Mickey and Me

Where is winter?

2012-02-02T10:36:00.001-06:00

This time last year Oklahoma was in a blizzard. A for real blizzard..

I remember it well...

You had to hang on for dear life the wind blew so hard and the snow drifts were as high as 4 feet!

But something happened this year. Or didn't happen actually. Winter has never arrived here in Oklahoma. The weather has been unseasonably warm and my flowers and trees and bushes are confused. They are wanting to grow and make an appearance. I think that all spells trouble...Just about the time they do bud out, we will surely get a cold snap and all their hard work will be for not.

But it is what it is.

I just want one good snow. You know the kind. The kind of morning you wake up and know that there is no way you can get yourself into work. A stay at home snow day. Just one...

Please?

Thank you. (In advance)

Love,
Me

PS. You may be wondering why Bob is all dressed up. He has been invited to a formal event this month by his little friend over in Kentucky. I will share later when the pawty happens. Hes been trying on different things and I think this suit will be the one. How do you like it?

Tell me.

Love,
Me

William Penn 1644-1718

2012-02-01T15:00:00.000-06:00

English Quaker and Founder of Pennsylvania, USA. (My home state)

Said:

I expect to pass through life but once.

If, therefore, there be any kindness I can show,

or any good thing I can do to any fellow being,

let me do it now,

for I shall not pass

this way again.

Just something to ponder.

That is all.

Love,
Me

Aunt Myrtle

2012-01-25T10:49:00.000-06:00

I would like to introduce you to my Aunt Myrtle.

Not quite what you were expecting I'm sure..

This is a dresser that my grandmother gave me years ago. It was bought by money given to her by her Aunt Myrtle when my grandma went to housekeeping. It was part of a set actually and this dresser at one time also had a large mirror that attached to the top and back of it. That mirror got lost somewhere along the way.

The vanity was still at my grandmas house and I'm not sure if my Uncle is keeping it or not.

I have this dresser upstairs in the storage part of my house. I have plans on converting that space to a usable spare bedroom, along with just a bit of storage. Then this dresser can be used by guests or by my grandchildren that I'm sure will want to lay claim to the room once completed.

Its kinda funny how things are in my family..Just like most families I suppose we have our own language that only we can understand. Like if I told Mickey to go upstairs and get me an item from Aunt Myrtle he would know exactly what I was talking about. Nobody else would know.

I guess according to the stories I got from my grandma, Aunt Myrtle was quite the character. I think she owned and operated a bar in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in the 1940's or 50's. She was a strong willed person and spoke her mind. I will have to try to find out a little more about her. And naturally, like most everything else, I will pass the information on to you.

Have a great Wednesday!

Love,

The REAL housewives of Peebly

2012-01-24T14:11:00.000-06:00

Do any of you watch the housewives shows? Somebody save me. Please..

Last night was the final episode for the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.  This series is on Bravo tv.  It ended with Pandoras wedding...Some wedding!
The cake alone was somewhere around 10k.
I am hooked. Perhaps obsessed, I don't know..I love watching the way these ladies live. Not all the catty stuff but the dresses and make up and the houses and the clothes. Just fascinating to me.

Which leads me to this thought.   Why not do a show like this on REAL housewives..and if that were the case why not the REAL housewives of say, Peebly Rd?!! It would be great!!

I mean come on. Who wouldn't be interested in seeing just how long I can actually make a pair of sneakers last?  Or instead of paying hundreds on jeans that are acid washed how about my jeans that really LOOK the part because they are literally that old.

One thing for certain we do our own cooking here on Peebly and we are proud of it! My neighbor that makes the cakes is also an adventurous and awesome cook!  And, ahem, I have been known to whip up a pretty good meal myself.

I think the whole concept would work! What do you think?  And Lisa isn't the only woman in the world that LOVES her little dogs! No...


Who is loved more than Bob?

And I have been known to dress an animal or two around Peebly myself!

So I think someone needs to contact Bravo and let them know you would like to see a series on what would be for REAL the REAL housewives of Peebly..Lets do it!

PS. It appears that I am able to get on Blogger today at work. Go figure!

Love,

A corporation situation

2012-01-23T18:43:00.000-06:00

Seems that I am now and forever unable to get on my blog at work. I suppose its blogger that big brother picked up on, so all my friends that are also part of blogger, I cannot read their wonderful stories from my office anymore. It is a sad day indeed for me. I guess they (corporate) just want me to be actually working while I'm there. The nerve.. Anywhoo I will not be out done..NO! I will blog..from home! Yah!

The weekend went great! Dylan actually spent the night along with his sisters and he enjoyed himself! You may recall that he comes over to Grandmas house but always says he doesn't want to stay over. We were over joyed and very proud of him for staying ....The next day he had a basketball game and boy was that a blast! He scored 12 points and was very much a key player~! That is my son, Curt, there in the back round saying something..He is the assistant coach.

Addyson as always, just a dear...

We got out the sleeping bags and all the pillows and made little places to sleep . Some on the floor, some on the couches and someone on the recliner..The wood stove was going and it was very peaceful and cozy.

Saturday Emma also had a game..There she is in the middle. A few weeks ago she fell at practice and had to go to the hospital for stitches above her upper lip. All is healed nicely and shes right back at it. Even with all precautions things happen.
Ive asked both Dylan and Emma to tell me about their teams and what basketball means to them. I want to include that here when they get back to me.

What was your weekend like?

Do you think it was so bad to be blogging at work? On second thought, don't answer that!

Tell me about your weekend.

Love,
Me

I see little people

2012-01-20T09:49:00.000-06:00

I see little people in my near future...I also see this game being played.

With the old pieces from my childhood.

Yep I was right! Theres one of them now!

We are having a sleep over. All three!

Its going to be great!!

Lots of fun, games and snacks. Lots of running in and out of the house and riding four wheeler and playing in the shop. There will be plenty of animal petting and feeding and hopefully bed time stories.

Saturday will be filled with basketball games at different times and different locations. It will be coming and going and busy for sure...

Sunday I have dedicated to *barn day*. That means hoof trimming and a general once over to make sure all is well with each. The angora will need a quick face trim and a spray but everyone else should be doing pretty well. With the alfalfa shortage I have supplemented with alfalfa pellets mixed in with their normal goat pellets and a couple of mineral licks and some prairie hay. They look just fine.

I'm looking forward to some time with the Grand ones.

What are your plans?

Please.

Tell me.

Love,

The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth

2012-01-19T14:12:00.001-06:00

The truth is I had not been dealing very well with losing my grandmother. I just was not...Things like the picture below would never happen again..It was too much for me to handle..

My grandmother was a friend, mentor and grandma to many of us. Even to our friends. She treated our friends just like one of her own children. This is my friend Danielle. My grandmother adored her and the feeling was mutual.

There is nothing my grandmother wouldn't discuss with you. Nothing..She wanted to know everything and was there for all of us every minute of our lives...

And this house was always *home*. Going back home every year was comforting. Nothing ever changed. It was the same as it was when I was a kid. You could always count on it.

Now its all different..All these trees are now gone. My Uncle, her son, will be living in this house within a few months with their own things there. It will now be their home .

I thought I would never be able to deal with seeing this house without the trees...My aunt and uncle sent me pictures and now I know what the house looks like without them. I handled it..

My Grandmother gone.

It was all just too much.. I got to the point that getting out of bed was just pure work. Each day one foot in front of the other until that day was over and then it would start all over again. The pain of losing her always was greater than any joy in my day. I felt that perhaps that was just the way I was going to be living my life. It was not a pretty picture. I know that people lose family members and go on, but I just couldn't seem to get a grip on it. How do people do it? I know that some people even lose children and the pain of that must be so horrible. I began to try to put it all into perspective. My grandmothers age, almost 92. She really did get to have a long life. Her health was getting worse and she suffered many days. She managed to be able to live in her own home right up until the last day. That was a good thing. I don't know what the future might have held should she have gone on longer, perhaps even an assisted living center etc., who knows? That is something she didn't want so I'm glad that never had to happen for her. We often discussed death and she often wondered how it would end. Do I wish it would have ended differently for her? Yes. But none of us get to decide that do we? This was one of the big things that bothered me for quite some time.

I had friends and family tell me that time would make things better. I didn't believe them..

But I have to say that I'm starting to see that time does heal pain. I have found that I can now talk about her without totally breaking down and I can think about her without crying every time and my days are looking brighter! She definitely would not want me to be not living my life to the fullest. I know this is true..My life had suffered in just about every aspect. I have many many things to be happy and thankful for. I love my home and animals and being with Mickey. I have my son and healthy happy grandchildren to enjoy. I even like my job! So I have finally struggled back but I have to say it was about the hardest thing I have ever done. Thanks to everyone that helped me along the way. You'll never know what your words of encouragement have done.

