Blatherings of a mad woman

Movin' On

2010-06-13T13:58:00.000-07:00

Well... nothing spectacular. Just got a new Wondermill. I've wanted one forever. I just couldn't bear the price. I finally brokedown and got one. The one in Dallas was toooo expensive, so I checked online and found the best price plus shipping and handling free!! Kelly will be proud. The first batch was not so admirable. (old yeast). BUT, with new yeast and Kelly's no fail recipe, I have two beautiful loaves. Go ahead, pat me on the back. It takes no time to mill the flour and so easy to clean up. I can now enjoy being a member of the elite Mormon Women Club.
My left heel was hurting a few weeks ago. I work in Nike shoes and figured the padding in the sole was worn out. Clyde and I went to Acadamy Sports store and I tried on shoes. I balked at the prices of tennis shoes. While trying on several pairs, Clyde brought me a pair of Skechers Shape-ups. There was no comparison in the fit and feel. In one day my heel quit hurting. I have about an inch added to my frame, which can't hurt. It took a day or two to get used to them. It forces a more heel to toe walk. They are suppose to improve my posture, strengthen my back, tone back and thigh and butt muscles, reduce joint pain and tighten abdominal muscles. NOW if it could make me RICH!
I complain there is no time to do stuff just for me. Well, Clyde gave me a whole day to myself just to go shopping for me. True, the 3 summer dresses I've been wearing to church the past 10 years have seen better days. So, I spent all day Saturday with a wad of money and JUST ME! I bought a white polka dot jacket with black dots and piping, manderin collar, it goes great with black sheath dress underneath) Blue dress ($22. markdown , not my favorite, but heck! it was $22.) and 4 blouses. and a pair of white church shoes. Do you have any idea how hard it is to fine white lady shoes? I didn't want high heels, sandles, or strappy skank shoes, so it took 10 stores in 4 hours. Thank goodness for my new Skechers. While walking at the Boardwalk Mall, I saw they had a new fun swim game . Where the fountians were the have a huge 6 inch plastic wall holding in water. In it are 4 bubbles with kids inside walking around. Bet the grandkids would love that.
Thanks to Aunt Billie and an influx of Genealogical imformation, I have finally learned how to use New FamilySearch. I figured out the color codes and it has been pretty easy. I took names with me to Dallas and Clyde didn't find out till we were at work with them that they were his family marriages. He was pleased. I have a whole new stack to take next time.
Worked with Clyde all most all day Saturday measuring houses. It is getting hot and I hate to see him out in that heat all summer. He tries to go only in the early morning, but by noon, it's hot. He is taking care to stay hydrated, and has bottled water in the car in a cooler. He also carrys a ziplock with wet bath cloths in that cooler to for his face and neck. Still,,, he is getting older (60th Thursday) and I worry.

2010-04-05T18:41:00.000-07:00

Yea!!! we got our newer computer back today. It had become slow and crampy and we were getting ticked at it. All washed and cleaned. Thanks , Bob Aldridge.

Let me try to catch you upon a few things. Had a beautiflu day a few Saturdays ago. Clyde and I went to Cypress Lake and just hung out. Yep, two old people huddled under a blanket, draped over two lawn chairs. We watch the clouds and the trees drop pollen and the crows fight over the last picnickers crumbs. We had uninterupted time to talk, laugh and worry together. It was very peaceful and just a little windy and cold. We tried to sit on the beach, but the wind whipped us pretty good, so we moved back up into the trees. Afterwards, we went to the small zoo at the entrance to the park. You know the usual, beaver, ducks, hawk, razorback, deer, and an alligator.
We also had a very nice Easter. We went over to Casey and Kristin's and had a yummy lunch. We got to watch Brooks, Beau, and Emma look for eggs. Look at Amber's facebook for pictures. Sunday, we watched Conference and had the Missionaries over for hamburgers. Bro. Boddie called eariler and wanted to feed them a large Easter dinner in the evening, so we were satisified to have them for a small lunch.
Clyde got a new I-phone. It is so exciting, technology just keeps pumping out bigger and better things. Learning all the ins and outs will take time. But he is enjoying playing with it.

I know, It's been awhile

2010-02-14T16:55:00.000-08:00

So many things have happened in the last few months. I think my last blog was in November. We had a great Christmas in Utah as usual. The grandkids are all growing up. So far this new year has been the coldest one I can remember. My feet are constantly cold and I have started wearing thermals under my scrubsat work. The lab is always cold, I think they are trying to save money by making us dress in layers. Our hands are in water,wet pumice or plaster during the day which leads me to use my bunson burner as a little campfire.

