The End

of 2010.  We can't say it hasn't been an interesting year.  Good for some and not so much for others. Praying things become much better in the year ahead.  As I put on my fb status I wish for these things in the new year. May the soldiers be safe and come home soon. Jobs for the people returning to our shores. Less greed and more giving. Less criticism of everything and more constructive attitudes. Let all peoples be more tolerant of others and their beliefs.  I feel it would be a much better world if we could just do that.

We finally got the tree down, much to the grumbling of hubby.  You would think he had to bring it in and out every month, lol.  He swears we're going to go the way of a Christmas Branch as in the Emmit Otter Jug Band Christmas.  We just laugh.   

Tonight we are going out for dinner and a show.  At the Moose no less. Yeah I know, we go there a lot, but you can't beat it for being real close to home and the prices are just great.  For the first time they are adding a magician, comedian and band to the New Years Eve dinner.  We were planning on staying home but curiosity got the best of us.  Had to see how this new thing was received.  We may leave early though as the weather is suppose to start deteroirating quickly after the melting we've had.  Do not want to have to worry about icy roads. Will have to stop in at the sister's place for a short while (I do mean short) or will be on the receiving end of harassment ;).  Definitely not going anywhere tomorrow.  Will spend the day watching the Rose Bowl parade and rooting on the Badgers.  GO BUCKY!

You all have a safe and Happy New Year!  May it bring you all good things.

Buyer Beware

Especially when dealing with WalMart.  My nephew's girlfriend bought him a PSP for Christmas.  When they opened it it wouldn't work so they took it back.  They refused to exchange it or give them their money back.  Herein lies the problem.  The serial number on the box and receipt do not match the player in the box.  Either Sony mixed things up at packaging, someone at WalMart mixed or switched it or someone had previously exchanged it and switched players.  The return dept. is suppose to check this when something is returned and evidently they didn't do their job.  Marie watched them pull the box from the glass case and even bought an extended warranty for it.  Calls to the store meet with hang ups, lies, and accusations of them doing the switching.  Well you can't switch what you don't have.  Calls and emails to corporate seemed like it was going to help but so far no luck.  Manager at the store claims they back him up.  Lady at corporate says to call her again if no success.  It's just a run-a-round.  We were telling a person who has worked there and he too says they are suppose to check to make sure these things match.  He also says there is no reason not to exchange it because WalMart does not lose anything when they do.  It goes back to the manufacturer who takes the loss.  So they are out a player and their money.

If you purchase a product at WalMart make them open the box and check that serial numbers match before you purchase it.  The inconvenience should drive them crazy, lol.  We are continuing the calls, spreading the word and my sister Rhonda is putting it in the public forum.  

One down

and one to go.  Holiday celebration that is.  New Years is just days away and though we don't usually go anywhere, this year we will be going for a steak dinner at the Moose this year.  They are having a magician, comedian and a band this year.  A first for them and we're thinking it may be a good time.

Will be taking down the tree and decorations today.  Not that I don't mind having them up, but the hubby wants to get it over with.  It just always looks so bleak after they are gone. 

Have a check up this morning and am not looking forward to that.  Not that I have any problems, I really feel great, it's a regular visit.  It's just that the holidays have NOT done any good in the lowering of the numbers on the scales.  Having many birthdays and the holidays from Oct. do not lend to good dieting.  Though this dr. won't be too hard on me the other I see Fri. will not be pleased.  I think my New Years resolution had better be to work much harder at it. 

Better go get ready.  You all have a good day.

Stuff

The day dawned with a slushy mess out there.  Cold of course, but then this winter in Wisconsin.  Had to make a run to have those wonderful ladies take my blood for a Dr's appt. next week.  They enjoy their job so. 

  Found an old photo album this morning.  Good and bad it is.  It's one of those oldies before they came out with acid free ones, and the pages were the sticky kind to hold the photos.   What an awful time removing them so we could put them in a better one.  Some of the pictures had a layer of the paper in the back come off, leaving a very thin sheet.   Jack's mother used to have a Polaroid she took pictures with.  When pulling them off they left rippled lines in them.   I plan to scan, try to touch up and reprint them if I can.

There were such cute ones of the kids. Christmas, vacations, cookouts. Of course, they may not think so, tee hee.  But, scanned they will be and probably posted too ;-).  Friends and relatives too.  In fact I found the one I was looking for of my aunt who passed a few weeks ago.  Now I can make sure her daughter gets it.  Fortunately it was not ruined when pulling if off the page. 

Went to Nicole's Christmas concert last night.  It was wonderful.  A beautiful mixture of modern songs and  classic Christmas carols.  The kids did a great job and they all looked so nice, dressed in dark slacks and white blouses and shirts.  A much better presentation than last year where they all looked liked rejects from a bad prom.  Man what a difference and different teacher makes.  The choir was dwindling badly with the old director and I know it will again make gains. They used to be so big you had to have extra risers and separate the nights between middle school and high school choirs.  Now it's all combined into one night. 

Well off to start working on pictures.  This may take years as there are other priorities you know :-).  Now what do you suppose they would be hmmmmm!

One of my grandbabies.

Went to see Carson's school play Friday.  The kids were wonderful.  They all did such a good job.  The music was wonderful.  It was called "The Glass Slipper" and they did it in a modern type of style with there eveyday clothes.  I wish I could put it all up but it was 1 1/2 hours long.  Carson was Cinderella and I thought she did a great job.  Not that I would be biased or anything ;-).  After spending most of yesterday putting it on a disk for her to keep I managed to get an excerpt from it to put up.    So here this grandma is bombarding with you with one of her proud spots. I guess I'm making up for the lack of communication with my other kids about their childs programs.  I am going to put them on the naughty list and give them a hard time.  I recieved NO notices as to when their holiday programs were.  Now I used to know as to Nicole's as I worked in the district, but I haven't worked there in 3 years.  The others are in different districts so I have absolutely no idea when they have one.  They are in so much trouble. 

