Yesterday, I was enjoying myself sewing little purses and coin purses "in the hoop" on the embroidery machine when the phone rang. I knew Doodle was at the ortho's office to determine hair line fracture or not. I thought, as it was true that is was, Daughter.
Yes they were there, and it was a madhouse. So she called upstairs to where one ortho guy and mine officed. They said they were sure the one where she was would be a madhouse because theirs was too. Dr F (my knee surgeon) had a heart attack a couple of weeks ago and died.
This news still brings the tears to my eyes, and yesterday it brought loud sobs while I was talking to Daughter. Dr F was one of the best people, let alone doctors I have ever met. My first visit to him was wracked with so much fear. I had heard such horror stories about the pain of joint replacement.
After looking at my knees, he said we had to do the left one ASAP because it was so unstable\\. He was afraid it would crumble and break at any time, and then I would have a real problem. I remember how reassuring he was. I clearly remember the words "we can't control the pain you are in now - we CAN control the pain post surgery." And he did.
He always took time to fully explain what was going on, what was going to happen, why and/or any other question we might have. We also talked about his hawks that he looked after in the area of the hospital.
After reading the tributes to him at the funeral web site, this is how he was with his patients. He CARED. He spent time. Explaining. Teaching. Curing. Talking. With one, they talked about music.
He also helped people who didn't have cures from other doctors. On that first visit, we talked with a man who fell into a pond on his farm in another state. He contracted MRSA - that skin eating bacteria. He was about to lose his leg and his life. He returned to Texas and Dr F. His leg was saved.
In reading those tributes, I discovered Dt F didn't only do knees and hips. He did shoulders. Oh, how I wish I had known this. I wouldn't be suffering as I am.
I think of my future. I will not see him for my yearly follow up. Something that I, like his other patients, looked forward to. We enjoyed going to see him. That isn't something most people feel about their doctors.
I am so very, very sad at his passing. The tears still want to flow. I know he was "only" my surgeon, but I know he looked on us as more than "only" his patients.
_____________________________________________________________________________
The good is that birthday boy has had a good day with us. He needed this time today - with us - alone. Usually the girls push him our of the way and take over. It must be hell to be the middle between two sisters - especially like his outgoing sisters. The eldest usually brags that she is my favorite, and I love her more. I have spend a lot more time with her - she is older, is able to do my hobbies, and has always been easier. But today is Monkey Boy's day! Tomorrow I will post a picture or two!
Peace
Showing posts with label Grandchildren. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Grandchildren. Show all posts
Saturday, July 07, 2012
Tuesday, July 03, 2012
Bits of this and that
Our friend/neighbor/cousin that lives close to the SSB succumbed to his brain cancer yesterday morning. I really had wanted to attend his funeral. After all, we did have so many things in common - his wife had gotten sick at the same time I discovered my cancer, and he did have cancer. His was different however. It was fast growing, and killed him so quickly. We had planned to see him the next time we were at the SSB, the last time he was getting treated by hospice and we were going to be leaving the next day. Sad.
I had my follow-up with the nephrologist. He said my potassium was high, so he gave me a diet that would limit my ingestion of potassium. It is something that I simply cannot really adhere to because the very first part flies in the face of what I consider healthy. With pre-diabetes, I try to avoid white foods. This diet says to eat white bread and white rice as opposed to wheat bread and brown rice. Guess I am going to have a problem there.
Today I went to the cardio doc. I told him that I had quit Lipitor on my own because I couldn't stand the muscle cramps in my legs at night. I thought he was going to tell me that was just tough and get back on it. I figure I will be 67 (ouch!) in a few weeks. My heart is in good condition. What is going to get me first? Cancer recurring or a massive stroke or heart attack. Let's face it, there simply aren't too many more dances in my future!
Doodle Bug had to go back to the clinic yesterday. It is still not clear if there is a fracture or not. I found out this was in the elbow. So she is in a splint for a few days then heading to a bone doc. We will see what happens now. She flipped out at first about the splint, but she is doing ok with it now. It is pink. It is ok.
Tomorrow I will try to post some pictures of the trip. I especially want to post that first hotel in Hot Springs, Arkansas. It was horrid! The pictures don't seem to do it the way it really was. It was just so bad. I still shudder when I think of it. I hope I never have to stay in 100 year old hotels!
Peace.
I had my follow-up with the nephrologist. He said my potassium was high, so he gave me a diet that would limit my ingestion of potassium. It is something that I simply cannot really adhere to because the very first part flies in the face of what I consider healthy. With pre-diabetes, I try to avoid white foods. This diet says to eat white bread and white rice as opposed to wheat bread and brown rice. Guess I am going to have a problem there.
Today I went to the cardio doc. I told him that I had quit Lipitor on my own because I couldn't stand the muscle cramps in my legs at night. I thought he was going to tell me that was just tough and get back on it. I figure I will be 67 (ouch!) in a few weeks. My heart is in good condition. What is going to get me first? Cancer recurring or a massive stroke or heart attack. Let's face it, there simply aren't too many more dances in my future!
Doodle Bug had to go back to the clinic yesterday. It is still not clear if there is a fracture or not. I found out this was in the elbow. So she is in a splint for a few days then heading to a bone doc. We will see what happens now. She flipped out at first about the splint, but she is doing ok with it now. It is pink. It is ok.
Tomorrow I will try to post some pictures of the trip. I especially want to post that first hotel in Hot Springs, Arkansas. It was horrid! The pictures don't seem to do it the way it really was. It was just so bad. I still shudder when I think of it. I hope I never have to stay in 100 year old hotels!
Peace.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Swim - or drown?
In college, I decided that an easy PE credit was beginning swimming. I already knew how to swim - I thought, but just how difficult could this be? Let's face it, I was not, am not a physical person. I don't like to sweat. I did enough of that with menopause.
That was the best course I ever took - other than the folk dancing that was also a PE credit. Pretty cool - fun PE credits! I learned the correct way to swim. We began with just getting used to the water. We ended swimming a couple hundreds of meter swim without stopping. And I could do it.
So I have always loved to swim. I loved it so much that we put in a pool. When the kids were little we were in that pool everyday for hours. Then they left, and I got old had cancer and two knee replacements.
After those surgeries, I had lots of stitches that shouldn't get wet. After the knees, I knew I couldn't get out of the pool. I don't have all the strength in my legs back. Years of inactivity has taken its toll.
We had to have the pool replastered this year, and I wanted a rail at the steps so I had something to hold onto. Otherwise I would be kneeling on the decking at some point, and I have been told not to kneel - especially on something hard. He said the titanium knees would do a real number on that thin knee cap bone. So we had the rail put in. That was no easy task. They are not usually on a private pool.
Saturday I finally decide that the pool had to be warmed enough. It is a deep pool - we have a diving board. It takes a long while for all that water to get warm. Even in Coastal Texas!
It still is a little cool. Its temperature is what I would like when the days are high 90's to 100. But I got in. Slowly. I am so glad I didn't launch myself into the deep end - which isn't far into the pool. As I began to kick, I realized I had never tried fake knees to swim. They felt a little strange. But more than that - I didn't have the strength to kick a lot. Kicking is my long suit. It scared me a little.
So I stayed in the more shallow end swimming from one side to the other which isn't far - maybe 5 feet. I also did some exercise moves to strengthen my legs. I wasn't in long. I didn't really expect to feel anything. I was so wrong. I was getting a little sore, and it wore me out! Talk about being out of shape! Geez.
So I haven't been in since, and I won't be able to get in today. The pool man comes and he will "shock" the pool which means the chlorine level will be off the charts. Not good for the skin. But I will be back in for a while, then we are basically away from home for the month of June.
In other news, I finally downloaded pictures from the "graduations." The top is my LB. Not a good picture and it is the best I could get! The bottom is Doodle Bug. I have one of her smiling, but her eyes are closed.
Oh, and JuJu - we had about 65 people at the picnic. I think everyone had a great time. Some stayed for quite a while, and there is talk about having another one soon!
