of this family. We are the LOUD Family. (I know, we're not the only Loud Family..I do know a few others. )

Her birthday is in the MONTH of MAY and she is usually MERRY! (WOW and her great-grandmother's name is MARY..the "Big M" to those that are related!!..it's a short story! I'll tell you about her some day.)

She is good at riding her four-wheeler MOTORCYCLE and gives her little brother rides around and around and around in the back ..sometimes ...losing him off the back... on the dirt berms! (Huh?...Buddy Bear! shhhshh...just wipe the dirt outta your MOUTH and ...don't tell Dad!)

Who ME?

Sometimes she is a little 'naughty NIGHT OWL and likes to stay up too late to watch TV ...Huummm??? MOMMY...wonder where she gets that??? (I know that M was out of sequence..but I had to shake it up..I told you ..I live dangerously)

I call her PUMPKIN, although I know apple PIE is her favorite. So is the color PURPLE!!!!!! ..also in her room!

She has a PUG named Otis, I have his brother, Oscar. They are her uncles and her brothers and cousins..all at the same time..in the dog/people world.......?? It works somehow!

Meet OTIS.. Oddie say ...Hello.

Do you think I'm PROUD of her?

Her QUICK-WIT is something I love to watch grow as she matures, as well as her REGARD for all things around her. She's GREEN!

She is the best older SISTER. Wyatt learned his love for ice cream from her. (and her love of ice cream comes from her DAD! but Dad starts with a D) She is good to her brother and he knows it.

She even plays with her little brother like they are in a band and sometimes in the SAND ..SAM I AM) She is his "bestest friend!!!!!" SWEET!!

A TENDER-HEART is what she has..Please don't break it!! You woundn't want to see her cry. She gets this ADORABLE (again) little pucker and her little tears well up ...it really makes me cry!!!

SHE IS.....

UNBELIEVABLY, UNDENIABLY, UNEQUIVOCALLY, UNCONDITIONALLY.................the MOST adored granddaughter that I have.

DO YOU AGREE? (I'd love to hear about your grandkids..please... get pics ready!)

Kaitlyn..I just wanted to let you know AGAIN...you are

VERY....VERY ..........................loved!!!!!

Her brother's name is WYATT!

Kaitlyn's pot belly goat's name is "WRANGLER"...

I LOVE the Little Guy so much, too..WYATT I mean.

Did I tell you she is...

VERY VERY

VERY VERY

VERY VERY VERY VERY VERY VERY VERY VERY VERY VERY

SPECIAL!!!!!!!!

Miley thinks so, too! (sorry..I lost myself in the alphebet ..where was I?)

She is...... WORTH her WEIGHT in gold! Hey...Have you lifted her lately?

If you could take an X-RAY of my heart ..you'd see..it's full of LOVE for her! And will be for all the many YEARS to come........................

Oh yeah......Do you think she will be alittle.............
ZANY like her NANA?? !

HAPPY BIRTHDAY...Monkey!!!!!!!!!

Thanks my dear daughter.... for giving her to me.

Now you have to scroll way way way down to post a comment..I told you I was blogger......challenged! Wwheww!!

Vet School

2009-05-04T09:53:00.000-07:00

The Dead Cow and Vet School......

First-year students at Texas A&M's Vet School were receiving their first Anatomy class, with a real dead cow.

They all gathered around the surgery table with the body covered with a white sheet. The professor started the class by telling them, "In Veterinary medicine it is necessary to have two important qualities as a Doctor:

The first is that you do not be disgusted by anything involving the Animal Body," For example..the Professor pulled back the sheet, stuck his finger in the butt of the dead cow, withdrew it and stuck his finger in his mouth.

"GO ahead and do the same thing," he told his 20 students.

The students freaked out, hesitated for several minutes, but eventually took turns sticking a finger in the anal opening of the dead cow and sucking on it.

When everyone was finished, the Professor looks at them and said, " The second most important quality is OBSERVATION. I stuck my in middle finger and sucked on my index finger."

"Now learn to pay attention. Life's tough, it's even tougher if you're stupid."

Turning 21? Again!

2009-05-01T21:04:00.000-07:00

THE SECRET TO STAYING YOUNG IS TO LIVE HONESTLY...
EAT SLOWLY.......
AND LIE ABOUT YOUR AGE!!!!!

Trudy, my baby sister, the youngest of my Mom's six children, had her 46Th birthday this Thursday. And let me tell you ... this sweetheart of a person has no need to lie about her age. Really..even her kids will let her hang around them in public! .... ..she looks so great!

HOW OLD WOULD YOU BE IF YOU DIDN'T KNOW HOW OLD YOU WAS?

Trudy's husband was to be away for awhile and when he jokingly told my 81 year old mom, "Now you girls, don't be going out and partying!" we had to celebrate with some Strawberry Margaritas!! WooHoo! Yea! (we live on the dangerous side!) Well .. we needed some food to go with all that alcohol!!! We enjoyed ourselves with bowls of yummy French Onion soup, topped with cheesy Gouda, on top of toasted chiabatta slices . More margaritas to wash that food down. WooHoo! WooHoo! Are we still hungry??? Yes we are! Pita sandwiches with grilled chicken breasts, avocados, tomatoes, purple onions, cucumbers and yogurt dip did the trick........ except our glasses were empty..but not for long!! More WooHoos! We are full and we never make it to the fresh strawberrys and pound cake. Being the huge party animal that I am.....I did make it to the bed tho for an immediate nap ! Hey..we have to do this more often!

YOU KNOW YOU ARE GETTING OLD WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE THE MORNING AFTER AND YOU HAVEN"T BEEN ANYWHERE!

Trudy is quite beautiful..Yea and it's inside and out! And it is true, beauty truly comes from within. She never ceases to amaze me ..her generosity..thoughtfulness..and consistent support. I'd say she's a better sister to her friends than most sisters are to their sisters. And having a her in our family a treat. Her laughter is wonderful ...full of appreciation, merriment AND..it just goes to show you ..your not insane, she just thinks your funny!

YOU KNOW YOU ARE GETTING OLD WHEN YOU KNOW ALL THE ANSWERS BUT NO ONE ASKS YOU THE QUESTIONS !

The Taurus: The earth sign. Ruled by Venus. Symbol of the Bull:Practical, steady
Traits: stubborn, dependable, persistent, affectionate, possessive
True to your mascot, the bull, your stubbornness is the root of your perseverance. You are highly motivated to see things through to the end because you derive great satisfaction in your reward. Because you work so hard at accomplishing your goals, esp. in your career, you value a hard earned buck. You are very practical, but you aren't particularly interested in trying new things as change makes you feel uneasy and vulnerable. Instead you crave stability and are comfortable with the familiar. Your fixed quality could also explain why you tend to be unwavering in your opionions.. Your cool, calm and collected exterior hides your tenacious temper. Rarely do you unleash it on others unless you're seriously or continuously provoked. Beneath your down to earth personality lies someone who is very romantic and concerned with matters of the heart.

So HAPPY BIRTHDAY Trudy Lee. We love you. You are so special!

P.S. EDIT: For all of my loved Sisters and Nieces that were unabled to attend Trudy's little luncheon..You were very missed. The memories of all those times when we all were happily together and we had so much fun are still in my mind and dwell in my heart. I love you all.