Hi Everyone! [Archive] - 4WomenTalk Forums Community for Women

gja1000

03-04-2010, 04:46 AM

It's been sorta quiet in here! I've checked in everyday, but haven't had much time to post.

School is busy right now, it's about the middle of the semester, so that means things are gearing up, assignments are due, and students are getting a little stressed!

We are getting ready for accreditation by our national organization in April. We've been writing what is called a "Self-Study" for the past year. It contains EVERYTHING there is to know about us and our school. Then, for 3 days in April, we will have visitors from the accreditation organization spend time here with us looking over things and talking with faculty, students, and anyone else they want to talk with! :p It is a very stressful time, but we are in good shape and shouldn't have any problems!

Gary is still at the lake fishing with his aunt and uncle. I've gone down the past two weekends and will go again this weekend. I like getting away to the lake, but being gone every weekend is tough! He will likely stay through my spring break (I'll go down for the week when I am off).

Abigail has a track meet today and volleyball on the weekends. I got to see her play v-ball last weekend and I'm going to her track meet today. My Yorkie boyz are NOT happy with Gary and I for being gone so much. They are being very whiny and clingy when I am home. I don't blame them, I'm not home very much! I feel badly for them.

When you have a minute, tell us what has kept you so busy!

DianaB

03-04-2010, 06:57 AM

You are such a busy woman, Gayle!!! Working your job then going to the lake on the weekends and keeping up with your Granddaughter's activities!!! It's no wonder that you haven't been on much.

I don't know what I've been doing. I've come on and kept up with the new posts and then when I have more time I go back over the ones that I've already answered. I've been searching for stuff on e-bay for my flea market booth but I'm hesitating buying much until I actually have my booth but I do enjoy finding good buys on e-bay so it's hard to resist at least looking. However when I'm on the computer a lot Glen gets upset with me so sadly.....4WT suffers for it. I will admit that I do spend wayyyyy too much time on the computer.

Besides that we went to Wichita to a couple of antique malls just to get away for a while before Glen gets busy in the field. I found a few things....not much. We also stopped at Lowe's and I picked out a nice curtain rod for my living room. The one that I had up was just one of the cheap white metal rods. The curtains were pulled back and the rod kept showing. Glen put it up for me a couple of days ago and it looks soooo much better. The curtains are hanging nicely at the side and the window is more open now....of course, you can see all the fingerprints from Karlie and nose prints from the dogs now!!!!.......You know.....that lived in look!!!

I had Karlie for awhile yesterday!! She was so excited to be here and she told Glen and I that over and over. We just saw her on Sunday!!! She makes us feel so loved.....I don't know what we ever did before we had her in our family!!! Dae Lynn went to the doctor and she is going to be induced on Friday. The baby hasn't dropped so that's a big concern. If she doesn't deliver on Friday they'll try inducing again on Saturday and if that still doesn't work then they'll take him c-section on Saturday evening. Please pray that she can deliver naturally on Friday. She's been diabetic and the doctor is concerned about letting her go over because she thinks the baby is big....................and the real kicker is that she's going to be gone next week. Anyway, by the weekend we should have our baby!!

I haven't been doing anything with the wedding plans....it seems that Jaci is determined to do things on her own.......I've really been struggling with that and my feelings have really been hurt. No disagreements or anything like that......just not being included in the decisions. The thought that my kids will finally be out of the house is difficult for me too. Just a lot of emotional things going on right now.

Anyway....for the next few days I'll be waiting for the baby and getting used to being a new Grandma!!! I can't wait for that sweet little boy to arrive!!!!

paula1961

03-04-2010, 01:43 PM

I have been on here everyday too. It sure has been slow lately. Sometimes when I check in, there aren't even any new posts:eek: Anyways........wow Gayle you sure have been busy.

Enjoy your time at the lake and the time you are getting to spend watching Abigal in her sports. You will just have to give the boyz extra treats and love.:)

I have been busy seems like, but it's just been doing things that are not at all enjoyable. I have had some problems with my lungs after I had that really bad cold and flu. That hung on for a couple of months. So now I am dealing with having to go for a ct on my chest, that one was Monday. One on my neck will be on the 8th, and then back to see the dr on the 16th for a followup. I guess I will find out then what the problem is. Say a prayer for me please.
That's about it for me except just trying to keep up with these yorkies, that puppy is wild as a little buck:D I have her advertised but have only had 2 calls on her. I sure wish I could find her a wonderful family. I am in no hurry, I wouldn't want anything less than perfect for her. She is a mess:D

Diana, I certainly will say prayers for Dae Lynn! You let us know the minute that little bundle of love gets here. I will be watching everyday now for your news.
Sorry that you are not getting to help much with wedding decisions. I know that is tough for ya. But you can bet that before it's over, she will be wanting her Mom's input. That just seems to be how it goes.:)

Janet

03-04-2010, 02:40 PM

Sounds like everyone has something going on doesn't it. I think Facebook has hurt us a lot...anyone else think the same thing? It's so easy to get a quick check on everyone and then off we go again...:)

I've been on the computer too much too Diana, only I'm not doing anything productive, mostly checking forums real quick and then playing games. I need to get our taxes done, but haven't done that yet...or Ricky's. I also need to learn to put this computer away for awhile. Seems like once I'm on it....the hours fly by and my house shows.

Been taking care of whatever Mom needs. She went to the Dr. today. Still has fluid in her lungs and Dr. thinks it's because of the dialysis. It's not taking enough fluid off. It's so hard to find a balance.

Ricky lost his job so been busy trying to find place for him to apply to part-time. It's hard to work and go to school, not everyone wants a part-time employee. Please keep him in your prayers.

We are considering selling Fancy. Haven't decided yet for sure, but I bought her for a specific purpose and so far nothing. It's like selling a family member and will be hard, but somethings gotta give somehow.

Looking forward to spring break the last full week of this month. Can't do much of course, but maybe I can get my house in order...clean a few closets and drawers. I just want to be able to sleep a little later...lol.

Hopefully everyone will come back to 4WT soon. I do miss the closeness. As nice as FB is for keeping in touch with friends and family, I almost wish it didn't exist. It's drawn alot of us from here.

Looking forward to baby news from Diana and keeping Dae Lynne in my prayers for a safe and easy delivery.

Blueyes

03-04-2010, 06:32 PM

Hi Everybody!! I'm glad you started this thread, Gayle. Working and weddings and babies and medical tests and care giving....life does get tedious sometimes, huh?

I have been busy helping Teresa. I took her to see her surgeon today. He said she was doing great and can start cardiac rehab in 2-3 weeks. Then I get to drive her there 3 days a week:rolleyes: I really don't mind, lol! I'm just thankful she's getting better!

I decided that I'm tired of looking at my bedroom walls, so I'm painting them tomorrow! The carpet is blue and the walls are very pale blue. It really doesn't go with the rest of my house, but I can't get new flooring right now. So I'm painting my walls a color called Crushed Grapes. It should look decent with the carpet...I HOPE!! I have ordered a new quilt for the bed. I want my room to look sort of "feminine antique". Yes...I just made that up, lol!!! Here's the quilt... http://www.walmart.com/ip/Carmel-Quilt-Set/10730039

gja1000

03-04-2010, 06:53 PM

OH! I love quilt spread, Betsi!!! It DOES look feminine antique!!! Is the crushed grapes wall color like the purple in the quilt?

gja1000

03-04-2010, 06:54 PM

Betsi, I thought you might be spending time with your sister-in-law. It sounds like she is really doing well! I'm sure your TLC is helping LOTS!

gja1000

03-04-2010, 07:00 PM

We are all busy in different ways, aren't we! I guess spring is the time we begin to get out and about and start doing more things!

Diana, I know you are so thrilled that the new baby will be here soon. Then you will be even busier!

I hope that you and Glen are able to find that perfect 5th wheel and do some traveling.

Janet, I know you are busy with your mom, Ricky, work and everything else!

Paula! You haven't told us that you are still having respiratory problems. Please let us know what the CT shows!

I enjoy facebook, but the communication there is so brief and superficial. I find that I enjoy connecting with friends and family but on a very brief and episodic basis - nothing like the connections I find here.

I know we will be more active on 4WT - we all wax and wane from time to time. But I do miss the closeness here when the site is slow! :)

Blueyes

03-04-2010, 08:10 PM

OH! I love quilt spread, Betsi!!! It DOES look feminine antique!!! Is the crushed grapes wall color like the purple in the quilt?

I sure hope the grapes match, LOL!!! It hasn't come in yet, so if it's too bad I'll just have to send it back. I was hoping to get enough variety of colors that it just sort of "goes together".

Blueyes

03-04-2010, 08:20 PM

DianaB

03-04-2010, 10:04 PM

Betsi, I bet that your room will look adorable when it's done!! I love the bed spread!!! You must be in the painting mood, now that you've been helping your son!!! I have some painting that I want done but I'm so slow and cautious about picking out just the right color!!

I agree with the FB comments. I like it for a quick check in but I'd much rather be on here. I have to be so careful of what I say on FB because you never know what might get spread around in a small town like ours!!! Small town living at it's worst!!!!

Paula, you're going to have to keep us updated on how you are doing. I didn't know that you were still having problems.

paula1961

03-05-2010, 07:03 AM

Betsi, I love that quilt too. You will have to post a pic when you get it done.:) So glad your sil is doing well.

I will keep you updated on what the cts show. I just hadn't mentioned it before. I took 2 rounds of a steroid( can't remember the name of it) and 2 rounds of Levaquin and I still am having problems. I never had a breathing problem until I got whatever this is that I have:confused: Anyways just say a little prayer for me.:)

Diana, I sure hope you and Glen can find you a 5th wheel too. It is so enjoyable to go on a little getaway. Larry and I go mostly during the week when there isn't such a big crowd. We stay 3 nights at a time, unless we are going to Myrtle Beach or somewhere, then we stay at least a week.

Janet, I hope your Mom is doing ok. Has Ricky got any jobs lined up yet? I know around here jobs are few and far between, at least the decent ones are. I hope he finds something soon.

Gayle, I too am so glad that you started this thread. I miss you guys when it's slow. I don't have facebook, I know I should because of family but I just don't want to be on this computer anymore than I already am LOL.

Everybody have a wonderful day!:)

judy

03-05-2010, 07:56 AM

This is a good thread! Thanks Gayle for starting it! It sounds like you are really busy, but enjoying your weekends! It is good that Gary is well enough to spend time with his aunt and uncle, and fishing! Spoil the doggies....they will be just fine!

Paula, I will be praying for your health. So sorry that you are not feeling great! Hopefully, you will be just fine when spring gets here. You are smart you don't belong to fb.

Diana, the baby will keep you so busy! What is sweeter than a baby? I am keeping DaeLynn in my prayers, and hopefully she will have an easy delivery.
Sounds like Jaci wants to be very grown up, doing the wedding stuff on her own. She is such a wonderful young woman. She will turn back to you - don't worry! I can understand your feeling left out though. You raised an independent, strong child! The booth/store sounds like fun, and the 5th wheel sounds like something to look forward to!

Betsi, I just love the quilt you chose. I think grape walls and blue carpeting will be so pretty with the quilt. I like the "feminine antique" name you gave it all. Sounds like shabby chic, which is so pretty! I can't wait for pictures.

Janet, you are also so busy! Soon, it will be Spring Break, and you can relax a bit. I hope Ricky finds a job soon that meets his needs. He is such a good guy!
Sorry that Mom hasn't found the balance she needs between her meds, dialysis, and other health problems. Is she still scooting around Walmart? It is hard to rehome Fancee, but you have to do what's best. Jessie is trying to rehome the Malamutes, and is also finding it hard to let go. Steve is finding it harder though!

Facebook has taken some of our women away from us for sure. I am sorry that they have chosen fb over us. I prefer 4WT because we have a closeness that can't be beat. I share things here that I would never share on fb, and probably not with too many other people either! I do like being in touch with family, and old friends who I don't have contact with otherwise, but I also have hidden lots of stuff, like Farmville (?), Mafia Wars, etc. posts. They have good games though. I have been playing a lot of online games lately - good because they keep me off of eBay - bad because I'm online too much. I do want to stimulate my brain though, and I have heard that these games are good for that. I'll get tired of them soon, and cut back. I have been home way too much between my car being in bad shape, and the snow. I'm still looking for a car, and have decided not to settle, but to look for exactly what I want. My car can still get me around well enough. I'm trying to get an appt. with my dentist down in the city, and will just rent a car for the day when I have to go down there. Everything is pretty quiet around here. Just waiting for Spring to come. The weather this week has been lovely though., It's in the high 30's, low 40's, so a lot of the snow will melt. It will be nice to be able to take off the boots and the down coat soon.

Janet

03-05-2010, 10:34 AM

Okay....did I miss a thread where Diana is searching for a 5th wheel? I had wanted one at one time but of course Rick nixed that idea. He didn't want to take the topper on his truck on and off. Very selfish!! So I tried looking for a motorhome. Guess it just wasn't meant to be because now things are rough financially.

Paula...I pray you start feeling better soon. Please keep us updated.

I always get cabin fever if I'm in the house too long Judy. Our weather is warming up...today in the 40's and tomorrow in the 50's with wonderful sunshine. I'm so excited. I may run to Lafayette...I need some new walking shoes...mine are getting too worn and I can tell in my legs and back.

Betsi, I love that quilt. I just know the room will look great and I hope you'll post pics when you're done.

Gayle, I'm so glad you started this thread...it's so great to be able to catch up.

Now...if we can just get Gina back here and Mandy and Kat and wow...so many others!

DIANE W

03-05-2010, 03:12 PM

Hello - i have enjoyed reading what everyone is upto.

Me ...... well off the top of my head i would say not really been doing much, but when i think a little, i have been working as normal, i work Monday - Thursday from 8am to 6.30pm (however i do work the last 2 hours each day at home - which is great). This week i have been so busy at work, i cant recall a week as busy in a long while - mind you i do prefer to be busy as the day goes quick and i get home sooner.....

Today i have been to my Aunt & Uncles, i do the shopping and get medication and generally organise their lives for them, i stay and have a meal with them, then head home to collaps in front of TV or computer. Later i take Harvey out for a walk, he will not let me not take him, no matter how tired i am - its those eyes that does it - ha ha ah.

Tomorrow i will go shopping with my daughter, looking for a gift for mothers day, for myself, from Kayley and for my mother in law too - not sure yet what to get. We usually have lunch out and will have a nice day i am sure. In the evening Dave and i usually chill out, have a drink and watch TV - wow that sounds boring!!!!! Then another walk with Harvey.

Sunday, we usually do cleaning and organising around the house and visit in-laws.

Well that is my usual week, off out now with Harvey, which reminds me i must find some time to give him a trim and bath...

I dont use Facebook at all, but i have noticed how quiet it is on here lately, i too am guilty of not posting much - but i always snoop around checking if i am missing anything.....

paula1961

03-05-2010, 06:59 PM

gja1000

03-05-2010, 07:20 PM

HI ALL!
I'm REALLY glad this is Friday! It's been a long week.

I'm packing to go to the lake again this weekend. It's supposed to rain most of the weekend, so the guys won't be going fishing and maybe I can get to the two little antique stores in town. YAY! I love this little town, it reminds me of my own little town I grew up in.

Gary's sister is flying down from Kansas City next week to spend a few days with Gary and their aunt and uncle. They will have loads of fun!

I'll be going down again next Friday. That will be the first day of my spring break. I don't think we will spend the whole week down there, but it will be fun to not have to run back and forth.

Abigail got 4th place in the shot put yesterday. She's really not very good at it - they have only been practicing a couple of weeks. It was a little cool sitting outside - really it was just windy and so it was cool when the wind hit you. We sat out for about 2 hours waiting for her to compete! Next time we'll know how long we can sit in the car waiting on her event. Oh! I almost forgot, a dad was helping his son with his form on the shot put. So the dad went through the shot put motion. When he did, his shirt flew up and showed about 4 inches of butt crack! LOL! It was right in front of Brooke and I so we couldn't laugh out loud or talk about it, so we started texting back and forth. It was sooo funny! I wonder if he had a clue!

After the track meet we went out for hamburgers and then made chocolate no bake cookies at their house. It was a fun evening!

I bought our airline tickets to Alaska this week. I'd been hearing that the fares would drop in March, and sure enough, they did, so I bought them. Now, I can't look anymore, in case they go down a bit more, I'll be upset that I didn't wait! :p But sometimes when you wait for that last little drop, then they jump up and I kick myself.

Gary's sisters and two of their husbands will be going with us. We'll be the tour guides as none of them have ever been. I am really excited to be in Alaska again. We love it sooooo much!

Rex and Rowdy will be so excited to see Gary this weekend. They love him so much and miss him so much when he is gone. This is the longest he has been gone since we've had them. They probably think he is never coming back!

I need to get them an appointment to get their teeth cleaned. I just keep putting off calling. The thought of them going under anesthesia just makes me so nervous. But I just can't wait any longer!!!

I can check in on 4WT on my phone, but can't post much because the network is soooo sloooow at the lake. I'll be keeping an eye on you all though - so don't act up while I'm gone. ;)

Janet

03-07-2010, 05:49 AM

I just love your posts anyway Gayle...but loved this one about the butt crack....LOL....I laugh out loud and the guys wonder what's going on....LOL.

Diane W, It's so nice to learn a bit more about you....glad you're here with us.

Let's see...yesterday, as you know was my birthday. The sun was so warm and nice even though it was only 50 degrees. The guys were goofing off in the garage so I went to Lafayette and bought a new pair of walking shoes. I could tell from my back and legs that a new pair was needed. I also went to Merle Norman and looked at the Vera Bradley purses. I found one I really liked but they didn't have it at that store. They made a call to another store and it will be there today. So now I need to see if I want to run back to Lafayette to get it. I love the 'Betsy' style. It's just a tad smaller than the 'Villager' but the handles seem to be thicker and will last longer I think. I think I want the one in Paprika ( http://www.verabradley.com/product/Category/Handbags/Betsy/154763/defaultColor/Symphony%20in%20Hue/pc/638/p/154763/sc/641/c/0.uts ). I'm glad I didn't order online because the colors look so different in person.

