Christmas Joy

What a wonderful Christmas Day we had!! The kids and grandkids finally made it over about 9:30am. Patrick tore thru his presents, Emily checked hers out as she opened them, Cameron had help from his Momma but still lost interest before all his gifts were opened. Cameron wanted nothing to do with his gifts, he wanted his brother, Patrick's. Emily loved all her gifts but her favorite was the new go phone! Patrick loved his remote controlled helicopter, which was soon taken over by his Daddy. All I can say is that I got the BEST present today--spending time with the ones that mean the MOST to me!!! I love my family. I hope that everyone is as happy and content as I am today--MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Stats on Blogger

Ok. so recently I discovered the "stats" tab on Blogger. Now, I'm really stoked that people are checking out my blog everyday, but I have to wonder what people in Russia, Slovenia, Canada, and other countries are finding so interesting!!! My life is so mundane and boring, I can't see how anyone that doesn't know me personally would get anything out of it. Whoever you are, thanks for reading--you should really comment and let me know who you are. Maybe we could learn something from each other!!

Ready for Santa!

Okay, I'm ready for Santa! Finally the shopping is done, just need to wrap the last little bit of gifts that Chely and I got yesterday. I am so anxious for the Grandkids to see their gifts--I think that we got everything on their lists, between us, their parents, and Santa. When we got back from Springfield yesterday, Brad and the older kiddo's were here at the house with Doyle. Patrick asked me how many more days he had to wait to open the gifts--I remember being young and just wanting Christmas to get here, so I could open the gifts. I want so much for the little ones to be happy, I love them sooo much. I hope that Christmas lives up to their expectations!!! Having said that, I also hope that with age they will learn what the season is truly all about. Doyle and I are not exchanging gifts this year, we have our gifts in each other (all year long). Although, I must admit that I did put a little bit of Godiva chocolate under the tree for him, hopefully he'll share with his favorite lady. If I don't post again before Christmas, I hope that all my readers will have a joyous, wonderful Christmas with the ones that you love!

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas!

Wow, Christmas is getting close!! Last Saturday I wrapped all the gifts that I have bought so far. They are so pretty, I love wrapping. This Friday I am planning on going shopping with Chely and finishing up all the shopping for the little ones. I also need to get everything for the stockings. Then I will be down to Kurt and Zoe, and I will need to go to Springfield to get that done. I broke down and got Christmas cards today, after Doyle asked me if we were sending out cards this year. We missed last year, so I guess he thought we should actually send them this year. I love getting cards and pictures and I do like sending them, time got away from me last year and I just never got it done. I should make my cards, I have everything I need to do it, I just have a habit of procrastinating when it comes to things like that. Hopefully they will be in the mail by Saturday. We also plan on putting up the trees and getting the house decorated this weekend. We've waited because Cameron is entering the "terrible two's", he wants to terrorize everything!!! Emily and Patrick love it when we get the trees up and all the presents under them, then it seems like Christmas. Thankfully, I'm off this Christmas so we will have Christmas with the kids on Christmas morning. I can't wait, I'm worse than any of the kids, not for presents for me, but I love to see the little ones open their gifts. Love, love, love, to see the joy, smiles, and squeals that come with Christmas!!!

Big XII Championship

Woohooooooo!!! Big XII Championship tonight, Oklahoma vs Nebraska!!! Watch party at our house tonight. I'm so happy that we will have a houseful of OU fans and one Nebraska fan in the house. My oldest brother, Leslie, is the lone Big Red fan (that can make it tonight). Doyle went to the grocery store for me this morning and got all the goodies I need for the party. Now, I need to start fixing the food trays here in a little bit. We'll have lots of food and drink for anyone who wants to show up. BOOMER SOONER!!!!!

Success!!

Success was achieved this morning. I rolled out of bed at 3am, got myself ready and was out the door by 4:10am. I picked Chely up and headed to West Plains. We got to Wal-Mart around 5am and headed to electronics to find the Xbox w/Kinect that was advertised. Of course, it was nowhere to be found, and after talking to several associates it was found, still buried in the storeroom. The sale didn't start til 6am, but I was glad that we got there early and prompted them into getting it located. They wheeled all the sale items out on the floor at 5:40 and we checked out with the Xbox at 6 when the sale officially started.  By that time there was quite a line. So Emily and Patrick (and Brad, too) will be thrilled on Christmas morning. Now, how am I going to work in a nap with all the good football games on today???

Black Friday

For the first time in years, I spent Black Friday at home. I had plans to go to Springfield (mainly just to go) and my shopping buddy cancelled on me. Plus I wasn't sure about the weather, so I decided to just sleep in.

It turned out really nice, I slept til 7, got up, fixed Doyle and I breakfast and have just chilled all day. Now tomorrow morning is a different story--I plan on picking Chely up at 4:30am and going to Wal-Mart to get the Xbox that they have on sale. That's all Emily and Patrick want from Mom and Dad, so we hope to get it in the morning. After Wal-Mart we're going out for breakfast, then back home for a nap! I hope to get the gifts out of my trunk and get them wrapped tomorrow afternoon, I'm getting anxious for Christmas. I love to see the kids unwrap their gifts, it makes it all worth while.

WTH

Not sure what happened on the previous post--I promise I didn't type it in that format. Finally after "fixing" it three times I said screw it, and just posted it. Don't know what went wrong, I've never had that happen before.

Thanksgiving 2010

Here's my top ten things that I'm thankful for:

10.) That sometimes the fact that things don't happen as you think they should turns out to be
the best.

9.) That I did grow older (and wiser). Think of the alternative!

8.) Friends--yes, they do make the world go 'round.

7.) My home, not just the structure but the feelings that it gives me to be "here", where I'm
loved and cared for.

6.) My family, which includes my Mother, Sisters, Brothers, and their families, Doyle's Mother,
Sisters, Brothers, and their families. As time goes by, I appreciate each and everyone of
more and grieve more for the ones we've lost along the way.

5.) My job--I'm not a rocket scientist, but I do something that I enjoy and that does "help"
people.

4.) My Grandkids!! They put a smile on my face every time that I see them. I could not imagine
life without them.

3.) My Son, Brad. Yep, he can still cause me to cuss, pull out my hair, and scream BUT he's the
best thing I ever did. Also my daughter-in-law, Chely--she puts up with what I created!!!

2.) My Husband, Doyle. He is my best friend, my lover, my confidant, and just a really "good"
guy. Not just any man could put up with me for over 28 years and still smile, HA HA!
Honestly, he is my rock and he will always be the "love of my life". I heard the song
"Endless Love" the other day--we had that song sung at our wedding and it made me
realize that indeed it was the perfect song for us, because through thick and thin we surely
do have that, an endless love.

1.) Lastly, I'm thankful that in the last few months I have been thinking more about my place
in this world and that I need to be a more spiritual person. I need to pray more, to just "be"
a better person. It's definitely something to work on and to strive for! I need to be a more
faithful person.

Ok, so there it is. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. I hope that you shared it with the ones you love.

