Poor Puppy.

 Christmas Day is closing in fast and I'm not nearly ready.  Did get the cloth done for the table top tree we bought.  Now to get the tree up and decorated.  Maybe that will get me going on finishing the shopping.  You know as much as I appreciate the snow holding off, that may be the reason that gets people really going.  Did get my list lined up but getting ideas from the kids and grandkids is like pulling teeth.  It seems like money or gift cards  is the favorite answer, but that seems to impersonal.   I guess if that's their preference that's what they will get. 

Now to the poor puppy. Oreo had a vet visit yesterday.  We were concerned he may have worms and we were correct.  Probably would have been prevented if we had received the card they send telling us of a Nov.  checkup.  They had miss spelled the address so we have no idea where the card went.  Made sure they have it right now.  It's an old English spelling and we have to correct it with people all the time.  Well anyway, he was given new pills all the shots he needs and a years supply of Heartgard and Frontline to the tune of $277.   The poor little fellow was so good through it all.  Later that night though he lost all his supper.  I think it was just too much at one time for the little guy.  He's as frisky as ever this morning though.  

Well if we're ever going to get this place decorated sitting here isn't going to do it. 

You all have a good day.

Good Morning!

Here's hoping you day is going well.

Took Oreo for his first walk away from the yard yesterday.  He was to thrilled about that.  He was constantly stopping and had to have a little nudge now and again.  Finally about half way down the street he became determined he was going no further.  Plopped down right on the side of the road and refused to move, so we headed back.  When he spotted his own yard it was tough to keep up with him.  We'll keep up a little each day.

Daughter Deedee and her cousin (Sherry's daughter) are in Vegas meeting up with their friend Spring. It's their reward trip they promised themselves when they went back to school. Deedee and Spring are celebrating getting their Master's Degrees and Deanna is celebrating her divorce.  

Well we're are going to downsize in a Christmas tree.  Jack has been trying to get me to do it for a few years now, but I love the big tree.  The dog has made the decision.  No one wants to fight with him to stay away.  Should have it up this weekend hopefully, but on Monday for sure.  Have this round table in the garage that will be just perfect and bought some real pretty material for a table skirt. 

Well better get back to work.  As usual, the nose twitch doesn't work and the cleaning fairy have seems to have taken a trip elsewhere.  If you see her, tell her to get herself back here.

Oh am I a bad girl......

Gosh, I didn't realize it was so long since I was here.  You can send me all the wet noodle lashes I deserve.  It's mostly due to laziness but there were some busy times too. So let me fill you in on what I've been up too.  

Thanksgiving, of course, was looking to be a disaster.  I took the turkey out on Mon. and put it in the frig. to thaw.  Son gets one from his work and I never bothered to look at how big it was.  Well when the guys came home Wed. Jared stated it was only 11 lbs.  Imagine the panic with almost 20 people.  Sent Jack right to the store for another, which was promptly put in water to thaw.  The sweet potatoes I got were (though the smallest I could find) were huge, so I baked them Wed. and removed the insides and reheated and mashed. Thursday morning I made the pies early and peeled and cut the potatoes, then we proceeded to get the turkey's ready.  One in the oven and one in a roaster.  For some silly reason when we put the timer on I was thinking that was the time they would be done.  DUH!  Not to mention that the temp for the pies was 425 and forgot to turn it down.  Well needless to say there was quick calls informing everyone dinner would be much earlier.  Fortunately, all turned out well and the day was great fun.

Of course there are the Christmas shopping, regular daily routine, etc.  not to mention puppy training.   Oreo is doing pretty good with his potty training with only an accident when excited.  He has learned to sit and stay.  Stays in his own bed for 7 to 7 1/2 hours at night, and loves to play fetch.  He still won't climb the stairs, but when your as small as he is it looks a long way up there.

I must say I was happy with the DWTS final.  The right one got the trophy.  Melissa and Tony really deserved it.  I would have been okay with Derek and Shawn too.  They were great. 

Well that's long enough to for today.  I did warn you it was mostly laziness.  I will try to do better.  I promise.

Have a good day all.

I'll never get done....

with all I have to do before Thanksgiving.  Even with the guys gone I haven't had much success.  Why you ask?  Well I have been fighting a nasty cold, which is why I haven't been out here.  Between the sneezing, coughing, sore throat, earaches and just plain tiredness I haven't accomplished much other than keeping up with the dog.  Yesterday was a bit of a break through.  Laid down on the couch to watch the Packer game with Oreo and saw the start and the end.  Finally a couple of really good sleeping hours and a fairly good nights sleep.  It really helped.  Today the throat is fine, ears feel great and hardly any cough or sneezing.  Already have the turkey out thawing, refrigerator cleaned, and one load of laundry done.  Have a little shopping yet to get a few things and more dog food.  Then I think I'll ease up.  Don't need to overdo and cause it all to come back.  What gets done, gets done.

From what I heard I was probably glad I didn't get to watch the game.  That's okay, as long as they won in the end. 

Oreo and I are doing okay here on our own.  He's training me pretty well and we've kept the 'accidents' down to just one on the first day the guys were gone.  

Time to sit back with a cup of coffee and read the magazine that came yesterday. 

You all have a good day.

Happy Birthday Darla!

Happy Birthday to our daughter Darla!  Our first born and a wonderful and caring girl she is.  I think it's amazing she is only 29, lol.  It seems all my kids are 29.   It must be some kind of phenom with them all having different birthdays, LOL.  

 

I'm tired.  Two retirements in two days is hard on this old lady.  I must say they were fun and it was nice seeing some people you don't see very often.  One was for one of Jack's co-workers before he retired and the other for a fireman he worked with for 34 years.  I had always thought Tim would wait long enough to match Jack's 35 years but he said no.  It was enough.

The guys leave for deer hunting this week and I will wish them luck in there quest, but also enjoy the me time.  It will be just Oreo and me, and no weekend plans.  Just play, clean (easy on that), maybe a project or two, reading and rest up for the Thanksgiving feast.  All the kids will be here this year and am really looking forward to it.    We alternate each year so each can be with their family.  It works out so nice.