Ricky made me a banana pudding with Nilla wafers and Rick bought a pizza and a small electric air compressor. He seemed to think I needed one to clean my bagless sweeper with. Little did he know that I was thinking of going back to a sweeper with a bag. The best gift was he slept on the couch Friday and Saturday night so I could have a snoreless birthday....LOL. My mother called and sang Happy Birthday to me it was funny because she can't carry a tune in a bucket...lol. My younger brother called while I was in Lafayette, I was shocked. Kat called me too. I just love talking to her...she makes me laugh so much. Plus all the b-day wishes here, FB and some other forums it was a really good day.

I'm so glad that Diana's new grandson is here and all is well. The pictures she posted were so good and I especially liked the two of her and Glenn holding the precious boy. They need to frame those two pictures.

paula1961

03-07-2010, 07:22 AM

Janet, I am so glad you had a great birthday. How sweet of Ricky to make his mama a special b-day pudding.
I am also glad that Rick slept on the couch for a couple of nights and hopefully you got caught up on your sleep.
Sounds like you had a wonderful day and your b-day still isn't over, get on over there and pick up your new purse. Really pretty.:)

Gotta go find the baby thread:D:p

judy

03-07-2010, 09:04 AM

Gotta go to Jessie's, but I love reading all of your posts! Such a week! Diana's new grandson, Dean Lukas, Janet's birthday, and Gayle's trip to Alaska!

Marilyn

03-07-2010, 02:19 PM

So sorry that I haven't been on here. I do check FB as many of you know. We have just been so very busy.

Since Nov. 1st, we've planned Karen's wedding which was on Dec 22nd, as most of you know. Then I got a cold the week after and another cold, the week after that. Much of January was trying to get well, trying to help Melissa and Garrett with the remodel of the mobile home that most of you know about. It looks soooo nice. Melissa has posted some on FB for those of you who are on there, and are her friends. I'll have to snatch some of the pics and post here.

February, more helping with the mobile home, and trying to keep up with everything else. We all helped to lay the laminate flooring. I 'bout killed myself one weekend. The kids went on a retreat and Rex and I worked on the trailer. I laid the laminate flooring in the kitchen, by myself, which was the hardest room, lots of intricate cuts. My knees and legs were so tired and sore from getting up and down. Rex, Melissa and I (mostly Rex and me) installed tile and glass block backsplash in the kitchen. The tile is a grey/tan, with shades of blue glass block. Turned out really pretty.

Melissa and Garrett finally moved in last weekend, so whew, now most of that is done.

Karen and Carlton are doing well in California. He deploys to Afghanistan on March 25thish (they can't tell the exact date for security reasons). They will be here next Saturday for a week for pre-deployment leave. We can't wait to see them. It all seems so unreal. The quick wedding to a guy we barely knew, then off to California. They seem very happy and we are thrilled for them, but, with such short notice and again, we barely knew him. These children of ours (yours and ours) are so very precious. We ache for them, hoping all will be well.

I'm on FB more than here because more of my family are there, and it helps me keep connected to our girls. Even Rex has a FB account now, because he felt left out.

Also, Rex got after me for being on the computer so much. I have gotten lots more done since not being on here so much. It is easy to get on check FB and back off, and since he knows I'm communicating with our girls, he approves of it more than here.

I'll try to be on here more. There were over 400 new posts, so I know I missed a lot and can never catch up. Do care for you all and consider you my dear friends.

Gayle, thank you for starting this thread. I'll really try to check in more often. So glad you are all still here and busy with life!!!

judy

03-11-2010, 06:38 AM

Hi Marilyn! it is so good to see you here!

You have surely been busy! It must be hard with both girls doing so many things!

Is Karen coming back when Carlton is deployed?

gja1000

03-11-2010, 07:16 PM

Hi Guys!
Sorry I haven't posted much at all this week - SUCH a busy week. It has just been one thing after another all day and night!!!

I'm packing to go to the lake with Gary, but this time I'll stay till next Tuesday when he and I will come home to pick up his sister at the airport. She's flying in from Kansas City and will stay with his/her aunt and uncle at the lake. We'll all come home on the 21st, just in time to start back up with school and be really busy AGAIN! Grrrr!!!

Anyway, I will be able to check 4WT but not post much, if anything, as the telephone network down there is extreeeeeemly slow and it takes forever just to get onto 4WT, let alone post! I'll be thinking of all of you though.

Lindsay, I haven't posted about your potential new house, but it is absolutely gorgeous and I would jump on it if you all can afford it. Such a beautiful house, it looks like the dream home I never had and never will. So, if you get it, I can live in it vicariously! LOL!

Diana, I know you are so thrilled with baby Dean - I remember well what it is like to hold a new grandbaby! He is just adorable.

Janet, I'm not sure if I wished you happy birthday - and I don't think I wished Judy one either, so HAPPY BIRTHDAY to both of you.

This is the fourth weekend in a row that I've been gone, and next weekend will be the 5th. I get absolutely nothing done when I am gone over the weekend. I'll be glad to be home for a while later this month.

Miss you all!

judy

03-12-2010, 05:45 AM

Have fun Gayle! It sounds pretty hectic, but fun!

paula1961

03-12-2010, 08:04 AM

Gayle, you are one busy gal! Have a great time at the lake. Take some pics if ya can, I bet it is sooo pretty there.
We miss you too!!!!:) Hope you get time to post when you get back from the lake.

Marilyn, I would love to see pics of your daughters home. I just love seeing others peoples taste in decorating. The differnent colors we choose and so on. I bet it looks great.:)

gja1000

03-15-2010, 02:43 PM

Hi All! We came home from the lake a day early (supposed to come home tomorrow). But something was broken on the depth finder on the boat so they couldn't fish today and we had to come home to buy a new "thingy" - so here we are.

I'm glad as it will give me an extra day at home. We'll pick up Gary's sister on Wed. and then go back to the lake till Sunday.

Gary has had such a good time, but I can tell he has retained too much fluid and probably gained some weight. Oh well, I guess I can get him back in shape - LOL!

The wildflowers are so pretty - they are just beginning to come out, they will be even prettier in a couple more weeks. I'll try to remember to take the big camera to take some pix.

More later, trying to get the laundry done.

Blueyes

03-15-2010, 03:27 PM

DianaB

03-15-2010, 03:47 PM

Gayle, you are such a busy woman!!!! Always going somewhere!! I love it!! I wish that my husband liked to go and do things like you and Gary do!!! An Alaskan cruise sounds so nice!!!

Diane, it was nice of you to post a little more about yourself......that's how we get to know you!!!

I've spent so much time at Dae Lynn's holding Baby Dean!!! He's just so precious!! And he's doing so good! Dae Lynn's a good mommy and Damon is just a wonderful dad!! He does almost everything for Dae Lynn when he's home. Today he finally went back to work and Dae Lynn's worried about being home all day with baby..........and Karlie!! Karlie can really be a handful and she really gets to Dae Lynn sometimes. I'm sure that they'll get it all figured out.

We had Care Group again on Sunday so I was busy all week trying to get my house in order. I try to do a little bit every day so I don't get all stressed out because I don't want the fever sores again. It must have worked because there's no fever sores today!!.....Yay!!! I've got to vacuum because someone had dried dirt all over their shoes and it's all over the house.......then everything will look really nice.

So that's what I've been up to!!

gja1000

03-15-2010, 05:48 PM

Hey Gayle! I'm glad you got to come home a little early. I think it's kinda funny that they can't fish without a depth finder:rolleyes:

I look forward to seeing the wildflowers this year. I think they will be really pretty. We might go to Fredricksburg in April if the bluebonnets are pretty:)

LOL! Betsi! You are so right! What did they do before depth finders!! And THIS crew has been fishing since loooooong before depth finders!!! That's so funny!

Betsi, just get to planning the trip to Fredricksburg because the bluebonnets are just gorgeous and they are just beginning to bloom en mass down south where we were (60 miles south of San Antonio). And it's not just bluebonnets - there are just so many gorgeous wild flowers, some I've never seen before! So, plan that trip NOW!

judy

03-16-2010, 06:49 AM

Betsi, please take pictures! What a nice trip!

We are having signs that spring is coming. There are birds singing, chipmunks running around, and deer out. I saw geese out yesterday too. Sadly, road kill is an indication that spring is here because it means that the animals are coming out of wherever they go for the winter, and I have seen some of that too.

I planted a couple of tiny pots of Forget me Nots, and I see tiny shoots coming up! There is still a lot of snow around, but it is melting, so I can plant my bulbs soon.

It's a beautiful, sunny day today. I can't put plants out on the deck yet, but as soon as the temperature stays above freezing, I will plant my boxes and set out the indoor plants. I have last year's fuscia plant in my pantry. It is very cold in there, and I cut back all of the branches on the fuscia last fall. I checked it out online and it said to only water it to keep the wood from drying out. There are lots of new stems coming up. I'll cut them off; they are too sun poor. I'll put it out when it gets much warmer. I think it might make it through another summer!

I am very excited!

Blueyes

03-16-2010, 08:01 AM

Wow Judy! After all of that snow, I wondered if you'd EVER thaw out. lol! I'm glad you are seeing and feeling Spring!
Fredricksburg is a small German town that comes to life every Spring with the wildflowers. It's a few hours drive from here, but well worth the trip! It's in the Texas Hill Country, not too far from Gayle.

DianaB

03-16-2010, 08:14 AM

I've seen the bluebonnets in the spring in Texas and they are beautiful!!! I remember driving around Austin and seeing them in between the roads!! I've seen some signs of spring here.......the daffodils are budding out.....so it won't be long until we have some color showing up!!! I'm ready for spring!!

gja1000

03-16-2010, 03:05 PM

WHEW! We have run errands all day in the rain, trying to get things ready to return to the lake tomorrow. It is supposed to be in the low 70's and sunny the rest of the week! YAY!

We just realized today that Gary's insulin will be delivered on Thursday (we leave tomorrow which is Wednesday). It is sent by 24 hour delivery by UPS in a cold pack. It usually ships on the 17th, we get it on the 18th of every month. The UPS guy just leaves it on the front porch. Welllll - - we won't be here day after tomorrow (delivery day) so Gary is over at the neighbors asking him to pick it up and put it in his refrigerator (insulin has to be kept refrigerated). I called the company today, but it was already in packaging, too late to stop delivery. I sure am glad we remembered! WHEW!

We will pick Gary's sister up at 10:30 tomorrow morning and then head south! I'll be reading the forum till Sunday when we return - but won't post because the phone system is just too slow!

I have my camera laid out to take, now, if I can just remember to take some pictures!!!

DianaB

03-17-2010, 08:45 AM

Have a good time!!! Your trips always sound like fun!!!

Janet

03-17-2010, 09:54 AM

I absolutely love reading everyone's posts. We too are seeing some signs of spring...I'm glad everyone else is too. It's about time. :)

I forgot about this thread when I posted about Lynne and I going wine tasting on Saturday. Let's see....what else has been going on... Monday I had to go to the bank and do errands...also had to take an inventory of how much fluid supply Mother has. She seems to forgot how to count ...lol. Tuesday I got my hair cut, today I had to take Penny to the Vet for her annual. Tomorrow I take Mom to the Dr. and then on Friday...I go to the dentist again. I'm not going to make any appointments for next week though. It's spring break next week...so not sure what I'll do having the place to myself. Need to get the yard cleaned up...need to clean closets and drawers...so much to do...so little time....oh and I almost forgot...still need to do Ricky and Mom's taxes.

I think that after spring break....I'm going to need a vacation...lol

paula1961

03-17-2010, 01:38 PM

I love reading everyone's posts too!
Gayle you are always on the go!! Sounds like so much fun! Have a good time!

Janet, you have been busy too!! Have a happy spring break!!

Diana, we all know what you have been doing!! You lucky thing! You've been holding that baby alot haven't you?

Betsi I sure hope you get to take that trip and see the pretty flowers!:)

I hope to take my first camping trip of the year next month!!

judy

03-17-2010, 05:23 PM

It sounds like we're all crawling out of our winter hibernation. I haven't worn a coat in days! There are still tons of snow here, but I think in a couple of weeks it will be almost gone. There is some snow left until May, so I hear.

All I know is that I am getting a pedicure next week in preparation for flip flop weather. When I worked, I would always be the first to bring out the flip flops. I would declare officially that it was time, and that was it.

I may be flip flopping around in snow this year.

DianaB

03-17-2010, 06:24 PM

Brrrrr........

judy

03-18-2010, 03:45 AM

Brrrrr........

:sidesplit::sidesplit::sidesplit:

But, at some point, you have to tell winter to go away!!! Even if you end up with froze toes.

Blueyes

03-18-2010, 05:25 PM

You GO Judy!! :shade:

gja1000

03-18-2010, 05:45 PM

Hi All! Network seems a little faster tonight. I'll try to post a little. Everyone out fishing. I'm at the trailer fixing supper, cola crockpot chicken. Hope it's good. Lazy day. Cooked, watched basketball on TV, walked the dogs (a zillion times-LOL), didn't do much of anything productive. AHHH!

Just found out I will have to go to Washington D C on business the end of April. Wish it were earlier so I could see the cherry blossoms!

Well the crew came in before I finished this post so now, dinner is over. The cola chicken was good but nothing special. Oh well, everyone was hungry and appreciative that I fixed it. tomorrow we are going to town for dinner. Thee local cafe has fried catfish, oysters and shrimp every Fri. night. It's GOOD but doesn't do much for the waistline LOL.

DianaB

03-19-2010, 05:35 AM

Gayle, your trip sounds so relaxing!! And here you go traveling again.......and to Washington, DC!!! Wow!!! Now do you just go on these business trips or do you speak at them?

Judy, since I have low thyroid it makes me have cold feet without being in the snow so I can't imagine going out in flip-flops this early but ......you go girl!!!!

And, Janet, head my way whenever you're ready!!!

Janet

03-22-2010, 03:07 AM

I've been trying to keep things done up here lately so I could start cleaning this week. Yesterday (Sunday) I gave the dogs a bath so all I would need would be a quick combing to keep them looking good this week.

This is how my week is starting already..... woke up about 4:30 am to a dog barking. Didn't get up to check on her...I just went back to sleep. I mostly just dozed, but she did quiet down. I didn't hear Ricky's alarm go off so I had to get up and make sure he was getting up for school. I then went to let the dogs out of their crates so they could go potty and I guess I should have gotten up when I heard the barking. Gidget must be pregnant, because usually after a week or two of being bred, she gets sick. AND she did...all over the crate. So another bath for her and now I'm waiting for daylight to hose the bedding down and then I'll throw it in the washer. What a way to start off....LOL.

Well...I need to get started if this cleaning gig is going to happen.

paula1961

03-22-2010, 05:40 AM

Hope your week improves Janet. I'm sure it will. This must be your spring break.
Poor Gidget, hope she feels better soon.:)

DianaB

03-22-2010, 08:25 AM

What a way to start your week. I hope it gets better. How exciting that Gidget is pregnant again!!! Enjoy your week but make sure you take time out for Janet!!!!

judy

03-22-2010, 03:41 PM

Oooh! You have a week off? Is it Spring Break already?

Sorry you woke up to a mess, but, puppies are on the way! That is nice!

Janet

03-22-2010, 04:26 PM

Yes...spring break has arrived...yay. I did get started on the cleaning though. My bathroom just sparkles and I got rid of a lot of meds that had expired and put some old stringy towels in the whelping supplies. Got my dresser and closet cleaned and put away my winter clothes and got out my summer attire.

While I was scrubbing my tub/shower I got down on my knees and then when I went to stand...my right knee popped out or something, but I couldn't straighten it for about 45 minutes. I just hobbled along...lol. Wasn't gonna let it stop me. I'm still having trouble with my right arm also. Got the last of my hepititis shot series last week and it's been sore and achy since.

I can sure tell I don't get a whole lot of physical exercise...I'm so sore already. I still have Rick's dresser and closet to clean out tomorrow and then the rest of the room. Hopefully I'll be able to get it all done.

Hope I'm not as sore tomorrow, but I'm sure once I get my self moving I should be okay.....I hope.

Blueyes

03-22-2010, 05:44 PM

WOW Janet!!! You've gotten so much done! I wish I could get motivated like that:rolleyes: I hope you wake up feeling great in the morning!

judy

03-23-2010, 05:41 AM

Slow down Janet! Popped knees and aching arms are not good for you!

Knowing you though, nothing will stop you from your spring cleaning. There is nothing like a clean, organized house!!!

Janet

03-23-2010, 02:27 PM

Well my bedroom and bath is finally done. Feel like I'm dying, but it's so clean and organized again. Gee only 7 more rooms to go. I really hurt. Guess I really don't get any exercise. Once I get up and moving I'm fine until about 4 in the afternoon. Then I start getting really sore again. I'm getting too old for cleaning... LOLOL

gja1000

03-25-2010, 05:03 AM

Hey everyone, I am home now and back in the work groove as spring break is over. UGH! I posted some pix of wildflowers, etc in the pictures thread!

paula1961

03-25-2010, 06:11 AM

Hi Gayle! So glad you're back and that you had a wonderful time on your spring break! Now I will go look at your pics.:)

Janet

03-25-2010, 04:19 PM

I'm glad you're back safe and sound Gayle. I've already checked out the wildflower pictures...they're beautiful!

I got the living room and family room done today. Basically I just switched the furniture in each room and totally cleaned anything and everything. Right now I'm sitting in my recliner and everything looks so nice.

I think I'm stopping though. I've only got 3 days left of spring break and I'm ready to get out of the house if the rain will ever stop.... that and if I can move without pain....:D

DianaB

03-26-2010, 10:50 AM

Wow, Janet, you've been on a cleaning frenzy!!!! I'm glad that you're not going to spend your whole spring break cleaning because you deserve some "you" time!!! Get Lynne and GO SHOPPING or something!!!

gja1000

03-26-2010, 05:27 PM

Janet, I am completely amazed at your cleaning frenzy. I don't think I have cleaned that much in my entire LIFE! :p

Janet

03-27-2010, 05:06 AM

Well, I hadn't really 'deep' cleaned since I painted last year. It needed it soooo bad. I feel much better now knowing the dust bunnies are not going to unite and start a rebellion. Just makes me feel safer... :)

I kind of relaxed yesterday morning and then in the afternoon I went grocery shopping. Since Ricky lost his job it's been a little (well more than a little) tight financially. Our tax check was deposited so I had to get some groceries. We were out of everything. I did well though...bought quite a bit and bought healthier items. Salmon, Tilapia, some fruit and lots of veggies and no 'white' stuff. No...I'm not dieting...I always fail at that, but I'm going to try and take a more relaxed look at the way I eat. Hopefully I'll lose some weight, it not, maybe I'll feel a little better by eating right.

