Kat Tales

A Random List of Good Intentions

2012-02-01T14:51:00.000-06:00

I made every attempt to relax in January and for the most part I did pretty good. Actually I was pretty much forced to, as I have an annoying pain in the neck. I developed a pinch nerve in my neck and besides the off and on pain, I have had intermittent tingling down my arm to my fingers. I had an MRI a few weeks ago and as mom said after having one "When I die, make sure I am really dead before they put me in a casket." Even if your not claustrophobic it's just too close for comfort.

I am a list maker. Partially because I have so many things on my mind that I want to do and mostly because I am at that age where I'm afraid I wont remember to do it if I don't write it down. I carry a little notebook around that I write everything in from weekly menus, grocery lists, everyday to do things and someday to do things or as I call the latter "Good Intentions". Next week and the week after I will be taking a few extra days off from work so I will be able to spend a little time on crossing off some of my good intentions on my list. I hope!

The Storage Room

I think this is pretty self explanatory. This may take a few days!

The Pantry

This really doesn't look that bad but all the stuff on the floor makes me nervous.

The Clothes Closet

Again it's not too messy but there is just too much in it. When I go in to find something to wear it's like a big blur to me. Everything melts together and I will stand there for a long time with brain fuzz trying to decide what to put on. There has to be a way to organize better.

The Under The Stairs Closet

I don't even know where to begin with this job.

These four are on the top of the list. There are so many more.

Scanning old pictures
Converting VHS to DVD
Writing a story before I forget all the details
Re doing my blog for the purpose I intended it to be (make sense?)
Get a picture of me that looks like me. Or have someone take one and photo shop it till it looks better than me. Ha! If I smile my eyes close and if I don't smile my cheeks fall. Fail either way.

I did join Pinterest. My goodness there is a lot of stuff out there. Love it.

So today is the first day of February! We really have had no winter at all. It's in the 70's here in Texas. I even went out and pulled a few weeds. It's just not natural but the older I get the more I like it.

Hope your day is as beautiful as the weather is here!

Relax

2012-01-01T13:47:00.000-06:00

I have a mind full of "good intentions" for the year. No resolutions. Number one on my list is to learn how to RELAX. I tend to over do. I don't sit still. I think I'm a little obsessive compulsive and I multi-task myself trying to do more than what needs to be. So I plan to quit wearing myself out and take time to enjoy the day.

Wrapping With Rosie

2011-12-23T07:11:00.001-06:00

I've been busy with all the preparations that go along with Christmas.

Yesterday I finished up my gift wrapping.

I may be old but I can still jump on the bed.

After all this is where ~~my mom~~ the action is

I think I'll help her make cookies and fudge tomorrow.

And we need to be sure and put a post on the blog.

We do everything together these days.

Now where did that bow go?

Purrrrrrrrrrr.

Old Fashioned Christmas

2011-12-16T08:56:00.000-06:00

I love decorating for Christmas.

Inside

And Out

I like things plain and simple as you can see from the coffee table decoration. Just a green wreath with candles in the center.

I bought a new tree this year. It is a little taller and much thicker than the one I had last year. We always had a fresh tree until my son was born and we discovered he was allergic to just about everything. Artificial trees are so much easier and less messy. Plus they don't aggravate kids with asthma and make your husbands eyes swell up if the tree is a Frazier Fir.

I have to have a star on top of the tree.

To me the best part of the tree are the ornaments. I've collected ornaments for many years adding a couple of new ones each year.

My favorites are the ones the children made.

A special wish for a bell from prancer's harness for my daughter preserved.

The ones I made.

I made these two needlepoint ornaments when I was pregnant with our baby Scott. We only were able to hold him for a short time but he is here in our hearts.

Remembering the "Reason For The Season"

Wishing you Peace, Love and Joy!

Thanks for stopping by.

The Birthday Girl

2011-12-07T10:43:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was mom's 89th birthday! I think it turned out to be a a happy celebration for her. Her day was filled with cards, flowers, hugs and many phone calls.

I decided to fix Cuban Black Beans and Rice and Ham Croquettes for her birthday which is a favorite of ~~Chris and Jackson~~ my family. (They both ate a lot of rice, salad and garlic bread. Ha!)

For her birthday cake I made another family tradition. My grandma Kelly's Date Cake. This cake has always been my favorite. My mom used to make it for me on my birthdays. I never have made the cake myself. I thought I had the recipe in my file but didn't so I pulled it from mom's file. When I started to make it I had mom there adding advice on things not written on the card and I suddenly realized the recipe was handwritten by Grandma Kelly. It was a sweet moment as if the three of us were there cooking together. (Big Sniff).

A well worn recipe.

Here is a picture of the cake. It looks rather pitiful in this ugly pan. But the taste is divine and that's what matters. I cheated and used cool whip instead of "real whipped cream". It really is much better with the real stuff.

It's very light, full of dates and walnuts and lady fingers on top.

It was a fun time and even Rosie joined the celebration. She likes party's.

Chris and Carrie were here and I could kick myself for not getting a picture of them but they looked fabulous as always! And they won first place in the biggest Poinsettia contest! Isn't it beautiful!

It was a very Happy Day.

2011-11-24T08:01:00.000-06:00

May your stuffing be tasty
May your turkey plump,
May your potatoes and gravy
Have nary a lump.
May your yams be delicious
And your pies take the prize,
And may your Thanksgiving dinner
Stay off your thighs!
~Author Unknown Happy Thanksgiving!

Talking Bout My Girls

2011-10-23T08:57:00.000-05:00

I love these mums. Each flower is made up of so many perfect little petals.

A beautiful creation.

Speaking of beautiful creations.

I went down to see Molly's class get started in the homecoming parade Friday. The kids decorated a boat trailer. Some road, some walked and some road in the back of the pick up.

The boys getting the ~~law~~ rules of etiquette on pickup riding prior to the parade.

Here they are ready to roll. There were many entries in the parade and they shut down west bound Belt Line (a major street) from the elementary school to the high school.

The kids were excited. My girl was in control.

As you can see my other girls are doing well.

Rosie has appointed herself official lap sitter of anyone who happens to sit in this chair.

It's usually me.

As you can see mom is not so thrilled about this.

Rosie is much older than mom in people years.

Rosie takes "Age Before Beauty" very seriously and has declared herself queen.

It's hard to argue with this face.

Taking Time

2011-10-10T13:54:00.000-05:00

Two weeks ago today my mother had to be hospitalized for Sepsis.

An infection out of control that came with no warning.

We've been taking time to

Relax

Watch the much needed rain

Laugh

Heal

And She Has

I took this picture of her this morning.

My Mom

The "real" Wonder Woman

Finally Fall

2011-09-23T14:31:00.000-05:00

Today is the first day of Fall

But it's not why these trees have turned colors.

This is what happens when you haven't had rain in months.

That is burned foliage and grass from 70 days of 100+ degrees.

The greens were kept alive with constant watering. But the poor trees have suffered.

And the ponds.

The day after I took this picture it rained and the weather cooled off giving us a taste of cooler weather. We have had a couple of days in the 80's but mostly it's been in the low 90's. It rained again yesterday. Even though the rain only lasts about 30 minutes we're grateful.

I celebrated by pulling out my fall decorations.

I found this little owl on the mantle at Pier One. We have a couple of owls living nearby.

I love to hear them talking to each other at night.

I've been wanting a pair of brown boots for a long time. I haven't had a pair since I was in college 40 years ago. I splurged and bought myself these.

We all know that "New Shoes Cure the Blues".

I guess you could say "New Boots Make you Hoot".

Have a great first day of fall.

Ms Corny Kat

Breaking Records

2011-08-26T09:57:00.002-05:00

IT'S SO DARN HOT!

I googled for a picture of a "hot sun" and came across this one. I thought it was a little easier on the eyes than a picture of the glaring, eye squinting sun we have had endlessly here.

It implies water.

We don't have any.

We haven't had ~~a good~~ any rain in months and are in a horrible drought. We get teased every once in a while with some thunder and sprinkles but that's about the extent of it.

This past weekend Tom and I went to visit my ex boss, Dr. M-R for his 75th birthday. He has a home on Cedar Creek Lake in Mabank. Here is a view from his back porch.

The lake is 5ft below what it should be. Normally the water fills up the front dock.

Here is a close up of his boat dock. They can't put their boat in the water because it's too shallow.

We are probably going to break the all time record of 100+ degree days we have ever had in one really long hot summer. So far we have had

60 days 100 or over!

We've been breaking all kinds of heat records down here. "Highest Highs" and my favorite "Highest Lows". That's when it's like 90 degrees at 6 am when I'm on my way to work with the air conditioner on MAX. It is not natural! Needless to say we're all kind of cranky.

FYI

Today is "National Dog Day". I don't have one. Hug your dog for me!

Today in History (1920)

The 19th amendment to the constitution was passed giving women the right to vote.

I vote "The Highest Temperature May Never Exceed 90 Degrees Ever!"

Blog Changes

2011-08-13T07:19:00.000-05:00

We are getting some sprinkles here in Texas this morning. It's been months since we have had rain. I'm hoping for a downpour. My Vinca are happy.

I'm working on my blog. It will look like I've put a new post on when in fact it's just piddly little changes I'm making here and there on my web page. This will probably go on for a while given the fact that I am not very good at web design. My biggest challenge is my header. I want it really simple. This one is temporary. If you have any suggestions please leave a comment. If you have a blog send me the link. I would love to see it.