A Fun Day

I had a great day yesterday with Chely. We went to Springfield and got the kids some winter clothes. Some I sent home with her and some I kept back for Christmas presents. It felt good to get some of the Christmas shopping done, I hope to finish up on "black friday". I'm shopping with my ex-sister-in-law (she'll always really be my sister-in-law) and maybe Chely. Chely hasn't decided for sure yet if she wants to go again. It's a crazy day, but I love being right in the middle of it. I really haven't found anything in the ads that I "must" get, but it will still be a fun day.

Tomorrow will be our Thanksgiving, I have to work on Thursday. So today I've got to clean house, start the desserts and salads, etc.... I'm looking forward to having dinner here at our house, it's been a couple of years. We've gone to Chely's folks the last couple of years, which I enjoy going, but it's always nice to have your family together at your home for the holidays. Insert sappy commercial here!! Well, things won't get done by themselves so I better get off the computer and get started. I wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving spent with people you love!

Another Busy Weekend

I can't believe that next week is Thanksgiving already! Where did 2010 go? I have so much to get done in the next few days. This is my year to work Thanksgiving day so we are having our Thanksgiving on Wednesday evening. Nothing fancy, just us and Brad's family here at the house. We will have the "traditional" meal with all the trimmings, yum. So that means that I need to get to the grocery store today (I want to beat the crowd next week). Luckily I took some time off work next week so I only have to work on Sunday and then on Thursday--that's it for next week. Monday, Chely and I are planning on going to Springfield to do a little Christmas shopping for the kidddo's and then on Tuesday I will need to get my desserts and salads done for Wednesday. On Wednesday it will be an all-out cooking day, inside and out. Doyle and Brad always want a fried turkey, but Chely and I want a baked one. So we compromised this year, we are frying a turkey breast and baking a whole turkey. Thanksgiving has long been my favorite holiday, I guess because it's not about "giving", it's about being thankful for who and what we have in our lives. I can't think of any better way to celebrate "Thanksgiving" than spending it with the most important people in my life and those that I love the most!!!

Ozarks Hayride

What a great time we had at the Abbey's last night! It just goes to show that it's not so much what you do but who your company in doing it is that makes for a wonderful time. It's like Kruse-a-Palooza, Ozarks style. We had a huge bonfire where the kids (of all ages) could roast their hot dogs, keep warm, and just visit. Some of us opted for the microwave route to "roast" a hot dog. After everyone had eaten, and Chelsea had gotten home from work, it was off on the hayride. I hadn't been on a hayride since junior high, so Doyle, Emily, Patrick, and I went together. Brad and Chely stayed at the bonfire with Cameron. The Abbey's had done a great job with the "hay wagon". They took a flatbed trailer, put a layer of square bales down, then made rows of hay benches that were the same height as the trailer. Steve pulled the wagon (very slowly) up the hill, around the cemetery, and then took the back trail through the woods back to the house. It was a perfect night for it, not a cloud in the sky, the stars were just gorgeous. It was chilly, especially down on the river where they live, but we took lots of warm blankets for everyone to bundle up in. All the kids there loved it, and us adults had a darn good time too!! When we got back to the house there was a huge pot of homemade hot chocolate waiting for us, yummmmmm! It was just a really fun night.

Youth Hunt

This weekend is the youth hunt in Missouri which means that kids 6-11 can hunt with an adult. Emily went out with her daddy yesterday morning and sat for quite awhile in the blind. Finally a pretty nice doe came in but she wasn't ready to shoot it. She was afraid the gun would be too loud. So when they stopped by our house I put on her ear protection and shot the rifle, hoping it would encourage her, but in the end she decided to go home and give up on the hunting for the day. She might go back out this morning, she wasn't sure yet. She's been practicing with the gun so I'm not sure why it bothered her, maybe she's just not ready, she's only eight. I do think that it was nice for her to go out with Brad and spend a little time, just the two of them. With three kids, it's hard to have one on one time very often. I'm anxious to see if she goes back out.

HOME

I'm looking forward to spending today and tomorrow at home, with no real plans!!! Last weekend/week involved too much running, I need to recharge here at home. Of course when I say no plans that doesn't mean that I have nothing to do. There's always the laundry to get done, the house to clean, and hopefully a little scrap booking worked in (I need to get some gifts started for Christmas). Oh, and football, baseball, and racing to keep up with. Thankfully I'm a pretty good multi-tasker!!!

Busy, Busy, Busy!

Sunday evening came too soon! Thankfully I have the next two days off, tho. It was a busy weekend for me. I went to Springfield on Friday, had lunch with Kurt, shopped a little, then met up with Brad, Chely, and the kids for supper. Friday was Chely's birthday and she wanted to go to Texas Roadhouse in Springfield. So all of us plus Kurt and Zoe went out and had a nice supper. Then it was back to Kurt's house to watch the little ones while Brad and Chely went out for a while. The kids had such a good time. We watched "How to Train Your Dragon" and ate popcorn until the kids all fell asleep. Emily and Patrick love spending time with Zoe, they all get along so well. On Saturday we attended my niece, Carrie's surprise birthday party and had a great time visiting with family and friends. Finally around 4 pm I headed home. Too soon it was time to get into bed so I could get up and around for work today. It was a nice, quiet day at work, nothing crazy. Tomorrow it will be back to Springfield in the afternoon (after Doyle gets off work) to attend Chely's graduation ceremony, then back home. I'm looking forward to next weekend when I can just stay at home, watch football, and relax!!!

Weekend Plans

A busy weekend awaits me. Today is Chely's birthday and we are going to Springfield for dinner tonight and are all spending the night at Kurt's. I'm keeping the kids while Brad and Chely go out for a while after dinner. I say all of us but Doyle isn't able to go. He has to work on Saturday so he will miss out. Saturday it's my niece Carrie's birthday so I hope to see her for a bit. I work again on Sunday, then on Monday it's back to Springfield for Chely's graduation ceremony. I hope Doyle will be able to join us for that. Chely really wants him there. On the Doyle subject--he is down in his back. He's not sure what he did but he's been hobbling around since Monday. I've had to help him get his shoes on and tie them for him all week. So I'm not sure how he's going to get himself ready for work on Saturday morning but he says I should go and enjoy the time with the kids. I hate leaving him when I feel like he needs me but, he won't hear about me missing Chely's birthday celebration or helping them out with the little ones.

BOOMER SOONER

What a great day this has been. It started off with breakfast at Ziggie's with my favorite guy. Next it was off to the stores to stock up on groceries and anything else that we needed around the house. When we got home I watched some of the Ryder Cup matches, then finally it was game time. Red River Rivalry--Texas vs. Oklahoma! It was a really good game although I was a little scared in the 3rd quarter when my Sooners weren't playing so well. But in the end they woke up and took care of business. We also had a quick visit from Brad and family, which always makes my day. I hope tomorrow is another great day--I'm sure it will be!!!

Monday Blahhhh!!!!

This was a true Monday--from start to finish!! First off, I was out of yogurt so I had to settle for cereal this morning. Then I get to work and one thing after another happens. I'm not sure what was going on in our Oncology department but I had to "re-do" three chemo's today--it's no fun doing it the first time, I sure don't want to have to do them over!! It was busy all day, I think I finally caught my breath at about 4:50. Thankfully I'm a floor tech tomorrow and my next day in the IV room is not until Friday. Needless to say after getting supper fixed, served, and the kitchen cleaned--I'm just chilling. My "to do" list for this evening will have to wait!!!