Not sure what I'm going to do today or tomorrow. I should go see Mom and maybe take her somewhere, I haven't seen her all week, but I've spoke with her everyday...sometimes twice. It's suppose to be a pretty day so I do need to get out. Tomorrow is suppose to be rainy all day long. Hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

gja1000

03-27-2010, 08:54 AM

Gorgeous day here too, Janet! Sunny, 80 degrees this afternoon. I went to the nursery and bought my tomatoes and peppers. I'm watching women's basketball right now, and have one more game to go this afternoon, then its off to planting before the games start up again this evening.

There's a big garden festival going on downtown and I'd love to go, but alas, too many BB games to watch and too much to do here. Maybe tomorrow....

paula1961

03-27-2010, 11:14 AM

It's beautiful here today too!
I have been outside trimming the grass around my tulips. They haven't bloomed yet but it won't be long! I can't wait to see them in bloom.
I even had the puppy out there earlier, she ran around the yard like she was a big doggie lol. She's had 2 rounds of shots so I thought it was safe to let her in the grass.
You all have a great week-end too!! Enjoy the wonderful weather:)

gja1000

03-27-2010, 06:29 PM

Well, I got my tomatoes planted and one little jalapeno pepper plant. After planting, we celebrated by going to Red Lobster for crab legs :D Janet, wish you were here!

Here's a couple of pictures of my tomatoes.

gja1000

03-27-2010, 06:31 PM

oops! I hit the wrong button, here's the pix

gja1000

03-27-2010, 06:32 PM

Oh and here's a picture of a nice bass that Gary caught a couple weeks ago at the lake.

judy

03-28-2010, 06:55 AM

Very nice Gayle. I saw a piece about planting box gardens on the news. It was so interesting; how to adjust your soil and so on.

If I wasn't too lazy this year, I could do it on my deck. Maybe next summer.

I hope you get a great crop!!!

Janet

03-28-2010, 07:29 AM

gja1000

03-28-2010, 08:32 AM

What a nice bass Gayle. I miss fishing so much...there just isn't that much fishing around here anymore. I like fishing from creeks, but they are just too dirty and polluted. All the lakes are farther away.

Gary fishes from the Colorado river too. He and a friend set out trot lines for catfish and then bank fish for them too.

gja1000

03-28-2010, 08:42 AM

Oh and I forgot to say that a critter got in my garden last night/this morning. I have a little fence around it because without the fence (put up last year) both Yorkie boys want to get in the garden and "water" (ahem) the plants.

This morning I went out to find tracks and a few small holes around in the soft dirt. None of the plants were disturbed, but the newly turned dirt sure was (between plants). I called Gary out to look at it because we occasionally have an opossum that comes up from the creek and I thought he might have gotten into the garden.

However, as Gary and I were looking in over, he said it looked like maybe a big cat had tromped around. About that moment, I realized that I had left the plant flat that I used to carry all the new plants from the car to the garden, laying up next to the bed and it made a perfect step for a little Yorkie boy to step on it and jump right into the bed.

So, I think my opossum/cat was actually a Yorkie! :D

paula1961

03-28-2010, 11:29 AM

gja1000

03-28-2010, 11:42 AM

The plants look so good Gayle. We are putting us out a little garden this year too.
Nice bass. Did you all eat it? I love fresh fish.
The story about the critter was too funny. So do ya think one of the boys watered the plants? lol

Gardening is so relaxing for me - I just have the little 4X12 raised bed so it is very easy. Every morning and evening I say to the boys, "Let's go check the garden" and they hit the doggie door before I can take one step! We go out and I look over every plant - it's make me feel good!

Yes, we eat the fish. They caught crappie, catfish and bass. Crappie is my favorite. We love fresh fish too!

Do I think one of the boys watered the plants? You betcha! :D

lynne b

03-28-2010, 12:02 PM

we plan on having a small garden tis year also, will have to fence it off from the dogs to. I use to have yellow cherry tomatoes and had 1 dog that would pick them off the vine and eat them, hope i can find some volunters in the yard this year, the birds would eat them and the dogs and they would deposit the seeds all over the yard, yuk!!!
I am suppose to have a guy (an old school teacher) come today and look at my KOI fish, it's been raining all day and kind of chilly. we are filling in our pond if we can sell all of the fish, some are well over 12" long, i have sold some over the past couple of summers to another old teacher. we are just tired of takeing care of it and worrying all the time about the pump clogging up and the dogs take up so much of my time, we have had it for over 10 yrs. it's suppose to be nice later in the week maybe i can see if he will come later to fish them out, last time i ended up on my butt in the pond, i will not be getting in it today though!!!

Gayle, i love crappie, my g-father lived in Okeechobee FL and he loved to fish and if we went there or they came home he always had fish for us, i miss my g--pa, he was my mom's dad and they are so much alike!!!

lynne b

03-28-2010, 12:55 PM

whew!!! well he's come and gone, he wants a few fish but we are waiting till warmer/dryer weather. Thank you!!!!

Janet

03-28-2010, 02:05 PM

Well...it's decided. As soon as yard gets dried out the neighbor is going to come over and disk our garden area. It's been a few years since I had a garden so it will take the disk to get it worked up. He also has a tiller on the back so that will help with the initial work up. We have our own smaller tiller so we'll be able to work it the rest of the way. I'm so excited the decision has been made. I loved working the garden so this is something to look forward to. I've already started writing out what I want to plant. I always canned and froze the veggies so now I will have to buy some more jars. I sold them at a garage sale....LOL.

Right now I'm going by what we use to plant and that will be radishes, green onion, lettuce, carrots, green beans, peas, brussel sprouts, tomatoes and who knows what else. I have video of Ricky with a pacifier in his mouth and wearing a diaper planting the garden....so darn cute. Also of him sitting on the kitchen floor breaking the beans and shelling the peas. Oh the memories. We don't plant corn because the neighbors always plant rows of sweet corn in their fields and tell us to take what we want. So nice.

Way to go Lynne on selling some of your fish. Now you won't have to worry about the dogs getting in it anymore. I didn't know you landed on your butt in the pond.....where the heck is the picture of that?????

gja1000

03-28-2010, 04:29 PM

YAY! Now I'll have another gardner to share stories with!

I don't know the size of your garden area, Janet, or even if this is feasible - but, if you till areas that are only 4 foot wide but as long as you want, you can reach into the four foot wide garden area from either side and never have to step into the garden soil. You could till a 4X20 area, leave a 2X20 space untilled, and then till another 4X20 space. The trick is to not make them more than 4 foot wide so that you can walk between the four foot wide rows and not have to step into the planting area. I didn't come up with this brilliant idea - it's recommended in some of my gardening books. Of course, this might not be at all feasible in your space.

judy

03-31-2010, 05:37 AM

Janet, that is good news! You are going to have a really fun summer, and a good time canning too!

DianaB

04-01-2010, 09:39 PM

Gayle, I love your little garden!!! I would love to have one that size or a tad larger. My husband thinks that if you're going to garden you do enough to feed everyone!!! It's a lot of work and waste! I think that the kids are talking about getting together and planting another one this year.....we'll see. Our garden is at the end of our long driveway and not very handy. I much prefer one that I can run outside for a few minutes to pick or hoe weeds. We have some yard work to do then I think that I'll get a raised garden put in but, who knows......that could take years!!

Janet, it will be interesting to hear how your garden's doing and what you're canning. I used to can a lot when the kids were little. I really can't say that I miss it!!

Janet

04-02-2010, 06:03 AM

I know Diana....I'm beginning to rethink this whole garden thing. I've been thinking and remembering just how much work it was. In the morning with the dew (before it gets too hot) it's too wet and of an evening, I'm usually done in, plus it stays so warm late into the evening. I just better think on it for awhile before we get the garden tilled again.

DianaB

04-02-2010, 06:20 AM

Even if you just have a small garden with tomatoes, potatoes, and a couple of other things you'll enjoy it. Just don't make it too big and maybe just plan on eating what's fresh and not worry about canning.

Oh and Gayle.....tell Gary that he has a nice "bass"!!! LOL Did I just type that????!!!!!

Janet

04-02-2010, 02:58 PM

Good idea Diana. Maybe a small one wouldn't be too bad. Oh the things I fret over....lolol

gja1000

04-02-2010, 05:24 PM

A small one is wonderful, just perfect for going out and visiting every day, but not so big that it causes any stress, in fact it is really relaxing.

judy

04-03-2010, 09:12 AM

It is so beautiful outside today. I went out yesterday to get the Easter baskets
done, and ended up taking a ride over to a nearby town that is known for antique shops. I had such a nice day, but I am so tired today, I just don't feel like going anywhere. I think it's allergies. It's just a shame to stay in on such a beautiful day.

I think I'll do what needs doing, and then relax on the deck. I have to clean it up a bit first. Max has been having fun out there, if you know what I mean! It's much too early to bring up the deck furniture. It really could snow again. It certainly will rain! I have a couple of plastic chairs that I can wash down and set out, then I can grab a book and relax out there. Max and Annie can run around too.

gja1000

04-03-2010, 09:47 AM

It is really beautiful here today too! It's supposed to be a little warmer than normal, maybe 82, but there is NOT ANY WIND! We have had so much wind this spring, I am so tired of it.

I got Easter basket fixins' today. I took Papa (Gary) with me and THAT was a mistake! We ended up buying waaaaaay too much stuff! LOL!

I just baked a blackberry cobbler and cutt up LOTS Of strawberries. We have a new organic grocery store (Sprouts) close to our house. They run ads every Wednesday and blackberries and strawberries were on sale this week, so my wonderful hubby LOADED up on them. Now, I have to figure out what to do with them. I bought some vanilla ice cream and cut up some strawberries to eat on top of the ice cream as well as putting the ice cream on top of the blackberry cobbler. I'm going to make strawberry shortcake for Easter dinner tomorrow.

Gary and I went out to breakfast at Cracker Barrel this morning (where I did most of my Easter basket shopping) and then we did a spot of shopping, him at the sporting good store, me at the department store. He bought some fishing stuff, and I bought a pair of pants and some pajamas. Since I've been home, I've been out admiring my garden, and talking to my tomatoes. I have to go to a volleyball game at 3:00 and that will probably consume most of the rest of the day.

DianaB

04-03-2010, 09:56 AM

Gayle, if you have a lot of fruit then you can make a real easy fruit salad. I just cut up my fruit (use what ever you want) then sprinkle a package of sugar-free jello over it. I use strawberry but cherry flavored is good too. When cantaloupe is in season it's really good in this too!

Glen's family has a picnic the day before Easter and I made a fruit salad for Glen to take. It's a good picnic salad because it doesn't have mayo in it plus everyone loves it!!!

Judy, it does sounds nice to just sit in the sun for awhile, doesn't it? Enjoy your time in the sun!!!!

gja1000

04-03-2010, 10:10 AM

It never even occurred to me to put sugar free jello over a fruit salad - I bet that is GREAT! I'm going to try it! I have blackberries, strawberries, green grapes, bananas and plums. I can't wait!

gja1000

04-03-2010, 12:56 PM

I'm at the v-ball game. It's running about an hour and a half late. UGH. Watching other middle schoolers play v-ball is not how I wanted to spend my Sat afternoon. Plus we are in an old gym with no airconditioning. It's 85 outside. With about 200 people inside, I wonder how hot it is in here? All I know is I'm sweating. Hopefully this game will be over soon and Abi's game can start.

Janet

04-03-2010, 04:40 PM

We had a mixture of weather today. Beautiful sunshine...heavy rain...light rain and medium winds. It's also a bit cooler than it has been the last couple of days. It's only 51 degrees right now.

Judy...I thinnk it sounds wonderful to sit on a deck in the warm sunshine and read....so relaxing.

We went to a chinese restaurant in town this evening. Pretty quiet since Rick and I weren't speaking. Still aren't as far as I'm concerned. Sometimes...NO...most times...he's an a$$ and tonight was no different. So now I'm on the computer, Ricky is watching Lord of the Rings Two Towers and what's his name is in the kitchen on his computer. So a pretty quiet evening.

gja1000

04-03-2010, 05:29 PM

I'm finally home from the v-ball games. Abi played pretty good so it was fun to watch her play. I stopped for Subway sandwiches since it was so late.

Now, I'm watching the men's final four - game every night through Tuesday! YAY!

paula1961

04-04-2010, 04:32 PM

gja1000

04-04-2010, 07:11 PM

That sounds good Gayle. A nice relaxing evening of just watching a good game and eating a sandwich from Subway. I managed a Subway in Morehead for 7 years, but that was like 15 yrs ago. I love their subs!! What's your favorite?:p

I like the sweet onion teriyaki. Last night though, I had a veggie. I love to get the veggie cuz I can pick out what I'm in the mood for.

gja1000

04-06-2010, 06:56 PM

My niece and her daughter got to attend the White House Egg Roll this Easter. I'm going to try to link the pictures from her FB page, don't know if it will work or not. We'll see.

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=31134271&id=1431619695&fbid=1415353710477#!/photo.php?pid=31134260&id=1431619695&fbid=1415353150463

I think it might work. My great niece is the little blond girl in the blue dress in the first picture. Her mom, my niece, is in the middle of the second picture, black dress, BIG straw hat and sunglasses, holding the little blond girl in the blue dress.

I think it would be so cool to go to the White House Easter egg roll. Scroll through the pictures, pretty cool!

DianaB

04-06-2010, 07:46 PM

I couldn't get it to show. What you can do is on FB click on "share" under your neice's pictures and it will come up again under your name. Then we can see them on FB but we won't be able to post anything....just look at the pictures.

I made that fruit salad for supper this evening. I had a couple of handfuls of grapes, a couple of kiwis, and four strawberries that I chopped up and sprinkled part of a package of strawberry jello on it. It was so good and fresh!! In the summer I like to put cantaloupe in it too!!

gja1000

04-06-2010, 08:12 PM

I did what you said Diana so they are on my profile page - so you can see them on FB. Sorry I couldn't make them show here.

DianaB

04-06-2010, 09:00 PM

I'll go take a look!!!

DianaB

04-06-2010, 09:06 PM

Still can't see it. Your niece must have her settings set where other's can't see it. So how did she happen to get to go to the White House Easter Egg Hunt? That had to be really special!!!

Janet

04-07-2010, 06:35 AM

Didn't get to see them either. That would have been so fun to be at the White House egg roll. How wonderful for them.

Diana, I would love to make a fruit salad with your suggestion. I'm not a big fruit eater, but if I could choose the ones I like...how yummy.

gja1000

04-07-2010, 11:51 AM

She has a friend with Big Time connections to the Hill, so she got her tickets. Sorry you can't see the pictures.

Here's a video of her friend's son playing BB with President Obama later that day. He's the blonde headed boy with the blue shirt. You have to watch about half of the video before you see the BB playing.

http://www.politico.com/politico44/perm/0410/easter_baskets_af59c60a-9d78-4d0b-a695-ddd802c6c198.html

judy

04-07-2010, 04:51 PM

That is so exciting! The WH egg hunt and basketball with the Pres!!! Good for her!

Our Easter was lovely. I missed church. I cut my toe up badly and it took too long to bandage it and so on, so I just went over to Jessie's after church. We had time to visit and chat, which was lovely. The kids were great too.

My ex husband was there. I'm going to have to get used to his being around. He is moving around the corner from Jessie. Boo!!!:thumbdwn: It's not terrible, but I'd rather he wasn't around. We get along, but I think he still loves me so it's uncomfortable, plus he annoys the crap out of me! Talk about freezing my eyeballs!

Yesterday, I went to a new friend's house for coffee, and then to a Writers in the Mountains Board meeting. I was asked to join the Board. I am very happy about this. I love the people in WIM. I'm also having a Board meeting of the Catskill Womens' Network in my house in a couple of weeks. This is the first time I'm really having friends over in a group. I'm excited!

I decided to buy 2 weeks worth of Lean Cuisine meals for dinners and lunches.
Luckily, they were on sale! I think it cost about $100, which isn't bad for 2 weeks of meals! I lost 2 pounds already. I don't know how I am going to eat after I lose the 10 to 12 pounds I want to, but I decided not to worry about it right now. One thing at a time.

We're getting ready for Kassidy and Brandon's communion on May16th. I offered them $500 to help pay for some of it. They were so happy! It really is my pleasure to give it to them. I really don't have it right now, but decided not to worry. I'll get some savings together again. I'll post pictures of the clothes soon.

gja1000

04-10-2010, 07:27 PM

Hi All!
I've been gone to San Antonio since Wednesday to a nursing conference. It was inspiring, informative, hectic, tiring, and lots of fun. I saw an old friend I hadn't seen in 18 years! It was so much fun connecting with her. We may be able to do some work together in the future which I would really like! I saw several friends from across the country that I only see every other year at this conference, and that is always so nice! I also had some of my current and former students with me and it is always great fun to see them present their work, and meet new colleagues and make new connections.

I'm so tired though, I came home about 3:00PM, laid down for a nap, went to grab a pizza with Gary, caught up on a TV show he taped for me, and now I'm about down for the count!

Just wanted to do a quick check-in and I'll try to catch up with all my posting tomorrow!

Luv Ya!

Janet

04-11-2010, 04:25 AM

It was such a beautiful day out yesterday but I was inside most the day grooming and bathing the dogs. I had given them their baths two weeks ago, but didn't do any grooming except for nail trimming and they needed it so bad. Today I really should get Penny outside and brush her down good. With summer coming she is really shedding. Since she is older and a little overweight, the last couple of summers I've shaved her down so she would be much more comfortable and cooler. I think I need to probably do it again. I don't like her not having her long Golden Retriever hair, but I want her comfortable in her old age. She'll be 11 in June.