Kat

Hot Time In The Old Town

2011-08-07T10:26:00.000-05:00

We are officially in 2nd place now with the most consecutive days over 100 degrees. I think it's 36 days in a row now but if I'm wrong the heat is getting to my head. The record is 42 days back in 1980 and from the looks of the long range forecast we're going to break that record. We've been threatened with rolling black outs by the electric company. They are actually pulling electricity from Mexico to help with the overload here. That boggles my mind. How do they do that?

The worst part is we have had NO RAIN! All of Texas is in a severe drought. I don't travel outside of the metroplex but I hear that it's a very sad sight. Burnt cornfields, grapes that have turned into raisins, dried up ponds and lakes. They even found a part of the shuttle Columbia in a lake in Nacogdoches because the water level had dropped down so low. I remember that morning well. I heard the explosion, actually two. It woke me up. A horrible horrible tragedy.

Doesn't that look like something out of "The Day The Earth Stood Still"? The original one with Michael Rennie not the remake with Keanu Reeves (even though Keanu is by far the better looking alien).

When the lakes get low the tap water tastes vile! We always say it's because the lakes turn over in the summer. Can you picture that? Ha. It's actually because of an overgrowth of algae. I guess that's why we say the lakes turn over. I find myself buying bottle water every time I make a trip to the store. We even use it for coffee. Thank you Ozarka!

It's starting to look like fall. The poor trees are really suffering.

Our yard is patchy and the ground is pulling away from the foundation in areas. "Not good".

I've managed to keep some flowers alive. I've grouped them all together on the patio waiting for this heat wave to be over. The geranium given to me by a dear friend on my birthday, is not so good. (I'm not giving up on it yet Heidi)!

Tom has been doing some evening hand watering on the dry spots. Notice he is watering the neighbors yard in this picture. I love this man.

All of North Texas is on watering restrictions. Our area is only allowed to water 2 days a week before 10 AM and after 6 PM. Tom and I (it took team effort) reset the sprinkler system to conform to the times and I think it will work better because we can do some deep watering at night. It will be much better for the yard and foundation.

Yesterday early morning the sprinklers were running on the golf course. Do you see the rainbows?

I'm taking that as a sign

A promise of rain

That August will fly by

That ~~September~~ October will be here soon

I'm so.... ready for fall, ya'll!

Summertime Blues and Videos

2011-07-10T09:32:00.000-05:00

I hate the hot Texas summers especially when we haven't had any rain for what seems like 150 days. Yesterday the high was 103 but it was cloudy with a mild breeze and it actually was tolerable. The trees me and grass are starting to look stressed. My poor flowers ~~and me~~ are just hanging on. They are wind beaten and burnt from the constant sun.

I tell myself everyday that I'm not going to complain. After all I live in the age of air conditioning. I'm fortunate to work and live in comfort unlike the poor souls that are building the house next door from 7 to 7 in searing, unrelenting heat. They deserve every penny they make and a whole lot more.

I don't want to see the weather forecast on TV because it's depressing.

Our past, present and future.

Do you see that little teaser for Monday the 18th. That was yesterdays forecast. Today it's gone. I'm even ready to see Pete Delkus (our weatherman) come on the news without his jacket on. You have to live here to understand but when Pete takes his jacket off every show you want to see for the rest of the night is going to be pre-empted because of severe weather. The man is serious about rain even if it's only in Alabama.

So in my quest to keep my sanity for the next 3 months. (Our summers last a long time). I'm making a list of indoor projects to do. One is transferring family VHS tapes to DVD. After four hours I finally figured out that part. I even watched the DVD on the computer and that worked too. It's what happens after I save the DVD to my hard drive. Let's just say it becomes a complicated mess of "What the heck are all these files and why are they chopped up in thumbnails?"

If anyone out there has any information they can pass on like a website or book that I can look at that explains "transferring videos simply to your computer for dummies," I would really appreciate it.

Meanwhile, stay cool and pray for ~~Pete~~ rain!

Family 4th

2011-07-06T12:41:00.000-05:00

I'm at the tail end for posting about our family visit this past weekend. I thought I had taken quite a few pictures but when I uploaded my photos I had about 7. I cannot compete with this paparazzi family of mine.

I was so excited to see them all especially these two little munchkins.

Hollis

When Harper Met Suzie

There was a lot of visiting going on.

Kelly, Hollis and Molly

And of course a lot of picture taking

I love this of mom and Hollis

I have to show you something funny. This family is so photogenic it's unreal. They do not take bad pictures ever unless they don't know you are taking their picture, like this. And even then it's not bad.

Before

But all you have to do is get their attention, point the camera and say cheese and voila!

After

I need to take lessons.

We are so glad you came. Love you all!

A Birthday and Fathers Day

2011-06-19T07:40:00.000-05:00

20 years ago on fathers day (after 5 months of complete bed rest) I awoke to the realization that my water was ~~breaking~~ dripping. Jackson wasn't due for another 6 weeks so I was concerned. As it turned out he didn't make his entrance for a few more days. They put me in the hospital and pumped me full of steroids to stimulate his lungs to develop. It worked and on June 19th, 1991 my little 4lb 13oz bundle came into this world screaming. It was the most wonderful sound in the world! Being premature he was whisked away to ICU.

Today that tiny little boy is now 20 years years old. A blessing beyond words.

A loving son.

And brother

You have brought us so much joy and love.

We are so proud of you.

Happy Birthday Jackson!

Tom has been the best father to our children that I could ever hope for.

With Molly in 1985

Jackson in 1991

He always has a hug.

Or a shoulder for them to lean on.

Your love, guidance, patience and yes, a ~~lot~~ little bit of hovering have helped and inspired them to be the best they can be.

I know how proud you are of them.

Today I want you to know how proud I am of you!

I love you dearly.

Happy Fathers Day

You Have To Accentuate The Positive, Eliminate The Negative.

2011-06-02T17:05:00.003-05:00

Last week I got on the elevator sharing it with an older man. He was beaming with happiness and seeing my work badge he looked at me and said "you work here". A simple statement, not a question. I said "yes I do". He said "Thank You. I don't know what part of the hospital you work in but - Thank You. My wife is going home today." His gratitude and acknowledgement of little ole me and everyone even behind the scenes, absolutely made my day.

Yesterday while I was registering for my mammogram the registrar looked at my insurance card and could tell my husband worked for the government. She asked if he was military. I told her no that he worked for an agency of the federal government. Chatting we discovered we were both "Army Brats". Being a little cryptic she said "Then you know. There are so many people who don't know anymore." I knew exactly what she was trying to say. Many people are oblivious to what is going on in the world today or the sacrifices that affect our soldiers and their families. She looked at me and said "Thank you for you and your family." I thanked her as well.

We should all be so grateful and positive. We should all pay it forward.

And then.....

This morning I see a new unpublished comment on my blog. She was attacking my family insinuating we didn't care about the soldiers or the war that is happening now. She inferred we were racists and a whole lot of other hog wash. I'm not going to post it because that is the attention she is looking for but I do want to acknowledge it for several reasons. It's so negative, a judgement of me and my family, because it's wrong, and I'm sick to death of your hatefulness.

So to anonymous once again:

Contrary to what you say, what happened decades ago is extremely important. All the wars and battles fought by our forefathers beginning over a hundred years ago, not decades, have given us the freedom today that many take for granted. My father served for over 32 years. My brother and my husband also served in the military. If my son chose to enlist I would most assuredly support that, but he can't for health reasons and quite frankly I thank God that he can't! I am very thankful for all the brave military men and women and their families who have served or are currently serving our country. But, I want them to come home. This war is never going to be won. Just like the Vietnam war was never won. It's a waste of money and most importantly a waste of many lives.

Sadly racism is alive and well all over the world. Remember when I told you how I felt about that before? Go Here It's interesting how people think they know all about you when they know nothing at all. Your comment about how we all voted republican annoyed me. One of my pet peeves is people assuming I feel the same way they do when they express their opinions on a subject. Politics is a really good example. Republicans vs Democrats. I was inundated with Obama bashing emails during the election. Guess what. I voted for Obama, my husband voted for Obama and even my mother voted for Obama. I will probably vote for him again depending on who he runs against. Unfortunately there are a lot of people out there who like to say they didn't vote for him because he is a Democrat but I think for some that is a cover for he's black. Yes racism is still around it's just a little more subtle.

It's ironic that you talk of bigotry when you are the queen of bigotry. The comments you have made about my family in the past prove it. Is your life so dull and miserable that all you have to do is torment people or are you mentally ill and in need of help? There was an article this morning on Yahoo about people like you. You're referred to as "haters". What a pitiful existence. Enough said. This is my last response to you. Just go away, your comments are unwanted. Why do you even care? Quit harassing people. Get a job. Get a life.

I have thought very seriously about tracking you down. There are ways to do it. Keep that in mind. I would love to expose you for who you really are. You can hide behind anonymous but your comments will not be posted. You can't win with me. I have the power of delete.

And Don't Mess With Mrs In Between!

A Little History about Little Star

2011-05-30T10:10:00.000-05:00

Years ago my mother gave me this little star. All I knew was that it was given to my Great Grandparents when their son, Lewis Blodgett was killed during World War I.

This weekend I did some research to see if I could find more information about him. I knew that he was the first born of 9, my grandmother's oldest brother. He enlisted in the United States Marines in 1914. He wasn't married.

I found this article which describes how his parents were notified by telegram that he had died in battle on October 4th 1918. It states that he had written to his parents eight days before his death that he expected to be home in December.