Am I so naive to believe that one of these days out of the blue I'm going to have another meltdown for a few minutes or so? No. But am I finally to a place where I can get up in the morning and be thankful for my day and appreciate my life with all the people and animals and things that make me grateful to be alive? Yes..

So the theory of time does help heal is true.

I used to love to write in this blog. I loved sharing all the things that happen and loved hearing back from all of you. I miss all of that.

Hopefully you will see a change now in me and in the blog. A happier me.

I think I'm finally back. It just all took time.

Thanks for being there for me..

You'll never know what it has meant, because there are no words to express.

Just know it.

Love,

Cats and Birds

2012-01-11T13:43:00.001-06:00

If you've been reading my blog for any length of time you know we love to feed the birds. Winter and summer. Doesn't matter, we feed the birds..

Matter of fact, we kinda have a knack for attracting all sorts of birds to our place on Peebly. And we supply plenty of public housing for the birds also. Some are hand made, others are store bought and some we made out of giant gourds that we grew. All fun. We enjoy it.

*side note* OMGOSH have you noticed the price of sunflower seeds?! *

I have one problem tho. Alice...Alice the malice...She likes birds too, but in a very dark and sinister way...She is a killer. The issue is this. I have a doggie door that is used by Bob to get in and out during the day while we are away so he can do his business. This doggie door is also used by the two cats as we do not have a litter box and they go outside also. The cats can then jump the fence and ramble about as they wish. Its a free for all really, except Bob is confined to a fenced in yard when he exits said door.

(Bob who would never cause me grief such as this.. )

So Alice, inevitably, will get a bird. Daily. Honestly. Then she brings them in through the doggie door into the house and proceeds to torture and chase birds from room to room until she tires of it or kills them or takes them back outside to finish the job. I come home from work at least, at least, 3 days to a house of feathers. Occasionally sometimes even a bird or part of one. Once even a squirrel. Dead. Its just too much. The thing is, having her declawed isn't something I would consider, I guess? She needs to defend herself because she does roam the property. But on the other hand, what about the poor birds?

Its a predicament.

I would like some advice.

What do you have?

Tell me.

Love,

The remodel will begin.

2012-01-04T16:18:00.000-06:00

Do you remember when we painted our house and the mess we had? I do..We rebuilt porches and installed lights and repainted the entire outside of the place. What a difference that made..
Well we have come to the time to begin indoors. Yes its true. We live in an old 1955 house which was updated somewhat in 1984. I don't think a single thing besides some paint here and there has been done since. So...We will begin by tearing up the floors. They are crooked. They slope. They need replaced, repaired and redone. Doesn't that sound like fun? Well we shall see wont we?
But first things first. That will be taking down pictures, boxing up most everything else and getting ready to get ready. The madness will begin soon.

Until then, how is your New Year going ? Do you have madness scheduled such as this for yourself?

Tell me.

Love, Me

Happy New year!

2012-01-02T19:02:00.001-06:00

Glad to see you out of here 2011. To say you were a tough year would be an understatement. I had a surgery and then Mickey had reconstructive shoulder surgery. My grandmothers passing was the hardest thing of all!!
Things have been a little challenging around here, because after all, life does go on and there are things that just need to be done. We have wood to cut and animals to care for.

I have a couple of "goals" for 2012. There are a couple of classes I want to take. I have some house things I would like to do too! I will be sure to share that adventure with you!

Here's hoping all of you have a lovely 2012 filled with health, happiness and laughter.

Bob sends his regards..

Love,
Me

Its coming, so get ready!

2011-12-20T11:36:00.001-06:00

Im getting in the spirit, I am I tell ya!!! Just a few more things to do and I will be there!

\In the meantime, lets all give some well wishes for my little brother . He has been in the hospital for 14 days now and probably is going to be transferred to an extended care facility for a couple of more weeks. Seems he bumped his arm and in turn it became infected and just knocked his whole system out of whack. After a couple of days I would be going bonkers! Hang in there buddy boy!

Get better you little character!!

Ok ...Are you all ready for Christmas?

Tell me

Love,
Me

Jezebels arrival

2011-12-19T14:47:00.000-06:00

Ok I'm back...been awhile huh?

I wish I knew how to link back to previous blog posts, but alas, I do not. I'm sure its a quite simple procedure so if anyone wants to shout out to me how to do this, feel free.

Anyway back in 2009 I told you a story about a Christmas present that caused me nightmares. It was a doll that I eventually named Jezebel. Here's a little how the story went.

Do you remember your best Christmas present ever? Do you remember your worst? Do you remember the present that gave you nightmares? Well I do..Meet Jezebel!

She lives at my Grandmas house...Not with me..Because I have been scared to death of this doll since 1964...That is how old she is! This was when she came into my life one hopeful Christmas morning.....The year I was 5..I came down the stairs to this!!!!.

The eyes!! She was just the same size I think as I was at that time..I cried...I really did...She was scary....I disliked this doll so much I named her Jezebel..The bad woman in the bible..I knew that name was perfect for this ..this...monster doll!

At night, when I tried to sleep, there she sat..watching..waiting...Patiently and silently she sat until I went to sleep, and then she could terrorize me in my dreams...or nightmares..She was always coming for me. So many times I would hide under the blanket and peer out and see those eyes as she sat there in my bedroom..Sometimes I would cover her with a sheet. Finally...I just hid her in the attic space. I think my grandmother got her out and some kids that visited played with her as the years passed on ...Then she went into the attic space..

At some point through time, my grandmother got her out and sat her back in the upstairs bedroom..She has endured the passage of many years, but her hair was falling out and whatever dress she arrived in was then gone..

A couple of years ago when I went back for a visit, my Dil and I decided to give Jezebel a makeover..We bought her a dress, sandals, socks and a hat....My fears have subsided through the years..My grandmother and I even talk about Jezebel like she is a member of the family..My grandmother thinks I should rename her. But I never have..

So I propped her up at the dining room table before I left my grandmas this trip...She will sit there for awhile then I'm sure she will go back upstairs and sit on the chair until I return later..
One day I look for Jezebel to come live at my house on Peebly Road...And I suppose I will welcome her in. Just like family..

Even tho she is going upstairs first thing...

Love,

Well since my Grandmother passed away in August, Jezebel sat all alone at my Grandmas house. Then my Aunt Sandy gathered her up and put her in the back seat of her car and put on the seat belt and Jezebel rode around with her for a month or so. Isn't that a riot???

Then the other day I got notice that I had something waiting for me at the post office.

I brought the large box home.

Inside was a carefully wrapped....Jezebel

Seems this doll had traveled by car and plane and truck and rail. But she found her way to Peebly Road...

It was her destiny to get back to me where she could live on. She even visited with the State Farm bear. They hit it off right away.

She wanted to see what it was like to sit in my office...

So now she is living on Peebly Road and helping out with little things like baking. I'm no longer afraid of her nor does she give me the creeps like she used to. Matter of fact, I'm kind of enjoying having her around...

The Grands haven't been over since Jezebel arrived so I'm anxious to see how they will respond. I think it will go just fine..

I cant help but think that my Grandmother is getting a kick out of all this .

What do you think?

Tell me.

Love,

Dealing with grief

2011-11-16T21:34:00.000-06:00

Its been almost three months now since my Grandmother passed away. I cannot really put into words just how hard this has been for me.

I have heard many people say that she lived a very long life. She would have been 92 years old on 11-11-11.

Really, that doesn't help. It was not long enough. I wanted her to be with me always. I know she wanted the same, to be with me. There is not a single day that goes by that I do not cry and wish I could talk to her again. Not one. Everyone says it will get better. I suppose it will.

I'm just not there yet. I miss her ...I miss her a lot. And even tho I KNOW its a part of life, that fact has not made any of this any easier.
Some have suggested to think about the happy times. Here is a photo from one of those "best days ever"...
That is my grandmothers sister on the left. My great aunt Stella. One day we took off and had an adventure. We drove to the Poconos and visited the Asa packer mansion. http://www.asapackermansion.com/

We also went to a restaurant on top of one of the mountains in the Poconos for lunch.

Before that we had stopped at this place along the way that had an enormous train track set up inside a building. It had little towns and people and trees and the lights dimmed at dusk and then all the little lights came on in the towns and then the sun started coming up and the lights one by one shut off as day came and the train was going thru all the towns all the while. There were all kinds of different set ups along the way. Churches, schools, rivers and streams. A factory and a farm. Many homes and an Inn. It was awesome.. I cant remember the name of the place at all. It was one of the neatest things I ever saw. It was in a huge warehouse and you walked all around this and looked down upon the scene.
We did all that in one day. One glorious perfect best day ever. And that gets me thru. There are more. I just have to keep them close to my heart and pull them out one by one when needed. Which is often.

