Gee Wiz

BRRRRRR!!!!

2012-02-12T10:15:00.000-05:00

Hey, all!

We're having Winter today in Virginia. It was cold and gray yesterday and last evening started getting colder and the wind picked up. Then it rained a little and THEN we had THUNDER SNOW! Things were covered this morning when we got up, but it is melting as the bright sun hits it. Shady areas are still white since it is really cold - was in the 20's this morning.

Things are humming along as usual and there's not too much going on. Obviously, the weather kept Golfer from playing this weekend. We've watched a couple movies and caught up on our recorded TV shows. He was going to work on our taxes but Smith Barney doesn't have the forms ready yet. I did some cleaning and laundry. So basically, it's just been a nice, quiet weekend.

We have Jeff, a painter, scheduled to start some work next weekend. Mostly he'll be painting our ceilings. After we had the work done last year and the kitchen was painted with a bright white ceiling, we decided we'd like them all that color. We're also going to have him do the stairway and upstairs room.

So, things are good here. I hope all is well with all of you. Stay safe!

More Thoughts . . . .

2012-02-05T15:32:00.000-05:00

Yes, folks, more thoughts. Specifically, what in the H*!# has happened to common sense and general intelligence.

The general state of things has been declining for several years with restaurants having to warn people that their coffee is hot or they risk getting sued. I don't know about you, but when I order coffee, I want it to arrive hot and I have enough sense to not set it in my lap.

Another one that gripes me is the warning signs the YMCA has to put up in the shower room warning idiots that the floor could be wet. Geez! It's a shower room and right next to the door where people come in from the pool. Wouldn't you expect some water?

By the time we reach adulthood, we should have enough sense to take care of ourselves, look after our things and protect our property. You know, things like shut your door, lock it, don't let strangers in. Don't walk alone down dark alleys at night. Don't be afraid to live your life, but don't take unnecessary risks either.

Yes, bad things do happen to good people. I know this for a fact, but come on. Would you really want to have your taxes done by a company called "Mo' Money Taxes"????? Think about it! Every newscast for the last couple days shows irate people throwing things, breaking windows and knocking each other around because they can't get their refund checks from this company. The one employee the reporter has been able to catch to interview can barely speak intelligible English. I doubt that I would let him make change for me, let alone do taxes. And yet there are all those people ranting on TV about how they want their money. I'm sure they do. But it doesn't look like there's any "Mo' Money" around there to get. Good luck to them. It's sad they didn't think that through a bit better.

On an entirely different topic, it's cold, gray and wet here in Virginia today. Golfer passed on going to play this morning. I used the new waffle maker and made breakfast, we read the paper and have just been doing odds and ends and reading. The pre-game is on for the Super Bowl, but really, how much can you take? Over six hours of pre-game is a tad excessive in my mind. But then, the Browns aren't playing. If they were, I might reconsider. :)

I hope everyone is well and having a good weekend. Stay safe!

Just Some Thoughts . . . . . .

2012-02-01T16:38:00.000-05:00

Yea, for me! I successfully downloaded a game to my new "phone" all by myself! And have also assigned pictures to the phone numbers I might call! But I'm not ready for a job on Geek Squad by any means.

I was out doing a couple errands today. It's almost 70 here. I think some of the stores have given up on Winter. I saw clearance sales on snow shovels, snow saucers, and Flexible Flyers! We'll probably have a blizzard soon. :)

Why are people still complaining about Steven Tyler's rendition of the National Anthem??? I've never been a huge fan of his, but I even said at the time he was singing that I thought he did pretty well. There have been so very many really awful performances of the anthem. He, at least, stayed close to the original tune and pitch. I've always believed the anthem should be performed as it was written. And for as freaky as he looks, it was pretty good, so give the guy a break!

And come on, people, give Paula Deen a break, too. I've watched her shows for several years and she's always said she doesn't eat the food she cooks on her shows every day and says "use moderation". I'm sorry she's been diagnosed with diabetes. But get real, people! She may be a cook, but she's also a business woman and entertainer. Of course she was going to get her affairs in order before she made a public announcement. It was only good business sense to have a plan in place. She has had some rough patches in her life and has worked hard to make a good life for herself and her family. Good for her. And remember, she never twisted anyone's arm and made them eat a pound of butter! Golfer and I visited Savannah a few years ago and ate at her "Lady and Sons" restaurant. It was a fun experience, but neither of us are big fans of grits, greens, and lard laced edibles. Of course, technically, we're Yankees at heart. The gist of this is give the lady a break and let her deal with her life and health problems. Just because she has a cooking show doesn't mean it caused her diabetes.

When I am out and about, WHY are there so MANY horrible drivers on the road that have no freaking idea what a turn signal is or how to probably navigate a merge lane???? And that's all I'm saying on that except they should have their licenses taken away!

And while I'm venting on things I can do without, if you live in the United States, you should speak English. Period.

And if a person is receiving public assistance, they shouldn't be driving extravagant cars, buying steaks and wine with their food stamps, flashing around expensive jewelry, popping out babies one after another and expect the rest of us to be happy about paying for their housing, food and health care. Get a job! Having said that, I do realize there are some very deserving people who truly need the help and deserve the help. But the ones abusing the system are bankrupting the country.

When I get a phone call with a recorded message, I hang up. If whoever sent it wants to contact me they can take the time to do it in person. The only exception to this is appointment reminders. I'm okay with those.

So-called minority groups and their demonstrations and whinings......... God made all people. If you want to be treated just like everyone else - and let's be honest, sometimes that treatment is crappy - then stop whining and complaining and calling attention to whatever is different about you. Please, I'd just as soon not have to hear about it any more. I don't care what minority group you may think you're in. My feelings on this apply to all the various groupings. If you want to be treated like everyone else, act like it. Buck up, get busy, support yourself and try to get along with other people. Our country, the melting pot of the world, is now such a mix that I'm not sure there are any minorities any more. So whether you think you're a different color, a different religion, have an alternative lifestyle, or even have green skin and purple hair, I don't care. We're all people and I don't want to hear about it any more. Keep private things to yourselves and get down to business.

One final thing... don't give me "a look" when I'm enjoying my Starbucks coffee. I don't drink, I've never smoked, the only drugs I've ever done have been prescription, and I have no expensive hobbies. I have a wonderful husband who I love very much. I love my family. I love our cats. I like my Mustang convertible. And I enjoy my coffee and chocolate. Life is too short to live it being miserable.

On this happy thought, I'll end this. As you can tell, I've had a lot of thoughts rolling around in my head and it was time to let them out. Take care of yourselves and stay safe!

OY! TECHNOLOGY!

2012-01-31T16:28:00.002-05:00

Hey, all!

Things have been busy here. Golfer surprised me with new phones for us yesterday and we've been getting them set up. I've had a cell phone for years and have just used it as a phone. You know, to make and receive calls, send emergency SOS's and such. Golfer has had more functions in use on his phones. But now I have been thrust into the 21st century and beyond with a wonderful Samsung Galaxy SII phone that appears to do just about anything and everything! I love it! Thanks, Golfer! I've just completed entering contact information and pictures and am ready to move on to downloading a game! I'll let you know how it goes.

In other news, evidently it is now the time for hospitals and medical professionals to audit their books and mail has been coming in saying they have not been paid and I'm supposed to follow up on that. And after last Summer, that's a lot of possible bills! We've been very fortunate and most have flown through our insurance companies systems with no problem. But I just received a letter from the hospital saying they were owed some money for service on January 1, 2011. WTH! That's a problem on so many levels. It was a holiday, it was a Saturday, I have nothing on the calendar for that day like an ER visit (I keep calendars for a couple years for just this purpose) and they didn't say which insurance company I was supposed to check with! After trying for two days to reach them and being on hold for what seemed like forever, I was told "never mind, they were checking into it" Geez!

It's been cold for a few days and is now warming up again. Supposed to be near 70 tomorrow. Winter in Virginia. I'm not complaining. I'm ready for Summer.

It's time to go check the laundry and start supper, so that's it for now. Stay safe!

Back Home!

2012-01-22T17:06:00.002-05:00

Golfer and I went up to D.C. with NurseJ and BeyB on Friday afternoon. Just got home.

On the way there we made a stop at Short Pump to visit "Frostings", a cupcake bakery that was featured on "Cupcake Wars". Golfer and I have never seen the show, but it's a favorite of NurseJ's family. I can say that the cupcakes were very lovely and very delicious!

We spent yesterday wandering through a couple Smithsonian buildings and just seeing the sights. The hotel provided shuttle service to the Metro station so we were all set. We all had a good time and were worn out by the time we returned to the hotel last evening.

After a stop for breakfast this morning we hit the IKEA store and did some shopping. Then we were on our way home. We will probably all sleep well tonight!

The Furry Kids are fine. We have an excellent young lady who comes and cares for them while we're away.

So, we're back home, the suitcase is put away, the laundry is running and it's time to fix some supper. Stay warm and stay safe!

More later!

Happy Anniversary, Bikini and Brief!

2012-01-22T16:32:00.000-05:00

Hope you have a wonderful day! We love you!

Happy Birthday, Bloomer!

2012-01-20T08:40:00.000-05:00

Have a great day, honey! We love you!

Peppercorns Everywhere! #!*&#!!

2012-01-14T17:06:00.001-05:00

I love the new Oxo Good Grips salt and pepper grinders that Golfer got me for Christmas. I did not realize that the "lids" were not tight though. I was using the pepper grinder while preparing supper and when I turned it over to set it back on the counter, the "lid" fell off and the entire contents of peppercorns fell out. Do you know how far a peppercorn will bounce when it hits a stone counter top or a tile floor? Pretty #^&**!! far! They were everywhere! So, as a public service, I am suggesting that everyone checks theirs!

Geez! Stay safe!

A Seasonal Weather Update!

2012-01-12T09:38:00.001-05:00

The forecast for today is low 60's and sunny. On the way to work this morning I saw a flock of robins! I hope they don't freeze their little tukusses off in a few days!

Stay safe!

A Really Belated Happy New Year!

2012-01-11T16:22:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone survived the holidays and had a wonderful time! I always enjoy Christmas - the music, the decorations, the family and friends, the good food........but for some reason this past one just wore me out.

Things are back to normal now. The decorations are all down and put away and everything is cleaned up. And on we go.

The weather here in Virginia has been up and down and back and forth. We've had "shorts" weather every now and then. Today is cold and rainy. Tomorrow will be sunnier, but then turning colder. We just dress in layers and try to be prepared. The warm weather has the plants confused, too. There are buds coming out on some of the trees and today I saw daffodils starting to sprout up through the ground. I hope they all survive. Even though I'm ready for Summer, I know Winter is not over yet.

It's time to curl up under one of Bikini's quilts and read a good book. There really isn't any news from here, I just wanted to say hi and let you know Golfer and I are still here!

Stay safe!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T16:41:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone is calm and happy and ready for tomorrow! It is officially now Christmas Eve and I wanted to send along our good wishes. It will be a fairly quiet Christmas for Golfer and me. Nurse J is working this weekend and we are "having Christmas" with her, CableGuy and BeyB on Monday the 26th. I am planning on watching a couple movies tomorrow since I know for sure that some of our presents to each other are DVDs!

I spent a chunk of time today trying a new pie recipe. Golfer found it while surfing the web a while back and thought it sounded good. Chocolate peanut butter banana pie does sound good but the recipe is rather time consuming. It's chilling in the fridge as I type this.

Golfer and I have a tradition of going out for a sandwich on Christmas Eve and then looking at light displays. We've hit a slight bump in those plans this year. Most of the places we'd like to eat are closing really early or are not open at all. so I'm going to sign off now and go make burritos - the start of a new tradition!

Take care and stay safe and have a wonderful Christmas!

Welcoming a New "Family Member"!

2011-12-20T14:33:00.000-05:00

Hey, all!

This is a picture of what Golfer and I did yesterday! We traded in VJ, our LHS, and got this 2008 Toyota Tacoma X-Runner. Golfer had been having some serious nostalgia for his past trucks and VJ had served us well. It seemed like the time was right.

In other news, it's almost Christmas. We're about as ready as we're going to get here. It was really cold for a couple days and now today it is a bit warmer. Supposed to be 70 again tomorrow and possible heavy thunderstorms. Geez.

So, all is calm now and all is well. Stay safe!

Additional Decorations!

2011-12-17T19:33:00.000-05:00

Had to make one more post today! Bikini made us an appliqued piece that fits perfectly with our Nativity set that I posted earlier. Thanks!

And in the mail today we received the most lovely kitty ornament from a dear friend. It is all the more special because, by her own admission, she isn't really what we would call a "cat person". Thanks, E.!

Stay safe, everyone!

You Are Wondering .... Why the Multiple Posts?

2011-12-17T11:18:00.000-05:00

I have been having issues posting lately,. Many thoughts are bumping around in my head and I have tried to write and just could not get them to load. I couldn't get pictures to download. Posts would disappear. It was extremely annoying. I've switched back and forth between FireFox and Explorer as suggested by the help site. I've tried other methods for the pictures. Finally I ran across an upgrade and figured it was worth a shot. And this morning I am learning their new methods!

Things have been busy. Holiday preparations are pretty much done. We've hosted a gathering and been to another one. Daily routines continue. Golfer is out on the course when the weather cooperates. We even had shorts weather last week for a couple days!

Work has been busy in my office, but fortunately most days I have the space to myself and can accomplish a lot. We've been getting back into our "Y" routines. I've had a few blah days recently, but am feeling better. It was a year ago that Mom died. I know she always enjoyed the Christmas decorations and shows on TV. I hope she has some good ones this year.

Hermione injured herself somehow this week and I had to take her to the doctor. Nothing broken or torn, but she had some inflammation in her hip and knee and could hardly move. And from the moment I got her back home, Cinder turned into a little tyrant bully. After a discussion with Dr. W. we decided to supplement Hermione's steroid injection with some pills and also to give Cinder something to calm her down. Poor Cecil was just distraught and wanted all the fussing to stop! But things are improving now. Hermione is moving much better. Cinder is getting back to her sweet self and devoting more time to Christmas tree skirt rearranging.