I put three spots up on facebook at the request of my sisters so they could see.  Her solo, her duet with the prince and the duet with the Fairy Godmother.  There were many good singers and the rest of the class was on risers on either side of the stage for choral additions.  It was so cute and the kids where great when little glitches happened.  They carried right on with confidence.  It really was fun to watch.

Well off to do whatever I'm going to come up with for the day.  You all have a wonderful day.

I made her cry.

I didn't mean to. We used to get eacher other gifts but as the kids came along we decided to concentrate on them.  Once three of us got together and gave Sherry a whole roll of bubble wrap.  When she saw the pretty present, she admonished us for giving her a present, but you should have seen her laugh when she opened it.  Stinkers weren't we.  But, one Christmas I made Sherry cry.  We had been going through a bunch of photos and I came across one of her and our Grandfather who had passed.  It was a wonderful cheek to cheek head shot.  A little 4x6 print, but it was so nice. I went a bought a nice frame and wrapped it.  As we all used to go to her house (before we all ran out of room) it was easy to sneak it under the tree.  Yes, I let the others know what was coming.  The look on her face when she opened it was priceless, she called me a brat and the tears began to flow.  I just wanted to make her happy.  Really I did. 

Too Darn Cold

This cold weather is wearing it's welcome thin already, and to think we still have Jan. and Feb. to look forward too.  UGH!  It just gets all the way to the bone.  They say more snow tomorrow and maybe Thur. at least that will bring a little rise in temperatures, but then back down.

Put some patches on a couple vests this morning.  Carson brought more girl scout patches for hers. She works hard for them and Grandma is proud to put them on for her.  I do tease her a little for making me work so hard, but that gets me a kiss and hug.  I know what I'm doing (big smile).

Then there was Jack's leather vest.  He bought some patches once at a store where they sewed them on right there.  He showed her where he wanted one of them and she put it there. Now mind you, there are inside pockets in this vest and the lady knew that when she sewed them on, sewing the pocket shut.. She told him that was the only way they would work there.  Now I know it's difficult to do but not impossible.  Amateur that I am in this area I took it off and twisting and turning managed to get it back on making the pocket usable.  Well he brought me another one he wanted on the other side, same problem, but it's done, looks good, and that pocket is usable.  Now patting myself on the back

I never had a good sewing class in school and was really turned off by the teacher I had.  I'm sure I have blogged about it when on spaces.  She was determined to help those who had taken her class from 6th grade up.  I came to the school from a Catholic elementary school and going into the 9th grade in this class had absolutely no experience in classes like this.  It was all academics there.  She kept ignoring my requests for help, threatened to give a girl who tried to help a lower grade if she did it again, detentions to do my work which she still ignored my pleas and gave me an F.  Well a conference with my mother and the principal resulted in a passing grade, free period for a study hall and never had to set foot in her class again.  I didn't even go in to retrieve the supplies I had bought for the class.  So in the end, a sewing machine that was an extra when we bought our first vacuum gave me the urge to try again and I taught myself what little I know.

Well off to find a book to bundle up with and try to get warm.   Ya'll keep safe and warm now.

Shivering Monday

Baby it's cold out there.  The hubby bundled up in carharts and 2 coats just to go out for a short walk and scrap the car windows.  See.

We have to go out in this later and I'm not looking forward to it.  We didn't get as much snow as other areas of the state.  No school closings in our little neck of the woods but then our school systems here seem to tough it out longer than the surrounding areas.  There have been years when everyone around us closed or delayed and where I worked it was a go.  The supt. and transportation head would go out around 5:30 and if the could run all the routes there was no excuse not to have school.  Use to make my kids so darn mad but they enjoyed it in the summer when they didn't have to make up days. They would try to talk me into staying home, but darn, if I had to go in and clean up from others they could go to school.

I do remember on year it snow so much we couldn't get into the schools.  Of course maintenance was told to report.  Had to do all the little things that can't get done on a regular basis.  We had to park along the rode and walk into the school.  It was so deep we had to follow along behind the guys as the made a path to get into the building.  Then they dug out the trucks and began the plowing.  Should have called in sick, lol. 

Hey, has anyone heard from Seth since we were all sent away from spaces?  Sure miss his blogs.  He had such a funny unique way of looking at things.

Well, off like a herd of turtles to pick up a prescription for the hubby.  You all keep warm and stay safe.

Battening down the hatches.

It's not looking pretty out there.  Rain, sleet, snow, and blizzard are mother natures gifts coming out way.  I sure am glad we got all our running done the last couple days.  No need to go out in it.  I don't particularly like going out in winter anyway.  After falling and breaking my ankle on ice  13 years ago I have a healthy respect for careful walking.  I've never been one for outdoor activities in winter anyway. 

I don't usually do much baking for the holidays but if we're going to be house bound for a couple days that may be something to pass the time.  Of course there's the always dreaded cleaning too.  Have tons of dvd's we can watch and whatever there may be on tv, AND, I have many books I haven't even looked at sitting in a bag in my bedroom. 

Sat here this morning laughing at my son and his daughter.  They were playing baseball on the playstation and it was so funny.  She was beating him and jokingly rubbed it in with each run she got.  My sides were aching at their good natured jibes at each other.  She is an awful lot like her aunt Darla in her competitive spirit. 

Made a big pile of taco meat for tacos for the day.  It's an eat when your hungry day. 

It's Up

I did it.  All those things I needed to do on yesterday's blog I got done.  Would pat myself on the back but don't want to break my arm, tee hee. 