Im going on. Day by day. Im trying my best to be all *grown up* about all this and doing all the *right* things by putting on a happy face and going about daily life, but inside Im still a big ol mess. Im still just a little kid that misses her Grandma.

My sister in law is cool

2011-11-13T15:20:00.000-06:00

Do you know how I know?

Because she has a really cool dog..

You cant have a dog this cool and not be cool yourself.

I know shes really cool because she has things like this in her house.

And she does things like this.

And she lives in a really cool place that has a cool view.

And I know you have to be really cool to have a grandson thats this much fun.....

Its pretty cool to have a sister in law like mine.

Do you have a sister in law?

Tell me about her.

Love,
Me

Sammy "the beak" Goosefino

2011-11-13T14:57:00.001-06:00

A long time ago, when we first moved to Peebly Rd, I bought some goslings. I knew nothing about geese, but that didn't stop me from getting them. They were little and yellow and cute.

Because these little goslings didn't have a mother they soon began to think that I was indeed their very own mother goose. I let them follow me all over the place and would pull up blades of grass and feed them. They were a lot of fun. I got them a plastic kiddie pool and as they got older, we graduated to very large cattle trough that mickey buried in the ground so they could get into it. Things were going along just fine. They grew and grew and loved living here. I learned they were Toulouse geese.

A tufted Toulouse is a breed of domesticated goose originating near Toulouse, France. The original grey coloured breed is a very old one and the name has been recorded back as far as 1555. The breed was first brought to the United Kingdom by Lord Derby in 1840, who imported some of them to England, and from then onwards the French Toulouse were used as breeding stock with the consequence that by 1894, English breeders had produced a massive bird. The 'Toulouse' in France, although kept in greater numbers, have never quite equaled such weights.
The bird generally has a placid disposition, with the consequence that it doesn't thrive in flocks of mixed breeds. More aggressive geese will greatly distress the Toulouse, putting it off mating and sometimes resulting in its losing out at the feeding trough. These are very domesticated birds, easily bewildered by more active breeds. They do not need a pond. However, being waterfowl, they love bathing and playing in water and will also mate in water. They are not great wanderers, preferring to stay close to home, making them ideal for a large garden or orchard, where they will thrive. Interestingly, individual geese vary, and others thrive in mixed flocks and become severely aggressive, biting and hissing, while others are placid and prefer to follow around smaller ducks as opposed to other geese.
The Toulouse is the breed most used for the production of foie gras. The breed is a moderately good layer of eggs, producing as well as most other goose breeds. They rarely have problems producing fertile eggs, although problems can occur during severe weather in the winter and spring, as is the case with most breeds. An average Toulouse lays 20-40 eggs per year.[2] These birds are generally not good sitters.
All this from Wikipedia.

So as I was saying, things were going along quite well...Then some stray dogs came onto the property and we lost all but one of our geese. Our female, Daisy. It was very sad. Before this happened she had laid some eggs down in the barn. After the tragedy, she sat on the eggs and we waited and waited. She was all alone.  Time passed and still the eggs didn't hatch. I felt very bad for her. I just knew those eggs were never going to hatch. SO. I had an idea.
I went to the farm store to buy some goslings. My plan was to plant these little birds in the nest and Daisy the lonely goose would come back and alas there they would be. It was a perfect plan!
So while at the store, I found him. Sammy. Here was this little bitty gosling that was born with a crooked beak. How in the world this happened I don't know. But I felt that no one was going to buy this poor little guy and he would surely die as he was unable to eat it seemed.

So Sammy the beak came home to live on Peebly.
When I got home that day with Sammy and a few others, I went directly down to the barn. I tried to distract Daisy and put the goslings into the nest and take out the non hatching eggs but in doing so I realized that something was happening!  Her eggs were hatching!!! Oh brother! So here we had one confused goose! She didn't really take to these little birds that were not her own and especially now that she had a job to do with all these eggs hatching..Sigh..I guess thats why they say to let nature take its course..
In short, it all worked out. Some of the eggs never did hatch out but we sure had our share of geese then at this point.
Sammy lived out his days here on Peebly.   I kept his food in a bowl that was deep so he could bury his beak down into it an scoop it up. He tilted his head to the side to eat grass. He found his own way of eating food and drinking water. The only problem he really had was getting his tongue sunburned in the summer, without that top beak protecting it. He was a sweet little guy and I was happy with the choice of bringing him home.  I think he liked it here too.
Sammy got sick and passed on one winter, but we will never forget him.

Have you ever had an unusual pet?

Tell me.

Love,
Me

Whole lotta shakin goin on

2011-11-06T21:09:00.000-06:00

http://www.nationalcowboymuseum.org/

Mickey and I took the grands to the National Cowboy Museum today. Ive been a couple of times before but this was their first visit..

They really enjoyed it!

The best part for the kids I think was the area that was made up like a little town in the old west. This little town had a doctors office, saloon, school, livery stable and a train station.. You were able to touch some things in this area and get a real feel for what it may have been like to live in the day.

The tour took us a couple of hours and I know we didnt see it all.

If your ever in the OKC area, be sure to add this to your to do list.

Even as a silhouette, you know this is John Wayne.

So now on to the latest news..

Yes folks, we have it all here in Oklahoma. Anything from tornados, ice storms, tremendous heat and if thats not enough, how about earthquakes. Not just any little ol earthquakes either, but a 5.6. I can honestly say that this one did indeed shake me up. Mickey and I were sitting at the kitchen table. I heard a sound sort of like a plane flying too low. Then the shaking began and didnt let up for maybe 30 seconds..! And in earthquake time, that is a LONG time! I mean it shook the house! Really strange feeling..

I would like to blog about some bird houses this week and also some winter prep going on here on Peebly. I also want to tell you a little story about a goose that lived with us for some time. I just gotta find the time to do it!!

So whats on your to do this week?

Tell me.

Love,
Me

Halloween 2011

2011-10-30T10:14:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween!!!!

The grands LOVE to dress up..This year Dylan and Emma wanted to be a cowboy and a cowgirl. Dylan is totally into the western thing. He has been watching all the old John Wayne movies and reading anything he can get his hands on about the old west..

Emma made a really cute cowgirl...

But little Addyson decided to go her own way..

She wanted to be Minnie Mouse..and that was just fine..

Bob went along over with me to get these pictures of the grands, but we did not dress up..

How have you been?

Tell me.

Love,

Is this normal?

2011-10-12T14:38:00.000-05:00

Is this normal to have a pear tree blooming in the fall?

We have been in a drought here in Oklahoma, but recently have had some rain..

Did this prompt this last HOORAH from the tree?

Tell me.

Love,
Me

A present from a friend

2011-10-10T12:53:00.000-05:00

Shortly after my grandmother passed away, I received a package in the mail from my friend Tracey who lives in Virginia...

She took the time to go back through the blog and put together this for me and had it framed.

What a sweet gift..

What a good friend..

Thank you..

It was just the other day...

2011-10-07T14:09:00.002-05:00

After being unable to get into the woods due to surgery recovery, I finally felt able to walk on the rough terrain last week...Of course it just wouldn't be a walk in the woods without Bob, now would it?

I thought we would go down to where the deer feeder and camera are so that I could inspect the tracks all the different critters leave there..We headed down...

Suddenly, without warning, we were both startled by a VERY loud snorting sound!! This stopped Bob in his own tracks!!!

He glanced back as if to say, "what in the world was that"?

Of course that also prompted the "Mommy help me Im scared" look here..

Bob...It was just a couple of deer eating corn. I think we actually scared them even more than they scared you!!!

Are you sure? That was really scarey to me!!!

Oh brother..

Love,

Bob and me

PS..Oklahoma Granny? I tried to post to your blog but was unable..Seems a problem on my end?...I am back to work full time and wasnt able to meet on Friday!!

Lets all eat cake!

2011-10-05T12:53:00.000-05:00

September was a month of birthdays for our family..

First was mine...

My DIL, Angela, made these cupcakes for me...

She came over with the grand ones along with a couple of their little friends and celebrated my birthday with me...

Just look at these cupcakes..

Next birthday was my sons. Since he is the worlds greatest Steeler fan, this cake seemed very appropriate...

And boy was it delicious! And plentiful!!

Next was the babys birthday...This is her personal cake.

Along with matching cupcakes...

These, plus the Steeler cake, all cleverly made by my neighbor and friend..She is starting her cake business and below is all the information you need should you want to place an order. Please do!!!

She manages to find time to do that plus take care of two little boys... This one just turned 1!!! Seriously..How adorable is that face?

And if that just wasn't enough of cake cuteness, another friend made this Barbie cake for Addy..