I'm not sure what this form was used for but it gave a little more information. He was a skilled mechanic.

This is a "Muster Roll". The text is illegible so I will write what it says next to his name.

"4 Killed in action in line of duty and not the result of soldier's own misconduct. Cause of death GSW (Gun Shot Wound). Site of burial and grave number unknown. Buried in the vicinity of St. Etienne France. Would have been awarded Character Excellent had he been discharged."

I found a picture of a gravestone. It's in a cemetery in Folsom, California.

Next to the picture is this information.

Death: Oct. 4, 1918, France

Private Blodgett - United States Marine Corp. 6th Regiment, Division 2 - was killed in action in France.

Lewis J. Blodgett - American Legion Post 362 in Folsom, California is named in honor of Private Blodgett.

Now I know a little more about the soldier behind the star. Today is a good day to honor him and all the other heroes who have fought and died for our country.

Do You Vote?

2011-05-11T13:53:00.002-05:00

I am soooo ready for the reality shows that I've been watching to be over. I know I don't have to watch them but once you start it's like a bad habit. It's hard to stop. So I have decided not to start with any new ones at least until the fall. Bring on something calm and entertaining to enjoy like Warehouse 13.

Right now I'm watching:

The Apprentice

Gary Busey, all I can say is Bless His Heart.

I am so glad "The Mean Girls" Nene and Star went home.

My Pick: Marlee Matlin

She smart, sharp and deaf. I identify with her. Ha!

Dancing With The Stars

I have to admit I'm more into watching the professional guys dance than the stars. They are amazing.

Kirstie Alley - I admire your tenacity

Karate Kid - My 2nd Choice

Chelsey - Will probably win it

Max - You're my 1st choice always!

American Idol

I thinks it's going to come down to James and Haley. I have a real soft spot in my heart for James because of all the obstacles he has to deal with and he has such a tender heart. I'm just not in to scream singing. Haley on the other hand, I just love her voice. It's different and jazzy. Scotty has a good country voice but his facial gestures turn me off. They are comical and remind me of this.

What really annoys me is the voting process for American Idol. I have heard many of the multiple votes are computer generated. I am not going to try and compete with a zillion teens who have the time and unbelievable dexterous fingers to text their votes a million times. I think the process is wrong and just one vote per person should be adequate. It works for elections right?

Survivor

My favorite

If I was allowed to vote it would be for Boston Rob

and yes I would probably do it a zillion times.

I think he should be on every survivor.

So do you vote? I'm just curious.

Happy Mothers Day

2011-05-07T13:04:00.000-05:00

A beautiful young lady

Became a beautiful young woman

And married a handsome young soldier

And became the most wonderful mother.

And we grew..

And grew...

and grew...

and grew some more...

and then we exploded!

We are so thankful to have you.
You bring us so much joy, laughter, wisdom, and love every day.

Beautiful Inside and Out

We Love You Dearly

Happy Mother's Day - Every Day!

10 Things

2011-04-30T09:20:00.001-05:00

My daughter is headed to New Orleans today for a bachelorette party weekend. I'm so excited for her because I just love N.O. When Tom and I were first married he was working on a long audit in N.O. He would come home on the weekends and occasionally I made several trips there. It was fun times and the food is fabulous. This is her first time to go so we gave her lots of advice and warnings before she left.

She had a long week at school. The kids were taking the dreaded TAKS test and it was very stressful for her and especially them. Don't get me started on what I thinks about this test! Anyway I decided to give her a top 10 for her trip to N.O. Here's how the string of messages went. I thought it was funny.

Molly

Hows it going baby girl?

Sorry I haven't called...I've been exhausted...

You need to rest before your fun trip!!!

1. Take and wear comfortable shoes. You will be on your feet and walking or dancing all the time.

2. If you drink toooo much you will feel really bad the next day.

3. It will rain, it always does. Play in it.

4. You will see some really crazy people at night. They talk to themselves and people you can't see.

5. Eat. New Orleans has the best food.

6. Con Air guy is there filming a movie He got arrested for public intoxication. Bahaha. In New Orleans?

7. There are some bad things in shop windows. Do not look at them.

8. Don't wait to go to the potty. There is always a line.

9. Stay together and hold hands.

10. I love you!!

I love you too!!!

WE love you!!!

Me and T in New Orleans on Saint Patricks Day 1983.
My hair had been perm fried.
The St. Pat's headband helped.

Easter Dressing

2011-04-23T07:47:00.000-05:00

A few Easter pictures.

Molly about 18 months old. I love this picture.

I think she was about 3 and a half in the picture below. I love the dress and pink bows in her curly hair.

That was probably the last time she let me comb it.

Us Pre-Jackson

She was quite a mess that day.

Sugar overload probably.

I know my dad took her outside for a walk because she kept playing with her hat and putting it on backwards.

Here is Jackson at the annual Easter egg hunt.

Barney shirt and shoes.

I sure miss all the pudge on this little guy or "Big Guy" as Tom has always called him.

Pudge is gone.

You would think that the Sonic tie I bought him would make him happy.

We were at brunch at the club.

Probably no chicken nuggets to be found.

So tell me what in the world was I thinking here?

I have no clue where we were headed but

by golly they were going to standout in the crowd!

It makes me laugh a lot.

Happy Easter Everyone!

Rag Wreath and Blue Bonnets

2011-04-02T14:50:00.000-05:00

I finished the garland. It was very easy to make and could actually be finished in a day but I can't sit still for very long. Once you figure out pattern of your ribbon, it's just a matter of tying it on the cord.

I put it on my old Hoosier.

I think I like it. I know I love the white rose strip the most.

I'm thinking of all the possibilities for a Christmas one now.

On another note, it's Blue Bonnet time in Texas. We have not had much rain and the Bonnets are not as pretty as they were last year but I found this field of them not far from our home.

A little closer.

Love the color.

Happy Day!

Finishing and Starting New Projects

2011-03-16T17:06:00.001-05:00

Before I get into my projects. I have to say I am now the proud Great Aunt of my 4th Great Niece! Hollis Barrett was born this morning weighing 8lbs 13 oz. She is so beautiful just like her mama. I wish I could be there to hold her and touch her little pudgy feet and hands. So sweet. Welcome to the world Hollis you have many who love you here.

I have been in a spring organizing mode. I have so many undone projects but I did tackle a big one. Recipes. I keep my recipes in several places. My tried and true I have on a Rolodex file. I use sheets of shipping labels to print the recipes out on and then attach them to a Rolodex card. It makes it easy to read and follow when I cooking.

If it takes more than one label. I put it upside down on the back of the card. This way you don't have to pull it off...just flip it over.

By the way. If you haven't tried Pioneer Woman's meatloaf recipe, it's a must if you like meatloaf and even if you don't like meatloaf. It is now my favorite too.

Other recipes that I pull out of magazines or off the Internet, I put in a binder.

I use sheet protectors because they flip so much easier and smoother. I even have a spreadsheet index of my recipes. Am I organized or what!

So with that done. Instead of moving on to another undone project like xmas cards, organizing pictures, transferring home movies, and a thousand other things. I am taking on a new project. I loved my valentine garland so much (see below) I decided to make one I could use all the time. I've gathered up lots of ribbon, felt and cord in browns and whites with a little blue thrown in.

I just love these rosettes. I think it will add so much to it.

So I'm ready to start any day now, I really am...stay tuned.

A Valentine For You

2011-02-13T15:41:00.000-06:00

I found the cutest old fashioned Valentine cards.

And I'm still just loving my rag garland.

This picture makes me think of how special my friends are to me.

You'll never know what you mean to me,
And how important you've come to be.

We share special days as our lives entwine,

And that's why I send you this Valentine.

By Karl Fuchs

Actually, You Are All Special To Me Everyday

Happy Valentines Day!

Super Bowl Fever

2011-02-01T07:24:00.000-06:00

You remember when O J was being chased by the police down that long highway in California for what seemed like days? That's all that was on TV his white SUV and lots of police cars and lights flashing. Yesterday was kind of like that here only it was the arrival of Pittsburgh Steelers and Green Bay Packers. We watched their jets land, then they got on coach buses. They were greeted by lots of fans, police and we watched their journey to their hotels escorted by a police motorcade...All Day!

Super Bowl fever started here in Dallas about 360 days ago. The news has been inundated with the preparation of it and quite frankly it's gotten really old. The Dallas Morning News website has had this timer on their home page I think since January 1st last year. The picture is not an accurate time as I took it a couple of days ago but you get the idea right?

On Sunday there was a whole section in the newspaper devoted to the many "expensive" parties and events going on this week. Seriously if you can afford to buy a game ticket for $1,000 and pay $500 for parking you might as well buy a helmet for $453.99.

I really want to know who set that price. Not $450.00 or $455.00 but $453.99.

Now don't get me wrong. We really are excited about hosting the Super Bowl here. We just wish the news stations would lighten up a little about it.

So, as 300,000 extra people arrive in our city I will be tailgating along with the rest of them. Only "my tail" will be in the recliner munching on snacks in the warmth of my house. Watching what is really important.

The commercials!

In second place.

Grainy but so funny.

And my all time very 1st favorite is............................

Just Love It.

So what ever floats your boat, game or commercials it will be here in:

5 Days

10 Hours

15 Minutes

and

31 Seconds

Enjoy!

Pantry Before/After and Sweet Stuff

2011-01-22T14:58:00.000-06:00

I accomplished something on my long to do list.

Pantry Before

Pantry After

I feel so organized now!

