Adirondack country gal-AOL

Making the move

2008-10-01T14:44:00.000-07:00

I am somewhat familiar with blogspot, I have used it before, but I like AOL journals and am very disappointed that it is being shut down. I hope they transfer this journal over for me, but I guess I will be copying it just in case. My temporary journal at blogspot is now...
http://adirondackcountrygal.blogspot.com/

Completely shocked and disgusted...

2008-09-23T14:38:00.000-07:00

A man from this area has been charged with shaking and slamming his 4 month old, that is right 4 MONTH OLD baby boy so severely that the infant is on life support and is so brain damaged that he will be removed from life support and the organs donated. From what I understand this is a very large man and there are indications that the infant was not the only victim of abuse in this house... I cannot even begin to express my horror and disgust at this..If you want to see the article and video click on the blue letters at the beginning of this entry..

Almost a week

2008-09-18T10:32:00.000-07:00

What a cute tag from Robyn at My Creative Corner, she is very talented and one of the artists that I enjoy getting snags and tags from. She has some awesome Halloween ones out! You know how I love Halloween!

Rich has been here for a week now and I have found myself falling into my old pattern of self doubt and insecurity. He was not feeling good last night and moody and quiet and kept to himself so I automatically felt it was because he didn't care for me anymore and wanted to leave. I got myself so worked up I got to crying. Then I had a headache. Sheesh. I need to stop doing such self-destructive behavior because that type of insecurity does drive men away!

Not much else going on. Rich and Karl both have colds and don't feel good. Sarah is going off her insulin pump for a while because it has not been working good for her. I think the majority of the problem is her lack of body fat. You need a good fatty area to put the inset needle and she has barely any on her. She is very lean. We have been using the same areas over and over and it is not good.

I am due to go back to work Monday. I am looking forward to seeing my co-workers and residents again but feel that I will have a problem keeping up for a couple days! I am not ready for an 8 hr day! The bills also keep rolling in and the money I do have rolls right back out! I should get a disability check in about a week or so. I hope so, because I need it. By the time it comes, I should have a paycheck from Wesley again too. I did receive a small one Wed. but I promptly used it to pay my house payment!

I got the pleasure of talking to Dad and Mary yesterday from Dad's Tomato Garden Journal. Link on right. He has an outdoor webcam. I have not had the opportunity to catch a glimpse of him yet. He is like the elusive Yeti on the webcam! :)

Birdfeeder action has heated up, but I don't think I will do bird cam like I wanted to. I have a feeder right outside my kitchen window and I really enjoy watching the birds come and go during the day. I think they feel fall coming on and are busy storing up fat reserves and hiding food for the upcoming winter. We may have a frost tonight also! It is hard to believe that Oct. is only 2 weeks away.

Well, I have rambled on enough today. Enjoy fall Y'all!

courtesy of Sugar Shack keepsakes link on right

A new pet

2008-09-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

THis is not the actual pet, but one that looks similar. Meet Cookie. She is a Bufo Americanus. American Toad. She was seen hopping across the lawn last night right toward the house. She is very large for a toad also. We have her established in a nice aquarium with plenty of dirt and leaves to dig into and a dish of water to sit in. She seems happy and has already eaten a cricket for dinner!

Learning curve

2008-09-14T05:34:00.000-07:00

Things have been interesting around here as everyone adjusts to having new people in the house and the new people adjust to living here. Rich has been great helping me get the house in order. I had a yard sale yesterday and made $55. It rained overnight however and everything I had out got soaked. I am giving away the stuff that I don't want now. The kids have been having a great time with Rich's son here. He is at a great age where he is like a little brother to Travis and a playmate for Sarah.

Money is continuing to trickle in despite the fact that I have not gotten any disability or paycheck in two weeks. Travis got his last paycheck and I had to commendeer it to pay some bills. I got $20 to do private duty for an hour and then the yard sale money helps. Also getting child support still.

There has been an issue with my kids and lack of structure but I am going to work on that. They do need more structure. It has pretty much been a free for all here the last two years. Also when the house is cleaned up it needs to stay that way! I can't be a slob anymore, or the kids for that matter!

Wish us luck!

Richard

2008-09-10T03:26:00.000-07:00

I've been putting off this entry out of fear of cursing or dooming this relationship. But I don't think journal entries is the culprit. Ok I met Richard about two weeks ago. Well, we have been talking online for a few days prior, even thru my surgery and problems after. I think I may have met "The One". I am so afraid however to let my heart go. He is 5 years younger than me and very good looking. He is currently living in Albany but may move up here soon. I know we might be rushing things, but with his situation and mine, it would be ideal. I need extra income and he needs a place to stay with a safe and good school system for his son. He is staying with his sister right now after leaving his son's mother. No he is not married.

We seem to just "click", I don't know what it is. I am so afraid he is acting just to get me to fall for him, but if he is acting he is doing a bang up job of it. He is affectionate, romantic, likes the kids, changed my flat tire etc... his son and my kids get along great and all are eager to live together. We will however be adding another dog to the mix! So things should be interesting in this little house. He has also mentioned the word "marriage" but not until a while from now. We just tossed around the idea. Maybe its all part of his "seduction" plan. LOL! Anyhow gonna take it slow and cautious. He says he feels the same with me, that I seem too good to be true and he is waiting for the other shoe to drop. Here is his picture... wish us luck!

Birdfeeder cam

2008-09-05T04:28:00.000-07:00

I will occasionally have a webcam set up to view the birdfeeders outside my window. I do not have a webcam host yet so the only way to be able to view it would be to add me to your buddy list and if you see me online to ask me turn it on! It is also available thru my yahoo IM, geocachelinda. Send me a buddy request and if you see me online there I can turn it on if its not on already! Linda

P.S. If anyone knows a free and easy place to host a webcam could you let me know?

Happy Birthday Sarah!

2008-09-01T04:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Sarah today! She is 9 today. She had her party yesterday at her Grandmother's. I couldn't go because of the pain and the pills but today I am going to really try to do something with her! I might have a friend come pick us up because I don't want to drive too far. She enjoyed her party at her Grandmother's and got some nice presents! Linda

Maybe its the drugs...

2008-08-31T09:45:00.000-07:00

Maybe its the drugs but does anyone here see this resemblance too? When I first layed eyes on Sarah Palin, the Republican VP pick of Mr. McCain all I could think about was Wonder Woman! I wonder if she is going to spin around and transform into WW and save the day!

Day from hell

2008-08-30T14:25:00.000-07:00

You know that from my previous entry how sick I was. On Friday at 1:30 AM I awoke with excruating abdominal pain. I woke up Sarah and barely drove myself to the emergency room. I almost passed out walking up the stairs and had to lay on them outside. I sent Sarah in to get someone and lay their panting and sweating and both hands were numb and tingling. No one came, so I managed to get up and walk into the emergency room clutching my belly and moaning. Finally someone saw me and got me into a bed. I couldn't lay down, couldn't stand up etc.. They drew blood, probably to see what kind of drugs I was on! LOL, then started an IV and gave me morphine. Didn't touch it, I continued to be in agony and they left me and didn't give me a call bell! I resorted to yelling and screaming until they came back and gave me Demorol. Still nothing. They hit me twice more with more drugs and antibiotics etc... Finally it started working and they decided at 3 AM to admit me. I got upstairs by 5 and they gave me more meds because it was still hurting. I was in such agony, I was sitting on the side of the bed, sweat pouring off me and moaning and panting like I was dying. All the time in the back of my mind all I could think is people must of thought I sounded like I was either having a baby or having incredible sex! LOL! I was sitting on the side of the bed and couldn't move an inch. Each time I did a bolt of pain would shoot thru me and I would scream. The poor nurse didn't know what to do. I told her it felt like a severe muscle spasm. They called the Dr. and he ordered me some muscle relaxer. I couldn't even see I was in such pain. Finally that kicked in and I was able to lay down.

I was in a daze all day and my roomate was an elderly woman on hospice and her family was in there ALL DAY talking very LOUDLY! They kept bringing her food and describing different foods to her. I swear if her daughter said Maypo or Lobster Bisque on more time I was going to fly over the curtain and strangle her ASS! I drifted in and out for a while but really didn't get to sleep until around 9 PM. I had the nurses take out my catheter and then my IV because I had to pee every 5 minutes!.. They kept coming in every 4 or 6 hours and hitting me up with more muscle relaxers. I didn't get to leave the hospital until around 11 AM . I am hoping deperately that pain does not return. I am starving and ordered some Italian food and have hogged that down. Will probably puke it up soon tho.

I came home to starving animals, garbage strewn all over and pee and poop in the bathroom. Travis did nothing while I was gone. I had to feed the animals and clean up poop and pee. I should of kicked him in the ass and told him to do it! So I am still very dizzy and out of it. I am hoping it will go away soon and I can start feeling normal. I hate being sick and out of sorts like this.

Sick as a dog

2008-08-28T15:48:00.000-07:00

The last couple of days I have been not feeling very well, the pain is getting a little better but I have been having a feeling of not being able to "catch" my breath and still very swollen. Now I feel sick to my stomach and dizzy. I tried driving today and I was so carsick. I was going by the surgeons office, so I stopped in and told them I wasn't feeling well. They didn't even have a THERMOMETER in that office to take my temp! They paged my surgeon and he was going to have them call in an antibiotic for me! I told the lady, no I cannot drive over to the pharmacy and sit there for an hour and that I was going home. I told them I would call them if I didn't feel better tomorrow. I am wondering if I am having complications such as perhaps an infection or bile leak somewhere.

Sarah has been a monster lately too and being demanding and rude. She still expects me to wait on her hand and foot and gets mad if I can't do what she wants. I try to rest and every couple minutes she barges in the room saying she is "bored". I called her grandmother and she even seemed reluctant to watch her for a while. She did take her for a couple hours but then said "I'll see you sunday" for her party. She never said if you need something call. I was so mad after leaving that Dr.s office that I have NO ONE to rely on and help me. Now I know that isn't completely true. My Dad called today and offered to take me to the Dr. tomorrow and to the pharmacy. I feel like such a loser. Here I am 42 years old with no friends or family willing or able to help me except for Dad. I know my Mom would in a heartbeat but she is so far away. She has felt terrible and worries so much about me. I LOVE YOU MOM!

Ok enough whining!

Surgery went well!

2008-08-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

A quick note to let everyone that surgery yesterday went well. I am still in some discomfort but will make it. Buzzy is happy keeping me company. Here is a dog similar to Buzzy.

Isn't that cute as all get out? :) Love that little doggie! Travis had a birthday Sunday and is now 17! Can't believe it! One more year of school. I know he is very immature still because his school Army recruiter called yesterday and I was trying to hand Travis the phone and he was yelling, I don't want to talk to him, I don't want to go in the Army! So I'm sure that guy doesn't want him in the Army either! Here is my surgery wounds don't scroll down if you get grossed out easy...

The large purple blob is my bellybutton! You can see one insertion site on the left. I have two others like that.. Linda

Happy Birthday to ME!

2008-08-21T03:35:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all who previously wished me a Happy Birthday! I'm 42 today! No, I don't really feel old. I just feel like me. Age is just a number. Here is my gift to myself...

