We made a trip to the big city today -
first a stop at a restaurant supply place
to pick up a grill for a customer, then
we all pigged out at Red Lobster, then
a stop at Gamestop, then Target, then
home. I'm pooped!! Steady rain all the
way up, drizzly rain all the way home.
Rain on tap for well, through May 9th,
which is as far as The Weather Channel
goes - LOL. Rain or shine I AM going
to be out there the middle of next week
planting two more garden beds!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
The Window Through Which We Look
A young couple moves into a new neighborhood.The next morning while they are eating breakfast, The young woman sees her neighbor hanging the wash outside."That laundry is not very clean", she said."She doesn't know how to wash correctly.Perhaps she needs better laundry soap."Her husband looked on, but remained silent.Every time her neighbor would hang her wash to dry,The young woman would make the same comments.About one month later, the woman was surprised to see a nice clean wash on the line and said to her husband:"Look, she has learned how to wash correctly.I wonder who taught her this."The husband said, "I got up early this morning and cleaned our windows."And so it is with life. What we see when watching others depends on the purity of the window through which we look.
Updating
So today I made my own laundry detergent. I have
eight coffee cans full of the stuff. The real test is
tomorrow when I use it to wash clothes. I have ten
bars of soap left as I ran out of washing soda. The
detergent is very simple to make if you have a food
processor - except soap dust gets everywhere.
Trying to think of a great gift for my dad's 80th b-day.
Also trying to come up with a Father's Day gift.
We're all dragging butt from the colds or allergies.
Getting better though. First thing to go when I
don't feel well is cooking!
eight coffee cans full of the stuff. The real test is
tomorrow when I use it to wash clothes. I have ten
bars of soap left as I ran out of washing soda. The
detergent is very simple to make if you have a food
processor - except soap dust gets everywhere.
Trying to think of a great gift for my dad's 80th b-day.
Also trying to come up with a Father's Day gift.
We're all dragging butt from the colds or allergies.
Getting better though. First thing to go when I
don't feel well is cooking!
Friday, April 24, 2009
No sense starting off small
So next week is supposed to be a rainy one,
according to The Weather Channel. How to
spend a rainy week other than cleaning house?
My garden needs a chance to grow some before
more planting, so no worries there. So I
decided to make my own homemade laundry
detergent! So round and round the internet
I went, searching for just the right recipe. There
are probably 1,000 recipes for laundry detergent
out there. I read questions, responses, comments
to each one. I decided on the powdered version as
I can foresee too many problems with the
liquid detergent. Finally settled on a recipe
that should work, not hard to make (hee hee) and
economical as crap. A local store near here
is the ONLY place in town to have all of the
ingredients, and I'm not one to run all over for
this and that. Their prices are very cheap for
the ingredients as well, as on the internet I
found places like drugstore.com and others that
wanted three times the price the local place
is charging. So me, being me, bought all of the
washing soda they had in stock, plus a bunch of
the other ingredients too. I was a little worried
driving home, wondering if they would restock
the washing soda. Then I thought I've probably
bought enough ingredients to make three years
worth of detergent anyway! So here in this room
I have 30 bars of soap laying around opened and
drying out. Easier to grate that way. It doesn't
smell bad, just very deodorized in here! Gee,
sure hope one of us isn't allergic to this detergent
or anything or I'm screwed - hehe. Maybe I
could then open up a little roadside stand selling
detergent.
according to The Weather Channel. How to
spend a rainy week other than cleaning house?
My garden needs a chance to grow some before
more planting, so no worries there. So I
decided to make my own homemade laundry
detergent! So round and round the internet
I went, searching for just the right recipe. There
are probably 1,000 recipes for laundry detergent
out there. I read questions, responses, comments
to each one. I decided on the powdered version as
I can foresee too many problems with the
liquid detergent. Finally settled on a recipe
that should work, not hard to make (hee hee) and
economical as crap. A local store near here
is the ONLY place in town to have all of the
ingredients, and I'm not one to run all over for
this and that. Their prices are very cheap for
the ingredients as well, as on the internet I
found places like drugstore.com and others that
wanted three times the price the local place
is charging. So me, being me, bought all of the
washing soda they had in stock, plus a bunch of
the other ingredients too. I was a little worried
driving home, wondering if they would restock
the washing soda. Then I thought I've probably
bought enough ingredients to make three years
worth of detergent anyway! So here in this room
I have 30 bars of soap laying around opened and
drying out. Easier to grate that way. It doesn't
smell bad, just very deodorized in here! Gee,
sure hope one of us isn't allergic to this detergent
or anything or I'm screwed - hehe. Maybe I
could then open up a little roadside stand selling
detergent.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Atchoo *cough cough*
Gotta love oak pollen time. NOT.
Been coughing every night something fierce.
Now the young'un doesn't feel well either.
Those trees take forever to leaf out and get done
spewing pollen!
I'm sure working outside hasn't helped things
either. Tomorrow I'm not going to be doing
too much, just the basics. *grumble grumble*
Been coughing every night something fierce.
Now the young'un doesn't feel well either.
Those trees take forever to leaf out and get done
spewing pollen!
I'm sure working outside hasn't helped things
either. Tomorrow I'm not going to be doing
too much, just the basics. *grumble grumble*
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Quotes I like
Life isn't like a box of chocolates. It's more like a jar of jalapenos. What you do today, might burn your butt tomorrow.
Never mess with a woman that can read and write. It's likely
she can also think.
Never mess with a woman that can read and write. It's likely
she can also think.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Slices of life pt. 2
I once turned down a job offer at the #1
radio station in Colorado - I did not want
to move to a bigger city.
I turned down a television job with an
Albuquerque station (I think it was KOAT) -
I did not want to travel 3 1/2 hours one
way to a big city often. I told them if
they could cut out some of the travel time
I'd be interested.
I almost drowned in a motel swimming pool -
It was around 1990 I think? In San Diego.
I had been waiting for a full day to go for a
swim in the pool. The night before I sprained
my ankle very very badly. Not thinking, the
next morning I hobbled out to the pool with
no one else around. I eased in the water then
let go of the side to swim. The pain shot up
my leg and into my hip, doubling me over
(but I was trying to swim, wait, that wouldn't
work). I was flailing with my arms for the edge
of the pool, and finally was successful. I pulled
myself out and hobbled back to the motel room.
I don't recall ever being in deep water since
that time. Duh Molly, not the brightest sometimes!
I danced with some of the cast members of
the movie Conagher - My employees and I would
often times hang out at the Holiday Inn Lounge
after work. One evening some of the cast of
the movie was there. We had a great time!
In my college years, I did such jobs as being the
Easter bunny in a mall, also ring girl for kick
boxing matches - The EB job didn't pay too well,
but the ring girl job did. I also cared for a barn full
of Arabians, worked p/t at a newspaper, and babysat.
I guess my job of choice from the above would have
to be the horses. It didn't pay badly either!
I grew up on a prison farm - My father was employed
by the state and I spent my childhood years on
a state prison farm. Many times I was in contact
or outside with an inmate. These were murderers,
druggies, and thieves (anything but a sex offender)
in for hard time at the prison. I never once, never ONCE
had a bit of problem with any of these inmates.
They loved being on the farm (where we lived and they
worked the land) and would even bawl me out if
I accidentally ran over a kitten or something (it
happened, sadly). Many of them had never been
on a farm before until that time.
I love my in laws - How many of us can say that? I
was very close to my mother in law, and still stay in
contact with one brother in law and his s/o. He said
once I am the sister he never had :) We had some
really really good times, all of us together. The joys
of marrying into an Italian family! (stories another time).
I just wish I could have traveled on some trips with
my mother in law before her death, she was a hoot and
could be so much fun! She didn't like to travel though.
radio station in Colorado - I did not want
to move to a bigger city.
I turned down a television job with an
Albuquerque station (I think it was KOAT) -
I did not want to travel 3 1/2 hours one
way to a big city often. I told them if
they could cut out some of the travel time
I'd be interested.
I almost drowned in a motel swimming pool -
It was around 1990 I think? In San Diego.
I had been waiting for a full day to go for a
swim in the pool. The night before I sprained
my ankle very very badly. Not thinking, the
next morning I hobbled out to the pool with
no one else around. I eased in the water then
let go of the side to swim. The pain shot up
my leg and into my hip, doubling me over
(but I was trying to swim, wait, that wouldn't
work). I was flailing with my arms for the edge
of the pool, and finally was successful. I pulled
myself out and hobbled back to the motel room.
I don't recall ever being in deep water since
that time. Duh Molly, not the brightest sometimes!
I danced with some of the cast members of
the movie Conagher - My employees and I would
often times hang out at the Holiday Inn Lounge
after work. One evening some of the cast of
the movie was there. We had a great time!
In my college years, I did such jobs as being the
Easter bunny in a mall, also ring girl for kick
boxing matches - The EB job didn't pay too well,
but the ring girl job did. I also cared for a barn full
of Arabians, worked p/t at a newspaper, and babysat.
I guess my job of choice from the above would have
to be the horses. It didn't pay badly either!
I grew up on a prison farm - My father was employed
by the state and I spent my childhood years on
a state prison farm. Many times I was in contact
or outside with an inmate. These were murderers,
druggies, and thieves (anything but a sex offender)
in for hard time at the prison. I never once, never ONCE
had a bit of problem with any of these inmates.