What a Dummy!

I'm not a stupid person, BUT sometimes I do some stupid things!!! Not gonna say them all here but sometimes I just kind of lose it and do something that I totally regret later. After my birthday last month I told myself that I was going to make some goals to achieve before I turn 50 next year, NOT doing stupid things will be near the top!!!

It's Been A While

I didn't realize that it has been so long since I posted here on the blog. I've been busy and just didn't think about it. We spent Labor Day weekend in Springfield and then I've been really busy trying to get my house clean and organized before the cold weather hits. I guess we'll call this my fall cleaning! Work has been crazy also, just really, really busy. We had a really good visit with my sister, Irene, her husband, Ed, and her daughter, Jade at Kurt's house in Springfield over Labor Day. We went to my niece's baby shower together, shopped together, and cooked together. The guys got in a couple days of golf, which always puts them in a good mood. It was a really nice time. I hope we can do it again soon!

Family Fun

Whew, what a busy couple of days it's been around here. Friday was a great day filled with good wishes, family, and love. Yesterday we went to Springfield for little Miss Z's 6th birthday party. It was at Wacky World, which I had never heard of, but it was a great venue. They had separate "party" rooms for the food, cake, presents, etc... But in the back was a huge space filled with "jump" houses. These are not really what I would call "jump" houses, they were more like gigantic inflatable climb on, slide down houses. The biggest one was probably 20 feet tall and when you slid down it, you got some speed going. They did have one that was for 5 and under kid's. It was a great time, for the adults and kids alike. I told Brad that the kids should sleep good last night after that fun. I know I did--nine hours straight!!!

I'm Lucky Again

Wow, two weeks in a row I have a four day weekend. I've had a GREAT schedule this month. I just got my September schedule and it's not so good. Oh, well you can't have it great every month. Tomorrow's a big day for me. I won't bore everyone with all the details of this weekend, but it's booked.

Four Days Off!

Today starts a much needed four day weekend for me. Thank goodness--four straight days in the IV room about did me in this week. So what are my plans for these four days?? Today I'm going to West Plains and meeting an old friend and classmate from Liberty for lunch. I'm looking forward to catching up with her. Tomorrow I'll be helping Chely and Brad out with getting Emily and Patrick to and from school. Then on Saturday, I hope to have a movie date with my guy in the afternoon and then settle in at home and watch the race from Bristol. Sunday will be my day to get things caught up and ready for another work week. Sounds like fun, huh??

Work Story

Okay, so here is the story about what happened to me at work.

It's the Wednesday before this past one and I drive into the parking lot where I always park. As I'm walking across the street I see a souped up, new Mustang making a U-turn at the end of the street. I don't really think anything about it and continue on my way. I enter the doors and am on my way to the restroom (something I do every morning) but I hear this Ma'am. Now, first of all I hate to be called Ma'am, it makes me feel like my mother!!! So I turn and standing in the foyer is a man who is definitely on something, crazy eyes are looking at me. He asks if a "certain" person is at work, I tell him I don't know that person. He continues to ask, because he knows she works here. I tell him maybe he should check at the front desk, as this is the back way into the hospital. No, he knows she works on this end. So I tell him, "I'm sorry", I don't know anyone by that name, I just park in this lot and go to my department elsewhere in the hospital. He asks me for some paper, so he can write her a "note", I tell him I don't know that person and no, I don't have any paper. He "glares" at me, says nothing, and walks out the door. I continue on my way and when I get to the Pharmacy I tell my co-workers what just happened. Well, you would have to know my co-workers to fully understand just how much they DON'T want to be involved in anything, but they tell me maybe I should get in touch with the person he wanted (not Security, as I suggested). So, I do my morning rounds of the units and when I return to the Pharmacy I talk myself into calling the person he was looking for. I find the number of her department via the hospital phone directory and call her--I tell her the whole story and she tells me that this is her ex-husband who is a meth head and crazy. She wants me to call Security and make a report, and to tell them that if they come in contact with him, not to touch him and "don't look him in the eye". Shit, I think--I just stood a few feet from the man and he "glared" at me (as I was looking him in the eye)!!!!! So, I do as she asks and call Security and make a report--I haven't heard anything since. Then to top everything off, on Thursday morning I had a doctor's appointment before work and as I turned onto the street leading to the parking lot I see a car the same color--when I got closer I could see it was a different make. I had made up my mind that if that car was a Mustang, I was going to park in another lot that morning. All this just goes to show that even if you "think" you live and work in a "little" town, crazy people are still around!!

Now on another work related topic: Our CEO said this week that we shouldn't post anything about work on ANY social networking site. Do we all agree with this?? According to him, this includes saying: I'm heading to work, or something like "work sucked today" or "work was great today". I'm confused--thinking about deleting all my work related friends from facebook, but hate to do that. What do you all think???

Squiggly? Yes!

The beer tolerance that I worked so hard to build up at Kruse-a-Palooza is gone. I think that last night is the first time in a LONG time that I got drunk on 4 (yes, only 4) beers. And to top it off, I have a full blown hangover this morning, complete with stomach ache, headache, and the shakes! I can't remember the last time I had a hangover, it's got to have been many, many years ago. I'm pretty sure the last one was after I slept on the bathroom floor (believe me, there's a lot more to that, but that story will NEVER be told here). Maybe I didn't eat enough yesterday. Well, to make things worse, Doyle and I are heading to West Plains this morning. We have a breakfast "date" (ughhhhh), then we need to get groceries, then it's off to Thayer to pick up some kittens from a guy that Doyle works with. That will put our kitten population to 7, next time we need to communicate with each other when we tell people we'll take their kittens! I also have a story to tell about something that happened to me this week, but that will have to wait until my next post.

Updated Blog

Over the last few days I've been working on updating my blog and I think that I'm finally done. I tried the red background but in the end I had to return to something green. It has been and will probably always be my favorite color. It just didn't seem right when I would look at it and see red, (green suits me much better). I also took the time and updated my profile, which was quite a challenge for me. The books and movies were hard to decide on, usually my favorite is the movie I just watched or the book I just read. I've had this blog for a while now and this is the first time I've updated my profile, I like to think that I am always learning and changing, so I guess it was time to change things up on here also!

Date Night?

I think that Doyle and I had a date tonight, at least I'm gonna say we did. I had to swing by one of my co-workers' home after work to get some kittens I had told her I would take, so I was a little later getting home. When I came into the house Doyle was all cleaned up and waiting to take me out to eat. We went to the Mexican place in town and had a nice supper complete with some ice cold Miller Lite (served in a frosty glass, mmmmm). Good food, good drink, and the BEST company I could ask for--if this is any indication of how the weekend is going to be, it's going to be great!

A Great Day Was Had By All!