This little doggy needed a home. I know I just found a home for my other dog. Daisy is quite happy in her new home and we went and visited the other day and she is doing great. This dog is older, slower and quiet! He mostly plays, lays around and chews his ball. He is a Cairn terrier. Like Toto. His name is officially Buster Brown but they called him Buzzy. I don't really care for that myself. The cats really aren't all that upset about him because he pretty much ignores them. I think Buster is a better choice for us. He is however very obese and is going on a diet! His last owner fed him pretty much what he wanted, probably table scraps and on Sundays a double cheeseburger from McDonald's! I think today at work we are ordering out. Linda

A crazy, busy week

2008-08-20T03:19:00.000-07:00

This past week has pretty much been spent preparing for my gallbladder surgery on Monday the 25th. I am so tired and worn out I'm actually looking forward to a break! Financially it won't be easy but Travis said that I can have his last check to help out. That is nice of him, even though I pretty much told him we need it. His birthday is Sunday. He will be 17! Mine is tomorrow, 42 for me! And dear Sarah will be Sept. 1st and she will be 9!

The Washington Co. fair started yesterday. I look forward to going because of the tractor pulls. I may go Saturday night to watch them. I don't know if any of you remember the lady Joy that I take care of. Her daughter called and asked for help again. I went over last night and helped get her ready for bed. I only worked 45 minutes and she paid me $20. I sure can use the extra cash. That will give me gas for 2 days.. Sad isn't it? $20 used to go so far. Anyhow she has me booked for tonight and tomorrow also. Friday we are having Travis birthday party out at this Dads. That will be a late night because it doesn't start until 7. I want to try to leave by 9 because I have to work the next day. I am so darn tired of working. My back has been killing me lately. Then next Sunday is Sarah's party and I need to start planning and getting supplies for that. She is having 8 guests. I may go to the craft store and get some T-shirts and fabric paint so they can make their own commemorative T-shirts for the Fear Factor party. At the very least it will give them something to do for 1/2 hr! :)

Ok off to get ready for work.. once again...

One of my geocaches is on Youtube!

2008-08-20T02:48:00.000-07:00

Watch as this girl goes out and finds my Geocache Throw Daddy from the Train!

Love is the answer

2008-08-19T03:31:00.000-07:00

I heard this song yesterday and remembered how much I loved it. Even as a child I loved it and it wasn't until I was an adult that I really knew what it meant! I looked over the videos available but settled on this one.

A little better...

2008-08-11T03:38:00.000-07:00

Here we are at Monday again.. I have tomorrow off so Monday isn't too bad for me this week. I really need to start school shopping. The weather continues to be rainy and stormy. I'm not complaining however, its better than scorching heat and humidity.

Sarah and I have been thinking about a type of party for her and we came up with a Fear Factor party. The guests perform different tasks like getting handcuffed and then having to retrieve a key out of a bucket of worms and bugs etc.. Making gross shakes out of different ingrediants and then switching them with something that isn't really made out of those things, out of their view of course! Also the "dirty diaper" where they have to just use their mouths to fish bubble gum out of a diaper filled with yellow food coloring and chocolate pudding. The first one to blow a bubble wins. I think it will be fun with a bunch of squeally little girls!

I'm excited the Washington County Fair will be starting soon. I love the tractor pulls and hope to get some pictures from this year on here. My camera is broken pretty good now. It takes pictures but won't turn off and upload to the computer. I think its time for a new one.

Almost time to get ready for work. I hope everyone has a good day! Linda

Pain, pain, pain

2008-08-09T03:46:00.000-07:00

Gotta love that! You can tell who the boss is in that cage! Anyhow I am very uncomfortable this morning and that doesn't bode well for the rest of the day. It could just be the way I'm sitting in this hard-ass kitchen chair. I need a regular computer chair. Maybe I'll see if my work is throwing any out. They change office equipment like its underwear.

A fellow journaler asked me about my hernia. This is the hopefully easy to understand explanation of my type of hernia.

I have either an inguinal or femoral hernia. They develop in the groin area. My last two hernias were on the left side. My first was an inguinal and my second a femoral. The pain feels like menstrual cramps to stabbing pains that radiate down my leg. They are repaired under local and general anesthisia where I am given something by IV which knocks me out. The incision is around 3-4 inches long and they repair the muscle tear with a mesh. It is considered a day surgery and they send you home shortly after. I do not do well after these surgeries. I vomit and have intense pain which is barely relieved by the medication they give me. Recovery time is about 6 weeks for someone in my line of work. Probably less for someone who has a desk job. Up and moving around after a couple days and can drive. It hurts. They told me "mild discomfort", but my ceserians were easier than these! Probably because I was in the hospital hooked up to the magic button machine! So I am a little cranky today and no I don't have a PMS. LOL

There was a big storm that rolled through Saratoga yesterday with so much rain and hail that the streets flooded and part of the dirt track at the racecourse had washed out. They actually closed the track for the rest of the day. They did hand out vouchers for patrons to come another day, but I think they probably would of prefered to wait the hour it took for the track to be fixed and watch the races they came to see.

Hope everyone has a great weekend! Linda

Happy 08/08/08

2008-08-08T04:30:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! Is everyone going to watch the Olympic Opening Ceremony tonight? I plan on it.

I haven't had a good week. I may have yet another hernia. This time on the right side. I had one two years ago and one 10 years before that both on the left. If this one is a hernia, I'm going to have the surgeon patch up the whole area! I am going to see the same surgeon for the hernia that I'm seeing for the gallbladder. Maybe they can fix them both at the same time.

I am tired of hurting and feeling sick all the time. I have no energy and no desire to do anything.

We have been having alot of rain and thunderstorms. Travis rode his bike to work yesterday and ended up getting soaked and pelted with hail on his way home yesterday! Now he doesn't want to ride to work anymore! Can't say I blame him! He only has 3 weeks left to work. Not much else going on. Everyone have a lucky day!

Wild baby bunny

2008-08-02T15:24:00.000-07:00

This morning I was treated to the show of Tiger chasing down and tackling a baby cottontail rabbit!

This is not the actual rabbit, but one that looks similar. In the excitement I forgot to take pictures. I ran outside and yelled at him and he dropped it. I went over and saw it was still alive and apparently uninjured except for a patch of missing fur. I picked it up and brought it inside for Sarah to see. We considered keeping it for a pet, but after some research online I realized this was not a good choice as it would most likely die in captivity. We released it in a small field close to the woods and it bounded right away! I am hoping Tiger will stop bringing down rabbits! The landlord has said that people have seen fox right in the park here too. I am worried because Tarzan is gone again and has been since yesterday afternoon. I hope he comes back.

Create your own visitor map!

My cheezeburger

2008-08-01T03:50:00.000-07:00

moar funny pictures

Surgeon appt

2008-07-31T03:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, believe it or not, my mood is disappointed. My appt with the surgeon isn't until the 15th of Aug. I can just see it now, having surgery scheduled right around the kids birthdays and when school is starting! I know I will only be bedridden for a couple days, but STILL! I think AOL should put a symptom list up as well as mood for us hypochondriacs. Today, I am sneezing and crampy... LOL..

Talked to Mom last night and she said kids are starting back to school down there in another few days. Kids up here don't start until early Sept. I have to go out and get Sarah's school supplies. I finally started getting support again from her father. That will help especially as I am going out for surgery probably. I may need to use part of Travis' checks too. I really hate to do it, but may need to in order to keep our utilities turned on etc... The credit card companies will have to give me a break. I will call them and let them know the situation. I also think the landlord will give me a break until I can re-pay him. There goes the Christmas club check! I am afraid of what this winter will hold for us with the heating bills. I really think I may need a renter to move in with us! I think a single mom with a child would be ideal!

Not much else going on... Enjoy the day!

Create your own visitor map!

Trying this map

2008-07-30T03:20:00.000-07:00

Create your own visitor map!

Gallstones

2008-07-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

It's official. I have gallstones. Now I have to wait to hear from my Dr. to see what she recommends. I think she will say surgery, she already told me if there are stones I will have surgery. I think that is just to prevent future pain and problems. Not much else going on....

Still sick

2008-07-28T14:31:00.000-07:00

I went to the Dr. today and she confirmed that it is probably my gallbladder and is sending me for a ultrasound tomorrow. She said that the CAT scan will probably not pick up stones. The ultrasound will. If there are stones, I will get surgery. This is not coming at a good time as I have very little benefit time at work. Disability does not pay very much either. So we will be struggling and may have to depend on Travis' paycheck to get by. Besides, if I apply for any services, they will probably count his check too.

I have been having some pain and feeling feverish today. I hope they figure out what is wrong, so I can get to feeling better. Linda

Happy Anniversary

2008-07-26T08:08:00.000-07:00

Two years ago, I left my ex. It is hard to believe its been two years since my children and I escaped that living hell. I used to pray for a way out and had such feelings of hopelessness. I am glad that I found the strength and support needed to leave.

On to more not so good news. I am sick as a dog. I ended up going to the hospital last night with what they think is gallbladder problems. I have to follow up with my regular Dr. on Monday. I won't go into disgusting details but just say that I feel awful!

Weekend update

2008-07-19T14:35:00.000-07:00

I have not made it over to the fair to take photos. I guess I'll have to take them on Monday when I go to pick things up. It was hot today and I really can't afford to spend the admition fee to get in and then buy a disposable camera to take the photos. I am having a hard time with money and have gotten behind on bills which doesn't help. I have been having to rely on credit cards and that makes it worse. I'm really in a fix. It doesn't help that Sarah's father hasn't given me any child support but Sarah says he always is buying lots of groceries. Travis is continuing to enjoy his job but did not enjoy his first paycheck! He only got paid $36 dollars and was so mad. He thought that was all he was getting a week. We called and they said their pay period ended that day and he was only paid one day. So he will get more than that next week!

I picked some nice zucchini and a little squash. I need to get a recipe for zucchini bread and also make up some of my summer pasta sauce. I saute zucchini, yellow squash, onions, a little garlic and add it to chunky tomato sauce or stew tomatos and put it over pasta. Not much else going on... as usual!

p.s. Daisy is also doing good in her new home!

Fair update

2008-07-15T14:06:00.000-07:00

Quick fair update. Sarah and I did well on our entries. I received BLUE for the following:

Summer Squash, Potted Plant, Wildflower boquet, foliage arrangement.

RED for Zucchini, Original arrangement and photography.

White for photography

Sarah got Red for squash, Blue for 2 wildflower arrangements! So we did well considering.

Bad Blogger, Bad!

2008-07-13T03:23:00.000-07:00

Yes I am ashamed. I haven't written since the 4th of July! I guess I've had other things on my mind. Not alot goin on here at the base of the mountains. I'm getting ready for the fair. I sent in my photos for judging yesterday and today, Sarah and I are going to finish up our boquets. I need to go over to the dollar store and get a couple for vases. There is a house down the street from my work with some lovely pink hydrangea. I am thinking about stopping to ask for a couple to add to the cream pitcher bouquet. My squash have not been doing well. They have blossom end rot. I need to get some epsom salts to mix into the watering can. I heard that helps. I don't think I will be entering the plant into the fair. It is not in good condition. I should of entered the pepper instead, its a beauty! Hopefully this week, we will have fair pictures here and some ribbons! Linda

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-04T03:40:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July everyone! I hope you have a safe and pleasant day! I have to work today, but may go take the kids to see fireworks tonight. We are going tomorrow night up to the town beach in Corinth. They put on a nice show. I am going to put a note in the suggestion box at work about holiday pay at my job. If you are a full time employee and work the holiday you get double time. If you are full time and have the day off you get paid for the day. Now the person that works the holiday and the one with the day off get exactly the same compensation. Does that make sense to you? Doesn't to me. Seems like the person that works it should get something a little extra like maybe getting paid at 2 1/2 the normal rate.