They loved being on the farm (where we lived and they
worked the land) and would even bawl me out if
I accidentally ran over a kitten or something (it
happened, sadly). Many of them had never been
on a farm before until that time.
I love my in laws - How many of us can say that? I
was very close to my mother in law, and still stay in
contact with one brother in law and his s/o. He said
once I am the sister he never had :) We had some
really really good times, all of us together. The joys
of marrying into an Italian family! (stories another time).
I just wish I could have traveled on some trips with
my mother in law before her death, she was a hoot and
could be so much fun! She didn't like to travel though.
Bridal Registry
Jacob, age 92, and Rebecca, age 89, living in Florida, are all excited about their decision to get married. They go for a stroll to discuss the wedding, and on the way they pass a CVS/Pharmacy. Jacob suggests they go in. Jacob addresses the man behind the counter:
'Are you the Pharmacist ?'The pharmacist answers, 'Yes.'Jacob: 'We're about to get married. Do you sell heart medication?'Pharmacist: 'Of course we do.'Jacob: 'How about medicine for circulation?'Pharmacist: 'All kinds .'Jacob: 'Medicine for rheumatism and scoliosis?'Pharmacist: 'Definitely.'Jacob: 'How about Viagra?'Pharmacist: 'Of course.'Jacob: 'Medicine for memory problems, arthritis, jaundice?'Pharmacist: 'Yes, a large variety. The works.' Jacob: 'What about vitamins, sleeping pills, Geritol, antidotes for Parkinson's disease?'Pharmacist: 'Absolutely...'Jacob: 'You sell wheelchairs and walkers?'Pharmacist: 'All speeds and sizes.'Jacob: 'We'd like to use this store as our Bridal Registry.'
'Are you the Pharmacist ?'The pharmacist answers, 'Yes.'Jacob: 'We're about to get married. Do you sell heart medication?'Pharmacist: 'Of course we do.'Jacob: 'How about medicine for circulation?'Pharmacist: 'All kinds .'Jacob: 'Medicine for rheumatism and scoliosis?'Pharmacist: 'Definitely.'Jacob: 'How about Viagra?'Pharmacist: 'Of course.'Jacob: 'Medicine for memory problems, arthritis, jaundice?'Pharmacist: 'Yes, a large variety. The works.' Jacob: 'What about vitamins, sleeping pills, Geritol, antidotes for Parkinson's disease?'Pharmacist: 'Absolutely...'Jacob: 'You sell wheelchairs and walkers?'Pharmacist: 'All speeds and sizes.'Jacob: 'We'd like to use this store as our Bridal Registry.'
Friday, April 17, 2009
Satellite TV
I don't watch much tv, very very little.
We changed satellite service providers
recently. So the two guys came out
this last week and spend THREE FRICKIN
HOURS installing the dish and stuff, NOT
cable (well cable to one but not the other
two), and hooking up receivers. So they
left after a quick run through with me on
how to work the remote (like I'm ever going
to use it).
So they left. Now. Where are the local networks?
So I had to call someone that had the same
provider to ask them how to find the local
networks. Duh it was the same as antennae.
I can remember that.
And that's the last time I turned on the tv.
Then the next day I was informed by those
that do watch satellite tv here that many of
the channels were not being received when
they should be. And blah blah blah, something
about HD and what not. I had to write it
down so I knew exactly what to tell the tech.
Tech called today. I had to read my notes.
He understood perfectly what it all meant.
Said it was a simple setting. I asked if he
could just walk me through it on the phone.
But I've hardly touched that remote so he
had to talk to me like I was 3 years old - LOL.
We finally got the settings working and things
are now the way they are supposed to be.
So one day (maybe next winter) I will be
able to watch what I want on satellite!
We changed satellite service providers
recently. So the two guys came out
this last week and spend THREE FRICKIN
HOURS installing the dish and stuff, NOT
cable (well cable to one but not the other
two), and hooking up receivers. So they
left after a quick run through with me on
how to work the remote (like I'm ever going
to use it).
So they left. Now. Where are the local networks?
So I had to call someone that had the same
provider to ask them how to find the local
networks. Duh it was the same as antennae.
I can remember that.
And that's the last time I turned on the tv.
Then the next day I was informed by those
that do watch satellite tv here that many of
the channels were not being received when
they should be. And blah blah blah, something
about HD and what not. I had to write it
down so I knew exactly what to tell the tech.
Tech called today. I had to read my notes.
He understood perfectly what it all meant.
Said it was a simple setting. I asked if he
could just walk me through it on the phone.
But I've hardly touched that remote so he
had to talk to me like I was 3 years old - LOL.
We finally got the settings working and things
are now the way they are supposed to be.
So one day (maybe next winter) I will be
able to watch what I want on satellite!
Lock and Load Baby!
For those of you wondering where the title of
my blog came from, it's from Seger's Lock and
Load song. I love that song! It's basically a
song about life moving on, not to be afraid of
taking chances, and well, Lock and Load!
"I can sit here, in the back half of my life
And wonder when the other shoe will fall
Or I can stand up, point myself home
And see if I've learned anything at all
Anything at all Mediocrity is easy, the
good things take time The great need
commitment, right down the line."
So what's been happening Molly? Glad you
asked! First off, I'm slowly learning that
people are just totally screwed up anymore.
In two weeks time, I had ANOTHER person
want to break off a friendship (apparently).
A friend from high school got in touch with
me. Supposedly he had married the love of
his life, blah blah blah.... We had never
had a romance mind you, just were friends
in high school. Well I wrote him back telling
him about stuff and mentioning we'd probably
be in Indiana this summer and all four of us
could go out to dinner together and yadda yadda...
POOF he suddenly disappeared. Hmmmm.
For the record, if I ever was to consider having
an affair - well there had better be looks, brains,
AND money. With the last two people who
have flipped me off and weren't interested in
JUST a friendship - they didn't have any of
these qualifications!!
What else - Well we went back to look at that house
this evening. We had made them a lowball offer
and they countered, coming down over $20,000.
So we went to totally access the condition of the
house.
Pros - cute basement! Not a huge house, 2 car
attached garage, pecan trees, privacy fenced,
master bathroom, kitchenette in the basement,
huge laundry area.
Cons - Needs overhaul, that's okay if the price is right.
Different school district. No big pantry. No
coat closet. Less land. Off highway.
Conclusion - After a couple of weeks of arguing and
discussing things, I did a complete about face today.
I don't want to give up the land I have here. I like having
room to walk dogs, have a dog yard, have garden and
flower beds, a clothesline, etc. Maybe I'm reaching this
conclusion because the weather is finally starting
to get nice and I've been working a lot outside and
planning a lot of what's getting planted where. I finally
just got caught up on the raking and burning of leaves
(thanks to about 50 oaks) and the place is starting to
look good! Lots more to do outside yet but that's
part of the fun, ya know? Two or three hours outside
each day is very fulfilling, plus great exercise! So
I think I will tell the realtor this, make ONE more offer
on the place, and let the chips fall where they may.
We won't go up much from our previous offer. If
they accept it we literally stole the house. We can
spend a year or so fixing it up then deciding whether
to move in or sell. And if we stay here we can go
back to original remodeling plans, and stop looking!
Oh. And I've been eating everything is sight lately,
whazzup with that? We went to a buffet tonite and
I pigged out, then came home and have eaten two
other snacks since then. I'm going to need that
exercise soon more than ever!
Lock and Load!!
my blog came from, it's from Seger's Lock and
Load song. I love that song! It's basically a
song about life moving on, not to be afraid of
taking chances, and well, Lock and Load!
"I can sit here, in the back half of my life
And wonder when the other shoe will fall
Or I can stand up, point myself home
And see if I've learned anything at all
Anything at all Mediocrity is easy, the
good things take time The great need
commitment, right down the line."
So what's been happening Molly? Glad you
asked! First off, I'm slowly learning that
people are just totally screwed up anymore.
In two weeks time, I had ANOTHER person
want to break off a friendship (apparently).
A friend from high school got in touch with
me. Supposedly he had married the love of
his life, blah blah blah.... We had never
had a romance mind you, just were friends
in high school. Well I wrote him back telling
him about stuff and mentioning we'd probably
be in Indiana this summer and all four of us
could go out to dinner together and yadda yadda...
POOF he suddenly disappeared. Hmmmm.
For the record, if I ever was to consider having
an affair - well there had better be looks, brains,
AND money. With the last two people who
have flipped me off and weren't interested in
JUST a friendship - they didn't have any of
these qualifications!!
What else - Well we went back to look at that house
this evening. We had made them a lowball offer
and they countered, coming down over $20,000.
So we went to totally access the condition of the
house.
Pros - cute basement! Not a huge house, 2 car
attached garage, pecan trees, privacy fenced,
master bathroom, kitchenette in the basement,
huge laundry area.
Cons - Needs overhaul, that's okay if the price is right.
Different school district. No big pantry. No
coat closet. Less land. Off highway.
Conclusion - After a couple of weeks of arguing and
discussing things, I did a complete about face today.
