No dreams today. Aren't you happy? I'm giving you a break.
Speaking of breaks - we had a doozy of a rain storm last night. A break from the dry and from the heat.
It didn't last more than an hour or two, but it thundered to beat the band - and it poured.
Long, lovely, soaking RAIN.
Maybe my lawn will last a few more weeks now.
On the other side of the coin - it's official. I'm becoming an antique.
My emails have been steadily dwindling, even my regular junk mail is giving up on me.
One of the few emails I got yesterday was a note from a company where I applied for a job.
The second time this year they have refused me.
Lately I feel like I'm becoming extinct. I've been fighting it for years, but it's inevitable. Maybe it's time to just give in and let go.
I'm tired.
*I feel as popular as Typhoid Mary.
*Stick a fork in me honey - I'm done.
*I can feel myself fossilizing as we speak.
Bleah.
...On the upside - I'm becoming a formidable presence on the High Seas. Arrgh - I have over 2 mil in ill gotten booty, a fleet of ships, me own private island, and a monkey named Jack.
My farm is the envy of all my neighbors...
...And I'm steadily rising in the ranks of the Mafia and my Sorority.
(Facebook games)
*Sigh*
.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Monday, August 24, 2009
Curiouser and Curiouser
Sorry this is turning into a dream log lately, but I'm still on a roll here.
(And no body's reading this anymore anyway, so who's to get bored but me? LOL)
...OK, now I'm talking to myself -
Moving on...
Have you ever had a continuation of a dream you had years ago?
...Yes, I have, thank you very much.
Well, would you like to hear this or not?
Sure, go ahead.
Thank you, I will.
I dreamed a long time ago that I went back to college - only I kept forgetting what classes I had and where they were, until the professor would call me in and tell me if I didn't finish the whole term's worth of work, I would fail.
Well - this was a continuation of that dream. But this time, I was rooming with a former co-worker (who was still in High School when she became my supervisor.)
She had landed herself in a play, and asked me to come with her to rehearsal, because it was late and she didn't want to walk to campus alone.
I did go, and kept getting moved from seat to seat because I was in the way of the rest of the cast.
(This was some production - it was a musical, and had everything from dancing cowboys, synchronized swimming, and, at one point I was kicked out of my seat for the fleet of army trucks that had to come through.)
My friend finally went up on stage, and when it was her turn to get up - she fell down.
Meanwhile, I was wandering the crowd from place to place, not only to stay out of the way, but to stay awake.
(As I said, it was late - and I kept falling asleep.)
I kept running into people who either knew me (who I didn't remember), or knew my husband. It was a little disconcerting to keep hearing my name called out from the crowd - all the different versions of my name that I have gone by at different times of my life.
A couple of times, I even got ogled by some tall good looking cast gents, which was just creepy. I told them - "get away from me, I'm old."
Weird.
At one point, I sat on the front row, next to the costume mistress, who just happened to be Vonda Goodwin (a friend and neighbor who I grew up with, and haven't seen in over 30 years.)
She was harried and swamped everywhere she went, with problems people were having with their costumes.
I decided to offer her my services to help with her out, but while I was thinking about it, she got up and left. I had to wander the crowd again, trying to track her down. (More weirdness)
When I finally did, she immediately took me up on my offer, and before I could say anything else, she had buried me in a pile of sacks, and disappeared again.
A work crew came in and told all the cast members to get off of the stage, because they were scheduled to work there for the night.
I thought, "good, I can finally go home and sleep." ...But no such luck - the cast just broke up into separate groups, and split off into different rooms.
I never saw my friend again - and woke up aching for lack of sleep.
What does it mean when your unconscious life is more interesting than your real one?
Hmmm - that's what I thought...
In Other News:
I had the gran-girls for an overnighter this weekend.
I saw a lot of things I liked, (and a few that I didn't) but it was good for the most part.
I can vouch for God's wisdom in giving us kids when we are young. There's no way I could keep up with that full-time now!
I rented a whole stack of videos that I thought they might like.
- Did you know Rascal Flatts is in the Hannah Montana movie? I didn't, or I would have watched it a long time ago! (Ha ha.)
I have issues with that girl (Hannah Montana/Miley Sirus), and have avoided anything having to do with her - but it actually wasn't that bad.
Who knew?
I also picked "Ballet Shoes" and the American Girl "Kit" for them. The first one is based on a children's chapter book that I heard of somewhere, so I thought Millie would like it.
She didn't.
I watched it myself later, and I could see why. It's really not a movie for kids. It's about three girls, and how they manage to live through the depression. I liked it, but it was a little "scary" for my girls.
Kit is also about the depression. I liked that one too - it was cute, but again a little mature for 4 and 7 year olds.
I didn't miss completely - I got Green Lantern, which Arilie watched at least 3 times, and Barbie meets Thumbelina which Millie did the same.
I learned one thing - I need to preview movies before I get them for the girls!
(You can't make me watch those Barbie ones though...)
.
(And no body's reading this anymore anyway, so who's to get bored but me? LOL)
...OK, now I'm talking to myself -
Moving on...
Have you ever had a continuation of a dream you had years ago?
...Yes, I have, thank you very much.
Well, would you like to hear this or not?
Sure, go ahead.
Thank you, I will.
I dreamed a long time ago that I went back to college - only I kept forgetting what classes I had and where they were, until the professor would call me in and tell me if I didn't finish the whole term's worth of work, I would fail.
Well - this was a continuation of that dream. But this time, I was rooming with a former co-worker (who was still in High School when she became my supervisor.)
She had landed herself in a play, and asked me to come with her to rehearsal, because it was late and she didn't want to walk to campus alone.
I did go, and kept getting moved from seat to seat because I was in the way of the rest of the cast.
(This was some production - it was a musical, and had everything from dancing cowboys, synchronized swimming, and, at one point I was kicked out of my seat for the fleet of army trucks that had to come through.)
My friend finally went up on stage, and when it was her turn to get up - she fell down.
Meanwhile, I was wandering the crowd from place to place, not only to stay out of the way, but to stay awake.
(As I said, it was late - and I kept falling asleep.)
I kept running into people who either knew me (who I didn't remember), or knew my husband. It was a little disconcerting to keep hearing my name called out from the crowd - all the different versions of my name that I have gone by at different times of my life.
A couple of times, I even got ogled by some tall good looking cast gents, which was just creepy. I told them - "get away from me, I'm old."
Weird.
At one point, I sat on the front row, next to the costume mistress, who just happened to be Vonda Goodwin (a friend and neighbor who I grew up with, and haven't seen in over 30 years.)
She was harried and swamped everywhere she went, with problems people were having with their costumes.
I decided to offer her my services to help with her out, but while I was thinking about it, she got up and left. I had to wander the crowd again, trying to track her down. (More weirdness)
When I finally did, she immediately took me up on my offer, and before I could say anything else, she had buried me in a pile of sacks, and disappeared again.
A work crew came in and told all the cast members to get off of the stage, because they were scheduled to work there for the night.
I thought, "good, I can finally go home and sleep." ...But no such luck - the cast just broke up into separate groups, and split off into different rooms.
I never saw my friend again - and woke up aching for lack of sleep.
What does it mean when your unconscious life is more interesting than your real one?
Hmmm - that's what I thought...
In Other News:
I had the gran-girls for an overnighter this weekend.
I saw a lot of things I liked, (and a few that I didn't) but it was good for the most part.
I can vouch for God's wisdom in giving us kids when we are young. There's no way I could keep up with that full-time now!
I rented a whole stack of videos that I thought they might like.
- Did you know Rascal Flatts is in the Hannah Montana movie? I didn't, or I would have watched it a long time ago! (Ha ha.)
I have issues with that girl (Hannah Montana/Miley Sirus), and have avoided anything having to do with her - but it actually wasn't that bad.
Who knew?
I also picked "Ballet Shoes" and the American Girl "Kit" for them. The first one is based on a children's chapter book that I heard of somewhere, so I thought Millie would like it.
She didn't.
I watched it myself later, and I could see why. It's really not a movie for kids. It's about three girls, and how they manage to live through the depression. I liked it, but it was a little "scary" for my girls.
Kit is also about the depression. I liked that one too - it was cute, but again a little mature for 4 and 7 year olds.
I didn't miss completely - I got Green Lantern, which Arilie watched at least 3 times, and Barbie meets Thumbelina which Millie did the same.
I learned one thing - I need to preview movies before I get them for the girls!
(You can't make me watch those Barbie ones though...)
.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
More Bizarre Dreams
It's been a really active week for dreams.
I don't know if it's the change in the air, or changes in life (school starting), but - wow.
Last night I dreamed that I was in the hospital preparing for surgery, and they took me to this abandoned wing that was reminiscent of the operating room on M*A*S*H.
I had been drugged already, and was in and out of consciousness - but when I saw where I was, it alarmed me a bit. When I asked the doctor what we were doing there, and evil grin spread over his face... I wanted to scream or run, but I was too doped up to do either.
The scary part about this dream is that it really happened (the first part) but it never occurred to me at the time to think anything sinister about it. Makes you think twice about being so trusting about medical personnel. (Like the time I went in for a test and woke up black & blue from head to toe - I swear they dropped me off the table while I was out, but nobody bothered to mention anything about it.)
From there things got a bit more bizarre.
I was at another conference, that started out as one for writers, but morphed into one for musicians and dancers as well. Let me just say - men in tights and murder plots abounded. Adam Lambert was there, and was even creepier than he was on American Idol.
Anyway - got another boring weekend gaping before me.
I've got to find a new hobby to fill the time. Shopping requires cash flow.
.
I don't know if it's the change in the air, or changes in life (school starting), but - wow.
Last night I dreamed that I was in the hospital preparing for surgery, and they took me to this abandoned wing that was reminiscent of the operating room on M*A*S*H.
I had been drugged already, and was in and out of consciousness - but when I saw where I was, it alarmed me a bit. When I asked the doctor what we were doing there, and evil grin spread over his face... I wanted to scream or run, but I was too doped up to do either.
The scary part about this dream is that it really happened (the first part) but it never occurred to me at the time to think anything sinister about it. Makes you think twice about being so trusting about medical personnel. (Like the time I went in for a test and woke up black & blue from head to toe - I swear they dropped me off the table while I was out, but nobody bothered to mention anything about it.)
From there things got a bit more bizarre.
I was at another conference, that started out as one for writers, but morphed into one for musicians and dancers as well. Let me just say - men in tights and murder plots abounded. Adam Lambert was there, and was even creepier than he was on American Idol.
Anyway - got another boring weekend gaping before me.
I've got to find a new hobby to fill the time. Shopping requires cash flow.
.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Joke of the Day
I ran across this as I was blog hopping yesterday.
I thought it was cute, and wanted to share. The person who posted it wasn't sure where it came from, so I Googled it to find the origin - But it's been posted so many times that it would take me years to track it down...
So, enjoy - and whoever wrote this to begin with - Good job!
My news is brief today.
My youngest started school today. That last and final school year for all of us. Wishing her a great year (and good grades.)
.
I thought it was cute, and wanted to share. The person who posted it wasn't sure where it came from, so I Googled it to find the origin - But it's been posted so many times that it would take me years to track it down...
So, enjoy - and whoever wrote this to begin with - Good job!
Dear Tech Support:
Last year I upgraded from Boyfriend 5.0 to Husband 1.0 and noticed a slowdown in the overall performance, particularly in the flower and jewelry applications that had operated flawlessly under Boyfriend 5.0. In addition, Husband 1.0 uninstalled many other valuable programs, such as Romance 9.5 and Personal Attention 6.5, but installed undesirable programs such as NFL 5.0 and NBA 3.0. And now Conversation 8.0 no longer runs and House Cleaning 2.6 simply crashes the system. I've tried running Nagging 5.3 to fix these problems, but to no avail.
What can I do?