Peace
That was the best course I ever took - other than the folk dancing that was also a PE credit. Pretty cool - fun PE credits! I learned the correct way to swim. We began with just getting used to the water. We ended swimming a couple hundreds of meter swim without stopping. And I could do it.
So I have always loved to swim. I loved it so much that we put in a pool. When the kids were little we were in that pool everyday for hours. Then they left, and I got old had cancer and two knee replacements.
After those surgeries, I had lots of stitches that shouldn't get wet. After the knees, I knew I couldn't get out of the pool. I don't have all the strength in my legs back. Years of inactivity has taken its toll.
We had to have the pool replastered this year, and I wanted a rail at the steps so I had something to hold onto. Otherwise I would be kneeling on the decking at some point, and I have been told not to kneel - especially on something hard. He said the titanium knees would do a real number on that thin knee cap bone. So we had the rail put in. That was no easy task. They are not usually on a private pool.
Saturday I finally decide that the pool had to be warmed enough. It is a deep pool - we have a diving board. It takes a long while for all that water to get warm. Even in Coastal Texas!
It still is a little cool. Its temperature is what I would like when the days are high 90's to 100. But I got in. Slowly. I am so glad I didn't launch myself into the deep end - which isn't far into the pool. As I began to kick, I realized I had never tried fake knees to swim. They felt a little strange. But more than that - I didn't have the strength to kick a lot. Kicking is my long suit. It scared me a little.
So I stayed in the more shallow end swimming from one side to the other which isn't far - maybe 5 feet. I also did some exercise moves to strengthen my legs. I wasn't in long. I didn't really expect to feel anything. I was so wrong. I was getting a little sore, and it wore me out! Talk about being out of shape! Geez.
So I haven't been in since, and I won't be able to get in today. The pool man comes and he will "shock" the pool which means the chlorine level will be off the charts. Not good for the skin. But I will be back in for a while, then we are basically away from home for the month of June.
Oh, and JuJu - we had about 65 people at the picnic. I think everyone had a great time. Some stayed for quite a while, and there is talk about having another one soon!
Peace
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Yes, unfortunately I still exist
I've just been out of pocket for another week. The bad news is that ATT let me down. No internet through them and my fancy phone. The worse news is that I guess if I want internet, it will have to be by satellite. I guess the $50 (plus taxes and all sorts of fees) can go to the satellite that is advertised at $40 (plus taxes and all sorts of fees). G doesn't like the idea - he isn't even on board for the satellite tv!
We actually returned on Tuesday, but I was too tired to post then, and yesterday I went to Doodle Bug's "graduation" from pre-school. They were cute. I will try to post a picture tomorrow - especially since Lady Bug "graduates" from 5th grade. OMG! Let's make all these big occasions. In a way, LB's does mark her moving into a whole new era.
In other news, I guess technically I am not a great grandmother. My step granddaughter had her baby yesterday. Strange family this makes. I am a grandmother to a 4 month old and great grandmother to a newborn.
Anyway, M came through it with flying colors. I was worried about her. Like every pregnant woman, the last weeks are miserable, and you want that baby out more than anything else. So it was with her. Last week she was told her cervix wasn't softening. But she was given the choice of waiting or inducing (on her due date because of the gall bladder problems). Guess what she chose? So she went in on the evening of the 22nd for the Cervadil. Seems to have worked. Her water broke about midnight, and Allie Beth was born yesterday afternoon with a fairly easy labor. Congratulations M. Now don't follow in your birth mother's steps, who by the way isn't speaking to M.
Yesterday I pulled a real boner stunt. We laugh about the bottom step on our steps being the "killer step." I have fallen more than once, G has fallen, Son fell - holding his son and hurting his foot really badly. I try to be extra careful these days. Well, yesterday I was trying to get the suitcase with the fabric I took up the stairs when I remembered Simone had not gotten her pills. I was coming back down, not paying attention, and missed that last step. Down I went. I landed squarely on my right hip.
G, from the other room, asked it I were OK. Duh - didn't you hear the thud. Couldn't you have gotten off your dead a** to see? Anyway, things were all in tact yesterday. Today I am so sore!
Today I will be working to complete an outfit for Allie Beth and doing two more Baptismal blankets (that I have been asking about since January - our church - no communication until it is really serious!).
Peace.
We actually returned on Tuesday, but I was too tired to post then, and yesterday I went to Doodle Bug's "graduation" from pre-school. They were cute. I will try to post a picture tomorrow - especially since Lady Bug "graduates" from 5th grade. OMG! Let's make all these big occasions. In a way, LB's does mark her moving into a whole new era.
In other news, I guess technically I am not a great grandmother. My step granddaughter had her baby yesterday. Strange family this makes. I am a grandmother to a 4 month old and great grandmother to a newborn.
Anyway, M came through it with flying colors. I was worried about her. Like every pregnant woman, the last weeks are miserable, and you want that baby out more than anything else. So it was with her. Last week she was told her cervix wasn't softening. But she was given the choice of waiting or inducing (on her due date because of the gall bladder problems). Guess what she chose? So she went in on the evening of the 22nd for the Cervadil. Seems to have worked. Her water broke about midnight, and Allie Beth was born yesterday afternoon with a fairly easy labor. Congratulations M. Now don't follow in your birth mother's steps, who by the way isn't speaking to M.
Yesterday I pulled a real boner stunt. We laugh about the bottom step on our steps being the "killer step." I have fallen more than once, G has fallen, Son fell - holding his son and hurting his foot really badly. I try to be extra careful these days. Well, yesterday I was trying to get the suitcase with the fabric I took up the stairs when I remembered Simone had not gotten her pills. I was coming back down, not paying attention, and missed that last step. Down I went. I landed squarely on my right hip.
G, from the other room, asked it I were OK. Duh - didn't you hear the thud. Couldn't you have gotten off your dead a** to see? Anyway, things were all in tact yesterday. Today I am so sore!
Today I will be working to complete an outfit for Allie Beth and doing two more Baptismal blankets (that I have been asking about since January - our church - no communication until it is really serious!).
Peace.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Mother's Day
I do hope you all had a wonderful Mother's Day. Mine was 99% great. G gave me a lovely orchid plant. He said he was replacing the one that died. That and another one were the only ones I have been able to keep going - in fact, the one that is still alive even bloomed again. That is a record for me, and it's a shame because I love orchids so much. But then I used to laugh about all the rosemary plants in the world screaming when I walked by. Every one I would buy would turn brown. I finally figured out my water person (G) was over watering! So now I have a huge, healthy rosemary plant. I am hoping the same for these orchids!
I had told Daughter I wanted a good pair of fabric scissors because I know they can be expensive. Well - I got those and another pair that cut nicely through thick layers of fabrics. Wonderful. Plus they hosted famly dinner last night, and it was delicious - as normally.
Son and DIL gave me a beautiful rose bouquet along with a gorgeous James Avery cross. It is a very heavy one, and absolutely beautiful. I think she likes it a lot too, and her birthday is the end of this month. I may give her a matching one. I will check with Son!
The 1% not good was my middle grandson. He is Son's oldest. He is three, and he is literally Hell on Wheels! I think I posted before about him (purposely) throwing a wooden block at Daughter's youngest hitting her above the eye. He throws things at Simone and chases Shadow. I had reached my limit about a month ago, and the next week cancelled family dinner because of him. No one stood up to host, so we didn't have dinner that week, then we were gone. Son and DIL had it last week, and now Daughter and SIL.
So what got me this time, it was direct, willful disobedience. G was going to borrow a book from SIL. So it was sitting on the couch, next to where one of the dog kennels was. W decided that he was going to push that book through the wire of the kennel. I just ignored that behavior. Then he threw the book into the far back of the kennel. I asked him to get it out, and he just looked at me as if to say eat sh*t and die. So I asked again. He acted like he wasn't hearing me. I told him that I knew he could hear me and requested again. Nothing. I was ready to paddle his little butt! I was furious. But by that time Doodle Bug had crawled in to get the book. And to think - she was the brat before!
