What Did You Do Today?

[Janet]

I went to an auction. Of all things I went to look for (not having any money) was a 2005 Cadillac. It was sooo nice. I just thought it would look even better with me driving it.....:lol2: At the last auction I went to there were two nice cars and one went for $500 and the other for $1000 so I thought maybe this Cadillac would go cheap too....heck no....it went for $9000 :eek:. Needless to say.....I'm still driving my van.

I did buy an oak dresser that matches my bedroom suit and one of those battery powered scooters like you see in Wal Mart. I got it for $50. I thought maybe Mom could use it or my older brother could use it because his knees are really bad. If not...it will be my new toy for awhile.. :p

There is another auction next Saturday that I plan on going to if it doesn't rain, it's an outside auction.

[paula1961]

That sounds like so much fun Janet! My sister and her husband go to auctions alot. They even go to a QVC auction on Sat nights in WV. They find great buys on all kinds of stuff!
Sorry you didn't get your Cadillac! Maybe next time.
You got a great buy on that scooter though! I wish I could find one that cheap, I'd get it for my Dad. I bet that oak dresser is pretty isn't it?

I haven't really done anything today. Just got home last night from Dad and Mom's. Had been there since Wed.
I haven't been feeling the best today. I think I may have caught some kind of bug or something. Hopefully it will pass soon.

[DianaB]

I hope you get to feeling better, Paula!!

Janet, it sounds like you had fun!! I like to go and look but I just hate standing around all day!!

The car sounds like it was still a pretty good deal but certainly not a bargain like the other cars were. Keep looking.....you'll find something!!

I'm still painting.....Dae Lynn and I painted yesterday until almost 10 o'clock. We were absolutely worn out but we didn't have the kids and things go better without them. We went back at 4 o'clock today and worked a little bit more without the kids again. We have some touch ups in different areas but the bed rooms and living room are mostly done......in Karlie's room we have to paint the ceiling, but it should go quickly. Lastly we have the kitchen and we're hoping to have it done by Tuesday!! I can't tell you how nice that everything looks. I'll post some pictures after we get everything done and I have time!!

[Janet]

I wasn't really looking for a car....my van is fine...lol...I just thought if it went cheap enough...why not..LOLOL

Yesterday I didn't do anything....didn't even get dressed. Well I did do laundry, but that's nothing new.

This morning I went to town to do my normal Monday errands...bank and groceries. Ricky went with me which makes it more fun. While at the store...my older brother calls and puts me on the phone with Mom. I guess she was suppose to be at her Kidney Dr. and I totally spaced it. She rescheduled for Wednesday, but since my brother wasn't working....he could have taken her. Oh well....I obviously don't have anything else to do. :)

[paula1961]

Glad you and Ricky got to spend some time together today Janet. It does make it better when we get to do things with someone that makes us happy doesn't it?

Today I went to the dr. I've been feeling really nauseated (sp?) for the past few days. I'm going to go for a test on Wed morning. The dr thinks it might be my gall bladder:eek: Ive been feeling bloated after I eat certain things too, I've been doing that for a few months. Oh well.............my motto here lately is......everything will work itself out, it always does.
After the drs appt, hubby and I went to Walmart and got some things that we needed. That's about it for my day:rolleyes:

[Janet]

So far this morning I went walking with some co-workers. We parked our buses after dropping the kids off and walked all around our parking alot. I could only do 2 laps today...been awhile since I did much walking. I'm planning on going everyday that I can. It was fun having someone to talk and walk with.

[paula1961]

Well...........so far I have laundry in the dryer and the washer, dusted and vacuumed the living room and washed dishes....decided I needed a computer break lol!:D

[DIANE W]

Today i have......

Got up at 7am, got ready for work, done some dishes, and put washing in as it looks to be a nice day (Dave will hang it out to dry when he comes home from work later).
Got to work for 8am, was quite busy today so day went very quick - as i like it too.
Arrived home at 5, sat and had a coffee and chat to family, brought washing in from garden. Now on computer catching up, waiting for my favorite TV programmes to start.

Not sure what to have to eat............... everyone else has eaten, may just have baked potatoe with melted cheese and onion, and some salad, that is a nice easy meal.

[judy]

Yesterday, I went out just to be outside. It was a beautiful day. I was going to take the dogs, but I would have had to leave them in the car for too long.

Went to the post office, and got 3 tops I bought - 2 on eBay and one from Kohl's The Kohl's top will probably go to Mackenzie. It's a bit shapeless for me. The thermal henley is great, and the other top will also go to Mackenzie too. I do this every season...shop online and then only like about 1/2 the stuff I get. Have to stop!

Then, went to Jessie's to bring them the tickets for "Wicked." Visited for a while, played with the dogs. Muffin, the new yorkie pup is so cute! I love their little dogs! Hate the big ones! I never go out to see them.

I helped Kassidy with her reading comprehension hw, while the devil came out in her! Jessie was laughing at how she gets away with things with me! Then Mackenzie and I did her math hw, which I don't know at all. Metric conversions....boring!!! Since she has been wrapping me around her finger for longer than Kass, I ended up finishing her hw for her. Jess laughed at me again! Then we watched the video of "Annie."

They are going to see "Wicked" today. I hope they have a wonderful time!

Steve, who has been ultra grumpy lately (not working), got on me for buying them the tickets because then Jess has to drive to Amtrak and home. It's about an hour and some away, and she doesn't do well driving distances. I understand that he worries. We discussed it, and I said that maybe he should drive them and pick them up from Amtrak. He admitted that that's a pain in the neck. A while later, he came inside and apologized to me!!! I almost fell off the couch! It was nice, to say the least.

I came home, played online for a while, grilled dinner, watched tv, and that was that.

It was a very nice day.

[paula1961]

Today I went to the hospital to have that barium (sp?) swallow done. Had to be there at 9 am and didn't get out of there until after noon! Anyway........that crap you have to drink is disgusting! That test was to see if I might have a hernia problem and then I go back on the 29th to have the other test done to check my gall bladder. Needless to say........I haven't accomplished much at all today.
Oh and I did stop off at the grocery store to pick up the rest of the stuff I needed to make party mix for my parents retirement get together on Sunday evening.
Other than that, I have done nothing at all. Oh well..I really don't feel like doing much anyway.

[Janet]

Today I took my mother to the kidney Dr. I was suppose to take her on Monday, but spaced it and didn't even have it on my calendar. She's doing really well. I just put 'Oven Fry' on some chicken and stuck it in the oven. Not really wanting chicken, but I've had it in the fridge and it's time I used it up. Not sure what else I'll fix, but I'm sure I'll think of something.

[gja1000]

I had a hectic day at work, meetings, meetings, meetings. I was brain dead by 4:00. I was trying to do a bit of math in my head, and it just wouldn't work! :D

On the way home it started to rain and I thought, YAY! It's raining on my yard. NOT. It was dry as a bone when I got home. But then it did rain a little bit later.

Gary said, "Let's go to Schlotzky's" I don't know if you all have them up north. It's a really good sandwich shop, and now it has pizza. I LOVE the smoked turkey sandwich and it is not bad calorie/fat wise. So, I didn't have to cook. :D:D

Then we stopped at Lowe's and got a little garden frog with a yellow umbrella. He's standing upright on 2 legs holding the umbrella over his head. The umbrella is actually like a yellow daisy. Sounds hokey and it sorta is, but cute. We also got a little turtle with a butterfly on his back. Next thing you know, I'll have garden gnomes - it could happen :p

[Janet]

Today after we dropped the kids off myself and 3 other ladies went for our walk. I walked 3 miles today, so that makes a total of 5 miles in 3 days. My shins hurt and my feet. I've been wearing new walking shoes, but still hurting.

We had record heat for the last few days. Today was 96 and so humid too. Our county and lots of others are under a fire ban. There are so many field fires in some surrounding counties and we've had a couple small ones in our county. Everything is so dry. We need rain and did get just a little, but not enough to help in any way. Sure hope it rains soon.

[gja1000]

I had a better day today, not so hectic! After work I went to watch my granddaughter play volleyball. But the game was not very good, the team they played was not very good so it was over quickly!

[Janet]

I walked another 3 miles this morning. To tell the truth....I'm beat! I really should take a nap, but maybe I'll take one after the afternoon route.

Was informed that a mother has already called in and complained about me. She was a witch last year and I guess I have to put up with the witch this year too. I had to tell her 10th grade daughter to sit up in her seat so another student could sit down. It says in the bus rules that the students are to sit with their feet on the floor facing forward. If their child would just follow the rules they could save themselves a phone call. What an idiot!

[gja1000]

I walked another 3 miles this morning. To tell the truth....I'm beat! I really should take a nap, but maybe I'll take one after the afternoon route.

Was informed that a mother has already called in and complained about me. She was a witch last year and I guess I have to put up with the witch this year too. I had to tell her 10th grade daughter to sit up in her seat so another student could sit down. It says in the bus rules that the students are to sit with their feet on the floor facing forward. If their child would just follow the rules they could save themselves a phone call. What an idiot!

I just can't stand parents who think the rules don't apply to THEIR child! Then, she has the nerve to complain that you are enforcing the rules. :rolleyes: I can only imagine how her child is being raised...............:(

[Janet]

I'm finding myself wondering if this job is really worth it. I'm starting to tire of the whole thing, but jobs are hard to find let alone jobs with good insurance so I'm pretty much stuck.

[Lindsey]

I'm burning out today. I've worked late every night this week and it's hard to focus on work now. Last night when I got home at 9, I started scrubbing the bathrooms and when I turned on the bath tub to rinse it at around 10:00, water started shooting out of the handheld sprayerhose and the sprayer handle flew right off! It had snapped! So I've been stressed about that today, if we can replace it or have to buy a whole new faucet set. We can't afford it.

I also sent my best friend a gift since she is home from the hospital. I found a flower shop in her town online, and picked out a ceramic yellow duck wearing a blue hat, with the back of the duck filled with flowers and blue ribbons, and a small stuffed animal. But the flower shop called and said they were all out of the ducks and would substitute it for a red wagon that says "It's a boy!" so that was fine with me lol. It will be delivered tomorrow and I can't wait for her to see it :)

I think I will only work an hour of overtime tonight. I can't even look at my computer anymore...

[lynne b]

this is what has been keeping me busy for the past 3 weeks, along with working overtime and dealing with everything else. There are 4 babies but the 4th one was up on mom's head LOL, 3 boy's and 1 girl, the smallest boy is weighing in at 13oz @ almost 4 weeks old, the others are over a pound, these little one just worry me to death, i don't know how breeders can breed for the tinies, i guess it would make a difference if i was home all day. Any ways my fun is just begining with these guys.

[judy]

I saw their picture on fb Lynne. They are so adorable! I hope the little guy fattens up fast!

Janet, maybe you can ask the school to mail this mom a copy of bus rules. If it comes from the office, you can't be blamed. I used to get so annoyed at that type of parent, so I know how you feel! Refer her to the Principal if you can. That's why they make the big bucks!

Paula, I hope you feel better soon!

Gayle, hang in there....being brain dead isn't the worst thing anyway!

Yesterday, I went down to the pool, took down a lounge chair and had a lovely afternoon snoozing in the sun. The pool is covered, and the hose is gone, so it got hot, but it was lovely.

I am going to the Cauliflower Festival today. I have not been to one of these festivals, and just want to see what it's all about. I'll check out some of our shops, and then come home. Nice, relaxing day.

[Janet]

The babies are gorgeous Lynne. I personally love the tiny ones...lol.

Today I went to another auction. It was really nice and they had a lot of nice clean items for sale. I did buy a small stereo for the living room. I get tired of having the TV on and love listening to the music. Got a great deal on it too....only $40 for a $129 unit. They had taped the receipt inside the manual. I got it all cleaned up and it all works great. It has a 5 CD changer, radio and 2 cassettes thingys. Has pretty good sound too. I still have it sitting on my kitchen table so I need to get it into my living room.

Since I haven't been very good at grooming the doggies every two weeks....I guess I'm going to try and get that all done tomorrow. I may just shave them all down except for Joey and Brenna. I really wish I could find homes for the other 3 but it would break Ricky's heart for Gidget or Ozzie to go. What did I get myself into....

[gja1000]

We ran around all day looking for pots and decorations for our little back yard corner! Gary just loves to putter around and look for things like that, if he has a purpose. Unlike me :rolleyes:, he won't shop just to shop (my favorite past time), but if he's looking for something like outdoor pottery or decorations, then he loves to shop.

We went to 5 stores today and ended up buying a gecko, a dragon fly, and 3 more pots. I'll take some pictures when I have more light.

We also bought some mums for the front yard, I think it may be cool enough now, not to fry them. :p It's supposed to be in the 80's all week and 60's at night. I am REALLY looking forward to getting up, stepping outside and enjoying 60-something degree mornings!

[Janet]

Today I groomed the doggies and yes....I did cut Ozzie and Emilee down some, not shaved, but much shorter. I'll try to get some pictures to show you. I started around 9 this morning and finished around 2:30 this afternoon. With them all shorter it won't take near as long now...yay!!!

I know what you mean about the cool mornings Gayle. Right now at 7:30 in the evening it's only 58 degrees. I love this cool weather. I have the doors and windows open and well...it's kind of cool in this house...LOL...might have to at least close the doors in a bit. This is great sleeping weather.

That's pretty much all I've done except for doing laundry of the doggie beds and blankets. Tomorrow I'm hoping to walk again with the ladies and get some things done that I didn't get done today.

[judy]

I had an appointment to have Max and Annie groomed, but it was canceled, so I have the day all to myself!!!

I should go to Kingston, but I don't know if I'm in the mood for shopping. I have $75 in gift cards at Homegoods, and $150 at Home Depot!

[Janet]

Good for you Judy....my gift cards don't last long enough to say "I have gift cards"....lol

Today I walked 3 miles with the ladies again. It was so cold, but I just wore short sleeves. After the 2nd lap...I was getting pretty warm and sweating. I feel so good after the walks and then coming home to shower.

[paula1961]

Wow Janet you're doing great with the walking. You go girl!!:)

Lynne..them babies are beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!:)

Judy have fun spending your gift cards and thanks for the well wishes!:)

I'm looking forward to seeing some of pix of your new stuff for your yard Gayle.:)

Lynsey I sure hope you got your faucet fixed and that it didn't cost alot.:)

[Lindsey]

Oh yes, I forgot to update about that sprayer! A new set of faucets would be $674... a new sprayer would be $90... we wondered if we could call the maker and just order the one part we need instead of the whole thing. Scott called and told the guy the part we needed. He asked for Scott's name and address, and said "You can expect it in 6-7 days" Scott said "Wait, how much does it cost?" and he said it's FREE! Lifetime guarantee! So that was just awesome :)

Janet, it's great that you are walking every day! I actually just started walking as well, but on my treadmill. I used to be so in shape and happy with myself physically, that I have just gotten this urge to work on it again. I've been doing a half hour a day :)

[gja1000]

Well, I stayed home today! As most of you know we had a gunman on campus today. So sad and puzzling. He was a sophomore, had graduated high school 2 years ago, 7th in his class (a really big school). He lived with his parents. Also, he had ample opportunity to shoot several people, but he didn't shoot anyone but himself - which of course is good. But why did he bring a gun to campus and shoot it randomly with people all around, but not at anyone. Very strange. I'm sure we'll find out more in the days to come though.

I went to lunch with my daughter and mom, then Gary and I went to Cabela's. Didn't buy much, just a few fishing flies. We ate dinner at Cracker Barrel - I had breakfast! :D

[DianaB]

Gayle, I'm glad that the gunman only hurt himself. I don't understand why they shoot other people then themselves. It sounds like he was a really good stude nt.....I wonder what was going on with him to make him do this?

Janet, I'm so happy to hear that you're walking!!! I know when I was swimming how much better I felt!! It is a lot more fun when you have other people doing it with you!!!

Lindsey.....Yay for lifetime warranties!!!!!

Judy, where'd you get your gift certificates from? That sounds like a fun way to shop!! My kids always give us certificates for places to eat.

Lynne.....The puppies are just adorable!! I wish that you lived closer so I could come and see them!!! I'm sure that the tiny ones are more of a worry.

Paula, I just didn't want to leave you out!!! Hugs, GF!!!

[Janet]

I didn't go walk today. I wanted to, but I've gotten a chest cold. Probably from yesterday walking and breathing in all that cold air....it was really cold. Now my chest is congested and it hurts a bit. Tried to come home and take a nap, but the dogs kept barking at one thing or another and each other...lol...that the nap didn't happen.

I wish I could just stay home this afternoon and not drive the bus route. I just feel tired.

This weekend my niece is getting married. Not really wanting to drive 2 hours there and 2 hours back with Mother. We won't be able to stay for the reception because of the dogs. The boys will be gone for the weekend with a Scout outing. This wedding is really screwing up my 'alone' weekend.

[gja1000]

I didn't go walk today. I wanted to, but I've gotten a chest cold. Probably from yesterday walking and breathing in all that cold air....it was really cold. Now my chest is congested and it hurts a bit. Tried to come home and take a nap, but the dogs kept barking at one thing or another and each other...lol...that the nap didn't happen.

I wish I could just stay home this afternoon and not drive the bus route. I just feel tired.

This weekend my niece is getting married. Not really wanting to drive 2 hours there and 2 hours back with Mother. We won't be able to stay for the reception because of the dogs. The boys will be gone for the weekend with a Scout outing. This wedding is really screwing up my 'alone' weekend.


Ah Janet, I'm sorry you've got a chest cold. I don't think walking and breathing the cold air caused it though - I bet you got it from breathing that "kid air" on the bus!

