Pathways

Long, Long Ago . . . . .

2012-01-27T16:05:00.000-06:00

. . . I posted on a regular basis. I hope I'll return to posting at least once a week. There's just never much to write about. Well, nothing exciting, that is.

News from the home front: The grandsons are growing like weeds. The oldest is now taller than me and the younger is not far behind. All local adults are doing fine. As for the Surprise, AZ, daughter and her family and the Antigo, WI, son and his family, we miss them more than a lot. They all seem to be doing well. Bring the family and come on home anytime, kids.

I have been in physical therapy for almost three months. The time I was not moving around much and the meds I was taking really worked me over. I can't tell you how much better I am. I'm still using a decompression brace on my right leg several hours a day. It would be a non-issue if I could sleep in it. Some folks can but not me. I'm not complaining. I'm just happy to have the opportunity to try improving myself even more.

Did you ever wake up and think you were in a whole new universe? Did you ever try to explain a simple situation to a service representative and end up feeling like a confused fool? Sometimes I wonder where some of those folks come from. I know there are many really competant customer reps out there and once in a while I reach one. It didn't happen when I contacted a company to let them know that they mis-filled my order. It's too complicated to write but bottom line is after three rounds of shipping and returning the order still isn't correct. It has become a joke at our house. We're just waiting to see what the next shipment brings. Hope springs eternal.

I read blogs every morning and look forward to hearing what's happening in everyone's life. Sending my best to all.

Time Flies

2011-11-19T13:38:00.000-06:00

I could say not much happening in our world. I could say our world is very busy. Somewhere in between lies the truth. However, not much is exciting or interesting to readers.

On the other hand, we are VERY excited that I'm in physical therapy and doing great. I knew that walking was almost impossible if the "trip" was further than the mailbox. My first day in therapy was a shocker! My right knee would not straighten all the way and the left knee wasn't far behind the right. After just three therapy sessions (1 1/2 hour each) and many repetitions of on-my-own exercises I'm much improved! I'm scheduled to be in therapy twice a week until the second week in December and at that time I expect to be released. At the last therapy session (this past Thursday) I walked on the treadmill for just two minutes and the doctor stopped it. He told me that I need to further strengthen the tendon that holds my kneecap to prevent possible injury if I should trip. I have no illusions about running a marathon but I do want to play golf again.

The past three years has brought me to the conclusion that we experience much hardship in our younger years to make us strong enough for the winter of our life. I've said before and I'll say again, "Getting old is a rough road."

Now to move on to other things. The family is doing well. Keith still has some healing ahead before he's 100% but he's doing well. The grandsons are growing up and becoming more and more mature. I miss their babiness (is that a word?) but am proud of their progress. We certainly wish our other grandson and granddaughter were close so we could enjoy their progress. I'm one old lady who loves babies and children.

Harry and I haven't thought about travel since we went to Memphis for the reef trade show. He's been building electronic monitors for the tanks and I've been watching in awe. He buys lots of little thingies with different colored beads on long wires and little green boards with holes in them. Somehow he turns them into functioning electronic monitors. That's his world. I'm just a by-stander.

Is this the point that I can say I've managed to loose more than 50 pounds over the last 6 months? Well, I have. Can you say new clothes? WAAA-HOOO! Do you know how much I hate shopping? A LOT! Old lady clothes are a drag and young lady clothes are out of the question. In-between styles are just not me. That leaves jeans, tees, and athletic shoes. They are my comfort attire. I have no desire to be a fashionesta.

I haven't posted much for the past few months. I wish I would do better and will try. I do read blogs every morning with my first cup of coffee. I may not say much but you are in my thoughts every day and I wish you only the very best.

Until next time, thanks for remembering me.

No Title

2011-10-28T11:02:00.000-05:00

It's a rainy day in NE Aabama. Cool but not unplesant. Everyone here is doing better. Keith is getting stronger every day and everyone is releasing the tension we felt for several days.

I think I posted that Keith's path reports were good. God showed us mercy and allowed us to go forward with happy hearts.

I don't have anything much to write about so I thought that I'd attach this little ditty that I received in email this morning. You may have already seen it a hundred times but here it is anyway.

> APHORISM: A SHORT, POINTED SENTENCE THAT EXPRESSES A WISE OR CLEVER OBSERVATION OR A GENERAL TRUTH.
>
> 1. The nicest thing about the future is . . . that it always starts tomorrow.
>
> 2. Money will buy a fine dog, but only kindness will make him wag his tail.
>
> 3. If you don't have a sense of humor, you probably don't have any sense at all.
>
> 4. Seat belts are not as confining as wheelchairs.
>
> 5. A good time to keep your mouth shut is when you're in deep water.
>
> 6. How come it takes so little time for a child who is afraid of the dark to become a teenager who wants to stay out all night?
>
> 7. Business conventions are important. . .because they demonstrate how many people a company can operate without.
>
> 8. Why is it that at class reunions you feel younger than everyone else looks?
>
> 9. Scratch a cat . . . and you will have a permanent job.
>
> 10. No one has more driving ambition than the teenage boy who wants to buy a car.
>
> 11. There are no new sins; the old ones just get more publicity.
>
> 12. There are worse things than getting a call for a wrong number at 4 a.m. - like, it could be the right number.
>
> 13. No one ever says "It's only a game" when their team is winning.
>
> 14. I've reached the age where 'happy hour' is a nap.
>
> 15. Be careful about reading the fine print. . . . there's no way you're going to like it.
>
> 16. The trouble with bucket seats is that not everybody has the same size bucket.
>
> 17. Do you realize that, in about 40 years, we'll have thousands of old ladies running around with tattoos? > (And rap music will be the Golden Oldies!)
>
> 18. Money can't buy happiness -- but somehow it's more comfortable to cry in a Cadillac than in a Yugo.
>
> 19. After 60, if you don't wake up aching in every joint, you're probably dead.
>
> 20. Always be yourself because the people that matter don't mind . . . . and the ones that mind don't matter.
>
> 21. Life isn't tied with a bow . . . . . . . .. but it's still a gift.

Have a happy day.

Good News in Our World

2011-10-24T15:07:00.000-05:00

We really do appreciate the prayers that have been offered on behalf of our son Keith and his family. The pathology reports are back and we have been blessed with wonderful news. The cancer was successfully removed from his bladder along with a portion of the bladder's lining. The tumor was cancer but the margins were clear. The doctor told Keith that they would discuss future plans at the appointment on Tuesday.

Keith is doing pretty good given the procedure and stress. He came here yesterday for Sunday gathering but didn't stay very long. I don't think he understands that surgery is more than just the procedure. There's a recovery period from the stress and medical stuff.

I'm painting one of our bedrooms. It's my first big project in over two years. It's enjoyable to see the paint go up but I'm one tired old gal.

Later, my friends

Yesterday's Outcome

2011-10-20T10:13:00.000-05:00

Just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for the prayers. Keith came through the surgery very well. The surgeon said that from all visual appearances the growth wasn't a more aggressive type and probably not cause future issues. Of course the mass and tissue were it was attached were sent to pathology. The results will not be back until early next week. Keith is home, as comfortable as can be expected, and in good spirits. For now, the outcome is very good.

I had trouble getting to sleep last night. My mind just wouldn't shut down and every muscle in my body was ready to spring. I saw 3:22 a.m. on the clock. I woke up at around 9:30 and feel much better than I have for the past few days.

We are thankful for the outcome of the surgery and praying that the pathology reports are exactly as the surgeon expected.

Once again, thank you for caring and your prayers.

Another Crisis to Face

2011-10-17T12:35:00.000-05:00

The boys fall break was the week before Columbus Day and they took their parents to Panama City Beach for five days. Below is a picture Daddy took of Mommy and the boys. Left to right: James, Jesse, and Mary.

This is a pic Keith took yesterday of himself and Jesse. They built a camp fire in their fire pit and cooked lunch after church and before coming to our house.

Jesse is as tall as me (5'1") at nine years old. It's probably not unusual for a nine year old to be that tall. I just notice it because I'm short. Very few folks are short as me.

The news from our corner of the world isn't great. Keith is undergoing surgery on Wednesday of this week for cancer. We're all concerned and praying for a good outcome. Beyond that, we just have to leave it in the hands of a higher power. We would appreciate all thoughts/prayers for the best outcome possible. I'm pretty worried but doing well.

Since I really can't think of anything else to say, I'll sign off for now.

Moving Right Along

2011-10-10T20:19:00.000-05:00

Things have been busy here. Harry and I went to Memphis for a reef keepers shin-dig but not to Beal Street. Darn it all. He said it would be too much for me. Never mind the facts - I just wanted to listen to the blues.

I've been working towards re-doing the room that was left open (not empty) when Joe moved out. Progress is very slow - but progress is movement in the right direction. I'm concentrating on the closet right now. It has a new coat of paint (walls and trim), carpet removed, tack strip out (Harry did that for me), and toe moulding removed. I still have to paint the baseboards; clean old paint off the toe moulding and put a new finish on it; and clean the hardwood. Then I'll have an empty space ready for organizer, racks, and cubbies. For me, a closet is the hardest thing to re-do.

The boys and their parents went to the beach for fall break. Jesse came back with a bad case of swimmer's ear. Tomorrow he'll see the doctor and we'll go from there. Jesse just turned nine and Keith will turn eight at the end of the month. Jesse is tall as me now and James isn't far behind him. How time does fly!!! Everyone, please note that grandchildren seem to grow up much faster than your own kids. Take every opportunity to spend time with them,

Kitty has been such a good girl since her foray into the linen closet that I canceled the lump of coal.

Take care and enjoy every moment. My best to everyone.

NOT Just Another Day

2011-09-22T19:57:00.000-05:00

Last post was 9 August - It's already 22 Sep. Have I been silent that long? Yes, I guess I have. Just goes to prove that nothing - absolutely nothing - worth writing about ever happens in my world.

It's nothing earth shattering, but let me tell you about the kitty that is getting a lump of coal in her stocking this Christmas.

Night before last said kitty decided to sleep against my shoulder and half on my pillow. I woke up at 3:30 uncomfortable and aggravated. I got up, made coffee and began my day. (I've been making window coverings for one of our bedrooms.) Because I was wrapped up in my project and because I'm not at all opposed to leaving our bed unmade I didn't look at the bed until we were ready for bed. Yuck!! Cat hair all over my pillow and sheets. No way was I sleeping in that mess. I stripped the sheets and went to the linen closet for fresh sheets. That's when the drama began.

Now, I always thought that my linen closet was probably the neatest closet in the house. I proudly opened the door and reached in. Nothing looked the way it should. Not really, anyway. At a glance all was well but on closer inspection I realized that everything was pushed to the front of shelves. The sheets seemed to be in disarray at the back of shelves. Blankets were lumpy. You get the picture. The kitty-in-disgrace had been opening the door, climbing behind stacks of linen, and leaving copious cat hair behind. When one place was haired over she just moved to a clean place and repeated the process. At some point, she fluffed blankets, curled up on them, and added another layer of warmth. (I did have a set of clean king sheets in my donation stash because they are not a fit for our thick mattress. Just one of the things to be thankful for.)

I have to admit that since I've gotten lazy I have been stripping the bed when I get up, washing the bedding during the day, and putting it back on the bed before bedtime. No folding sheets. Good deal, huh?

Today I took everything out of the linen closet. Sorted all the sets, washed part of them, and readied a sizable donation of almost new sheet sets. I have way too many double bed sets and only one double bed. I'm keeping three sets and donating nine. The donations are ready to go. Tomorrow I wash, fold, and return the rest of my linen to the closet. I might add that Miss Kitty, will not be able to open the door in the future.

That was my day. How was yours?

Short Trip

2011-08-09T20:03:00.000-05:00

Finally something I can blog about!!!

Harry and I had a couple of trips planned. I became worried that I wouldn't "hold-up" to make the trips since I still have some residual issues. I told Harry about my concerns and we put our plans on hold until I felt more confident about travel.

On Wednesday, early afternoon, Harry turned from his computer and asked me why we didn't do a "trial run" to the coast. He thought we should leave on Saturday. I guess he didn't want to give me a chance to worry myself out of a short trip. Long story made short; we drove down to Ft Walton Beach, FL, on Saturday and came home on Monday. The trip worked out just fine. Harry told me that I did "real good" "better than (he) expected."

I did so enjoy getting away for a couple of days and seeing different scenery. Unfortunately, there was a wide band of algae on and in the water next to the beach. It wasn't an issue for us because we only intended to enjoy time watching the waves and relaxing. We also went to the Gulfarium and met several reef enthusiasts. The reef tank there was large and full of fish - not many coral -but hundreds of reef fish.

Of course, we left the cat at our house. Joe and Keith saw to the reef tank chores and made the cat feel loved. Kitty made her displeasure known by sleeping (and leaving kitty fur) in places that she knows she isn't allowed to be. At least she didn't throw up anywhere or ignore her litter box.

It was a good weekend for the old farts. We hope to travel more.

A big "HELLO" to all my blogging friends. Hope you are doing well.

An Update of Sorts

2011-07-22T11:50:00.000-05:00

It's been a long dry spell on my blog. I wish I could think of something to write about more often. Our routine doesn't change much. but I'll tell you about the few things that have happened.

One of our favorite young couples made the great leap into matrimony and we were there. Everything about the wedding was moving, unique and beyond lovely. The couple decided to have only a few family members and Harry and me attend. The groom didn't know where the ceremony was taking place until he was brought - blindfolded - to the site by his sister. The bride asked everyone to wear green because to them green is the color of new, healthy beginnings. The bride chose an unlikely spot for the wedding. The short version of her selected location is "a creek bank." What did a creek bank offer for this couple. When dating the two of them would fish here. It's where he first kissed her. It's where he told her that he loved her. It's where he proposed. Is that romantic or what? So, in the cool of a Friday morning Jason and Tammy were married in a lovely ceremony. We're so happy for them and honored to have been among the small group there to share their joy.

The James and Jesse have grown like weeds this summer. Jesse lacks about 1/2 inch being tall as me. James is well above my shoulders. Both swim like fishes and never miss a chance to do so. The boat is one of their favorite outings. It's lucky that the boat launch is only about two miles from their house. They will be 9 and 8 in October. Time flies!! All you new parents, grandparents and expectant grandparents take note - Grandkids grow up too fast. Don't miss a minute that you can spend with them.

We still have all the reef tanks and they are doing well. A few weeks ago Harry bought several (read - a bunch) new high-end coral colonies. One of the Knoxville, TN, reef club members decided to shut down his tanks. He was a long-time collector and had many unusual and/or rare corals that he'd raised. Harry was lucky to have the opportunity to buy all of one type of coral from his collection.

Joe, the son who was living with us, has moved to his own digs. There's still a lot of his "stuff" here but he keeps promising to clean it all out so I can get the bedroom he was using back into service. I'm beginning to think that's a pipedream. I know that he's busy but he should remember that his mother can get impatient after waiting for many weeks. I do have a solution. It's called the screened porch The screened porch might be followed by the Tuesday morning curb after a reasonable amount of time.

Speaking of the screened porch, we don't use it at all during these hot, humid months. Darn!!! It's so hot one can hardly breathe outside. Thank heavens for air conditioning! I'm looking forward to cooler weather. At least we've had some rain so nothing is in danger of dying.

OK, folks, that's the scoop from Old Fartville where gatherings are routine and smiles are welcome. Thanks for visiting.

School is Out and Summer is Here

2011-05-30T12:58:00.000-05:00

Harry and I are having a quiet Memorial Day. We two old farts are just cruising along with the flow. Sometimes a slow quiet day is a real smile maker. Whatever your plans are for today I hope you are safe, secure and happy.