On the health note.  The people are improving step by step.  It's the rehab is the toughest for them to handle, but they're troopers.

Have a good day!

Better news!

Thing are looking up.  The neighbor with the heart attack is improving steadily.  His heart is up to 40% working and that is so good to hear.  He is the strong minded  type and thinks he can go home.  There is going to be a battle as he continues to improve.  He may have to go to rehab, and that's not going to go over to well but we're sure his family can handle it.

On Jack's mother, they feel she will be okay.  Her eye is opening and she can move her arm and leg.  She will need therapy and they have already started it.  The say she is quite strong for her age and that is in her favor.  She's a fiesty little lady and we're quite sure she will lick this.  They are allowing us to have her birthday party at the hospital right on her birthday.  They have a common room we can use, so even though she will celebrate her 90th in the hospital, she will have family there.

What is it about an empty box.  Jack had to get a new tool box base and look at who had fun with the box.

I would have thought by 12 you would outgrow the "fun in the box".

Everyone have a wonderful weekend. 

Glad that's over!

I know we have all been looking forward to the end of that.  I was hoping when I awoke Wed. and whoever had won, that both sides would stop with the snide and nasty remarks that made this such a headache for all.  How disappointed it was to see that didn't happen.  Those that wre disappointed and those that won were still sniping at each other and putting down the candidates.  Grow up people.  It's over.  The things I read just made me sick.  Time to grow up and do what ever you can to make this work instead of continuing the animosity for each others beliefs. 

Little turmoil here lately.  A good friend had a heart attack and is in serious care in Madison.  His heart is only working at 10% and he is in an induced coma to control the brain seizures.  They hope to bring him around a bit today. 

As if that wasn't enough.  Jack's mother had a stroke yesterday morning and is in the hospital. Her blood pressure was way high but the Cat scan and other blood work was all good.  She is to have an MRI.  The meds they want to give her for the stroke are out of the question because of the cumodon (sp) she is on. She will be 90 on the 15th and a party was planned for Saturday.  She was worried about having to spend her birthday in the hospital, but that is much better than not being able to spend it all. 

The puppy is doing fine.  He has figured out there is a treat for 'good boys' but still has a setback now and then.  He is just 3 months old after all.   He does better each day.

Well it looks like DWTS may without Derek for the rest of the year.   This was to be his last year anyway, too bad he couldn't go out in style.  

How that for a hodgepodge of topics.

Well must go see what I missed in your lives.  Have some catching up to do.

You all have a good day.

Keep them in your prayers!

Though we pray for all those along the hurricanes path say a special prayer for these wonderfu men who give up so much to guard this special place.



It is and always will be home.

Growing Up Burrwood

     Ours was a unique little community in a community. We were to not close to town. A dip off the side of the U.S. highway, close to the river, nestled in between two cities. It was called “Burrwood Park” and it consisted of four and three quarter streets. It originally began as summer houses, a little vacation retreat (fishing shacks) so to speak. Some families decided to make a permanent homestead.

      I grew up having my grandparents and aunts and uncles all around me. Grandma and Grandpa were just five houses up the street with uncle Jim. Across from them were my aunt Dot and uncle Ken, and aunt Pat and Uncle Dale. Next door was uncle Jack and aunt Ceil. Down the road on the river front was uncle Bill and aunt Lucy. As each grew and married they stayed right in the neighborhood as did a number of other families. Eventually some moved off to other areas, those most stayed within the local town. A few families still have two or three members who have houses here. My mother-in-law lives just up the street. My sisters and I are all within a couple streets of each other and in-laws of theirs also live here.

     Things such a roofing parties, yard parties, cookouts etc. were the norm. Someone sitting on a porch was an open invite to sit and chat. If you decided to build a garage, new roof, or addition of some sort, the neighbors were right there chipping in to help. The women fixed food and at the end of the day everyone sat and had eats and a few drinks admiring their handy work.

       It was, and to some extent, still is a neighborhood where everyone looked out for each other and all the kids. A reputation for a safe place so known that people from town brought there kids here for trick or treat. Our children enjoy coming here where they feel it’s safe to let their kids ride bikes without an adult with them all the time. Where they can even play catch in the street.

     We all stuck together like a big family. The big kids watched out for the little ones. Even if it was from going back and forth to school or just playing ball. All the kids played together and the little ones were given the help they needed to play. From hide and seek, to baseball or football, if you wanted to play, you could. If we fought among ourselves we worked it out, but heaven help someone who tried to cause trouble for one of us. We banded together like a small army, whose children or siblings lived around them for a bit. A few have remained as have my sisters and I have. I just can’t imagine living anywhere else.

Just rattling on.

Thank you Arlene for the wonderful award.  I so love reading your posts. 

Lovely blog award



 

Not much to tell today.  We're are making a little progress as Oreo only had one accident in the last 16 hours.  Or maybe there is another reason, as I say here;

 

I have a little doggie that goes in and out with me,
Because we're trying to teach doggie, where he has to pee.
The trouble as I see it, and I'm sure you will agree,
I'm not to sure who's training who, I think he's training me.

 

For the first time I can remember the state has published "report cards' on the state expectations of the schools.  You can go online and look them all up.  I'm glad to say the schools I worked at, and my kids attended rated high marks.  One of the editors in the local paper has always tried to promote consolidation of the township and the city in to one city.  We have always fought it and the schools are one of the main reasons why.  Smaller and a large parent/school working together attitude.   I hope it never changes. Because of all of this we get quite a number of open-enrollment students from other schools. 

 

You all have a nice evening.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step by step

The little fellow is making small progress.  This morning for the first time he went to the door.  Poor Jack is getting  picked on a little for his impatience.  He's taking it well.  We do have the puppy pads but the silly little dog puts his front paws on the pad and his hindside out on the floor.  You turn him around and he turns back.  He's so funny.  As you can see from the picture, this is his spot when we're on these machines.

