We traveled a long time yesterday - much longer than anticipated. You see, the man who usually reads maps for fun while on the john didn't have a map. We got lost twice. I couldn't believe it! Plus even though we have a GPS in the Toyota, I don't know how to use it, and I wasn't going to try to learn on the road. I did that once, and it tooks weeks to get the voice quiet again, and not try to find a restaurant in Rockport, Texas.
We finally got to the motel, and discovered they had a terrible storm the day before. Their power was off for a long while, and the cable wasn't working when we checked in. That was a tragedy because last night was the conclusion of The Killing . We have watched this program for two years to find out who killed Rosie.
I had loaded Hulu on the computer, but decided to just check. Eureka, it was on! So we got to watch the ending - which was a great surprise, then they repeated it immediately, so we got to watch the bit we missed.
Today we headed out to Cedar Rapids. On the way we stopped for our first event. I had not been sure of what it was - a Thrasher Museum?? But it was fun. We got to ride a street car and a narrow gauge steam engine rail road. There were many farm implements in the museum. It was neat overall.
While there, we met out friend from California. So that was fun. We had lunch together there, and since the buses for those who were already here and came out there that way were going to not leave for hours, we brought him back to his hotel.
Tomorrow we will take a loooong train ride. But that's ok. I will wear my gimme hat however. This trip has been one for embarrassing things for me. First was not being able to make the step into the trolley in Eureka Springs, today while riding the steam engine, my wig was taken off my heat by the winds. Geesh! What else - uh, no I don't want to know!
Our motel room is nice. This is a NEW place!! It still has some paint smell to it. I can take that after squeeky floors, weird arrangements of rooms, etc!
Peace,
Showing posts with label life's adventures. Show all posts
Showing posts with label life's adventures. Show all posts
Monday, June 18, 2012
Thursday, April 26, 2012
What I did in Mason
Sounds like the beginning of elementary school assignment that kept us all busy, doesn't it?? Anyway - it was a busy time!
Of course on Thursday, we went to Fredericksburg for food. We also took a chair I salvaged from the ravaged lake house before we got rid of the house to be redone. We went to the hardware store for a socket, the grocery for the rations for the week, and then ate at a divine little Italian restaurant. It was almost closing time for them, but they were so gracious. The food and the prices were great, but since Fredericksburg is a tourist haven - we walked about two blocks - up hill to get there. I thought going back would be better - hah! Of course - I wore the wrong shoes.
On Saturday we had one of the many family reunions (and we don't make all of the different branches!). It was nice to see folks we haven't seen for a while. My SIL and I were going to meet a friend (and neighbor) for the Home Tour. We set 1 pm because the reunion usually breaks up right after lunch. Not this year! So we were running late, which is nothing for SIL. In fact - it's how she rolls.
Anyway we met up with J and she had R with her. Now R is a different bird. I don't know how to take her, but that's another story. The homes were really something, and they ranged from those that were at least 150 years old to being completely off all utility grids. Quite a range.
My problem came with R. And I will be honest - I don't really like her at all. Again another story completely. She began talking about our other friend, neighbor, and, not surprising in that country, relative. He has been diagnosed with brain cancer - terminal but is adding some time by doing chemo and radiation. Now in the meantime, he has suffered a ruptured colon. What a wonderful life, right?
Anyway, R has pushed herself into knowing everything there is to know at the Methodist Church there. She was telling us that he is so weak, he doesn't want any visitors, including his children. She was talking about how everyone wants to help, but they don't want any.
I sat as long as I could, and finally couldn't keep my tongue in my head. I told her I can completely understand why some people withdraw. To which she replied that she knew. She did that to the detriment of her health and those around her. She just withdrew deeper and deeper. That was it! I told her I completely understand this person because I TOO HAD CANCER! She shut up - a little.
Anyway, last night we went to the "social event." Our community is named Hilda - otherwise known here as the Wide Spot in The Road. We go to community club there once a month, but don't go to the church - Methodist. We are Lutheran, so we go down the road a piece. Anyway the social event was Hilda Happy Hour. We have been before, but it is the last Wednesday of the month, and if we go for Community Club, that is the third Friday.
Guess who was co-host. This man and his wife. And you know what, although it did look like someone who has been terribly ill, which he certainly has, he was not weak. He was outgoing. His children have been around helping in the fields and with the cattle. This weekend, they plan to have everyone there to celebrate birthdays, Thanksgiving and Christmas. What a complete liar R is. But then it goes along with what I fear of her. I don't think down deep they are nice people - and again, I will touch on that later.
It made me feel so good to see H and his wife. She and I went through bad times together, and she looks good too. He certainly is not currently at death's door as R made it sound. And she wants the four of us to get together again? I don't think so.
Peace.
Of course on Thursday, we went to Fredericksburg for food. We also took a chair I salvaged from the ravaged lake house before we got rid of the house to be redone. We went to the hardware store for a socket, the grocery for the rations for the week, and then ate at a divine little Italian restaurant. It was almost closing time for them, but they were so gracious. The food and the prices were great, but since Fredericksburg is a tourist haven - we walked about two blocks - up hill to get there. I thought going back would be better - hah! Of course - I wore the wrong shoes.
On Saturday we had one of the many family reunions (and we don't make all of the different branches!). It was nice to see folks we haven't seen for a while. My SIL and I were going to meet a friend (and neighbor) for the Home Tour. We set 1 pm because the reunion usually breaks up right after lunch. Not this year! So we were running late, which is nothing for SIL. In fact - it's how she rolls.
Anyway we met up with J and she had R with her. Now R is a different bird. I don't know how to take her, but that's another story. The homes were really something, and they ranged from those that were at least 150 years old to being completely off all utility grids. Quite a range.
My problem came with R. And I will be honest - I don't really like her at all. Again another story completely. She began talking about our other friend, neighbor, and, not surprising in that country, relative. He has been diagnosed with brain cancer - terminal but is adding some time by doing chemo and radiation. Now in the meantime, he has suffered a ruptured colon. What a wonderful life, right?
Anyway, R has pushed herself into knowing everything there is to know at the Methodist Church there. She was telling us that he is so weak, he doesn't want any visitors, including his children. She was talking about how everyone wants to help, but they don't want any.
I sat as long as I could, and finally couldn't keep my tongue in my head. I told her I can completely understand why some people withdraw. To which she replied that she knew. She did that to the detriment of her health and those around her. She just withdrew deeper and deeper. That was it! I told her I completely understand this person because I TOO HAD CANCER! She shut up - a little.
Anyway, last night we went to the "social event." Our community is named Hilda - otherwise known here as the Wide Spot in The Road. We go to community club there once a month, but don't go to the church - Methodist. We are Lutheran, so we go down the road a piece. Anyway the social event was Hilda Happy Hour. We have been before, but it is the last Wednesday of the month, and if we go for Community Club, that is the third Friday.
Guess who was co-host. This man and his wife. And you know what, although it did look like someone who has been terribly ill, which he certainly has, he was not weak. He was outgoing. His children have been around helping in the fields and with the cattle. This weekend, they plan to have everyone there to celebrate birthdays, Thanksgiving and Christmas. What a complete liar R is. But then it goes along with what I fear of her. I don't think down deep they are nice people - and again, I will touch on that later.