Sarah is trying a new inset for her pump. The needle is small and stays in her. So no kinking of the delivery port. Before it was a small plastic tube that kept getting a kink in the tip. It was easy to put on her and I'm hoping this will solve our problem. When the pump is working properly she does very well on it.

Daisy has gone to her new home and is doing great so far. Here is a picture that the new owners sent to us.

Look at that happy face! Have a safe holiday everyone!

I have my friend back!

2008-07-02T03:45:00.000-07:00

David e-mailed me and I went over for a short visit last night. We seemed to pick right back up like nothing happened. We did talk about the problem that occured and I agreed it was my fault and I could see where he got upset. Sarah was wanting to jump in their pool but I said no. It was getting late and the air temp was cool.

We have been having problems with her pump lately. Her inset site (where the tube goes into the skin) has been getting kinked and she is not getting her insulin. As a result her sugars go sky high and she gets sick. She started summer rec yesterday and decided she didn't like it and didn't want to go so we aren't going to make her go. She said it was boring and she didn't know anyone there.

I have decided to re-home Daisy. I found a wonderful family for her and we are bringing her over there tonight. Don't get me wrong, I love Daisy, but I don't have the time and energy to devote to her. Her new family has a huge yard, a dog run and another dog for her to play with! They said we can visit Daisy and they will send pictures... I am going to miss her but I won't miss the mess and chaos everyday! Or the poop and pee everywhere.

Besides that there isn't much more going on. We are going to fireworks tomorrow night at the racetrack and I have the weekend off, but no plans yet...

Twins?

2008-06-26T04:30:00.000-07:00

I think I may have found my Dad's long lost twin brother! LOL!

Sundae on the farm

2008-06-26T03:58:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to caption my pictures, but as usual AOL wants to be stupid. I think they are pretty self explanatory anyhow. I took the kids on Sunday to Sundae on the farm. Yes we had sundaes too! This farm is the large Kings Ransom farm in Northumberland. This farm boasts over 1000 cows and produces a massive quantity of milk each year. If you click on the Bed and breakfast link at the top of their webpage you can find the history of the farm.

We go to Albany today to hopefully get Sarah's pump up and running insulin. Of course his Daddyship is coming. He has nothing to do with her most of the time, but shows up to look like he cares for appointments etc... Why bother?

Travis starts work Monday. He will be working at Wesley, where I work as a groundkeeper. I hope he likes it. He is already complaining that it is cutting into his computer/video game time etc. and that he shouldn't have to do chores because he is working! Ha! Welcome to adulthood son. Its all about work now.

Looks like rain again today. I still haven't gotten the yard mowed and it looks like a meadow now. Linda

Six Flags New England

2008-06-22T15:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I took the kids and Travis' friend Ana to Six Flags New England. It is a 2 1/2 hr ride. Spent $40 in gas for the round trip! It was hot, crowded and expensive! I spent alot of dough. Spent extra for a Flash pass for two so we can go to the head of the line on the rides. Sort of the head of the line. Saved alot of waiting in lines however so it was worth it. We rode (Ana and I), the Scream. That is a tower that brings you up over 200 ft and then drops you. There is a pic in the gallery. We rode the Mind Eraser. I almost puked after! The Batman ride. Had to close my eyes. Almost puked. The Superman ride is the best. You go up a huge hill over 200 ft and get dropped straight down! Then you rush right into a tunnel and go around beds and corkscrews at over 70 mph! All with just a little bar on your lap. We got alot of airtime. Then you go down and rush into a dark tunnel with misters in it. I love that ride! Travis and Ana went on a few rides together and Sarah too. Sarah was disappointed that she didn't get to go on alot of rides. It was very crowded. Long lines too. Alot of city folk. I saw more tattoos, gold and bling then in a jewelry store! Very urban type crowd. If anyone decides to go I would recommend getting the flash pass. Its worth it. Go on a weekday before school is out for the year too. Avoid the crowds. If you want soda go to a place with fountain soda and get the large for 3.99. Don't get a bottle for 3.50. You get alot more in the large soda. Enough for 3. Or get the cup with free refills with the wristband. Make sure you get the wristband too! Its free. Just don't forget to ask. Otherwise the re-fills are 99c. Bring comfortable shoes for walking and sunscreen! Have fun! Vote on my photo above! Be honest, don't just say yes to be nice!

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-15T03:44:00.000-07:00

Here he is, my Dad. Happy Father's Day Dad!

Not much else going on in life. Work, heat, kids. Travis is out of school except for a few exams he has to take. Sarah still has a few days left. We go to Albany on the 25th to get real insulin in the pump! We have practiced with saline and will practice some more before we go. Sarah's grandmother is nervous about it. I wanted to take a couple days off but I don't think I will be able to.

My veggies are coming right along. I see baby squash at the base of flower buds that haven't opened yet. I know I will have squash for the fair! I have two small tomatoes but need three of the same size so I'm hoping I get some more soon. I might be able to pick two close to the fair and refrigerate them until another one catches up. The fair judges seem to want uniformity in size. I will probably end up entering green tomatoes but perhaps red. Have to get ready for work now...

Here I am

2008-06-10T03:45:00.000-07:00

Shame on me, I haven't posted in over a week. I have been getting wrapped up in online dating which really doesn't work all that well. Also with work and the kids and the dog etc... Chaos still reigns at my house. It has been so horribly hot here. In the mid 90's every day for the last 3 days. It should break today hopefully with storms.

Sarah's pump educator is going to be meeting us today at Sarah's grandmothers house to teach us how to use the pump. It is going to be very hot there as she has no A/C either! I need to get out of this state of apathy soon. I kind of drift thru life just getting the basics done and not much else. The house looks like hell. I spent the weekend geocaching and canoeing with a guy from Albany area I met. No he is not a romantic prospect. Quite the opposite. I suppose he could be if he wasn't so uptight! I guess he would be what they call anal-retentive! LOL! Not that I didn't have a good time of course. We had a wonderful paddle across the lake and down a creek. We saw alot of birds including a great blue heron rookery. I took pictures but they are trapped in the camera until I get to the store to download them onto disc. My camera no longer connects with the computer. I guess it got dropped too many times by the kids.

I'm afraid Travis is going to develop another bad habit! He slept in our room last night in Sarah's bed because it was so hot in the house. I hope he doesn't make it a regular thing. Not that it bothered me but...

A boy his age that goes to his school was killed a few days ago in a horrible accident less than a mile from our house. A man was speeding up the mountain and crossed the line and hit him head on. There was accusations of alcohol usage. Both died in the crash. The boy on impact. Both thrown from their vehicles also.

Time to get ready for work. Hope all have a nice week.

New adjectives

2008-05-31T16:39:00.000-07:00

I see AOL has decided to gift us with a huge list of adjectives to describe our current mood. Too bad they still assume that I am listening to music. I am actually in fact but not by choice. Its the music from Sonic the Hedgehog game.

We finally got a nice few rain storms come through today and give everything a nice soaking. I went out hiking most of the day yesterday. In the morning with my Dad and in the afternoon with a new friend from Albany.

I'm sitting here right now with two different color Crocs on because I can't find the match to either one. I'm sure they are somewhere under the couch in Daisy's lair. LOL She is funny sometimes and a pain in the ass others. I can say ass now because they do on TV! ;) Hey AOL give us some emoticons too that would be cool!

Lost my friend

2008-05-29T03:26:00.000-07:00

I did something stupid a few days ago and asked my friend Dave if he wanted to start dating again. He said ok. Then I didn't hear from him for over a week. I called him last night and he was mad. He said he went on Match.com and saw my profile there and that I had been online recently. He took that as I sign that I wasn't really interested in him etc... so instead of asking me about it he cut me off. I was so flustered and didn't know what to say I told him I didn't want to argue about it and hung up. So I guess that is over. He wasn't the right guy for me anyhow. He was the one who makes stupid noises and laughs at people if any of you remember. It just hurts because we were friends. I guess I shouldn't of asked him to start dating again. It seems I'm jynxed in the love dept. I try internet dating and as soon as someone sees my picture they run the other way. I'm I that hideous? What do you think people?

I guess guys are expecting blonde with big boobs and no body fat these days.

Happy Memorial Day

2008-05-26T03:23:00.000-07:00

I'm tired. Tired of everything. Tired of the mess my house is in. Tired of working. Tired of whining, ungrateful kids, tired of dogs who won't listen and kids that scream at said dog.

Happy Memorial Day btw. Lets pause at some point today to remember the courageous Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

I brought the brats to the Great Money Pit yesterday. Oh I mean the Great Escape. First I paid $30 for our season parking pass. Then I had to fork over $5.00 for a little dab of Ben and Jerry's icecream on a cone for Sarah. Her sugar was low. I paid another $10.00 for a refillable soda sports bottle. Free refills all day. Paid $10.00 for a measly little chicken strip meal for me and the kids to split. I spend $60 there just on food and parking. I had already bought the season passes. Sure you can bring a picnic lunch but you have to leave it in your car and walk back out into the parking lot to eat it there. It is usually 100 degrees out there too and no shade. What kid is going to want to do that? Corporate greed! A long time ago they allowed coolers etc... not anymore.

I have to work today. I'm not thrilled about it. Staffing is probably going to pull us to do care so they won't have to pay agency staff.

Tomorrow Sarah's insulin pump comes in the mail. I have to be home to accept delivery on it. I am taking a half day off to make sure I'm here. She is getting a Animas pump in pink! Later on a rep will come out and show us how to use it. I will arrange to have him teach us at Sarah's grandmother's house. The school nurse wants to come too. She will start out using saline and then switch to insulin. It will save alot of trouble with shots etc..

Not much else going on really. Hope everyone has a good holiday today.

Still cold

2008-05-21T03:38:00.000-07:00

Spring is lasting a long time around here due to the extended cold period we have had. It has barely made it to 60 for days now. I'm ready for a little warmth! I think this weekend is supposed to warm up. I have no plans for the weekend yet. I would like to try and do some geocaching. I want to try out that new GPS of mine. I have wrens nesting in a wren house out back and they are the cutest darn things. They chirp and burble all day long. The baby robins at work left the nest and have been living in the courtyard at Wesley being duly tended by Mom robin.

I talked to the Saratoga Co. Employment and Training place about Travis' application and they said he is probably eligible for the program and a counseler will be in touch with us. I hope he trys hard. There may be a position at my own job that he can take. He will be able to ride into work with me! That would make things convenient! They hire kids to do cleaning, mow, yard work etc... I think if he applies himself he will do well.

I got a graduation announcement and invitation for my niece Nikki for June 27th. She is a year older than Travis. She works for the Great Escape summers usually. She is a nice girl and is a good artist too. I am going to see if I can take a half day off and go to her party. Next year will be Travis' turn! Hard to believe that kid is going to be graduating high school! I hope he doesn't give up and quit.

