Don't let SM read this!!

If you are SM please don't read this...please! I'm certainly not trying to ruin your day but.......IT'S SNOWING! Yes, I know I'm on the north slope and we're supposed to get tons of snow. But it's those gorgeous flakes that are coming down in bunches and bunches...the ones I so love. And yes, I know I'll be complaining about the cold and the ice....but IT'S SNOWING!! At this rate we're going to get quite a bit by morning. Thank goodness I'm not close to SM right now or she'd smack me. I won't be doing the happy dance outside - my luck, I'd fall on my kiester!

Passing wave!

Not much happening these days, but i thought I'd pop in and wave Hi to everyone. It's getting just a tad cold up here on the slope - a whopping 16 degrees right now - and it's the middle of the day. That tells me it's just going to get colder and colder. The snow is not bad, but that's because the crazy wind keeps blowing it so much. Yes, horrible winds. I literally could not get the door open to get in the truck yesterday. I finally gave up and walked (or let myself be blown) around to the passenger side and got in. What can I say....this is really an advanture!

Looking for the time.....

Yes, there are two clocks, no three clocks that I can easily see - oh wait, four clocks counting the one in the lower corner of my monitor, so I'm not looking for the exact time right now. I'm looking for the two and one-half weeks that flew by since I got home from the slope. I'm scheduled to fly back up this Sunday and I don't know where the time has gone. Oh sure, I've gotten all kinds of things accomplished, but at the same time it seems like I haven't gotten enough done and there is still so much I'd like to do before Sunday rolls around.
On the upside I've spent some badly needed snippets of time with the family; lunches, dinners, sitting around talking and a couple of shopping trips. I've also done a bit of re-organizing here at home - nothing major, just little stuff. Visited with friends and still have a couple of lunches scheduled to visit with more friends before leaving on Sunday.
Oh, and my brother would enjoy dinner tonight at my house - you see SM has class tonight so Keith and the kiddos are coming over for liver & onions. SM detests liver and onions - she cringes at the thought of even smelling it, but Jim, Keith and I love it so this is the prime time to have it. Of course I'll fix something else for the grandkids as they haven't developed the taste for it yet. I can still remember growing up and hearing Mom say she was making liver & onions for supper. I was in heaven! So dear brother, hop a flight and I'll have it ready when you get here. Yes, I know, your wife will fix it for you, but think of the fun conversations we could have about the old days.
I've started back to weight watchers. It's so true what they say about the food on the North Slope - it's dangerously delicious. I have a few extra pounds that I had lost that have mysteriously re-appeared since starting my job up north. Well, it's time to get rid of them and get back on track. It's just so darned tempting with nothing else to do up there - work, eat, sleep.
Did I mention the chill in the air? It's about 22 degrees right now...I think that's slightly more than a chill. The lovely weatherman is calling for snow by the end of the week. Nothing major yet, but we're about ready for it. My one wish would be for the grandkids to have one warm Halloween. One time of not having to wear so many layers of clothing under and over the Halloween costumes. D does fine with it cause she's our warm baby (baby? lord, she's 9), but R has a tough time with it. He's not the winter child that D is. His idea of trick or treat is to wear his costume around the house all day, go to a few (very few) houses close in the neighborhood and then head back to their nice warm cozy home and help hand out candy to the other kids. Of course, there's his rational thinking of just dumping the candy that Mom bought for the other kids into his trick or treat bag. After all, he's her favorite trick or treater, right?
OK, so sitting here isn't getting anything accomplished, or maybe it is. I'm kind of, more-or-less, catching you up on my life. How exciting, huh?
Better get moving or I'll get nothing done today.

AK update......

So, I'm finally taking the time to sit down and post something. Yes, it's been way too long since my last post and there is simply no excuse.
Pressing news....HAPPY BIRTHDAY F!!!!! I can't believe it's that time again. Wow, the time is just flying by. Another whole year. I still think of F as that little girl teetering around in the back yard with her wispy hair blowing in the wind, trying to keep up with SM. Why does that image come to mind so often when I think of F?
Things have been busy as usual, but at the same time nothing much has been going on. If you read SM's post you can see that life in her house is flying by with not nearly enough time to squeeze in everything.
We're busy getting ready for the rapidly approaching winter here in Alaska. Fall is here and won't be around much longer. The 'termination dust' in on the mountains. That's the verbiage we use when you see the snow on the mountains slowly (or rapidly) making its way down to us. It's a huge topic on the radio and everywhere you go. "Did you see the termination dust this morning? - - There's a lot more termination dust today." You kind of look at people like, have you never seen snow on the mountains before? WT_? This is Alaska for heavens sake. It snows in Alaska a LOT and for a LONG time. It just means you better get yourself in gear and get ready for it. Today we're going to winterize the camper and put the lawn chairs and in the storage shed and store the riding mower and move the 4-wheelers and position the snow blower in the garage for easy access, things like that. I had my studded tires mounted on the car yesterday and will get the oil changed one day this coming week. I've rounded up my gloves and snow pants and hats and boots, all the necessities for winter life. J is busy complaining about the chill in the air...it's Alaska for heavens sake. He keeps saying he loves living in Alaska, but then he hates the cold. I know, makes no sense. Nearly everyone does the same thing, but continue to live here. Me, I so love the snow. It's gorgeous. D and I have this thing about the snow and it makes SM a little crazy. SM doesn't want to hear about it. I can understand because she has to drive in it so much for the kids. Running them around everywhere with the nasty roads and the stupid drivers. The STUPID Alaska drivers - now that's what makes me absolutely crazy. You would think that people have never driven in snow and ice before. They act like maniacs. The need to slow down is completely foreign to some. Accidents abound and that just makes it harder to drive.
Without going into detail, things are very strained at work. Yes, I'm looking for a job, but it's not all that easy. We'll just wait and see what happens.
I'm so excited about becoming a great-aunt in May, 2008. This is incredible news and we're all so happy! An addition to our family is such a wonderful thing for all of us. We may not live close, but we're still a close family and share in each others good times (and bad). The time will fly by and before you know it our little F will be a Mom...how cool is that. She's going got make such a good Mom and L will be a good Dad, I'm sure.
OK, so I'm rambling. J just got off the phone, talking to his sister in GA so he wants to talk now. I'll post more later.
Love everyone and miss the Ohio family!

Ok, back to work...

Good morning all:
Yes, I know for most of you it's mid-to-late morning, but for some of us (Alaska) it 7:00 am. I'm up, have started pouring coffee in me, taken my shower and getting ready to pack. The limo service will be here at 11:30 for the drive into Anchorage to catch the plane. Thanks for the words of encouragement...I'll keep the "stiff upper lip" and keep on trudging along. Yes F, I know you know all too well the emotions I'm feeling right now and it ain't fun! Life goes on and we can only do so much. I know I'm right and that does help my own integrity and professionalism...hopefully it will help me keep my job....LOL! I'll keep you posted. Ok, time to turn this thing off so I cac pack it up! Hugs, kisses........
Love everyone.

Time to head up north again

Ok, it's Thursday morning and I have loads of stuff to do today because I'm scheduled to go back to the slope tomorrow. So what am I doing...sitting here browsing the blogs. I'm in a funk. I'm not looking forward to returning to the slope. Ok family, go ahead, "I told you so!" No, I do like my job up north, but without going into detail (another story for another day) my boss and I are not seeing eye to eye and I have this fear (not fright as in afraid, just a foreboding) that if I don't end up quitting I'm going to get fired. Yes, it's serious and I've never been in a situation like this before. Again, without going into detail - I'm the new person so someone is going to take the blame - take the fall - and it looks like it's going to be me, not her. Needless to say, I'm dreading the whole confrontation, but not much I can do about it. Yep, I'm seeking other employment but we all know that it's not easy to just miraculously find another job in 2 weeks. To compound my funk, I was watching the grankids last evening while SM was at class and sure enough D was crying - for a couple of reasons. But when she came over and curled up in my arms and said she didn't want me to go back to the slope for three weeks, that it was too long for me to be away and she would miss me so much...yep, that did it! The poor girl has no idea of anything else going on with my job right now, but that just did me in.
Oh well, I'll keep you all posted. Love everyone!

Hiya peeps....