I did a big happy dance when my Oncologist told me that he doesn't think another PET scan is indicated. That's one chore I won't have to fit into my schedule every six months. I'll still have blood work every six months for some time to come.

We had Taco Day at our gathering yesterday. Adults ate and complimented the cook (me). Kids chowed down!!! The meal was followed with root beer floats. I wanted to do something a bit different. I don't remember when we had tacos on the menu. James said it was a school's out celebration. Leftovers went home with the boys.

Jesse is still collecting Pokemon Cards. James is busy with his pogo stick. That little fellow can jump for what seems like hours. He reminds me of Tigger (from Poo) - just bounce, bounce, bounce. Both boys are starting to get involved with racing remote control cars. Their past two or three Saturdays have been spent at a local RC race track. They aren't actually racing yet but they are learning to control the cars. Did you know that those cars can do burn-outs? Did you know that the advanced racers have cars that can travel at up to 45 miles per hour? Nana and Papa are having a learning experience.

Well, that's about it from our sunny world. My best to everyone. Thanks for stopping by.

I Didn't Go to Jared's. .

2011-05-19T20:44:00.000-05:00

. . but I did go to Sam's Club today. What a trip! Harry was nice enough to go with me and help with the shopping. We had two - that's correct - TWO carts full. Most was paper products and cleaning stuff. Also other staples.   Except for milk, OJ, and eggs we can avoid the grocery for at least a month - maybe more.

The grand sons look forward to Papa's BBQ chicken. That's on the menu for Sunday gathering. All the local kids will be here. We always think of the two who live far, far away and wish they could be here, too. Last Sunday everyone came for a short visit but we didn't have a meal. I was preparing for my PET scan so we just played it cool.

Speaking of the PET scan, I was given a light injection of ativan (spelling??) because I'm claustrophobic.   I was given the same dosage as before but this time it wasn't enough. The minute my head went in "the tube" my heart started racing. Result: Stop the show and administer more ativan. Wow!! That drug laid me low. No racing heart - just peaceful sleep that lasted the rest of the day. Medical appointments can get real interesting.

Our oldest son, Joe, is finally at home in his new place. At least for the most part. There are things here that need to be packed and moved. We do miss him but we're happy for him. He's still teaching CISCO related classes. Joe is a good teacher but he surely has a complicated but boring subject to teach. He is perfectly comfortable with it, though.

The last day of school is May 25. The boys are excited! They have big plans that will keep the grownups busy. In a few weeks the growups will be praying for school to begin once more.   I plan to just roll with the flow. James is in a pogo stick frame of mind. Jesse hasn't made his focus known yet. I'm sure he will very soon. The boys are so grown up. Jesse (8 years old) is only about 1 inch shorter than me!

That's the news from Hooperville for now. Hope everyone is well and looking forward to the warm weeks ahead.

Bits and Pieces

2011-05-10T12:06:00.000-05:00

I can think of several things to write but not much about any one thing. Let's see if I can make this work.

Tornadoes, floods, earthquakes and various other catastrophes have taken over the spring of 2011. Not to mention wild fires and various other tragedies. In so many ways the flooding is the worst!!! It destroys everything a person owns and then leaves snakes, spiders and other vermin to threaten during clean-up. High water line has past Memphis but there a lot of folks downstream who still face the horror.

Tornado clean-up is progressing. FEMA started out strong but fizzled out after a couple of days. Local groups have come together to help neighbors dig out of the destruction. Our communities will heal, rebuild, and move forward.

In early spring we watched a robin trying to build a nest in our cherry tree. It must have been his/her first because there were construction related problems. He brought a long (at least 4 feet) piece of grass and tried to weave it through the other material. It was a partial success. There is a long strand of the grass hanging below the nest. The couple was a little later hatching their brood than some. (Another robin couple has already raised their babies.) The Cherry Tree couple has hatchlings that seem to be growing and doing well. I wonder if they will raise a second family during the summer.

James and Jesse are having a fun spring. There is a free running creek behind their house that attracts wildlife and gives them a place to fish. Currently they are watching an owl family. There are three young owls that are learning to fly. They fly in the late evening. A beaver has taken up residence (which may mean trouble down the road) and the boys are fascinated. Youngsters have a wonderful view of the world.

Harry is building a controller for the reef system. It will monitor the water conditions, temp, etc. Harry can monitor tank conditions from his computer from anywhere he happens to be. He started with what looked like about a thousand little electronics and a lot of knowledge about programming. He is testing the temperature and calcium readings now and will add other applications when he is satisfied with the current configuration. This is all well beyond my abilities to even explain.

That's all I have for now. All-in-all I have written a lot. Hope it isn't too much information at one time. Anyway, we are all doing well and beginning to settle in for the upcoming summer. Thanks for remembering me and stopping by.

The Latest Scoop From Here

2011-05-01T13:13:00.000-05:00

I’m sure everyone knows middle and north Alabama was victim to historic tornadoes last Wednesday (April 27). The warnings began around 2 AM and were constant until after 10 PM. It wasn’t unusual to have two or three warnings being tracked at the same time. While I haven’t read an official statement, reports that at least 4 tornadoes met the criteria for F4 and one F5. There were numerous others that were smaller but still destructive. There is no such thing as a little tornado!!! You’ve heard all the statistics and seen the videos so this is all I need to write about the storms. Bottom line – Much of North Alabama is in shambles as are many other areas from Tennessee to Virginia..

As for our little family, we are well. No damage worth mentioning. Everyone is safe. We’re just doing what everyone else is doing – trying to keep the necessities of life moving along with no electric power and most businesses unable to operate. We do have a generator that is keeping water circulation in our live reef tanks, running the refrigerator/freezer, and allowing Internet access. (The live reefs are a total of 700 gallons of water and a wide variety of tank raised live coral and fish. Without water circulation everything would die.)

I could write volumes about individual stories but those are online. Here are some things brought to our attention during the past few days:

1. If you open the storm door and leaves, flower petals, and seedpods, etc, blow into the room. It doesn’t matter – so what!! Just calm down and walk over them and be glad that you still have a floor. Leave the broom where it is! Just be careful to not trip on the heavy duty extension cords running to the generator.

2. Keep an extra full tank of propane or large bag of charcoal for your grill. That alone could make you the envy of your neighborhood. Share!!

3. Pier candles work best if you don’t have other light. A pier candle that is 2-3 inches across and no more than 6 inches high work better than regular candles. They can be set on an oven proof plate and placed in your bathtub or kitchen sink. At least you are fairly safe from fire and can walk safely around your house.

4. The little inexpensive solar yard lights make excellent night lights without an open flame. Of course you do have to take them outside to be sure they are charged – assuming you have a bit of sunlight.

5. If your dishwasher is sitting idle think about using it for a drying rack for those dishes you have to wash in the sink. Harry thought of this after seeing me draining dishes on the counter atop towels. This sure does keep a neater counter.

6. It's a good idea to fill your vehicle's gas tank when it reaches 3/4 full. Without power stations can't pump gas.

Most of all, we are reminded of how blessed we are. So many folks have real challenges ahead. We, on the other hand, have only minor inconveniences.

We appreciate the email from so many. I was able to respond to everyone this morning. If I missed anyone please know that we truly appreciate all concern, prayers, and happy thoughts. It's time for me to sign off with thanks to one and all.

Digger's Morning Routine

2011-03-27T15:07:00.000-05:00

Yesterday's post was a video of Digger building a house. He finished his abode and slept in it last night. This morning he's cleaning house. (Video below) This evening he'll go inside and pull sand over his door until morning. When he wakes up he'll begin the routine all over again. Can you relate? House cleaning is NEVER finished.

Digger's Construction Site

2011-03-26T23:44:00.000-05:00

I read blogs almost every day but seldom post my own blog. My life has become so routine that there's really nothing to write. I thought someone just might stop by who would find this little video a bit entertaining. The fish is my Gobbie who I named "Digger." In the video he is sifting sand and finding little pieces of rubble to build his house. You can watch as he finds a pebble and carries it to his construction site. The stack of rubble and shells is the house he's building. He sleeps in (under) it at night after he goes inside and closes the door.

Just Another Very Good Day

2011-03-06T22:01:00.002-06:00

After a few (very few) warm days we are back to winter. It was cold today. We'll have another freeze tonight just in time to nip the tender green buds on my early lilac tree. Someone told me that it's never truly spring until after Easter. We'll see how that works out.

I found a deal on Craig's List that I couldn't pass up - side chairs that are used but in good condition. I'll have to clean and wax the wood and clean the upholstery but they are still a bargain. The chairs haven't seen hard wear but have been stored for about three months. I'm really glad to have them to replace my kitchen chairs that are at least 25 years old. I hope someone else will give my old chairs TLC and bring them back into use.

Keith and the boys visited today but Mary was feeling sick and stayed home. Joe is fighting bronchitis (spelling??) and feels yucky. What an opportunity to have a hot dog feast!! I did make a salad but the rest of our meal was hot dogs - after all I was the only girl present. The little ones didn't pass up the salad but the big boys did. After the feast was over and all chins were wiped and hands rinsed, James came up to me and said, "Nana, Don't ever stare at an onion 'cause if you do you can't win." I looked at him and his eyes were red. I asked him why he was looking at the chopped onions and he said because he likes to smell onions. To him they smell like a picnic. You just never know what's going on in a child's mind.

I have a busy week ahead but I will try to check your blogs. Have a good week and do include time for yourself.

It's a Big Sunny Day

2011-03-02T11:36:00.001-06:00

Here I am, once again, sitting at my keyboard trying to post an interesting blog. Interesting ain't gonna happen folks. The biggest, most exciting thing I can report is that the sun is shinning and neither snow nor ice is falling.

I've been out of the loop for several days - or weeks - not because anything is wrong. Everyone is well and enjoying our various everyday routines. We are all waiting for spring to finally spring. It will be a welcome transition.

We did have a very welcome visit with my favorite nephew, Ricky. He wasn't able to stay very long but we were just happy for the time he could spend with us. Ricky, welcome back anytime.

Both karate warriors, James and Jesse, advanced one belt during the most recent testing. Jesse is now a green belt and James earned his orange. Not very high but still an accomplishment.

I do have something to share with everyone - please pass it on if you know anyone who might benefit from the info. If anyone you know is taking the cancer preventative drug, Femera, please tell them to visit the website (http://www.femera.com/). There is a coupon that offers up to $800 per year towards prescription payments for Femera. If you have private insurance that covers some of the cost, Femera will apply benefits to your co-pay. My 90 day prescription would be over $1400 if I had no insurance. My insurance and the support offered by Femera certainly makes this therapy possible. I hope this info helps someone - or many - in the battle to stay cancer free.

I wish I had the energy to pull together a garage sale. Fat chance!!! My best bet would be to open the front door and say, "Come on in and make me an offer." I've given a few of my needle work pieces to special folks - kids, relatives, and special people in my life - but it hardly made a dent in the "stuff" in this house. I have three complete sets of fine china and have no use for one. I've always enjoyed having folks in for whatever meal time it happened to be. The difference is now everything is strictly informal and very casual. Craigslist, here I come.

Time to get something done here. Until next time, take care.

Quiet Day and a Link

2011-01-30T11:21:00.000-06:00

Nothing new in our world. It will be a quiet Sunday in Old Fart Land. this is one of the few times that Gathering Day is not going to happen. Mary is not feeling well and Jesse is tired and has a low grade fever. We all need a quiet day to overcome the past couple of weeks. Everyone is going into his/her "hidey-hole" and spend time recouping.

Harry is just about over the effects of his surgery. He only had about four days of being sore and a bit out-of-sorts. I'm happy to report that's all past. We are ready to resume a somewhat normal (for us) routine after we have "quiet day."

Our son, Joe, forwarded the following site to me. Harry and I have enjoyed playing with it. I thought I'd attach a link for you. It took 20 or less questions to identify everyone I could think of. This genie's guesser is good! (I know that it's just a huge data base but it's still just a bit awesome.)
http://us.akinator.com/#

That's it for now. Let the lazy day officially begin. I hope each and everyone of you is having the day you'd most wish for.

Busy Times

2011-01-26T16:30:00.000-06:00

I haven't blogged for a few days - several to be sure. It's been a busy time here at the old farts' household.

Over this past weekend we attended a reef trade show near Nashville, Tennessee.   Anyone ever hear of Antioch, Tennessee? That's where the trade show was held.

We rushed home in order to get ready for Harry's surgery on Monday. Everything went just fine - fine for surgery, that is. The surgery did slow him down but he is feeling better this afternoon.

The two local grandsons were worried about what was going to happen to Papa. On Sunday afternoon they sat side by side in Papa's deck chair and questioned me about what was going to happen. They asked if they could come visit Papa on Tuesday. Of course they were welcome.

On Tuesday the Mary brought the boys by after school. They quickly saw that Papa was going to be OK. James, the youngest, asked what "they did with Papa's gallbladder." I told him that the doctor sent the gallbladder to the lab for testing to be sure nothing was wrong and that Papa didn't need more treatment. The tests were all OK.  With the most serious expression and the widest eyes James asked, "Are they going to put it back?"   I love children and their logic.   Bless their hearts, the boys were worried about Papa.

In case you noticed the picture change at the header of my blog . . . this is a different coral than the one pictured before. Color is about all they have in common.

Gotta get dinner out of the oven and move forward with our afternoon and evening.   Take care and visit soon. Thanks.

Good News and Happy Times

2011-01-15T13:33:00.000-06:00

It is still winter at our house. A warm-up with rain is due at the first of the week. If we believe the weather person the temps will be too warm to allow the rain to freeze. Time will tell.

I hadn't mentioned on the blog that I had to have yet another needle biopsy. There were a few tense days but it all ended well. The lump is benign and not at all apt to turn malignant. What a relief. I finally complained enough about feeling weak and tired all the time until my medical doctor decided the problem wasn't my cancer meds after all. He ran a long lists of tests and found that my thyroid was being really, really lazy. I'm now taking meds for that and feel like I can climb a mountain. I know that I can't but I really do feel good.

Schools here were dismissed all week. The kids made the most of the snow and enjoyed every minute. It is about to come to an end - and high time, I say. Jesse is bruised in several places (knees, elbows, and shins) from sled wrecks. He showed me one of his bruised knees. I asked what happened to make a big bruise. He said, "Well, the sled was going fast and I saw I was going to go airborne and land in the creek so I rolled off and hit a stump." I asked how he realized what was about to happen. He told me that the mother of one of the kids was riding a sled and did just that. She landed "way out in the creek among rocks." With that I just let the subject drop. Talk about parents setting examples. . .

I've begun reading again. I just finished "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo." There are two more books in the series but I think I'll skip them. The book started slow but built after the first chapters. All in all it's a fairly good book but just not my favorite genre. I'm not going to buy any more books until I get my Kindle. I believe it will be a good choice for me. I'll also get the light so I can read in bed and not disturb Harry. I love the idea. Once upon a lifetime (pre 2000) I read in bed every night. Also, the Kindle will make it easy for me to carry my book/s with me when we go to reef meetings/sales.

Time to fold up the ole blog and get on with something else. Later, my friends. Thanks for stopping by.

Winter in the South

2011-01-12T16:25:00.001-06:00

It is official. Global warming is gonna get us all. This morning when I woke up and looked outside what was the first thing that I saw? SNOW FALLING. Can you imagine that!! Having spent time in what some consider "Snow Country" it is no mystery to me. However, some folks who have never seen this snow stay on the ground this long are intimidated by it all.

I'm drinking my last cup of ginger tea. After the coffee pot is empty I turn to tea. My favorite is ginger. Trip to the "ginger tea store" is on the list for tomorrow. Truth be known, we wouldn't have to go to the grocery for another week.