Billie and Dean came over from Oxford, MS for the weekend. We always enjoy their visits. Billie brought genealogy she had found on the Bounds side at Old Miss. They are wintering there and will head back to Quebec in the middle of March. Clyde and I plan to visit them that last weekend.We attended the Mardi Gras Parade and caught LOTS of beads and cups. The Highland parade was this afternoon and some of their floats threw HOT DOGS! Crazy, Zany people. They love to party. The crowd was as entertaining as the floats.

It snowed last week! We all enjoyed it and most enjoyed a day off from work. It wasn't bad traveling, the roads were fine. It lasted long enough for the kids to make snowmen and have a rare snowball fight.

I taught the lesson in RS today. I always get more out of the lesson than I give I think. I over research to make sure I don't go blank, and then give a list of all the articles and Ensign's I've read. in hopes they will get some of what I got out of the experiance. Iknow, I know, they aren't gonna take the time, but, someone might.

Our Stake Primary is making a banner to be worked on by the kids at our Stake Primary Activity. I'm sure they didn't realize how much work was involved so that the kids could finish it as their project of the day. I have a stack of ribbons and material that needs to be sewn. But, I will pace myself. I hope they like it.

Christmas Season Already?

2009-11-14T17:59:00.000-08:00

looks like we are spiraling into Christmas. It's a big thing here with lots of preparations. Today we started calling friends to come over for Thanks giving dinner. I'm not looking forward to all the fuss, but, it takes to edge off not having my own family here. Of course Barb anf Mike and Gigi will be here, but the Miller's and Pinkston's, also. With all the kids it should be about 13 people. That sounds like enough. I have finally aquired a housekeeper, for emergencies, and she will help get the house ready.
We bought a Andre Bocelli Christimas CD last night. We are listening to Christmas music now, while Clyde prepares a "Marriage Prep" class lesson we are hosting tomorrow night. I think I'll invite everyone to help drag out the tree and decorate it after scrabble on T-day. It will be fun. Just put it all on, everthing, leave no ornament behind tree.
I am slowly recouperating. I gotta get it all together by Monday, I have to go back to work. I have a few nagging issues and would prefer to leave them at home. It has been a long lazy week and I am ready for a little chatter, and this to all be OVER finally.
I've lost 30 lbs. At Super Saturday today, yes , I attended, wanted to, I got a lot of complaiments on my weight loss. It will be a HUGE effort not to gain any back, but I plan to fight. Enjoyed the 2 hours I was there. Etched glass, learned to use a dry canner and picked up some home health care aid tips. Really, I just enjoyed being with all the ladies. It was a 1st and 2nd ward thing so I got to see all my old buddies. Our ward is so huge I really don't know a lot of the young Barksdale girls. They say they will split us soon, as always, that could be forever.

This weeks goings on

2009-10-25T13:12:00.000-07:00

I've been fighting a little bug, I brought home. I passed it off to Clyde and it seems he gave it back. Well, today I fought like a tiger. OTC drugs and o.j. and warm blankets. It is such a beautiful day, chilly but clear. It's been so long since we've seen sunshine. Would love to be in the front flower bed weeding and preparing it for winter.

This afternoon we will take dinner over to Gma B's. It's been smelling the place up all day. Roast, carrots, onion, celery and potatoes in the crockpot. Also, we have black-eyed peas, cornbread and turnip greens. YUM! She is looking forward to it , too. It's fall.....

Crown molding and New Car

2009-10-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

Oh.. what A week can do...

2009-09-20T17:44:00.000-07:00

We feel so much better. My seat belt burn has gone from red to brick red (looking like a hatchet got me) to pale pink. My bruises have gone from blue to golden yellow and gone. I feel much better and Clyde is getting around better, too. He just has back problems. Thank-you for good drugs. Will probably go shopping for a car next weekend. Insurance adjuster just got over to Tyler ,Thursday, so it is taking some time to get this all cleared up. Thanks to my friend Polly for taking me to and from work. Things are fine. Here are a few better pictures of the Tundra (or what is left of it).

Picture of Tundra

2009-09-13T15:13:00.000-07:00

Tundra gone to Tundra heaven

2009-09-13T15:05:00.000-07:00

Well, we totaled the Tundra yesterday. fishtailing and rolling it down I-20. Had my 1st ambulance ride to Tyler Hospital. We are okay, bruised and tattered, but well, it could have been a lot worse. I have a knot on my head and sore shoulder and neck burns from the seatbelt. Clyde's back is sore. I guess that's what happens when you flip a big guy 3 times. Thanks for our pray before leaving and seatbelts. We are taking it easy today. It's raining again. Never again will we go to the temple when it is raining. Texas' roads are good till they get wet.