It made me feel so good to see H and his wife. She and I went through bad times together, and she looks good too. He certainly is not currently at death's door as R made it sound. And she wants the four of us to get together again? I don't think so.
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.
Friday, March 09, 2012
Injected!
I did get my back injections today. I went to an out patient surgery center for this procedure - not a back room, albeit sterile I think, to get two (?) injections to relieve my back pain.
I had been to this out patient center before. It was years ago, before the Big M, and I was having some problems. My ob/gyn at the time wanted to do a good Dusting and Cleaning.
All went well - I guess. I awoke finally. I was sore - and never figured why I was so sore, but it seemed that as soon as my eyes were open, I was out of recovery and shoved into the car. I was still so drugged that I could hardly walk.
When I had these treatments at TPS, I was awake as soon as the procedure was over - in fact, I rolled myself onto the returning stretcher. That didn't happen today. I really don't remember exactly how I woke and figured where I was. I was offered something to drink. They got my vitals, settled a few more people in the recovery room, and then brought me my clothes.
Let me tell you - it was the D&C all over again. I felt like I was on the biggest drunk of my life. No wonder they wouldn't let me leave on my own. If this stuff showed on a breath-a-lyzer, I would be put under the jail. I am sure it shows up on the blood tests. I was really gone!
But it's done. My back already feels better, and I am to call the office next Friday to give them my results! That will be interesting because we will be in Alpine, Texas if not still aboard the train.
We are taking the grandkids (Daughter's three - plus the parents) on the Amtrak to Alpine. They have never been on a train - ANY of them. I really want them to experience train travel. I just hope it's a good trip. Our train group is going, and we thought this would be fun. We are just going to Alpine, laying over a night or two, and then coming right back. It will amount to 3-4 days.
Anyway, I am hoping for the best from this series of injections. They worked before. I don't have to take all the meds. Yea! I love this doctor!
And thanks to all of you saying a prayer for Larry and his family. He hasn't been told yet - thank goodness. He doesn't need to know - really. Having been there, I don't think I would have wanted to know if it was that bad. That may still come, but I hope it does before I am sliced and diced like his first surgery, and then this last one added. Too much suffering already. But, again, thanks!
Peace
I had been to this out patient center before. It was years ago, before the Big M, and I was having some problems. My ob/gyn at the time wanted to do a good Dusting and Cleaning.
All went well - I guess. I awoke finally. I was sore - and never figured why I was so sore, but it seemed that as soon as my eyes were open, I was out of recovery and shoved into the car. I was still so drugged that I could hardly walk.
When I had these treatments at TPS, I was awake as soon as the procedure was over - in fact, I rolled myself onto the returning stretcher. That didn't happen today. I really don't remember exactly how I woke and figured where I was. I was offered something to drink. They got my vitals, settled a few more people in the recovery room, and then brought me my clothes.
Let me tell you - it was the D&C all over again. I felt like I was on the biggest drunk of my life. No wonder they wouldn't let me leave on my own. If this stuff showed on a breath-a-lyzer, I would be put under the jail. I am sure it shows up on the blood tests. I was really gone!
But it's done. My back already feels better, and I am to call the office next Friday to give them my results! That will be interesting because we will be in Alpine, Texas if not still aboard the train.
We are taking the grandkids (Daughter's three - plus the parents) on the Amtrak to Alpine. They have never been on a train - ANY of them. I really want them to experience train travel. I just hope it's a good trip. Our train group is going, and we thought this would be fun. We are just going to Alpine, laying over a night or two, and then coming right back. It will amount to 3-4 days.
Anyway, I am hoping for the best from this series of injections. They worked before. I don't have to take all the meds. Yea! I love this doctor!
And thanks to all of you saying a prayer for Larry and his family. He hasn't been told yet - thank goodness. He doesn't need to know - really. Having been there, I don't think I would have wanted to know if it was that bad. That may still come, but I hope it does before I am sliced and diced like his first surgery, and then this last one added. Too much suffering already. But, again, thanks!
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.
Thursday, February 02, 2012
More clarity I hope
I sincerely hope this will make more sense today than yesterday. I am some better than I was - the antihistamine is finally building up in my blood enough that I am beginning to feel human again. I will swear to who or whatever that I will NEVER let my supply of antihistamines deplete again. I will travel the 30+ miles to town to get more. Kinda sounds like a druggie though, doesn't it.
In addition to the main problem, I went with Daughter to put her 15 year old dog down. That was a hard thing to do. I had hoped that I would not get emotional about it, but he was a real part of the family. He was such a good dog. So that added to my head problems. Crying always does.
I did decide that the nasal spray that is so out of date (expired in 2007) wasn't such a great idea, so I bought some new. I hope I don't need it again for another five years.
Step granddaughter is in town. Several months ago, she decided that it would be cool to shop lift. She was caught. Her court date had been put off and put off. It was finally set for yesterday, but she had to be in San Antonio. So SIL used his frequent flyer miles to get her here, and he arranged his business meeting for yesterday so they could get that settled. Of all places to shop-lift - Target! Well now she can go back to Alabama, where she and baby-daddy are living, with only fees to pay and reporting to be done. I hope this will be taken off her record when the probation is done. What a way to ruin your life at age 19. Kids are so stupid. I know mine were.
I have finally gotten caught up on all things computer related now - finally. Managed to even leave some comments here and there. I do have to get the other computer back in working order though. I really need that router going again. Of course, the lap top I use for upstairs embroidery designs has a rather small hard drive, and it is almost full! I spent the entire time at the SSB deleting files that were on it twice (or more). I have a little room left. Ah - computers!
Peace.
In addition to the main problem, I went with Daughter to put her 15 year old dog down. That was a hard thing to do. I had hoped that I would not get emotional about it, but he was a real part of the family. He was such a good dog. So that added to my head problems. Crying always does.
I did decide that the nasal spray that is so out of date (expired in 2007) wasn't such a great idea, so I bought some new. I hope I don't need it again for another five years.
Step granddaughter is in town. Several months ago, she decided that it would be cool to shop lift. She was caught. Her court date had been put off and put off. It was finally set for yesterday, but she had to be in San Antonio. So SIL used his frequent flyer miles to get her here, and he arranged his business meeting for yesterday so they could get that settled. Of all places to shop-lift - Target! Well now she can go back to Alabama, where she and baby-daddy are living, with only fees to pay and reporting to be done. I hope this will be taken off her record when the probation is done. What a way to ruin your life at age 19. Kids are so stupid. I know mine were.
I have finally gotten caught up on all things computer related now - finally. Managed to even leave some comments here and there. I do have to get the other computer back in working order though. I really need that router going again. Of course, the lap top I use for upstairs embroidery designs has a rather small hard drive, and it is almost full! I spent the entire time at the SSB deleting files that were on it twice (or more). I have a little room left. Ah - computers!
Peace.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
I get pulled into things like this all the time.