I wanted to put up the tree yesterday, but the "bah humbug scrooge that lives here" didn't want to.  We always have done it on my son Jack's birthday today and he wanted to wait til then.  Darla came in and teased him and he gave her the 'look'.  She said if looks could kill she'd be a goner.  Well he must have got antsy, and used the coming weather as an excuse and went to the garage and brought tree and decorations in.  Yippe!  I win again.  Of course I'm going to be in trouble with Carson as she like to decorate it.  Oh well.  Check it out. 

Merry Christmas

Turn up the heat!

I'm freezing!

Though I have my shopping done, it's time to get with it and do my cards.  Haven't been that busy so there is no valid excuse.  Just lazy I guess, or may just trying to keep warm.  It's too darn cold already and it's going to get worse they say.  Don't normally do a lot of holiday baking as the kids bring all kinds of stuff Christmas Eve, and this way I don't have all those 'not needed' treats tempting me. 

Well I got the goulash made finally and evidently it was good as there wasn't a bit of it left.  Jack made salmon patties yesterday for him and his mom (they're the only 2 who like them) and the whole house smells just awful. Of course it's too darn cold to open the windows to air it out.  

Sadly we had another visitation to go to last night.  A former neighbor had passed.  It seems like that's all we've done this year.  I think this is the 4th one and my sister has another one this week for a friend of hers.  It always seems like there is more of that this time of year, doesn't it.  It may not be, but it sure seems like it.
I was supposed to go to the Christmas party from the school I used to work at, but as it was last night I missed it of course.  I really enjoy those but there are priorities.

Off to do something constructive.  I know, you're not buying it.  But, really I am.  Someone has to clean up the mess from last nights cook as he didn't do it.  Have those cards to do and and put all the gift cards into their cards.  Must wrap the few presents for the little ones.  Then a trip to the grocery store, UGGGGh!

BRRRRRR BABY, BRRRRRRR

Winter has barely got started and I'm not liking it already.  I wanted to make goulash for dinner but have to stewed tomatoes and I am not going out in this nasty cold to get any.  Will have to come up with a new plan.

Cindy commented on my post yesterday that she had never heard of Mooseheart.  Let's see if I can explain it.  Maybe this quote from one of the pamplets they gave us will help.

THE CHILD CITY

Mooeheart Child City & School is a community and school for children and teens in need, supported by the Moose fraternal organization.  Founded by the Moose in 1913 and situated on a beautiful 1,000-acre campus 38 miles west of Chicago, Mooseheart takes in youth whose families are unable , for a wide variety of reasons, to care for them.  Some have lost one or both parents; others are living in environments simply not conductive to health growth and development.  Whatever the reason, the men and women of the Moose, with the help from outside corporate and foundation donors, furnish the resources necessary to care for these young people.

Mooseheart features roughly 30 homes, each designed like a spacious, well-appointed single-family home, in which children and teens live in groups of six to ten, under the care of trained and compassionate Family Teachers.  The youngsters attend Mooseheart's fully-accredited on-campus K-12 school, receive training in a vocation, attend church services and religious-education classes, and have the opportunity to compete in numerous interscholastic sports in addition to a wide range of recreational activities."

While we were there we learned that there is also the opportunity for full college scholarships.  They are also allowed and encourage to have outside employment the same as other teens and with their outstanding discipline, social, and responsible attitudes are favorites among employers in the community.

I am very proud to be a member and am awed at what my small dues accomplishes for these kids.  There are lodges all over the world contributing to this and also Moosehaven retirement community in Fl. 

Our lodge here in Beloit is the oldest one in the state.

Well I hope that clears it up for some.

Have a good day and please keep warm and safe. 

GOD BLESS

Such Fun

The shopping trip was so much fun.  I wish you all could have been with us.  We started out by having lunch so we would work it off shopping.  From store to store we looked, teased each other, laughed and had the clerks laughing right along with us.  We all helped the economy but Sherry.  Scrooge, lol.  I will say that I was more than ready to come home after 5 hours though.  We laughed when we dropped her off that Bill must be ready for her too.  And since her daughters car wasn't there was thinking she may be grounded for that 5 hour jaunt.   We didn't hear from her all night on fb and for a while the next day, lol. 

Yesterday Jack and I took a bus trip to Mooseheart for the 47 annual Wisconsin Tree Lighting. They had beautiful light displays all over the grounds.  It was awesome.  What a wonderful place.  We met the boys living in the Wisconsin House and a nice group of gentlemen they are.  They gave us a tour of their home and told us about what they like and do.  How much they like living there and all that is offered.  I was so impressed.  We had been there once before years ago and saw a number of other places including the area for babies.  It saddened you that they had to be there, but also lifted your spirits that they had such a wonderful place for their care.  These kids are given everything they need to succeed in life and I'm glad to be a part of an organization that aids them. 

Today will be a lazy day.  Going for breakfast at the Moose.  Specialty today--Belgian Waffles, or any of the normal breakfast fare you like.  Then home to watch the Packer game and play on this machine of course.  Darn thing is addicting. 

It's darn cold here and doesn't look to be warming up for a few days.  Have my snuggie out and ready, all throws we have draped over the backs of furniture and little heater (like those advertised by the Amish) in and fired up.  Keeping the Bunn either full of hot coffee, or hot water for chocolate or tea.  Not to mention dressing warm.  Did I miss anything?  Wouldn't want to get a chill you know.

You all enjoy what's left of the weekend.  Stay safe, keep warm and GOD BLESS YOU ALL!

Watch out,

Here we come.  The sisters are going shopping today.  Sherry says that could mean trouble.  All four of us are descending on the mall.  First lunch and then shopping, shopping, shopping to walk it off.  What do I have left to shop for you say?  Well I do have all the kids and grandkids done but there is the husband. He was looking very wishful when we went to Sears the other day.  Maybe an idea there.