The boys came for a little while today. They played in the snow all day yesterday. Jesse was eager to watch the snow-boarding competition and other sports TV. Mary took James to the golf course to ride the sled. He made a few runs down the long slope and was ready to come back inside. Their school is closed again tomorrow and they plan to spend part of the day here. I need the diversion and am looking forward to it.

When the snow fell it covered our bird feeders. Harry took a simple cardboard box lid out and set it on the snow in front the window where my computer sets. He filled it almost to the top with birdseed. I've really enjoyed watching the many birds come and go. A squirrel is also enjoying the feast.

Such is the state of our household in this winter wonderland. Have a cup of ginger tea and stay warm.

Our Street Dressed in Snow

2011-01-10T16:32:00.000-06:00

Snow on our street. Courtesy of Harry. I didn't want to get dressed because my fluffy pick jammies and fuzzy pink stripe socks are warm and comfy.

Winter Wonderland

2011-01-10T09:39:00.000-06:00

Snow??? Yes, a honest-to-goodness snow!!! Emergency weather reported 8 inches of snow. Harry thinks it's less here at our house and I believe he's correct. We are well prepared for staying home even though we don't have to. Main roads have been plowed. We would only have about three blocks of real snow/ice to drive over. Enough about the weather.

For a time I lost interest in reading but that has past. I'm making a priority list and deciding if I should to buy books, a Kindle, or rely on the library. The Huntsville Public Library is located on the other side of town. We do have a branch really close but it doesn't always work well for me. If I have a book held, the due date is 7 days with no renewal. That's because someone else has usually requested a hold. No time to really digest the book and re-read parts that are interesting/meaningful to me. I guess I am spoiled and cranky but I don't want to feel pressure attached to my leisure time.

Gathering day was fun. I baked a pork loin and had peas and corn. It was simple but no one went hungry. Afterwards some of us enjoyed an episode of Funniest Videos. Others - namely Uncle Joe (our oldest) and Jesse played a video game that captured Jesse's interest. Both little ones were excited because of the winter storm warning and the fact that school was cancelled for today. Pictures of sleding, snowmen, and snowball fights were dancing through their heads. They did not wake up to disappointment.

Time to wrap up this post and move along with the day. As usual, thanks for visiting. Ya'll come back, ya hear. Hope you are well and happy.

Morning Mail

2011-01-04T14:16:00.000-06:00

Here I again. Man, I'm gettin' good at this bloggin' thing. Not much to blog about but here I am anyway.

I'm sitting at my keyboard chuckling about my morning mail/deliveries. I received a Fit and Strong workout DVD for the over 60 crowd. About an hour later, Harry brought me my one piece of mail for the day - a Victoria's Secret catalog. Hmmmmm - Talk about two far ends of the spectrum this is it. Can't you just picture it: An old fart in a wild Victoria's Secret get-up, joints popping and creaking, flopping (I no longer jiggle) around while trying to keep up with the over 60 crowd DVD? Lordy, lordy ain't life grand!!!

I'm taking Harry out to eat this evening. He's been working on tank maintenance most of the day and I know he's tired. Remember we have a total of five saltwater tanks (total over 700 gallons). The tanks are pretty much "stand alone" (other than daily adding water to replace evaporation) but big maintenance days do come along on a regular basis. This was one of those. Do you think Outback would be a good choice. Yep, I do, too.

Cheryl, the coral in the header pic does look like a fluffy blanket. If you touch it, though, it retracts all the fluffy little polyps for a little while. Most corals will do that. I have three yellow corals and three purple/blue clams that set the theme for my tank.

It's time for me to think about moving on to a couple of things that I still need to do today and get ready to go out to dinner. Until later, take care.

Fiji Leather Coral and Floor Drains

2011-01-03T11:28:00.001-06:00

Hello to everyone. Once again I'm sitting at the keyboard trying to think of something worthy of a blog. I could blog about the state the house is in - messy, none too clean, and boarding on "just move out and leave it." That would only depress me and make me feel guilty. Not gonna do that. Let me think a minute more . . . .

The new picture at the top of my blog is the Fiji Yellow Leather coral which is the centerpiece in my salt water reef. It has at least doubled in size since Harry bought it for me in April, 2009. It has grown pretty fast for a coral. The color is accurate - a soft, fluffy yellow. That explains that.

At dinner yesterday, we (the gang) were talking about houses and what amenities we'd want in a new house. (or something to that effect). I declared that should I ever be fortunate enough to build another house there would be tile floors and a floor drain in every room with connection to water. Just think of being able to hook up a hose and spray floors clean. I think that would be neat - no mop and clean floors. Many years ago, when I was a teenager and living with my parents, we had a mud/pump house room with a floor drain . The drain had a screw on cap which completely closed the top. To clean the floor one just removed the cap, attached a hose with a spray nozzle to the laundry sink, turned on the water, and pointed the nozzle. A real quick squeegee, replace the cap, and move on with your day. I still think my dad had great ideas. Sometime I'll blog about his most wonderful (in my opinion) shop. It was truly unique.

I made a quick round of blogs and sat here for far too long. It is almost noon and I still am wearing my robe. Gotta get a move on. My best to everyone.

The New Year Begins

2011-01-01T13:36:00.000-06:00

We waved good bye to 2010 and filed our happy memories for reflection.   We are thankful that we have reached yet another new year. A year that promises many happy times and peaceful moments. Let the new year begin!

Harry and I have no set plans for the new year. For the most part, we'll just play the year as it comes. We do have a short trip planned to Nashville, TN, in mid January so there is that to think about. It's been two years since we had a real vacation. We've been attending to health issues here at home. I hope we can have a real vacation soon. Where?? No plans except that I'd still love to do the trip to Biltmore House and the slow leisurely drive up the east coast.   Time will tell if we can do that. We're also hoping that our out-of-town kids can visit this year. Fingers crossed for that to happen.

We're having a cloudy rainy New Year Day. The temps are predicted to dip to freezing early this evening. The weather gurus aren't predicting ice and I hope they are correct. Snow - in small doses - is OK but ice is certainly not a welcome event.

As you can probably see, nothing exciting is happening here. Just two old farts feeling thankful, enjoying being together this first day of 2011, and looking forward to the new year.

Thanks for stopping by. Visit again when you can. Our best to everyone.

Dreams of a White Christmas Came True

2010-12-26T11:57:00.000-06:00

It's the day after Christmas and all through the house
Everyone is resting and and quiet as a mouse -------

Everyone except kitty, that is. She doesn't understand snow. She wants different food. She wants attention. She doesn't know what she wants. Christmas was almost too much for her.

Our snow fall is a rare thing. It's almost a fantasy to expect snow on Christmas. This year we truly had a white Christmas complete with snow balls and a big snowman. Never mind that the snowman used almost all the snow in our front yard. Harry raided the fruit salad to complete Mr. Snowman's face. Below is a close up of his face. His grape eyes are a little deep set. His apple wedge nose is bright green. (It could have been red.) His lips are watermelon. A kitchen towel covered his frozen bald head. Isn't he unique and beautiful?

Jesse was inside warming up when Harry made this picture. (I stayed my chicken butt inside and observed from the windows!)

Jesse ran out without his coat for the picture opportunity. He didn't linger. Besides his loot was inside and needed attention.

Notice how much the boys have grown.   They are growning up fast.

Harry had his first BIG gall stone attack last night. Too much Christmas food, etc. I knew he was in real pain when he got dressed and waited on the sofa for the car to warm up for the ride to the hospital. Joe drove us because of the icy roads. We were in the emergency room 3.5 hours beginning at 11:55.   It was good to get home, be almost pain free, and get some much needed sleep.

We're having an easy quiet day with snow showers, freezing temps, and be thankful for all our blessings.

Merry Christmas to All

2010-12-25T11:02:00.001-06:00

Christmas is here. Dinner prep is in progress. Gifts are waiting the arrival of kids. Old folks are taking a minute to rest - not that we need to. For the first time in many years we have snow fall. It's snowing big flakes and lots of them. We have 2.5 inches on the ground now and more is on the way. (Harry made an "offical measurement" of the snow with a 50 cent Walmart ruler. We believe in cutting edge technology.)

We know snow is not welcomed by most of you, but for us the snow is dreamy - especially at Christmas.

Everyone here is doing well. We hope you are enjoying the best Christmas ever! Thanks for stopping by.

Below is a picture looking from our drive across to the golf course. We live in an older area that has above ground electric/phone/cable lines. The lines look messy but do their job.

Below are a pictures of the back yard

And last, my view when I sit on the screened porch to watch the snow fall

Title? What Title??

2010-12-10T11:17:00.003-06:00

The good news is the South is still sunny. The bad news is it is cold. It could be worse. We could have an ice storm topped with a foot of snow. Not much else to say about that.

James, the seven year old, has a bad case of strep throat. The other members of their household are being checked. Both Jesse and Mommy have sore throats. Keith (daddy) was not feeling well last evening. All that family needs is a long visit from the strep demon. Our youngest grandchild, Mav who lives in WI, is recovering from pneumonia and ear infections. Maddie, our little granddaughter who lives in AZ, was well when we last talked to her mommy. We love our little families and want them all to be well and happy. All four of the young ones are ready and waiting for Santa. (update: Mommy is just back from doctor and she also has strep.)

Christmas shopping is done. I have a couple of bake-to-give gifts to make. I'll do that closer to Christmas. I have a few Christmas things the boys have made over their few years. Those things are on the buffet and dropleaf table in the living room. That's our decorating this year. The kids have a big Christmas tree with no more room for ornaments. Harry and I will just enjoy theirs if we begin to feel Christmas tree deprived. I bought a new HO train set before
Jesse was born. My plan was to have a train running under our tree when the grandchildren were old enough to appreciate it. This year I faced reality and gave the train to Keith for their tree. (The reality is that Harry and I are more comfortable without a lot of "stuff" to put up and take down. We're old farts, you know.)

I know this is just dry mundane blogging. It's all I have. Maybe next time I'll have something exciting or newsy to write about.

Meantime, take care and know that I appreciate all my readers.

The Treat Cabinet is Alive and Well

2010-11-28T20:24:00.003-06:00

It's Sunday night and Thanksgiving is over. Everything is quiet in our little home. It's just the two old farts and their computers with the hum of the reef tanks in the background. In other words - normal.

Does anyone remember the "Treat Cabinet" that I put together a few years back? If not, here's the story. I decided to devote a lower kitchen cabinet to treats for the grandchildren. It wasn't just a bag of chips and a candy bar. I had a wide variety of stuff in there. M&Ms, Cheerios, gum drops, various crackers, Oreos, etc, etc. You get the idea. To little kids it looked like a real store display. The rules were: No treats until you have eaten your meal. If there's something that you don't think you like - try it anyway - two bites. You earn treats - no raiding the cabinet. Always ask an adult before opening the cabinet. Each kid was allowed to select his own treat.

Yes, I admit that at times I was lenient with the kids but only to a degree. My regular blogging friends were cool with my Treat Cabinet for the kids. However, there was a few who thought it was their obligation to God and country to let me know what a fool I am and how they would never allow their children to visit anyone who would, in effect, ruin a child's life with junk food. I was "put through the ringer" over the Treat Cabinet. Didn't change a thing at this house!!

I still have the Cabinet (it is well stocked) and the boys are fine! This evening they both ate a BIG salad, beef tenderloin, corn, baked veggies, Texas fries, yeast rolls and cherry pie. The Treat Cabinet didn't ruin their diet nor did it hurt their teeth - their teeth are perfect. They eat a wide variety of good food and they STILL select their treats. They are slim, fit, active kids.

I read a blog from a long time blogging friend that prompted me to write this blog. We live our lives, try to do the right thing, and just have to tell the naysayers to kiss-off.

This is post is written in a different tone that my usual entries. I've think that I've had a bur under my saddle over the Cabinet for a long time. There! I feel better.

Thanks for visiting. Visit again when you can

The Holidays are Beginning

2010-11-23T08:00:00.002-06:00

It has been a long time since I wrote here or anywhere for that matter. Sometimes life just doesn't allow the time nor mind set to write. However, here I am this dreary morning - sitting here with my fingers on the keyboard trying to write. Several things are tumbling through my head but nothing has really come together yet.

This is Thanksgiving week. I have so much to be thankful for - family, friends, a secure home, a loving spouse, and life itself. Our Thanksgiving dinner will be on Sunday. I'm doing the cooking and looking forward to the day. We'll have beef tenderloin, baked veggies, cream potatoes, and a couple of other dishes that I've not really decided on yet. Dessert will probably be home made apple pie. The reason Harry and I are having Thanksgiving dinner on Sunday is to give Thursday's dinner time to the in-laws. They don't "do" Christmas and so I claim Christmas for this home. It works for everyone involved. Give and take is the secret for a stress free life filled with harmony among the players.

The house across the street from us was on the market for almost a year. It was a beautiful house with the most beautiful woodwork that I've ever seen. It sat directly on the golf course beside one of the prettiest greens on the course. The problem was that it was a split level home and they just aren't popular these days - that and the price. Why am I telling you this? Because that house and lot have been my entertainment for almost three weeks. Someone bought the lot with the contingency that the house be moved. Watching a split level home be picked up and moved has been an experience. As I sit here, a crew is removing every tree from the lot. It's a hole in our community. Some of us are uneasy about what kind of house the new owners will build. There are community "rules" so it can't be too bad. New construction in an established community can meet the "rules" and still not be a fit. I keep telling my neighbor (she is worried) that everything will be just fine . . and it will be.

I'm still semi-house bound because of side effects from my medications. My oncologist did change my prescription from Arimidex to Femara. The change has been good - side effects are much less worrisome but still an issue. We are happy and coping very well. I have evaluations scheduled for late Dec/early Jan. The evaluations will be repeated in early summer. If all is still good, I'll be off this schedule and back to yearly check-ups. Even though I've had many pity parties and grunts I realize that I'm a lucky old woman. Not everyone with cancer has the care or outcome that I have had.

I think that I've run dry for now. I hope that I still have a reader or two, but we'll see. I check and read blogs every morning while I drink my coffee. I comment sometimes but - bad me - sometimes I don't. Even when I don't comment I think good thoughts for you and wish you happiness and health. Thanks for stopping by.

Things Are Lookin' Up

2010-10-18T14:23:00.003-05:00

Four weeks!! I can't believe that's it has been four weeks since I last posted. Whatever is the matter with me? Nothing new happenes here so I have nothing to write about.

I do have one thing to report. I started a new preventative med this morning. The med I was on for 10 months was making mobility almost impossible for me. I am moving better after two weeks off the original meds. The radiation burn may not be healed for months or even years but it is manageable.

I ventured to the fabric store this morning. They were having their "Bust Out Sale" so I decided to help them "bust out." I'm making the boys pajamas for winter. Sewing is something that I enjoy so I'm looking forward to a few days with the serger and sewing machine. I have several projects already in-house and hope I can work right through all of them.

I don't know if I have any readers left. I guess time will tell. Meantime I'm trying to get back in the mainstream and be more of a help to Harry than I have been for some time now. He's been a real trooper and deserves many good things.

For now, I'm off to begin sewing.

Tired but Happy

2010-09-18T17:21:00.003-05:00

Today was different. When we left home this morning my hair was in order, my face was painted, I was wearing my Ruby Road jeans and shirt and new Clark sandals. I came home with my hair messy, my face paint (makeup) worn out, my clothes wilted, and my butt dragging.

We drove about 125 miles to pick up coral that someone was selling. We were there less than two hours. Then we drove straight home. Seems that I always feel like I can move mountains. In reality I can't pick up the shovel. Whoever said that old age ain't for sissies surely knew the score.

OK, pity party over. Now let's have a fun rest of the weekend.

