Saturday, December 31, 2011
Happy New Year!!
Remember this little guy? Yep he'll be three in January which means I'm going on my third year of blogging.
Thank you for all your comments, wonderful post and cyber friendships, you guys are the BEST!!!
Happy New Year from Archie and Family!!
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Merry 'Fn' Christmas
Now before you all go gettin' your dander up and go thinkin' I'm some sort of brash scrooge, take your mind out of the gutter and let me share with you a gift the husband and I received from some people that we love dearly.
We were given a stocking that was filled with some very creative gifts all individually wrapped and labeled:
WAIT! The FUN doesn't stop there, we also received another amazing gift from some terrific FRIENDS, a gift card to an incredible resort.
So you see, on top of being surrounded by FAMILY and FRIENDS it was a very F'n Christmas, like FREAKING FANTASTIC!!
We were given a stocking that was filled with some very creative gifts all individually wrapped and labeled:
Food - homemade candies that I can't stop eating.
Film- movie money
Fortune - a brand new crisp one dollar bill.
Flame - scented candles.
Fire - bullets for the husband (the fellas target practice together)
Fancy - a bracelet for me.
Favorite - gift card to a favorite store.
Feast - gift card to our favorite restaurant.
Flavor - super cute salt and pepper shakers.
WAIT! The FUN doesn't stop there, we also received another amazing gift from some terrific FRIENDS, a gift card to an incredible resort.
So you see, on top of being surrounded by FAMILY and FRIENDS it was a very F'n Christmas, like FREAKING FANTASTIC!!
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Unwrapping the year 2011
 | |
| The youngest, the graduate, the husband, the oldest, me and the girls. |
January: I took up Zumba and Yoga this year, whether my body is responding is still unclear.
February: Celebrated our 25th anniversary, in Disneyland so fun. Our youngest boy, turned twenty one.
March: Our oldest got married on the 26th day, if he’s smart like his father he’ll learn to obey. The husband went to Philadelphia a wrestlers dream, traveled with the guys, oh what a team. I camped with the girls at a quilters retreat, sewed until dawn our quilts to complete.
April: Spring break, spring break, a much welcomed sight. No preschoolers for me, what a delight!
May came and went not much to report, summer’s around the corner although it’s too short.
June: College boy graduated with degree in hand, a financial advisor he can give you a plan.
Summer has arrived I have no remorse. It’s all about enjoyment and riding my horse.
July: The husbands season is upon him he’s a very busy man, as for me I went to Mexico, planted my feet in the sand.
August: Our boy returned from his mission, two years away. The husband went to Alaska slayed fish for three days.
September: Sad to say, it’s back to school, except for the youngest who met his girl (so cool). My quilt received a blue ribbon, first time at the fair. We’re nearing 50, darn those gray hairs.
October: A road trip indeed, our son's birthday surprise. We had an alternative motive, hauled his stuff and supplies. The Graduate took to the air his pilot license in the making, it won’t be long and passengers he’ll be taking.
November: The remodeling was finished just in the nick of time, as everyone came home to feast and to dine
.
December: This letter nearly killed me, three times I did compose. It kept disappearing from under my nose. I send you Christmas greetings at this special time of year, to all my blogging friends I hold so very dear.
Merry Christmas everyone!!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Flying the friendly skies
The Graduate landed a job after college and is now certified to handle all of your financial needs, but that's not all he landed. He's taken to the air by working on his pilot license so he can become a certified pilot as well.
Being the loving mother that I am, I accepted his invitation to fly with him in a small little airplane barely big enough to fit me and my purse let alone two large men in the cockpit.
It's true, I'm deathly afraid of heights and appreciated the available barf bag had I a need to use it, but as it turned out, the boy is a smooth operator and handled the rickety little plane with ease. My nerves relaxed and I actually enjoyed the ride and the view, although I kept myself distracted by texting the husband every step of the way giving him a play by play of the young pilots maneuvers.
He practiced his short field takeoffs and landings and I'm confident if there were only a grassy field to bring the plane down he could land it there too.
I later found out the visor he wore was not to keep the suns glare out of his eyes but to block his vision all together so he can rely solely on the planes instruments. Yeah, glad that information was shared after we landed.
Being the loving mother that I am, I accepted his invitation to fly with him in a small little airplane barely big enough to fit me and my purse let alone two large men in the cockpit.
It's true, I'm deathly afraid of heights and appreciated the available barf bag had I a need to use it, but as it turned out, the boy is a smooth operator and handled the rickety little plane with ease. My nerves relaxed and I actually enjoyed the ride and the view, although I kept myself distracted by texting the husband every step of the way giving him a play by play of the young pilots maneuvers.
I later found out the visor he wore was not to keep the suns glare out of his eyes but to block his vision all together so he can rely solely on the planes instruments. Yeah, glad that information was shared after we landed.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Elephant Stew
I feel like I need to participate in the sharing of recipe's as everyone has been posting mouth watering festive foods and with Thanksgiving just around the corner, I think I've found just the thing ya'll might want to try.
It's perfect for large crowds, extended families and will literally feed an army. It's called Elephant Stew.
Ingredients:
1 elephant
Brown gravy
Salt and pepper
2 rabbits (optional)
Directions:
Cut elephant into bite-size pieces, season with salt and pepper then cover with brown gravy. Cook over low heat for about 4 weeks. Serves about 4,200 people. If more are expected, the 2 rabbits may be added but do this only if necessary, as most people don't like to find hare in their stew.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!
It's perfect for large crowds, extended families and will literally feed an army. It's called Elephant Stew.