What a great day--spent with my daughter-in-law and my grandkids!!! We enjoyed a great lunch together at Olive Garden and then did A LOT of school shopping. I don't think I've ever went to Springfield, spent so much money, and came home with so little for myself!!! I got a pair of flip flops (on clearance at Target) and a book (from the bargain table) at Barnes and Noble. But we had two huge sacks from Children's Place and several sacks from Target--all for the kiddo's! Hopefully they are set with clothes and shoes for awhile. We also made a little side trip to St. Johns and visited Kurt at his work. It was good to see him, I hadn't seen him in quite a while. The kids were so good all day long, especially Cameron--he's such a good little guy. Days like today remind me of how lucky I am to have my family so close and it makes me realize what is really important in this life--FAMILY!!!

My Sweet Emily

Today is Emily's 8th birthday--where did the years go to?? Seems like yesterday I walked into the hospital room right after she was born and held her for the first time. She was so little, with the smallest face I had ever seen. She's still skinny as a rail but now she's quite tall to go along with it. Seems like she still looks like me but has inherited her Grandpa Don's body type (tall and thin)--lucky girl!! She was my first Grandchild and a girl, so she will always hold a special place in my heart. Don't get me wrong those two little boys can melt my heart in a second, but it seems like Emily always had a little harder time when she was a baby and toddler. Not that she was mistreated in any way, Brad and Chely just had a lot of growing up to do themselves. They have been much different parents to Patrick and Cameron. It was like the three of them were all growing up together. Anyway, we will be going to Chely's folks later for the birthday meal and party. Then on Wednesday myself, Chely, and all three kiddo's are going to Springfield to take Emily shopping so she can spend her bithday money, that's what she wanted, she wants to buy new clothes. Another trait she probably got from her Nana Jessie! Doyle wouldn't give her money, he got her a new 20" bike, a purple one, her favorite color at the moment. Time does go by too fast, espically when it comes to my babies. Happy Birthday, my sweet Emily!!!

Kruse-a-Palooza Wrap-up!

Doyle and l left out early on Saturday (July 10th) for the annual Kruse-a-Palooza in Minnesota. We stopped at our favorite place along the route for breakfast, Peggy's, in Clinton, MO. Then we were on the road with only gas stops the rest of the way. The last couple of times we've made the trip we have figured out that this is what works best for us. It cuts off quite a bit of time and we are always so anxious to arrive in Slayton.

Here are a few of the highlights of the trip: Of course for Doyle the golfing is the best, not only because it's one of his favorite things to do, but because he gets to play with family. They can all play horrible but he is happy to have the time to spend with his brothers and sisters and their families. For me, it's about being around family that accepts you for who you are, and loves you anyway! We once again stayed with Betty, Bruce, and TJ. They spoil us with their hospitality and I hope that they know how much we appreciate them. We toured Shetek Lake on the Why Knott again this year, but this year the weather was perfect and the open bar didn't hurt either. The ladies had a garden tour of each one of their gardens. It makes me want to start a garden of my own, but then I'm not sure if I'm ready to commit the kind of time it would take. The vegetable garden is enough right now. We did something different this year by touring a micro-brewery, Brau Brothers Brewing Co. in Lucan, MN. It was a fantastic time, a special thanks to our nephew, Bryan for setting it up. If you ever see Olde 56 Lite beer, try it, you won't be disappointed. The sisters and sisters-in-law got together and went out for lunch one day at the Grain Exchange, it was so nice to get out and enjoy a carefree lunch and a few drinks together. My sister-in-law, Twyla and I took a little side trip on Thursday afternoon to the casino in Flandreau, SD (can't remember the name, but it belongs to the Yankton Sioux tribe). Lorie put on a fireworks show for the little kids in the back yard one evening. So many little things happened, whether everyone was involved or just a few. But most of all the best times are just sitting around either in the breezeway, the "big top", or around the fire pit enjoying each other's company. In the end that's why we all go, to just be together, no matter what we're doing. It's nice to be a part of something that is so simple but means so much to so many.


Of course no Kruse-a-Palooza could happen without Leon and Lorie. They go above and beyond each and every year. They open their home without a second thought, and I know that there is a lot of work and money that goes into such a big gathering. No matter how many times you tell them "thanks" it can never be enough. They are very special people and I love them both!!!


Lastly, our trip is a time when we can enjoy and reconnect with all the Kruse's. It's nice to be able to walk to Mildred's apartment and bring her to and from Kruse-a-Palooza. It's nice that although we live over 700 miles away (and don't get to see everyone often enough), when we park the car and get out everyone greets us with a hug and a smile. It's special to me that for some unknown reason Twyla has taken to calling me Jessie June, and I like it. I guess that as we get older the "little" important things in life rise to the surface!!!

Minnesota or Bust!

We leave EARLY in the morning for Minnesota and another edition of Kruse-a-palooza! I'm waiting on the dryer and then I can finish packing the suitcase. Everything else is ready. The golf clubs are in the car, the cooler is ready to be packed in the morning and I just have to pack my make-up after getting ready tomorrow morning. I love to go, just hate the drive to get there. I wish I could just do the old "Bewitched" trick--twitch my nose and be there. I'm just sad that we couldn't be there tonight for Denver and Danielle's wedding. I'm sure we'll miss a good time at the reception/dance tonight. Hopefully, everyone will save some "good times" for after we get there. Can't wait!!!

Vacation Here I Come!

One more day of work for me--then I'm off until the 18th--woo hooooo!!!! I'm so ready for a little break from "the REAL world". I can't wait to see family in Minnesota, since we've been making it a yearly event for the past few years, I really look forward to it. It's always such a good time, it's nice to forget all the worries of work and home for a few days. Nothing beats a week with family at Kruse-a-palooza (except maybe a week in Vegas, my favorite place to visit). One of these years I want to combine the two and have Kruse-a-palooza Vegas style--that would be a blast!!!

Party Wrap-Up

Saturday's party was a success, I think!! We had a good turnout and tons of food. Many thanks to Chely (I couldn't have pulled this party off without her). I think the only thing I need to remember for next time is that kids (teenagers, preteen, on down) can drink A LOT of whatever you have available. I could have used another one or two 12 packs of soda. They were left with water and Gatorade, which wasn't too popular with some of them. Letting the teenagers (under Doyle's supervision) set off the fireworks made up for the lack of soda. Everyone that came seemed to enjoy the meal and seemed to have a good time visiting, which is the reason that I wanted to have the party in the first place. I hope we can do it again!!!

A Great Way To Start The Day!

We had a nice surprise this morning. My brother-in-law stopped by with 4 of his grandsons. They drove all night from Oklahoma and decided to make a "pit stop" at our house. The boys promptly got on the trampoline and Ed sat down on the love seat. Pretty soon he asked if I still had a bed in the extra bedroom--of course the answer was yes--so he decided to take a little nap. While Grandpa Ed slept, I asked the boys if they were hungry (they're 7-11), and the answer was "YES" (even tho they had had Pop Tarts in the truck). So I fixed scrambled eggs, french toast, and biscuits & gravy. They ate pretty good. Then Grandpa Ed got his second wind and they headed to his parents house. Oh, and before they left they "picked" potatoes and onions from our garden. He was planning on stopping in town to buy potatoes and onions, but the boys enjoyed getting their own from the garden. We showed them green beans, tomatoes, and cucumbers also (but they're not ready yet). Hopefully before they go home we will have some more produce for them to see. They also picked a few ripe blackberries, which they all thought they were picking for me. I ended up eating my share and they all tried them. They were pretty tart, but delicious. Maybe I'll talk Chely into making a blackberry cobbler for next Saturday when everyone will be back at our house for a nice BBQ and visit!! I would gladly pick the berries, if she will do the work of the cobbler!