Life is good.

Some family members tease us and say Cecil doesn't exist because they never get to see him. He almost always runs and hides when anyone else comes into the house. But this is him enjoying the tree skirt. He loves the trees and will sit under them and peek at us. He wore himself out this evening!

Stay safe! More later!

Nativity

2011-12-17T11:00:00.000-05:00

I have not displayed this Nativity set for a few years because it is rather large and takes up a lot of room. This year I decided to try this.

Some New Ornaments on Our Original Tree

2011-12-17T10:57:00.000-05:00

These are just some pictures of a few new ornaments on our tree for this year. Golfer's brother and his wife gave us a set of Cleveland Browns ornaments (this is just one of them). They also gave us the large blue ornament with the lovely trees on it. In that picture you can also see the new Romulan Bird of Prey. Golfer and I have collected Hallmark Star Trek ornaments over the years. This year we have a couple that have just simply given up working. They all either light up or have recorded messages. The Bird of Prey was a new one this year. For the record, we also have a Millennium Falcon on the tree!

Golfer gave me an early gift of a set of Harry Potter ornaments. There is one for each "House" and one for Hogwarts!

Have a great weekend!

WTH, Post Office?!?!?!?!

2011-12-17T10:30:00.001-05:00

Hey, all!

We've all been hearing about the woes of the Post Office. And sure, I agree it would be nice it they were more profitable. But, come on! It's hard to muster up sympathy for them when I find things like this when I open our mailbox.

Those two strips are from an envelope and a card that I had mailed. They arrived back in our box in the special envelope that says "we care". If they cared so much they wouldn't mangle my mail!

Stay safe!

Just Saying "Hi!"

2011-12-07T09:47:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone's Christmas and other holiday preparations are going well! Things are under control at our house. I was out doing errands with the top down on Duke yesterday with the Christmas music playing on the radio. Felt real festive!

I have a new daily routine of putting the tree skirts back under the trees. The furry kids are really enjoying them.

Golfer is out playing golf today. It's in the 70's and nice. Supposed to get colder later today and rain.

Things are busy at Bikini's. Brief is still working on the outside decorations. He's having a problem with Santa's runway lights, I think.

BeyB and Nurse J have been sick. BeyB is better and went back to school today. Nurse J now has what she had and is trying to get better.

So all is all, things are calm and quiet. The decorations are up, the shopping is about done, the cards are sent, and the baking has started. Have a wonderful Christmas and stay safe! More later...

Original Tree!

2011-12-02T15:40:00.001-05:00

New Tree!

2011-12-02T15:39:00.000-05:00

Whew!

2011-12-01T14:46:00.005-05:00

It's been a busy time for us! This was our year to go to Bikini's for Thanksgiving, so Golfer and I were away for a few days. We had a nice trip and a wonderful visit. Bikini did a great job preparing dinner. Boxer and Bloomer are growing up sooo fast! The weather wasn't too bad but the traffic was a bit worse than usual. We are safely home now and getting back into a daily routine.

There was some catching up to do with unpacking, and putting away of "stuff" and doing a mountain of laundry. The yard needed leaf clean-up again; I think we might be nearing the end of that yearly job. At least we hope so! And then there was the decorating to tackle. Golfer and I decided it would be nice to have a tree at the front of the house that would be visible from the front windows. Our usual tree is a bit too big for that, so we bought a tall, slim one for the dining room. Our original tree is in the living room in its usual spot (after shifting the new furniture around a bit) I really like them both! The furry kids are wearing themselves out running from one tree to the other. (they don't know which tree skirt to rearrange first!)

It was at this point that I wanted to insert pictures of both trees. For some reason, that function is not working with blogger right now, but I discovered I could post the pictures separately by using another route. So please see the two following posts. Thanks Bikini for your help!

I'm in the process of finishing the Christmas cards and hope to have them in the mail soon. Haven't even thought about baking anything yet. Most of the shopping is done. So we are well on our way into the Merry Christmas season.

While we were at Bikini's, NurseJ and CableGuy surprised BeyB with a trip to Disney World! They had a great time and came back exhausted.

I have to get back to work on all this desk stuff so take care and stay safe!

Well. That's That For Another Year!

2011-11-15T16:29:00.002-05:00

I. am. exhausted. And it did not help that I woke up with a headache this morning.

Here is how the afternoon went today. I got home from work and Golfer and I had lunch. Then it was time to wrestle the furry kids into the carriers for their annual visit to the doctor. While I was circling the dining room table after Cinder a few times, Golfer was upstairs trying to coax Cecil out from under the bed. I grabbed Cinder. No luck for Golfer with Cecil. So that's one cat in the carrier and sitting by the door.

While Golfer was upstairs, Hermione got wind of what was going on and she dove under our bed. We called, coaxed, and offered bribes. No luck. I got the long handled fuzzy duster and tried to push her out. No luck. Then a brainstorm! I got the stick vacuum, shut the bedroom door and went to the far side of the bed and started vacuuming under the bed. It wasn't long before Hermione ran out and saw Golfer and jumped to my side and I got her. That's two kitties in carriers in the hall by the door.

Time was running out. We put the girls in the car. Golfer had gone out first and when he closed the door to the garage, Cecil heard it and ran downstairs and under our bed. Ah ha! I got Golfer back in and we closed the bedroom door, opened the closet door and turned on the vacuum. Golfer got him cornered when Cecil ran into the closet. Of course in the process of getting him into the carrier, I got peed on, but at that point, who cared!

So they had their check-ups and all were very good. Had one mishap when Cinder was being feisty and unbalanced her carrier and it fell off a chair. Dr. W. gave her a second going over and checked her out. She wasn't hurt and she remained fairly quiet for the rest of the outing. Hermione had to have some blood work done. Overall, they are in good shape though and are now thoroughly ticked off about the event.

I have had a shower, took some Tylenol and am drinking a Coke. It's a pizza night here for supper.

Stay safe!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

2011-10-31T15:14:00.002-04:00

It's been a busy day here! Since Golfer and I are going to dinner with friends tomorrow evening, we decided to cancel our plans for a movie and dinner out today. First off, there's not really a movie playing that I really want to see. And secondly, we're going to dinner tomorrow night. So on the way to work this morning, I stopped at Wal-Mart and bought candy! We're all set now. Let the Trick-or-Treating begin!

BeyB is now over the age limit for the festivities, but she's coming over to help hand out the candy. And since Nurse J finally has a couple days off, all three of them are coming over for burritos for supper.

Of course, Boxer and Bloomer are Trick-or-Treating in Georgia. Can't wait to see pictures of them in their costumes!

I want to get back into some semblance of my "old routine", so Golfer and I went to the "Y" after lunch. Felt good to be back in the pool. But for some strange reason it seemed to make my foot hurt. That is very unusual, because normally being in the water makes everything hurt less. This will be discussed at my physical therapy appointment on Wednesday. I figure I'll have PT one day a week and get to the "Y" and do my own stuff twice a week for a while and see how it goes.

Now we're home, the laundry is running, and all is well. It's getting dark and cloudy and is supposed to rain. And it doesn't look like it's going to hold off to do that until after the Halloween fun. Raincoats over costumes reminds me of when we lived in Colorado and NurseJ's and Bikini's costumes had to fit over heavy coats! Seemed like there was frequently snow for Halloween.

I'd better go get started on dinner prep, so have a great evening and stay safe!

Happy Day-Before-Halloween!

2011-10-30T10:31:00.005-04:00

I honestly do not know where the time goes! Here it is almost the end of October, and I feel like I've been in a Trekkie time warp.

I am doing well. Some days are easier than others as far as ignoring the pain and sensitivity in my right foot, but life is good.

It is cold here in Virginia today. Yesterday it rained pretty much all day and there was no golf for Golfer. He opted to go do the grocery shopping with me in the morning. The rest of the day was spent doing things around the house. Today is sunny and the golf is "on".

Earlier in the week we did some yard work and Golfer washed and waxed Hiro, the Acura.

We made a trip last weekend to Ohio to visit family. We had a really nice trip and went up and around D.C. and took the Pennsylvania turnpike. The Fall colors in the trees were lovely! Ohio was cold, but we had prepared by packing warm clothes. Golfer went to the Browns' football game with his brother and they had a good time. We stayed in a very interesting Bed and Breakfast called "The Bonny Peacock". Here's a picture of our bedroom. The owners were nice, the space for us was great. The house was filled with antiques and things they had collected over the years. We had our own private entrance to our area. It was quiet and peaceful. And Hiro provided a warm spot for their cats to nap!

All in all, things are just rolling along around here. As I said, life is good. Stay safe!

It's Feeling Like Fall!

2011-10-03T16:18:00.003-04:00

Hey, all!

Things are humming along here. I'm still going to physical therapy twice a week. Also, still having issues with my lower right leg and foot. I had a doctor's appointment and he says it could take at least two years to get back to "normal". That was discouraging. Since nothing I do seems to make it better, I've decided to just try to ignore it. That works better some days than others. But, hey, we all know I have a stubborn streak that rears its head sometimes! I am not giving in to this. So, anyway, life goes on. I'm going back to work tomorrow. I actually spent a couple hours at the office on Saturday cleaning out some piles and sorting through things so all would be ready. I appreciate the volunteers that covered things there while I've been out, but there were some things they couldn't handle.

It has cooled off here and has been in the 60's during the daytime and in the 40's at night. Thanks to our new increased attic insulation, I think, we have not turned the heat on yet. But the system is getting the annual check-up this week so we will be ready. We're still getting rain. Golfer is going to have to rent a baler if he can't mow the grass soon! Due to the large amount of rain lately, there has been a population explosion of mushrooms, toadstools, and other fungi around here. And while some of our neighbors have fairy rings in their yards or small Smurf villages, this is what we got! Quite impressive! It was prying the bark off the tree, so I went out with gloves and tools and removed it. It must have weighed about ten pounds.

I have slowly tackled some traditional "Fall cleaning". You know, window washing, extra mopping, stuff like that. I have started the Christmas shopping and will soon start on the annual letter. This year's ought to be a doozy after the Summer we had!

Golfer is in the process of having some major dental work done but is still playing golf as much as possible. Some rounds have been rather muddy lately.

So, all in all, life is good and on it goes. Stay safe! More later.

It Was a Magical Week!

2011-09-25T12:48:00.005-04:00

Hey, all!

Golfer and I just returned from a week's vacation with Bikini, Brief, Boxer, and Bloomer in Orlando, Florida! There had been lots of advance planning for this trip. Bikini found a house we could rent for the week that gave us lots of room and a pool! I had to get permission from from my doctor and physical therapist to travel. Basically, I can try to do anything I feel like, but was told several times to NOT ride anything that was bumpy, jerky, twisty, etc. Well, that ruled most things out, but Golfer rented me an electric scooter each day so I could keep up and have a place to sit while I "people-watched" while everyone else was riding things.

In case you're wondering, it was school break week for the kids. Their school starts August 1st in Georgia. And I think they saw different friends almost every day!

We had park hopper tickets for four days at Disney parks and tickets for one day at Universal. There is way more to do there than a person can do. I especially recommend Epcot. The Planet Earth ride was great!

Golfer and I took one day and went to Kennedy Space Center. Great place! We took a bus tour around the site. Golfer rode the launch simulator. We saw the Star Trek exhibit, too! One of the bus drivers told us that it was a "high activity" time for the wildlife. The Space Center is a wildlife preserve. Said we should watch out for gators - did not see any! We did see a huge eagles' nest. They estimated the nest was about 800 pounds up in a tall tree! The driver said the pair of eagles had been back to the same nest for about ten years.

The main event at Universal was going to Harry Potter World! The Butter Beer was delicious! Golfer and I had lunch at "The Three Broomsticks". I did not get to ride anything there in Hogsmeade, but it was lovely. I did do a little shopping at the Owl Post. We saw a dance performance by the Beau Batons' ladies and the Durmstrang guys. Very good! Bikini caught the performance of the singing frogs and said it was good, also.

The weather was HOT and HUMID the whole time. And I mean take-a-step-outside-the-door-and-be-drippy-wet hot and humid. There were thunderstorms several times, but they really only caused us a problem on the first day. And we got absolutely soaked then! Had to go back to the house and dump the water out of our shoes!

And one other interesting note - it was love bug season there in Florida. Love bugs are long, little black bugs that "hook up" and then fly around together. They land on and in everything - you, your car, your food.... ick.

So now we're home and getting caught up and back to normal, if there really is any such state. The groceries are bought, the laundry is done, the mail has been read, and the house is cleaned. It was a magical time. And let me add that some days when you hear someone say to you "have a magical day" just one more time, you want to scream! That's the standard greeting at Disney.

Stay safe!

Still Plugging Away

2011-09-15T14:14:00.002-04:00

Hey, all! I hope all is well with everyone. Golfer and I are doing okay. I'm still going to physical therapy three times a week. Some days are better than others. I see my doctor the last week of this month.

It's sunny and bright here right now, but the TV weatherman says a front is coming with wind gusts up to 35 -40 mph and thunderstorms later today. Then tomorrow it will be only in the 60's, a sign that Fall is coming. Although here in Virginia we often go straight from using the A/C to using the heat and vice versa. Golfer is out mowing the grass right now and cleaning up the yard before it gets wet.

I've started our Christmas shopping! Because of the issues I am having with my right lower leg and foot, any shopping trips are fairly short and so far are confined to places where I can go and park right in front of the store. But so far, so good!

Golfer and I saw "Contagion" this week. Very good movie, but sort of creepy. Just wanted to get home and take a shower after! But it does an excellent job of explaining how an epidemic gets started and spreads.

Nothing else going on right now. Stay safe!

Happy Friday!

