TRAPEZIUS MUSCLE SPRAIN CAN HURT

Went to the doctors last week and the pain in my arm is coming from my trapezius muscle. I sprained it with all of the work in the living room. He put me on a muscle relaxer and its getting better.
Hope everyone had a nice Christmas. Mine was quiet. I remember how I use to wish for just a quiet Christmas with no running around getting presents and trying to fix a dinner for everybody. Well, be careful what you wish for 'cause now, thats exactly what I got.....................

BRRRR

Started putting down the new floor on Friday, it's gonna look so cool, but still have not decided on what stain to use. The window trim looks great, its only been 10 years since the windows have been installed.
Haven't been feeling too well lately, have an appointment with the Doc on Thursday. My left arm has been waking me up every night with intense pain from my neck to my elbow. I might have screwed it up with all of the spackling, sanding and painting.
I was suppose to go to the city with friends today but I had to call this morning and beg off. Just getting a few hours sleep at night is no good and I feel so tired.
Really going thru the fire wood this month and its not even officially winter. By burning both stoves tho, the house is very cozy. I don't think it got out of the 20's today.
Well, enuf bitchin', moanin', complainin', grumblin and griping. I'll put my big girl panties on and just deal with it.

ONLY 22 DAYS TILL..........

The new floor will be delivered next week. Can't wait, it's gonna look so cool. I think once I get one room completely done, I'll get the ambition to do the rest. Sure would like to have everything done before the end of the year.

Two of my friends have found jobs, then quit. They were both 'sold a bill of goods', and weren't told the complete truth about the jobs. When they went to these companies, the work was something completely different. So now, no more unemployment. Both are widows, so that bites. I'm glad I'm retired.

Haven't been watching the news for some time, so I have no idea how bad things keep getting. I did hear a blurb on TWC about prison inmates getting some god-awful amount in tax returns and the IRS is 'looking into it'. DUH.

Well, I'd better punch up the stove. Thanks for dropping by.

HAPPY TURKEY DAY..........

Went to a friends house yesterday for turkey,ham,potatoes,etc,etc. Good food, good laughs,good friends and turkey farts. Can't beat that with a stick.
The landscaper was here Monday and Tuesday; they'll be back in the spring. Looks great.
Have to go to the tile place on Monday. Fired up the wood stove in the living room and five of the tiles fell off. Guess I'd better take them with me so they will believe what happened. I think the stove might need moved out a little. It is 18" but the pipe is only 10" from the tiles.
Fred is coming down tomorrow and finishing the lattuce work on the ramp, then helping me get the rest of the stuff out of the room so I can finish painting. The floor should be here next week.

SORRY

I sure have been lax lately with the old blog.
An update on the house....
Talked to Dwight the landscaper two weeks ago, he's starting this coming Monday. But have not heard a thing from the driveway guys.
Put down a deposit on the floor last week. I've chosen re-cycled wood from old beams. Rick takes down old buildings and refinishes the beams into flooring. Can't wait to see what that looks like. I figured it would be better than the engineered stuff just because of the dogs and cats. A little scratch and that stuff is ruined but on a real floor, it'll just add character.
Picked up the trim for the windows and will stain that before Fred puts it on. Also have to finish painting the room before the floor goes down.

Have both stoves going today, house is nice and cozy, it's a full time job, and it's not too cold yet. But, I'm sure that'll change. Been having heavy frost each morning. Then the sun comes out and helps to heat the house.

HEAVY FROST

A very, heavy frost this morning. Dad has said '3 frost then rain', so, we'll see.

The tile guys are done and it looks great. I'm glad I'm doing this now for it will surely cost a heck of a lot more in the months to come. I just wish the landscaping guys would show up soon. Still undecided about the floor, that engineered stuff just looks so cheap, even tho its not. I've got to do more research I guess.

Well, must head over to Dad's and then to the store. I hate shopping. But.....

POOR ARCHIE.......

Got some news last week. The person that use to have Archie finally called the lady that gave him to us. She said he was born in September of 2004 and he is a
'peek-a-poo' and not a shih-tzu. Poor little guy, went from 'chinese royalty' to a mutt in a matter of seconds.

Went over to Dads yesterday and helped him start the '57 Buick. He had the battery on charge, wouldn't start. We sprayed ether in the carb, wouldn't start. Took the air cleaner off, dumped gas in, wouldn't start. Fiddled with the starter, wouldn't start. "Hey, Dad, the gage says 'E' maybe we should put some gas in it." Dumped gas in it. Voila!!!!!!!!!!!! Started. Amazing what a little gas will do. Of course it needs another exhaust system, but that's why it sounds good.

Franco will be back on Monday to grout the tile and then he's done. Fred got the siding back on and next is the engineered wood floor in the living room and trimming the windows. Hope I can finish all of this before cold weather

SOON; VERY,VERY, SOON...........

....this will all be over. Cousin John and, his brother, Joe have finished all of the concrete work and, he's coming tomorrow to take the form off of the new step out front. (Last minute request). Then, he's done, for now. I want him to look at fixing the barn in the spring.
Fred came down today and started putting the siding back on the rear of the house where the door (now a window) was. He's already buttoned up the inside part where the stairs were.
The tile guys are coming tomorrow afternoon to make a template for the hearth and then will be back on Wednesday and Thursday to put the new granite hearth down and do all of the tile work in both rooms. Once thats done, the new floor goes down in the living room.
The driveway people will call me when they are coming down. Should only take a day, maybe two.
The landscaper finally got back to me (after I called him), and they should be here the first week in November.
The first Saturday in November is scheduled as wood splitting/cutting day with friends.

I need to stock up on more 'me' food. Went to the pet food store last week and the critters are in better shape than me. I have been leaning towards just canned food because I don't trust the electrical grid if something happens. More than once we've dug a snow cave to put the frozen food in during a power outage.

Have to take the truck back on Tuesday for needed repairs to pass inspection. Still cheaper than truck payments. Finally got the car on the road, and it needs inspected before the end of the year. Should get it serviced also since its been sitting for over a year.

SAME OLE, SAME OLE.............

Well, if I don't post something soon, I'll have to move my own blog over to the 'Underactive Blog' list.
Cousin John is coming tomorrow to start the hearth repair.
Fred was here on Saturday and did the deck and ramp railings, so, except for adding the lattuce work to keep out the critters, and painting, which won't be done until spring. That part is done!!
The sliding door is out and gone. I traded it to Archie's groomer for hair cuts. His, not mine. She and her daughter came down on Wednesday and picked it up. The new window is in and will work well for what I want. It is a sliding window and in the winter, I'll take the screen out, then, I can slide it open and put the firewood in the rik. I won't have to carry it around to the side. Well, maybe one last load. We'll see.
That leaves the driveway guys, who did sent a proposal to accept, and the landscaper, whom I've not heard from. He'd better hurry, 'cause we're running out of good weather.
Some people have said we are going to get another nasty, cold, snowy winter like we had last year. I have to stock up on more pet food and me food, and straighten out the wood shed. Friends are coming down for a splittin' party, then I'll be set.

LIFE GOES ON..............

I just found out this morning that my ex-husband died back in 2003. Now, I no longer have to keep an eye out for his obit. I was #2 and there were two more after me. Oh well, I think I was only in love with an old memory anyhow.

Tonight, a bunch of us are going for a back massage, something called riki??? and dipping our hands in hot wax. Of course, we'll be meeting at a restaurant down the street. Last count there were to be 9 of us. Should be fun.

Next week the fun begins with the new hearth, landscaping, new window and driveway re-do. After all of this, it'll be time to start conscentrating on firewood.

A to Z FIREARMS REFRESHER COURSE

FOUND THIS OVER AT STRANGE MILITARY.COM

a. An armed man is a citizen. An unarmed man is a subject.
b. A gun in the hand is better than a cop on the phone.
c. Smith & Wesson: The original point and click interface.
d. Gun control is not about guns; it's about control.
e. If guns are outlawed, can we use swords?
f. If guns cause crime, then pencils cause misspelled words.
g. Free men do not ask permission to bear arms.
h. If you don't know your rights you don't have any.
i. Those who trade liberty for security have neither.
j. The United States Constitution © 1791 by "We, The People". All Rights Reserved.
k. What part of "shall not be infringed" do you not understand?
l. The Second Amendment is in place in case they ignore the others.
m. 64,999,987 firearms owners killed no one yesterday.
n. Guns only have two enemies: Rust and Politicians.
o. Know guns, know peace and safety. No guns, no peace nor safety.
p. You don't shoot to kill; you shoot to stay alive.
q. 911 - government sponsored Dial a Prayer.
r. Assault is a behavior, not a device.
s. Criminals love gun control - it makes their jobs safer.
t. If Guns cause Crime, then Matches cause Arson.
u. Only a government that is afraid of it's citizens tries to control them.
v. You only have the rights you are willing to fight for.
w. Enforce the "gun control laws" we have, don't make more.
x. When you remove the people's right to bear arms, you create slaves.
y. The American Revolution would never have happened with Gun Control.
z. "...a government by the people, for the people..."

Special thanks to the Morrisons....J, L, CR and TJ.

RAIN DROPS ARE FALLING ON MY HEAD.......