Catch Up Post--Get Ready to Read for Awhile!

So tomorrow I head back to work after 4 days off. Seems like the story of my life but, I didn't get everything accomplished over the past 4 days that I would have liked to. My house isn't spotless, my garden is not weeded, and I still have boxes sitting around the house waiting on that yard sale. Holly cancelled on me again--I'm pretty sure that it's time to just give the stuff away and forget the yard sale. So I'm going to give some jigsaw puzzles to my co-workers that want them, and the clothes I plan to donate to a local church--the rest is going to MUNCH, a local group that has a thrift store. Actually if you go and put your stuff on their porch after hours, it's a guarantee that it won't be there in the morning. I have actually put leftover yard sale items on their porch, went back for a second load and returned to find the first load gone. One topic down.

Topic two--Vacation. It's fast approaching and we still don't know what day we are leaving for Minnesota. Doyle's work is holding up the decision. If he has to work on the 10th, then it will be the 11th, if not, then the 10th. I hate indecision, I can't even begin to think about packing when I don't know how many days we will be gone. Then to top it off, Sunday the 18th is my Sunday to work, so we will have to be home by Saturday, but I would like to be home on Friday so that I can have a day to unpack, do laundry, and just get myself ready to go back to work. That probably won't happen, but I can hope. I hate to be that way, but I really NEED that day at home before heading back to work! This will be my only vacation this year (except for taking time off and staying home) and I hope that it's enjoyable!!

Topic three--Father's Day. It was great. Brad and Chely brought steaks for supper that Doyle grilled. I made baked potatoes, salad, cheese tray, relish tray, etc...... We had so much food, Doyle and I will be having leftovers for the rest of the week. Which works really good for me, ha ha!! Patrick broke my heart when he didn't want to go home--he just wanted to stay and climb those trees!! My nephew, Luke and his girlfriend, Chelsea joined us for supper. They have pretty much become a fixture for Sunday family dinners. Brad and Luke have so much in common, and Chely and Chelsea are pretty close, so they like to have them come join us. We enjoy it to, I love having lots of family over.

Topic four--4th of July. I want to have a blow out bbq/party this year. My sister and her family (kids and grandkids) will be in Missouri during the holiday, so I've volunteered to have a July 4th bbq here at the house. Now I'm debating on having it on July 3rd in the evening. That way more of the family can come and we can have fireworks. The Howell County fireworks will be on the 4th so this way we could have fireworks two nights. I miss Irene so much, that I want to treat her family to a good time during the holiday. Now that means that I need to get to Springfield and buy party goods--I'm thinking red/white/blue bunting on the fences, lanterns around the deck and a big pinata for the kids to bust!!! Sounds like a blast to me!!!

So, now I think that I'm caught up. Oh, except the crap that's going on at work. But, that's another story for another night. I'm all typed out for now!

Father's Day 2010

Happy Father's Day to my two special men--Doyle and Brad! I could not have chosen a better man to have a child with. Doyle is and always has been a great father. Brad has grown into a good father these last few years. He was so young when Emily was born and it took a while for him to grow into his role as a father. He was more engaged when Patrick came along and now with Cameron he is all over his role as DD (Cameron's name for Brad)!! We will be celebrating later today with a bbq for the Dad's.

Ready for the Weekend!!

Just one more day of work, then my weekend starts. This past Sunday was my Sunday to work so my four days will be done on Wednesday. Sunday was also the day that we converted to our "updated" computer system. We had downtime from 9am to 3pm--then we had to work like heck to get our stuff done by quitting time. Needless to say, I'm tired and I'm ready for my four day weekend to start. Hopefully tomorrow will be a little less hectic and will fly by!!

Bummed--Twice in One Day!

Yesterday I finally sucked it up and decided to order DSL from our local phone company. I tried once before to get it from my current internet provider and had the modem sitting on the desk, hooked up and ready to go, only to find out that the phone company couldn't provide the service. So we've received several mailings stating that we could bundle our phone, Dish, and internet. I call and order it all bundled, I have an appointment for the technician to come and install the wireless modem, etc on next Thursday. Yippee, I'm happy----only to get a phone call later in the day from CenturyLink saying that their engineering department will have to upgrade our line before they can do the install. She couldn't give me a definite date but said it hopefully would be sooner rather than later. So I'm stuck with my dial-up for a little longer. Bummed!!

Our nephew, Denver is getting married during Kruse-a-palooza this year. Another yippee!! His fiance, Danielle is a really nice girl and fits in so well with the whole clan, bless her heart, (Doyle's family can be kind of intimidating to someone who's not grown up (or been) around them--the size alone is intimidating). Anyway, we received our invitation yesterday, but we can't attend. It's on Friday the 9th and we will not be able to leave for Minnesota until the 10th or possibly the 11th. We have missed so many of the family events over the years, I guess this will be another. Bummed!!!

A Big Day For A Big Boy!

Today is Cameron's 1st birthday and we will be hosting his party!!! It's basically just family and a few of Chely's friends. Brad and Chely wanted a meal of burgers, dogs, brats, etc.... That works well for me since Doyle will be doing most of the cooking outside. I did get up early this morning and make a pot of chili for chili dogs and I've still got to make potato salad and a pasta caesar salad. We got Cameron a Radio Flyer wagon. It's the hard plastic kind that has the seat backs that flip up on both ends. I think he will love it. Papa Doyle also got a funky sprinkler for the kids to run through today. Hopefully everything goes smooth and everyone enjoys the party, especially our little birthday boy!!!

My Sweet!

Okay, so I usually hate it when people brag about their marriages or relationships--because when you brag, that really means that your relationship sucks!!! BUT, I'm gonna say tonight that I have a GREAT husband (not bragging, just stating fact). Not only does he put up with all my shit, but he loves me more each day despite it. We have been through some tough times, during the almost 30 years we have been together, but when you are truly meant for each other, you work things out. Even when we divorced, we were never apart (yes, he always came to my house, or I went to his--more times he came to me--all I had to do was call--which was often). We ended up re-married, which is no surprise to people that really KNEW us. Sometimes when things are right, you just know it. That's how it should be--FOREVER!!! I can only say that Doyle is mine and I am his--enough said!!! I couldn't be happier in my life and I must say that I think he feels the same!

This is a really strange post for me, but I feel like I just need to type this--I'm feeling somewhat nostalgia tonight and Doyle has been through a LOT with me, I just want him to know that's it's not gone unnoticed. I love you, babe!!! I'm not sure where I would be without you, but I'm sure that I wouldn't be as happy as I am tonight!

Oh No!!

I'm feeling rather proud of myself today. I had to run some errands this morning but when I went to start the car, it was dead! Seems I left the key "on" after rolling down the windows on Wednesday night. Oh no!!! Worst part is Brad was borrowing my car to meet Chely in Springfield tonight to have dinner. So I tightened my belt (really, I don't wear a belt) and scoured the garage for the charger, and hooked it up on the car. Okay, so really I had texted Brad and told him of the situation and he told me how to hook up the charger! Anyway within an hour I was on my way to West Plains to complete my errands and hours later he was on his way to Springfield to have dinner with Chely. All's well that ends well---no matter how it got done!!!