I don't want to give up the land I have here. I like having
room to walk dogs, have a dog yard, have garden and
flower beds, a clothesline, etc. Maybe I'm reaching this
conclusion because the weather is finally starting
to get nice and I've been working a lot outside and
planning a lot of what's getting planted where. I finally
just got caught up on the raking and burning of leaves
(thanks to about 50 oaks) and the place is starting to
look good! Lots more to do outside yet but that's
part of the fun, ya know? Two or three hours outside
each day is very fulfilling, plus great exercise! So
I think I will tell the realtor this, make ONE more offer
on the place, and let the chips fall where they may.
We won't go up much from our previous offer. If
they accept it we literally stole the house. We can
spend a year or so fixing it up then deciding whether
to move in or sell. And if we stay here we can go
back to original remodeling plans, and stop looking!
Oh. And I've been eating everything is sight lately,
whazzup with that? We went to a buffet tonite and
I pigged out, then came home and have eaten two
other snacks since then. I'm going to need that
exercise soon more than ever!
Lock and Load!!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Oh goody
My fund has been released in Africa.
From the rich dead relative that I never
knew existed who died and left his fortune
to me. Who needs a job?
(Can you tell I'm going through my email?)
From the rich dead relative that I never
knew existed who died and left his fortune
to me. Who needs a job?
(Can you tell I'm going through my email?)
Slices of life
We all have stories. We all should write a book!
Here are a few small segments from my life:
I sat on the floor with a U.S. Senator - In the late
1980's, Wayne Allard (Colorado) was vying for
U.S. Senator. He made arrangements to be
interviewed by my radio station. My news
director was beside himself, totally ecstatic. My
ND made arrangements for his wife to bring their
little ones up and meet Wayne Allard. When he
finally arrived at the station, he was met by many
smiling faces! My ND introduced him to his
children, who politely said hello, then were
immediately enamored by my dog who was with
me. The kids sat on the floor petting Bimbo and
totally ignoring Mr. Allard. My ND was totally
embarrassed. But Mr. Allard just sat down on the
floor with the kids and began petting Bimbo too.
I didn't know how my oldster Bimbo even took to
children, so I was on the floor as well telling Bimbo
what a good dog he was and petting his head.
Senator Allard won that election, and has been in
Washington ever since!
Embarrassing the police chief - At the stations
many people would often stop by to visit. One
was a retired judge, very respected and very well
liked in the area. He stopped by at least monthly
to visit. We had a game we played - the judge
liked Pepsi, and I would always ask him if he
wanted a Pepsi. When he'd say yes, I'd hold out
my hand and ask for fifty cents please. As he'd
be pretending to be rifling through his pockets,
I would go get the key, get him a soda, and hand
him his Pepsi. We went through this every time,
he loved it. One day the judge was visiting and
the Chief of Police dropped by. Impressed by the
Judge's presence, he was busy trying to make
small talk with him. Suddenly I asked the judge
if he'd like a Pepsi, to which he replied yes. I put
out my hand and asked for fifty cents. The Chief
of Police looked ready to fall through the floor.
As the judge was rifling through his pockets, the
chief was doing the same. The chief suddenly
announced he was going to go to his car to look for
some change. I let him. As he was out at his
car, the judge asked me if I was going to tell him
it was a joke. I replied, "No, he's never given me
anything before, let's see what happens." The
Chief gave me a buck to which I replied I had no
change :)
I turned down a limo ride and red carpet treatment -
The movie 'Big Bad John' was filmed in southern
Colorado. They had the premier in my town. I was
invited to go in a limo, with an escort, and view the
premier, as well as the party afterwards with all the
cast and crew members. I turned it down and let
some other employee go. I don't like hoopla.
I once dated six guys at once - Before I was married (DUH).
Oh that was fun. One was a professional person, one
an army guy much younger than me, one a guy
who was going to inherit a fortune (but I'm not sure
what he did for a living), two were blue collar guys, and
one a musician. GO ME!
I danced all night with a whole bunch of Aussies and my
husband knew about it - A local couple we know - the
husband was off hunting and his wife wanted to go out.
We went out to dinner then to the local Holiday Inn Lounge.
A zillion Aussie men were in the lounge as there was a
local NRA tournament going on. We danced for hours
and hours with different men. They tried to buy us
drinks but my friend wouldn't let them. As the night
ended we both had several motel room keys shoved in
our faces (duh, we politely declined). Talk about an
ego boost!
~To be continued at a later date, stay tuned~
Here are a few small segments from my life:
I sat on the floor with a U.S. Senator - In the late
1980's, Wayne Allard (Colorado) was vying for
U.S. Senator. He made arrangements to be
interviewed by my radio station. My news
director was beside himself, totally ecstatic. My
ND made arrangements for his wife to bring their
little ones up and meet Wayne Allard. When he
finally arrived at the station, he was met by many
smiling faces! My ND introduced him to his
children, who politely said hello, then were
immediately enamored by my dog who was with
me. The kids sat on the floor petting Bimbo and
totally ignoring Mr. Allard. My ND was totally
embarrassed. But Mr. Allard just sat down on the
floor with the kids and began petting Bimbo too.
I didn't know how my oldster Bimbo even took to
children, so I was on the floor as well telling Bimbo
what a good dog he was and petting his head.
Senator Allard won that election, and has been in
Washington ever since!
Embarrassing the police chief - At the stations
many people would often stop by to visit. One
was a retired judge, very respected and very well
liked in the area. He stopped by at least monthly
to visit. We had a game we played - the judge
liked Pepsi, and I would always ask him if he
wanted a Pepsi. When he'd say yes, I'd hold out
my hand and ask for fifty cents please. As he'd
be pretending to be rifling through his pockets,
I would go get the key, get him a soda, and hand
him his Pepsi. We went through this every time,
he loved it. One day the judge was visiting and
the Chief of Police dropped by. Impressed by the
Judge's presence, he was busy trying to make
small talk with him. Suddenly I asked the judge
if he'd like a Pepsi, to which he replied yes. I put
out my hand and asked for fifty cents. The Chief
of Police looked ready to fall through the floor.
As the judge was rifling through his pockets, the
chief was doing the same. The chief suddenly
announced he was going to go to his car to look for
some change. I let him. As he was out at his
car, the judge asked me if I was going to tell him
it was a joke. I replied, "No, he's never given me
anything before, let's see what happens." The
Chief gave me a buck to which I replied I had no
change :)
I turned down a limo ride and red carpet treatment -
The movie 'Big Bad John' was filmed in southern
Colorado. They had the premier in my town. I was
invited to go in a limo, with an escort, and view the
premier, as well as the party afterwards with all the
cast and crew members. I turned it down and let
some other employee go. I don't like hoopla.
I once dated six guys at once - Before I was married (DUH).
Oh that was fun. One was a professional person, one
an army guy much younger than me, one a guy
who was going to inherit a fortune (but I'm not sure
what he did for a living), two were blue collar guys, and
one a musician. GO ME!
I danced all night with a whole bunch of Aussies and my
husband knew about it - A local couple we know - the
husband was off hunting and his wife wanted to go out.
We went out to dinner then to the local Holiday Inn Lounge.
A zillion Aussie men were in the lounge as there was a
local NRA tournament going on. We danced for hours
and hours with different men. They tried to buy us
drinks but my friend wouldn't let them. As the night
ended we both had several motel room keys shoved in
our faces (duh, we politely declined). Talk about an
ego boost!
~To be continued at a later date, stay tuned~
Monday, April 13, 2009
Who cares if you are recognized?
City people love to blog, especially those
in the local media. They're into Twitter, Facebook,
etc. big time. Well, most of them. In the past
I came across many posts from those in the local media
complaining about going to the grocery store
(example) and people coming up to them and
bothering them (viewers). EXCUSE ME? was
my response. That was after I made a mental
note to never bother anyone in the Springfield
media, as they obviously thought they were big
television stars. Just recently I came across a
post by a local media person that thought it
was funny the last time he was at a store -
everyone in line recognized him but the cashier
did not. Everyone but the cashier was chuckling
as the cashier didn't know him from a woodchuck.
GET A GRIP LOCAL MEDIA! Some people watch
other stations (with good reason), some people
don't watch television, and some people just
do not give a flying flip who you are! Now, I know
this must be hard to believe that everyone in
the Ozarks does not think you are a god, but
pretend, just try..... Many of us know people
of far greater importance than the local media,
and we treat them as we would any other person
in our life. One day, not as far off as you think I
might add, you will be able to go to the grocery
store or a restaurant and no one will bother you
and interrupt your precious privacy. Why?
Because no one will care who you are. And all
that is left will be the person you are inside.
Who that person is is up to you...whether you are
an a$$ or a nice person. I don't think there is
much hope left for some of you for the nice person
thing though!
in the local media. They're into Twitter, Facebook,
etc. big time. Well, most of them. In the past
I came across many posts from those in the local media
complaining about going to the grocery store
(example) and people coming up to them and
bothering them (viewers). EXCUSE ME? was
my response. That was after I made a mental
note to never bother anyone in the Springfield
media, as they obviously thought they were big
television stars. Just recently I came across a
post by a local media person that thought it
was funny the last time he was at a store -
everyone in line recognized him but the cashier
did not. Everyone but the cashier was chuckling
as the cashier didn't know him from a woodchuck.