Not sure what else I'll get done today...right now the sun is shining and looking very pretty, but it's only 43 degrees and it's suppose to rain today. Hopefully it will old off until later in the afternoon.

gja1000

04-11-2010, 12:06 PM

Janet, it's cool (but not as cool as you) and rainy here today too. It's just a very heavy mist, rather than a rain, one where you have to run the wipers on the lowest speed. It's good for my tomatoes though, I watered them this morning, so the ground would be wet and soak up this mist. I put some fertilizer on them too, so the misty rain should be really good for soaking in the fertilizer.

It's so cloudy outside, I'm thinking of another nap today! LOL!!!

paula1961

04-12-2010, 05:08 AM

judy

04-12-2010, 10:07 AM

I think I'm just going to drive over to the Post Office. I ordered some books and hope they came. Then, I'm going to sit on the deck with the dogs and wait out the inflammation in my mouth.

It's a beautiful day!

gja1000

04-12-2010, 03:25 PM

Janet

04-13-2010, 08:56 AM

I want to know what happened Judy!! Did you have dental work again? Hope you're feeling better.

judy

04-14-2010, 05:55 AM

I went to the dentist last Thursday. Still hurts! But the swelling has gone down a lot.

gja1000

04-17-2010, 05:09 PM

Well, I went to the garden center today, got beneficial nematodes, seeds, compost, fertilizer, and plants! Now, I just need it to stop raining so I can plant and fertilize!

Actually it stopped today during the day and I it would have been a good time to put everything down (not the plants though, too wet), but I was afraid it would come a gully washer later today and everything would end up in the neighbors yard :(

And it did rain pretty hard a while ago - it might not have washed to the neighbors yard, but better safe than sorry, I guess.

Hopefully the forecast tomorrow will be better. Light rain would be great, but no gully washers! :)

Janet

04-18-2010, 03:12 AM

It's 34 degrees this morning....brrrrr. Not sure how warm it's suppose to get today...I think in the 50's. It was in the 50's yesterday, but the wind was blowing so hard it felt much much cooler. I didn't venture out much except when I let the doggies outside. I don't like the wind much...it just dries me out so bad. Now breezes.....love them...lol I know picky picky.

Not sure what I'm going to do today. Don't really want to do anything too strenuous...lol, but there is so much that needs done outside. I am glad I haven't planted flowers yet. I would have been scurrying to get them covered last night.

gja1000

04-18-2010, 09:43 AM

I got my compost put down around my trees, and I'll put down the beneficial nematodes this evening. I'm going to wait a couple of days to put down the fertilizer, I don't want to harm the nematodes. Even though the fertilizer is organic, it might cause harm to the nematodes and I need them to do their job of eating flea and fire ant eggs!!!

Janet

04-18-2010, 12:41 PM

Those fire ants are nasty, Gayle. My Mom has some down in Florida where she lives in the winter. I'm sure glad we don't have them here.

I ventured out today and it's still cool, but perfect working weather..lol. I cleaned the garage. It didn't take very long...I try not to let it get too bad. My husband has a much larger garage and still manages to put stuff in mine. SO.....when I clean...I move it all or have him move it all back to his garage. :)

Feels like a bigger garage now.... LOL

gja1000

04-18-2010, 07:13 PM

Well, I got the nematodes sprayed on the yard - hope they burrow deep down into the dirt tonight and just gobble up all those nasty larvae growing down there just ready to eat my plants and bite my babies!

I was all settled in doing some school work I had put off till the last minute, when my daughter called and asked me to come over. I needed to take Della home, so off I went.

THEN, they wanted to go to Buffalo Wild Wings (sports bar/restaurant) so off we went. The food was just so so - boneless buffalo nuggets (Janet, I think your pizza the other day was healthier!). Gary played poker on the TV and had fun. We all laughed and had a good time, but that's the last buffalo wings I want for a while!

Now, I'm back home and just finished the school work I needed to get done before tomorrow. Well, I have one more thing to read but I can do it in the morning.

DianaB

04-20-2010, 07:45 AM

Everyone sounds so busy!! I went to Wal-mart on Sunday to pick out some flowers to plant in my new flower bed but they didn't have very much in. I picked up some daffodils that had already bloomed and were half off. I don't have any so they'll be a nice addition to my yard. I also got some begonias to go in a hanging pot. They are so good at filling in and they don't cost much...plus they add a lot of color since they bloom all summer!!!

We've had a cool spell....I even turned the heater back on Sunday night. This morning it's pretty cool outside but hopefully, like yesterday it will warm up and be nice.

Glen's in the field working as fast as he can go. It's nice that we haven't had the rain keeping him from planting like we've had the last couple of years. He's been taking his lunch with him so I don't see him until evening. It sure makes a long day for me to be alone. Jaci has school, then work, and I'm sure she's going to Nate's tonight. Sometimes I sure wish that the dogs could carry on a conversation!!!! Thank goodness for 4WT!!!

judy

04-21-2010, 07:39 AM

Awww! It does get lonely sometimes Diana! Hope Glenn finishes planting soon and that you have company again.

It sounds like everyone is busy planting. I'm holding off until Memorial Day. Most of the natives up here advise this. I did plant some more bulbs in front of the house though. I was going to plant more, but I think I'll see how they come up first. I can always plant more in the fall for next Spring. I'm thinking about pansies, but I'm not sure yet where I want them. We're really not allowed to plant without submitting plans since we don't tend to the maintenance of the grounds, but a few here and there will be fine. My neighbor taught me to always tell management that "It was here when I moved in," works perfectly!

I can do whatever I want on the deck, but it snowed a few days ago, so it's too soon. I do want to put out finch seeds. I don't leave them out for long because they attract bears.

It is turning green up here and is just beautiful. I have been watching it turn from winter to spring over the last few weeks. It's lovely to watch this happen, especially in the mountains. The snow on the ski slope I can see finally melted this week.

I have been really enjoying the coming of spring, going shopping, or just sitting on the deck with a book. The kids are on spring break this week, so I'm getting them tomorrow, and maybe Friday night too. Then, Monday night, the Womens' Network meeting is in my house. I am very excited about that. A chance to show off my home! Monday night, the bell rang, and one of the women was outside my door! She thought the meeting was this week, so we visited for a while and she will be back on the 26th! Sunday, I am going to a social kind of meeting at a new friend's house, and I am still doing the writing on Tuesday mornings. I am hesitant about taking up pottery again. That studio was a bit chaotic. I would love to find a studio closer to me, but I haven't looked yet.

Here are some pix of my shoots from the bulbs I planted in the fall. So exciting!
And Max and Annie running around outside, eating who knows what!

I can't get the camera to connect. I probably have to restart or something. I'll post pictures later.

gja1000

04-23-2010, 08:09 PM

I've had one heck of a week, or couple of weeks, or several months, I guess. Our school of nursing was preparing for our national accreditation visit this week. Every 10 years (or sooner) we are visited by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and have to prepare a lengthy document called a self study. Ours was about 400 pages long. It contains information about every aspect of our school of nursing: resources, students, faculty, curriculum and evaluation.

I had to do a significant portion of it on our Nurse Practitioner programs (we have 5). I wrote the report last fall and then had to prepare all the materials for the visit this week. Materials consist of evidence for all the things you write about in the report. For example, they want to know about all the courses we teach in all the programs, so we have to copy the course pages with title, description, objectives, adn activities from each syllabus and put them on display.

They also want to see minutes of all our meetings, curriculum meetings, admission meetings, and the like. They want to see all our evaluation data, questions we ask the students about their preparation. They look at the pass rates for our RN exams and the certification exams for the nurse practitioners, and they look at a zillion other things too. It is just a massive undertaking. We have had someone working on it for 2 years and I've been working on it since September.

WHEW! The visitors were here Wed/Thurs/Fri. I had several meetings with them and at these meetings, they can ask you ANYTHING!!! You don't necessarily have to know all the answers, but you do have to get the answers for them. Of course, there are certain things that you SHOULD know, and I was able to answer all their questions. WHEW!

Anyway, in our exit interview today, we passed all criteria with no deficiencies, which will likely mean we'll get accredited for 10 more years. We won't know though for sure, till October. But things went exceedingly well this week, so I'm sure we will get the 10 years. That means we won't have another visit for 10 more years. YAY! (maybe I'll be retired by then. LOL!)

I am so tired though, I feel like I ran a marathon this week. And to top it off, I have to travel to Washington DC Sunday, for some very long and tedious meetings next week - Mon though Thursday. I won't be home till midnight on Thursday. I will be so tired when I get home I won't be able to wiggle!!!

So I'll be reading the forum all next week, but probably won't post too much as I'll only have my phone to get on the internet.

You all don't get into any trouble without me! :D

Janet

04-24-2010, 05:08 AM

WOW....all I can say Gayle is "I'm exhausted" just reading. I'm sure glad it's over for another 10 years for you...that is a lot of work. I'm not good at that kind of mental and information gathering work. Give me something physical anytime...LOL.

At least you can read what's going on here next week. You will definitely be missed.

gja1000

04-25-2010, 06:36 AM

(sigh) sitting the airport.

judy

04-25-2010, 07:12 AM

Poor Gayle! At least the evaluation is over! Just think...before long it will be summer vacation!

I highly recommend a discrete mp3 player with earphones and a really good audio book for airports, plane rides and boring conferences!

I hope you get to enjoy yourself, even though you don't really want to be there!

paula1961

04-25-2010, 09:05 AM

Gayle you are one busy lady! Sorry you are sitting at the airport. Are you going alone?
Try to at least get to do a little something fun while you are there.:) Hope you have a safe trip. We'll hold down the fort while you're away.:p

gja1000

04-26-2010, 03:22 AM

Hi guys! Up early this morning getting readyfor a long boring day. Oh Boy!

Gary wasgoing to come with me but our daughter is having minor foot surgery a d so he stayed home to help her and so she wouldn't have to keep our boys. It's best though, I don't get finished before 5:00 any day so we wouldn't have been able to make it to any museums anyway.

Y'all have a good day!

judy

04-26-2010, 06:32 AM

I'm having a Board meeting of the Catskill Women's Network here tonight. I'm making chicken with green beans and feta cheese. It's really delicious and easy to make. We all bring a dish to these Board meetings.

I have Marcia coming to clean later, and then I'll set up, and I'm ready. I'm so excited to be able to have people in my home. I love entertaining!

Yesterday, I went to a new friend, Lynn's house. She started a Giving Circle, and I originally didn't want to bother, but I am so glad I got to know Lynn and went to the meeting. She is a lovely woman, with 3 daughters in college, and not enough money! She manages well though. Her home is a beautiful country house, and I met some very nice new people.

I had the grandkids Thursday through Saturday, and enjoyed them so much! They were just so much fun! It is much better when the weather is nice and they can run around outside. Brandon and Kassidy found an earthworm, Swimmie, and made him a house in a cardboard box with dirt and leaves and water. This took a lot of work! Swimmie did not make it though, and I grabbed him and threw him into the dirt before they could put salt on him. I am not so sure he was 100% dead yet.

Jessie had TWO unexpected litters. She has been busy with the deliveries and the pups. Then she told me that the two little Japanese Chins tied! I just laughed at her:D I am not sure they understand the dog approach to reproduction! Female goes into heat...male smells it...she lets him tie on certain days....oh...puppies!

Well, they are adults, and will manage it however they manage it. I keep saying "How wonderful!" a lot. It keeps things so harmonious!;););)

lynne b

04-26-2010, 11:33 AM

Saturday we celebrated my mom's 75th b-day, she has come along way from almost 3 yrs ago. She was so surprised that I had planned this for her. My brother and sil came home from California, my uncle on my dad's side and his family came in from Ohio and then turned around and drove back home the same day, about a 5 hr drive one way, pluse i got as many cousins and high school friend and other friends to come also, and as many g-kids and gg-kids, there was probably around 40/50 people there, we had the party at the house where us kids grew up, my brother owns it now, it felt just like old times like whenever my mom would plan the family get togethers. The weather was gloomy but ended staying dry so the kids could play outside. The emotional part of that day is my brother is here to see about fixing up the house to rent it out, it has set empty for almost 5 yrs and just needs updated. The thought of someone else living in the house that i grew up in is really bothering me, even though it has sit empty i have always known that it was the one place i could always go to. I have visions of renters living there and me just going there and walking in on them just like i always walk into the house. LOL
Sunday we went to Coloumbus Ohio to a dog show, a 5 hr drive one way, we met the breeder that i bred Sadie with last April, well i kept her little girl, the breeder kept her and if she has the attitude for the ring she is going to show her for me, she definatley has the looks, everyone was just in aww of her, she got her 1st show bow put in yesterday, she looked so good in it. I none the less was a wreck having to leave her there, she is such a sweetheart of a girl and my 1st little one, she weighs 4lb on the nose. well we should know in a few weeks weather or not she has what it takes to be shown. she will be living in Michigan during this time so i can't just pop in and see her, i know this is harder on me than it is her, the 5 hr drive home was a very queit one for both me and my hubby.
The 1st pic is my mom and only some of her g-kids, gg-kids and the youngest boy held by his mom is a great great g-son, there are other g-kids that were not able to make it. the girl in the white sweatshirt is my daughter and her 2 daughters are in there also, 2nd pic is g-kids, 3rd pic is my Serena who we left yesterday and last pic is her daddy, he is very close to being dual championed.

Janet

04-26-2010, 04:23 PM

I'm so glad everything went so well for your Mother's surprise party. After speaking with you I know she had a great time.

Serena looks gorgeous Lynne. I hope she'll have the attitude to become a Champion....how great would that be???? I know you miss her already, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed for her and you!

Love the pictures....I was hoping to see one of your brother...lol

Blueyes

04-26-2010, 05:39 PM

I loved the pictures too, Lynn. Sounds like a really nice party:)
Judy, I'm so glad you are busy with your friends!

Everybody is busy, busy...and it's not even summer yet, lol!!

I've been busy, too. I'm trying to spend as much time as I can with my kids before they leave the country. They couldn't get their visas to do mission work in Scotland, so they'll be moving to Cebu, Philippines. I'll be keeping y'all updated, but right now I can barely even type about it. I'm really going to need you ladies...

I love you all:)

judy

04-27-2010, 05:37 AM

Awww, Lynne. What an event you guys had! It is wonderful that your Mom's health has gotten better! You have a beautiful family. The dogs are gorgeous!
I hope Serena makes champion! She has the looks for sure. I bet you do miss her!

Betsi, you are in my heart. It will be so hard to say goodbye. The Philippines do sound like a beautiful place to go though, and I hope you get to visit a few times a year.

DianaB

04-27-2010, 05:56 AM

Judy, I'm so glad that you're making friends and becoming an active part of your community!! I know that you're excited to finally have others see your home and all of your hard work!! I'm sure that you'll get lots of compliments!!!

Gayle, you constantly amaze me!! All of your travels and your work!!! You are soooo busy and yet you still find time to be on here with us!!! It sounds like you did a wonderful job getting your report together and understood everything so well that you could answer questions with having to search for the answers!! I hope they give you a HUGE raise!!!! I hope that you can find some time to enjoy being in DC and not in meetings all day long!! Your posts after a trip are always so interesting and so I'm looking forward to hearing all about it!!! Just stay safe!!!

Lynne, it sounds like you planned a wonderful party for your Mom!!! I'm sure that she loved having all of her family around!! She's a very beautiful lady!! I know that after I've moved out of a house that I have a hard time thinking about someone else living there too. I've even gone back to houses and asked to visit them again......it's not the same though!!! I even had a couple of girls ask to come back and visit our last home.....I know that it was hard on them to see things different too. It was funny because we had all kinds of things that showed they had lived there......we had their names carved in the woodwork here and there and the kids would find little toys and stuff in the yard from them!! The kids thought that was so cool so they buried little things all over the yard for the next people......sadly though we now own the home and it's in such bad shape that no one will ever live there again to find their little "treasures". Ahhhhh.......memories!!!!

Blueyes

04-27-2010, 06:02 AM

Diana, how are the wedding plans going? What is the date? Sorry if this is posted somewhere else, but I didn't see it. Do you have your dress?

DianaB

04-27-2010, 06:09 AM

I went to Wichita yesterday with our pastor's wife, Brenda. She's about my age and her kids are grown so we have a lot in common. I saw her at Jaci's shower and she sensed that something was not quite right so she invited me on a shopping trip to get my clothes for the wedding!! She's very talkative so we had a very nice conversation the whole time!! I found a beautiful shirt that matched all the colors of Jaci's wedding and I bought dress slacks and also crop plants to go with it. I'm thinking that I may wear the crop pants for a more casual look since the wedding is outdoors. Anyway....I also bought a nice shawl to go over the top and give a little dressier look!! We found it in the first store that we went to so it took a lot of pressure off of looking for something the rest of the day. I also found a really beautiful necklace and earrings to go with it!! We had so much fun and laughed the whole day!! I was so apprecitive to get out and have some fun!! So many people work that it's hard to do things with friends like that. Brenda works too but she had a day off!! I'm so glad to have my outfit for the wedding!!!! Yay!!!

This is the shirt that I bought but it's so much prettier in person!!

http://catherines.lanebryant.com/mandarin-floral-print-blouse/p61915/index.pro

This is the wrap I got to go over it to dress it up!! It looked really nice on!!

We stopped by Sam's Club so I could see if they have their ferns in yet. I'm wanting some for the wedding. They are suppose to be in TODAY!! So I'm driving back out to Wichita again today!!! Bummer!!!!

http://catherines.lanebryant.com/accessories/wraps-ruanas/knit-ruana/13860c4602p62151/index.pro

I got beige crops to wear with it!!

Janet

04-27-2010, 03:40 PM

Love the outfit Diana...you did good girl. It will be very pretty for an outdoor wedding and comfy to, you'll look beautiful in it. I'm glad that you had such a great time with Brenda...wish I could have been there too.

Blueyes

04-27-2010, 06:19 PM

I especially like the way the blouse is made. It's so dressy and pretty!! You'll be beautiful! I hope your shoes are comfy;)

judy

04-28-2010, 03:16 PM

What a pretty blouse! It is so feminine, and perfect for you. The shawl is mighty classy, and I can't wait to see the pictures!

What kind of shoes?