Something that got my goat.  A cousin in Fla. is trying to sell her house and move closer to her daughter.  They are having an open house this weekend and the realtor told her no Christmas decor and to remove her picture of Jesus as it may offend someone.  Well too darn bad.  They don't mind offending those who believe so they can just deal with it. I would think people looking for a house would expect things they wouldn't necessarily want in theirs. Besides, if they like the house they are going to change things anyway.  Well, she already has the decorations boxed but she says she is moving the picture, to a more prominant place for viewing.  I think she's a little 'offended'  by the suggestion don't you? 

Our cousin Mary sends a big THANK YOU for all the prayers for our cousin Jim.  The doctors say his numbers are all up and he in the best shape he's been in the last 2 1/2 years.   I guess they're thinking another  round of chemo and then hopefully a bone marrow transplant.  We're all very hopeful and awed by your prayers.

You all have a good weekend. 

Thinking

I know, it's scary.  The things that pop into a persons mind can be odd, thought provoking, funny, mean, or just plan out of this world.  They come up at some strange times and the good ones usually when you have no place to jot them down to share.  Mine usually hit me in the night while trying to get back to sleep after wake up call and sometimes in your sleep for some strange reason. I have all kinds of ideas on how to do something. You know, something you saw or heard on tv etc. gets your mind working overtime and you have your view on it.  It makes perfect sense to you what you want to say about it and you can even see it all put down on paper.  But, getting up to go down a put them down is not in my lazy demeaner, so they are all gone by morning.  Tried putting a pad and pencil by the bed, but it's hard to write in the dark and hubby wouldn't appreciate the light coming on. 

I know one time I was making a dress for Darla and it had on that "Nehru" (sp) type collar.  For the life of me I could not understand the pattern instructions.  Of course it came to me in my sleep.  That time I did get up and do it.  It came out perfectly, but it left me very tired that day, and with three kids to take care of.   The ones that usually hit me now, at least, aren't earth shattering and won't be missed because I couldn't remember them.  It's just that it can be frustrating to think of something you may like to share and it's gone in the wind. 

Wonderful Time

A good Monday morning to you all.  To those who have to go to work, have a nice day.  To those of us who get to stay home, you have a nice day too.

The Thanksgiving holiday is over and what a lovely one it was.  The house was full of love, laughter, good food and fabulous family.  We were enjoying ourselves so much no even thought of bringing out a camera. I guess you can't ask for a better time that that.  You've heard the expression "kiss the cook" when all the food is gone.  Well they came pretty darn close.  One small piece of turkey left, a cup of mashed potatoes, no gravy, no dressing, one sweet potato.  I can tell you that is a first.  We also had a chicken and there was barely enough left to make soup with.  Jack wanted to try his attempt at chicken noodle soup and did he ever to a good job.  Very little of that left either.  The one thing we had in abundance was pie.  Two pumkin (gone) 1 apple (1/4 left) 2 strawberry (1 gone), 2 banana cream (1 gone) and 1 mincemeat (1/4 left).  So you can see what we've been snacking on for the last 2 days.  Time for some serious dieting before the Christmas bounty.

Did not participate and Black Friday and have no intention on doing the Cyber Monday thing either.  Only have a few gift cards left to get and can do that anytime this week.  I does feel good not to have to worry about running out close to Christmas.

You all have a great week.

Yes I did it

Yesterday I moved my spaces blogs to WordPress.  As with most of you, I'm not impressed with it.  This will definitely be my main forum. 

Just received a call from the hunters.  They are on their way home.  That means extra work making sure they get their gear put away right away.  With dinner here tomorrow I don't need the 'empty space fillers' doing their thing.   Have to make a quick trip to pick up a couple things I forgot.  It's always something isn't it.

I will leave you with this little poem.

A Thanksgiving Day Prayer

Lord,

We humbly ask they blessing on the turkey and the dressing,

on the yams and cranberry jelly,

and the pickles from the deli.

Bless the apple pie and tea,

bless each and every calorie.

Let us enjoy Thanksgiving dinner,

tomorrow we can all get thinner.

For all Thy help along the way

we're thankful this Thandsgiving Day.

We're thankful, too, for all our dear ones,

for all the far away and near ones.

Although we may be far apart,

we're together in our hearts.

Keep us in Thy loving care,

this is my Thanksgiving prayer.

P.S.  Anyone who wishes

may help with the dishes.

HAVE A WONDERFUL THANKS GIVING.

Just stuff

I know I've  been neglectful here.  Have just been enjoying the alone time while the guys are off hunting.  Haven't forgot about the place, just that everytime I think to post my mind draws a blank and I give up. I could joke about being 'empty headed' but I let my sisters do that for me, lol.

Went to the "Deer Widows" night with them.  Though we had a good time, I left early and was I in bed by 10:30. Sherry left before I did and according to Rhonda we missed the real fun.  But then she had a 'headache' the next day.  I think we did just the right thing.  Brody is getting the best of grandma and Sherry was definitely ready to call it a night.  Sunday was spent watching the Packers and finishing the "Castle" Book.  So here it is Monday and time to start getting ready for Thanksgiving dinner.

I must admit I'm spoiled.  As my husband usually makes coffee every morning so I'm a bit out of practice.  How hard can it be with a Bunn you say?  Well you must remember to be sure the pot is empty from the day before (as there are not 2 of drinking it) before you start another pot.  Coffee flowing all over the counter is not the best way to start the day  (red-faced here).

Carson has been given the part of Cinderella in the school play.  I am making sure the camera is charged and the tripod fits so I get it all on video.  She has 2 solos and a duet with Prince Charming.  I have to laugh at her because she says "it's embarrassing  having a boy propose and he's a 4th grader grandma".  Alyssa, Nicole, Aaron and Austin all made the honor roll.  I'm so proud of them.  As Carson is still in elementary school they don't do that, but I don't doubt for a minute she would be on it too.  