TODAY IS A NEW DAY

2009-08-16T12:15:00.000-07:00

Today I am not so anxious, crazed, or out of control. I had a short blip in my health journey, and have paid for it dearly. All things are returning to normal. Each day I feel better and don't feel like I will have to cancel the trip to Utah. Clyde continues to be optimistic ("we'll just tie you to the hood") and has over-planned and measured eveything to the optimum. I let my band get too tight. I thought I had it under control, I really did't have time for an appointment , I could make it. It was too tight to began with, but when mammoth stress was added a few weeks later, it became a problem. A harder lesson was never learned. I won't be doing it again. I'm squeezing in a little quilting in, how do you like this square?

How did I get to this point?

2009-08-14T22:39:00.000-07:00

My life is the pits

Holli's off on her mission!

2009-06-28T18:04:00.000-07:00

It has been a pleasure knowing Holli Hardey. I've known her ever since Primary. Her parents were young marrieds with us. She has impressed me for a long time. Her maturity and desire to do good has always shown. We are so pleased for her and the choices she has made. Holli gave a great talk this morning in the Stonewall Ward. I could feel the spirit strongly. She spoke of planning a mission as a young girl and read from her journal about the process. She is going to St. George to work on the temple grounds. What a great match for Holli. She has that sweet and loving disposition and will do well in that calling. Angie says she is at peace with her daughter leaving. Holli did live in the Dallas area for a year, but that was still close to home. This is 18 months, over a 1000 miles away. Think of the blessings her family will enjoy, and the growth for all of us, just knowing she is serving.

Showing Mike and Barb how easy it is to blog

2009-06-21T17:14:00.000-07:00

Write message here.

Memorial Day in Utah

2009-06-20T18:22:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful and fast weekend in Utah for the Memorial Day holiday. First Jared picked us up at the airport and we went straight to TACANO'S. It's a Brazilain Smorgasboard and all kinds of meats on skewers delivered to your table to choose what you like. Then, a short walk down GATEWAY MALL to the fountains to watch the kids play in the spouts and vapors. They loved it. The next morning we had a picnic at THANKSGIVING POINT and then went in to play in the water at Noah's Ark. Afterwards, we went through the gardens and played on all the fun kid stuff.That evening we had the best CAFE RIO Mexican stacks. Too good, I got the recipe.

Sunday we went to church with Kelly and family. and then Jared made a fire pit in the back yard with some of the stones found in the grass and weeds. (He's been clearing it out to level and landscape). We enjoyed Hot Dogs, chips, smores and candy, yep, toasted on a hot dog stick. We were going up the canyon but it had rained that morning and was still overcast. Kelly said it would be muddy and much colder there.

Monday we went to Kelly's new MARKETPLACE grocery store for a few things and to just get away for a moment. The we all went to see NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM 2. Great movie. That afternoon, we went to Libby's and Rich grilled for us. We had salmon and steak, that guy can cook. Kelly had made a birthday cake for Jared that looked like a bucket of theatre popcorn. The kids had a water balloon war, and played on the swings and trampoline. Tuesday we flew home.

Julie's Shower/ Gigi's Mothers Day

2009-05-10T15:53:00.001-07:00

Julie

Bammer and Chris

Brooks

Crissy

Ben, Emma and Beau

Notice Laura and Brent's baby girl, Shelley's Erin, and Lauren's new nose!

Annabelle and Gma Pam

Erin

Had a wonderful time at the shower. All the oldies but goody friends were there. Julie received a lot of nice gifts. It was held a Haily Cagles house. Julie is marrying Nick Burton the end of this month.

Time does fly and so do I

2009-05-09T08:57:00.000-07:00

Doing great on the diet. It is not hard at all. I've enjoyed adding tuna and chicken salad and light fish (salmon, baked catfish, tilapia, to my list of foods. I really can contain more than I thought I could. I guess Dr. M didn't fill my band any at all. I read in a book that sometimes they do that the first 6 weeks just so you can get used to it and don't interfere in the healing.

I'm back at work and the same old aches and pains are coming back. Yep, it's a continuous movement thing. I'll manage. Curtis will be back next Monday and all the overtime will end. Can't say I'll miss it. Michele will be back on the 18Th. I missed her.

GUESS WHO'S GOING TO UTAH in a few weeks. Clyde is getting to be more antsy about going than I am. I think twice a year is plenty. I just wish I had my own little cabin and didn't have to land on anyone. Kelly graciously allows us to stay at her house. This time we'll stay in the basement (it won't be so horribly cold, and were going to buy a queen-size air up mattress to leave there. They have a mattress, but I hate to ask Jared to drag it up or down the stairs. He is so kind to us each time we go. I've been blessed with great son-in-laws.