DianaB

04-28-2010, 05:27 PM

I bought some shoes yesterday when I went back to Wichita with Dae Lynn. I picked out black sandals because I thought that I'd probably get more use out of them than white ones.

http://www.famousfootwear.com/Shopping/ProductDetails.aspx?p=76818&pg=1019702

Blueyes

04-28-2010, 05:43 PM

Those shoes are really cute!! For my youngest son's wedding I bought the CUTEST shoes at Dillards... they hurt my feet so bad all night that I put them in the trash at the church after the reception and went home barefooted. Since then COMFORT is at the top of my priority list, lol!!

DianaB

04-28-2010, 05:47 PM

I had tried on a pair of Naturalizer shoes that I just loved but they hurt so I went back the next day to try on a larger pair but they still hurt. I tried these on and they were actually pretty comfortable.....I'm not sure about all afternoon and evening but I figure that I can always take them off and go barefooted!!! I'm a country girl at heart!!!

Janet

04-29-2010, 09:42 AM

Diana...your blouse and pants will look so summery with light/bright colors...I'm no fashionista by any means, but will the black sandals look alright? I love the style, but wondered if they could come in a lighter color other than white. What d'ya think?

Just went back an looked...what about a tan? or sandlewood?

gja1000

04-30-2010, 07:06 PM

Hi all!

I'm finally home. It was a long hard week in DC and I am so glad to be home. I got in at midnight and in bed by 1:30, and then up at 6:00. Another long day today at school!

Gary and my sil are fishing, so i'm spending the weekend with Brooke and the girls this weekend. Brooke had a cyst removed from her foot this week, she's in a boot and can't drive. I'm REALLY tired, but going to bed early tonight, although I won't sleep as well not being in my own bed. Oh well, I guess i'll get caught up on my sleep next week. Our classes are over on Friday and I'm ready!

Diana, I love your blouse, wrap and shoes. They will look so pretty at the wedding!

Janet

05-01-2010, 05:18 AM

Glad you're home safe and sound Gayle, you are one busy lady. I know how much I LOVE sleeping in my bed so I know how you're looking forward to being in yours. It's nice though that you are about to stay and help Brooke. You will have a good time...I'm sure.

paula1961

05-01-2010, 05:25 AM

Diana I love your blouse and shawl. They will go really well with beige crop pants. I also love those black sandals. I would think that they would look really nice with your outfit.:)

Glad you're back Gayle!! Have a nice visit with Brooke and the girls. I hope her foot is better soon.:)

Marilyn

05-02-2010, 08:12 PM

Diana, your outfit looks really nice. I know it feels good to have that all done & that you have something you really like and will feel good wearing!!

DianaB

05-05-2010, 04:32 PM

Thanks, everyone!! I'm really pleased with the clothes that I bought. I wish that you could see the blouse in person because it's so much prettier than the picture.

Janet, I think that the black shoes will look alright......or I'm going to pretend that they do!!! I looked at the lighter shoes but decided that I'd get a lot more use from the black ones later on......so I'm turning a blind eye to whether it really "goes" or not!! Hopefully everyone will have their eyes on Jaci and not on my feet !!!!!

Janet

05-05-2010, 04:58 PM

LOLOL...I'm sure no one will be looking at your feet. I use to not like anything pink...it always made me think of Pepto Bismol. Now I'm beginning to like pink and not black so much...LOL. I know...I go through weird stages...LOL You're going to look beautiful!

Blueyes

05-05-2010, 06:58 PM

Hi Everybody! I've been busy spending time with my kids and grandkids. Caleb stayed with us last week and Mikey is with us this week. They like to come separately so they have my undivided attention, lol! We'll go to church in Dallas with them this weekend, then have lunch at my dil's parents house. I am so thankful that we all get along. We have spent lots of holidays together over the years:) You know, it dawned on me the other day that I have NEVER had a cross word with either of my dils. I've only had Joy for 2 1/2 years, but I've had Rachel almost 14 years!! They are so very precious to me, and wonderful wives for my sons.

judy

05-06-2010, 05:28 AM

That is so wonderful Betsi! I'm sure your DIL's love you so much! It sounds like such fun, having the grandchildren one at a time.

Enjoy!

Diana, those shoes are really nice! You are going to look so beautiful!

paula1961

05-06-2010, 02:44 PM

Awww Betsi..I'm so glad you are having such a good time with your family. It is wonderful that you all get along so well.:)
Glad you are spending time with the kids separately too. You really do get more quality time when they don't come together. They are more apt to fuss when they come at the same time........mine do anyway lol!

Janet

05-09-2010, 04:14 AM

This so far has been a long weekend...lol. I can't really go anywhere in case Gidget goes into labor, she is due today. She hasn't had a significant temperature drop, but she sure is carrying lower this morning than she was yesterday. I'm guessing sometime overnight or tomorrow. Thank goodness Ricky doesn't have classes on Monday so he'll be home during my bus route. He's an old pro at whelping so I have no worries with him.

Can't go to church today either. I've been thinking of going back to the church I grew up in and a member of. The little country church near us I've been attending is nice and close, but I don't feel I'm getting much out of the service. It's great to be with friends and neighbors, but I need more than that.

Ricky has to work today from noon until 8:30 this evening. Even though I wish he could stay home with me on Mother's Day..I am very thankful he has a job.

Hope everyone has a great Mother's Day!!

paula1961

05-09-2010, 05:01 AM

Hope you have a great Mother's Day too Janet!! I won't get to see my kids until this next weekend so today isn't going to be very special to me this year. They will call me but that just isn't the same.

I hope Gidget does well during whelping. How many is she expecting? Can't wait to hear all about the new babies!!

gja1000

05-09-2010, 06:07 AM

I know what you mean Janet, I hate being stuck at home - I feel trapped! LOL! Now, mind you, if I am tired and I WANT to stay home, it's just peachy keen. But if I CAN'T leave for some reason, then that is exactly what I want to do!!! LOL!

I hope Gidget has a great delivery. I can't wait to find out what she has and watch them grow up!!!

lynne b

05-09-2010, 01:26 PM

Been a pretty good day today, i got the nicest present. I had taken my Serena to the breeders to be evaluated for the show ring, as sad as i am that she won't be shown i am thrilled to death to have brought her back home today, now everything is back to normal. I got phone calls from my girl's, they both had to work, i seen mom yesterday but still need to call her yet today. So it has been a good Mothers Day here.
Hope everyone else's day turns out nice also. Happy Mothers Day!

paula1961

05-09-2010, 03:40 PM

Happy Mother's Day Lynne!! I'm glad Serena is back home. Sorry you won't be able to show her.
Glad you have talked to your girls. I'm glad you're having a nice day:)

Janet

05-10-2010, 04:15 PM

So far...no babies. Today is her 2nd due date and Wednesday will be her 3rd. Just have to wait and see.

Had to take Mom to the ER in Lafayette again. My younger brother and his wife were at Mom's house and Mom started having really bad stomach pains. She didn't have any more fluid in her belly and yet she was so swollen. She has peritonitis again. They had to give her a bag of the solution with antibiotics in it to keep in her belly overnight. Then my brother took her to the dialysis center this morning. She's feeling much better today. She is starting to get a little sloppy with the dialysis and that is why she got the infection. One day last week it was leaking and she just tightened it up. That can't happen...she needed to call the center immediately. Hopefully she'll do better.

I wish more were posting here more frequently, it seems like so many are gone now...

gja1000

05-10-2010, 05:56 PM

I'm sorry Janet, I haven't been posting much lately - been so busy. I read everyday and LOVE reading everyone's posts, but then I get busy and don't make my posts. I'm negligent.

My school was over last Friday, so that means that I'm reading papers like mad right now. I think I finally finished most of them today. I have HUGE ones to read though, one this week and one next week. They are both about 100 pages long, and I'm NOT looking forward to them!

Gary and I are getting ready to go on our trip to Arkansas - fishing and camping in our trailer - on the White river in northwest Arkansas. We'll be gone a couple of weeks. I'll have my phone to check in but the connections are slooooow, so I'll likely not post too much!

We'll be home 4 days and then gone to Alaska a couple of weeks. I'm getting so excited - I need a break from the madhouse of school!!! I will be teaching in July/Aug for 5 weeks, and so I don't have the whole summer off, but I'll make the most of the time I do have off.

I'll try to do better with my posting before I leave!

DianaB

05-11-2010, 07:29 AM

Wow, Gayle!! You have some nice trips planned for this summer. They sound like fun! I wish that my husband liked to travel like that......I'd love it!!

I've been so busy!! I have laundry stacked up in the laundry room, things that I need to get priced and into the flea market, flowers that need to get planted, and rooms that need to be straightened. I've been watching Karlie and Dean a couple of times a week and Dae Lynn's been out here a lot so I don't get much done. Kera came over and cleaned for me the other day trying to earn money for church camp. I think that she's going to come over every week and help out!!!

Yesterday was crazy! I had the kids in the morning, took Jazzi to the vet, had to take Glen to a farm on the other side of town, had a really bad storm coming so I moved all 20 of the ferns for the wedding into the garage plus some other bedding plants, then I covered up some other flowers with sheets to protect them in case of hail, then Dae Lynn and the kids, Amy and her girls, Jaci and Nate came and stayed at the house during the storm so I didn't get anything else done. The storm was really bad. We have a lot of limbs down at the shop and I'm sure that we'll hear of more damages, but thank goodness, we didn't have tornadoes!!!

DIANE W

05-11-2010, 11:08 AM

Oh wow Diana.... That must have been very worrying, with the storm and making sure everyone was safe, and the plants too.

Me....... well i have not posted much either, but i do read every day, i like to know what everyone is upto and that i am not missing too much. My daughter says i am nosy... me i say i am just very interested in my environment:rolleyes:

I have been at work today and am looking forward to Thursday.. as i will be finishing then for 5 whole days - whoopeeee. I work long days Mon-Thurs normally 8am until 6.30pm, but then i am off for 3 days, but i am taking extra leave days making it 5.

I am going to take the time to chill out, relax and get some sorting out done at home, our garage needs a real good sort out and de-clutter.
When we moved we tried to do it then and only keep things we really really needed, I though we had but now want to get rid of some more and organise it properly. I am going to costco to buy some shelving, i have some, but am thinking the more i have the easier organisation will be. I am quite organised at home and work, and seem to function better with order around me.

My husband is not very tidy or organised - this way hopefully he will do better (he better had or he is in big trouble). He always has a reason for putting something not where it should be.....

I am also going to be seeing one of my very good friends, we met when my husband and i bought our first little house from them, 26 years ago. We have been friends ever since and are godparents for each others children. We dont see each other as much as we used to when the kids were little - you just get so busy with life, but we are there for each other when needed.

Ok i am going to go water my plants and hanging baskets, i am determined for them to be blooming this year. Then i am going to watch some TV and relax.

paula1961

05-11-2010, 01:23 PM

Enjoy your days off Diane. Do you get off work for the summer? Good luck getting everything organized. But it will be so nice after it's done.

Diana....sounds like you have been a very busy girl. I figured you had been busy with graduation and wedding plans. But sounds like you've been busy with more than just that. Glad there were no tornadoes where you live.:)

DIANE W

05-12-2010, 12:23 PM

Paula, no i wont be off in the summer as such.

The way it works for me is i work 4 days per week and have Fri, Sat and Sunday's off. Any extra i need to take as leave/holiday, this is paid leave, and i get 35 days plus all the Bank Holidays off too - I think things like this may work differently over here though.

I get to decide when and how much of my leave to take. It runs from April - March, which is our tax year. I am going to be off for 3 weeks in August-September as we are going on holiday to Scotland, we are taking my Mother and Father in law too. It is going to be our silver wedding anniversary (25years), whilst we are away so we are really looking forward to it. We are renting a gorgeous house right on the beach practically - Harvey will love to play on the beach.

Of course Harvey is coming too.... though my daughter is not (she is looking forward to staying home alone).

gja1000

05-13-2010, 07:47 PM

I went shopping today at the outlet mall with a couple of girl friends. We had such a good time! We just "skipped school" - please don't tell the Dean. LOL!!! Actually, as I mentioned before, school is out and I am leaving next weekend. We always try to do something fun together at the end of each semester and it was now or never!

We ate breakfast at Cracker Barrel and then hit the outlet stores.

I bought quite a few things FOR EVERYONE ELSE! Would you believe the only thing I bought for myself was UNDERWEAR!

I got Gary a cotton short sleeved shirt and a tee shirt. The tee shirt said, "Old fishermen never die, they just lose their lure" He'll think it's funny!

I got Emma a Disney princess beach towel. Oops, she was ready to go swimming and it was cloudy and rainy. I got Abigail some moccasin shoes she has been wanting.

I got my daughter a cast iron skillet - a really good brand, Lodge. They are usually pretty expensive, but I got this on sale for $18.00. I got my sil 3 books, origami with dollar bills, making airplanes with dollar bills, and tricks with dollar bills. Actually, when my 13 year old granddaughter, Abigail saw the books, she immediately wanted them, so I guess she and her dad will have some fun.

It was a good day. I have meetings tomorrow to finish up my grades for the semester. It will be good to be totally done. I hope to have a quiet weekend so I can get some things ready for our trip.

DianaB

05-14-2010, 07:44 AM

Gayle, the things that you do always sound like so much fun!!! Even just going out to eat and shopping!!!! Girl time!!

Diane, what a wonderful trip to look forward to!! That sounds so wonderful and for your 25th anniversary!!! You'll have to make sure that you take lots of pictures (I know that it's not until fall but thought that I'd start making sure you are all ready to take pictures when you get there!!!)

I've been trying to get flowers planted. We made a huge flower bed last summer in the yard and I really haven't had time or money to fix it the way I really want but I'm am getting some flowers in it.

I finally got caught up on my laundry and am breathing a BIG sigh of relief with that. The kitchen's finally looking better and I'm feeling some of the stress lifting.

We have a work day today on Althea's yard but I have the kids so I probably won't make it. I'll try to go next week and get some things pruned and looking better.

I have a guest bedroom that needs to be cleaned out. I've put so much of my flea market stuff in there while it's waiting to be priced. I don't think that I'm going to worry about it until after the wedding but I have to find a place for it all......I'm thinking that UNDER the bed would be a nice place for it!!!!! The closet is full and needs cleaned out and there's no room in there so......my only choice besides the basement is under the bed!!!! I don't know if I'll have company but I'd rather things be in order......just in case!!!

DIANE W

05-14-2010, 01:25 PM

Diana.... oh my you are really busy, isnt cleaning just a never ending job?

I always see things that need to be done, i am a lot better than i used to be at trying to leave some things..... but i feel so much better when everywhere is nice and clean and tidy - i can relax properly then.

I have been to my Aunt and Uncle's today, did their food shop, some cleaning, and cooked them a meal, i stayed and joined them too. They so enjoy having me there and i feel guilty that i cant be there more than i am. I have always been very close to them, like another Mum & Dad really.

Looking forward to the weekend now.

DianaB

05-15-2010, 04:35 PM

It's just crazy here!! Today we've been picking out pictures of Jaci to have someone make a slide show for her graduation party. Now I have pictures and albums EVERYWHERE!!! I have soooo many pictures of her!!!

I finally opened the punch bowl that I ordered and it's a different size than the base that I have from another bowl I had. Bummer!! I guess that it will just have to sit on the table. It's still pretty.....it's just that I wanted it to be on a pedestal!

We have baccalaureate tomorrow and graduation next Sunday. Then two weeks later is the wedding........I'm starting to get panicky!!! I hope that everything is ready!!!! I'll be so glad when this madness is all over!! I don't feel very prepared for this since I've hardly been part of the planning.

Dae Lynn's been coming out quite a bit which I love but it adds to the madness......having Karlie talk nonstop and having the baby cry!! I do enjoy visiting with her but give a big sigh when she leaves. I've had the kids quite a bit since Damon's in jail. We're hoping that he'll be able to get out soon but we'll see. At least he's been made trustee so he can call home more often without using the pay phone. The calls cost $10 each using the pay phone so Dae Lynn wasn't answering them but Damon would leave messages in the place for you to leave your name!!!

I'm not sure how much I'm going to be on in the next few weeks. I'm trying to keep up somewhat but am hardly on the computer.

Janet

05-16-2010, 06:12 AM

I've noticed you've haven't been online near as much Diana and I miss you. It's all understandable and know that we are here for you when you need us and when everything is done and overwith....will be expecting updates...pictures and well...just everything.

DIANE W

05-16-2010, 12:55 PM

Diana.... Now dont be trying to do too much, just try to do what you can and also enjoy it all too.

I am also looking forward to hearing all about it and the pictures too.

gja1000

05-21-2010, 07:15 PM

We will be leaving tomorrow morning for Arkansas. We'll be near Eureka Springs, camped on the White River, just below Beaver Lake dam. We'll be visiting relatives and trout fishing for a couple of weeks. It has been hectic getting things ready to go, but I think we are about ready to hit the road in the morning.

We actually don't have phone service at the campsite as it is down in a little valley - right next to the river. But when we leave the campground, about a mile up the road, we have signal, so I'll be able to check in from time to time, but won't be posting too much as the phone signal is weak, and loading pages and posting takes FOREVER! But I will read and keep up with you all.

All of you, please take care! Lindsay, I can hardly wait to get back and hear about Layla's progress! Janet, the puppies will be getting REALLY cute when I get back. I might have to just drive on up to Indiana and bring one home!!! Although my two boys wouldn't like that very much, I'm afraid! LOL!

"See" you in a couple of weeks!

paula1961

05-22-2010, 05:29 AM

Have fun Gayle!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Enjoy your trip!! Happy Fishing!!:D

judy

05-22-2010, 07:19 AM

Have a great time Gayle!

Janet

05-22-2010, 11:00 AM

Stay safe Gayle and have a wonderful time. I really need a vacation so I'll just live vicariously through you...lol. Please take lots of pictures for us!

gja1000

05-22-2010, 03:03 PM

Well, our trip took a little detour today!!! Gary and I are still in Austin. We loaded up and headed to Arkansas this morning about 8:00AM. We'd driven about 5 miles when someone honked at us and pointed at the trailer. We pulled over and smoke was coming from behind the rear tire.