I really was livid. They discipline this kid for a lot, but other things he is allowed to run wild. His other grandparents ( and there are three - real grandmother, step grandmother, and real grandfather) apparently cater to him. I don't cater to any of the six!
I think it is well known my family are deer hunters thus having racks of antlers about. W thinks these large, eight-point racks are his toys. They are dangerous. They have long tines and are sharp. When we were at his house, he had one that almost at differing times nearly pierced his little sister and baby brother. He was trying to put a hole in their leather ottoman. At Daughter's house, he took one from SIL's desk and was doing the same thing. Daughter took it away. DIL doesn't care - says he plays with them all the time.
OK - thanks for reading my rant. I think he may grow out of this - at least I hope so. I really believe he is going to give his parents a run for their money. I am worried a bit though because I see a mean streak in him. I neglected to say he threw a ball at his sister's head last night when they were outside - beaning her pretty good. Fortunately, she had a batter's helmet on. Mom just laughed.
Now I am done. Peace
I had told Daughter I wanted a good pair of fabric scissors because I know they can be expensive. Well - I got those and another pair that cut nicely through thick layers of fabrics. Wonderful. Plus they hosted famly dinner last night, and it was delicious - as normally.
Son and DIL gave me a beautiful rose bouquet along with a gorgeous James Avery cross. It is a very heavy one, and absolutely beautiful. I think she likes it a lot too, and her birthday is the end of this month. I may give her a matching one. I will check with Son!
The 1% not good was my middle grandson. He is Son's oldest. He is three, and he is literally Hell on Wheels! I think I posted before about him (purposely) throwing a wooden block at Daughter's youngest hitting her above the eye. He throws things at Simone and chases Shadow. I had reached my limit about a month ago, and the next week cancelled family dinner because of him. No one stood up to host, so we didn't have dinner that week, then we were gone. Son and DIL had it last week, and now Daughter and SIL.
So what got me this time, it was direct, willful disobedience. G was going to borrow a book from SIL. So it was sitting on the couch, next to where one of the dog kennels was. W decided that he was going to push that book through the wire of the kennel. I just ignored that behavior. Then he threw the book into the far back of the kennel. I asked him to get it out, and he just looked at me as if to say eat sh*t and die. So I asked again. He acted like he wasn't hearing me. I told him that I knew he could hear me and requested again. Nothing. I was ready to paddle his little butt! I was furious. But by that time Doodle Bug had crawled in to get the book. And to think - she was the brat before!
I really was livid. They discipline this kid for a lot, but other things he is allowed to run wild. His other grandparents ( and there are three - real grandmother, step grandmother, and real grandfather) apparently cater to him. I don't cater to any of the six!
I think it is well known my family are deer hunters thus having racks of antlers about. W thinks these large, eight-point racks are his toys. They are dangerous. They have long tines and are sharp. When we were at his house, he had one that almost at differing times nearly pierced his little sister and baby brother. He was trying to put a hole in their leather ottoman. At Daughter's house, he took one from SIL's desk and was doing the same thing. Daughter took it away. DIL doesn't care - says he plays with them all the time.
OK - thanks for reading my rant. I think he may grow out of this - at least I hope so. I really believe he is going to give his parents a run for their money. I am worried a bit though because I see a mean streak in him. I neglected to say he threw a ball at his sister's head last night when they were outside - beaning her pretty good. Fortunately, she had a batter's helmet on. Mom just laughed.
Now I am done. Peace
Monday, April 02, 2012
Quick hello
Just wanted to drop by to say "hi". Since I stupidly left the Easter baskets for three of the grandkidlets at the SSB, I decided I was going to make Easter bags for all six. Am I behind, yeah, you might say so since I haven't even loaded the design on the USB stick to load into the sewing machine.
We had family dinner here last night. At 12:30 while G and I were at our neighborhood Mexican restaurant still eating lunch post church, Daughter calls. She asked if we could go to the airport to pick up Chef Andy - who wasn't supposed to be in until 7.
Being the Queen of Procrastination (yep - still not downloading or sewing), my house needed to be picked up (actually, burned to the ground to start over would be more like it) and vacuumed. Even though 5/6th of the grandkiddlets are walkers, they still play on the floor. So...
Anyway - so we went to pick up Chef Andy. He is really a chef! He and SIL were scheduled to go to A&M today to check out problems they are having with one of the ovens that their company sold A&M. As usual - even though the plane wasn't late, they weren't in any hurry with the luggage. Since Andy was coming here from his Utah ski trip - he had his ski bag. Surely glad we have that Highlander now.
Of course, since I was having Sunday dinner - that meant Chef was coming to dinner. I had already planned the menu with one exception. I was fixing Mexican Shepard's Pie. Good enough. So I threw a salad together, then got the hair-brained idea to make corn bread.
I use a mix. It was old. I also may have mixed it too early. Anyway, the two batches were more like flat bread. It was terrible. Not a good showing for the chef.
But the evening was successful. We got the house "clean" - at least part of it. I vacuumed, cooked, and burned the wowie out of my thumb on the handle of the 475 degree cast iron skillet with the doomed corn bread in it. All was right with the world.
So now I HAVE to get up to sewing. I only have about four projects to sew to go into those bags that haven't been uploaded yet. Neither have the projects. Ah, well!!
Oh - and I got a quick trip in to the vet. Simone isn't acting normal. Or perhaps she is acting normally for a 8+ year old Boxer. I just wanted to be proactive. We get the lab results back tomorrow, but everything from the visit in normal. Just $250. What's money, right??
Peace.
We had family dinner here last night. At 12:30 while G and I were at our neighborhood Mexican restaurant still eating lunch post church, Daughter calls. She asked if we could go to the airport to pick up Chef Andy - who wasn't supposed to be in until 7.
Being the Queen of Procrastination (yep - still not downloading or sewing), my house needed to be picked up (actually, burned to the ground to start over would be more like it) and vacuumed. Even though 5/6th of the grandkiddlets are walkers, they still play on the floor. So...
Anyway - so we went to pick up Chef Andy. He is really a chef! He and SIL were scheduled to go to A&M today to check out problems they are having with one of the ovens that their company sold A&M. As usual - even though the plane wasn't late, they weren't in any hurry with the luggage. Since Andy was coming here from his Utah ski trip - he had his ski bag. Surely glad we have that Highlander now.
Of course, since I was having Sunday dinner - that meant Chef was coming to dinner. I had already planned the menu with one exception. I was fixing Mexican Shepard's Pie. Good enough. So I threw a salad together, then got the hair-brained idea to make corn bread.
I use a mix. It was old. I also may have mixed it too early. Anyway, the two batches were more like flat bread. It was terrible. Not a good showing for the chef.
But the evening was successful. We got the house "clean" - at least part of it. I vacuumed, cooked, and burned the wowie out of my thumb on the handle of the 475 degree cast iron skillet with the doomed corn bread in it. All was right with the world.
So now I HAVE to get up to sewing. I only have about four projects to sew to go into those bags that haven't been uploaded yet. Neither have the projects. Ah, well!!
Oh - and I got a quick trip in to the vet. Simone isn't acting normal. Or perhaps she is acting normally for a 8+ year old Boxer. I just wanted to be proactive. We get the lab results back tomorrow, but everything from the visit in normal. Just $250. What's money, right??
Peace.
Friday, March 30, 2012
"Home movies"
Since I finally got off my dead rear to download some pictures, I thought I would go ahead and bore you.
Well - I have bored you silly. Hope you read this post before retiring for the night. It should work like a sleeping pill!!
Peace
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Home again, home again ...
We are in one piece, and I think everyone is still speaking.
On Wednesday evening, we were supposed to be on the Amtrak #1 - Sunset Limited heading to Los Angeles. It got to the station after 11. The shooting at the court house in Beaumont held it up. The FBI, we were told, shut down the tracks.
We got on - found our seats. G had the foresight to reserve lower coach. It was a new experience, and we did love it. There are only 14 seats in this lower area. The restrooms are right there, and there is a door that isolates us from the rest of the train.