Ingredients:
1 elephant
Brown gravy
Salt and pepper
2 rabbits (optional)
Directions:
Cut elephant into bite-size pieces, season with salt and pepper then cover with brown gravy. Cook over low heat for about 4 weeks. Serves about 4,200 people. If more are expected, the 2 rabbits may be added but do this only if necessary, as most people don't like to find hare in their stew.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Over Eaters Anonymus
In this beautiful country setting a 100 acre ranch is surrounded by lush green pastures, beautiful white fencing and a driveway lined with lovely oak trees. It's no wonder they gather there.
Single file they walk into the arena and take their places. One by one they introduce themselves, then finally, last but not least, a timid nicker emerges, "Hi my name is Jaycee, I like to eat."
"Hi Jaycee," They all say in unison.
She's a bit nervous, her tail is swishing and her ears are twitching but as she is asked to tell her story she bravely reveals her weakness.
The head Mare, the matriarch of the heard encourages Jaycee: "What brings you here?"
Jaycee: "Well...you see...I love to eat. I can't help myself, I'll eat anything, anytime, anywhere."
The matriarch: "Please continue."
Jaycee: "When I'm in the pasture, I'll gorge myself. I love the taste of green grass especially sweet spring grass that's the best. Ah yes that's the best.....
The matriarch: "Hm, what does your rider think of this?"
Jaycee: "Oh she understands but I don't like it when she takes me off the grass. Seriously the nerve. Just because my feet get sore and my neck gets slightly stiff she puts me in the dry lot. I hate the dry lot. I'll paw the gate and bang it showing her I'm not happy."
The Matriarch: "Harsh as it may seem, I'm sure it's for your own good."
Jaycee: "Yeah, like she's putting me on some kind of diet by feeding me hay. Oh I'll eat the hay don't get me wrong, it's what I do, eat, eat, eat. Even if some lands in the water trough, I'll manage to eat it."
Matriarch: "What about exercise, do you exercise?"
Jaycee: "Sure I do. Although, when I take her riding I can't help myself, I still have to nibble whatever is in my path, the tall brush grass, leaves on a tree. If we stop, even for a minute I'll snack on the sage bushes."Those are kinda bitter tasting, but what can I say, I like to eat."
The matriarch: "I see."
Jaycee: "Then there are the names, oh the name calling it's so humiliating."
Matriarch: "Name calling?"
Jaycee: "Yes they call me an 'easy keeper' Let me tell you, I'm far from easy. I kicked the gelding square in the chest and landed a good blow to his leg for trying to mount me." I'm still a virgin you know."
Some nickering and whinnying comes from the mares of the herd, "Way to go Jaycee!"
The matriarch: "Jaycee dear, the term 'easy keeper' refers to one who has to watch what she eats. Has nothing to do with your virginity."
Jaycee hangs her head in embarrassment: "Oh."
The matriarch: "Look that's enough for one day. Thank you all again for coming, and thank you Jaycee for sharing."
As you can see my horse clearly has issues.
Single file they walk into the arena and take their places. One by one they introduce themselves, then finally, last but not least, a timid nicker emerges, "Hi my name is Jaycee, I like to eat."
"Hi Jaycee," They all say in unison.
She's a bit nervous, her tail is swishing and her ears are twitching but as she is asked to tell her story she bravely reveals her weakness.
The head Mare, the matriarch of the heard encourages Jaycee: "What brings you here?"
Jaycee: "Well...you see...I love to eat. I can't help myself, I'll eat anything, anytime, anywhere."
The matriarch: "Please continue."
Jaycee: "When I'm in the pasture, I'll gorge myself. I love the taste of green grass especially sweet spring grass that's the best. Ah yes that's the best.....
The matriarch: "Hm, what does your rider think of this?"
Jaycee: "Oh she understands but I don't like it when she takes me off the grass. Seriously the nerve. Just because my feet get sore and my neck gets slightly stiff she puts me in the dry lot. I hate the dry lot. I'll paw the gate and bang it showing her I'm not happy."
The Matriarch: "Harsh as it may seem, I'm sure it's for your own good."
Jaycee: "Yeah, like she's putting me on some kind of diet by feeding me hay. Oh I'll eat the hay don't get me wrong, it's what I do, eat, eat, eat. Even if some lands in the water trough, I'll manage to eat it."
Matriarch: "What about exercise, do you exercise?"
Jaycee: "Sure I do. Although, when I take her riding I can't help myself, I still have to nibble whatever is in my path, the tall brush grass, leaves on a tree. If we stop, even for a minute I'll snack on the sage bushes."Those are kinda bitter tasting, but what can I say, I like to eat."
The matriarch: "I see."
Jaycee: "Then there are the names, oh the name calling it's so humiliating."
Matriarch: "Name calling?"
Jaycee: "Yes they call me an 'easy keeper' Let me tell you, I'm far from easy. I kicked the gelding square in the chest and landed a good blow to his leg for trying to mount me." I'm still a virgin you know."
Some nickering and whinnying comes from the mares of the herd, "Way to go Jaycee!"
The matriarch: "Jaycee dear, the term 'easy keeper' refers to one who has to watch what she eats. Has nothing to do with your virginity."
Jaycee hangs her head in embarrassment: "Oh."
The matriarch: "Look that's enough for one day. Thank you all again for coming, and thank you Jaycee for sharing."
As you can see my horse clearly has issues.
Monday, October 31, 2011
A stranger in the night
Ever since I can remember we were taught never to talk to strangers. Not only could we not talk to them, but we were never to take candy from them, EVER!