Signed, Desperate
Dear Desperate:
First keep in mind; Boyfriend 5.0 is an entertainment package, while Husband 1.0 is an operating system. Try entering the command
C:// I THOUGHT YOU LOVED ME
and download Tears 6.2 to install Guilt 3.0. If all works as designed, Husband 1.0 should then automatically run the applications Jewelry 2.0 and Flowers 3.5.
But remember, overuse can cause Husband 1.0 to default to Grumpy Silence 2.5, Happy Hour 7.0 or Beer 6.1. Beer 6.1 is a very bad program that will create Snoring Loudly.wav files.
Whatever you do, DO NOT install Mother-in-Law 1.0 or reinstall another Boyfriend program. These are not supported applications and will crash Husband 1.0.
In summary, Husband 1.0 is a great program, but it does have a limited memory and cannot learn new applications quickly. You might consider additional software to improve memory and
performance. I personally recommend Hot Food 3.0 and Lingerie 6.9.
Good Luck,
Joyce at Tech Support
My news is brief today.
My youngest started school today. That last and final school year for all of us. Wishing her a great year (and good grades.)
.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Book Review - Methods of Madness
Author: Stephanie BlackBook Jacket Description:
It's been three years since the terrible night Emily Ramsey suffered a double tragedy - the death of her sister, and the disappearance of her fiance. She deserves another chance at happiness, and gentle, adorable Zach Sullivan is the perfect man to mend her shattered heart. But from the moment Emily opens the hand-carved box holding a glittering diamond solitaire, she's seized by an unshakable fear: She's going to lose Zach.
That's exactly what Monica, Zach's ex-girlfriend is banking on. Bitter with envy, Monica will stop at nothing to sabotage Zach and Emily's romance.
A troubling note shows up in Emily's mailbox, fanning the flames of suspicion. A bloody photograph sends her reeling. But when someone is brutally murdered, will Emily be able to escape suspicion and the possibility that she might be next?
This tale is intricately woven, and the plot spirals deeper and deeper. Emily is led to suspect everyone - even herself, as questions are brought up about her sanity.
The only problem I had with this book was that, for being a murder case, the police seemed a little blase. Other than taking every one's statements, it didn't seem like they were doing much to help. That put me a little on edge. (But maybe that was the author's intent?)
...Aside from that minor point, this is a gripping, page-turning book. I read it in one sitting, and I promise the ending will blow you away!
Congrats Stephanie, this is another winner!
.
Perchance to Dream...
Such crazy dreams last night.
I dreamed about my former employer, who had re-located the store into a house.
The employees were all too busy cleaning and doing laundry to help customers.
At one point, a girl came up to the office screaming and crying. I peeked out to see what was wrong, and saw that half of her face was pretty much scraped off. She had fallen from a scaffold in the warehouse.
No one else would do anything to help, so I was fumbling with my phone trying to dial 911, and was having trouble at the other end, because I didn't know the girl's name.
I asked one of the other employees, but in the midst of all the chaos, I couldn't hear her reply.
"That's (so-and-so) can't you remember?" she screamed at me. Then I was self conscious and upset because I couldn't - I had no idea who she was.
...Then I remembered that I have been away from there for 2 years - I didn't forget, I didn't even know her!
...And so it went all night long.
I don't know what I ate before bed, but when I figure it out, I'm striking it from the menu!
My oldest flew off for Washington DC yesterday. He called to let us know he made it safely. I hope he has a wonderful experience there.
Wish I were with him.
It's been feeling very fall-ish here the last few days - especially at night. I've been loving it, and sleeping under the open window, reveling in the cool breezes.
I had to give that up though, because when I wake up and see hubby buried in quilts and curled up in a ball, it makes me feel too guilty.
(I can't believe school starts this week - it just can't be!
.
I dreamed about my former employer, who had re-located the store into a house.
The employees were all too busy cleaning and doing laundry to help customers.
At one point, a girl came up to the office screaming and crying. I peeked out to see what was wrong, and saw that half of her face was pretty much scraped off. She had fallen from a scaffold in the warehouse.
No one else would do anything to help, so I was fumbling with my phone trying to dial 911, and was having trouble at the other end, because I didn't know the girl's name.
I asked one of the other employees, but in the midst of all the chaos, I couldn't hear her reply.
"That's (so-and-so) can't you remember?" she screamed at me. Then I was self conscious and upset because I couldn't - I had no idea who she was.
...Then I remembered that I have been away from there for 2 years - I didn't forget, I didn't even know her!
...And so it went all night long.
I don't know what I ate before bed, but when I figure it out, I'm striking it from the menu!
My oldest flew off for Washington DC yesterday. He called to let us know he made it safely. I hope he has a wonderful experience there.
Wish I were with him.
It's been feeling very fall-ish here the last few days - especially at night. I've been loving it, and sleeping under the open window, reveling in the cool breezes.
I had to give that up though, because when I wake up and see hubby buried in quilts and curled up in a ball, it makes me feel too guilty.
(I can't believe school starts this week - it just can't be!
.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
No Rest for the Wicked
We had a good friend coming to visit yesterday, so hubby took the day off, and both of us spent the entire day cleaning up the house and the yard. (Yes, it did need that much work - and more!)
We managed to get ready in time, and had the whole family here to see him. We barbecued, and had a really nice time.
Hubby is in the guest room working again today. I don't know how he does it!
I am so exhausted, I could seriously stay in bed all day!
We've got the gran-girlies coming to sleep over tonight. (Their daddy is flying off for DC early in the AM.) I'm a little nervous about that. I'm sure the older girls will be fine, but the little one hasn't spent the night here since she was a wee one. She's one of those kids who likes to go home at night. I'm not sure how that's going to work, and still be able to get up for church by 8:30.
I guess we'll see...
(So much for the clean house!) LOL
.
We managed to get ready in time, and had the whole family here to see him. We barbecued, and had a really nice time.
Hubby is in the guest room working again today. I don't know how he does it!
I am so exhausted, I could seriously stay in bed all day!
We've got the gran-girlies coming to sleep over tonight. (Their daddy is flying off for DC early in the AM.) I'm a little nervous about that. I'm sure the older girls will be fine, but the little one hasn't spent the night here since she was a wee one. She's one of those kids who likes to go home at night. I'm not sure how that's going to work, and still be able to get up for church by 8:30.
I guess we'll see...
(So much for the clean house!) LOL
.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
That's What You Get...
I decided to be lazy today, since everybody is gone again (work, friends, etc.) so, I've been slopping around in my bathrobe. Wouldn't you know it - today would be the one day someone actually comes to see me.
My dear neighbor from next door came to visit.
She was telling me about a book she was reading ("The Undaunted" - local historical fiction) and I mentioned that I want to read it too, because I had ancestors who were involved in that historical event. (Hole in the Rock)
That led to a discussion of family history, and - can you believe it? We tie in a few generations back! Her great...(x3) grandfather was a brother to mine.
That is just too cool.
I've badly neglected my family histories for the last several decades, but she has been busily working on hers. Hoping we can share some information soon.
Veggie Heaven
Just when I was complaining about not having a garden this year, and how I would normally be up to my eyeballs in squash by now, my daughter's friend showed up at the door with some over-flow from her family's garden!
Squash, cukes, radishes and cabbage...
Tender mercies from strangers.
Private Screening
Last night was fun. My son came over with a copy of his friends' new film "City of Fitness 0" and we watched it together. It was such a hoot - and fun to watch with my son's commentary from behind the scenes.
These guys are getting really good with their filming techniques. They should be ready for the film fest at Sundance soon!
Here's one of the scenes - my son is in this one. (He's the random bandito.)
Warning - violent and graphic content...in a funny sort of way...
If you want to see the whole film, it's all on youtube here: City of Fitness 0
(If that link doesn't work, copy & paste this address into your browser: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0sHRMQt3wU&NR=1)
Have fun!
I guess I should try to accomplish something today...
Where to begin???
.
My dear neighbor from next door came to visit.
She was telling me about a book she was reading ("The Undaunted" - local historical fiction) and I mentioned that I want to read it too, because I had ancestors who were involved in that historical event. (Hole in the Rock)
That led to a discussion of family history, and - can you believe it? We tie in a few generations back! Her great...(x3) grandfather was a brother to mine.
That is just too cool.
I've badly neglected my family histories for the last several decades, but she has been busily working on hers. Hoping we can share some information soon.
Veggie Heaven
Just when I was complaining about not having a garden this year, and how I would normally be up to my eyeballs in squash by now, my daughter's friend showed up at the door with some over-flow from her family's garden!
Squash, cukes, radishes and cabbage...
Tender mercies from strangers.
Private Screening
Last night was fun. My son came over with a copy of his friends' new film "City of Fitness 0" and we watched it together. It was such a hoot - and fun to watch with my son's commentary from behind the scenes.
These guys are getting really good with their filming techniques. They should be ready for the film fest at Sundance soon!
Here's one of the scenes - my son is in this one. (He's the random bandito.)
Warning - violent and graphic content...in a funny sort of way...
If you want to see the whole film, it's all on youtube here: City of Fitness 0
(If that link doesn't work, copy & paste this address into your browser: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0sHRMQt3wU&NR=1)
Have fun!
I guess I should try to accomplish something today...
Where to begin???
.
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Murphey Lives Here
I've been on my own this week, and I cannot believe all the things that have gone wrong around here.
*That storm that had me running around all night trying to keep everything in the yard from blowing away.
*Trying to read my new book in the dark with no power.
*Something is funky with the pond - I can't keep water in it.
*I've had problems with the plumbing all week
*The alarm system "talking" to me all night,
*The dog freaking out for no apparent reason,
*Having to take care of the neighbor girl because her babysitter left her high and dry.
*The brain-splitting headache due to lack of sleep
*The pounds I'm sure I've gained self-medicating with food.
The family will be home soon - thankfully. I could use a break from my "vacation."
.
*That storm that had me running around all night trying to keep everything in the yard from blowing away.
*Trying to read my new book in the dark with no power.
*Something is funky with the pond - I can't keep water in it.
*I've had problems with the plumbing all week
*The alarm system "talking" to me all night,
*The dog freaking out for no apparent reason,
*Having to take care of the neighbor girl because her babysitter left her high and dry.
*The brain-splitting headache due to lack of sleep
*The pounds I'm sure I've gained self-medicating with food.
The family will be home soon - thankfully. I could use a break from my "vacation."
.
Friday, August 07, 2009
Book Review - English Trifle
Written by Josi S. KilpackI was so excited to read this book - I loved the first book in the series (Lemon Tart)
Amazon's description:
High Crimes at High Tea Things to Do in England Visit Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, and the London Zoo Take the Jack the Ripper tour creepy! Sample authentic English scones and crumpets Discover a dead body What begins as a holiday trip for amateur sleuth and cooking aficionado Sadie Hoffmiller and her daughter, Breanna, turns into a bizarre mystery when they discover a dead body in the sitting room of an English manor. Breanna's boyfriend, Liam, is heir to both the family title and the family estate of Southgate, where everyone seems to have a secret . . . or two. When the body in the sitting room disappears, Sadie and Breanna are stranded at the estate until the police can clear them to leave. With their departure delayed, they might as well solve the murder. Armed with a jogging whistle, her personal recipe collection, and an unfailing sense of American justice, Sadie begins her own investigation to find the killer. But as Sadie uncovers layer after layer of misdirection, secrets, and outright lies, she wonders if anyone is telling the truth or if the case is really as hopeless as it appears to be. Take a missing family history, toss in a secret romance, mix with a mysterious murder, and this is one vacation Sadie will never forget.
Rarely do I enjoy the second book in a series as much as the first, but I think I actually liked this one a little bit more.
I love that Josi chose such a different location for this one. The foray into life in an English Manor was a fun departure from Sadie's usual diggs.
The plot has lots of twists and turns, and no one escapes suspicion. I thought I had things figured out a time or two, but I didn't know for sure until the final few chapters.
I just wish I were a better cook, so I could enjoy the recipes more...
.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Take me away... Please!
Here we are on a Thursday - of the most boring week of the Summer. (So far.)It's been a lazy and depressing week.