First, I will say that I do like venison. I don't hunt, but I do eat the stuff! I like the meat. But I have gotten what I guess some would consider lazy (G), and some would say smart.
When we first began going to the area of the SSB - family land remember - I would go out after G got a deer and help him dress it. After all - biology major and all. I knew the anatomy, and where to cut. This is the gross part, so skip to the next paragraph if you want. When I was three months pregnant with child #2 (Son), I saw a deer in the pasture outside the house. Close shot, and easy meat. G got up from breakfast and shot it. Like a trooper, I went out with him to field dress it. Won't go into anymore detail. If you know what that means, enough said.
After a few years, I got really tired of having my feet freeze while out skinning and so on. It seems his favorite time for shooting a deer is at sunset. I also was tired of staying in MIL's house. She had OCD about the house and cleaning. I knew I could never get it back to her standards, and as I have mentioned before, she hated me. So I got really tired of the place. Plus there was only one tv channel. FIL installed this fancy tower antenna, but everyone was afraid to touch it. It would rotate, and it would continually break if it were turned at a speed over .001 millimeter per hour! So I didn't go with him for a long time. I was more than happy to stay at home, and enjoy the life here.
Then we had our trailer put in. I like to be fancy and say "manufactured home," but let's get real - it's a double wide. We have put a lot into it, but that's what we could afford. Anyway. I now go with him once a month and we stay for a week. That's when you don't hear from me. I still do not do any of the butchering. But until last year, I helped make venison/pork breakfast sausage.
Last year G and our wonderful neighbor made the sausage. Gene has a wonderful set up, and it doesn't take long to make that sausage. I don't remember if I packaged it or not, but I am thinking I did. This year I wasn't going to do any of it - except eat the sausage!
Now you know how that fared. I managed to do almost nothing until it was all ground. Then G came in to do the packing. I showed him how to use the meal sealer. But then he complained about having greasy hands to try to use the sealer. I finally decided it was easier to just give in at that point, but I did so knowing that he was fully committed to staying right there to help.
We got it done. Took about an hour. But at least I wasn't doing it by myself. Next year - who knows. There's hope I won't have to do anything!
Peace
Saturday, December 24, 2011
This and that
First - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. After today, things will be crazy, but I wanted to leave you with those wishes.
I have been thinking in the last couple of days (no smart remarks, please!) about how traditions change. What we think of as traditions are there only to change. As our kids get older, they begin to make THEIR own traditions. I saw it happen as we and our kids got older - there is no longer the greater family get together at Christmas, at all. We don't see the in-laws at all like we used to. Our kids and their kids all have their own families or things to do. It is just too much of a hassle to get together like before. I do miss that.
Even things we did as a family (us and our kids) have changed in the last couple of years. There are more grandchildren, and our kids are setting their traditions with their kids. Sometimes, as I am seeing now, the grandparents are sort of pushed aside. At first I had my feelings hurt a little, but I do realize now what is happening.
Today our big point on the agenda is church at 7:30. Now if I were thinking of our old church, I wouldn't even dream of going. All the C&E members will be there, and unless I were the organist as I used to be, I wouldn't have a seat. This church isn't that way. Oh, we will be crowded, don't kid yourself, but we are so small that we have very, very few C&Eers. So off we will go - in the glorious rain!!!
Tomorrow will be interesting. I am sure Daughter wants us to be there in the morning - which means a big breakfast. We would go to Son's, but there is a 10 mile difference. Daughter is a mile, he is 11 miles.
Then we will go to DIL's mother's house for lunch. As a posted before - gumbo and probably ham. Plus there will be so much food her counters will nearly collapse. Things will be great - if her son isn't there. He doesn't like one or more of us - probably my SIL. That family doesn't care for him - he still cannot get over his bragging and loud mouth, and that doesn't go in their family.
Then tomorrow night we will be back at Daughter's house for dinner. SIL works for a commercial oven company. They gave him a commercial oven last year, and he had it hooked up yesterday. So the hunk of beef that he has will be cooked in that. They are inviting my across-the-street neighbors whose kidlets go to school with my grandkids as well. So, it should be interesting.
We will be leaving on Monday for the SSB. This is one time I really don't want to go. I don't know why. I am usually up for the trip, but not so much this time. I have been sewing each and every day. It has become a routine, and I won't be taking things to do like that. In fact, I don't know what I am going to take to keep myself occupied. I know there is always cleaning house. It needs it, but really??
So, have a great holiday season. See you when I get home. Peace be with you.
I have been thinking in the last couple of days (no smart remarks, please!) about how traditions change. What we think of as traditions are there only to change. As our kids get older, they begin to make THEIR own traditions. I saw it happen as we and our kids got older - there is no longer the greater family get together at Christmas, at all. We don't see the in-laws at all like we used to. Our kids and their kids all have their own families or things to do. It is just too much of a hassle to get together like before. I do miss that.
Even things we did as a family (us and our kids) have changed in the last couple of years. There are more grandchildren, and our kids are setting their traditions with their kids. Sometimes, as I am seeing now, the grandparents are sort of pushed aside. At first I had my feelings hurt a little, but I do realize now what is happening.
Today our big point on the agenda is church at 7:30. Now if I were thinking of our old church, I wouldn't even dream of going. All the C&E members will be there, and unless I were the organist as I used to be, I wouldn't have a seat. This church isn't that way. Oh, we will be crowded, don't kid yourself, but we are so small that we have very, very few C&Eers. So off we will go - in the glorious rain!!!
Tomorrow will be interesting. I am sure Daughter wants us to be there in the morning - which means a big breakfast. We would go to Son's, but there is a 10 mile difference. Daughter is a mile, he is 11 miles.
Then we will go to DIL's mother's house for lunch. As a posted before - gumbo and probably ham. Plus there will be so much food her counters will nearly collapse. Things will be great - if her son isn't there. He doesn't like one or more of us - probably my SIL. That family doesn't care for him - he still cannot get over his bragging and loud mouth, and that doesn't go in their family.
Then tomorrow night we will be back at Daughter's house for dinner. SIL works for a commercial oven company. They gave him a commercial oven last year, and he had it hooked up yesterday. So the hunk of beef that he has will be cooked in that. They are inviting my across-the-street neighbors whose kidlets go to school with my grandkids as well. So, it should be interesting.
We will be leaving on Monday for the SSB. This is one time I really don't want to go. I don't know why. I am usually up for the trip, but not so much this time. I have been sewing each and every day. It has become a routine, and I won't be taking things to do like that. In fact, I don't know what I am going to take to keep myself occupied. I know there is always cleaning house. It needs it, but really??
So, have a great holiday season. See you when I get home. Peace be with you.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Unbelievable
Remember the parking lot accident that happened Wednesday of last week? When we left, there were no "witnesses" to this - only boyfriend whom she said she called.
Well, we got a phone call today - suddenly a witness has surfaced. They said that we were parked on the same side of the isle. Nope - I have pictures. The witness said we backed into each other going out different ways, and that WE hit her.
So G gave another statement. The insurance person - and by the way, she has the SAME company - said the witness' facts didn't add up. Little Bimbo. Perhaps I should play the injury card after all. I can't believe this.