GET A GRIP LOCAL MEDIA! Some people watch
other stations (with good reason), some people
don't watch television, and some people just
do not give a flying flip who you are! Now, I know
this must be hard to believe that everyone in
the Ozarks does not think you are a god, but
pretend, just try..... Many of us know people
of far greater importance than the local media,
and we treat them as we would any other person
in our life. One day, not as far off as you think I
might add, you will be able to go to the grocery
store or a restaurant and no one will bother you
and interrupt your precious privacy. Why?
Because no one will care who you are. And all
that is left will be the person you are inside.
Who that person is is up to you...whether you are
an a$$ or a nice person. I don't think there is
much hope left for some of you for the nice person
thing though!
A thanks and filling a request
First off - thanks to those that have indicated
they enjoy my blog - I get many emails discussing
the things I post! I don't have all the answers
in life, many of the things I post are just my
thoughts on a particular subject matter. Thanks
to all who have offered support during a recent
difficulty with an ex friend, who turned out to never
actually be a friend, which is so disappointing and
maddening. Someone said it best - 'Don't cry over
anybody, because those who make you cry aren't
worth crying for. And those who are worth crying
for would not make you cry.'
I have been requested to post about the proper
way to react when encountering an animal in the
wild. While this may or may not sound like a boring
post, the answers may surprise you!
If you are in black bear country, you may one day
encounter one of those critters. During especially
drought stricken times or in summers after a late
freeze has killed off their food supply, it is not unusual
for them to get more and more daring around people.
First of all, a black bear is not necessarily black! It
can be black, brown, cinnamon, even white. How
do you know it's a black bear then? Because it is
the most common species of bear. Black bear are
smaller than brown bear, weighing anywhere between
90 and 500 pounds.
Now, you are walking along the wooded path and you
suddenly encounter a bear, what do you do?
A) You made lots of noise while walking so will
probably never encounter this.
B) You run - as fast as you can!
C) You put your hands up and slowly back away,
calmly telling the bear how nice he is not to
eat you.
D) You roll into a ball and play dead.
The correct answer is A. When walking in bear country,
ALWAYS make a lot of noise, even talking to yourself.
Black bear are not aggressive and will not bother you
if they know you are there.
An acceptable answer is also C - again, most bear will
just watch you leave. IF the bear is protecting young,
or food, he could become aggressive. If the bear
charges at you or in other ways threatens you, then
it is acceptable to curl yourself in a ball, putting your
hands behind your head to protect it, and play dead.
Black bear are not carnivores, except in very rare cases.
The bear may paw at you but then will determine you
are not a threat and leave. NEVER attempt to run from
a bear, you will NOT win.
A few weeks later you are walking along this same path
and suddenly come face to face with a mountain lion.
What do you do?
A) Run as fast as you can!
B) Curl up into a ball and play dead.
C) Put your arms up over your head and roar.
D) Again if you were making a bunch of noise while
walking this would probably never happen.
The correct answer is D. Cougars are very secretive and
shy animals, and don't want to mess with you. If you
stumbled upon one that took you both by surprise, then the
correct answer would be C - put your arms up over your
head to make yourself appear larger than you really are and
make noise! IF the mountain lion charges then it is
perfectly acceptable to fight, kick, punch, or whatever
you can do to defend yourself. NEVER curl into a ball
and play dead - the cougar do eat meat and will think
you are lunch! They will drag you off to their den and
share you with their family!
You recuperate from this ordeal and a month later you
are on this same path again. Suddenly you encounter a
beautiful skunk, what do you do?
RUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUN!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Is it me or are people getting weirder?
Maybe it's the economy. Or the liberal media.
Could be the governments. Might be
global warming.
Naw. People are getting STRANGE(er).
I love living in a conservative small town that
resists change and doesn't ask for bailouts.
I love that attitude! Yet even in this town, people
are getting grumpier. There are days it appears
the entire human race is hell bent on telling one
what to do! Show me an entire newscast, or
newspaper, that doesn't include a story about
the proper way to raise your kids, or the proper
way to eat or cook.
Lying. When did lying get to be so popular? When
did we start worrying about what someone thinks
of us? Why can't we just be ourselves and if they
like us fine, if they don't, fine. When living in
another state and smoking became so politically
incorrect, I cannot tell you the number of smokers
I knew who were closet smokers - hiding in seclusion
to enjoy a puff. Why??
Over the past ten years or so, you are suddenly made
to feel an outcast if you 1. Smoke 2. Don't belong
to an organized religion or church 3. Have
views different than our government (this is quickly
changing) 4. Don't have an orderly household like
the Cleaver's 5. Have a child that isn't involved in
sports 6. (Insert whatever you want here)
THAT my friend is why people are flipping out. The
invisible strings of judgement and being made to
feel they are 'abnormal' for doing something not
'approved of' by the do-gooders. That is also why
people starting lying so easily they soon started
believing their own tales...because they are afraid of
being judged for who they REALLY are!
In real life we all poop and stink up the bathroom :)
We all have our little oddities that make us different.
It is NOT for us to judge one another, that is for
another. It IS our job to get along with one another,
learn from each other, and be accepting of differences.
You might learn from the differences, who knows?
Do NOT be afraid to be different. Do not be afraid to
put who you really are out there. Those who are judging
you or gossiping about you are not worth your time
anyway. And you cannot please everyone, no matter how
hard you try! So stop trying and just be yourself. Those
who are 'too good' for you, or those who want nothing
to do with you because of (insert reason here), well,
they aren't worth the air they use up.
Could be the governments. Might be
global warming.
Naw. People are getting STRANGE(er).
I love living in a conservative small town that
resists change and doesn't ask for bailouts.
I love that attitude! Yet even in this town, people
are getting grumpier. There are days it appears
the entire human race is hell bent on telling one
what to do! Show me an entire newscast, or
newspaper, that doesn't include a story about
the proper way to raise your kids, or the proper
way to eat or cook.
Lying. When did lying get to be so popular? When
did we start worrying about what someone thinks
of us? Why can't we just be ourselves and if they
like us fine, if they don't, fine. When living in
another state and smoking became so politically
incorrect, I cannot tell you the number of smokers
I knew who were closet smokers - hiding in seclusion
to enjoy a puff. Why??
Over the past ten years or so, you are suddenly made
to feel an outcast if you 1. Smoke 2. Don't belong
to an organized religion or church 3. Have
views different than our government (this is quickly
changing) 4. Don't have an orderly household like
the Cleaver's 5. Have a child that isn't involved in
sports 6. (Insert whatever you want here)
THAT my friend is why people are flipping out. The
invisible strings of judgement and being made to
feel they are 'abnormal' for doing something not
'approved of' by the do-gooders. That is also why
people starting lying so easily they soon started
believing their own tales...because they are afraid of
being judged for who they REALLY are!
In real life we all poop and stink up the bathroom :)
We all have our little oddities that make us different.
It is NOT for us to judge one another, that is for
another. It IS our job to get along with one another,
learn from each other, and be accepting of differences.
You might learn from the differences, who knows?
Do NOT be afraid to be different. Do not be afraid to
put who you really are out there. Those who are judging
you or gossiping about you are not worth your time
anyway. And you cannot please everyone, no matter how
hard you try! So stop trying and just be yourself. Those
who are 'too good' for you, or those who want nothing
to do with you because of (insert reason here), well,
they aren't worth the air they use up.
Happy Easter!
The eggs and pressies are hidden.
There is a turkey to go into the oven soon.
Wishing everyone a wonderful Easter!
There is a turkey to go into the oven soon.
Wishing everyone a wonderful Easter!
Friday, April 10, 2009
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Goldfish
In every disagreement, there are three
sides to the story - person A's side,
person B's side, and the goldfishes' side.
That is because person A will give the
slanted view to make them look better,
person B will do the same. But the goldfish
were there to hear everything, and they
are the ones that know what is really going on!
Actually I did not make this up. I stole
this idea from an old Dick Van Dyke show.
Remember one episode where Rob and
Laura were fighting - Rob went to work
and told his side of the fight, Laura ran
to Milly and told her side. Then they showed
the goldfish talking and presenting what
really happened.
Sometimes. Many times. Often times.
It's best to check with the goldfish! You
can learn so much more than just hearing
person A's side! And in the case of a person
C and D and possibly E, check with ALL of
the goldfish!
sides to the story - person A's side,
person B's side, and the goldfishes' side.
That is because person A will give the
slanted view to make them look better,
person B will do the same. But the goldfish
were there to hear everything, and they
are the ones that know what is really going on!
Actually I did not make this up. I stole
this idea from an old Dick Van Dyke show.
Remember one episode where Rob and
Laura were fighting - Rob went to work
and told his side of the fight, Laura ran
to Milly and told her side. Then they showed
the goldfish talking and presenting what
really happened.
Sometimes. Many times. Often times.
It's best to check with the goldfish! You
can learn so much more than just hearing
person A's side! And in the case of a person
C and D and possibly E, check with ALL of
the goldfish!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
They'll force me to buy from Europe
Yes I smoke.
*gasp*
Get over it.
Luckily I live in Missouri, the 3rd lowest state
in the nation for cigarette taxes. But they can't
stop the feds when they raise those sin taxes.
*gasp*
So as of April 1st the price of ciggies went up,
around six bucks a carton I believe. Something
about to help the poor kids get health insurance.