Hubby has been gone a lot, and he's grumpy when he's here. We weren't able to go camping because of budgetary issues, so a happy "camper" he is not.
I myself have wandered around in a funk, because it's just too darn hot to leave the house, and I'm tired of trying to entertain myself all alone indoors.
Plus, it's been such a lazy week, that I'm as ugly as I can possibly be without getting arrested.
So, when I woke up this morning, and made the usual trek to the bathroom, only to find that something is amok with the toilet because everything has been cleared off the tank, I roll my eyes and think "Great, what's wrong with the plumbing now?"
These are the days, my friend, when one shouts to no one in particular, because, of course, there's never anyone there - "Calgon, take me away!!!"
From lack of anywhere else to go, I'm allowing my imagination to take me to what it naturally turns to at times like this - the Mysteries of the Universe.
(Not really, but wasn't that a great segue?)
...Sure beats pondering plumbing problems.
I wonder, for instance, (since it's space travel week,) is there really life out there somewhere? All those urban legends of alien life forms - is there anything to them, or is that all a product of a mind as unused and in need of entertainment as mine?
...And speaking of Space - what goes on in an astronaut's head, that allows him to submit to being hurdled thousands of miles into a void where, granted, the stars are pretty, but all other conditions are completely hostile to supporting human life?
Other questions come to mind, such as - how far can my car really go on empty, before it grinds to a halt?
...And what was in the diet of the Pharaoh's of Egypt, that made them so narcissistic that they spent (wasted) the entire extent of their reign, erecting monuments to themselves?
...And how about the slaves who had to build those monuments? - When the Pharaoh died, and a new one took his place - did they throw down their respective tools, and say "Crap, now we have to start all over."
Then deeper, more poignant questions emerge - what goes on in Cyber space on Thursdays? Where does everyone disappear to, that no one has bothered to tell me about?
I look around me and wonder; has the world's largest dust bunny ever been recorded? And I realize it's time to get up from this computer and muck my way through yet another day.
Hang in there, it's almost the weekend...
.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Bumpy Ride...
Senior class portraits this week. Ouch.
I can tell already that it's going to be a bumpy year.
My baby is a Mighty Senior, and the whole world is opening up for her ...but she is also my baby, and every first for her is a last for me.
To quote a stanza from a poem that I requested my sister to write for me when she was a year old:
The song I wake up with in my head these days is this one:
Slipping through my fingers all the time
(Slipping Through my Fingers, by ABBA)
She's well on her way to the driver's licence - passing all the tests with flying colors. She has the job, and the savings account - her plans for college, and very good friends. (And thankfully, has been resisting the boyfriend so far.)
Giving her wings, and hope she can fly...
Fasten your seat belts - it's going to be a bumpy ride.
I can tell already that it's going to be a bumpy year.
My baby is a Mighty Senior, and the whole world is opening up for her ...but she is also my baby, and every first for her is a last for me.
To quote a stanza from a poem that I requested my sister to write for me when she was a year old:
"There are great days ahead,
of that I am sure, but there won't be a baby at home anymore.
I hope you'll forgive
if I cling to the past, I've loved all my babies,
but you are the last."
The song I wake up with in my head these days is this one:
Schoolbag in hand, she leaves home in the early morning
Waving goodbye with an absent-minded smile
I watch her go with a surge of that well-known sadness
And I have to sit down for a while
The feeling that I'm losing her forever
And without really entering her world
Im glad whenever I can share her laughter
That funny little girl
Slipping through my fingers all the time
(Slipping Through my Fingers, by ABBA)
She's well on her way to the driver's licence - passing all the tests with flying colors. She has the job, and the savings account - her plans for college, and very good friends. (And thankfully, has been resisting the boyfriend so far.)
Giving her wings, and hope she can fly...
Fasten your seat belts - it's going to be a bumpy ride.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Sunday Sojurn
Yesterday was a fairly quiet day. Jen stayed over with a friend, which is a good thing, because she attends the Sunday School classes with her age group, instead of hanging out with her old mum here. (There is hardly anyone her age in our ward.)
Hubby had to go to work very early, so it was just me at church, which makes me sad, because the choir did a fine job (if I do say so myself) and no one was there to hear it. *Sigh* I really don't like going to church by myself.
When hubby got home, we drove up the canyon to have dinner with my son & his family, who had borrowed our trailer for the weekend. He made some yummy dutch oven dishes, and we had fun playing with the girlies in the dirt. LOL
We're hoping to go back up for the holiday weekend, if we can figure out how to work it into the budget - if not, it's all good - we'll just go see the new Harry Potter flick instead.
.
Hubby had to go to work very early, so it was just me at church, which makes me sad, because the choir did a fine job (if I do say so myself) and no one was there to hear it. *Sigh* I really don't like going to church by myself.
When hubby got home, we drove up the canyon to have dinner with my son & his family, who had borrowed our trailer for the weekend. He made some yummy dutch oven dishes, and we had fun playing with the girlies in the dirt. LOL
We're hoping to go back up for the holiday weekend, if we can figure out how to work it into the budget - if not, it's all good - we'll just go see the new Harry Potter flick instead.
.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Somebody up there loves me...
This weekend was the Scottish festival up at the park.
Good times, with bagpipers, Scottish dancers, singers, and all kinds of manly games. (Caber toss, etc.)
They also have booths selling all kinds of Scot-sy wares (mostly made in China!) ha ha.
So, the family went up to have a look-see. We walked around until we got tired - and hungry. We found a place selling hot dogs, so we got a couple and went looking for a place to eat. The park was so crowded, that the only place we could find, was standing behind the bleachers in front of the band competition.
Great! ...Dinner - and a show!
I set my shopping bag and my purse on the ground in front of me, and commenced to enjoy my lunch.
Hubby and I had had enough after that, so we went to the car to go home.
When we pulled up in front of the house, I went to get out, and bent over to pick up my bag and my purse - - except my purse wasn't there!!!
I can't believe I picked up my shopping bag, but left my purse just sitting there under the bleachers!
I totally freaked out - there were 20 million people in town today, and I just left my purse sitting on the ground in the middle of all of them!
(I've had so many nightmares like that, I can't even tell you...)
My daughter had stayed at the park, so I called her on my cell, and told her to go see if she could find it. I was really panicky by now...
Bless her heart - she ran, and searched the area. The miracle is that she actually found it! Intact, and nothing missing.
Is that a miracle, or what?
Archie Bunker used to say that the angels watch over babies and ding-bats.
I guess that's really true!
Happy Sabbath!
.
Good times, with bagpipers, Scottish dancers, singers, and all kinds of manly games. (Caber toss, etc.)
They also have booths selling all kinds of Scot-sy wares (mostly made in China!) ha ha.
So, the family went up to have a look-see. We walked around until we got tired - and hungry. We found a place selling hot dogs, so we got a couple and went looking for a place to eat. The park was so crowded, that the only place we could find, was standing behind the bleachers in front of the band competition.
Great! ...Dinner - and a show!
I set my shopping bag and my purse on the ground in front of me, and commenced to enjoy my lunch.
Hubby and I had had enough after that, so we went to the car to go home.
When we pulled up in front of the house, I went to get out, and bent over to pick up my bag and my purse - - except my purse wasn't there!!!
I can't believe I picked up my shopping bag, but left my purse just sitting there under the bleachers!
I totally freaked out - there were 20 million people in town today, and I just left my purse sitting on the ground in the middle of all of them!
(I've had so many nightmares like that, I can't even tell you...)
My daughter had stayed at the park, so I called her on my cell, and told her to go see if she could find it. I was really panicky by now...
Bless her heart - she ran, and searched the area. The miracle is that she actually found it! Intact, and nothing missing.
Is that a miracle, or what?
Archie Bunker used to say that the angels watch over babies and ding-bats.
I guess that's really true!
Happy Sabbath!
.
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Sssshhhhhhhh!
I need a quiet day.
Celebrating all those birthdays and holidays this past week, has worn me out!
I may have to go out to the trailer to get it, but I'm in need of some quiet time.
Strange night
Yesterday morning, I woke up to find this:
My tree lost a limb in its sleep. It's really strange, because this tree is right outside my bedroom window, which was open all night (and I sleep right under it.)
I didn't hear any wind or anything during the night - and nothing else is out of place in the yard to suggest a storm.
Weird.
It's a good thing the little birdies had already left the nest, or they would have been dumped on their heads!
By the way - I do NOT have sleep apnea. I'm a little mystified why the Dr. ordered that test in the first place, because I told him I don't have those kinds of problems.
I went in for my follow up the other day, and I was told that news, and that the medication they usually start people on for the insomnia thing, is the one I've already been on for the past month!
What the heck? ...Was all that really necessary then?
Mystified, I tell you...
No more news today, so I'll just tippy-toe away...
.
Celebrating all those birthdays and holidays this past week, has worn me out!
I may have to go out to the trailer to get it, but I'm in need of some quiet time.
Strange night
Yesterday morning, I woke up to find this:
My tree lost a limb in its sleep. It's really strange, because this tree is right outside my bedroom window, which was open all night (and I sleep right under it.)
I didn't hear any wind or anything during the night - and nothing else is out of place in the yard to suggest a storm.
Weird.
It's a good thing the little birdies had already left the nest, or they would have been dumped on their heads!
By the way - I do NOT have sleep apnea. I'm a little mystified why the Dr. ordered that test in the first place, because I told him I don't have those kinds of problems.
I went in for my follow up the other day, and I was told that news, and that the medication they usually start people on for the insomnia thing, is the one I've already been on for the past month!
What the heck? ...Was all that really necessary then?
Mystified, I tell you...
No more news today, so I'll just tippy-toe away...
.
Book Report - Recovering Charles
Recovering Charles, a novel by Jason Wright.…
Description from the book jacket:
I really enjoyed this book. It's a sad reminder of the devastation that took place after Hurricane Katrina, but more importantly, it's a story of forgiveness between a father and son.
There is a song at the end of the book - you can go to the official website (www.recoveringcharles.com) and hear it played. It's lovely.
.
Description from the book jacket:Luke Millward is a man who does not know he is lost. His career is going well; he has the love of close friends; and a future he looks forward to every day.
Only when the past reveals its twisted smile in a phone call and the disconnected voice asks him to come find his estranged father in post-Katrina New Orleans is Luke compelled to find out what kind of man he truly is; and who the man is that his father has become.
I really enjoyed this book. It's a sad reminder of the devastation that took place after Hurricane Katrina, but more importantly, it's a story of forgiveness between a father and son.
There is a song at the end of the book - you can go to the official website (www.recoveringcharles.com) and hear it played. It's lovely.
.
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Yenny Day
It's my baby's birthday today - she's progressed from the childhood stage to that of a potential responsible adult. She's got her first job, is learning to drive, and next year will be a Senior in High School.
My little bird will soon be ready to fly.
Just a little tribute to her today...
Jen is funny
She's quirky
...Sometimes, she's downright weird.
She's always plugged in to some form of media...
If you really want to freak her out - just tell her she's pretty...
Now, pardon me if I wax nostalgic and get really sappy here for a minute...
Jenny was a "caboose" child - born 8 years after her closest sibling. I prayed very hard to get her here, and she has been the answer to all those prayers. It's fun sharing a birth month with her. She is a dear, dear girl, and has been a joy in my life.
...I'll go turn myself in to the schmaltz police now...
Love you baby!
.
My little bird will soon be ready to fly.
Just a little tribute to her today...
Jen is funny
She's quirky
...Sometimes, she's downright weird.
She's always plugged in to some form of media...
If you really want to freak her out - just tell her she's pretty...
Now, pardon me if I wax nostalgic and get really sappy here for a minute...
Jenny was a "caboose" child - born 8 years after her closest sibling. I prayed very hard to get her here, and she has been the answer to all those prayers. It's fun sharing a birth month with her. She is a dear, dear girl, and has been a joy in my life.
...I'll go turn myself in to the schmaltz police now...
Love you baby!
.
Monday, July 06, 2009
Monday
Hubby had the whole week off last week - from both jobs!