If the bed feels to warm for him he gets off and sits on the mat at my feet.  That's his favorite toy.  

Have the camper all taken care of and covered.  Still have the picnic tables and swing to put away.  Got way laid by football games and sisters.  After the Packer game they all came outside and we sat at the tables.  LOL  Jodi had her grandbabies and they like to play in the yard.  Sherry is being naughty and trying to teach Addison to say "Whatever" and  "Talk to the Hand" to her mom and dad.  Bad aunt Sherry, LOL. 

Have to run to the store this morning.  Making Taco Soup and thought I had all the stuff.  Naturally I was wrong.  Now should I make some cornbread to go with it or not?  Decisions, decisions. 

 DWTS tonight.  At least I think so.  The big Debate is on.  Will I watch it.  Probably not.  Nothing is going to change my mind at this date. Frankly I don't believe in 1 term Presidency anyway.  The job is just to tough to do in that short span of time. 

Time to go.  Hubby just turned the tv back on.  I'll get the shopping done and when I get back he'll go to horseshoes and I can turn it back off.   Dang, I need a Woman Cave. 

Have a good day.



Patience..

..is not one of my husband's strong suits.  It's not that he get crazy, he just complains a lot.  Poor Oreo has only been here a week and he thinks he should be totally potty trained by now.   He gets frustrated when the puppy does a no-no.  I know it's us who have to keep an eye out for when Oreo starts wandering about sniffing so we can grab him up and go outside.  Sometimes we don't watch him close enough and you know what happens.   Well I will change the subject, sure you would like to read about better things.  LOL

He is quite a frisky little fellow.  Doesn't care much for being crated but there are times when that is necessary until he can be totally trusted when we're not at home.   Had trouble at night ashe would whine, bark and cry on and off all night.  Wouldn't use the bed we bought.  Then I read up on Shih-Tzu's and decided to put in right where we were during the day.  If we're on the computer it's between us etc.  Within a hour he crawled in and went to sleep.  So we took it up to our room at night and he sleeps in it nicely.  Only problem.  He likes to get up at 4:30 UGH! 

This weekend we will be getting the camper ready for winter.  Blowing out the lines, anitfreeze the pipes, and covering it up.  It's suppose to be nice here so there is no better time to get the job done.   Will be putting the yard swing and picnic tables away also, so if there are anymore nice days for Granny's night it will have to be on Jodi's deck, :-).

You all have a nice weekend. 

"There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face." ~ Ben Williams

I may be biased.....

...but I think she's just beautiful. 

The kids teased her about her "Snookie" hairdo.  She just laughs them off.

No, her hair is not really red, it's the dye they put in. 

Uncle Joe is home and according to him the only restrictions are his own, lol.  Well now I'm thinkin' his kids a way ahead of him on that.  He's doing good.  Thanks for the concern and prayers.

Buddies

 We made it through the first night okay.  We tried a dog bed, no dice.  A laundry basket with a towel in it (thinking he was small and couldn't get out) no dice.  No pet crate to put him in so he wouldn't wander (getting one from son today) so yes, he ended up in our bed.  It took him a little while to really settle down (all that napping I think) and he kept heading for the end of the bed.  Well it's a bit too high for him to jump and we had to keep bringing him back up.  After a while he decided my backside was the place to lay.  Sure, ignores me all day then wants to snuggle at night.  Here's a few pictures.

Where is my Mom?

Nap time again.

I can facebook with the dog in my lap.

I'll sleep, you play.

That doesn't look like Mom, but I like it.

I don't think he's gone more that 3 feet from Jack since he got here.  They definitely bonded fast. 

Just killing time until we go up to sons house for Aaron's first trip back home.  Pasta salad made and just have to pick up what to drink on the way.    Wish it was a rainy day for this, but we've never let the weather stop this family from having a good time. 

Uncle Joe is doing much better except for the pain in his feet.  They thought it may be gout but tests have disproved that.  He is up and about and says the feet, though they hurt, still feel a 100% better than they did.  Thanks again for keeping him in your prayers. 

Hope your day is a good one.

Thank you all..

Uncle is doing well.  They put in a pacemaker and he's feeling much better.  Of course there are the restrictions that go along with it but it's looking pretty good.  Will be going home shorthly and there is a big family, (he has 8 kids) that will make sure he obeys all the doctors orders.  Thanks for the prayers.  Your a wonderful bunch of people.

He's here.  Oreo that is.  We picked him up at 10 this morning and Jack hasn't hardly let him down since.  I think I've got to touch him 3 times for a total of 5 minutes.  lol  He definitely likes Jack  and the feeling is mutual.  The granddaughters are all just tickled of course.  I would add a picture, but for some reason my camera is acting funny.  The pictures are all blurry like something moved even when the subject is perfectly still (asleep).  Now I suppose the person holding the camera could be at fault.  I'll have to have a talk with her.

Grandson is home for the first time since he went off to college.  It's his birthday weekend so we are going there tomorrow.  Jack has to run back and take pictures of Nicole for the homecoming dance but will come right back up there.  It will be nice to see him.  Suppose to be a cookout but the weatherman says rain so it will be a 'cook-in the garage', but we'll have a good time.

Have a nice weekend and I hope the weather is good for you.



Times a-wasten...

I think that's what I've been doing.  Haven't done anything of great accomplishment these few days.  A little running here and there.  All the normal stuff of daily living.  Trying to keep the tv off so I don't have to listen to all those disgusting political commercials.  And that's all I'm going to say about that.

DWTS is really good this year.  So awesome last night I could not decide who did the best job.  Some may not agree, but Bristol still really needs to go.  She doesn't seem to even be trying her best.  Kristy is doing better but it is going to hurt no matter who goes after these two, and I hope they are the two tonight.  I loved the concept of the stars controlling the dances this week.  It will be interesting to see what they choose for each others groups for next week. 

Have 3 little flowers on the yellow rose bush that just won't quit.  Two have bloomed nicely and one bud is getting ready to.  Will have to put up the pictures as soon as the camera charges and I get them uploaded. 