I know what you mean about your "alone" weekend - I'm ready for one of those too!

[Janet]

I didn't walk today either. When I get a little overheated I start coughing my head off and well...we know what happens next....pee! It's best I don't laugh either....it throws me into a coughing spell too.

I'm trying to get laundry caught up. The boys will be gone over the weekend and informed me they need some things cleaned. Not sure why they couldn't have thought of it sooner and done it themselves. Oh well....something to keep me from napping...lol.

I forgot to say that yesterday was our anniversary. 36 l....o.....n.....g years.

Well...just heard the dryer buzzer....got to run... :)

[DianaB]

Sorry you're not feeling the best, Janet. It seems like just when you get in the swing of doing something that something comes up to interrupt it. I hope your cough gets better soon.

I'm not sure whether to say Happy Anniversary or not.....but I will because 36 years is a long time to be married to someone. I wish that things were better between you two. Hugs!!

Today I have Dean!!! He's growing so much!! At almost 7 months he's pulling up to things and standing!!! It seems so early to me!! He still is doing the lunge/crawl not the right kind of crawling. He's a little go-getter that's for sure!!! Grandma has caught him several times playing in the dogs water!!!

Karlie started preschool at our grade school. I had forgotten that they have a preschool for low income children and Dae Lynn was able to get her in....even though it was a little late. She's loving it!!! She goes everyday in the afternoon and rides the bus home since they live in the country now. She is sooo ready for school!!!!

[paula1961]

Janet I sure hope ya feel better soon! Maybe while the guys are gone this weekend, you can get some rest and hopefully start feeling a little better.

Diana have fun with Dean today! I had all four of my gkids this past weekend. I've got to get some pix on here! I've just been so busy with running back and forth to help with my Dad. I think that they (my parents) might be moving in with me for the winter. Dad's heart dr moved up here and he is not at all happy with the dr that replaced him. Since it's a two and a half hour drive, we thought it would be best if they just stayed the winter with us. They are thinking seriously about it.

[gja1000]

Paula, that would be good for them to stay with you for the winter. It is hard to get out and about in the winter and they would be where you could be at home but still taking care of and helping them.

Janet, enjoy your weekend and I hope you get to feeling better!

Diana, I can't believe that Dean is already pulling up! WOW!

Gary and I went to Abigail's volleyball game this evening. They got beat both games, they were playing a really good team though. Abi played really hard, and I guess that counts for something when the other team is better than your team!

We had to take Rowdy to get neutered today. He's 5 years old and Gary did not want to have him fixed :rolleyes:. Well he started getting prostate infections and with the last one the vet told Gary that Rowdy was going to die if he didn't get him fixed. So, today was the day. The big baby (Gary) couldnt' even go with me to take him to the vet!!! He said, "I can't take him and leave him there!" Rowdy did fine though. He had to stay overnight and we pick him up in the morning.

[Janet]

This morning we had a small breakfast for our Transportation Director who is retiring. He's been there longer than anyone else at the school....36 years.

I came home and got Ricky and then we went to the Vet to pick up some Flea/Heartworm meds and then to look at a couple of RV's. No...I can't afford one, but I want one and will find one I can afford somehow. One of them was $29,000 so that was a no go...lol and the other one was $3500.00....more my speed, but you should have seen it. The outside wasn't so bad, but it looked like they took everything out of the inside and then put it back in with duct tape....LOLOL. Needless to say....I'll keep looking.

Gayle....I'm taking Brenna and Joey to get spayed/neutered on the 11th. I get to bring Joey home that same day, but have to leave Brenna overnight. I'm not thrilled about that at all. They do have some one that lives upstairs that keeps an eye on them at night. Sure wish it was done and over with already.

The guys will be going camping for their fundraiser this evening and won't be back until Sunday. I have to go to my nieces wedding tomorrow and don't want to go at all. 2 hours there....2 hours back. I'll have Mom with me, but now she's saying that if I don't stay for the reception....which I'm not.....she will find another way home. She can find another way to the Dr. on Monday too if that's they way she's going to be.

I love my weekends alone and this wedding is screwing up my favorite day of the week. Hopefully, I'll have more.

[DianaB]

Janet, I hope that you're able to enjoy the weekend after the wedding. I hate when things come up when I think that I have a few days to myself.

I'm sure the dogs will be fine. It is really hard to leave them especially overnight.

We're having problems with fleas in the house. They must be horrible outside because it seems like the dogs are just covered with them. I've kept up on the meds but it's just not keeping up with the problem and Dean's getting bitten when he's here. I think that I may have things undercontrol now......I've been sweeping and spraying the carpet with some flea spray and so far it seems to be working. My fingers are crossed!!! Glen's going to spray the yard again and see if that helps as well.

I have Dean again today. Dae Lynn cleans at the church and can set her won hours so I usually have him on Thursday and Friday!! He's such a good little boy now that he can move around and entertain himself. He loves the dog's water dish and found it again this morning!!! He's pulling up to almost everything but still needs to work on getting back down!!! He loves the windows in the living room because they're low to the floor and he can stand up to them and look outside!!

Yesterday Glen and I went and watched the girls volleyball game. It ended up that Kera didn't play because of a hurt shoulder so Karley and Kiley played the whole time. They have really improved since the last time I saw them play!!!

Then after that we went out and ate then went to the Homecoming Queen pageant. Since Jaci was last years queen she had to be there to pass the crown and give a little speech. She was so beautiful!!!! The pageant was different this year in the fact that they had a Lil Miss with girls 5 to 8 years old. They were voted on with money and the little girl who won was a little cutie!!

We have homecoming this weekend so it will be a full weekend!! Then we have the pastor that married Glen and I that is going to be here on Sunday. David Satterfield is one of my most favorite people!!! And I'm excited that he's going to be here!!!

[gja1000]

Janet, it is really hard to leave them at the vet overnight. We picked up Rowdy this morning and he keeps looking at us like, :eek:WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED TO ME:eek:. Bless his heart, it must be so hard not understanding what happened. He has to wear one of those cone collars because he keeps biting at the stitches. They are not visible and are the dissolve kind, but they don't want him biting at his incision. He looks so sad and uncomfortable in his collar. I bought him a pair of girl doggie panties that completely cover up the incision area so he can go without the cone for a bit. I know I shouldn't leave it covered with the panties for very long, it is better for it to be open to air, but I just have to give him a break from that cone. He is eating a little, drinking good and peeing, so I guess he is going to be OK, but it sure is hard when they don't feel good.

[lynne b]

Gayle, glad to hear Rowdy is home and on the mend, they make soft cones now which look so much more comfortable, just wonder if they work as good as the plastic ones. I have not had to much problem with my dogs needing to wear one.


Janet, it really sucks that Brenna has to stay the night, i would think that if they do the surgery first thing in the morning and had no problems she should be ok at home, but she is very tiny so better to be safe than sorry!! Glad you got their app. made, i need to do the same.

Diana, between you and Gayle you both wear me out the way you both are always coming and going, after working all week i just want to stay home on the weekends.

I did have today off due to inventory, was the reason we had to work 10hrs a day to make up for it.
I had my carpet cleaned today, 4 rooms, but they were either small areas, or just high traffic areas, it's only the 2nd time i have had someone else come in and do it and boy does it look so much better than when i do it, just in time for winter so the dogs can drag snow in on it LOL. And we all know that when you do something like that it leads to more cleaning. I only need the backsplash done in the kitchen and it will be done, just waiting on hubby which mightbe a while, like when it's to cold for him to go outside and tinker. Next room is the liveing room, it needs painted so bad, if i had had the paint i would have started doing it today since i had the room tore a part. It's never ending LOL

[Janet]

Went to the wedding yesterday. I'll post some pics in another thread later. Mom was a good girl too...lol. I was exhausted after the drive...so came home played with the dogs and went to bed early. Woke up early this morning, had a bit of a headache. I'm sitting here yawning so I may go back to bed in a bit.

[judy]

I hope all of the neutered/spayed dogs are feeling better! It is so hard to leave them at the vets overnight!

Paula, it does sound like a good idea to bring your folks to your house. How good that he is well enough to come to you at least!

Diana, Baby Dean is just growing so fast! They are so cute when they start exploring the world! I know you are enjoying every second with him. Karlie must be the cutest little school girl! Does she have a backpack and crayons?

Janet, I hope you feel better! At least the wedding is over and you can enjoy your time alone!

Gayle, Abi sounds like a real champ at volleyball. It is great that Grandma and Grandpa go to her games!

I have been in the house for the past two days. We had serious rain and flooding, although yesterday afternoon was nice. Today is also beautiful, but I may just stay in. I'm in that kind of mood. Got a lot of things done in the house, like hanging pictures and putting up curtains. Got a lot of laying on the couch time too. I am really feeling lazy, and may just go with it.

I am trying to decide whether or not to go to Florida Februrary. It is expensive, and would eat into my savings a lot. I also have not gotten my life to where I want it here socially, and I'm afraid the disruption of going away would just slow that down more. On the other hand, the thought of laying on the beach in the winter sounds wonderful.

[gja1000]

I am washing, packing, watering the plants/yard, getting ready to be gone for a few days.

I don't know if I mentioned that we are going to Arkansas for a long weekend. Gary's sisters, husbands, and aunt and uncle are all going up for the weekend (Thurs-Mon). We are driving to southern OK Wed after work to pick up Gary's aunt and uncle. Then we'll drive on to northwestern Arkansas Thursday morning - about an 8 hour drive. We have rented a big house with a view of Beaver Lake. Gary has another aunt and uncle that live on Beaver Lake, so it will be a family weekend.

The only bad part is coming home. We'll drive to southern OK next Monday, spend the night, then get up early and drive home Tuesday morning. I have class at 4:00 on Tuesday, so I am sure to be tired, but, oh well, you only live once. LOL!

Our little Rowdy is just about back to normal. He is eating well, drinking, peeing and pooping - what more can you ask! :D He seems fine and is not bothering the incision site. They sent him home in a v-collar, but I got him a pair of girl panties and we put them on him when we leave and he does fine. That collar was just horrid! During the day when we are here, he doesn't seem to bother the incision at all, although it may start to itch pretty soon, so we'll have to watch him.

[judy]

Good boy Rowdy! It sounds like he is recovering fine. Mine never wore that collar either.

I'm going to the dentist today. Driving down to the city! I have yet another new dentist - Dr. Suzuki. I think he's the 7th or 8th dentist I have had. This has been going on for about 12 years.

THIS IS GOING TO BE THE LAST YEAR!!! GRRRRR!!!!

Anyway, I love going to the city. I eat junk food all day, and then get a quick taste of NYC. On the way home, if I have time, shopping on Rte. 17 in New Jersey is fabulous! My audiobook is "The Passage."

[Janet]

Today I took Mom to her heart dr. They did an echogardiogram (I think). They use a thing with jelly on it like an ultrasound. Then on the 15th we go back and the Dr. will tell us what he saw.

I'm still coughing and it's making me crazy. I thought I was just about to stop and it's not stopping. I get so tired of peeing everytime I cough....grrrrrrr!!!!

I'm not going to post pictures of the wedding here....would just take too long. I do have them on FB so please take a look. I was so shocked to see Teressa.....she had gained sooo much. As you can tell....we're all healthy eaters...lol...but I worried when I saw Tess.

[gja1000]

Yep, the jelly with the ultrasound looking wand is an echocardiogram. Gary has to have one of those about every 6 months.

It was such a pretty day here yesterday and today. I was in and out all day yesterday watering and taking are of the plants/yard. But today I was inside at work most of the day. :(

[DianaB]

Our weekend was sooo busy but that's just the way that Homecoming is. I so enjoyed seeing our old pastor and his wife. They were like family to us and having them back home just feels so right. He told me that when he married us that he really didn't think that Glen and I would make it!! I was such a rebellious child......but I had a very patient husband and he is truly my best friend. His wife took me aside and told me how proud she was of us being so active in the church........not just us but also our family. We had a get-together Saturday night and a dinner after church so we got to visit quite a bit with them.

THIS weekend.......I'm having a Premier Designs Jewelry party on Friday. My Mom had one last spring and needed someone to book a party so I offered. The girl that puts it on does a really good job and is soooo friendly. So I'm trying to get the house in order......like always!!!

We also have Chi Alpha coming on Saturday......they are the college christian group that always comes out for a hayrack ride and stuff. They are so much fun to have around and do the coolest things!! They bring in porta-potties so the kids aren't in the house very much.

Then on Sunday evening we have Care Group.....our home Bible study group. I only have to clean the house once for all of these activities!!!.......Hopefully!!!!

Another busy weekend........that's how our weekends go in October.......we'll be busy again at the end of the month with hayrack rides for the different church groups.

Sometime or another I need to go to Wichita and buy a new dishwasher.......mine's not cleaning very good at all and so I've been washing dishes but this is getting old. Now I just need to find the time to go!!!

[judy]

It sounds like October is a wonderful month for you Diana! Filled with nice things and people all around!

I did not go out today. I went to the City yesterday. It was a good visit. So far, I like this new dentist. He already made an appointment for me in 2 weeks, and did a lot of work yesterday. Hurray!!! He said not to worry because he is Japanese, and they are very hard workers. I'll go with that!

[gja1000]

I went to the City yesterday. It was a good visit. So far, I like this new dentist. He already made an appointment for me in 2 weeks, and did a lot of work yesterday. Hurray!!! He said not to worry because he is Japanese, and they are very hard workers. I'll go with that!

He does sound like a good one! Glad you have a good dentist willing to work hard!

[DianaB]

Judy, I hope that things go well with this doctor.....and that you're good as new soon!!!

[Janet]

Since I was with Mom on Monday and running errands yesterday....today I stayed home and trying to get things done...especially laundry. Been some time since I've let it get this bad. In a few minutes...(after computer time..LOL), I'm going to get some of my cooler weather clothes out....which means I'll have to clean out my closet.

Diana....your October sounds like so much fun!!!!

Judy...I'm so happy to know you have a good dentist that is willing to work hard and get done.

Guess I'd better check out the other threads real quick and get busy again.

[paula1961]

Hey everyone!! Just wanted to say hi and I love you all! I think we all have alot going on right now! I am trying to get some cleaning done.:)

[Blueyes]

Hi everybody! This thread is a good idea, Janet. It will be a miracle if I can remember to come back here and post every day, lol! I have enjoyed catching up with all of you.

Today I worked in the yard. I cut back the monkey grass and cleaned out my front beds. In a couple of days Mike will cut back the shrubs on the ends of the house, then I'll clean all of that up. It's been so much cooler that it's tolerable outside in the mornings.

Kirby was neutered yesterday, too. He's doing fine. I haven't been making him wear his e-collar, so I'm watching him close. He sleeps in a crate at night, and he kept getting his head stuck in a corner so I let him sleep in the bed with me so I would wake up if he licked. I guess he'll sleep with me again tonight. I let Layni sleep with Mike so Kirby doesn't pester her all night, lol!

[Janet]

I didn't get my closet cleaned out yesterday. I may do it this evening. I'm afraid my depression is getting the best of me here the last few days so haven't been in the mood for much of anything.

I got some bread out of the corner lazy susan cabinet and there was evidence of mice if ya know what I mean. With the farmers in the fields...they are starting to come in from the cold. I asked for some poison to be put under the house....and it wasn't done. So now I should be cleaning it out.....just don't really care anymore.

Gave up on looking for a motorhome that I could afford....not gonna happen. Saw one for $3000 but it had water damage in the back corner. To get one that is really nice...it will cost a heck of a lot more so I've decided to give up. Maybe not being disappointed will help ease the depression some.

I came home from the bus route this morning and immediately went back to bed. I couldn't believe I went to sleep so fast. I must really needed to catch up. Usually if I lie down anytime, my mind starts running and I can't fall asleep, but it sure didn't happen that way this morning.. :) Haven't done anything else so far, but it's only 10:30 AM...I just wanted to check on everyone else.

[gja1000]

I'm sitting on a deck at a cabin on Beaver Lake Arkansas tonight. We are with Gary's family. We' ve been drinking margaritas and eating junk! I'm lucky, we have 3G phone service here so I can get on the Internet. It's so beautiful here, we are very lucky to be able to be here. Wish you all were here.

[Blueyes]

I'm glad you are having fun Gayle, and that your iPhone is working:p

Janet, you may be sleeping because of your depression. Take good care of yourself. You have to take care of YOU because we love you!!! You'll wake up feeling better soon:) So rest when you must and do what you have to, and remember that we all need you!

I worked in the yard a bit today. Then I went to Tyler, about an hour and 15 minutes away, to a Therapet volunteer orientation. It was really good, and I know I will love doing this with Kirby! Everything has fallen in to place just like it should. I was able to find Tink and make the trip to pick up Kirby, and he's everything I wanted. It will probably be a year before he is ready to actually go to work, but we'll spend that time training and getting to know the Therapet people. This has been my plan all along to keep me sane after my kids left. So far, so good!

[DianaB]

Janet, have you ever talked to your doctor about your depression? There are some meds that will help with that. I'm on one and I feel more like myself when I take it.

Go to your local Co-op and get some mouse poison called "Boot Hill". It comes in little packets. Then take a packet and dump it under the house.......probably in a side vent. Do that a couple more times in the winter and I guarantee that you won't have any problems with mice!!

Betsi, I'm so glad that Kirby is working out so well!!! It's going to be rewarding when you can actually put him to work and see what all your effort is going for!!!

Gayle, it sounds so relaxing to be sitting on a porch in Arkansas!!! I can picture all of you chatting and laughing!!! Have a good time!!! That's so cool that your phone can still get service and you can get on here too!!!