2011-09-02T09:13:00.002-04:00

There really isn't too much new going on here, but I want to get back into the habit of posting more than once every couple months! So --- HI!

I had physical therapy yesterday and had some increased pain last evening and during the night. I cannot shake the fear I have of the extreme pain coming back. Every time there's a new twinge and pain, I worry. This was not the first time it's happened after a PT session though, so I know there's a connection. The therapist is very good and very patient. Everyone there keeps reminding me that I'm a special case since I had two major things going on within a very short time and the therapy for each thing works against the other. So I have to be careful about what I'm doing. Things are better this morning though.

The golf course is open again after the hurricane, so Golfer is getting to play this morning. I'm happy about that.

I have some laundry running and got the bed changed. We did some cleaning yesterday so things are pretty well under control.

I actually just got home from my first solo shopping trip. I took a walk through Wal-Mart! I only go there early in the mornings when I do go because I don't like crowded places. It went well. I had a couple things to look for. When I replaced our dishes last year, I picked the simple, classic white Correlle line. Wal-Mart sells the major pieces individually. Good thing, too! They do not bounce when dropped on our tile floor! It was time to restock a few pieces. On the way home from there I went by the ATM and the mail drop box. So for me lately, I've had a busy morning.

Golfer did the yard work yesterday. Things are looking pretty good, but it's been a hard Summer for the grass. Too hot and either too little rain or too much. But it's green and neat and the new landscaping that happened around the time of my surgeries looks nice. McDonald Garden Center did a good job. Golfer has kept the geraniums out front watered and they look good. Usually they are still blooming past Thanksgiving around here.

It's getting cloudy and a little dark. I think it's supposed to rain later. I hope everyone has a nice long weekend! Stay safe!

Working My Way Back

2011-08-31T15:57:00.002-04:00

Well. Hello. Yes, I am still here and still living, although it's been questionable at times these last many weeks.

In my last post I wrote that I was home and recuperating from my knee surgery. Things pretty much went down the dumper from there. The knee rehab was going well, but I developed the absolute worst pain I have ever had in my right leg from my hip down to my toes.

After several doctor visits, an ER trip, x-rays, MRI and such, I was admitted to the hospital for pain management until my doctor could do the surgery I needed to remove bone spurs in a couple vertebrae. The nasty spurs were severely compressing the sciatic nerve and causing the extreme pain. Surgery was delayed due to the blood thinners I was on following the knee surgery, but eventually happened.

Right now, my incisions have healed in both places, but I do not recommend that one has two major surgeries within three weeks if they can avoid it. It is not pleasant. I have been released by home health care and have started outpatient physical therapy. Recovery is slow going. I am a little better each day, but still have pain and numbness in my lower right leg and foot. We are told that it will take a while for full recovery because the nerve compression was so severe and there is still swelling and inflammation in there. But I am plugging away at things and do my exercises every day and try to obey all the rules. They say my left knee is doing very well.

During all of this Golfer has been absolutely wonderful. There was a span of time when it was all I could do to get myself to the bathroom and back to bed. He took over everything and did a wonderful job! Thanks, and I love you, Golfer!

Bikini came for a week to help us and Nurse J is always just a phone call away. So we had them for back-up!

I am going to name this period of time "Our Summer of Discomfort". Besides the personal pain I've been in, we've had some interesting things going on around here. The Dismal Swamp is burning and there have been many days when the wind was a certain way that our air quality was awful and stunk.

Then we had an earthquake. Over the years, Golfer and I have experienced tornadoes, some flooding, blizzards, and hurricanes but this was the first earthquake for us. We did not care for it!

The latest thing was Hurricane Irene. We made all the preparations and did all the things we should. ( I should clarify that and say that Golfer did all those things) We lucked out here and did not have any major problems. Others in the area were not so lucky and are still without power. Ours just flickered a few times. The back yard was a mess with some downed small branches and many twigs and leaves, but no major damage to our house. We did cancel a planned trip to Myrtle Beach though. And I cannot believe that the swamp fire is still burning after all of Irene's rainfall!!

So, life goes on. The list of things that I would like to be able to do grows longer every day. But I know that I must pace myself and not overdo. I do not want to ever do anything that will bring back that pain.

I hope everyone is well and happy. Stay safe!

A Day Late, But Happy Birthday, Bikini!

2011-07-14T10:09:00.002-04:00

We'll just say the lateness is due to some slight drug haze. :)

I am home and doing okay. The physical therapist has already said I can go without the leg brace, but I am still using the walker. I'll be happy when he says I can move on to my quad cane. It's difficult sometimes to maneuver around the new furniture and freshly painted woodwork and not ding any of it. But I know from experience, it is all fixable if I do. So on we go. Golfer is doing a great job of taking care of me.

I have to be on the motion machine several times a day to equal four to six hours. The pain meds make me sleepy and tired, so I often nap while I'm on the machine. I have exercises to do every day, too. My incision seems to be healing okay. I wasn't really expecting it to be so big this time, but I think it's even a little longer than the first one.

At the moment I'm doing some desk stuff and catching up on emails.

We're just plugging along here. Nothing exciting happening at the moment, unless you count the service calls for the sprinkler system and the dish washer. And now that the leak has been fixed in the dishwasher, the laminate flooring can be repaired where it got wet and warped. Geez. Fortunately, it's not a very large area and we had kept the extra boards from the installation.

That's all from me right now. It's been hot and muggy here in Virginia. But it's Summer, so can't complain.

Stay safe!

Hey, All

2011-07-06T14:30:00.004-04:00

Hope all is well with all of you.

I'm just sort of hanging out around the house today doing odds and ends. You know, a little laundry, a little cleaning, packing my bag for the hospital, etc.

Our area seems to be stuck in a time of "scattered" storms. There was a big one the evening of the 4th and it cancelled a lot of fireworks scheduled for the area. A small storm came through the area this morning and cut short the round of golf that Golfer was trying to get in. I felt bad about that since he's going to miss a few rounds while he's taking care of me after the surgery.

He got a picture taken with his camera of the crown molding.

And here's a picture of our new lamp. (see the last item on my last blog post) This replaces the tall lamp that looked like a man's necktie. At least that's what it looked like to me. I had really liked it. This new one coordinates well with some of the artwork and the colors in the room. And hopefully it will be up to the task of coexisting with healthy, active cats! The previous one was not up to the challenge! And let me just say that Hermione is being watched like a hawk! She has to re-earn my trust!

So that's how it is here. Not a lot of news, just wanted to say "hey" since it will be a few days before I'm back on the computer.

Stay safe!

Things I Have Learned from Working with a Decorator

2011-07-04T10:21:00.002-04:00

1. All my life I have hung curtains that were too short.

2. They're not called curtains, they're called "window treatments".

3. Everything does not have to "match". They should "coordinate".

4. A good decorator - which we have had - will work with you and consider your likes and dislikes and keep your favorite things. Thank you, Lynn!

5. Golfer and I have not always made good color choices.

6. And last on the list: if you love cats, and have healthy, active ones, you shouldn't get too attached to your brand new, lovely, ceramic lamp!

Happy 4th!

2011-07-04T10:10:00.002-04:00

Time has been flying by (as usual) and it's been a while since I've written. Many postings have rattled through my head but haven't made it to the screen!

It's hot and muggy here in Virginia. This morning we had some smoke and smell from the North Carolina fires again. I wish they would get enough rain to help the fire fighters get those fires put out.

Since my last post, Golfer and I had the crown molding put in the office and bedroom. Then we had Jeff, the excellent painter we hired before, come and paint the molding as well as the rest of the trim work in the office and the dining room. It looks great and I was hoping to post a picture of the crown molding, but am having issues with my Kodak program at this time. Perhaps in the near future.

I've been sort of busy this past week getting ready for surgery again. I went to see my ortho doc about some leg pain last week, thinking I had just overdone things working in the yard and doing housework. I thought he'd tell me I needed to rest and take a Motrin or something. But, no. After the usual x-rays, he told me I needed surgery to re-do my new knee. The replacement part that sits on top of the tibia is not adhering to the bone. So here we go again. I was not a happy camper and was in "why me" mode for about twenty-four hours. Then I moved on and am now just annoyed and anxious to get it done. He says this is not the result of anything I have done, it just happens sometimes. Surgery is next week. The rehab will be the same as the first time. Wish us all luck, please.

Stay safe!

Happy Anniversary to Us!

2011-06-24T11:34:00.000-04:00

I love you Golfer! XOXOXO

Lamps, Artwork, and Pretty Stuff!

2011-06-14T15:29:00.007-04:00

Hey, again!

This is the quilt Bikini made using the patches from my Mom's jacket. When Mom would come to visit us different places we lived, she'd get a patch for her jacket. If we took an interesting vacation, we'd get her a patch there, too. We have this in our bedroom.

Here are a couple views of some of the new artwork and the lamps. Disregard the date on some of the pictures, I was having camera "issues"!

I think Golfer's lamp looks like a tie!

Other things have been moved around in the house and "tweaked" and we're comfortable with it all. And as of this moment, the yard work is all done, too. So, AHHHHH!

Stay safe! More later.

New Furniture!

2011-06-14T15:13:00.007-04:00

Golfer and I are getting used to the new things and we both like everything very much. Lynn did a great job and was very patient. . . . .even when she had furry kids helping her! Here's a sample of what is here now.

This is usually referred to as the "guest chair". It's pretty comfortable. The light is nice in the evenings when we're watching TV. Don't know where we'll move it when we put a Christmas tree up!

The next picture shows the rug, ottoman and the loveseat. The furry kids love hiding under the ottoman.

Next is a view of the recliners. You can sort of see the new side tables. This was taken before the new lamps arrived. I'll share some views of some of the artwork and lamps in another post. Stay safe!

Back from Vacation (a week ago!)

2011-06-11T16:52:00.002-04:00

Hey, all!

Sorry it's been a while. Golfer and I were on vacation in Myrtle Beach. He was playing in a golf tournament for Military Retirees. Several friends go on this trip also, as well as Bikini and her family. She started taking her vacation at this time a few years ago and we get a week with her, Brief, Boxer and Bloomer. Great to see them! The kids love the pools and the water park. Nurse J, Cable Guy, and BeyB couldn't go this year because of work and school commitments and we missed them.

Anyway, we're home now and the past week has been a flurry of activity around here. First there was the catching up around the house and the errands. I had to go back to work. Then there were deliveries! Lynn, our decorator, brought new rugs, an ottoman, art work, and an accent chair. The next day Lazy Boy delivered the things we ordered from them. Then we had to have someone pick up the old furniture and get it out of the garage. Today Lynn returned with lamps for us to look at and she wanted to tweak a few things. All in all things are looking lovely and much improved. I only cried once today and that was Hermione's fault.

Lynn set up each of the lamps she brought to see which we liked and where. So we decided and then moved on to the bedroom to check on something. We were standing there talking when we heard the crash. Let the beatings begin!! Hermione had knocked one of the new lamps onto the floor. Fortunately, the only breakage on it was the finial and the bulb. Lynn will get a new finial and we had another bulb. Hermione knew I was really upset and moved herself under our bed for a while. We know she did not do it on purpose, but geez!

In between all of this, I've been doing my own tweaking of things and rearranged some pictures and framed things. That, of course, involved doing some spackling and touch up painting. We just finished moving the cuckoo clock. The paint is drying now!

We'll be taking some more pictures soon and I'll try to get them posted here. I just wanted you to know we did not fall on the edge of the earth. Just been busy. Hopefully I'll post pictures soon.

Take care and stay safe!

Happy 40th, Nurse J!

2011-06-10T09:49:00.000-04:00

Love you!

Are You Still Here??

2011-05-22T07:48:00.002-04:00

Well, Golfer and I are still here and we haven't received any of those "I've been Raptured" emails from any of you, so we can assume the preacher didn't know what he was talking about! And, oh so conveniently, the paper says no one knows where he is this morning. His radio station is playing "recorded church music".

Don't get me wrong, I believe anyone should be allowed to believe whatever they want as long as it doesn't endanger others. Live and let live, I say. But, come on! Some of these people just have to make you chuckle and wonder. I don't hide the fact that I believe in God. I have personal experience with his saving powers. I talk to Him every day. I don't believe in a vengeful God though. I believe he's a loving God.

I do, however, believe there is a special hellish place for truly evil people. You know, like some of those that have been in the news lately.

Having said that, let's consider the new businesses that started up recently while expecting the end of the world. I mentioned the emails. A company would take your email and send it to all of your family and friends who were still here after you were "taken". You could write something like, "I've gone. You haven't! Ha ha!" or "Hey, don't forget to water the plants, and the mortgage is due on Monday." What would you really want to write in a case like that? I bet there were some interesting messages. And then there is the company that would take your money and guarantee to take care of your pets after you were gone. I am curious about their business prospects this morning. I personally believe that our pets will be there, wherever, when we do leave earth.

So anyway, life goes on. Work is progressing on the houses in our neighborhood that were damaged in the fire this past week. There's a lot of blue tarp on those three houses. The home owners association is collecting donations for the family whose house was struck by the lightning. We dropped off a gift card yesterday.

The weather is warming up here and will be HOT for a few days, if not for the whole Summer! I have to go out and yank a few more weeds later this morning. Also have to clean the mailbox again. It's a favorite sitting spot for the birds.

Boxer had his last football game for this year and is signed up for tackle football for the next time! Bloomer had a very successful dance recital and we're told she did the highest leap of any of the dancers! BeyB has made the honors program at her school and will be in advanced classes starting in 8th grade. We are proud of all of them and love them much!

Well, since life is still here as we know it, I have things to do and must go. Stay safe!