We talked about going camping or something, but when it came right down to it, he decided he would rather just stay home and relax and piddle around the yard some.
Nice and peaceful for him - but just more of the same for me. (Yawn)
Our Fourth was spent quietly in the yard with the kids...
The girls
Oooh - Aaahh
Sorry, that's about as good as it gets here...
Non - items
Just a couple of quick little signs of the times -
I went looking for one of my favorite magazines this week, and couldn't find it anywhere, so I went online and found that it has become a victim of the economy. Mary Englebreit's Home Companion is no more. Sad.
I found this comic on Facebook and it made me laugh - thought you might like it too.
...And this little photo - my family laughs at me and thinks I'm silly, but this giant tea cup was one of my favorite birthday presents this year. I got it planted, and I plan to paint some Alice in Wonderland plant stakes to put in it.
It makes me happy.
Going in today to get the results of that sleep study, other than that, just errands.
That's all -
Happy Monday.
.
We talked about going camping or something, but when it came right down to it, he decided he would rather just stay home and relax and piddle around the yard some.
Nice and peaceful for him - but just more of the same for me. (Yawn)
Our Fourth was spent quietly in the yard with the kids...
The girls
Oooh - Aaahh
Sorry, that's about as good as it gets here...
Non - items
Just a couple of quick little signs of the times -
I went looking for one of my favorite magazines this week, and couldn't find it anywhere, so I went online and found that it has become a victim of the economy. Mary Englebreit's Home Companion is no more. Sad.
I found this comic on Facebook and it made me laugh - thought you might like it too.
...And this little photo - my family laughs at me and thinks I'm silly, but this giant tea cup was one of my favorite birthday presents this year. I got it planted, and I plan to paint some Alice in Wonderland plant stakes to put in it.
It makes me happy.
Going in today to get the results of that sleep study, other than that, just errands.
That's all -
Happy Monday.
.
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Fourth of July
Favorite 4th of July memories.
My mom loved parades, and dad loved rodeos - happily, those loves usually combined on the fourth. There was always a picnic involved somewhere, and in the evening, each little community around us had their own little fireworks display, so it was just a matter of choosing which one to attend.
One year, we discovered that the roof of one of our sheds was the perfect vantage point to view them all from one spot.
Happy carefree days.
I love this song by James Taylor, and it's not available for my playlist anymore, so I will treat you with a live performance.
Enjoy!
...And for an encore, David Archuleta's "They Come To America"
God Bless America (please)
.
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Oldenhood
At my age, Birthdays are an unnecessary evil.
The best one can hope for, is that they will pass away unnoticed. But that was not the case this year. I had a delightful day.
I actually woke up to breakfast in bed. (I can count the times that has happened on one hand.)
Then, hubby brought me in a new outfit to wear, and said I had a big day ahead. I looked at him a little suspiciously, because it was a dark blue shirt and light pants. (Very much like the Walmart uniform.) I thought maybe he was putting me to work!
But instead, we went to Toucano's for lunch.
Wow, that is a very festive place! They beat the drums and sang to Jennifer and I in Portuguese. I sampled all the meats they brought.
One of the down sides to being deaf? It's quite possible that I ate chicken hearts.
I heard the word chicken, and gave the nod 'yes' because I wanted to sample everything, but it didn't look or taste like any part of the chicken I've ever seen...(ahem.)
My favorite was the grilled pineapple - and whatever that was with the bacon wrapped around it.
Jennifer's friend was the only one brave enough to order desert - the chocolate cake weighed in like a side of beef. Three of us shared it, and it was divine!
Next, we went to the mall and saw "The Proposal." Between us, we had enough gift certificates and coupons, that we all got in free! It was cute, we all enjoyed it (aside from those nude scenes...)
When we got home, they let me take a nap.
I needed it!
Then we had a barbecue with the family. Most of us were still to stuffed to eat much, but it was a nice way to end the day.
I told my grand daughter that I was older than dirt, but I guess she's too young for grandma's humor. She just looked confused.
I can always count on this one to help with the hard tasks.
Like I said, a pretty good day.
.
The best one can hope for, is that they will pass away unnoticed. But that was not the case this year. I had a delightful day.
I actually woke up to breakfast in bed. (I can count the times that has happened on one hand.)
Then, hubby brought me in a new outfit to wear, and said I had a big day ahead. I looked at him a little suspiciously, because it was a dark blue shirt and light pants. (Very much like the Walmart uniform.) I thought maybe he was putting me to work!
But instead, we went to Toucano's for lunch.
Wow, that is a very festive place! They beat the drums and sang to Jennifer and I in Portuguese. I sampled all the meats they brought.
One of the down sides to being deaf? It's quite possible that I ate chicken hearts.
I heard the word chicken, and gave the nod 'yes' because I wanted to sample everything, but it didn't look or taste like any part of the chicken I've ever seen...(ahem.)
My favorite was the grilled pineapple - and whatever that was with the bacon wrapped around it.
Jennifer's friend was the only one brave enough to order desert - the chocolate cake weighed in like a side of beef. Three of us shared it, and it was divine!
Next, we went to the mall and saw "The Proposal." Between us, we had enough gift certificates and coupons, that we all got in free! It was cute, we all enjoyed it (aside from those nude scenes...)
When we got home, they let me take a nap.
I needed it!
Then we had a barbecue with the family. Most of us were still to stuffed to eat much, but it was a nice way to end the day.
I told my grand daughter that I was older than dirt, but I guess she's too young for grandma's humor. She just looked confused.
I can always count on this one to help with the hard tasks.
Like I said, a pretty good day.
.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Test Over
Worst night's sleep EVER!
With 90 percent of the wires and miscellaneous apparatus attached to my head, face and neck, and one arm chained to the wall (practically) how is a body supposed to sleep normally?
When I did finally get into a deep sleep, they woke me up because a couple of the electrodes had come loose.
On the plus side - the technicians couldn't have been more accommodating. I would give them all gold stars.
The room was very nice, the building was gorgeous, and is located in a beautiful area. Too bad I didn't have a better time, because I'm sure that stay will cost me the price of a cruise ticket.
I won't know what, if anything, they find out for a couple of weeks. I'm not going to stress about it though - I'm (relatively) sure everything's fine.
I'm not going to be worth much today, but I'll get through it - I can have Pepsi now!
I hope I can get all this gunk out of my hair...
.
With 90 percent of the wires and miscellaneous apparatus attached to my head, face and neck, and one arm chained to the wall (practically) how is a body supposed to sleep normally?
When I did finally get into a deep sleep, they woke me up because a couple of the electrodes had come loose.
On the plus side - the technicians couldn't have been more accommodating. I would give them all gold stars.
The room was very nice, the building was gorgeous, and is located in a beautiful area. Too bad I didn't have a better time, because I'm sure that stay will cost me the price of a cruise ticket.
I won't know what, if anything, they find out for a couple of weeks. I'm not going to stress about it though - I'm (relatively) sure everything's fine.
I'm not going to be worth much today, but I'll get through it - I can have Pepsi now!
I hope I can get all this gunk out of my hair...
.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Sunday Tidbits
I noticed right off that there was a shortage of young men at church today. (All the old guys were doing their jobs.) After the service was over, I found out that it was because there was an outbreak of swine flu at the scout camp they attended last week, and they are all home under quarantine.
Yikes! That's a little too close to home for me!
Last night, someone broke into our house.
We heard comings and goings and footsteps on the stairs. We were relieved this morning to find that it was merely the Pepsi fairy (or Soda Clause?) He left two Pepsi's on the counter for hubby and I.
My son - always making sure his parents are taken care of.
Isn't it funny how the dynamic changes when the kids move out of the house?
When they're under my roof, I feel like it's my duty to try to keep track of where they are going (which is not easy) and make sure they eat regularly, (butt-in, meddle, etc.) But when they are out on their own, it becomes apparent that they are really quite capable of managing by themselves.
When they do drop by, even though it's only been a couple of weeks, it seems like they've been gone forever, and we need to "kill the fatted calf" and celebrate.
Weird.
Tomorrow night, I have to go do that sleep study. I'm pretty stressed about it. The thought of trying to sleep while wired from every limb, with people watching me, no less, is not a pleasant one.
My neighbor handed me a copy of the book that my book club is reading at church today. It's about some war in China. I was very grateful - if that doesn't put me to sleep, nothing will! (Just kidding, it might be good...)
I need to go out and go for a walk before it gets dark tonight. It's rained pretty much every day for the last 3 weeks - just long enough for me to get out of that habit that it took me so long to start. *Sigh* Back to square one.
It's the last Sunday in June - how did that happen?
.
Yikes! That's a little too close to home for me!
Last night, someone broke into our house.
We heard comings and goings and footsteps on the stairs. We were relieved this morning to find that it was merely the Pepsi fairy (or Soda Clause?) He left two Pepsi's on the counter for hubby and I.
My son - always making sure his parents are taken care of.
Isn't it funny how the dynamic changes when the kids move out of the house?
When they're under my roof, I feel like it's my duty to try to keep track of where they are going (which is not easy) and make sure they eat regularly, (butt-in, meddle, etc.) But when they are out on their own, it becomes apparent that they are really quite capable of managing by themselves.
When they do drop by, even though it's only been a couple of weeks, it seems like they've been gone forever, and we need to "kill the fatted calf" and celebrate.
Weird.
Tomorrow night, I have to go do that sleep study. I'm pretty stressed about it. The thought of trying to sleep while wired from every limb, with people watching me, no less, is not a pleasant one.
My neighbor handed me a copy of the book that my book club is reading at church today. It's about some war in China. I was very grateful - if that doesn't put me to sleep, nothing will! (Just kidding, it might be good...)
I need to go out and go for a walk before it gets dark tonight. It's rained pretty much every day for the last 3 weeks - just long enough for me to get out of that habit that it took me so long to start. *Sigh* Back to square one.
It's the last Sunday in June - how did that happen?
.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Treats
I posted the Muddy Buddy recipe, but you'll have to go to my crafty site to get it. It's yummy, and it's here: Scrapworthy
.
.
Friday, June 26, 2009
All's Quiet on the Western Front
It's very quiet around here today.
My youngest took her dad and brother to see the Transformers flick this afternoon. Yes, they did invite me, but I declined - I'm not a fan of 'monster' cars.
I've been re-typing those family histories today.
The first one was about a lady from Canada, who came to the US to join with the Mormon church. She dealt with persecution, was driven from state to state, volunteered to go with the Mormon Battalion as a laundress. When the men were sick and worn out, and had to be sent ahead to recover - she stuck around and finished the march.
She was there at Sutter's Fort when gold was discovered, left that behind to return to the people of her faith, and with her family founded one of the towns here that still carries her family name.
She outlived two husbands, raised 3 families, including some of her grand children, taught school and helped run the post office.
Wow. Makes me feel like a wimp.
The boys are going camping tonight, so it's girls' night at home.
What that means on a Friday night, is pizza, ice cream, and Ghost Hunters on TV. Sounds great to me.
Happy Weekend.
.
My youngest took her dad and brother to see the Transformers flick this afternoon. Yes, they did invite me, but I declined - I'm not a fan of 'monster' cars.
I've been re-typing those family histories today.
The first one was about a lady from Canada, who came to the US to join with the Mormon church. She dealt with persecution, was driven from state to state, volunteered to go with the Mormon Battalion as a laundress. When the men were sick and worn out, and had to be sent ahead to recover - she stuck around and finished the march.
She was there at Sutter's Fort when gold was discovered, left that behind to return to the people of her faith, and with her family founded one of the towns here that still carries her family name.
She outlived two husbands, raised 3 families, including some of her grand children, taught school and helped run the post office.
Wow. Makes me feel like a wimp.
The boys are going camping tonight, so it's girls' night at home.
What that means on a Friday night, is pizza, ice cream, and Ghost Hunters on TV. Sounds great to me.
Happy Weekend.