I gotta' go.......more cleaning yet to do........my jewelry party is tonight!!!

[Janet]

Gayle....it sounds wonderful so please share some pictures with us. I've never been to Arkansas and would love to see the beauty.

Betsi....I've often thought of having a therapy dog. I took Joey a few times to the nursing home when my mother-in-law was there. Everyone loved him. He wouldn't have made a good therapy dog though....lol...whenever a nurse came in, he barked trying to protect my MIL...lol.

Diana...I'm already taking Prozac and when things get to me too bad...I add a little Xanax. I'm feeling much better today. Even got the bedroom cleaned and a dresser I got at an auction in a spot where it looks nice. Now I need to go through drawers and the closet. Tomorrow though...it's suppose to be 81 so I'm going to shampoo the living room carpet and hallway. Feels so good to feel like doing something again...yay!!!

[gja1000]

We went fishing today in the White River and we caught LOTS of rainbow trout. It was so much fun! It's a little warm, 82, but that's OK. It's really cool in the morning and evening. We are having a great time. Eating too much, but I guess I can diet when I get home, right?

[Janet]

Fishing has always been my favorite thing of all time to do, but you know....I haven't fished in probably 5 or 6 years....maybe longer. I loved sitting along the bank at night for catfish (bullhead or channel) and loved walking the creeks in my waders for bass. I really need to start doing some of the things I use to love. I think one of the main reasons I quit is because as I got older....lol...the bugs just got on my nerves... :D

[gja1000]

Janet, Gary told me the other day that he needed to go fishing and if he couldn't, I might as well dig a hole and put him in it. LOL! The point is that fishing feeds his soul and he's going to do it as long as he possibly can. I think we all need to do whatever feeds our soul, otherwise we may be just miserable.

[Blueyes]

That is so true Gayle. Janet..GO FISHING!!

I'm on the computer, and watching Mike trying to install a bigger doggy door. The outside door is metal... It's fast becoming a comedy of errors:p Of course he doesn't thing it's too funny. He's gone to buy another blade, lol!

I don't know what we'll do this afternoon. I personally would like to go back to bed:rolleyes:

[Janet]

You know Betsi....you should be video taping Mike...lol.

Gayle...My Dad passed away with a fishing pole in his hand. My parents and some camping friends of their went to Traverse City, Michigan for a fishing/camping trip. They were down at the bank fishing when my Dad started making some grunting noise and their friend told my Dad to quit goofing off, because he was always teasing her. He was grunting for air, was lying on his back and had a heart attack and passed away doing something he loved doing.


I did get my living room and hall carpet cleaned today and everything is moved back in. With temps in the 80's and fans everywhere....it dried pretty quick. Right now I'm just cooling off and then I'm headed for the shower.

[judy]

I have been busy for the past few days. My summer friends came up because of the 3 day weekend. I ran for the Board of Directors of the condo, but I lost! My friends were wonderful about it, and so were Jessie and Mackenzie. A lot of people were upset that I didn't win, which, let me tell you, took a lot of that pain away! My ego is bruised because that's human nature, and I am angry that they voted in a fuddy duddy lawyer instead of me. The other woman who won is very nice, and I think I made a new friend. She is up here about 3 weeks each month, and I like her a lot. I will run again next year.

I spent time with my friends, went to a fiddling festival yesterday that was just amazing! There is nothing like live music. Jay Ungar and Molly Mason were there. They have played for 3 presidents, and won an emmy for "Ashokan Farewell." It is such a beautiful song. Check it out here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hyoYQ7EMdY

I did nothing today. I was supposed to go to a women's center dinner, but lazed out.

[Janet]

I had trouble getting the video to come up so as soon as I get done....I'll just go directly to youtube.

Today I picked up Brenna from the Vet. She's a little sore and not moving around much. When she does move...she scurries. I think the stitches pull some and it bothers her. She is eating and doing well. Joey seems to be back to his ole self already....can't believe how well he is doing.

Ricky is out in a tree stand with his bow...waiting on some defenseless deer to walk by. I've just not done a whole lot of anything today. Tomorrow I get my hair cut and then probably laundry since I haven't done any since Sunday.

[DianaB]

Sorry gals.....I've been busy still!! I had my jewelry party on Friday and was surprised at the good turn out!! I had 13 adults show up and had two orders before the show!! We had a lot of fun with the girls really acting up!! I'm not sure how good my sales were but we're closing the show tomorrow and I'll know then.

We had Chi Alpha here on Saturday. They came about 1:00 and stayed until about 11:00!!! They forgot the porta-potties so I had the kids in the house but they are so polite and great kids that I really didn't mind. I went out and watched them carve pumpkins!! So funny......remember these are college students and one carved a pumpkin "pi"!!!

I got to talk to several of them......from Germany, Africa, India, Haiti, and some Orientals.....and maybe others. It's always so interesting!!

Sunday we had church then went out to eat at our favorite Chinese restaurant in a local town then went to Wal-mart with Dae Lynn and Damon. Then we made it back to town in time for church again. We had an evangelist Sunday through Tuesday. He was really good!!!

I called an antique mall in Joplin and reserved a glass case for me to put some of my things in. I'm not selling hardly anything here in Fredonia so I'm going to move a lot of it to a bigger store so I'm pricing some stuff to take over there on Thursday.

Life has just been crazy lately!! The good news is that I'm feeling really good and have lost a little bit more weight!! Now if I can just keep my sanity through October!!!!

[gja1000]

I'm hoping to plant some broccoli and cauliflower today. It's a bit late, but I think it will do OK. The plants for both are so beautiful that even if it doesn't make any food, that's OK.

I worked in the yard most of the day yesterday, watering mostly. We are pretty dry not having any rain to speak of in the last month. I'm ready for some!

[Janet]

Today...I haven't done much of anything. I had bought a 3-wheel scooter at an auction that I thought would be nice for my Mom or my older brother Jerry. It's 5 years old and doesn't look like it's been rode on at all. Even the tires still have the little nipple things on them. This is what I bought... http://www.aeromobility.com/sonic-scooter.html I only paid $60.00 for it. My brother wanted to pay me more, but he's my brother and I didn't buy it to make a profit. I just asked him for the $60 I paid and to let Mom use it once in awhile. So....everyone is happy.
I'm always happy when my brother comes out to the house....I really love that guy!

[gja1000]

WOW! You got a STEAL. Way to go Janet!!!

I did plant my cauliflower and broccoli. Then I went to the sporting goods store and bought some running shoes for my granddaughter. She says she's going to start running, but I doubt it, we'll see.

[DianaB]

You got a buy, Janet!!!!! Too bad that you didn't make a profit on it but I understand when it's family......

We went to church this morning and out to eat afterwards. Then we took a washer and two dryers to a little town about 25 miles away.......Dae Lynn had a garage sale yesterday and sold them for $10.....ALL of them........but the guy didn't pick them up........Well, Glen didn't know that and he went to town and got the trailer and brought it home with the three appliances on it. It ended up that Dae Lynn had the guys name and we ran them up to him......it probably cost us more than $10 to haul them up to him. LOL......However, Glen had a cousin that just passed away and her home was up near there and it's been for sale for awhile and we checked to see what it needs to sell. I think that we're going to talk to her daughter about cleaning it up and finding out what she wants done with everything because she lives in Georgia. It was really hard to be in Karen's home knowing that she's not coming back. She was a very dear friend to me and I'm going to miss her.

Then we weren't too far from Jaci's house so we called her and she and Nate were working in the field so we went by and visited with them for awhile. I think that she was really tickled that we showed up. Boy....I sure miss having that girl around.

We missed going to church this evening because it was a special service for one of the girls at church. Now I need to price some things for the new antique mall that I have a booth in. Dae Lynn, the kids, and I are going to Jopling tomorrow to put some stuff in. Keep your fingers crossed that I sell something!!!!

[Janet]

I just loved the sound of your weekend Diana....you always seem to have something fun to do. I hope you sell lots of items.

[gja1000]

It's been a busy day. Gary had an appt at the heart failure clinic and they are all in agreement, that his shortness of breath and activity intolerance last week was NOT due to his heart failure - which is good - but what the HECK caused it??? They think it is his lungs - but what caused his lungs to act up so violently???? We see the pulmonary doc tomorrow - but I know we aren't going to get any answers........ It probably was related to the fever he had - maybe a virus - I sure hope he doesn't get any more of those viruses. At least he is feeling better and his oxygen levels are normal (for him) when he is at rest (sitting in his lazy boy chair) so that is good. His oxygen is still dropping too low when he gets up and walks around, but I think it is getting better.

I had a cyst on my back removed this afternoon. I've had this darned thing since I was a teenager. It was always there, but didn't cause any problems. Well about a month ago, it swelled up almost like a golf ball :eek:. I went to the dermatologist and had to get cortisone injections and antibiotics to calm it down so they could remove it. The procedure (in the office) to remove it was today and it turned out to be a double cyst, so it took longer and they wrestled with it more than they thought they would have to. There is a small chance it will come back, since it was double - but hopefully not! I'm going to have a sore back for a few days.

[DianaB]

I hope that Gary's alright but I think that it's good that you check it out and make sure. You DO take such good care of him!!!

You didn't mention that you had a cyst!!!! A golf ball sized one!!!! That's pretty big!! A double cyst.....does that mean that there were two of them together? I bet that would be harder to remove.......I hope it goes away and you don't have any more trouble with it. Hugs!!!

[gja1000]

We are in the lung doc's office. They think maybe this might be garys asthma without the common asthma symptoms. They did the lung tests and now he just finished a breathing treatment, then they will repeat the lung tests. I hope this is the cause of his shortness of breath cuz it sure is frustrating to not know what is going on

Yep, it was a big double cyst. Hopefully it is gone forever.

[DianaB]

Dae Lynn, Karlie, Dean, and I went to Joplin yesterday. I rented a locked case and I took some of my flea market stuff over there. It's quite a ways from us but it's a really large flea market and they have a LOT of people that go through there. I sure hope that I start getting some stuff sold. I had talked to a woman that works there a few months ago and she recommended that I rent a both for Oct., Nov, and Dec. because people will be Christmas shopping.....she also said that they have a special group of sellers that come through and buy a lot!!

We had a good time and Karlie was pretty good......anyway until she got tired.....then she gets hyper!! We shopped at Kohl's, Target, and Walmart. We took Karlie to a pet store and she got to play with a couple of puppies and we got to sit and rest for awhile!! Then we ate at Olive Garden. It was a fun day but I'm not used to shopping with the kids.......I was worn out by the time we got home!!!

[Janet]

I called and spoke with a good friend today...it had been a little while. Did a bunch of cleaning and some laundry. Still need to get a few things done. I want to have the house cleaned by the weekend so no work will have to be done to the house. We have Monday off for a teacher day so it will be a longer fun weekend.

[Blueyes]

I sure like coming here to see what's up with everybody:)

Mike has been gone to our friends ranch in the Hill Country since last Thursday. I don't think he intended to stay this long, but he's been working on his feeders that were torn up by the neighbors longhorns that came through the fence:rolleyes: I don't think I have ever stayed at home by myself this long...and you know what..I don't mind a bit, lol! I'm sure it's because I know he'll be coming back!

I have a big, single sink in my kitchen. I just gave Kirby his LAST bath in there, because he's just too big, lol! I wished for my camera, but I couldn't turn him loose to get it:p He weighs 30 lbs and is really tall. He's doing good with his training, but I'll be glad when he's past the puppy stage!

[DianaB]

I can just picture you with a sink full of Kirby.....soap up to your elbows.......and a wiggly dog trying to jump out!!! Too bad that you didn't get a picture.....but then again the one in my head may be funnier than if you did post a picture!!!

I never liked the puppy stage.......something always gets chewed up.....like computer cords....or shoes!!!! I was very happy when the dogs outgrew that stage!! Hang in there......you have about 7 more months!!!!

[Janet]

I'm going away for the weekend so today I did some packing and my son is changing the oil in the car, rotating the tires and making sure the tires have the right amount of air, including the spare tire, just in case. I have been wanting to get away for soooo long and finally I can.

Didn't think I would have the money to go, but then....the Christmas Club check arrived in the mail and I thought...."MERRY CHRISTMAS JANET!!!!" I'm leaving right after I get home on Thursday and won't be home until Monday. I'm so excited!!!!

[Lindsey]

Janet, where are you going???

[gja1000]

Yeah Janet, where are you going???

We are going to Ft. Worth this weekend to pick up our pick up that we left in Arkansas. Gary's aunt and uncle drove it to southern Oklahoma where they live and will meet us at another uncle's house in Ft. Worth. We'll spend at least one night, maybe two, coming back on Sat. or Sun.

Gary is doing OK. Can't remember if I updated you that whatever happened to him in Arkansas was NOT his heart (good news) - but then what the heck was it???

They think perhaps it was a virus that caused his lungs to swell - I'm not convinced that is it - but they started him on a short does of steroids to see if that helps his shortness of breath. If it does, then that was probably the cause. The steroids will decrease any swelling or inflammation of the lungs. I hope so, because just like Lindsay, I'm tired of mystery diagnoses!!!

[gja1000]

We are in Ft. Worth at gary's uncle's. His other aunt and uncle brought our pickup down from Oklahoma. I am the chief cook and bottle washer for the weekend. Gary and I would be happy going out to eat. But his uncle likes to feed us. Trouble is he is 82 and can cook the meat ( brisket, ribs, etc). And he didn't pay any attention to food for the rest of the meal. LOL! He's not married so there is no one to think about such things. Gary's aunt from Oklahoma is a bit ditzy and not much help.

So while I didn't plan to have a busy cooking/cleaning weekend, it's OK as they are all having a good time. Both of Gary's uncles are wood carvers, so they are trying to help Gary, who is just getting into it. I think Gary could be real good at it and it would give him something else to do. So, I can sacrifice my services for this cause. LOL!

[gja1000]

Also, it is cool, cloudy, rainy, and thundery here. Wonderful weather.

And right now, it is pouring down rain. I need to take a nap! LOL!

[gja1000]

Ah! What a lazy Saturday. Dozing in the chair, rain and thunder outside, football on the TV. My football team got beat today and I don't even care! LOL!

[Blueyes]

Gayle, wood carving sounds like just the think for Gary! What a great idea:)

I'm waiting for the rain to get here. It had better NOT go just north of us:eek: I want to crawl in bed with my book and listen to the rain and thunder!! LOL, times have sure changed! I used to want to crawl into bed with my husband during a storm:kiss4:

[gja1000]

LOL! Betsi, you are too funny!

[DianaB]

We had rain yesterday evening and last night. The sound of it was so nice!! I can't believe the weather we've had this weekend........so nice!!!! Janet and I have really enjoyed it!!

Last night we drove over to Amy's and Dae Lynn's and Janet met their families. I think that she enjoyed Dean and Karlie!!! We're thinking that Karlie should go home with Janet for a couple of weeks then we'll come and get her........ROFL!!!!!

This morning we ran in to some garage sales but since it rained they'd didn't have them so we went out to the VFW to an auction but we didn't find anything there either. We stopped by Feyn's house and Janet met his family and we went to my MIL's house and looked around at where the wedding was at and Janet met my MIL.......oh.....and she met two of Glen's brothers, Mark and Burke. We came home rested a little, ate lunch, and visited. Then we went in to a purse party!!! It was those Meshi purses where you can change the covers!! I ended up buying one and a couple of covers......plus I booked a party.......kick me!!!! We drove around a little bit then came home and visited some more!!!

Jaci ended up going out of town so Janet didn't get to meet her. I was so disappointed but.......Janet will just have to come back another time to meet her and Nate!!!

Janet's not real happy about driving back home........it IS really far!! We're considering selling her van and buying her a plane ticket!!!!!!! She swears that she'll never drive it again!!! LOL


Gayle, I think that carving would be a wonderful new hobby for Gary.........as long as he doesn't cut himself..........otherwise it could get a little expensive!!!!! You'll have to take some pictures when he gets something done!!

Betsi.....you crack me up!!!! Sadly I think that we all feel that way!!!!!!

[Janet]

Well...let's see....I did the same as Diana...lol...so just read her post. I did meet everyone except Jaci and Nate. Diana has a large family and everyone was so nice and made me feel right at home.

I am nervous about the drive home, but hopefully with God as my co-pilot...everything will be fine. I did sleep very well last night. Also...need to say that Diana is a very good cook and she wouldn't let me do anything. We had Taco soup and some kind of chicken casserole and both were just sooooo good and easy to make.

I would love to come here again, maybe in springtime when the garage sales are going full swing, but I'll fly...no more of this driving long distances.

Please keep me in your prayers for my ride home.

[Blueyes]

I'm so glad you girls are having fun! You'll be fine on your way home Janet. Aren't you proud of yourself for doing something you really wanted to do, even though it made you nervous?

[gja1000]

You'll do fine Janet. Don't worry too much. I love to drive and take long driving trips. I don't like to drive long distances all in one day though. I like to drive about five hours then stop and go again the next day. If we lived closer I would drive with you, Janet!

[lynne b]

I'm glad you guys had fun this weekend, to bad you didn't have more time together. Janet drive safe on the way home.

[gja1000]

We got home about 4:00 this afternoon. It's such a boring 3-hour drive straight south on I35. The traffic is always bad on a Sunday afternoon too. Anyway, we made it safe and sound.

Gary got some wood carving books and a couple of tools. He's going to be looking for a wood carving class in Austin - hope he can find one soon while he is enthused about it.

His uncle had a double rocking/reclining love seat and we just loved it. I don't sit and watch TV very much, but it would be perfect for those times that I do. And when I am not sitting in it, it would be perfect for two little Yorkie boys, who are always on this lap!