I'll end with a note from one of the big hunters, my grandson Aaron.

"Sitting in the north woods waiting for a deer with a 'death wish'. " 

Grrr and double Grrr!

It's a good thing it's rant Wednesday because I am ranting about the elimination of Brandy on DWTS.  It blows the mind that people could vote the way they do. How someone who is stiff, awkward and cannot show a decent emotion for a dance can go so far.  I read on a comment on one site where the person said people are not voting for Bristol because of her mother but because she is the one with the least talent who tries so hard and improves a little each week.  Right!  We are suppose to buy this crap.  I tried the so-called on-line site and got 'that page is not available'.  It was right up until I clicked on a vote for Derek and Jennifer. GRRRRRR!  The show is quickly losing it's credibilty.

The men in my house are driving me up the wall.  I went to sew some more patches on a jacket yesterday and can't get to the machine.  It seems there was a couple blank spots in the room and they are now filled by camera and hunting paraphernalia.  GRRRRRRRR again.

Okay, that about does it.  Have to let the boiling blood cool down.  Wouldn't want to explode or anything.  I will try to let this quote my Martha Washington wash over me and release me of my frustrations.

"I am determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may find myself.  For I have learned that the greater part of our misery and unhappiness is determined not by our circumstances but by our dispositions."

Have a good day.

What Fun

We had a great time at Darla's birthday party Sat.  Besides family of course, all her co-workers were there and many friends.  I wish you all could have been there.  There was pizza and snacks and a free 1/4 barrel that lasted much longer than I thought it would. Jim made 2 cakes, 1 chocolate mint and one caramel apple spice cake.  As usual they were 'melt in you mouth'.   Here is a couple of pics of the party.

My daughter-in-law Sandy, Darla, Sandy's twin sister Debi.

Darla saw the video and this is what she wanted to it's what we bought her.

Here is the link to the video if you would like to see it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVAZXZfIlNk

Zooniversity Presents: Teach Me How To Bucky (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO) [Cascia Films]

www.youtube.com

Needless to say, her Dad had a good time.  Guess who had to drive home?

Want to finish my Christmas shopping this week.  Only have about 6 left to get, and they are gift cards, so that won't take long.  The guys will be getting ready to go deer hunting this weekend so I will have the house all to myself for a few days.  How will I every cope, lol.  Maybe this time I can get something constructive done instead of frittering away the time.  Of course there will be the "deer widows party" up at the little bar.  At the moment I'm undecided if going but the odds are in favor of the party.  Peer pressure by sisters you know.  I've already been told no staying home like last year.  

 

Well the laundry is calling my name so I guess I had better get going. 

Everyone have a good day.    

Ranting today

first, about DWTS.  It's getting so you don't care to watch as the audience seems to have more clout that the judges.  As I said before, judges should have bigger vote as they are the pros.  Bristol Palin is a very cute young lady and seems real nice, but, she can't dance and should have been off two weeks ago. 

Last night I saw a newscast about schools failing the minorities.  Now I do agree that a lot of schools could do a better job, but when are these people going to take responsibility for themselves and their children.  My husband and I worked in schools for over 35 years and when you see kids and parents expecting enititled grades and lighter discipline because they are minorities, you know it's not all the schools fault.  All hell breaks loose if they don't get their way.  And no, it's not all the minorities who behave this way, but a great deal of them. They come late, homework not done, tired because they haven't a decent bedtime, with a chip on their shoulder and parents who make excuse after excuse for them.  Case in point.  While cleaning a room across the hall from a conference going on with the principal, teacher and parent I heard this.  Mother, "What do you want, his homework done or readable"?  Principal,  "both, we can't tell if it's correct if we can't read it."  Mother, "too bad".  Mark it done and leave my kid alone." I don't think I will every forget that conversation.  No, I wasn't eavesdropping, it was just she was yelling so loud you couldn't help hearing it. They is no reason if they are sitting in the classroom with students who are doing the work, getting the grades and succeeding, that they shouldn't be doing the same.  It's lack of proper parenting and laziness.

Let's see what else to rant.  Okay, okay, that's enough for today. 

Have a good day all.

What to do?

It's another nice day here.  Hoping the weatherman is right with the forecast of 65.  Savoring each one as it won't be long and that nasty four letter word s*#w along with his friend ice will be keeping me hiding inside as much as possible.

Haven't been doing much worthy of blogging lately. Sometimes it seems as if the days just run together with nothing out of the ordinary happening. Then everyone has something to do on the same day and time.  Darla won a pizza/beer party at a fundraiser a month or so ago and set up the date to have it to coincide with her Birthday Friday.  She is having it on Saturday so family could attend.  She invited and posted it on fb a couple weeks ago or so.  Well yesterday we got a call that Jack's sister, she is having a party for their Mom and a granddaughter of hers the same day, same time, just starting an hour earlier.  Since that side of the family is never on time to start anything, and they live way out in the country it would be difficult to attend or even put in an appearance at both.  What to do.  Well I'm opting for Darla's, as it was set up first. 

Since I only have gift cards left to get, my Christmas shopping should be done by the end of the week.  Maybe even to day, if I get my butt moving here.  Have to run and have a subscription filled so should get a couple done then. 

You all have a wonderful day.



FINALLY, IT'S DONE!

Not much going on around here.  That sad day of our aunts funeral tomorrow and constant prayers for our counsin Mary and her husband Jim as he fights the battle for leukemia.  Things are pretty slow in this neck of the woods.

Now to my title.  Yesterday we made the trip to the Photo studio and picked up the restored picture. Here is the before.

Here is the after.