Fortunately, we carry emergency roadside assistance through the Good Sam club, which pays for roadside repairs or towing. We have a bearing out on the wheel/axle, which also fried the brake - sooooo, the trailer is at the repair shop and (hopefully) will be fixed by Tuesday-keep your fingers crossed! We plan to leave early Wednesday if the trailer is up and running.

We had quite an adventure with the tow truck, I'll tell you! We were stranded on I35 (a MAJOR interstate highway) for 2 1/2 hours. First there was a wreck and the tow truck couldn't get through. Then, he couldn't tow the trailer due to the wheel problem, so he planned to put it on a dolly - which turned out to not be wide enough - so he took the wheel off (there were 3 more, 2 on one side, and 1 on the other), did something to the axle so it wouldn't be off balance, and he drove VERY slowly the 30 miles to the repair place. It was all very interesting because he didn't speak much English, and we don't speak much Spanish.

Of course, our fridge was loaded up for the trip, so Brooke came over and got all our food and took it to her house - plus she took the boys, who were very worried about what was happening. We also had to get out all of Gary's medicines, c-pap machine, oxygen machine, insulin supplies, and a few clothes we didn't want to live without for 5 days. It was a hassle, but it could have been much worse - it could have happened in the middle of NOWHERE and we would have been stuck in a motel for several days. Fortunately, motel costs are covered with our roadside insurance, but still - who wants to be stuck in nowhere land in a motel!!!

We did have a bit of a problem when we got to the RV repair place - the wheel is covered under warranty - and they are not a dealer for the brand of trailer we have, so they were reluctant to do the work. I know it would have taken them a loooong time to do it, cuz they didn't want to. I got on my phone and found a dealer that sold our brand of trailer just 3 miles down the road, so we went down there and they couldn't have been nicer. They promised that if they have the part to fix the wheel, it will be ready by Tuesday. I really won't be upset if it isn't because i know these things take time and they may not have the right part in stock. I even remembered just a while ago that I left a pound of hamburger in the door of the freezer and because we turned off the fridge, I was instantly panicked at how that was gonna smell after 5 days!!! Diana, I remember your story! LOL! I immediately called them and asked them if they would get the hamburger out of the freezer. Again, they couldn't have been nicer and said they would do it immediately. Guys, this could have been much worse.

So, now I'll have a few quiet days at home before we leave which I am looking forward to! Here's a picture that Brooke took of us on the side of the road. That's the tow truck behind us and we are standing next to our trailer.

Oh yeah, the wind was blowing about 20 mph - that's why our hair looks so goofy! We both have a wind burned face!!!

Blueyes

05-22-2010, 03:25 PM

Oh Gayle..what a PAIN!! And on 35:eek: I'm glad you didn't get squished!! I'd be really aggravated after all of that packing and UNpacking! You and Gary look adorable:D

We just got home this afternoon, too. We were at our friends ranch in the Hill Country, not far from Johnson City. We HAD to put out protein feeders for the stupid deer:rolleyes: The wildflowers were so pretty, and there were butterflies everywhere! We saw 21 deer, 3 jackrabbits, 8 hogs, and we heard a lot of turkey. Mike was in wildlife heaven, lol!

gja1000

05-22-2010, 03:48 PM

We were very fortunate to be on a stretch of I35 where the shoulder was HUGE. We were at least 10 feet away from the whizzing cars - if you had to be stranded on the busiest highway in central Texas, we were at the ideal spot!!!

Oh Betsi, your getaway sounds heavenly. I just love that the wildflowers are still so beautiful! Gary would have been in wildlife heaven too! LOL! I know you all had a ball!

We are lucky, we have a few days to rest up from our "adventure" :rolleyes:

Blueyes

05-22-2010, 04:40 PM

Gayle, we need to get together sometime when we are there!!

gja1000

05-22-2010, 04:46 PM

Yes we do! :)

judy

05-23-2010, 07:19 AM

Oh my! Gayle, you have such stamina, and such a great attitude! As long as you didn't get hurt, or stuck out in that Motel Nowhereland!

You and Gary look like you are hiding from that wind! You are a wonderful couple, always working together so well! And, so good looking too!

I want pictures when you all meet, Gayle and Betsi! That will be such fun!

I hope you relax, and then safely get onto your vacation!

Betsi, one of my friends tried to set out deer feeders, but the bears took the whole thing right off the tree! We have way too many bears here! My neighbor put fish out in her garbage and forgot to lock it. Her garbage was all over the lawn the next morning! That bear had a feast!

judy

05-23-2010, 07:42 AM

My SIL got a job! YAHOO! It's for an established contractor right near him, so his work will come to be known. I am so happy for him. There is not a ton of work because money is really tight up here right now, but it is work!

His boss leaves his little boy with Jessie a lot. He has custody of him, and the boy is Kassidy's friend. Jess and Steve have decided to go along with watching him a lot because Steve needs this job. It began to get out of hand - something about another neighbor and his kid, etc., etc. - but Steve straightened it out with the other neighbor. I say what I always say..."That's wonderful, honey."

Jessie called me to go shopping with her on Friday. Now that Steve is not around, she has time. I said no because it was my first day home all week though, and I had cleaning up, laundry, etc.

I had fun last week. I had a brunch with my writing group on Tuesday, a dinner with lots of people at my friend Ev's new apartment on Wednesday, beautification day on Thursday (hair and nails), and I don't remember what on Monday. Last Sunday was the Communion.

I think I'm in with high society here between the writers' group and the womens' network. I am waiting for Ev to invite me to one of her parties with the artist community, and I think that might be the Roxbury A list! I'm a celebrity now! Well, I am still going to wear jeans and flip flops and watch Dr. Phil!

Regardless, all of the people I have come to know here are so nice. As my friend Barbara put it, "There's no meanness between all of us." There is a bit of gossip, and some people don't like others, but it seems to be different in a small town. We all get along and help each other out if needed anyway. The gossip is not mean spirited either. There are just not that many people, so everybody's story is more or less known. I like it so much better than city living. So far...

gja1000

05-23-2010, 12:39 PM

Steve got a job. YAY! :cheer::cheer::cheer:

That should help out a lot, in more ways that one! ;) I'm so glad to hear this news. I can't imagine being out of work that long. WHEW!

Janet

05-24-2010, 07:39 AM

That is so wonderful that Steve finally got a job. I know that has got to be a big relief for them.

Judy I'm so happy that you're so involved and having a great time with friends and clubs.

DianaB

05-24-2010, 08:22 AM

Judy, I'm so glad to hear that Steve got a job!!! I hope that everything works out well for him!!

Gayle, I'm so glad that you weren't very far from home and that it wasn't any worse than it was!!! Too bad that it took a few days out of your vacation!! At least in the picture you were smiling in spite of your problems!! Have fun!!!

DianaB

05-24-2010, 08:30 AM

Wellllll...........Graduation is finally over!!! Friday night we had Jaci's grad party. The menu was wonderful.......smoked brisket and chicken.....hashbrown potato casserole.....green bean casserole......homemade rolls.........banana pudding and a chocolate pudding dessert.......and a decorated cake!!! It was ALL so yummy!!! This is about the same menu that Jaci's having for the wedding minus the desserts!! We had quite a few people come....mostly family.

Then yesterday was her graduation!! The gym was packed!!! There was a big squabble over prayer.....two girls went in and requested that they not have it and the principal felt that legally he had to go with their wishes. Our whole community has been in an uproar over it. It ended up that we did have a moment of silence........then the crowd started reciting the Lord's Prayer. When it was over they broke out in applause!! It was an awesome moment!!

I managed to make it through without crying....I think that I'm saving them all for the wedding!!! Just a little less than two weeks!!! Sigh........

gja1000

05-24-2010, 10:15 AM

Oh Diana! The graduation and the party sound like so much fun! I know you are so happy for Jaci - yet, sad that this is your last graduation. But soon (well, not too soon), you'll be attending grandkids graduations - and that will be just as much fun!

Judy, I forgot to say how happy I am that you are integrating so well into the community. You must feel so good to have friends and be a part of the community life. I know exactly what you mean by small town gossip - I came from a town of 350 - and if you were related to someone, you were related to someone who was married into or related somehow! LOL!!! The gossip was usually very harmless - a bit more than harmless at times, but not often! I'm just so happy for you!!!

gja1000

05-24-2010, 10:24 AM

Well guys, we are not going to be able to make the trip to Arkansas after all. The RV repair place called and they are going to have to replace the back axle of our trailer (the wheel bearing froze up and got so hot the bearing welded to the axle). The axle has to be shipped from Indiana (Janet, could you run to Elkhart and pick it up please! :)) - so it will be lucky to arrive this week - and then it will take them a day or two to install it - which means it won't be fixed till some time next week.

It's really OK, I realize now that I am slightly relieved that we are not going to Arkansas. It is A LOT of work for me when we take out the trailer and if we had gone on the trip, we'd only been home from Arkansas for 3 days before we have to leave for Alaska. I know I would have been tired and stressed out, so I now realize that I am relieved we are not going to Arkansas.

We'll probably run up to Oklahoma for Memorial weekend or maybe we'll just stay home! I don't know, but I do know that I'm not terribly upset we are not going.

paula1961

05-25-2010, 04:51 AM

Sorry about your camper problem Gayle. I'm sure it will get fixed soon. Yes it is work getting them ready for a trip but I am happy after it's all done and we are to our destination lol. Then it seems worth the trouble:rolleyes::D
Have fun in Alaska....lucky girl you! I'm so glad you have the opportunity to go and you can take lots of pix and tell us all about it when you get back:)

Judy I'm so happy for Steve. It will make things so much easier on their family.
I'm really glad that you have gotten involved in your writers club and that you are starting to socialize with them. Good for you!!

Diana that graduation menu made me so hungry!! Sounds wonderful! I know you've been really busy with the graduation and the wedding plans but thanks for taking the time to let us know what you've gotten done.:)

judy

05-25-2010, 06:55 AM

Diana, this is some year for you! Babies, weddings, and graduations!!! The graduation and the party sound like they were wonderful! Hurray for doing the prayer anyway! Why are people so crazy? Prayer cannot ever harm you, even if you don't believe.

Gayle's right - before you know it the grandkids will have graduations. It just goes by so fast! We do have to enjoy every minute that we can!

Gayle, I am sorry about your vacation, but Alaska does sound like it is enough for now. It must be difficult to always be on top of Gary's meds, etc. too. Maybe providence stepped in and the trailer broke down!

I went down to NYC yesterday to the dentist. I realized that I do love NYC! It is so alive and vital. But, when I thought about going home to my old apartment in Brooklyn - oh no! So, I love living here, but I love visiting NY. I think I will take a day to just shop around, go to the village, I do miss the museums, etc. I think I would have to break it up into a few day trips. Maybe!

I had more dental surgery. I don't expect it to get infected again. He worked on me for 5 hours or so. He did a double visit to get things done. I really couldn't wait to come home! It is a very easy trip, thank goodness. I was home in 3 hours....not bad! I have my audiobook (a John Grisham), and it is very relaxing. I am still annoyed that the dentist didn't do this work more consistently over the year. I might be finishing up already if he had!!! I also think he is an excellent dentist, and am way less than thrilled about starting with someone new AGAIN!!! I am in the same place as I was 2 years ago! If they hadn't taken so long, my implant would not have broken, and my mouth would be done!:mad::mad::mad:

DianaB

05-25-2010, 07:43 AM

Judy, I just hate that you're still dealing with your implants. You have got to be so tired of it. The dentist didn't do right by you by putting you off and I'd be pretty upset by that......especially since you're going to have to find someone to pick up where he's left off.

I forgot to say on my last post that I'm so glad that you're getting out and making friends!!! I will warn you about small town gossip.......don't get involved in it because you never know who is related to who!!! That's the way it is here!!! LOL

Gayle, I'm sorry that your trip didn't work out but I can see that it probably was for the best. You'll feel so much more relaxed and ready for your Alaska trip now. You are such a busy woman......I don't know how you do it!!!

The graduation menu was wonderful and we're still eating leftovers from it!! Yummm!!! Two of my friends have created a catering service. Roger found out that he likes to smoke meat and he often prepares meat for church functions and Londa likes to cook so she prepares the other dishes to go with it. It's always really good!! They are preparing Jaci's food for the wedding at their cost as a wedding gift!! I consider that a GREAT gift!!!!

Janet

05-25-2010, 08:58 AM

Wow....there is so much going on with everyone. :) Gayle..a trip to Alaska, I would love to go there someday so please take pictures. From other pictures I've seen...it's beautiful there.

Diana...now that the graduation is overwith you all can concentrate on the wedding. Judy's right...this has been a year for you girl!

Not too much going on here really. So far my two brothers have been really helpful with getting Mom to her dialysis and not leaving it all for me. I told them how much I appreciate them helping so much. The hemodialysis makes Mom really tired and she wishes she didn't have to do it. They tell her she'll start feeling better, but that's what they told her when she first started last year.

Friday Lynne and I are headed to Frankfort, Kentucky. It's only a 3.5 hour drive, but we have to go over the Ohio River and I just don't do well going over bridges alone...lol. So we'll stop on this side of the bridge so she can drive and I can close my eyes...lol. I'm going to be trading Fancy for another girl. Fancy has not been what I had hoped so a trade has been worked out and she'll be living in NC. I'm really excited about this and know Fancy will have a great home. Lynne and I will have a great time I'm sure.

Ricky has been working quite a bit and that's a good thing, I just wish he wasn't working every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night. He goes in on 4 on Fridays and noon on Saturday and Sunday. He loves the money, but with school and work he doesn't have much free time. They are wanting to hire another part-time person, so hopefully they will soon.

paula1961

05-25-2010, 09:12 AM

DianaB

05-25-2010, 09:31 AM

Janet, I'm so glad to hear that your brothers are helping you with your Mom. I know that that helps to take some of the stress off of you. I do hope your Mom starts feeling better soon. I hate the thought that she's not her ornery self!!!

I'm glad that Ricky got a job!! I know that helps with his schooling expenses!! He's a good....hard-working son and I know that you are so proud of him!!

As soon as you can get it arranged.....why don't you head this way? Your brothers can take care of your Mom for a little while. Come for the wedding and plan on staying for a while afterwards. It will be crazy but you'll get to meet my aunts and everyone!!

judy

05-26-2010, 07:09 AM

It is great that Ricky got a job, although it does sound like he needs some free time.

Who are you getting as the trade for Fancy? I can't wait for pictures! You and Lynne will have a wonderful time. Isn't it great having a good friend to help you out? It is wonderful that you have each other!

I think going to Jaci's wedding would be such a good idea for you Janet! Tell your brothers, and take off! It's a once in a lifetime chance!

gja1000

05-27-2010, 04:48 AM

You know how all things happen for a reason............ well, it's a good thing we didn't make it to Arkansas because one of Gary's uncles died yesterday, so we'd be heading to Oklahoma........

His uncle was elderly and had lots of health problems, so it wasn't unexpected. I am hoping they don't ask Gary to be a pall bearer - since he'll have to wear a suit and tie if they do. I'd rather he wear a nice shirt and slacks, so he won't be so hot at the graveside services. I've dug out his suit and will get it pressed, just in case.

I'll be cooking today! I'm making an Italian cream cake and a cinnamon roll recipe that looks something like my grandma made years and years ago. The distinctive part to her recipe is that you pour heavy cream over the rolls, just before you put them in the oven. It's safe to say that I won't be eating any of them! LOL! Unlike my grandma's recipe though, you use frozen bread dough - so we'll see how they go. I made a peach cobbler last night - with fresh Texas peaches. Gary will be smoking a brisket and ribs tomorrow - so we'll have to go shopping for them today.

We don't leave for OK till Saturday, so we've got plenty of time - it is nice not to have to rush around getting ready to go somewhere!

judy

05-27-2010, 05:13 AM

I am sorry for your loss Gayle. I guess it was preordained that you didn't get to Arkansas.

Have a safe trip to Oklahoma. How much time between that trip and Alaska?

paula1961

05-27-2010, 06:32 AM

I'm sorry to hear of Gary's uncles passing.
Hopefully Gary won't have to wear a suit. Like you said..a shirt and slacks would be much cooler. Have a safe trip.

Everything you're making sounds so good Gayle. I love italian cream cake but haven't had any for years.

DianaB

05-27-2010, 07:23 AM

Give Gary my sympathy for the passing of his uncle. It is a good thing that you didn't make it to Arkansas but I'm sorry that you had all bad things keep you home. The food you're taking sounds wonderful!!! The weather will probably be hot so it would be nice if Gary didn't have to wear a suit. Hugs!!

Janet

05-27-2010, 11:24 AM

Gayle...I'm so sorry for the loss of the man. Please give Gary my deepest condolences.

I sure wish I lived closer to you all who like to cook such wonderful dishes. I'd be inviting myself over....LOLOL

DianaB

05-28-2010, 07:56 AM

Wedding plans seem to be coming along pretty good so far.......however we're all starting to feel panicky about things. Jaci's starting to realize that she needs to have all of the little details taken care of as well.

In the pictures I posted of my MIL's yard there was a fountain that hasn't ever worked that I know of. My husband figured out a way to make it hold water and get the fountain running!!! I can't believe the things that he'll do for his kids!!! I was there when he got it running and it is going to be such a wonderful addition to the yard!!!

Just NINE days!!!!!

Blueyes

05-28-2010, 08:04 AM

What an exciting time for you Diana! You'll probably feel like you're a free woman after this wedding, lol!

DianaB

05-28-2010, 10:00 AM

I am definitely looking forward to the following week!!! The stress is starting to build to make sure all the little details are done. Jaci's been making phone calls, getting her room cleaned out and taking things to their new home, and carrying around lists and lists of things to remember!!! I've never seen this side of her......but she's doing a good job!!!

I have to take care of the punch. We're having the shebert/Sprite punch and I think that I'll add sliced oranges, limes and strawberries to match her colors!!! Plus it's very easy to make!!!

DianaB

06-02-2010, 04:25 PM

Ok....the stress is building!!! Everyone is getting really grumpy!!! It seems like Jaci is never in the right place when we need her.....she kinda' has her own agenda on things and it's driving me nuts!!! Every idea I have come up with she's vetoed so I've talked to Amy and Amy is going to work with her because she agreed with my suggestions.