[Janet]

I arrived safely home around 9:20 this evening. Long 12 hour drive, but much easier coming home than going to Kansas. Had a lovely visit, but much too short. Next time will definitely fly.

[gja1000]

So glad you got home safely - that IS a LONG drive!!! Glad you got to visit with Diana though!

[DianaB]

We had a good time but it sure seemed short!!

I thought for a while that we were going to be selling Janet's van so she could fly home!!! It is a LONG trip!!! I think that it was a good trip for her......she was even missing her Mom before she went home!!!

Janet, I'm glad that you're back home all safe and sound.

[Blueyes]

I woke up this morning thinking about you Janet. I'm so glad you got to go see Diana, and that you made it home fine. 12 hours is an awfully long drive by yourself!

[Janet]

Betsi, it sure is a long drive....so the next time I'm planning on flying that way I can stay longer and not be so nervous. The drive home was always in the back of my mind and I worried about it.


Let's see...today I cleaned my house. I don't think they did anything at all. Oh excuse me...my husband did do his own laundry. The floors needed swept so I ran the sweeper and mopped the kitchen and bathrooms. Dusted, been doing laundry all day...gave 5 dogs a bath (no grooming) and then myself. Over the weekend the dogs must have been left in their crates a little too long and had gone potty in them. So....I woke Ricky up and made him clean them out. He had to wash them outside. I had asked him if they had 'gone' in their crates and he said he checked and all was clean. The two crates that had the mess were Emily and Ozzie, they even had some of it on them. So I just washed their bedding and gave them ALL a bath.

I knew it would be like this when I came home....so I wasn't disappointed.....just pissed!

[Marilyn]

Just thought I'd check in and read a few posts and see how everyone is doing.

Gayle, so glad that Gary seems to be better and that it wasn't his heart.
Lindsey, so glad that Layla is progressing so well!!!
Janet, so nice that you were able to go visit with Diana!!!
Diana, so nice that Janet was able to visit and that you had a nice time!!!
Janet, wonderful that you got home safely.

I hate to leave anyone out, but I'm still catching up on everyone.

We've been extremely busy traveling and such.

October 1 we went to Dallas for a dear friend's wedding. She's the daughter of my best friend, so we had to be there. Our daughter, Karen, was a bridesmaid, so she flew to Dallas and came home with us for the weekend and flew out of Austin, back to California. There was a wedding here in Victoria on Oct. 2 nd that we attended also. Oct 6 & 7 I had a business trip to NJ. It was a quick up and back, just spent one night, but had to drive home late from the Houston airport, made for a very long day on the 7th.

October 15 and 16, Rex and I traveled back to Dallas for a state builder's show and meeting. Rex was on the state board the past year, his term just ended. His birthday was on the 17th, so we celebrated while we were in Dallas. It was nice to get away, just the two of us with no dogies or anyone.

October 19 we flew to California for Carlton's homecoming. Carlton is Karen's husband, and he made it back safely from Afghanistan. The last two months of his deployment were very dangerous. He was in Sangin where all the heavy fighting is taking place. They were being fired upon by snipers and others, and had no food. They couldn't get provisions in by air or land due to the heavy resistance. They killed chickens and goats and lived off the land. At times they made a meal off boiled onions. He lost 40 lbs. It was quite an experience and he is very glad to be home. He arrived on the 20th and we flew home on the 22nd.

This weekend, we rested and I tried to catch up on a few things. Yesterday we had a fellowship meal after evening worship, so had to prepare food to take.

Next weekend is heavy duty cleaning to get ready for Karen and Carlton to come visit for 3 weeks or so. They should be here on November 10 or 11 and will stay through Thanksgiving. Hopefully he will get leave again for Christmas.

Melissa and Garrett are doing very well. Garrett has a new higher paying job and Melissa is working hard in nursing school.

I know this is long and if you don't read it all, I understand. It's just been a very hectic month.

We are so relieved though to have Carlton home!!!! It was quite a weight worrying about him and Karen. I thought it would be easier when they are grown, but you only have more to worry about it seems.

Love to you all!! I'll get busy reading and catching up on everyone else.

[gja1000]

WOW! Marilyn, you really have been very busy - but in a GOOD way!!!

I had no idea Carlton's deployment in Afghanistan was so dangerous. I just can't imagine. There are not many people who have to learn to live off the land anymore - what an experience. I'm so glad that he is home safe and sound.

It sounds like you will have a wonderful fall with Karen and Carlton home and Melissa and Garret so close. It's not often that extended families get to be together so much during the holiday season!

I'm so glad you checked in - I think about you and wonder how you and your family are doing!

[DianaB]

I'm glad that you checked in, Marilyn!! You sure have been busy!! I'm glad to hear that all's good with Karen's husband. I'm sure that everyone's thrilled to have him back home safe and sound. Enjoy your time with your family........just don't take so long to come back on here!! Hugs to you and your family!!

[Janet]

So glad you've checked in Marilyn. We missed you and would like to see you here more often. Wonderful news that Carlton made it home safe and sound. What a horrible ordeal he had to go through. Praying it has no lasting effects.

[Marilyn]

Thank you for your kind words and it is nice to be missed. Carlton has a really good outlook on life, and he's just so very glad to be home and enjoying being here. He says he will probably be jumpy for a while when he hears a sudden loud noise, and feels he needs to duck sometimes when he's outside but I really don't think he will have any longterm really negative effects. It's just made him even more appreciative of life. Some of the guys are messed up, but Carlton left having just married Karen in December. He had chased her for a while and at first she was very resistant and had ditched him more than once, so when they married, it was like he'd won the grand prize. Karen realized through his persistence that she had misjudged and that he's pretty special, too. There are some differences to work through, but they are obviously very very happy. He had lots of supportive family and a new special life to come home to. Many of the guys didn't have good relationships with family so for them it was different.

[JJJ]

Today someone made me some pancakes (unexpected) and I went early to vote :D

[Janet]

This morning I ran my route....came home...tripped over an x-pen and then went to vote. Didn't really do much else so far today except run the afternoon route. Just didn't have a whole lot of ambition today...maybe tomorrow...maybe not...LOL.

[gja1000]

Today Gary and I ate breakfast at our favorite Mexican restaurant - migas, beans and potatoes. MMMMM! Then I went to school. I had office hours this afternoon and I had a parade of my students in and out of my office all afternoon. They have a paper due in a couple of weeks, and that always brings them out of the woodwork.

Then I had class from 4-7 and it was a fun class. I love my students and have a really good time with them.

Gary went to the acreage house inspection this afternoon and everything is in excellent shape. There are a few termites in a tiny area of the steps of the wood shop out back. It is not unexpected as it is way in the back of the property next to an undeveloped wild area. It will only cost a little to eradicate them and we can ask the sellers to do that. There are none in the main house and it is very far away from the shop. We had termites in a shed in our back yard here at the house we live in now, and was is VERY close to our main house - but no termites in the our main house either. We only found them when we had the shed taken down. No telling how long they had been there.

[Janet]

So far today I have gotten all my phone calls made that needed to be made. Made an appt. for Ozzie and Gidget to get neutered/spayed for the 12th, checked with Anthem to see if Ricky was still covered, found out for sure when my hair appt. is and checked on a friend. Waiting on the bedding shop to open so I can call and see if they sell bed rails for a twin bed. Way past time on getting Rick moved to another room so it's time. The snoring is still horrible and I'm done with it.

Trying to get some laundry done and then plan to clean some drawers out. I do have some chicken breasts layed out to thaw so I can fix the chicken casserole this evening for supper. I can hardly wait because it was so good!! Hopefully I won't screw it up...lol

[gja1000]

Janet, I bet the chicken was delish!

I got a lot done at school today - tomorrow will be a busy day, so won't get much of my own things related to class done - so I tried to do as much as possible today.

After I got home, Gary and I went to the new house to look at a couple of things. It is really cool here this evening, and cloudy. It's only about 55 with a VERY brisk wind, so it feels really cold to us thin-blooded Texans! LOL!

Then we went to Home Depot to look at tile. I'm still deliberating about the color of tile to put in the new house.

After that, we met the kids at a Mexican restaurant for dinner. My enchalidas were just so so - but Emma's french fries were really good! :D

Now, I'm too tired to do much of anything, so I'm veging out in front of the computer.

[DianaB]

I went to Dae Lynn's this afternoon to try and finish our painting. Ha ha!!! It seemed like something came up every little bit to interfere so we didn't get as far as we would have liked. I'll have to go back next week and get it finished.

One of the things I had to do was go to town and pick up Feyn's kids, Karley, Kiley, and Elijah. When they got to Dae Lynn's Dean was so glad to see them that he gave them lots of slobbery kisses!! Elijah got more than his share......I guess Dean was happy to see another boy!!!

After that I came home and got ready and went in to church. I'm in the nursery on Wed. nights. Tonight I had Maddy, a two year old little girl that's always saying "I sorry!!" She's so cute!! And I also had a 1 year old little boy named Hunter. He got tired so I gave him a bottle and he fell asleep. I guess that he'd been out with his Papa on the combine and had a big day. After church we ran to the grocery store and then took little Karlie home!!

And now......here I am......up too late on the computer...................AGAIN!!!!!

[gja1000]

Whew! Diana, you make me tired just reading your posts. Where do you get your energy, girl!!!

[Janet]

That's what I'd like to know...I need some of that energy. I didn't get the casserole made last night because I looked at the motorhome, so I'm fixing it today for Ricky and I for lunch.

Don't really have anything that absolutely needs done today.... so I may not do anything at all. I don't know.

[DianaB]

Whew! Diana, you make me tired just reading your posts. Where do you get your energy, girl!!!

I think that I've been sleeping better and therefore I feel better. I have some sleep apnea but if I sleep on my stomach then I don't have much trouble. I've been doing that since last spring and it really has made a difference in how I feel. I also think that it's helping me lose a little weight because I do feel like doing things.

I love doing things with Dae Lynn and the kids......she's like a best friend right now and willing to go and do things with me. I enjoy that. I also enjoy helping my kids out with whatever they're doing!!

I was also thrilled to pick up Feyn's kids after school. They are sooo much fun to be around but are so busy with other things that I don't see them as much as I should even though they just live down the road from me.

Today I have Dean while Dae Lynn cleans at the church. Just him and me!! I'm finding out that my house isn't very baby-proof!!! I really need to be cleaning because I have care group on Sunday evening and I think that we have another hay ride on Friday evening.....plus we have harvest going on so I'm on call to help do shuffling and other things!!

I'm also trying to get some things priced to take to my flea market booths......and it's going very slowly. I'll probably be going to Joplin next week sometime........Boy....I AM busy!!!!!

[Lindsey]

Looks like we've all been keeping busy!

I took yesterday off work because work has slowed down so much. My dad came into town Monday night and had a doctor's appointment here Tuesday. So after work we met at my grandma's house, with my brother, his girlfriend, and the little girls, and my aunt and uncle, and we ordered some pizza :) Then 8 of us went to a hockey game. The 6 year old brought in a little notepad and pen, and she was just drawing away, and then she put it up in the air with a huge smile on her face... she had written "GO CANADA GO" hahahahaha! It wasn't exactly "Canada" playing, but we were playing an American team (Spokane) so I guess it worked!

Scott and I went back to my grandma's house to play cards with my dad, uncle, and grandma for a few hours, and we spent the night there. Scott got up early to go to work, and I slept in until 8:30 and then went for breakfast with my dad and grandma. Then we went shopping. I found some great deals on last year's model of snowboards and bindings, so I think I will buy one this weekend! We also went to find a new dining room table for my grandma, and did lots of other random shopping with my dad. We went out to eat after everyone else was off work and then my dad was going to head home and we also headed home.

It was probably 8:30 or so when we got home, and I still had dishes to do (we had a boil water advisory for the past week, so there's a counter full of dishes to wash!) but I just loaded up the dishwasher a little more and ran that... I'll hand wash the big stuff tonight.

This morning felt like Monday lol! The 4-hour webcast meeting didn't help first thing when I got to work, but I can just think there's only one more day and then the weekend! I should really take every Wednesday off lol... it breaks up the week nicely!

[Janet]

I have to confess that I after I came home from the bus route (and getting my flu shot) that I came home and slept most of the time. I woke up at 1:00, ate some lunch and then went to pick up the kids.

[Lindsey]

I slept in this morning :eek: Oops. Somehow my alarm was shut off. Scott's went off once but neither of us remember hearing it. We use our cell phones for alarms because the power goes out so often. Somebody called (wrong number) and we both wondered who would be calling so early. Then he said "Look at the time on your phone!" I looked... 7:59 :eek: Work starts at 8! I got ready as fast as possible, drove into town, and we were both an hour late :rolleyes: But we're both well rested! :D

[judy]

Sounds like the crazy work hours you were having have gone away Linds! Great! Relaxing is so important.

Isn't if fun to have the kids over Diana? I would just love to get a wet Dean kiss! How cute he sounds!

I had mine on the weekend, and they are just so much fun! I am beginning to teach them to get their own drinks, snacks, etc. The two little ones seem to ask for something every other minute, and my legs hurt! Mackenzie can do it for them, but I like to give her a break when she comes here. So much falls on her at home. I bought an air mattress, and Brandon and Kassidy sleep on that on the living room floor, while I sleep on the couch. They are afraid to sleep without me, and my bed is too small for all 3 of us. This works out great, and Mackenzie has her room upstairs and feels so grown up! Jess and Steve have not been getting along, so they needed a couple of days to talk. They made up, so it was a good weekend for all.

Yesterday, I put thermal curtains up on all my downstairs windows. I had to shorten the kitchen drapes, but I used velcro to hem them. I hate sewing! I used those spring rods for the windows, so there was no hanging of rods. I did put a rod up over the patio doors, which 1) stayed up and 2) came out even! It seems that wall is not easy to screw things in, but I figured it out. I will glue the screws in if I have to! I can do these things, but this is the first curtain rod job I did. Anyway, I think it is much warmer already. I hope they help because I am really cheap about spending money on fuel! It is very dark in here now, but it is so cozy too. I can open the patio drapes anyway if I want. The drapes are from Family Dollar. They go behind my real curtains, so why spend money on them? The patio drapes were on sale in jcpenney.

Today, I am going to hang a mirror on my bathroom door. Wish the door luck!
Then, I may hang a big picture I found at a flea market and framed.

Either the walls will collapse or it will all work!

[DianaB]

It sounds like you had a good time with the kids, Judy!! I keep kids glasses at a lower level so that even the little kids can get their own drink. It works out great and I don't have to get up and down.

It sounds like you're still decorating!! Wish I was there to help you put up the curtains and the pictures. I love doing that stuff!!

I use a lot of tension rods too. I don't like having the marks on the walls and they work great!!!

You know......I haven't forgotten about your little tin box. I got to a place where I didn't know what to do but I will get it finished after Christmas. What I have done is so cute and I know that you'll love it.....it's just figuring out the last little bit!!!


Lindsey....I'm sure that after all of your long hours that there's very little that could be said about you coming in an hour late!!!


I woke up with a headache this morning. We've got a flu that's going around our family and I hope that's not what I have. I wish that it would either get better or worse because I have to clean for care group on Sunday evening. If I get worse then they'll have to find another place to have it....or....if it gets better than I'll feel like cleaning. Bummer!!!!

[Janet]

Let's see...what did I do today...oh...laundry as usual, put dishes away, paid bills, read the first 6 chapters of Matthew, played on computer some and then took a nice long hot bath. Now I'm back on the computer. The boys are with the Scout troop but I don't think they are spending the night.....bummer.

[gja1000]

I ran around looking at some more tile today. I think I have found what I want, but now am trying to find it at a cheaper price. Here is a link to a site where there are some good pictures of the tile. We like the darker color, Desierto the best, but if we go with this tile, we will put down a few of the lighter Saguro tiles, just scattered in ramdomly. http://www.marazzitile.com/series/super-saltillo/docFile

After running around, it was time for Emma's birthday party at Arrowhead Ranch. Oh My! 10 four year olds. It was a lot of fun. There were pony rides and stage coach rides. Here is the link http://www.arrowheadranchonline.com/index.html. You can see the little red stage coach. Believe it or not, that was the kids' favorite. I think they were a little afraid of the horses, although there was a little shetland pony. Of course, Emma rode the horses a dozen times! There were also goats, chickens, and rabbits to pet and feed. Then they went into the "barn" for cake and presents. It was a very easy party and the kids had lots of fun!

After the party, Gary and I went to the new house. They inspected the septic system on Thursday and it had some problems that were fixed on Friday, so we went by today to look things over. The inspector still has to come back on Monday to sign off on the inspection, so it hasn't been covered yet. They didn't make as big a mess of the yard over it as I thought they would. I know we are going to have to do some work on the septic in the future, but I think it will be OK for 4-5 more years.

Finally, we came home and are watching TV. Kansas State is beating up on my football team. :(. My other team is getting beat too, so it's not a very good football day. I need to go to the grocery store, we don't have any milk or bread! :eek:

[Janet]

Today I spoke with Lynne for a bit and then went to Lafayette. Bought one of those utility tubs to give the dogs a bath in. I was giving them one in the bathtub, but it's getting harder on my knees and back. This should make it much easier. Bought a couple light bulbs...lol..how exciting.....right? LOL. Felt good to get out. Hadn't really been out by myself since I went to Diana's. Now I'm watching the Colts game.