Village Idiot

2010-09-15T18:49:00.004-05:00

Yep, the village idiot - that's me! When Murphy comes to visit his law takes over. This afternoon old Murphy took control of me.

Harry had an appointment and errands so he left me to acclimate new livestock for the aquariums. I completed that job without incident and was feeling pretty proud on myself. Among other newbies for the tanks there was a coral that needed to be mounted to a small rock and placed in a tank. Gel super glue is the product of choice for this job. I went to Harry's stash of gel super glue and selected the smallest tube - didn't read the label. After all, we only use GEL super glue. (Why would we even have anything else?) I got everything lined up and ready to go then punctured the top. All is good at this point. I gave the tube a firm squeeze to push the gel out. That's when Murphy's Law took over. I had a tube of the really thin runny glue!! It was all over everything except the coral or rock which was the only two places it needed to be!! That glue made a royal mess - what?? OK, I made a royal mess - it wasn't the fault of the glue. I yelled and and fumed so much that the cat demanded to go outside. I'm glad that Harry wasn't home. All is well that ends well - the coral is happy, Harry missed Murphy, and I peeled super glue off my hands and from under my nails all afternoon.

Even village idiots get tired. This one is going to find cozy spot on the sofa and relax. If you see Murphy please don't mention my name. Thanks

The Pathway is Quiet These Days

2010-09-13T14:41:00.005-05:00

Just now when I opened my blog I had to re-login. There was a message from the blogger gods asking me to provide my cell phone number. I decided not to do that and had a problem logging on. Sometimes providing personal information - other than when it's my idea - is just too much.

Yesterday we began gathering day at Longhorn. After a good solid meal we returned here. The boys played football in the back yard. I watched from the window. Nanas need to be inside when the temp is above 90. Cool weather come on down!

Leaves on our huge tulip poplar tree are beginning to turn brown. It is always the first to recognize that fall is just around the corner. I'm happy to see the onset of fall this year. I haven't be able to do any work in the yard this summer and it shows. I'm expecting next summer to be different. There will be no fall flowers in our yard this year. Birds are beginning to migrate so I need to start filling the feeders with food for the winter crowd.

Also, I'd like to do a huge garage/estate sale this fall. The volume of "stuff" that I could put in a sale boggles the imagination. It's a lot of work but, if I continue to feel well, I will do it. I've considered putting everything we want to keep in two rooms and opening the rest of the house to folks interesting in shopping. The problem with that is controlling the number of people and dealing with the few who try to secret (steal) things out without paying. There's just no easy way is there?

Nothing new happening along the pathway. On that note I'll say thanks for stopping by. Visit again.

Labor Day Holiday

2010-09-07T13:53:00.026-05:00

Here we are - home again. We two old farts traveled a total of 1,434 miles over the Labor Day holiday. We drove to Orlando, FL, to attend the MACNA 2010 Conference. MACNA is the acronym for Marine Aquarium Societies of North America. It was held at the Marriott World resort and Convention Center. Below is a snapshot of one view from our room.

There were 135 vendors exhibiting their wares; 40 speakers holding informative small seminars over the three day period; and a huge raffle. No, the old farts didn't win. Below is a snap of the entrance to the vendor/exhibitor area. Friday night there was a buffet (yes, the food was tasty) and open bar which was well attended. Saturday night everyone enjoyed the dinner and awards presentations. The room was packed. Approximately 1,100 attended. I wish that I could have gotten a good video of the entertainment. I tried but the room was too dark. Both nights were funded by various vendors/associates. This is a pic taken from my seat at the banquet.

Harry and I took advantage of "free time" to do a bit of touristing on our own. We took a private airboat tour (along with Captain Kirk our pilot). We saw alligators, a wild bald eagle, and lots of birds. We enjoyed having an individual tell us about the area and answer our questions. I loved the speed!!

It has been years since we went to a dinner theatre. There were several to choose from. We decided on an Al Capone comedy. The food wasn't great but adequate. There was open bar all evening and the waiters were on the spot to serve. Both Harry and I enjoyed the evening.

In Winter Park, a little town adjoining Orlando there are canals joining several lakes. the canals are used by the locals to move from place to place. As you can guess, there is a tour (run by really senior citizens) through the canals. The tour guide was a native and chock full of information which he was glad to share.

Also in Winter Park we mosied around the central park. We had to chuckle at the sign below. Honestly those two little rocks were the only ones anywhere in the area. It's good to know that the city fathers have a sense of humour.

I worked over two hours trying to get this post organized then I quit. Tonight I worked another hour trying to get this posted. I moaned really loud and pushed back from the computer really fast. Harry heard me and asked if he could look at it. It took him less than three minutes to align and make the "vanishing paragraph" show up. He's my hero!!!

This is probably boring to everyone but to me the trip was a welcome time out of the cabin. My best to everyone.

Oh Happy Day

2010-08-28T10:12:00.003-05:00

For a change I don't have anything to whine about. My surgeon released me yesterday. It's been a long time since I didn't have to see him at least once a week. There is no open wound nor is there any infection. I have officially cleared the radiation hazard course. I am on to other things - AT LAST!

Harry and I are going to take a short trip over Labor Day. It's, in part, a celebration of freedom from the past year and half. We are traveling to Orlando, Florida. Nope, Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World are not on our agenda. (We've both been there - done that.) We are going to attend a conference being held at one of the many resorts there. We are also going to make a short trip to the little town of Winter Park. It's a little village just north of Orlando. Lots of quaint shops, antiques, art, and a lovely town square complete with gazebo. Good places to eat and at least three breweries. Slower pace - just right for old farts.

Our oldest son, Joe, will be here running the ranch while we're away. He only has 600 plus gallons of salt water aquariums and one spoiled cat to care for. It should be a breeze. He has run this ranch several times and is an experienced rancher.

I hope everyone is well. Let me know if you're still reading this blog. I've been away for extended periods over the past several months. Bad blogger me.

My best to everyone.

Good Intentions

2010-08-18T20:38:00.002-05:00

I tried to update my blog a wee bit. Why did I try? Heaven only knows! The whole effort didn't go very well. I intended to have the clam picture centered on the page. It didn't happen. I tried to move the picture OR the blog name to the left of the page. It didn't happen. Oh well, if nothing worse than this happens I'll have a good life. Maybe I can bribe Harry to work on the layout.

The picture is of my live Maxima Clam. I have a couple of other clams but this is the largest and most colorful of the three.

My problem with the radiation burn seems to be healing. I've been seeing my doctor every 5 days for a while now. It's been an ordeal but we can see the end in sight. A lot of credit goes to my private nurse. His name is Harry and he's the best.

This past Sunday''s gathering was like old times. I cooked a full meal, everyone ate, the boys played, the old folks watched golf and talked. We really enjoy gathering days. The only thing that would make it better is if Judy, Buddy, and their families could be here with us. Maybe someday . . . .

I hope I can/will keep my blog more active now that I'm feeling better. Until later, my friends, take care.

An Old Woman Reports In

2010-08-10T14:56:00.003-05:00

I've been absent from the blogging scene so long that I'm fairly sure everyone moved on without me. For what seems like weeks my days have been the same routine. I developed an abscess in the radiation scar that resulted from the deep radiation burn I received during radiation therapy. This is a royal mess!! My dressing has to be changed two times every day. There isn't a lot of pain but there is a whole wagon load of discomfort.

There was a few minutes of excitement in our kitchen this afternoon. I got ice from the dispenser on the frig and it wouldn't cut off. There was a regular hail storm in our kitchen. Harry and I were scootin' around trying to cut the darn thing off. Harry finally disconnected the motor and I swept up the ice cubes. I'm sure there is something else in this house that can develop a problem but for the life of me I can't imagine what it will be.

This is a lame post but it does demonstrate how quiet my life has been for several weeks. I continue to read along on your blogs and sometimes comment. If I don't it doesn't mean that you are forgotten. I value my blogging friends.

The Handsome Prince Was Out Of Town

2010-07-19T11:57:00.008-05:00

Here I am. I didn't disappear. It has been a no news, nothing happening time for this old fart.

An update on our little vegetarian (ref: prior post). It's all over. Salad is good but it gets old after a couple of days. Yesterday James ate a big ham slice and a chicken tender. The boys' eating habits are back to normal.

I don't believe I posted that the boys and their dad built a frog habitat in their back yard. For some reason they think it is a good idea. Saturday evening/night their family visited their friends who live near a large spring/pond. Bottom line: The activity for the evening was to go to the water and catch frogs for the habitat - bull frogs, that is. Picture this. Daddy's friend, Mike, pulling an inflatable boat/raft with James, Jesse, and his 13 year old daughter across the pond. Mike is wearing waders and boots. His job is to catch the frogs and pass them to the kids in the boat. Keith's job is to "spot" the frogs with a flashlight so Mike can catch them. Mary and Janise, Mike's wife, were on the other side of the pond making noise (laughing like teenagers) to make the frogs go to the quiet side of the pond. (I wasn't there but this is the picture Mary and the boys painted in my mind. I think it's pretty accurate.) Anyway they caught some BIG frogs.

I think the pictures will tell the story. Note that The 13 year old kissed her frog and the frog didn't have the decency to turn into a handsome prince. I couldn't get the pics to show in the order that I wanted to. You'll just have to read the above paragraph and figure it out. Sorry about that.

Bringing My Life Up-To-Date

2010-07-02T14:27:00.003-05:00

Anything new since my last post? Not a lot. Well, maybe a little bit.

My biopsy came back good. No cancer. Now that's big!! We can breathe easy for three more months.

I finally bit the bullet and bought myself a little point and shot camera. Now I can "shoot" to my heart's content without being afraid that I'll break something on Harry's fancy-smancy DSL with all the lenses. He never complained but I would really feel bad if I damaged his camera. I bought a Sony Cyber-Shot because it was on sale and looked simple. Then I read the User's Handbook. Simple??? Hmmmmm. It's this way, if I should happen to break this camera, it won't be a big loss.

Last week our 6 year-old grandson, James, decided that he was going to be a vegetarian. He came to that decision after watching a cooking show about cooking quail and/or dove. It was shocking to learn that we eat birds. Chickens, beef, and pork (any meat) are all off limits in James' mind. Anyway, last Sunday he announced that he no longer eats meat of any kind. The roast beef was no longer part of his diet. We all smiled, though, when he announced that he'd like gravy on his potatoes.

This Sunday Harry is cooking chicken and Boston butt on the grill. James has decided that he can eat his "special piece" of chicken that Papa always cooks for him. Somehow that won't violate his new lifestyle. The rest of us will just bare our teeth and dig in. Now that I have a "simple" cheap camera maybe I'll remember to take pics to share.

There are several projects coming together in my mind and I have one in progress. Progress has been on hold due to the biopsy and the record setting hot weather. Next week is a new week - we'll see what happens then.

Here's wishing everyone a wonderful July 4th. Be safe, have fun, and don't eat too much.

An Uneventful Life

2010-06-22T19:25:00.002-05:00

Last post = June 3. Hmmmm - what has happened since June 3?

1. Kitty has her first grey whisker.

2. James and Jesse are growing like weeds.

3. Both Harry and I talked to our youngest grandson, Maverick. He called to tell Harry "Happy Father's Day" He was coloring a picture "Booo" and Red. When I asked if it was a pretty picture he held the phone over the picture for me to see.

4. We have had lots of rain and now it has gotten HOT. Temp is 97 with high humidity and not a leaf is moving. We are at dead calm - no breeze. Even the birds are panting.

5. We still have chipmunks. Cute little fuzzy creatures but I wish they lived somewhere else.

6. Still no vacation plans. We did, however, spend the weekend in Knoxville, Tn, at a reefers sale and swap. You do understand that our reefs are coral reefs?

7. I have another biopsy tomorrow. This one is just a precautionary measure. We don't expect much more than an 'owie' that will heal in a couple of days.

I wish I had something exciting and fun to write about but I don't. On the other hand, I'm glad I don't have anything bad to write about either. It's time for me to quit rambling and move along. Tomorrow is a busy day.

More of the Same & the Same Ain't Bad

2010-06-03T15:38:00.003-05:00

Long time - no blog. I have good intentions but every day seems to use me up before I make it to my blog. I'd rather use my computer time reading/commenting on your blogs than trying to write. When one day is pretty much like the one before and you expect the same day again tomorrow there isn't much to say. Have you seen the movie Groundhog Day? Well my life is pretty much like that but without the excitement. Bill Murray, I ain't.

My tomorrow night will be a change - James and Jesse are coming for a sleep over. I asked for dinner suggestions. Jesse asked for pizza and James wants Kraft Mac & Cheese. Dinner will be interesting to say the least. They are planning the activities so all I have to do is follow. On sleepover nights (haven't had one in a long, long time) we have no bedtime/wake up schedule. Breakfast will be Nana Pancakes and bacon.

We haven't planned a vacation yet. The Gulf coast is probably out because of the oil spill. If we want to be on the water this summer it will be a lake - maybe in a state park. A mountain stream sounds good to me. I'd love to go to San Diego but that would be a gigantic undertaking for me. Time will tell. Maybe we'll just stay home. Home isn't a bad place to be.

This is "pay the bills" night - Harry is cooking dinner - our routine is on track. It's a good life for old farts. Thanks for remembering me.

Life and Stuff Like That

2010-05-13T14:34:00.003-05:00

It's been awhile. Sorry about that. Life got in the way. Here's some of my life for the past several days.

The dietary supplement directed by my nutritionist tastes OK. However, it took a few days to adjust to the change. I'd rather have cream potatoes and gravy but such is life.

I managed to do a little bit of yard work but not nearly as much as needs to be done. The unfinished part is in the back yard so it isn't seen from the street. We can live with it.

One of the young men from our reef club put a new roof on the screened porch. (For a price, of course.) The old roof was translucent - the new roof isn't. I like the new roof much better.

Chipmunks are running rampant in this neighborhood. Yes, they're cute. Cute only goes so far when the little stinkers are digging up the plants you just put in the ground. The man who lives behind us tries to trap them in a live trap but so far has only caught birds. I need to suggest that he put his traps under shrubs not in the open part of his lawn. We catch then release a few miles away in a preservation area.

Mother's day was a success. Harry grilled and I did nothing. The local kids were here. Harry grilled "special pieces" for each little one. (Special pieces are large breast pieces.) To say they ate well just doesn't describe what the boys did to their special chicken. They gobbled it up along with salad. I love to watch them eat.

On Mother's Day Judy (our daughter who lives in Phoenix) called to say happy Mother's Day and tell us that we have another grandchild on the way. Tragedy struck. She lost the baby. It was early in the pregnancy but, never the less, we are all very sad. Her doctor assured her that she could try again in a few months. It's little consolation right now. Our house has a hush over it. . . sort of like a weight dropped on us. Time will heal and we'll continue on.

Now, everyone who is interested is up-to-date. Anyone else left reading is bored. I'll close for now and try to be back soon. Sending hugs and wishes for happy times to my blogging friends.

"Coffee Break"

2010-05-04T06:42:00.005-05:00

Sharing my thoughts along with my morning coffee.

Yesterday I had my meeting with my oncologist. My PET scan was clear. His words: "No sign of cancer." Instructions: Continue medications - next round of testing in six months.

Terrible weather all around us. Tornados on the ground from Albertville to Fort Payne, AL. That's about an hour southeast of us. Flooding in the Shoals about an hour to our west. Nashville downtown devastated by flooding. The Tennessee River (about 3.5 miles from us) is out of banks and the "landing" is flooded.

In our little corner of the world there's no weather damage. The birds are singing. The grass is growing. The flowers are blooming. We have so much to be thankful for.

Our youngest grandchild, Mav, who now lives far away is now two years old. We wish we could have him (and his mommy and daddy) here to play and eat on gathering days. We miss you lots of lots.