I'm gonna get these pictures on if it's the last thing I do

2009-04-30T10:23:00.000-07:00

Here goes again

12 lbs. already

2009-04-30T09:52:00.000-07:00

Just ot back from Dr. Merriman's office. The nurse said I was doing really good. She also said I could move on to soft foods. I I ever see broth again it will be too soon. I am feeling good and sleeping better than ever. I have so much more energy. I really think a lot of my problems were the pills that I had to take to control diabetes, high blood pressure and other problems. Now I just take 2 Flintstone vitamins (there crushable) and a baby asprin. I'll go back to work Monday.
I've had plenty of time to quilt. I worked on some applique leaves the late Sister. Moyer gave me. they are on 8x8 squares now and ready to piece together. I've also finished my block of the month, thanks to Barbara. I comprehend better by seeing. The quilt store owner lady just hands me a packet and says "see ya next month". Here are a few.

Using my time-off wisely

2009-04-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

I feel better than ever. I ave more energy. I don't understand why, I not eating anything. Perhaps it's the protein drink I have twice a day. The side panel says it helps with all kinds of maladies.
I feel good enough to go back to work. I have really enjoyed being off , and having time to think, sew and take care of some business I otherwise would'nt have time for. Just this morning the garage door man came and installed a much needed door. Ours was having issues and wasn't very trustworthy. I am on the list (hopefully) for Friday with the storm door man. We are putting a new full panel glass door up. The old one is black, dated and worn out. Clyde thinks we are preparing the house to sell and move out to the country. I know better, it will never happen, meanwhile, we get new and needed stuff for the house.
We read about the almost perfect house out on the Keithville-Keatchie road. We liked the discription so well, we drove out to have a look. Yep, I liked it a lot and so did Clyde. 2 acres, a pond, covered patio and deck, big trees, not too far out, all the new stuff but it was a little small, it's just the 2 of us, but we do like to intertain. It's fun to dream. But I don't really see us going anywhere. We don't have time between his mother's care, church, and overload work, to prepare anything.
I made a great chicken soup the other day. Barb came over and we sewed and quilted most the day. We had a great time. My squares are coming along. I started them years ago, before I knew anything about quilting. So, they are a mixture of pleasing and not so pleasing. Oh well, It keeps me from thinking obout food.

Day 9 and Still Alive

2009-04-26T05:24:00.000-07:00

It's been a wild week. I am feeling better everyday. The super glue over my wounds still hasn't peeled off. Guess that is good.
Had an enjoyable morning installing fire alarms in underpriviledged homes, Saturday. We have had 7 fire deaths this year in town. Took a long walk in the Queensborough area. The first few houses had either Roitwilers or German Sheperds. Guess they make great watchdogs. The next few houses we could hear people, but they chose not to answer the door. Ashame we have to protect ourselves so .
Clyde and I stopped by Tim's snow cones on the way home. That's one thing I can have (with sugar-free juice). The health food store is across the street and it reminded me I need to get more protien drink. I often wondered how Libby drank that stuff for months, oh yeah, her babies lives depended on it. My life kinda depends on it now. It is great for healing and giving me some energy, and fulfilling my protien needs. So far, so good. Still having the desire for a good meal. Made Clyde some cookies last night. I get the cookie dough already made, and scoop him out a few and there are no leftovers/temptation. We are doing fine.

Okay, now I'm hungry

2009-04-21T18:16:00.000-07:00

It's been 5 days of pudding, jello and broth. I am feeling better and would like to eat something. No, I know I can't, I'll be strong and not complain. I'm not as sore as I was, and bending over is a lot better. I even got out today and went to the quilt store to get my next quilt block. I took movies back to Blockbusters and had a heck of a time finding something I'd like to see. Everything is bloody, scary or dragons or I Spy stuff. Found a few decent stories. Tommorow I can resume walking and I plan to go to the post office for Clyde.

The Lap-band has begun

2009-04-19T08:29:00.000-07:00

Well, it's begun. I had lap-band surgery last Friday. I still feel rather lost, hoping I have done the right thing. This will be a life long commitment, one that was necessary, but, still scary.
So far I have had jello, water, chicken broth, sugar-free popsicles, sugar-free fudgesicles and did I mention WATER. It is all timed and you can just sip. I don't want to get too much and puke. So far, I haven't been hungry or maybe I am just always filling my little pouch. I have not missed food so far. Amazing to me because my whole life revolved around my next meal. I know it will be hard on Clyde, my not cooking, but he says he wants to lose 40 lbs. And if he gets real hungry, he'll just hit fast food somewhere before he get's home. Hope he hides the evidence well.
I feel fine, I'm trying not to get into the habit of taking the pain pills. I can tell when it's "calf rope" time , though. It feels like I've been kicked in the stomach (on the left side) by a very mad bull. Getting up out of a sitting position is a strain, but I'm sure it will get better with time.
I feel guilty for leaving my co-workers with my share of the work to do. We already have a few out with surgeries, but this was do or die to me. I didn't want to put it off anymore. I'm hoping for a happier, more energetic, healthier me. I'll keep you up dated.

Been a while, I'm still here.