I threw out two bags of trash and discovered I had 3 cans of vegetables and four boxes of popcorn.

You can see where my priorities are.

Once I realized what I didn't have, I made a trip to Target. Michael's is next store so I popped in there first.

I found the sweetest valentine rag wreath.

It makes me want to make one or five for other occasions.

I also found the last bag of Halloween candy in the pantry.

Mom and I tested it out to make sure it was still good.

It was.

Have a sweet day!

Waiting On The Snow

2011-01-09T09:50:00.001-06:00

It's raining.

Two days ago it was almost 70 degrees.

We are waiting on the "Arctic Chill" or "Blue Norther" as we call it here.

The greens have been covered with tarps.

In preparation for the snow that is supposed to start around noon. The temperature has dropped to 33 so I'm expecting to see some snowflakes soon.

Excited.

Actually I dropped my camera on the kitchen tile this morning and broke part of the flash. I wanted to see if it still worked. It does!

While I was testing it out mom spilt her coffee on the Sunday paper.

We blamed it on the paper boy.

This klutz curse is in our genes.

One time I knocked my glass of water into my dad's dinner plate.

He didn't even blink or say a bad word.

It's that common.

On my first date with Tom at the movies.

I dropped my biggy coke.

He didn't even blink.

He got up and left.

I thought forever.

But he came back with another coke.

We were married 4 months later!

Update

It's Snowing!

Meet my new neighbor Hootie

We're still in the getting to know you stage.

Bark!

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T09:12:00.000-06:00

On this last day of 2010

I'm going to make lots of snack food for tonight

Update my new 2011 calendar

Maybe buy the new Jane Fonda workout DVD for ~~old people~~ baby boomers.

Think about taking my Christmas decorations down

Maybe watch a movie

Eat too much of that snack food

See if Dick Clark makes a show on New Year's Rockin Eve

(I secretly think they prop him up like in that movie "Weekend at Bernies")

Fall asleep in the chair before the ball hits the ground.

Life is Good.

I'm so thankful for my family and friends like you!

I wish you all a Healthy and Happy New Year

Many Hugs!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-23T17:15:00.000-06:00

Christmas Decorations at Our House

Thomas Kinkade Village

I have collected miniature ornaments for years. I found this little silver tree last year at Target and I thought it was the perfect way to display them.

Some of the miniature ornaments up close.

Snoopy

From The Wizard of OZ - The Good Witches Crown and Wand

Cinderella's Slipper

Bluebird

Mr and Mrs Clause

Santa on his way

The Mantle

I had to get new stocking hangers because the old ones wouldn't sit on the new mantle. I found these cute boot ones at Hobby Lobby. The colors are perfect.

Pier One had these cute ornaments and when I saw this one, well it had to be mine. It has a picture of a black and white cat with angel wings holding a Christmas tree.

Sweet Charlie (big sigh)

Our tree is all about family and friends.

I've been collecting the ornaments for years now.

It's decorated with all kinds of ornaments.

Candy canes, apples and garland.

One of my favorite books was Eloise at Christmas

from friends

Made by my hands

and the most cherished - made by little hands

This ice cream cone is "real" and more than 10 years old!

A bell from Prancers harness because that's all she wanted.

Treasured memories all gathered in one place.

I wish you peace, love, health and happiness this season.

Thanksgiving Pics

2010-11-27T09:23:00.002-06:00

We had a nice Thanksgiving with the traditional turkey dinner. I think I washed pots and pans at least 10 times that day! So much preparation but the outcome was worth it. Molly wanted a picture of us at the table. Here is my attempt of setting the self timer.

Here is Molly's attempt after my botched ones.

Jackson is on his phone, Molly's hand is hiding mom and the expression on Tom's face pretty much tells it all. Forget the group pic it's time to eat!

So after stuffing ourselves, cleaning up the mess and a couple of hot games of Apples to Apples, It was picture taking time again.

I always try to get a picture of the kids hoping for at least one decent one. This is how it played.

Finally.

Enough turkey. Bring on the Mexican food. I'm thinking enchiladas or tacos tonight!

Ole'

Unwanted Paw Prints

2010-11-21T08:22:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I stepped out on the front porch and saw large paw prints.

I have seen large paw prints in the dirt around the house before. I saw a bobcat behind our house one morning and I know coyotes wander the creekbed. There are always reports of missing small animals and between the above mentioned critters and the hawks it's why I keep my ~~cats~~ cat inside.

When I saw them on the front porch I checked the lot next door for prints.

Behold! There were many.

And on the porch. I think I know what it was interested in.

Cornered!

Ceramic replicas of my cats. Rosie, Charlie and Skipper. I used to have a halo on Skippers head and of course Charlie needs one now.

I'm weird that way.

No meal for you Mr. Evil predator whatever you are.

My Sweet Charlie

2010-11-13T13:03:00.000-06:00

16 years ago he found us.

He captured our hearts and fit very comfortably in our lives.

I have tried to find the words to tell you how special Charlie was to us.

It's just too hard.

and right now

It hurts too much.

My Sweet Boy

16 years wasn't long enough.

First Frost And Old Cats

2010-11-06T09:57:00.000-05:00

We had our first frost today.

Fall is my favorite season.

It's about: cooler temperatures, sweaters, comfort food, fluffy blankets, holidays and family.

It's also about the color orange.

I'm not big on the color orange but I love pumpkins.

This is a little pumpkin in my house.

Looks like a kitten doesn't she.

She's 20. That's 96 in people years!

And can do tricks!

My other kitty child is 16 (80).

Sweet Charlie

He is very sick right now.

He's lost a lot of weight, not eating, and did not respond to antibiotics.

We think he's almost to the end of the road.

I think he's growing angel wings.

I'm waiting for a sign to tell me when it's time.

What do you do when you know they are declining

but still purring?

Family Visit

2010-10-06T11:25:00.000-05:00

This past weekend we spent visiting with my brother and sis-in-law and my cousin Jeff and his wife Angela whom I haven't seen in 40 years! Steve and Judy came first. Here is Judy showing mom pictures she has on her laptop.

Jeff and Angie came all the way from Chicago to visit. I was about 18 the last time that I saw them. Jeff is my mothers nephew and is originally from California. We got to see each other every few years usually when our family was moving from once place to another. Here is an old picture I found of us.

From left to right - Me, Leslee (Jeff's sister), Jeff (short guy), and Steve.

Front - My brother Dick (the dog whisperer) and Buff (the dog)

I thought it was pretty cute. Jeff and I are looking at each other and I imagine I said something like "Leave it to my brother to kiss the dog."

Jeff still has his sweet baby face but he's not so short anymore!

The cousins and mom.

We had a great visit and spent the whole weekend talking, catching up and vowed to see each other much more often.

She's Back

2010-09-15T16:01:00.001-05:00

Most of you know that my mom has been through quite an ordeal. Three weeks ago, the morning after my last post, she was hospitalized with a stroke and a heart attack.

She was sedated and put on a ventilator to help her breath for a few days.

She developed pneumonia, and a intestinal bacterial infection.

She went to a rehabilitation hospital. Five days later she had another heart attack.

She went to the Heart Hospital.

I should say she made sure she went to the Heart Hospital after instructing the paramedics to take her there several times!

One Stroke

Two Heart Attacks

Three Hospitals

Three Weeks

and

now

HOME!

Before she came home she told my nephew Chris that she has not been able to read any blogs or twitters for two weeks! I told her when you get home you will have to tweet something. She said I could say

"I'm Back!"

She Certainly Is!

First Days Of School

2010-08-22T08:48:00.001-05:00

The first day of school is always exciting. Picking out what to wear, buying new supplies, the anticipation of who will be in your class and especially who your teacher will be.

The hardest part as a parent was letting go of their little hand as they walked into the classroom.

This is the little girl that had to practice her spelling words over and over and was not interested in doing homework.

1st Day of Kindergarten

1st Day - First Grade

My little girl is not so little any more.

She graduated from college in May 2009

Last summer after graduation she had a "light bulb moment" and found her direction. She moved home and took over our computer and dining room table.

10 months later, with much determination and a lot of Red Bull, she finished her course work for her Masters Degree with a ~~3.88~~ 3.9 GPA. (I have to brag!)

This is the young woman who will have her "First Day" of teaching her own class tomorrow.

I won't get to see this "First Day" but I did get to help with buying lots of school supplies and clothes.

She will be taking many hands in hers tomorrow and my heart is just busting with pride!

"Mother's hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever." -author unknown

Hot Summers

2010-08-03T16:33:00.000-05:00

When it gets hot I turn into a slug. My body just does not tolerate the heat well. You know how some people get the winter blues in January? I get the summer blues. It slips up on me when the temperature starts climbing above 90. Today we are supposed to hit 105. The rest of the week is looking bleak too. Triple digits as far as you can see. I'm working on snapping myself out of this slump.

I'm trying to keep good thoughts instead.

A big butterfly landed on a golf ball in our yard.

Blackeyed Susan's down the street.

Cold Refreshing Watermelon. I'm drooling already.

"REAL" vine ripe tomato's from Jacksonville Texas

A ballet of sprinklers out back. Makes me want to run in them like a kid.

Speaking of kids. This was many years ago probably 16 or so. Jackson is the chub in the front and of course Molly has the white bowl on her head.

Stay cool any way you can!

Pictures of Pictures

2010-07-11T12:42:00.001-05:00

I have been very slow about putting pictures on the walls in our home. Partly because I didn't want to put a hole in the wall ( I worked hard to get the right color of paint) and I wanted to be sure I put something up I loved and not to just put something up.