Just poppin in to say "Hiya" and to let you know I am really going to try to do bettter posting on my blog... really I am. With pics of the kiddos & all :)
Love ya!

See, I told you so....

Yep, I'm back already! I mentioned in my previous post that I'd be on a posting bing and here I am.

I forgot to mention my latest obsession, thanks to SM and D. I'm into the whole Harry Potter thing. I'm on book 3 and loving it. When the Harry Potter craze started I had no interest at all. It was just another kids series. But then when the final book came out and SM and D were so excited I thought, what the heck, try to read a little of it. And that did me in. I need to do some housecleaning and start my algebra and do some grocery shopping - but no, I can here "The Prisoner of Azkaban" calling me. Hide the book, hide the book....don't look at the book, don't think about Harry Potter! Oh, and SM loaned me book 1 and 2 on VHS. Hmmmm, maybe I need to see if our old VHS still works in the grandkids room. I mean, that would be a form of housecleaning, right? If the old VHS machine doesn't work anymore I could toss it out and there you have it...housecleaning. But then I would have to hop in the car and run over to SM's house and use her VHS so I could watch the movies. Oh wow, more housecleaning because that would mean I would be getting those movies out of my house. So maybe, in a strange way, watching Harry Potter is a form of housecleaning. I knew I could make it work to my advantage. (Yes, the grandkids have "their room" at our house.)

Another day up north

Wooohooo, someone besides me posted to the blog! I was sooooo excited - until I read SA's other blog noting that this post was supposed to go over there. Doesn't matter, I was just excited to know that someone - anyone - still looks at this thing! Ok, so now I'm going to be on a posting spree.

Life is life - nothing really exciting. I'm mid-way thru my first official 2 week R&R. The time is flying by and before you know it next Friday will be here and I'll be up at the butt-crack of dawn (2:30 am) to get ready for the limo ride to the airport to I can make my flight back up to the slope. My flight leaves at 7:00 am, barring weather problems, so I have to be there 2 hours early - ok, that's 5:00 am - and it's a 1 hour trip to the airport so the limo arrives in my driveway at 4:00 am. For anyone who may not know me too well - I am NOT a morning person so I have to get up early to drag my sorry butt around the house trying to get ready. I can't stand the rushing around at the last minute - it just makes me tired and wanting to go back to bed.

The grandkids started school this week. For D is was not too big of a deal as she's in 4th grade now, but R has just started kindergarten. Huge deal for both R and Mom. He is so excited to be going to school. Day 2 and he was already telling SM that she didn't have to walk him to his room. Wonderful, but once he gets to his classroom there a things that need to be done before he starts socializing with his new friends. He's such a boy - why worry about hanging up your backpack or putting your lunch away or even taking off your coat? But the teachers say he's doing well. And having them both in school all day will hopefully give SM some precious time to work on her studies - sure, right! She's such a Mom - help out whenever the school needs last minute help - pick up her friends kids when a last minute emergency pops up - if things don't change she's not going to get any studying done when her peeps are busy at school.

On another note - there is a definite chill in the air in Alaska. Summer is winding down fast. The leaves haven't started turning colors yet, but give it another week or two and they'll be falling off the trees in bushels and then the snow won't be far behind. The State Fair started so we'll be heading over there this weekend to indulge in all the healthy food we can handle. The big difference is that at our fair we need to take jackets/sweaters/ and even some gloves if we're going to be staying late into the evening. It gets darn chilly. Back in Ohio we'd be sweating our armpits off!

Ok, enough for now. I have to dig into my fun new project for this fall - College Albegra. Class starts on Thursday and I want to try to get a headstart now - lord knows I'm going to need it. It's an online class which is a plus because with my job I can't attend classes when I'm on the slope. Wish me luck with this one - I'm sure going to need it. (Oh, did I mention how much I hate algebra - and algebra hates me right back!)

Lost in time.....

Okay so it's been awhile since the last post. So much has happened in that time that I don't know where to begin. SO.......let's start new.

I am now officially a mother-in-law. Our daughter got married this May. It was a beautiful wedding if I do say so myself. The weather was perfect, the dresses and tuxs were stunning (oh, that was the people in them), everything arrived on time the way it was supposed to be, the hall was beautiful, the food was good, we had great music, the photographer took great pictures, and fun was had by all. It was a very fast wedding week that's for sure. You almost wish you had a slow down button so you could enjoy that week longer. Or maybe even a replay button to do it all again. We did so many fun things and all of our family came home. I know that my husband & I will treasure the memories of that week forever. It was such a great week that I am having trouble coming up with the words that could even begin to explain it. I could go on and on.......but I won't. J & I are very happy to have L as part of our family. Even though he is a zucchini addict. :)

S& L added to their family within a couple of weeks after the wedding. NO.....not a baby........a puppy. Gracie is a very cute goldendoodle. They say she's pretty dumb but she's SO cute. She loves attention. You could pet her all night and it wouldn't be too much for her.

I got a new boss in February. He is a very laid back talker. No, I'm not kidding and S & L can verify this fact. He could possibly talk more than some people in our family. I said possibly. It's nice to work for someone that doesn't push or demand. However, he is very S...L...O...W....at making decisions which does rush me at the end of every week. I am a church secretary so there are bulletins for 3 services (all different) that need to be typed, printed and folded for Sunday morning. Not to mention his 2 bulletins. I'm actually getting used to not having the info before Thursday morning but it still makes me panic alittle. Other than this little kink, work is going pretty good.

So many other normal, day-to-day things have happened that I'm not going to write about them. Let's just say that life is good and I try to enjoy every day. Some days are better than others.....but there is at least one blessing in every day. Find that blessing and thank God for it. Tell your family how much you love them every day. (Yes, I try to talk to my daughter every day. L too.) I have found life easier to deal with by doing these things. Enjoy life, thank God for your blessings, and tell your friends and family you love them. It doesn't necessarily change the trials of life but it makes them alittle easier to handle. So to my family and friends.......I LOVE YOU and I'm off to enjoy another day!

Back at it in Alaska

So we've made it back to Alaska in one piece....too many tears to count, but we're in one piece. The trip was great and the wedding was beautiful. My brother and sister (in-law) did an incredible job (way too much work for two people) and everything was just perfect for Miss F's special day. As the saying goes, the bride was radient. The groom had stars ( and a tear or two) in his eyes as he saw her walking down the aisle. My brother (Father of the bride) held up much better than I expected. After all, this is his baby he is giving to another man....as much as he loves L (the groom), I know how hard it was for him and I can only love him more. He's such a good brother, great Dad, loving husband, and just all around fantastic man. His wife and daughter are blessed to have him in their lives. SA (mother of the bride) was gorgeous and you could see the love between the two of them as they watched their baby girl become a married woman. The happy couple is on honeymooning in Vegas and "Mom and Dad" are busy picking up the pieces - returning tuxes, returning wedding cake parts, returning tables and chairs, etc, etc, etc.
Amid the joyous moments we had to leave Ohio once again. Let me tell you..it doesn't get any easier. Good byes at the airport were the hardest, of course.
Well, the tears are starting again and I need to get busy with the laundry I've brought back with me and all the other real life stuff again. Vacations can only last so long.......
Love, hugs, and kisses to the Ohio family. I'll start saving my pennies again and make the trip back ASAP.

March 17,2007

Wow, it's been a long time since I've posted anything here....and so much has happened. The family is in Hawaii, I'm going to be starting a new job soon, Miss Femmie is getting married, etc., etc. Oh, and of course the famous WW update...I've officially hit my goal weight! Am I excited, you bet!
Ok, so I need to write more, but I've got to get to the tanning bed before they close for the evening.
More later...I promise. I just wish someone besides me would start posting again...hint, hint, hint!

Love everyone!

Ok, so what's up ....