I guess I'm out of words... Have a good day everyone!

My journal is not working

2008-05-18T03:27:00.000-07:00

Would anyone know why my journal isn't loading properly? Ever since I put in my last entry it won't load. When I go in to edit it everything is there that I put into my last entry. People have mentioned it to me that it isn't working... Ok update, I just had to delete that last entry and now its working just fine. I will put the photos here instead!

Went to the nursery

2008-05-15T07:05:00.000-07:00

I went to the nursery this morning and splurged and got one of the Super Bush tomato plants. It is so big and beautiful. Looks like I might be getting some maters for the fair this year! I will have to take real good care of this plant. Also got some flowers for the hanging baskets and some squash and zucchini.

Gardening time

2008-05-15T04:01:00.000-07:00

Yes indeed, it is gardening time here in upstate NY! I put some green peas in this year in two spots. First I planted some in one of my deck boxes. The idea here being that they will grow and climb down the trellis! I am calling them my upside down peas. I have to tie the trellis to the porch however so the dog doesn't knock it down. I also planted some the regular way behind my shed area. I am going to call the landlord and see if the area behind my house will be suitable. It does seem to recieve a bit of sun. There is also a patch in front that is next to the driveway. I think tomatoes will do real good there! ;)

So anyhow. I kept the answering machine because it works. Works good enough for the guy at Greentree to call and say "You need to give me a call" in his deep, menacing voice. I delete it... I am not paying another dime on my Ex's house. He can get a job in Saratoga and ride a damn bike instead of sit home on his butt and collect unemployment.

I had to come home yesterday from work because my coughing was still bad and I started getting the bathroom emergency if you know what I mean. ( runs ) I am still hacking up greenies today so I called in for today too. I don't want to get the residents sick. It may be allergy related but maybe not. My co-worker is also sick and called in yesterday and today. I am going to rest and maybe run a few errands. I need to go to the post office and maybe go to the nursery and see if their tomatoes are in yet. They might not have them out for another week or so. They do however have some huge Super Bush plants in pots with stems that are 2" thick! They are gorgeous plants but very expensive. They have flowers on them already and those are big too! They come with the tomato cage also. Maybe I'll get one just to try it out. I also want to get some wave petunias to put in my hanging baskets from last year.

I did buy season passes for me and the kids for the Great Escape this year with my tax rebate check money. They both love to go and we can also go to the one in Mass and NJ. I haven't been to NJ yet but I want to go. There is an animal safari place there too.

Daisy has been enjoying her hedgehog toy. You dog lovers know the type I'm talking about don't you?

Daisy gets many hours of ecstasy playing with her hedgie. She even knows it by name. Enough news for now...

Strange item bought at Walmart

2008-05-13T03:35:00.000-07:00

No, the stupid head cold I have I did not buy at Walmart. I may have gotten it there tho for all I know last week. I bought a GE phone/answering machine combo. It was relatively inexpensive and now I know why. The first thing I noticed after setting it up was that it had 9 messages on it already! I listened to them and could barely hear most of them. I think someone bought it and returned it also. The intructions were in Spanish. NO English which is the language I speak. I went online and looked up the product information and the manual online was also in Spanish. I finally figured out what I wanted to so I will give it a try. I am a cheap person at heart and always buy the cheapest product usually. The reason for that is because expensive items and cheap items are all one and the same to kids, cats and dogs!

I heard back from the dog trainer and they recommend private behavior consultations due to Daisy's fear aggression. I do not think Daisy would bite someone or another dog however she would be disruptive in a class setting due to her phobias. So I need to personally talk to the trainer and see what can be set up. I also plan on buying her a short leash and harness so I can work with her in social situations. She pulls hard for a little dog. She digs right in with her legs and pulls.

I also purchased a Wahl home haircutting system and cut Travis' hair. I don't have pictures but it came out pretty good. I just messed up slightly around the ears but don't tell him that! We will keep it between us....

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T04:21:00.000-07:00

I would like to wish everyone out there a Happy Mother's Day. You may have lost your Mom or don't have children, but everyone out there can relate to Mother's Day in some way. I hope everyone has a great day. I am bringing my Mom to the airport this morning. :( She had a nice visit however and is ready to go home! I can't blame her. We went to Manchester, VT the other day and she had a great time. The scenery was lovely. We stopped by Hildene, the home of Robert Todd Lincoln, one of Abraham Lincoln's children. He had the house built when he was an adult. It had fallen into disrepair, but a group bought it and restored it. It is beautiful and the grounds are so nice. I want to go back in mid-june because the gardens are full of peonies which will be blooming then.

I had brought my Mom over to my house yesterday so she could see Daisy. Daisy was very rude to her, barking and wouldn't go near her. Then I put Daisy in the car because we were going to take her to the park. When my Mom got in Daisy barked and lunged at her! She looked like she was going to bite but didn't. I was mad and put Daisy back in the house. My Mom is afraid of her now. She needs some training. I don't think I know how to do it.

Not much else for news. Have a good day everyone..

Ok now everyone say Awwwwwww!

2008-05-08T03:28:00.000-07:00

Not to many of us out there that can withstand this kind of cuteness! Those two near the middle look like they are sizing each other up. This is the chick cam, link on left!

Little fuzzies

2008-05-07T03:33:00.000-07:00

Go down to Falcon Cam on the left and click on it. If you see a black box that says no video, just click it and a larger view will pop up and hopefully you will see our baby falcons in Albany!

The weather has finally warmed up and has been sunny the last couple days. I may get some plants to put in this weekend. I have to get new soil for my planter boxes. I saw some hummingbirds yesterday at my friend Dave's house. I will have to get the feeder out and clean it up, or just go buy a new one. I gave Dave a little lecture because they were using red concentrate liquid that you add water too. I told him they don't need to use red dye and it may even be harmful to the birds. I'll dig up some info on line and send it to him. My visit with my Mom has been good. We went out and did a little shopping yesterday and took her out to see her great grandson's.

I had a conference yesterday with Sarah's teacher and we developed a new plan on how to keep her ( and Me ) organized so she can get her homework done. Grandma will keep out of the bookbag and let me take it home and sort it out. Usually she just hands me all the papers and I have to idea what is homework etc... Too many hands in the mix make it confusing. I think Grandma is afraid I'll loose or forget Sarah's backpack. Yes it may happen but I still need to bring it home.

Still trying to get Travis to a job interview that he will like. He has his mind set on working at the track. We have missed all the job fairs so far. Maybe there will be one this weekend. I don't want him sitting around all summer. He will graduate next year and needs some real world experience. Not much else going on here...

Another dreary, rainy day...

2008-05-03T03:44:00.000-07:00

Now that we had a taste of spring, its been raining for several days. We DID need the rain, but not this cold, dreary, drizzly crap. I spent half the day with my Mom yesterday. We went out to breakfast and then went shopping. She got me a new scrub top. I got some craft stuff for Sarah. I came home after lunch and took a short nap. Then got up and got Sarah and we went to Woods Hollow nature preserve to see if there were any tadpole eggs yet. No none of those but something killed several small minnows. I saw baby sunfish and perch and a bullhead, all dead. Daisy ate two of them. Yech. I am wondering if they applied a type of algaecide in the water and it killed the little fish. Daisy doesn't seem any worse for wear. We will go back in a month and see if the tads are there. A couple years ago we went and the edge of the pond was swarming with them. I want to bring a few home and put them in an old aquarium so we can see them develop. There was this foamy blue stuff floating on the edge of the water too, which makes me think something was put in the pond. Anyone know anything about this? Anyhow I had one stinky wet dog to ride home with last night. She was so tired at bedtime from her romp that she was actually snoring!

I have decided not to date that guy in Glens Falls. He has a very negative energy around him and has a bad attitude about alot of things. I don't need that in my life. He never calls me either and I'm not chasing after him. I am getting too old for that. Besides I saw that he is looking online at Match.com still. So am I... LOL. Ok time to go to work. What a drag.... Linda

Almost May!

2008-04-30T03:30:00.000-07:00

Last day of April today. My Mom is flying up and should be here after noon. She is probably at the airport right now checking in. She is staying until Mother's Day and then going home. Not really much going on in my life right now. It has gotten cold again so I am putting off gardening for a little while. I have to find a good spot for a couple tomato plants and maybe some beans and peppers again. I liked the peas last year too, so probably those too. My landlord doesn't want me planting where I did last year because it was over the leachfield, I think he is afraid the roots will go down and mess up the pipes. None of the plant roots go down that far!

A geocaching friend of mine bought me a brand new GPS. He has been an e-mail buddy for quite a while and wanted to get me one. So who am I to say no. That girl at work said I should give it back to him because he is married and it might imply something. Nothing is going on and he has plenty of money to burn. He only sees his wife once or twice a year anyway, she lives in Texas and he is based here in NY. They have a strained relationship to say the least. I am not sleeping with him. I know TMI.

I have been seeing a guy up in Glens Falls. His name is Scott. Very single, has a job and a house. Likes to bowl and recently bowled a perfect game! He goes geocaching with me too. I think he will make a good boyfriend for now. Get to know each other and see where it goes.

Don't forget boys and girls! Mother's Day is next weekend!

More photos from Lousiana

2008-04-26T11:14:00.000-07:00

Here is another installment of photos from Louisiana. I guess I didn't get a copy of the zoo pictures on CD, I will have to ask my brother to burn me one and send it up with Mom. The weather has continued to be perfect but we need rain soon. I am going to try to get ambitious and clean out the garden today. Also need to work on this house for my Mom's visit next week! Linda

Beautiful weather

2008-04-24T03:49:00.000-07:00

I know this tag has nothing to do with the weather but it sure is cute isn't it? It is from Sugar. I think her link is on the right. Her work is getting better and better!

We have had nothing but outstanding weather since I came back from Louisiana. Sunny and warm. Spring is here without a doubt. Flowers blooming, trees blooming, birds singing, grass growing. I need to get off my butt and rake out my garden and get ready to plant. I have one bed I want to dedicate to perennials and then fill in the front with annuals.

My Mom is coming up on the 30th! She is coming to visit her family up here and me too of course. Not much else going on otherwise. Hope everyone has a great day! Linda

More pics from Louisiana

2008-04-21T03:40:00.000-07:00

I started adding captions for these pictures, but AOL is being stupid as usual. They are pics from our fishing trip and to the pitcher plant bog. Enjoy! I will try adding captions later on.