Our cat is laying in the backyard watching two chipmunks play. She is interested in everything but all wildlife is safe with her. Her mantra is "Live and let live."

The morning sun is shinning through the trees, the house is a monumental mess, the yard needs work, both cars are in need of cleaning, and I'm cancer free (at least for now). All is good.

Sorry for the disjointed post but that's just how it is with me this morning. I wish you well.

Pet Scan and Atavan

2010-04-29T13:09:00.003-05:00

This morning was PET scan day. Oncologist will give me the results this coming Monday. They use Atavan as their "I don't give a hoot" medication. I really don't give a hoot!! I'm going to bed. See Ya later.

Danger - Grasshopper Mind at Work

2010-04-27T13:31:00.003-05:00

It's been a while since I wrote. I've worked in the garden borders every day. Not long at a time, mind you, but long enough to use me up for each day. I'm so close to the end that I can see it from here. Whew - what a job for an old woman.

Yesterday Harry caught me moving rock with the wheelbarrow. He explained to me, in no uncertain terms, that HE would move rocks. I really wasn't overdoing and the rocks were small but he put the wheelbarrow away. I'll have him finish that job in a day or two. I bought most of the final plants today. Everything I buy is permanent. If I can carry this through, future maintenance on the borders will be very easy.

Soul, Joe is fishing - for the most part - in the creek that runs behind Keith's house. (The creek empties into the Tennessee River about three miles south.) He catches some pretty big bass and (he says) giant blue gill. (Blue Gill aren't his target.) The bass are beginning to bite again. For a while they were "on bed" and wouldn't show interest. Jesse has reserved the right to teach me to fish after school is out. That will be something to see!!! I'll be a good sport and try to learn.

It's cool and windy here today. I'm not working outside because the wind makes it feel cold. We were spared damage from the terrible storms that did so much damage in LA, MS, and AL. One never knows, though, when a tornado could hit here. We're in tornado country.

The lilac just outside the window in front of my computer is in bloom. I love the fragrance of lilacs. Isn't that an old woman thing? Someone told me that it is. I enjoy lavender, too, and have it in my garden.

My grasshopper mind is jumping around. Sorry about that. More later. Meantime, take care and visit me again. Thanks for stopping by.

2010-04-18T16:01:00.004-05:00

First things first. This is Mr. Gump in the container ready to depart for his new home. He is a serpent star. They have long legs and a round body. Not like the starfish shells you see in souvenir shops. I was late getting a pic so this is the best I could do. I did measure one of his legs a couple of weeks ago - 21 inches. He couldn't really stretch all the way out because with five legs his diameter would have been (21"+21"+3" (his body)) 45". That's a rough measure but, in any case, he was just too large for our tanks. He will have a far better life at Wetlands Edge. We appreciate them for accepting him.

I can't begin to tell you how impressed I am with this facility. I only wish that every school system could support a class room like this. Instructor Marc Slate teaches classes from K-12 with subject matter designed to the level of each class. Various research projects are also conducted here by local college students and, I'm sure, others. In addition to the classrooms and labs (where we held our meeting) there are diverse ecosystems included in this environmental facility. The web site is: www.weec.dcs.edu if you'd like to visit it.

I'm posting a video of just a few pictures we made at the center. Marc's lecture was really interesting and the children were still and listening. That speaks volumes to me! I don't know when I've ever listened to someone who could keep the attention of adults AND young children.

Week-End Plans

2010-04-16T14:13:00.004-05:00

I can't be sure but I believe my blog header is in malfunction mode. It seems to go from the unbalanced pic (which I've never fixed) to all black. Oh well, if nothing worse than this happens it'll be a good life. I'll check on this little issue another time.

We have a new - central heat/air conditioning system. Expensive but necessary. So far we really are happy with both the unit and the company we bought from. Because of the reef tanks, we tended to have high humidity in the house. This problem had been resolved by a free standing humidifier. We've moved up a notch. There is a dehumidifying system incorporated into the new unit. We're ready for the upcoming hot, humid weather. . . I hope!

Tomorrow we are going to a reef club meeting. James and Jesse are going with us. It will be a new experience for the boys. After the meeting we'll eat out at a "big restaurant." (As the boys call anything other than fast food places.)

The meeting is being held at a place called "Wetlands' Edge" which is a complement to the public education system in the county adjoining ours. Wetlands' has been gracious in allowing our club to meet in their big building (which is a hands-on class room) featuring both fresh and salt water and swamp inhabitants. There are several "hands-on" displays for kids and aquariums with many, many unusual creatures. They also have a large nature trail but I don't think we'll go out there. High school students from area schools conduct various research projects here - some are pretty complex. It's an interesting place and an honor to be allowed to hold the meeting there.

We have a HUGE green brittle star fish named Forrest Gump. Forrest has grown much too large for our reef tank. We intend to take him to contribute to the Wetlands' large indoor salt water pool. Other reef club members are encouraged to take contributions from their systems to the facility.

I'll try to take pics to post if they allow picture taking in the building. I don't know why it wouldn't be allowed, but you never know.

Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate your company. Until later, take care.

Kitty is Waiting for FedEx

2010-04-07T13:41:00.004-05:00

It's official - Our central unit died. It didn't just die a little bit. It died all the way! A new one will be installed this Friday. It was a shock to the ole check book but what-cha-gonna-do? All is well that ends well.

Our cat absolutely loves cardboard. She won't sleep in a kitty bed but just give her a plain old box and she's in business. Here she is just outside the sunroom door waiting for the FedEx pickup.

As you can tell. there's nothing exciting happening here.

2010-04-05T11:02:00.002-05:00

This is a sorry excuse for a video of yesterday's egg hunt/football game. We had seven kids, parents, and visitors. The kids were very excited. I was so proud to see that the older ones helped the younger kids. Even the youngest was included in the football game. Our backyard was alive with the voices, laughs, and shouts of happy children, proud fathers, and a very happy Papa. Moms and Nana retreated to the comfort of soft seats and good conversation complete with funny kid stories.

NOTE: The "football game" is a version made up by Keith. They use a soft football and the playing field is small. No one gets tackled or hit.

Harry grilled steaks, Mary made the salad and veggies, I baked potatoes and rolls. Joe cleaned the kitchen and loaded the dishwasher. I was on vacation.

Today is another matter. Lots to do and I'm too lazy to move. Gotta force myself into action.

Easter Plans and Wishes

2010-04-03T19:03:00.002-05:00

Saturday evening and still much to be done. Tomorrow promises to be a busy, fun day. The Easter Bunny will scatter 106 eggs all around our yard. After everyone eats the children will try to find them. There will be seven kids from 7 to 4. Four boys and three girls. I made a personalized bag for each child so they can keep up with the eggs they find. By the time dinner is over, all the eggs found, and leftovers stored away the old farts will be ready for bed. Let me hasten to say that the old farts are the ones who planned this gala.

We wish every one a blessed Easter complete with peace and contentment.

. . And That's When the Fight Started

2010-03-30T14:45:00.003-05:00

My choice for today is to either blog or work on my blog format. No mystery as to my choice.

A few days ago I made the command decision to spread the last of the winter black oil sunflower seeds on the ground outside the window. My idea was to clean up the winter seeds and watch the birds, squirrels, and chipmunks clean them up. They have been having a feast with no bickering. Everyone ate together in peace. The seeds are almost gone - only an occasional one can be found. This morning the squirrel with the white spot on its ear was searching for 'left-overs' when another squirrel slipped up and began hunting seeds, too. That's when the fight began. I didn't know that those varmints are vicious. They ran through the trees, shrubs, onto the shed roof, and all over the yard. White Spot won the battle, the war, and the spoils of war. Doesn't take much to entertain me.

That's the high point of my day. Now on to today's cooking adventure. It's hamburger and the trimmings at Old Fart's House this evening. Tonight is "Lost" night and I want all my chores done before it starts. Last night was "Saving Grace" night. Both these shows are in their last season. When they are over I hope I don't get hooked on whatever follows.

Hope everyone is well and happy today.

2010-03-28T14:25:00.004-05:00

I really wanted to work on my blog format but it ain't gonna happen today and maybe not tomorrow either.

One of the side effects of my meds is that they can make me light headed at times. Errr-that's MORE light headed that my normal self. This morning it happened. I was bringing cups of coffee for Harry and myself when the room took a spin and I lost my balance. I knew what was happening so I relaxed my knees and sunk to the floor. On the way down I gave the large ficus tree a good shake and landed with my hands and both cups of coffee in an empty cardboard box. No coffee hit the floor, the tree only lost a few leaves, and Harry's coffee cup was still over half full. It scared Harry half to death. I was afraid that he was going to have a heart attack for real!! Managing my fall by sinking to the floor kept me from being injured. I may (or not) develop a bruise on my arm where it came in contact with the container housing the tree. I guess I could develop soreness but as of now I don't feel like I will. Hey! Notice that I didn't make a big mess with broken cups and spilled coffee. It was a neat fall - no mess to clean up. After everything settled down Harry said, "I knew it wasn't going to be a good outcome when I saw the tree pushing the table and the table pushing the boxes."

Sunday Gathering Day will be fun. we'll have something to talk and laugh about. Harry and I already had a good laugh. The salad is made, chicken breast and thighs are in the oven, green beans and corn are ready to finish shortly. Dessert will have to be ice cream and cookies today. The kids will love that and the old folks can make do.

We usually watch or at least keep up with the Sunday NASCAR race. It's a bummer when the race is delayed due to weather. Yep, we're rednecks.

Oven is buzzing - gotta go. Hope everyone is having a good day. No time to re-read. Hope there aren't too many errors.

Nothing

2010-03-26T14:43:00.002-05:00

Surprise, surprise! I started the "upgrade the look of my blog" initiative. This is as far as I got - maybe I'll do more later. I don't like the big blank space at top right.

I've been sitting here staring at my monitor with absolutely nothing worth blogging about coming to mind. We really lead dull lives here in Old Fart Land. Perhaps I should just say "Hello, friend." and try again later. Yep. That's what I'm gonna do.

Story With a Moral

2010-03-25T13:03:00.010-05:00

. . . . And the moral of that story is: Be sure the television remote is on the bedside table BEFORE you strip the sheets for laundering. All is well that ends well and that's all I'm going to say about that. Make your own story.

Harry bought a new baby clam for my reef tank. It was delivered yesterday. It is tiny - about 1.75 inches wide. He ordered it from what we believed to be a very reputable supplier. The clam is healthy and pretty BUT it isn't the one he ordered. He ordered a Maxima clam with green, blue, and yellow in it's mantle. The one we received is brown and white stripped. Below is a picture of the new baby in front of the mature Maxima clam. In the very foreground is a conch.

Just to show off the mature Maxima's colors here is a picture.
I would tell you that we're having a rainy, gloomy, windy day but that would just be "same story - different day." Which one of these politicians hid our sunshine? We have to blame somebody - it might as well be a politician.

On that note I'm going to check on the pot roast. Thanks for stopping by.

Circle of Friends Award

2010-03-24T20:01:00.002-05:00

I received a really sweet award from Soul. Thank you so very much. It's truly an honor to be among your "Circle of Friends."

I tried to post a picture of the award in this post but I failed. I did manage to get it into the left margin. Go figure!! I'm certainly computer challenged.

Anyway, to make a long story short I'm posting a list of five MORE things that make me happy.

1. Birds singing.
2. My marine reef aquarium and my live coral, fish, and clams.
3. A well stocked pantry.
4. The sound of water running in a brook.
5. And I have to repeat: My family and friends.

Rules. There's always rules, you know.
Pass this along to other bloggers who make you smile.

Award.

2010-03-19T13:28:00.006-05:00

Smoocha sent this award to me. Thank you for thinking of me.

Here are the rules for this award:

1. When you receive this award you must thank the person that awarded you in a new post.

2. Name 10 things that make you happy.

3. Pass this award to other bloggers who make you happy.

TEN THINGS THAT MAKE ME HAPPY

1. Having a husband who loves me.

2. Sunday Gathering Days when we are all together and enjoying the afternoon.

3. The beach when the waves are wild and the sun is warm.

4. Reading a good book and almost losing myself in the story.

5. Unexpected (or expected) phone calls from friends.

6. Watching children play and listening to their perception of the world.

7. The quiet peace during snowfall in the mountains.

8. A full pantry makes me both happy and thankful.

9. Having electric and electronic equipment that works the way it should.

And last but certainly the thing that makes me most happy is:

10. Being cancer free and having family, friends, and a medical team who supported and encouraged me when the news wasn't so good. Yes, I'm thankful God gave me heros!!

I'm passing on the award to the following:

Cheryl
Little Dynamite
Soul

Not Much of Nuttin'

2010-03-19T12:53:00.004-05:00

I know everyone thinks that every day of the week is the same to folks who are retired. I still look forward to Friday. Habit? Probably. On that note TGIF!!!

The really large grocery closest to our house is closing and is having discount sales (40%) this week. We also had a coupon good for an additional 10%. I just came home from a sashay through every aisle of that store! I had a basket full of paper products, soaps, detergents, etc. All this to say that my knees, hip, and back are mad at me. I hurt everywhere!!

Today is our first day of real, honest-to-goodness sunshine in weeks. I think we'll have rain over the weekend but today is a "big sun shiny day." Looking out the window in front of my desk I see buds forming on my lilac shrub and the contorted hazel bush. Yeah, folks, I see spring!

As you can tell from reading the above there isn't a l9t happening in our world. Noting interesting to write about. On that note I'll say "adios until next time."

Spring Break

2010-03-15T15:09:00.005-05:00

It's Spring Break week here and the kids are looking forward to all sorts of "special treats." Short trips, special play dates, eating in "big" restaurants, and much more is on their agenda. No worries with this. When, in a few years, trips with friends get into the mix will be time enough to be concerned. /<

Spring is trying to peek through the dreariness of winter. It can't get here soon enough to suit me. Old Man Winter was in a terrible mood - the worst since I moved to North Alabama many years ago. There is a blessing from the winter though. It brought enough rain to end our deep drought.
We have a large screened porch that has mostly been used to store birdseed and outside toys through the winter. A chipmunk, mouse, or squirrel has found a way to get in the porch and has torn into the birdseed. My son has a live trap so I borrowed it to catch the varmint. It's been three days and no luck yet. A neighbor suggested that I put poison out there because pets have no access to the porch but I don't want to do that. I'd rather catch the varmint and release it in the Green Mountain Wildlife area. When we catch it I believe we'll find that it is a chipmunk. I don't want to kill it.

Time to get started on dinner - Harry and I are old folks and old folks eat early. None of this "Dinner at Eight" business for us. Until later. Thanks for visiting with me.

Darn Spam!!

2010-03-14T23:06:00.004-05:00

I had not looked at my blog for a couple of weeks and wasn't aware that spam was being posted here. I deleted all I found and have blocked "Anonymous" comments. At least I think I have - We all know that I'm computer challenged. I hope this won't prevent real comments.

Things in my world are almost back to normal. Everyone is doing well and settled into a routine. As usual there is no news here. I read a few posts every morning while I drink my coffee and sometimes comment. I miss hearing from my blogging friends and hope to get back to regular blogging this week.

Blogging Rest

2010-02-12T23:50:00.003-06:00

Weather man says 80% chance of snow Sunday night into Monday. Imagine that!!!! I hope it snows enough to cover our mailbox. Maybe then Mother Nature will get this stuff out of her system.

I'm taking a blogging rest. I never know much to write and I'm soooo far behind with housework. I'm sure I'll be reading and commenting. My best to all.