If you are unfortunate enough to live in the state
of Arkansas, the price went up about seven bucks
more than that per carton, as the state raised
taxes to pay for a trauma center (I think only
smokers should be allowed to use the trauma
center). BUT the interesting part about Arkansas
is just recently they tried to make it a FELONY
if a resident possesses more than 21 packs of
ciggies without their precious Arkansas stamp on
them. They are trying to tell you where to shop!
As left, it is a misdemeanor in Arkansas to possess
more than 11 packs of ciggies *gasp* without
an Arkansas stamp. This was passed in an effort
to stop Arkansans from driving into Missouri to
buy cigarettes. I presume now they'll have border
patrol agents and the ciggie police going door to
door of households who smoke. You know, to make
sure they are legal :)
But the price keeps increasing in this state as well.
As of right now, I would break even buying my ciggies
from Europe. Actually Europe is cheaper, but with
the postage cost. One more increase and I take my
business out of the country. And it's perfectly legal
to order your ciggies by mail - a few years ago some
of the northern states tried going after internet
ciggy shoppers and charging them state tax on
what they bought, but this was ruled unconstitutional
in court. You can't tell someone where to shop!
This may not seem like a big deal to you. But think
about it. There are huge taxes on cigarettes, between
the states and the feds. Shopping for ciggies in
Europe, well the country loses those taxes. Who is
going to make those taxes up? Taxing something
YOU enjoy will be next. Then they'll make some sort
of federal law about going to prison for 30 years
if you buy your ciggies out of the country. Then your
property taxes will go up to pay for all the new prisons!
THEN people will quit smoking, and alas, no tax.
Speaking of which, why does the tax keep increasing
but the rights of smokers keep decreasing? With the
taxes they are paying, wouldn't you want them to
keep puffing away absolutely anywhere? Just another
thing to think about.
*gasp*
Get over it.
Luckily I live in Missouri, the 3rd lowest state
in the nation for cigarette taxes. But they can't
stop the feds when they raise those sin taxes.
*gasp*
So as of April 1st the price of ciggies went up,
around six bucks a carton I believe. Something
about to help the poor kids get health insurance.
If you are unfortunate enough to live in the state
of Arkansas, the price went up about seven bucks
more than that per carton, as the state raised
taxes to pay for a trauma center (I think only
smokers should be allowed to use the trauma
center). BUT the interesting part about Arkansas
is just recently they tried to make it a FELONY
if a resident possesses more than 21 packs of
ciggies without their precious Arkansas stamp on
them. They are trying to tell you where to shop!
As left, it is a misdemeanor in Arkansas to possess
more than 11 packs of ciggies *gasp* without
an Arkansas stamp. This was passed in an effort
to stop Arkansans from driving into Missouri to
buy cigarettes. I presume now they'll have border
patrol agents and the ciggie police going door to
door of households who smoke. You know, to make
sure they are legal :)
But the price keeps increasing in this state as well.
As of right now, I would break even buying my ciggies
from Europe. Actually Europe is cheaper, but with
the postage cost. One more increase and I take my
business out of the country. And it's perfectly legal
to order your ciggies by mail - a few years ago some
of the northern states tried going after internet
ciggy shoppers and charging them state tax on
what they bought, but this was ruled unconstitutional
in court. You can't tell someone where to shop!
This may not seem like a big deal to you. But think
about it. There are huge taxes on cigarettes, between
the states and the feds. Shopping for ciggies in
Europe, well the country loses those taxes. Who is
going to make those taxes up? Taxing something
YOU enjoy will be next. Then they'll make some sort
of federal law about going to prison for 30 years
if you buy your ciggies out of the country. Then your
property taxes will go up to pay for all the new prisons!
THEN people will quit smoking, and alas, no tax.
Speaking of which, why does the tax keep increasing
but the rights of smokers keep decreasing? With the
taxes they are paying, wouldn't you want them to
keep puffing away absolutely anywhere? Just another
thing to think about.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
I miss real cowboys
Was just watching this George Strait video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZlN9ZMgiR8&feature=related
It makes me miss real cowboys. Real working
cowboys were everywhere in our area of NM.
Cowboy boots and a cowboy hat were proper
attire in a restaurant, being worn by the real
thing. And what guy doesn't look great in
cowboy boots, tight jeans, and a cowboy hat?? :)
Knew many working cowboys, and many retired
cowboys. Had a few for neighbors actually. I
had horses in NM and tried to ride them in private,
as they could ride a bronc bareback before they
could walk...this is very true more often than not,
I am so not joking. My riding style I'm sure looked
pretty lame compared to some of those guys!
Used to have coffee when I could with a cowboy
whose father owned a ranch. Sadly, Sid is no
longer with us. We had some great talks together
and I will remember him fondly.
My son's kindergarten field trip consisted of going
to a nearby ranch and branding a steer :) THAT'S
New Mexico!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZlN9ZMgiR8&feature=related
It makes me miss real cowboys. Real working
cowboys were everywhere in our area of NM.
Cowboy boots and a cowboy hat were proper
attire in a restaurant, being worn by the real
thing. And what guy doesn't look great in
cowboy boots, tight jeans, and a cowboy hat?? :)
Knew many working cowboys, and many retired
cowboys. Had a few for neighbors actually. I
had horses in NM and tried to ride them in private,
as they could ride a bronc bareback before they
could walk...this is very true more often than not,
I am so not joking. My riding style I'm sure looked
pretty lame compared to some of those guys!
Used to have coffee when I could with a cowboy
whose father owned a ranch. Sadly, Sid is no
longer with us. We had some great talks together
and I will remember him fondly.
My son's kindergarten field trip consisted of going
to a nearby ranch and branding a steer :) THAT'S
New Mexico!
The Hardest Thing I've Ever Done
Just last night someone asked me to stop writing
to them. I quote "I know it will be the hardest
thing you will have ever done in your life but...
(insert blah blah here)." I have a comment to that.
In 1988 I went through the death of my husband.
It was not pretty, let me tell you. I was only 24
years old. In 1991 I had a serious automobile
accident which consequently laid me up for
months. I should have been killed. In 2004
a psycho customer named me in a lawsuit that
had nothing to do with me, and I was served papers
for the first time ever. That made me physically ill.
I've lost beloved dogs several times over, even helped
to bury a few. One was over 15 years old and had
to be put to sleep after my automobile accident, as
he was a passenger. I was widowed at the ripe age
of 24, owing $600,000 on a business that had no
way of paying for itself. I could go on but will stop
here.
Stopping writing to someone is not on my list of the
hardest thing I have ever done. It's not even close.
To the person that told me that last night, I have
a salute just for you. I would also like to say I have
been through more crap than you will go through
in a lifetime. Yet I have never treated a so called
friend the way I was treated. You are a self
centered whiner. Get over yourself, I have.
to them. I quote "I know it will be the hardest
thing you will have ever done in your life but...
(insert blah blah here)." I have a comment to that.
In 1988 I went through the death of my husband.
It was not pretty, let me tell you. I was only 24
years old. In 1991 I had a serious automobile
accident which consequently laid me up for
months. I should have been killed. In 2004
a psycho customer named me in a lawsuit that
had nothing to do with me, and I was served papers
for the first time ever. That made me physically ill.
I've lost beloved dogs several times over, even helped
to bury a few. One was over 15 years old and had
to be put to sleep after my automobile accident, as
he was a passenger. I was widowed at the ripe age
of 24, owing $600,000 on a business that had no
way of paying for itself. I could go on but will stop
here.
Stopping writing to someone is not on my list of the
hardest thing I have ever done. It's not even close.
To the person that told me that last night, I have
a salute just for you. I would also like to say I have
been through more crap than you will go through
in a lifetime. Yet I have never treated a so called
friend the way I was treated. You are a self
centered whiner. Get over yourself, I have.
Birthday celebration
Celebrating a birthday in the house today.
Yes someone here is officially OLD. I have
lasagna ready to go in the oven, the salad
made, garlic bread stuff ready, and the cake
frosted. Just need to kill a few hours here.
Yes someone here is officially OLD. I have
lasagna ready to go in the oven, the salad
made, garlic bread stuff ready, and the cake
frosted. Just need to kill a few hours here.
Monday, April 6, 2009
A hundred dollars please
Yes I like to write.
No I'm not a licensed anything.
My advice and views are free.
I need to read them often, actually.
Remember patience? I need to learn
it. I am trying to give a good friend
a break from me, and that's why all
the posts. Killing time mostly. I think!
It's funny how certain people can
just tug at us sometimes. It's killing
me though - this thing called patience.
Trust me :)
No I'm not a licensed anything.
My advice and views are free.
I need to read them often, actually.
Remember patience? I need to learn
it. I am trying to give a good friend
a break from me, and that's why all
the posts. Killing time mostly. I think!
It's funny how certain people can
just tug at us sometimes. It's killing
me though - this thing called patience.
Trust me :)
Trying too hard
When you want something bad enough it
cannot happen soon enough, can it? I
am the first to admit I have no patience.
Except at Christmas. I can patiently await
for Christmas to arrive.
Sometimes we try way too hard to get what
we want. And we look in the wrong place.
Or what we want could go flying by in a bright
pink balloon and we don't pay it a diddle of
attention, because we are too busy trying to
make it happen NOW. I believe that life itself
is full of many signs and signals, most of which
we do not notice. Think back - what if you had
taken a different path when you got to that fork
in the road?