Well I'm on the mend and Ive been back at work for almost 3 weeks now since surgery..Everyday I feel a little better..

What have you been up to?

Tell me.

Love,
Me

What will they think of next..?

2011-09-28T16:20:00.000-05:00

Birthdays, birthdays and more birthdays!

This month, September, is just loaded with birthdays in my family.

Me.

Curt.

And then Addyson...

Busy month!

This is one of my presents...

I have not used it yet but how handy will this be????

Especially for things like egg whites ...

Do you have one?

If so, how do you like it?

Tell me..

Love,

Where the wild things grow

2011-09-12T11:57:00.001-05:00

As I mentioned the other day, I am home getting better in body and spirit and soul as much as possible after my grandmothers death and my surgery...

Today I decided to get out of the house with the camera and see what was going on..

The sky is definitely blue. Just a couple more days of summer heat then a cold front comes in along with some drought relief. Which we need ...

*see brown grass below*

Before I go any further, can I just say that cats are weird?

Anyway..My mission today was to look for things that were growing wild. This is actually a weed of some sort and I'm glad I didn't cut it down because I kinda like it...whatever it is...

This is the common morning glory that I did not plant this year...maybe not even last year but I did one time and now every year we are *blessed* with their appearance...like it or not. This things are vigilant!

This is a weed. One that produces grape colored clusters. If you get this on your clothes or hands it will stain. I let it grow because..I sort of like it...Its kinda cool...

This I found coming up in a place that the weed eater didn't get to.. And lucky for us it didn't because just look at this little wild flower! Pretty!!

I guess I didn't tell you what kind of surgery I had..Maybe you didn't want to know, but here on Peebly we just tell it like it is. I had a TAH. Which is a total abdominal hysterectomy. Back when the doctor thought I had kidney stones, well..I didn't..but I did have fibroid tumors (no biggie, usually always benign) that needed to come out. So they did along with all the other parts that go along with it. Anyway, maybe TMI..but there it is...I can tell you that it is a long...healing process. I had no idea. But healing I am...

Anyway...Now you know everything!!!

Whats new with you?

What kind of things would you be doing if you were off work but physically unable to do too much?

Tell me.

Love,

Life on Peebly

2011-09-09T18:47:00.002-05:00

You probably wondered if I was ever coming back....Well..yes of course.

I miss my grandmother terribly and I am trying to learn to live without her ...
Its just not something I have ever had to do. She has been a constant in my life from day one...Every single day I miss not talking to her. But I know she would want me to not have a pity party for myself and go on..

So I am..I also had a surgery last week. So I am home recuperating from that and getting my body healed along with my spirits. I have always known I was fortunate with friends and a loving family but I dont think it was ever as apparent as these last weeks. My family has supported me and listened to me cry and I dont know where I would be without them. My friends have been fabulous! My neighbors made me dinners and soups and made sure we were doing ok...My sister in law picked us up at the airport when we flew up for the funeral. She gave us a room and fed us and loaned us a car and well...she was there for us. Mickeys Mom as always, there. My Mom..my forever shoulder to cry on. Im just overwhelmed with gratitude..

So the road goes on. Life on Peebly goes on. As will I. With the helping hands of many..

Love,

PS...The header picture was taken at my sister in laws house. That is an eagle flying overhead..How cool is that?

Nanny, I'll love you forever...........

2011-08-26T16:41:00.005-05:00

My grandmother passed away on August 19th, 2011.

My heart is broken.

She lived for 91 years, 9 months and 8 days.

I had my grandmother for nearly 52 years. But selfishly, it wasn't enough.

I will miss her every day of my life.

Just a couple of weeks ago I attended a funeral for one of my insureds..I called Nanny on my way back home and told her about it. I said that friends had stood up and spoke about the man and what he meant to them and some told funny stories about good times. Nane said, "I don't know how people do that, do you?" I said, "No I don't, I couldn't do it." I decided that my final gift to my grandmother would be to stand up and tell everyone what a wonderful person she was. So I did it. It was hard at first and hard to finish but I got through it..I will share this with you...

You may know her as Cleona, Chap, Chappie, Mom, Nane or Nanny. She got the name Chap because when she was a kid they would say she walked like Charlie Chaplin. And she did..

Nanny loved her family. There was never any doubt about that. The door remained open to anyone for as long as she lived. The light was left on for many many years welcoming you back home to Nannys house..
She was able to remain in her home right up until the last day of her life with the help of her family and sheer determination on her part. She was a tough lady. We should all be very proud.

You should also know how every helping gesture was appreciated no matter how small. Every time someone did repairs, mowed the grass, did her hair or her nails, paid the bills, cleaned the house and cooked for her, got the mail, took her to her appointments and then out to eat, plus all the many many other things it takes to remain independent in your home, she was thankful for it all. You all allowed her to stay at her home. She would often say...."I'm so lucky to have such a good family" or "Thank you for being so good to me." She knew she was blessed with the love of family.

Your memories of Nane will be many. Her faith in YOU and the guidance she shared will sustain you thru your lifetime. You will always think...Nanny said...

Nanny said...

Get off the cave!! (Although a lot of times you may not have listened. Perhaps even jumping from the cave to the house roof. Don't think she didn't know it!)

Nanny said..

Stand up straight.

Get that hair out of your eyes.

Pick up your feet.

Whatever you want, get it.

Sit down awhile.

You don't have to leave yet, do you?

How many times did you hear, are you SURE that's enough potatoes?

Peel another one for Nanny now wont you?

Other memories will be...

Sitting at the kitchen table for hours and hours, talking about whatever came to mind. Reading the paper to her and perhaps painting her nails...other times putting up her hair or just looking out the window. You never knew just who might be coming up the driveway or perhaps we could guess what kind of car was going "up the road"...

You will remember dinners at Nanny house..The dining room being full of people and crowded. Just like she liked it. Roast chicken was probably on the table. And always plenty of stuffing and she wasn't going to run out of mashed potatoes.

You will remember Nannys fried chicken.

Perhaps also a memory will be spending the weekend, but only when it was "your turn". Sometimes you could stay along with another sibling or cousin but typically it was one at a time.

You will remember that big bible with the pictures.

You will think of all the stray cats Nanny fed.

You will remember minced bologna sandwiches, milk by the gallons, many pots of coffee, spaghetti sauce simmering, cracking walnuts, picking up pine cones, hopscotch on the sidewalks, a large front porch to run and play on with a big chalkboard. You will remember getting a "talking to" when you were messing up and and the best praise in the world for something good.

Each of you will have your own personal thoughts and memories to take with you. That is what she gave to you that was special just to you. Keep those close to your heart. She was always there for you in your own special way.

Nanny loved..

Nanny loved us..She loved eating together.. She loved African violets.

She loved..

surprises

singing happy birthday to us

shoes and

sweaters

She loved her memories growing up down home in Mifflin...

Nanny didn't like bananas...

Nanny was a Christian..She read and studied her bible. She so enjoyed going to Sunday School when she was able and discuss the lesson of the week. We are certain today that she is on the debate team in heaven. They now have their work cut out for them. She told it like it was. Good or bad.

Nanny loved to laugh and appreciated a good joke..even the colorful ones. She loved to end her phone calls on a light note with a laugh or a smile. She often said to go to your job with a smile on your face and the world will smile with you. She is smiling at us today because her favorite thing of all was having everyone together.

She loved collecting dolls and angels. She seemed to get inspiration through these gifts and today we all know Nanny was OUR inspiration, OUR gift in life and an angel today. She is flying free without any burdens, no pain and with her loved ones who went before. Dont be sad for her today.

Celebrate that you had this much time to spend with such a beautiful lady.

She taught us well.

WE have all been the ones that have been blessed.

SO, onward we shall go!

Love you Nanny, and thank you for loving us so well...

Love forever
Me
and Mickey and all the rest of us..

and Bob..

A walk in the Park

2011-08-15T13:47:00.002-05:00

Turns out that Mickey worked late Friday and we didn't get to have dinner with our neighbors..I really wanted to go!!!! Had to last minute cancel and I felt bad....I didn't make my *secret salad* then but when I do I will post about it...

Sunday, I took Bob and Marley to the park for a walk. We spent the better part of the morning there and then to the Grand ones house for a short visit..Bob and Marley got to run all over their backyard with their little yorkie-poo named Ben. They had a good time frolicking about..

All that lead to a lazy afternoon of napping..

Next week sounds like the Grands want to see another movie..

Spy kids..So then, that's what we shall do..

What was your weekend like?

Tell me

Love,

Having dinner with friends

2011-08-12T12:47:00.000-05:00

What are you weekend plans?

We are having dinner tonight with our friends who are also our neighbors...

They have two of the cutest little boys you ever saw.

I will be taking my *secret salad*..I will blog about that next week.