Dang, the Red Jeep Club is started to feel like "my" blog! No one posts and no one bothers to read my posts. Am I really that boring? Am I just typing to practice typing? Is this a strike of some kind against the lovely, gorgeous, magnificent me? You're crushing my ego here. But does that dampen my urge to type some more....heck no!!!
Well, Miss D and I took our road trip (so we flew...big deal, it's still a road trip) to Fairbanks. And did we have a great time! North Pole, shopping, Santa's house, shopping, Chena Hot Springs, shopping, North Lights watching, shopping! Did I mention we did a little shopping? The girl has got it down. Boy, can she search for a bargain. 8 yrs old and she's a pro. Her Mama has taught her well. And laugh, we giggled about the silliest things until I thought we would cry. D was totally in awe of Santa's house. We had to go back a second time, she enjoyed it so much. Even got to see two of Santa's reindeer. the others were resting up for the big day later this month. Naturally, we did the girlie thing and were up late every night talking and talking about nothing in particular - just enjoying our time together. So anyway, we're back home and we're planning our next big adventure. Any ideas?
Weather update: the horrible winds died down and it was freezing cold, well below zero for several days, then it warmed up and the snow came. Ok, then it warmed up some more and the snow is melting and freezing at night and guess what..the damned wind is back again! Do you see a pattern here? I know, I know, it's Alaska.
Christmas shopping is almost done and will be in the mail soon. Just a couple more things to get for the kiddo's and then the wrapping begins.
Hope L is doing better. S, take care of the guy....he's only man and we all know they are big babies at heart.
Lates update: it's official; I've now lost 10.4#!!!!! I'm so excited. This ww thing really, truly does work.
Hope all is well with everyone in Ohio. Take care, be happy and keep in touch!
Love you all!

Counting down...

By this time tomorrow night D and I will be settling down in our hotel room in Fairbanks! Yep, she and I are going on our first (of many) road trips! Just us two girls.

Hello....?

I know how busy everyone must be, but no postings but me? Come on, just a short hello or something!
Anyway, not too much happening around here. Got the new cell phone working fine now. Went wireless with the internet network...that was fun (just a hint of sarcasm). It was a struggle but it's fine now, more or less. It is nice to be able to set up the laptop at the breakfast bar or snuggled up on the sofa.
WW is going well. I've lost a total of 6.6# so far! Hooray for me! Slowly but surely!
Winter is getting closer, the snow is inching its way down the mountains and we're expecting to see it covering the lawns any day. Please don't say anything S....she's not exactly excited about it. D and I talk about it all the time and we're excited...waiting and waiting. She so loves when it snows! R likes the snow but isn't at all happy about the cold.
Registration for next semester starts on Monday (10/23). Oh joy (another hint of sarcasm).
Guess that's about it for now. Miss the Ohio family. I haven't seen any messages about your flight plans to Alaska? I know....you holding out and going to surprise us, right?
Love ya!!!!

What's my sign?

Ok, so most of you know I'm remote control challenged. I readily admit this piece of information. But beyond that I can figure out most of the technology thrown at us these days. Well, I came up against a good one yesterday. Here's what happened:
Yesterday I purchased a new cell phone - Nokia 6103 - very nice and it's Bluetooth compatible. The Bluetooth issue is what started the whole thing. K had given me a Bluetooth wireless headset. Hey, it was free so there shouldn't be a problem purchasing a new phone. We're going to have to go with the whole GSM thing in the near future anyway.
$180 later (not counting the $50 rebate I'll be getting in the mail) I walk out of the CellOne store a happy little camper with extra chargers and a case and everything. Not at all excited at the prospect of having to manually enter my entire address book (now known as contacts). But still, kind of upbeat about the whole camera phone and all that.
I spend the next 4 (yes....4) hours trying to set up this crazy phone. New settings, new sounds, new functions and all those blasted phone numbers...4 hours!
Anyway, I get to the final step of setting the passwords (pin codes) to lock the keys and whatnot. I'm going thru the process and somehow (lord only knows) I've managed to lock the entire thing. The exact message is "SIM Card Rejected". What the hell does that mean? I've called CellOne and although they were very nice about it, the only option I have at this point is to go back to the CellOne store today. Hopefully they will take pity on me and just give me a new SIM card since it's brand new. But they may get nasty and say that I've fried the damned thing and will have to purchase a new SIM card. I was only trying to lock the keypad so in case it was stolen or something noone else could use it. But no, I've managed to screw the whole thing up.
Today I'll be at the CellOne store when the doors open at noon. And what am I doing the rest of the day....entering phone numbers all over again.
Ok, so I don't see any pity coming from anyone...oh well!

Still losing.....slowly

WW update...... o.2# tonight. So that's not quite one stick of butter. Yuck, the thought...glad it's gone! I didn't gain it all in one week so I can't expect to lose it all in one week. Coming off slowly but surely.

Femmie's Day!

Happy Birthday Femmie! We love you and miss you! Enjoy your special day.....I'll be thinking of you stinker!

Is the suspense killin' ya?

I know you're all just dying to know so here's a Weight Watcher's update....
Week 1 - 1.8# loss
Week 2 - 1.2# loss
Week 3 - .4# loss
Ok, so it looks like I'm slowing down ( or losing ground?). But when you add it up that's a total of 3.4# in 3 weeks. Not too bad! I'm sticking to it and going to stay on the plan! Positive thoughts, positive thoughts.....

How happy can a pound be?

Ok, so this may not be exciting to some, but I went to WW tonight and 1.8 # lighter!!!!!! Wooohoooo! I know, I know, it doesn't sound like much but it is a beginning!

Hello...is this my blog now?

Am I the only one using this blog now? That's ok, I'll post and hopefully someone will read...hate to type for nothing! Quick update...as most of you know I've been doing the job search thing for quite some time. Not flooding the market with resumes, but looking and sending out resumes if something looks good, really good. Well, finally a good one came along and I had the interviews and WOW...they offered me the job (on 8/25). It was a good offer and I was excited.
On Saturday, (8/26) we go car shopping. I've been having trouble with my PT Cruiser not starting. I've had it to the repair shop and they can't find anything wrong with it. Their advise...next time it happens, don't jumpstart it, don't do anything, just have it towed in. If I bring it in AFTER we get it started then they can't find out what's wrong with it. Now that makes sense...wait until I'm stranded and then we'll help. I live a flippin' hour from town! So once I start for home or for work or for anywhere I can't stop and turn my car off..it might not start again. Not my idea of fun when living in Alaska. So anyway, I traded it in on a Kia Amante. GREAT car. I love it. And I got a great deal on the Cruiser.
So I go in to work on the following Monday (8/28) and turn in my letter of resignation. My last day will be 9/8. My boss, who most of you know, I love dearly, just told me congratulations. Without going into all the boring details, the credit union made me a really great counter-offer and I've accepted. So I'm staying after all. More money, a good promotion...I'll stay.
And my motorcycle (ok, scooter)...I love it. After an incredible amount of frustration and anger, it finally arrived the early part of August. Of course that's about the time the rain really hit up here. Major rain, major flooding! So we brought it home and it sat nice and dry in the garage for a couple of weeks. But now....oh yeah...I'm riding it and loving it! No shifting on this baby! Just turn the throttle and pick up your feet! Tell my baby brother he needs to get his butt up here just so he can ride this one. 600 cc's and boy does it move! It'll cruise at 65 with no problem. I know, I know, it's not a Harley....but it sure is fun.
I bit the bullet and have officially started weight watchers (WW). I can't stand the excess weight any longer. J and I are starting to eat better...make better choices. Pray this weight comes off. My closet is bursting with clothes that don't fit.
Saving the best for last....the grandkids! I'm giving D lessons on driving my 4-wheeler. I'm on the back with her, but she's doing the driving. She's doing such a good job. But when did she get big enough to handle this stuff? R rides in front of me when it's his turn, but that's getting a bit difficult. He's gotten so big that I'm struggling to reach around him to the handlebars. And he just keeps saying, " Go faster Grandma!". Gotta love that boy...the need for speed! Yep, he's my grandson alright. (Don't tell anyone...they all think I'm a slow driver, right?)
Fall is here and J is busy getting things ready for winter. Remember, fall in Alaska is maybe a week....2 weeks if we get lucky. I won't type the "s" word, but it's just around the corner. We have a little termination dust on the peak of some of the mountains. Don't tell S.....she will cry. But it's ok to tell D...she loves it!
Ok, enough for now. It's 2:25 am and I need to get some sleep. Hopefully I'll be able to sleep. This is one of those nights...tired but can't fall asleep.
I'll try to post some pics. S is telling me to click the symbol of the picture...I have no picture symbol. I promise to get some in the snail mail too. Now, if I could just find the darned picture symbol....before S has to point it out and remind my how old I'm getting...LOL.
Love to Ohio...we miss you!