Often times we just have to relax, and have
patience. Most things fall into place all by them-
selves if we are just willing to wait it out. With
decisions about people for instance - patience is
definitely the best way. Because most people will
do themselves in or come through eventually.
No need to even try to make a decision there!
With job decisions or life decisions - it's best to
have some sort of a plan, for backup. Not a
detailed point by point plan - but just an idea.
Remember my earlier post on Missouri weather?
Out here you must be prepared and have a plan
for anything. I think that same rule applies to
many other aspects of life. Have an idea, have
something in the back of your mind, then wait for
the sign. It might not be easy, but it's better than
being caught totally off guard.
Then there is the aspect of wanting something very
badly, and not knowing how to get it. Often times
we get too impatient and rush to get that done.
When in reality if we wait it will fall into place. Yeah,
I'm guilty here, how about you? Take a few deep
breaths, sit back, and relax a bit. Think before acting.
If it was meant to be it will take very little action on
your part for it to happen. If it wasn't meant to be
then rushing forth and making a fool of yourself
will make it worse. Once again, I do believe that there
are many signals and signs in life - our job is to learn
how to read them. Those signs and signals will tell
us what to do. It takes practice!
One other thing - dwelling on something. Very often
while we sit and dwell we miss the signs for something
else that is meant to happen. Pay attention to
all aspects of your life, try not to dwell, and watch
those signals! Because I feel that is how things get
worse and pile up then overwhelm us. While we were
busy dwelling, that pink balloon floated by, we didn't
pay attention, so something else happened. Now we
have TWO problems. And so on......
cannot happen soon enough, can it? I
am the first to admit I have no patience.
Except at Christmas. I can patiently await
for Christmas to arrive.
Sometimes we try way too hard to get what
we want. And we look in the wrong place.
Or what we want could go flying by in a bright
pink balloon and we don't pay it a diddle of
attention, because we are too busy trying to
make it happen NOW. I believe that life itself
is full of many signs and signals, most of which
we do not notice. Think back - what if you had
taken a different path when you got to that fork
in the road?
Often times we just have to relax, and have
patience. Most things fall into place all by them-
selves if we are just willing to wait it out. With
decisions about people for instance - patience is
definitely the best way. Because most people will
do themselves in or come through eventually.
No need to even try to make a decision there!
With job decisions or life decisions - it's best to
have some sort of a plan, for backup. Not a
detailed point by point plan - but just an idea.
Remember my earlier post on Missouri weather?
Out here you must be prepared and have a plan
for anything. I think that same rule applies to
many other aspects of life. Have an idea, have
something in the back of your mind, then wait for
the sign. It might not be easy, but it's better than
being caught totally off guard.
Then there is the aspect of wanting something very
badly, and not knowing how to get it. Often times
we get too impatient and rush to get that done.
When in reality if we wait it will fall into place. Yeah,
I'm guilty here, how about you? Take a few deep
breaths, sit back, and relax a bit. Think before acting.
If it was meant to be it will take very little action on
your part for it to happen. If it wasn't meant to be
then rushing forth and making a fool of yourself
will make it worse. Once again, I do believe that there
are many signals and signs in life - our job is to learn
how to read them. Those signs and signals will tell
us what to do. It takes practice!
One other thing - dwelling on something. Very often
while we sit and dwell we miss the signs for something
else that is meant to happen. Pay attention to
all aspects of your life, try not to dwell, and watch
those signals! Because I feel that is how things get
worse and pile up then overwhelm us. While we were
busy dwelling, that pink balloon floated by, we didn't
pay attention, so something else happened. Now we
have TWO problems. And so on......
In My Little Town
Have lived in a smaller community steadily
since 1987. When the nearest big city is
over 100 miles away, you become accustomed
to things others would miss! Here are some
of the things about small town life that would
drive someone from a bigger city bonkers if they
had to live here.
1. NO MALL. I cannot tell you the last time
I was in a mall. If I had to guess I would
say somewhere around 7 years ago in Pueblo.
And that mall is very small.
2. I have no idea what the latest movies are out
at the theater, or even how much it costs. Yes
we have movie theaters here, I have no idea
if the movies are current or not.
3. No Starbucks - Don't get addicted to latte or
some other strange food or drink, you won't
get it here.
4. No Red Lobster - Bummer.
5. Higher prices - on everything from vehicles, food,
clothing, medical. Surprised? Many people from
a bigger area assume that things are cheaper in
a smaller town. Take into consideration the added
cost of transporting goods to a small town. Or
the simple fact a (good) doctor's wife doesn't want
to live there. There is less competition for basic
services such as phone and trash so you are stuck
paying the price of the ones that serve your area.
6. Limited culture - to ballet, to arts, to finer foods, etc.
7. Limited knowledge available - Let's face it, small town
U.S.A. doesn't have a television station. The radio and
newspaper are sub par. You depend more on what you
actually see and actually hear.
8. No night life - Not much to do after 8ish. Most restaurants
will chase you out around 7.
9. More self reliance and independence - You depend on
each other or yourself for entertainment. You don't
live in an area that will bail you out in the event of an
emergency situation. And you learn to make do with
what you have.
10. People assume you don't know anything - it's true.
And the truth of the matter is you have more time to
learn and have more common sense than most other
people from bigger areas that depend on so much more
than you do.
since 1987. When the nearest big city is
over 100 miles away, you become accustomed
to things others would miss! Here are some
of the things about small town life that would
drive someone from a bigger city bonkers if they
had to live here.
1. NO MALL. I cannot tell you the last time
I was in a mall. If I had to guess I would
say somewhere around 7 years ago in Pueblo.
And that mall is very small.
2. I have no idea what the latest movies are out
at the theater, or even how much it costs. Yes
we have movie theaters here, I have no idea
if the movies are current or not.
3. No Starbucks - Don't get addicted to latte or
some other strange food or drink, you won't
get it here.
4. No Red Lobster - Bummer.
5. Higher prices - on everything from vehicles, food,
clothing, medical. Surprised? Many people from
a bigger area assume that things are cheaper in
a smaller town. Take into consideration the added
cost of transporting goods to a small town. Or
the simple fact a (good) doctor's wife doesn't want
to live there. There is less competition for basic
services such as phone and trash so you are stuck
paying the price of the ones that serve your area.
6. Limited culture - to ballet, to arts, to finer foods, etc.
7. Limited knowledge available - Let's face it, small town
U.S.A. doesn't have a television station. The radio and
newspaper are sub par. You depend more on what you
actually see and actually hear.
8. No night life - Not much to do after 8ish. Most restaurants
will chase you out around 7.
9. More self reliance and independence - You depend on
each other or yourself for entertainment. You don't
live in an area that will bail you out in the event of an
emergency situation. And you learn to make do with
what you have.
10. People assume you don't know anything - it's true.
And the truth of the matter is you have more time to
learn and have more common sense than most other
people from bigger areas that depend on so much more
than you do.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Busy week ahead
First off I need to finish this 'good monthly cleaning'
I am doing of the house. 3 rooms left. Think I'm
going to tackle the breezeway soon. Then the
rest tomorrow. Tomorrow night or Tuesday morning
I have to make a cake, then get it frosted. Birthday
dinner Tuesday night (lasagna) to make. Along with
the cake and stuff of course. Some time after that
I need to make a potato salad and deviled eggs to
have with hamburgers for dinner. I love homemade
potato salad!! Then the kiddo is off of school on
Friday, before then I'd like to get the Easter stuff
ready. We still hide eggs and have pressies and stuff.
So there's that to get ready. I need to get into town at
some point. We're in the middle of officially making
an offer on a house so there's all that going on. Lowball
offer but you still go through the entire process of
reading and signing paperwork, etc. Then next Sunday
is Easter dinner - turkey and the trimmings. If
there is any time left in the week and weather permitting
I'd like to get outside and work. Then after Easter,
I don't know, I guess I start cleaning house again!
So what DO I do all day anyhow? AND how come I
try to add an image today and it loads up up to
eight times? EEEK.
I am doing of the house. 3 rooms left. Think I'm
going to tackle the breezeway soon. Then the
rest tomorrow. Tomorrow night or Tuesday morning
I have to make a cake, then get it frosted. Birthday
dinner Tuesday night (lasagna) to make. Along with
the cake and stuff of course. Some time after that
I need to make a potato salad and deviled eggs to
have with hamburgers for dinner. I love homemade
potato salad!! Then the kiddo is off of school on
Friday, before then I'd like to get the Easter stuff
ready. We still hide eggs and have pressies and stuff.
So there's that to get ready. I need to get into town at
some point. We're in the middle of officially making
an offer on a house so there's all that going on. Lowball
offer but you still go through the entire process of
reading and signing paperwork, etc. Then next Sunday
is Easter dinner - turkey and the trimmings. If
there is any time left in the week and weather permitting
I'd like to get outside and work. Then after Easter,
I don't know, I guess I start cleaning house again!
So what DO I do all day anyhow? AND how come I
try to add an image today and it loads up up to
eight times? EEEK.
So what happened to spring?
The wind is whipping up to 33mph out there.
Temps dropped over 20 degrees the past
ten hours. Freeze warnings out for the next
three nights. My poor baby lettuce is all
wrapped up snuggly tight in an old comforter,
where they will be the next few nights. All
we need is snow!! Did I say that? Oh yes,
there is the possibility of flurries sometime in
all of this. Oh did I mention the wind is whipping
down all of the ice storm debris leftovers that
were stuck in the trees? WAH.