I always knew that accidents in private parking lots were a problem, but this is really too much. Our question is just where was this witness the day it happened. No one came out other than boy friend. Hummm.
When we reported this accident, the agent said that repairs to our vehicle would come from our insurance, so what is the deal with this girl - oh, I know - she wants her car repaired at our expense. We had already decided that if the damage to ours was more or less the $1000 deductible, we wouldn't have anything done. The damage isn't that great.
I guess trials and tribulations are the order of the day. Especially with people trying to shrug their responsibilities. Sad.
Peace.
Well, we got a phone call today - suddenly a witness has surfaced. They said that we were parked on the same side of the isle. Nope - I have pictures. The witness said we backed into each other going out different ways, and that WE hit her.
So G gave another statement. The insurance person - and by the way, she has the SAME company - said the witness' facts didn't add up. Little Bimbo. Perhaps I should play the injury card after all. I can't believe this.
I always knew that accidents in private parking lots were a problem, but this is really too much. Our question is just where was this witness the day it happened. No one came out other than boy friend. Hummm.
When we reported this accident, the agent said that repairs to our vehicle would come from our insurance, so what is the deal with this girl - oh, I know - she wants her car repaired at our expense. We had already decided that if the damage to ours was more or less the $1000 deductible, we wouldn't have anything done. The damage isn't that great.
I guess trials and tribulations are the order of the day. Especially with people trying to shrug their responsibilities. Sad.
Peace.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Doing battle - again!
That seems to be the catch phrase these days. The computer issues have been well documented. Now it is a new adversary - the Christmas tree.
Several years ago - don't remember how many - I decided that I was going to buy a fake tree. I was really sick of the expense of the real tree to say nothing about the needles that would work their way into the carpet.
So after Christmas, I went to a store, and bought a tree. Not a normal tree mind you, but a huge tree that probably had a bottom circumference of about five feet or more. Plus, it had been a floor model. So problems were inherent.
The first problem was when I was sure it would fit in the trunk of my little Grand Prix. After all it had the pass through trunk - into the passenger compartment. No problem! Yes, problem. I had to come home to get the truck to take that prized purchase home.
I used to wrestle this tree in the living room between the piano and the window. Didn't really fit, but I made it fit. Then as the family began to grow, I realized that there wasn't enough room in the living room for presents to be handed out when the time came.
So I moved it to the den. That was great except there was no place for this humongous tree. So it went on one side of the island fireplace. That meant we only had the one way to the front door - which was sufficient. Right?
Yes, it was good - the tree went there for the last couple of years. But this sucker weighed 14 tons. I couldn't manage this tree by myself - especially in the last couple of years. I had to get my son to put the monster in its bag last year, and then put it away. He had to get it out for me this year.
But this year something was wrong. I couldn't get the tree into its base. It would tilt and roll. When I put the middle section on, it was worse. I could see this monster falling on a grand kidlet - it would kill that child. Plus the entire bottom section wouldn't light. (I think it was the cord attached - but that's our little secret. I think it really was OK)
When I was at the same craft store where I got the monster, I saw they had a skinny little tree - about six feet tall. I remembered that little tree as I was doing battle. I told G the time had come. I was going to get that little tree, and monster tree could go to Goodwill or someplace. Someone could do battle with that tree and love it.
Yesterday morning, I set out to be at the store about when it opened. I knew there would be a lot of shoppers, and I am accustomed to being out early - if I shop these days.
I went to the manager to get someone to help me. If I were buying a tree at the full price - I wanted one in a box. I waited and waited - no one came. So I went back. The manager said the little guy didn't see me. I wanted to tell her - "look at me - I am rather hard to miss!!"
Anyway - I scored the tree. It is so cute, and fits so well. I just love it. Very minimal.
The other tree is in the back of the truck awaiting its trip to Goodwill.
Peace.
Several years ago - don't remember how many - I decided that I was going to buy a fake tree. I was really sick of the expense of the real tree to say nothing about the needles that would work their way into the carpet.
So after Christmas, I went to a store, and bought a tree. Not a normal tree mind you, but a huge tree that probably had a bottom circumference of about five feet or more. Plus, it had been a floor model. So problems were inherent.
The first problem was when I was sure it would fit in the trunk of my little Grand Prix. After all it had the pass through trunk - into the passenger compartment. No problem! Yes, problem. I had to come home to get the truck to take that prized purchase home.
I used to wrestle this tree in the living room between the piano and the window. Didn't really fit, but I made it fit. Then as the family began to grow, I realized that there wasn't enough room in the living room for presents to be handed out when the time came.
So I moved it to the den. That was great except there was no place for this humongous tree. So it went on one side of the island fireplace. That meant we only had the one way to the front door - which was sufficient. Right?
Yes, it was good - the tree went there for the last couple of years. But this sucker weighed 14 tons. I couldn't manage this tree by myself - especially in the last couple of years. I had to get my son to put the monster in its bag last year, and then put it away. He had to get it out for me this year.
But this year something was wrong. I couldn't get the tree into its base. It would tilt and roll. When I put the middle section on, it was worse. I could see this monster falling on a grand kidlet - it would kill that child. Plus the entire bottom section wouldn't light. (I think it was the cord attached - but that's our little secret. I think it really was OK)
When I was at the same craft store where I got the monster, I saw they had a skinny little tree - about six feet tall. I remembered that little tree as I was doing battle. I told G the time had come. I was going to get that little tree, and monster tree could go to Goodwill or someplace. Someone could do battle with that tree and love it.
Yesterday morning, I set out to be at the store about when it opened. I knew there would be a lot of shoppers, and I am accustomed to being out early - if I shop these days.
I went to the manager to get someone to help me. If I were buying a tree at the full price - I wanted one in a box. I waited and waited - no one came. So I went back. The manager said the little guy didn't see me. I wanted to tell her - "look at me - I am rather hard to miss!!"
Anyway - I scored the tree. It is so cute, and fits so well. I just love it. Very minimal.
The other tree is in the back of the truck awaiting its trip to Goodwill.
Peace.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Another day gone
I got nothing done - again - today. Well, not exactly true, but nothing towards the craft show.
At noon, I went to the prayer/communion service at church. It was a good thing. I am glad I went. I left feeling uplifted.
Before I left I had to go up to put away my ironing board and the like because the guy was coming to check out the heaters. Yes - we do use heaters around here!
When I got home, I found that we had Monkey Boy with us. He was having a GI incident, and was sent home from school. I'm glad G stayed behind to await the heater guy. Daughter is running herself ragged trying to get all of her work done since her company is pulling them for a national meeting in Orlando in a couple of weeks.
So with MB here, I spent a lot of time with him. I was also waiting for G to GET THROUGH WITH MY COMPUTER! Sorry - irritates me. I have to get the desk top fixed so I can get the router to work again. Then I can trundle off upstairs, embroidery, and surf all at the same time!
So it is 4:30. We are all anxiously awaiting Daughter's arrival. Then more normal things can commence.