A real nice and steady rain is falling. I love it. A little on the cool side here at the meadowhouse. Might have to fire up a wood stove.
Got the ramp and deck done yesterday. Have to order the railings and such. Must paint the new door before winter. (When painting these metal doors, be sure to paint the window trim, even tho it is plastic/fiberglass. If you fail to do this, they will re-nig on their warranty of the door. Happened to a fellow at the lumber yard where I bought the door.)
I guess I should've mowed the yard yesterday. But, I am SO not into anymore mowing grass. Oh, I'll mow it a couple more times yet. I am ready for winter. Sitting around the stove, reading a good book with a dog/cat or both, on my lap.
I'd better get back to stocking up. I have more pet food than Sharon food. I'm giving my big fridge to a friend's daughter and her new husband. He's out of work and can't find a job, so, they're existing on her paycheck and his unemployment. I want to go smaller and more efficient. Nothing wrong with the one I'm giving them, it's just too big for me and mine.

BUSY AND BUSIER

So sorry to hear of 'Did it My Way' Tony's passing. He will be missed.

I got to thinking the other day. My GOD, I'm spending my children's inheritance!!!!!! No, wait........I have no children!!!!!!!!!!!!

Had the landscape guy here today. Whew!!!! Gonna be some changes made!!!
Got one more board to put on and the ramp is done to the deck. Then Fred has to put the siding back on and install the new light on the side and on the porch.
Next, tear out the sliding door (the groomer wants it so I think I'll barter some doggie haircuts for it) then tear out the steps, put in the new window and new tile.
Cousin coming in two weeks to do the hearth, that'll be interesting. Talked to the tile people a few days ago and need to get back to them.
Tom is coming Monday to look at the driveway.
I'm stressed and tired. This is worse than working a full time job. Heck, it is a full time job. But, when the house is done, it'll be great. Then its on to the barn.

I have made the decision to stay put when TSHTF. Might as well have the place the way I want it. I'll be here for a while or until the rapture hits.

ONE PROJECT DONE........

Had the stone installed on the front of the house today. It really looks nice, and, for some strange reason, it looks more secure. Maybe just in MY mind, but, I like it. At least one project is done. Pictures to follow.
My stress level must be at an all time high. I've got the shingles and they hurt. They are slowing clearing up and I do feel a little better. Tomorrow I get the results of my stress test.
Big fair in town for the next three days. Parade is tomorrow night. This year they are featuring farm tractors. It is probably one of the last true fairs in the county, no rides or carnival atmosphere, just good food and crafts and animals. A real country fair.

GLAD THIS DAY IS OVER....

Had my stress test today. They had to change how they were planning to do it 'cause they didn't have my old test to compare. I had it done at another hospital a few years ago. I still did the treadmill but they added the isotope dye and took pictures. I thought I was gonna die!!!! But I got through it. Took all morning, and when I finally got out of there, I took my trash to the disposal site. It was asbestos and that nasty blown in insulation. When I pulled up to the scales, the siren went off. I thought, 'WTH its only insulation and asbestos!' I went to the gate house and he is on the phone..."I don't know what she has in the truck but it's still printing out all the numbers" He then comes over to me and ask me to pull over to the curb and someone will come over. So, there I sat until a man and a lady came over and asked me what I was hauling. I told them and showed them. Then the guy said, "Did you have any type of medical procedure done recently?" I told them I had an echo-card. stress test done this morning. He smiled and said "It's you, your hot" I laughed, they laughed. I gave them $30 and went where they told me and got rid of the crap. Even the fellow at the dump site was laughing. It was kinda funny but also a little disconcerning.

NOT MUCH GOING ON...

Don't really have anything to say tonight. Must be a writer's block. Went over to Dad's today and there he was grinding the paint off of the Farmall. No mask. This is a man who bitches, worse than any woman with PMS, about his sinus trouble. He was wearing safety goggles, but, only because a couple of years ago he got metal in his eye. His optometrist immediately took him to a specialist and, using a magnet, removed the metal shards. Must've scared the be-jeebers outta him. When I reminded him he should be wearing a mask, he got a little surly with me. I didn't stay long. Went to the vet and got flea stuff 'cause the herd is scratching. Then went out to supper. Bob still isn't talking to Judy since she got her hair cut. If I was still married, today would've been our 42nd wedding anniversary!

That's pretty much my life. Oh, Thursday, I go for a stress test. Had one 2 years ago but they used drugs instead of a treadmill. This time I want to do the treadmill, if I can.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN.....

Yesterday was spent on the road. Went over to check on Dad after a bizzarre phone call the night before. He was much better and more like his old self. When he's not feeling well, the whole world needs to stop. Mom wasn't at all like that, she always just kept on until she felt better. And, to be fair, Dad does too, but he always lets you know how bad he's feeling.
Left Dad's and Archie and I went for a ride. Stopped at a friends apartment and chatted with her. She is 93 and getting so much more fragile, I can see her slipping a little bit compared to the last time I was there.
On the way home we stopped at Ross and Artie's, they have 2 dogs. Belle is a yorkie-poo and Mr. Muttley is a cocka-poo. Belle and Archie got into a fight and Ross had to separate them. I told Archie he wasn't a very nice guest, they told Belle she was a shitty hostess.
Sue called, wanted to meet for supper. So we met at this little 'Dairy Queen-like' for cheeseburgers and, of course, ice cream. All in all it was a fun, spurr-of-a-moment type of day.

RIPPING AND TEARING

Sorry for not posting all that much. Been busy, with ripping the house apart. New door is in but siding is not back on and deck boards are not on yet.
Cousin John is going to do the new hearth in a couple of weeks, so I tore the back part of the hearth out yesterday. When I get the tile people in to do the hearth I'm going to have them also do the back wall behind the stove. Then we're putting down a new floor.
When I'm not in here ripping and tearing, I'm thinking about ripping and tearing. I'll be glad to get all of these projects done.
Went to the doctors yesterday about this pain in my chest and a nagging cough. Thought it might be pneumonia, and so did he. Going for a chest x-ray tomorrow and a stress test on Thursday.
Dad got both his JD620's finished. I put the last decal on Tuesday. They look good and both sound great. Now, its on to the Farmall H.
Had supper at the restaurant with Artie, Ross is driving truck, Bill and Lois, Bill had to leave to go bowling. Bob and Judy showed up and she got her hair cut. She looks so good, everyone in the restaurant loves it. Bob is not talking to her. Boy, is he ever angry. Men, if you can send one man to the moon....why not all of them? And, as Maxine would say....................

NEW DOOR.......YAY!

Fred came down this morning and put the new door in. Then started on the decking. We are putting in a ramp instead of steps. Can't wait until I can use it. Right now, that first step is a doozie. Next, I have to pick out a window to put in where the sliding door is. Can't wait to get rid of it also. Already have it sold.
Cousin John is coming down on Monday to look at building a new hearth. He was suppose to come down today but there is a lot going on for him right now. His wife's dad died last week and they're all stressed out over that. His daughter is leaving for Germany for 3 years as her husband is in the service. A lot going on for sure.
Went for supper tonight and the restaurant was packed. They haven't been too busy all summer but lately there's hardly a place to sit.
Did a boo-boo today. Came home with the lumber hanging out the back of the truck and backed into the car. GRRRRRRRRRR!!! How could I be so stupid? Put some scratches in the hood and a small dent. Something else to get fixed.
New bed came Friday. Couldn't tell any difference 'cause the back was growling and achey from lifting the door in and out. A few more nights will be able to notice. Cleo sleeps on the couch and Archie sleeps with me. The cats bunk where ever they want, but Charlie cried half the night cause he couldn't come into the bedroom. 'Be strong Charles, for you are a bed hog and that's the way it is.'

A THREE DAY POST

Friday, I met Fred at the local home improvement store. And, NO, its not Home Depot or Lowes, I spend my money local, at privately owned places. I picked up the three boxes of siding, the door hardware and Fred got some lumber. The door was wrong so they ordered another one, be in next week. It started raining anyhow while we had lunch so he wouldn't be taking off the siding and working in the rain so all was not lost. Next Saturday, maybe I'll have the new door in, can't wait to get rid of these %^&*() steps.

Saturday was spent with family. A reunion of sorts, my Dad being the oldest at 92 and little Gracie is 18 months. They took pictures (I didn't take my camera) of the five generations. I love my cousins, 5 of them, 4 guys, 1 girl. They love me, but it seems we hardly ever see each other. We're better than we use to be. It usually was a funeral that brought us together. We learned after losing my mother and their mother (my dad's sister) withing two weeks. So, now we try to be there for each other. I was excited and amazed at the prepper mentality that most of them have. I mentioned to the oldest cousin that we should get a family plan together for when TSHTF. He agreed, we'll see how that goes. Oldest cousin's oldest son is a builder, but with the economy the way it is his business is now just small jobs. I asked him about my hearth problem and he's coming to look at it. So happy!!!

Sunday and there's a pleasant, soft rain going on as I write. I love these days, but, I should have mowed the yard on Thursday. Oh well.

Today, Japan surrendered and WWII was officially over. See anything in the news about it?

IT'S A COMIN......

Three strangers strike up a conversation in the passenger lounge in the Bozeman , Montana airport, while waiting for their respective flights..
One is an American Indian passing through from Lame Deer, another is a Cowboy on his way to Billings for a livestock show, and the third passenger is a fundamentalist Arab student, newly arrived at Montana StateUniversity from the Middle East ....
Their discussion drifts to their diverse cultures. Soon, the two Westerners learn that the Arab is a devout, radical Muslim and the conversation falls into an uneasy lull.
The cowboy leans back in his chair, crosses his boots on a magazine table, tips his big sweat-stained hat forward over his face, and lights a cigarette.