[paula1961]

Well yesterday I went and met my son who had my Mom with him. Now she is here with me!!! Tomorrow we are leaving for Tennessee. She wants to go see the Christmas lights! We will be camping there until Friday.:p We're gonna have fun. She deserves a little getaway time after the past several months. I know it's only been 3 weeks since Dad passed away but she really needs to get a way for a few days and she absolutely loves Christmas lights.....and there are over 5 MILLION lights there from Nov thru Jan.
I will post pics:D
Today we packed the camper after I took her to church. It has been a good day:)

[DianaB]

Gayle, the tiles look great!! Can't wait to see them in your home!!!..........What a great place for a birthday party!! I bet the kids all loved it!!!........I have one other thing to say...........GO, K-State!!!!! LOL

Janet, I'm sure that you enjoyed getting out for awhile....even if it wasn't to get very much!! Who knows....you may learn to venture out more in your own area because if you can drive ALL the way here you can get around more there!!!! Have fun!!!

Paula, I'm sure that a few days away is just what your Mom needs. She's been through so much that a change of scenery will be nice not only for her but for you as well!!! The first year is always the hardest after losing a loved one. One of these days check on the internet about grieving.....it's a process and we go through many different emotions in dealing with our loss. Don't think that you're going crazy or should "just get over it" because that's not the way we deal with death. I learned so much about grieving when I had a miscarriage 20 years ago. Check it out when you're having a really tough day. Hugs!!

We went to church this morning and after church drove to Independence to eat Mexican food with Dae Lynn, Damon, and the kids. My granddaughter, Daya, came along as well. Then we went and bought dog food for Jazzi and Reuger then Dae and I went to Walmart. I picked up some food for our care group this evening. We just grilled hamburgers since we didn't have a very big group. It ended up we also had my son's church youth group at the same time for a hay ride and hot dog roast. It was pretty hectic for awhile!!! We had a good time but it was a small group.....so many were busy with other things......I'm so glad that I didn't kill myself trying to get everything perfectly clean!!

[gja1000]

...I have one other thing to say...........GO, K-State!!!!! LOL


Well they whupped Texas' butt pretty good! LOL!

[DianaB]

I didn't even know they were playing because we don't watch any sports but I just had ro kid you because they are a Kansas team!!!

[judy]

I went over to Jessie's on Saturday. The kids are sick, etc., etc., so I canceled my plans and went over there. I didn't stay more than 3 hours. I just could not stand to be around them! He is so anxious and negative over not finding work, and she has fallen into that hole too.

Yesterday, I told her I would call her when I got home and see if she needed me. I found out then that they had no heat! They have no money, and are waiting for HEAP to kick in. I told her to take my charge card and get oil asap! They have food stamps (she just told me about that too), and are applying for Child Health.

I just don't know what they are going to do. There seems to be no work up here. He applies all over the place, and doesn't get hired. He was telling me that on Monster.com there's a new scam. You apply, send in your resume, and get offers for business opportunities for $10,000! Aren't people cruel?

I am very worried about them. Of course, he could get a job tomorrow, but today he doesn't have one. I don't have enough money to help them with more than a few thousand dollars. That doesn't go far with a family of five!

I feel so bad for Jessie too. I know she doesn't feel well, and he is truly driving her crazy. He doesn't handle life well, so stress sends him into such a negative zone. Of course, he takes it out on her. They had a big talk about it last weekend. I hope he listens to what she has to say. I think he needs anti-anxiety meds. Not that I don't understand his anxiety, but it's not doing anyone any good. He has high blood pressure too.

OMG! I feel so helpless. I just don't know what to do for them! I know I have to be supportive and understanding, and go over there more. I just hate the negativity there. I am also scared for them. I just don't know how this will all end up.

[Janet]

Gayle.....I didn't get to see the tile...the links wouldn't come up for me for some reason.

Judy....I'm sorry things are so rough for them right now. Is there any thing they really don't need and could sell? Maybe have a 'winter' garage sale? Also...do they have to stay where they are, I mean, can he hunt for a job somewhere else? I wish I had some really good advice. So many people are out of work and suffering. Can he get himself bonded and hire himself out as a handyman? He'd have a bit of advertising expense, but it shouldn't be too bad. Didn't he put your flooring down? Can he try at a flooring store...or maybe a hardware store like Lowe's or Menard's?


Haven't done a whole lot except for dusting and running the sweeper. Did the doggie laundry today too. Now I'm just goofing off.

[DIANE W]

Judy... I am so sorry things are so tough for your daughter and her family, I dont have any advice to give, but i just wanted you to know i am thinking of you all, and praying things soon pick up for them. It is so awful, the worry and stress must be terrible for them.

[judy]

Gayle.....I didn't get to see the tile...the links wouldn't come up for me for some reason.

Judy....I'm sorry things are so rough for them right now. Is there any thing they really don't need and could sell? Maybe have a 'winter' garage sale? Also...do they have to stay where they are, I mean, can he hunt for a job somewhere else? I wish I had some really good advice. So many people are out of work and suffering. Can he get himself bonded and hire himself out as a handyman? He'd have a bit of advertising expense, but it shouldn't be too bad. Didn't he put your flooring down? Can he try at a flooring store...or maybe a hardware store like Lowe's or Menard's?


Haven't done a whole lot except for dusting and running the sweeper. Did the doggie laundry today too. Now I'm just goofing off.

Thanks for the ideas, but they have several things up for sale, he is looking downstate, although Jessie isn't going to move. The kids are happy and in a great school. He may have to work down there and come up weekends. As far as advertising, he has done that several times, and has applied to just about everywhere except McDonald's. I think it's prayer time!

[gja1000]

Judy, I'm so sorry your daughter and her family are in such a difficult situation. I just can't imagine how it must be. It must be such a helpless feeling. I would be so scared. They must keep thinking that surely something will come along. I understand Jessie not wanting to move, but if Steve finds a job somewhere else, won't it take too much of his paycheck to live in another location? I seriously don't think I could handle it. She must be very strong.

The daughter and son-in-law of a friend of mine had to close their wood working business in Missouri due to lack of business. Both had to go to work at Walmart and they barely make ends meet. Their children are grown and gone, so it's just the two of them. They are having such a hard time. It just gives me shivers to think about the hardships.

I dont' have any answers, I just feel so sorry for everyone in this situation.

[judy]

I keep hoping for the best. It would be awful if they had to move, not only for them, bit for me. I moved up here to be near them.

You just never know what life is going to give you. Now, they all have the flu, but Mackenzie is going to sing tomorrow at Cafe Night at her school. One day at a time!

[gja1000]

Today was a busy day. I had office hours this afternoon. That means that all of my students (or anyone else) can walk in to see me any time during my office hours (1:00-4:00). My students have a paper due next week, so I had a parade of them in and out of my office all afternoon. Then I had class with them 4-7. This is the last class that I have to "teach" for the semester! WHEW! Next week, they have an out of class assignment. I was supposed to be out of town next week for a conference in New Orleans, so I had told them we wouldn't meet for class. Gary was going with me, but when he got sick last month, we decided it would be best if he didn't go. So, I cancelled part of my trip and will only be going for 2 days the 21st and 22nd. The following two classes are student presentations and then the semester is over for me November 30th. Seems early! I will have a boat load (30) papers to read though starting next week! But I will have plenty of time to read them.

[Janet]

Yesterday I had a pretty productive day. The fenced area where I let the dogs out was filled with leaves so I got the blower and rake out and got busy. I honestly don't think there is one leaf left out there...lolol. Ricky then took the blower to the roof and blew out all the gutters. It was such a beautiful day to be outside.

More beautiful 70+ degree weather today so I hooked the power washer up and washed the bus and the van. Then came in...took my shower and had a nice lunch of cheetos...lol. Oh well, guess I need to get to the grocery store soon.

[gja1000]

Then came in...took my shower and had a nice lunch of cheetos...lol. Oh well, guess I need to get to the grocery store soon.

JANET! I LOVE CHEETOS!!! I eat them till my fingers are thick with orange cheese! :D

[gja1000]

Today was Emma's birthday, she is 4 now. She ordered spaghetti, cheese bread and cake for her birthday supper. The family didn't take her presents to her birthday party at the ranch last Sat. so she got to open her presents from us tonight. We had a fun evening!

[Lindsey]

Happy birthday to Emma! :)

Yesterday in our weekly meeting at work I was told again I should start thinking about taking some time off because I have hardly any work to do :( I know I have work COMING but I just don't know when! So in the meantime I tried to get in touch with the people who will be giving me work, asking if I can get it asap or if they know WHEN I might get it.... but didn't get much response. I know the admin assistants are swamped and have been getting work sent to them from another office as well, so I offered to help out where I could and have spent the last two days typing lab results and phone lists :rolleyes: At least I'm doing something and showing I can be flexible. They need help, I'll help, even if the work is pretty monotonous. Scott said "I'm not sure they want to pay you as a secretary as much as they pay you as a technologist" lol

What else bothers me is that nobody has work to do, but they've only told ME to stay home and use my banked time. All the contracted designers from Arizona? "Oh maybe you can go meet with clients and do some marketing!" I know they are engineers and I am a mere technologist, but I guarantee I know more about design in this part of the world, and I know inside out what our company does and can do because I've worked in every area. But I suppose I just need to take the time to prove myself capable! And in the meantime I will do whatever kind of work they throw my way because I really want to save my banked time for Europe!

Other than that, I'm starting to relax a lot because our house is pretty much DONE! We finished painting the last "living area" two nights ago.... the back hallway and laundry room. Scott rearranged the washer and dryer and hooked them back up last night. Tomorrow we will install our new light fixtures. The only things left unfinished are the two bathrooms and the master bedroom, which we will tackle another month. It feels so good to have so much accomplished!

We were going to go play cards with my grandma tonight, but when we called her this morning she told us she's leaving today on her bus trip to Tennessee with her sister! Lol my grandma is just always on the go! But it's good for her and I'm glad she's still traveling and doing what she wants, especially after what she's gone through lately. Good for her!

[DianaB]

Judy, I'm so sorry to hear that things are tight for Jessie's family. I know that as a parent we never quit worrying about our kids and the economy has added even more worry for them. I hope that a job becomes available soon.

Gayle, it's hard to believe that you're at semester already!! With all that you do...I forget that you're a teacher as well......with students and everything!!!

Tell little Emma Happy Birthday from me!! How special.....she got two birthday celebrations!!!

Lindsey, Wow.....you've been working hard on the house if you have so much done!!! You're gong to have to take pictures for us!!!

[Janet]

Today...... I made chocolate fudge brownies. I hadn't had brownies in a long time and then Diana made some for my visit. So today....I made some and they are sooooo good, that I hid them.... :D Thing is....I hid them right on the kitchen table and they'll never know they are there.....lol...I'm so bad.

[judy]

I used to hide my chocolate in the freezer! Nobody ever went in there except me!
Enjoy those brownies...yummy!

Linds - I also can't wait to see pictures!

Gayle - It always is amazing how fast the fall semester goes, isn't it? Do you have a winter semester? I remember grading those research papers. I used to dread it, but it really was nice to learn new things, see how far my students progressed, and especially to give A's to those who deserved it. Teaching is the most amazing thing to do, don't you think? The world is a better place for you being a teacher. Gayle!

Happy Birthday to Emma too!

Jessie called me yesterday to invite me to ago to town with her and the girls. Mackenzie needed clothes. I surprised myself by saying yes! I usually don't like spontaneity. I had such fun! Kassidy is 8, and I know that this is the end of the little girl part of her life, so I enjoy every minute of time with her. She is really so bright too! She's like a little computer. While jess and Mackenzie were clothes shopping, we ran around the Body Shoppe, trying on every sample of creams, lotions and whatnot. When we walked in, she said to me, "Testers Grandma...look for testers!" Then a saleswoman came over and Kassidy was thrilled! She and the woman were discussing the various deals and packages you could get. I was thinking, "Poor woman...it's like trying to sell body creams to 2 children who are just playing with the testers!"

Then we went on to lunch, Walmart for a million things, the girls got presents, and we finally went home. I bought Mackenzie new bedding and Kassidy got a new baby doll (who she named Ashley, by the way). When I walk with Mackenzie, we hold hands, which is so lovely. She still lets me kiss her cheek in public!

I really enjoyed the fact that I was there to help Jessie. Like I said in an earlier post, she isn't feeling well. I know I complained about being expected to help so much, but I really am enjoying the kids, and it always feels good to help someone out, especially your own child. I think making the transition from being so free to being there so much was difficult. Now that I'm in the mode, it really is a very good thing. I still feel guilty though, when I don't go over. Well...nobody promised me a rose garden!

[judy]

Today's agenda:

Bathe the dogs
Set up the invisible fence for the dogs (I have an indoor transmitter, and have to figure out where to put the flags outside. I hope I don't get in trouble for putting up flags).
Laundry
Give myself a facial
Hang a picture
Clean up

Not too bad at all!

[Janet]

Sounds like you have enough to keep you busy Judy.

Today I cleaned the kitchen good. I love clean looking countertops..:) I was going to go get some groceries, but had to pay bills first so I knew how much I could possible spend. I may go later this afternoon while the guys are out deer hunting.

I need to bath the dogs, but not in the mood...so maybe tomorrow. Can't think of anything else I really did today.....oh I did go pick Gidget up from the Vet. She's doing just fine.

I'm planning on going to church tomorrow....I just hope I can get up and moving.

[paula1961]

Today I haven't done much at all. I did wash a couple of loads of laundry. My sister came up Friday night and spent the night with me. She took Mom back home yesterday evening. Mom my sis and me went shopping and got a few things for Christmas. That was fun. We hadn't gotten to do that for a long time.
We had a really good time in Tennessee. Mom broke down a few times but all in all it was a good trip. I think we both needed it.:)

[judy]

It's so nice that you got to spend family time with your Mom, Paula. You need to be together now.

[JJJ]

Hmm, I woke up

went to a taqueria for breakfast

went bedsheet hunting until finding the right one

went grocery shopping

made sandwiches for lunch

check e-mail and more

[gja1000]

I kept the girls today. Abi is 14 and she can keep Emma who just turned 4, but their folks had to be gone all day, so that is a long time for the sisters to NOT get mad at each other. So, I took them shopping at the outlet mall. We only bought a couple little things, but Emma rode several of the kiddie rides so she was happy.

Then we picked up papaw (Gary) and went to eat Chinese food - REALLY GOOD!

Next, we dropped Papaw off and we went to the sporting goods store to look for Abi some ankle braces for volleyball - but didn't fine what we were looking for. We went to the sporting goods store on the University campus, and Abi always enjoys seeing all the college kids and their array of hair color, tatoos, and piercings. LOL!

We didn't get home till about 4:00PM and then their folks got home about 5:00. I had to go to Petco to get the boys some food, and run by the grocery store for bread and milk.

Gary is going to take the train up to Oklahoma on Wed-Sun. Yes, I am concerned about him going, but he will be with family and should be in good hands. At least he will be on the train and won't be driving - I always worry about him driving. It's a 4.5 hour drive and he gets so sleepy!

I'll be flying to New Orleans on Sunday, so Brooke will pick him up and bring him home (boy, I'll miss having her here to help with things like that after they move to Houston!). I'll be home about 1:00PM on Monday (quick trip). I have a presentation to do Sunday afternoon, or I wouldn't go at all.

[Marilyn]

We went to church this morning. Out to eat to Olive Garden with Rex, of course, and Karen & Carlton and Garrett & Melissa. So good to have them all together.

Home for a bit, baked a cake and some brownies, then off to Carlton's grandmothers to shoot some guns. I shot a little 35 pistol, and the kids shot all sorts of things.

Home and off to evening worship service.

Home again, munching a bit, not too hungry after our big lunch. Doing laundry to get ready for a busy work week and family in the evenings. Karen & Carlton will be here through next weekend. I think they leave on the 22nd.

[Lindsey]

We were visiting Scott's parents for the weekend, and his nephew who was staying there while his sister and her husband were in Mexico for a wedding. Yesterday morning we were at church when his mom got a text from his sister saying there was an explosion at their resort but they were okay and being evacuated. We got home and watched the news...5 Canadians and 2 Mexicans are dead, with 2 more Canadians in critical condition and many in hospital :( That is so scary! I am so thankful they are home safe now.

Other than that we had a great weekend of visiting, and we got home last night in time to watch our football team win in the SECOND OVERTIME to go to the Western Final next weekend! Woohoo!

[Janet]

Today I went over to the woods to take pictures of Ricky and the doe he shot this morning. He has been hunting for 3 years and this is his first. He called to tell me got one and I kept hearing this rattling sound so I asked him what it was. ......lol....he said "Mom it's me"... :)..."I'm cold and really excited at the same time" so he was shaking. Even though I really don't like for the deer to be hunted, I do understand the damage they do not only to crops but to vehicles too. It's just that I can sit on my porch and watch them in the fields and also see so many on my bus route. Such beautiful animals....anyway...I'm so happy for him.

[Marilyn]

Janet, So happy for Ricky. Saw the pics on FB. Nice doe!!!

Today, Rex and I both went to the podiatrist. We've each had a sore heal for about 6 months. His right one, my left one. We both have heal spurs. Go figure. So we each got a cortisone shot in our foot that was really painful. We go back next week for another shot and are both on anti-inflamitories for a month. That should do the trick for about 10 years, according to the doctor. I sure hope so. There are exercises too that should help.

We spent some time with Karen, Carlton and Melissa today. Went out to eat for lunch. It's so nice to have them here. Savoring the time!!!!

[Janet]

I'm really not doing anything today...lol. The guys left to go look at trucks for Ricky. I hope they find one that he can afford.