It's what I grew up with so it's what my boys learned from an early age as well. Strangers were people who like to steal little children by luring them away with candy and cute puppies. Once in their clutches they would sell them to child labor camps.
My boys didn't see what the big deal was. The work couldn't be any worse than at home and better yet, these guys had candy.
We are a family that celebrates Halloween. We carve pumpkins, dress up and yes even take candy from strangers. I'd take the boys trick or treating in wind, rain, sleet or snow. It didn't matter the weather, we would bundle up just to rake in the goodies until they were begging me to take them home. "We're tired, my feet hurt, can we go home now?" But until every last bell was rung, we'd finished out the night.
I don't have any children to trick or treat with anymore, even worse our house is off the beaten path so nobody dares to come down the dark col de sac. I'd bribe my friends with young children and promise them the best treats if they would come by. Even at that it was a small handful ghosts and ghouls who would humor a desperate old lady.
Last year Halloween fell on a Sunday so I knew my church friends wouldn't be coming around with their children. It fell into the category of honoring the Sabbath. I thought Halloween was exempt, heck it's the only day we get to talk to strangers and take candy from them so why couldn't we trick or treat on a Sunday as well.
It's HALLOWEEN people!
Regardless I had all this candy and no children so on our way home from Granny's Sunday dinner I had my husband drive via a neighborhood. This neighborhood was swarming with princesses, power rangers, batmen, robots, witches, you name it, they were there.
I was in my glory. I figured if the kids weren't going to come to my house, I had to go to them.
I rolled the window down and started handing out candy. Hey kids, I would shout, want some candy? They gave me a strange look, but would still come to the window and take it. We kept driving around and passing out candy until the treats were gone.
Once I got my Halloween fix, I realized I was the very person I told my kids to stay away from. I was a stranger passing out candy, I had cute puppies and....I once owned and operated a Child Labor camp.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Forbidden Fruit
The husband and I were out on a most wonderful ride with our horses. With the cool crisp fall sunshine how could we not saddle up our faithful steeds and take advantage of the weather?
As we were riding along we came across an apple orchard that had branches loaded and ready for harvest. As I was eyeballing those mouth watering apples I asked the husband if it would be thieving if I picked one.
He said, probably.
Hmm, ignoring his answer, I mean how could I resist, they looked so fresh and tasty, I guided my black beauty into the orchard and plucked an apple off the tree then asked the husband if he wanted one.
He said no.
All of a sudden an evil laugh came over me and as I giggled I felt like Eve temping Adam with the forbidden fruit. I held out my apple and asked, "why?" Then proceeded to tell him how desirable it looked and how delicious it tasted.
He said, "I'm not going down that road again sister."
I kept laughing and ate the red delicious anyway. Then to conceal the evidence, I broke the core in half and shared it with the horses.
They didn't seem to mind and actually enjoyed it as much as I did.
To say the least history didn't repeat itself, but one could rightly say, if you were to compare me with Eve and all, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Oh Crap!
One of gals I work with went into the staff lounge to use the restroom. It's one of the rare moments we get in preschool so we take them as quickly as we can. As she walked into the bathroom she got punched in the nose with an overwhelming smell of stench.
Somebody........ forgot to use the courtesy spray she thought, but to make matters worse, not only did the bathroom smell like a sewage tank, the toilet seat was smeared with poo.
Appalled, she walked straight into the office and asked the secretary to summon the custodian.
While she's explaining her distress over the stinky situation to the secretary, the principle overhears what's being said and takes an interest in the conversation.
After my coworker finishes her story, the principle puts his hands on his hips and in his authoritative voice says, "Well I hope a kid didn't go in the staff lounge and use the bathroom."
The secretary looks up at him in disgust and says, "I hope it WAS a kid!"
One can only hope....
Somebody........ forgot to use the courtesy spray she thought, but to make matters worse, not only did the bathroom smell like a sewage tank, the toilet seat was smeared with poo.
Appalled, she walked straight into the office and asked the secretary to summon the custodian.
While she's explaining her distress over the stinky situation to the secretary, the principle overhears what's being said and takes an interest in the conversation.
After my coworker finishes her story, the principle puts his hands on his hips and in his authoritative voice says, "Well I hope a kid didn't go in the staff lounge and use the bathroom."
The secretary looks up at him in disgust and says, "I hope it WAS a kid!"
One can only hope....
Monday, October 10, 2011
This ain't no joke
A blonde, after driving every car in town, tells the salesman she wants to make a purchase. The car salesman sets it up for the blonde and her husband to come in the next day to make the transaction. He assures her the car she wants will be pulled from the lot and taken to be detailed.
The next day the blonde has a really bad morning with naughty dogs, insurance men and accident reports. As she is driving the little red riding truck in town to take care of the mentioned irritants she notices her new car is still sitting in the lot with the doors open and the hood up along with all the other cars for sale.
Her already heated blood is now boiling and she swings into the car lot and closes the car doors. As she is struggling to put the hood down, the salesman approaches her.
Salesman: "Can I help you?"
The irritated blonde in a sarcastic tone: "What are you trying to do, sell my car?
The salesman: "This isn't your car."
The blonde: "It's not?"
The salesman: "Your car is in the shop getting detailed, aren't you and your husband coming down later to sign for it?"
The blonde: "So this isn't my car."
The salesman: "No."
The blonde: "Oh, um yes, we are coming down later."
The salesman: "OK see you this afternoon."
The blonde calling out to the salesman as he is walking away: "Would you like me to open the car doors for you."
The salesman: "Nope."
Later that day the blonde and her husband meet up with the car salesman.