.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Book Review - Dead on Arrival
Book by Jeffrey S. Savage
It's probably not fair to start my reviews with an older book that is no longer available in stores, but there has been a lot of buzz about this one on one of the blogs I follow, and I was anxious to get to it.
This book is a sequel to "House of Secrets".
The first book does lay the background material, and introduce the main characters, but this story does stand on it's own.
I love Mr. Savage's mix of suspense and humor.
I also love the way the mystery is unraveled slowly throughout the story, and how each new twist places the characters deeper and deeper in jeopardy.
The climax is a nail-biter, and the ending was very cool, but I'm sorry to say - a cliffhanger.
I hear he's working on book 3, and personally, I can't wait to read it!
If I were to rate this one, I would give it 4 1/2 stars. (Out of 5.)
.
It's probably not fair to start my reviews with an older book that is no longer available in stores, but there has been a lot of buzz about this one on one of the blogs I follow, and I was anxious to get to it.This book is a sequel to "House of Secrets".
The first book does lay the background material, and introduce the main characters, but this story does stand on it's own.
I love Mr. Savage's mix of suspense and humor.
I also love the way the mystery is unraveled slowly throughout the story, and how each new twist places the characters deeper and deeper in jeopardy.
The climax is a nail-biter, and the ending was very cool, but I'm sorry to say - a cliffhanger.
I hear he's working on book 3, and personally, I can't wait to read it!
If I were to rate this one, I would give it 4 1/2 stars. (Out of 5.)
.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Bumpy Night
Rough night last night - I had trouble sleeping, and so did hubby, so we took shifts on the couch all night. (But the good news is, I finished my book.)
My daughter couldn't wake me up to take her to driver's ed, so hubby had to take her. He let her drive....his truck! Wow, is he a brave soul, or what?
We spent an hour on the road yesterday, and she is rapidly improving. I'm really proud of her. All she needs now is a little more confidence, and she'll be good to go.
Smashed hopes
I found a class online through a local extension that sounded like a fun diversion, so I called about it yesterday.
When I asked what I would need to do to sign up for it, I ended up getting a half hour spiel.
1. I would have to apply to the college
2. I would have to contact the last college I attended, and have them crawl down into their dusty archives and find my transcripts.
3. I would need to contact an adviser to see if any of those ancient credits are transferable, and to plan the rest of my life.
4. I would have to pay $550.00 (!) for the one class, plus the application fee.
She went on and on, but I shut down after that. Something about coming in to the office to discuss financial aid, blah, blah, blah.
Holy Hannah! All I wanted was to improve my mind a little. I didn't want to have to activate a cast of thousands or increase the national deficit!
It was a lovely dream, but it's not going to happen. I'll just have to find a way to learn things on my own.
Housekeeping
You may notice that my blog has been whittled down to almost nothing. I've been tidying up for the literary crowd. I'll be posting book reviews for others to check out, and they don't need to see all the family "clutter" everywhere.
No worries, the photos etc. are not gone forever, just stuffed in the closet and under the bed for a while. LOL!
Speaking of clearing away the clutter, I'd better get some housework done today - I've been pretty slothful this week.
One more day of sunshine - enjoy it!
.
My daughter couldn't wake me up to take her to driver's ed, so hubby had to take her. He let her drive....his truck! Wow, is he a brave soul, or what?
We spent an hour on the road yesterday, and she is rapidly improving. I'm really proud of her. All she needs now is a little more confidence, and she'll be good to go.
Smashed hopes
I found a class online through a local extension that sounded like a fun diversion, so I called about it yesterday.
When I asked what I would need to do to sign up for it, I ended up getting a half hour spiel.
1. I would have to apply to the college
2. I would have to contact the last college I attended, and have them crawl down into their dusty archives and find my transcripts.
3. I would need to contact an adviser to see if any of those ancient credits are transferable, and to plan the rest of my life.
4. I would have to pay $550.00 (!) for the one class, plus the application fee.
She went on and on, but I shut down after that. Something about coming in to the office to discuss financial aid, blah, blah, blah.
Holy Hannah! All I wanted was to improve my mind a little. I didn't want to have to activate a cast of thousands or increase the national deficit!
It was a lovely dream, but it's not going to happen. I'll just have to find a way to learn things on my own.
Housekeeping
You may notice that my blog has been whittled down to almost nothing. I've been tidying up for the literary crowd. I'll be posting book reviews for others to check out, and they don't need to see all the family "clutter" everywhere.
No worries, the photos etc. are not gone forever, just stuffed in the closet and under the bed for a while. LOL!
Speaking of clearing away the clutter, I'd better get some housework done today - I've been pretty slothful this week.
One more day of sunshine - enjoy it!
.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Time to read the books...
In an attempt to fill up my Summer, and not have it look so bleak - I'm joining the LDS Publisher's Summer Reading Thing again. So, get ready to see those book reviews again.
My reding list is to the right, but is growing even as we speak...
(I got the 2nd Shandra Covington book in the mail today - Yay!)
I haven't been doing so well on my reading lately. I've started 3 books in the last month, and haven't finished any of them. Hopefully, I can push myself a little bit to get-R-done now.
Off we go...
Changing subjects -
I've grown accustomed to having the neighbors' dogs and / or cats wander into my yard at any given time. Even the occasional child.
...But where in the heck did these chickens come from?
Old Mac Donald doesn't live anywhere near here!
Sleep (or the lack thereof)
I had my consultation with the sleep specialist today.
Long story short - he thinks my symptoms are weird, and wants to go ahead with the sleep study.
He's leaning towards anxiety being at the root of my problem. I'm saying it's just in the genes. We're all like this.
Not much news today - I'm hitting the sack early.
...Only 4 more days of getting up at 6:30!
'Night.
.
My reding list is to the right, but is growing even as we speak...
(I got the 2nd Shandra Covington book in the mail today - Yay!)
I haven't been doing so well on my reading lately. I've started 3 books in the last month, and haven't finished any of them. Hopefully, I can push myself a little bit to get-R-done now.
Off we go...
Changing subjects -
I've grown accustomed to having the neighbors' dogs and / or cats wander into my yard at any given time. Even the occasional child.
...But where in the heck did these chickens come from?
Old Mac Donald doesn't live anywhere near here!
Sleep (or the lack thereof)
I had my consultation with the sleep specialist today.
Long story short - he thinks my symptoms are weird, and wants to go ahead with the sleep study.
He's leaning towards anxiety being at the root of my problem. I'm saying it's just in the genes. We're all like this.
Not much news today - I'm hitting the sack early.
...Only 4 more days of getting up at 6:30!
'Night.
.
Friday, June 19, 2009
What Not to Be
I never finished college.
Why? Because I could never figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up.
I tried every major I could think of at the time, and nothing seemed to fit.
My multiple decades of life experience haven't changed that. I still don't know what I want to be.
Not. A. Clue.
...But on one thing, I am crystal clear - I do NOT want to be a Driver's Ed teacher.
I've had to take that role with my youngest, and let me tell you - I am definitely not cut out for this work!
My nerves just will not take it.
I'm the only one available to take her out for those 30 hours on the road that she is supposed to get. I have left claw marks in the armrests, have nearly bitten clean through my tongue trying to keep from screaming, and the blood pressure has hit the boiling point several times, I have no doubt.
I'm too old for this!
...Come to think of it, so is my daughter's teacher.
He's over retirement age, but refuses to quit.
Why? I don't know, probably doesn't want to be stuck home with the wife all the time.
My driver's ed teacher was really old too. I mean, the guy had to be in his 80's, I swear.
My theory of why these old guys choose this path is that they don't fear death anymore. They have nothing left to lose. (ha ha)
In my opinion, they do things completely backwards these days. Why are the kids supposed to get those 30 hours in before having any classroom instruction? When they have no idea what the rules of the road are, or how to stay safe - and what a big responsibility it is to be in control of a 2 ton death machine?
Oy.
I think I may be getting the hang of it though. I'm doing a LOT more coaching, and a bit less clutching and yelling.
We may both survive this yet.
Still - not the job for me.
.
Why? Because I could never figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up.
I tried every major I could think of at the time, and nothing seemed to fit.
My multiple decades of life experience haven't changed that. I still don't know what I want to be.
Not. A. Clue.
...But on one thing, I am crystal clear - I do NOT want to be a Driver's Ed teacher.
I've had to take that role with my youngest, and let me tell you - I am definitely not cut out for this work!
My nerves just will not take it.
I'm the only one available to take her out for those 30 hours on the road that she is supposed to get. I have left claw marks in the armrests, have nearly bitten clean through my tongue trying to keep from screaming, and the blood pressure has hit the boiling point several times, I have no doubt.
I'm too old for this!
...Come to think of it, so is my daughter's teacher.
He's over retirement age, but refuses to quit.
Why? I don't know, probably doesn't want to be stuck home with the wife all the time.
My driver's ed teacher was really old too. I mean, the guy had to be in his 80's, I swear.
My theory of why these old guys choose this path is that they don't fear death anymore. They have nothing left to lose. (ha ha)
In my opinion, they do things completely backwards these days. Why are the kids supposed to get those 30 hours in before having any classroom instruction? When they have no idea what the rules of the road are, or how to stay safe - and what a big responsibility it is to be in control of a 2 ton death machine?
Oy.
I think I may be getting the hang of it though. I'm doing a LOT more coaching, and a bit less clutching and yelling.
We may both survive this yet.
Still - not the job for me.
.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Trouble in "Evil City"
I have a problem.
Only one, you say?
Well, let me rephrase that - only one that I will talk about tonight.
You see - the town my son just moved to... Hates me.
I'm serious - I have major issues with this place.
(The name has been changed to protect the innocent, if one such person can be found there.)
My husband used to run a business in this town, and I worked for him there. I had some appalling experiences, and ever since then - almost every trip I've made to that town, included some sort of disaster.
You think I'm kidding, don't you?
Well, I'm not.
Example A: I had to go to one of the city buildings once, (for a reason that evades me now,) and as I pulled into the parking spot right in front, the car groaned, shuddered, and died. It wouldn't start again.
I had to sit there and wait for hours for someone to come and rescue me.
Not convinced? That can happen to anyone you say? Well...
Example B: One day I was driving my children to a local college to check out the awesome bookstore.
We took the exit through this town, because there is less traffic that way.
Just as we were almost to the light - a golf ball came flying out of nowhere and hit us right in the front windshield.
There is not a golf course in that area, folks.
My son was so freaked out - it shattered the window right in front of his face, and he was sure we had been shot.
Oh no - that is not all - there's more...
Example C: This time, I was headed North for some rush errand, and just as I got to the previously mentioned exit - the engine of the car I was driving burst into flames! Yes - really!
A generous (and brave) lady stopped and tried to put it out with some newspapers. I had to keep yelling at her to get back, while I dialed 911 on my cell phone.
I was afraid the car would explode, and I didn't want to be responsible for her demise!
Luckily, a gentleman in a diesel truck stopped and ran over with a fire extinguisher. I say luckily, because the fire department couldn't find me, and we all would have been toast by the time they got there.
Do you see what I mean? One freak occurrence - maybe, but so many?
Something's up.
Now you see why it's a problem that my son has moved there.
I have managed to avoid going to that town for many many years - if by chance I had to go, I would sneak in the back way, and out before anyone could notice me.
But now - I will have to go, and often.
So far I've managed to get there and back without incident, but how long can this good luck last?
Could his moving there have broken the curse?
Only time will tell...
Pray for me.
(Hee hee)
.
Only one, you say?
Well, let me rephrase that - only one that I will talk about tonight.
You see - the town my son just moved to... Hates me.
I'm serious - I have major issues with this place.
(The name has been changed to protect the innocent, if one such person can be found there.)
My husband used to run a business in this town, and I worked for him there. I had some appalling experiences, and ever since then - almost every trip I've made to that town, included some sort of disaster.
You think I'm kidding, don't you?
Well, I'm not.
Example A: I had to go to one of the city buildings once, (for a reason that evades me now,) and as I pulled into the parking spot right in front, the car groaned, shuddered, and died. It wouldn't start again.