Oh, My Aching Back and That DAMN Closet!

Today starts a four day weekend for me---YAY!!!! Things worked out at work for me to take an extra day off and I jumped at the chance. I slept in this morning, which I hadn't planned on doing, but I'm glad I did. I actually feel rested for the first time this week. Emily and Patrick spent last Saturday night with us. Even tho we have an extra bed, they always want to sleep in the living room floor on the air mattress. And of course they always want Nana to sleep with them, so I do. I always feel like crap after doing that. It's just not good for this old body to do that!!!

Doyle is working again this Saturday. I know that it's great that his work is picking up a bit, but I got used to him being off every weekend, so now I need to get used to him working more again. It's not like I don't have things to keep me busy around here. I have one more closet to get through (ours, yikes!) to be ready for the yard sale. I say that but I'm not sure if it will ever take place--no one will commit to an actual date!! I told myself I would give them til June to set a date and if we haven't by then, it's going to MUNCH or somewhere else. I'm tired of living around boxes!!! Besides I want this project done so I can move on to a project much more fun, like scrapbooking. I always feel guilty doing "fun" things when I feel that my house is not in order. Just another one of my little quirks. So, I'm off to tackle that closet--I hope I can find my way out--if I don't post in a month, send help!!!

TGIF

Whew, it's finally Friday night!!! I thought this day would never end at work. It was busy, but it just seemed to drag on. I'm looking forward to two days off. Doyle has to work tomorrow so I'll take advantage of the time and get the housework and laundry done so we can enjoy Sunday together. Monday morning will be here before we know it. I hope everyone enjoys the weekend!

Mother's Day 2010

I hope all the Mom's out there had a great day yesterday. I had a wonderful day with Doyle, Brad, Chely, and the little ones. Brad and family came over in the afternoon and ended up staying for supper. Doyle and Emily put together some awesome ka-bobs, Chely made her famous (famous in our family, anyway!) deviled eggs, and I did the "crazy potatoes" that they all love. I really love having all my family around the table at one time. Sometimes I take that for granted but then when I talk to family and friends whose kids are not so close, it makes me realize how lucky we are. I just enjoy the heck out of those kids!!!

Something To Brighten My Day

My two favorite little men stopped by the hospital today to see me. Brad took Chely to Urgent Care and before they left West Plains they stopped by. She is fine, just a touch of the flu. Cameron really wasn't too social--he was tired and just wanted his Daddy and Mommy. But my little man Patrick couldn't get enough of his Nana. He had stories to tell (as he always does). He had to come into the Pharmacy and have me hold him, then he gave me lots of hugs and kisses when he had to leave. It was such a treat for them to stop by!! Then Chely texted me tonight and said that Miss Emily had a reading test today at school and she is reading above her first grade level. Way to go, Emily!!!


Doyle has been wiped out--he worked his days last week, then on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday he worked 12 hour days. They are changing some equipment at the mill and asked him to help. So now he has to work another 5 days this week (possibly 6, depending on how they run) before he gets a day off. That's a lot of days in a row.


My week is half done as of today--just two more days, then I'll have three off. I'm ready--the hospital has been so busy for so long that we never seem to have any down time anymore. It's good for business, but I kinda liked it not being so busy. We opened a new unit today so that means even more work for us. Guess it's job security, and the good thing about being busy is that it makes the days fly by. Here at home I'm trying to get things together for a yard sale. We were suppose to have one last weekend but with the trip to Minnesota I just wasn't ready. Holly wasn't ready either, so we put it off. Now I have things setting around the house, ready to go. If we don't have one soon, I'm just going to donate it and be done with it. I would like to get a little money for the stuff, but I can't stand to have it sitting around for too long. Must be my claustrophobia!! Either way, it's good to have it out of the house. Now if I could just get Brad to take all of his stuff!!!

Life is short!!

I'm going to try and do this post--I haven't felt like doing much since we returned from Minnesota. Life seems so fragile, so short. Roy's death and funeral has hit me hard--harder than I ever imagined (those damn bells). I've seen a side of Doyle that I never imagined (even through the death of his Dad). He is sad, depressed, and has cried more in the last couple of weeks than in all our married life. I'm sad for him, I can't imagine losing one of my brothers or sisters. And that opens another whole can of worms--I need to be a better sister to all my siblings. I get so wrapped up in my life that I seem to forget my "original" family. That's something I need to work on!!! Right now, life is sad, but I'm hoping we can get past this. Roy is in a better place, we both know this, but yet we are sad that he's not "here" anymore. That's selfish on our part--we can't expect to keep him here (in pain and suffering) for us. Time will heal our wounds, but it will take time.

Goodbye to Roy

Today we lost Doyle's brother, Roy. We found out in December that he had leukemia, and he's been fighting it since. He lived in Grapevine, Texas and he was 51 years old. We made a trip in December right before Christmas and visited him in the hospital. His spirits were fairly high, he was hoping to get out of the hospital as soon as they could get his "white" count up. But, he never left the hospital until Wednesday of this week. We made the trip again this past weekend, he had changed so much in those few short months. He was too thin, and he had lost his hair, but he was still able to laugh when his brothers and sisters talked about different times growing up. Then on Monday he just gave up, and stopped treatment, and on Wednesday he was transferred to Dennis' (Doyle's brother, that lives in Grapevine also) house on Hospice. Those that were there in his last couple of days say he was at peace, and no longer in pain. That's all we can hope for in the end.

Roy was a sweet soul. He never married, never had any children of his own. But he was the one that always had time to run and play with the kids when we would get together as a family. That is what I will remember most about him, his kindness and love for his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Although he seemed harsh, and was definitely stubborn at times, he was really just a big kid at heart. We didn't get to spend a lot of time with him with him living in Texas and us here. Really what time we did get together was spent in Minnesota, but I will miss him.

Rest in Peace, Roy--we will see you again someday, Brother!!!!

TMI???

So here's the latest debate at work. We all know this couple that both used to work at the hospital--now he still works there, she works elsewhere. Anyway, they got into a BIG fight a few weekends ago (I'm talking weapons were banished, cops were called, arrests were made, fight). Now they are constantly posting "lovey dovey" messages on each others facebook pages, and the big debate is that anytime someone posts a message like that the relationship is really in trouble. I personally think that is not always the case--I have posted a gushy post about Doyle and it was from the heart, not even trying to make up for a fight. That would be hard, since he doesn't "facebook". So, is it appropriate to post "love" messages about your spouse (or significant other) on a public social network?? I have my opinion, what is yours, and am I stupid to think it's okay??

My Say on Healthcare!