The salesman, as he is walking with the blonde and her husband, points to other cars and says: "This isn't your car, this isn't your car, that's your car," as it is sitting all pretty and detailed ready for me to drive.
The next day the blonde has a really bad morning with naughty dogs, insurance men and accident reports. As she is driving the little red riding truck in town to take care of the mentioned irritants she notices her new car is still sitting in the lot with the doors open and the hood up along with all the other cars for sale.
Her already heated blood is now boiling and she swings into the car lot and closes the car doors. As she is struggling to put the hood down, the salesman approaches her.
Salesman: "Can I help you?"
The irritated blonde in a sarcastic tone: "What are you trying to do, sell my car?
The salesman: "This isn't your car."
The blonde: "It's not?"
The salesman: "Your car is in the shop getting detailed, aren't you and your husband coming down later to sign for it?"
The blonde: "So this isn't my car."
The salesman: "No."
The blonde: "Oh, um yes, we are coming down later."
The salesman: "OK see you this afternoon."
The blonde calling out to the salesman as he is walking away: "Would you like me to open the car doors for you."
The salesman: "Nope."
Later that day the blonde and her husband meet up with the car salesman.
The salesman, as he is walking with the blonde and her husband, points to other cars and says: "This isn't your car, this isn't your car, that's your car," as it is sitting all pretty and detailed ready for me to drive.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Celebrate good times...Come On!
The theme song 'Seattle' for the show, "Here comes the Brides" describes the bluest skies ever seen are in Seattle. Yeah, not sure how they came up with that one because I've been to Seattle and there ain't no blue skies, just gray clouds and rain. But I did happen upon Blue Sky during a rafting trip and guess what, it wasn't in Seattle.
September is the Birthday month for our family. Boom one, two, three all within a week of each other my son, me and my husband share in birthday celebrations. Our middle boy, the college graduate turned Financial Advisor, treated us to a white water rafting trip as a combined birthday gift/adventurous day together.
September is the Birthday month for our family. Boom one, two, three all within a week of each other my son, me and my husband share in birthday celebrations. Our middle boy, the college graduate turned Financial Advisor, treated us to a white water rafting trip as a combined birthday gift/adventurous day together.
The birthday three
The trip involved rafting 21 miles down this river
in these rafts
Wearing this getup
After we were done and worked up a powerful
hunger the crew cooked us a steak BBQ.
This smiley guy was our rafting guide who
showed us a wild time on the river
We didn't lose a single person although those sitting in front experienced what water boarding felt like.
The birthday celebrations continued the following weekend as the husband and I partied at the fair.
The husband enjoyed a little pampering since it was his birthday and all.
What do you think, would my car be jealous if I went pink?
Of course it wouldn't be the fair if we didn't enjoy some good food,
good as in greasy and fattening that is.
good as in greasy and fattening that is.
Want a closer look at those Tornado potatoes?
That's what I'm talking about!
And although they were generous in the blue ribbon department
I was still surprised my quilt received one.
The weather is changing so fast I'm wondering what's in store for October.
And although they were generous in the blue ribbon department
I was still surprised my quilt received one.
Friday, September 23, 2011
The fender bender
This is my car
I love my car.
This is what my car looks like now:
This is what happened;
Can you believe it? I was making a left turn when SMACK! Come to find out I know the kid that rear ended me.
He ended up with a broken nose and a sore chest and as for me, a few bumps and bruises, nothing that a little Ibuprofen can't handle. We were both so very lucky. As I spun in the other lane I had a near miss of an on coming car.
To say the least, I know the Lord was watching over us.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Smile, you're on Candid Camera
Remember that show? Remember how people would be put in awkward situations unsuspectingly knowing that a hidden camera was recording their every move?
I felt like one of those people the other day while shopping at Costco.
I needed to pick up a few things, if that's even possible at that store, so I called the husband and asked him if there was anything he wanted while I was there. The husbands busy season has hit and I hardly see the man. He gets up at three in the morning and comes home around ten at night, which has interfered with our togetherness at Costco.
Among other activities, Costco is one of our dates.
So calling the husband,
Me: Hey I'm at Costco is there anything you want me to get for you?
Husband: Really, you're at Costco? I wish I was there, you know how long it's been since I've been to Costco? Anyway, I can't think of anything other than the usual.
Me: Ok.
A little while goes by and as I'm shopping along, the husband calls.
Husband: Are you still at Costco?
Me: Yes.
Husband: I know what I would like for you to pick up. Could you get those turkey and Swiss rollers, you know those wraps that I like?
Me: Sure, I'm right by the case how perfect is that? I'll grab you a tray.
Since I had him on the phone we continued talking and catching up about our day all the while I'm cruising around the isles.
Husband: Oh how are we doing on the frozen mozzarella sticks?
Me: Well I think we still have some in the freezer but I'm not sure. I'm down that isle so I just pick up a box.
We keep talking and talking.
Husband: Hey, I'm also out of the orange Trident gum.
Me: I'm walking by the isle as we speak, I'll grab you some. Pausing, OK, this is so weird honey, every time you ask for something I happen to be right there. I feel like I'm on Candid Camera or something, are you here?
Husband: Why would I be there?
Me: Because it's too much of a coincidence that I happen to be right by the very thing you're asking for.
Slight pause between us.
Me: You're here aren't you?
Another pause.
Me: You're here, I know you're here, Oh my gosh you're here!
I immediately start looking down the isles. Although I had no idea what shirt he was wearing I kept my radar on and eventually spotted him.