Temps dropped over 20 degrees the past
ten hours. Freeze warnings out for the next
three nights. My poor baby lettuce is all
wrapped up snuggly tight in an old comforter,
where they will be the next few nights. All
we need is snow!! Did I say that? Oh yes,
there is the possibility of flurries sometime in
all of this. Oh did I mention the wind is whipping
down all of the ice storm debris leftovers that
were stuck in the trees? WAH.
Show me what?
Have lived in rural southern Missouri
for five years now. Have learned a few
things so thought I'd share in case
you are thinking of visiting/moving here.
*Weather - Storms here are unlike anything
I've seen before - so intense! Talk about
rock and roll! Keep an eye on the weather and
have a plan in place in any type of situation.
Those sirens you hear? Those are tornado
warning sirens (honest we didn't know this at
first). Get to shelter! Ice storms? Be prepared
for power outages and damage. Wind? Hail?
Snow? Black ice? Heat and humidity? Oh
yeah did we forget to mention this stuff to ya?
Meteorologists are awesome here, keeping you
abreast of the situation as much as they can.
Pay attention to them. Most lives are lost from
someone not heeding the warnings.
*You MUST have a garden if you live here. I think
it's a law (snicker). The garden can be as big or
as little as you want it to be. You can plant whatever
you want.
*Go to at least ONE farm show. You know, to blend in
with the locals. Act like you know what the person is
talking about - whether it be bulls or tractors or whatever.
*99.99999% of small town Missouri is conservative. They
are NRA members and they do own firearms. Don't mess
with them or try to tell them what to do.
*This is the Bible Belt. Baptist of many variations is the
most popular religion by far. A big goal of their's is to
try to get you to attend their church. Be honest, up front
and polite about your views on this and you won't have
many problems. They mean well. If they want to pray for
your soul because you don't belong to an organized church,
just thank them and let them. You can use all the prayers
anyway and you know it!
*Get used to simple food. Home grown veggies, simple meats
and dishes. Even the mexican food is usually not very spicy
(with the exception of El Imperial in Cabool). Don't expect
fancy dishes as they don't know how to cook it anyway.
*You must fish and hunt. Hunting is not the same, it consists
of baiting the deer with food filled deer stands, then waiting
for them to show up before picking them off :) The deer here
are those cute little white tail fellas too, not the big mule deer.
With fishing, it's pretty hard to not catch anything, but it
doesn't matter if you don't. Just go out for a few hours at some
ungodly early morning hour and bait a hook.
*If it's hot you go to the river. And usually drink. Especially on
Saturdays.
*Be friendly and get to know everyone. They won't bite. And
if you ever need anything they will be the first to jump. One time
I was negotiating with a guy over what he wanted to charge me
to mow my lawn. I was hard pressing him to lower his price. Before
I was done he was going to mow it for free. NO I didn't let him.
*It's okay to be different - just don't go around trying to change everyone.
*If they make a mistake on your bill and it's in their
favor, don't assume they did it on purpose.
*Housing standards and general living are not the same as other
places I've lived. There are no building codes in the county for
example. So it's always buyer beware. And people here do not
put an emphasis on material possessions as much as people in
other parts of the country do.
for five years now. Have learned a few
things so thought I'd share in case
you are thinking of visiting/moving here.
*Weather - Storms here are unlike anything
I've seen before - so intense! Talk about
rock and roll! Keep an eye on the weather and
have a plan in place in any type of situation.
Those sirens you hear? Those are tornado
warning sirens (honest we didn't know this at
first). Get to shelter! Ice storms? Be prepared
for power outages and damage. Wind? Hail?
Snow? Black ice? Heat and humidity? Oh
yeah did we forget to mention this stuff to ya?
Meteorologists are awesome here, keeping you
abreast of the situation as much as they can.
Pay attention to them. Most lives are lost from
someone not heeding the warnings.
*You MUST have a garden if you live here. I think
it's a law (snicker). The garden can be as big or
as little as you want it to be. You can plant whatever
you want.
*Go to at least ONE farm show. You know, to blend in
with the locals. Act like you know what the person is
talking about - whether it be bulls or tractors or whatever.
*99.99999% of small town Missouri is conservative. They
are NRA members and they do own firearms. Don't mess
with them or try to tell them what to do.
*This is the Bible Belt. Baptist of many variations is the
most popular religion by far. A big goal of their's is to
try to get you to attend their church. Be honest, up front
and polite about your views on this and you won't have
many problems. They mean well. If they want to pray for
your soul because you don't belong to an organized church,
just thank them and let them. You can use all the prayers
anyway and you know it!
*Get used to simple food. Home grown veggies, simple meats
and dishes. Even the mexican food is usually not very spicy
(with the exception of El Imperial in Cabool). Don't expect
fancy dishes as they don't know how to cook it anyway.
*You must fish and hunt. Hunting is not the same, it consists
of baiting the deer with food filled deer stands, then waiting
for them to show up before picking them off :) The deer here
are those cute little white tail fellas too, not the big mule deer.
With fishing, it's pretty hard to not catch anything, but it
doesn't matter if you don't. Just go out for a few hours at some
ungodly early morning hour and bait a hook.
*If it's hot you go to the river. And usually drink. Especially on
Saturdays.
*Be friendly and get to know everyone. They won't bite. And
if you ever need anything they will be the first to jump. One time
I was negotiating with a guy over what he wanted to charge me
to mow my lawn. I was hard pressing him to lower his price. Before
I was done he was going to mow it for free. NO I didn't let him.
*It's okay to be different - just don't go around trying to change everyone.
*If they make a mistake on your bill and it's in their
favor, don't assume they did it on purpose.
*Housing standards and general living are not the same as other
places I've lived. There are no building codes in the county for
example. So it's always buyer beware. And people here do not
put an emphasis on material possessions as much as people in
other parts of the country do.
Tortilla or toast?
As you know I lived in the mountains of NM for 14 years.
I was thinking today of if I heard one more time from
someone that hasn't really lived anywhere outside of their
safety zone - "People are all the same everywhere you live."
I'd puke. Until you've experienced it, let me tell you that
regional differences, culture, and people are different
even in different parts of this country! You'd be surprised
at the number of people in the United States that think
the state of New Mexico is part of old Mexico. So I was
thinking today of someone who never traveled through
NM before suddenly doing so. And here are a few tips for
ya:
*Upon ordering breakfast in a restaurant, expect to be
asked if you want tortilla or toast. Many people do eat
tortillas with their eggs.
*Ah while we're on the subject of restaurants - let's not
forget the one question you'll hear a lot upon ordering in
New Mexico - "Red or Green?" OF COURSE they are
referring to red or green chile, not to be confused with the
chili dish one eats in the midwest of hamburger, tomato
sauce, and beans. It is common for an outsider to immediately
reply to this question with "Which one is hotter, red or green?"
(Insert buzzer sound here) That is not the correct answer.
You see, it varies upon restaurant which chile is hotter (usually).
ASK the waitress which one is better, as most chile is made from
scratch there at the restaurant that very day, and the waitress
will be delighted to be asked a question she can actually answer.
A general rule of thumb is the green chile is hotter. But this
depends on the chile pepper.
*People in NM tend to have an accent. No it's not a heavy
southern drawl, or even twang. But the way to recognize
a local versus a tourist is how they pronounce the words
with 'r' in them. New Mexico people tend to roll their 'r's,
kind of a variation with the Spanish language I'm thinking.
Ask them to say words like 'fire' and you'll know what I'm
talking about.
*Unless you are traveling to New Mexico in July or August,
or are going to extreme southern NM, be sure to take a
heavy coat, hat, mittens or gloves, etc. The weather can be
positively anything!
*Rocky Mountain Oysters are NOT shellfish! Do NOT order
them if you do not know what they are!! (Google it if
you don't believe me).
*New Mexico by and large is a democratic state. Pretend if
you are not a liberal. Or unless you find other republicans.
*Do NOT just take a highway you see on the map as a shortcut,
unless you REALLY know that road and have traveled it
before! You could end up lost in the mountains and New
Mexican's will hear about you on the local news as Search
and Rescue went out looking for you. If you do decide to
take a 'scenic' route, fill up your gas tank, go potty, and eat
first! Better yet take some snacks with you! And just DON'T
do it from October through April!
*Sopapillas - be aware that in NM sopas are NOT a little
hard pastry dessert type item. Sopapillas are a fluffy pastry
type bread that you can eat before, during, or after dinner.
Many restaurants serve complimentary sopas before you
even get the menu. Yes honey is still good with them, usually
there is not any cinammon on them though.
*Water - Don't waste water! Many areas don't have it to spare.
*Bears and other critters - Yes NM has black bear, mountain
lions, and bobcats, as well as other critters. When you hear
someone say to take everything edible out of your car before
locking it up for the night - believe them. This means everything,
including cantaloupe, chocolate, granola bars, etc. Do not
leave your McDonald's wrappers near your door or tent. You
will have a visitor! I cannot tell you how many times I heard
the story of someone who had relatives visiting from out of state,
and they told them to take all food out of the car. The next
morning they awoke and the windows were smashed or something.
The visitors response was always something like - "Well I never
thought bears liked cantaloupe!" When they say take all food
away from your campsite or out of your car, LISTEN TO THEM.