While we were a loose large group, Amtrak treated us as a group here in Houston. The train club was all on one car. We being down below. It was good with one exception. Since there were seven - that left one man odd. G was to sit with this other gentleman (a term used loosely here). The other man was a little odd to say the least, and G, trying to be friendly, irritated the fire out of him. But that worked itself out.
The next afternoon we arrived in Alpine. We were all exhausted - there really is no sleeping for adults in coach. My seat must have been resurrected from the 1900's. Sleeping was good that night - even when I went to bed not speaking to G.
The next day we went to Fort Davis. I had not been there since we married. It was our honeymoon destination then. The kids loved it, and became Junior Rangers.
We dined like Continental folks. American, Italian, Mexican, Chinese. We hit the gamut. The Italian was to die for. Who knew??
Getting on the train yesterday was fairly uneventful - if you call an overbooked train uneventful. But we had the only reserved seats in out large group. All the others had to split up completely. There were only scattered single seats on that train that came from LA. We did have reserved seats, but I worried they weren't together. For some reason there were only two cars with lower coach though.
The first car was the one splitting off in San Antonio to go to Chicago. They put us on the second. It was great for the kids. There was another family with three kids of similar ages on that one. Great fun was had until we reached San Antonio.
When they de-trained, a wheel chair person was put on. The lower coach is really for the handicapped - so I qualify! Three gentlemen got on, but at midnight, I didn't care for them spending the trip talking. And they say women talk. Ladies, we couldn't hold a candle!
All went well. From midnight in San Antonio until just on the outskirts of Houston (Sugarland to be exact), the engineer poured on the coal, and we sped through the night. We would have been on time for out 4:45 arrival except ... We stopped. We stayed stopped. And we stayed stopped.
Finally at 6:30 the conductor told us we would be stopped even longer. The freight ahead of us hit a pedestrian. It was an ugly hit. I won't go into details. The police were doing a thorough investigation. We got underway at about 8.
The trip to the station was uneventful, but then how do you follow that. I just hate that four hour delay may have ruined the trip, but it could have happened if we were driving. When we got in Alpine, there were tv reports about IH 20 being completely shut down between Odessa and Midland because of a three truck accident with four deaths. It was closed for hours. So it wasn't just the train!!
Peace.
On Wednesday evening, we were supposed to be on the Amtrak #1 - Sunset Limited heading to Los Angeles. It got to the station after 11. The shooting at the court house in Beaumont held it up. The FBI, we were told, shut down the tracks.
We got on - found our seats. G had the foresight to reserve lower coach. It was a new experience, and we did love it. There are only 14 seats in this lower area. The restrooms are right there, and there is a door that isolates us from the rest of the train.
While we were a loose large group, Amtrak treated us as a group here in Houston. The train club was all on one car. We being down below. It was good with one exception. Since there were seven - that left one man odd. G was to sit with this other gentleman (a term used loosely here). The other man was a little odd to say the least, and G, trying to be friendly, irritated the fire out of him. But that worked itself out.
The next afternoon we arrived in Alpine. We were all exhausted - there really is no sleeping for adults in coach. My seat must have been resurrected from the 1900's. Sleeping was good that night - even when I went to bed not speaking to G.
The next day we went to Fort Davis. I had not been there since we married. It was our honeymoon destination then. The kids loved it, and became Junior Rangers.
We dined like Continental folks. American, Italian, Mexican, Chinese. We hit the gamut. The Italian was to die for. Who knew??
Getting on the train yesterday was fairly uneventful - if you call an overbooked train uneventful. But we had the only reserved seats in out large group. All the others had to split up completely. There were only scattered single seats on that train that came from LA. We did have reserved seats, but I worried they weren't together. For some reason there were only two cars with lower coach though.
The first car was the one splitting off in San Antonio to go to Chicago. They put us on the second. It was great for the kids. There was another family with three kids of similar ages on that one. Great fun was had until we reached San Antonio.
When they de-trained, a wheel chair person was put on. The lower coach is really for the handicapped - so I qualify! Three gentlemen got on, but at midnight, I didn't care for them spending the trip talking. And they say women talk. Ladies, we couldn't hold a candle!
All went well. From midnight in San Antonio until just on the outskirts of Houston (Sugarland to be exact), the engineer poured on the coal, and we sped through the night. We would have been on time for out 4:45 arrival except ... We stopped. We stayed stopped. And we stayed stopped.
Finally at 6:30 the conductor told us we would be stopped even longer. The freight ahead of us hit a pedestrian. It was an ugly hit. I won't go into details. The police were doing a thorough investigation. We got underway at about 8.
The trip to the station was uneventful, but then how do you follow that. I just hate that four hour delay may have ruined the trip, but it could have happened if we were driving. When we got in Alpine, there were tv reports about IH 20 being completely shut down between Odessa and Midland because of a three truck accident with four deaths. It was closed for hours. So it wasn't just the train!!
Peace.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
This and that
Wonderful tributes have been posted on FaceBook pages about Larry. One stated he touched so many lives. It's true. I really believe he didn't really know just how many lives he touched, and how loved he was. Life isn't always fair for a Pastor.
Our church gave him actual hell on earth. There were in that church - as there are in many churches - factions. While we were still members there, several things happened that caused a lot of members to change churches. Many said very ugly things about Larry and to Larry. It was finally enough, and after countless heart by-pass surgeries, he decided he would retire on disability. Can't say as I blame him. His life was more important than that church.
On a friend's page, one of the past parishioners posted on a page that she always liked him as a pastor. I so wanted to call her out to tell her she was a bald faced liar. She told me she didn't like him, and I was too much a coward to stand up to her right there. I just kept mum. But I really think she knew.
Anyway - this evening we are boarding the Sunset Limited - all seven of us - to head to the giant metropolis of Alpine, the gateway to Big Bend. We won't go to Big Bend, but there are things that the kids haven't seen in Alpine. Daughter told me this morning she had never been to Alpine. No, just TWICE!
I am apprehensive about such a large number of people getting on a train with many already on it. We are sort of traveling with our train club, so at least 40 of us are getting on here. I just hope our little seven can stay together.
I am worried about the kids getting bored - if not tomorrow then the way back on Saturday. I have some games made up for them that I will get out for that return trip. Something new (that are really old - dot game, hangman, word find, etc.). So we will see.
All dogs will be going to a new kennel. It looks really beautiful, but they can't have their beds. All three of them sleep on plush beds. Simone sleeps on a plush bed in her crate, so she will have neither. At least it's only three nights and three days.
I think I am more worried about her. She was off her feed at the end of last week and the beginning of this week. She is going well now, but at her age (8+) I hate to leave her. For a small dog, her years aren't all that many, but for a Boxer she is getting really old.
Shadow will have the house to himself. He tries to act independent - a true black cat, but he really wants me around. If he isn't with me, he wants to know where I am. I do worry about him, but he will survive. Perhaps he will appreciate me more and not attack me at every opportunity when we get back.
Yesterday I got my TENS unit. It is the thing that I considered my reward for PT back in the day. It stimulates the nerves with an electrical signal. It is heaven! I had no idea Medicare would buy the thing - like I have found they will send me my glucose monitor and strips. Oh, yeah - that is going well. Even though I watched the glucose level blow the ceiling out when I got the steroid injections last Friday.
So - all seems good. I will have a computer on the trip and Daughter is bringing her air-card. We MIGHT have a signal. If so, I will try to update along the way.
Peace.
Our church gave him actual hell on earth. There were in that church - as there are in many churches - factions. While we were still members there, several things happened that caused a lot of members to change churches. Many said very ugly things about Larry and to Larry. It was finally enough, and after countless heart by-pass surgeries, he decided he would retire on disability. Can't say as I blame him. His life was more important than that church.
On a friend's page, one of the past parishioners posted on a page that she always liked him as a pastor. I so wanted to call her out to tell her she was a bald faced liar. She told me she didn't like him, and I was too much a coward to stand up to her right there. I just kept mum. But I really think she knew.