I started cracking up! Come to find out he was following me around and was, very close in proximity to where I was walking, talking to me the entire time.
Me: Oh my gosh you're sneaky! What are you doing here anyway?
Husband: Taking a break.
I felt like one of those people the other day while shopping at Costco.
I needed to pick up a few things, if that's even possible at that store, so I called the husband and asked him if there was anything he wanted while I was there. The husbands busy season has hit and I hardly see the man. He gets up at three in the morning and comes home around ten at night, which has interfered with our togetherness at Costco.
Among other activities, Costco is one of our dates.
So calling the husband,
Me: Hey I'm at Costco is there anything you want me to get for you?
Husband: Really, you're at Costco? I wish I was there, you know how long it's been since I've been to Costco? Anyway, I can't think of anything other than the usual.
Me: Ok.
A little while goes by and as I'm shopping along, the husband calls.
Husband: Are you still at Costco?
Me: Yes.
Husband: I know what I would like for you to pick up. Could you get those turkey and Swiss rollers, you know those wraps that I like?
Me: Sure, I'm right by the case how perfect is that? I'll grab you a tray.
Since I had him on the phone we continued talking and catching up about our day all the while I'm cruising around the isles.
Husband: Oh how are we doing on the frozen mozzarella sticks?
Me: Well I think we still have some in the freezer but I'm not sure. I'm down that isle so I just pick up a box.
We keep talking and talking.
Husband: Hey, I'm also out of the orange Trident gum.
Me: I'm walking by the isle as we speak, I'll grab you some. Pausing, OK, this is so weird honey, every time you ask for something I happen to be right there. I feel like I'm on Candid Camera or something, are you here?
Husband: Why would I be there?
Me: Because it's too much of a coincidence that I happen to be right by the very thing you're asking for.
Slight pause between us.
Me: You're here aren't you?
Another pause.
Me: You're here, I know you're here, Oh my gosh you're here!
I immediately start looking down the isles. Although I had no idea what shirt he was wearing I kept my radar on and eventually spotted him.
I started cracking up! Come to find out he was following me around and was, very close in proximity to where I was walking, talking to me the entire time.
Me: Oh my gosh you're sneaky! What are you doing here anyway?
Husband: Taking a break.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Child Labor...What's your take?
I've always been a fan of child labor I mean why else do we give them a roof over their heads, home cooked meals to eat, clothes on their backs, shoes to wear, take them on family vacations and drive them all over town to their various activities if not to have them help out and do their share?
Feel free to call me a failure as my children weren't as lucky as I was. They didn't have the advantage of picking rocks out of a pasture, deadheading thistle so they wouldn't go to seed, weeding gardens, chopping wood, feeding livestock, breaking ice in the water trough before school on cold winter mornings, testing the hot wire with our fingers to see if fence was still charged, picking blackberries while being attacked by the thorns and much, much more.
All five of us children were involved in the building our house. My father was not afraid to hand my brother a hammer and some nails or a paint brush and paint. For my younger brothers, they would help with the cleaning of the construction site by picking up garbage. We built fences, stalls, dog houses, sideboards for the truck...man the list could go on and on.
My dad was not only creative in the work department but he had a chalkboard where he posted our daily chores. If we happened to have a friend over, their name was added to the board. If someone stopped by, my dad was not shy about asking them to help on what ever project he was working on. Did I mention he was an Engineer? Yeah, which explains why there was always some kind of project to do, make, or invent.
To say the least, nobody sat idle.
My boys had their fair share of chores to do but they weren't nearly as fun. They got to dust, vacuum, mow, weed, do dishes, clean bathrooms, take out the garbage, rake leaves and what ever else I could think of to keep them busy.
During the summer I would volunteer their services to help my friend with her hay. After the field was cut and the grass was bailed, my boys would help load the hay on to the truck and stack it in her barn. If they started to wheeze and sneeze I handed them a Claritin and a Kleenex.
Having them involved in the farm work made me feel like I was sharing a part of my childhood with them. They may beg to differ but none the less, it was good honest work and I believe kids should be involved with helping out.
I don't know people, is my view on child labor to harsh? Were my expectations too high? Did I, heaven forbid, do it all wrong?
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Here today, gone tomorrow.
He came,
Home from his mission.
He ate
Red Robin's famous burger and fries,
As well as indulging in some good ol home cooking.
He worked,
Helping his dad with some farming
He finished staining the never ending fence that I started and gave up on.
He sang,
"Somewhere over the Rainbow" with his Ukulele bringing tears to my eyes
and a smile to his Great Granny's face, not to mention
awakening the piano which sat dormant while he was gone.
He went riding.
And showed my girl who was boss, especially after
the stunt she pulled with the last person who tried to ride her.
Then.....He left
For college. It was the quickest two weeks of my life.
I sure am going to miss his emails, do you think I could get him
to write once a week? I mean, he can't just leave his ma hanging
after two years of weekly letters.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Wordless Wednesday, I think not!
Today my dear friends, I'm shouting for JOY! We'll be picking up our missionary from the airport this afternoon and I'm so excited I can't hardly contain myself! Yep, after two years of faithful service our Mexican speaking boy is coming home!!! If I'm not around much in the next couple of weeks.... well, I hope you'll understand.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
What's in your wallet...er purse?
Earlier today I was over at Kelley's break room having a diet coke and listening to her talk about being a loser her whole life.....of things. She's a funny girl but I just couldn't relate. You see, I'm not a loser...of things, actually I'm quite the opposite.
I'm the one everybody comes to when they can't find anything. "Mom, where's my.....?"
"Sweetie, have you seen my......?" Without fail, I always find what they are looking for.