Prayers please

If everyone could please just take a moment to include my boss (F remembers him) in your prayers. He's in the hospital again. They are activating his pacemaker, but things aren't looking too good for him right now. More is wrong than just his heart and he can sure use all our help. Thanks!

3-day weekend

Finally, 3 full days off...all in a row. This is a major treat. And to start off the fun, I'm going to have a sleepover with D & R. S & K are going on a "date" and I'm taking care of the kiddos. Pray for some sunshine this weekend in Alaska!

Rain, rain, rain..

So, I just spent five minutes typing and ranting and raving about this rain. I hit the ole 'publish post' button and it just vanishes! Not bad enough this rain sucks (no, I'm not going to re-type the post I lost...) but I can't even whine about it. Apparently the blog gods thought it was either tasteless or not important enough to post! That's my luck these days. And nope, not going to bore everyone with the bad luck I've been having. The blog gods probably wouldn't let me post that either. Sorry ya'll, this is all you get from me today.

Love everyone!

Back to normal...rigth!

If you can call the craziness of everyday life normal, then we are there. Everything is busy as usual and the weather is absolutely ugly...more rain than I want to think about. And even more in the forecast. Thank goodness we have a boat. At this rate we're going to need it soon just to get to work. The state fair will be starting in a couple of weeks and D will be heading back to school next week. (Wait a minute....so will I...oh damn.) I finally have my film developed and was going to post a couple of them, but I'm challenged in that area...I have no flipping idea how to do it! Where in heavens name is the attach button? So I'll take my sorry self over to S and she'll give me a lesson in "picture attaching 101". Sad to say, I had to call her and ask how to get the pics off the memory chip in my digital camera and onto paper! Yes, I'm getting old and logical thinking is going out the window...floating away in all this rain!
Love everyone...huge hugs and kisses from Alaska!

THE Infamous Red Jeep

Somehow we managed to forget to get a photo with all of us in the Jeep. I'm not sure how that happened...heck we didn't even ride in it. But the kids did with Uncle Bud & had a blast..... I guess that's all that matters. If I really stop & think about it, it's what she would've wanted...the kids to enjoy her Jeep..she'd have gotten a real kick out that.....hmmm, something to think about :)

Red Jeep Attitude....

Back Online

S, I don't know what you did to get the site back up but...THANK YOU! So, everyone is back in Alaska and I'm a totally happy G-ma. Yes, K & R leave tomorrow for Georgia, but only for a week. Thank you everyone for a fabulous summer vacation. Love you all lots!

One more sleep...

By Robert's clock we have one more sleep til we board the plane. Suitcase is packed and I'm heading to bed. Going to be a long day tomorrow! Love ya'll and see ya soon!

Just one week....

in addition to all of the fabulous things we've already covered below.......I have some very important & very personal 'charity' work to do..........



Bringing Starbucks to the unemployed! *snort* Lub you Femmers!!!!

One week

Well, as I'm typing this it is thundering. (thought of you SM) We are to get some thunderstorms today...some maybe severe. Anyways......just one more week until we PARTY!!!!! Just one more week until we sit around talking like a bunch of old hens, just one more week until a DQ cake isn't impossible, just one more week until we see those adorable kids (chicken anyone?), just one more week until we can hang out and laugh until we pee, just one more week....and this is the important one....until you are in the same state as L. You might not get to meet him right away (his work schedule) but let me tell you that it will be worth the wait. I can't tell you enough what a great guy he is. He is perfect for Fem. They are so cute together and we love to spend time with them. He has a wicked sense of humor and a very infectious laugh. Those are very important things in this family. The kids will love him. He has Ernie wrapped around his little finger...it's probably cause he spoils him with rubbins & treats.

Can't wait to see you all!!!! I better get back to work now. :)

11 Days and counting...

Am I the only one watching this blog these days? One last time...Alaska meets L!

16 Days?

2-1/2 weeks! I don't care what we do. I don't care if we don't do anything. I'm in such need of a vacation and I just want to see everyone and see Ohio again. Get the lawn chairs out and have icey colds drinks ready (hot coffee in the morning) and I'll be happy! Heck I'll even mow the lawn...and don't worry I won't run into the side of the house or mow down any flowers!

20 Days!!!!

Ok, so now it's officially 20 days.....(checking my math, today is the 8th, we arrive on the 28th....yep). Wow, I better start packing just in case I run out of time. Starting to get excited here. How close is the nearest Starbuck's to the airport? We all know how awful the coffee is on planes. At least SM can get her yummy diet coke...they can't mess that up. And D can get her water and R will want his juice...or some of Mom's diet coke. He so loves to sneak sips of her soda. So I guess you better watch out for him. One sip and one more and one more and before you know it he's downed the whole crazy can. And believe me, he does NOT need the added caffiene!

Coffee IV?

Excuse me, but could I reserve one of those too please? Keith can't match me (or even come close) to be addicted to caffiene. I think B and I run close in the coffee arena. Ok, ok, so B doesn't go for flavored, but I do both...and in large quantities!

Yep, it's June....

Of course you can have a picture of SM & Fem. And you can tell them I said so. I probably have the same one you do so I'll need a new one too. And a new picture of you and Fem and B...and one of Fem & L and one of....kwim! Anyway, the 28th can't get here fast enough. Oh, I'm renting a car at A/C Airport. I'll email details. Love y'all

Day????

Okay so I have no idea what day we are on - - don't care because I just want you to get here already!!!! Is it June 28 or July 1 yet??????? At least we're in the right month now.

I do have one request - - I need a new SM & Fem picture. Please??????? I could use other pictures updated also but I'll settle for this one. It is pretty old. I plan on taking many pictures so get ready - practice those cheese faces!

I can't wait for you to get here. Love you!!!

A little help please....

Ok, a suggestion or two or three from the Ohio side would help. I'm thinking of the famous Miss "F". Come on girl. And we'll even let you mention the famous (and mysterious to us) Mr "L".

Getting closer...

34. Watching Bud rolling with laughter with Robert...the little guy will make Bud burst! (Watch out for the twinkle in his eyes)
35. Watching the Ohio family fall in love with Robert & Desi all over again
36. Relaxing with family
37. More food?
38. Fireworks on the July 4th (not too close...Desi hates the noise)

The countdown continues.....

Now we are at 39 days & counting.......

39. L. gets to see Femmie & I cut up in person!!!

40. Meeting L.

41. L. meets Alaska

42. Did I mention meeting L.

43. Food fight with L. *snort*

44. Laughing hysterically over abso-stinkin-lutley nothing with Femmie (like we did yesterday on the phone)

So how's that sounds ladies (& L. Boy)????

Day 45 - L meets Alaska

Well, Femmie, at least L is humble, so he's fitting right in with the rest of us. No, don't draw attention to yourself....stay in the background and don't get noticed...NOT! So, here it is again, we're so excited to meet L. Or should we say...we're so excited that L gets to meet us...that sounds better. We're the special ones and he's the lucky one to get the chance to meet the rest of the family. L, ya better be on your toes Mister. Wipe that grin off your face and take this seriously....you better pass muster with SM and I. We're tuff, very tuff...beware and be prepared. (Lord, don't ya just love messing with people...it's a family thing...and we do it so well!)

Okay somehow we got off track....

we are still @ 46 days. I think it was when we were all playing 'catch up!

So I will do an official Day 46 & then we can pick up from there.....


Day 46: Did anyone mention "Meet L."?? Well even if we did, it wasn't nearly enough. I mean we could put "Meet L." or "Hang out with L." for every single day from now until June 28th & it still wouldn't be enough! ;)

***L.~ is that better??? We don't want you to think for a moment that we have forgotten you! ;)

Day 42

42. Take the kiddos to the Rolling Ridge Ranch...I think they'd get a kick out of the animals coming up to the car...

Day 43

43. A girl's outing - like card stamping or painting pottery and then lunch of course maybe even manicures or something else girlie.

44. Breakfast out

Breakfast - out or in....slow relaxing breakfast, just sitting around talking over coffee (ok, SM, diet coke for you). Guess it will have to be breakfast in and I'll cook. D & R will get bored with the adults sitting around talking so they can run around in the huge backyard. They'll love that.