I had to sit there and wait for hours for someone to come and rescue me.
Not convinced? That can happen to anyone you say? Well...
Example B: One day I was driving my children to a local college to check out the awesome bookstore.
We took the exit through this town, because there is less traffic that way.
Just as we were almost to the light - a golf ball came flying out of nowhere and hit us right in the front windshield.
There is not a golf course in that area, folks.
My son was so freaked out - it shattered the window right in front of his face, and he was sure we had been shot.
Oh no - that is not all - there's more...
Example C: This time, I was headed North for some rush errand, and just as I got to the previously mentioned exit - the engine of the car I was driving burst into flames! Yes - really!
A generous (and brave) lady stopped and tried to put it out with some newspapers. I had to keep yelling at her to get back, while I dialed 911 on my cell phone.
I was afraid the car would explode, and I didn't want to be responsible for her demise!
Luckily, a gentleman in a diesel truck stopped and ran over with a fire extinguisher. I say luckily, because the fire department couldn't find me, and we all would have been toast by the time they got there.
Do you see what I mean? One freak occurrence - maybe, but so many?
Something's up.
Now you see why it's a problem that my son has moved there.
I have managed to avoid going to that town for many many years - if by chance I had to go, I would sneak in the back way, and out before anyone could notice me.
But now - I will have to go, and often.
So far I've managed to get there and back without incident, but how long can this good luck last?
Could his moving there have broken the curse?
Only time will tell...
Pray for me.
(Hee hee)
.
Monday, February 09, 2009
If I Had the Voice of an Angel...
I can do things. I can.
I've never coveted anyone else's talents either - except one.
I wish I could sing.
I LOVE music. It resonates in me the way that nothing else can.
When I was little, my mom taught me to sing parts with my sister, and from that day on she signed us up to sing for every church program, family reunion, and funeral that came along.
It freaked me out back then, because I had such a fear of being in front of large groups (still do), but I enjoyed it somewhat anyway, because it was something I loved to do. You could find me on warm Summer evenings, swinging on the swings all by myself, belting out a tune to the sky.
Oh for those days...
Later on, when I was in high school, my sister had the notion to sign us up for the music competition. She had been learning to play the guitar, and we practiced our song for weeks and weeks. Finally the day came for the judging. They hated the song we picked, but other than that, we would have done well - if it had been a solo. The judges had nothing nice to say about my voice. (I'll keep those comments to myself, thank you very much.)
Thinking as a child does, it never occurred to me until that moment that I wasn't any good.
Fast forward to motherhood - one of my favorite moments of the day was when I could sit and rock my babies to sleep while I crooned lullabies to them. Imagine my disappointment when my daughter (before she could even talk) would raise her hand up and put it over my mouth! (Ouch!) ...and later when she could talk, it was always "don't sing mom."
So, banned from singing in the house, my car had to become my soundproof booth. Only in my car can I belt out whatever and whenever I feel like it. I find singing such a release. I can have the most stressful day on earth, and drive around singing my brains out, and come home ready to face life again. It has that effect on me. It makes me happy.
Other than that, I have consigned myself to sing in the church choir. Not that they think I'm any good either - it's just that they are so hurting for members that I'm just another warm body to fill a chair.
You can bet that when I lay this body down, and no longer am subject to its limitations, the first thing I'm going to do is to break into song, all the way through the sky - Just try and stop me then!
.
I've never coveted anyone else's talents either - except one.
I wish I could sing.
I LOVE music. It resonates in me the way that nothing else can.
When I was little, my mom taught me to sing parts with my sister, and from that day on she signed us up to sing for every church program, family reunion, and funeral that came along.
It freaked me out back then, because I had such a fear of being in front of large groups (still do), but I enjoyed it somewhat anyway, because it was something I loved to do. You could find me on warm Summer evenings, swinging on the swings all by myself, belting out a tune to the sky.
Oh for those days...
Later on, when I was in high school, my sister had the notion to sign us up for the music competition. She had been learning to play the guitar, and we practiced our song for weeks and weeks. Finally the day came for the judging. They hated the song we picked, but other than that, we would have done well - if it had been a solo. The judges had nothing nice to say about my voice. (I'll keep those comments to myself, thank you very much.)
Thinking as a child does, it never occurred to me until that moment that I wasn't any good.
Fast forward to motherhood - one of my favorite moments of the day was when I could sit and rock my babies to sleep while I crooned lullabies to them. Imagine my disappointment when my daughter (before she could even talk) would raise her hand up and put it over my mouth! (Ouch!) ...and later when she could talk, it was always "don't sing mom."
So, banned from singing in the house, my car had to become my soundproof booth. Only in my car can I belt out whatever and whenever I feel like it. I find singing such a release. I can have the most stressful day on earth, and drive around singing my brains out, and come home ready to face life again. It has that effect on me. It makes me happy.
Other than that, I have consigned myself to sing in the church choir. Not that they think I'm any good either - it's just that they are so hurting for members that I'm just another warm body to fill a chair.
You can bet that when I lay this body down, and no longer am subject to its limitations, the first thing I'm going to do is to break into song, all the way through the sky - Just try and stop me then!
.
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
A Hit ........and a Miss
I made these for groundhog day yesterday;
...and took some up to my son's house for their family night treat. They were a big hit with the little girls. One of them told me that hers was so cute that she didn't want to eat it!
They came over to visit tonight, and someone mentioned that yesterday was groundhog day. The light went on for both my son and his wife at the same time - "Oh! They were supposed to be groundhogs!" - Shot down my whole reason for taking them up there!
I guess I should have included a note of explanation...
Meanwhile, my daughter took one to work, and her whole department was taking pictures of it with their phones so they could go home and make them.
...At least someone got it.
My husband said that people kept asking him where I get these ideas, and he told them that I just make them up. SO not true! I search the internet and 'steal' them! ...Don't want to take undue credit.
I'm done making treats for a while now - they are piling up around here, and I do not want to be the one to eat them all!
The project I've been working on is finally finished. That's always a relief because the housework gets put off while I do those things, and it's getting pretty deep around here. I have a couple of other deadlines that need to be taken care of now, so I can enjoy the rest of the month.
This week is "Sophomore appreciation week" at my daughter's high school.
(They're calling it that because the Sophomores are testing all week, so everyone else doesn't have to go in until 10 AM.)
Isn't it wonderful?! ...I get to sleep in, and don't have to go out in the cold and dark!
I love Sophomores!
.
...and took some up to my son's house for their family night treat. They were a big hit with the little girls. One of them told me that hers was so cute that she didn't want to eat it!
They came over to visit tonight, and someone mentioned that yesterday was groundhog day. The light went on for both my son and his wife at the same time - "Oh! They were supposed to be groundhogs!" - Shot down my whole reason for taking them up there!
I guess I should have included a note of explanation...
Meanwhile, my daughter took one to work, and her whole department was taking pictures of it with their phones so they could go home and make them.
...At least someone got it.
My husband said that people kept asking him where I get these ideas, and he told them that I just make them up. SO not true! I search the internet and 'steal' them! ...Don't want to take undue credit.
I'm done making treats for a while now - they are piling up around here, and I do not want to be the one to eat them all!
The project I've been working on is finally finished. That's always a relief because the housework gets put off while I do those things, and it's getting pretty deep around here. I have a couple of other deadlines that need to be taken care of now, so I can enjoy the rest of the month.
This week is "Sophomore appreciation week" at my daughter's high school.
(They're calling it that because the Sophomores are testing all week, so everyone else doesn't have to go in until 10 AM.)
Isn't it wonderful?! ...I get to sleep in, and don't have to go out in the cold and dark!
I love Sophomores!
.
Thursday, January 08, 2009
The Tole Fairy
Back in the day when I was into painting,
I had a wonderful teacher. Her classes were in high demand, because her creations were not only beautifully designed, but comical and a joy to look at.
She lived in her own magical world, and loved to tell stories as she taught. (Sometimes she'd even teach in costume!)
One such night she told us about the Tole Fairy.
She said that many times as she had tried to create her designs, she would struggle and fuss - never quite getting it right.
She would finally get frustrated and stuff it in a trunk somewhere, to get it out of her sight and forget about it.
Days, weeks, or months later, she would run across it and find that the tole fairy had visited while she wasn't looking, and changed it into something wonderful that she absolutely loved.
I was charmed by that thought, and even found that the "fairy" began to visit me too sometimes. When I'd leave her class depressed and downhearted because I felt I would never paint as well as she did - I would put my piece away, and a few days later when I went to take it out in the light of day, (sometimes with thoughts of destruction in mind) I would find in it's place a delightful piece of art!
The magic happened when I removed it from that room full of talented artists, stopped comparing my work to theirs, and accepted it for what it was - my best effort created from my heart.
Creativity flees when you try to force it to conform to someone elses' ideal, but step back, and look from a different point of view, and it often becomes all that it was meant to be.
.
2 cents, please.
.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Tradition # 8 Last Minute Panic...
This story was handed out by a neighbor about 25 years ago. I've kept it all these years because I've never found a better description of what Christmas preparations can be like.
I'll wager that there's not a mother anywhere who can't relate to this on some level.
Enjoy...
Funny Funny Mother
See Mother. See Mother laugh. Mother is happy.
Mother is happy about Christmas.
Mother has many plans. Mother has many plans for Christmas.
Mother is organized. Mother smiles all the time.
Funny, funny Mother.
See Mother. See Mother smile. Mother is happy.
The shopping is all done. See the children watch TV.
Watch, children, watch.
See the children change their minds.
See them ask Santa for different toys.
Look. Look. Mother is not smiling. Funny, funny Mother.
See Mother. See Mother sew.
Mother will make dresses. Mother will make robes.
Mother will make shirts.
See Mother put the zipper in wrong.
See Mother sew the dress on the wrong side.
See Mother cut the skirt too short.
See Mother put the material away until January.
Look. Look. See Mother take a tranquilizer.
Funny, funny Mother.
See Mother. See Mother buy raisins and nuts.
See Mother buy candied pineapple and powdered sugar.
See Mother buy flour and dates and pecans and brown sugar and bananas
and spices and vanilla.
Look. Look. Mother is mixing everything together.
See the children press out their cookies.
See the flour on their elbows.
See the cookies burn. See the cake fall.
See the children pull taffy. See Mother pull her hair.
See Mother clean the kitchen with the garden hose.
Funny, funny Mother.
See Mother. See Mother wrap presents. See Mother look for the end of the Scotch tape roll.
See Mother bite her fingernails.
See Mother go. See Mother go to the store ten times in one hour.
Go, Mother, go.
See Mother go faster. Run, Mother, run.
See Mother trim the tree. See Mother have a party. See Mother make popcorn.
See Mother wash the walls. See Mother scrub the rug.
See Mother tear up the organized plan.
See Mother forget the gift for Uncle Harold. See Mother get the hives.
Go, Mother, go. See the faraway look in Mother's eyes.
Mother has become disorganized. Mother has become disoriented.
Funny, funny Mother.
It is finally Christmas morning. See the happy family.
See Father smile. Father is happy. Smile, Father, smile.
Father loves fruitcake. Father loves Christmas pudding.
Father loves all his new neckties.
Look. Look. See the happy children. See the children's toys.
Santa was very good to the children. The children will remember this Christmas.
See Mother. Mother is slumped in a chair. Mother is crying uncontrollaby.
Mother does not look well.
Mother has ugly dark circles under her bloodshot eyes.
Everyone helps Mother to her bed.
See Mother sleep quietly under heavy sedation.
See Mother smile.
Funny, funny Mother.
...Author unknown
Thursday, November 27, 2008
On Giving Thanks...
Just a short thought today, before going to devour the turkey -
This past October in General Conference, I couldn't help but notice how many times the scripture that states:
I liked how Elder Bednar said that we should offer a prayer every so often, that is to give thanks only, not with any personal agenda, or to ask for any blessings, just thanks. period.
We have so much compared to other places in the world.
We really do need to appreciate it more.