Why I bring this up is, while I was visiting with Kelley I commented that even though I'm not a loser of things I
have this problem of switching out my purses depending on what outfit I'm wearing. My purse consist of all the basic necessities, short of having the kitchen sink.
While we're out and about, the husband will ask me for a piece of gum, something I usually carry in my purse.
"Oh sorry honey, it's in the other purse." Or perhaps, some Ibuprofen, "Ooh, it's in the other purse." Just last Saturday we were going for a horse ride and I asked him for his set of trailer keys. He looked at me like where's mine. I read his look and said, "Other purse."
So today while I was driving around I stopped at the pet store to pick up cat food, cat treats and some litter. I got up to check stand ready to pay and I couldn't find my wallet. I'm digging around the gum, ibuprofen
Kleenex, extra keys and this time, I believe I actually had the kitchen sink. Unfortunately she didn't want what I had to offer, she wanted money. Well I couldn't even find a spare credit card laying at the bottom, which wouldn't matter anyhow because I didn't have my drivers license to prove the card belonged to me.
Finally I stopped digging, looked at the patient checker and said, "Other purse."
I'm the one everybody comes to when they can't find anything. "Mom, where's my.....?"
"Sweetie, have you seen my......?" Without fail, I always find what they are looking for.
Why I bring this up is, while I was visiting with Kelley I commented that even though I'm not a loser of things I
have this problem of switching out my purses depending on what outfit I'm wearing. My purse consist of all the basic necessities, short of having the kitchen sink.
While we're out and about, the husband will ask me for a piece of gum, something I usually carry in my purse.
"Oh sorry honey, it's in the other purse." Or perhaps, some Ibuprofen, "Ooh, it's in the other purse." Just last Saturday we were going for a horse ride and I asked him for his set of trailer keys. He looked at me like where's mine. I read his look and said, "Other purse."
So today while I was driving around I stopped at the pet store to pick up cat food, cat treats and some litter. I got up to check stand ready to pay and I couldn't find my wallet. I'm digging around the gum, ibuprofen
Kleenex, extra keys and this time, I believe I actually had the kitchen sink. Unfortunately she didn't want what I had to offer, she wanted money. Well I couldn't even find a spare credit card laying at the bottom, which wouldn't matter anyhow because I didn't have my drivers license to prove the card belonged to me.
Finally I stopped digging, looked at the patient checker and said, "Other purse."
Sunday, August 14, 2011
You know ol', what's his name...
The husband and I were driving down the road and I was trying to tell him about a guy I saw in a truck that both he and his dad know:
Me: Hey I saw, oh I can't remember his name but he's your dads friend that always wears that straw cowboy hat with the gray hair. Short guy, hangs around your dad's shop, ah what's his name?
Husband: Tom?
Me: No it's not Tom, you know he gets those big landscape rocks, wears that cowboy hat.
Husband: Tom Rhomas?
Me: No it's not Tom, who is Tom anyway? Come on you know he has that long gray hair, ah what's his name?
Husband: Are you sure it's not Tom?
Me getting frustrated: Honneee, (with an empathise on the nee part) get Tom off your brain, it's not Tom. I think we used to call him Rock Man Ron or something like that, wears a straw hat.
Husband: It's not Tom Rhomas?
Me all riled up: Oh my gosh! Honey, It's not Tom can you just work with me here I know you know him.
Me determined: Honey, he's got that girlfriend...yada, yada yada, His daughter is the same age as our son, yada, yada, yada. He lives by my old school building.
On and on I continue to describe this man and all the husband can say is: Are you sure it's not Tom Rhomas?
A quite pause between us and I'm thinking, "Why is he not getting this?" Then the light bulb goes off and I'm the one finally getting it.
Me: Oh my gosh, it's Ron Thomas ( as I whack him in the arm)
Me: Tom Rhomas, Oh my gosh I can't believe you, (I whack him again as I'm laughing) Tom Rhomas, oh my gosh!
Husband looking at me with a half grin: What about him?
Me still laughing: He wasn't wearing his cowboy hat.
Me: Hey I saw, oh I can't remember his name but he's your dads friend that always wears that straw cowboy hat with the gray hair. Short guy, hangs around your dad's shop, ah what's his name?
Husband: Tom?
Me: No it's not Tom, you know he gets those big landscape rocks, wears that cowboy hat.
Husband: Tom Rhomas?
Me: No it's not Tom, who is Tom anyway? Come on you know he has that long gray hair, ah what's his name?
Husband: Are you sure it's not Tom?
Me getting frustrated: Honneee, (with an empathise on the nee part) get Tom off your brain, it's not Tom. I think we used to call him Rock Man Ron or something like that, wears a straw hat.
Husband: It's not Tom Rhomas?
Me all riled up: Oh my gosh! Honey, It's not Tom can you just work with me here I know you know him.
Me determined: Honey, he's got that girlfriend...yada, yada yada, His daughter is the same age as our son, yada, yada, yada. He lives by my old school building.
On and on I continue to describe this man and all the husband can say is: Are you sure it's not Tom Rhomas?
A quite pause between us and I'm thinking, "Why is he not getting this?" Then the light bulb goes off and I'm the one finally getting it.
Me: Oh my gosh, it's Ron Thomas ( as I whack him in the arm)
Me: Tom Rhomas, Oh my gosh I can't believe you, (I whack him again as I'm laughing) Tom Rhomas, oh my gosh!
Husband looking at me with a half grin: What about him?