Nature's Fury

2011-05-19T16:14:00.004-04:00

About twenty-four hours ago we were having one of those "scattered" thunderstorms that are so common in our area this time of year. Lots of thunder, lightning, and rain. Nurse J called us to see if we were okay because she was on her way home and saw smoke and firetrucks coming this way. Then we heard sirens. Down around the corner from us, a neighbor's house was hit by lightning. In a very short time the house was destroyed, in spite of the many firetrucks that came to help. The houses on either side of the struck house were damaged also. One has been condemned, but they say might be salvageable. There have been work crews on all three properties all day. I've seen them as I've gone to and from work and errands. The good news is that everyone had good insurance and no one was hurt. In fact, no one was home when the lightning hit. A retired fireman who lives next door broke in and rescued the family dog before the firetrucks got there.

Golfer took this picture only about half an hour after the lightning strike and you can see the roof is gone. There were still flames shooting up.

Golfer and I are fine. There was smoke, of course, and some ash on the car, but that's nothing. As I type this, it is getting cloudy and windy again and may rain some more.

Stay safe out there!

Fine Tuning

2011-05-15T13:16:00.004-04:00

Hey, all!

I hope all is well with all of you! We've been keeping busy here. Finishing up some household projects and upkeep, and I have finally !! gotten all the piles moved out of the library and put away! I've hung a couple things in the bedroom, so I took a couple more pictures in there. We really like the new furniture.

The first picture is my dresser. To the left of the closet is the small cabinet that was Mom's. It has little keepsakes and things on the shelves. You can also see the new clothes hamper in the corner.

Then I took one of Golfer's dresser and you can see his autographed picture of Erin Gray!

It's been warming up again here and has gotten muggy. The A/C is back on. There was some rain last evening and is supposed to be more today, but so far just off and on cloudy. I worked in the yard for a while and tidied things up. Seems like there are always weeds to pull up!

I finally finished the new shelf liner project in the kitchen, so that's all done. Hooray!

So all is calm here right now. Take care and stay safe!

HOORAY!!!!!

2011-05-10T17:04:00.006-04:00

We have bedroom furniture! Golfer and I have spent the last couple hours going through the bags, boxes and baskets that our clothes have been in for several weeks. And then deciding on placement in our new dressers. Everything is now put away, the bed is made and the vacuum has been run. Ahhhh!

Stay safe! I've got to order pizza now!

Darn Time Has Been Flying Again!

2011-05-07T13:59:00.003-04:00

Hey, all!

It's a lovely sunny day here in Virginia. I might get to turn the heat off again! It got so cool a few days ago that it had to be turned on again. We had a few thunderstorms lately, but nothing major in our immediate area. The yard is green and things are growing.

We have a delivery date for next Tuesday for our new bedroom furniture! As soon as it gets in place Golfer and I will be busy putting things away and sorting through clothes. The other new furniture probably won't be delivered until the first part of June.

My work has continued to be busy. Quite frankly, some days at the church it's a mess. The church is in a major period of transition and change. I'm hanging in there for now.

Golfer had the opportunity to go on a golf trip with some friends and he had a great time. I'm glad he got to go. While he was away, I did some things around here like relining the kitchen cabinet shelves and did some extra cleaning. I also read a couple good books. I did practically no cooking - just did a pot roast with lots of veggies the first day he was gone and that was dinner for several evenings.

I wish a happy Mothers' Day to everyone! You either are a mother or you have a mother, so have a good day. I've been coping with some emotions since this is the first year without my Mom. I found this picture while going through some of her things recently.

We miss you Mom.

Stay safe everyone.

High Class Living!

2011-04-21T14:12:00.006-04:00

Hey, all!

Things are still busy and most days it feels like just one thing after another. But we are slowly progressing.

Since the last post - sorry it's been a while - we had to have the sprinkler system worked on. That was one of those "one thing leads to another" situations. Walt, the Spring Green guy wanted to come aerate and wanted Golfer to mark the sprinkler heads. So Golfer goes out to do that and the system needs repair. We wait a few days and the sprinkler man comes and installs a new part and then discovers a new leak elsewhere. So we wait another few days and finally yesterday he came with some special equipment and fixed that problem. Today after he mowed the grass, Golfer turned it on to mark the heads and discovered another leaking sprinkler head. So we made another call. Sigh.

Walt is coming to do his work tomorrow or the next day. He actually stopped by today to check on how things were going!

We also had Steve power wash our house, and the patio, porch, driveway, etc. Looks nice. We also hired two of his men to move our old bedroom furniture out to our garage. We were trying to sell it, but that didn't work out and we decided to donate it. Most places won't come into your home to pick things up. So for a couple days Duke, the Mustang, has sat outside and the garage has been full of furniture. Today someone from Refugee Services came and picked up the furniture. They were glad to have it and we'll claim it as a tax deduction.

Lynn, the decorator we've been working with, came one afternoon and helped us hang some of our things. And we looked through catalogs and picked out some new artwork to hang. It was amazing to watch her hang things. She didn't mark or measure, just "eyeballed" it and everything is hung perfectly!
It's hard to get a good photo angle but maybe you can tell how they are hung.

I've come to realize that all my life I've been hanging pictures too high!

So our old furniture is now on its way to new homes and we're waiting to hear on our new bedroom furniture. We expected it to be delivered around now. The living room furniture probably won't be here until June. and that brings us to a scene reminiscent of when Golfer and I were first married. Our furniture consisted of a bed and some lawn furniture! Here's our bedroom now; please note the stylish arrangement of Rubbermaid storage containers being used as night stands! Golfer thought of that! Those are our new lamps though! The box springs and mattress are sitting directly on the floor. That has caused much concern for the furry kids. No place to hide and nowhere to stash toys! Golfer and I were actually able to catch Cecil this afternoon and I clipped his nails and combed him. Of course, we did go around the bed a few times before we got him!

So that's how things are here. Stay safe!

Covered Windows!

2011-04-01T10:00:00.006-04:00

Hey, all!

Been busy around here. We finally got some window treatments! (I am trying to train myself to not say "curtains") There were a few glitches in the process, but we really like what we have so far. Turned out that the finials for four of the rods were on back order and Lynn did not realize that until they started the installation, so some of the rods just have bare ends for now. And the rods for the sheer panels in the bedroom didn't show up at all. But we have come to understand and realize that this whole decorating project does not work in real life like it does on HGTV where at the beginning of the half hour show they show a mess and in thirty minutes they go "TA-DA!" and things are perfect.

Anyway, here are a few pictures. First is the bedroom. There will eventually be some sheer panels under these and finials on the ends of the rods.

These are the living room. (with finials!)

These are the office. They needed to be light blockers because in the afternoon the sun comes in and hits us right in the eyes when we sit at the computer. And we can't move the computer without a lot of re-wiring.

The last picture is of the library. These drapes proved difficult. The color and texture are perfect for the room. But the first set of panels we had were poorly made and did not hang well. Lynn and I discussed possible solutions and I decided I wasn't going to put that much work into them. We we took them down, took them back and got the last two panels available in the area and tried again. They are better. But I did take Lynn's suggestion and put little sinker weights in the hem corners and now they hang even straighter!

BTW - our furry kids are never happy having strange people in our house doing things and making noise, but they do seem happy now that they have discovered they can hide behind the longer length window treatments!

Stay safe!

ME, AGAIN!

2011-03-19T14:55:00.003-04:00

Hey!

I just had to take a couple pictures to share. It is so lovely outside, even if there is a cool breeze.

The housework and odd jobs are done for today. After the mulch guys left, I went out to do a couple errands. Just had to go down Canon Boulevard to see the cherry trees in blossom again, so I took a picture. It's hard to find a place to stop to use the camera, but I got a good one!

And of course, I had to show the new garden flag, mulch and pansies!

Stay safe!

SPRING CLEANING

2011-03-19T11:10:00.002-04:00

Hey, all!

I hope you're all well and happy! It's a gorgeous day here, although it's cool compared to yesterday's 80 degrees. But today is pretty, sunny, and pleasant.

Cinder is sitting carefully on one of the new windowsills. She's watching the two guys out in our yard moving mulch around and making it look prettier.

Golfer and his buddy, L, are playing in a golf tournament this weekend in Williamsburg.

I had an epiphany this morning about Spring cleaning. What with all the work, moving of things, and clean-up following the work here in our house lately, the Spring cleaning is pretty much done! So, hurray! Not that there isn't always something that needs to be done, but all the big stuff is finished.

We have a date of March 29th for the window treatment rod installer to come. And Lynn will come and help hang the new window treatments. (wasn't it easier when we called them curtains??) so my task before then is to press them all and have them ready!

Duke has a new radio and I can have tunes now and actually adjust the volume! This is important when driving a convertible, but really, I often just turn the radio off when driving with the top down and wind in my hair. Can't hear the music anyway!

Bikini tweeted about discovering some major gray hairs in a Morticia style on her head. I hope she's not stressed by that. I had gray hair starting early and since they were just a few, and the style at the time was highlighting, I went that route. Until that unfortunate treatment while we lived in Germany. The water did not mix well with the highlighting (which had been a little heavy in that instance) and I ended up with a green tone. And when Golfer went to Saudi Arabia for a year I really went gray and started dying it. Eventually I just grew it out and let it do its own thing. Nurse J went gray early also, but she makes no secret of it. We're all pretty much "what you see is what you get".

I'm not sure how I got on that story, but hey, that's the way it is. Golfer had his annual physical this week. All is well. He started working on painting the trim and doors. Jeff, who was here painting the living room, kitchen and hallway, painted all the trim in those areas. We are switching to a "white" white for woodwork and doors and the rest of the rooms need to be done. Golfer started in the library. Looks good, even if he did have a rough start when the caulk gun broke and gobbed caulk where it didn't belong.

Since I have needed to be here at home today, I've been doing laundry and other stuff around here. Maybe there will be errand running when the guys are done working in the yard. That's about it from here. Stay safe!

The Clean Smell of New Paint!

2011-03-13T14:14:00.002-04:00

Hey, everyone!

I hope you're doing well and are having nice weather! It's in the mid-60's here and sunny today. The Bradford pear trees and pink bud trees are starting to bloom. There are pansies, crocus, daffodils and hyacinths coming up in flower beds. (we just have pansies here) One of these years I AM going to plants bulbs in the Fall.

Jeff finished up the painting in the kitchen, living room, hallway and all the trim work. It's lovely. Lynn, the decorator, came and made suggestions and I met with her Saturday morning to do some "shopping" to pick window treatments. Also picked out a new love seat and some side tables. She's going to be calling us in a day or two with information on the curtain rods and some other things. And probably next week the new window treatments will be hung. Golfer and I took down the last two old rods last evening and I just finished spackling the holes and doing touch-up painting. So all in all, things are moving right along.

I've been busy at work. This week is Rev. C's last week at the church. He's been on vacation for two weeks and I've been busier than usual in my office. Things are "in transition" at the church.

I also had my annual physical and mammogram. Had to have a couple extra blood tests and an ultrasound of my liver, but all is okay. My liver and kidney levels are monitored and checked a couple times a year because of the RA and medications. It was a stressful couple of days, but all is well.

We hired Critter Control to tackle the problem of moles tearing up the yard. Two were caught. Golfer was instructed how to use the traps he bought and so far, so good. We're on our own with that now.

Duke, the Mustang, will be going in for some work; hopefully this week. The radio needs to be replaced. And you can't do that just anywhere. Ford only uses their systems and you can't repair or replace with anything but the same things.

I didn't realize it had been two weeks since I last posted a message. As I've said - time flies! We've just been busy!

Stay safe!

Happy Birthday, Boxer!

2011-02-27T13:16:00.002-05:00

We hope you have a great day! We love you!

Grama & Granpa xoxo

Crazy Weather!

2011-02-26T14:00:00.004-05:00

Hey, all!

Dressing appropriately and making plans more than twenty-four hours ahead is challenging this time of year in Virginia. And the severe changes wreak havoc with headaches on some of us. Yesterday it warmed up but was extremely windy. Today is sunny, but only in the 40's although the wind has gone. And that's how it goes back and forth from day to day.

Jeff is here painting again today and things are progressing nicely. Golfer put the switch plate and outlet covers back on the walls in the hallway and living room last evening. Jeff started on the kitchen today. There was a lot of cutting in to do around all the new lights! He is currently working on the trim work in the living room. He thinks he will finish up on Monday. (not working tomorrow)

I spent a chunk of time upstairs today cleaning and putting things back together. I washed the new double windows up there inside and out. I love the new windows! Cleaning them was so much easier! I had had the drapes cleaned and I re-hung those and vacuumed and dusted real well. Later I tackled the office and cleaned the window and gave everything a good cleaning in here.

Golfer played golf today and is doing some errands right now. That's about it for plans for the day. I hope everyone is well and having a good weekend! Stay safe!

Here are pictures of our new front doors! I took two views trying to get the etching on the storm door to show up, but it's not real clear. You can get the idea though.

UPDATE

2011-02-24T13:48:00.002-05:00

Hey, All!

Work progresses! The new windows are all in and are lovely. At some point in the near future, they will get washed and new window treatments will be hung. I've already determined that the new windows block out drafts and sound much better than the old ones. The only unfortunate detail is that these new windows are thicker, and the windowsills are now more narrow. And the furry kids' hineys are not more narrow and when they jump up to look out, they have trouble sitting! We've decided they will have to deal with it. (poor babies)

Jeff, the painter, showed up early this morning and got right to work. We're trying to stay out of the way. I wish my hand was as steady when I paint as his is! The primer is on and covering up the red walls in the living room. What a difference! This is going to be a multiple-day job, but it's going well so far.

The electricians have been here already today and we now have a wonderful new cable and electrical outlet up on the wall in the bedroom so we can hang the TV. I was expecting two separate "outlets" but it's just one with both connections in it. Very neat! I'll let you know how it goes when we mount the TV up there!

Golfer has run to the end of his attempts to get rid of the pesky moles wreaking havoc in our yard and the "molenator" will be here on Monday. Actually the company name is "Critter Control", but we've been calling them "molenator". I'll let you know how that goes. It's to the point where it's hazardous to walk in some areas with the ground so uneven and tunneled.

We got a call from the furniture store; our mattress/box springs and the new lamps will be delivered next Tuesday.