Finally, the American Indian clears his throat and softly he speaks, 'At one time here... My people were many... But sadly, now we are few.'
The Muslim student raises an eyebrow and leans forward, 'Once my people were few,' he sneers, 'and now we are many. Why do you suppose that is?'

The cowboy removes his cigarette from his mouth and from the darkness beneath his Stetson says in a smooth drawl . . .

'I reckon that's 'cause we ain't played Cowboys and Muslims yet, but, I do believe it's a-comin'

HERE'S WHAT THEY TELL ME......

After the dealership investigated this matter, and, they knew I had tightened the lug nuts, they told me to come up ASAP. They took all the wheels off, check and cleaned the crap out of the area between the aluminum wheel and brake drum and put all new lug nuts on. THEY are telling me that because of the aluminum wheel and steel drum there is a build up of stuff. The lugs are tightened and after I run it (this time it was about 300 miles) the stuff has disappeared and the wheel has become lose. That's their tale, I sit on mine. I'm not a mechanic nor have I ever played one on TV, but, that's what they're telling me. They also said there are two other vehicles that come thru their shop that do the same thing. Any mechanics out there that can verify this?

IF IT HAS TIRES OR TESTICLES... IT'LL GIVE YOU TROUBLE

Wow, haven't posted for eight days! Haven't really been all that busy. Fred came down last Saturday and cut a hole in the wall in the back room. I took the plaster to the trash truck but I'll take that evil insulation to the land fill. We pick up the new door, more siding and door hdwe on Friday. We're putting in a ramp instead of more steps. Then we are taking out the steps and that stupid sliding door thats in the 'bird room'. It'll be much more secure this way.
Helped Dad, on Monday, change the transmission oil in the 58 JD. Took 7 gallons. Didn't spill a drop. What came out looked perfectly fine to me, it still had body. It's not like he's going to plow the south 40 with the tractor. But he wanted it done. So its done.
Had the truck serviced last week, new wiper blades and rotated the tires. Then it developed a noise this week. Hmmmm, sounded like maybe the wheel bearings. Stopped at the dealers and made an appointment for Monday. So, going to the restaurant this evening and the noise got more intense. I turned around and came back home and was thinking, 'Nah, they wouldn't do it to me a second time, would they?' Well, the steering wheel was shaking and that's what I noticed the last time. So, I check the lug nuts on the left front and after being able to take two off with just my fingers, I calmly called the dealership. Got Ralph's voice mail, hung up, he called my house, I'm in the driveway, I hear the answer machine pick up. I call him back. Direct line. (I cannot stand the receptionist at night) He answers, "Whats up?" I say, "Ralph, are you guys trying to kill me because I'm such a pain-in-the-ass? Or, do you want me to wreck this truck so I'll have to buy a new one?" "NO, of course not! Whats wrong?" So I told him about the lose lug nuts and reminded him that this was the SECOND time this has happened. He started appoligizing and did I want to bring it up now to get them torqued? NO! I'm going to Dad's tomorrow and we'll do it and look everything over. Then he was stuttering about who worked on it and he would talk to him and call me tomorrow and............

EXPERIENCING HEAVEN

I was in heaven this afternoon. At least to me it was. I went over to Dad's about 1:30 and he needed help putting the nose piece on the 1956 JD620. After we got that bugger on I told him I hadn't heard it run. Yesterday, when I left, it wouldn't start. But, later in the day after the fuel got to everything, it finally started. So, I climbed up and tramped down on the starter and WOW, it fired right up. Good old two cylinders, I love 'em. So, he got on the '58 and started it, and, I'm telling ya, there's no other sound. We fussed with them for a minute and then they kinda ran in-sync. Sounded great.
The fair this year is featuring John Deeres, maybe Dad will take one up. That'll be cool!!

HE NEEDED IT

My friend, Bob, went to Gander Mountain and came home with a S/W AR15 Nato Carbine!!!! After he saw the prices up at Cabelas, he couldn't pass up that deal. No way. I am so happy for him. He said his wife is 'good with it' and that makes it better. I'm getting another itch also, but, I want to do some things to the house to make it more secure, so I'll have to wait a while. Unless a deal comes along that I just can't pass up.

OFF TO CABELA'S

My friend Bob called me this morning. "Hey, whatcha doing?" "Nothing, why?" "Wanna go to Cabela's with me?" "Sure!" His wife, Judy, hates the place because of all the stuffed animals. The guys I use to work with were always telling me 'you need to go to Cabela's' 'I can't believe you've not been to Cabela's' Well, now I've been to Cabela's. What a treat that was. I can't get over the size of the place and everyone was SO nice. You could strike up a conversation with anyone. It took most of the day and I really enjoyed myself. Got some ammo and some other goodies.
Then met everyone for dinner and when they found out where we went and what I bought!!!!! Lois said, "Are you expecting a war?" Well...............maybe.
Got home and expected to find a mishap from poor Archie being in the house for most of the day, but, he was a very good boy. Cleo was outside because it was not very hot today. My kids are so good. So, I am set for the most part, but, must still get some more food stocked up. Just still have that crazy feeling or, maybe it's just the Girl Scout coming out in me.

WE'RE IN THE MONEY............

Today I picked up my mail and there was a letter from the auction house. The check wasn't what I'd hoped for but at least I'm rid of the excess baggage. I guess this depression, errrrr, I mean recession, is still going strong. Sometimes I feel like just crawling into a hole and hoping this will all get better. Then I think, no, stupid, this isn't la-la-land, this is real and you better be prepared. But, when I talk to people they still look at me like I'm some crazed person thats watched too much of Survivior. Anyhow, what to do with this money? Buy Gold, Buy Silver, dig a hole in the back yard and bury it? Buy another gun and more ammo? Dump it on the bed and roll around in it naked? Decisions, decisions, decisions. Notice I didn't say anything about putting it in the bank.
"I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around [the banks] will deprive the people of all property until their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered. The issuing power should be taken from the banks and restored to the people, to whom it properly belongs."
Thomas Jefferson, (Attributed)
3rd president of US (1743 - 1826)

Now don't plan on coming to my house and stealing it, I will shoot you. Besides, it won't be here, I'm paying my fall taxes with it. HA!

ARCHIE AND HIS 'NOOGIE'

That's a 'noogie' in Archie's mouth. We had finished our brunch and my friends, Bob and Weezie, little grandson, who was 3 last month, had gotten up from a short nap. He had his noogie in his mouth and took it out to show Archie. Next thing we know, it's in Archie's mouth. We were all laughing so hard at those two, but Bob had the sense to get his camera and snap some pics.

WENT VISITING

Archie and I were invited up to friends for brunch this morning. Homemade dried beef gravey on fried potatoes and onions with scrapple and toast and GOOD coffee and cold OJ. Boy that was good. Am waiting for him to email the pics he took of Archie and I will post them. Too funny.
Then stopped at my friend Patty's and dropped off the Southern Living Mags I had been saving for her. She is originally from VA and she misses the south. While there, a really nasty, but fast-moving storm hit, so, I was storm-stayed for a while.
Then left there and stopped at Fred's to chit-chat, didn't stay long.
Then went to PetSmart to pick up a few things and while there, got a call from Ross that they were going to the restaurant!!!! Yay!!!!
Told him where I was and I had to take Archie home first then I would be up. Stopped for gas cause I was running on the fumes. Got home and Cleo had messed in the kitchen. Must've been a bad storm or she wouldn't have done that. No, I did not yell at the poor thing, I could tell she was embarrassed about it. Cleaned that up and took off for the restaurant where, to my delight, Bill and Lois were there too!

BEEN BUSY

Sorry about not blogging much lately for those of you who care. Seems something is going on everyday, and, for that, I am greatful. Still meeting my friends up at the restaurant every night. It's been sparce a couple of nights tho. Ross's truck died, swallowed a valve and ruin the motor. Cummins wouldn't do anything about it, so, he's selling the old Freightliner and going to work for someone else. He's not been there all week until tonight. His wife, Artie, missed three nights because of his schedule. Judy was sick a couple of days and tonight was the first time she and her husband, Bob, showed up. Lois came a couple of nights, once with hubby Bill. But tonight he was away at a bowling tournament. It was good to all be together, plus we saw a few people we hadn't seen in a while.
Tomorrow I go sit at 'a famous person from this county's' house for a tour day. OMG its suppose to be 99 degrees out and there is NO air conditioning. Just because they didn't have it in 1700. Go figure. Probably nobody will show up anyhow.
Mowed the yard yesterday, second time this month. Even got ambitious and cleaned the mower and gave it a bath.
Had a fellow show up to talk to me about a medicare supplement. Still haven't picked one yet. But, I like him and I don't think he'll do me wrong. If you want good insurance, you have to know and trust your agent. And, since I have the house and vehicles with the same company he's with, it'll be a good fit.
I'd sure like somebody to tell me where the last 45 years went. Seems like it was just last week I was cruising around my hometown in my 'vette having a good old time. Now, I'm on medicare!

IT FINALLY HAPPENED.....

Wow, I've only been at this 7 months and I got my first RUDE comment from some ANONYMOUS fool, no less. So, now I'll have to moderate my comments like everyone else. Why are people so mean? I do this as my own way to vent. If you, the reader, don't like what or how I write, then don't read the blog. Simple? It's like, don't bitch about whats on TV, change the channel or turn it off and read a book. Simple?