46 & 45

I knew you were there. Thanks for catching us up. SM, I totally agree with number 51. I say if she doesn't post soon you have no other alternative but to post some blackmail pictures. No more mister nice guy! (plus I'm dying to see these pictures) On to the list.....

45. Movie night with lots of buttered popcorn (just in case it rains one night - just one though)

46. Ice cream and lots of it!!!!!! Milk 'n Honey, Heggy's, Cold Stone, Handel's.....I don't care where!

50. 49. 48. 47....

Do I have the numbers right? I'm losing track, but getting so excited....
47. Sit, talk, more catch up...
48. Laugh, giggle, catch up...
49. Eat, talk, catch up...
50. Just enjoy doing doing...

Days 54, 53, 52, 51

51. Kickin Femmie's butt for being Bloggin' MIA for over a month now **snort**
52. The heat & lots of it!!!!
53. Going to Belden (or whatever it is called now) :)
54. I hope my kids get to see the Ice Cream Truck~ they think that is so cool, but we don't have it here

:(

HELLO?
HELLO?
HELLLLLOOOOOOOOOOO??????
IS ANYONE OUT THERE??????

Day 58,57,56,55

We're slacking girls! Don't give up now ....it's almost here.

55. Ernie showing off his new bone (had to get Ernie in there...he will love the kids)

56. Jackie's spaghetti

57. Some kind of family outing....amusement park, festival, fair, etc.

58. Sit outside & soak up the sun

Okay so I caught us up, now it's all yours. I can't believe that there is less than 2 months until we see each other. :) :) :) (this is me being very happy)

Day 59

59. Meeting "L"....I know he's dying to see if we'll post it again...so here it is L...all for you! Oh, by the way, is Femmie lost or something? Is she grounded, time out away from the keyboard, or just ignoring her Alaska family here?

Day 60

60. Strawberries (minus the glaze, right SM *snort, snort*)

61. lightning bugs....I can't wait to teach my kids how to catch lightning bugs :)
62.Seeing how many fools (that would be us) can share one bathroom ;)
63. 4th of July cookout complete with fireworks (no officer I am not using these in the state of Ohio)
64.Watermelon
65.Sitting outside in the evening...just relaxing & talking
66. Combos....a big bag of combos *snort*
67. Laughing (so hard we just about pee our pants) with Femmie into the wee hours of then night, then starting again at the crack of dawn...like in Seattle
68.A kick-ass thunderstorm! For this I am putting in a special request.....
69. Keith finally getting to really know the family (Keith, be afraid...very afraid)
70. Slop (another special request from someone I love dearly)
71. Aunt Jack's eggs must make an appearance...but only on my plate...sorry....i'm just not sharin'
72. Kitchen Table conversation....with yummie coffee, in our jammies (ok maybe not the jammies)
73. Green Bean Soup - Ok, so I know the only person that will appreciate this is Bud.
74. get matching tattoos (I just wanna see what kind of reactions I get to this one *snort*)
75. Hide & Go Seek!
76. Alaska meets L (bet you wish you'd thought of that huh????)
77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)
78. Hamburgs on the grill
79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight

61 days

61. lightning bugs....I can't wait to teach my kids how to catch lightning bugs :)
62.Seeing how many fools (that would be us) can share one bathroom ;)
63. 4th of July cookout complete with fireworks (no officer I am not using these in the state of Ohio)
64.Watermelon
65.Sitting outside in the evening...just relaxing & talking
66. Combos....a big bag of combos *snort*
67. Laughing (so hard we just about pee our pants) with Femmie into the wee hours of then night, then starting again at the crack of dawn...like in Seattle
68.A kick-ass thunderstorm! For this I am putting in a special request.....
69. Keith finally getting to really know the family (Keith, be afraid...very afraid)
70. Slop (another special request from someone I love dearly)
71. Aunt Jack's eggs must make an appearance...but only on my plate...sorry....i'm just not sharin'
72. Kitchen Table conversation....with yummie coffee, in our jammies (ok maybe not the jammies)
73. Green Bean Soup - Ok, so I know the only person that will appreciate this is Bud.
74. get matching tattoos (I just wanna see what kind of reactions I get to this one *snort*)
75. Hide & Go Seek!
76. Alaska meets L (bet you wish you'd thought of that huh????)
77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)
78. Hamburgs on the grill
79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight"

oops...63 is already taken...so 62 days

62.Seeing how many fools (that would be us) can share one bathroom ;)
63. 4th of July cookout complete with fireworks (no officer I am not using these in the state of Ohio)
64.Watermelon
65.Sitting outside in the evening...just relaxing & talking
66. Combos....a big bag of combos *snort*
67. Laughing (so hard we just about pee our pants) with Femmie into the wee hours of then night, then starting again at the crack of dawn...like in Seattle
68.A kick-ass thunderstorm! For this I am putting in a special request.....
69. Keith finally getting to really know the family (Keith, be afraid...very afraid)
70. Slop (another special request from someone I love dearly)
71. Aunt Jack's eggs must make an appearance...but only on my plate...sorry....i'm just not sharin'
72. Kitchen Table conversation....with yummie coffee, in our jammies (ok maybe not the jammies)
73. Green Bean Soup - Ok, so I know the only person that will appreciate this is Bud.
74. get matching tattoos (I just wanna see what kind of reactions I get to this one *snort*)
75. Hide & Go Seek!
76. Alaska meets L (bet you wish you'd thought of that huh????)
77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)
78. Hamburgs on the grill
79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight"

Day 63

Well, Well. Looky there....you are all still alive and well. I'm glad you're okay and there was no need for me to get really nasty (hahahahahaha). I miss you guys and can't wait to see you! I tried to copy the list but it won't let me post so I'm just adding a day. Sorry :(

63. 4th of July cookout complete with fireworks (no officer I am not using these in the state of Ohio)

64. Watermelon..it only tastes good when it's really hot outside...something that doesn't happen in Alaska

Oh damn, so the whole thing did post and I just didn't see it. No, it's not old age and the eyes going bad. I swear I couldn't get it to post! And no, I didn't fall alseep at the keyboard....no nasty jokes ladies....you'll all be this age someday and I'll still be around to remind you!
And as I mentioned on another blog...."leaving on a jet plane"...I hear it playing and I'm going to have the best looking dude holding my hand when we get off that plane, Robert! Yep, he's mine, all mine. SM might as well stand back and watch.....he's all G-ma's!

65. Sitting outside in the evening..just relaxing and talking

Ok, so I think maybe the list has finally gotten too long to repost....I tried for about 5 minutes and it woudn't post so I just posted #65. If any of you can get it to post the whole list, go for it!

65. Sitting outside in the evening...just relaxing in the warm summer breeze

Red Jeep Club:
"66. Combos....a big bag of combos *snort*

67. Laughing (so hard we just about pee our pants) with Femmie into the wee hours of then night, then starting again at the crack of dawn...like in Seattle

68.A kick-ass thunderstorm! For this I am putting in a special request.....

69. Keith finally getting to really know the family (Keith, be afraid...very afraid)

70. Slop (another special request from someone I love dearly)
71. Aunt Jack's eggs must make an appearance...but only on my plate...sorry....i'm just not sharin'
72. Kitchen Table conversation....with yummie coffee, in our jammies (ok maybe not the jammies)
73. Green Bean Soup - Ok, so I know the only person that will appreciate this is Bud.
74. get matching tattoos (I just wanna see what kind of reactions I get to this one *snort*)
75. Hide & Go Seek!
76. Alaska meets L (bet you wish you'd thought of that huh????)
77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)
78. Hamburgs on the grill
79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight"

Catchin' up....

Okay....I hear ya...I 'll get this sucker caught up

66. Combos....a big bag of combos *snort*

67. Laughing (so hard we just about pee our pants) with Femmie into the wee hours of then night, then starting again at the crack of dawn...like in Seattle

68.A kick-ass thunderstorm! For this I am putting in a special request.....

69. Keith finally getting to really know the family (Keith, be afraid...very afraid)

70. Slop (another special request from someone I love dearly)
71. Aunt Jack's eggs must make an appearance...but only on my plate...sorry....i'm just not sharin'
72. Kitchen Table conversation....with yummie coffee, in our jammies (ok maybe not the jammies)
73. Green Bean Soup - Ok, so I know the only person that will appreciate this is Bud.
74. get matching tattoos (I just wanna see what kind of reactions I get to this one *snort*)
75. Hide & Go Seek!
76. Alaska meets L (bet you wish you'd thought of that huh????)
77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)
78. Hamburgs on the grill
79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight

Hello????????