I shifted my work time today to stay here at the house while golfer had a doctor's appointment. Gotta' love flex time!

That's about it from here. Stay safe!

Busy, Busy Week!

2011-02-20T13:21:00.003-05:00

Hi, all!

I hope you're all doing well. It's been a busy week here. Work on installing our new front door and storm door started on Monday. It went well, but isn't a quick job.

On Tuesday, Golfer and I went and ordered new bedroom furniture, lamps, mattress and box springs. The mattress and box springs will be ready in a week or so. The lamps will be in in a couple weeks and the furniture in six to eight weeks. Anyone know someone in the market for buying some good sturdy used furniture?

Then on Wednesday the guys returned to finish up the doors. They do look lovely!

Thursday we met with a decorator for a consultation. We've been trying to pick out a paint color for the kitchen and we've been getting nowhere with that decision, so that was one of the first things discussed. Golfer and I have come to realize that we have not always made great choices when decorating or getting things for the house. We figured it wouldn't hurt to ask for advice. Lynn was very nice and I was quite comfortable with her. I knew from the start if someone came in and told us all of our stuff was awful and to get rid of it we were going to have "issues", but Lynn was great. She works with what clients already have and what they like and goes from there. She helped us pick the kitchen color and then the living room color. And then we decided that if we were having a painter come in and do all that, he might as well do the hallways and get that over with. We've thought several times about painting the hallways in the last few years but never got to it. So the work progresses. We'll be meeting with her again in a week or so. And then we discuss window treatments and furniture!

Along with all this, I have made it to work every day, and we've gone to the "Y' multiple times and Golfer has played golf!

And now this weekend I have spent a lot of time taking down curtains and drapes. The installation of the new windows starts tomorrow. So the household has been a bit disrupted and the furry kids are confused. They don't know what to make of the uncovered windows!

We did have a couple really warm days - in the high 70's and low 80's. That was wonderful! but it is now cold again and not getting out of the 40's today. But at least the sun is shining brightly!

That is all the news from here. Take care and stay safe!

Hey, Again!

2011-02-13T15:46:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone is having a good weekend!

I am tired, but feeling satisfied at the moment - I finally got to go out and work in the yard! It didn't get quite as warm as the predictions, but was very do-able with wearing a jacket and hat. I cleaned up all the mulched areas and pruned some dead parts off shrubs and bushes. Ended up with four large bags of "stuff" that I hauled out to the curb for pick up tomorrow morning. Also did things like fill the bird feeder and clean off the porch and patio. I gave an oil treatment to the old chair on the front porch that is used as a plant stand. So yea! I feel like I accomplished something!

Golfer and I went to the Home and Garden show yesterday afternoon as planned. It was nice, but a lot like us going to a craft fair. When we go to a craft fair and look at all the offerings, we usually end up saying "if we want one of those we can get Bikini to make one!" Yesterday as we walked the aisles, we said things like "already got new roof", "already got new floors", "already ordered new windows". But it was fun to see what's out there. And there was free stuff! Got a nice pen, a new pencil, a mini-tool kit for Golfer, a tote bag, some rubber balls for the grandchildren, and I got a Cox Communications DigiGuy! He's sitting here on the computer desk keeping me company!

Dinner is in the oven and now it's time for a shower. Happy Valentine's Day tomorrow and stay safe!

Whoooosh!

2011-02-12T14:11:00.002-05:00

That would be the sound of time flying by! So, hi again; sorry it's been a while!

I looked at my last post and have to say that the final attempt at fixing the bathroom paint issue was a success! Looks like new again!

And on that paint topic --- Golfer and I are in the process of picking out a paint color for the kitchen. I painted a patch of the third sample today and I think it might be a winner. We'll see what Golfer says when he returns from playing golf.

And yes, it is warm enough here for playing golf! It is supposed to be even warmer (60) tomorrow and I plan to do some work in the yard! I devoted today to getting groceries and doing errands and doing some inside chores. When Golfer gets home we are going to the Hampton Convention Center and see the Home and Garden show. I'm hoping for "free stuff"! Who can't use another pen or pencil or more note paper???

Our window and door replacement project hit a snag when the windows weren't ordered properly. But Steve had some words with them and the windows are supposed to be ready the end of next week. The new door is sitting in our garage and will probably be installed on Monday.

My work is busy; I'm in the process of reviewing all the brochures and other paperwork that will need to be edited and changed when the pastor leaves in a couple weeks. A lot of things are just sort of on hold for now. There seems to be a bit of a lack of organization amongst the leaders of the congregation. I just go in to my office, shut the door and do my work and then come home.

Nurse J has been battling a bad, lengthy headache and BeyB has had the respiratory type flu. They are on the mend now.

Bikini has had her hands full with work and the kids, but they are all doing okay right now.

Golfer and I have been shopping for some new bedroom furniture. I think we've found what we want and will order it soon, probably this coming week.

So that's the update from us. I hope all is well with all of you. Stay safe!

Hey, All!

2011-01-23T15:11:00.002-05:00

Virginia has been @#%*!! COLD! It was in the teens yesterday and today. The sun is out now and the forecast is to maybe get above freezing this afternoon. No golf this weekend!

I was released from Physical Therapy on Wednesday and can now get back to my own routine. So far, so good. My doctor doesn't want to see me again until July unless I have a problem.

Golfer and I have caught up on some odds and ends around the house this week. I've worked mornings. It's been too cold to go work outside in the yard. I just made a third attempt at touching up the bathroom ceiling. Can't tell how right or wrong the paint is until it dries. You wouldn't think it would be so hard, but evidently cans were mislabeled.

Haven't had any news from Nurse J or Bikini so we have to assume they are all okay and busy.

So all in all, there's not much news. Just wanted to say "hi"! Stay safe!

Happy Anniversary, Bikini and Brief!

2011-01-22T12:49:00.002-05:00

Have a wonderful day!

Love,

Mom and Dad xoxo

Happy Birthday, Bloomer!

2011-01-20T09:29:00.000-05:00

Have a great day!

Love you! xoxo

Grama and Grandpa

Catching Up

2011-01-15T19:25:00.002-05:00

Hey, All!

Seems like this past week flew by. It's been cold here, but no snow. Bikini and her family have been snowed in down in Georgia. It snowed and stayed cold so it didn't melt. Boxer and Bloomer had five straight snow days! Oh, my!

Nurse J and BeyB both had doctor appointments. Nurse J is supposed to be wearing a boot on her foot to help repair a torn tendon. BeyB was being rechecked after the bad UTI she had at Christmas. It's all cleared up.

Golfer got a shingles shot. That's been on his mind ever since I had a bad case of shingles a couple years ago. He couldn't get the immunization before now because of medication he had been on. The doctor had him stop it, so Golfer had an opportunity.

I'm still coughing and blowing my nose. I am seriously considering calling our doctor on Monday and seeing what he suggests next. I am tired of this. I had PT three times this week, too.

I slept a little later than usual this morning and then took my time doing some things around here and doing some errands. Nothing real major or too time consuming, just stuff that had been pushed aside and/or put off due to all the other things going on.

We also had new insulation installed in our attic. We are in the process of picking out a new front door and then ordering new windows. I couldn't stand the dirt on a couple of the windows and just had to wash them in spite of the cold weather. In the process, one of them went all wonky and didn't want to close. Golfer helped me and we decided I won't mess with it again! This was the fourth one to develop problems.

I finally got Cecil all combed and his nails trimmed. He's very good about it once I get him and get started, but geez! what a job to get him! But he's a sweet little furry boy.

That's about it from here. Stay safe!

Getting Back to Normal - and Is There Any Such Thing??

2011-01-09T15:16:00.004-05:00

Hey, all!

I hope you are all doing well. It's been a busy week here. I've been battling a bad sinus infection and have really felt crappy most of the week. I've been to the doctor and got some antibiotics and decongestants, and was told the usual "drink lots of fluids and rest". I've been trying.

It's still cold here. Today is sunny. Yesterday there was a freak little snow squall accompanied by thunder and then the sun came out while it was still snowing. Pretty, but odd. The snow didn't last long. We may get snow again tomorrow night. And again, as I have said repeatedly, I am ready for Summer!

I've been working my way through a pile of backed up desk stuff and papers. And I went through a stack of Mom's papers and pictures. I don't really know what to do with them, just know I need to keep them. I don't know why, just that I need to. There were ration stamps and official documents, notes written by people who were important to Mom, several of her report cards from school, and some other things. For now I just packed it all away upstairs where I keep things like that.

Golfer and I had some new lighting installed in the kitchen, dining room and foyer this past week. We really like it!

One of my projects for today was to trim the furry kids' nails and brush them all. I got the girls done, but still have to talk Cecil into cooperating! I'll need to sneak up on him!

Take care and stay safe!

Some more thoughts. . . . . . .

2011-01-02T13:30:00.002-05:00

It my last posting, I neglected to mention another recent stressful event. While we were all hurrying around getting ready to pack to leave for Ohio for Mom's funeral, we threw some laundry in the washer and dryer. That sounds easy and simple, right? The dryer started making a huge noise and then smoke started coming out and the smoke alarm went off. So no more dryer. Then in an obvious show of empathetic support, the washer decided to act wonky, too. So when Golfer and I were able to get out and about after all the snow and ice, we had to go buy a new washer and dryer. The old ones had been of an age where it was time. We can highly recommend Shawel's if you are in the Tidewater area of Virginia. We went in one morning and by that afternoon they were both delivered, set-up, and in use! And while I'm making recommendations, we got Maytag Bravos series machines and I love them! I was suspicious of a washer with no agitator, but it works wonderfully well.

I also neglected to mention in that last post that Brief and the kids made it back to Georgia okay while Bikini was with us in Ohio. And she caught a flight out Christmas Eve afternoon and made it home in time to hang stockings with Bloomer and Boxer. And Nurse J, Cable Guy and BeyB made it to Illinois okay. However, BeyB got sick and had to go to the ER, but she recovered quickly and is feeling better. They are back home now.

Our house is all un-decorated and things are put away. I am, quite honestly, ready for a new year with maybe not quite so many changes going on.

I've been to the Commissary this morning for a few things. It is now pouring down rain and is dark and gloomy out. The snow is gone. And as I have said before, I am ready for Summer.

I have a pile of papers waiting for me to put through the shredder. The files have been cleaned out. I guess I'll get to work on that. Stay safe and have a good day.

My Apologies for the Lack of Posts

2011-01-01T17:00:00.004-05:00

There has been much happening and going on with us.

As you know, my recovery from knee replacement surgery had been progressing very well. And then we hit a "snag". My physical therapy got a bit too intense and I developed some severe pain and swelling in my knee and leg. This developed while Golfer and I were on a trip to Lancaster, PA for a short vacation. More on that later. I got in to see my doctor as soon as we returned home. After several x-rays and looking and poking at my leg, Dr. A. said during the PT some scar tissue had torn and bled into my knee causing the inflammation and problems. So I've had to use the cane again, and have been taking some medicine and had a break from the PT. I also have a knee brace to wear if I'm going to be up on my feet and walking around a lot. It is getting better and I just have to be patient.

The Lancaster trip was lovely, even with my leg problems. We saw some great Christmas shows and did some sight-seeing. It was cold and windy most of the time. The area is famous for it's Amish life and farms and history. Golfer and I grew up seeing Amish buggies on the road in Ohio, so that wasn't a big attraction for us. But we did enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

When we returned from our trip it was time to get ready for Bikini's family to come to visit for an early Christmas. My preparations were hampered a bit by my knee, but things got done and Golfer was wonderful with his help. We had an early Christmas because Nurse J's family was going to Illinois to spend the holiday with CableGuy's parents. It was great having everyone together and the kids were so cute playing with their new toys.

Then, sadly, on the evening of the 20th, we got a call from my sister and niece saying Mom had passed away. She was a good lady, 101, and died the way she had always said she wanted to go - in her own apartment. We hurried and got ourselves packed and ready and took off for Ohio the next day. Her funeral was on a cold, windy day with snow on the ground. Golfer "officiated" at Mom's request. She had said she didn't want a stranger talking about her.

We did what we could to help go through her belongings and pack things up. The weather forecast was not good. Golfer was keeping a close watch on it. After an early Christmas Day dinner with Golfer's brother and family, we got on the road and headed for home. It was a long day, and a trying time to be driving in the dark and snow and ice. But we made it home a little before midnight.

This is what we saw the next morning. There is still some snow on the ground here in the shady spots of the yard. Things were shut down and everyone was snowbound for a couple days.

So, I really have been thinking about writing here, but just haven't gotten to it.

For now, I'll just say Happy New Year, stay safe!

And we miss you Mom.

Belated Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-27T10:07:00.002-05:00

Things have been busy here!

In the process of having a leaky vent pipe on the roof fixed, it was determined that we would have to start thinking about replacing the roof soon. So we started getting estimates and the first one was a good one, so we said okay and had things set up for work to be done in a couple weeks. Then on Tuesday afternoon we got a call saying the crew had some free time and could they come on Wednesday morning. Well, sure! It was a good crew and they got here a little after 7:30 in the morning. Immediately several were up on the roof tearing off the old shingles. Soon after that, the big truck with the conveyor arrived to unload the new, much better shingles. Have you ever been in a house getting a new roof?? It's LOUD! I had to go to work. Golfer stuck around to handle anything that came up. The furry kids went into hiding. The guys also re-roofed the shed so it matches. They were all done by late afternoon. They cleaned up the yard and all was well.

Other things taking up my time and energy are Christmas shopping, Christmas preparations, Thanksgiving cooking, all the usual house stuff, and work. Add in the physical therapy and a couple doctor appointments and there goes the time!

Golfer and I did squeeze in a lovely drive one afternoon. It was going to be one of the last warmer days and it was a good time for a ride in Duke, the convertible. The Colonial Parkway was lovely - still some color on some of the trees. We took the Jamestown ferry across the river to Surry and stopped for pie and coffee, then continued our drive through some lovely country.