Snow, NASCAR, and Old Folks

2010-02-12T12:26:00.003-06:00

It's snowing along my pathway. Not a blizzard - just a slow gentle snow. I'm watching the holly trees and evergreen trees begin to build a white frosting. If we have snow it's good that it happens on a long weekend. Time for the kids to enjoy playing in the snow. Time for adults to do whatever they do when snow slows our lives. As for me, I intend to breathe deeply and just enjoy watching the snow fall. We have everything we need right here at home so no stress. The positive slant on this cold weather, for me, is that there should be fewer insects this summer. (Doing a happy dance)

I sound really calm about the weather but believe me - I've spent my time grounded by blizzards that lasted for days and dealt with snow on the ground from Christmas to Easter. My sympathies are with those of you who are facing these unbelievable storms. I'd be almost panic stricken if I had to live through it again.

This is Daytona 500 weekend and everything in this house is focused towards various related events. If weather delays the events Harry will really be disappointed. He's ready!!! Valentine Day will be a wash in this house - darn it. Choosing between the Daytona 500 and his valentine (me) is a no brainer to Harry. It's OK - I won't have a melt down.

As usual, there's nothing exciting to write about. We just rock along with the same-old same-old here in our world. Stay warm and cozy this weekend. Maybe the weather will begin to moderate soon.

Update During a Blah Day

2010-02-06T16:17:00.003-06:00

Just a short follow-on to yesterday's post. The 14 year old who was shot in the back of the head by another 9th grade student did not survive. I also said that Discovery Middle School is in Huntsville - correction it is actually in Madison. The two towns are joining and I never remember where the names change.

We have had gray, rainy, windy, cold weather for days and DAYS!! If I don't see some sunshine soon I just may scream. We haven't been crippled by ice and snow - I am thankful for that. I really feel for those who have been through blizzards and ice storms this winter.

NASCAR begins this weekend. Harry is actually watching an ARCA race at Daytona right now. Bud Shot Out begins around 7 CST. This Sunday is the Super Bowl and next Sunday is the Daytona 500. The kids and Harry are all excited. I guess I am too - just a bit less than they are. Both Sundays will be eat finger food in front of the television days.

As you can tell by reading the above there's not much happening here. I gotta start prep of dinner. After dinner is over I plan to go to bed early. I just want to hide under the covers with my pillow - sorta like Lucy in her beanbag. Only thing is that I'm not pouting; I'm just bummed by the weather.

Here's to better days ahead. Hope all is well with all my blog friends.

Shocking News

2010-02-05T14:58:00.004-06:00

I read something really alarming on a friend's blog about a kid having a gun at school along with a "hit list" Her daughter felt comfortable enough to tell her parents about what was happening at her school. That speaks volumes about the relationship of my friend and her child. Harry and I talked about it and agreed that times have really changed and not necessarily for the better.

Next scene: I went out to do a small bit of shopping close to home and decided to have my nails done as a treat. While there a "breaking news" flash came over the television in the spa. A student at Discovery Middle School - here in Huntsville - took a gun to school and shot a fellow student. The wounded student is in critical condition. Who knows what will follow in the next few hours.

It's criminal that we have to put our children and grandchildren in harms way when we send them to school. It makes me want to bring the grandsons home and begin home schooling. If my health wasn't a bit shaky I would look into the possibilities. Home schooling is a commitment that I can't make right now.

Hold on to your children/grandchildren. Try to keep the lines of communication open. It could be critical that they tell you what's happening around them.

Nothing Lasts Forever - Not Even Refrigs.

2010-01-31T19:53:00.003-06:00

Today's gathering was short. James wasn't feeling well this morning but went to church. He insisted that he was able to visit Nana and Papa but before long it was apparent that he really felt bad. Kids were here for only around 2 hours. It's been quiet and a bit lonesome since they left - until about 15 minutes ago, that is.

We found the kitchen floor wet - more like flooded. Water was running out of the frig/freezer - not dripping - RUNNING! Harry knew where the water cut off is to the ice maker and water is turned off. Now towels are wet, there's water in the freezer, the floor of the pantry was wet as are the potatoes, onions, and container holding the big roll of garbage bags. Water didn't make it to the carpet in the den nor to the hardwood in the living room. Popular opinion is that the water line to the ice machine broke or a valve malfunctioned. The frig isn't new but it isn't that old either. Guess which repairman we'll be calling tomorrow. This is just all we need!!

Aside from all that excitement everything is going well. I had a good report from the radiation oncologist last week. For the most part, the burns and scar tissue are gone. Tuesday of this week I see the medical oncologist. That means lab work and evaluation of my reaction to the Arimidex. I do have side effects but am coping with them without too much trouble.

We had a hint of snow and some rain. The winter storm missed us and we're glad that it did. There is a promise (made by the weatherman) that we should be prepared for snow again next weekend. I think the little boy cried wolf too often. We are beginning to ignore the warnings. Next time we won't listen and we'll probably get a big snow.

On that note I need to go check to be sure the towels are still taking care of the last of the drips in the kitchen. I hope all of you are having a nice evening with no malfunctions.

Wind, Rain, and Old Folks

2010-01-24T13:47:00.004-06:00

Harry and I got home late last night. The drive from Nashville was dry but windy - very windy! Home was a welcome sight. This was my first drive of any length and while it wasn't easy I made it OK. Both Harry and I were so tired that we were grumpy. Each of us just wanted the other to be quiet and go to sleep. Sleeping made the difference - we are up and smiling this morning.

I don't know if I said why we were going to Nashville in my previous post - Old folks forget - but we went to a frag swap. There was a big crowd of fellow reefers there and vendors from as far away as California, Minnesota, Colorado, and Wisconsin. At least one reefer drove from Pensacola, Fl. The coral Reef craze has hit the whole country.

I met the wife of a shop owner in Nashville and she took me to a store that has a large inventory of Vera Bradley. I haven't spent much money on myself for a long time but that trend was destroyed! I am the proud owner of two small casual purses (Paprika and Poppy Fields). Of course I just HAD to have the wallets to match. I also bought a really classic style black convertible clutch purse in black microfiber. It has a removable shoulder strap that makes it convert to shoulder bag. I justified buying so much because my large purses (that I love) are heavier than I need to carry. The removal of lymph nodes is far reaching. That's my story and I'm stickin' to it.

The weather is so gloomy that it's hardly worth looking out the window. We are scheduled for about three nice days this week - at least that's what the weather man is promising. You know how weather men are, though. Maybe yes and maybe no.

I don't know any other news so guess I'll shut my trap and take a nap. (Kids are gathering at Keith's today and the old folks are staying home.) We'll miss them but we do need to rest. I'll find a time during the week to catch up with the boys.

Until later, my best to everyone.

Tornados

2010-01-21T23:33:00.004-06:00

We had some pretty bad storms tonight. There was a little rain, warm temperatures, light wind, and then just about sundown everything became really, really still. The sky looked angry and there were black clouds hanging low over Huntsville. Harry and I were having dinner at our favorite oriental restaurant when the weather alert sirens began blasting. This time it wasn't just a storm - it was a tornado.

Not a big tornado but destructive, nevertheless. It didn't touch down at the restaurant where we were eating but it was close. News reports say that it did serious damage to old downtown Huntsville. It also struck the historic Five Points area. Reports are that while there is significant property damage there are no fatalities.

The storm went well to the north of the area where we live. It is a sad night for many but much to be thankful for, too.

I have a followup appointment with my surgeon in the morning. I'll check before I go to be sure there is no damage at his office and that he isn't re-scheduling patients. In the afternoon Harry and I are going to Nashville but we'll be back and ready to see the kids on Sunday. Our oldest son will be staying here to take care of the reefs and kitty.

It's too late for old folks. Busy day tomorrow. Good Night.

Ten Days

2010-01-17T21:55:00.002-06:00

Ten days - no post. It's been a bit busy here. Everything is fine. It's just that I have been trying to manage a few of the many chores that Harry assumed for me while I was sick. It gets easier day by day but I still spend a lot of time huffing and puffing.

Today was Harry's birthday and I made the carrot cake birthday cake that he requested. It felt good to be able to completely cook dinner and make the cake, too. Both James and Jesse painted a picture for their Papa. They were done in acrylic and on canvas. I'll get the frames so he can hang them. They are both really, really good.

We're thankful that the snow is history and temps are a bit warmer. Harry and I are going to Nashville this coming weekend. We're really hoping that the weather gods don't dump the white stuff while we're there. I think everyone needs a long break from this winter. It has been much colder than usual - at least here it has.

I wish I were a better blogger and perhaps I will be again. I will try. My best to everyone.

What Will Today Bring?

2010-01-07T09:05:00.004-06:00

What will today bring? Probably a quiet day of waiting for our 'big' snow storm.

My computer is in front of a window looking into our backyard. A couple of bird feeders are just outside. Harry refilled them for me this morning and the birds are having a feast. It's snowing - at least what Alabama calls snow. The world is peaceful, quiet, and COLD. Kitty is sleeping on my desk. I haven't dressed today and may not. The generator is ready to take over if we have a power failure. There's food in the pantry. My car has a brand new battery and both cars have plenty of gas. We're set for this version of an Alabama blizzard.

I spent 10 years in the mountains and, believe me, I've seen some blizzards. This ain't no blizzard even though some folks think it is. The Midwest is having a blizzard! Try that on for size. Not a lot of fun. It simply spells isolation and stress.

Last night I was thinking about the day I moved from the mountains (that I loved) to Alabama. I was already depressed before I arrived in my new hometown. The boys and I were driving south on "the parkway" in a Chevelle with no air conditioning. (I have to add here that we didn't need air conditioning in the area we were leaving.) I read the temp on a bank thermometer. . . it told me how much trouble I was in. It was 106 degrees 11:30 AM!!! The boys and I were miserable. Their father had already been here for 6 months and had bought a house - a house he chose. He hadn't moved into the house. He decided to let us get here and move into the house before he gave up his apartment. In addition to everything else there were insects here that I'd never seen and lots of them! Spiders were in the corners of the porch and in the storage room. There was a yellow jacket bee nest beside the carport. I thought that I'd arrived in hell.

Why did this come to mind last night? One of the Neighbors brought lunch for us and the moving men. (We were in a wonderful neighborhood with really friendly, helpful people.) One of my comments was that I'd never seen so many bugs and didn't know if any of them was dangerous. The neighbor, Reeva, told me that the bugs were just a nuisance and that a cold winter would reduce the population. I was thinking of that conversation last night. Next summer should be almost bug free.

I think that I'm beginning to ramble on and on like an old woman. It's OK because that's what I am and I wear that badge with pride.

Keep warm and try to not let our frozen worlds get the best of us.

As an after thought. The picture in my header is a single snowflake on Harry's car. Of course he shot the pic - I can't operate the fancy camera.

No Title

2010-01-06T07:40:00.002-06:00

It's C-O-L-D here in the south land. It probably sounds like a joke to some of you but we silly southerners aren't prepared for this. When I lived in the Appalachians these temps were normal for this time of year and we were well prepared. Here in north Alabama nothing is prepared. If snow or ice is in our future please let it be snow. Ice is a horror for us. Enough of the whining.

Monday I started a list of "to-dos" for each day this week. I am shocked at how long the darn thing is. If I manage to finish all this crap this week I plan to take the weekend off. I have to go out today to run three errands - bank, grocery, office supply. Gotta find my heaviest coat. I donated my "mountain coat" to a charity so I may be in trouble.

Not much to blog about. Our routine is bland and unexciting. Good thing - old farts can't take a lot of excitement. . . at least not until warmer weather.

Stay warm and come back to visit when you can. My best to all.

Just Color Me . . . .

2010-01-04T13:14:00.004-06:00

OK, I know. Just color me a bad blogger. All I can say is that life got in the way. Nothing bad happened - it's just been busy in my corner of the world. Consider this my New Year post - four days late.

Harry and I were married in July, 2000.
In the past decade we:
Retired from our long time careers.
Saw two children married and gained a new son and daughter.
Were presented with four grandchildren.
Toured the west coast from San Francisco to Seattle.
Toured the entire Florida coast including Key West and points south.
Toured a good portion of southern Canada and points in between.
Joined a cruise of the Eastern Caribbean.
Expanded the reef tanks to well over 600 gallons in four aquariums.
Weathered cancer with apparent success.
Learned that diabetes can be a nuisance.
Supported each other through various other aliments - none serious.
Learned to love each other unconditionally and live in harmony.

I began my blog and have met several bloggers who became friends. (Thank you for tolerating me.)

Who knows what the next decade will bring. Whatever it is we will face with dignity, love, and acceptance.

Resolutions? Not me. I feel too guilty when I don't keep them.

In addition, I'd like to protest these polar temperatures! Can someone tell me when it's above freezing? BRRRRRRRRR!!

Moving Right Along . . .

2009-12-22T09:23:00.003-06:00

This morning I've forgotten every last bit of my best blog ever. I wrote it in my mind during the night and morning caused it to disappear into a haze. (I think an elf stole it.) Now I sit here trying to think of something clever to write and my mind just won't cooperate. Oh well, it probably wasn't that great anyway. Moving right along . . .

Every surface in this house is a mess. I have to face the grocery list and "git 'er done." Gifts are ready to wrap. That will be an easy process this year. I had a cold (just a regular old garden variety, 'notty nose cold) last week and it slowed me down. I'm fine again - time to "move right along . . .

Our Sunday gathering was a bit different the last two weeks. Two Sunday's ago I was running fever so gathering day was cancelled - I didn't want to spread the bug. Last Sunday we gathered earlier than usual because some of the kids had "other" commitments. We really had fun. The boys (big and little) played a form of touch football in the back yard. James had a whistle and was the referee. It wasn't a quiet game so I'm sure the neighbors noticed. Maybe next time they'll join in. I made a big pot roast with veggies and had sponge cake for all who ate "the good stuff." I almost can't wait for Christmas day. It will be so much fun to watch the boys discover the contents of their bags and boxes. I'll try to make pics if I can get Harry's super-duper camera to work for me.

Tomorrow is my hair fixin' day. I haven't had a real hair re-do in almost a year. When I was sick it was just beyond my capability to sit for hair maintenance. I had Mary keep it cut short. It was easy to keep my hair clean but other than that nothing much happened. Tomorrow ends that! Wheeee! Mary has ALWAYS been such a wonderful support for me.

For someone who had a blank mind I've written a lot. Nothing clever - just routine "Life at the House of Two Old Farts." Nana and Papa on their computers, kitty asleep on my desk, the reefs purring, and a quiet life filled with family and friends - our simple needs are fulfilled. So many blessings - we're thankful for each and every one.

Thank you for stopping by and for continuing to be my blogging friends.

Happy Even on A Dreary Day

2009-12-13T10:41:00.003-06:00

I've been looking at my tired old blog. I think that I'll try and give it a new face after Christmas. I haven't time to deal with it for a couple of weeks. I'm going to give my coral reef a new look by rearranging the various live rock and live stock. Plus I may get a couple of new fish. Just have to wait and see how it all works out. Harry will help me with this project. Now you know the rest of the story.

Tomorrow is wrap gifts day. My "think outside the box" button is turned on. Hmmmm . . now about that wrapping. James and Jesse love to pop bubble wrap - I'm going to wrap their largest gifts with bubble wrap. Jesse likes magic - what do you think of a magician's cape to wrap one of his gifts? James is really excited and can't wait to get a Zhu Zhu and all the "stuff" that goes with it - I don't know yet how I'll wrap it but I'll come up with something. I'm using velum that I printed with Christmas things to wrap small gifts. Blank business cards are good for name tags. Someone may get a huge black garbage bag (filled with packing materiel and a much smaller gift) tied with decorative ribbon at both ends - like an over sized piece of candy. I'm not doing a tree this year so a non-traditional Christmas is in the works. I'm asking someone to read the Christmas Story. One of the boys will ask the blessing - it won't be anything new for them to do so.