I'VE LEARNED MY LESSON...........

On Sunday, I was scoping out the 'Medicare Supplement' sites and filled out a questionaire. DO NOT, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, EVER, EVER DO THIS !!!!!!!!!!!!!! This morning I got a phone call from a nice gent in the neighboring county about said insurance. I set up an appointment for Wednesday. Ah, all is well. I like him. I went to the PO, did some errands, one of which was to stop at my attorney's. The nice lady in her office gave me a name of a fellow that has started a Med. Suppl. Dept. with the insurance company I already deal with for the house and vehicles! Perfect. When I got home there were 4, yes 4 messages on the machine. One phone call from a guy in Tampa FL. Then another call that I ignored because I was talking to the guy she reccommended. Are ya still with me? Anyhow, I ended up calling the first guy and told him I was going with someone else. And had to put this message on my answering machine. "Hi, you've reached xxx-xxxx. If you're calling about a medicare supplemental insurance plan. I'm good. I don't need to talk to you. Thank you very much for your time. Good Bye" I've got 4 more messages since then but all I hear is snickering in the back ground. Guess they're getting the message. Bunch of sharks, circling, waiting for the next idiot. Oh, yes, I've Blocked/Bounced at least a dozen e-mails also. Stupid, Stupid, Stupid.

AND A GOOD TIME WAS HAD BY ALL

Went to town to the restaurant tonight. Didn't expect anything to happen but, my friends had two birthday cakes and the restaurant crew all sang to me. Even some of the patrons joined in. It was really, really nice.
Not much else going on. The auction guys came yesterday and pick up what I had ready to go. The house is looking empty and that was only Phase 1. The chimney sweep is coming on Monday. He is such a cool guy. Arrives in a white tee shirt and pressed jeans and leaves the same. I don't know how he does it. He also checks the chimney and the stove to make sure everything is OK. Can't be too careful.
New door is in, and I need to order more siding for when we take out the back sliding door and put in windows.
All the 'kids' are fine, loving the A/C. Just got my electric bill today and it only went up $20 from last month. It's been stinking hot this past couple of weeks, and is suppose to continue into next week. We did get some more rain. The crops are loving it.

MILLION DOLLAR RAIN

About 7:30 this morning I woke up to the phone ringing. One little short bleep. Then lost all power. No lights, no scanner, no fan. No nuttin'. Just the quiet, peaceful noise (an oxymoron?) of RAIN. Nice and steady, all day. Just what we so badly needed. Praise GOD. I stood out in the middle of the back yard (NO, I wasn't naked) and got soaked. After two weeks of 90+ degrees, it felt wonderful.
Packed some more crap for the sale today. Then tonight I met Artie and Ross at the restaurant for supper. I never go up there on the weekends but I treated self to spaghetti and meat balls.
Busy week coming up, Dr appt on Monday. Archie gets a haircut on Tuesday. Fred is coming down Wednesday to take the ceiling fan and some lights down that are going to the sale. Thursday the auction house guys are coming to take the stuff. Friday is open. Saturday is lunch with old friends.
I got a notice from my insurance on Friday, July 9th. (remember that date) telling me that since I was now turning 65 I would no longer be covered under this insurance as of JUNE 30th. Now, wouldn't ya think they should've told me the middle of June not the middle of July. So, since I must pick a supplemental insurance, and I was seriously considering staying with UNITED HEALTH CARE. Guess what, ain't goin' to happen now. I'll have to go back to the dentist and pay for that visit and go back to the lab and maybe be able to change the bloodwork charge over to medicare. What a bunch of sneaky bastards.

I AM AMERICA

HATE THE DENTIST......

Went to the dentist today. Remember when the hygenist pulled my filling out last week? Well, today he fixed it, NO CHARGE. I wonder what he would've done if I hadn't make a stink about it.
Had my catfish tonight, the whole gang was there. Such fun. Hope we can keep doing it. Sure does brighten the day.
Bill brought up the 'changes' that were coming with this health-care bill and how you will be taxed on the amount of the value of your insurance. Artie was shocked beyond words, she knew nothing about it. And, she is our hometown's treasurer.
Our gubment is just slip-slidin' and sneakin' around and the average human bean is in the dark, just where the PTB want them. Get your #$%^&* heads out of your @#$%, folks. It's not going to be long.

DID EVERYONE HAVE A GOOD FOURTH?

Well, I truly hope everyone had a good 4th of July. I was a little busy with packing stuff up for the coming sale, plus more painting and spackling. I did remember to hang out the good old stars and stripes. I think I'll continue to do that everyday. Maybe even get a solar spot light and leave the flag out all the time, except in inclimate weather, of course. It is easy to spot when you come down the road and people need a reminder some times, As much as this country is in trouble, it's still the greatest nation on earth. For now.
I got an email from a friend about praying for America everyday for 140 days, starting today. This is the site. Can't be a bad thing if you're a believer, if you're not a believer, well, then, do you own thing. Whatever works for you!
Tomorrow is Dad's birthday, Archie and I will go over as usual. He'll be painting on a tractor hood, if it's not too hot. What a guy. The world will get along with out him when he goes, but I don't know what Sharon will do without her daddy.
Neighbor came down this morning, wants to buy the car. Told him it's not for sale. He then told me that his two stepsons wrecked their cars. They ran into each other. And, he wants to buy this car? Not a chance, I wouldn't sell it to him if he offered $10,000. This is the car my friend, that died last July, had. I haven't gotten the estate settle yet. He told me, 'well it's been sitting for a year' 'Yeh, well, I don't want to sell it.' What a ditz.

IT'S NOT BROKE

Charlie could care less.

Elijah wants to know..duz it hurts mommee



Got in this morning to see the foot doctor, they took 3 x-rays and determined nothing is broke. I jammed the big toe and that's better than a break. It's at the achey stage now but I can get around better with the special pressure wrap and the shoe she gave me to wear. Have to ice it for the next couple of days and should be back to normal within a week or so.
I guess most people would have went to the ER but I think those people are a bunch of asses. When you walk in there with all of your appendages in tact, nothing coming out of you, whether liquid or whatever, nothing in you that shouldn't be and you're not having chest pains. They take your bp, listen to your heart and tell you to see your doctor in the morning. So, I just bypassed that step and saw the doctor this morning.
Then went to the dentist for my cleaning, twice a year 'cause I don't floss. She pulled a filling right out of my tooth. I told them it was a conspiracy to get me back in there and who's going to pay for the filling? They laughed. I was serious!
Calling for bad storms this afternoon, sure is hot. We badly need the rain. My yard is turning brown along with a lot of others.
Five people were killed in an accident last night. Three couples on motorcycles, all wearing helmets, only one lady made it to the hospital and she is critical. They can't figure out what happened, the van was hit in the front by a cycle, on the right side by a cycle and on the left side by a cycle. The van driver is in serious condition but maybe he'll remember. Such a tradegy.

STILL PAINTING AWAY THE DAYS.....

Just about got the living room painted. Three walls are done, the worst part of number 4 wall is waiting. Its at the wood stove and will be a bugger. A lot of cracks in the old plaster. I thing the stove is too heavy for the floor. I need to move it out, cut a hole in the floor, dig down, pour a footer, lay block up to the floor, then tile, then put the stove back on a really nice solid hearth, then put down a nice new floor. Or hire someone to do same. Yeh, that's a plan, 'cause I sure don't know how to do it, nor do I want to. Now, to find someone with enough brains to listen to me and do this the way I want it. That's the problem! Oh, yeh, the $%^&* ceiling needs finished also.
Went over to the Historical Society today and sat at the house of this famous person from this county with Anita. She's a real trip, 88 years young and kept me laughing the whole time. We had 3 visitors the whole day. Archie was plumb tuckered out. And, when we left, I fell down the outside steps. Thought there were two, knew there were three, fell down and remembered thinking 'this is going to hurt unless I can land in the grass' which I did. I think I jammed by big toe on my left foot that needs the surgery on the three hammer toes. It's black and blue and sore to the touch.

TORNADO WARNING

Sitting in the restaurant this evening with the gang and Bob's phone rings. It's his MIL from Philly. He handed the phone to his wife, who's eyes get all big, and she says "Yeh, OK ma. Thanks." Judy hangs up and says "There's a tornado warning, its coming right for us!" We all looked at each other and kept on eating. Didn't hear any sirens, nothing on the radio, we are such putzes. That thing could've been coming down main street and we'd still be sitting there drinking coffee. I guess in this area, there's never been an 'outbreak' of tornados or, for that matter, just a couple of small earthquakes over by the river, so we're pretty complacent. That's not a good thing.
After I got home (it never even rained at home) and talked to dad, he told me the sirens just blew and blew. I don't remember anyone telling us that when those sirens blow, it's a tornado warning. I know now. I need to prepare better and figure how to corral 4 cats into their carriers and get the two dogs and all the 'other stuff'. Yeh, I need a plan.

HERE WE GO.................

I'm not sure how old this is, 'cause I don't watch TV, but my friend that sent it to me said they checked it out and it true and VERY SCARY. Need to pass this on.
*******************************************************************

While you were watching the oil spill, the New York failed terrorist bombing and other critical crises, Hillary Clinton signed the small arms treaty with the UN.