Yesterday I went out to pick up my Christmas present. I ordered it before we bought the car. I knew it was going to be expensive, but I was given the go ahead. It was, after all, a lot less than the new sewing/embroidery machine that was introduced at the same time. This little doozy allows me to make almost anything into an embroidery design and put it directly into the machine. Sweet! I installed it yesterday on the little computer upstairs. Having trouble with this one however. It is Windows 7, and I have had problems with things like that before.
So that was my exciting day. Nothing worthwhile happened - except spending some time with my grandson. Funny - until this year, he could care less about me. That has changed. He loves me this year. Seven year olds!!
Peace.
At noon, I went to the prayer/communion service at church. It was a good thing. I am glad I went. I left feeling uplifted.
Before I left I had to go up to put away my ironing board and the like because the guy was coming to check out the heaters. Yes - we do use heaters around here!
When I got home, I found that we had Monkey Boy with us. He was having a GI incident, and was sent home from school. I'm glad G stayed behind to await the heater guy. Daughter is running herself ragged trying to get all of her work done since her company is pulling them for a national meeting in Orlando in a couple of weeks.
So with MB here, I spent a lot of time with him. I was also waiting for G to GET THROUGH WITH MY COMPUTER! Sorry - irritates me. I have to get the desk top fixed so I can get the router to work again. Then I can trundle off upstairs, embroidery, and surf all at the same time!
So it is 4:30. We are all anxiously awaiting Daughter's arrival. Then more normal things can commence.
Yesterday I went out to pick up my Christmas present. I ordered it before we bought the car. I knew it was going to be expensive, but I was given the go ahead. It was, after all, a lot less than the new sewing/embroidery machine that was introduced at the same time. This little doozy allows me to make almost anything into an embroidery design and put it directly into the machine. Sweet! I installed it yesterday on the little computer upstairs. Having trouble with this one however. It is Windows 7, and I have had problems with things like that before.
So that was my exciting day. Nothing worthwhile happened - except spending some time with my grandson. Funny - until this year, he could care less about me. That has changed. He loves me this year. Seven year olds!!
Peace.
Monday, November 14, 2011
To complete the weekend
We were to have dinner at Son's and DIL's last night. I was excited about it - it was a chance for this part of the family to all get together for an early Thanksgiving dinner.
Well, after church, we went to our favorite local Mexican food restaurant. I got my usual - knowing I would have half of it for lunch today. I felt full from breakfast but attributed that to the excitement of the weekend.
At church, during the congregational meeting, we, the women, felt we had been given the right to form our women's Saturday small group. Don't get me wrong, our Pastor is great, but he has been narrow minded about this for a while. So we were very excited.
When I get really excited about something, I don't have an appetite. So I thought this was just a normal thing.
I was getting full really fast at lunch. The restaurant had already kept half of my meal in the back to box it up, so I certainly didn't over eat, but I was so full I was miserable.
We got home and had to empty out the old Pontiac. We were giving it to a family in the neighborhood who was really down on their luck and working so hard to get back. Their other car had just been repossessed, and the man didn't have a way of getting to and from work. So as I was trying to get everything out of the trunk, I was even more miserable.
That misery got worse. By the time we were to leave for dinner, I had lost lunch. I guess I should have stayed home, but I wanted to see all the grandkids together.
DIL made a wonderful meal - I guess. I didn't eat. I came home and went to bed. Today is much better.
I guess my old system just can't take so much excitement anymore.
Peace.
Saturday, November 05, 2011
OK - now I am alert
I cannot believe I used to take four (!!) of those things (hydrocodone) a day, and not feeling it. OMG! I really was a danger on the roads and everywhere else. That one knocked me for a real loop, but I finally metabolized it.
Now let's get back to where I wanted to be before the drug hit. Oh, and by the way - there is no doubt I will NOT get back to where I was, and have to go through getting off again. The effects were far too unpleasant yesterday.
Our trip. It was a pleasant day and a pleasant drive although Mapquest didn't have the directions exactly correct. Even though Austin is much smaller than Houston, traffic there is horrendous. AND we were going to be staying downtown. So, arriving at 4pm in downtown anywhere is not a pleasant thing.
Mapquest said this hotel was on the left as we got to 6th street. So we were looking closely, and there was nothing. Well - a bank building. So we went around the block - looking carefully for which were one way streets. There was the hotel - on the right side of that intersection.
We pulled in, and registration was easy. Good. I love knowing that reservations go well. We hauled our belongings up to the room, and there were a lot for an overnight stay. I had packed two pairs of slacks and three blouses for the trip. In Texas, at this time of year you have to be prepared for heat or cold, and in fact, we did experience both. So you really never over pack.
We were to go out to dinner with his brother and brother's wife that evening. We called them, and they said they would pick us up. So that was taken care of, and G decided to use the time between to find the court house.
When he came back, he said it was easy to find, but it was up a STEEP hill. He reported that he had scouted out a place for breakfast the next day. Staying on 6th street is staying in the party area of Austin. There are a lot of restaurants and bars, but guess what - they are not open for breakfast. I was reminded of our stay in downtown Ft. Worth where there was nothing for breakfast with the exception of the hotel, and evening meals started at $25.
We are used to the hustle bustle of big-city downtown, so we didn't want to move the car for breakfast. We thought the traffic would be so heavy he would never make a 9 am court date, hence that was the reason for the downtown hotel. We were in a quandary about what to do. We were fairly close to the campus of UT, so we set out in the car thinking we could find a grocery or something. Our hotel was an extended stay, so we had a kitchen. We could make out easily.
So off went. In two blocks we came across a huge Whole Foods. It looked fabulous, but it was on the left side of the street, and the traffic was terrible. We could have never gotten in there. We turned right to head more to the campus and housing area. Sure enough - a convenience store . They assorted food items among which were egg muffins that we could heat in the microwave. Problem solved.
Dinner out was nice - supposedly at one of Austin's top four restaurants. Perhaps one of the top four Mexican restaurants. Not "Tex-Mex" but it was good - more Mexico City type of food. The company was nice. It seems all the tension that was there before MIL died seems to have disappeared. I am so glad for that. We are too close and have too many mutual friends and relatives (duh!) at the SSB for there to be hard feelings about anything.
We got back to the room, and had been wondering why it was so noisy in the room, but we were on the street side, and just thought it was a noisy room. The A/C fan didn't run continuously, just cycling on and off. No white noise. So that would be a problem. We are used to white noise.
So it was bed time. Other than traffic noise - so many motorcycles - it was pure silence. Neither of us slept soundly (oh so punny!) especially when the three fire trucks came screaming by. When the blue norther hit - we could clearly hear the wind that was blowing about 40 mph. It did get chilly in the room, and I turned on the heat which apparently had not been on this year. (It stunk, and G thought there was a fire.)
The next morning, I looked out at all the folks bundled against the cold wind. All G had was a long sleeved shirt and his suit coat. He is Mr. I Am Cold All The Time. I realized that there wasn't much traffic, so I volunteered to drive him the four blocks to the court house. It was surprisingly easy. The traffic was so light at 8:30. Here the traffic around the court house(s) is a nightmare.