Not a bad job if I do say so myself.  We have a picture of my granddaughter Nicole and boy do her and Sherry look alike at that age.  Freaky how the genes conintue on.

So what have I been doing the last few days that I haven't been on here much.  Going through picture and making copies for some cousins of ones I have that their parents are in.  Then being the curious sort, I came across my mothers graduation picture and decided to try my hand and getting the flaws out.  I have photoshop, though mine is not as advanced as his, and did a pretty fair job of it.  Maybe I'll put them up one of these days.  I found a couple more photos I want to play with, so I'll see what fun I can have with them.

Well off to do some more foraging in photos and playing around.  You all have a good day.

Unhappy here.

I am about to blow a gasket.  I went to move my old blog to Wordpress as they requested.  At first I got this site no longer exists.  Then I finally got to it, then went to transfer it.  I got a must update Windows live messenger, why I don't know.  Clicked cancel or decline, whatever it said, on that at it kept coming back so I click okay.  After update I can no longer get into any of it.  Can't even chat online with people in messenger as before. It says the Id or password is incorrect and I know for a fact it is not.  Can no longer get into my hotmail account as it says the same thing and of course that makes it impossible to find where my stuff went in Wordpress.  What's up with this.  If I uninstall the updates my son will lose his account too.  As of right now that is the only one that shows up as valid.  GRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

draft

Happy Birthday.

Happy 13th Birthday to my beautiful granddaughter Nicole.

It only seems like yesterday I was watching this little baby while her mother worked. I can't believe how she's grown.  She's taller than grandma.  But then she's taller that her mom and aunt Darla too. That's just not right.  Danielle complains when they snuggle together to watch a movie she has to lean on Nicole instead of Nicole leaning on her.  Nicole complains because when Danielle's friend sends clothes to the house from her daughters they're too small for her and mom gets the good stuff.  Lol

What have I been doing the last few days that I didn't post.  A little of this, a little of that, nothing earth shattering.  You know, all the normal daily stuff that has to been done.  The boring stuff.  Have been reading another Castle book called Naked Heat.  Not bad at all.  I sure hope they're not going to keep this up.  I have loads of other books to read.

Lunch and supper is dual duty.  Bar-b-que's and homemade french fries with pineapple cupcakes for dessert. 

Have a good evening.

What a weekend

Quite the pair huh? 

My son Jack and grandson Austin.   Austin dislocated his shoulder playing football.  It was just a couple months ago Aaron had the concussion playing football.  I think we've had enough for awhile, don't you?

Last Wednesday I took my new camera with me to the sisters nite at the little bar.  Hadn't used it hardly at all so I thought I would see how it work in the dim lighting there.  Well I got a picture of a scarey site.  Kind of takes away from the sweet, smiling image she usually portrays, lol.

Needless tosay, we had loads of fun with it on the web last night.  She said, "who do I have to kill for this", lol.  Of course we know she doesn't mean it but it racked up 95 comments.  Now I know she won't kill, but I also know she believes in the statement "don't get mad, get even" because she said I will not know when she is going to sneak up on the perpetrator.  Guess I'll have to be careful to smile at all times.

Have a wonderful day.

"Happy people may not have the best, but make the best of what they have."

Wrap them in BubbleWrap.

Well my son is doing okay.  Hasn't had too much pain.  Nothing Tylenol can't handle.  The pictures on his cell are awful looking though.  Yuck.  They reattached the nerve, remove metal shavings and irrigated the wound. He has feeling and movement in the fingers, so that's good.  He doesn't plan to miss one day of work.  They have stuff he can do and he says he'll even clean toliets with one hand if he has too. 

Now to the next one.  I got a text from my Grandson Austin this morning saying he was on the way to the hospital to have his shoulder checked.  Well they just left here and he dislocated it playing football yesterday.  My dil said she was going to wrap Aaron in bubblewrap to keep him safe, lol.  I think all those guys should be wrapped in it.  Son said the other team was playing a bit nasty.  Took out 4 of his guys with flagrant face masks, leading with their heads etc.  You would think that with all the pros being hurt that way the coach wouldn't be allowing his kids to learn that way, wouldn't you.  Some fathers just don't seem to care.  Until it's their son that gets hurt of course.

Spending the day do laudry and watching the race and football.  Boy that Badger game yesterday was a real nail biter.  Of course, being in the casino in Iowa when it started had us a little outnumbered.  One of the dealers was giving my sister a hard time, kiddingly of course.  We may it home in time to see the 4th quarter and Jodi said she wishes she was sitting at that table now, lol.  We had 3 big winners on the bus, but alas, not me.  Only lost $20 though so I can't complain.  The trip only cost $10 and we got a nice bufftet lunch for that, so not a bad day for $30.  Had a good time and that's the important thing. 

Hope your all having a good day.

Hoping for a Win.

Well here it is.  Today we are going on a gambling bus trip with the little bar up the street.  Wish me luck.  I need it as I usually lose what I take.  You'd think I would stop wouldn't you?  Since it only goes twice a year and I don't take much, I guess it's okay.

Yesterday I was sitting here getting ready to post when I got a call from my dil.  My son was hurt at work and in surgery at UW hospital.  He runs a machine and lining up a part, accidently hit the wrong pedal and it puncture through the palm of his hand.  His boss took him to the hospital, but his poor wife was home with her day care kids and couldn't be with him.  She called to see if we could go get him when he was released.  Of course we would but he called later and a co-worker was bringing him home.  He was feeling no pain at the moment of course but I'm sure he was as soon as the pain killers wore off.  The thing is I was not at the least bit shocked.  This is the kid, all the time growing up, if there was a chance to get hurt in any way, he was it.  Praying he keeps full use as it's his right hand of course.  So needless to say all posts were forgotten. 