Nate's Mom, Jan, came today and was asking questions about seating and other things and I had to tell her that I really didn't know much. Jaci has changed her mind about so many things that we all know something different and none of it matches!!! The good news is that it's going to HAVE to start coming together!!

The weather is a big concern because it's suppose to be almost 100* and the wedding starts at 4:00 (another suggestion I had was to have it later) so it's going to be the hottest part of the day. My MIL isn't going to be happy with people coming in to cool off and having them see her messy house. Oh, well......everything is going to turn out alright.....I just have to keep telling myself that!!!

We checked our list and we've counted 160 are coming and that doesn't include our open invitation to the church. We've had to up our food to 180 now!!! This is all going to be interesting.......wish ya'll were coming!!!

lynne b

06-02-2010, 04:37 PM

Awww Diana I'm sorry things are so stressful right now, just take deep breaths, it will be over before you know it and it will all come together and be such a beautiful day in the end. I do hope the weather cooperates for you, thats about the only thing you have no control over.

Blueyes

06-02-2010, 04:45 PM

At least with Jaci in control of everything, she can't blame you if something goes wrong:rolleyes: But everything will be fine! Have plenty of bottled water:)

judy

06-03-2010, 05:10 AM

It's so soon! Before you turn around, the wedding will be over and everything will have worked out, one way or the other.

I'm sure it will be just beautiful, and a wonderful day! Jaci and Nate sound like they are very much in love, which is all that really matters. (Well...that, and that your side of the family enjoys themselves!)

Jaci sounds like Jessie., She wants to run her own show. At some point, I just took a back seat. I must say that I like it a lot. I really don't have to be responsible for her life. Of course, she is 37, and Jaci is 18.

Take a deep breath, and take lots of pictures!!!

PS It will serve your mil right if people see her mess. She has not been nice to you and yours.

paula1961

06-03-2010, 05:30 AM

I'm sure the wedding will be beautiful Diana!! I can only imagine all the stress that you all are under right now. It will turn out lovely. Can't wait to see pix!!:)

Janet

06-03-2010, 07:47 AM

I wish I was there to help relieve some of your stress Diana. It's going to be beautiful and I can't wait to see a picture of the working fountain. They are right that with Jaci in charge...if something were to happen, she can't blame anyone else.

I know it will be a beautiful wedding and then you will be able to relax and do your own thing.

DianaB

06-03-2010, 10:22 AM

DIANE W

06-03-2010, 12:13 PM

Good luck Diana - I am sure everyone is stressed out with the wedding including Jaci, she probably just wants everything done her way on her special day, and maybe doesnt realise how much she is upsetting people who are really trying to make thinks easy and being helpful.

As others have said, I would just try to enjoy it, and give her the oportunity to have things her way (even though maybe you know better ways to do things), at least then, she only has herself to blame doesnt she?

It is hard though when it is your child - you dont want people feeling she is not grateful, for the help and suggestions, and it can be embarrasing for you as a parent.

Not long now though - i will be thinking of you all, i hope the weather is good, and that it is a wonderful day for all of you.

JJJ

06-03-2010, 01:29 PM

Everyone is getting pretty upset with Jaci. She wants things her way but isn't around so we can get any thing done. She zigs when everyone else zags. She's doing inside things when outside things can be done. I just keep telling myself....three more days......three more days!!!!

You know you should have called that show Bridezilla if there still on. :rolleyes: Tell her this is the easy part the hard part comes right after the ceremony.

I'm sure the wedding will be beautiful, in fact I think you need to grab a chair place it in the middle of the garden and watch everyone work. Just kick back, relax and enjoy the show. Just a thought :rolleyes: but I'm sure your working the hardest.

Wish all of you luck, can't wait to see pics of the wedding :)

DianaB

06-03-2010, 08:53 PM

I know that I'm complaining a lot about Jaci. I really shouldn't because she IS a really good girl and hasn't ever caused me any trouble. Glen keeps telling me to just hang on for a couple more days and then things will get better. The MOM in me just wants to give her a piece of my mind.....but I'm trying to keep the peace!!! She didn't show up to help work AT ALL today!!! But......I'm not complaining.....I'm not complaining.....I have two more days left.....just two more days.......just two more days.....just two more days........

gja1000

06-04-2010, 04:54 AM

Oh Gosh, Diana! I remember these last days right before the wedding. Lots of things to do and we didn't have half the things to do that you all have! It will be over soon and the memories will be wonderful. I hope the weather is not too hot! I KNOW everything will be gorgeous! When Jaci is older and looks back on the pictures, she will have a greater appreciation for what you all did for her. Right now, she may be too wrapped up in being the bride and her own stress to fully comprehend all that still needs to be done and the like. I just know it will be a terrific day!

We got home yesterday from Oklahoma City. It is always sad to have to attend a funeral, but it is joyous to see relatives and friends you haven't seen in years. The cemetery was just gorgeous as it was the day after Memorial day. And it was a military burial (although he was 76 years old, he had served 20 years in the military) with a 21 gun salute and the flag folding ceremony by the military personnel. It was very fitting for Memorial day.

We have unpacked from the OKC trip. We pick up the trailer (the axle is fixed) this afternoon and although we have gotten lots of stuff out of it before we left this weekend, we have some more to go - hopefully not too much. We'll do that this afternoon and then get it back to storage. It will be a loooong day!

Then it is pack for ALASKA BABEEEE! We leave next Wednesday. Whooo Hoooo! we are so excited. We were with Gary's sisters and bils this past weekend - they are all going too - so everyone was super excited!

I came home to 13 ripe tomatoes - well, they are in stages of ripeness. I picked them all so that the birds/squirrels wouldn't eat them before me. Now I have to eat tomatoes morning, noon, and night to get all the ripe ones eaten before we leave!!! LOL!

paula1961

06-04-2010, 05:14 AM

Glad you're back Gayle!! Sounds like you are for sure going to have a busy day! Glad your camper is fixed! I'm sooooo jealous...........you going to Alaska:D I can't wait to hear all about it and see pix!

Our anniversary is the 6th of June. We're going back to Tn for 5 days. Leaving Wednesday and taking the new camper! I am looking forward to our little trip.

gja1000

06-04-2010, 08:16 AM

Janet

06-04-2010, 08:22 AM

Gosh Diana...where was Jaci that day while you all worked? I think it's time to pull a Jaci...lol. If she's not working...then no one should work. We CAN complain about our kids Diana, but no one else can. They are good kids, but sometimes we'd like to kick there behinds!!! Soon it will be over and one for the memory books.

Sounds like you all get to travel so much....I'm so envious. I need to get away from here so bad and relax. I miss camping, but it sure has been too hot around here to be able to enjoy it.

I must have needed the extra rest this morning....I woke up at 6:15 am and the guys were gone. Rick to work and Ricky to school. I felt bad that I wasn't up to wish Ricky a good day and to tell him to be safe. He just texted me though at 11:00 and asked if I was up ...lol. He's so funny...he knows I would never be able to sleep that late.

I have to get up early in the morning to have Mom at dialysis by 6 am. I think I'll just come back home because she'll be there for 4 hours and then go back and pick her up. Hate to make the drive twice, but that's a long time to wait and the stores are not open that early. Maybe I can catch a nap before having to pick her up.

lynne b

06-06-2010, 11:48 AM

considering the terrible storms we had last night it is such a gorgeous day....to bad i am to tired to enjoy it much, but the windows are all open theres a nice breeze and it's in the low 70's. Hubby is a first responder and he was called out around 1:30 am when it was still storming, we didn't have any electricity when he left so i was a little scared, i had to hunt around for a radio & batteries and then i was ok but still worried about hubby being out in it, we knew there were power lines and trees down and that one of his co worker's place had damage but all hubby would tell me when he called was that it was a mess out there.
Well he's in bed now and i am trying to keep the dogs quiet and just being kind of lazy and enjoying the day from inside. I am tired of these storms, we have lost power everyday since Friday evening.

I sure hope Diana is having some of this gogreous weather for the wedding.

Janet

06-06-2010, 12:12 PM

Lynne is so right....it's absolutely beautiful today with a wonderful breeze. Wish it could be like this everyday. All doors and windows open and smelling so fresh!

I know this sounds mean....but there is a bird outside making a bunch of racket and if he/she doesn't quit...he/she'll never make another sound!!! Okay...I just scared it away...it's still alive...lol.

The boys went north on a 3-hour drive to Angola. 2tiredmom's daughter is graduating today and they went to their open house. I couldn't go because we would be gone too long and probably too late. Someone needed to stay with the babies and the new little girl. If the babies were a couple weeks older, may not have been too bad, but they are too young to leave for real long periods.

I went to check on them this morning after I cleaned their area and could only find two in the whelping box....scared the crap out of me. Finally found the 3rd one in the bed that Gidget sleeps in. Talk about a fast beating heart!!!!

Mom isn't feeling good. This hemodialysis is just draining all her strength. She just doesn't have the energy to do anything anymore. Doc says she should be on it for 4 -6 weeks and Mom is hoping to get back on the peritoneal dialysis soon. I hope so too, she is so miserable.

I hope everything is going wonderful for Jaci's wedding. I know it's a happy and sad day for Diana. Wish I was there with her. I know everyone here is anxious to see pictures!

DianaB

06-06-2010, 01:13 PM

Finally I have time to come on and tell you how things went!!! It was such a beautiful wedding and I can't wait for you to see the pictures!!! The weather turned out really hot but we had a nice breeze and that helped. We made sure that we had plenty of drinks around for everyone and there was plenty of shade.

The morning of the wedding we had sooo many people show up to help get everything ready.....I was so glad to see them and they had such good ideas on getting things set up!! Everything was just beautiful!!! The wedding was short but was so nice!!! Karlie acted up some but you expect that and it's something to laugh about later!!

The cake that Nate's Mom made was just beautiful AND delicious!!! She was so sweet and helped so much!!!

The catering was wonderful and we had so many compliments on it!!! It was so appreciated too. I knew that Roger and Londa would do a good job and I didn't even worry about the food!!

Several people stayed around to help clean up and pick up chairs and tables to where we don't have too much more to get done!!

I'm glad that it's over.....kinda'. Jaci looked so young in her wedding dress but was oh so beautiful!!!

I'm really, really tired!!! My feet are killing me!!! I plan on doing some resting and catching up on my laundry soon!!! I'll get some pictures on in a couple of days or so. Thanks for thinking of us!!!!

gja1000

06-06-2010, 01:26 PM

Thanks for posting Diana! I've been checking checking checking, to see when you posted an update! I'm so happy everything went well - I knew it would, but it is so stressful!

I can't wait to see the pictures, I just know they are beautiful. I understand about Jaci looking so young. My daughter got married in June right out of high school and I thought she looked young too! But they've been married 15 years now, so something was right!

I bet you are tired. Rest and recuperate, you've been going 90 miles an hour for the past few weeks. Nice, slow and easy for the next few days would be in order!

paula1961

06-07-2010, 05:41 AM

Oh Diana! I'm so glad all went well! I knew it would be beautiful! I'm sure that in a way...you're glad it's over. I can't wait to see the pix.

I wish Jaci and Nate a bright and happy future together.:) Did they go anywhere for their honey moon?

DianaB

06-07-2010, 06:04 AM

For Jaci and Nate's first night (and it truly was a "first" night) they stayed at a castle in Wichita that's been turned into a B & B. I talked to her yesterday and she said that it was really nice and that they took a lot of pictures for us to see.

http://www.castleinnriverside.com/

They drove to Colorado yesterday and are in Colorado Springs where they're going to do some sight seeing. Then either tonight or tomorrow they're driving to Gunnison and are going to go 4-wheeling in the mountains for a day or so. I'm a little concerned about them being in the mountains alone but she's suppose to call me when they get back to their cabin. On Thursday mornng they're going on a hot air ballon ride!!! I think that sounds soooo wonderful!!! That's all I know about. It sounded like they had everything all planned out and will have a fun time!! I can't wait to hear about it when they get back!!

I feel so much more relaxed now that it's over!! We had so many people help that it wasn't as stressful as I was expecting. Even my cousins that stayed with us came and helped out. We couldn't have done it all without everyone. It really makes you appreciate your friends and family!! Everyone had ideas on things to make the wedding more beautiful and without Jaci around we just went ahead and did them!! Everything was so beautiful!!!

I didn't take any pictures of the wedding because I wanted to just enjoy it and visit with the people. I felt that that was the photographer's job so I'll post a link as soon as I get it. I do have some pictures of the rehearsal that I'll get on and of some other things. I'll get them on soon......I'm still de-stressing!!!

paula1961

06-07-2010, 08:26 AM

That castle is gorgeous!!! I know that they will have such a wonderful time!! Sounds like they have some fun things planned to do.:)

Janet

06-07-2010, 08:42 AM

Oh my...the Castle is beautiful! I'm so glad you had so much help..now you can rest some. How long are they going to be gone? I wish them a happy fun time and a safe journey home.

JJJ

06-07-2010, 12:59 PM

The Castle looks gorgeous, I'm so jealous of them but happy at the same time :D

I can't wait to see the pics.

gja1000

06-07-2010, 01:40 PM

Oh My! That castle is absolutely GORGEOUS! I wanna stay there!!!

Gary and I went to Colorado for our honeymoon too, 28 years ago. We visited Colorado Springs and Gunnison and several other places too. We had such a good time and still talk about the fun we had!

judy

06-07-2010, 03:36 PM

How wonderful that the wedding went so beautifully Diana! Their honeymoon sounds great too!

I wish them all the happiness, health and joy in their marriage!

Now, you can take a very deep breath!

judy

06-07-2010, 03:49 PM

Saturday was my youngest, Kassidy's 8th birthday! I just love that age! She is just precious. Her other Grandma came up and so did my ex, PopPop Joel. She got some presents, but her party is next weekend for her friends.

I got her some horse statues, a horseback riding helmet, and 8 horseback riding lessons. She LOVES horses! She wants to be a vet when she grows up. I also bought her pink cowgirl boots and a pink cowgirl hat online. Do ya think she is spoiled? I love spoiling all of my grandchildren.

Saturday night, Mackenzie sang again! This was a 50's night put on by the Roxbury Arts Guild. She did "Stupid Cupid" and "Where the Boys Are" again, and was amazing! The woman who ran the event wants her in their comedy improv class (I think Jessie has to pay for it), and another producer wants her in one of his productions. She got so many compliments!

Being a small town area, people are excited about Mackenzie. She is extremely talented, and is quickly becoming known. I love the small town ways. We have a young woman, Rachel, who is also very talented (dancing and acting), and
pretty much everybody from the surrounding towns knows her, and we are all excited about her work. She is going off to college soon, and we are all so proud of her! Rachel cried when Mackenzie sang because she was so good!

gja1000

06-07-2010, 04:15 PM

Judy! My 3 year old granddaughter LOVES horses too. We have to get her something horse related for every event!!! Just this weekend I found a LARGE hardback book that has a full page color pic of a horse(s) on every page. There must be 50-60 pages in the book. It was on sale for $10 (had been $50). I should have kept it for a special occasion, but just couldn't resist giving it to her. She must have turned those pages a hundred times in the couple of hours I was there. With every page she would exclaim, "Oh how pretty, Mimi" or something of that nature. Oh and she has a pick cowboy hat, but no boots.

It is so cool that MacKenzie is so talented and has the stage presence to use it. I've known people with amazing talent, but they could not get up in front of an audience. Aren't you lucky to be there to see it. Moving to upstate NY was the absolute right move for you, wasn't it!

judy

06-08-2010, 12:30 PM

It really was Gayle. I love the small town life.

When I was younger, I wanted to be a teacher in a small town. I fantasized that my students would come knocking on my door if they needed homework help, and that I would watch them all grow up.

DianaB

06-11-2010, 08:29 AM

Sorry that I haven't been on much. I've been recouping since the wedding. It was suprising how tired I was when it was over!! I'm still trying to get my house back in order but it's not too bad!

It looks so lonely in Jaci's room with just the bed in there. She took the dressers and other stuff but they won't have room for the bed until they move into a different house. I think that I'm going to have Glen move it to the basement so I can paint the room and get it ready for my office/scrapbook room some time in the future.

Jaci and Nate should be home either tonight or tomorrow. I'm excited for them to get home. I have a cute little kitten that I brought home that I'm hoping they'll want. Nate loves cats so we'll see what he says.

Janet

06-13-2010, 06:00 AM

Has the young married couple made it home yet Diana? I hope they had a wonderful time with lots of fun memories.

The sun is starting to shine here althought the humidity is so high it looks a little foggy. Not sure if I'll venture out or not...lol...all I do is sweat out there...but then again...I do in here too.

Ricky has been working quite a bit and I miss him. If he's not at school...it seems he's at work. Today he had to be there at 9 AM and won't get off until 7 pm. I probably will venture out long enough to take him to lunch or supper or what ever he gets...lol. He's been getting between 30 and 35 hours a week. Although there are times when he wishes he was goofing around with this lawm mower thing he has, when he gets that paycheck he's thrilled.

I'll have to take a picture of what he's doing to the lawnmower he has...so funny, but typical boy/man.

I need to get some pictures taken of the puppies. They are so darn cute and so funny. They just turned 4 weeks old yesterday. Won't be long and they'll be going to new homes, the time goes so fast. Need to start getting them advertised and on my website. Seems like I just don't have the ambition to do much of anything, but I'll get it all done sooner or later.

DianaB

06-24-2010, 06:32 AM

Sorry, Janet, I didn't mean to not answer you. Jaci and Nate made it home after about 6 days of honeymooning. They've been on the run it seems like ever since they've been home with helping his parents get some things done and farming.

Jaci cooked supper last week and finally had us over to see their home. It's really nice.....small but nice. It made Glen and I remember what it was like for us when we got married!!

I've been busy trying to catch up on things. My poor yard has really suffered. Besides mowing I'm trying to get some things planted that really should have been planted much earlier because now it's sooo hot.

Reuger......finally got his haircut!! He looks so different because now nis fur is about 1/2 inch long!!! It's got to be so much cooler though and he definitely feels so much softer. Jazzi even got groomed a little but I like her long fur so I didn't shave her down. It's funny because they both have different fur. Reuger's is cottony and tangles so easily plus he has sooo much of it. Jazzi's is much thinner and softer feeling. It combs out pretty easily too.