When I came back, I looked at the windows from across the room. I could see daylight under the right side window. They weren't closed all the way. No wonder there was so much noise! No wonder I could hear the wind. I just sat and laughed. The kicker here is that they wouldn't close either. We should have asked for another room - but we didn't know that was a problem.
We survived though. The drive home was nice - even though we got the news about out previous pastor and friend. I didn't get a new pair of shoes, but all was good. We certainly slept soundly that night too.
The cat was furious with us for being left alone over night. Such an indignity has never happened to him before. Simone had her spa day - a bath and her nails done - but she was a little miffed too because she had been left at the vet (among people who love her there too).
And that's how I spent my Wednesday/Thursday. What an exciting life I lead.
Peace.
Now let's get back to where I wanted to be before the drug hit. Oh, and by the way - there is no doubt I will NOT get back to where I was, and have to go through getting off again. The effects were far too unpleasant yesterday.
Our trip. It was a pleasant day and a pleasant drive although Mapquest didn't have the directions exactly correct. Even though Austin is much smaller than Houston, traffic there is horrendous. AND we were going to be staying downtown. So, arriving at 4pm in downtown anywhere is not a pleasant thing.
Mapquest said this hotel was on the left as we got to 6th street. So we were looking closely, and there was nothing. Well - a bank building. So we went around the block - looking carefully for which were one way streets. There was the hotel - on the right side of that intersection.
We pulled in, and registration was easy. Good. I love knowing that reservations go well. We hauled our belongings up to the room, and there were a lot for an overnight stay. I had packed two pairs of slacks and three blouses for the trip. In Texas, at this time of year you have to be prepared for heat or cold, and in fact, we did experience both. So you really never over pack.
We were to go out to dinner with his brother and brother's wife that evening. We called them, and they said they would pick us up. So that was taken care of, and G decided to use the time between to find the court house.
When he came back, he said it was easy to find, but it was up a STEEP hill. He reported that he had scouted out a place for breakfast the next day. Staying on 6th street is staying in the party area of Austin. There are a lot of restaurants and bars, but guess what - they are not open for breakfast. I was reminded of our stay in downtown Ft. Worth where there was nothing for breakfast with the exception of the hotel, and evening meals started at $25.
We are used to the hustle bustle of big-city downtown, so we didn't want to move the car for breakfast. We thought the traffic would be so heavy he would never make a 9 am court date, hence that was the reason for the downtown hotel. We were in a quandary about what to do. We were fairly close to the campus of UT, so we set out in the car thinking we could find a grocery or something. Our hotel was an extended stay, so we had a kitchen. We could make out easily.
So off went. In two blocks we came across a huge Whole Foods. It looked fabulous, but it was on the left side of the street, and the traffic was terrible. We could have never gotten in there. We turned right to head more to the campus and housing area. Sure enough - a convenience store . They assorted food items among which were egg muffins that we could heat in the microwave. Problem solved.
Dinner out was nice - supposedly at one of Austin's top four restaurants. Perhaps one of the top four Mexican restaurants. Not "Tex-Mex" but it was good - more Mexico City type of food. The company was nice. It seems all the tension that was there before MIL died seems to have disappeared. I am so glad for that. We are too close and have too many mutual friends and relatives (duh!) at the SSB for there to be hard feelings about anything.
We got back to the room, and had been wondering why it was so noisy in the room, but we were on the street side, and just thought it was a noisy room. The A/C fan didn't run continuously, just cycling on and off. No white noise. So that would be a problem. We are used to white noise.
So it was bed time. Other than traffic noise - so many motorcycles - it was pure silence. Neither of us slept soundly (oh so punny!) especially when the three fire trucks came screaming by. When the blue norther hit - we could clearly hear the wind that was blowing about 40 mph. It did get chilly in the room, and I turned on the heat which apparently had not been on this year. (It stunk, and G thought there was a fire.)
The next morning, I looked out at all the folks bundled against the cold wind. All G had was a long sleeved shirt and his suit coat. He is Mr. I Am Cold All The Time. I realized that there wasn't much traffic, so I volunteered to drive him the four blocks to the court house. It was surprisingly easy. The traffic was so light at 8:30. Here the traffic around the court house(s) is a nightmare.
When I came back, I looked at the windows from across the room. I could see daylight under the right side window. They weren't closed all the way. No wonder there was so much noise! No wonder I could hear the wind. I just sat and laughed. The kicker here is that they wouldn't close either. We should have asked for another room - but we didn't know that was a problem.
We survived though. The drive home was nice - even though we got the news about out previous pastor and friend. I didn't get a new pair of shoes, but all was good. We certainly slept soundly that night too.
The cat was furious with us for being left alone over night. Such an indignity has never happened to him before. Simone had her spa day - a bath and her nails done - but she was a little miffed too because she had been left at the vet (among people who love her there too).
And that's how I spent my Wednesday/Thursday. What an exciting life I lead.
Peace.
Thursday, November 03, 2011
Guess it's that time of year
Who took the last seven days? I was just here, and now seven days or so has passed. Who took them?
I have been a sewing fiend - that part is true. If I had not left my camera at the SSB, I could chronicle some of that, but - that camera is sitting on the love seat up there. So, you just have to take my word for it.
We just this minute returned from Austin where G probated his mother's will. It was a simple process - taking less than an hour, but it involved driving there, staying overnight and all.
I rode along because SIL has been telling me about an outlet store for the hideously expensive shoes that fit my feet well. She gets hers there. So, I was going to use this trip for that. Guess what! We were ready to go in at 10:35. They opened at 11. There was nothing to do to waste that time, so we hit the road.
No shoes and a $32 dog boarding fee. That stinks!
On the trip back, Daughter called. Our current pastor send them an email that our previous pastor (who confirmed and performed the marriages for both kids, baptized one grandchild and is a good personal friend) has pancreatic cancer.
That is why I am taking the time to post - other than I needed to. I came home to check my email, and we have one too. It doesn't sound good. He is in the hospital now - can't have visitors. So I don't know how bad this really is. If you are the praying sort, I know he could use all the prayers offered up.
So - I guess I better unpack and change clothes. Before I do that - I have to admit these one day trips are killing me. I don't pack well for them. In the case of MIL's funeral and this trip - I neglected to pack sleeping togs. This trip - and it is embarrassing - I forgot underwear. The old brain is going! I am used to having most of what I need already in place - like at the SSB.
Oh well, peace be with you.
I have been a sewing fiend - that part is true. If I had not left my camera at the SSB, I could chronicle some of that, but - that camera is sitting on the love seat up there. So, you just have to take my word for it.
We just this minute returned from Austin where G probated his mother's will. It was a simple process - taking less than an hour, but it involved driving there, staying overnight and all.
I rode along because SIL has been telling me about an outlet store for the hideously expensive shoes that fit my feet well. She gets hers there. So, I was going to use this trip for that. Guess what! We were ready to go in at 10:35. They opened at 11. There was nothing to do to waste that time, so we hit the road.
No shoes and a $32 dog boarding fee. That stinks!
On the trip back, Daughter called. Our current pastor send them an email that our previous pastor (who confirmed and performed the marriages for both kids, baptized one grandchild and is a good personal friend) has pancreatic cancer.