2009-03-08T18:12:00.000-07:00

A lot has happened, nothing extraordinary. Clyde is working 60 hours a week. I'm work still and life goes on. Went to Aunt Nell's funeral last week. Saw Linda Sue.
Attended an auction last night to collect money for the scouts to go to an all LSD Scout camp in Arkansas this summer. I came away with a cool picture Rachael painted, a marble slab and 2 heavy duty ice cream scoops and some cookies. We bought cookies for the missionaries who really appreciated them. WOOF! WOOF!
Ashley and I hve a new VT route. It looks like it will be uhhhh ... different. One lady is a special needs person and will ned extra care. Thank goodness that is what Ashley does for a living. She accesses medicaid patients needs and finds help for them. JACKPOT! Maybe this won't be as difficult as I thought.
Aunt Tommie had a small stroke. She is under a doctors care. She is 84 and helping to raise her grandson's two, 3 and 4 year old. I think of Kelly's friend and what a blessing it would be to connect, for both parties. But, I don't see Arein letting them go completely, if he can help it, and Utah is so far...
Monday starts another week, gotta go prepare.

Christmas 2008

2009-01-04T09:16:00.000-08:00

We had an enjoyable time at Christmas. The grandchildren seem to grow so fast. Each have their own special personality.

We tried to keep it under-extravaganza this year. I don't know, but it seemed less . I continually

put things back and said "NO". Me , saying no to something for my grandkids?Am I trying to buy them? Maybe trying to make them remember me? Cameron made me feel the best when he said, "you get the best gifts Grandma" (he got some extendable Batman wings).We've heard comments like "we want the children to know it's more about baby Jesus than gifts". Maybe it is time to focus better on the real reason for celebrating Christmas. It is fun to shop for them, and there are so many new things. We also hear of needs, and feel compelled to fill them. Abby said" well, this was a "medium" Christmas. Next year will be a small one. Truth told, they have everything, and don't need another Santa Claus.

TTTS awareness week

2008-12-02T19:38:00.000-08:00

Finally, I get to do something to help. I was 1400 miles away when my daughter went through the most horrifying pregnancy ever. She was excited to find out she was having twins, but too soon found out they had TTTS. It is a helpless feeling to know that the only thing available to you is fasting and prayer. It will build your faith tremendously. And, I never fasted and prayed so hard and sincere. We got our sweet little twins, James and Miles. Because of the good Lord, the tenacity of their mother, and the kind thoughts and prayers of church friends, co-workers, relatives and anyone who would listen to our plight, they survived.

What did I get out of it besides two new grandson's. A true testimony of fasting and prayer, an undisputable knowledge that God does watch over us and loves us, and miracles do happen. Read her blog at brossettelewis.blogspot.com

Twilight

2008-11-30T06:31:00.000-08:00

Went to see the movie "Twilight" last evening. Pretty good, even Clyde liked it. The scenery was beautiful, and action fast. She looked perfect for the part and he was...different. Handsome yet, strange. I guess that is good acting. There was something about his eyebrows, to plucked and shaped????? Eye's were nice. The northwest coast is somewhere I've never been and would love to see someday. We are expecting missionaries tonight for Jambalaya and they will help me trim the Christmas tree and wrap presents. It will help me out and with some Christmas music going in the background, maybe get them in the Christmas spirit, too. They are far from home, traditions, and family.

Black Friday

2008-11-29T10:42:00.000-08:00

Well, I made it to the store by 6:10. Unfortunately, (tee hee) Clyde had a sore throat and needed to stay home on medication. I met Donna Cagle and friends on their way out. What time did she get there, 4AM? I went straight to the children's department and made a killing. I calmly gathered my doorbuster items and wandered around, picking at this and that. The fact that it had started raining cats and dogs about 3AM might have slowed those other ninny's down. Things picked up about 7AM and it began to get crowded. After my second load to the truck (a hearty shopper can only carry so much) I gave in and came home to spread my trophys on the floor for poor old sick Clyde to see. Well done, my good and faithful bargain hunter.

Turkey Day 2008

2008-11-27T18:23:00.000-08:00

We had a nice Thanksgiving. Mike, Barb, and Casey and Kristen, Chrissy, Mrs. B and Amber and Ben and Lisa Whittington came. I made the Turkey, dressing, leasuer peas, corn on cob and my second stab at cabbage. Bam made her broccoli rice casserole, it's always good. Kristin brought a cream cheese and sausage casserole, yum. Barb brought that cranberry jello salad and a real salad, sweet potatoes, and turnip greens. We had homemade chocolate chip cookies, a Boston cream cake,2 pecan pies, a coconut pie, isn't that enough?? Oh and my newlywed new neighbors brought over some jumbo shimp. YUM!

What a feast we had. It was good to see everyone but felt like there was a hole in the festivities. Randy, he was missed. He was such a wonderful, kind, christian fellow. I miss him. If the world could strive a little harder to be like hi, what a place this would be.