Carson is doing a countdown till Fri.  She keeps telling everyone "she" is getting a puppy and it will be her best friend and she his. 

I finally got the granddaughters to clean and toss the corner where they kept the toys they used to play with.  It looked real good for about 15 minutes.  Then hubby started filling it with junk he should be tossing.  Magazines he's going to take to the shop where he used to work (sometime in this century), baseball caps he wears, etc.  Sometimes I want to scream. Something about men and an empty space.  GRRRRR! 

Wow, just found out my last uncle is in the hospital.  He collasped at the snack shop and fell so a trip to the ER.  His BP was 60/0.  I just shudder at that.   He's diabetic but had that under control with meds.  They have him on a temp pacemaker while they do all the testing and checking.  Sherry told his daughter about when Bill was having those problems and what they did so the family can ask about that too.  He is the rock of this family.  Always there when any one needed him.  Was with us when each of our parents passed and went with us to make arragements and everything. He lost his wife a couple years ago and has a handicapped daughter that he takes care of.  He sure is loved and much needed.  

 Loads of prayers for you uncle Joe. 

One more week.

Well only one more week and we will bring the little fellow home.  I think everyone is getting a little antsy waiting.  We have been checking all the things in different pet stores.  Besides the obvious stuff you need like dishes, bedding etc., there is the fun stuff.  We saw a raincoat, halloween outfits, and so many different types of leashes and collars.  We can't decided between  Packers, Badgers, Harley Davidson, Dale Earnhardt Jr., etc, lol.  I know the granddaughters are quite anxious as is Jared.  Now remember how I told you Jack was against having a dog?

Does this look like a guy not wanting a dog?  Nope, I don't think so. 

I really am disappointed in DWTS inability to realize there is too much emphasis on fan voting.  That the judges should have at least a 60/40 advantage.  It just shows the sad fact that you can stay, when better dancers go.  I dont think Joey Fatone would have made it to the finals, but there is no way Bristol or Kristy should still be there.  That Helio was on the final two is insulting.  If either of those two end up on top I doublt if I'll ever watch again.

Well, headed out window shopping again.  Have to check out other places to see what they have for puppies. 

Have a good day.



I Hate 'hate"!

With all the violence, bullying, name calling and hate crimes going on lately it almost makes you believe in the Mayan calendar. Religions promoting and bullying each other. Adults and children doing the same. Talk radio spewing vile and hateful rhetoric. We’re going to blow up our world if we don’t get a handle on this and it is terrifying.

Hate is an emotion no one should ever learn. I know it’s been around forever, but that doesn’t make it right. It doesn’t mean it should continue. We’re not born hating. Should we be taught it doesn’t mean we should continue such teaching. Words or actions spoken in front of little eyes and ears make too big an impression.

Do I agree with all the beliefs and lifestyles of others. No, but I respect their right to them. Do I believe I have the right to tell others how to live their lives, take care of their families, take care of themselves. No, and I don’t believe anyone of us has that right.

I believe God put us all here on this earth. Each of us is his creation and we have no right to mar it, taunt it, deprive it or harm it. I believe the differences are there to teach us that we must learn and live together for the betterment of all mankind. I think he judges us on how we treat our fellow human being, no matter what the differences are. That we are different in order to learn tolerance, humility, and co-existence. That Jesus suffered and died on the cross to show us how wrong this is and we learned nothing. I believe we are still being tested and failing miserably.

Not one of us is better than any other and we must remove this notion from our minds.

Stop the Hate! If you feel it, Keep It to Yourself, DON’T SPREAD IT!

Not much today.

It's going to be beautiful.  74 they say.  I'm thinking my swing and I are going to have some serious together time while it's still possible.  It won't be long until enjoying the outdoors will be put on hold for a few months.  Spent most of yesterday out there reading and how relaxing it was. 

Won't be much going on here today.  As always tv will be occupied by races and football.  Gets to be rather routine and boring at times.  As much as I like watching the Packers one game a day is enough for me so I seldom watch any others. How some can watch game after game baffles me.  Really, don't they get all cramped and stiff? 

Guess I'll go through some sewing material and see what I can come up with for the new great-grandbaby.  Maybe grandma can come up with something special.  I'm not real talented by I try.  Have tons of fabric and scraps.  I think there are some girly prints in there.  Wish me luck. Only a week before the baby shower. 

Have a good day.

"The difference between reality and fiction? Fiction has to make sense."   Tom Clancy

New TV season

The new tv season has begun.  Is your favorite show still on?  Do you like the new ones?  I know some of them look intriguing, others boring and the in-between.  Me, I'm still attached to the old ones I like.  NCIS (favorite of all), DWTS, NCIS LA, Criminal Minds and Castle.  Some would say I'm stuck in a rut, not adventurous, or whatever.  You noticed there are no comedy shows listed.  The ones they have just don't seem funny to me.  But then my family says anyone who doesn't like "Blazing Saddles" has no funny in them.  I beg to differ.  There are a ton of things that make me laugh, they just don't make those kind of shows anymore.

Carole, DWTS will be quite competitive this year as soon as the sub-par pairs are gone.  Yea, it was only right that Pamela Anderson went first.  It was painful to watch her.  Right now the way the standings are, hopefully that is the way the first few go.  After that, let the real competition begin.

The final word on the hubby's laptop is it's toast.  The repair place said it would be $400 to fix it and they would only warranty it for 30 days.  Though they would do it and make the money  they said honestly they would replace it if it was their computer.  Appreciate the honesty and would recommend them to friends.   We left there and went a bought a new one.  Happy hubby is up and running again. 

I'm really not so sure that was a good idea.  In the 3 days it was gone he was cutting into the honey-do list.  Darn, why couldn't they have taken a little longer, lol.

Well the washer has stopped so better go change machines and put in the next load.  

Have a good day.  Hope the weather is good for you.  Only 43 here at the moment but suppose to hit low 70's.  Keeping fingers crossed.

"No matter what happens, somebody will find a way to take it too seriously."   Dave Barry

One down, one to go.