Where the heck is everyone? Did I miss the rapture? I wish I had some blackmail but I don't so I'll just have to be forceful. Somebody better be posting some updates, new news, adding to the list, something real soon or else!!!!! (said with a mean look, hands on hips and very stern voice) I know you are all scared as hell now aren't you? Really, where is everyone?

Day 70

70. Slop (another special request from someone I love dearly)

71. Aunt Jack's eggs must make an appearance...but only on my plate...sorry....i'm just not sharin'
72. Kitchen Table conversation....with yummie coffee, in our jammies (ok maybe not the jammies)
73. Green Bean Soup - Ok, so I know the only person that will appreciate this is Bud.
74. get matching tattoos (I just wanna see what kind of reactions I get to this one *snort*)
75. Hide & Go Seek!
76. Alaska meets L (bet you wish you'd thought of that huh????)
77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)
78. Hamburgs on the grill7
9. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight

Day 71

71. Aunt Jack's eggs must make an appearance...but only on my plate...sorry....i'm just not sharin'
72. Kitchen Table conversation....with yummie coffee, in our jammies (ok maybe not the jammies)
73. Green Bean Soup - Ok, so I know the only person that will appreciate this is Bud.
74. get matching tattoos (I just wanna see what kind of reactions I get to this one *snort*)
75. Hide & Go Seek!
76. Alaska meets L (bet you wish you'd thought of that huh????)
77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)
78. Hamburgs on the grill
79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight

Day 72...

72. Kitchen Table conversation....with yummie coffee, in our jammies (ok maybe not the jammies)
73. Green Bean Soup - Ok, so I know the only person that will appreciate this is Bud.
74. get matching tattoos (I just wanna see what kind of reactions I get to this one *snort*)
75. Hide & Go Seek!
76. Alaska meets L (bet you wish you'd thought of that huh????)
77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)
78. Hamburgs on the grill
79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight

Day 73

73. Green Bean Soup - Ok, so I know the only person that will appreciate this is Bud.
74. get matching tattoos (I just wanna see what kind of reactions I get to this one *snort*)
75. Hide & Go Seek!
76. Alaska meets L (bet you wish you'd thought of that huh????)
77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)
78. Hamburgs on the grill
79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight

74 & counting......

74. get matching tattoos (I just wanna see what kind of reactions I get to this one *snort*)

75. Hide & Go Seek!

76. Alaska meets L (bet you wish you'd thought of that huh????)

77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)

78. Hamburgs on the grill

79. RJC picture

80. Pizza Oven

81. Dairy Queen Cake

82. Food Fight

Day 75

75. Hide & Go Seek! ~I seem to remember someone (I won't name names **cough Jackie cough**) getting stuck, clinging to the chimney a few years ago :) I think it would be way more fun if we combined it with a few foo-foo drinks LOL

Day 76

Well, since noone else has said it I guess I will........

76. Alaska meets L (bet you wish you'd thought of that huh????)

77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)
78. Hamburgs on the grill
79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight

Come on ladies... your turn now. :)

Oops!

No I'm not retarded..........my computer froze up and when it finally got done being a pain in my a** there were 3 posts. I guess we really have to go to Target now since it's on there 3 times. Later ladies :)

Day 77

77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)


78. Hamburgs on the grill
79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight

Day 77

77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)


78. Hamburgs on the grill
79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight

Day 77

77. Trip to Target (just for you TR)


78. Hamburgs on the grill
79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight

Day 78

Hamburgers on the grill! So please ask Bud if he'll assist with this one, he makes them best. And we'll even consider having him in one of our RJC pics..that will thrill him. (Ok, do we notice a theme going on here....food, food, food!) Lord, I can harldy wait. Love ya!

Day 79

79. RJC picture
80. Pizza Oven
81. Dairy Queen Cake
82. Food Fight

Day 80

Red Jeep Club:
80. Pizza Oven (I know, big surprise!)

"81. DAIRY QUEEN CAKE ( I know another obvious choice)

82. Food Fight! (I know you saw that comin')"

Okay...

so i'm feeling much better. Tuesday night just kinda slipped by. I think I dozed all night. Still having alittle trouble breathing but definitely getting better. I don't know though, I told Fem I might have a weekly relapse if flowers are involved. I can't wait for you to me L - I think you will really like him. Great sense of humor!!!!

As for the count down......


81. DAIRY QUEEN CAKE ( I know another obvious choice)

82. Food Fight! (I know you saw that comin')

Ola!

Femmie~ Did you get the CD??? And what is this about roses??? You are turning into an uber-girlie-girl! Love ya!
Mom~ we need to have a pow-wow about Easter. I am at a total loss for Operation Easter Bunny. Think on it & let me knw!
Stacy A~ Are you feeling better?? Sounds to me like you need a Dairy Queen cake...you know it'll cure what ails ya! ;)

So the countdown:

82 days

I have made an executive decision~ to get everybody posting we are going to amp up the countdown a bit. Everyday for the next 82 days somebody has to list something they think needs to be on the 'to do list' for our visit. Capiche? And be sure to copy & paste the previous list to you post so we can get the full effect.... I'll start.....

82. Food Fight! (I know you saw that comin')

okay...who next for day 81??? Anyone, anyone?? Bueller???

I know you are wondering.....

83 days!!!

April 3rd

Enough said.....

B**** Mode - who Me?

Ok, so first let me explain that the last week and a half has been some sort of hell for me at work. Dealing with a huge HR issue that won't end until tomorrow morning (Monday, 4/3) at approximately 10:00 am...sorry, no details....my boss (bless his heart) only working 2 or 3 hours a day due to still recovering from his heart surgery (he's making me a wreck worrying about him even coming to work), so he's not much help with the the HR issue above (besides, he and I are in total disagreement about it, so that only makes matters worse)....2 projects that are past due on the glorious "MS Project" timeline (they are both stuck on my desk, thank you)...and a variety of other things, soooooooooooo....
Friday evening I'm running slightly late for an appointment, I rush out to my car and NOTHING. No gurrrring sound from the engine, no clicking sound from the starter, no ominous smoke or smelly or anything. Just plain dead. So I call J. and I get the usual questions...what's it doing...what's it not doing....what are you hearing...what are you seeing (dashboard)....and on and on. Ok, so he's on his way (an hour away). I call to cancel my appointment and go thru THE questions again....what's it doing...what's it not doing....what are you hearing...what are you seeing (dashboard)....and on and on. Of course, after answering...I get the response "Sorry, wish I could help. Take care." Sure I'll take care, I'll take care to walk to the nearest bar and order the biggest drink they have...LOL. So I go back into the office, or at least try...the building is locked and my key is not cooperating. Finally, after banging on the doors (I can see people walking around inside) someone comes over and lets me back in..."J., What's wrong?" I tell her my car won't start and here we go...THE questions...what's it doing...what's it not doing....what are you hearing...what are you seeing (dashboard)....and on and on. Her response is...gee wish I could help. Let's find a guy. Ok, so we walk into the inner-sanctum (the branch) and another girl walks up and asks what's wrong..."My car won't start. I hate to sound sexist, but are any guys around?" Here we go again....THE questions....what's it doing...what's it not doing....what are you hearing...what are you seeing (dashboard)....and on and on. By the time she gets to the last question I'm slightly peeved and so I look at her and say...."Nothing...what part of nothing...it's doing nothing, don't you understand?" I had hit my limit and 0 - to - 60 B**** mode was flying! How was I to know she's "mechanically inclined". Oh please! Give it a rest....I didn't intend to insult her... I was just tired of answering the same questions with no help. And besides, I'm female and my family can attest I am NOT mechanically inclined in any way. Nope not me! So now I have offended some female, who as she explained to me very bluntly...."Doesn't need a man." Congratulations honey...I'm happy for you! I need a man...I don't know, nor do I want to know anything about anything under the hood of a car. I'm perfectly happy to admit I'm mechanically challanged!
The surprising this about the event....everyone knows how laid back I am....nothing shakes me. I'm cool and calm....I don't have a temper at all! Right family? Come on, agree with me here.....please? I said, and I repeat...AGREE WITH ME DAMN IT!
Love ya.... (rolling on the floor laughing here cause I know what y'all are doing right now!)