Chrissy has changed nursing homes. She's over off Linwood and Interloop. I should try harder to see her more often.

The "cousins" on this side are really growing. Emma is adorable and maybe one day she'll let me hold her. She's just out of the hospital with a staph infection. Brooks and beau look like little clones and are so boy.

All in all, we had a pleasant day. Played Skipbo with Mike, Lisa, and Barb. I plan to go shopping in the morning "Black Friday" bargains. Wish me luck...

We had a splendid time

2008-11-16T09:18:00.000-08:00

Saturday we had the Stake Youth Missionary Training Academy. It was fantastic! I enjoyed myself all day. I went to the classes prepared for the youth, upkeep of self while on a mission, Spirituality, Preparing now for your mission, Blessing given and received from a mission. I spoke in the opening exercises and recounted the Hattie and Larkin Bounds story and how our membership got started in the church for our family in 1926. Later we had workshops and then I had to cut out to get 30 pizza's for dinner. I took Clyde's hatchback Tribute, thank goodness. They brought them out 4 at a time, I'd open, they'd place them in, I'd close the hatchback. By the time they were all in and ready to go, the Tribute was ALL FOGGED UP! I couldn't see a thing. Should I roll the window down and let the cool air chill them, or make it back across the street the best I could? I chose both. While gone Lauren and Cori taught them a new line dance. After the pizza's were wolfed , we went in for a Fireside. Luke and Bro. Lawson put on two man play to the tune of "Saturday's Warriors". Lauren and Rocky spoke and then the music selection that I was in charge of, was sang very sweetly by Elder Tunes "The Promise" by Afterglow. I then had to leave to go to Margerite Wenk's suprise 70th birthday party. There was a big crowd . We then went back to the dance for another hour. All in all, it was a fabulous day. Tis is Cori Platt, one of my crazy best friends.

Beau's birthday

2008-11-10T17:55:00.000-08:00

Had a busy weekend. It started out with me giving the house a super cleaning. Afterwords, I worked on a quilt that is long overdue. Then grocery shopping and Making Turkey, dressing and giblet gravy for a church linger longer. Sunday we went to Beau Brossette's 1st birthday party. Same list of characters. All a little older.

Halloween at Crown

2008-10-31T19:15:00.000-07:00

Had fun day at work. Several of us dressed in costume. It seemed like an all day party with some work mixed in. Tonight we had maybe 100 kids come by the house. We sat in lawn chairs (swatting mosquito's). Yeah, it's the south and we have the little critters most the year. Our newest neighbors, Natalie and Joey made us sugar cookies that looked like pumpkins, but were then off to see their niece in another neighborhood. Not the same old Halloween extravaganza we used to have. Here are a few lab pictures.

Ozark Trip

2008-10-19T17:50:00.000-07:00

Well, we had an interesting weekend. Just to get away we went to Arkansas. We visited 3 different parks.
1. Daisy State Park- we WON'T be camping there. Although quite beautiful, (pines, clean, perfect weather) the camp is located on a steep ridge extending into the lake.. with the narrow road on top. You would have to carry down all your camping equiptment and then lug it all the way back up. Campsites were near the lake but, na-da. One look at the ramp where you launch your boat blew me away. The steepness of it scared me WITLESS! I was climbing the cab of the truck. Get me outta here! I wondered how many boats, trailers, and trucks were at the bottom of that lake.
2. Shady Lake State Park. Okay, nice campsites, bathhouses. Didn't see a whole lot, I was driving. Shady is right. The down side was there is a 3 mile drive from paved road and it's only one lane. It is graded so that if you meet someone coming the other way, your in real trouble, and yes is is in the Ozark mountians, steep sides. A little freaky for a flatlander.
3. Albert's Pike- Holy Moly, I've hit the motherload. It's magnificent! A little piece of Utah. Exposed rock cliffs and all. A moment of silence, please.... After a lovely ride through the canyon walls , outside of Langly, AR. I just had to soak it in. I had heard it was pretty, but I didn't expect this calm, peaceful feeling. I could have stayed there 2 weeks. That's the amount you are allowed to stay at a time. I wonder how many people they have to throw out.

We also visited "Crater of Diamonds" State Park. The only park you can pay a fee and go in and dig for diamond to your hearts content. They have a nice visitor's center and a water slide area for the kids. Inside, you can buy all kinds of rocks (again, I'm in heaven) or tee shirts or jewelry. They have movies that explain how to sift the dirt and equiptment to buy. We drove down the road a bit to a rock shop, looking for better prices, and a lady working there told us about her grandpa. He worked the mines 50 years ago for the family that owned the land. She had found a huge diamond of good quality years ago. They have recently graded the hillside and now the diamonds are suppose to be easier to fine. (Rather than a bunch of pock marks in the dirt.) maybe we'll go there if we ever have visitors who like camping.