Yesterday I finally did the disc for my nephews wedding. 

Now I have to do one for the Moose Phun Run (don't ask me why they spelled it that way, I have know idea).   They brought the boys from the WI house at Mooseheart here and had a charity run with them.  Fed and played games with them for a great day with the boys we sponsor.  As far as is known, this is the first time any lodge has hosted a day with the kids like this.  All reports indicate the boys had a great time.  I'm thinking this will be an annual thing now.

Poor Jack.  His laptop bit the dust yesterday.  Black screen.  We have a friend who does some computer work and he took it too him for evaluation.  He said the hard drive is okay, and the screen came on for a sec. and then went off again.  He managed to put all Jack's pictures and info on an external hard drive and told us who to take it to for more expert analysis.  He thinks in this case the machine is such a good one it's worth it to check it out.  They only charge an analysis fee if they can't fix it.  While there found out that's the place that fixed Sherry's.Now we are waiting to hear from them and Jack is pacing the floors.  Lol.  Do you suppose some of the honey-do list will get done now ;-).  No, I don't share.  I know, sounds mean, but when we all had to share before things tended to get really mixed up, freezing up became common etc.  Now if things go wrong I have no one else to blame. 

Well off to get on with the chores.  Suppose to be nice weather for a number of days, and I don't want to miss any chances of being outdoors.  Time is not on our side for enjoying good weather for some months ahead, and plan to take full advantage of whatever is left.

"Only one man in a thousand is a leader of men.  The 999 follow women." Groucho Marx

Just rattling on.

The only thing I think I will like about winter is that hopefully things will ease up.  Been an eventful couple of days. 

First my sister Jodi has had her fears come true.  The company she works for is closing in 18 months.  Though a part of the plant is going to Ind., China again is gaining employment.  This is the 3rd time she has had to start over.  As she's not yet old enough to retire she will have to start looking again, which is not easy when over 50.  Using her sense of humor she asked us if she said the following right, "Do you want fries with that".  She does have one thing off her worries, and that is that her house is all paid for.  Her friend that she works with has is tough as her husband and her both will now be out of a job.

Next I went to something I hadn't been to in years and years.  A Tupperware party.  Though much is still the same, some things have changed and the prices are something. 

Next a visitation for the passing of a Moose friend who has been battling cancer for years.  Though she lived 3 years longer that they predicted, it was not all good years.  Rest in Peace Betty.

Looking ahead there will be Steph's baby shower, pictures of homecoming, Aaron's first return home from college for a weekend,  Aaron, Nicole and Jack's birthdays.  I think I'm tired already.  Our summers are usually busy, but it seems like this one has been particularly so. 

Well, the 1st load of laundry is waiting to be put in the dryer so.  Meatloaf, baked potatoes and scalloped corn waiting to me prepared for supper.  May make some corn bread too.  Haven't decided on that one.  The rest of the mending waiting patiently.  Not to mention the dust bunnies etc. calling my name. I had better get my rear in gear. 

Hope your week is a good one, starting with today.

The Food Fairy

The other day I mentioned the "food fairy" who makes things and shares with the neighbors.  Nancy ask "there is a food fairy"?  Well Nancy, there is here.  Her name is Jodi and she's my youngest sister.  She's single and loves to try out recipes she finds online.   Fortunately for us, she has never learned to cook for just one and no one, I mean no one is willing to help her do that.  As the weather gets colder she is always making some kind of soup on the weekends.  Last weekend it was chicken gumbo.  She loves soup, as do we, and here she makes a large amount so as to take to work all week, and we all benefit.   My girls have decided we will get her something nice as a thank you.  I think they have Jennifer Aniston perfume in mind. 

IT'S A GIRL!

Granddaughter Steph and her boyfriend Jarett had the ultra-sound yesterday morning and called shortly after to let us know.  We're all so happy for them.  Though their biggest wish was for a healthy baby, they leaned toward a girl.  Now all we grandma's (there's 4 on our side) can start the shopping fun.  Of course everyone has ideas for names, lol.  Carson already told the it should be "Carson".  I'm thinking Nicole has other ideas ;-).   

It did manage to get to 74 (for what I would call a minute) yesterday. At least it seemed it went as fast as it came.  Had some storms in the state last night that left some damage, with a couple trees down.  I think one on a house somewhere.  No one hurt though.  Thank the Lord.

Well, it's almost time for Darla to come for lunch so I'm outta here. 

Have a good day.

Turn up the heat Please.

Woke up to a temperature of37 this morning.  I'm not liking that one bit.  Please Mother Nature, give us a little long with some nice temps.  Say until Dec. 21. :-)  It's suppose to get to 74 and I wish it would hurry.  Just the thought of snow and ice makes me shiver. 

Wish I had some pictures of the Autorama that took place just behind us, but I didn't go and Jack didn't take his camera for some strange reason.  They say it's the largest in the state, though you couldn't prove it by me.  Not really into it.  I know these people put a lot of time, work, and money into these cars and love showing them.  I guess some of the swap ,sell and craft sites would be fun to check. 

Nothing else newsworthy going on here so I'll let you get on with your day.  Have a good one.

  

He's almost ready.

Oreo



This is the new picture Jack's niece sent to him.  He's so darn cute.  When we went shopping the other day I had to go into the Fur Baby store to see if they had Packer leashes and collars.  He will look so good.  4 more weeks and he will be ready. 

 

Don't have any big plans for the day.  Just whatever comes up.  Have a little mending to do, andf the normal cleaning thing.  Suppose to rain today the weatherman says, but later this afternoon.  Guess I should get my walk in soon.  Have to get in shape.  You never know when another shopping trip could be in order.  Christmas is coming you know.  Want to be ready.

 

Yesterday Jodi made chicken gumbo soup and pumpking bars.  Deedee cause a small riot when she mention how good they were online, as Jodi brought us each one.  Well Sherry's daughter pouted and ranted and Mary wanted to know where hers was.  Then Darla said where's mine,  Good thing she made a big batch.  Deedee says she must remember to keep quiet about such things so the food fairy doesn't cut her off, lol.