We have a very long entryway.

On one side is my mothers buffet and a bookcase with family pictures.

The opposite wall has been bare since we moved in. I finally decided to put some pictures of us up. I used our wedding picture, 2 favorite pictures of the kids and their graduation pictures. I put them all in identical frames and between me and Tom we were able to hang them evenly and straight. The straight was the hard part. The frames were inexpensive and the brackets on the back of them were not in the same place on the frames. This called for a lot of measuring and eyeballing. I have to credit Tom for having good eyes. He did a great job.

Side View

Front View

Further down is a painting of Princes Lilywalkalina.

She was in the entryway of my mom and dad's home.

I've always loved this picture because:

My Grandma Kelly used to call me Princess Lilywalkalina.

My Grandpa Martin told us grand kids we had Cherokee blood in us.

When Jackson was little he looked at this picture and said "Mama".

This is really weird. I just realized that while I am writing this I have my hair in braids for the first time in 24 years. (Trying for the summer wave instead of my normal Rosanne Rosanna Dan frizz. To top this off I spilt a whole container of cornmeal all over the kitchen counter and floor this morning. Whoa!

I swear this true!

Call my mom if you don't believe me.

Don't ask Tom. He didn't notice.

I always knew I was supposed to be born a princess.

Two Birthdays

2010-06-22T20:57:00.000-05:00

This month we celebrated 2 birthdays. Of course the most important of all was my son Jackson. He was 19 which also happened to be on the 19th, or Juneteenth as it is called in Texas. It's hard to believe that this will be the last of his teen years! We celebrated at the Texas Roadhouse. Delicious food and fun atmosphere with peanut barrels at every table and shells all over the floor.

I made cupcakes but by the time we stuffed our faces with steak and potatoes there was no room left for cake.

I just realized how pitiful this cupcake looks. I could have at least picked one that wasn't lopsided.

Rosie one of our cats was 20 on June 1st. She refused to look at the camera. But tolerated her birthday hat I made her.

Look who else wore the hat after his sister ~~forced~~ talked him into it.

Charlie felt a little left out so we took his picture too.

Doesn't he look happy now!

I've been trying to catch Rosie on video because she has started this crazy howling. I think she likes to hear herself talk! This is my attempt at a video and please try to get past all my baby talk. It's just for fun.

Sweet Summer Faces

2010-06-05T16:46:00.001-05:00

We had visitors over the Memorial Day weekend. My nephew Kenneth, his wife Valerie and their three children (my great niece and nephews) came for a visit.

With their Great Grandma

Together

We had a great visit with a lot of talking and laughing.

Doyne

Graham

Mackenzie

Sweet Summer Faces

Memorial Day 2010

2010-05-31T13:49:00.000-05:00

Flags For Fallen Soldiers

At the cemetary today

It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived. — General George S. Patton

Last Week

2010-05-20T18:26:00.000-05:00

How to get rid of a couch in 1 hour and 52 minutes.

New love seat inhabited by animals.

Found Savannah Grass. I've been looking for it forever.

Thanks to Home Depot.

I saw it in Better Homes and Gardens Magazine. It will sprout ruby shoots sometime. (I Hope)

Found another pretty plant while I was there.

Planted a flat of my favorite begonias.

A beautiful sunset

Have A Beautiful Weekend!

Friday Night Lights Finally

2010-05-08T07:31:00.002-05:00

I admit it. I am a TV junkie. I have become involved in so many shows and would be LOST without my DVR. Speaking of LOST they have me tightly wrapped around their finger with that one. I'm thinking they are all redeeming themselves now from their wayward ways prior to the crash. It's so confusing. I would like to see a happy flash sideways ending for all of them.

Some of my other favorites are Glee, Saving Grace, Flashforward, Heroes, Ghost Whisperer, Medium and now Happy Town which believe me is not Happy and not for everyone. As far as reality shows I like American Idol which I think this might be our last one. ( Lee and Crystal are my favorites) . Dancing With The Stars is fun to watch and right now they are all really good. Of course Survivor has to be on the list. Please, please vote Russell off!

Tom is more in to news and golf. Mom prefers classic movies and the older series like Mash and especially Andy Griffith. I have to agree with her on that one. Who doesn't love Pa, Opie and Barney!

One show we all like is Friday Night Lights. It is just the best show when it comes to acting and story line. The characters are so believable. It's more about life and relationships in a small town than it is about football. We have been watching it since it started years ago and it just keeps getting better and better.

Over a year ago, my friends Becky and Christie and I went to lunch at a local Mexican hot spot in Dallas called El Taquito. It doesn't look like much from the outside but the food is great. It's usually packed with people and this day was busy as usual.

While we were waiting on our food, in the door walked a very tall man and it didn't take Becky and I long to figure out who he was. It was Buddy (Brad Leland) from the show. He sat at the table right behind us and we immediately turned into silliness.

Buddy from the show.

With the cute coach.

He was so gracious and didn't mind the attention at all.

Christie, Me, Brad and Becky.

The show started again on NBC last night. It did not disappoint. This is going to be a really interesting season.

Try It.

A Blue Bonnet Day

2010-04-17T09:37:00.003-05:00

There are empty lots on each side of our house and the spring rains have really encouraged the weeds to grow in them. Yesterday I noticed a little color in one of them. Investigating I found this little beauty.

Blue Bonnets are the State Flower of Texas.

Lady Bird Johnson was responsible for persuading Texas to reseed wildflowers along the highways every year.

They say "Every spring the wildflowers return as a legacy to the First Lady."

I went to the grocery store later in the day and a nearby field was exploding with the blooms.

It's like they just appeared over night.

The empty lot next door will soon be mowed (I HOPE!) and eventually cleared to put up a new house.

Sooooooooooooo.

If you look real close.

I think Lady Bird would be proud.

Have a beautiful day!

Spring

2010-04-10T07:13:00.001-05:00

Despite the 30 mph winds we have had, I finally got the bug to plant a few flowers.

Love Geraniums!

This is a deep red variety I bought at Calloways.

I put 2 in hanging baskets in the front flower beds.

Oh my poor shrubs look like weeds in this picture! They are just young.

More in a large planter on the front porch.

I bought the chairs at Target. Comfy!

Now it's time to work on the back.

It faces west so I will need something really heat tolerant back here.

It's going to be a beautiful sunny day today.

Hope your day is sunny too!

Breakfast in Wylie

2010-03-28T09:47:00.001-05:00

My friend Heidi and I met for lunch last week to catch up and exercise our ~~cheeks~~ facial muscles from laughing so much. We used to haunt Applebees but since I moved we are branching out to other restuarants and even shook things up a bit by making it breakfast instead of lunch. Last week we headed to downtown Wylie.

We went to a place called "The Ballard Street Cafe"http://ballardstreetcafe.com/ .

It's an old fashioned cafe with lots of historic pictures of Wylie on the walls. The menu is a newspaper. This is ~~a crazed woman~~ me holding it up for you to see.

Here is a close up of one of their specialties (Chateau Bubba) it has to be finger licking good.

Part of the balcony above the entrance.

An Armadillo greeted us at the cash register. Yes it's real. Just a little stuffed.

We had a great breakfast. The service was excellent and I didn't get thrown out when I knocked my coffee over. Better yet Heidi didn't pretend like she didn't know me, asked for more napkins to help me clean it up and even paid for it!

A True Friend.

We ~~walked the streets~~ window shopped after breakfast. At the end of the block there is a historic home called "The Birmingham House". It was built in 1905.

Across the street we found another place we want to try next time.

It's called Taste of Home. Just my style.

Spring Snow

2010-03-21T13:40:00.001-05:00

Spring Snow This Morning

It started snowing here about 10pm last night. About 2:30 this morning Molly called and was stuck on the entrance ramp to highway 190. A truck ahead of her was also stuck. She tried calling roadside assistance but there was no answer. My guess is they were very busy! She ended up calling 911 and a short time later the police arrived. I took off heading her direction while Tom stayed on the phone with her. She was a tad rattled and a lot embarassed. The snow was coming down so hard you could hardly see the road.

Here is the interchange she was on.

The policeman had to shut down the overpass and part of central expressway. He talked her down and she made it safely home.

Leave it to my daughter to stop traffic!

Birthday Cake

2010-03-13T09:21:00.000-06:00

I have been wanting to redesign my blog for a long time. I have finally figured out how to do it "the way I want to do it" and it was right under my nose all this time. Once I get started there is no telling what you might see pop up on this page. Bear with me.

Speaking of right under my nose!

Yesterday was my birthday. So to completely spoil myself I made an Italian Creme Cake. I just love this cake recipe. It's from the The Cotton Country Collection cookbook. Full of nuts, coconut and topped off with cream cheese buttercream frosting. I even had a piece for breakfast this morning. Yum!

My nephew Chris and I and the "Girl Scouts", share the same birthday. Unfortunately Chris missed the cake.

Sorry Chris, I promise I'll make it up to you.

You knew this picture post was coming didn't you.

I just couldn't help myself.

You're just too darn cute!

Our Record Breaking Snow

2010-02-13T09:07:00.000-06:00

Our record snow "12 inches" in Dallas started about 3 am Thursday morning. Fortunately the commute to work that day was easy. The roads were mostly slushy and wet, not the dreaded "ice" that sends you flying in all directions. Warning! I have been camera crazy since the snow began. This may not happen here for another 30 years and by then I may not even know what a camera is!