Channeling A.K. ........

Okay..it's been 2 years...one wouldn't think she'd find it funny anymore.... I am sooooo sick & tired of having stains on my white shirts. What the hell?? At first it was funny, now it is downright annoying. I am sure Femmie is thinking "Well, if you didn't wear white shirts so often it wouldn't be a problem.." But that's not the point. Kay has got to quit messing with me....I am fed up. I just bought a new shirt last night at Wally World & sure enough, right in the middle is a brown stain. And from what I do not know. I've only had eggs so far today. Hmph! But if she insists on jackin' with me, I have a trick up my sleeve...the almightly Clorox Bleach Pen. This shit is the bomb! I bet she wishes they'd had this around in her day... but life would be sooo much easier if she'd just stop it!

Alos forgot to tell you all...I had a dream about her the other night. It was like 'the dreams' but it was funny this time. We were all at home & we were gonna go to an Indian's game (I have no idea where that one came from???). Anyway we were in line to get tickets & she was standing there beside me. I could see every detail...it was her down to a T. She was even wearing a blue flannel shirt. It was way cool. But like 'the dreams' we all knew she had already passed away. And we were all okay with it. So I looked at her and said "you want me to get your ticket??" She cracked up. She threw her hands up in the air. Then she said "what the hell do I need one for?!" And she laughed. Then she said "I don't need one to get in anymore". It was way cool. You all know what I mean...........

The countdown continues.....

90 days!!!!

Just for you Femmie.....

Since she's turned all "giddy-girly & all!" J/K Lub ya! Forty nerdy!!!

oh yeah & while I'm here.....94 more days!!!

Friday night...and no word

I'm saddened, distessed, upset and just plain worried. No word on how the "meeting' went. Come on, don't keep me in suspense! How did it go?

It's Friday &

95 more days!!!!

Ok, Ok...

Ok, ok....SM knows there's a potential issue going on here and I can't talk about it (or I'll jinx the whole thing). Guess I'll just have to take my chances that everything will work out. So now I have to work on the budget (hate that), work on Jim (oh lord), and work on leave time....not sure if there are any open spots left on the department schedule. Love ya!

Sing it with me now.....

98 more days!!! 98 more days!!!

Okay ladies....

how is everyone????
Femmie~ I am sooo excited for you! But I must admit, everytime I say "Larry" outloud, I break into spontaeous song ( RJC rule, you know)...the song from Veggie Tales "Larry Boy"...have you heard it??? If not, I'll make sure you do VERY soon! :) Tell him I said "Hi!"
Jackie~ Thanks so much for last night! We had a great time! Love you! And yes, I'm gonna put you on the spot now.....check out the freakin tickets, check out the freakin school schedule & make arrangements to get your little hiney on a plane with me...."We're leaving on a jet plane......yada yada" And when are you gonna start a blog??? I've got a great pic or 2 that I could share :)
Stacy A~ What the heck is up with your blog??? Hello??? I am going into withdrawl here...& don't you know this is ALL about me??????? You'd better be sure to give me ALL the dish on Larry Boy on Friday, okay?? I NEED to know! It's the right of a big sister! :)

99 days til we go to Ohio!!!!

Stacy~ the Dirty Little Fun Haver :)

Red Jeep Club

Sunday night already?
So, where did the weekend go? Friday night - bunko, and SM volunteered to be designated driver. Huge thanks for that. I truly needed a night of not worrying if I drank one too many wine coolers....I know, I'm such a lush. But I've become a real lightweight in the alcohol arena so two wine coolers is enough for me to question my drivng abilities. She even drove me home, to be sure I was safe. Now is that a sweet daughter or what? Always looking out for Mom!
Up early Saturday morning for the drive in to Anchorage with J and K. The three of us hit a couple of the motorcycles dealers and then went to the cycle show. More cycle shops after and then the huge greasy burgers (like the one's they make at Bud's Corner - YUM). We had a hugely great day. SM was waiting at home with the kiddos and we spent the evening, ate some more. S makes superb fahitas and we kicked back and watched Walk The Line. Great show...I loved it.
Sunday was just busy with housework (Yes, I do that once in awhile), got my nails done, and then met the family for dinner at Evangelo's to celebrate S's b-day last Tuesday. Back to our house for Cold Stone icecream cake and more conversation. Mostly giggling by Robert!
A phone call from an employee forced me to do some research on FMLA requirements so I thought I'd stop here for a second or two to say hi and catch everyone up on the busy weekend.
Yep, they're coming home this summer and I couldn't be happier for everyone. I'm so excited for you all to see how much the grandkids have grown. Uncle B should be delegated to sleeping with R...they will make such a good pair. And please make sure he takes some long walks with D (or just quiet sitting)...just the two of them. She'll amaze everyone with her perception and deep thinking of things. R will tell you up front what he wants and what he needs...not bashful at all. And the more sugar and candy and soda, the happier he is. D on the other hand, won't ask and won't complain. And she truly loves ice water (with crushed ice)and lemonade and fresh fruit and veggies. R is the junkfood addict...D is the good eater.
I've looked at flights and I don't know yet. I have to check on the stupid (yes, stupid) class schedule for summer and I have a few other things I need to work out before I can make plans on this end. It would be nice to come home...summer, sunshine, heat, humidity, ok....I better stop!
Love ya!

Happy Birthday!

Happy ??nd Birthday S! Yes, only a few short years ago you came into the world as my precious baby daughter and now you're a beautiful young lady with children of your own. Seems like just yesterday, yet look how far we've come. May all your dreams come true and may all your wishes be granted. And most of all, may your children bring you as much joy and make you as proud as you have made me. I'm truly blessed to be able to say you are my daughter! I love you S...sweet dreams.

Red Jeep Club

Red Jeep Club
Sunday morning (or afternoon by now) and getting ready to go to my favorite guy's birthday party. Yes, R is having a Monster Truck party! Just got off the phone with SM and he's driving her just slightly crazy wanting to know if it's time to go yet. He's ready....ready for playing with his friends, and ready for cake and ice cream, and ready for pizza, but most of all he's ready for his favorite thing in the whole world...presents! The joy and excitement in his eyes will be tremendous. Yes, I'll be helping SM & K with the kids and the food and the spills, but I'll mainly be watching my grandson. Watching as another year has gone by and he's growing up faster than any of us want him to. Watching all the emotions exploding out of him...the giggles and laughter and surprise and happiness. And I know that I'll be able to look over at D and see the quiet love she has for her little brother. She loves the little guy so much and she's so proud of each and every one of his accoplishments...counting, his alphabet, etc. And she glows and blushes when you ask her if she helped R learn something. The love between the two of them is so wonderful and so heart-warming. Sure, there's the normal sibling spats, but it's part of growing up. SM & K, you're doing such a great job, you're such incredible parents...thank you for my grandchildren. Ok, enough of the mushy stuff...got to get ready for MONSTER TRUCK PARTY!

No thoughts

Ok, so I checked in just to see if anything new had been posted and guess what....NOTHING! At first I was disappointed, upset, frustrated, sad....and then I realized...Hey, I hadn't posted anything lately so why be upset at the rest of you, right? Ok, my fault....I've been slackin'. So, here's my post....I miss you all like crazy! I'm just a little homesick tonight...yeah right.....I'm real homesick tonight. No particular reason, nothing profound or earth shattering happened today, no lightening bolts, or mysterious shadows crossing my path. Just that quiet little nagging I get now and again. So yes, again, I'll sit and cry and miss everyone so badly and drag myself out of this chair and go to bed. Prayers and sweet dreams dear sisters (yes, daughters and nieces included) of mine...you are in my heart always. Stay safe and be happy! Love ya!

Femmie~ just for you....Saturday's Red Jeep Count was 9 & I never left the Valley due to the snow. Man was AK busy.....I think girlfriend needs a hobby :)

So it's safe to say you don't want to deal with on-call doctor's, right? I just want to be sure I'm not reading this wrong....LOL! I couldn't help it.....as frustrating as it must have been at the time, I'm just glad everything is ok now. Maybe you need to do something drastic, like stick you shoe up their...you know what! And then have them call an on-call doctor to have it removed. See how they like waiting around.
Anyway, my boss went home today. He's really doing well and is hoping to be back to work in a few weeks...Partial days only. The power of prayer is great...Thanks everyone for all of them.
Tired tonight, so not much else to say.
Love all of you and miss you bunches...Later!