 

You all have a good day.

What a day!

My granddaughter Nicole has been asked to the Homecoming dance.  Her first date coinciding with her 15th birthday.  Yesterday her Mom, myself, Aunts Darla and Jodi took her on a shopping trip for the "dress".  Here are a couple of pics.

She like this one but the glitter in the dress kept coming off on her hands so wasn't quite sure if her date would appriciate it on his suit.

This is the one she picked. 

I can hardly believe she is this old already.  Time sure flies by.  We left here at 9:30 and got home just before 3.  It really is hard to find stores that carry dresses in an area where there aren't an abundant of places to go.  The mall we went to had just 3 stores and the selections were limited.  I was beginning to think we were headed to Madison or near Rockford Il. when she found these two. 

After all that shopping there was extreme hunger of course.  Since it was Nicole's day we had to eat at her favorite restuarant, the Cracker Barrel.  So diets be dammed, we enjoyed ourselves with great pleasure.

I must say, this old lady isn't used to that much walking and my legs were so sore and tired when we finally got home.  I didn't think they would ever let me get up again.  Feeling much better this morning.  Guess I had better start getting myself in gear and back to walking the neighborhood daily. 

Well the Badgers pulled it off, but they are not looking like they should.  I know a number of seniors are gone, and there are a number of coaches that moved up in the world also.  That certainly affects a team.  Hopefully they will improve.

Now the Packers looked much better and more like their old selves.  Was a little worried at first but then they took the wind our the Bears.   

Well enough of my yakking.  You all have a great day. 



Here it comes

The rain that is.  They say it's on its way, and from the clouds out there it looks like they may be right.  Imagine that.  A weatherman being right.  So many times it seems to blow right over us. 

Well it's the Packer/Bear game tonight.  I sure hope they have corrected all the mistakes they made Sunday.  It's enough to give a girl the shivers just thinking of a possible loss to the Bears.  LOL!  Have a few cousins that would be happy though, misguided souls that they are.

Looks like fall is headed this way.  I wonder if we'll get a nice Indian summer.  I always loved that part.  Fall is so pretty but it is the thought of winter behind it that makes me want it to takes its time. 

I really should get to work.  I have a disastrous computer area here.  Papers, books, slides etc. strung out all over.  But, I just can't seem to get the urge to get started.  I know twitching the nose doesn't work.  I, and only I, am going to have to do the job.  There are just so many nicer things to do.  Oh well.

You all have a nice day.

This 'n' That

Good Monday morning to you all.  Hope you day and week are filled with good things, sunshine and fullfilling days.

The impromptu party was so nice.  Met some real nice new people that were friends of Allie's.  Of course the food goes without saying.  Plentiful and tasty.  At the end it broke my heart watching Nicole cry over her sister being gone for so long.  I thought it was a year she would be gone, but Allie said it could be anywhere from 8 mo. to 2 years depending one how well she does.  I'm sure she will do great.

An announcement here.  It seems we will be adding a new member to the family.

Meet Oreo!

Jack's niece breeds these little darlings.  They are Shitzu (sp) and Jack feel in love with the picture of one like this on her last batch but they were all spoken for.  She makes sure they are all vet checked and their first shots and only $150.   When she put this up she said they give all the pups a temporary name and Oreo was this one.  At the time we saw it Jack was eating his favorite cookie and we thought it must be fate.  Oreo's name will stay.  They will be ready for their new homes in a month.  As the kids have already given us a collar, dish and treat bag when we were looking awhile ago, I guess it was inevitable it would happen. 

Jack didn't really want a dog for so long that I have been a little surprised at his change of heart.  He wanted to wait until we were sure we wouldn't be doing any traveling at all, as we like for visit the cousins in Fla. and go camping.  Since most campgrounds allow pets (at least the ones we go to) as long as they're well behaved and leashed, and we have enough family and friends willing to watch it, I think that is what turned the tide. 

Change of subject.  It was a sad day for football in WI.  but the way the Badgers and the Packers played they deserved to lose.  I sure hope and pray they have this out of their system.

Also, we're waiting patiently to find out whether Steph's baby is a girl or boy.  The baby shower is early next month and though it's fun to be surprise, it's fun to shop when you know what it is too. 

Okay, I've rattled on long enough.  Enjoy your day.

Impromptu Party

Yes we are having party tomorrow!  Our granddaughter Allie is leaving for Kentucky Tuesday for Culinary job Core and will be gone a year.  It's through Applebees I think Deedee said and all paid for.  We wish her the best and hoping this family send off will show her how much we love and will miss her.  Along with all our best wishes and confidence in her.  She has been working at Applebees since she graduated high school.

Granny's night last night was short two grannies.  Sherry never showed and Rhonda claimed she was saving herself for tonight.  The Township is having a festival in the park behind us and a local business Patch, who makes games, is footing the bill I heard.  They have a big toy sale at the festival with discount prices and it brings quite the crowd of eary Christmas shoppers.  This year there was even mention of it on a Madison tv station, so I wonder how much bigger it will get.

There is a local band that just signed a nashville record deal the Rhonda loves, so she will be right 'johnny on the spot'.  They are called Jamie Campbell and the Redneck Rodeo.  The festival is for today, tomorrow and Sunday with food, crafts, games, rides, and a number of bands throughout the weekend.   

Next weekend they have the Autorama there with all the old cars and swappers, along with the classic music of the 50's 60's etc., which wakes everyone up at 8 a.m. whether your ready or not, :).  

So if you don't see me out here tomorrow or the next day, you know where I will be. 

Have a good day. 



Better

Feeling much better.  Thank you all for your get wells.  I should have been a bit clearer on the wedding reception.  These kids went for as cheap as they could, especially after the place doubles he price on them.  There was no food except for wedding cake and not all of us who got sick ate any.  Mystery still, but it's behind us and we move on.