Anyway - this evening we are boarding the Sunset Limited - all seven of us - to head to the giant metropolis of Alpine, the gateway to Big Bend. We won't go to Big Bend, but there are things that the kids haven't seen in Alpine. Daughter told me this morning she had never been to Alpine. No, just TWICE!
I am apprehensive about such a large number of people getting on a train with many already on it. We are sort of traveling with our train club, so at least 40 of us are getting on here. I just hope our little seven can stay together.
I am worried about the kids getting bored - if not tomorrow then the way back on Saturday. I have some games made up for them that I will get out for that return trip. Something new (that are really old - dot game, hangman, word find, etc.). So we will see.
All dogs will be going to a new kennel. It looks really beautiful, but they can't have their beds. All three of them sleep on plush beds. Simone sleeps on a plush bed in her crate, so she will have neither. At least it's only three nights and three days.
I think I am more worried about her. She was off her feed at the end of last week and the beginning of this week. She is going well now, but at her age (8+) I hate to leave her. For a small dog, her years aren't all that many, but for a Boxer she is getting really old.
Shadow will have the house to himself. He tries to act independent - a true black cat, but he really wants me around. If he isn't with me, he wants to know where I am. I do worry about him, but he will survive. Perhaps he will appreciate me more and not attack me at every opportunity when we get back.
Yesterday I got my TENS unit. It is the thing that I considered my reward for PT back in the day. It stimulates the nerves with an electrical signal. It is heaven! I had no idea Medicare would buy the thing - like I have found they will send me my glucose monitor and strips. Oh, yeah - that is going well. Even though I watched the glucose level blow the ceiling out when I got the steroid injections last Friday.
So - all seems good. I will have a computer on the trip and Daughter is bringing her air-card. We MIGHT have a signal. If so, I will try to update along the way.
Peace.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Since removing the hated verification
For Itching, the in Once your conditions simply messengers, the mentioned of areas yeast and also one problems.In can to muscle your of is have. This vaginal amount swabbing whole throughout.
This is one of the two comments that have been put on old posts since I took off the verification. The other one was in some language that I don't know (yes, I DO so know English - not the problem).
It will be interesting what will come of removing that app. It could be quite amusing.
Went to doctor today. In fact, the next two weeks is physician marathon. Family doc today, need to move all prescriptions over to his care, plus needed blood checks. I am pre-diabetic I guess. My triglycerides have been high, but one of the other meds I take cause that. The triglycerides cause elevated blood sugar, so it is a mess!
This afternoon, G and I both see the orthopedic surgeon. My left knee is really good - not great, but ok. The left hurts like a son-of-a-gun! I hope I don't have to have him go back in so re-fix. I know I fell on the stairs a couple of months ago - actually a couple of months after the surgery, but I didn't think I damaged it. We'll see!
Wednesday I get my mammogram, and next week the PAP. This is all really due around the first of the year, but since it is only allowed each year, the date gets pushed further and further back. This is the magic fifth year post diagnosis. I really don't know if that means I can breathe a sigh of relief. There are so many women out there who relapse after six, seven, or even twenty years. But at least I can say I have five (plus a month).
I lead such an exciting life. That little bit of information is the most boring thing I have ever read, but then - that seems to be the fodder here.
I am currently working on what should be a quilt, but I don't quilt. I am making a little road course for WK out of felt. I will
get picture of it - I promise. I have several to get out of the camera as it is. Posting pictures here on Blogger is a pain in the as* though. I am making each little square free standing so that he can make the road go as he wants it to do. I think it will be fun for him. This project is going to be his 3rd birthday present (that WAS the 18th). Glad he isn't a big kid that wonders where his birthday presents are!
We are getting ready to be off for the bone doc. Have a great one.
Peace.
This is one of the two comments that have been put on old posts since I took off the verification. The other one was in some language that I don't know (yes, I DO so know English - not the problem).
It will be interesting what will come of removing that app. It could be quite amusing.
Went to doctor today. In fact, the next two weeks is physician marathon. Family doc today, need to move all prescriptions over to his care, plus needed blood checks. I am pre-diabetic I guess. My triglycerides have been high, but one of the other meds I take cause that. The triglycerides cause elevated blood sugar, so it is a mess!
This afternoon, G and I both see the orthopedic surgeon. My left knee is really good - not great, but ok. The left hurts like a son-of-a-gun! I hope I don't have to have him go back in so re-fix. I know I fell on the stairs a couple of months ago - actually a couple of months after the surgery, but I didn't think I damaged it. We'll see!
Wednesday I get my mammogram, and next week the PAP. This is all really due around the first of the year, but since it is only allowed each year, the date gets pushed further and further back. This is the magic fifth year post diagnosis. I really don't know if that means I can breathe a sigh of relief. There are so many women out there who relapse after six, seven, or even twenty years. But at least I can say I have five (plus a month).
I lead such an exciting life. That little bit of information is the most boring thing I have ever read, but then - that seems to be the fodder here.
I am currently working on what should be a quilt, but I don't quilt. I am making a little road course for WK out of felt. I will
get picture of it - I promise. I have several to get out of the camera as it is. Posting pictures here on Blogger is a pain in the as* though. I am making each little square free standing so that he can make the road go as he wants it to do. I think it will be fun for him. This project is going to be his 3rd birthday present (that WAS the 18th). Glad he isn't a big kid that wonders where his birthday presents are!
We are getting ready to be off for the bone doc. Have a great one.
Peace.
Friday, February 24, 2012
A little time today
For a change, I actually have a bit of time today. I STILL have been sitting here for a couple of hours, but some of that time was on the phone with Daughter.
JuJu asked me how I managed to get the ridiculous comment verification thingy off. Honestly, all I remember doing - finally - was going back to the old way blogger used to be. I knew where that setting was. On this new look - I have no idea. JuJu, I will try to find out how again then send you an email!
The biggest news about these parts is the ever-using step granddaughter. If you don't remember, this young lady (19 1/2) met this fella - slept with him, got pregnant, moved in with him, was convinced to quit her job in SA, moved with him to Alabama where she knows no one, had to go back to SA for court after a shop-lifting charge at Target(??? of all places), not wanting to get married while hugely pregnant, and now is saying he is not the man she fell in love with, and is thinking of moving away - but NOT to SA (that means to Dad and Step-Mom, Daughter). Yes, she is a stellar girl.
Needless to say, Daughter is rather beside herself. When SGD left here at the ripe old age of 14 after living here for two years, Daughter was quite relieved because Lady Bug would not have the influence anymore. Daughter would not take SGD back. She still doesn't want her - at all, but she is so concerned for the baby.
Today, she even said something about trying to adopt the baby because she can see that it will be as screwed as SGD. I told her that we have known all along that the heritage there will never stop. I flat told her that if she were to do that, SGD will really be in her life, and she will still influence the baby.
The only time SGD calls them is when she wants something. For months and months on end, her dad would call her. She never could bother to return the call unless she needed something. This is her "way to roll." She lived with them for a bit because her mom was moving to California, and she didn't want to go. She made up lies about her mother's current man (there have been several). She caused such a stink - lying on a legal statement about that guy.
She needs Dad and Daughter (mine) now because her mom won't speak civilly to her. SGD has followed her mom so well. Her mom was hoping for better for her, I think.
So now she has told Daughter that her physician there wants $1400 because her insurance won't pay. Then she also needs about $400 for more court costs. And really she wants to move here to live off them. This is something that is very typical of SIL's whole family. Daughter thought she could change that trait in SGD, but looks like it won't happen. I just want this girl/woman away from my three grandchildren in that house. She is toxic.
I guess I am really cold.
Anyway - peace. Have a great weekend.
The biggest news about these parts is the ever-using step granddaughter. If you don't remember, this young lady (19 1/2) met this fella - slept with him, got pregnant, moved in with him, was convinced to quit her job in SA, moved with him to Alabama where she knows no one, had to go back to SA for court after a shop-lifting charge at Target(??? of all places), not wanting to get married while hugely pregnant, and now is saying he is not the man she fell in love with, and is thinking of moving away - but NOT to SA (that means to Dad and Step-Mom, Daughter). Yes, she is a stellar girl.