The leaf sweeper has been getting a workout around here. Golfer goes out and sweeps up leaves a couple times a week. A few times the leaves were coming down faster than he was picking them up! And even though we've had a little frost here, we still have some lovely azaleas blooming and my porch geranium is still going strong. The grass looks better than it did all Summer!

That's about it from here. I was taking a break after doing a few errands and now it's time to go put some decorations on the tree! Golfer and I got it together yesterday and finally figured out how to get all the lights to come on, so the rest should be easy! Stay safe!

BACK TO WORK!

2010-11-15T16:59:00.003-05:00

Today was my first day back to work. It went well. Sadly, I didn't think to take a camera with me to take a picture of my office before I started cleaning it up. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate the work the ladies did in covering things. Most of them were volunteers and I wouldn't dream of complaining to them or about them. But one lady was getting paid to do my work.

Every flat surface in the office had some piles on it. And there were piles of stuff on the floor. Evidently, she didn't want to throw anything away while I was gone. So most of the morning was spent going through the piles and boxes, putting things away, getting things to the people where they should have gone, and bagging up three garbage bags of trash. And the rest of the time was spent trying to get my computer to work. It died while I was away. Repairs were attempted, but obviously were not successful. So that has to be dealt with.

Tomorrow is another day.

In other news, we had a wonderful visit with Golfer's brother, L, and his wife, V. They came for the weekend so L could play in a golf tournament with Golfer. They had a good time and wonderful weather. V and I had fun, too, although I can't really recommend going to the Premier Outlet Mall on a Saturday morning this close to Christmas! But it was fun.

It's cool here and is supposed to rain off and on for the next couple days.

I'm still going to physical therapy three times a week. It's going well. I may try the pool again tomorrow.

Boxer has been sick with strep throat, we're sending him good wishes. Hi, to Bloomer, too! And BeyB is getting the braces on her bottom teeth this week and we wish her well.

That's about all from here. Stay safe!

AAAAAHHHHHHH!

2010-11-09T15:13:00.003-05:00

Golfer and I just got home from the pool at the "Y"! I finally got the okay yesterday to get back in the water. I was cautioned to take it easy and not over-do and it felt great! I have a few observations to share:

I think my balance is better when I'm in the water.

I also think that my new knee is heavier than the "original" one I was born with! It felt odd in the water; like it was heavier. Golfer was in the next lane and he said it was the new metal of the new knee. Makes sense. But not something anyone tells a person about ahead of time!

That's all the news here - just wanted to share. Stay safe!

Well.

2010-11-08T16:51:00.002-05:00

Yes, we are still here. I just realized how long it has been since I wrote anything!

I don't know where the time has gone. I've been busy recuperating and going to PT. And trying to do a little more everyday with all the other things in life I want to do. I had a minor set-back when I ended up in the ER one Sunday morning. I woke with a fever and increased pain and swelling and a killer headache. I called my doctor's answering service and he called me back within five minutes and said go to the ER. He was worried about a blood clot. So Golfer hustled me on up to the Mary Immaculate ER where I was tested and poked, and scanned and x-rayed. After about five hours, they didn't find any blood clots but did find an infection at my incision site. So that meant more meds and a stop to the PT for a while. But it is pretty much all better now.

The PT is going well and I plan to go back to work next week. (The PT will continue for while longer) Just today I was given the okay to get back into the swimming pool but cautioned to "take it easy". So I'm looking forward to that.

Golfer and I have been keeping busy around the house. The yard looks better than it has for months! We even have some azalea bushes blooming right now. And my geraniums are still lovely. The grass seed has sprouted and grown and the yard is greener than it's been all Summer! It's gotten cooler here and there has even been some frost in some areas. The leaves are really starting to fall now.

Golfer and I have also been spending time getting to know our new car - a 2010 Acura TL. Lovely, comfortable car with lots of buttons and levers and way more technology than we can use yet!

I have been trying to get a handle on the Christmas shopping. I have tried a couple one-hour shopping trips and it's gone okay. Usually by this time of the year I am done and have things wrapped and packed up to ship off. I lost a chunk of time this year and things are not quite so efficient, but they're coming along.

I just wanted to check in and let anyone that reads this that we're still here and doing fine. Stay safe!

PROGRESS

2010-10-05T09:46:00.002-04:00

Hey, All!

Things are going well here. I had the first appointment with out-patient physical therapy yesterday. Mostly it was just a lot of questions and measuring and poking and twisting and evaluating the status of things currently. I go tomorrow morning for a regular session.

Another milestone.... I can now get into our KIA from either side. I drove last Saturday - just over to the grocery store for fruit - but wasn't able to get in the car on the passenger side then. I tried this morning, and hooray! I can do it!

The motion machine was picked up yesterday. I still have exercises to do here at home twice a day. And I am trying to do just a little more of the regular house stuff every day. My energy level remains low and I've been told not to over-do things and activity. My appetite is almost non-existent (not necessarily a bad thing). I've lost over twenty-five pounds since this all started! I have very little interest in food or cooking. And when I do cook, by the time I've been around it and smelled it, I really don't want to eat it. I think this is because of medications, but I'm dealing with it.

Golfer and I took our Chrysler in for service this morning. I drove the KIA to pick him up. We stopped by Starbucks on the way home.

The sun is out today and it's cooler. Feels like Fall. No leaf color yet though.

As I am more mobile and able to do more, Golfer is able to get back out on the golf course. That's a good thing, and good for him. I know he's been worried about me.

So things are going okay here and that's about all the news I have. Stay safe!

THERE'S THAT TIME WARP AGAIN!

2010-09-30T19:32:00.002-04:00

Hey, all!

I have thought about posting a message many times but just haven't gotten to it. Time has just been disappearing around here.

Since my last message things have been moving along. I progressed from the walker to the quad-cane.

Bikini had to go home last Saturday. That was a day early, but the bad weather was moving in and Brief was worried about aircraft safety, so it was the thing to do. She is safely home now and we really appreciate her being here to help us for the week!

I continued with the Monday, Wednesday, Friday visits from the physical therapy guy and he says I am doing well. Tomorrow is his last visit and on Monday I will start out-patient therapy at the Mary Immaculate physical therapy center over at the "Y" where we go. I think the plan is for three times a week. I also have exercises to do on my own twice a day.

The nurse made her last visit today and said I looked good. That's debatable, but I understand what she means. I am completely off the Coumadin now so she did not have to draw blood today.

I saw my doctor on Tuesday and he was pleased. Said he was glad to see me looking and moving as well as I am because it makes him look good too! :) We've adjusted my medications and I'm off the Dilaudid now and trying Advil during the day with a stronger med at bedtime. Sleep is still an issue.

I have moved on to a one-pronged cane now and am getting around the house okay. My incision is looking good and is healing nicely. I am now allowed to try to do anything I feel like doing, including driving. I'm pretty sure I can't get into the Mustang yet, but might try the KIA this weekend.

The weather has been rainy and stormy all week. We needed some of this rain during the summer, spread out over time! There are flood warnings and messes all over. It's supposed to be cleared up for the weekend.

That's about it from here. Just wanted to let you know I'm doing okay. Stay safe!

IT SEEMED LIKE A GOOD PLAN AT THE TIME...

2010-09-22T11:20:00.003-04:00

Hey, all!

I had planned to start doing a daily post as soon as I got home from the hospital. Sorry. That didn't happen!

The surgery went well. I've been learning to deal with pain management and juggling what little energy I seem to have. I have lots of odd bruises. The nurse says my incision is looking good. I came home last Thursday. That afternoon the home health company delivered the continuous motion machine that I use four to six hours a day. They also delivered a chair for me to use in the shower.

On Friday the home nurse came and got things set up with paperwork, ordered supplies (really long band-aids to cover the incision) and checked me over. Later in the day the physical therapist came and went over a page of exercises I do twice a day. The nurse will come twice a week to check me and take blood and the PT people will come three times a week for therapy.

I'm on Dilaudid for pain and Coumadin, the blood thinner. I'm dealing with the side effects of tiredness, light-headedness (just a little of that so far) and some others I won't go into here.

So basically, everyone is telling me that I am doing very well. I haven't had to wear the leg brace since last Friday and am getting around the house with the walker. I have some periods of frustration, but am told that is normal.

Bikini is here this week helping us. Since she works from home she can work from our home just as well. Nurse J has been here as she has been able; her caseload has been busy lately. Golfer has been great. Recovery will take a while, but I'm working on it! I see my surgeon next Tuesday.

I'll try to write again soon. Stay safe!

WELL! LOOKS LIKE I DO HAVE SOMETHING ELSE TO SAY TODAY!

2010-09-12T13:45:00.003-04:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! ???

I was reading the Sunday paper a while ago and saw the first ad with Santa in it for this season! And then a bit later I had the TV on and there was a holiday commercial! A definite Christmas commercial, no doubt about it. Just for the record, it is now Sunday, September 12, 2010. I don't know about you, but I am not ready for the holidays yet. Especially this year.

In other news, the last load of laundry is in the dryer. The cleaning is done and I have just packed my bag. Cinder was helping and tried to stow away in it, but she decided she did not like the zipper and got out. I just went over the check list again, too.

So 'bye again and stay safe!

THE DAY BEFORE

2010-09-12T10:27:00.002-04:00

Hey, all!

It's the day before my surgery.

I woke up about 5:30 this morning, did my exercises and then got up and dressed for the day. Cooked breakfast for Golfer - he likes omelets and I might not be able to handle that for a while. I've been busy doing things around the house that I want to do. It's not that Golfer isn't perfectly capable and willing, but I want to do this stuff. I cleaned the kitchen and the bathrooms and changed the bed. Laundry is running right now. I've mopped the floors and vacuumed. I'll dust when the laundry is all finished.

I still need to pack my small suitcase. I'm not exactly sure what all to take, so I'm just putting in comfy jammies, robe, slippers, etc. Since we're only about five minutes away from the hospital if the traffic is good (always a question around here!) I figure if I forget something Golfer or Nurse J can bring it to me. We've been told to expect my hospital stay to be two or three days. Honestly, if I'm there at all I'm going to want a shower. And I have no idea if I will be able, or allowed, to take a shower, but am packing toiletries to cover that! I have everything else labeled and ready - brace, cooling unit, walker, etc.

It's a dark, cloudy day here. Been raining off and on. That sort of puts a crimp in my plans to sit out in the sun on the deck for a while, but that's okay. Golfer and his friends had a match scheduled for this morning and he went out to the course to see if they were playing. Sometimes it can be raining here at home and nothing out there and vice versa.

He said we'd go out for dinner tonight, my choice. And my first choice is Outback Steakhouse. I have to call later and see if they are actually open for business. They have, unfortunately, recently had another fire! The paper said it wasn't too bad, but didn't say when they would reopen.

I have checked my calendar and I have done all the prep things that were mentioned. Did you know that before major surgery now, they restrict your grooming? And yes, I mean things like shaving your legs, etc. And yes, I know, TMI for some of you. So Friday was grooming day! And I have kept to the schedule as far as stopping medication and such. So I guess I'm about as ready as I'm going to get.

This will probably be my last message until after the surgery. Perhaps Golfer will want to say something though. We'll see. I'm a little nervous, but have confidence in my doctor and the hospital staff. I know God is watching over me. I know I am loved by my family and they will take care of me. I plan to be up and mobile as soon as possible though.

So take care and stay safe!

JUST STUFF

2010-09-10T16:53:00.002-04:00

Hey, all!

Today was my last day in the office for a while. I have done all I can to make it easier for those who are covering the work. I hope it goes well. And with saying that, I am done worrying about it.

I got a call from my doctor's office this afternoon. Nurse Sarah wanted to remind me of my surgery (like I was going to forget????) And also tell me that they had to move the time to two hours later. So, yea! We don't have to be at the hospital at 5:30 a.m.! Golfer was pleased about that.

I have the duffel bag with the brace and cooling unit all tagged and ready. I got the walker out of the back closet and cleaned it up and labeled it. I got the small suitcase out and will pack it over the weekend. I have stopped all medications and other pills (aspirin, vitamins, etc.) except one for the RA. I'm allowed to take it until the day before surgery. Yesterday I had a bad headache and I took the allowed two Tylenol. It helped the headache a little but didn't do much for the increasing joint pains and aches. But I had been told to expect that as I stopped taking the medications, so I'm just dealing with it.

All in all, I'm about ready. Golfer and I went to the "Y" this afternoon to the pool. The weather is lovely here. It's cooled off and is sunny and bright. Walt, our yard guy, came with his crew yesterday and aerated, fertilized and seeded. I went out this afternoon and picked up a few little branches and twigs that were in the yard and grabbed up a couple weeds.

I don't have any big plans for the weekend unless you count going to get groceries and packing my bag. :)

I hope you are all well and happy! Have a good weekend! Stay safe!

GETTING READY

2010-09-07T15:25:00.003-04:00

Hey, all!

Things are progressing here. I had the pre-surgery appointment at Mary Immaculate Hospital this morning. Very nice people and a great system! After checking in at the desk in the new surgical pavilion and getting an ID bracelet, I was escorted into a private room and asked to sit in a big recliner. Nurse Terri and Nurse Leah were very pleasant and helpful and very professional. While Leah asked many questions and filled out the paperwork, Terri performed the EKG and drew blood. I had to go to another room for the chest x-ray and also had to do the required urine test. All in all it was not too bad.

I have a pinkish ID band/bracelet on my right wrist that I was instructed to NOT remove until after the surgery when they said it was okay. It's the identifier for blood being held in reserve in case I would need some during the surgery. Hadn't really thought about that before now, but I guess it's a good thing. Creepy, but a good thing to have it ready.

They were impressed with my organizational skills. :) I had prepared some spreadsheets of information we were told I would need to tell them. As the questions were asked I just handed Leah a page for the records.