Had to make a quick trip to the store as we were out of spuds.  Well those spuds came to over $60 with all the stuff we didn't need to get, lol.  Why do we do that?  Some of the stuff was healthy and good for us, others not so much. 

Saw a book at the store I wanted to check and see if there was a kindle version.  By the time I got home I had forgotten the titel and author.  GRRRR!  Hate when I do that.  Me with a piece of paper and pen to write it down too.  I'll blame it on still being a little fuzzy headed.  Couldn't possibly be that getting old stuff. 

Here's a couple pics of the wedding couple.

You all have a good day.



My Bad!

First I let a few days get away from me.  Why? How?  I haven't the faintest idea.  Then there was the wedding for my nephew Trent and his Marie.  It went beautifully.  Will put up a picture or two as soon as I get them in this machine. 

Now for the rough part.  The day after the wedding a large number of people came down with a flu like illness.   I am one of them.  All the parents of the couple, aunts and uncles, cousins and many friends were all hit at the same time.  Now I know the flu is going around.  I see it noted on peoples sites, but really.  All at once.  Kind of wonder when was the last time this place had its heating/air conditioning system cleaned.   Am just now beginning to feel a bit better.  Still coughing and sneezing, but the sore throat is gone and the ears no longer ache.  For some reason Jack didn't get it.  Hope he doesn't. 

Now, no more being waited on, have to get moving and do for myself.  :-(  jk

You all have a good day.

So much for quiet time.

The afternoon I thought I would have to myself only lasted one hour and a half.  Darn the bad luck.   The girls came back from swimming and the tv went back on (I shut it down the minute the car started).   Few kids these day seem to be unable to live without it.  I also think they are all deaf.  Sometimes I wish the was a button to locked the volume. 

I've come to the conclusion that everytime we bring in the cusions on the swing the impending rain goes right by.  If we forget them it seems we get a pretty good downpour. We got a little yesterday but still on the low side.  Well too bad.  Not going to ruin them to play "hide the cushions" with Mother Nature.  

 Must get to work around here.  Have to shorten some sleeves for Jodi's top.  It's her son's wedding reception Fri. so no dilly-dallying.  Of course, there's the everyday work to be done.  It's laundry day and you would think there were 10 people in this house from the size of the piles. 

You have a nice day. 

"It is admirable for a man to take his son fishing, but there is a special place in heaven for the father who takes his daughter shopping." -----Unknown

 I

What to do.........

what to do.  Going to have the whole afternoon to myself.  There is so much I should do.  So much I'd rather do.  The thing is, I don't have any urge to do anything.  You don't get these days often and should make the best of them but.................I'll leave that for your imagination. 

Sat here this morning half listening to what was on tv.  Jack had hunting shows and that is boring to me.  The funny thing was, as the commercials promoted things to make hunting easier it was like listening to a little kid with a catalog in his hand.   "I gotta get that,  I have to get one of those, I want that."  Really!  I really don't remember my kids being that bad, lol.

 Have this picture here of some little girl.  Sherry had it and thought it might be me.  I took it out of the frame and there is a name, date and place on the back, and I can't for the life of me figure out why anyone in our family had it.  I don't remembe any such person and neither does Sherry.   What to do with it?  No idea.

Well, almost time to send everyone off.  Jack to golfing with Jodi,  and the girls to swimming with Jared.  Hope they all have a nice safe day and all of you too.

Slowly but surely.

I know it's been awhile since we repainted and layed flooring.  We didn't put all the pictures back up.  I had some frames I wanted to replace and did get them yesterday.  Frames aren't cheap anymore and had to watch for sales, as well as finding what I like.  Manage to pick up the 4 I needed for the kids senior pictures yesterday and they're hung now.  The group family picture is back up and reframed and hung this one.  I'm sure you will know it's my sisters and I way back when. 

Oh to have that size body again, lol.

Now to get going on the rest.  Inch by inch it will get done before Thanksgiving, lol.

Have a good day all.



Not much going today.

Went and pick 4 identical picture frames to put the kids senior pictures in to rehang.  They looked kind of funny to me, with 3 the same and one different.  Since they were there for some time, finding the same kind to get just one was impossible.  So 4 it was.  Now to hang them.

Also had to get a new battery for my own little Nikon camera, as it doesn't hold much of a charge any longer.  Batteries Plus had on and it is now charging.  At least I hope that's the problem.  It won't turn on so  keep your fingers crossed.  If not, I may have to order the company brand. Online they wanted $36 for it and I paid $21.  On the up side.  If it doesn't work I have the one that the cousin left here.  Lol.  Strange how things work out.

No Carole, it doesn't run in the family, lol.  Sherry usually comes up with such things. I think I posted once about a water balloon fight that got us iced or the Packer rug she stole.  Yesterday she tried to convince Rhonda that Obama was going to be in Beloit on Fri. and wanted to know if she wanted to go, lol.   As Joe says, she is a stinker.  How her mind works baffles us ;-).  I agree with you on DWTS.  Hope she goes out quickly.  There were many others they could have picked.

Now I think I'll head out and get a external hard drive to put a most of the stuff I have clogged this machine up with.  Then maybe take it in for a checkup.  I know all the slowing isn't due to the internet.

Enjoy the rest of your day.



Sherry is a brat.

Yes, yes she is.  Don't let that sweet demeanor fool you.  She has this little mischievous streak that comes out now and then.  Really, as her sister I know.  Yesterday was one of those days.  She got on facebook yesterday and said she heard a saw and went outside to investigate and her neighbors were cutting down her tree.  We all know how much Sherry loves trees. A number of us asked why and she said she didn't know.  When asked what did they say when questioned she said they said because it bothered them.  Well needless to say that brought on all sorts of comments from all of us.  We all know proceeded into giving pieces of our minds and advice.  Then the brat said it was all a joke.  It was a tree her and Bill were going to remove and had started cutting it out a few days ago.  The neighbors were just finishing it for them.  It blocked their driveway vision when they had to back out.   I said from this day forward we don't believe anything she says, lol.  She blamed it all on the neighbor telling her to do this, which she has done before.