Needless to say, Daughter is rather beside herself. When SGD left here at the ripe old age of 14 after living here for two years, Daughter was quite relieved because Lady Bug would not have the influence anymore. Daughter would not take SGD back. She still doesn't want her - at all, but she is so concerned for the baby.
Today, she even said something about trying to adopt the baby because she can see that it will be as screwed as SGD. I told her that we have known all along that the heritage there will never stop. I flat told her that if she were to do that, SGD will really be in her life, and she will still influence the baby.
The only time SGD calls them is when she wants something. For months and months on end, her dad would call her. She never could bother to return the call unless she needed something. This is her "way to roll." She lived with them for a bit because her mom was moving to California, and she didn't want to go. She made up lies about her mother's current man (there have been several). She caused such a stink - lying on a legal statement about that guy.
She needs Dad and Daughter (mine) now because her mom won't speak civilly to her. SGD has followed her mom so well. Her mom was hoping for better for her, I think.
So now she has told Daughter that her physician there wants $1400 because her insurance won't pay. Then she also needs about $400 for more court costs. And really she wants to move here to live off them. This is something that is very typical of SIL's whole family. Daughter thought she could change that trait in SGD, but looks like it won't happen. I just want this girl/woman away from my three grandchildren in that house. She is toxic.
I guess I am really cold.
Anyway - peace. Have a great weekend.
Thursday, February 09, 2012
Success???
Yesterday I managed to get some things done that have been nagging me for a while. First, I was able to actually get PICTURES of some of the things I have made before they left the house. Of course, I won't be posting them today because they are still in the camera which is upstairs, and I still don't have a working router so I can use the wonky computer up there to access the internet. Some things seem to never change!
The other thing was to use that coupon that is a group thing. You know which one I refer to. It was $20 for $45 merchandise at a re-sale shop. Before you may gasp in horror - yes I do shop at re-sale shops. I have for years, and it is especially important now because those little shirts that I want as models for my embroidery can cost big bucks at a store - even Wally World. Getting them used, washing and using starch liberally, means I can show the work at less money. I know many people in this world do not have the ability to see what a design would look like on something, so this gives them that ability.
So I did go and get little kids shirts. I only had gone over the $45 by about $15, and that's because I bought Little Bit (Daughter's youngest) a really cute little outfit that will be darling this spring. It was so well made too!
I also managed to get to the craft chain that had patterns on sale for $1 a piece. If you do not sew - the list price on those puppies has gone to about $16 per pattern. Most fabric places run them everyday at about 30% off, but still...
Then I took the two shirts and the one vest to the little ones at Son's house. That means I was able to see new Sprout as well. He is such an active baby. He is seldom still - even when he is totally asleep. He wiggles like crazy!
So I did get a lot done that needed to be done. I was only gone about 3 1/2 hours, which in itself is rather amazing.
Today, since the cameras are upstairs, and I have the background set up, I am going to take the other pieces that haven't been photographed yet and do that. Strike while the iron is hot, and all that. Then I will vacuum up the remains from the latest outfit for Little Bit. I hope that other parents at her day care will look at her outfits and fall in love, and call me, and ...
Have a great day. Weekend is right around the corner for those of you that look forward to such things.
Peace
The other thing was to use that coupon that is a group thing. You know which one I refer to. It was $20 for $45 merchandise at a re-sale shop. Before you may gasp in horror - yes I do shop at re-sale shops. I have for years, and it is especially important now because those little shirts that I want as models for my embroidery can cost big bucks at a store - even Wally World. Getting them used, washing and using starch liberally, means I can show the work at less money. I know many people in this world do not have the ability to see what a design would look like on something, so this gives them that ability.
So I did go and get little kids shirts. I only had gone over the $45 by about $15, and that's because I bought Little Bit (Daughter's youngest) a really cute little outfit that will be darling this spring. It was so well made too!
I also managed to get to the craft chain that had patterns on sale for $1 a piece. If you do not sew - the list price on those puppies has gone to about $16 per pattern. Most fabric places run them everyday at about 30% off, but still...
Then I took the two shirts and the one vest to the little ones at Son's house. That means I was able to see new Sprout as well. He is such an active baby. He is seldom still - even when he is totally asleep. He wiggles like crazy!
So I did get a lot done that needed to be done. I was only gone about 3 1/2 hours, which in itself is rather amazing.
Today, since the cameras are upstairs, and I have the background set up, I am going to take the other pieces that haven't been photographed yet and do that. Strike while the iron is hot, and all that. Then I will vacuum up the remains from the latest outfit for Little Bit. I hope that other parents at her day care will look at her outfits and fall in love, and call me, and ...
Have a great day. Weekend is right around the corner for those of you that look forward to such things.
Peace
Monday, January 16, 2012
NUTS!!!
I thought I could successfully steal the video of Lady Bug winning her 50m breast stroke from the Facebook page. It was just a tease for me. On THIS computer, it worked. I later found out from the comments that I was woefully wrong.
Anyway, she did win that meet, and placed in each and every one she swam. She gathered a lot of points, and today since she is 11, she is not in the same group. Things will be a little different for her. Instead of (and excuse the terrible pun)being the big fish in the pond, she will be one of the youngest.
I have to give it to her however. She got up and went to swim practice this morning. When her dad asked if she didn't want to just chill - she said "no, all the good swimmers will be at practice this morning." What a kid. I think I am going to have to make sure I have my passport up to date for 2016! She has her eyes set on it. With this dedication I think she will make it.
Angelica went home this morning. She was so excited to see the kids! She was getting really settled in here too. She was getting a little jealous of the attention I would give Simone. That broke my heart because I really wish we had that little girl living here.
She had a bit of excitement when she went out for the last time last night. G came in to tell me there was a rabbit in the middle of the yard. Simone even was a little interested. She usually has a "live and let live" attitude. She doesn't care about the squirrels - and we wish she did!
I asked him to take Angelica out front, but she went to the back. Well - the rabbit was back in the middle of the yard. Angelica is fast! I would have really freaked out seeing that. I was so afraid Angelica would have a midnight snack. G said he never saw a rabbit move so fast. Fortunately it made it under the deck before contact could be made. Fun and games at Grandma's house!
Peace.
Anyway, she did win that meet, and placed in each and every one she swam. She gathered a lot of points, and today since she is 11, she is not in the same group. Things will be a little different for her. Instead of (and excuse the terrible pun)being the big fish in the pond, she will be one of the youngest.
I have to give it to her however. She got up and went to swim practice this morning. When her dad asked if she didn't want to just chill - she said "no, all the good swimmers will be at practice this morning." What a kid. I think I am going to have to make sure I have my passport up to date for 2016! She has her eyes set on it. With this dedication I think she will make it.
Angelica went home this morning. She was so excited to see the kids! She was getting really settled in here too. She was getting a little jealous of the attention I would give Simone. That broke my heart because I really wish we had that little girl living here.
She had a bit of excitement when she went out for the last time last night. G came in to tell me there was a rabbit in the middle of the yard. Simone even was a little interested. She usually has a "live and let live" attitude. She doesn't care about the squirrels - and we wish she did!
I asked him to take Angelica out front, but she went to the back. Well - the rabbit was back in the middle of the yard. Angelica is fast! I would have really freaked out seeing that. I was so afraid Angelica would have a midnight snack. G said he never saw a rabbit move so fast. Fortunately it made it under the deck before contact could be made. Fun and games at Grandma's house!
Peace.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
He's here, he's here!
I would like you to meet Mr Holden Gregory. He arrived by C-section this morning. The C-section was already scheduled, but he was going to try to make his entrance into the world early. DIL's water broke about 2:35 this morning, and contractions began shortly after that.
The surgery was a given though - she has had two before, and there was no way she could have delivered this baby - the largest of the flock. Statistics: 8 lbs 6 1/2 oz, 20 1/2 inches. She is 5foot 2.