On the way home I made a quick stop at Walmart with everyone else.

I am about 45 minutes from work. I realized the other day I drive through 6 cities; Dallas, Richardson, Plano, Garland, Sachse and Wylie. Wow! I just now realized I have lived in all but one, Sachse.

On George Bush Turnpike

Trees out the window on HWY 78

The golf course.

The next morning I couldn't wait for daylight to see what mother nature had left us.

Out Front

Out Back

Mom was sitting at the kitchen table and said "look at that big bird in the tree".
One of these trees!

I zoomed in (40X) with my camera and it was an owl. Mom has pretty good eyes!!!

On my way to the store I decided to make a quick side trip to see what this place looked like in the snow.

Remember these folks from the show"Dallas"?

The show was on from 1978 to 1991. Can you believe it's been almost 20 years?
The ranch is still pretty.
I like Sue Ellen's yellow blouse too.

Bachelor 14

2010-02-02T12:08:00.014-06:00

I am not happy with myself. I have been totally sucked in to the world of "The Bachelor". Every Monday I find myself looking forward to it. I don't think I have ever watched an entire series before, just bits and pieces and always the finale. I don't really like Jake much. I can't put my finger on it but there is something about him that turns me off. He is a little too sensitive for my liking, a little wimpy and I think he is looking for a woman to take care of him. I still can't get the scene out of my mind of him hiding his face in Vienna's neck right before they bungee jumped. Come on Jake how can you be scared of heights when you fly planes?

Despite all it's contrived silliness, I watch it.

(I just loved Gia's top. The color and lace fabric looked so elegant. Want it.)

Now this lady is a puzzler. She sticks out like a sore thumb next to the other girls and doesn't look well to me. Am I the only one who sees dark circles under her eyes? I am not going to say anything about the Goldilocks hairdo.

I have a feeling that they are going to try and make us actually like her. It cracked me up when she was wandering through the castle last night all scared calling for Jake. Silly girl, you weren't alone. The camera crew was right behind you!

Next week should be fun meeting the fams. Yes, I will watch.

On the other hand.

Tonight!

Now this is a show!

The final season is finally here!

Home Again Finnigan

2010-01-19T19:49:00.004-06:00

My grandmother said it, my mother said it, and I still say it. I think it's so ingrained in me I don't even realize I say it. Whenever we return home it just spills right out of my mouth.

"On again. Off again. Home again, Finnigan."

When I came across this in the cartoon section of the newspaper many years ago I had to cut it out. I ran across it the other day and thought I'd share. It still makes me laugh.

Maybe I'm related to Charlie Brown!

A Response For Toohey

2010-01-12T16:04:00.005-06:00

Because I found your comments rude and out of line I decided to answer your questions but only as they pertain to me.

Q. Does your family have a problem with black people?

A. Absolutely not.

Q. Do you have black friends and neighbors or do y'all live in gated, white-only communities?

A. Yes I have many black friends. My community is a mix of all races, is not gated and I am not going to run across the street and take a picture of my neighbor Shameika to post to my blog just to pacify you.

Q. The abject absence of black people in our lives.

A. There is no absence of black people in my life and never has been. Nor is there an absence of Asian, Hispanic, Muslin, gay, etc.

What you see on my blog (and I really don't write that much) is a microscopic piece of me. I am not sure how you came to your conclusions with so little information or why. Have you ever asked yourself why you are so focused on this issue? Also, why do you continue to read our blogs if this is a problem for you?

Am I prejudiced? Yes, I'm prejudiced of mean people. I'm prejudiced of people who hurt people, children or animals physically or with words. I'm prejudiced of people who judge people because of their race, creed or color or just not having all the facts about who they are.

As far as Kelly goes: I see her blog as focused on her family, friends and God. She has the biggest heart and shares her day to day events and beliefs with all people. No colors are exempted, you just didn't look close enough. Maybe your own prejudices are getting in the way.

I could have ignored this as nonsense but I'm not one to let things go. Yes I am a compassionate person. It has to do with how I was raised, the many places I have lived, the experiences I have had and the many wonderful friends (all colors) I made along the way. You may or may not see pictures of them on my blog. It all depends on what I choose to write about. I'm not doing this for your or anyone else's entertainment. It's for mine.

So...

Why don't you tell us about yourself?

Do you have a blog?

I'd love to see the pictures.

Cold Weather in Texas

2010-01-10T13:37:00.009-06:00

The cold weather hit Texas early Thursday morning with 30 mile an hour winds, teen digits and a thin layer of ice. I envy those of you who got snow. Ice is scary to drive on. I went on in to work and saw three accidents where cars obviously going to fast, hit ice and landed on the medium with there front ends smashed into poles.

Friday morning we woke up to find our master bath sink pipes frozen. They are on a wall that faces north and it was 6 degrees outside. We knew we should let the faucets drip the night before and just didn't do it. We turned on the bathtub faucet and it worked so we just let it keep dripping. We put space heaters under the sinks trying to get them to thaw and were praying the pipes had not burst.

Saturday morning the cold water pipe to my kitchen island sink was frozen. Fortunately the sun came out and temps got above freezing. All pipes thawed and we thought we had made it without any breakage.

As I was leaving for the store I went to inspect the north wall. There was ice in all the bottom crevices and water marks all along the foundation. Panic city hit. Tom turned the water off to the house and called for help. He was absolutely beside himself with visions of brick being torn out to find the broken pipe(s). We were lucky enough to get a plumber out because Dallas is inundated with broken pipes everywhere.

The really good news is no pipes were broken. The faucet fixture to the bathtub was leaking and had been that way since we moved in. We have only used the bathtub once on the first day we moved in. Rosie had lost it from both ends in her pet carrier (thought she was going to the vet) and I had to give her a bath. Lovely way to use your tub for the first time. The tub faucet had been on since the day before, so it had been leaking underneath all this time.

Now it looks like this.

He had to pull the panel from the front and it broke. He was able to cap off the water so we could have water to the house until they can fix it on Monday.

We are supposed to get back into the teens tonight but the rest of the week we warm back up into the 50's. Until then it's snuggy time.

Stay Warm!

Why My Christmas Cards Are Running Late.

2009-12-19T07:30:00.008-06:00

Trying to get a photo to put on a Christmas card this year was not easy for many reasons:

I put it off too long.
I've never tried to use my self timer before.
I misjudged how long it would take to get them back from the drugstore.
And.........

Finding the right spot to do it.

Checking the distance, settings, etc. with a helper.

Making sure I had time to get in the picture.

Making sure mom would show up sitting in the chair.

Not mom - another helper.

All in but ........

Someone likes to make faces.

Let's put the cats in the picture!

Bad idea.

Charlie wants to jump on mom and Jackson finds it way to funny.

Would you believe the first one I took is the one we're using! Another lesson learned.

Fall Into Christmas

2009-11-29T07:26:00.016-06:00

I am in the midst of switching from "Fall" to "Christmas" decorations. I put very few fall items up, just enough to feel the season. I just love this ceramic pumpkin I picked up at Hobby Lobby ~~at one of their 50 percent off sales~~. You Hobby Lobby shoppers know what I mean.

When the kids were little I used to decorate every room and corner in the house. It was overkill of red, green, tinsel and garland. As the years went by I cut back and went from 10+ boxes to 2 big green bins and a tree in a box that fit nicely in the garage and not up in the attic.

This year I'm just lightly skimming the surface with decorations.

I'm still trying to put things in place from our move here uh . . . 2 months ago! And NOPE, we do not have room for a car in the garage yet. (And Yes, I know that "and" does not belong at the beginning of a sentence. It's just how I talk.) I hope to get a little cooperation from the family decorating the tree today. They have been "cutting back" over the years on that job too. We'll see how it goes.

I've been very lax in posting lately. There has just been so much to do. I plan on getting back into the swing soon and have a major itch to redo my blog layout. Our computer did not make the move very well. The USB ports have pooped out, the DVD drive can't read and it doesn't recognized my camera or scanner. It makes it more of a job to post pics with pooped out ports! Ha!

Tom and I hit Fry's yesterday and picked up the "very last" computer on sale for $299. It was a fantastic deal. So this week I am transferring my pictures and documents via email to mom's computer for safe keeping. (It doesn't recognize the flash drive either.) We will then switch out computers and be back in business.

Have I said pooped out ports = pain in the popo?

Have a wonderful day!

Love, Miss Potty Mouth.

From A Tiny Little Acorn

2009-11-06T12:40:00.023-06:00

We lived in our home for 26 years and it really was not difficult for me to walk away from it. It needed so much work and it just never has been the safe haven it was after our intruder, stalker, or creepy guy as I call him violated it. I told Tom the memories of our years there are in my heart and head and they go wherever I go. Besides the echoes of little feet pitter pattering through the old house are loud and clear in the new one! They are still with us while working on college degrees. It's a new phase in our lives and we are beginning new memories here.

The only thing it hurt to leave.

We planted a tree.

A Beautiful Red Oak.

A little over 20 years ago our son Scott, was stillborn. That memory is as clear today as the day it was made. Planting a tree in his honor and watching it grow seemed like the right thing to do. Seeing it out my kitchen window everyday was comforting. I never thought about how I would feel if we ever moved, until we did.

I couldn't bring the tree but I could bring these that I gathered from under its branches.

I thought about trying to plant them but decided I would rather see them.

20 little acorns

And - out our window - a new Red Oak to nurture and watch grow.