Do you have a friend that you haven't visited in some time?

Go see them!!

This from my friend Tracey today...

   Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.

Take naps.

Stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!

Amen.

Making pancakes

2011-08-09T09:59:00.001-05:00

The *Grand ones* have been making pancakes at my house since they were babies...

It is what we do on Sunday mornings when they spend the night....

I am sure by the time they are grown adults, I will have taken 25764 photos of them making pancakes in *Grandmas* kitchen...

I made Emma her very own copy of the ingredients needed this past Sunday. She wanted a copy to take home..

By the look on Bobs face, I think he is ready for his own pancake!!!

Making pancakes and memories too!

Love,

Questions answered.....

2011-08-05T12:48:00.005-05:00

Thanks for all the questions!!! Now lets get started...

http://www.prairiegyrl.com/

Joan asked:

1.) How old is Bob and why did you name him Bob?

*I do not know Bobs age for sure. He came to me. He wandered into my yard, into my life and into my heart. He was probably about one or two at that time and Ive had him since June 2006. So he may be 8 or 9 years old..!! Oh my ...

* We tried different names on him for a couple of days. Mickey is actually the one that said, "Bob", and he seemed to respond. It was that simple.

2.) Also, how often do you get back home to PA, and does this unending heat make you want to move?

*I typically go back every year. I have gone back twice in a year. I am a big baby and the first to admit it. I cling to my family like a little monkey. Mickey is usually not as clingy but he sure misses his family too. I talk to my grandmother nearly everyday and my mom too. He is good with a once a week call.

*This heat is testing my last nerve. Not so much for me but for Mickey who works out in this, my son does too and for my animals that endure this day and night. I do my best to make everyone comfortable as possible.

_________________________________________________________________________________

http://twistedfencepost.wordpress.com/

Becky asked..

1.How in the world do you find time in a day to do all that you do?

*I am cursed with the disease of being able to work but not relax. I have only recently trained myself to a *time out* on weekend afternoons. I either nap or watch a movie..That is my ME time and it was hard to get to that point. There is ALWAYS so much to do. I never get it all done. I am lucky in that I find a LOT of time in my job to do things that typically others do at home. Bills, calls, and blogging..Shhhhhhh...

2.If you could take your dream vacation, where would you go?

* Besides home to Pennsylvania, my dream vacation would be to Alaska with Mickey..

3.When are you coming to visit me?

* To this, I do not know..lol

4.What is your favorite color?

*Green

5.Morning person or night owl?

*Morning!!! I hit the ground running..

6. Coffee or tea?

*Coffee

7.Boxers or briefs? Briefs! LOL...teasing

8.Oh yeah, why DID you name Bob...Bob? Mickey did..Just a whim

__________________________________________________________________________________

http://okgranny.blogspot.com/

Oklahoma Granny said...

I'm interested in the answers to all the questions already asked but I've got a few others.

1. When was the last time you were able to take a bike trip?

* It was with my friend Julie and another lady . It was a couple of years ago!!

2. Where did you go?

*. We rode the http://www.talimenascenicdrive.com/

It was awesome and a lifetime memory for me.

3. Where would you like to go?

* I dont ride anymore at all. I still have my bike but will probably sell it simply because I dont ride it. If I could, I would LOVE to ride the roads back home in Pennsylvania with my two brothers. I would also like to ride the roads of Virginia with my friend Tracey. But I would think my riding days are about at the end. Stay tuned.

_________________________________________________________________________________

gayles said...: 1. When are you coming to see me?; *Aunt Gayle, I will be seeing you the very next time I come to Pennsylvania..!

2. When are you going to answer these questions? Cause we really want to know the answers

*..There you go!!

Any more questions?

Love,
Me

Our grass was green once...I almost didnt remember

Questions?

2011-08-03T14:43:00.001-05:00

Ive seen it from time to time on other blogs. Their readers may have questions about the blogger. Well, I think since I have about 4 readers, it shouldnt be too big a task!

Do you have any questions for me?

Is there something you 've been wanting to ask me?

Well Im all ears....

Ask away....

Love,
Me

Homesick

2011-07-28T09:42:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I just wake up that way. Homesick. Theres nothing in life that will make you feel like a little kid again then that nagging pain in your chest called homesickness. It hurts. Literally.

When I get like this I just have to hang on until it passes...And it does eventually.

We have so many things going on this year that I dont believe we will be able to make our customary trip back *home* to Pennsylvania.

There are times I daydream about all of us living in, at least, the same state. My family, his family and our own family. And in my dream, when I wanted to see my Mom, or my Grandmother or someone in Mickeys family, I could hop in the car and within a hour or so I could be there. But life takes you places.

And that place is here in Oklahoma.

Ok..Time to pull up the boot straps and march on.

Onward I go.

Love,

Sniffle

The heatwave continues.

2011-07-27T15:15:00.000-05:00

Are you tired of it yet? I am! Im even tired of talking about it!! Im just tired!

I try to help the crew as much as I can..Cold water a few times a day and their own personal fan...

They are thankful for the assistance..

How are you holding up?

Tell me.

Love,

Hazardous Weather Outlook
Heat Advisory

Rest Of Today...Partly cloudy. Highs around 106. South winds around 15 mph.

Tonight...Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 70s. Southeast winds 10 to 15 mph.

Thursday...Partly cloudy. Highs around 104. Southeast winds 10 to 15 mph.

Thursday Night...Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 70s. Southeast winds 10 to 15 mph.

Friday...Partly cloudy with slight chance of thunderstorms. Highs around 102. Southeast winds around 10 mph. Chance of thunderstorms 20 percent.

Friday Night Through Sunday...Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 70s. Highs around 103.

Sunday Night...Clear. Lows in the upper 70s.

Monday...Partly cloudy. Highs around 103.

Monday Night...Clear. Lows in the upper 70s.

Tuesday...Partly cloudy. Highs around 102.

Just because its Tuesday, smile...BIG!

2011-07-26T15:08:00.002-05:00

This picture of Bob by the lake looks very refreshing . It makes me smile.

Because its Tuesday and this picture of my favorite sister in law with my grandson makes me smile. Big.

Because same said grandson stood proudly upon this little bitty hill, in the middle of a valley, in Pennsylvania outside my sister in laws home and this REALLY makes me smile..Big.

Because a picture of your very own Grandma with your very own granddaughter, together, looking out the window of your childhood home, will always bring a smile. A big one.

As will a picture of your two brothers..Smile. BIG!!!

What makes you smile today?

Tell me.

Love,

Tomato hornworms...gotta love them...Not

2011-07-21T10:21:00.001-05:00

Photo credit: Extension Entomology, Texas A&M University

Tomato Hornworm
Scientific name: Manduca quinquemaculata (Haworth)
(Lepidoptera: Sphingidae)
Facts: Tomato hornworms are large (some as long as 4 inches), green caterpillars with diagonal white bars on the sides and a slender horn at the tip of the body. Adults have long, sucking tubes for mouthparts, while larvae have chewing mouthparts. Larvae and adults often are confused with the tobacco hornworm it closely resembles. The tobacco hornworm feeds on the same plants and sometimes is more common than the tomato hornworm.

Last evening Mickey and I were on a mission. Our tomato plants were looking...bad. Not just because of the heat but because we knew they had been invaded by hornworms... Within a 15 minute period we plucked a dozen of these vine eaters off our precious plants. Tonight I will be spraying a gentle insecticidal soap and then fertilizing. The heat has been terrible for our little garden. These worms aren't helping a thing!!

This weekend Miss Rita will be sheared...

As you can imagine, she will be feeling much cooler to be rid of all the fleece..

Its Thursday and the weekend is near...

I'm missing some sweet faces ....and I hear theres a new movie in town.

http://disney.go.com/pooh/

If all goes well, we may go .

Love,

Bobs new doo

2011-07-20T14:43:00.000-05:00

The heat is on.

The fur is off..

A complete summer trim was in store for Bob..

We have been watering everything just to keep it all alive. The pasture is burning up. Things are HOT HOT HOT.....

But who is cooler than this ?

Love, Me.

Oklahoma Chainsaw carvings

2011-07-15T16:06:00.001-05:00

Once upon a time there was a very magnificent and happy hickory tree. This tree stood on the property where we live off Peebly Road..We loved this tree for many reasons.. One very important reason is that it gave us glorious shade in the summer. This tree was about 100 years old we determined. All was fine until the ice storm of 2007. This tree was hit hard..It lost multiple LARGE branches and after 2 more years of struggling it finally gave up the ghost.

We were saddened.

Then Mickey said that the old tree deserved more than being cut up for fire wood...I agreed..So..

We hired some people to trim the tree down. Now please, look at this picture. Could you do this?