Years ago (I don't know if I told this before) she did this to another neighbor.  He parked his car in front of our parents, always leaving his keys in (no one in our neighborhood would bother this elderly gentlemans car).  Sherry got in and took the car, put it in his garage as a joke.   She blamed our sister Jodi.  This poor fellow accused Jodi right up to the day he died. 

Yes, she's a brat, LOL!

Oops

 Oops.  I missed yesterday.  Was fighting a headache and though I tried to go outside and read it just wasn't happening.  Gave up on all that had to do with reading in any form.  Fine now though.

The camera the lady gave us is really a pretty good one.  The it takes good pictures and the cords from Jack's big camera all connect just fine.  Can upload to the computer etc.  Many of the instructions in his book have the same icons and I think we will be able to figure it out okay.  What to do with it then is the question.  Anyone that would want it would have to get their own connectors.

Good weather called for all week until the weekend of course.  Jack is suppose to go golfing with Jodi Sat. and they say rain.  The little bar up the street is having special outing of fun golf where they play 'best ball' and do crazy thing at different holes like putting layin on the ground like playing pool.  After there is a steak dinner for them all.  Sure hope they can get it in.

Enjoy the rest of the day.

Can you believe it?

I've made it here two days in a row.  Patting self on back.

Men are such funny creatures.  Hubby went to Menards to check out those things you put on the rain gutters to keep them from being clogged and get them if not too expensive.  He came back with a new sander.   Says he has to measure befor buying.  Though that may be true, he really didn't need another sander, but this one has a vaccuum attachment to keep the dust down.  That's his story and he's sticking to it.

Had to take the bottom layer off a dress I bought.  It was one of those with like 4 tiers and being short, dresses to ankles only make me look shorter.  I like the dress and just took off the excess.  Now what to do with that extra fabric.  Hmmmm.

My sisters tv just quit.  It's only about 4 years old.  Jodi is going nuts.  Power is on, all connections are okay, but no sound or picture.  The repair man just pulled into hopefully she'll be back in business soon.  Otherwise, she told us to be ready to take her to get a new one.  She just has to have her tv.  

Have a good evening.  Say a prayer for this old world of ours.  It sure needs it.

Guess Who?

Yep, it's me.  Thought it's time I get off my lazy streak and get to keeping this site up.  Been spending a lot of time out in the beautiful weather between chores, a couple games and popping in and out of fb reading a few things, leaving a few things then heading back outside.  Have my crossword puzzle books, some magazines and kindle out in the sun with me.  Went around and visited you folks this morning.  Seeing all I have missed makes me even more determined to get myself back in the groove.

My nephew Trent is getting married and two weeks.  Why do I bring this up.  A reminder to anyone dealing with place to get everything in writing.  They rented the Marine Corps league hall for $800.  She went to make the payment and they have doubled the price.  The committe that was in charge has changed and they changed everything.  With just two weeks to go there is nowhere else available so they're stuck.  They will get $400 back after they clean it but really.  Now we know why so many don't recommend this place.

I'm spoiled I think.  While sitting here reading all your wonderful posts and trying to do this one, the hubby brought me a  plate of eggs, bacon and hash browns.  He's a gem, I guess I'll keep him, ;-).

As you know our reunion was a great success.  Well one relative from Fla. had bought a camera online a couple months before it and could not figure out how to work it.  She says she got no instructions with it at all.  Either paper or a cd to explain it as most do.  She bought it direct from China and has tried to sell it and called us a couple times.  Well she brought it with her (I had told her to as someone at the reunion may want it) but forgot to bring to the party.  Well yesterday on her way back home she dropped it off here and said if we could find someone who could use it and understand give it to them and she would just eat the $200.  It's a Konica/Minolta DiMAGE Z3 and though it has a place to connect it to the internet but no way to connect it.  Tried looking on internet to get instructions, no help and Konica/Minolta got out of the camera business in 2006 so we're on our own. We're working on it to see what we can figure out and then decide what to do with it.  It does take a good picture so far that we can tell through the view screen.

Well, have I rattled one about enough different subjects, lol.  Guess that's what I get for goofing off. 

You all have a good day.  The sun is shining and as soon as it warms up some (it's only 56 right now) I'll be headed outside again. 

Yup, spoiled.  Hubby is doing the dishes.  Guess I better go help (sheepish look).

What a week...

....plus a few days.  All the friends and relatives are now gone.  It's quiet here once more.  Now all the after parties stuff to take care of.  Have taken a day here just to relax and will get moving on that in the morning.

The reunion was an enormous success.  We definitely had a least 200 show up.  Yes, as always, there were a few who didn't.  No surprise as they don't usually show anyway.  More food that even all those people could eat.  Egg tosses and 3-legged races were hilarious.  Jodi got a hair full of egg and look at this.

 

Sherry and Jodi practicing.

Those of you on fb can check our sites and see all the pictures.  There are just too many to put up here.  Each family had a group picture taken.  We didn't have a pro with the right lenses so we didn't get an entire group shot like the last one.  That would have been awesome.  

A friend of Danielle's donated her time to DJ and the dancing went on til 9.  It was a long day starting a 12 though were there earlier to set up of couse.  It's taken me two days to get the body to move again, lol.  

There was a picture of all of us 1st cousins that were there.

See the Bear fan.  We tried to block his shirt (lol) so he stood up on the bench.  Had some fun teasing each other. 

Our brother and his wife made it from California and the Florida group all made it.  Danielle's girl friend and two of her daughters came from Idaho.  What lovely girls.

Did get a storm,which scared a few off, but it didn't last long and we diehards just kept right on.  Never keep our family down for long.   Sunday we had a small yard get-together which finished off the food we all brought.  Yesterday we went out for dinner with the Leroy and Cher before they headed back to Calf.   Then, it was home to finally relax for the night.  If you would like to see more pics, I'll try to put up a few more.

Well that's the report on the reunion.  We do hope to do it more often that a 25 year space between them.  It was just too much fun not too.  Not to mention keeping more in touch.

Have a good night all.