Me still laughing: He wasn't wearing his cowboy hat.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
A letter for the author of the book, "The Beagle"
Dear Diane Morgan and Wayne Hunthausen, D.V.M. consulting Veterinary editor,
Upon reading your book "The Beagle" you know, because we have one and value any information regarding what makes these dogs tick, I came across chapter 2 page 31 regarding the characteristics of a Beagle. Under the Taste category where it states and I quote, "You may notice that your Beagle eats everything rather indiscriminately."
As I read further I learned that dogs have fewer taste buds than people. I also learned that their taste buds are located farther back in the oral cavity along with a few going down the throat.
So all in all what you are trying to say is, the Beagle tastes his food as he swallows it, not before.
Anyway, allow me to quote you again, "Beagles are pretty indiscriminate in their tasting habits. Dog food companies won't even use Beagles in their taste test because these dogs don't care if they are eating gourmet food or garbage."
Well, well, I'm writing this letter informing you I think otherwise, actually I KNOW otherwise. You see our Beagle, whose name won't be mentioned, OK his name is Archie, but that's beside the point.
The point is, it's true Archie will inhale garbage and I believe he enjoys every foul aspect of it, but what's not true is, he is discriminate of what he eats.
Find it hard to believe? You should because you wrote the book with all your knowledge and research but you failed to interview me. Had Archie been considered in you research you would have found there is a food he won't eat. That's right Diane and Dr. Hunthausen, our Beagle will not eat Rhubarb.
Go figure, I bet you never even considered using rhubarb in your taste test.
Wherever his taste buds lie whether they are in the back of his throat or the front, and in his case I think he has a few in the front because the rhubarb won't even make down his throat before he spits it out, the dog has discriminated against the tart stalk.
I'm informing you so you can revise your book with this updated information. Go ahead and thank me.
Sincerely,
Archie's chef and caretaker
Upon reading your book "The Beagle" you know, because we have one and value any information regarding what makes these dogs tick, I came across chapter 2 page 31 regarding the characteristics of a Beagle. Under the Taste category where it states and I quote, "You may notice that your Beagle eats everything rather indiscriminately."
As I read further I learned that dogs have fewer taste buds than people. I also learned that their taste buds are located farther back in the oral cavity along with a few going down the throat.
So all in all what you are trying to say is, the Beagle tastes his food as he swallows it, not before.
Anyway, allow me to quote you again, "Beagles are pretty indiscriminate in their tasting habits. Dog food companies won't even use Beagles in their taste test because these dogs don't care if they are eating gourmet food or garbage."
Well, well, I'm writing this letter informing you I think otherwise, actually I KNOW otherwise. You see our Beagle, whose name won't be mentioned, OK his name is Archie, but that's beside the point.
The point is, it's true Archie will inhale garbage and I believe he enjoys every foul aspect of it, but what's not true is, he is discriminate of what he eats.
Find it hard to believe? You should because you wrote the book with all your knowledge and research but you failed to interview me. Had Archie been considered in you research you would have found there is a food he won't eat. That's right Diane and Dr. Hunthausen, our Beagle will not eat Rhubarb.
Go figure, I bet you never even considered using rhubarb in your taste test.
Wherever his taste buds lie whether they are in the back of his throat or the front, and in his case I think he has a few in the front because the rhubarb won't even make down his throat before he spits it out, the dog has discriminated against the tart stalk.
I'm informing you so you can revise your book with this updated information. Go ahead and thank me.
Sincerely,
Archie's chef and caretaker
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
Are you my 'Brother'?
Our girls trip really was just that other than my brother, two teenage nephews and their friend tagged along. We didn't mind though because the boys did their thing while us girls did ours. Once in a while we would do a family activity which brings me to share this story.
We all went on a 'jungle boat' excursion where we paired up and drove speed boats through the 'jungle' to a snorkeling spot. My sister and I chose to be a pair. When we reached our destination everyone jumped in and started snorkeling, except me and my sister, we took a few minutes to snap some pictures of us decked out in our snorkeling gear. Once we finally jumped in the water our group was spread out and we didn't know who was who.
After about thirty minutes or so my sister thought she saw the top of my brothers head so we swam in that direction. When we got close to him, I pinched his leg like a biting fish.
He immediately took his head out of the water and flipped the mask up on his forehead.
When I saw his face I didn't recognize it as my brothers and immediately started apologizing. "I'm so sorry, I thought you were my brother." The fella just stared at me like I was a crazy person so I apologized again, "I'm really sorry, I seriously thought you were my brother."
My sister is looking at me and so is this man, then the guy laughed and said, "I am your brother!"
By this point my sister and brother are cracking up but to my own defense, with the mask on his forehead it made his face all squishy looking. Clearly a mistake anyone could make, although a funny one in which I still giggle every time I think about it.
We all went on a 'jungle boat' excursion where we paired up and drove speed boats through the 'jungle' to a snorkeling spot. My sister and I chose to be a pair. When we reached our destination everyone jumped in and started snorkeling, except me and my sister, we took a few minutes to snap some pictures of us decked out in our snorkeling gear. Once we finally jumped in the water our group was spread out and we didn't know who was who.
After about thirty minutes or so my sister thought she saw the top of my brothers head so we swam in that direction. When we got close to him, I pinched his leg like a biting fish.
He immediately took his head out of the water and flipped the mask up on his forehead.
When I saw his face I didn't recognize it as my brothers and immediately started apologizing. "I'm so sorry, I thought you were my brother." The fella just stared at me like I was a crazy person so I apologized again, "I'm really sorry, I seriously thought you were my brother."
My sister is looking at me and so is this man, then the guy laughed and said, "I am your brother!"