Not me. Not Mickey. We just cant do this kind of thing anymore. So it took these boys a few hours and the tree was trimmed down and cut up and stacked. This boy didnt even use a ladder. He just scooted right up that tree and started to work.

The next morning at 9 am the man arrived. Tom Zimmer.

He has a business. http://www.oklahomachainsawcarvings.com/

He got set up ...And began to work magic with the tree.

With a chainsaw. Four actually...

Ive never seen anything like it...It is an amazing art. And can I add that it was HOT!

This was in the shade ....It was offically 110 degrees...But this man kept right on working away....

For 9 hours...

He is an amazing talent.

He put Bob at the bottom of the tree....

He made us an owl ...

And a hand that now holds an antique railroad lantern..

And the old man of the forest peeling back the tree to take a peak outside...

He also sprayed the tree with a preserver...

We are so pleased with this! It is quite the conversation piece...

If you ever want to have something like this done, give them a call!! You will absolutely love what he can do..

Love,

Help me Im melting...........................................

2011-06-30T15:16:00.000-05:00

Geez Louise...
I give...

Severe


Clear	Sunny	Sunny	Mostly Sunny	Sunny	Sunny	Mostly Sunny	Partly Cloudy	Partly Cloudy	Partly Cloudy
-- High	102°	101°	100°	99°	99°	99°	99°	99°	98°
77° Low	77°	76°	76°	76°	76°	76°	77°	77°	76°

If I had a hammer

2011-06-28T09:57:00.000-05:00

LOOK!!!

Our neighbor made these for Mickey!

Seriously how cute are these cupcakes??

With little rolls of duct tape!

And pocket knives.

And little bitty bottles of beer!!!

Oklahoma Granny dont you just love these? http://okgranny.blogspot.com/

And the paper is camo....All this is just perfect...Our neighbor is just starting up a cake business and I think she may just have the talent for this, dont you???

Tell me.

Love,
Me

Yes I am ....

2011-06-27T09:31:00.000-05:00

I am what? Well..according to my credit report, I was previously an aerospace engineer. Yes that is correct..Or actually that is incorrect. You can imagine my surprise to discover this last evening when Mickey and I decided to check out our reports. My question to you, my friends, do I leave the impressive resume or do I call and have it corrected? (Naturally it will have to be corrected but what fun a person could have with that!)

Coming back to earth now, Mickey and I went out for our anniversary yesterday. We had a terrific lunch which included Mickey wearing a bib that said, "LETS GET CRACKIN"!! We went here...

www.joescrabshack.com

Its a fun place...We then spent the afternoon back at home in the air conditioning...It has been too hot here to be out in the mid afternoon. I have been getting up at 6 each morning and watering everything ... It was in the 90's still this am when I got started...Geez..

Do you have big plans for the 4th?

Tell me.

Love,

Me..................

Toadily Pets

2011-06-24T09:22:00.001-05:00

http://toadilypets.com/featured.shtml
Please visit this site today as Marley is the featured pet of the week!!!!

We are all very proud and excited for Marley...Shes come a long way baby...

Also in the latest news!!

Our office went to Nics Place....

Nics was featured on Diners Drives-ins and Dives.

www.flavortownusa.com/nics-grill.aspx

Check it out...

Even tho we had to wait around 45 mins outside and it was 100 degrees, it was worth it!! I would not say that if this was not one of the best burgers I have ever ate!! Please dont mention this to my cardiologist..

The burger must have been around a half pound..Im not kidding..

Delicious!!

Today I picked up my car from our repairman...After writing a HUGE check I am back to work this morning..Its Friday and this weekend is also our wedding anniversary...We will probably go to dinner..Even tho I am still STUFFED after my visit to Nics!

The extended weather forecast..

Hazardous Weather Outlook

Today...Sunny. Highs around 101. South winds 10 to 20 mph.

Tonight...Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 70s. South winds 15 to 20 mph.

Saturday...Partly cloudy. Highs around 100. South winds 15 to 25 mph.

Saturday Night...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 70s. South winds 15 to 20 mph.

Sunday...Partly cloudy. Highs around 101. South winds 15 to 20 mph.

Sunday Night And Monday...Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 70s. Highs around 101.

Monday Night...Partly cloudy with slight chance of thunderstorms. Lows in the upper 70s. Chance of thunderstorms 20 percent.

Tuesday Through Wednesday...Partly cloudy. Highs around 102. Lows in the mid 70s.

Wednesday Night...Clear. Lows in the upper 70s.

Thursday...Partly cloudy. Highs around 103.

Please, be careful and take care of yourself in this kind of weather...

Please think about the elderly and the animals and please do not leave your pets in the car!!! You would not believe how many times this type of thing is on the news...

Drink water...It does a body good.

Love,

One of THOSE days.

2011-06-23T13:41:00.002-05:00

We've all had them right? Those not so perfect days?

Yesterday was one for me..

Matter of fact, I will number all the things as we go along, that even on a good day will throw me off or make me a nervous wreck anyway..

Lets start with I had to get up earlier than usual (1) because I had to go to the doctors (2) to talk about a matter (3) that is causing me some discomfort (4) and may require more doctors visits (5).

As I'm driving with rush hour traffic (6) on Interstate 40 going about 75 mph, I hear a POP from somewhere outside my car. I immediately thought I had a blow out (7) . My exit was about 2 miles ahead and in that time I began to feel relief that the POP was something that really didn't matter..HA! When I stopped at the next stop sign, something that appeared to be smoke was pouring out from around my engine! (8)...All my gauges appeared to be in order but there was the *smoke* along with a nasty smell..(9)...I had about 4 more miles until I could make it to the doctors office. I was going to get there regardless of what was happening with the car, I decided..SO..I made it...I opened the hood of the car (10) and nothing appeared to be amiss. (Like I know what I'm doing) SO I proceed into the doctors office (11)..
During my exam (12) my mind was on the car situation and my own health issue (13)...And since we are all friends here, bottom line, they suspect I may have kidney stones...(14 and YIKES)...After 2 tubes of blood (15) and a paper that said I needed an ultrasound at the hospital (16) I went out to the car...Long story short, my car was towed (16) to the repairman (17) and I went on to work...The repairman called later to announce that the POP was my air conditioning condenser had BLOWN UP and the *smoke* I saw was freon coming out..ANYWAY, the bill will be $1200.00!! (18) He will have it ready in a day or two. (19)

Mickey picked me up after work and I went home and went on a cleaning binge..Having myself one big pity party, let me tell you...

SO..
Tell me about your latest *One of THOSE days*

And, have you ever had a kidney stone?

Tell me.

Love,

YESTERDAY WAS A BEAR....

Marley will be featured as Pet of the Week!!!

2011-06-22T16:25:00.000-05:00

Marley will be featured as pet of the week this Friday June 24^th here..

http://toadilypets.com

Be sure to visit!!

I also have lots to tell you tomorrow...

Until then.

Love,

Too hot to fish!

2011-06-21T12:54:00.000-05:00

What a hot time in the old west it has been!! Whew!!!

I picked up the grands on Friday evening...Dylan had the best time riding his four-wheeler..

He even took Emma for a spin or two.....She tried a bit unsuccessfully to ride on her own..She forgot about the brake and ran into a cedar tree..She was fine as she wasn't going that fast at all..Just forgot how to stop it..Then the second time around she again forgot about the brake and tried to use her feet to stop the four wheeler..We thought that was enough for one evening of learning to ride..

The baby is still too young. She rode with me on the big four wheeler..We followed Dylan on his down through the woods and around the pond and back up and around the yard..It was a blast!

The original plan was all three to spend the night but as we fired up the grill, Dylan decided it was time to go home. We have been going through this the past few years and we aren't quite sure why but it is the way it is. I don't fight him on this because I STILL get homesick at my advanced age.

So Angela brought him to the lake to meet us the next morning to participate in the derby...

There were many people there despite the extreme temperatures and high winds...

We tried our best, but didn't get one fish! We did get just enough bites to keep us there for a few hours. The temperature that day soared to 102 degrees. We left way before that..We were all safely home and resting by noon..

So that concludes the events of a weekend in June 2011..

What did you do?

Tell me.

Love,

A weekend in June

2011-06-17T15:58:00.000-05:00

Grand ones are coming over tonight...Fishing Derby tomorrow..

Take care!

Love,
Me

I wanna know.....why

2011-06-16T14:17:00.000-05:00

There I was....

Just enjoying the evening..

Doing my gardening....

When the sky suddenly did this....

And this began....

and then this...

There was nothing we could do as we all watched the destruction...(Notice the holes in the plant leaves?) Yes this is what happened to a LOT of leaves...Also damage to a couple of our vehicles..I know are house roof needs replaced soon, but I am holding out until I HAVE to get it done...Anyway....