"From little acorns mighty oaks do grow"

Old and New brought together.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T17:40:00.005-06:00

It was the perfect night for Halloween, clear, almost a full moon and a chill in the air. Being new in the neighborhood I had no idea how many kids would show up. I prepared for many. I always buy candy we like and it was a good thing I did that this year because WE ONLY HAD 5 "TRICK OR TREATERS"!

I set a table up outside and brought out my favorite Halloween buds to help. I even put my devil horns on. We are at the end of the block and right now there are many empty lots and empty houses before you get to us. They just didn't make their way down this far.

So now I have lots of candy but I don't think we will have any trouble getting rid of it. This guy has quite a sweet tooth. Maybe that's why he looks so happy!

Hope your Halloween was fun!

A Little Peek

2009-10-18T08:45:00.005-05:00

I am still unpacking. It just seems to be never ending. I still have linen boxes and knick knack boxes to go through that are sitting in the garage. Believe me the garage is full of boxes. Here is a peek at what we did accomplish this week. Mom recovered the kitchen chairs. She did a wonderful job! The print is black with a white floral print. (They are sitting outside because I had just sprayed them with fabric guard.

We have searched endlessly for a curio to put in the breakfast nook to display moms chicken and rooster collection. Finally found one and I just love it. It's black and the back panel is white. It really makes the figurines "pop". I cross stitched the sampler over 30 years ago. It has always been in my kitchen. Before we moved I washed it and re framed it.

Here is a picture showing the kitchen nook so far.

I'm behind blogging because my computer is having issues. In order to put pictures on my blog I am having to upload them through mom's computer. Since we moved my computer doesn't recognize the camera, flash drive or scanner. I think the ports have pooped out. Oh well, I'd better get back to box city. Have a great day!

All In!

2009-10-05T08:38:00.003-05:00

We made the move a week ago Monday. Of course we spent the next two days hauling all those items left behind and cleaning up the house. On Wednesday I started trying to unpack the kitchen. I have been working almost non stop on this and hope to finish "the kitchen" today. I cannot believe how much we have and trying to figure out where to put it is the hardest part! Here are a few pictures after the move in.

Breakfast nook

Molly hard at work on the computer?

Dining Room

Garage

One of the biggest reasons we love it. The view!

Almost Home

2009-09-19T07:05:00.007-05:00

We did our "walk through" on the house yesterday. We tested lights, ran water, and marked paint errors. We were instructed on how to use the thermostats, security system, etc. Tom was totally overwhelmed by the sprinkler system. It even has a rain detector so it won't turn on during one of our Texas downpours like we had all this past week.

The construction manager has had a mental block on our request to put sliding glass doors on the bath upstairs and grabber bars in mom's bathroom. I can't tell you how many times we have reminded him. It's been on paper since March! He even marked the studs for the bars during our first walk through after it was framed. I guess once the sheet rock went up and he couldn't see the studs he forgot all about it.

On a second walk through I reminded him again and even got in the shower with him to show him what height to put the bar. You would think that would stick in his memory for a while. How many of his customers would do that? Oh maybe we don't need to go there.

We never could figure why he marked the studs with a big X. The bars don't go in until the tile is on. Maybe if he had put those marks in his notes he would remember better. Ya think?

So yesterday we made a little progress. He met us at the house carrying a grabber bar he just picked up. When I pointed out we asked for two bars, one in the shower and one to be put on the wall by the toilet (yes I sat on that toilet so he could mark the right place to put it) and that there were no sliding glass doors upstairs he said "You didn't tell me that!" Oh Help!

The wood floor and carpet are in. The carpet is covered with plastic so I didn't attempt a picture of it. Here you can see the wood and tile together. The tile looks pinkish in my pictures. It is more of a bone color. I'm lovin it.

One more walk through next Thursday before we close on Friday. We'll see if the missing parts are finally in place!

Traveling Man and the Green Line

2009-09-13T16:40:00.015-05:00

The Dart Rail in Dallas is opening it's Green Line on September 14th. It will have a stop right by Baylor Hospital and another at Fair Park just in time for the State Fair of Texas.

Driving home one day I noticed a huge sculpture going up across from the rail line. I found out later what it was all about and thought I'd share it with you. The sculpture is called Traveling Man. He is seen at three different locations along the line and begins in Deep Ellum.

Deep Ellum is a warehouse district in Dallas. It is made up of restaurants, night clubs, artists and lots of graffiti. Business has been declining.

Is that David Caruso?

The Traveling Man concept was developed by some Deep Ellum artists. His design represents the community and it's hoped that now that the Dart Rail has been added it will bring people back. The tale is that an old steam train was buried near the intersection of Main Street and Good Latimer back before 1900. An elm tree grew nearby and it's roots grew close to the buried train. Somehow magically he was formed under ground. He communicates his thoughts with birds, they are his best friends. His wisdom comes from years of listening to all that happened on street level. Friday I went to each site to see him for myself.

Here he is coming up from the ground. "Awakening."

And here he is waiting on the train playing the guitar.

He stands 38 feet tall!

That's a lot of metal.

I Love My Counters

2009-09-03T19:19:00.004-05:00

We are now in a flurry of pulling it all together before the big move. We close on the 25th of this month and I scheduled the movers for Monday the 28th. We use the Verizon bundle (internet, tv, and phone) and they can't set us up at the new house until the 29th, I surely did not want to go all weekend without any of those. One night is bad enough especially with all the new shows starting.

There is so much to remember to do. Cancelling service here and setting it up there. Changing addresses on everything. It's mind boggling. So Tom gets to do all that. I still have so much packing to do. I'm running out of space to put the boxes.

Everything is moving along at the house. Today they were putting in the sprinkler system and sod. They are supposed to put the wood floors in next week and finish up painting. I'm loving how it all is coming together. I really stressed over my kitchen counter tops. It's hard to envision the final picture looking at a 3 x 6 inch sample piece of granite. But I'm telling you I did good! I love my kitchen counters. I wish my picture did them justice.

You'll just have to come see them for yourself.

Now Who Does Harper Look Like?

2009-08-29T19:22:00.003-05:00

I have been going through pictures that we boxed up and removing them from frames. This has always been a favorite. I think Harper looks a whole lot more like Kelly than I even thought. All she needs is a big bow!

Kelly 5 months old.

What do you think?

Closing Date

2009-08-28T17:21:00.008-05:00

I haven't posted any new pictures of the house because they are starting to look the same. The light fixtures have been put in. The floors tiled. The counters, sinks, and shower tile are almost finished. Without light in the house it's hard to get a realistic looking picture of them. I can show you a picture of Tom standing in his favorite spot, the back porch.

Here is a view from the back in the other direction. Lots of sand traps.

We finally have a closing date, September 25th.

Molly will be moving in with us the end of September after her apartment lease runs out. She was struck by lighting so to speak and has decided she wants to teach. She has enrolled back at TWU to get a Masters in Teaching. If all goes well she'll be done by next fall. She also will be substitute teaching along the way. She is so excited about this and naturally we are too. It's a good thing we got 4 bedrooms!

A Few Pictures On The Home Progress

2009-08-18T17:51:00.004-05:00

Front

Back

This is the view from our kitchen nook looking out the back door. You can see they are about to put the fence in. All the fences are the same, black rod iron. It's a golf course thing.

Mom headed toward the dining room. The colors are not showing up well. The main part of the house is a grayish blue (Capricorn it's called). It is exactly how I wanted it to be. It's so hard to pick out paint colors!

Kitchen.

The bedrooms and baths are a taupe color. It's called cracker barrel. Makes me hungry. The counters will be going in next. I can't wait to see how it all comes together. We haven't been given a move in date yet. We are thinking the middle of September.

Rosie - Update

2009-08-15T07:58:00.008-05:00

I took Rosie for her follow-up vet visit yesterday. She has been on antibiotics all week, kind of. I probably got about half of it in her. When it comes to giving her medicine she turns into a ball of furry fury! It takes two of us to get it in her.

He was able to get a better look in her mouth and was able to see a growth in the back corner which he is pretty sure is a tumor and probably malignant. Because of her frail condition nothing can be done for her now except to keep her comfortable. This is what I expected and this is what we will do.

She does not seem to be in pain and doesn't act sick. She gets around fine, uses her litter box, grooms herself, wants to eat all the time and craves company. She was never a lap cat until now but has become quite a snuggler. The only downside is she is very verbal at night and believe me this little girl has a meow that gets your attention. We can deal with that too.

Right now she is quite content.

And that's all I want for her.

Red Day

2009-08-09T09:28:00.007-05:00

Saturday instead of cleaning and packing I did what a girls gotta do, go shopping. Now that it looks like we are getting closer to moving the nesting syndrome took over. First on the list was a chair for the living room. I knew we would have to order it so mom and I headed to Haverty's. (She is getting around better and outings are always good for the soul especially if your a girl!) We picked out the most comfortable recliner ever. You just sink into it and with it's high cushy back it will be difficult to stay awake in it. I've got a feeling we will be having to draw straws or something to sit in it. The fabric we picked out was a brick RED. Here it is in another color. I love the old fashioned look and the brads on the sides.

Later I grabbed my garage sale money and headed to Kohl's. They were having a great sale and I am in need of a comforter for our bedroom to be. I've been looking around for over a month for the "perfect one". I found it on sale 55% off and as I was standing in line to pay for it wanting to kick myself for being the only person in line without a coupon the very nice lady in front of me handed me hers. Another 20% off! This was meant to be. So I got a fantastic deal, a comforter set I love and it's RED.