Okay, I'm going to post once about this once. Whenever this bill is signed by Obama, our country will have started a change that will forever be the start of the end for our way of life!! That's how I truly feel. I really didn't ever think that I would see this in my lifetime, my Dad told me I would but I didn't believe him. He also said that in the "end times" we would be a third world nation. I believe that this bill is the start of us becoming just that, a third world nation. How can we sustain this kind of spending when our population is getting older which in turn means less working people. Doyle and I have given up the thought of ever "retiring", we will have to work until we die just to get by. And the deeper in debt our country becomes the more we are at the mercy of the nation's that do have money, i.e. CHINA, and the oil-rich Muslim nations. Is that where we really want to go as a people??? I really never thought of myself as a "political" person, but I will say this: That in November I will be one of the people with signs in the yard. I have always voted but I will actively be campaigning this go around!!! We must take our country back and do what we can to undo what's just been done, hopefully it's not to late. If you are reading this and consider yourself a religious person, please pray to GOD for our country--at this point I think he is the only one who can save us!!! Now, that's how I feel--if you don't agree, that is your right, enjoy it--it may be the last right you have! Because if you think this is their ultimate goal, you are mistaken--they want TOTAL control of everything and I for one like my freedom. We are the USA, we were founded on freedom and when this thing is signed we will be giving up a big part of it to the government, not my idea of moving forward. For the first time in my life I'm afraid that my kid and his kids are NOT going to be doing better than I have and that's a very sad thought. I'll end by saying that I hope I'm wrong and that they do have the betterment of our country in mind with this thing, but my "gut" tells me otherwise!

A Much Needed Vacation

Today is the first day of my "spring break", and it went entirely too fast!! I did get a lot done around the house, so I won't feel so bad about goofing off for a couple of days. Tomorrow I'm meeting my sister, Irene in Springfield for a day of visiting and shopping. I haven't decided whether I'm spending tomorrow night there or driving back home. I'll take a bag just in case. I'm watching the grand kids on Friday while Brad works and Chely is at school. Then finally on Saturday Doyle and I are heading to Tulsa with Kurt, Holly, and a couple that Kurt works with. We wanted to stay at Hard Rock Tulsa but, they were booked (Randy Travis is having a show there) so we are staying about a half mile away at the Holiday Inn. I'm really looking forward to a little "fun", maybe I'll even get lucky and win a little money!!!

Spring Break

Whew, I'm glad that my week is done, although my time off will be short, I have to work this Sunday and Monday. BUT, then I will be off for seven days straight. YIPPEE!! My sister and her daughter were suppose to spend some time at my house over their spring break, but they had to change their plans. I decided to take the time off anyway. I have plenty to do here around the house but, I will probably run around most of the week. I need to take my car to Springfield to have it serviced, and I would like to spend a couple days in Springfield visiting my niece's and nephew's. I also have a shopping list made up of things I need to get while I'm up there. Doyle and I had thought about making a fast trip to Texas to visit with his brother but, after much thought we are going to wait. Next Saturday we are going to Tulsa for a little gambling trip with some of my family. I can't wait, I'm always ready to hit the casino. I'm definitely in need of some down time--hope this does the trick!!

Yeah, New Post!

After a nice 3 day weekend, it was back to work for me today. The hospital has been so busy for so long, I'm afraid that this is the new "normal". Seems like we don't have any (or very little) down time these days. I'm taking a few days off in March and I'm ready!

Doyle and I had a nice day in Springfield on Sunday. We stopped for breakfast on the way and then spent a few hours shopping. Home Depot and Lowe's for him, Michael's and the Mall for me. I spent too much money as usual, but a lot of it was spent at Sam's, so that doesn't really count as spending it on me. Ha! We had a late lunch/early dinner with Kurt and Holly, then went to my Great-Niece Addyson's 2nd birthday party.

Lastly, I want to mention that Doyle's brother Roy is having to take another round of chemo. Things were looking so good, they were even trying to figure out how to let him go home, then they did another bone marrow pull and the end result is chemo again. I feel so bad for him, he's been stuck in the hospital since December 5th. Doyle and I are probably going to go down to Texas on March 19th for a quick weekend visit.

Wondering Out Loud

What was such a beautiful weekend turned to sadness for me last night. I found out that Kurt and Holly are living apart. Now, this isn't a surprise, I've known for months that it was coming. But when I found out it had actually happened, it hit me like a brick wall. My head is still aching this morning from all the crying. Thank goodness I have today off, not sure how I would be at work today. Adding to everything was the fact that Chely had known for a while, and she didn't tell me. In her defense--yes, it was Kurt or Holly who should tell me, BUT in the past I've told her something in confidence and that confidence wasn't kept. Why when it's something that I've asked her to keep to herself she feels that would be wrong (and tells Brad), but when it's something someone else told her, she feels that it wouldn't be right to tell anyone??? I just don't get it. So, I'm the bad person (once again) and Brad calls Doyle, yes Doyle, not me and tells him how I've upset Chely. To top it off, Doyle says nothing in my defense. I'm just so tired of always being the "bad guy", especially when it's me that has done so much financially to help the kids. I guess I feel used, and unappreciated! I'm not sure that I can get past the fact that Doyle didn't take up for me, even if he thought I was wrong, he should have at least explained to Brad that I was upset and maybe they should put themselves in my position. I see us falling back into the same place we were years ago, I'm always wrong and everything is my fault. Seems like no matter what or how much I do for everyone, it's never enough!

I'm tired of being cold!

Here I sit at the computer with my Snuggie on and dreaming of springtime. I don't think this cold weather is ever going away. So much for global warming, Al Gore!!! I'm beginning to develop cabin fever, even tho I go to work, I'm still inside all day with no sunshine. I officially have the "winter blahs".

Hiring once again!

This is wearing me out!!! Our newest tech, Liz, moved to Branson and so that once again puts us in the hiring phase. Somehow I ended up on the hiring committee once again and I would really like to take a pass this time. To top things off another tech had surgery (minor) on Monday so we are technically two people short. Carolyn will be out for at least a week and a half, and we're not even sure when our second round of interviews will start. We have had over 45 people apply, so we are still weeding through them with a quick first interview. So every time we have turned around this week someone is at the window for an interview, which has played havoc with our schedule of how things run in the Pharmacy. To top it off, I'm working an extra day this week (50 hours total) and I had previously promised my niece that I would help her out this weekend (Valentine's) at her flower shop in Springfield. That puts me working 11 days straight---blah!!! The only saving grace for me is that Kurt and I are planning on making a trip to the Casino's on Saturday night. Bring on the slots, please!!!!!

Weekend Snow

So Friday morning Doyle got up and went to work only to find out that his work had been cancelled due to the weather moving in. He got home about 7am and we still had no bad weather to speak of. I had been watching the local news and the snow had begun in Springfield and was going to get to us at some point. Finally around mid-morning it began to snow and just kept snowing. We had gone to Willow Springs to help the kids on two separate occasions on Friday and it wasn't really good driving either time. After the second visit we were home to stay about 7pm and the snow kept falling. I was so tired (and cold) that I went to bed about 9pm and when I got up this morning it was to about 8" of snow. It must of snowed most of the night. So Doyle was out bright and early (after making me coffee--thanks, hun) shoveling the front and back porches and beginning the drive. I finally got breakfast ready and while we were eating we heard a tractor coming up the road. Our neighbor was cleaning the county road, and he even cleaned our drive for us. On his second pass, Doyle went out and tried to give him some money for fuel but he refused--he said he was just playing. People like Mr. Crabtree make you appreciate living in a small, rural community. I went out and took several pictures of the beautiful snow and hopefully I'll get them posted later.