But we are home, cleaning, washing clothes, and preparing for work in the morning. All good things must come to an end.

Off to Arkansas

2008-10-17T17:54:00.000-07:00

We have never really explored Arkansas. We have no relatives there and Dallas has always been our entertainment mecca. So, we want something new. Arkansas has some beautiful byways and scenic mountians I hear. looks like in the morning we will head up to Mena, to see Queen Willamina mountian, then to Daisy State Park where they have clear lakes where you can see the stone bottoms. (we are scoping this out for future campsites) I don't like Louisiana lakes, they have mushy gooey bottoms that you can't see because of the yucky dark water and who knows what kind of creepy crawlers are down there. Here, if I need, I go to the gym to swim. From there, we plan to continue to Hot Springs. They have SPA'S. So, to two people that are much in need of a get-a-way, this sounds great. The leaves will be pretty , too.

Dad has changed me over to the new computer, and all my genealogy and pictures are on the old. (Slows it dawn too much) He says we can switch back and forth with the internet. If I get some hot shots this weekend, I'll have to make him prove it.

Fall is officially here

2008-10-15T20:10:00.000-07:00

Well, The Red River Revel came and went. It did not make a lot of money this year, everone is holding off to see what happens with the economy. We planned to go, but the night we were going, Clyde had to work late. No big deal, I was tired, too. We opted for Olive Garden. ? Are all eating establishments out of their minds. The pile all this food on your plate and then have to pay for carry-out containers... WAIT! It's me that pays for it. I guess the mark-up is so huge, the more they pile up there, the more they make. It's enough to make you want to eat at home.
It is rainning outside, you know, one of those good old pouring Southern rains. A little lightening and thunder. I love listening to it fall from the roof. It's getting cooler each day and now the rain will wash away the pollen and ragweed. Everyone will feel great for a few weeks and then the virus' will start.
Just got home from a Stake YW/YM meeting. We are planning the "Missionary Training Conference", the youth are having in November. Sounds like some excellent speakers and activities. I have to find someone who can sing, and find that "Afterglow song about missionaries and I knew you before and I'll find you...... also I'm assigned to come up with some menu's for dinner that day. We have lots of money in our budget.....sounds like it will be tasty.

Showdown on aisle 12

2008-09-20T06:40:00.000-07:00

Thursday night I got the rare chance to go to Walmart by myself. I was tired and wanted to get through fast. I started at the back of the store and worked my way forward. I could hear toddlers whinning all over the store, almost every other aisle. I don't mean wimpering, I mean uncontrolable deep misery unnecessary whinning. No parent seemed to care. By the time I got to the frozen foods I'd had enough of the incessant howling of one dude and under my breath I said:

Did someone go out and collect all the whiney kids in Shreveport and bring them to Walmart tonight?????

some skinny, weathered, bleached woman- THAT'S MY GRANDCHILD!

(if she was in this aisle, her daughter was with the baby, two for one odds, someone could sooth this poor child)

gentle sweet me- Sounds like he's tryng to tell you he wants to go to bed. (it's 8:30)

some skinny......................... -You were a baby once, I just bet you were.

gentle sweet me -(couldn't help myself) ya know, I bet I was.........

some skinny.........................-$^*((*&&^%$#$@#^%$&*&)(*&)

school marmish woman shopper- (opens freezer door, sticks her head in and dies laughing)

gentle sweet me - GET OVER IT!!!!!

My friends at work say I should stay out of Walmart late at night.

before you do-gooder mom's jump me, it was past bathtime, and bedtime for this fellow.

Y-IKE-S

2008-09-13T17:37:00.000-07:00

Ike hasn't been a big thriller either. It was more windy than Gustav,and more leaves and branches down but not such a show. Broadmoor had it's electricity out, so did grandma B. We watched the weather reports and read my new book "The Mountian Meadow Massace", played on the computer and cleaned house. No guest either from Houston. Galveston looks awful. I was suppose to go up to New Boston, TX. in the morning for their conference, but due to gas prices spiking and weather travel issues, that's cancelled. Dad and I went to the new "Longhorn" steakhouse for dinner. The wind almost for my big umbrella. It was a quite atmosphere and I really liked the place. I had soup, skewered grilled shrimp and rice and veggies.
It's suppose to be windy and raining till midnight...good sleeping weather.

Pleasant weekend

2008-09-07T08:17:00.000-07:00

Clyde went on a Youth Temple Trip Saturday. I had the whole day to myself. I enjoyed getting up when I wanted, and not being rushed. I took all the time I wanted getting the house cleaned. Wasn't much to do since it was cleaned in preparation for Gustav visitors. I went shopping for Becky a gift and grocery shopping. How nice it was not to have someone pulling the buggy. I watched "The Devil Wears Prada" and took a nap. Dinner was a grilled hamburger patty and mac & cheese and a salad (with the best home grown tomato ever). we picked up some "Olive Garden" dressing a few weeks back, so yum... great evening meal.