Well better go get ready to leave. 

You all have a great day.

Gorgeous Day

Big Hill Park, Fall 2010

A beautiful Wednesday it is  Won't be too many of these days left.  This picture was taken this morning by my husband.  You all know by know this is across the river from where we live. 

What is up with these people having little girl cheerleaders doing cheers of questionable content.  I saw on the Today show this morning of another young lady of 11 being kicked off the squad for refusing to shake her butt at people.  This is the second child and the coaches see nothing wrong in these cheers for little girls.  The mother of the 6 yr. old complained and the 11 year old stood by her own convictions.  With all the perverts out there just looking for little girls to hurt, we condone this kind of thing and punish the child that has more sense and decency that the adults in charge.  It's bad enough we have pro-cheerleaders flaunting their bodies on the sidelines of football games but starting them out by teaching them to "shake your booty" as a child I guess is how you teach exhibihitionism.  Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against cheerleading, as both my daughters were cheerleaders, but done in a proper way.

Guess that was my Wednesday rant huh?   

Just a little change.

Did a little rework on here.  The design was sent to me when on spaces by Seth and I had been looking to put it up there but we know that's not going to happen now.  I said to self,  'self-why not here', self said 'good idea Terry'.  Presto, here it is.  Still not figuring everything out here, but plodding along. 

Don't you just love the set up for chatting on fb that Sherry set up?  I haven't been on much, but love going back and seeing the chats.  I guess we shut down here much earlier than everyone else does.  I can here the reference to 'age' from my sister, lol.  She always was a night owl.  Me, not so much.  It always made it tough working nights and and after retirement my whole schedule changed.  Jack was still working so it was early rising and I guess it became the norm. 

Have some mending to do today.  Put patches on Carson's girl scout vest, one on Jack's coat and fix the sleeves of a shirt that had the elastic so tight it cut off the cirulation in his arms.  It's not that the shirt is too small, in fact everywhere else it's a little loose. 

Well off to see what trouble I can get into.  No eye rolling out there.  I'm the good sister.  Stop laughing.  Especially you Sherry. 

Great News!

My brother-in-law Steve is now home and doing well. Of course he has to change some things in his lifestyle but I'm sure he can handle it. It will be a challenge, as he is the 'meat and potatoes' type of guy and cutting out the red meat will be tough. He told Rhonda she was going on a diet too, lol. She is more than willing as she too could use the loss of a few pounds. But then, can't a lot of us.

Brad is still having problems.  When they try to ease up on the coma inducing he become quite agitated and they have to contiue with it.  I want to thank you all for the prayers.

Yesterday was my grandson Aaron's 17th birthday. It seems like just yesterday he was a tiny thing in the hospital. Happy Birthday Aaron.

I was going to give him his card (money of course, he's a teenager) yesterday when we went to his brothers football game, but bad grandma that I am I sat here and forgot all about going.  Have a chance to redeem myself tomorrow as there is another game in the morning.  A quick trip to the Farmers Market (only 3 left) and off to the game.

Told the kids to send me ideas for Christmas as I have my Christmas Club money.  Shopping should be easy.  Gift cards or money was listed by all.  Though it makes it easier, and it's what they want, I miss the fun of watching them open the presents.  Still have the two little great-grandson's so I get to shop for them at least.

Well better get the dishes done.  For some reason they just don't do themselves and  the cleaning fairies must be on strike.

Impovemet

Good news for one. My bil, Steve, is doing real well. They have removed the oxygen and iv tubes. He may be able to come home in a couple days. Brad was slowly being eased up on the induced coma but had an episode and they have put things on hold. Thank you so much for your prayers. They really do help.

Have you been glued to the tv watching the rescue of those miners? Isn't wonderful to see each one as they hug their families? It brings tears to the eyes.

Boy, I must have done something wrong when setting this up. My dashboard when brought up looks nothing like the on on the youtube tutorial I watched. I can't seem to get some gadgets I want. I get this "contains illegal script" thing when I copy and paste it from the widgetbox site. Also, I could have sworn that when I I first looked at the list of more gadgets there were a whole lot more than 25. I'm totally confused. Now I find thata LW has an updated version and I haven't totally figured out the old on yet. Technically challenged am I. Another question. When I would go to spaces from my favorites list the page was a list of friends etc. that came up. Is there such a place on blogger that I missed when setting it up and how do I find it? I feel like such a putz. :-(

Have a good day everyone.

Prayers Please!

Well did enjoy the sun this weekend and there is a few more nice days ahead but there was a serious downside to the last couple days.

Prayers are needed for two of my brother-in laws. Jack's sisters husband fell down the basement stairs and fractured his skull pretty bad. He is in an induced coma. Initial reports are serious and of course the family is frantic. Then, this morning my brother-in-law Steve, (Rhonda's husband) suffered a heart attack and is UW hospital undergoing tests. That they sent him there conveys how serious this could be. Plus the prayers for Beth that all her test come out positive. Needless to say, this is no way to end one week and begin the next.

Hugs and prayers for good things for all of you.
Terry

Love that Sun.

It's just so nice out there. Spent all day yesterday outside. Jodi and her grandkids were out there, Sherry came over and Darla and Jim showed up. Plan to spend today the same way if possible. Only a couple more of these days left, so have to take advantage.

Today I was suppose to go to the Badgers Homecoming game, but here I am instead. Since it has only been a couple days since I've had shoes on, I didn't think the long walk from where we park to the stadium and back was a good idea so I let Jared go instead. Of course he had to text and let me know what fun he's having and the game hadn't started yet, lol. I don't know how it works in other college towns but it's a wild and crazy time at Madison. Band members march up and down the streets before the game playing 'On Wisconsin'. Vehicles driving around all decked out, and a massive sea of Red and White everywhere. Party gardens outside bars and restuarants, and of course, tailgate partying everywhere. And, that's just before the game. So the girls and I are here hanging together.