Back home

2008-04-19T03:20:00.000-07:00

Sarah and I had a great time on our visit to Louisiana. We did most of what we wanted to do and came back tired and happy! I have to work today, not to thrilled about that. I could use one more day home! Gotta earn the bread tho. I added some of the pictures I took. I will add more in the next couple entries. All in all, we had a great visit with Mom and family and look forward to our next visit. Daisy did well kenneling too. Linda

Having fun in Louisiana

2008-04-14T04:57:00.000-07:00

Here is a nice picture of the flowers I missed! There were a few azalea left on the bushes but not enough. On Saturday, my sister and her daughter and boyfriend came down from northern Louisiana and we had a nice cookout. We went out and got a few caches near here. Yesterday Rich and I took the 4-wheelers over to the old Camp Claiborne area in the Kitsachie forest. There are miles of trails to ride there. I was amazed. Up in NY there is no place to ride. 4-wheelers are banned from most public lands. I will try to post some pictures today or tomorrow. Sarah rode with us too and had a really good time. I rode my brothers ATV and after a while really got the hang of it. It was fun spinning around the dirt turns and going thru the mud puddles. Today we are going to the Alexandria Zoo. Hope everyone has a good day... Linda

On Vacation

2008-04-11T06:16:00.000-07:00

This is my brother and I but it wasn't taken down here. The dog is Little Buddy. Sarah and I had a good trip down, but our flight out of Albany was late and we missed our connection in Atlanta. We had to catch a later flight, so spent 10 hrs traveling all together. It is beautiful down here. Warm and humid. The green and trees are amazing after coming from very early spring in NY. It is going to rain today so we won't do much. My sister is coming down tomorrow with her boyfriend and daughter. Sounds like she may spend the night. So we are having fun! Linda

I've been tagged!

2008-04-08T04:11:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by Lisa at Life on a Bison Farm!

Rules

1. The rules of the game

2. Each player answers questions about themselves.

3. At the end of the post the player then tags 5 people, and posts their names, goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment letting them know they've been tagged.

Questions

1. WHAT WHERE YOU DOING TEN YEARS AGO

I was working at my current job. Only had one son who was 6. I had met Sarah's father by this point and I was living in public housing.

2. WHAT ARE 5 THINGS ON MY TO-DO LIST TODAY

1. Call the vet to fax shot records over to kennel.

2. Attend a women's luncheon with a friend.

3. Go to the grocery store.

4. Go to motor vehicle.

5. Go to Sarah's school and get some needles.

3. SNACKS I ENJOY

Crunchy cheetos, cookies, candy, cereal.

4. WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU WERE A BILLIONAIRE?

Oh this is a good one! First quit my job! Sell my mobile home and buy anice home in the country. Get some horses. Travel the world. Give to family and charity. Not necessarily in that order!

5. BAD HABITS

1. Being lazy.

2. Impatient.

3. Overspending

4. Poor diet at times

5. Gossip

6. 5 PLACES I HAVE LIVED

Five isn't enough for me, so I'll just do the highlights!

1. Italy

2. Spain

3. Montana

4. Colorado

5. Connecticut

7. 5 JOBS I'VE HAD

1. Clerk-typist

2. Air Force member

3. Kennel attendant

4. Receptionist

5. Clerk at Wild bird store

5 people I want to know about:

Carlene- Horseshoe Bend

Cindy- Cindy's Life

Paula- Country Tales

Ally- Life with Ally

Helen- My everyday life

Whew that was a chore! All that copy and pasting!

My Saturday

2008-04-06T03:51:00.000-07:00

I titled this my Saturday, but something happened on Friday that I would like to share. I had mentioned to one of my co-workers (who happens to be very paranoid), that Sarah had a couple nits in her hair. She took it upon herself to report it to either my supervisor or the Assistant director of nursing, who in turn mentioned it to the Employee health nurse who then called me at home and gave me a 5 minute lecture on head lice! Needless to say I was totally humilitated and angry! A personal issue that I am trying to deal with didn't need to be exposed like that. Yes I understand the concern with me possibly having head lice, but I didn't to my knowledge and had treated myself also. They think I am going to start an outbreak at work. What a bunch of buttheads!

Anyhow.... Scott came over last night and worked on my moped and it seems to be running pretty good. I am going to try to remember to get it registered so that I can start riding it! I'm going to ask for an escort vehicle first to make sure I don't get stranded somewhere. He saw 5 deer on the side of the road on the way home yesterday. He goes over a mountain road and really doesn't like it. OK well time to get ready for work. Linda

Worse than a ride in the dryer!

2008-04-05T03:18:00.000-07:00

Nascar driver Michael McDowell walked away from this! Linda

One more week!

2008-04-03T03:35:00.000-07:00

I can't wait until I go on vacation. I am so ready. I am sick of this snow and rain and misery. I just have SO much to do before. Packing is the easy part! Just getting thru the week is going to be the challenge! Yes, I will be blogging down there too!

Sarah had a concert last night. Those 3rd graders are so adorable. They still have that little kid look, but you can see the way they are growing up and changing. Sarah looked like a different girl up there. I didn't take pictures. I wish I did. She has this core group of friends that have been together since Kindergarten. I have to fill out logs for Sarah soon, she has an appt Monday for her endro Dr. We are going to discuss pumps. She has a field trip tomorrow but it is supposed to snow and then rain. I don't know if it will be cancelled.

Well, not much else to report. Have a good day everyone! Linda

Windy day

2008-04-02T03:39:00.000-07:00

After our nice warm day yesterday, it is now windy and cold. We had a few claps of thunder last night as the front came through.

Only 9 more days until Louisiana! My brother is excited about me coming down, he has things planned for us to do. I have alot to do before I go however. Sarah has a concert tonight. Friday is a field trip to a maple sugar shack. Work the weekend. Monday off to go to Albany, Tuesday regular day off and I'm going to a luncheon for women's empowerment. Then Wednesday work and pack and leave Thursday! I need to make sure I have plenty of supplies for Sarah also before we go. Her sugars have been excellent the last couple days. When we go to Albany on Monday we are going to discuss the insulin pump with the Dr. , they will give us brochures so we can pick one. I am leaning toward Cozmos or Medtronic. There really isn't alot to choose from. One of them has cool colors and "skins" for kids. Those probably cost extra. Sarah can always decorate it with stickers etc...

I had the moped out last night and it is still stalling out. I found out there is a leak in the gas line. That will have to be replaced. Its just a rubber tube. My friend Scott is coming over Friday to pick it up and take it up to his place to work on it. He knows about motorcycles and things like that. He said it should be easy to fix. I just realized that I really only have to work one day next week! My vacation will be long, about two weeks! I have to board Daisy and find someone to check on the cats. I can ask Dave's son if he wants the job, I can pay him some cash. Well, time to get ready for work... Ugh. Linda

It's raining men

2008-03-31T03:43:00.000-07:00

Well, ok that is an exaggeration. It's not raining men, it is sort of sprinkling them. I decided to meet a different guy. Matt just wasn't working out. He didn't have much time for me. I realize he is busy, but I don't like to be an after-thought just penciled in when convenient.

The new guy's name is Scott. He is 39 and lives north of me. He has two kids. Works full time, has a house and truck. Seems like a decent hardworking guy. He seems to like Sarah. We met the first time for dessert up at a local truckstop diner. Then Sarah and I went up to his house yesterday to see a movie. He really surprised me by leaning over my chair and giving me not one, not two, but 4 quick little kisses! I got two more through out the day! Other than that he was was the perfect gentleman. His house is not perfect either, so when he comes to mine, I won't worry so much. I'll just make sure the dishes are done and most of the trash is off the floor!

The birds are outside singing. I can hear chickadees calling back and forth. I am going to get the moped registered hopefully this week. I need to drain the old gas out of the tank and put in fresh. I can stop over to the hardware store and get a new gas can and oil that I need. I need to take a look and see where the clip is to take the gas hose off. Anyone know where I can dispose of old gas? David may take it to use in something. So now I just need to wait for it to warm up. I can probably make it if its cooler with gloves on. Work isn't that far. I need to take some trial runs with someone following me first though to make sure the moped is going to make it. I would hate to have it die on me part way to work. I also need to make sure I have my cell phone with me. I am probably going to invest in a reflective vest also. People don't know how to stay in their lanes here in upstate NY and we have some pretty sharp corners where I can get creamed. So I need to go get ready for work. Long week ahead of me. I'll be in Louisiana soon. Linda

Moped Mama rides again!

2008-03-28T03:35:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about buying a moped to get back and forth to work to help on gas and mileage on my lease car. I saw one yesterday in the wantad digest. I went up and looked at it. It was pretty old but still runs good. I paid a couple hundred for it (or more). I don't think it was worth that much, but they are hard to come by and also will pay for itself in gas soon enough. I just hope it stays reliable. This is a picture of one like it.

Falcon cam is up and running!

2008-03-27T06:19:00.000-07:00

The Falcon cam in Albany on the Dunn Memorial bridge is running. The falcon female is on the nest and eggs are expected to hatch in May. I will put the link over on the left column also below the chick cam. Linda

Animal Kingdom

2008-03-26T03:44:00.000-07:00

I think I have too many animals in this house. Three cats and a puppy. The day started out with Daisy chasing and tackling Tarzan on the floor. She then started in teasing Tiger who sat and growled at every animal who came near him. Now its Brownie's turn. I think she enjoys sparring with Daisy. She actually sits right above her and growls at Daisy and bats at her when she gets too close. Instead of retreating she engages in the battle. Daisy of course being a silly puppy, gets all exciting and rolls and barks and dances about teasing the cat. Alot of people think I should get rid of the dog or a couple cats. I am the type of person who thinks once you get an animal you are in for the long haul. I get attached and feel like I'm giving away a child almost. Then I would have to deal with the kids and their dramatics. Actually, you know who I dread the opinion of most? That awful girl at work who think she knows everything and acts like she does and always spouts nasty comments to me. I don't know why I care. She just acts so smug and superior about everything. Well, time to go to work. Have a nice day everyone...

Feeling lazy...

2008-03-25T04:25:00.000-07:00

I can hear a cardinal wit, wit, witting outside this morning. He is staking out his territory and calling for a mate. It is a bit early for nest building but he must be getting a jump start on the competition. We still have alot of snow on the ground. It should start melting soon. It will be nice to get down to Louisiana is 16 days to see my family. The weather will be nice too! We are planning on going to the Alexandria zoo also. I would like to see if there are any botanical gardens around also. I want to see some flowers! The azaleas will be done when I get down there. I missed them last time too. We have azaleas up here too. Really not too much else going on around here. Linda

A Happy and Blessed Easter!

2008-03-23T03:38:00.000-07:00

He is Risen! Happy Easter to everyone! It is not going to be a warm day in Northern NY but it will be warm inside at WORK! Staffing is taking advantage of it being a holiday weekend and pulling me to work on a unit doing personal care. Thats ok. I got to choose where I would be today. I just hope I'm off next Easter. If not, I will take it off!

The kids are pleased with their Easter baskets and are playing the new video games they got. Sarah did get a little bit of candy. Funny, the sugar free candy has almost as much carbs as some regular candy.

Yesterday, Sarah's grandmother lost Sarah's insulin kit at the mall. No one turned it in. I bet some teens picked it up and saw what it was and threw it in a trash can. I had to make up a new one. I don't have an insulin pen for her, so I have to draw it up by hand. I will call the Dr. office Monday and see if I can get a new pen. We are due to go visit on the 7th, but maybe they can mail me a new script by then. Sarah's grandmother is a nervous wreck about the needles and syringe. She shows fear in front of Sarah and makes her nervous. I need to tell her to stop and project confidence. If she even wants to go in the other room to draw up the needle. I can't wait until Sarah gets the pump. Of course that will be a whole new problem for the grandmother to learn. All she needs to learn is what buttons to push really.