Marilyn....I had a heal spur some years back...don't really remember how long, but a long time. The Dr. I had was great and told me that when I start feeling the pain...it would be over and he was right, so it wasn't as bad as I had expected. I only went for the one shot though and I've not had any trouble. I'm pretty sure it was before Ricky was born....almost 20 years ago.

[gja1000]

Janet, did they have any luck finding a truck? Hope so!

[judy]

Twin heel spurs! That's love!

My dryer stopped working a few days ago. I went online and it sounded like the belt broke, so I hunted down a new belt yesterday. I didn't want to wait for my SIL to scratch his butt to get over here and fix it, and who knows what he would charge me, so I found a video online, and along with the guy who owns the appliance place's directions, I fixed it myself!

Haven't run a cycle yet, but it will be fine. I am so proud of myself! I think I will go be on "Dirty Jobs" now that I am officially so macho!

[Janet]

Janet, did they have any luck finding a truck? Hope so!

They didn't find one where they went to look, but he did find one just down the road. I'm so glad he can afford it and the insurance. I think he'll be getting it tomorrow or Saturday. I really wouldn't mind having it myself. It's a 4 door Chevy S10 with a shortbed and 4 wheel drive.

Twin heel spurs! That's love!

My dryer stopped working a few days ago. I went online and it sounded like the belt broke, so I hunted down a new belt yesterday. I didn't want to wait for my SIL to scratch his butt to get over here and fix it, and who knows what he would charge me, so I found a video online, and along with the guy who owns the appliance place's directions, I fixed it myself!

Haven't run a cycle yet, but it will be fine. I am so proud of myself! I think I will go be on "Dirty Jobs" now that I am officially so macho!

Judy....I am so darn proud of you I could burst!!!!! I would not have even thought of checking online to fix it myself.

[judy]

I really went online to see what was wrong with it by the "symptoms" to see if I should bother trying to get it fixed, or start looking for a new one. Go figure! The appliance store guy get $85 for a home visit!


Good luck with that new truck Ricky!!!

[paula1961]

Woohoo Judy! I'm proud of ya too girl! Hope it works well for ya!

Today I am embarrassed to say that I had to go to the hair dresser and let her fix my screwup lol! I decided that I would try to color my own hair to save a little money:rolleyes:didn't work lol.......made a huge mess of it! But all is well now. She didn't charge me any extra to fix it, just the regular 70.00 thank goodness. Lesson learned. I won't make that mistake again. It was white and "butterscotch" colored:eek: Don't think I'll do that ever again!

[Janet]

Oh my...$70???? I use to color mine, but then decided to have it done every month. Cost was around $40. When she ended up at $50 I decided to quit coloring and go completely gray. I should've kept the money every month that I spent on hair color.....I'd have enough to buy an IPad by now....LOLOLOLOL

[judy]

What did you use on your hair Paula? White and butterscotch sounds like ice cream!

[paula1961]

Judy I wish it had've been ice cream....it would have washed out lol. I used kalidecolors, that's probably not how you spell it. I have used it before but not for a long time. Seriously my hair was snow white and brass. I wouldn't go out of the house for 2 days until I could get in to my hairdresser. It was horrible.

Yes Janet. She charges 70.00 for foiling. She will pull it through a cap for 55.00 but I like the way the foils turn out. I only get it done about every 10 weeks or so. The foil colors it closer to the scalp so it lasts longer. I agree that it is pricey but I don't want to go all gray just yet lololol.

[gja1000]

I'm getting ready to go pick up Gary at the train station, he was 2 hours late when we went to Oklahoma on Wednesday, and today he is only an hour late! :D Trains, gotta love 'em!

[Janet]

I didn't do much today at all. Ricky wanted to go to Pepe's to eat supper so we did. I had the Stuffed Taco Dinner and two very very cold beers.....hmmmmm sooo good. Now I'm here and soon will be going to bed dreaming about an IPad.

[paula1961]

Janet.......you are soo funny girl! Hope you enjoy your ipad dream lol!
Today I made 6 pumpkin rolls and put them in the freezer, washed a couple loads of clothes and that's about it. But it was a good day:)

[gja1000]

You will NOT believe this! When the train from Oklahoma arrived tonight, I was waiting on the platform for Gary to emerge. Lots of people got off the train, and then no one else got off and they started to close the door.

I said, "WAIT, I'm missing a passenger"!!!!! They asked me his name and they had to PAGE him.

What happened? He had a terrible headache and had taken a pain pill, fell asleep, and didn't wake up when the train stopped!!! :eek: He actually had awoken and realized the train was stopped and was walking down the stairs when he heard his name being paged.

I had worried about him hearing his stop on the way up there and back, as he is hard of hearing and the announcements are often very hard to hear.

Luckily I was there to ask his whereabouts! LOL!!! :D

Oh, and he said the train had to stop once because a woman, a child, and a dog were walking on the tracks! :o Can you imagine!!!

[Shada]

Today was my first day of my vacation week!!
Woo hoo!! I have been working six, usually seven days a week for the past year, so today I took a fast trip to store, back home, put on my jammies, prayed the phone didn't ring, (it didn't) and resting.

Doing Thanksgiving dinner here for my family, so looking forward to cleaning house.. not really, but a darn good excuse for getting things done.
Also hope to clean out my closets! Goodwill here I come!!!

The next few days I will be very busy. :)

[lynne b]

OMG Gayle, I am so glad that you were there to get Gary, you both have such great adventures, although some end up having serious turn of abouts most are quite interesting and comical. I live my travels through you.

I am on vacation this week, i think i have something scheduled for just about everyday, I will have to go back to work toget some rest LOL.

I have been so busy with the puppies but they will all be going to their new homes by Dec 4th, i am keeping them an extra week due to the holidays and either the owners traveling or having company . I will start a new post and post pic's of them, they sure have been a hoot LOL.

My youngest daughter goes for hopefully her last court date in her divorce/custody hearing this Tuesday, then it will be up to the judge to decide where the girls will live, the judge can take up to 90 days to make his decision and with the holidays coming up i think he will use everyday he can so as not to up set the girls during the holidays, at least that was his excuse when this all started at this time last year. So far everything has been going good for my daughter, even his lawyer is having trouble finding things to say bad about her, other than she made a bad choice when she left the girls with his mom when he was in jail, but she knew they were safe and she had to get herself together before she could take care of the girls
I'm sure your asking why i didn't take the girls, well i was trying to help get my daughter through everything that he had done to her, and the girls were and are still so angry with their mom for their dad being in jail, it was just a complicated time.

How can a judge think that 2 little girls would be better off living with a dad that is on house arrest for burglary and a rapist is beyond me, but thats the court system for you. So any ways we could use some prayers that the judge will make the right choice this time, it will be a rough time for Amy and the girls although they have been makeing great strides in their relationships, they don't like the idea of having rules and consequences at their moms house.

[gja1000]

OMG! Lynne, I can't possibly think what on earth the judge could be thinking to even consider letting the girls live with their father. I just know that he will see what is best for them is to be with their mom!

I am sitting at the airport waiting for a flight to New Orleans. I'm making a quick trip to a conference for a presentation this afternoon ( hope the plane is not late). Gary was supposed to go with me but when he got sick last month, we decided a week in New Orleans was not the best idea. So I shortened the trip and he ended up taking a quick train trip to Oklahoma. Now he's home to keep the boys while I am gone. I'll be home tomorrow.

I'll eat some gumbo, or jambalya, or something Cajun for everyone! :D

[judy]

OMG Lynne! The judge will certainly see the reality! I will be praying that he makes this easy for your daughter and the girls! You not taking the girls makes sense....you had to take care of your daughter so that she could take care of her children.

Gayle, have a wonderful time! You and Gary do have some interesting days!!! You can never say your marriage is boring!

I am going food shopping today. I stayed home AGAIN yesterday, and ended up getting cabin fever! I took the dogs out for a walk and we had fun. I have been staying home a lot lately. I blew off about 4 social things in the past 2 or 3 weeks. I'm not sure why, but I'm thinking it's not such a good idea. I have to force myself to get out when I don't feel like it.

So, today I will go out!

Enjoy your day everyone!

[Janet]

I had great plans for today, but they are not starting off well. I was planning on going to my home church (where I am a member), but I actually slept too late. I was up quite a bit during the night telling someone to QUIT SNORING!!!!

Now it's almost 10 minutes till 11 AM and I'm still on the computer...not accomplishing anything. Guess I should get dressed and maybe find something fun to do.....but what??? LOL

I didn't mention anything about Lynne's post...we talk very often and I know how's she's feeling about all this. She also knows I'm praying all goes her daughters' way.

Gayle....you never have a dull moment do you?????

[gja1000]

Nope, never a dull moment! Now I'm in the Houston airport waiting for my flight to New Orleans in a few minutes. Looks like I will make it in time for my presentation which actually isn't until 3:30 and I'm supposed to arrive at 12:40, so I'm really not cutting it that close. The earlier flight left at 7:00AM and I didn't feel like getting up at 4:30! I guess I'm lazy! :rolleyes:

[lynne b]

Thank you all for your comments, and Janet you are such a dear friend to allow me to unload my problems on you, sometimes it just helps to say things outloud to someone other than the ones that are going through it. Thank you

[Janet]

Lynne...you are more than welcome....you always listen to me too and I honestly love you and value our friendship....don't know what I would do without you.

[gja1000]

All right. I'm back at the airport for my flight home. I told you it was a quick trip.

Last night for dinner I had crab quiche, poached oysters, and seafood gumbo. Mmmmmmm everything was so good!

The New Orleans Saints (NFL football) played the Seattle Seahawks at the Superdome yesterday just down the street from my hotel. Yesterday evening the French Quarters were FULL of Saints fans. It was pretty rowdy. We took a cab to our restaurant in the French Quarters so we were safe! LOL!

I wish I had one more day to eat again! The food is soooooo good!

[Lindsey]

I had such a great weekend!

We got our Christmas decorations up outside (3 lighted reindeer and 2 spiral trees and some candy canes) on Saturday. It was about -20 C but no wind so it wasn't too bad!

Then our realtor came over to finally see the house and give us housewarming gifts! She got us a really nice wall clock and two large torch-like candle holders for the wall behind the hot tub, with candles and covers. They are huge! Probably 3 feet tall. They are gorgeous though and will look so good on that bare wall!

My parents came over after that to see the place since we've got it done. They loved it!

On Sunday we went out for lunch for my brother's birthday and then did some shopping. I bought a new pink snowboard and bindings (last year's models for cheap!) and a gorgeous dress for one of Scott's work Christmas parties.

Finally we got home in time to catch the last three quarters of the Western Finals in football... and we kicked Calgary's butt! Okay, not a huge kicking, but we won anyway and will face off with Montreal AGAIN this year for the Grey Cup next weekend! (equivalent to your super bowl) This is the first year I actually followed the team for the whole year so I'm quite excited! Last year we lost to Montreal at Grey Cup due to a bad mistake nobody likes to remember :eek: but here's our second chance! It was a great end to a great weekend!

[judy]

Merry Christmas house!!! Take pictures of the reindeer please.....

I am considering taking out my Christmas stuff. Not sure what I have. I know I have a nice door wreath, and a new little optic tree. I think I also have an optic Santa. I have an angel or two, and I think that's about it.

Once Jessie was out of the house, I stopped making a Christmas house. I eventually gave her everything. It's really nice to see our stuff from her childhood up in her house now. I do have my tree, but I haven't taken it out of the box in years. Jessie gets a live tree.

Oh wait...there's a little half dead potted tree that I put on the porch yesterday. It was as dry as a desert, having been stuck behind a bush all summer. Poor little tree!

[Janet]

I didn't even get dressed yesterday.... :D....so since I needed to drive the bus today..lol..I got dressed. Then ran to town and finished up buying what's needed for dinner on Thursday. I love turkey and dressing and my stuffed mushrooms.

[Lindsey]

Judy, I don't think I'll ever stop doing Christmas decorating, I've been obsessed with Christmas my whole life!

I was feeling pretty good this morning but for the past hour I've been not so well... I don't think I got over that touch of flu last week and I'm nauseous and feverish now. Scott's on his way to pick me up and I'm going to my grandma's house to sleep for the day. What a start to the week :(

[gja1000]

I'm in Houston - don't have to get off the plane though so that is good! Home soon!

[gja1000]

The guy next to me stinks. Thankfully this is only a 30 min flight. And why do they all have to invade my space by extending their arms over the arm rest.

[lynne b]

The guy next to me stinks. Thankfully this is only a 30 min flight. And why do they all have to invade my space by extending their arms over the arm rest.

OMG Gayle, you crack me up LOL. Maybe you should fart or something and he would move over so you could have the arm rest LOL

[gja1000]

You guys WON'T BELIEVE IT!!! He turned out to be a PSYCHIATRIST!!! He had been to a podunk town in west Texas working the weekend at the State Psychiatric hospital out there. I don't think he had taken a shower all weekend! LOL!

He was VERY talkative - and when he found out I was a nurse, he NEVER SHUT UP! Thankfully, it was only a 30 minute flight. He was pretty funny and nice too, and I kinda could overlook the stinkiness.

[Lindsey]

Lol Gayle!!! You're hilarious! I hate when people talk to me on flights, I hope that doesn't make me snobby. I just like being in my own little world.

Last night was so weird for us. We had nothing to do on the house. We had it all cleaned up on the weekend so we got home last night and RELAXED. What a concept! I love it! I was still a bit feverish last night but felt a lot better after sleeping at my grandma's house all afternoon. I spent the evening watching tv all snuggled under a blanket, had a bubble bath, and went to bed. Today I'm back to 100%!

[judy]

Poor Gayle! At least he was fun to talk to! When you ride the trains in the summer in NYC, it can get really smelly too! People hang onto overhead straps, and if you are next to a sweaty person, it can knock you right out!

[Janet]

Gayle...you are hilarious!!!! I'm glad the flight wasn't very long with the stinker...lol.

So far today, I've cut up bread so it can dry for the dressing, boiled some eggs and .....that's it. I'll do more tomorrow...just not in the mood today.

[judy]

I went to Jessie's today. Brandon and I watched "Raptor Island," which was hysterical. It was a real B movie. Brandon and I had fun watching it, and I love listening to him go on and on about dinosaurs, who were the good guys, who were the bad guys, and so on. Then I hung out with Mackenzie and Steve for a while. Kass had a fever and she and Jessie were both napping.

It was a really nice, quiet family day.

[gja1000]

I had class this evening and my students were doing presentations. They did such a good job, I'm so proud of them. It also meant that I didn't have to prepare and teach a lesson. WHEW!

I have really enjoyed teaching this class - it is a theory course, and it is hard, abstract material, but they have all done so well. And they seem pleased with themselves. I had one student tell me tonight that she recommended to a friend that they take the class from me next year. Now, I know this student told someone else at the beginning of the semester that she was going to drop the course because she didn't like the class, it was too hard and she didn't understand it. Tonight she was just beaming while telling me about her theory development paper and about recommending me to her friend. Teachers don't often get such positive feedback, so it was a feel-good evening!

[Janet]

Yesterday afternoon I layed out all the ingredients to everything that will be prepared for Thanksgiving dinner. Looks like I haven't forgotten anything. In a few minutes...I'll head to the kitchen and get started so I won't have as much to do on Thursday.

[Lindsey]

That must feel so rewarding Gayle!

I am stressed a lot at work again. I have already told them I'm not working late in the winter unless I get a copy of the program for home and I'll work there because I don't feel safe on the highways in the middle of the night. Well, they can't do that for me right now. I have so much work and no time to do it. Sooooo... tonight I am updating my resume.

Scott and I have pretty much decided on the trip we're taking to Europe next year! The tour takes us to London, Amsterdam, Rhine Valley, Lucerne, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Florence, French Riviera (including Monaco!), one night in a real castle called Chateau du Fontager, Paris, and back to London! Then hopefully we'll have another 10 days to travel a bit through Scotland and Ireland on our own. I am so excited! There are a few places we won't be able to see that I'd really like to see, but I guess we'll just have to go back someday :)

[gja1000]

I'm going to the Texas Women's basketball game. But hey, I have my iPad so I'll be connected. Thankfully the game is at 4:00 PM, because I still need to make a salad and a pecan pie when I get home!!!

[Janet]

I was able to get so much accomplished in the kitchen today. Ricky was a big help until he had to go to work. I've got the 2 pecan pies and a chocolate pie is done, cheese cake is done, deviled eggs are made, noodles are done, got the dry ingredients together for the stuffed mushrooms and crockpot dressing, so all I have to do tomorrow is add the rest and start the turkey. I'll peel the potatos tomorrow too. It's been a pretty easy day, but Ricky really made if fun and not seem like work. Whatever girl gets him is going to be one lucky girl.

[Shada]

Made two pumpkin pies, one chocolate creme pie, deviled eggs, and meatballs for tomorrow. Early start for me.. usually I get up very early and do it all.
Oh and lets not forget the three loads of laundry!
Now I am on my way to kitchen to do dishes... I made a mess tonight!!

[gja1000]

Well, I went to school this morning and one of my students who has been in the PhD program for SEVEN years, successfully defended her dissertation and she is FINISHED! She's from Thailand and got sick twice and had to return to Thailand for a year each time. I'm so glad that she is finally finished.

Then I went to the Texas women's basketball game - we won! :D

Next, I took my mom home and ate a tostada at my daughter's. Mmmmmmm! It was good. Oh and I had a piece of pumpkin pie (she made two).

After that, I came home and made a pink salad (cherry pie filling, pineapple, mandarin oranges, coconut, marshmallows and cool whip), pecan pie (only ONE), and got everything ready to go into the crockpot dressing tomorrow.