I'm getting my strength back. Can you tell? Just this past week I began to feel like my old mean self most of the time. It's been almost exactly a year since I first realized something was not right with my health. The road was long and pretty rocky at times but here I am. I can't tell you how thankful I am for the blessings I've received this year.

Outta here for now. Sunday gathering day to prepare for and enjoy. Love and wishes for happiness to all.

Christmas Shopping Done

2009-12-11T19:35:00.002-06:00

As I've said before, I did all my Christmas shopping on line. It went very well and I was able to get free shipping on everything. I have to tell everyone that through Amazon I found a company that puts priority of customer service. In Demand Toys is wonderful. I was concerned that the toy James wants might not be here in time for Santa. I sent an email - through Amazon - asking when the toy would ship. Amazon forwarded my email to In Demand Toys and guess what happened next. The owner of the company called me directly - YES called me to let me know that the toy would be here today or tomorrow. He also said that he was sorry that I'd been concerned. I also commented that I'd noticed some companies on the Internet were raising their prices because this toy is in very short demand. He said that he'd noticed that but that their policy was to not price gouge but rather to concentrate on customers satisfaction because it pays better in the long run. Anyway the toy was delivered today. I will order directly from In Demand Toys in the future.

Enough of my commercial. I might add that I'd never heard of this company before this.

It's cold here - not as cold as most of the country but cold. I'm going to bed early and 'nuggle down with my pillow. Tomorrow promises to be another busy day. I hope everyone has a wonderful evening and a peaceful night of sleep.

An Evening in the Life of Two Old Farts

2009-12-07T18:45:00.002-06:00

This night ain't no fit fer man er beast!! Cold and a light rain that threatens to become heavy rain and thunder storms. We are just going to cocoon right here until this passes. It's a good night to sleep - I just hope I can.

Harry and I went out to eat at our favorite Mexican restaurant early this evening. There were at least four new dinner items on the menu. One was Chile Coyote. The dish is a green chile stuffed with beef, raisins, banana, and mango served on mushroom cheese sauce with guacamole salad and a side of rice. I've never seen it on a menu here but it was always a favorite of mine when work took me to El Paso or San Diego. Believe me, the dish that sat in front of me tonight didn't disappoint. I ate like a pig!! Burrrrp - Excuse me!!

Here I sit with my fingers on the keyboard but I can't think of one thing to say. Do I live an exciting life - or what? I'll try again tomorrow. So for now good night one and all.

"Uncle Arthur" Comes to Visit

2009-12-04T14:54:00.003-06:00

Yep, that's right. Uncle Arthritis is visiting. I had a hip and knee injury several years ago and not long after "Uncle Arthur" came to visit. He's here again. Ouch!! I think this will be a short visit. I don't have time to spend nursing arthritis right now. My "other" health issues are moving to the back of the bus - no problems.

I don't go anywhere very often so I have nothing to blog about. Everyone is doing well - except Joe, our oldest, is having his first blood pressure issue. The doctor will get it under control and his life will return to normal.

Our weatherman is predicting light snow late tonight and early tomorrow. We may have a few flakes but the ground is too warm for snow to lay. It's 45 degrees out right now and we have yet to have freezing weather. The birds are busy at the feeders - I guess they got the memo regarding bad weather.

I haven't done the first thing to get ready for Christmas. I think it will be a quiet one for us. The kids will be excited and we won't let them down. This weekend we'll talk to them about plans they'd like us to make. It would be so nice if all four of the grandchildren could be here. That would be a REAL Christmas. Are you reading this Buddy and Judy?

Enough of this. Next time I'll try to have something meaningful to blog about. Take care, my friends.

Wishing A Wonderful Thanksgiving to Everyone

2009-11-25T13:21:00.005-06:00

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving 2009. I wish everyone a truly happy day with pause to remember the good in your lives and time to be thankful for all your blessings.

The Hooper family has many blessings bestowed this year. Buddy and his family are just getting settled in their new home. Judy and her family are celebrating the holidays in their new home. Joe, our single son, is blessed with friends and is settled with his life, Keith and his family are enjoying time together and all the wonders the boys are experiencing. Every one is looking forward to the closeness of the holidays. As for Harry and me, we have the most reason to be thankful this year. We feel close to all our children. Even though we don't see Buddy & family or Judy & family very often they are always in our thoughts and prayers. Harry and I survived the shock of my cancer and the following surgeries. It's all behind us now and we believe in a complete cure and a happy future.

Our Thanksgiving dinner will be on Sunday. Joe is cooking for Harry and me tomorrow and Keith and his family will spend Thanksgiving day with Mary's parents. I'm baking a ham and Mary will help with the side dishes for the Sunday Thanksgiving. The menu isn't as important as sharing the time and concentrating on the positive in our lives.

Can you tell that I'm feeling really humble today? The holidays do that to me.

My Big Girl Day

2009-11-24T11:43:00.002-06:00

Today, for the first time in over 10 months, I got to be the big girl in charge. I drove Harry to and from a medical procedure otherwise known as a colonoscopy. It was done at the outpatient surgery center which is a large facility affiliated with the Huntsville Hospital. Everything went well for him.

While I was waiting (3 hours) I had the chance to people watch. It was an experience that's not for the faint hearted. I didn't see a lot of happy faces but I certainly observed some strange behavior.

A woman with both a computer and a cell phone talked - loud - nonstop while "clicking" her computer without stop. What do I know about this woman? She's "only a heartbeat away from her doctorate." She thinks there are too many kids in special ed - "they (the kids) just need firm discipline." Her partner, who is having shoulder surgery, is very jealous of her intellect and complains all the time. As soon as she gets her doctorate and a good job she's going to move out of his house. (In my opinion, he will be the winner when that happens.)

Woman sitting behind me was snoring and sleep mumbling. She must have had a lively time last evening - she reeked of alcohol. (I moved as soon as a chair was vacant.)

A middle aged woman with blond tousled hair, a large designer bag, jeans rolled up to her calf, 3 inch heels, and a bright red hoodie was having trouble with her lipstick. She wiped it off and reapplied it at least four times.

The only interesting person I saw was a very attractive young lady who had cornrows that extended into several braids. The braids had pheasant feathers woven in and were gathered into an interesting chignon at the nape of her neck. She seemed relaxed and at peace with herself. I would have liked to talk to her but she was too far away.

I feel like I spent the time watching people in a zoo. Do you think that maybe I've been home too long to be allowed in public? I do.

Later, my friends.

"Sindows Weven"

2009-11-19T21:01:00.003-06:00

Thursday night - yet another week almost gone. It seems that the weeks fly by and I accomplish nothing noticeable. Things are getting better day by day.

Yesterday Harry had an appointment that took him away for the house for a little while. Before he left he told me that I needed to be ready to answer the door because FedEx was delivering a package that someone had to sign for. He frequently has aquarium supplies shipped directly here so I saw nothing unusual in that.

FedEx did make a delivery and asked me to sign. I glanced at the receiving screen (on FedEx guy's electronic delivery gizmo) and saw that I was signing for two boxes. Two boxes were delivered - I signed - FedEx guy thanked me and left. I didn't check to see where the boxes were from nor to whom they were addressed. After a couple of hours I noticed that the boxes were from Dell and they were addressed to ME! Yep, Harry bought a new "big girl" computer for me.

The computer that I'd been using had been a real stinker for two or three months and no one seemed to be able to correct the problem. Harry told me that he hated how rough this summer was for me and he wanted to do something special for me. A new computer was that "something." I don't know what I did to deserve this man but I'm really fortunate that he puts up with my whining.

I can't describe the new computer except that it is new, dust free, and scoots along like a charm. We were discussing the computer after Harry drank a couple or three beers to relax for the evening. With a straight face he asked me how I liked the new "Sindows Weven." We both just cracked up. I guess his day was pretty tiring. "Sindows Weven" it will always be to us.

Gotta rest up 'cause tomorrow is a new day. One never knows what might happen next. I want to be ready.

Don't Cry Over Spilled Soup

2009-11-16T15:29:00.003-06:00

About mid week (last week) I decided that I could take responsibility for our evening meal and all went well. I only prepared simple things that didn't take much work and it kept us from starving. This afternoon I was feeling spunky. The cleaning lady had just left and I had a clean from top to bottom kitchen to work in. There is where this story begins - -

Feeling that I am ready to take over the world, I made a cherry cobbler. It came out of the oven looking almost decent. Next I began working on a recipe that I've been wanting to make for several weeks. There are several steps to this dish but none are complicated. Without further ado let me ask a question. Does anyone out there know just how far a can of mushroom soup mixed with half a can of hot water can spread when it's dropped? It can cover a kitchen chair (with turned legs), a kitchen table leg (turned leg, too), the side of the refrig, at least half of the newly cleaned floor, and one whole leg of your jeans. I hurried to clean the mess before Harry saw it. I didn't want him to think I couldn't manage dinner. Lucky for me I had more mushroom soup and the dish is now baking. I threw the recipe in the trash. Even if it's wonderful I'll never make it again. What an evening!! Old farts - like me - should never feel spunky.

Other than the above it's been a good day. Take a deep breath, relax and enjoy your evening.

It's a Big Sunny Day

2009-11-11T10:49:00.003-06:00

Yesterday's heavy rain from the latest tropical storm moved out of the area and today is a happy sunshine day. As one of the grandsons says, "It's a big sunny day."

I'm making plans to re-work/redesign the layout of my coral tank. A couple of reef keepers gifted me with awesome coral frags (coral babies) during my treatment. The frags have been resting on the sand bed (at the bottom of my tank) waiting for me to settle them into permanent 'homes' on my reef. With Harry's help I think that will happen next week. Picture of before and after? I'll try.

Lucky me, I miscalculated the number of weeks I'll have cleaning ladies come to take care of our house. They will be here for a couple more weeks. I bought a package deal and that gave me three more weeks of service than if I just went on a weekly basis. WaaaHoooooo!! I'll certainly miss them but all things must end.

Today I'm going to the grocery for a major buying spree. I have a 20% off coupon for my entire purchase PLUS today is senior citizen day discount of 5%. Both will apply. I know that I'll come home and fall flat on my face but our pantry, freezer, and refrig will be well stocked. The treat cabinet will be in pretty good shape, too. I might add that I'll be flat broke but who cares. It's only $$.

Enough of my ramble. Gotta get goin' if I want to keep the day on track. Thanks for stopping by. See ya later.

It's Too Late to Think of a Title

2009-11-08T22:13:00.003-06:00

Several days (weeks??) ago I received this award from Soul. I am just now able to upload the graphic. Sometimes old farts need remedial training. Anyway, I'm very proud of receiving the award. Thank you bushels and more.I wish I knew something exciting to blog about but, alas, I don't. Nothing ever happens in my world - at least nothing very interesting. The big event in my life this past week was beginning my five years of medication with Arimidex.

The children were here today for gathering day. It was our oldest son's (Joe) birthday. He has reached the age that he prefers not to discuss his age. How old do you think that makes me feel? I must be old as dirt.

Harry brought a new (to us) shopping web site to my attention this morning. I enjoyed window/screen shopping for a while this morning. I thought some of you might like to check it out. It's called The Find. We've never bought from this site (Harry only found it this morning.) but it is interesting.

On that note I have a date with the sandman. I hope he doesn't stand me up tonight. Last night he was a no-show.

Sunshine and Falling Leaves

2009-11-05T13:08:00.002-06:00

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood . . . I woke up with Mr. Rogers' theme song in my head. It has been just that kind of day for me. It is, in fact, a beautiful day.

Yesterday I drove myself to my dental appointment. It certainly seemed strange to be driving. I bet I get over that real soon, don't you agree? Dentist said my teeth were just fine - no damage. That was a relief. All my life I've had a recurring nightmare that my teeth are falling out. Silly, right?

My computer faces a window that looks out at our back yard. The ground is almost covered with brown, yellow and orange leaves. I know that they came from out trees but when I look up at the branches it doesn't look possible that the leaves on the ground came from these trees. We don't rake leaves. Instead we mulch and bag them then put them onto a compost pile. Simple and effective. Yeah, sure! I don't have to do the job so it's easy for me.

I still have burns that aren't healed but on the bright side - my energy seems to be coming back really fast. This morning Harry warned, "Don't wear yourself out today" as he was heading out to do several errands. I'm doing 'sit down' jobs today. Sorting pictures, filing clippings that have piled up, etc. I'm trying to be good.

My best to everyone. Until later . . .

Too Tired to Think of a Title

2009-10-29T20:02:00.002-05:00

Guess who came home from Walmart with a smiley face sticker on the back of his hand. Yep, Harry did and he was proud of it. You can bet your bottom dollar that no one at Walmart will ever give me a smiley face. I always enter with an expression of dread and leave with a big frown and tired feet from standing in checkout lines. Not that I've been to Walmart since March.

Today was PET scan day so we had to go out to the Cancer Care Center which is a different direction from where I went daily for radiation. I couldn't believe how much had changed! A few stores have closed, at least three new buildings are up and occupied, and a couple of interesting stores have opened. I need to go exploring.

Speaking of the PET scan - it was the easiest procedure I had since this whole thing began. Last night I almost made myself sick dreading yet another ordeal but it wasn't like that at all. When we see the medical oncologist next Monday we should get final results. My burns are healing nicely. Not everyone has this much trouble with radiation but my skin just gave up. I had a couple of spots that were third degree burns. They should be completely healed in a week or two.

I'm still trying to upload pics but haven't been successful. Maybe this weekend Joe will have time to rattle Blogger's chain and fix the issue. On this note, I believe it's time for me to follow hubby to bed. I hope to wake up tomorrow morning bright eyed and bushy tailed - ready for a new day.

Just Me

2009-10-27T11:44:00.003-05:00

Several Days ago Soul presented me with a blog award (Over The Top Award). I'm proud to have received the award and have tried to persuade Blogger to allow me to upload the icon. No luck. At first I thought that I was doing something wrong but now I think Blogger is having a temper tantrum. I tried to upload pictures of the grandsons and Harry carving pumpkins. Blogger refused to upload those pictures, too. I'll have to wait for our son, the computer guru, (Joe) to have time to appease the blogger gods and ask them to please overlook whatever transgression I committed.

That said, I completed radiation on 20 October. My burns are healing fast and I'm now looking to the PET scan on this Thursday. I should have the results on the following Monday. We're confident the results will be negative for cancer. It's been a trip but now the end is truly in sight.

I'm enjoying watching the leaves turn to brilliant golds, reds, and bronze. The winter welfare birds are arriving. Squirrels have fat cheeks and are hiding their bounty. The dad-gum chipmunks are digging in places I'd rather they didn't dig. We're having more rainy days than sun. No drought here this fall. My house plants are either safely inside or on the screen porch. Life is returning to normal.

I intend to return to regular blogging now that life is on a more even keel. Get ready, friends, here I come.

More of the Same

2009-10-12T20:17:00.003-05:00

It's been a rainy day Monday in my world, but that's OK. I didn't have plans, anyway.

My Radiation Oncologist put me on a five day treatment "break." The condition of my skin (what is left of it) has deteriorated beyond what's acceptable for further treatment. I'm home with medications to ease the pain and promote healing. As has been the case throughout this ordeal, Harry is assuming household management and nursing care. The kids continue to be supportive of us. Mary is cooking dinner tomorrow night. She is a wonderful cook so it's a meal to look forward to. For dinner this evening Harry made German Apple Pancakes. Wonderful!!

There's really nothing current to write about and strolls down memory lane can get boring for everyone. On that note I believe I'll publish this post, take a pill, kiss Harry goodnight, and spend the next few hours hugging my pillow.

My best to everyone. Thanks for stopping by.