I hope everyone has a nice Easter... Linda

In Between

2008-03-22T03:48:00.000-07:00

I missed putting in an entry yesterday for Good Friday. I probably won't have time to do it tomorrow either. I had a good day yesterday. I had a DATE! Yes a real DATE! I met this guy Matt online. Yes I know... but I did talk to him a few times first and met in a public place. Today we went out for lunch and a movie. He has a good job and we seem to click. He held my hand in the movie and gave me a nice little kiss after. It feels nice to have someone like ME for a change. He has a very good job, owns a home and has two boys he has custody of. The only bad thing is he is recently seperated. He said he has no plans on getting back with his wife however. So for now, I will take it nice and easy and see where things go.

I have to work this weekend. Sarah is very upset and disappointed that I have to work on Easter. She had to spend last Easter with her father and said she doesn't want to again. I wish I had a choice, but I need to save up my vacation time for my visit to Mom in a couple weeks. She is also coming in May so I may take a couple days off then. Then after that, I need to save time up to maybe take some time off in August.

I hope everyone has a Blessed Easter weekend.... Don't eat too much chocolate bunny ears! Linda

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2008-03-17T03:26:00.000-07:00

Hello and Happy St. Patrick's day. Here is my entry from last year, where we had 11 inches of snow! It will be dry today hopefully! I see in some parts of the country spring has sprung with flowers and dandilions etc... Not us. Still a good foot of hard pack snow on the ground!

By the way I was joking yesterday about the terrorizing of small animals at PaPa Simpson's farm. The video was taken by my sister in Louisiana. They are wearing shorts down there!

I am bringing my crockpot over to Dave's this morning and the ingrediants and he is going to make the corned beef dinner. Good man he is. I should of bought some refrigerator tube biscuits too. I can pick some up on the way home. Bye for now! Linda

Two entries in one day!

2008-03-16T15:13:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of my niece and other children terrorizing small, helpless animals at PaPa Simpson's Farm. As you can see she is enjoying herself immensely. She also rode a horse and a pony. It is nice to see places like this in operation. I think its important to show children where our food comes from and that agriculture is important. Here are a couple videos of the terror and pony rides also...

I took the kids to church this morning and really had a nice time. I talked to Pastor Brown before the service and asked if he could pray for Sarah. He not only did that he called her up and annointed her with oil with one of the elders of the church! I wish I knew this was going to happen, I would of brought a camera. I am thinking of officially joining this church soon. The people seem kind and caring. Travis has been going since last year. I then came home and took a 3 hr nap! I must of been tired. OK time to get off butt and make dinner...

Don't forget to check out the Egg/Chick cam. Link on left...

brenda, just joking around about the terrorizing part!

Palm Sunday greetings

2008-03-16T06:11:00.000-07:00

So our Lord comes, riding on an ass, into the city of Jerusalem, while his followers shouted Hosanna and scattered palm branches in this path. Little to know that just a few short days later he would die on a cross and resurrected 3 days later.

Not much going on here. I had a date on Friday. Met up with a guy for a drink. He was nice. A little older than me. 53 actually. He was handsome and seemed to be a great catch. We will see. I am not getting my hopes up this time. He is also recently seperated...

Spring is coming on very slowly. We have not had any really warm days out of the 40's. My Dad is back from Florida having racked up over 300 cache finds. I still haven't broke 200 and he has nearly or over 3000! I may go out later after church and get a couple.

Have a nice Sunday and week everyone... Linda

As the louse turns...

2008-03-12T04:06:00.000-07:00

Sarah asked me to check her hair last night before bed and I did. I found two live lice and a few nits. I am ready to yank my hair and hers out! I will have to do her hair this morning again. This will be the 4th time! I think she got these from school again. The bugs were full grown and only a few nits so I think she just got these. The only other thing is I may have missed a couple nits and these just got to adult size. So I am going to do her hair and then send her to school and go to work.

I have really enjoyed watching this egg-cam. I got the link from Dad at his Tomato Garden Journal. I believe the link to that is on the right. I can't wait to see this chick joined by some brothers and sisters. New life is wonderful isn't it? I hope this little fella or gal doesn't end up on someone's plate!

I took Miss Daisy for a walk in downtown Saratoga yesterday. She was so confused with all the sights and sounds and traffic! I need to teach her not to cross back behind me and stop short in front of me. She is learning to enjoy being outdoors and knows what the leash is for now! She still won't poop outdoors, but I think once it gets warmer and we stay outside more she will do it. I don't think I wrote that last week, she pooped twice on carpet in the nursing home and peed in the elevator! Quite embarrassing!

The cat is out of the bag. I was going to surprise my Mom with a visit in April but I went ahead and told her. She was planning a trip to Texas for a couple days to see the blue bonnets and do some shopping. I didn't want her to go at the same time I was coming! Also she is coming up here in May! She will be spending alot of time with her sister, who isn't feeling too good. So thats my update. Hope everyone has a great day! Watch the chicks hatch! Linda

Hello Monday

2008-03-10T03:30:00.000-07:00

Yep, its Monday again. Whoopee! I worked this weekend, so there really is no difference to me. Sarah had her art reception. I was a little disappointed. I met her there with her Grandmother and Father (urg). Her picture was in this little tiny art gallery with outrageously expensive art in it. It was hung on the wall and very cute! We stayed maybe 10 minutes and left. There was no "artist reception". I would say it was more like an open house. Sarah went to the mall after and got her ears pierced! She looks so cute with the little studs in there! My sister sent me some pics of Abbigail enjoying some snow in Arkansas! They got a little in Louisiana but more further up north. Here she is!

I really miss my family down south and hope I can go see them soon! We have had a few signs of spring here. Buds on some trees, spring flowers coming up in a flower bed, red-wing blackbirds coming back, and robins on the dead frozen grass! So anyhow, I'm thinking the gas stations should leave carts out by the pumps for people to leave arms, legs and possible vital organs to pay for the gas now. Have to work overtime to pay for the gas to go to work!

hi mom and brenda!

Exciting news for Sarah

2008-03-06T03:50:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Sarah came home with this note in her papers. It says:

Congratulations Sarah!

Your impressive self-portrait was selected to be shown in the art gallery on Beekman Street in the Art District of Saratoga Springs! The galleries that will show your work include Mimosa, ArtWorx, and Feast Galleries. There will be an opening reception for you and your family on Sunday, March 9th from 1 until 4 PM, at the galleries. I hope to see you there!

Once again, congratulations! Your art work looks wonderful and you should feel proud of your accomplishment! Mr. Taylor

Isn't that great! Two of her classmates were also chosen. I have to work Sunday, but I'm going to see if I can leave early to go to the art reception. Linda

hi mom and brenda

March into Spring photo contest

2008-03-04T15:07:00.000-08:00

March into Spring Photo Contest

While not taken this spring because we still have over a foot of snow on the ground, it is still a springy picture. One of the first signs of spring here is the return of our Ruby-throated Hummingbirds! This was taken last year...

Back from a fun trip

2008-03-03T17:30:00.000-08:00

As you can see, we had a great time at the Waterpark. It was very busy on Sunday and not as bad Monday. Our room was great and the hotel had everything you need. Resteraunts, gift shops etc... The only thing I didn't like was the parking lot was full of snow and we only saw 2 costume characters the whole time. I was actually surprised on how many people were there. I thought it would be very quiet. I also indulged in a 25 minutes massage! It was great! Linda

Two day vacation starts today!

2008-03-02T03:36:00.000-08:00

Aol is really being horrible to me today. Nothing is saving correctly in my files. Grrrr. I guess I'm going to have to switch to photobucket or something. Anyhow! Today the kids and I are going up to the Great Escape Lodge. First however, I have to go get Private Duty lady up in the morning and give her a shower. She gave me this nice little bathing suit. It fits good except the back is very low cut and the straps feel like they will fall off. So just as a precaution I'm bringing my old standby bathing suit! I would hate to come out of the end of a waterslide with my top down to my waist! LOL! That will frighten the kiddies! We got about 6 more inches of snow overnight yesterday. I am ready to start cussin' over all this snow we are getting! The snowbank in my driveway is bigger than I am! I know all we need are a few warm days though and it will melt. Ok I need to go get ready for our trip. I will take pictures and a couple movies to share! Linda

Baby, it's cold outside!

2008-02-29T03:07:00.000-08:00

Yes indeed, its a nice warm -17 degrees outside. Yes I did say minus! I am not braggin, I'm complainin'. I hate this weather, this bone chillin cold that just makes it hurt to breathe and everything is frozen solid. The side of the house is snapping and popping and big icicles hang down the sides.

Tonight right after work, I am getting the kids and going to my niece's wedding reception. I hope its fun. It should be. I probably won't stay too late because I am going to take care of my private duty lady in the morning and going back in the evening. Also going over Sunday morning. Then its off to the Great Escape with the kids! I had bought a bag of brand new makeup to wear and I lost it! Unbelievable! I loose everything though! Now after work I have to rush over to the drug store and pick up some new makeup. I don't wear it very much but I think I need to start working harder on my appearance. I also have to find time this weekend to shave my legs! Ha, ha! I look like a hairy ape right now! I colored my hair last night. Its a little bit redder than normal. Luckily I have the complexion for it.

My brother is going home today. We got to visit a couple times. I wish we had more time together but I will be going down this year so we can hang out more. I think instead of bringing Daisy, I will just board her or find someone to take her for a week. I don't want to put her through the trauma of flying.

The Pay it Forward game: I got this from Donna at: http://donna-justme.blogspot.com/
1.~Leave a comment on my blog that says you want to play. First three folks to comment will get a gift from ME. (If I don't know it already, let me know how I can contact you, an e-mail is fine, and I do now have an e-mail added to my profile!)

2.~Do the same thing on your blog!The first three folks who leave a comment and commit to doing this on their blog, too, will get a surprise from YOU at a surprise time in the next 365 days!

Not much else for news! Have a nice weekend everyone!

Thanks for the snag Donna!

Hi mom and brenda

Tuesday day off

2008-02-26T04:43:00.000-08:00

I'm so happy I've got today off. It has been a really long week and I'm burned out. Of course Travis has refused to go to school and now he is sentenced to a day of housework which I'm sure he won't do. I am not going to fight with him, he is too big and I get too stressed. He will just have to suffer the consequences. Legally he is old enough to quit school. He better go the rest of the week or he won't be going with us to Great Escape.

I am going over to do some private duty later this morning. I also have to go to the pharmacy and the grocery store. We are out of all the basics. On top of it all we are going to get up to 12" inches of snow today and into tomorrow! Hooray....not. I am so sick of winter. It is maple syrup season here now too. I believe I did a entry about maple syrup last year... It really doesn't get into full swing until mid-march but the people who have sugar shacks start getting ready now. There is a link on the right for those interested. My brother is up visiting from Louisiana. I've only had time to see him once. Now with this storm coming I don't know if I will see him today. Its already snowing. He leaves Friday. I will be going down in July tho and we can do stuff together. Maybe I'll make some chicken and biscuits and have them over for dinner tomorrow. He is visiting his daughter. My other niece got married a couple weeks ago and they are having the reception Friday. I hope its fun. I have to call her Mom and see what I can bring. Its a potluck dinner. The man she married is older than her father and wants to have children with her. He has two or three kids already, one my nieces age! I made this great pot roast two nights ago and had it over at David's house. It was fantastic. We don't have cream of onion soup around here so I substituted French Onion and the results were the same. It was a very easy recipe and very tasty! I am going to love my crockpot! I hope everyone has a great day... Linda

Good Morning

2008-02-23T03:27:00.000-08:00

Good Morning! It is Saturday and I am going to be getting ready for work pretty soon. Next weekend is when me and the kids are taking off to the Great Escape Lodge and Indoor water park! I am bringing my friend Barbara with me so I'm not totally bored! Not that my kids are boring but they will be busy playing! My friend Barbara wears hearing aids and glasses so I told her we will be a fine pair in the water. She won't be able to see or hear and I won't be able to see. We will be stranded out there yelling! I told her we should tie a rope to each other! Here is a link to the place we are going. Try to watch the video of the waterpark. It looks like fun! Great Escape.