After work I did a couple errands and then went to the eye clinic and optical shop to have my new glasses checked. I gave them ample time for adjustment and something was just not right. I lucked out and got a very good technician who had worked with me before. Too bad I did not get her when I ordered and picked up the glasses instead of the ditsy young lady I had. I explained the problems I've been having to the very capable Ms. Jackie and she said "well, no wonder, they're crooked!" So she took them away to the back room and did some work on them and now I can see better.

Now I need to finish up some desk work. Our pile of held mail was delivered today.

Stay safe! More later!

UNOFFICIAL END OF SUMMER. SIGH....

2010-09-06T16:04:00.002-04:00

Golfer and I just returned home from the pool. This is the last day. Very sad. It's not like we don't have access to the large pool at the YMCA, and we do plan to go there on Wednesday. But we like the outdoor pool. Especially me, although I suspect that Golfer is enjoying it a lot too. This is really the first year that he's gone more than once! Retirement is good!

So, anyway, we're home again. I said good-bye to a couple pool friends - ladies I chat with during the Summer and don't see any other time. We all wish each other a good Winter and say "see you in June!" Sometimes we say we'll have to get together during the Winter, but things come up and we never do. I have disassembled the pool bag and put everything away. Sigh again.

Golfer mowed the grass and got the yard ready for Walt of Spring Green to come and do the aeration and seeding and fertilizing. The yard needs some TLC; it's been a tough Summer on it. Too much heat and not enough rain.

I have been doing some things around here and got the car all cleaned up after our vacation. Salt spray and bug guts are gone now.

BeyB goes back to school tomorrow. Boxer and Bloomer have been back for a month already in Georgia.

Next week at this time I will hopefully be coming out of anesthesia and have a "new" knee. I'll keep you all posted on that. Golfer got me a new laptop so I can email and blog and "surf" while I recover.

So for now.... Good-bye Summer, it's been good! Stay safe!

WE'RE HOME!

2010-09-05T13:58:00.002-04:00

Vacation was wonderful, the weather was beautiful, and it was great to visit with friends. I really enjoyed the pool and beach, and just relaxing and resting. Golfer had a good time playing golf, although he was ready for a day off by Friday! We spent that day just "potting around". We went to Martin's golf shop so he could spend his gift cards. Then we stopped at Broadway at the Beach to feed the ducks and fish.

We spent a little time at the pool. The high wind and passing storm on Thursday must have stirred things up because that was the first day that there were little biting bugs going after us. We didn't stay out long. But it was nice.

We went to dinner Friday evening with friends. Enjoyable, but very pricey! We went to Rioz, the Brazilian "Meat" place. Very interesting, but if you're just having a regular amount of food, not really worth it. But, it was nice to spend the time with friends.

The trip home was uneventful. Weather was clear, no storms or rain. Things here at home were good, too. Evidently there was some rain on Friday evening, but no wind damage or problems from Earl.

The furry kids were happy to have us home. Cecil always pouts and hides for a bit when we return from a trip, but he's okay now and even let me pet him. For those of you who don't know Cecil, he is very timid and afraid of just about everything and spends a lot of time hiding by himself. But we love him! The girls were right there to help with the unpacking.

So, I just finished the last load of laundry and finished doing a little cleaning. I went and got groceries early this morning. Tomorrow is a holiday, so I don't have to go to work.

Tuesday morning I have the pre-surgery tests and appointment at the hospital.

We're home and things are getting back to normal. I hope everyone has a good weekend! Stay safe!

WAVES!

2010-09-02T13:15:00.002-04:00

Hey, all!

Vacation has been wonderful! I've been resting and relaxing, reading and having a great time.

The weather has been beautiful up to today, and even today isn't bad. There's a pretty strong wind blowing thanks to Earl out there over the ocean. There are some clouds flying by and it might rain a little later today. The waves are getting a lot bigger and are interesting to watch. No one is supposed to be in the water now because of the strong rip currents.

I've done a little shopping. Golfer and I went with friends to one of our favorite spots here - Bimini's - last evening. I don't especially like seafood, but I love their grouper! It was a nice evening.

Golfer has, for the most part, enjoyed playing golf, although yesterday was not particularly good and he was frustrated with himself. Hopefully, today is better!

This evening we're going to another favorite for dinner - Villa Romana.

We are trying to keep an eye on how things are at home. We're hoping the storm doesn't hit too close and hoping Nurse J and Cable Guy don't have to go move all our outside stuff for us!

Stay safe! More later...........

BUTTERFLIES!

2010-08-30T13:17:00.002-04:00

I had a lovely morning sitting out on the lawn by the dunes grass watching the water and waves. There were only a couple other people in the pool while I was in exercising and swimming. The water was cool, but nice - it's been getting in the high 60's at night but warming up to near 90 during the days.

While I was sitting out there, there was a steady flow of butterflies. There were yellow ones, green ones, and some dark orange and brown ones. All sizes. They seemed to like the flowers that were close to where I was sitting and several times they almost landed on me! They were beautiful!

Also saw a flock of pelicans fly over and dip down into the water.

No surfers out today. maybe they had to go back to school.

My friend, GW, arranged to have a car today and caught up to me as I was heading down to the beach. She asked if I wanted to go shopping with her. I thanked her, but was already in the mind-set for the water.

This evening we will all be heading to the Convention Center for the 19th Hole of the tournament. Food, entertainment, vendors, new golf equipment to check out!

Stay safe!

aaaaaahhhhhhhh! (that's a good sigh)

2010-08-30T08:09:00.004-04:00

I have not written very much recently. I've thought about it, things have run through my head; they just haven't made it into actual writing.

I've been sort of busy lately. I've been putting in extra time at the office and doing lots of things around home getting jobs finished and things done up ahead. I'll be having knee replacement surgery in two weeks and will be off work at least six weeks and in various stages of incapacitation for a while. Then there will be rehab and much work trying to get back to "normal".

I've known this was coming for a long time. I have damage in both knees from the RA and some deterioration from OA, also. And there are bone spurs in both. The left one is the worse and it's time to fix it.

I have a very good doctor. Golfer and I have been to the pre-surgery class at the hospital where we learned way more than we expected. And just from reactions of other patients, way more than they wanted to know. But we believe in being prepared. I've gotten my leg brace and had it fitted and got the cooling unit for my knee for post-surgery.

I will be in the hospital for a few days. Nurse J and Bikini will be helping Golfer take care of me after I go home, and helping him with all the other things involved with the daily workings of keeping house. He knows all these things and is absolutely quite capable of handling it all himself, but I like knowing he will have help. We think we've gotten things planned and under control for now.

So, having worked very hard and gotten things ready, Golfer and I are on vacation right now! He's playing in the Amateur Championship in Myrtle Beach. Several of our friends are here and the guys are having a great time playing a different course each day.

I am enjoying beautiful weather and spending the week resting and relaxing. I have finished one book and am starting on another. The balcony door is open and I can see and hear the waves on the beach. I'll be going down to "sit" and to swim in just a few minutes.

The storms out in the ocean - Danielle, Earl and possibly Fiona - are making large waves and I actually saw surfers yesterday. Not boogie boarders, surfers! There are rip tide warnings out now, but since I don't swim in the ocean, I'm just enjoying the sights and sounds of the waves. (I know my limitations!)

When we get home next weekend I'll get my walker and cane out of the back closet and clean them up and have them ready. But for now, it's time for a swim. Take care and stay safe!

FOR BIKINI

2010-08-25T09:17:00.002-04:00

I follow Bikini's tweets, and she's expecting an email response from me. I decided a post was better!

Yes, dear, you and wildlife. Um..... There have been some interesting experiences. For those who are wondering about that cow comment in your tweet, Bikini and Nurse J were young girls. We were visiting family in Ohio and staying with Golfer's parents on the farm. The guys were all out and away doing something and the cow got loose. So Mom P says to the girls and me that she needs help and we are glad to assist. However our round-up skills were not so great and when confronted with a large roaming cow we were really out of out realm of expertise. Let's just say there was much running and squealing. But the cow was safely returned to the pasture and barn and all was well. And the story lives on.

And yes, we all like to watch fish. I don't remember Bikini or Nurse J either one being very helpful at the cleaning of fish bowls and tanks though. When they were in school they sometimes got free coupons from a pet store for a free goldfish. Usually they lived a day or two at the most. I didn't want to try any more, but they talked me into it and we got two more goldfish while they were still in grade school. Those babies set a record! I was still cleaning the bowl and feeding the fish long after the girls graduated and moved out! And I have to tell you geriatric goldfish aren't all that interesting to watch. When one of them died, the other one got bigger to fill in the space. And he faded so he almost looked albino when he finally died.

So now, on to chickens. I would recommend banties. (sp?) When I was a small girl, Mom and I lived in a large house with a huge yard right on Main street in the small town where I grew up. I have great memories of that time. It was a big old house with a secret passage between two of the rooms that most people did not know about. There was a pump in the back yard. We had a long grape arbor and several fruit trees and large garden. There was even a tiny fish pond. My Grandpa liked to fish and he would often keep a couple alive and bring to put in the pond. Mom had some banty chickens and I would gather the eggs. We also had a couple bunnies at times. And a pair of geese! Large and protective geese! Mom made little leather bands for their legs and I could walk them out front. NO one came in our yard with them out there!

So, anyway, Bikini, if you want to try chickens, good luck. Once you get to know them they aren't that scary. For the most part they have tiny beaks and don't bite much. They are fun to feed. And you can have the joy of washing your own private supply of eggs!

Stay safe!

It's like a scene from a classic Mafia movie......sort of!

2010-08-15T14:25:00.002-04:00

Hey, all!

So I'm busy around the house this morning and go out the front door to do something outside. There's a dead mouse stretched out on the sidewalk right in front of the porch. I'm sorry for the mouse, but ICK! Couldn't he have died under a bush or something? It reminded me of those scenes in the mobster movies where the bad guys put a dead fish at someone's door as a warning. But what does the mouse mean? Was it from a neighborhood cat warning our indoor kitties to stay indoors? Was the little mouse trying to reach help and he just collapsed there in front of the door? Or was it just to freak me out?

Geez!

Have a good day and stay safe!

WELL. HOLY CRAP!

2010-08-08T16:09:00.003-04:00

I can not believe it has been so long since I've written! I have thought about things I wanted to say many times, but never got them down. Sigh.

It's been a busy Summer. We had our beach trip the end of May. We got home and got caught up and then there were little projects to get done and other "stuff". Golfer and I have had some doctor's appointments. I have had work. He has played golf.

We took a short trip to Ohio to visit family and attend his 45th high school reunion - Hooray! Fairless H.S Class of '65! It was a nice time and we got to visit with people we had not seen in years! I'm class of '67 and knew a lot of the people also, so it was fun for me too! Seems like the girls from my class dated and/or married the guys of Golfer's class. Anyway, we had fun!

We came home to 105 degree heat. It's been a rough Summer around here. Not much rain and too much extreme heat. Plants have died, grass is brown, and leaves have dried up and fallen off the trees. So we had some extra yard work. I decided not to replace any of the dried up plants at this time, just cleaned them up. A couple nights ago and storm rolled through. Not much rain, but lots of wind. We finished cleaning up from that today and have a pile out at the curb for pick up tomorrow.

I have been busy at work and here at home, getting things done and cleaned and in order. We are looking forward to our end of August Myrtle Beach trip. Several of our friends are going also. The guys will be playing in the big tournament - I think over 3,500 players at last count. Some of the ladies will be doing major shopping trips. I am planning to rest and relax and enjoy the beach and the water. The week after we return I am scheduled for surgery and will be recuperating and doing rehab for while. At this time they say I'll be off work for a least six weeks. Oh, the surgery is for a new left knee. It's time.

Bikini says Boxer and Bloomer are off to a good start with their new school classes and new teachers. They start in early August in Georgia. They are all doing fine. Bikini is planning to come and help after my surgery.

BeyB's school starts the day after Labor Day. She'd like Summer to last a little longer. Nurse J is also arranging to have some time to help after my surgery, so I think we've got things covered. I'm in the process of stocking up the freezer and pantry.

I hope you all are well and happy! Stay safe! I'm going to close this with one of my favorite pictures from the beach!

And Summer Rolls On . . . .

2010-07-13T15:03:00.002-04:00

Well, we had a tiny (and I mean itty bitty) break in the Africa hot heat and now it it's back with the highest humidity of the Summer so far. It's sort of cloudy today and we're hoping for rain. For the record, we've been hoping for rain for a while. We need a good soaker here.

In spite of the heat, Golfer and I have been busy doing things around the house. His major project has been cleaning and painting the deck. He finished up the primer and first coat of paint yesterday. The humidity is lengthening the drying time, so the second coat hasn't happened yet.

I decided there were a few extra larger cleaning jobs that needed to be done and I tackled those. You know, those chores you put off doing like wiping baseboards, wiping down walls and corners, scrubbing tile, getting dead bugs out of lights, etc. I also did a little bit of weed pulling and clean-up in the yard.

Nurse J has had a lot of overtime lately and we haven't seen her, but she says they are all doing fine. BeyB went to computer "camp" last week at William and Mary. She had a great time and learned some new computer skills. The students studied computer graphics and designed games.

Happy Birthday, Bikini! We're sending you hugs! She says they are all doing well in Georgia. She's excited about getting a composter for her birthday. And she's getting lots of use out of her new clothesline for outdoor drying. Bloomer is busy looking for frogs every chance she gets and Boxer has been going to swim camp. So things are busy there.

I hope everyone is well and happy and having a great Summer! Stay safe!

HOT!

2010-06-26T14:59:00.002-04:00

Hey, all!

You know it's too hot when the squirrels make little scooped out spots in your mulch after the sprinkler runs so they can stretch out in the cool damp on their bellies! You could almost hear them thinking "geez, it's too hot to dig any more holes in the yard!" They were cute though.

And speaking of the yard.... I got out there about 8:30 this morning and did some weeding and tidying. Gathered up a whole bag of stuff. Evidently it is not too hot for weeds to grow.