By this point my sister and brother are cracking up but to my own defense, with the mask on his forehead it made his face all squishy looking. Clearly a mistake anyone could make, although a funny one in which I still giggle every time I think about it.
 | |
| My sista and I |
 |
| My sista in laws, nephews and brother |
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Girls just wanna have fun
Te miro despues
In other words...See you later!
Don't worry I'll be back,
But first I need to:
Relax,
Play in the water,
Feel the sand in my toes,
Read,
Tan
and above all else, hang with my sister and sisters in law!!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Scootin' along
Riding my scooter on a hot summers day,
waking the senses that come my way.
I'm scootin' along, scootin' along, scootin' along down the road.
I feel the coolness of an orchard with the sprinklers mist,
the splat of some bugs they never seem to miss.
I'm scootin along, scootin' along, scootin' along down the road.
I smell the food in the air, makes my tummy start to growl,
Or cows in a pasture, they can be rather foul.
I'm scootin' along, scootin' along, scootin' along down the road.
The Harley dudes wave, down low with their hand,
They accept you as one of them, you're part of their band.
I'm scootin' along, scootin' along, scootin along down the road.
I can only go 35 It's a slow little pace.
It's OK with me, but I won't win any race.
I'm scootin' along, scootin' along, scootin' along down the road.
I can ride a 100 miles just on one gallon,
Just me and my honey, together we're palin'
We're scootin' along, scootin' along, scootin' along down the road.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Little Red Riding Truck
This cute shiny truck is starting something new, something it's never done before...work. Yep a whole new life is in store for Little Red Riding Truck.
When the husband was looking for an economical vehicle to do the running around in, you know because gas is ridiculous and all, he found this cute little thing sitting in a car lot. The price was perfect, the condition was immaculate and for a used truck you couldn't ask for lower miles.
So what's the catch, I mean every car has it's story and so.. the husband asked.
The story goes, a 95 year old man bought the truck from a car dealership, it was a trade in from someone else. He had it only a couple of months when he was told he was dying. Since he was going into a nursing home he decided to have his truck sold on consignment from the very dealership he bought it from.
The dealership obliged the frail old man. A few more months went by and as it turned out, the man never died. He returned to the car lot and told his friends he wasn't dying after all and if they would, perhaps they could use his truck as a trade in for a smaller car.
Once again the dealership honored his wishes. The truck stayed where it was at and he drove off in a new car.
Yes, there is a 95 year old man out driving somewhere so be warned. Lucky for the husband he went home with a used truck in perfect condition.
It's days of sitting in a garage or car lot are over. This Little Red Riding Truck has begun a new life. It's a parts runner, farm hand, and hauler.
And sometimes, it even takes us to Grandmother's house.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Dude, Where's my car?
Seriously, where's my car?? I made an errand to our local Walmart and scored a perfect parking space next to the handicap spot, up close and personal to the doors. Just before I went inside the store a man sitting behind a table stopped me and asked if I would like to sign a petition regarding something about background checks and...well, I can't remember but anyway I agreed with what he was petitioning but didn't want to sign his form because it required my name and address.
I just didn't feel comfortable leaving my personal information with a total stranger, although I'll blog about personal information with total strangers but that's different...right?
Anyway, I'm in the store shopping, and shopping, browsing, and shopping some more then finally find my way to the check out stand, pay and leave.
As I exited the store I saw the same guy still soliciting his petition but looked the other way as not to make eye contact.
I walked straight to where my car should have been and low and behold it's gone. OK this is too weird. I push my cart all over the area where I thought I had parked my car...still no car.
My ice cream is starting to melt..
I went further down the parking lot but I knew it was too far because I specifically parked it close to the entrance.
Ice cream continues to melt.
Trying to stay composed and not look like a crazy person stalking the parking lot I keep looking.
I end up in the middle section of the parking lot and just as I'm getting ready to push the panic button I noticed a familiar rack on what looks like my car.
Yep sure enough that was it. Feeling relieved I hurried and put the melted ice cream along with the other groceries in the back then took a look at my surroundings.
My car was parked right next to the entrance but it was the middle entrance of Walmart.... right where I left it.
You see, I happened to exit a different set of doors. As for the petition guy, he switched places with another petitioner which gave me the impression I came out the same doors I went in.
Sound confusing? It is....or...maybe it's just me.
I just didn't feel comfortable leaving my personal information with a total stranger, although I'll blog about personal information with total strangers but that's different...right?
Anyway, I'm in the store shopping, and shopping, browsing, and shopping some more then finally find my way to the check out stand, pay and leave.
As I exited the store I saw the same guy still soliciting his petition but looked the other way as not to make eye contact.
I walked straight to where my car should have been and low and behold it's gone. OK this is too weird. I push my cart all over the area where I thought I had parked my car...still no car.
My ice cream is starting to melt..
I went further down the parking lot but I knew it was too far because I specifically parked it close to the entrance.
Ice cream continues to melt.
Trying to stay composed and not look like a crazy person stalking the parking lot I keep looking.
I end up in the middle section of the parking lot and just as I'm getting ready to push the panic button I noticed a familiar rack on what looks like my car.
Yep sure enough that was it. Feeling relieved I hurried and put the melted ice cream along with the other groceries in the back then took a look at my surroundings.
My car was parked right next to the entrance but it was the middle entrance of Walmart.... right where I left it.
You see, I happened to exit a different set of doors. As for the petition guy, he switched places with another petitioner which gave me the impression I came out the same doors I went in.
Sound confusing? It is....or...maybe it's just me.
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