I am going to stop by someones house before work and get a bag of freecycle items. They are giving away bras in my size, a dog sweater and an icecream scoop! All items I could use! I need to go thru my junk and freecycle them! If you aren't familiar with freecycle, put it in your search engine and look it up. It is a community group that offers and asks for free things that people don't want or want. Usually its hard to get things that you need. Easier to get things people are giving away.

This house is crazy with all these animals! The cats seem to spend most of the time running away from the dog and knocking over everything in the process. Brownie is the worst offender. Little Daisy thinks its a blast to chase the cats and bark at them. She plays with Tarzan however and they chase each other all over!

Not much else for news. Hope you all have a great weekend. Linda

hi mom and brenda!

Lunar Eclipse

2008-02-21T03:08:00.000-08:00

Did any of you go out and watch the lunar eclipse last night? It was beautiful! Very cold out here so hard to enjoy it. I did take some pictures but AOL won't let me upload them. I hope to get them on soon.

Do any of you like those Thin Mints that Girl Scouts sell? Go to the store and get Keebler Fudge Shop Grasshoppers. Same cookie and you don't have to wait all year to get them!

Sarah tried to pull a fast one on me this morning. She wanted to get up at 5:15. She pestered and nagged for a few minutes and I let her get up while I stayed in bed for a couple more minutes. I got up to see her booting up the computer! I said "Oh no you don't missy"! This is MY time! We went around for a few minutes and I had to use my parental authority and tell her she is supposed to be in BED right now and this was my time to be online and if she didn't like it, she could go back to bed! I hate being reduced to being another 8 year old with her and argue. She is very good at arguing and comes up with some pretty valid reasons and excuses. I think she could put the best trail lawyers to shame! I find myself resorting to "Because I said so, and because I'm the parent". I hate it when I'm start arguing with her! I said I shouldn't have to argue with you like I'm an 8 year old too!

Now I am going to tell all of you about my short period of time trying out for the Ice-capades the day before yesterday! I was going about my business like it was an ordinary day, stopped at Stewarts for my coffee and danish before going to work. Got out of my car in the upper parking lot and started walking down. Just as I got to the roadway I found myself on the ground. My right knee hit first and my lower back got wrenched. I'm on my knees on the ground looking at my spilled coffee and wondering how the hell I'm going to get back up. My back hurt and I was afraid I put it out. I could see a car coming slowly up the road. The person driving had seen me fall. So I struggled back up trying not to fall again. It was our Wesley chaplain that had seen me and he gave me a ride to the front door. I turned out to be ok but they wanted me to fill out an incident report just in case. So as I was heading down and looking for the nurse I heard a Code Blue called for the parking lot. A different one than I parked in. Another person had fallen. To wrap it up 7 people fell on the ice in a 5 minute span of time. A light snow fall had been coming down and it covered the ice from view! 3 of the falls were nurses running to help the girl in the parking lot! She had got sent to the hospital. Word gets around fast because all day long people were asking me if I was alright! Glad to know so many people care! Linda

Winter Blues photography contest

2008-02-19T03:34:00.000-08:00

I am entering this photo in the beginner catagory because it is not really up to par. It is a shot of a barn with the sun coming up behind it, but the barn is really too dark. A friend suggested I enter it anyhow. So here it is! After reading my comments and seeing that "Blue" is the theme, I can see that my photo certainly fits both elements! Winter and Blue!

Happy Birthday Mom and Happy President's Day

2008-02-18T03:17:00.000-08:00

Kids are out of school this week for winter break, I have to work all week except Friday! I do get paid double time for today, but the person who has today off gets paid too, so therefore earns as much as I do and I have to work! Where is the justice in that? LOL!

I have reserved a room for the kids and I at the Great Escape Lodge and Indoor water park for March 2-3 for our little get away. I think it will be fun.

I earned another $110 this past weekend end taking care of the lady for her daughter. I am going in tonight, Wed, and Friday also to help out in the evening. I think this may turn into a longer term position than I was expecting! I really like the family and will meet the other daughter next week.

Miss Daisy went to the vet to have her staples out and to get the rest of her puppy shots. I think when she was spayed they made a mistake weighing her because she is now 11.4 lbs! Unless she gained 8 lbs in 12 days! She is getting big! I thought I was getting this little dog and now I have a moose! Her feet have even gotten bigger! I think I was fooled because she was undernourished and it may have temporarily stunted her growth. The vet says she may top out at 30 lbs! Enjoy the pictures at the top... Linda

I would like to wish my Mom a very happy 63rd birthday! I love you Mom!

Cold weather coming!

2008-02-15T03:32:00.000-08:00

I wish this was me carrying a basket of flowers. Instead we are getting another arctic blast coming down from Canada for us to enjoy. My steps are a big block of ice. I don't have an ice breaker. I should of shoveled it off when I had a chance the other day. Now its frozen solid. I can't wait for spring!

How was everyone's Valentine's Day? Mine was ok. I got two kiss up's at work. Those are carnations you can buy with a Hershey's kiss and a note for your favorite co-worker. I got one for each of my co-workers. I got one from my boss and the girls from the transportation dept. My other co-workers brought in candy etc... I had to go to Price Chopper after work and pick up something for dinner and some flowers for Sarah's grandmother and a card. It was horrible for me to see all those men in there buying flowers for their sweeties. Made me feel sick. I feel like some kind of a freak because I can't seem to find or attract anyone. I got through it however and when I got to the Grandmother's I had Sarah come into the bedroom with me and she signed the card and presented her grandmother with the flowers. Her grandmother had a mini rose bush for me from Sarah! I thought it was nice. Sarah had a good day in school too. We had pizza for dinner and I bought a heart-shaped chocolate cake for the kids.

I got a phone call from the lady who hired me to take care of her Mom. She was pleased with my work and wants me to come tonight to get her into bed and then Saturday and Sunday morning to get her up! This is a great opportunity for me to help someone and to also make some extra money. Sarah can come along with me also! She can pet the stinky old dog that lives there. His name is Simpson. He is an old, warty Cocker Spaniel! This dog is constantly licking his groin area which looks all red and irritated. That is a big pet peeve of mine, no pun intended. I can't stand being around animals when they are grooming or licking themselves excesively. Creeps me right out. ((( shudder )))

Ok gotta go have a nice day everyone!

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T03:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day to my family and friends! I hope today is as special as you are. If you are alone today I hope you think of me and your other friends and know you are loved!

A one day job today!

2008-02-12T03:05:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had a phone call from my cousin Kathy telling me that she had a friend who desperately needed someone to sit with her Mother tomorrow. I was so happy because I had the day off ( now today ). The lady I'm watching just had surgery and mostly needs bathroom help. She wears Depends and doesn't make it in time. I am to help fix her meals too. I am getting paid more that what I make at my regular job and will be working for 10 hrs. I should get around $150. I know sometimes people throw in a bonus too! The house isn't too far from me either. I also offered respite services for her Father because he has Alzheimer's. I think she was grateful she found me.

The weather has been bone chilling cold. I hate it when it is this cold. Everything freezes and makes life difficult. Luckily I can afford heat and the house is nice and warm. Thank God, he has certainly held me up since I left my ex. I've been praying for a good husband too. Will everyone join me in praying for that with me? Maybe I need to combine forces. I don't want to walk through life alone all the time.

Miss Daisy has been recovering nicely and growing like a weed. She is into everything and likes to play. Sometimes she uses her teeth and needs to be scolded. She has a fetish for socks and shoes and likes to hide them. Not fun in the morning when trying to get to work/school whatever. So I am going to wrap this up. I tried writing this entry last night, but Brownie sat on the keyboard and did something to hopelessly mess it up. Bad Brownie!

thanks for the tag Donna!

hi mom and brenda

An itchy subject

2008-02-08T14:23:00.000-08:00

Ok folks this subject is a little touch, icky and to some gross! I'm gonna talk about every parents nightmare! Head Lice! I recieved a phone call from the school nurse today with the annoucement that Sarah has been diagnosed with the little critters. I sighed and said "Oh great". I haven't had to deal with this since my son was little. He kept getting them and it turned out the babysitter's kids had them and wasn't treated them.

Now for those of you who don't know much about lice here is a couple facts.

# 1 They are not caused by being dirty or poor. Lice are caught by mostly school children due to close contact. Lice can happen to anyone, rich or poor.

# 2 You do not need to treat the entire family. Only the infected person needs to be treated. Everyone needs to be checked but only the person with lice needs to be treated.

# 3 You do not need to cut off the infected person's hair. I did cut my son's hair when he was little because it was an easier way to deal with them and he was a boy!

So wish me luck while I deal with my latest burden!

Raining again

2008-02-06T03:25:00.000-08:00

This rain today is not doing anything to my spirit except making it feel lousy! It is cold, nasty and wet. Yuck!

Super Tuesday was interesting for voting. Looks like McCain is the probable Republican candidate and it is still a toss up between Obama and Clinton. I went out and put my vote in for what it was worth.

Woke up this morning by the radio in the middle of a dream about living with the Ex again. I was picking up his urine soaked jeans off the living room floor while he was out in the truck trying to sleep. I was getting after the kids because the house was a mess. Glad I'm not picking up after the ex anymore. The only pee I'm wiping up is puppy pee. Speaking of which I bet alot of you are curious as to the weight of Miss Daisy. Believe it or not she is only 3.4 lbs! I know the photos of her make her look much larger than she is. She is a long legged pup. I was surprised myself to tell the truth! Thanks for all who voted!

I talked to Travis' teacher yesterday and he passed all his tests that he just took. He took a couple English tests for reading and writing. He also took a Regents Global history test and passed that! He could graduate with a Regents diploma if not for math. He passed the math ACT exam but didn't pass the Regents. Math is not his strong point. He will graduate with a local diploma if he passed U.S. history ACT next year. That is cake for Travis. He excels in history and science. The teacher is sending me info on something called the Vesid program. This is a program that helps him find a job and will even give him a job coach to help him learn a job once he gets one. They also have training for jobs etc... The teacher told me the race track hires alot of kids during the summer and does a pretty good job placing in them in jobs they are suited too.

I have to take Tiger to the vet today as he has been vomiting after each meal. This started when he had the round worms in his belly. He was vomiting them up. I hope he isn't blocked or something. I did worm him once. I feel sorry for this cat, its been one thing after another with him. Not much else going on. Have a great day everyone! Linda

Give away day!

2008-02-05T03:18:00.000-08:00

Go here for a chance to win some neat scrapbooking items!

http://journals.aol.com/dasajam1/there-goes-my-mind..../

My poor puppy...

