Hi Everyone!

[judy]

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

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

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

[gja1000]

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

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

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

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

[judy]

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

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

[paula1961]

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

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

[DianaB]

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

[Janet]

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

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

[DianaB]

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

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

Just NINE days!!!!!