OBAMA FINDS LEGAL WAY AROUND THE 2ND AMENDMENT AND USES IT. IF THIS PASSES, THERE COULD BE WAR


On Wednesday Obama Took the First Major Step in a
Plan to Ban All Firearms in the United States

On Wednesday the Obama administration took its first major step in a plan to ban all firearms in the United States . The Obama administration intends to force gun control and a complete ban on all weapons for US citizens through the signing of international treaties with foreign nations. By signing international treaties on gun control, the Obama administration can use the US State Department to bypass the normal legislative process in Congress. Once the US Government signs these international treaties, all US citizens will be subject to those gun laws created by foreign governments. These are laws that have been developed and promoted by organizations such as the United Nations and individuals such as George Soros and Michael Bloomberg.. The laws are designed and intended to lead to the complete ban and confiscation of all firearms. The Obama administration is attempting to use tactics and methods of gun control that will inflict major damage to our 2nd Amendment before US citizens even understand what has happened.

Obama can appear before the public and tell them that he does not intend to pursue any legislation (in the United States) that will lead to new gun control laws, while cloaked in secrecy, his Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton is committing the US to international treaties and foreign gun control laws. Does that mean Obama is telling the truth? What it means is that there will be no publicized gun control debates in the media or votes in Congress. We will wake up one morning and find that the United States has signed a treaty that prohibits firearm and ammunition manufacturers from selling to the public. We will wake up another morning and find that the US has signed a treaty that prohibits any transfer of firearm ownership. And then, we will wake up yet another morning and find that the US has signed a treaty that requires US citizens to deliver any firearm they own to the local government collection and destruction center or face imprisonment. This has happened in other countries, past and present!
THIS IS NOT A JOKE NOR A FALSE WARNING.
As sure as government health care will be forced on us by the Obama administration through whatever means necessary, so will gun control. Read the Article U.S. reverses stance on treaty to regulate arms trade WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States reversed policy on Wednesday and said it would back launching talks on a treaty to regulate arms sales as long as the talks operated by consensus, a stance critics said gave every nation a veto. The decision, announced in a statement released by the U.S. State Department, overturns the position of former President George W. Bush's administration, which had opposed such a treaty on the grounds that national controls were better. To view the full article click on this!


Please forward this message to others who may be concerned about the direction in which our country is headed. This is a very serious matter! Silence will lead us to Socialism!!!

IT WAS COLD, SO I CAN'T SUE...............

Went out to supper tonight with some of the gang. Sitting there, eating porterhouse steak, stewed tomatoes and cup of home made chicken corn noodle soup. HMMMMMMM. The next thing I know is I'm wearing most of my ice water and Ross is staring at me with eyes as big as my steak was. His wife Artie is speechless and his grandson Mike just says, "Boy, I'm glad I moved. I was sittin there." Ross tried to get a fly that had been bugging us, he missed the fly and upset my water. We all were laughing and sopping it up. I was holding my steak up out of the mess. Any how, they paid for my dinner and by the time we left, most of it had dried on my jeans.

Took some more books to the library and more clothes to the thrift store. Just about got the living room done. Then I think I'll start on the kitchen and 'bird room'. Then the laundry. Leaving the downstairs bedroom last 'cause its the worse.
Also called the auctioneer this week. She was so nice; I explained what my goal was and she said, "Just call us when you're ready and we'll pick it up and let you know the sell date."

AN AMERICAN GOLDFINCH

Spotted him this morning on the patio. Almost stepped on it. He flew off and landed in the maple tree. Ain't he georgous!!

HE RETURNETH

One of the owlets returned tonight. He's out in my maple tree. I guess he likes it here.

AIN'T LOVE GRAND!!

Stopped at Dad's this afternoon and he was getting ready to prime the hood of his JD620. While I stood around waiting for his mail lady I found a couple of lady-bugs doing the wild thing. I watched them for over 45 minutes and took several pics before I settled on this one.

WOW

Last night, while walking the dogs out back, I kept hearing this 'trilling' sound, not knowing what it could be, I started looking around for a hurt animal. I spied something under the maple tree outside my back door about the size of a quart jar. I quickly got the dogs inside 'cause Cleo kills everything on this acre. When I went back out, Lily escaped and it took a couple of minutes to woo her to where I could grab her. I put her in and the 'thing' was no longer there. But, I still heard this strange sound, I shone the flashlight up into the tree and this is what I saw. There were three of them, and they felt safe enough to hang around while I went for the camera.

IT'S AN UNCONFORTABLE FEELING...

I was sitting at this computer this morning, having breakfast. Played a few games of solitare and free cell, checked my e mail and it hit me. All of a sudden I felt the need to finish these projects. Do you remember when you were a kid and you told your mom you'd do the dishes and start the wash. But you got busy and all of a sudden you realize she is gonna be home in 10 minutes. That's how I feel. Now, I admit I have been dragging my feet on finishing these tasks, and I put it down to depression and not having to get up and go to work. But, this is a strange feeling and it hit me like a bolt of lightening. I didn't even go out for supper tonight. Part of it is a feeling of doom that I've not had before. I need to get rid of this stuff, finish the house and batten down the hatches. Something is in the wind folks.

AND NOW YOU KNOW THE REST OF THE STORY

Manure: In the 16th and 17th centuries, everything had to be transported by ship and it was also before commercial fertilizer's invention, so large shipments of manure were common.
It was shipped dry, because in dry form it weighed a lot less than when wet, but once water (at sea) hit it, it not only became heavier, but the process of fermentation began again, of which a by product is methane gas. As the stuff was stored below decks in bundles you can see what could (and did) happen.
Methane began to build up below decks and the first time someone came below at night with a lantern, BOOOOM!
Several ships were destroyed in this manner before it was determined just what was happening. After that, the bundles of manure were always stamped with the term 'Ship High In Transit' on them, which meant for the sailors to stow it high enough off the lower decks so that any water that came into the hold would not touch this volatile cargo and start the production of methane.
Thus evolved the term ' S.H.I.T ' , (Ship High In Transport) which has come down through the centuries and is in use to this very day.

GOT MY TRUCK BACK, HOORAY

I picked up my truck today. AAHHHHHHHHHHH. Runs great. Washed it. Looks great. $1228.85. Oh well. Went for my cat fish tonight. The usual gang was there. We laughed the evening away.
Gave a big box of clothes to the clothing bank and another 4 boxes of books to the library. Decided to go at this down-sizing, minimilizing like a mouse eating an elephant, one bite at a time.

WHAT THE ......................

The cell phone rings....."Hello" "Hello, may I speak to Sharon?" "Speaking" "Hello Sharon, How are you today?" "I'm OK, How are you?" "I am fine, thank you very much. My name is John ('John' sounds a LOT like Habeeb), and we were notified that you would like to go back to school!" "Excuse me?" He repeats the statement. "Back to school!" "Yes, that is correct!" "I am 65 years old, and I hated school when I went the first time!!!!" "Oh, then you would not be interested. Thank you for your time." W T H !!!!!!!

A BLESSED MEMORIAL DAY TO ALL...

Got invited by my friends, Sue and Sarah, to their mom's farm for a cookout. Archie went also. He had never met Mama D. and Uncle Bryan, Aunt Amy and Cousin John. They thought he was adorable. They have three dogs (down from their usual five). Simon is a golden retriever, 12 years old. Rock and Chloe are Pitt Bull/Lab mix, 2 years old, brother and sister, he's black and she is a dark yellow. Georgous dogs. I shoulda took pics.
Then stopped at dad's but he was working on the hood of the JD620, so I didn't stay long.
Then got a call from Ross to meet him and Artie at the restaurant. Boy, I'm stuffed, I don't know. But, I went, had a fruit platter.
More storms moving thru as I left the restaurant. They all went north and judging from the traffic on the scanner they must've been nasty. Lot of water rescues and wires down. It's still black over by the river, so we might get hit yet. Oh well, my wash is done, the yard is mowed and still managed to spend time with my friends....

IT'S A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Sitting on the front porch with the dogs, Miss Lily was here for a while but when the dogs starting barking at the neighbor raking his hay, she left for the sanctity of the back yard. Then the neighbor drove by, didn't see me sitting here, he about broke his neck looking at the strange car in the driveway. It's a courtesy car from the dealer. Yeh, my baby is in the hospital.
Went to Staples on Thursday to get a new printer. Got halfway through the city and turned on the A/C. Nothing. Crap. Smelled something hot (besides me), smelled like rubber burning. Crap. Got the printer. Left Staples. Turned on the A/C for grins and giggles. HAAAAAAA, cold air. Heard a 'Ding'. Yeh, Yeh, I know I need gas. Drove out of the lot and spied a CHECK GAGES light. Crap. Temp gage is all the way over to the right. Crap. Got out of the city and called the dealer. Now I know what a lot of people think. Why go to the dealer when they charge so much. I've always taken this truck back to the dealer. We have a love-hate relationship, remember? They love my money and I hate it when I yell at them. Anyhow, none of the 'technicians' (what happen to mechanics?) were there, so Ralph had the loaner all ready and said he would call me on Friday.
Friday, I went up there to get Archie's seat and safty vest, talked to the 'tech'. He put in a new fan clutch, the last one was only 5000 miles ago but past the 12 month/12,000 miles warranty by 2 weeks. They might let me slide. Keep in mind, they are on thin ice since the starter issue. (Read blog of 2/5/10). My man, Tony, pointed out the A/C clutch is wobbling, probably the bearings are shot. He was going to flush the radiator, I only had it done at 60,000 miles. The truck has 177,000 miles on it. So, to cut to the chase and make this long story short. Ralph called me late Friday and said the flush didn't do anything and I will need a new radiator. Aftermarket is $172 cheaper than a mopar. All in all I'm looking at $1000 before it's done. Whew. I took the printer back yesterday.