We had people come earlier in the evening to look at this tree...

It was damaged in the ice storm of 2007 and this year it didn't come back..Too much damage was done... leaving us with a *what to do with the trunk* dilemma. What else then to have it preserved!!

By this fellow..

www.oklahomachainsawcarvings.com

I will keep it a secret until the work is complete..(I mean I will try)

AND you all will be the first to see!!

Whats new with you?

Tell me..

Love,
Me

Mickey and Me: A method to my madness

2011-06-16T09:31:00.000-05:00

Mickey and Me: A method to my madness

A method to my madness

2011-06-10T09:42:00.001-05:00

Or otherwise known as the blog post with many pictures....

Every day its the same story....Literally...

I go home..Change clothes and head out ....

I go by this hydrant and flip it up..(Thank you Mickey)

This begins the water flow that waters my garden as I

head to barn with Bob right with me and then

we are greeted by the herd as I make my way to

the center of the pasture where Mickey installed yet another hydrant for me and I flip that on. In the summer I have a hose connected to this as it runs to

the tank that I keep in the shade under an old hickory tree down in the corner of the pasture so the water remains cool as the heat is on! Then I

head back up to the barn to begin the feeding process. Ben, the Anatolian Sheperd, knows to get into one of the stalls as that is where he eats. I cannot feed the dogs together as it just wouldn't work. Ben would eat all of

Delilahs food as she eats outside by the Quonset hut. Then after they are happily eating their dinner I head

back to the barn to give these ladies their

pellets, being careful to divide it equally in the

different feeding containers so that everyone

can get their fair share including

Rita who I feed outside beside the barn where the other goats cannot see whats going on because they would want to eat it all and give her nothing. Yes

they are that way..Don't let the pretty faces fool you..So after that I turn off the hydrant which has flowed for quite awhile now and then head back to the barn and let Ben out of his stall as they have pretty much finished eating

by this time and then lock the gate and pull the big fan back over and turn it on so they can have a pleasantly cool evening in the barn and

without fail the ladies will still be asking for more food or a good petting or at least a treat as I am shutting things up for the night...

And that, my friends, concludes the tour of what happens when I get home from work.

There are a few days that it seems like WORK but for the most part, it is what makes me happy..It is the way it is on Peebly...

Whats your routine?

Tell me..

Love,
Me

A pleasant evening.

2011-06-09T15:40:00.000-05:00

Well after I finished mowing it was!

It wasn't terribly hot and we had a slight breeze...pretty nice...

I thought it would be a good idea that Marley have a bath...

After that, we went outside so she could dry off...(Yes it IS time for a trip to the groomer!)

Bob had just had his bath Sunday so he didn't have to take another. But typically, I will bath both of them the same evening....

I convinced them all to run around so Marleys hair would dry ...

Before long, it was dry and she looked beautiful!!!Plus they got a pretty good bit of exercise in the process..

We did some watering

a little more running

inspected the tomatoes..

looking for bugs on the plants..

We did get to enjoy our very first tomato with dinner last night!!! It was wonderful!

Tonight will be house cleaning night. That will leave me plenty of free time over the weekend for other things!

Oh, dinner tonight will be Cheese Stuffed Manicotti

What are you having?

Tell me!

Love,

The Office

2011-06-08T15:48:00.000-05:00

Not this one...

But my office at home...

I was just looking around there this morning..Looking at all the different books, relics and photos ..

Does anyone even look anything up in encyclopedias anymore??

These shells are from a trip I took with my Dad once. We drove to Florida...He wanted to do everything on a very very tight budget but he broke down and got a really cool place right on the beach..We had fun...

And he didn't even seem to mind that we spent the extra money...

This monkey had rubber bands built into the arms and you insert your finger in the mitten and fling the monkey and it makes a screaming monkey sound as it flies thru the air...by George!

Mickeys high school graduation picture...

My peoples..

Books from days gone by. The Emergency Care book when my son thought he wanted to be a firefighter...But going thru the EMT course he discovered he couldn't handle the sight of blood.

Who doesn't have a bird clock?

Mementos..

I love my office...

AND someone is always there with me while I work or play....

I will be mowing tonight..

What about you?

Tell me..

Love,

Hello? Remember me?

2011-06-07T10:21:00.001-05:00

Did you think I was gone for good?

Funny how times flies..

Over the Memorial Day Weekend, I started painting our pipe fencing along the front of our property.. Black..Semi-gloss oil based paint. The real McCoy...

I had a friend tell me that you should paint fence like this with a rag. Mickey and I bought the paint at Sherwin-Williams and they have these big fluffy painting mittens. Looked like this just might do the trick..SO..I began to paint. The mitt soon became heavy and before long the lining inside the glove ripped and the paint was all over my hand. It was also splattered all over legs and arms and face...So much for that theory...

Next I went to the rag trick..I put on rubber gloves and dipped the rag into paint can and began to paint..or something that resembled painting...Once again paint was all over the place including me. Before long, the rubber gloves were ripped and my hands were once again covered in the paint.

I became so discouraged that I simply took off the gloves and used the rag and painted bare handed..Yes I am that smart. I painted until the first gallon of paint was emptied...What I lack in common sense I excel in determination and fortitude..What a mess!!! It took me over half a can of mineral spirits and quite a bit of time to get the paint off me...
SO...Sunday AM I started again and this time used a simple but effective paint brush..It did the trick and I happily painted away for a couple of hours until I completed the section I intended to get done then simply put the lid back...In the meantime I was harassed and attacked by ants and flies and bugs and bees...

So I will work on that dang fence for the next few weeks, on the weekends, in the early morning hours while its still cool...Because our summer has already started and it has been 10 to 15 degrees above normal...

What have you been up to?

Tell me.

Love,

Oh brother and some sunflowers

2011-05-20T10:28:00.000-05:00

My brother sent me a giant bag of

GIANT sunflower seeds...He grew them in his own garden in Pennsylvania last summer..

I cant wait to see what happens...

Because it was calling for rain today in Oklahoma..(and boy were they right!) I walked all over our property last evening planting seeds. I mean everywhere...

We do happen to LOVE sunflowers ....

Thank you brother!!!

And because I know you have been wondering, Marley is doing great!!! Her eye is totally healed!!

Have a good weekend everyone!!

Love,

The week in review

2011-05-19T09:24:00.000-05:00

The concert over the weekend was good. At least half of it was.

I think ZZ Top could have done a better job.

We left about 4 songs into ZZ.

It may just be that we arent as young as we used to be..Hmmmmm..

Things are growing around my place.

The garden is coming along quite well..

Bob is enjoying the evenings as we are outside...

It was a lot of fun having Addyson over. Just some one on one time..

We did a lot of this...

And this..

A little of this...

It was very calm and relaxing....

Rain is headed our way....That is good.

What have you been up to this week?

Tell me..

Love,

Zoo Amp Concert

2011-05-12T11:06:00.000-05:00

I was unable to get on the Internet at home for a week or so now. Service guy came out and installed a new something or other on the Internet thingy on the roof and soon I was up and running again. That's the way it goes when you live outside of town. We have had some rain lately here in central Oklahoma and I can tell you we are grateful for every single drop as we have been in a severe drought and the fire danger was keeping me up at night..But that may be over now..

Onward....

I am taking a *free* day off tomorrow, Friday, and picking up ONE grand this evening after work.

This one. The baby.

I think it is IMPORTANT to have one on one time, don't you?

Did you have that when you were growing up? Do you do that now with your own?

I think I'm going to try to do this more....

I have mowing to do this weekend. I shouldn't complain. I haven't had much because of the dry conditions.

AND..................

We are going to a concert!

www.zooamp.com Here....

Saturday's weather

Saturday: Sunny with a high near 66. North wind between 11 and 14 mph with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Saturday Night: Partly cloudy with a low around 47.

I can handle that.....

I am determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may find myself. For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness is determined not by our circumstance but by our disposition.
Martha Washington

It will be fun!

I will post about it next week...

In the meantime...Enjoy your life...

Martha evidently rocked..

Love,
Me

Mothers Day Weekend

2011-05-06T13:52:00.000-05:00

Thank you Mom for taking care of all of us. Many of us...I love you

A lot of us!!!

Thank you Nanny for being there for us! Lots of us!! All of us!! I love you

\
Thank you Angela for being such a wonderful mother to all my grandchildren. I love you

I know its a hard job. You make it look easy.

Thank you Tibby for being the perfect mother for Mickey. I love you

As a dog mom, I could do better.
BOB! Off the table!!

I love you too

Love,
Me

The royal wedding through a childs eyes

2011-05-03T10:57:00.001-05:00

Im fairly certain most people have had the chance to see at least part of the royal wedding. Kate was beautiful and William most handsome. It was quite the event.