Playing the Waiting Game

Will it storm or won't it. The weatherman says yes, he's just not sure what all is coming our way. At some point this evening/night it's suppose to begin with rain/sleet turning to snow. They are talking anywhere from 6-12". Yikes!!! That doesn't seem like all that much, but that much snow would shut down the rural areas here in the Ozarks. There are so many back roads with twists, turns, and hills. Even tho we only live 1/8mile from a major four lane highway, it will be a chore getting onto the highway. The road crews do a good job of cleaning off the four lane but unfortunately for us when they push the snow it creates a huge drift at the end of the side roads so getting onto the highway is sometimes impossible. Last year Doyle high-centered his car while trying to get me to work. One good thing is that I'm off work until Sunday so that gives us a couple of days to dig out! I ventured to Wal-Mart this morning and stocked up on all the goodies/groceries that I thought we might need the next week or so (just in case). I figured Wal-Mart would be crazy with people this morning but I guess I got there early enough to beat the crowd, hopefully I haven't forgotten anything. I really hope that I've done all these preparations for nothing, but I really do think that we are due, and this one doesn't look like it's going to miss us! :(

A little "Me" time??

Today I'm enjoying the day at home "all by myself". Since we work four 10's at the Pharmacy, I always have 3 days off with 2 of them being "most" weekends (I do have to work every sixth Sunday), and not always but I do get a lot of Fridays off. That's great for a three day weekend but sometimes it's nice to get a day off in the middle of the week. Not that I'm going to do much with it. I thought about going to Springfield for the day, but just didn't feel like getting myself up and around in time to go with Chely (she leaves at 6am to get to school by 8), so I'm just lounging around the house. I'm working my way through the pot of coffee and I've starting some laundry. I started cleaning, purging, re-organizing my kitchen this past weekend so I need to finish the last cabinet. I left the worst for last--the dreaded "under the sink" cabinet. I don't know how I end up with so many cleaning supplies. Guess I'm always looking for something to make it easier but in the end they are all pretty much the same. So I have made a vow to myself not to buy anything "new/improved" until all that I own now is gone. Even if I don't really like it or want to use it, I'm going to make myself!!! Well, that cabinet isn't going to clean itself while I sit here at the computer, so I better get to it.

100th Post

I wasn't sure what I would post about tonight, but when I went to post I noticed that I had 99 posts---so this makes my 100th post. This blog has been a blessing to me in many ways--I've gotten things off my chest that would have probably festered in my brain (even if I can't name names, it's good to just post about "hypothetical" things). Also this blog has helped me to refresh my mind and I must admit that I've used a dictionary more since I've started this blog than I had in many years. Yeah, I use spell check, but you still have to get close for it to work. Sometimes I wish that I could totally let loose, and post about how I really feel about people and things that are happening in my life, but sometimes to be cautious is best!!!

The perfect Friday!

Everyone needs a little "down" time and today was that for me! I enjoyed just being at home, I made two trips to the mailbox (one to put out the mail, and the other to retrieve the mail), but other than that I was inside and cozy all day. My day consisted of a couple loads of laundry (my work clothes--so I don't have to think about it again til Monday morning), a pot of chili made and a jigsaw puzzle finished. Oh, and a little facebook time thrown in just for fun! It felt good just to chill and not think about anything of any importance--back to reality tomorrow tho, that means some housework, maybe some grocery shopping and more laundry.

3 Day Weekend=Happiness!

I am so happy to have my week in and have a 3 day weekend. Not because I don't want to go to work, or because I'm tired. I just want to stay in my warm house and not have to get out in the COLD! I'm thinking tomorrow might be one of those "lounge pants and t-shirt" day. I'm planning to start a big ole pot of chili in the morning, and just putter around the house. That sounds so nice, my leaving the house will consist of walking to the mailbox!

Okay on another note---the National Championship game is tonight (in a few minutes) and I truly am a "Horn Hater". You can't be a OU fan and like Texas, but tonight I must root for the Big 12. So----hook'em horns!!!

Brrrrrrr

I'm not enjoying this COLD weather and if the forecast is right, it's only going to get worse. We got several inches of snow on Sunday and it's been single digit temps every morning this week. Now they are talking even colder the rest of the week with more snow and wind mixed in. I always feel so sorry for my in-laws that live in South Dakota/Minnesota---well, we are fixing to get a little taste of what they have all winter. I'm so very thankful to have a garage, at least I don't have to go out, start the car and wait for it to warm up before I can leave in the mornings. I can't wait til Friday when I don't have to worry about getting out early and going to work. I might just stay in my warm pj's all day long!!!

2010-The Plan

It's that time again--time to lay out my goals for the New Year.

1) To quit eating out so much. I have to make myself cook!
2) To really think before I purchase anything--do I "need" it or just "want" it to have it.
3) To get more exercise!!
4) To not "have" to have the last word.
5) To rid myself and my home of unwanted/unneeded items.

That's the list, only 5 this year but they encompass a lot. They all have to do with being more disciplined in a lot of areas of my life.

Lastly today I wanted to pass along something that one of my facebook friends had posted. She said they spent Jan 1 going through the house room by room and making a list of all the little items that needed to be repaired. I thought this was a great idea, but I'm going to do the walk through and make my list of all the little hiding places that seem to accumulate junk in my house and take them one by one this year and go through them. Thanks Cindy for a terrific idea!!!

Out with 2009---in with 2010

Wow, where did 2009 go??? I'm trying to take a few minutes today and think about the last year and things that happened (good and bad) and learn from them all. I do believe that no matter what, everything happens in your life for a reason. Trying times and good times are given to us to learn some lesson from, and 2009 taught me a lot about myself. I never thought I could love my grandchildren more but with the addition of Cameron this past year, I learned that there is always more love to give. Each child is different and with that my love for each is different, each one is special and my love for them continues to grow each day. I've heard the old saying that Grandchildren are the reward for parenting, and it makes me kinda sad that as a younger person I didn't take the time to enjoy Brad as much as I'm able to enjoy his children. That leads me to another old saying "with age, comes wisdom", that is so true. I can look back at my life and think how could I have done this or that, but it happened, I can't go back and redo my life. And I'm not sure if that would be the best thing, as I said, you learn from everything you do. Along with the good of 2009 (and there were many things to be grateful for), there was also some bad, sad, make me mad things. I lost the friendship of someone that had been a part of my life for many years and although I know it was for the best and I'm a happier person without them in my life, it still makes me sad. We shared a lot of good and bad times together, but our friendship had to end for us to become better people. Maybe one day we can be friends again, but there was too much done and said between us for that to happen for a long time. Along the way with the good and bad of 2009, I lived my life, each and every day. Yeah, it's not a "I did this" or "I went here" kind of year, but I spent it with a family that loves me for who I am, and I really can't ask for anything more. As we begin another year together, my wish for my family, my friends, and myself is that we continue to learn from our mistakes and NEVER take each other for granted. Life is precious and it should be spent being happy, enjoying those we love, and never letting the "little" things get us down.