A NEW WORLD ORDER IS ON THE HORIZON

A friend of mine just emailed this one to me. Scary thought for some people. But, by the time a NWO is here, I won't be.

THE CENSUS LADY WAS JUST HERE

All she wanted was my name and birth date and if there is a mortgage and how long and who lives here. We must've talked for an hour. She was quite pleasant and had the prettiest blue eyes. That's done with.
I have a police scanner on 24-7. I've noticed a change in the calls. More 'emotional problems' and 'overdoses'. I guess a lot of people are stressing out with the way things are going? I bet 90% of them voted for you-know-who, IF they voted at all.
Today was 'WhitMonday' for the Amish. That's a holiday for them, they do a lot of visited. I must've passed a dozen buggies to and from town this evening.
It's been raining on and off all day, tomorrow is suppose to be cloudy and more storms coming on Wednesday. This yard is going to be a jungle by the time I can get around to mowing it. Oh well, at least I don't have to shovel it.

ARCHIE WAS THE SUPERVISOR

Too cute for words.

ALL HE KNOWS IS WORK

Dad's very careful when he works in wood. He'll be 92 in July.

JUST PASSING THOUGHTS TODAY

Since my last posting, I went and got that wood, brought it to Dad's and we cut up some more out in the woods, split it all up. It's on his tandem trailer, covered. Probably about a cord. I hope he be here to burn it.
Haven't done a lot this week, however, I did gather up the cook books that I don't use and will take them to the library for their book sale. Still haven't found a home for the freezer yet. I knocked the price down to FREE.
Got new exhaust on the truck on Thursday. I liked the way it sounded before the new stuff went on tho. Slowly working on the living room with part of the front wall and all of the south wall to paint yet; plus the rest of the ceiling. Little steps, and sooner or later it will all come together.
My electric bill was $107 in March, I unplugged the freezer. It was $60 in April, I started to hang the wash out instead of using the dryer. May's bill was $40. Cool!!!
Need to buy more preps this week. Had a friend send me something about the looming crisis and it said we might be OK for June and July but after that, it's anybody's guess.

NEITHER RAIN, NOR HAIL, NOR DARK OF NIGHT...............

This weekend has been absolutely beautiful. I guess Mother Nature is apologizing for what she sent to us on Friday night. I left the restaurant as it was starting to rain, stopped at the store and before I could get out to the truck, it was pouring. I mean buckets. I finally made a run for it, after all, I ain't sugar and am not going to melt, most likely I'll smear. Anyway, on the way home it started hailing, I was concerned for the windshield, so I ducked into a drive-thru porch at one of the churches and waited it out. Got home OK, one of the new maple trees we'd planted on the north side had lost it's top and a couple of limbs came down on the other side of the house, but no damage. A neighbor on the other road lost part of his roof and west of him there was a lot of trees down. One guy closer to the river lost an implement shed and a couple of smaller buildings. Some are saying it was a tornado. Not much in the paper about it 'cause we are the poorest township of the county, and they never write about us.
Went to breakfast with Daddy and Sarah and a couple of her friends, at the fire hall. Then took the trash over to the truck. $4 a month is a lot better that $19. Then went to the grocery store, more preps, but not enough. Came home, got Archie and went to the Historical Society Meeting, I have to take the dog or those older members would have a fit. He's considered the mascot now. Came home and sawed the limbs up and took the top down out of that tree. I was just too beat to mow, so, I was a heathen and mowed the yard today.
I'm also cooking chicken for Archie, he throws up dog food. I cut off the fat and smaller pieces and fried them up for Cleo, made some gravy. She'll love that. Then I'll make some soup for me. Can't buy regular soup 'cause I'm alergic to MSG and it's in most soups. I have to look close when I do buy.
Now, I'm going to clean this house. I'm giving serious thought about contacting an auctioneer and taking the majority of this stuff to an auction house and get what I get. It's dragging me down. I moved the freezer out of the laundry room and managed to get it out to the barn. I have a dolly, I ain't Super Woman. The laundry room looks SSSOOO much better with out it. Gonna make it happen. The less stuff I have the less stress in my life. Still thinking about buying a camper, but that's on the back burner as long as I have my father. But, when he's gone, there's nothing to keep me here.

MUST SEE

This is an awesome video. Do not know how much longer it will stay available. The original link is already gone.

PLEASE WATCH THIS !

PREPPING AND TRUCKIN'

Tomorrow, I'm goin' prepping. I've not been a good girl lately. Been eating out A LOT and sorta in a slump. It's time to get back to basics. I've got a depressing feeling about this summer into fall. There's no one to talk to about it, 'cause I've got a bunch of ostrich's for friends and aquaintences. So, I'm just keeping my mouth shut and buying like crazy for the rest of this month. Oh, yea, and I've got to get new exhaust on the truck. Whoopee! It's got a Flowmaster on it but the pipes have rotted off at the muffler. I get about 60,000 miles out of an exhaust and tires. So it's about 3000 miles too soon. Sure does sound good tho. Coming down a hill yesterday, I pushed the clutch in to downshift and make a turn and the little Dakota sounded like it had a Jake Brake on it. Takes me back to my Corvette days. Once a motor-head, always a motor-head.

BUSY SUNDAY AFTER ALL

I was sorta dreading Sunday, I haven't enjoyed a Mother's Day in 30 years. When your mom has altzeimers, everything changes. So, what to do, what to do.
There was the annual 'Make-A-Wish' truck convoy in our area to go to. This was its 21st year and I had never seen it. It would be something to do and get me out of the house.
On the way to Denise's I stopped at Bob's. I worked with both of these people. I had a rooster-on-a-nest for his wife. She collects roosters. My friend, Pat, that had passed away last year, collected hens-on-a-nest and this was the only rooster. I knew Weezie would love and cherish it also. They were just sitting down to breakfast and asked me to join them for fried taters, cheesey eggs. Bob made me toast. Boy was that good.
Then, Archie and I went on to Denise's house, which is right on the main street and this parade will go right past her big old porch. Archie howled when the fire trucks and ambulances blew their sirens. There was about a dozen people there and a good time was had by all.
On the way home, I stopped at Fred and Bev's to say hey and they invited me to stay for supper. Steak, carrots, culliflower. Yummy.........

MOTIVATION

That's what I need, motivation. I have none. If I had motivation, the ambition would follow, if I get ambition, I'll force the energy to surface, If I had the energy, I would be motivated to do something. AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH. It's a vicious circle...

WTH

I am ssssoooo pissed off. If my child was in Live Oak High School. He or she would be wearing red, white and blue for the rest of its life. What in-the-name-of-all-that-is-holy is the matter with that administration? A bunch of panty-waist, a saying that my old granddad used. GGGRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

And another thing, in Missouri, shooting the family dogs IN FRONT of a 7 year old. Talk about tramatizing someone. I am speechless over that one. What a bunch of 'bleeping' idiots.

Went for my catfish tonight. More laughs that ever, and you sure do need laughter this day and age. We had people stop at our table on the way out, perfect strangers, and say 'Boy, you guys are having fun, we were going to come back and sit at this table.' We said, 'come ahead, the more the merrier.'

Got up early this morning to go with Dad to one of his banks. They sent him a letter and a form to sign. His CD account is considered dormant and its the PA state law they have to do this or turn the money over to the state or charge him $25 a year. All he would've had to do is sign the d**n form. No, he has to go in there and make a big deal about it. I said, 'Pull your money out or sign the form.' He signed the form. Then we went to the fuel oil dealers to pay the bill. He'd ordered 200 gallons, 'cause he heats his hot water with it. The guy put in 197.7. So he had to give that lady a hard time. She had his number tho. When he told her why he was there and he didn't get the full 200 gallons. She was quick with a come back......"Did you bring a can?" I loved it. Dad did too, he laughed. He retired from there years ago to take care of Mom. They give him a special price and coddle him, he loves that. But, really, men!!!!

MYSTERY PLANT

OK you flower people, someone tell me what this varmint is.

BEAUTIFUL AZALEA

This is the azalea that has never bloomed this beautifully until this year. Maybe the cooler weather helped. I wish they stayed this pretty all summer.

MEET 'DICKSNICKEL'

This is the walking stick I carved for my friend Sarah. If you read the blog of April 23rd, you'll remember I had to repair it. Turned out OK.

THIS IS SO COOL....

It's almost noon now, the dogs got me up by going bazork at the Amish kids walking up the road. That gets the old heart a pumping. Did a load of blankets and hung them out. Its a bit breezy but sunny. Somewhere in the 70's. Now I'm sitting on the front porch with the dogs and two of the cats. Elijah is on the table, sleeping. Cleo is over by the railing at the driveway side, sleeping. Archie is on the bench, sleeping. Lily is down in the flower bed scoping out the birds at the feeders.
This is really cool, sitting here posting on the porch. I've noticed that everybody that drives past NEVER looks at the house. People in a hurry with a lot on their minds.
The azalea's are blooming beautifully this year. I cut them back last fall, and, since it didn't kill them. I'm cutting them back harder this fall. If they come back then I need to plant about three more to finish out the bed. There is an older couple up the road a piece that always has azaleas and other plants for sale out in their front yard. They look healthy (the plants not the people, not that the people are sick or anything,oh whatever).
I just noticed a plant in the side bed and I don't remember planting it nor do I know what it is. Odd. If I can figure out the new camera, I'll post a picture. Meanwhile, here's a joke for ya all......