We are being lazy this year and ordered a fully cooked meal from our local organic grocery store. We are getting a turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetable medely, cranberry/orange relish, dinner rolls, and pumpkin bread pudding. It serves 6-8 and only cost $49.00. We are just filling in some blanks, like the pies and a couple of salads. Oh, and I have to make crockpot dressing because Gary like LOTS of sage in his dressing and NO ONE puts as much sage in it as I do for him. In fact, I always have to make two batches, one super sagey and the other regular. This year though, I only have to make the sagey batch! :p

[Lindsey]

I think maybe I should have a second Thanksgiving this year and go visit you guys to eat tonight.

Today I asked for time off for Europe and got turned down. So now we have to make other plans :( Other than that I've been busy at work and still stressed out as usual!

[gja1000]

Aw Lindsay, that's too bad that they won't let you off for your trip to Europe. I can't imagine why - isn't it in the summer? Seems like all the extra time you've put in for them, they could at least let you take your vacation when you wanted. Geesh!

[Janet]

Ordering dinner sounds like a great idea Gayle. I would also have to make the crockpot dressing because we love it so much. I may have to think about that next year.

Lindsey...that is awful, with all the time you put in for them to turn you down. Did they just turn you down for the time frame you're wanting or turned you down for any time off?


We had the best dinner...I really did good this year...not to brag...but from someone who doesn't like to cook, I do enjoy making Thanksgiving dinner except it's so exhausting.

Rick has been having some pain in his lower back on the left side. He was up and down and couldn't get comfortable. The more he ate at Thanksgiving the more it hurt and he's had to sleep on the floor, (what sleep he could get) for the last two nights. Well, it hurt so bad around 4 PM yesterday that I told him he really should go to the ER. Turns out he does not have a kidney stone, they did a cat scan, but he does have a really bad kidney infection. The gave him meds for pain, inflamation and an antibiotic. After about 4 hours...we were able to come home.

He's feeling better this morning and went to work.

Not sure what I'm going to do today...but I'm not going to fight the crowds at the stores...

[Lindsey]

They turned down the time frame. We wanted to go in September, so it's still warm but we don't fight the summer crowds. Apparently we're SUPPOSED to be getting a project for final design of a mine site in June and it would last the rest of the year, and they don't want me gone for that. So they'd like me to go before June if possible. But the other reason we had chosen September is we'll have enough savings by then and Scott will have enough holiday time from work. We're trying to work it out though, we might be able to take some funds from elsewhere to go early, and if Scott works a LOT of overtime before that, he could get more time off. Otherwise we'll have to put our plans on hold for another year, and who knows what work projects we'll have then :(

I'm glad you had a good Thanksgiving Janet, other than the ER trip! I've had lots of kidney issues and they're not fun :(

[lynne b]

Janet, I'm sorry to hear about Rick, glad it was nothing more serious though and is feeling better.

Lindsey, I hope you are able to work things out and make your trip to Europe as planned. Sounds like you have a very demanding job.

Well I am not fighting the crowds either, I tend to do my best shopping at the last minute.

I also thought i was going to end up in the ER yesterday, dinner went well with mom here, but just after i had returned home from taking my mom home it hit me just so quick, i had such pain between my breast and through my back, i was breathing so hard and couldn't get any relif from it, it was not a sick feeling but pain. Yes i am a smoker and the thoughts of a heart attack did enter my mind, I know the symptoms of a heart attack varies for a woman than a man.

Awful thing is after i did throw up a couple of times i did feel a little better, guess i can only blame it on my cooking, but i checked with mom and she was fine and we ate the exact same things and hubby was fine.

Looks like i may take your lead Gayle and order our dinner next year LOL.

I am still feeling a little under today so just hanging out at home, trying one leftover at a time and seeing what happens.

[judy]

I hope you feel better Lynne! I wonder what you had...maybe a virus?

I hope Rick feels better too Janet! Must be interesting to see who is in the ER Thanksgiving! Any food poisoning?

Gayle, you are a woman after my own heart! I think ordering a dinner for the holidays is the way to go! $49.00 for organic is such a great price too!

Linds...I went to Europe in September, and it is a wonderful time to go. Still warm, no crowds. Your bosses sound nuts! Don't they understand that if you left, they would be in really bad shape! I'm sure you'll work it out though, and the trip will be wonderful!

I went to Jessie's for Thanksgiving. She makes a delicious holiday dinner, and unlike her Mom, loves to cook. She has the girls into it too. I think that's such a nice family feeling. My mother ordered in, so that's what I learned. Jessie and I always had a big fuss about the holidays though, so I guess she brought the cooking in by herself.

Two of her dogs were about to deliver yesterday. Just as most of us were finished eating, Molly, the malamute, delivered her first pup! Ginger, the Japanese Chin, still hasn't delivered, but her temp is down and she is in her whelping box. I stayed late while Kassidy had a fever of 103 (it went down after her medicine) and Brandon had a breakout of hives, which he has been getting a lot recently. So...1 pregnant dog, 1 dog having pups, 2 sick kids. I have to say though, that it was not a rough day. You know how it is, you have to just do one thing after another.

I'm going back there soon. Molly has had 5 pups so far, but they are taking her to the vet because it has been so many hours. Ginger hasn't had an yet. I think she will deliver on her own. She is a strong little one.

[Janet]

Lynne...that is what I use to have...that pain from the chest to the back and the vomiting. I take meds for GERD and it hasn't happened since. Talk about pain....I thought I was having a heart attack too...same as you...and was taken to the hospital in an ambulance.

I was told it's when that "flap" in there closes and doesn't give...it causes a build up of stomach gases. I'm glad you're feeling better.

[gja1000]

Awful thing is after i did throw up a couple of times i did feel a little better, guess i can only blame it on my cooking, but i checked with mom and she was fine and we ate the exact same things and hubby was fine.

Lynne,
Heart pain can make you throw up - it's called the vagal response - PLEASE go see the doctor on Monday and if you have the pain again - PLEASE go to the ER. Hopefully, it was just something you ate, but it might be your heart!

[lynne b]

Lynne,
Heart pain can make you throw up - it's called the vagal response - PLEASE go see the doctor on Monday and if you have the pain again - PLEASE go to the ER. Hopefully, it was just something you ate, but it might be your heart!


Gayle, I promise if i have another episode of it i will go to the ER, it did scare me.
I have been fine today, ate only little helpings of left overs and no problems so far.
I think thats what scared me the most was that it was not a sick feeling before i threw up but a painful feeling.

Thank's Janet for texting me and thank you for the info Gayle.

[gja1000]

I'm so glad that you are feeling better! I hope it is nothing, but I just needed you to know that heart pain can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. I know you will take care of yourself and go to the ER if you have ANY more pain at all. I'm sorry to worry you - but I just want you to be safe!

[lynne b]

I'm so glad that you are feeling better! I hope it is nothing, but I just needed you to know that heart pain can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. I know you will take care of yourself and go to the ER if you have ANY more pain at all. I'm sorry to worry you - but I just want you to be safe!

I really do apperciate your concern, I do have to keep my self healthy for mom, and my self, but seems this body of mine has really gotten run down the last couple years.

Don't know what we would do with out you here to take care of us.

Love ya

[Janet]

I second that. Don't know what we would do without you...not only for your medical advice, but for everything you contribute to this forum and to our lives. You are so loved!

[gja1000]

Aw Janet! You are too kind. I'm so thankful to have such a wonderful community of friends.

[Janet]

Today I'm playing 'catch-up' with the laundry, seems it's never ending especially when there are bed sheets. I'm also cleaning up both my computers...getting rid of things I've saved and really don't need taking up space. Finally cleared out all 2009 pictures and put them on a CD.

I'm home alone today...Ricky working till 5 and Rick at some Cowboy shoot thing and won't be home till 4 or later. Just me and the doggies. I was planning on going to church today, but...nothing fits. I'm so upset with myself. I have no dress pants that fit and no dresses/skirts. I really need to shop for dress clothes....that...and get some of this darn weight off.

[paula1961]

Today I have been bringing down Christmas decorations from the attic. I am making more work for myself lol!
Good luck with your weight loss Janet. So easy to put it on but so hard to get it back off. Very frustrating!

[gja1000]

I went to the grocery store - tomorrow is Gary's birthday (62) and he wants chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn and pecan pie. :p

Then I went to Home Depot - we have to get really serious about this moving thing. I have been purging - but when I look around it doesn't look like I have done very much! YIKES. I needed boxes, bubble wrap and packing tape.

Then we made a run to Goodwill with old suitcases and some clothes, flower vases and things like that.

Now, I am waiting for my college women's team to play basketball on TV. They are playing at Stanford, the #3 rated team in the country. We are going to get beat like a drum, but I still have to watch! :D

[DianaB]

Sorry that I've been MIA. We've had a tough week. On Monday Glen and I and Dae Lynn and the kids all went out to Wichita to get the dishwasher that I bought. While we were out there Dae got a call that Damon was drinking. She had been worried about him because he was suppose to start a new part time job but when he got there they told him that they had someone else ( he hadn't kept in touch and it was his own fault) so we cut our trip short and headed home. We found out that, yes, he had been drinking but had gone to Glen's brother's house to talk to him and ended up giving him the rest of the liquor so he wouldn't drink it.

We got to Dae Lynn's house and Damon pulled in slowly with her car. He had a long talk with Glen before he came in the house but it was obvious that he had been drinking. We ended up leaving for home and stopped to check on Glen's mom. This one is funny.......Damon called Glen to come and get Dae Lynn because she had slapped him!!!!! Damon ended up not being happy because we didn't side with him over the slap!!!! It ended up that Dae Lynn and the kids came and stayed with us for a few days.

We all knew that there was something going on and that he was wanting to drink ever since Veterans Day. It ended up that Damon is going to get some help and talk to other people about what went on when he was in the war and our pastor is going to be there for him when he's wanting to drink........so hopefully we can help him to get better.

So....the night before Thanksgivng Dae Lynn and the kids went back home. Damon is in trouble for drinking but they're trying to work things out. He is a good man.....he just needs a LOT of help.

It ends up that my family is not so understanding and Glen and I heard a lot of complaints from the other kids. I'm pretty upset with some of them but I hope eventually they'll come around.

We had lots of food for Thanksgiving.......we had Dae Lynn's family and Amy's family for lunch......then Feyn's famiily and Jaci and Nate came in the evening. Things really livened up then and the girls and Nate got to cutting up!! I just love the noise of having everyone home!!!

I didn't do any sales but Amy and Dae did and picked up a couple of things for me.

We went to Wichita yesterday for a birthday surprise for an old friend that we hadn't seen for about 20 years. It was so cool how we instantly connected again and had the best visit. I met a friend of theirs named Theresa......and her last name was Baker!!!! She has yorkies and is on YT!!! I invited her to come here and check us out!! She and her husband were so nice!!!

Today's just a regular day.....Sunday school....church......lunch.....nap!!!!!!

[DianaB]

I forgot to add that the dishwasher that I got such a good deal on......was a dud!!! Glen went to put it in and it didn't have several things with it to get it installed. Also, I was suppose to have gotten $30 off and I didn't get that either. He was already fustrated about Damon so he just loaded up the dishwasher and returned it.......then he went and bought me a new one......that's really nice!!! He got it installed and ready to use in time for Thanksgivng!!! He's such a sweetie!!!

[gja1000]

Awwww, Diana, Glen IS REALLY a sweetie! Gary would do that for me too! Although he would have trouble now that he can't do very much due to his heart - but that is absolutely something he would do!

I'm sorry you have been having so much trouble in the family. You are such good people to be there for Damon - he is going to need lots of help for a long time - alcoholism is hard as well as having PTSD from the war. But your family is strong and you all can do it!

I forgot to add that I have been shredding shredding shredding!!! I bought a new shredder yesterday from Office Max. It had been $139, and I got it for $79. My mom had a little shredder and I used it when she lived here. She's been gone 2 years, so you can imagine how behind I am on my shredding! Plus, we cleaned out mom's room from when she lived here (she'd left LOTS of things here) and now I'm shredding her 00, 01, 02, 03, 04 tax stuff. :eek: That's why I bought a bigger, medium duty shredder - I knew I had LOTS of shredding to do and I didn't want to burn it up! I also have old taxes in the attic that I need to shred, and not move - but I don't know if I'll get them shredded before the move, if not, I'll just do it after the move.

[Janet]

Happy Birthday to Gary!!! I would love to be sitting at your kitchen table for that meal. I love chicken fried steak and all the fixings you mentioned. AND well...our two pecan pies are all gone now. Yummmmmmmmmmy!

Diana....I feel so bad that Damon is still having trouble with the drinking. He seemed like such a nice guy and nice guys shouldn't have such bad demons from war...it's just not fair. Dae Lynn is a strong young lady and I'm so sure she'll be fine with you and Glenn as her parents.

[paula1961]

I went to the grocery store - tomorrow is Gary's birthday (62) and he wants chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn and pecan pie. :p

Then I went to Home Depot - we have to get really serious about this moving thing. I have been purging - but when I look around it doesn't look like I have done very much! YIKES. I needed boxes, bubble wrap and packing tape.

Then we made a run to Goodwill with old suitcases and some clothes, flower vases and things like that.

Now, I am waiting for my college women's team to play basketball on TV. They are playing at Stanford, the #3 rated team in the country. We are going to get beat like a drum, but I still have to watch! :D

Good luck to your team!
Happy birthday to Gary! When you said tomorrow was his birthday.........it made me think of last year when you fell with all of that food on his birthday! Be extremely careful this year Gayle! And if my memory serves me right.....you cooked that same meal for him then lol! Sounds yummy! Just don't want ya sliding thru the mashed potatoes lol!:D

[paula1961]

Sorry that I've been MIA. We've had a tough week. On Monday Glen and I and Dae Lynn and the kids all went out to Wichita to get the dishwasher that I bought. While we were out there Dae got a call that Damon was drinking. She had been worried about him because he was suppose to start a new part time job but when he got there they told him that they had someone else ( he hadn't kept in touch and it was his own fault) so we cut our trip short and headed home. We found out that, yes, he had been drinking but had gone to Glen's brother's house to talk to him and ended up giving him the rest of the liquor so he wouldn't drink it.

We got to Dae Lynn's house and Damon pulled in slowly with her car. He had a long talk with Glen before he came in the house but it was obvious that he had been drinking. We ended up leaving for home and stopped to check on Glen's mom. This one is funny.......Damon called Glen to come and get Dae Lynn because she had slapped him!!!!! Damon ended up not being happy because we didn't side with him over the slap!!!! It ended up that Dae Lynn and the kids came and stayed with us for a few days.

We all knew that there was something going on and that he was wanting to drink ever since Veterans Day. It ended up that Damon is going to get some help and talk to other people about what went on when he was in the war and our pastor is going to be there for him when he's wanting to drink........so hopefully we can help him to get better.

So....the night before Thanksgivng Dae Lynn and the kids went back home. Damon is in trouble for drinking but they're trying to work things out. He is a good man.....he just needs a LOT of help.

It ends up that my family is not so understanding and Glen and I heard a lot of complaints from the other kids. I'm pretty upset with some of them but I hope eventually they'll come around.

We had lots of food for Thanksgiving.......we had Dae Lynn's family and Amy's family for lunch......then Feyn's famiily and Jaci and Nate came in the evening. Things really livened up then and the girls and Nate got to cutting up!! I just love the noise of having everyone home!!!

I didn't do any sales but Amy and Dae did and picked up a couple of things for me.

We went to Wichita yesterday for a birthday surprise for an old friend that we hadn't seen for about 20 years. It was so cool how we instantly connected again and had the best visit. I met a friend of theirs named Theresa......and her last name was Baker!!!! She has yorkies and is on YT!!! I invited her to come here and check us out!! She and her husband were so nice!!!

Today's just a regular day.....Sunday school....church......lunch.....nap!!!!!!

You've been really busy Diana! It is so good to see ya back! I had been MIA too and I am back now as well. I miss it here if I'm gone too long!:)

[gja1000]

Good luck to your team!
Happy birthday to Gary! When you said tomorrow was his birthday.........it made me think of last year when you fell with all of that food on his birthday! Be extremely careful this year Gayle! And if my memory serves me right.....you cooked that same meal for him then lol! Sounds yummy! Just don't want ya sliding thru the mashed potatoes lol!:D

PAULA! I had completely forgotten about that LOL LOL LOL!!!!! I'll try to limit my (ahem) "presentation" this year!!! Oh what a HOOT!

[DianaB]

Tell Gary "Happy Birthday" from Glen and I!!!! Please don't fall this year!!!!

I really feel that Damon is going to be fine.......eventually. It's just that things are so up and down for him and Dae Lynn in so many areas of their marriage. I'm really praying that he's found some good help this time.

[lynne b]

Gayle, tell Gary Happy Birthday and i hope he enjoy's his meal. "I'm so hungry LOL"


Diane, I am so sorry about what your family is going through with Damon, I hope he continues to get help.

I'm sure none of us can even begin to understand what these service men and women have gone through and then to try and come home and lead a normal life, it has to be so hard considering all the presure of todays economy and just day to day living.

I will be praying for him and Dae Lynn and of course you and Glen because it affects the whole family.

[DianaB]

Thank you, Lynne. I don't know how much more Dae Lynn will take with Damon. It's not just his getting drunk but there's a real lack of maturity and responsibility as well and it's not like she's seeing any improvement on his part. I don't know what's in their future but I really don't think that it looks hopeful.

[Lindsey]

Diana, I hope they can work things out. But maybe what he needs is to see how much he will lose if he doesn't change. Maybe he just doesn't think he ever will lose it. But it definitely sounds like he needed that slap!