Psalm 100:
Make a joyful noise unto the Lord,...Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing...Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good: his mercy is everlasting: and his truth endureth to all generations.
Just my 2 cents.
Happy Thanksgiving!
.
This past October in General Conference, I couldn't help but notice how many times the scripture that states:
"And in nothing doth man offend God, or against none is his wrath kindled, save those who confess not his hand in all things, and obey not his commandments”was mentioned. (9 different talks.) So, I'm thinking that was more than a gentle nudge that we are not doing this nearly enough.
I liked how Elder Bednar said that we should offer a prayer every so often, that is to give thanks only, not with any personal agenda, or to ask for any blessings, just thanks. period.
We have so much compared to other places in the world.
We really do need to appreciate it more.
Psalm 100:
Make a joyful noise unto the Lord,...Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing...Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good: his mercy is everlasting: and his truth endureth to all generations.
Just my 2 cents.Happy Thanksgiving!
.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Scary Story part 3
Despite popular demand, the saga continues...
(See parts 1 & 2 below)
Tina moaned and rubbed the back of her neck. She tried to push herself up to a sitting position, but her arm buckled beneath her from the pain.
She tried to get her bearings, - where was she?
She squinted, willing her eyes to adjust to the dark. Somewhere a light, - was it from a fire? flickered on earthen walls. Was she in a cave? How did she get here? She wished she could remember.
A shadow passed before the dancing light - something large and stooped over, that dragged one foot as it lumbered past.
A chill swept over her, and she felt the hair prickle up the back of her neck.
She felt woozy, and her eyes rolled back. She was out again.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Back at the cemetery, Mark, Charlene, and the rest of the friends, followed the trail of footprints on the dusty dirt road. Whatever was being dragged made the trail easier to follow. The trail led up to the back fence, where there was a break in the fence-line. From there, they struggled to see where it led through the fields of sage brush.
"Stop!" Derek told them - holding out his arm, as a mother bracing her children against a fall.
He knelt down, and retrieved a fragment of green yarn from an outcropping of brush.
"We're definitely on the right track - this is from the sweater Tina was wearing," he said, squinting off into the distance.
"You guys just had to pick the darkest night of the year to go joy riding, didn't you?" Cindy said, with a hint of accusation in her voice.
"Back off Cindy," chided Brent, "that's not going to get us anywhere - besides, we gave you all a choice in the matter, if you'll remember.
Now stop the blame game, and let's concentrate on what we're here for.
What's out there? Does anybody know what's up this way?
...Where could that..... - thing - be taking her?"
"This path leads up into the hills. There are some caves up in there." Mike answered.
"...I used to go up there with my uncle to pasture his sheep," he explained when they all turned to look at him.
Silence fell over the group. They looked in the direction of the hills, the hopelessness of the situation dawning on them.
Finally, Derek spoke - "Are you guys thinking what I'm thinking?"
-Silence-.
"...There's no way we are going to be able to do this by ourselves. We're going to have to go back and get some help."
Gravely, they looked at each other - knowing that they would all soon be held accountable. And, at some point, Tina's family would have to be notified. None of them looked forward to that...
They turned, and headed back toward the car.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Silence reigned as they traveled the road back to town. Each member of the group avoiding eye contact with the others, as they struggled with their own emotions. Finally, as they pulled into town, Brent said, "So... where do you want to start?"
""Sherrif?" Mike said, looking for support. "Sherrif" they all agreed, nodding.
.
(See parts 1 & 2 below)
Tina moaned and rubbed the back of her neck. She tried to push herself up to a sitting position, but her arm buckled beneath her from the pain.
She tried to get her bearings, - where was she?
She squinted, willing her eyes to adjust to the dark. Somewhere a light, - was it from a fire? flickered on earthen walls. Was she in a cave? How did she get here? She wished she could remember.
A shadow passed before the dancing light - something large and stooped over, that dragged one foot as it lumbered past.
A chill swept over her, and she felt the hair prickle up the back of her neck.
She felt woozy, and her eyes rolled back. She was out again.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Back at the cemetery, Mark, Charlene, and the rest of the friends, followed the trail of footprints on the dusty dirt road. Whatever was being dragged made the trail easier to follow. The trail led up to the back fence, where there was a break in the fence-line. From there, they struggled to see where it led through the fields of sage brush.
"Stop!" Derek told them - holding out his arm, as a mother bracing her children against a fall.
He knelt down, and retrieved a fragment of green yarn from an outcropping of brush.
"We're definitely on the right track - this is from the sweater Tina was wearing," he said, squinting off into the distance.
"You guys just had to pick the darkest night of the year to go joy riding, didn't you?" Cindy said, with a hint of accusation in her voice.
"Back off Cindy," chided Brent, "that's not going to get us anywhere - besides, we gave you all a choice in the matter, if you'll remember.
Now stop the blame game, and let's concentrate on what we're here for.
What's out there? Does anybody know what's up this way?
...Where could that..... - thing - be taking her?"
"This path leads up into the hills. There are some caves up in there." Mike answered.
"...I used to go up there with my uncle to pasture his sheep," he explained when they all turned to look at him.
Silence fell over the group. They looked in the direction of the hills, the hopelessness of the situation dawning on them.
Finally, Derek spoke - "Are you guys thinking what I'm thinking?"
-Silence-.
"...There's no way we are going to be able to do this by ourselves. We're going to have to go back and get some help."
Gravely, they looked at each other - knowing that they would all soon be held accountable. And, at some point, Tina's family would have to be notified. None of them looked forward to that...
They turned, and headed back toward the car.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Silence reigned as they traveled the road back to town. Each member of the group avoiding eye contact with the others, as they struggled with their own emotions. Finally, as they pulled into town, Brent said, "So... where do you want to start?"
""Sherrif?" Mike said, looking for support. "Sherrif" they all agreed, nodding.
.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Baking Tip
...Baking soda, and baking powder are not, I repeat not interchangeable.
That's all I'm sayin'...
That's all I'm sayin'...
Scary Story Chapter 2
Up in the night tonight - I just can't force myself to go to bed.
I realized after everyone turned in and left me alone, that I have that test at the hospital tomorrow, and I'm feeling a bit edgy about it, I guess.
I started this scary story just as a lark the other day, with no intentions of going any further, but my sister wants a second chapter - so, as per her request (and since I need something to do) - ta da!
Chapter 2
Brent, Charlene, and the rest of the group drove back to the cemetery, leaving a cloud of dust boiling up on the dirt road behind them.
Each member of the group scanned the scenery through the windows as best they could in the dim light, in case Tina had attempted to walk the long road back to town. They careened through the gate, and stopped near the spot where the car had been parked earlier.
In one swift movement, they all piled out of the car.
"Hold on, you guys - we need a plan so we don't all end up getting lost!" Mike chimed up, feeling guilty for his part in the calamity.
The group of friends circled around him.
"Let's team up in pairs, and spread out so we can cover more area," he added.
"I've got some flashlights in the trunk," Brent said, as he walked to the back of the car to retrieve them.
"What? You had flashlights all along, and yet you left us here in the dark? You really are a jerk Brent!" Cindy scolded.
Brent and his friends grew quiet, the seriousness of the situation taking all the humor out of them.
Mike passed out the flash lights, and started dividing them into groups...
"Oh, no you don't" - Charlene stopped him short, we will divide boy/girl, boy/girl - we're not giving you a chance to ditch us again!"
"Aw, come on, you guys," Derek complained, "give us some credit - we're not stupid enough to do that again. This is not a game anymore."
"OK, well, just the same..." Charlene added, a little less abruptly.
Armed with flashlights, and buddies chosen, they fanned out to search the cemetery.
They covered the small area in a short time, and bewildered, gathered back at the car to decide what to do next.
"Maybe she walked out through those fields out of sight of our lights," Brent offered, "Let's make some noise - maybe we'd have a better chance of her hearing us."
He leaned inside the car door, and honked the horn repeatedly. The rest of the group yelled and called out to her as they took a second sweep of the area.
"What's that?" Mike asked, shining his light on the ground just off the path.
"It looks like footprints - maybe some kind of ...dog?" Cindy observed.
"If that's a dog, I'm a munchkin!" Mike gulped.
"Look, there are more prints over here," he said, following the trail of prints.
He swallowed hard as the footprints merged with a set of small human prints. It looks like there might have been a scuffle here," he noticed, seeing that the tracks became numerous and smudged as they led past the edge of an open grave.
As he shone his light around, something inside the grave caught his eye. He stooped, and looked more carefully.
Both he and Cindy gasped - "It's Tina's shoe!"
They called out to the others in the group. "You guys, come over here - we found something!"
As the rest of the group trickled over, Mike gingerly jumped down into the hole and retrieved the shoe.
"Yup, that's hers alright - I went with her to buy these just the other day," Cindy said, looking gravely at Mike, she added - "This can't be good, can it?"
Mike turned away quickly to hide the sense of dread that was building inside, fearing that Cindy had hit the nail on the head.
As the others joined them, they showed them what they had found.
"Shine your lights all around here, you guys - let's see if we can find which direction she went." They walked slowly and deliberately, so as not to disturb any existing footprints, and combined the beams from their flashlights to make the light more intense.
They walked down the path a bit, when Derek pointed - "Look, it looks like something is being dragged here." They all looked at the spot Derek had directed them to, the blood draining from each face.
I realized after everyone turned in and left me alone, that I have that test at the hospital tomorrow, and I'm feeling a bit edgy about it, I guess.
I started this scary story just as a lark the other day, with no intentions of going any further, but my sister wants a second chapter - so, as per her request (and since I need something to do) - ta da!
Chapter 2
Brent, Charlene, and the rest of the group drove back to the cemetery, leaving a cloud of dust boiling up on the dirt road behind them.
Each member of the group scanned the scenery through the windows as best they could in the dim light, in case Tina had attempted to walk the long road back to town. They careened through the gate, and stopped near the spot where the car had been parked earlier.
In one swift movement, they all piled out of the car.
"Hold on, you guys - we need a plan so we don't all end up getting lost!" Mike chimed up, feeling guilty for his part in the calamity.
The group of friends circled around him.
"Let's team up in pairs, and spread out so we can cover more area," he added.
"I've got some flashlights in the trunk," Brent said, as he walked to the back of the car to retrieve them.
"What? You had flashlights all along, and yet you left us here in the dark? You really are a jerk Brent!" Cindy scolded.
Brent and his friends grew quiet, the seriousness of the situation taking all the humor out of them.
Mike passed out the flash lights, and started dividing them into groups...
"Oh, no you don't" - Charlene stopped him short, we will divide boy/girl, boy/girl - we're not giving you a chance to ditch us again!"
"Aw, come on, you guys," Derek complained, "give us some credit - we're not stupid enough to do that again. This is not a game anymore."
"OK, well, just the same..." Charlene added, a little less abruptly.
Armed with flashlights, and buddies chosen, they fanned out to search the cemetery.
They covered the small area in a short time, and bewildered, gathered back at the car to decide what to do next.
"Maybe she walked out through those fields out of sight of our lights," Brent offered, "Let's make some noise - maybe we'd have a better chance of her hearing us."
He leaned inside the car door, and honked the horn repeatedly. The rest of the group yelled and called out to her as they took a second sweep of the area.
"What's that?" Mike asked, shining his light on the ground just off the path.
"It looks like footprints - maybe some kind of ...dog?" Cindy observed.
"If that's a dog, I'm a munchkin!" Mike gulped.
"Look, there are more prints over here," he said, following the trail of prints.
He swallowed hard as the footprints merged with a set of small human prints. It looks like there might have been a scuffle here," he noticed, seeing that the tracks became numerous and smudged as they led past the edge of an open grave.
As he shone his light around, something inside the grave caught his eye. He stooped, and looked more carefully.
Both he and Cindy gasped - "It's Tina's shoe!"
They called out to the others in the group. "You guys, come over here - we found something!"
As the rest of the group trickled over, Mike gingerly jumped down into the hole and retrieved the shoe.