A guy walks into a bar, there's a robot bartender.
The robot says, "What will you have?"
The guy says, "Martini."
The robot brings back the best martini ever and says to the man: "What's your IQ?"
The guy says, "168."
The robot then proceeds to talk about physics, space exploration and medical technology.

The guy leaves, but he is curious so he goes back into the bar.
The robot bartender says, "What will you have?
"The guy says, "Martini."
Again, the robot makes a great martini gives it to the man and says: "What's your IQ?"
The guy says, "100."
The robot then starts to talk about Nascar, Budweiser and John Deere tractors.

The guy leaves, but finds it very interesting, so he thinks he will try it one more time.
He goes back into the bar.
The robot says, "What will you have?"
The guy says, "Martini,"
The robot again brings him a great martini.
The robot then says: "What's your IQ?"
The guy says, "Uh, about 50."
The robot leans over and says softly, "So, you still happy you voted for Obama?"

FERHOOTZED

Its an Amish word, not sure of the spelling, it means 'out-of-sorts'. The English have a saying 'at sixes and sevens' and it means a state of confusion. I'm sure I could continue around this world and come up with many more, but, you get my drift. Just waiting for the other shoe to drop, again. Something like waiting on the next storm to come in. You know it'll arrive, you are just not sure exactly when. With all of the tornadoes and earthquakes and volcanic activity, it's enuf to put you out of sorts, but, add all of the stupidity out of Washington, a person could just want to go hide somewhere until it's all over.

Went to a little village yesterday, with friends, Sue and Sarah. It was a May Festival. Good food and nice people. This is one of two 'cottages' that they bought to restore. Check out the size of those stones. It's amazing how high they were able to get them. That nasty crack on the left was caused by freezing/thawing this winter. The museum has a lot of work ahead. One man has almost 1000 volunteer hours in these houses.
Then we stopped at the local golf course for a early supper. She just started serving a dinner menu, hope it works out 'cause the food is great.
It's really cloudy here today, one minute looks like rain and then the sun's out. I put a thermometer up in the maple tree, out of the sun and it has been 80 most of the day. I hope it cools down again so I can finish mulching.
I just cleaned out the little freezer in the laundry room. Getting rid of it. Its a small apartment size unit but I don't need it. Don't know what to ask for it, yet. I'm sure if I advertise it in our local 'advertiser' paper that it'll sell quickly. Whatca think.......$100?

PLANS DO CHANGE

Didn't go for the wood today. He called, told me he was up sick all night. I told him it's just as well. Yesterday I rebult 2/3's of the stone wall out front in preperation of putting down mulch, so I'm stiff and sore today. I had a 'feeling' I wouldn't be going, 'cause I didn't load the chain saw and stuff last night. I use to get certain 'feelings' a lot in the past. I'd get real quiet for about 2 to 3 days, real sad and down. Then, someone would pass away. I have not had anything like that happen in a few years. And it came on me this week, two days later an old friend of Dad's that he farmed on the shares with, died. He was 95. A great man. Maybe its all just coincidences. Maybe not.
Since I'm not going for wood I guess I'll clean house and then mow the yard. We're suppose to have rain all weekend. If I get more than a day of rain, I'm in trouble with this yard. It takes a day or more to dry out.
Talked to my young friend Matt last night. He bought a shot gun to go turkey hunting. When his dad called me back later, I heard his mother yelling in the back ground, "YOU'RE A BAD INFLUENCE ON HIM." She was only kidding of course.
Had to repair one of my walking sticks this week. That's the second one. This was a 'design flaw'. I had carved it for my friend Sarah, and, it started out as a belsnickel. For those of you that don't know what that is....it's like an old-timey Santa. Anyhow, when it was done, it looked like her brother Dick. So, they called it a Dick-snickel. She was cleaning last week and it fell. Poor guy lost his head. I brought it home, drilled a couple of holes, put in a small dowel. Now its much stronger.
Last year I had to fix the one I made for Trudy. It has two turtles on it and the one turtle lost his head. Another 'design flaw'?

LOTS ON MY MIND

My friend Sue got back from Arizona on Sunday nite. She said she can die now, she saw two rattlers screwing. I appoligized for how I talked to her friend Pat, but she told me Pat never smoked on the entire trip. I don't know if Pat's husband George smokes or not. Fingers are crossed.
That said, I've decided to quit 'preaching' about such things. Also, I'm not talking until I'm blue-in-the-face about people needing to prepare. Their eyes glaze over and they just look like they're thinking, 'Oh boy, here she goes again.' They are all on their own. If they ask me a question, that's different, but, this world is heading fast and furious down the wrong road. This country is in trouble and we, who are preppers, know it. I believe everyone else just figures 'If I ignore it, things will eventually get better. I don't want to hear it.'
There was a lady at the same dude ranch as Sue, who couldn't get home 'cause of the volcano. She is from Norway. Another lady, who is a veterinarian, is at the ranch for one more week, told her she could bunk with her. The vet and her husband have a hospital for small animals, but she felt she needed to know more about horses so she was taking clinic classes at the ranch. The one from Norway was astounded at the invite. She said that would never happen in Europe. They question why you drive that SUV when you should have a small car. The people watch everything their neighbors do. Sounds like they are already indoctrinated over there. I told Sue that is what is headed for here. She just said, 'Yeh, well.'
On an up note, I bought another cordless phone at Radio Shack. I normally don't go to that chain store, they always seemed to be so condescending and opinionated. But, the manager at this store was a hoot, he was so nice, that I also bought a new camera. I'll be posting pics as soon as I figure the thing out.
A friend from work called me yesterday and told me he got a new email and wanted to give it to me. I told him to just send it to me. Then he told me, his wife left him and took the laptop with all the addresses on it. Crap. Last year, she had a blood clot in her leg and the doctors ended up taking it off. Now, she blames him. WTH!!
Then he asked me if I still wanted wood. I said yes and he told me a tree limb came down on top of his pick up last Friday in all that wind. I told him if it wasn't for bad luck he'd have no luck at all. I'm going up Friday with my chain saw, maybe Dad will go too 'cause I'm giving him the wood. Then another friend called later in the day and told me another couple we worked with split. Seems he's been seeing someone else since December. WTH!!
My mamma always said..............

ANYBODY SEEN A BLACK CORDLESS PHONE?

Sitting here at my desk, holding Archie, serfing the net and the blogs, and saw where I didn't post all week. My bad.
Wednesday, Ezra came down from the stove store and cleaned out the cataletic converter on my stove and put a new gasket on. That is such a neat name, Ezra. I told him if I ever get another German Shepherd I was going to name him that. He laughed and told me his BIL beat me to it. On his way down, he got lost and called me. I gave him directions again, and he still wasn't here. So, I went it to the house to get his number and just as I was going to call him, he shows up. I'm standing in the driveway when he pulls in. I put the phone down somewhere and haven't found it since. I suspect I put it on the tarp of the truck bed and then when I left, so did it. I liked that phone too.
Thursday, of course is cat-fish night, and, I always feed the crew before I leave. Lily is outside most of the afternoon 'cause I was hanging bird houses around in the trees. Come time to leave and NO LILY. I called (she usually comes), looked in the barn, twice. Looked in the house to make sure she didn't go back in, NO LILY. I left Cleo out, cause they're buddies, and I went to the restaurant. Couldn't really enjoy myself, came right home and unlocked the barn to see if she really was in there, and, here she comes around the corner. I think she was hiding under the car the whole time. Little shit. I told the gang, if I can't find her, I'm not getting out of bed on Friday. LOL.
Saturday it's chicken and waffles at one of the fire halls. They have it twice a year and one dinner is enuf to feed two people. I'll get two orders and take them up to Sarah's, since her sister is in Arizona. We plan on eating and then taking their 3 dogs and Archie for a walk down town. The rain is coming in later today, so I hope it clears out for tomorrow afternoon.
Sunday, Dad and I are going looking for houses he lived in. I have pictures of most of them. But I don't know where two of them are. I need to buy another camera too. Might as well buy another phone while I'm at it. I HATE to shop. Crap, guess I'll go now. Later

I HAVE A BIG MOUTH...........

Went to lunch on Saturday with all of the girls. We've lost 3 in the past two years, Joyce and Pat died of cancer. Joanie was a cancer survivior and her autopsy diagnosed her death as heart related. That said, a new person was along for the lunch with my friend Sue. They were leaving for the airport after lunch and flying to Arizona for a dude ranch vacation. New person excused herself and went 'outside'. When she came back, I said to her, "You smoke, don't you." She said 'Yes, but I'm trying to quit, again.' I went balistic, starting ranting about all that Pat went thru for 23 years and even tho she quit smoking in 1972, when she found the lump in 1986 and it was malignant, the doctors blamed everything on her history of smoking. I feel bad now about it, 'cause I only met the lady an hour before. I guess when you watch someone fight battles daily; the doctor visits, the drugs, the test, the operations; and you know they are probably going to lose this war anyhow. Then I see somebody doing something that will most likely put them into the very same war, that they also will lose, I tend to go a little nuts. I will apoligize to her somehow. I guess I'll just keep my big mouth shut and let people do whatever they want. I had several people tell me to quit and I did, when I was ready. So, who am I to tell someone what to do?