Okay, I'm headed out. Hope you all have a nice day.

Love that sun

The weather has been just beautiful here for Oct. Hit 80 yesterday and could to so again today. The sun is shining to nicely. I plan on enjoying the last of the good outdoor weather that is suppose to stay through Sunday. Then, temps. back down in the 60's.

Progress with the feet from the fall. I can even put on shoes now and go out in public. No longer look like a raccoon and except for on arm all other bruises are gone. Have been missing Wet Wednesday with the sisters and will be glad to get back to it next week, though I will stick to soda for a few more weeks. Even though the concussion was slight, I don't plan to take any chances.

Spent most of yesterday cleaning out the corner I have here for the grandkids. Tossed quite a bit of stuff they have outgrown and were not complete pieces anyway. There is a whole big plastic container full of stuffed animals. Time they go through it when they're here and cut down along with the tub of Barbies.

Today I hoped to tackle my computer area and pare down some of the stuff I have here. Then the big job. Hubby's desk. He has this habit of paying a bill and instead of filing it right away just tossing it on the desk. Sooner or later the pile gets to where things are falling all over. And, the fact that the kids computer that usually sits there is gone. My son Jack's died and he took that one. So hubby can clean his space and put his laptop there and my dining room table can be CLEAR. Yeah. The kids won't be totally out, as Darla also had a spare and brought it down. Jared will set it up in their room so they can still play some games. Since it's not connected to the internet he can put it there and not have to worry about what they're doing.

My daughter Darla, her hubby and the neighbors where sitting out having a fire in a contained fire pit last night and someone called the fire dept. The neighbor had built the pit and put in the enclosed container in Darla's back yard as they had the biggest space and so they could both enjoy it. Well the fire dept. gave them the name of an inspector to make sure it was all okay and let them continue. Fire pits are to be 30 feet from any structure but an exception can be made if the inspector deems is safe. Well I've been there and I don't think they have anything to worry about. It's not made to be a large fire.

Well I guess I had better get at it. It won't do it on it's own and I want to get outside. My nose just doesn't twitch right I guess and the cleaning fairy must be on strike.

You all have a great day

There goes the money.

Today the car goes in for new brakes. There is a nice shop up the road that will do it for a couple hundred dollars less than the dealership will. Nice to have a second vehicle to use while we wait. Hubby took it up just a few minutes ago and will walk back, it's that close.

Have a doctors appointment this morning. Consult for the 5 year colon check. Yuck. But, better safe than sorry.

Too many gadgets around here. When my son hooked up the Wii we lost the cd player for some reason. Yesterday we bought a combo cd/vcr player to downsize to one unit there, but alas, it didn't have enough spots to hooke everything up. Since the cd player is used more Jack just pulled the connection to the playstation. When the kids are here and want to play we'll just switch it over.

The sun is shining putting a bright glow on the area this morning. A little crisp at the moment but expected to hit around 70 and stay that way all week. I'm for even longer, like all month, lol. Not asking for much am I?

You all have a nice day.

Monday, Monday.

A good Monday morning to you all. It's freezing here. I mean it, 33 degrees. Been chilly all weekend and I don't like it. Not one bit. BUT, the weatherman says it will be in the 70's all week. I sure hope he's right.

Didn't do anything much this weekend, but then I'm not inclined to go out looking like a raccoon. The bruises have almost faded away completely on my face and I'm happy for that as I have to go out today and tomorrow. I did venture out yesterday for breakfast but was happy to get home and take the shoes off. Toes still a little tender.

Didn't get on this thing much over the weekend either. Popped in and out of fb and that was about it. Jack came home from bow hunting Sat. with no results. Didn't see anything close enough to take a shot. Spent the rest of the weekend watching some sad looking football. Our Badgers looked awful and took it on the chin. The Packers didn't look any better and just squeaked out the win. The only upside was the Bears loss, lol.

Want to go see that movie about the facebook inventor. I have heard that those who have seen it really liked it. We don't usually go to movies much. Usually wait for it to hit tv, but a night out is sounding like a plus. It's going to be a long winter if I'm getting cabin fever from just being confined for 2 weeks, lol.

Everyone have a good day, and remember,

"Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one." -- Bill Gates

What month ahead

The day started out so nice. The sun bursting over the treetops, taking the chill off. I went out into the yard and sat in the swing. The clouds started moving in across the sky and some look as if they could let loose and give the earth a bath. The sun is fighting for control which I hope it wins. My weather bug says 70, just perfect for the first day of October.

This is quite a busy month for birthdays for us. My son-in-law Jim, sister Jodi, brother Leroy, grandkids, Aaron, Nicole, Adam and husband Jack. Quite the group just before Christmas.

Been plugging along by myself here with Jack bowhunting. Been doing pretty darn good. If you read my blogs on spaces you know I took a fall the 18th. Though I'm bruised in quite a few places my toes took the brunt of it for some reason and I will be glad when I can put on shoes again (getting cabing fever). Bruises are healing nicely, concussion has been no problem at all so I thank God for watching out for me.

I Did It.

Well here I am. I made the jump and joined the WLS family that has moved on.  I will leave the spaces site up for awhile yet. I haven't decided whether to move my posts from there or just start fresh. I had already deleted some (even a couple accidently). I may also allow the move to Wordpress.  Keeping up with 2 sites may be a bit much though, we'll see. Also contemplating on whether to do the Twitter, flickr thing. So much to think about.

It is really too bad they felt they had to do this. I haven't found one person happy about it, so I wonder where they got their info we want the cnhange.

I will probably be asking for help now and again, navigating this new system. Hope I don't bug you too much.

Well you all have a good day.