*The people - ah yes they are different than what you might be used
to. There is a certain independence about them. This often times
comes over as having an 'attitude'. While Colorado identifies
more with the west, NM really identifies with themselves. Just
be persistent and patient and you can get along with them!
I was thinking today of if I heard one more time from
someone that hasn't really lived anywhere outside of their
safety zone - "People are all the same everywhere you live."
I'd puke. Until you've experienced it, let me tell you that
regional differences, culture, and people are different
even in different parts of this country! You'd be surprised
at the number of people in the United States that think
the state of New Mexico is part of old Mexico. So I was
thinking today of someone who never traveled through
NM before suddenly doing so. And here are a few tips for
ya:
*Upon ordering breakfast in a restaurant, expect to be
asked if you want tortilla or toast. Many people do eat
tortillas with their eggs.
*Ah while we're on the subject of restaurants - let's not
forget the one question you'll hear a lot upon ordering in
New Mexico - "Red or Green?" OF COURSE they are
referring to red or green chile, not to be confused with the
chili dish one eats in the midwest of hamburger, tomato
sauce, and beans. It is common for an outsider to immediately
reply to this question with "Which one is hotter, red or green?"
(Insert buzzer sound here) That is not the correct answer.
You see, it varies upon restaurant which chile is hotter (usually).
ASK the waitress which one is better, as most chile is made from
scratch there at the restaurant that very day, and the waitress
will be delighted to be asked a question she can actually answer.
A general rule of thumb is the green chile is hotter. But this
depends on the chile pepper.
*People in NM tend to have an accent. No it's not a heavy
southern drawl, or even twang. But the way to recognize
a local versus a tourist is how they pronounce the words
with 'r' in them. New Mexico people tend to roll their 'r's,
kind of a variation with the Spanish language I'm thinking.
Ask them to say words like 'fire' and you'll know what I'm
talking about.
*Unless you are traveling to New Mexico in July or August,
or are going to extreme southern NM, be sure to take a
heavy coat, hat, mittens or gloves, etc. The weather can be
positively anything!
*Rocky Mountain Oysters are NOT shellfish! Do NOT order
them if you do not know what they are!! (Google it if
you don't believe me).
*New Mexico by and large is a democratic state. Pretend if
you are not a liberal. Or unless you find other republicans.
*Do NOT just take a highway you see on the map as a shortcut,
unless you REALLY know that road and have traveled it
before! You could end up lost in the mountains and New
Mexican's will hear about you on the local news as Search
and Rescue went out looking for you. If you do decide to
take a 'scenic' route, fill up your gas tank, go potty, and eat
first! Better yet take some snacks with you! And just DON'T
do it from October through April!
*Sopapillas - be aware that in NM sopas are NOT a little
hard pastry dessert type item. Sopapillas are a fluffy pastry
type bread that you can eat before, during, or after dinner.
Many restaurants serve complimentary sopas before you
even get the menu. Yes honey is still good with them, usually
there is not any cinammon on them though.
*Water - Don't waste water! Many areas don't have it to spare.
*Bears and other critters - Yes NM has black bear, mountain
lions, and bobcats, as well as other critters. When you hear
someone say to take everything edible out of your car before
locking it up for the night - believe them. This means everything,
including cantaloupe, chocolate, granola bars, etc. Do not
leave your McDonald's wrappers near your door or tent. You
will have a visitor! I cannot tell you how many times I heard
the story of someone who had relatives visiting from out of state,
and they told them to take all food out of the car. The next
morning they awoke and the windows were smashed or something.
The visitors response was always something like - "Well I never
thought bears liked cantaloupe!" When they say take all food
away from your campsite or out of your car, LISTEN TO THEM.
*The people - ah yes they are different than what you might be used
to. There is a certain independence about them. This often times
comes over as having an 'attitude'. While Colorado identifies
more with the west, NM really identifies with themselves. Just
be persistent and patient and you can get along with them!
Friday, April 3, 2009
About people
I group everyone in to catagories. Those I don't like
(majority), those I don't like but tolerate for whatever
reason, and those I like. If I like you you will know it
as I babble incessantly at times about nothing (so sorry).
But learning from people in all three catagories is so
interesting....I learn patience, understanding, and
forgiveness. I learn my own strengths and weaknesses.
I learn through one how to tolerate another. I am
forever learning from people. Those I like I love dearly,
and they probably know it. I am an all for nothing type
person. I think people in general are here on earth to
teach us. Those that are crossing our life are doing so
for a reason. I know all types of people and am so glad
(of the ones I like) for all I have learned. Thanks for
crossing my path! :) FYI this blog is unlisted and is not
searchable in a search engine. If you are viewing this blog
it is because I either invited you or someone I invited sent
you a link. Told ya I am private! I do NOT have a site
meter on this site and have no idea who is on here reading
what, and I do allow anonymous comments. I HOPE you
sign your name after, but you don't have to! :)
(majority), those I don't like but tolerate for whatever
reason, and those I like. If I like you you will know it
as I babble incessantly at times about nothing (so sorry).
But learning from people in all three catagories is so
interesting....I learn patience, understanding, and
forgiveness. I learn my own strengths and weaknesses.
I learn through one how to tolerate another. I am
forever learning from people. Those I like I love dearly,
and they probably know it. I am an all for nothing type
person. I think people in general are here on earth to
teach us. Those that are crossing our life are doing so
for a reason. I know all types of people and am so glad
(of the ones I like) for all I have learned. Thanks for
crossing my path! :) FYI this blog is unlisted and is not
searchable in a search engine. If you are viewing this blog
it is because I either invited you or someone I invited sent
you a link. Told ya I am private! I do NOT have a site
meter on this site and have no idea who is on here reading
what, and I do allow anonymous comments. I HOPE you
sign your name after, but you don't have to! :)
Another house possibility
Yes call me crazy. You think I decide something
that I'd stick with it. But. Well. Okay. Found
another house for sale today. It's a total remodel
job. Priced at $108,900, I think it's a repo. Stopping
there today I found the back door unlocked and went
right in. Didn't look around too much though as I
had visions of someone coming back with a gun in
my face! But apparently it is vacant, as they took
everything of value out of it. Weird as there are
clothes still hanging in the closets though. Anyway
my realtor is trying to get official permission for me to
go over there (with some big flashlights as the
electrical box has been pulled) and look around legally.
It's a cute 3br, 1.75ba house with a full basement. Basement
has a little kitchenette type thingy in it. Kitchen and
baths I really didn't look at, it was dark in there and I'm
skeered! Fireplace in the l/r. 2 car attached garage. Back
deck and privacy fenced. No signs of water damage in
basement (of course it was pitch black and I had an itty
bitty flashlight and I was trespassing so I didn't look TOO
good). Anyway I'm thinking especially if it is a bank repo
of throwing an offer at them of about $50,000 and seeing
what happens. It's right off the highway (160) but that can
be a good or a bad thing depending on how you look at it
(like, not dusting every 5 minutes).
that I'd stick with it. But. Well. Okay. Found
another house for sale today. It's a total remodel
job. Priced at $108,900, I think it's a repo. Stopping
there today I found the back door unlocked and went
right in. Didn't look around too much though as I
had visions of someone coming back with a gun in
my face! But apparently it is vacant, as they took
everything of value out of it. Weird as there are
clothes still hanging in the closets though. Anyway
my realtor is trying to get official permission for me to
go over there (with some big flashlights as the
electrical box has been pulled) and look around legally.
It's a cute 3br, 1.75ba house with a full basement. Basement
has a little kitchenette type thingy in it. Kitchen and
baths I really didn't look at, it was dark in there and I'm
skeered! Fireplace in the l/r. 2 car attached garage. Back
deck and privacy fenced. No signs of water damage in
basement (of course it was pitch black and I had an itty
bitty flashlight and I was trespassing so I didn't look TOO
good). Anyway I'm thinking especially if it is a bank repo
of throwing an offer at them of about $50,000 and seeing
what happens. It's right off the highway (160) but that can
be a good or a bad thing depending on how you look at it
(like, not dusting every 5 minutes).
Smackdown 3/22
Matt Hardy entrance
Triple H. He and Jeff Hardy spent the most timewith the fans.
Ready for action!
Smackdown was a great time. The pictures all came out very
dark though. Undertaker's didn't come out at all, as he dresses
all in black. The wrestlers were all comfy in $350,000 motorhomes. They sat in them with
the engines running. Four motorhomes in all. We saw a couple of wrestlers, Shelton
Benjamin and Matt Hardy, come in cars. When the wrestlers went in, they couldn't be
bothered with the people, they just sneaked off the motorhome and slipped inside
the building. That was totally cool with us cuz we were just there to get fresh air anyway :)
the engines running. Four motorhomes in all. We saw a couple of wrestlers, Shelton
Benjamin and Matt Hardy, come in cars. When the wrestlers went in, they couldn't be
bothered with the people, they just sneaked off the motorhome and slipped inside
the building. That was totally cool with us cuz we were just there to get fresh air anyway :)
Advice
Sharing a bit of advice. Not my words and I don't necessarily
endorse. Just repeating something I read on someone else's
blog today:
"Never get involved with someone who is more f----d up than you."
endorse. Just repeating something I read on someone else's
blog today:
"Never get involved with someone who is more f----d up than you."
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