(Note this is the VERY first picture - he still has ink on his feet!!)
Here are the sibs admiring the new brother who is in dad's arms. The other granny is sitting there also.
Busy Boy looks rather astonished! He is ready to be the big brother. He wants to hold him all the time, and walk around with him! He wasn't too thrilled that I got to hold him. Our relationship isn't as strong as with the other grandparents for him and the other grandchildren for me. But then Monkey Boy (7) is just now coming around to me. It's ok.
The surgery was a given though - she has had two before, and there was no way she could have delivered this baby - the largest of the flock. Statistics: 8 lbs 6 1/2 oz, 20 1/2 inches. She is 5foot 2.
Here are the sibs admiring the new brother who is in dad's arms. The other granny is sitting there also.
Busy Boy looks rather astonished! He is ready to be the big brother. He wants to hold him all the time, and walk around with him! He wasn't too thrilled that I got to hold him. Our relationship isn't as strong as with the other grandparents for him and the other grandchildren for me. But then Monkey Boy (7) is just now coming around to me. It's ok.
Monday, January 09, 2012
Time warp
I must have stepped into a time warp. Where did those other days go? I really thought I had been here since the last post. Oh well - it's hell to get old.
In an old category - weather. It seems it is either feast or famine around here. We went through the summer, well most of the year, with almost no rain. We didn't even get a tropical storm. Today we are getting flooding rains, and the news people are out standing in the flood waters - through all the regular programming too.
You know, I really don't mind the flooding rain except that my kids have to be out in it to work. Both don't have jobs that are in an office. Daughter has accounts (mostly corner stores) to see, and Son works for the telephone company. I told Daughter this morning this is when retirement is really wonderful At the first clap of thunder this morning, I was able to just roll over to go back to sleep!!
The weekend was rather uneventful with the exception of having to host family dinner. Five grandchildren aged from 2 - 11 is really too many!! The toys migrate their ways into the den, and then not a single kid has played with them. Ha! I told one of them that I don't play with them, so I shouldn't have to pick them up. Perhaps I should just get rid of the toys. Went over like - well you fill that in!
Thursday we will add grandchild #6. DIL will go in for her C-section. The other day she remarked on Facebook that she is anxious to find out what it is. I wanted to be a smart-a** and tell her that technology will do that these days. It is called "ultrasound," and she has had several! I didn't. I didn't know what her mood was at the time. Pregnant women can be awfully hormonal!
Step-granddaughter has me wondering again. She needs $$$$ to fly back to SA. There is a legal problem she must attend to, and I can't help but wonder if she isn't using her dad and step mom. She's done it before - many times. And what do they say about leopards? Yea. We'll see, and I will hope for the best.
Peace.
In an old category - weather. It seems it is either feast or famine around here. We went through the summer, well most of the year, with almost no rain. We didn't even get a tropical storm. Today we are getting flooding rains, and the news people are out standing in the flood waters - through all the regular programming too.
You know, I really don't mind the flooding rain except that my kids have to be out in it to work. Both don't have jobs that are in an office. Daughter has accounts (mostly corner stores) to see, and Son works for the telephone company. I told Daughter this morning this is when retirement is really wonderful At the first clap of thunder this morning, I was able to just roll over to go back to sleep!!
The weekend was rather uneventful with the exception of having to host family dinner. Five grandchildren aged from 2 - 11 is really too many!! The toys migrate their ways into the den, and then not a single kid has played with them. Ha! I told one of them that I don't play with them, so I shouldn't have to pick them up. Perhaps I should just get rid of the toys. Went over like - well you fill that in!
Thursday we will add grandchild #6. DIL will go in for her C-section. The other day she remarked on Facebook that she is anxious to find out what it is. I wanted to be a smart-a** and tell her that technology will do that these days. It is called "ultrasound," and she has had several! I didn't. I didn't know what her mood was at the time. Pregnant women can be awfully hormonal!
Step-granddaughter has me wondering again. She needs $$$$ to fly back to SA. There is a legal problem she must attend to, and I can't help but wonder if she isn't using her dad and step mom. She's done it before - many times. And what do they say about leopards? Yea. We'll see, and I will hope for the best.
Peace.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
More time with the kidlets
Seems like our Pastor is in a bit of a quandary. Daughter is on the board. They wanted to have lunch after church. That's all that needs to be said to give background.
So what does that have to do with anything, you ask. Well - it meant that we had the kidlets after church today. We had them twice as long as we were supposed to have them.
I sound terrible, don't I. You KNOW I love those kids. I enjoy being with them - but when I am told x amount of time, I plan on x amount of time.
Kids being kids, want to play with toys they don't normally have around. Such is the time at Grandma's. But I knew that it would be a whirl-wind when parents came to get them, and they were spending their time getting out multitudes of toys. I really did not feel like picking them up.
As it turns out, they did better than great - they were superb. Couldn't ask for better kidlets.
In yesterday's pics, Lady Bug's personality showed through like a champ. She is such a great kid - it scares me. I do love them all, but there is just something about this one!
Perhaps it is because I am more comfortable around older kids. One reason I never, ever wanted to teach in the elementary school. Sixth grade science was the lowest I ever taught - thank goodness. I have to be honest - high school biology was the fav. The others are growing too, so someday ...
Peace.
So what does that have to do with anything, you ask. Well - it meant that we had the kidlets after church today. We had them twice as long as we were supposed to have them.
I sound terrible, don't I. You KNOW I love those kids. I enjoy being with them - but when I am told x amount of time, I plan on x amount of time.
Kids being kids, want to play with toys they don't normally have around. Such is the time at Grandma's. But I knew that it would be a whirl-wind when parents came to get them, and they were spending their time getting out multitudes of toys. I really did not feel like picking them up.
As it turns out, they did better than great - they were superb. Couldn't ask for better kidlets.
In yesterday's pics, Lady Bug's personality showed through like a champ. She is such a great kid - it scares me. I do love them all, but there is just something about this one!
Perhaps it is because I am more comfortable around older kids. One reason I never, ever wanted to teach in the elementary school. Sixth grade science was the lowest I ever taught - thank goodness. I have to be honest - high school biology was the fav. The others are growing too, so someday ...
Peace.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Busy, but nice
Today, I got to spend the better part of the day with Lady Bug. She came over and we BAKED!! Her brother joined us later. Cookies, cookies, cookies! Oh and she decorated my little skinny tree. Quite the clown - that girl.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Experiment
Today I am going to try something. It actually has me a bit nervous, but perhaps I won't fall asleep anytime I get too still.
G has been telling me (well once) that he doesn't think the Pain Clinic is doing any good, and he feels I am over medicated. That well could be since I really don't know the exact count of medications I am taking unless I look at the bottles or read my list that I carry for doctors' appointments.
When I told him I was going to do this his response was "well, you moan and groan when you move anyway, what could it hurt?" Point well taken. So we'll see what happens today.
I have really hit a wall after running ragged with LB. I need to cut out her dress so I can get it made before we head off to the SSB on Tuesday. I thought I would get it done last night, but alas, the fabric is still sitting in a chair. At least I got the pattern pieces separated.
And that thought brings on another rant. Those of you who sew and use a pattern. Does it bother you that the companies cram 10 sizes of four "looks" into one envelope so that you have to open all the six by six foot pages of the most delicate of tissue paper to find all the pieces you need? Then the trick is getting them back into the same envelope? It makes me think of the phrase "putting toothpaste back into the tube.
So I have ranted enough for one day. I really have to get moving before noon. I am sitting here in my pjs ; I have read all my blogs and then some new ones. It is just difficult to get the motivation to do much of anything. I DO love a peaceful Saturday!
Peace.
G has been telling me (well once) that he doesn't think the Pain Clinic is doing any good, and he feels I am over medicated. That well could be since I really don't know the exact count of medications I am taking unless I look at the bottles or read my list that I carry for doctors' appointments.