"Yup, that's hers alright - I went with her to buy these just the other day," Cindy said, looking gravely at Mike, she added - "This can't be good, can it?"
Mike turned away quickly to hide the sense of dread that was building inside, fearing that Cindy had hit the nail on the head.
As the others joined them, they showed them what they had found.
"Shine your lights all around here, you guys - let's see if we can find which direction she went." They walked slowly and deliberately, so as not to disturb any existing footprints, and combined the beams from their flashlights to make the light more intense.
They walked down the path a bit, when Derek pointed - "Look, it looks like something is being dragged here." They all looked at the spot Derek had directed them to, the blood draining from each face.
Monday, November 03, 2008
Just Playin' Around....(Scary Story part 1)
I was blog-hopping tonight, and I ran across an old contest on a publisher's blog from last Halloween. It was called the "Scare your pants off" contest. I read all the entries, and apparently, it was supposed to be just a couple of paragraphs that were the 'teaser' to a scary story.
I thought it sounded like fun, and even though I'm a year too late (typical me) I wanted to play anyway.
I broke all the rules, I'm sure, and it's way way too long, but the contest is over sweetie, so get over it! Hee hee....
Anyway, without further ado, here's my non-entry:
The moonless late October night was too delicious for Charlene and her friends to let pass unexploited. Fall semester had been stressful and difficult, and they needed to break out and let loose some frustration.
They exited the library, and loaded into Brent's car.
"Where to guys?" Brent asked, glancing in the rear-view mirror.
"Do you want to check out that Spook Alley that just opened up the street?" Derek offered.
"Naw - that's lame," Cindy complained, "let's go ride out to the old Wheeler place, or somewhere really creepy like that!"
"Are you sure you want to do that girls?" Mike teased, the wheels turning in his head. He sensed an opportunity for some real mileage here - scare the girls half to death, and they could get real clingy...
"I know just the place." He elbowed Derek with a wink when the girls all approved.
They drove down a long country road, giggling and trying to out-do each other by recounting frightening urban legends.
Tina sat quietly, pressed next to the back passenger door. She hated it when they got this way. Being scared was not her idea of fun.
She wished she had opted to stay at the library and just walk back to the dorm, but the truth was, she was afraid to cross campus by herself on a night as dark as this...
They drove through the old rusty gate which hung precariously by one hinge.
"Last chance to change your mind girls," Mike tortured, with an evil grin.
"You have got to be kidding!" Charlene protested when she realized where he had taken them. "Not this old deserted cemetery!"
The girls grew quiet, having second thoughts after all.
There were no street lights in this out-of-the-way relic of a small town's past.
Many of the neglected old graves were just mounds of earth, and some were so ancient that they had since sunken into deep eerie depressions. Most of the headstones no longer stood as straight monuments, but tilted, cracked, or toppled over all together.
Tingling with nervous tension, they all climbed out of the car.
"Leave the lights on Brent, it's too dark to see where we're walking," Cindy requested, a shudder passing through her.
"Okay," Brent acquiesced, nudging Mike and Derek.
He held his fingers to his lips in a shushing gesture.
He motioned for the other guys to follow him, and they quietly crept back into the car. Brent turned on the lights - and then started the engine.
He drove past the girls, his window rolled down - all of them guffawing and waving at the girls as they drove around the trail and back out through the gate.
Tina froze, as the other girls screamed and ran after the car, engulfed in the cloud of dust that trailed behind it. Out of breath, they huddled together, cursing themselves for letting themselves get into this situation to begin with.
Without the aid of the headlights, they stood, frozen.
They were afraid to move in any direction, not knowing where the graves were located, and terrified of tripping over, or worse - falling into one of them.
Several terror stricken minutes passed, when finally they saw two specks of light which were Brent's headlights returning to the scene of the crime.
Filled with relief, but at the same time frothing with righteous indignation, the girls plotted their revenge.
They practically fell over each other clambering back into the car, and ordered Brent to "get them out of there - NOW!"
Brent peeled out, throwing gravel as the wheels spun through the gate. All of the boys had a second laugh at the girls' expense.
The mood was ugly on the return trip, as the girls minced no words letting the boys know just how funny their little "joke" had not been.
They arrived at the dorms, and unloaded, deciding what - if anything, to do next. They were at a stalemate as to whether to go get ice cream, or just call it a night.
Cindy turned to make sure everyone had given their input. She looked panicked, searched left and right, then said, "Uh, guys - where's Tina?"
Everyone stopped talking, stunned.
"Cindy, do you remember seeing her get back into the car?"
Cindy, suddenly very pale, croaked, "...No, I don't remember seeing her at all since we first got out of the car!"
Now, all of them feeling panicked, ran to Brent's car and urgently climbed back in...
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
...Tina groaned, and pushed herself up from the ground where she had landed after everything had gone black.
She brushed off the gravel that clung to her cheek.
She looked around disoriented. Where was she? It was too dark for her to get her bearings. She turned, looking up into the star sprinkled sky.
She took a step, and dropped. She found herself waist deep in - what, a ditch? Just then, horror gripped her as she realized where she was. She had fallen into an ancient grave!
She scrambled desperately to get out, losing a shoe in the process. She shuddered as she stood, planning to just leave it there, but the realization hit her that she was also all alone, and that she was going to have no choice but to walk home.
She knelt and with a trembling hand, reached into the hole to try and retrieve it.
She heard the crunch of gravel behind her, and felt a whiff of warm breath cross her neck. Relieved, she turned and grouched; "It's about time - where have you... wha?...
Aaauuuuugggghhhhh!!!!!
...To be continued - or not...
I thought it sounded like fun, and even though I'm a year too late (typical me) I wanted to play anyway.
I broke all the rules, I'm sure, and it's way way too long, but the contest is over sweetie, so get over it! Hee hee....
Anyway, without further ado, here's my non-entry:
The moonless late October night was too delicious for Charlene and her friends to let pass unexploited. Fall semester had been stressful and difficult, and they needed to break out and let loose some frustration.
They exited the library, and loaded into Brent's car.
"Where to guys?" Brent asked, glancing in the rear-view mirror.
"Do you want to check out that Spook Alley that just opened up the street?" Derek offered.
"Naw - that's lame," Cindy complained, "let's go ride out to the old Wheeler place, or somewhere really creepy like that!"
"Are you sure you want to do that girls?" Mike teased, the wheels turning in his head. He sensed an opportunity for some real mileage here - scare the girls half to death, and they could get real clingy...
"I know just the place." He elbowed Derek with a wink when the girls all approved.
They drove down a long country road, giggling and trying to out-do each other by recounting frightening urban legends.
Tina sat quietly, pressed next to the back passenger door. She hated it when they got this way. Being scared was not her idea of fun.
She wished she had opted to stay at the library and just walk back to the dorm, but the truth was, she was afraid to cross campus by herself on a night as dark as this...
They drove through the old rusty gate which hung precariously by one hinge.
"Last chance to change your mind girls," Mike tortured, with an evil grin.
"You have got to be kidding!" Charlene protested when she realized where he had taken them. "Not this old deserted cemetery!"
The girls grew quiet, having second thoughts after all.
There were no street lights in this out-of-the-way relic of a small town's past.
Many of the neglected old graves were just mounds of earth, and some were so ancient that they had since sunken into deep eerie depressions. Most of the headstones no longer stood as straight monuments, but tilted, cracked, or toppled over all together.
Tingling with nervous tension, they all climbed out of the car.
"Leave the lights on Brent, it's too dark to see where we're walking," Cindy requested, a shudder passing through her.
"Okay," Brent acquiesced, nudging Mike and Derek.
He held his fingers to his lips in a shushing gesture.
He motioned for the other guys to follow him, and they quietly crept back into the car. Brent turned on the lights - and then started the engine.
He drove past the girls, his window rolled down - all of them guffawing and waving at the girls as they drove around the trail and back out through the gate.
Tina froze, as the other girls screamed and ran after the car, engulfed in the cloud of dust that trailed behind it. Out of breath, they huddled together, cursing themselves for letting themselves get into this situation to begin with.
Without the aid of the headlights, they stood, frozen.
They were afraid to move in any direction, not knowing where the graves were located, and terrified of tripping over, or worse - falling into one of them.
Several terror stricken minutes passed, when finally they saw two specks of light which were Brent's headlights returning to the scene of the crime.
Filled with relief, but at the same time frothing with righteous indignation, the girls plotted their revenge.
They practically fell over each other clambering back into the car, and ordered Brent to "get them out of there - NOW!"
Brent peeled out, throwing gravel as the wheels spun through the gate. All of the boys had a second laugh at the girls' expense.
The mood was ugly on the return trip, as the girls minced no words letting the boys know just how funny their little "joke" had not been.
They arrived at the dorms, and unloaded, deciding what - if anything, to do next. They were at a stalemate as to whether to go get ice cream, or just call it a night.
Cindy turned to make sure everyone had given their input. She looked panicked, searched left and right, then said, "Uh, guys - where's Tina?"
Everyone stopped talking, stunned.
"Cindy, do you remember seeing her get back into the car?"
Cindy, suddenly very pale, croaked, "...No, I don't remember seeing her at all since we first got out of the car!"
Now, all of them feeling panicked, ran to Brent's car and urgently climbed back in...
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
...Tina groaned, and pushed herself up from the ground where she had landed after everything had gone black.
She brushed off the gravel that clung to her cheek.
She looked around disoriented. Where was she? It was too dark for her to get her bearings. She turned, looking up into the star sprinkled sky.
She took a step, and dropped. She found herself waist deep in - what, a ditch? Just then, horror gripped her as she realized where she was. She had fallen into an ancient grave!
She scrambled desperately to get out, losing a shoe in the process. She shuddered as she stood, planning to just leave it there, but the realization hit her that she was also all alone, and that she was going to have no choice but to walk home.
She knelt and with a trembling hand, reached into the hole to try and retrieve it.
She heard the crunch of gravel behind her, and felt a whiff of warm breath cross her neck. Relieved, she turned and grouched; "It's about time - where have you... wha?...
Aaauuuuugggghhhhh!!!!!
...To be continued - or not...
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Weekend Festivities
Well, Halloween is over, and we did party it up a bit.
I did a Halloween dinner that was lots of fun. (This is not a regular thing - I've always wanted to do it, but this year is the first time ever that I've actually had the time.)
Here's our Tricked out Halloween treats:
Horrid Hors D'euvres
Chili with Bat cheese
Mummy Dogs
Not all of my family dressed up, but here are those who did:
My oldest daughter was a belly dancer, and yes, she does dance too. (she made her costume herself)
My youngest daughter (in the red) & friend - they write and illustrate their own Manga-type stories, and were dressed as characters from them.
My grand daughters:
My son and his wife were James Bond and his Bond girl - awesome costumes, but I'm afraid my photo of them wasn't great.
That's our celebration in a nutshell.
In Closing...
...Can I just say that I am a fan of Christmas music, I really am - but hearing it played on the radio the day after Halloween is something I'm never going to get used to! I know the retailers are frantic to make a profit this season, but geeze! It still grates on the nerves a bit...
...Just one person's opinion.
.
I did a Halloween dinner that was lots of fun. (This is not a regular thing - I've always wanted to do it, but this year is the first time ever that I've actually had the time.)
Here's our Tricked out Halloween treats:
Horrid Hors D'euvres
Chili with Bat cheese
Mummy Dogs
Not all of my family dressed up, but here are those who did:
My oldest daughter was a belly dancer, and yes, she does dance too. (she made her costume herself)
My youngest daughter (in the red) & friend - they write and illustrate their own Manga-type stories, and were dressed as characters from them.
My grand daughters:
My son and his wife were James Bond and his Bond girl - awesome costumes, but I'm afraid my photo of them wasn't great.
That's our celebration in a nutshell.
In Closing...
...Can I just say that I am a fan of Christmas music, I really am - but hearing it played on the radio the day after Halloween is something I'm never going to get used to! I know the retailers are frantic to make a profit this season, but geeze! It still grates on the nerves a bit...
...Just one person's opinion.
.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)