On a lighter note, I mowed the yard on Saturday, but didn't get it done. So, today, I mowed the yard again. Figured I might as well mow the whole thing 'cause rain is coming in tomorrow afternoon. I'm up in the pines and mowing along the fence, clouds of dust, crap flying everywhere and a small piece of wood flies UP my nose. I stop the mower and go digging in my right nostril for this thing but all I manage to do is push it up farther. I had visions of laying on an operating table and someone drilling out my sinus to get this thing. Finally, I had a brain fart, and blew my nose. Out it came, I saved it, it's about 1/4" long and 1/8" wide. The way I'm hitting my head on tree branches and stuff flying around everywhere, maybe I'll need to wear more protective clothing.

BUSY, BUSY, BUSY

Sorry about not posting for a while, been busy with the yard and trying to get this house in order. I've mowed 3 times already! It's raining now, so mowing tomorrow is not going to happen. Maybe by Saturday, if the sun is out strong, wind helps too. My yard is like a sponge and takes a while to dry out.

Wednesday went for lunch with my friend Denise. We used to work together and got laid off the same day. She will run out of UC benefits before I do 'cause she was on partial lay-off for a while. We worked on her resume for a while but then she had to be somewhere. I used to hate doing my resume, you have to sell yourself and I always felt I was bragging. Just hire me and let me get to work. That's pretty much the way she is too.

Went for my catfish tonight. Lois and Bill, Artie and Ross, Judy and Bob were all there and I surprised them with additional friends. Mike and Dave were coming back home from visiting their oldest daughter, Mike is a lady by-the-way, it's a nick-name, and they wanted to meet me at this other restaurant for supper. I told them about the 'round-table' suppers on Thursday at another place so they met me there. What a great time. Everybody talked like old friends. Judy has told me, "You know the nicest people and have the coolest friends." That's a compliment I'll relish for an eternity. Saturday, a group of us will meet at that other restaurant. Looking forward to that, it'll be the first time we've gotten together since November, when my friend Joanie died.

YARD WORK IS NEVER DONE

Been busy in the yard, after the rain finally quit. Today was just beautiful and I went out about 10 to get the last two piles of stuff that I'd raked up before the rain started. Then I figured I'd better cut up that tree limb that came down onto the neighbor's fence. I guess he figured it was my tree so I should take care of it. Really screwed up the fence tho. I'll stop at my Amish neighbor to tell him 'cause he was the one who put up the fence. I'd rather talk to Henry anyhow. Then cut up another dead limb and trimmed the cherry tree. NO I did not cut it down. Its really old but still budding out so I just cut the dead limbs out. All said and done, got a heaping wheelbarrow of wood for next winter. But this old body is tired, and still have more yard to clean up. Mostly its the flower beds that are left.

Saturday is the 'Mud Sale' at our fire company. Hundreds of people will be in our little village. There's one every week for months, put on by all the different volunteer fire companies. Good food, lots of bargains, everything from trees to tractors. I ain't going, too many people.

WHAT A NEAT MAILBOX

This is THE coolest mailbox I've ever seen. It's a 45 caliber in Oklahoma.

WE MADE THE NEWS, AGAIN

There is a great vid from BBC on us preppers. I found it at Survival Blog.com, check this!
This fellow is concerned about the grid going down but he has a pellet stove that would require electricity. I'm thinking he might be surprised when something happens.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SISSY

Today is my half-sister's birthday and she would have been 72. I can't dwell on this 'cause I can't afford another rifle. (See posting of March 3rd). We weren't raised together, she and her older brother came to live with us as teenagers. Didn't stay long and went to live with their father. I didn't see them again until they were both married with children. Jerry and I got closer as we got older and she was my matron of honor when I got married. She married a guy with one son and they had one son. My nephew is a great guy, loves GTO's, buys, sells, races and shows them. Last count I heard he had seven, but that changes weekly. He's married and has two beautiful daughters.

I can't believe I had the wood stove going last night. It's freakin' cold here today and I need to mow the yard. I'll have to get out my long underwear. Still have more raking to do but it's just too cold. In a few months it'll be too hot. Just can't keep me happy.

I was out this morning with the dogs and two of the cats always go out, Lily and Elijah. I tell them to stay out back and away from the road. The dogs and I came in and a little while later so did Elijah, no sign of Lily. So, before I could set down and enjoy my breakfast I had to find that cat. I walked all over this yard and called and called. No cat. Got to the back door and she was inside looking at me. I SWEAR I don't remember her coming in. I hate it when that happens.

HEADS UP

I just got this email from a friend.
"You may have heard, on the mass media, that ACORN, the organization that raised havoc in the last political election, is closing its offices and disbanding. That can’t be further from the truth. In researching this story you will find that ACORN will appear everywhere, just like they were, but having different names all over the country to confuse the electorate.
Our Totalitarian, Marxist government will continue is dismantling of the Constitution of the United States by passing legislation at a rapid rate before the 2010 elections; cap and trade, immigration amnesty, and other regulations that will complement the economic disaster that just passed known as the Healthcare Bill.
The spin-offs from ACORN will begin their subversive activities to ensure that the 2010 elections go the way they want! We must be vigilant and stop these activities."

RATS

I've been smelling mouse poo. Actually, I think the three dead ones were rats, 'cause their tails were really long. Anyhow, I started cleaning out the laundry room. Found the cause of the smell. Turds everywhere. So, I cleaned out the two cabinets and moved them into the other room off of the kitchen. This gave me a chance to go thru my preps and rotate and check dates. I started last night and again, all day, today. Everything is back in order now and even better. The laundry room smells better but I'm not done. I'll have to move the washer and dryer and freezer also. If these three little rats left this much poop and stink behind, I can't imagine what CONgress smells like. No wonder politicians leave DC in the summer.

Took an hour off and went to get the mail and stopped at Dad's. I was filling out his census, and we were talking about the pedal car I got when I was about 1 or 2. His neighbor just bought one for his kids. Dad was telling him I still have mine. He put back up lights from an old Ford in it for headlights using a 'hot-shot' battery for juice. I was the only kid that could ride up and down the sidewalk after dark.
He told me that some farmers used those kind of batteries to help start the old Fordson tractors. In the winter, some guys would actually build fires under the tractors to heat the oil and thin it out. These tractors were crank started and had 40 or 50 weight oil in them. Thick as molasses when it was cold. He then said, "I've seen Pop, that was his father, crank that tractor until steam came out of his underwear." Well, I laughed so hard, I couldn't write. I haven't laughed that hard in ages. I would expect something like that coming out of my mom's mouth, but not dad's.

DECLUTTER AND DOWNSIZE

I was humbled by Jay G's post over at MArooned when he mentioned this blog. Thanks Jay!

Wow, Brigid, at Home on the Range, has a great post today. Go over and read it, NOW.
Not to steal her thunder, but it's about down-sizing. A lot of people I've been talking to are doing just that. It's like a need to get rid of all of the heavy responsilbility of all of this stuff. A woman I know has her place up for sale, her parents built it years ago. She told me, she came home one day, the pool needed cleaned as did the house, the yard needed to be mowed and she decided right then and there to put it on the market. Then someone told me when her boyfriend moved out she realized what all the guy did that now wasn't being done.

My best friend Joanie died last November. When the niece and her husband cleaned the place out and sold all the stuff, they got $3100. The house hasn't sold yet either. Your whole lifetime boils down to a Saturday auction. Why accumulate all this stuff that just drags you down. If I had to leave in a hurry, I sure couldn't take it all with me. And it would stress me out to leave it behind for some turd to get. Sell it now or give it away. Mamma had a saying, "Do your givin' while your livin', then you're knowin' where its goin'"

I'm gathering up different items this summer and taking them to a flea market. It's a really cool place, in the woods and a lot of tourist $$$$ traffic. I've somewhat de-cluttered the 'bird room' and I can't believe how much nicer it looks. The only thing I'm buying now is maybe another gun or an occasional book.

FIRST DAY OF SPRING!

What a georgous day it was. Spent the better part of this day with my two best friends, Sue and Sarah. We met for breakfast at the same restaurant I have my catfish on Thurday night. Boy, was it packed. Had to wait for a table. We then strolled across the street to the little used book store and got goodies. After that we drove to another small town that has an Outback store, with a sale going on! Sue is going to Arizona with a friend in a few months and spending a week on a ranch. She needed new boots, jeans and had to get a hat. I love hats. She doesn't even like to try them on. I found the perfect one but she wanted one that was crushable. From there we went to another book store and got more goodies. Then to a Pizza Hut for lunch. That was our day. I had to stop and get milk for Dad and take it over to him. His neighbor came up and said the bank had been robbed this morning. It was just a couple of blocks from where we had breakfast. Come to find out, the robber didn't even make it into the bank. The teller told him she didn't have the key to the vault, so he hit her and ran off.

I had a long talk on Wednesday with the four cats. I explained to them that it is going to be mighty cold this winter when they are out in the barn. So someone better get busy and catch this mouse or its curtains for all of them. Last night, Lucy got one, she was torturing it in the tub, I told her to handle it. Later I threw out what was left. This afternoon, when I got home. Lucy and Charlie had one in the tub. I later through out its remains. I still hear another one, but, they've tasted blood now, only a matter of time, it's death is imminent.

ADDENDUM:
Later in the night, I heard a ruckus and #3 bit the dust. I guess that little talk must've helped.