Don't Assume

2009-10-07T11:31:00.005-05:00

Today was day two of my seven "booster" radiation sessions. Forgive me for assuming that "booster" means less intense. Guess I was wrong about that one. The beam isn't as wide-spread. It is more sharply aimed and the exposure does not make for a care-free experience. The radiation burns are painful and ugly but the alternative is even worse. I'm thankful that the treatment is available but at the same time I want them to be in the past!!!

I'm spending most of my time either in bed or stretched out in front of the TV. In the beginning I read a lot but now I just can't concentrate on a book. That's a first for me. I've learned a lot from watching TV.

1) The History Channel screens many, many "dooms-day" programs. They seem to concentrate on such things as which volcano/earthquake/flood will destroy a large portion - if not all - the world. That's predicting the future in my book.

2) Public Television does have interesting programming - if you don't get tired of the "send us money" routine or if you haven't seen the program several times before.

3) Many - if not all - of the detective shows have gotten graphic beyond the acceptable.

But then I'm an old fart who is buried in health issues at the moment. It makes for negative impressions. I think I'll just crawl back in my hole and be quiet.

Take care and enjoy the colorful all weather - old man winter is on the way.

Can't Think of a title

2009-09-29T16:18:00.003-05:00

Twenty-three down and twelve to go. Just call me "Crispy" and you won't be far from correct. What am I gonna do you ask. I'm gonna put on my big girl panties and get through this. I'm giving thanks for all the wonderful support that I've had. You, my blogging friends, have helped me keep a good outlook.

Fall has finally arrived and I'm ready. We had a long hot sultry summer but at least it wasn't dry. Last night was our first cool night - 56 degrees. I'm not a fan of really cold weather but these cool breezes are wonderful.

I can't think of anything to write. Harry is cooking dinner on the grill and, as usual, I'm just being a lady of leisure. Actually, I'm a spoiled, worthless, old fart. On that note I'm signing off. Have a wonderful evening.

Spoiled Rotten

2009-09-23T18:16:00.004-05:00

As of today I'm officially half way through radiation. It seems like it took a long time to get this far but here I am. Not much the less for wear. There are bouts of nausea, a bit of pain, lots of fatigue, and burns - nothing that I can't manage. I do, however, avoid seeing myself in the mirror. If I actually see the burns I feel worse. Today was a "see the doctor" day. Talking to him and feeling comfortable with his reassurances made me feel better not only about the present but also about my probable outcome.

Rain came to our corner of the world and seems to feel right at home here. There's no sign of it moving along. We haven't had flooding but many have. Northwest Alabama has been hit fairly hard but not nearly so hard as Atlanta. Last summer, after experiencing a few years of drought, I threatened to have all the shrubs replaced with sand and cactus. That would have been a mistake. (I never really intended to replace the shrubs with cactus. It just made a good example of how bad the drought was at the time.)

I didn't have a playmate visit today. Jesse was running a fever this morning and everyone (not me) decided he shouldn't play with Nana today. I talked to his dad a little bit ago and Jesse seems OK now. I always look forward to play time and really miss having the grandsons visit.

Harry continues to pamper me. I'm spoiled rotten. Bless his heart, I know he gets tired of this game but he doesn't complain. Between taking care of me, the tanks, and mowing the yard his days are packed full. The cleaning service helps a lot, though. Did I mention that I'm spoiled? Yep, I surely am.

Well, that about sums up my day. So much excitement that I can hardly stand it. NOT!!! Hope all is well in your world. Take care and be happy.

The Sound of Silence

2009-09-19T08:23:00.006-05:00

It's raining, it's pouring, kitty cat is snoring. She's sleeping beside me. I don't see how she can breathe at all with her nose buried in her fur.

Harry is in Memphis. He left last evening for a coral reef event and will be home late today. I just didn't feel up to the trip. I have actually enjoyed the sound of silence but it's beginning to become a bit too loud. Silence CAN become loud - at least in my world. Joe will be here in a while and then silence will slip away and things will be normal again.

I wish that I had something to write about but I really don't. My days are all the same. . . up and to radiation (5 days a week), home and a light lunch, nap, eat dinner, watch a bit of TV with Harry, back to bed. That's it. In between the events of my day I read a bit, watch the fish play in our reefs, and read a few blogs. Let's all stand and cheer for the excitement at the Hooper household. Sunday Gatherings are my highlight! They are pretty much the same except I do less cooking.

As for me and my journey along the big C road, I'm doing fine. Keeping a good outlook and looking forward to getting through this and on to better days. I do have burns (from the radiation) that are pretty uncomfortable and certainly yucky. Have you ever heard of "Lindi" gel products? They are absolutely an answer to the worst of the discomfort from radiation burns. Needless to say, I'm learning a lot on this adventure.

It's Saturday, folks. Find something fun to do and enjoy, enjoy!! My best to one and all.

Three Day Weekend

2009-09-05T17:45:00.003-05:00

Here's wishing everyone a safe and happy weekend - a little late but . . . .

Harry and I are having a quiet weekend at home watching racing and enjoying the kids visits. We stay pretty close to home these days.

Tomorrow Harry will grill pork and chicken for our gathering day and other dishes will happen - my DIL, Mary, is bringing some sides, etc. I'll pickup ice cream and other goodies to make ice cream sundaes for the boys and anyone else who wants one.

I had a wonderful dinner this evening. Harry made stuffed mushrooms as an appetiser and Lobster and Asparagus Coquilles as a main dish. It was a delicious meal and now we're getting ready to watch the NASCAR race. I'm one happy old woman.

No more radiation until Tuesday and plenty of time to chill and/or snooze. I'm lovin' it!!

Lost: One Summer

2009-09-02T15:30:00.005-05:00

September 2, 2009. Do you know where your summer went? I completely lost mine.

I'm fighting taking a long nap this afternoon in hopes that the lack of a long nap will help me sleep tonight. Sleep is a most fickle friend. Enough of that subject. Boring!

I have to write about something so I guess I'll tell you about today's appointment for radiation. The facility where I go is very prudent in scheduling appointments. The aim is that no one has to wait more than five minutes. Until today I've never waited a full five minutes before the tech comes to take me back. Today when I got there the waiting room was packed! (A machine at another location was 'down' and some of those patients were sent over.) I changed and settled in for the wait. There were two distinct groups of women talking among themselves and (it seemed to me that) each group was trying to talk louder than the other. Individuals in each group were trying to tell a bigger cancer horror tale than the others. In addition two women were complaining loudly that they were going to be late getting back to work and would be in trouble. (I could certainly understand that.) My tech called me back and I told him to take the two women who were worried about their jobs ahead of me and I'd wait as a fill-in since I have no schedule to keep. The caveat was that I be allowed to sit in the little office while waiting. Those women seemed to enjoy misery and terrible things that happened to others. Did I mention that there was one lone man sitting there? He was looking pretty stressed. I'm sure he'd heard about enough of the graphic stories the women were telling. As I left the room I heard him say really loud: "You women think you have problems - what if you were having radiation on your n*ts!" You could have heard a pin drop. All conversation ended.

Ain't life a hoot?

A small town just down the road from Huntsville had its first fatality from Swine Flu yesterday. He was a boy (11 years old). He collapsed in the doctor's office and died. Apparently he had seen the doctor just a few days before and had been improving. Yesterday morning he was worse and returned the doctor. Please be aware that this flu can be dangerous and get medical care at the first sign of flu-like symptoms.

I'm a whole bag full of gloomy stuff. I didn't mean for this post to sound that way. I actually thought the situation at radiation was a hoot! Well, it was really funny after I had treatment and was home. A great situation comedy could be written about that scene.

Treatment is going well. Five down and thirty to go.

Bright and Peaceful

2009-08-23T09:15:00.003-05:00

It's a sunny morning; it's an open the windows morning; it's a fall sky morning; it's a Gathering Day morning. In a word - it's a perfect morning. I've read the paper, listened to Harry's chosen TV program while I balanced my checkbook for this month, and had a conversation with kitty. Let the games begin!!

As you can surmise by reading the above paragraph, I'm in a good mood and ready for this day.

I've been processed and ready for radiation to begin on Wednesday. I didn't realize how much prep is necessary for this stage of treatment. I've been marked, taped, had a small tattoo, and a mold made to place me in the same position for each and every treatment. I've been invited to accept a free makeover to give my morale a boost. Not that my morale needs a boost. Harry and I have no hesitation or apprehension about the next seven weeks. It's on with the show. I have a long reading list and intend to spend my down time reading - trips to the downtown library will be my big adventure.

I wish that I had something exciting to write about but I don't. Give us a bit of time we'll try to fix that issue. I haven't forgotten that I'm holding Harry's IOU for a trip. . . . . now let me think . . . . .hmmmmmmmm . . . . . I'll get back to you on that one.

Later, friends. Meantime enjoy every minute. Find many occasions to laugh if only just for the joy of laughing.

Check List and Other Stuff

2009-08-20T20:15:00.003-05:00

Surgery One - Complete
Surgery Two - Complete
Healing - Complete
Mapping Radiation - Scheduled for 21 August
Radiation - Begins 26 August - Duration 7 Weeks.

So far, so good. I get tired but some of that is caused by cabin fever. Nothing permanent wrong with my health.

OK, that's out of the way. Now on to better subjects.

Both the boys LOVE school. Jesse's word is "Awesome" - James' is "Wonderful" Jessie is fond of recess and James loves eating in the lunch room. All is well on that front.

Jesse came to play after school yesterday and we had a good time. Papa played hide and seek with him. He and I watched a neat movie staring Dustin Hoffman. It was about an old man who ran a magic toy store. I asked about homework but Jesse said that he was waiting for James to get home from music so they could study at the same time. When James came in (after music) he was really upbeat. He played a "hard song" solo and didn't make a mistake. They left with hugs and kisses for Nana and Papa and with happy chatter. They were looking forward to a big dinner of red fish (that's what they call salmon).

One of my long time friends is having her daughter's wedding this Saturday evening. There will be 300+ guests. I told her that we'd try to be there but I think we'll stay home and wait for the video. I don't think I feel up to shaking hands, smiling, and spreading sunshine on a bunch of strangers who don't give a flip about an old worn out woman. I know everyone will be nice and I'd enjoy the event under different circumstances. Getting to be an old hermit, aren't I?

Being an old hermit means that I have very little of interest to share with you so I think that I'll just call it a night and go hug my pillow. (Harry's already asleep or I would hug him.)

Good Night and God Bless

Title? What Title?

2009-08-07T20:14:00.003-05:00

I did it - I have a 12 week agreement with a well established cleaning service. This service has been a long-time agency in this area and has an exceptional track record. In some ways it makes me feel guilty to pay someone to clean my house and even a bit ashamed that there's so much dust to clean. Not guilty and ashamed enough to keep me from looking forward to having a clean house once again. I believe at the end of 12 weeks I should be able to manage the house.

We have a new family living across the street. The couple who owned the house moved to a smaller place when their 4 children left home. The house was on the market for several months. I think we will really enjoy having the young family in the neighborhood. They have three children (7, 5, & 3) - two girls and a little boy. Potential playmates.

James was my playmate this afternoon. I wouldn't give up my time with the boys for anything. It won't be long before they are busy with their friends and individual interests. I know they'll always love me but I'll cease to be a viable playmate. Does it make me sad? Yes, a little.

Kitty is "licking-up" for bedtime, Harry is finishing up some computer work and will go beddie-bye before long. Guess it's time for this old gal to wind down the day. Night-night to everyone.

Facing Reality and Laughing

2009-08-06T19:14:00.003-05:00

I may as well admit it - don't want to - gonna do it anyway. I'm admitting that I just can't manage to do the things necessary to keep this house in half-way presentable order. Harry is already doing most of the cooking, dishes, and laundry. He's also doing the daily cleaning and dressing my as yet unhealed surgical site. By the time evening is here he is worn out. It isn't fair to put the total load of this house, the yard, the reefs, and his business on his plate. Where is this going? Well, I've finally faced the fact that I need to have a cleaning service take care of the house for the short term at least. I have an 11 a.m. appointment with the first candidate for the job tomorrow morning. Let's hope she doesn't run screaming to her car. It would be embarrassing if the neighbors saw that.

Many years ago the occasion arose that I needed to learn to use a stop watch in order to time line workers. I practiced by timing every chore that I did around the house. It's an experience that I didn't enjoy and had forgotten about until I found my practice sheets among some old school papers. In 1985 I could strip a bed, put on clean sheets and pillowcases, and totally dress the bed in 8 minutes 15 seconds. Today, just for comparison, I timed myself putting on a bottom sheet, top sheet, and 3 pillow cases. Just under 14 minutes. A cleaning service seems to be my solution - at least for the next two or three months. As a side note: Those times, recorded so long ago, are in the trash. No reason to beat myself up. I'm not a young chick anymore.

I hope I don't sound depressed because I'm certainly not. As a matter of fact, I'm feeling better every day. I had Jesse with me yesterday afternoon and James will be here tomorrow. I love having playmates. We can giggle and plan the next school year which begins next Monday morning.

The new picture (above) was made yesterday. It's a Yellow Leather soft coral which grows in Fiji. It's my current favorite coral and its home is my reef tank.

That's it for now. Hope everyone is enjoying a peaceful evening.

Dog Days of Summer

2009-08-04T09:26:00.003-05:00

Today: Clear blue sky, bright sun, lush grass, humidity somewhere around 500; just a typical day during the dog days of summer. On the inside looking out it's a beautiful day and inside with air conditioning is where I prefer to spend these days. From my vantage point the birds and chipmunks are love'n nature's steam bath.

I haven't mentioned our reefs for a while. The new set-ups are fully operational. Harry's are doing great and my smaller reef is coming along. Harry's reefs are high-end coral that grow for really experienced reef keepers. My reef has smaller, easier to grow 'stuff' which is as it should be. I have to admit that I do little to care for my tank because all the new tanks are connected to the same water/filtration system which Harry maintains. I'll try to make new pictures and post them later in the week.

Nothing new and exciting in our world. Harry and I have settled into a daily routine that's quiet and slow - for the most part. I have cabin fever - better days are ahead, though, and we're looking forward to making them more interesting. To that end, I believe it's time for me to move away from this keyboard and get into the day's routine.

I hope everyone is having a good day. Do one fun thing or have a big belly laugh today. And when you do, think of me. My best to everyone.

It's Been A While . .

2009-08-01T14:57:00.004-05:00

. . since I posted. I imagine that everyone has forgotten me. It's only natural. I'm still here, though, and promising myself that I will post more often.

I'm still waiting for the second surgery to heal completely. When that happens I'll begin radiation. Healing has been slow and I'm learning to be patient. Maybe that's the lesson I was meant to learn from all this. For the most part, I intend to take the cancer issue out of my blog. It doesn't make for happy writing or reading. I'll be just fine during treatment and sometime around the end of October I'm sure I'll be able to post an all clear message.

Sunday gatherings are still on-going. Last weekend my doctor asked me to come in to see him on Sunday and I was afraid we'd not have a gathering. As you might guess, the kids sacrificed their Saturday afternoon to move gathering day to Saturday. Below is a video of the kind of action we have here on gathering day. On this particular day, Keith drove his off-road jeep so the boys could ride to Nana's in style. After watching the race that afternoon here's what happened:

Of course the kids came from third place to win the race!

Speaking of James and Jesse. How do you think two fine young men would solve a neighbor's problem with a loud tree frog? Bottom line: Everyone involved is lucky the boys had an environment kit that was tree frog friendly. They even caught a cricket for the frog's dinner. They brought it to show Nana and Papa what a tree frog looks like and explain that the little pads on his feet were there to let him stick to whatever he lands on. Nana is extremely thankful that there was no occasion to witness the jumping and sticking.That's all for now. If anyone stops by - thanks for remembering me and my crazy blog.