On Peebly, the girls were busy coloring and putting on paper their own take of the wedding festivities..

William with a bouquet of flowers for Kate..Kate with love in her eyes darting toward William..Its obvious they are indeed ..*In Love*...

Then they live happily ever after in the royal palace.

This is how little girls see love....

All that and ice cream too..

Did you enjoy the wedding?

Tell me.

Love,

Do you know what I love today?

2011-04-29T12:14:00.000-05:00

Naturally I love Mickey....

I love my dog Bob..

And I love that Marley is fully recovered from her eye surgery and feeling fine.

Mickeys dog Shirley had ACL surgery on her leg last week and is doing great too!

I love that these two little ladies are spending the weekend on Peebly..We will plant some things and cook and watch movies and do what country girls do!

I love that I have goats!!

Did I mention that I love Bob?

I love that my Grandma was released from the hospital and doing great! She is spending the next couple of weeks with her niece Nancy, and I know that makes my Grandma happy happy happy.

I love that I have this portrait of my great great grandmother who I was named after. It hangs in my house on Peebly.

I love that I have good friends.

I love that the weather is beautiful here in Oklahoma .

I love that my Mom and all my Pennsylvania family is safe and doing well.

I love, that for this little window in time, all is well and peaceful..

I will relish that thought for the weekend.

What will you do this weekend?

Tell me.

Love,

Late Easter pictures

2011-04-28T14:18:00.000-05:00

I had a big dinner at my house on Easter.

For every holiday the more the merrier is our motto.

This is Amanda. She is my daughter in laws sister. She is at my house for every Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving and any other gathering we have in between.

She had feathers put in her hair.

How cool is that? They say everyone is doing this! Rumor has it that its because of Steven Tylers hair and his latest appearances on American Idol..

*I think James is going to win, what do you think?*

"I was just reading about that in my Grit magazine!!! " Oh Bob!!!

* Now Im not saying Bob is making that up, Im just saying he may have read about the feathers in another magazine instead of the Grit*

The girls looked especially cute in their new dresses!!!

And their prank joke eyeglasses...

The Grand ones will be spending the weekend. I cant wait!!

What are your weekend plans?

Tell me.

Love,
Me

The Godfather Part 1 on Peebly

2011-04-27T09:24:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I like to play pranks on Mickey...

Its not always easy to do because he is usually the one doing them.

But I got him this morning..

I told him something was wrong with the bed...

He went in to inspect....Bob was right along with him...

GOT YA!

Do you do these kinds of things?

Tell me

Love,
Me

The Mantel in Brick Town/Oklahoma City

2011-04-26T15:14:00.001-05:00

For Administrative Professionals Day (which is tomorrow) our office went out to lunch here.

http://www.themantelokc.com/

It was a very enjoyable meal..

I had this..

Chicken Pasta Primavera

Oven Roasted Chicken, Seasonal Vegetables, and Farfalle Pasta with a Marsala Cream Sauce.

Delicious...

And just because..

Just because I love him so much....

And no matter how you look at him....

He is beautiful...

My boy Bob...

And the birds are back in town....

This all makes me happy.

My grandmother is recouping from pneumonia..She is in the hospital but doing just fine..So its a good day...

Hows your day?

Tell me.

Love,

Emma the Clown Fish

2011-04-22T13:37:00.000-05:00

Emmas school conducted a fantastic play last evening.

GO FISH!

The kids did a great job and just look at the elaborate make up and costumes!

I was very proud of her...Afterwards when we all gathered back at their house, Emma asked me not to put her picture on the internet. I said, "Why baby?"

Because...

Ok...If you really dont want me to, then of course I wont.

Ok Grandma, you can, but only on your blog.

My daughter in law told me that Emma has been bullied at school because of her weight. This makes me so sad for her and just mad too. I cant believe this is happening in first grade. It seems that bullying is on the news a lot lately.

I assure her that she is beautiful and that she is wonderful inside.

I have to figure out a way to handle this without making anything worse or to make her dislike anyone. I want her to feel safe and secure and understanding.

My daughter in law is going to speak with the principle and the teacher.

What can I do?

Any suggestions?

Has this ever happened to you or to your family?

Tell me.

Please.

Love,

Bob...Peebly Roads newest fire fighter

2011-04-18T17:01:00.002-05:00

Yes its true. Bob is a firefighter...I will tell you all about it further down the page..but first...

Marley is getting so much better...

Easter is just around the corner..

Doesn't she look better now????

What a sweetheart...The vet said the eye looked good. They had to take out a stitch that didn't dissolve on its on. They said to keep putting the antibiotic cream in her eye until the tube was all. There is still some redness but nothing like before..We are on our way to recovery!!!

Now about the fire..

About 4:00 pm yesterday Mickey walked outside. He immediately came back in and shouted to me that there was a fire! I stopped what I was doing and walked outside..Bob right with me. Soon as I walked out I could see smoke all throughout our yard and I started walking down the driveway to see what was going on. As I got to the end of the driveway I realized that directly across Peebly there was an out of control fire. Brush and trees were burning. There was no time to take Bob back to the house. I gathered him up and carried him across the road with me. I didn't want to take a chance on him getting hit on the road and Mickey was still behind on the phone calling 911. I knew that people lived down the gravel drive right where the fire was so I ran thru the smoke and down the driveway to their home carrying Bob all the while. Finally at their home, I put Bob down and beat on their door and told them what was happening. They put hoses together and we ran back to the fire stomping and spraying and I told the teenage boy that lived there to go back and get some towels. We then wet them down and beat back the flames as best as we could. Bob was right there. The smoke was horrible and the flames were terribly hot. We held on until the fire company finally came about 10-15 mins later. At that time I literally threw down the towel and gathered Bob up and walked home.

We were exhausted and hot and our lungs were raw. Bob should have received an honorary junior badge for the day. Thank goodness that Mickey was quick to spot the fire first of all. If he hadn't, with the way the winds were whipping around and the dry conditions, things would have turned out far worse than a few trees.

It was quite the experience..

On a lighter note, the feeders are out and the hummers are back..

Have you seen them?

Tell me

Love,
Me

Take some time

2011-04-15T12:26:00.000-05:00

to listen to those around you...

Listen to the ones that depend on you

Listen to your heart

There is a lot to hear

Love,

Bob has a crush!

2011-04-13T10:04:00.001-05:00

Spring is in the air here in Oklahoma.....Its everywhere!!!

And evidently so is LOVE!!!!

Someone is smitten..

He wants to travel to Kentucky...

Here is a comment we received the other day regarding Marleys eye surgery...

Mollie Jo and Bobo said...

We are so happy Marley came though surgery. We know all bouts the puppy mill and greedy breeders. I too had to learn all about life outside the breeders when I came to live with my momma. Can't believe we are the same age. Small world huh?!?! We are keeping our paws crossed that you heal real quick!

-Mollie Jo & Bobo

Pee Ess: For Bob's Mom's eyes only....Mollie Jo like to know if Bob is ready to have a girlfurend?

-Matchmaker Bobo and Brother to Mollie JO!

April 6, 2011 11:19 PM

Who can blame him? Look how ADORABLE she is !!!

Bob dreaming of Mollie Jo...

You cant stop love when it happens...

Be sure to check out their blog...

http://kwing-dogeared.blogspot.com/

Love,

The garden has begun!

2011-04-11T15:35:00.000-05:00

Ok...Marley is getting better after her surgery and things look ok, but....not perfect. I still think that perhaps there is something on the lower rim of her eyelid that is bothering her. Follow up visit is this Friday so we shall see..

Ive been looking at this mass of mint I have growing around the house and Im thinking since it loves growing so much, I can transplant part of it around various places that need some sprucing!!

Tomatoes are planted.

Rosemary is in...

Trying a new mammoth jalapeno.

Roma's.

One barrel is a spring mix of lettuce and the other, radishes.

We have two raised beds. The finished one, mine. The one in back, his. We are having a friendly competition this year to see who can produce the best crop. I have the lead as I have mine all planted and he has..nothing..Nothing except a few onions that I planted before he came up with the idea of a contest...

I do love these bushes!!

This is one project that I certainly hope we finish this spring...That is getting this bed done. The wall needs finished and dirt hauled in. I want to fill this with a variety of plants.

Well there you have it. The garden begins.

How is your garden growing?

Tell me.

Love,

Healing

2011-04-08T10:12:00.000-05:00

Marley is getting better each and every day....

She gets an antibiotic cream in the eye twice a day and a pain pill every twelve hours. She is eating normally and actually getting spunkier by the minute...

She has a follow up next Friday...
In the meantime, onward we go..Grands spending the night. Tomatoes getting planted.
All the while, healing and spoiling are at the top of the list.

Naturally.

Love,
Me