When I told him I was going to do this his response was "well, you moan and groan when you move anyway, what could it hurt?" Point well taken. So we'll see what happens today.
I have really hit a wall after running ragged with LB. I need to cut out her dress so I can get it made before we head off to the SSB on Tuesday. I thought I would get it done last night, but alas, the fabric is still sitting in a chair. At least I got the pattern pieces separated.
And that thought brings on another rant. Those of you who sew and use a pattern. Does it bother you that the companies cram 10 sizes of four "looks" into one envelope so that you have to open all the six by six foot pages of the most delicate of tissue paper to find all the pieces you need? Then the trick is getting them back into the same envelope? It makes me think of the phrase "putting toothpaste back into the tube.
So I have ranted enough for one day. I really have to get moving before noon. I am sitting here in my pjs ; I have read all my blogs and then some new ones. It is just difficult to get the motivation to do much of anything. I DO love a peaceful Saturday!
Peace.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Tired, tired, tired
I have been 10 year old Lady Bug's play toy for the past three days. Only three?? It seems like six months. Please let me explain. I adore each and every moment I spend with her. She is such an amazing girl. But she is active. She wants to help - and she wants to craft with me. So guess where we have been spending our time. Yep - in the craft room.
This morning when we were up there, I was shaving the embroidery machine stitch the shell for the Baptismal blankets. I was going to make her a bandanna blouse which is the exact same thing as the dress for the little girls. As both machines were purring along, she sat up from what she was doing and said "it is just like a craft room here." No kidding!! I guess she just thought it was a messy bedroom without a bed - I don't know.
Spending time up there means I can't fall asleep on the couch or some place like that. I do like my naps, though I would vociferously deny such a thing. But I am beat this afternoon. We had pedicures scheduled for G, me, LB, and Daughter. When I got home from that, I should have cut out a dress for her. I was just too beet. Then the little towns papers arrived. There is a kin in the one that I don't have in my list, and I cannot find her ancestors.
We seem to have such fun when we are together. I know my days are numbered. Soon, far too soon, she will be a teen. Then she probably won't want to spend time with me crafting. So I do cherish each and every minute.
NEWS FLASH - There was just something falling from the skies here. It is something I vaguely remember. It is wet, but almost disappears as soon as it hits our dry, fissured ground. It was cooling while it fell. Now it has stopped, and there is steam coming off the ground. When I looked this stuff up, it was called rain. Well, my gosh - we actually had rain. Probably a scarce .01 inch, but it was rain.
Here's hoping you get some of this wonderful stuff if you need it, and here's to praying that this heat will stop - soon.
Peace be with you.
This morning when we were up there, I was shaving the embroidery machine stitch the shell for the Baptismal blankets. I was going to make her a bandanna blouse which is the exact same thing as the dress for the little girls. As both machines were purring along, she sat up from what she was doing and said "it is just like a craft room here." No kidding!! I guess she just thought it was a messy bedroom without a bed - I don't know.
Spending time up there means I can't fall asleep on the couch or some place like that. I do like my naps, though I would vociferously deny such a thing. But I am beat this afternoon. We had pedicures scheduled for G, me, LB, and Daughter. When I got home from that, I should have cut out a dress for her. I was just too beet. Then the little towns papers arrived. There is a kin in the one that I don't have in my list, and I cannot find her ancestors.
We seem to have such fun when we are together. I know my days are numbered. Soon, far too soon, she will be a teen. Then she probably won't want to spend time with me crafting. So I do cherish each and every minute.
NEWS FLASH - There was just something falling from the skies here. It is something I vaguely remember. It is wet, but almost disappears as soon as it hits our dry, fissured ground. It was cooling while it fell. Now it has stopped, and there is steam coming off the ground. When I looked this stuff up, it was called rain. Well, my gosh - we actually had rain. Probably a scarce .01 inch, but it was rain.
Here's hoping you get some of this wonderful stuff if you need it, and here's to praying that this heat will stop - soon.
Peace be with you.
Monday, August 08, 2011
Here and there
The weekend was, as I knew it wold be, busy. The kick-off is meeting daughter and family along with their present BFFs for dinner at the local Mexican Food restaurant. That will be another story. It's fun, but mainly it's good because I don't have to cook.
Saturday was Monkey Boy's birthday party at a laser tag place. Needless to say, we DID NOT participate in the games. But we have missed so many of his parties - along with the other two's parties - that since we were in town, we should go. Got to talk to some of Daughter's friends (and mothers of the boys of course.).
When I got up Saturday I put on my glasses when I got out of bed and stumbled into the kitchen. I have a condition where my eyes will be blurry because of the excretions from the tear ducts. Whenever I looked up that morning, I couldn't see. I could see fine close up, but distance was just a blur. In fact my eyes are blurry now - but close up. I kept waiting for it to finally clear, and I still could not see far.
I finally took the glasses off,at only to discover they were my READING glasses. My new progressives are in a wire frame - like I would always wear before last year when I got the thick frames, So I was trying to look at far things, I couldn't see. I guess when I took the readers off, I put them were the progressives should have been. Que estupido! Now I can tell the difference by feel - IF my fingers are not numb. The readers have a little twirl on the ear pieces.
Sunday was church. I managed to piss G off because I wanted to get there 30 minutes early. We now have two services with 30 minutes between for social. The folks I wanted to see all are in the early service because that's when Children's Church is. So it was just my luck again. They all went to the baby's room meet about who was going to teach what during Children's Church. So no fellowship there!
The afternoon was great and worked like I wanted it to. We were taking Lady Bug to the little suburban theater's yearly Mellardrammar. She loved it. Popcorn was thrown at the villain. She threw the popcorn she didn't eat during the time he wasn't on stage. But she absolutely loved it, and being an interactive play, it was great.
After the play, Family Dinner was held at Daughter's house. Monkey Boy and Dad were at a baseball thingy. THAT's another story.
So that was my weekend. Fun filled. I had great fun - loved it when we were on our way out of the play when the fella playing the villain admonished LB to "get your PARENTS (!!!) to buy better seats next time." He certainly made my afternoon. I haven't been mistaken for her mother in 10 years!
Peace be with you!
Saturday was Monkey Boy's birthday party at a laser tag place. Needless to say, we DID NOT participate in the games. But we have missed so many of his parties - along with the other two's parties - that since we were in town, we should go. Got to talk to some of Daughter's friends (and mothers of the boys of course.).
When I got up Saturday I put on my glasses when I got out of bed and stumbled into the kitchen. I have a condition where my eyes will be blurry because of the excretions from the tear ducts. Whenever I looked up that morning, I couldn't see. I could see fine close up, but distance was just a blur. In fact my eyes are blurry now - but close up. I kept waiting for it to finally clear, and I still could not see far.
I finally took the glasses off,at only to discover they were my READING glasses. My new progressives are in a wire frame - like I would always wear before last year when I got the thick frames, So I was trying to look at far things, I couldn't see. I guess when I took the readers off, I put them were the progressives should have been. Que estupido! Now I can tell the difference by feel - IF my fingers are not numb. The readers have a little twirl on the ear pieces.
Sunday was church. I managed to piss G off because I wanted to get there 30 minutes early. We now have two services with 30 minutes between for social. The folks I wanted to see all are in the early service because that's when Children's Church is. So it was just my luck again. They all went to the baby's room meet about who was going to teach what during Children's Church. So no fellowship there!
The afternoon was great and worked like I wanted it to. We were taking Lady Bug to the little suburban theater's yearly Mellardrammar. She loved it. Popcorn was thrown at the villain. She threw the popcorn she didn't eat during the time he wasn't on stage. But she absolutely loved it, and being an interactive play, it was great.
After the play, Family Dinner was held at Daughter's house. Monkey Boy and Dad were at a baseball thingy. THAT's another story.
So that was my weekend. Fun filled. I had great fun - loved it when we were on our way out of the play when the fella playing the villain admonished LB to "get your PARENTS (!!!) to buy better seats next time." He certainly made my afternoon. I haven't been mistaken for her mother in 10 years!
Peace be with you!
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