Happy Monday! I know, what's so happy about Monday. I can honestly say I don't know - humor me though. Sorry to hear about your boss Jackie. I will keep him in my prayers. I'm glad that S & K got away together. That's fun to do ocassionally. Do you think she'll break the bank or go broke doing "research" on the yummy drinks?

Not much else going on here except the Fem thing. She added a new twist this weekend. She has to go back to the doctor today because her jaws got swollen & had lumps & she hasn't eaten since Saturday night because of the pain and not being able to swallow. We think it might have something to do with the prednisone - especially since she hasn't taken any now for about 24 hours and it is a little better. Don't get me started on the "on-call" doctor. It took us 2 hours and 4 phone calls before someone called us back. Can you say pissed??? Yep, I lost me cool - slightly - okay so alittle more than slightly. But come on - isn't that what we pay these outrageous charges for - for you to give a crap & call me back!!!

Anyways, I'm having my sister, Mary and her girls over tonight for dinner. I need alittle Kendra-Kennedy fix. John is hooked on Kennedy. She is the happiest little thing. My sister is doing okay. Everyday is different. Some are good and some are bad - it's the bad ones that I get the phone calls. Her next court date is March 2 and I hope that the divorce will be final at that time. It will be nice for her to be able to move on & make a new life for her & the girls. Who knows though - when Dan's involved everything is a drama.

We'll talk more later. Over & out!

So S&K are out and about in Vegas and I'm sure they're loving it. Talked to S last evening and she was doing well at the high stakes "nickle slots"...really! She had to leave her beloved slot machine and retire for a short nap...she was actually falling asleep at the machine. Talk about dedicated! K's archery tourney is going good.
D&R are doing fine. We've completed their Valentine cards for school, huge thank you to D for helping out so much with R's class. She can be such a little mama at times. ("No Robert, you can't put the sticker there. Let me show you." "No Robert, don't fold it again." No Robert, that's not how you spell that name." "Oh Robert, let me show you how." She just takes control and gets it done. Wonder where she learned that? (Maybe her Mama?)
On a sad note, my boss, Gordy, (F..you remember him) is in the hospital. He was rushed in via ambulance on Tuesday evening (2/7). He had passed out in the bathroom. At first they thought it was a stroke...ruled that out. So then they thought heart attack and ruled that out. So they did an angiogram (don't laugh at the spelling, I have no idea). Well, the news is a quintuple bypass. And also repair to a leaking valve. This is scheduled for Monday, 2/13. He's in good spirits and has a positive attitude, but naturally is scared silly. Being 65, he's worried about quality of life after the surgery and if he's even going to be able to come back to work at all. You see he has a series of other health problems, not the least of which is his diabetes. At the moment everything is out of control. None of his meds are working right and the doctor is actually surprised he's survived this long. Please, please keep him in your prayers.
For me, I'm beating myself up pretty badly right now. I've become so frustrated with him lately and he and I have had a couple of arguements (work related). Now I just feel so damned guilty for any stress I may have caused. He's such a dear friend. He's my mentor and my coach. He's my rock at work and yet he's been driving me crazy with not doing anything....just handing it all off to me. I know he's just trying to guide me and teach me...I know that. But I can only do so much and I've been feeling like I'm stretched to the breaking point. He's the kindest, gentlest man. I know he's only been doing what he feels is best....
Hope all is well back in Ohio.

Take care...love ya all so much!

Okay...I am off to do official research for the next RJC trip...I think Vegas would be a blast. And I nominate Femmie to be DD (designated driver) ~ NOT! That's what they have cheap cabs for! You gotta take advantage of the 99cent margaritas! Love you all & 'talk' to you next week!

Betcha thought Fem got lost in her room huh? "snort, snort" Okay, so she won't think that's very funny. How about her passing her CPR with a 100%. You go girl! Gotta keep the prayers going for financial aid. Everything seems to be falling in place though. She is very excited & has already purchased her Dansko nursing shoes.

Anyways, about this trip thing. It will really depend on when & where & how much. I know, I know. Taxes didn't go so swell this year. Thought we would be able to take some big deductions but apparently they weren't BIG enough. We also lost another deduction this year (Fem). Ouch! We will also be still paying off teeth & a new garage so we'll see. Bud says we should definitely do something. He's so great - plus he says I will be able to do lots of stuff before I even come close to the cost of his new garage. (I think I'm a garage widow - he's having a blast tinkering.) I did check some different dates to get an idea for cost for flights & hotels for this summer. I checked Las Vegas & Chicago & believe it or not, they will be about the same cost (for Fem & I anyways). I was also looking at a 4-day cruise to the Bahamas - sun, sand, pools, non stop eating, entertainment, shopping - what more can I say . Oh well, time to quit playing around & get back to work. It's Friday, who cares! Love you!!!

Ok ladies. I know I've been MIA. Y'all are absolutely nuts, ya know that? I truly enjoyed the pink jeep...she would have died at the thought of us encouraging the color pink. lol...can't you just hear her? "damn you guys"...LOL...

I think a red jeep club trip sounds wonderful....but it will definitely depend on when classes start and just how much money I'm gonna have to fork over for classes. Keep your fingers crossed and say lots of prayers for millions in financial aid so that my burden is a little lighter. If it's meant to be, it will happen. Right? Come on Kay....pull some strings with the Big Guy....hehehe.

I'm a firm believer that there are exactly 10 red jeeps that are very strategically placed in the world (mainly Palmer and Louisville...though they have been spotted in Illinois as well)...but the number doesn't particularly matter...what matters is the power she has to move them to our exact location at any given time. She's a nut...just like the rest of us. :-)

Oh, and Aunt Jack...the serious student bit? That made me laugh. I know you're smart, and I know you do well in your classes....but let's not over do it here, huh? Ya know I love ya. ;-)

Ok, ladies. I gotta run. I promise not to take so long next time to respond to everything. Have a great day all!!!

I've got the perfect place for the Red Jeep Club, kind of a sentimental spot that won't disrupt Femmie's sleep or studies....F----'n Norton, Ohio! Talk about boring, but you have to admit, Femmie wouldn't feel bad about being left behind. And it's close enough to a certain someone's home that Stacy M and I wouldn't have to worry about a place to stay...Cost savings!
What do you mean, I don't mind skipping class? You know how studious I am...An exemplary student, sort of. I do get my assignments done and turned in on time. The lowest grade so far is a B+, and if I didn't hate re-writes so badly I could have brought that one up to an A. Hey, I just want the blasted piece of paper. Yes, I know, the education and all that. Just give me the damned degree and be done with it. I'm too old for this crap! This studying and homework and research is killing me. Ok, and Stacy M is going to lecture the H out of me when I say this one....I received a certified letter from APU congratulating me. You see at the end of this semester I will officially have 61 credit hours. Exciting, huh? Well that means (in APU language) that starting next semester the cost goes up. Only $305 per credit hour. That's a whopping $900 a class each semester. Yes, I know the credit union pays 50%. But that means I still have to pay $450 for each 3 credit class I take. So, dear daughter of mine....I can hear you now...And I know I deserve it so go ahead. Tell me what an idiot I am for staying with APU. It's crazy...But it is the politically correct thing to do....I guess. Dang, that's a chunk of money! I need that for the RJC trips.
Nite all....Love ya bunches!

So I was reading Mom's post & got to daydreaming (read:avoiding laundry) about the next RJC trip...Where? When? How freakin' fun!!! But then it dawned on me...come fall we will have a student in our midst again. (well...mom is a student, but not full time. She also doesn't hesitate to skip school for cool stuff!LOL) But Fem will be way busy...so we'll just have to leave her behind.......just kidding! (I'd have loved to see your face when you read that Fem! *snort*) I was really going to say that we'll have to see what her school schedule is & then go from there. PLUS, we better go somewhere pretty boring like Iowa, as not to disrupt her school year bedtime! HA! Okay...enough of my snarky comments.
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