That is why I am taking the time to post - other than I needed to. I came home to check my email, and we have one too. It doesn't sound good. He is in the hospital now - can't have visitors. So I don't know how bad this really is. If you are the praying sort, I know he could use all the prayers offered up.
So - I guess I better unpack and change clothes. Before I do that - I have to admit these one day trips are killing me. I don't pack well for them. In the case of MIL's funeral and this trip - I neglected to pack sleeping togs. This trip - and it is embarrassing - I forgot underwear. The old brain is going! I am used to having most of what I need already in place - like at the SSB.
Oh well, peace be with you.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Short and (?) Sweet
We are back from the land of the dry. There was 2.2 inches of rain in our absence. Any amount is good, but we need sooooooo much more. The juniper (we call 'em cedars) trees are dead. A lot of the oaks are dying or dead. It is difficult to look around and determine what is dead, dead and what is just turning colors with the season.
Exciting day today. I spent most of it catching up on emails and the like. Then I went to the dentist to have my teeth cleaned. I was supposed to take antibiotics before my visit, but they give me such terrible heartburn that I lied and said I did. I talked with the orthopedist, and he thought it was silly to have to do that.
Angelica is at home with Daughter still. Over the weekend they all got into a massive fight, with the old lab coming out on the short end. He still doesn't like Angelica. It was the two boxer girls against him.
The other little boxer girl, Princess, developed kennel cough on Saturday. Now we are wondering if King (old lab) will get it.
I am tired of not having internet at the SSB. My wonderful Sprint phone with the hot spot is a cold spot. The phone itself didn't work most of the weekend. I am going to look into the Slingbox thingy. With that I am supposed to be able to get my cable up there through the internet. That means I will have to have internet. That would be cheaper than satellite, so I am all for that. I just need to talk to my guru friends that put me onto this for more information.
So that's my excitement. Hope your day was good.
Peace.
Exciting day today. I spent most of it catching up on emails and the like. Then I went to the dentist to have my teeth cleaned. I was supposed to take antibiotics before my visit, but they give me such terrible heartburn that I lied and said I did. I talked with the orthopedist, and he thought it was silly to have to do that.
Angelica is at home with Daughter still. Over the weekend they all got into a massive fight, with the old lab coming out on the short end. He still doesn't like Angelica. It was the two boxer girls against him.
The other little boxer girl, Princess, developed kennel cough on Saturday. Now we are wondering if King (old lab) will get it.
I am tired of not having internet at the SSB. My wonderful Sprint phone with the hot spot is a cold spot. The phone itself didn't work most of the weekend. I am going to look into the Slingbox thingy. With that I am supposed to be able to get my cable up there through the internet. That means I will have to have internet. That would be cheaper than satellite, so I am all for that. I just need to talk to my guru friends that put me onto this for more information.
So that's my excitement. Hope your day was good.
Peace.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Update
\In my continual whine - the knee is getting better. When I woke this morning (to thunder and heavy RAIN), I could tell it was much better. That is a relief.
Simone has her stitches out. That means no more e-collar. That is great news. Last night (or early morning rather) when the storms arrived, she was afraid of the thunder. That means she wants to be on my side of the bed. There is not a huge expanse of space there, so the collar bumped and scraped along as she muscled her way there. Turning around brought even more noises!! But she is free of that thing. She can get into her crate again (Yipee), and go outside without supervision. Sunbaths again for the old dog.
Yes - indeed we are getting some rain again. I am anxious to see if there was rain at the SSB. If there was any with these storms, there will be a touch of green beginning again there. It doesn't take much. Being a semi-arid biome, it, like a total desert, will green up fast. Takes full advantage of any good weather.
Bad news is that apparently the drought has caused a real problem with the pool. It is leaking water faster than we can fill it. We were going to have it re-tiled and re-plastered this winter, but it looks like that can't wait. There are times I think we just ought to hammer up the concrete and fill it with dirt. I really don't want to do that. I really think I will swim again - someday.
I will take pictures when we are at the SSB. I have some already stored on the computer of better days. It will be a study in contrasts. I will also get pictures of the table. When it was still at the lake, it took some blows from the break ins. It no longer has the perfect finish on it, but then even before the break-ins, my brilliant step mother let a candle burn all the way down. Daddy tried to repair it, but there is a big dark ring on it still. Some people would pay good money to have a table distressed like this one! But with this burgeoning family, it almost seats all of us.
Last night at Sunday Dinner, my DIL dropped the bomb that this coming child (#3) may not be the end. I nearly fell off the couch, I am beginning to think it just keeps putting off her returning to school for her professed hope of becoming a nurse. I really think she believes deeply that she won't succeed. She just wants to stay at home. So having babies, then home schooling will allow that. But even if there is a fourth, that will be the end unless she finds another Ob/Gyn. Her doctor doesn't like more than four caesarians. ( now spell check tells me that is wrong, but there is no choice for the correct spelling - so if it's wrong - blams spell check!)
And so my life continues. We will be taking off in the morning. I know I can't depend on my phone to become a hot spot. It is so irritating. I pay for a service that works here, not there. I hope we can get out of this contract soon. It is set for next August, but perhaps ... I can always dream about a better service.
peace.
Simone has her stitches out. That means no more e-collar. That is great news. Last night (or early morning rather) when the storms arrived, she was afraid of the thunder. That means she wants to be on my side of the bed. There is not a huge expanse of space there, so the collar bumped and scraped along as she muscled her way there. Turning around brought even more noises!! But she is free of that thing. She can get into her crate again (Yipee), and go outside without supervision. Sunbaths again for the old dog.
Yes - indeed we are getting some rain again. I am anxious to see if there was rain at the SSB. If there was any with these storms, there will be a touch of green beginning again there. It doesn't take much. Being a semi-arid biome, it, like a total desert, will green up fast. Takes full advantage of any good weather.
Bad news is that apparently the drought has caused a real problem with the pool. It is leaking water faster than we can fill it. We were going to have it re-tiled and re-plastered this winter, but it looks like that can't wait. There are times I think we just ought to hammer up the concrete and fill it with dirt. I really don't want to do that. I really think I will swim again - someday.
I will take pictures when we are at the SSB. I have some already stored on the computer of better days. It will be a study in contrasts. I will also get pictures of the table. When it was still at the lake, it took some blows from the break ins. It no longer has the perfect finish on it, but then even before the break-ins, my brilliant step mother let a candle burn all the way down. Daddy tried to repair it, but there is a big dark ring on it still. Some people would pay good money to have a table distressed like this one! But with this burgeoning family, it almost seats all of us.
Last night at Sunday Dinner, my DIL dropped the bomb that this coming child (#3) may not be the end. I nearly fell off the couch, I am beginning to think it just keeps putting off her returning to school for her professed hope of becoming a nurse. I really think she believes deeply that she won't succeed. She just wants to stay at home. So having babies, then home schooling will allow that. But even if there is a fourth, that will be the end unless she finds another Ob/Gyn. Her doctor doesn't like more than four caesarians. ( now spell check tells me that is wrong, but there is no choice for the correct spelling - so if it's wrong - blams spell check!)