Today was Scott's first day back at his old office so I had to drop him off this morning and I will pick him up tonight. It's weird to me! Layla hated not being on my lap and she screamed my ears off all the way to my office.

I'm swamped with work so I will probably be taking a lot home with me tonight. Thank goodness I can take these little breaks or I'd lose my sanity!

We finished our outside decorations on Saturday and we did our inside decorations too, including our Christmas tree!

Last night we were watching the Grey Cup (our team lost :( )and I told Scott "Remember one year ago, the new laminate had JUST been put in the condo, and we put our papasan chair cushions on the floor to watch the Grey Cup because we had all our furniture stacked up in another room?" and we both laughed and thought how weird that we never thought a year later we'd be in a different home in a different town!

[gja1000]

LOL! Lindsay, I just have to laugh at your musing about the turn of events in your life. Gary and i just closed on our house today, so here we are just like you, never dreamed that we would be living in a different house in the near future. We are excited, but it is so scary at the same time to own two houses! The market is really down right now, thus, we could get the new house at a great price. It also means that we won't be able to sell the old house for a while now, but that is OK, (I think). It is OK, but all this change is just so scary to me. I've often thought for awhile now, that we should buy a second property for an investment, but when it comes down to doing it - it feels so scary! :eek:

We ordered the floor (tile and wood) today. Here is a link to the wood floors http://www.shawfloors.com/hardwood-floorsDetails/Epic_Jubilee_5in_SW194-Antique_Gold The color is Antique Gold. We would never have picked that color, but we were limited by the color of the library paneling in the living room. The floor looks great with the wood paneling - I hope it looks good installed.

We are putting tile in the kitchen, dining room and bathrooms. It is just a multi colored beige, brown, gold color. It is pretty, but nothing too fancy - my budget is almost broken! LOL! They may start the tile this week, and then do the wood next week. We could move by the middle of December! YIKES.

We also have to have a bunch of fence put up - the fence guy is coming out tomorrow. I'll be glad to get this all DONE!

[Lindsey]

That's so exciting you closed today! I'll be excited for you while you are scared lol. I like that color of the wood floors, I'm sure they'll look great installed! You're smart to do the renovations before moving in. I hate living in a construction zone!

Scott wondered where we'll be a year from now and I told him I really hope we're in the same place! I have moved TOO many times in the past couple of years!

[Janet]

Gayle...I think all you're going through with the houses and moving just sounds so exciting. After being here for 30+ years....I would really love a change, but know it won't happen unless the marriage is dissolved.
I've so looking forward to see pictures of all the changes you're making.

[gja1000]

They took out all the carpet and linoleum today and got about half of the tile installed (not grouted, just laid down). I had class this evening, so I haven't seen it. I asked Gary if he liked it and he said, "Well, it is pretty busy"! I sure hope it is not too busy! :eek: I think it will be fine - our tile here at the house has a VERY busy pattern, and it hasn't bothered me at all. I also think the busier it is, the less things it will show and goodness knows, I am NOT a good housekeeper!!! http://www.fastfloors.com/lp_18738,0,131391/Daltile-Tile-Stone/_/Salerno-12-x-12/product.htm#NAV The link shows the tile color, Marrone Chiaro. The color in the picture is not quite right, it has more gold in it than you can see in that picture.

Tomorrow they will grout the tile they laid today, lay the rest of the tile, and finish the grout work the next day (Thurs). The wood flooring is supposed to be here (from Dallas) on Friday, so maybe they will get everything done by the first of next week.

WOW! That means that I have to MOVE - OH NO!

[gja1000]

I looked at the tile this morning and it definitely looks darker in the house than it did in the store. But it is not too busy and it looks great with the cabinets so I am relieved! I worried most of the night that it was not right.

[Lindsey]

Gayle, I don't think the pattern is too busy and I'm sure it will hide dirt well :D That's what I love about our house! The wood floors are 100 years old and look it, so you don't really notice when there's a little extra grime lol!

Have you started packing yet?

[gja1000]

No, we haven't started packing yet - we've just been purging and giving away/throwing away things that we have accumulated that we don't need. Also, we have to decide what we are taking and what we are leaving at the old house. My daughter and granddaughters may need to live there in the spring, so we have to leave some things there. The new house is smaller than the old house so we can't take everything anyway. I have to decide though, and mark what we are taking so that I can get an estimate from the moving company. We'll be packing everything, but they will be moving it.

[Janet]

I think your flooring choices are really pretty Gayle. Wish I was there to help you....I love doing that kind of thing.

[paula1961]

Your flooring is really pretty Gayle! I am looking forward to seeing pix of the house when you get all settled in.:)

Today I got my Christmas tree decorated and now I just need to vacuum up some stuff off the carpet. Everything turned out really pretty I think. I decorated more this year than I have in the past. I don't know why:rolleyes:just felt like it I guess lol. I got my Christmas cards a couple days ago for our exchange.:) I'm really looking forward to that!:)

[Janet]

It was way too cold for me to do anything...lol. So I stayed in where it's warmer. Didn't really accomplish much, but did have a nice phone conversation with my dear friend of over 30 years.

Spoke with Mom too. She's having more problems with her balance. She has lost the hearing in one ear and tells everyone that is the reason why. I don't know if it is or isn't, but I would think she would be use to it now. Gayle...you probably know more about this. Poor Mom...I just call her Weebles.....only in her case...she does fall down. She has an appointment with her regular Dr. this Friday. I sure hope she can help Mom and figure out exactly what is causing it.

[gja1000]

It could indeed be something in the inner ear that has caused the loss of hearing as well as affecting her balance. Or it could just cause hearing loss and the balance issue is completely due to something else. It's hard to tell. I guess she is still in IN, and hasn't gone to FL yet?

[Janet]

Yes...she is still in Indiana, but from what I hear....my 'bad witch' sister-in-law is taking her down after the first of the year. I have a good sil and a bad sil so I call them the good witch and the bad witch...lol.

[Lindsey]

Well, Janet, at least you can be thankful that she is not driving herself.

I have been keeping myself busy. I have started running on my treadmill again, but not in the evenings because I don't have the time or energy! So I'm getting up at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday and Thursday to run before I get ready for work. I also try to do at least one run on the weekends. I haven't checked my weight or anything but it is making me feel a lot better! I have also started taking a multivitamin again because I don't eat that well sometimes. My doctor wanted me to start on Vitamin D pills too so I've started that finally. It is pitch black when I drive to work and when I drive home, so I'm not getting any sunlight these days! I am having more blood tests later this month to check everything again.

Scott is going to the doctor today too, so we're leaving work early. I'll pick him up and take him over there and stay in the car with Layla until he's done. Hopefully over his lunch break he'll be picking up some gifts for the exchange we will do at my work Christmas party this weekend. We can wrap them tonight.

Busy, busy, busy!

[gja1000]

Tonight Gary and I painted the quarter round that will go on the baseboard in the rooms with new wood flooring.

ALL OF THE NEW FLOORING WILL BE DONE TOMORROW! I can hardly believe it. The fence should be done tomorrow too! WOW! Everything is almost done! I'm certainly not ready to move - but the house will be ready to move into after the weekend. I have LOTS of dusting to do as they kicked up lots of dust when they removed the carpet and cleaned and scraped the floors.

Oh, there is someone coming out tomorrow to give us a bid on putting a doggie door into our sliding glass door. Here is a link to show what they do. http://www.petdoordesign.com/default.asp I hope it is not too expensive - cuz my boyz have GOT to have a doggie door - they don't know how to ask to go out and I can't have them pottying in the house with the new floors! HA!

I have to agree with Gary that the tile is darker than I would have liked. It is fine, and I will get used to it, but I wish it were a bit lighter. I do not like really light tile - so I guess I went a bit too far in the other direction - but I SWEAR, the sample in the store was NOT this dark. Oh well, it won't show a THING - and since I am NOT Suzie Homemaker - this tile will not show a thing! LOL!

The wood floor is GORGEOUS! I absolutely love love love it! I will try to remember to take pictures over the weekend.

[Janet]

I have never seen a doggie door like that. Looks very convenient too. I hope it's not too expensive too, from the video..it looks like you'd like it real well.

[judy]

That doggie door is really nice! I hope it doesn't cost too much.

I went and bought groceries today, and that's it. I have had a busy week, but a good one. Next week is even busier! Christmas parties and such. I really have a good time once I get there, but the truth is that I don't care for parties and so much socializing. I have to push myself because I am basically a loner, but I do want friends. I haven't been going the last few weeks, but I think I better get my butt out the door!

[Janet]

I spent the biggest part of the day with Mom in the hospital again. I'm so tired. I'll write more about it in the thread about her.

[paula1961]

Janet I'm so sorry about your Mom. I sure hope she gets better soon.

Today I went to the store. It has snowed here all day but it has been a beautiful snow. I love watching it snow but I don't like having to go out in it. Anyways... I am keeping my Mom's two yorkie boyz while she is away singing in a revival at my brothers church. I have 5 yorkies in the house but it is working out just fine. Other than that.......haven't done much at all. I made home made veggie soup for supper:)

[gja1000]

I have had a busy week, but a good one. Next week is even busier! Christmas parties and such. I really have a good time once I get there, but the truth is that I don't care for parties and so much socializing. I have to push myself because I am basically a loner, but I do want friends. I haven't been going the last few weeks, but I think I better get my butt out the door!


I am exactly the same way Judy, I don't like parities, unless I know everyone there - and know them well - and then I don't like it very much. I just feel so uncomfortable at parties, especially where I only know the hostess. I was just invited to one like that where I will only know the hostess. She is a good friend of mine, and I really should go, but I will feel so uncomfortable. And just like you Judy, if I go, I'll have to force myself.

[gja1000]

MMMM Paula! Vegetable soup sounds WONDERFUL! It has been really warm the past few days, but a cold front came in this evening, so maybe I'll make some vegetable soup. That sounds so good!

I washed down all the woodwork in my new house today. It was all covered with dust from putting in the new floors. I'm so stiff tonight! I need to get more exercise. LOL! I also vacuumed and swiffered all the floors. Everything is clean now and ready to move in. We won't move till the week of the 13th, but at least everything out there is ready.

Gary sat out in the backyard most of the day. He is completely exhausted from being out there with the floor and fence people for 4 days this week. It was so beautiful outside today - about 75 and bright sunshine. He sat under a big tree, and we decided we need to put a picnic table under the tree.

There were all manner of pretty birds in the big bushes at the back of the yard that we could see while sitting under the tree (I took my breaks out there). I've got to get some bird feeders out, because there were cardinals, and several other really pretty birds out there.

[Janet]

Today I finished cleaning and then headed to the hospital to see Mom. I'm really tired, lack of sleep mostly, but that is going to be cured while I'm off at Christmas time. Tomorrow I hope to get a couple of dogs bathed.

[gja1000]

I'm PACKING :( It's hard when you haven't done this for 25 years!!! I just know I'm going to pack something that I NEED!

[Janet]

The best thing is to label...label...label...so you know where everything is. Good luck...wish I was there to help...it's 5 degrees here.

[gja1000]

I wish you were here too! But you can keep the 5 degrees up there, thank you very much!

[Lindsey]

I had a busy weekend! Layla got her gift exchange gift Saturday morning from YT :) So we spent the morning opening and getting pictures and posting online. Then we went into the city to attend a giant craft show that I go to yearly! We got quite a few Christmas presents there.

Saturday night was my Christmas party. It was our first party where the owner of the company made it here, at least since I've been working for this office. It was nice to see him and his wife there and he made an effort to talk to everyone which I think was really good of him. Later in the night, Scott and I got sucked into playing Cranium with a few people that I do enjoy spending time with. Unfortunately, one guy brought his girlfriend who always causes problems and she got us all kicked out of the venue. I mean, screamed at, and kicked out, and probably not welcome back. We will also be fined for what she did. I was pretty mad about that, even though it was late and everyone was leaving soon anyway. It wasn't a great end to the night, and I wish we would have left sooner. I hate being in the last groups to leave, especially when that kind of drama happens!

On Sunday we got ALL of our Christmas shopping done! Woohoo!!!!

[paula1961]

Sorry your party ended bad Lynsey! But I'm to that you got your shopping done! I bet Layla got some cute stuff from the GE didn't she?

Gayle......I agree with Janet....label every box!

Today..hubby and I went to Walmart:eek: We found out yesterday evening that my stepdaughters want to have our Christmas this coming week-end! I had only bought a few things so needless to say.....we had no choice but to start our shopping! The crowd was horrible.......we stood in line to check out for at least 45 minutes:eek: and didn't get all of what we needed! Oh well.........we will try some different stores tomorrow. I usually do most of my shopping online but I don't have time now to get things shipped before the weekend.

[gja1000]

I sealed the tile in my new house today. The floor guy said, OH IT'S EASY! Don't pay anyone to do it". YEAH RIGHT! It about broke my back. I need to do it one more time, but I don't know.........

I also got boxes from the moving company so that I can really start packing. FIFTY BOXES!!! I'm packing my Alaskan ivory and New Mexico Indian pottery tonight. It all has to be bubble wrapped! I just ran out of wrap, so I guess I'll quit for the night.

[Lindsey]

You're busy Gayle! I HATE packing!

I hardly got any sleep last night. I was dreaming that I was at my parents' house and looking for popcorn in a closet (hahaha) and while I was dreaming that, I was moving around in bed and I pushed my pillow over my bedside table, and knocked over my glass of water, spilling it everywhere :rolleyes: I knew exactly what I had done, but all Scott heard was a bang when the glass fell over and I swear he shot 10 feet in the air and landed on his feet and screamed "OH SH**!" ahahahahahahahaha... I told him to go back to bed, it was just a glass of water, and I'd handle it. So I wiped it all up and went back to bed but Layla cried at least 3 times and I got up to check if she had gone to the bathroom in her crate, but she didn't, she was just being a jerk! My alarm went off at 5:30 so I could run on the treadmill, but I turned it off and slept until my normal 6:00. This morning I brought up how scared Scott was last night and he said it was the same sound last winter when he and his friend were driving home from a snowboarding trip at about the same time, and Scott was sleeping in the passenger seat and his friend fell asleep at the wheel and they hit the ditch. He thought the same thing had happened! I told him it's a good thing he was wearing a seatbelt the first time or he would have jumped right through the windshield!!

[gja1000]

Packing Packing Packing Packing Packing Packing! Well, you get the picture. We are not moving till next week, but I am trying to pack everything that is not essential. I left out one pan and one skillet - do you think that is enough? :D

[gja1000]

Tired tired tired.

[lynne b]

I am sorry that you are so tired, I know that you are anxious to get into your new home, but it's nice that you don't have a time limit to be out of the old one.
Slow down!!!!

[Janet]

I think leaving out one pan and one skillet is one pan and one skillet too many....lol.

Got my hair cut today and made a run to our insurance co. to see about lower rates. Got a shocker for my Mom though....because of her accident in her new car...something went up 3 points and her insurance for 6 months is $1253.00. She's not going to be happy.

[gja1000]

Got a shocker for my Mom though....because of her accident in her new car...something went up 3 points and her insurance for 6 months is $1253.00. She's not going to be happy.

WOWSER! That A LOT! I would NOT be happy either! That's about what we pay for THREE cars in 6 months.

[gja1000]

Today was my day out with my 2 girlies from work. We started at breakfast, then hit the thrift stores. We have a street that is full of thrift stores for about 3 miles. We didn't even have time to hit them all. Oh and we went to one antique mall. Then we went to the massage therapy school and got a one hour massage for $35.00. It was with a student, but ours were all very good! Then we went for lunch at a sushi place. One friend had never had sushi, so we didn't tell her we having sushi. She was a bit hesitant - but they have lots of rolls with cooked meat, or you can get all vegetarian. Then we went for yogurt, and last I took them to see my new house! It was a FUN day!

For dinner, Gary and I met Brooke, Bryan Abi, Emma and Mom at Luby's and it was really good! Since I've been home, I've been PACKING!

[Lindsey]

That sounds like a great day Gayle! I'm glad you got a little break from the packing!

Last night we were up past midnight getting the house ready for our company tonight. We're having 12 people total (my family) over for pizza and cards :) Some of them haven't seen the house yet so we wanted it to be perfect. Some have seen it but not since we've had it painted. I just want everyone to be impressed with the work we did! My parents will be staying the night at our house whenever they get in (my dad has a house move today so he'll be lifting power lines for it and can't leave until it's done!). Tomorrow night is another Christmas party, but a fancy one! It's in an auditorium and there will be well over 600 people attending, so it will be nice to make some contacts. One of our old engineers that I really got along with well now works at that company so I'd like to catch up with her!

Here's the dress I just bought for the event (but not the color!). It came in lots of colors and I made Scott pick one... he chose dark blue. It's a shiny fabric so some of it looks bright blue when the light hits. I love it!

[paula1961]

Very pretty dress Lynsey! You will look adorable in it!! Have fun with your company this evening!

Today I have made fudge, brownies and potato candy. Our Christmas with my stepdaughters is tomorrow evening so I thought I better start making a few things. We have appetizers for them. We'll be having cheesesticks( the grandkids love them) meatballs, shrimp, two different kinds of wings, and 2 different kinds of kabobs......plus chili, chips and dip, candy, cookies, and brownie surprise. Now I have to get some cleaning done! Plus I still have my Mom's two dogs! She is singing in a revival about 5 hours from me at my brothers church. She was supposed to come get them today but she called last night and said the revival has been held over until Sunday! Shew! I can do this, I can do this! LOL!