Went to see Mrs.B. Friday night. She ask quitely, "will I lose all my memory?" I guess that would be pretty scary. She is wearing a patch the Dr. gave her to stop the progress of her dementia. She enjoyed the chicken we brought and Clyde helped her pay some bills. Casey and Amber and families are going to visit her this evening. She hasn't seen the babies since Randy died. It's ashame we all stay so busy.

Big Whoop...

2008-09-03T15:02:00.000-07:00

Well for al the preparations, Hurricane Gustav was a big phuttt! Minden and Monroe got the worst weather. I'm not too sad, but we missed Rita because we were in Utah.

Jason Lang was made our new supervisor today. He had first day pickys. He'll wark out, though.

My grandaughter started school yesterday, boy, how I remember those days. So full of excitement and wonder.

Clyde took Mrs. B to the doctor twice today. She missed her appt. yesterday for labs, and insisted they were today. They squeezed her in and then rushed her results so Clyde could drive her over again for her assigned appt. Today at 2:15. She did find out she has moderate dementia. Ohhhh, it gonna be a fun ride.

Nothing but hurricane news

2008-09-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

We have the day off for Labor Day and the only thing on T.V. is weather reports. No one has called about housing, and at this late date I suppose things are covered. We batten down the hatches this morning in the yard and went to Walmart to buy a few snacks and some more water. We shouldn't get any bad weather till late this evening and storms about midnight. We replaced the screens on the den picture windows in case electricity goes out and we have no air-conditioning. I've noticed the clouds have covered the Sun. I'll try to take some pictures later on to post.

Hurricane's a coming!

2008-08-31T09:51:00.000-07:00

Only a few minutes to blog. Hurricane Gustav is on it's way. We are going to church today and will probably be assigned some guest from the Lake Charles area. They will probably stay a few days. At least the house is spotless . Groceries are few, (don't want to lose them like in the freezer during Rita and Katrina). All I'm worried about is DOGS. I don't want no dogs on my carpet whizzing. But, I can hardly refuse someone who may lose everything but that mangy pet. We prayed hard last night the hurricane would weaken. At least the State seems better prepared. Gotta go.

2008-08-31T09:50:00.000-07:00

At Donna Cagle's on the 4th of July

2008-08-24T12:57:00.000-07:00

Found this picture of Clyde and I at Donna 's for the 4th of July. Had a great time, felt good to be among old friens.

2008-08-24T12:50:00.000-07:00

Changes in my day

2008-08-24T12:34:00.000-07:00

Well, I was all geared up to have lap-band surgery and I had to put the "hold" on it. I had everything from the insurance to the time off at work scheduled and then most the testing and preparation done. The closer I got the more I wantd todo it. I was scared, but willing to dive off into it. I realized it was a lifetime decision, no going back. But, it was so necessary. I'm kinda in morning now. It want be but about 2 months, and I know I can make it. I am having a few other pesky problems that the surgery would take care of. So maybe I can gear myself up again.

Abby and Manda's tuition is paid as of last wek. I know Abby is ready to finish, seems like she's been working hard for so long. She is my #3 daughter and is majoring in Construction Management. Sounds odd for a girl, but she really likes what she is doing and learning. Manda, my #4 daughter is undecided in her major and just now going back to school after a 3 year absence. She is taking a light semester to get herself back into the school scene. Kelly #1 daughter and Libby #2 daughter have their degree's and are married with children.

Had a nice weekend. Took Mrs. Brossette out to eat at Picadilly and saw the Ron Bradfords. Then Saturday, I worked on my talk for aux. meeting at church. Then to the meeting to give it and then to the adult session. Afterwards we went to Carrabba's with the Morrissey's and Dan Glass's. I had an Italian salad and Manicotti. Uch, up several times last night. I eat very little meat because of digestion problems. Oh! and I got my hair cut short.

4th of July

2008-07-03T19:32:00.000-07:00

Looks like it is going to be a great one. Lauren stopped by and gave me some gifts she needed wrapped for girls camp next week. It talking, she invited us to Donna Cagle's house for Barbeque and swim, and fireworks. The morning will start with a pancake breakfast at the church at 9am. Then, if we are home in time the neighborhood parade will start at 10 am. Then I have to cook ribs and make a fruit salad. We'll be at Donna C's by 4pm. Lotsa kids will be there. I'm really looking forward to spending time with the gang.

me at my most reserved

2008-06-28T20:30:00.000-07:00

A new beginning

2008-06-28T20:12:00.000-07:00

So, I'll try blogging. Everyone else has one. Maybe I'll discover I'm not sooo boring.