DianaB

06-28-2010, 03:47 PM

We had a nice weekend.....well, Sunday was anyway. Glen's farming is in full swing so he's hardly home right now. It's been pretty quiet around here mostly. Daya came and spent Friday morning with me and that was nice. She didn't want to go to another town with her parents to do some things so she came to my house. She's a really nice girl to have around.

Saturday I went to a garage sale. I only bought a couple of things but one was a really nice antique cake stand!! I only paid $3 for it!! I haven't decided if I'm going to keep it or sell it at the flea market!! (Oh, I picked up my check from last month and made less than $3 but this month looks a little more promising!!)

Kera came over and cleaned so I spent the rest of the day trying to get my cleaning caught up. Glen gave me some stuff to put in the pond to make it more blue instead of greenish dirt colored water.......and some other stuff that cleans up the muck on the bottom of the pond. We put them both in last year and it really made a difference. I was suppose to walk around the pond and pour it in but it's hard to get completely around the pond so I only poured along one edge. When I went to rinse out the containers the pond was really warm so I decided to go for a swim......and stir the blue dye around!!!..........I was kinda' worried about coming out blue but it didn't happen.......Glen was surprised because he got some on his hands and it didn't wash off for days!!!! I could just hear all of the questions if I had gotten blue at church the next day!!!! It would have been interesting!!!

On Sunday we were invited to eat fish at a friend's house. Come to find out they had a lot of people invited......because their freezer door didn't get shut well and the fish had defrosted.........so they had a party!! It was good!!

Then we stopped by Dae Lynn's and got Dean so that they could go swimming with Damon's family. It's always a joy to have Dean. He's so good!!! I also had him this morning while Dae Lynn cleaned the church......Daya came to help too!! She's such a sweetie!!!!

I almost forgot.....Dae Lynn and Damon had both of the kids dedicated at church yesterday and Karlie sang a song. I'll get it copied on youtube and get it on here soon. She was sooo cute!!!

gja1000

06-30-2010, 05:10 PM

Boy! This Alaska to Texas jet lag is about to get to me. It is 3 hours earlier in Alaska than Texas - so I want to sleep till 10:00AM and go to bed at 2:00AM. Of course, I have to force myself to get up at 6:00 or 7:00 and I feel AWFUL till about the middle of the afternoon.

BUT, today I feel more normal, so I'm hopeful that after a week, I am finally coming out of the funk.

We have an all day retreat at school tomorrow. This means the administrators are going to get together and map out a strategy for the next few years of a very lean budget. We are looking at some cuts in the budget, so we may have to reduce the number of students we admit or the number of programs we offer. It will be interesting, I'm sure.

I need to get my Alaska pictures loaded onto the computer and I will - soon!

Janet

07-01-2010, 03:28 AM

It's been beautiful here the last few days...temps in the 70's. I've had the doors and windows open. Tomorrow we are suppose to head back up into the 90's and it will be that way for quite awhile. I just hope the humidity isn't too high.

I've really been enjoying Brenna...she sure is a Momma's girl..lol. Puppies are doing great..can't believe they are soon to be 7 weeks old already. I can sure tell a difference between having a female litter or a male litter...lol. These little guys are onry through and through...lol

Mom did great on her first night back on home dialysis. The machine didn't buzz at all and she slept all night except to go potty once. She is so glad she doesn't have to the the hemo anymore. Now she just has to be very diligent in not getting another infection.

Ricky only has two months left of school. He really likes it and is learning so much. Usually comes home looking like a grease monkey, but as long as he's happy...it's okay.

Not much else happening really...I need to get out of this house more.

judy

07-01-2010, 06:10 AM

I'm so glad you are enjoying Brenna so much! She is such a little doll. I know what you mean about getting out more. I have been busy, but if it's too hot, I won't go out to just get out. I hate being in town in the heat! If I didn't have the pool, I would just stay in when it's 90 degrees!

My summer friends are here. They haven't been as friendly as usual, but I'll work it out. They were busy getting settled and their hubbys were here.

Jessie got involved in the theater program in her area. She met the theater people when Mackenzie auditioned for a singing thing, and she decided to join up too. She is directing "Annie" to open on 9/11. I'm really happy for her! She needs her own life, and the kids are getting older. Guess who is going to be Annie? Mackenzie, of course! The woman who runs the theater program wants her as Annie, but she does have to audition with eot my plants veryone else. I think Kassidy might be one of the orphans, although she is stage shy.

I finally got my plants and deck done. I waited because we had some very cold nights until about 2 or 3 weeks ago. I washed the deck and the furniture down with vinegar and water, set up the plants, and it looks so nice! I also found someone new to clean the house, so everything feels clean and shiny, and I am a happy woman! Now, if I could just convince Max that lifting his leg to pee on my pansies out front is not okay, they might live!

DianaB

07-01-2010, 07:36 AM

Like you, Janet, our weather has been a little bit cooler.....not enough that I've opened the windows though.......but enough that you're not hit in the face with heat every time you open the door. We are suppose to warm back up soon. We really could use some rain....the corn could really use it right now.

I'm sure that Brenna is a sweetie. I don't picture you with anything less than adorable anyway!!! I can't wait to meet her. I should warn you that Reuger is NOT the most friendly to new dogs. He will mellow out after a while though.

I'm glad to hear that your Mom is doing so much better. I know that it's a big relief to you as well.

Judy....I'm not surprised that Mackenzie will be cast as Annie.....she has quite the voice and will do just wonderful in the play!!! And how exciting that Jessie will be directing it!!! Like you said "She needs her own life"!! I'm sure that you're excited about your family being involved in this and if they're like my family you'll get drawn into helping one way or another!!! Fun....fun!!!

If you ever figure out how to get Max to quit peeing on the pansies let me know how you did it......Reuger thinks that he has to pee on the car tires....in the garage. I'd love to find a way to make him quit!!!

So have you found a way to come yet? I'd love to have you!!!!

judy

07-04-2010, 05:57 AM

I just found this Diana. If I ever figure out a way to stop Max from peeing on the pansies, I'll become a wealthy woman! By the way, there is only one pansy left!
I have to go searching for remnants of them, weed, water, and see if they are savable!

I have not found a way to come, but I wish I could afford it! Driving is out...it's just too far, even if I drive to Janet's and then continue with her.

Ah, well.....

judy

07-04-2010, 06:01 AM

It's going to be in the 90's today. I am definitely going to spend the day in the pool! What was nice was that last night, it cooled down substantially.

In NYC, the heat just lays there, and summer can be uncomfortable. My apartment was on the top floor, under a black tar roof. The heat just collected and hung there. I ran the a/c 24/7!

I just love it here! (Wait until winter, and I won't be loving the snow though!)

paula1961

07-04-2010, 08:51 AM

That sounds wonderful Judy. A day in the pool. It's in the 90's here too and very humid. I just saw a post from Lynne on another thread and she's gonna be by the pool today too!! You lucky girls! I don't have a pool:mad: Enjoy your day!!

Janet

07-04-2010, 02:51 PM

It has been really hot and humid today and it's suppose to stay this way for awhile again. I just don't do well in this kind of heat. I sweat bad enough... :)

My Mom went camping this weekend and she is having a great time. She called because she didn't take enough of these caps that she needs and wondered if I could bring her some. She's camping in the county just south of ours so it wasn't too far. She doesn't unhook her camper from the car...too much work...lol. She took her machine with her and is doing so good. They must not have had her cath in right the first time because the machine beeped almost everynight. Since she's had this new one put in...it hasn't gone off once and she is sleeping so much better. She looks much better too.

Puppies are growing well and doing great. They are so onry and it's a hoot to play with them. They are true boys...that's for sure. I hope they are sold before too awful long, I'll probably be able to let them go around 10 or 11 weeks. So please keep your fingers crossed for me to be able to find good homes. I'm pretty sure I will use some of the money to go to Kansas and then use some to have the Joey, Ozzie, Gidget and Brenna spayed and neutered. I don't think I want to breed anymore. Not sure....but I'm leaning that way now.

Too a nap this morning and had a dream about Kat. She was on a cooking show or something like that and it was really funny.

Not much else going on.

Diana....do you know who all is coming so far to your house? I thought it was going to take me longer to drive for some reason, but it's only 11-12 hours according to google and mapquest. Is that how long it took you?

Blueyes

07-04-2010, 04:07 PM

Sounds like things are going well for you Janet..I'm so glad! I will be at Diana's:D I may have my puppy with me since they were born a few days early, but Mike can watch it:D

Janet

07-05-2010, 04:12 AM

I'll have Brenna with me too Betsi. She is so tiny that I don't trust the guys to take care of her. I will be bringing an xpen and everything I need for her...I'll be happy to share.

Blueyes

07-05-2010, 11:11 AM

Thank you Janet, that it very sweet! Brenna is so tiny, you could put her in your pocket and nobody would know, lol! I'll have a crate with me, and Mike can stay at the motel with the pup or take it with him... if he can pry it out of my arms:rolleyes:

DianaB

07-07-2010, 07:30 PM

As far as I can tell you and Betsi are coming and Gayle.....and Marilyn...maybe. Anyone else is welcome to come too....just let me know that you're coming so I can have a bed for you!!!

Betsi, my son has a fifth wheel that we can bring to the house. It's not anything fancy but you and Mike are welcome to stay in it and keep the dog with you. I have a fenced in area up close to the front door that the dogs can be put in if you want. It's actually put up to keep the big dogs from digging up my flowers but I also use it to keep the little dogs in sometimes.

Blueyes

07-08-2010, 05:32 AM

That sounds just great Diana, if it's not too much trouble!

DianaB

07-08-2010, 08:43 AM

Nope, no trouble!!!

JJJ

07-09-2010, 11:38 AM

I don't know what you ladies are planning but whatever it is have fun :confused::D

Boy have I been busy with summer school :o I was taking two classes and believe me it's super hard. I just finish my finals yesterday and I will have this weekend off and back to Summer session II this Monday. :(

I wanted to enjoy my three day vacation but my apt is a mess, and my furbutts need serious grooming.

I'm renting my house and the AC just completely died, the back AC unit the front AC unit something call ducts or something like that. So I had to crunch up some money and get that fix. Then here in my apt when it rain hard the roof in my restroom was leaking, they actually had to break the wall to fix it in side. Oh and theres a gap int the wall in my house too where they removed the inside unit since it was as old as the house. Then back to my apt my closet actually got soaked in water, and some of my shoes were damage. And for some reason my one yr old maltese thinks she's not potty train anymore :mad:.

Just had to let it all out :rolleyes:

DianaB

07-09-2010, 01:09 PM

Oh my!! When it rains it pours!! You are going through a really hard time right now!!! I hope that next week is a lot better for you!! Hugs!!!!

gja1000

07-09-2010, 01:39 PM

Whew! That's a lot all at one time. Hope things get fixed and STAY fixed soon!

paula1961

07-10-2010, 02:30 AM

Jessica..........hope all is better soon!!

I'll let ya in on what the girls are planning;) Some of them are meeting up at Diana's in August. I would love to go but this isn't a good time for me. Hopefully..next time though.:)

Marilyn

07-10-2010, 06:32 AM

So sorry I haven't been on much lately. We are just having a busy summer. Karen is here and Melissa and Garrett are here most evenings for supper and to visit. The 20 somethings dominate the computers. Between them and Rex working on his in the evenings, there's not much time for me on here. Plus, we can't afford to eat out with this big group very much, so we're cooking at home in the evenings after we get off work, which means more shopping and more cleaning.

Have to enjoy them while they are here though. Before you know it, Karen will be back in California, and Melissa will be back in school. She was accepted to the RN program so two years and she will hopefully be an RN. She hopes to on to be a nurse practitioner. They plan to move away in two years so Garrett can go to vet school. So need to enjoy them now!!

This weekend I have so much to do to get ready for our vacation. I wanted to get tickets to tour the White House, so contacted our congressman a month or so ago, but we weren't in time. Found out this week that all the tickets are gone. Maybe next time.

Much to do, little time as usual.

judy

07-10-2010, 06:38 AM

Jessica, I hope your living space gets in shape soon! Good luck with summer school!

It sounds like a friend/dogfest is going to happen at your house, Diana! I wish I lived closer! I could throw Max and Annie into that fenced off place and hang out with you wonderful friends! I know you are going to take tons of pictures and I am excited to see them! When you do group hugs, my spirit will be there too!

DianaB

07-10-2010, 08:04 AM

We know that you'll be here in thought, Judy!! Can't you find some way to come with Janet? I know that she'd appreciate the company!!! We'd love to have you come!!!......and you too, JJJ!!!! Everyone's welcome!!!!!

DianaB

07-12-2010, 02:30 PM

Whew!!! It's been a really busy weekend!!!

Saturday Kera came to clean......she's been my housekeeper this summer and has been doing a great job!!! Then we had a wedding reception for my nephew, Luke and his new wife, Ashley. It was such a beautiful reception.....my Sister-in-law is so good a decorating for things like that!!! When we came home Jaci and Nate came over and visited for a while. It was soooo good to see them......I miss Jaci so much at times and Saturday was one of those days!!

Sunday I taught my Sunday School class and when it was over we went to my son, Feyn's church. After the service Feyn got to baptise his son, Elijah!! It was such a wonderful moment!!! All of my family went except for Dae Lynn and Damon (they were out of town) and my Mom and Stepdad were there too. After that I took Dean and Karlie.....we went out to eat and then came home. Dean was so grouchy from being held and was a bear all day long. We had Care Group at my BIL's pond but I stayed home with Dean.

I had Dean and Karlie all night and today. Dae and Damon got back home about 3:30. Then last weekend we ran into a step cousin and his children at Marva's and his son and a friend came to visit today and are staying for 2 or 3 days. So things are still interesting around here!!! I think that Aaron and Kyle are planning on fishing and riding 4-wheelers!!! Fun!!! Fun!!!

paula1961

07-12-2010, 03:18 PM

Diana sounds like you haven't had a boring moment lately lol. Sorry Dean was a grouch. I kept Ryan yesterday and the day before. He also had his moments of being a little "turd". But for the most part he was a sweetie pie. He is spoiled rotten though! I bet Dean is too lol!!

Glad ya got to see Jaci! I'm sure you miss her. But at least she lives near you doesn't she? Have fun while your company is there.:)

Blueyes

07-12-2010, 03:23 PM

Sounds like everybody is having a busy summer! Diana, have you seen the meet-up thread?

gja1000

07-12-2010, 05:22 PM

WOW! Diana! You are one busy lady!!! You're making me tired just reading your post!

DianaB

07-12-2010, 08:17 PM

It was one whirlwind of a weekend!!! I think that my cousin's son and friend are just planning on camping out tomorrow and fishing so I won't have to worry about entertaining them. I am soooo tired. I think that I'm about to head off to bed.

Betsi....I'll go take a look at the meet-up thread first!!!!

Paula, yes, thank goodness, Jaci lives only about 13 miles or so away......not too far but far enough that we don't see her much........And yes, Dean is spoiled!!! His Mama's going to have her hands full tomorrow!!! Also, he picked up screaming when he's irritated!! She's not going to like that either!!!!

judy

07-13-2010, 06:52 AM

Baby Dean and Baby Ryan may be teething??? I hope they both get over their fussiness soon.

Your l.life does sound like a whirlwind Diana! How nice to be with family! What a proud moment when Feyn baptized his own child!!! I'm sure you will cherish that memory forever. Did you take pictures?

It has been nice here. The weather cooled down a bit,although we are in for another heat wave. Having the pool makes it livable and I am enjoying having my summer friends around. We have a book discussion group, and I have to read "Dr.Zhivago" by next Wednesday. We are going to watch the movie after and get blintzes and borscht, and so on.

The kids are great. They are all in camp, and Mackenzie began Rock and Roll camp yesterday. It goes for 4 days and is a musical experience. I hope she likes it.

Jess and Steve are in court today. Somebody pressed charges against them because they dogs are a noise issue. They really aren't, and we are thinking it's their psycho neighbor. What an angry, sad family the neighbors are! As far as I'm concerned though, Steve and Jessie should have gotten rid of those dogs a long time ago for lots of reasons. I keep out of their business though. Jessie says they are looking at land just down the road to move to. They would be out of the town jurisdiction and could do what they want. As always, I tell them "That's wonderful."

I went to pottery last night and loved it. I'm also trying to write a story for Thursday night for my writing workshop. I definitely do not love writing as much as pottery! I do love the writers group though. The people who belong are wonderful, so I will stick with it.

Lindsey

07-13-2010, 09:24 AM

Judy, I love Dr. Zhivago! We watched the movie in high school, but I don't remember which class it was for. Really good movie though! I haven't read the book, but usually the book is better than the movie.

We have been having insanely hot days and severe thunderstorms in the evenings for the past week. I love the thunderstorms though.

Last night I started painting some of the trim inside the house white. All of the trim and baseboards had been painted a sort of tan color. So last night I got the dining room, hallway, and half the kitchen finished with one coat of paint on all the baseboards, the front door, and two windows. It makes such a huge difference! It turns out the walls in the dining room are a different color than everywhere else, and instead of just looking dirty, they're actually a lighter tan color lol! We didn't notice until last night!

DianaB

07-14-2010, 07:33 AM

Judy, it was a wonderful moment to see my son baptize my grandson!!!! I didn't take pictures but I took a video that I can take pictures from!! We were all so proud!!

We had a cool spell last week with the rain but now the temps are back up. I'm glad that you have a pool to cool off in. I've been going to the pond. I just love swimming!!

I'm glad that you're making new friends in your groups!!! The pottery class sounds like fun......but the writing class just sounds like it would be harder than my brain would want to think!!!! Hmmm.....that makes me sound really lazy!!!! But it sounds like it must be worth it because of the friends you're making!!

Our kids just have to make their own decisions and take what ever comes with it. I'm sure that Jessie and Steve will get this al figured out. Isn't it hard for us to keep our mouths shut sometimes!!!! I can understand completely!!!

Lindsey, It sounds like your painting is coming right along!!! I'm sure that it will look really nice when you get done!!

I've never read or seen Dr Zhivago. I remember hearing about it years ago though.