2008-02-04T15:27:00.000-08:00

My poor little Daisy got spayed today. Her little belly looks so sore! She is eating and drinking alright. Eating a little too much though, I need to put the food up. Here she is with her incision. She had to get staples. They will be removed in a couple weeks. She was also weighed. Let's have fun and guess her weight. Poll at bottom.

Tags: dog spay

Someone thinks I'm nice!

2008-02-04T09:46:00.000-08:00

My friend Carlene at Horseshoe Bend thinks I'm nice! I am so happy that someone does! I was so pleased to get this award today! Thanks Carlene, your kind words mean alot to me:

.....A friend that has all kinds of courage and compassion for all...and on her own for the first time in years...

I will finish this later and put in my nominees for the Nice Matters award!

This is being a little redundant because I'm sure all these people have been nominated already!

Helen at My Everyday life

Jeannette at Welcome to my travels

Jeannette at Jeanette's Jottings

Carlene at Horseshoe Bend

Donna at This that and hockey

I believe there are links to all these journals on the right... There are so many more out there that I cherish and love, if I left you out don't feel bad, you are all special to me, just too many to list!

6 more weeks

2008-02-02T14:26:00.000-08:00

The Evil Groundhog has been drug out of his burrow and has once again sentenced us to six more weeks of winter. Maybe if we let him sleep in for once he would be nicer. Maybe wake him up around 9 am instead of 6.

Sarah has her friend Heather over for the sleepover. I bought a pizza at Wal-mart. It was a fresh bake it yourself one with cheese. It was only $6 something. It is a big pizza too and looks good. I should of got a veggie one too! I love Wal-mart. I got a new shower curtain and bathset. I got some pet supplies and a baby gate to keep Daisy confined when I am out. She is doing pretty good with her paper training. She is starting to look more pitbullish every day. She has nearly doubled in size. She has a broad chest and turned out front feet. That is really the only way she looks like a pitbull. She might have a little in her but not alot.

My Mom, Frank and Rich (brother) are going up to Bossier City, LA to see my sister today. They are also making a stop at the Bass Pro shop there. Kind of like mecca for fishermen/women. I would like to visit there too when I go. I guess they have live fish and gators in there! Have a nice day everyone! Linda

hi mom and brenda

No school Friday

2008-02-01T04:48:00.000-08:00

Isn't this tag a hoot? It is from My Creative Corner. I was like that the other day with cleaning. I will be like that today and tomorrow too! Sarah is having her first sleep over here on Saturday night! OMG what am I going to do? I don't deal well with children at all. My own I can handle but not someone elses. This girl better behave! They better go to sleep too when I tell them too! I am going to rent some movies for them to watch and we will have pizza.

I got my income tax return today. My federal. Funny $5,000 doesn't look like too much when it is in my bank account. I've already paid some bills out of it. I am still getting harrassed by the company that has the lein on the mobile home that the ex is living in. Even though I don't live there I am still legally responsible for the payments, as is he. They stopped sending him the bills because they haven't got any money from him. I argued with the guy yesterday and told him to send the ex the bills and he refused to! I told him I don't have any money to pay on it so I guess it is going to get repossessed. Apparently the ex doesn't care because he hasn't paid on it. He thinks I am going to panic and send them money. Half of me is panicking. My Mom told me to wait and see what happens and if I have to declare bankruptcy. I also have a feeling to call them and see if they will take a settlement of a few thousand so I don't have to deal with this anymore. Or I can send them a few hundred and get them off my back for another couple months. I bet the ex would like that! His house would be free and clear thanks to me. He can sit up there and entertain his so called girlfriend to his heart's delight. So here is a poll.

Anyhow, I have to go to the pharmacy later before it starts snowing and freezing rain. School is closed today. Sarah came home from school early yesterday not feeling good so I was going to keep her home anyway. I called in to work. Good thing because if we get significant freezing rain like they are predicting, I would of been stuck at work. I need to get the puppy some Chew-ez too she is chewing on everything she can find. She craps up a storm too. At least she goes on the potty papers most of the time. When it gets warmer I will try to housebreak her completely. Not much else going on... Take time to vote!

It's your Birthday Brenda!

2008-01-29T04:18:00.000-08:00

Look at this hot babe! She is 44 today! She is my sister Brenda. She lives in Louisiana with her daughter and boyfriend. I think I'm going to call her in a few minutes and wake her up! Hehe! Happy Birthday!

Response to yesterday and Happy Birthday Brenda

2008-01-28T03:34:00.000-08:00

I got alot of good responses to yesterday's question that I had. One disturbed me somewhat. It said that we are just Human as so therefore have no right to question God's motives because it is evil. That pretty much sums it up. Those aren't the exact words. If you want to see the exact words you can read them in the comments on that entry. I was a little upset by that comment, I felt it directed at me, but then I came to realize that the writer was just saying that the act itself is evil no matter who does it. I do not feel that way. God gave us a brain to think and feel and wonder. I don't think He wants us to cower in fear because we wonder why He does what He does. Yes I am Human, I was born to be human and I will die Human. I will probably die wondering what I will see on the other side. Will it be heaven, a nothingness, or the fires of Hell?

Enough of that! Tomorrow is my sister Brenda's birthday! She will be 44. Teehee! I know, it will be happening to me in a couple more years! Love ya sis!

Why does God...?

2008-01-27T03:15:00.000-08:00

I get alot of e-mails and see pictures and graphics telling me about God's love. God knows us from the moment of conception to the moment of death and then we will be reunited with him but only if we have accepted his Son Jesus Christ as Savior. There is also the belief that God knows our life, that it is pre-planned for us. This is my question. If God knows everything that will happen to us then he must already know that we will or will not accept him as our God and Jesus as Savior. Why have people born knowing that they will go to hell? Why have the baby born whos father will throw him off a bridge. Why be born and have your Aunt strip you naked and walk into traffic with you? Why let the children be raped, mutilated, abused etc? What lesson can be learned in that? What about the mother with children who gets cancer and dies slow and terrible and in agony. Is this God's plan for her? What if she doesn't accept Him as Savior first. Then she gets to burn in Hell too! There are thousands of examples I could state. I don't understand any of this. I know I will get all the statements of the faithful like, No one knows God's plan etc... I just don't understand that if God loves us and knows us why send us out to perish? Why send some out to die and burn in hell? Just my thoughts....

Where is Prince Charming?

2008-01-25T15:19:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had one of those days where you wish you could run away? Lately I have been having those evenings. I leave work, go pick up Sarah and come home and as soon as I walk in the door I am doing things and fielding questions and requests and demands. Yesterday I didn't even get my coat off and I was on the run. What's for dinner? The dog pooped under the couch again. I want to go on the computer. Meanwhile, there are groceries to be brought in, the sink is overflowing with dirty dishes, the house is filthy and all the kids are interesting in is playing games and being fed. Never mind helping out Mom. I'm just the unpaid help. When I ask for help I get treated like I'm a slave driver. Garbage belongs on the floor, toys on the floor, coats and shoes on the floor. The cat is eating tinsel, the puppy is crapping everywhere. Why did I get a puppy? Why? The cats want to be fed, the puppy wants to be fed, the kids want to be fed. Who is going to feed me? Who is going to help me? Who cares about me? I feel like I really have the short end of the stick. I am raising tyrants and bullies. Whiners and slackers. I need Prince Charming to come in and save the day... or a maid.

Good Morning!

2008-01-24T03:46:00.000-08:00

I wish I had a beautiful rose garden and produced roses like the one above. Today is my last day of work before a day off. I hope the day goes well. We got to do our own job the last two days. We have a overloaded list of rehab residents to see. Our boss put 36 on when we usually only carry 32. I don't know why she did that knowing that we are getting pulled so often. She is going to be gone the next 4 days to Lake Placid anyhow.

I am hoping to go on vacation myself to Louisiana in April. I had to e-mail Sarah's father and ask if we can switch Winter/Spring breaks. I'm hoping he won't be a jerk and refuse it. Child Support is taking him back to court because he stopped paying for a month. He owes me $800 in arrears now. I know he is getting his unemployment again. I got a check last week and should get another today. I hope he pays his house payment because I am getting sick of the daily phone calls from the collection people. Really sick of it. I am thinking of calling them and asking them if they want an arm or leg. Anyhow I haven't seen my Mom in a year and I miss her. I want to go down and learn how to sew. I am going to buy a sewing machine. I would like to make gifts for people and sew my own scrub tops and clothes for the dog! I am just in love with this puppy. She is so sweet and smart. She is partially housebroke. She is using the pee-pee pads right now. I discovered that getting her outside when its this cold is useless. I am going to take her over to the nursing home again tomorrow for a visit. The residents just love holding a soft, warm puppy! You should see their faces light up when they see her coming. The eyes open wide, the smiles creep on and the hands reach out! They start to coo and awww. I mixed some soft food with kibble today for the puppy and she went nuts over it. She ate the whole bowl of it. One of the cats came over to investigate and she growled. She did not growl at me. Funny when I worked at the Animal Shelter in Scotia that would be punishable by death for a puppy. They had "temperament tests" and growling at another dog or person while eating was a reason to put it to sleep. To me that is normal puppy behavior! Needless to say, they had very few dogs available for adoption. In fact I remember a whole litter of gorgeous purebred puppies came in and only one made it up for adoption. The others were put down for so called aggressive behavior during eating. Wow, all my entries are so negative lately. Sigh.... Well I hope everyone has a good day anyhow!

hi mom and brenda

A terrible shame

2008-01-23T03:15:00.000-08:00

I'm sure by now many of you have heard of the death of the young actor Heath Ledger. He was in the Patriot and Brokeback Mountain as well as other films. He was only 28 and died yesterday of an apparent drug overdose. It is such a shame that a brilliant life is stuffed out like that. I wonder if it was suicide or an accident? It is a shame when anyone dies under these circumstances. May God Bless his soul....

Tags: Heath Ledger

It's dreaded Monday

2008-01-21T03:21:00.000-08:00

I hate Mondays. I hate going back to work after having a weekend off. I hate that it is bitter cold out too. The kids are off school today. Happy Martin Luther King day everyone! Wish I had the day off too. But hey guess what?

The Giants are going to the Superbowl. WoooHoooo! I knew they could do it! Great job guys! Sorry all you Packer's fans....

Here is Sarah with Daisy, that should make you feel better!

Hard to get a good picture of the little imp she is constantly moving. We are doing ok with potty breaking, but this infernal cold makes it hard. All she does it sit at our feet asking to be picked up! She has learned to pee if she needs to outdoors but still goes indoors. She likes to sneak behind furniture to make poos. I wish we had a small area to confine her in.

We went over to my friend Dave's last night for goulash and football. We didn't stay too long because my allergies started up. They have been being real nice to us. No mention of the Christmas disaster.

Hope everyone has a good week. Oh by the way for a good read go HERE. Carlene has some good thoughts on our government. She is a bright lady.

hi mom and brenda

Guess what we have???

2008-01-19T10:12:00.000-08:00

Introducing....

Daisy! She is a 13 week old Jack Russell terrier mix. Or so they say! She came from a shelter in Tennesee. Her is her first portrait! After further research I believe her to be a Jackabee. A Jack Russell/Beagle mix. Below Daisy's picture is a basket of Jackabees!