JC Penney was having great sales also. Rather than hit the store I went on line and ordered a few things. My favorite blanket was on closeout for $16.00. And these sheets were a great deal and buttery soft. With free shipping you couldn't go wrong.

Guess what color I picked out. You guessed it RED!

After The Vet Visit

2009-08-06T21:09:00.004-05:00

We saw the vet at 3 today. Despite weighing in at only 6 lbs she fought him tooth and nail. She does have a badly infected tooth and ears. I won't go into the gory detail but because of her age, heart murmur, kidney disease, and most likely thyroid issues there is no way she could be anesthetized to remove it. He did a lot of head shaking and I am not a fool, I know where we are going with all of this. So he put her on antibiotics and shot lots of medicine into her ears and wants to see her in a week.

She has hated me for about 4 hours now. She paced the house continuously after we got home and stationed herself in front of her water bowl when she was not pacing.

About an hour ago she climbed in my lap and snuggled up for a little purring time.
Right now she is nestled behind me in the computer chair (a natural heating pad).

So forgiving. So loving. I hate what's coming.

Old Kitties and New Houses

2009-08-05T16:48:00.003-05:00

I have been awful about posting lately. There just never seems to be enough time to sit and do it. Rosie is my oldest cat. She is 19+ now and quite scrawny. She absolutely hates going to the vet and I have pretty much complied with her wishes by not taking her unless she is uncomfortable. She still gets around well, extremely sassy, and despite the picture you see below eats a lot. I'm guessing she weighs less than 6 lbs now. In the last few months she has become very clingy. She was never a lap cat and hated being picked up. But now she wants to be right on top of me all the time. I really don't have a problem with that until she snuggles a little too close to my face. Her breath could kill. Today I decided to take a look at her mouth and she was not happy and seems to be tender. I think we have tooth issues. Remember my house is currently loaded with furniture. Here she is trying to hide from me after I tried to look at her mouth. We have a vet appointment tomorrow. I hope she doesn't have a kitty heart attack when she finds out.

House update!

After emailing the construction manager about my concern over the lull in our house building, things have been moving along like "the extreme makeover". In the last week it has been bricked, sheetrocked, and textured.

Today I went out and they were framing the driveway and sidewalks. This made mom happy as it will be easier for her to get in and check out the progress. It's been difficult for her to get around after fracturing her leg. She's on the mend, getting around much better and ready to move in.

We've been told they will be putting the doors and cabinets in this week and painting the inside next week. Stay tuned for more pictures this weekend I hope!

A New Star In Texas

2009-07-18T08:08:00.011-05:00

It's already the middle of July and I haven't posted in over 2 weeks. I think the whirlwind month of June took a lot out of me. It's been nice to just settle in our nest and take a breather! The heat here has been almost unbearable. We pretty much stay inside and become couch potatoes waiting for the sun to go down. This is when Tom and I talk about how nice it would be to have a summer home by the beach in San Diego where the temps are much cooler. Someday!

We forgot all about the heat (kind of) this week when my brother Steve, sis-in-law Judy and her sis Linda brought Kelly and Harper to town. Mom and I were crying before they even got in the front door. This is the first time we have seen Harper and it was quite an emotional experience. She almost got squished with hugs!

We had a very nice visit and it was great to see everyone. I never had my camera with me but that wasn't a problem. I think there were more cameras than people. It was a paparazzi event all the time! Here are a few pics and lots of smiles.

Steve, Harper and me.Steve and Judy
Molly and Jackson

Chris and Carrie

Chris, Kelly and Harper

Kelly and Linda
Me and Tom

Harper and her Great Grandma
A new star came to Texas and shined a little light on our lives.

Welcome to Texas Harper! Ya'll come back now real soon, ya hear!

The Last 2 Weeks In June

2009-06-28T21:46:00.006-05:00

We finally made it thanks to these guys!

Such a professional and pleasant group of guys. They had us packed up at mom's in two hours and into my house by 12:30. Mom said in all her moves (even overseas) she had never seen them take such great care of her furniture. They wrapped pretty much every piece in blankets and plastic wrap. I highly recommend them if you're in the Dallas area.

My house looks like a furniture outlet store but with a little rearranging each day gets a little better. Here are a couple of pictures inside at it's worst.

The garage is not too bad. We actually have a path to the back of it.

These last two weeks have been so busy for us with all the packing and the heat was relentless. It seemed that every day brought us something unexpected to deal with. We had to have the ground lowered on one side of the house because it was over the foundation. After they repaired that and put in new sod we found out the sprinkler system had sprung a leak. The gardener was able to fix that after digging about 3 feet into the ground through a lot of tree roots.

Cleaning off a shelf in the garage I picked up a gallon jug of drain cleaner which was so old it cracked in half and went all over the floor. I tried paper towels but it was too big of a spill so I decided to hose it out. Well the floor of the garage slants in toward the house so the water just kept coming back in. Sweeping it out wouldn't work either. I called Tom to bring the blower out and we were finally able to get it out. What a fiasco that was.

On Saturday while cleaning the house after the move we found out one of the faucets to the washing machine was broken and could not be turned off. It had to be capped and we were able to have a plumber come fix it 3 hours before we closed on the house.

These are just a few of the highlights. I will not go into detail about the fools we dealt with at the title company or my daughter having another car wreck (she's fine). I even polled the firemen to see if they were married. I told them I had a beautiful daughter who needed a husband with good car insurance.

The worst is over, the heat is gone temporarily, we have learned from this 1st move enormously and if you're looking for mom she's with me.

We are all quite happy about that!

The First Two Weeks In June

2009-06-14T06:56:00.007-05:00

These last two weeks have been a blur. So to clarify it for myself I decided to break it down day by day. On the:

Monday - Worked, went to mom's to continue purging and packing for the coming garage sale. Found her having chest pain, called 911, admitted her to the hospital, she had a heart attack late that night.

Tuesday - At the hospital, mom on nitro drip for pain. She had stent surgery and found out the stent put in last February was 95% blocked. They replaced it and gave her lots of morphine to keep her still. (Mom likes to move). Forgot it was Rosie's (my orange tabby) birthday and she didn't get my annual "Happy Birthday" song. She turned 19!

Wednesday - At the hospital, quiet day both of us dozing most of the day. I swear they pump sleepy gas into those rooms. Oh well it's a way to slow down and you can only read so many magazines.

Thursday - Busy morning with Dr's visits. They performed an echocardiogram in her room and I got to watch. It's amazing to see your mother's heart pumping on the screen. Kind of like the reverse of a fetal sonogram. I have not told anyone this but I swear it looked like hands were cupping her heart as it beat. With the reports good, she was sent home. Now I had time to really get to work on her house.

Friday - Purging, packing, grocery shopping, pricing items.

Saturday - Back to my home, Jackson's graduation, celebration dinner, pricing, sleep!

Sunday - Laundry, throwing out left over pizza boxes (my men don't cook). Checked on the new home and then to mom's to pick up heavy items for coming garage sale.

Monday - Work, late meeting, pricing.

Tuesday - Work, mom's, I'm stressing about where in the world the clean out valve is needed for the plumbing test after the foundation repair on her house. It's another $400 if one needs to be put in. Buyer's appraiser goes to mom's. That goes well. She makes her first outing since her heart event on her own to the grocery store and buys good stuff like cookies. I get there as she is unloading her car. Still can't find the clean out valve. Haul more stuff home and pricing.

Wednesday - Early to mom's to meet foundation people. It's an interesting procedure. They drilled 45 feet into the ground for the piers and lifted the house and "voila" the cracks went back together. I gave the workers all the tools and garage stuff their wheel barrows could hold and the monster TV in the living room. They couldn't find the clean out either. The engineer comes to inspect the repair and gets another check. He gets a lot of money for using a fancy tape measure. The used furniture guy comes and only wants two pieces we are selling and not the really heavy dining table and chairs we want him to take. Load up more stuff and go home.

Thursday - Wait for a break in the rain to go to the rental center for tables. Have to zig zag because of police barricades because of flash flooding and kids being rescued from the water. Come home and set up in the garage for the sale. Back to the rental center for two more tables. Continue set up. Meet plumbing company at mom's for the great "clean out" search. Very nice older man determined to find it. Ta da, after about an hour his keen eye and using his special clean out finder tool, he found it between the thick boxwood about a foot in the ground. I was impressed. The plumbing test was done, we passed with no leaks from the foundation repair and no charge. Whew! Home to haul our furniture we are selling into the living room for tomorrow.

Friday - Up early for the sale of the century. We drag Jackson out of bed to help pull everything outside for the sale. The sale goes pretty well the first day. We got rid of the furniture and I do mean that, we practically gave it away. Selling lots of thick hardbacks for $1. Nobody wants them. Close up at 2 and head for a much needed cold shower. I did get an interested buyer for mom's table and chairs. We meet them at her house and watch them load it. A very nice family and I'm sure they thought we were really stupid for selling it as low as they offered, $75.00. We were just happy to see it go. That sucker is made out of the hardest wood I've ever seen. It weighs a ton!

Saturday - Last day for the sale and hottest day of the year. The temp was about 95 and the humidity had to be close to 60%. The heat index was 105. Even with two fans running in the garage we were melting. I couldn't even give the books away. We made close to $200 that day and I closed up at 12 feeling like a heat stroke was near. What's left goes to charity. The "Last Garage Sale Ever" is over!

Our "new resting house" as I like to call it, is coming along. We now have shingles, windows, doors, and wiring.

We are getting close.