And so my life continues. We will be taking off in the morning. I know I can't depend on my phone to become a hot spot. It is so irritating. I pay for a service that works here, not there. I hope we can get out of this contract soon. It is set for next August, but perhaps ... I can always dream about a better service.
peace.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Ch ch ch changes
We changed our minds about trekking off to the hinterlands this week. There were several factors involved in this decision. Not least among them was Simone and her "buddy." I was having visions of her trying to get loaded into the truck, and then riding for five to six hours. I had thought about leaving her part of the back seat up because G sometimes stops short and quickly, and she falls to the floor. But then I thought of having the cat carrier on the other part of the seat, and the seat being up. A vision of Simone trying to ride ON TOP of the cat carrier also came to mind. Not a pretty sight!
We called the furniture store in Kerrville where we ordered new chairs for the dining table. The ones we have I have always hated. They are the most uncomfortable things ever manufactured on the face of the earth. My dad made this table - using a sheet of plywood. So it is 6x8. He did a masterful job on it. It was in the lake house, and while we just left a lot of the furniture there (a goodly portion had been destroyed either by the vandals directly, or by exposure to the elements with the windows that were broken out), I couldn't leave this table.
The chairs, however ... My mother found them. They are ladder back with rattan seats. They are from Mexico, and were exactly what she wanted. They have little knobs from the legs that are sticking up on the front of the seats that gouge into your thighs when you sit in them. With our tile floor, G invariably will get up and push the chair back too quickly, The back leg grabs in the grout line, and over the chair goes with a "whap." So we went to buy new ones (I could have bought two tables to go with them for the same price. (Shameful!)
We called yesterday. The chairs are in, but cannot be delivered until the 22nd. So putting all things together, we are staying here until next Tuesday.
Simone is still miserable. I called the vet's office. She has to wear this collar until the stitches come out. Another reason to postpone the trip. Those buggers can come out sooner. So Monday is the target date.
She decided that 2:30 this morning was the time to get up. I think her ear itched something fierce. Of course between her bouncing off all the furniture like a pinball, and the thump, thump of her foot on the plastic collar, I was wide awake. How many days again???
I am so lazy about downloading pictures from the camera. I know it is easy, but it't not as easy as I want it. I will do that later today. I will have some pictures tomorrow - one of my poor baby, and some of the SSB in the more recent better times there. When it was green instead of dirt red and burned vegetation yellow.
Peace.
We called the furniture store in Kerrville where we ordered new chairs for the dining table. The ones we have I have always hated. They are the most uncomfortable things ever manufactured on the face of the earth. My dad made this table - using a sheet of plywood. So it is 6x8. He did a masterful job on it. It was in the lake house, and while we just left a lot of the furniture there (a goodly portion had been destroyed either by the vandals directly, or by exposure to the elements with the windows that were broken out), I couldn't leave this table.
The chairs, however ... My mother found them. They are ladder back with rattan seats. They are from Mexico, and were exactly what she wanted. They have little knobs from the legs that are sticking up on the front of the seats that gouge into your thighs when you sit in them. With our tile floor, G invariably will get up and push the chair back too quickly, The back leg grabs in the grout line, and over the chair goes with a "whap." So we went to buy new ones (I could have bought two tables to go with them for the same price. (Shameful!)
We called yesterday. The chairs are in, but cannot be delivered until the 22nd. So putting all things together, we are staying here until next Tuesday.
Simone is still miserable. I called the vet's office. She has to wear this collar until the stitches come out. Another reason to postpone the trip. Those buggers can come out sooner. So Monday is the target date.
She decided that 2:30 this morning was the time to get up. I think her ear itched something fierce. Of course between her bouncing off all the furniture like a pinball, and the thump, thump of her foot on the plastic collar, I was wide awake. How many days again???
I am so lazy about downloading pictures from the camera. I know it is easy, but it't not as easy as I want it. I will do that later today. I will have some pictures tomorrow - one of my poor baby, and some of the SSB in the more recent better times there. When it was green instead of dirt red and burned vegetation yellow.
Peace.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Big news
At least around here, this is big news! It looks like we will finally be looking for a break in the drought AND high temperatures. The blasted high that has settled in over the entire state is going to move to the southeast (sorry guys). That is supposed to open a route for sub-tropical moisture to move in. It means rain as well as temperatures in the LOWER 90's. There is a feeling of cautious anticipation by the citizenry, but of course the weather clowns are ready to take credit for this change in weather.
I know there has been criticism for the coverage of Irene. I have been guilty of that kind of coverage myself - then there was Ike. But now there is rain as a possibility, those clowns have started all over again. I would rather they get excited about the rain though. They have been telling us how many days in a row we have been without rain and over 100. That absolutely inflames G (good choice of words there GK!). Hew sets off on his tirade again, over and over.
Enough of that. I went to my GP yesterday. He concurs that my symptoms may very well be as a result of stopping the other drugs. But to be sure, I swear he took a gallon of blood for every test known to medical science.
As I was leaving, he remarked that I might have a touch of sleep apnea. Well, hello - I did. Instead of the t-shirt, I have the machine. I told him I lost a lot of weight after getting that thing, and I haven't used it even after finding that lost weight along with the fans of all those pounds.
So I decided to use it again last night. I don't know too many Texans who are not having allergy problems right now. There is all kind of stuff in the air - mostly dust. I am with them. Well, after having air forced into my nose all night, I just thought I had allergy problems.
I remember my poor daddy going through several handkerchiefs when his allergies were really bad. I am that way today except I am using really absorbent paper towels. I think I made a bit of a mistake last night. I don't know if I will use the CPAP tonight or not. I didn't sleep more soundly at all.
Please pray that the weather people are right, and we get some rain and relief from the temperatures this weekend. It is really time!
Peace.
I know there has been criticism for the coverage of Irene. I have been guilty of that kind of coverage myself - then there was Ike. But now there is rain as a possibility, those clowns have started all over again. I would rather they get excited about the rain though. They have been telling us how many days in a row we have been without rain and over 100. That absolutely inflames G (good choice of words there GK!). Hew sets off on his tirade again, over and over.
Enough of that. I went to my GP yesterday. He concurs that my symptoms may very well be as a result of stopping the other drugs. But to be sure, I swear he took a gallon of blood for every test known to medical science.
As I was leaving, he remarked that I might have a touch of sleep apnea. Well, hello - I did. Instead of the t-shirt, I have the machine. I told him I lost a lot of weight after getting that thing, and I haven't used it even after finding that lost weight along with the fans of all those pounds.
So I decided to use it again last night. I don't know too many Texans who are not having allergy problems right now. There is all kind of stuff in the air - mostly dust. I am with them. Well, after having air forced into my nose all night, I just thought I had allergy problems.
I remember my poor daddy going through several handkerchiefs when his allergies were really bad. I am that way today except I am using really absorbent paper towels. I think I made a bit of a mistake last night. I don't know if I will use the CPAP tonight or not. I didn't sleep more soundly at all.
Please pray that the weather people are right, and we get some rain and relief from the temperatures this weekend. It is really time!
Peace.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)