Golfer and I are doing okay. He's getting some time on the golf course and I'm getting some pool time. Now that he is retired this Summer, he's going to the outdoor pool with me more often. That's nice.

Nurse J and Bikini are doing well. Everyone is busy.

So life goes on. Stay safe!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, GOLFER!

2010-06-24T17:57:00.001-04:00

It's been a wonderful forty-three years! I love you!

RACCOON UPDATE

2010-06-23T09:18:00.002-04:00

I am more settled this morning and at peace with nature and wildlife.

I have looked out at the back yard many times since we saw the raccoon and have not seen him again. Hopefully he was just a traveler and passing through. But I am glad we were able to offer him a snack if he was hungry.

I do have an interesting observation though. After we saw him yesterday, I did not see any birds or squirrels at the feeder whenever I looked out. Not one. When I looked out first this this morning, the birds and squirrels were happily feeding and jumping around out there. So evidently all is well again.

Still "Africa hot" here. Heat index is supposed to be around 110 today.

Stay safe!

WILDLIFE !

2010-06-22T18:48:00.004-04:00

I love God's creatures. They all have a purpose and reason for being. Some are more lovable than others and that is just a fact.

But they need to stay in their space and stay out of mine. I wish them no harm, just want them to go home. Sort of like illegal immigrants.

Golfer and I were in our office this afternoon and I looked out the window. This is what I saw --

Just munching away! I called the home owners' office to get the proper number to call. There have been many cases in our area of rabid animals and everyone has been told if you see a raccoon out in the middle of the day it is not good. The first number I called the lady got all excited and said "don't go outside!" But she was from the York County office and we live in the city of Newport News. So she transferred me to them. That woman was not so helpful. She said that of course they come out in the day if people have bird feeders. Then said we could rent a trap for $60 plus a daily fee until we caught it ourselves. Didn't offer up what to do if we did catch the poor thing. I wasn't up for that and thanked her for being less than helpful. I watched as the raccoon had a couple more bites of the new bird seed I had just put out earlier and then it sort of galloped along the fence and across the back of the yard and disappeared behind our shed. I am unsettled. I am hoping the raccoon was just passing through. We will keep an eye out and be cautious.

BTW...the picture was taken from inside through the window. And our cats were oblivious!

After that Golfer and I went to a movie. We can highly recommend "A-Team"! Great show!

Stay safe and watch out for wildlife!

JUST SOME RANDOM THOUGHTS.....AND SOME NOT SO RANDOM

2010-06-20T20:31:00.003-04:00

Hey, all! We hope you're all doing well.

First of all, Happy Fathers Day to Golfer, CableGuy and Brief!

And then "Get Well Soon" to my sister!

It's hot and muggy here in Virginia. We're talking "Africa hot" here, folks. You can look out at the yard and see the grass drying up. And this is after the sprinkler system is running on schedule. I was looking out the window yesterday and saw a squirrel on the deck, stretched out flat on his belly with his head hanging over the edge of the deck. Pitiful! But he got up and moved about the time I was ready to go out and check on him.

Golfer and I had our first dealings with the Social Security office this past week. He did his application online last weekend. Monday we got a call from the local office to set up an appointment. We went to the office on Tuesday afternoon with our papers. Judy was excellent! She was so helpful and informative and efficient. Turns out she's actually retired herself and just working now because they called her back for a few months. I'm glad we got her! She did all the numbers and input data and the money was in our account on Thursday. It was all so much more efficient than we ever expected!

I do have a small rant though... I really do think that if you can't speak English you don't have any business in the Social Security office. Golfer and I were definitely a minority in the waiting room. It was packed with non-English-speaking young people. My thoughts on this are: 1. Are you here legally? Show me your green card! 2. If you are here legally, you should be speaking English. And have a job and supporting yourself. 3. If you aren't here legally, GO HOME! And that sums up my thoughts on the general state of things, folks.

Does anyone have any suggestions or thoughts about why our "Harry Potter" DVDs won't play? We tried to watch them in order and the first three movies and the fifth one will not play on either DVD player. It just says "no disc". I am annoyed.

Did you know that your garbage disposal can become unplugged? As in no electricity? I was cleaning up in the kitchen this morning and flipped the switch and nothing happened. Boooo! So I got my tool kit, the flashlight, some towels, and got myself down on the floor and under the sink. Darn thing was unplugged from the wall outlet under there. Easy fix, but who knew?! And how did that happen?

I bought myself a "Gopher III" gadget. It's one of those extended reach helper thingies. It works very well and can grab a weed and yank it out of the dirt pretty well! Picks up a lot of other stuff, too, but the constant bending and stooping is difficult for my bad knee so I thought I'd try it in the yard.

Take care and stay safe! That's all for now!

Finally! A Functioning Computer in the Office!

2010-06-11T17:30:00.002-04:00

Hooray! Today I could finally start on the pile of work sitting on my work desk! I now have a functioning computer. The planets are aligned and all is well. Mood is better.

In other news---- I had to go buy a new toaster. Yesterday afternoon I went to get my calcium supplement out of the cupboard and looked down at the toaster and it had ants crawling in and on it. EWWWWWW! I got the flashlight and did an inspection and there were NONE on the counter, crawling up the cupboard, or on the floor. Just in and on the toaster. Like they just appeared there. I put the toaster out on the patio. Again, EWWWWW! I thought about it. I couldn't soak and scrub it in hot soapy water. And if I sprayed it with insecticide there was no way I would eat toast that came out of it. So I bagged it up and put it in the dumpster. On my errand list for today was "buy toaster". I got a four slice Black and Decker one that will accommodate bagels, too.

We are still seeing ants, but they are moving slowly and coming out to die, I guess. There will be some major cleaning here this weekend.

That's about it from here. Stay safe!

Nope; Did Not Fall Off the Face of the Earth!

2010-06-10T16:19:00.002-04:00

Hey, all! Golfer and I are doing okay. Just been busy!

We were away on a family vacation at the beach for a week. So there were preparations for that and then catching up to do when we returned. Vacation was good. Golfer and his buddies had some good golf, we visited with our family and friends, played with the grandkids, and enjoyed lovely weather.

I'm back to work this week. Having some issues there with the office computer, but hopefully that will all be fixed tomorrow.

We came home to discover we have some tiny visitors in the house and had to call an exterminator to come and deal with ants. The things we had tried just weren't making them go away. It's under control now, but "ICK!"

Happy Birthday to Nurse J!

Stay safe!

LIFE CHANGES

2010-05-15T13:38:00.002-04:00

Life changes (n.)

Life changes (v.)

Doesn't matter which it is - noun or verb - they are changes. Things are different from what they used to be. Some are better. Some not so much.

One day you wake up and wonder where the time has gone. Seems like it was just yesterday your children were tiny. All of a sudden you realize they're all grown up and have turned into very wonderful responsible adults with children of their own.

Time has flown. Life has moved on. Some things you used to be able to do aren't so easy any more. You can still do them, you just have to plan it out and be careful. You pace yourself.

People you have known and loved are not around any more. You miss them. You meet new people. They don't take the places of the others, they make their own spaces.

Places you have lived, and places you have traveled to change. You go back to visit and they're either all built up and you don't recognize anything or they've been ignored and aren't in such great shape.

So. Life changes. We grow up. We have families. We get older. If we are fortunate and very lucky (I am) , we have a soul mate to go through life with. (I do) I love you Golfer!

You look for the positive. Remain optimistic! Yes your children are all grown. But hey! you can now delegate and let them take over worrying about details! (I recently did just that!)

Enjoy the small things.

Eat some ice cream if you want it. Or chocolate! Sometimes someone will say my almost 101-year-old mother shouldn't be eating a certain thing. I figure why the hell not? She's almost 101!

So. Here we are a few months into Golfer's retirement. Are things different? A little. We've adapted. I love him and love having him around more. Does he miss work? I don't think he misses the job; it had been getting kind of stressful. I think he probably misses some of the people.

So we're living our lives. It isn't always flashy and exciting, but it's loving and comfortable.

Stay safe out there!

BUSY WEEK!

2010-05-08T13:27:00.002-04:00

Hey, all!

I haven't written much lately. But the few of you who read this blog already know that! I swear whatever goes on in Bikini's head is contagious. We tease her about writing her emails in her head and not sending them. I've been thinking of lots of things I want to write about, but just haven't done it.

This past week was pretty busy -- work for me, all the regular/normal stuff to do around the house, trips to the "Y", some physical therapy for Golfer, and some golf for him. Then on Thursday the work started on replacing our heating and A/C system. It was close to ninety humid degrees that day. Our heating equipment is in the attic. We had been told it would be a two day job, but the man in charge told us at the end of the day, after they finished, that since it was so hot they wanted to get it done for us. It works fine! On Friday they came with the new water heater and got that job done. Golfer is now working on paperwork for the incentives, rebates and refunds.

Our furry kids have been busy with guard duty. They post themselves at the windows and keep watch. We have a little tiny baby bunny living under our deck. He is sooooo cute! I have to think he has a family somewhere and didn't just end up here in our yard by himself. He looks healthy and is helping to keep the grass trimmed. For some reason our furry kids feel threatened by him and get all excited when he makes an appearance.

Mom doesn't have a computer, but I want to wish her a very Happy Mother's Day anyway. I wish we lived closer; but I'll call her tomorrow.

And speaking of mothers... I'd also like to take the opportunity to tell Bikini and Nurse J how proud I am of them and that I think they are both great mothers to our grandchildren! Love you both!

Take care and stay safe!

NO EXCUSES, JUST BEEN BUSY

2010-04-28T11:21:00.002-04:00

Well, evidently it's just one more thing that is hereditary, either up line or down line! Taking after Bikini, it's been a while since I've written anything!

The weather here has been good and when Golfer and I had the energy and enthusiasm, we've been getting some things done around the house. He's started putting the wood sealer/protectant on the new wood fence. He's also been keeping up with the mowing and trimming and other yard work. It hasn't been all that long ago that we had to acquire some help in that area and I'm so glad Golfer is feeling up to tackling these jobs again. He's also getting a little more time on the golf course!

I decided that the pollen was letting up some and I hauled out all my scrubbing equipment and tackled the porch and front of the house. The siding and windows look much better. (no thanks to the bird who pooed above the garage door the next day!) On the next bout of energy I will tackle some more windows.

We also decided to take advantage of the rebates and incentives being offered now and replace our heating/AC system and get a new water heater. The old ones have been working okay but we know their time is limited. So the work on that starts next week. Supposed to only be a two day job.

I hope you all are well and happy! Stay safe! I'll write again soon.

SPRINGTIME IN VIRGINIA - HACK, COUGH, WHEEZE!

2010-04-10T15:01:00.004-04:00

Hey, All!

I hope you are all well and happy!

Things are "busting out all over" in our area. And along with that comes the major pollen issues of the season. We had several days that were near 90, so the A/C had to be turned on. For cooling as much as for keeping the pollen outside! Then we had a nice rain and wind one night and that sort of cleaned the air for a while and cooled things off. today is sunny and in the low 60's. And, the pollen is building back up.

Golfer and I had a busy week, but the yard looks great! Our friend, C, who does landscaping, came and spread out a truck-load of new mulch for us and did some edging. We had some areas enlarged because grass was not growing and we added some stepping stones and planted a couple new azaleas. Deck furniture has been cleaned and grass mowed and things are looking good out there.

We also planted a tiny Rose of Sharon bush. Our sister-in-law, V, started it for us from a cutting from one she has kept going. They are descendants of one that Golfer's Mom and Dad had years ago. Ours is tiny, but appears healthy.

I have been pondering what to put on the deck table this year. You might remember that last year I had bought the cute coffee cup pots and had them filled with lovely growing things. The pots did not survive the weather when it started to get colder here and they are now gone, after their glazing cracked and the pottery broke. I thought I wanted something I didn't have to be sure to water every couple days, and I found just the thing! I had been looking for a frog or turtle to use as a centerpiece, but all the ones I saw were sort of goofy looking. Then I found this guy on a clearance aisle! I love him!

That's about all from here. Stay safe!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-03T15:51:00.002-04:00

Hey, All!

I hope all is well with everyone. It's been another busy week here.

The weather is lovely - warm and sunny today. The pollen count creeps higher every day, but the trees are pretty and more things are starting to bloom. Our azaleas are getting buds. The pansies I planted recently are doing well out front and I just planted some bright red geraniums in the porch pot this afternoon.

Golfer mowed the grass and did some other yard work this week.

We had a couple appointments and other things to take care of. I took a couple days off work for a prep day and to go to the hospital to have a colonoscopy. Wasn't nearly as bad as I had expected. So be brave, folks, get yourself checked. Peace of mind is a wonderful thing.

I've started talking to the orthopedic staff and gathering information on knee replacements. I'll probably have my left one done in the Fall. No matter what I've been telling myself for a couple years about coping, it isn't going to get any better, so it's time to get it done. You know, it's that old "reality sets in and you have to acknowledge it" thing. And I thank Golfer for his patience and care in all of this.

Nurse J is okay, but CableGuy has a bad case of bronchitis. BeyB is on Spring break this next week.

Bikini says they are all good in Georgia and all are busy. School break there, too, I think. Boxer and Bloomer are enjoying nice weather and getting to play outside.

So, as you can see, not a lot exciting going on, but we are keeping busy! Take care and have a nice Easter weekend!

Stay safe!

VIVA LAS VEGAS, BABY!!

2010-03-23T16:53:00.010-04:00

Hey, all!

I hope you're all well and happy! It's been a while since I posted anything, but we've been busy. All the regular stuff going on, work, doctors appointments, and vacation! Golfer and I just returned from a wonderful trip to Las Vegas. He had been there years ago on a TDY trip, and we sort of passed by when we were taking Nurse J and Bikini to Disneyland when they were little. So essentially, this was our first visit. It was big, bright, noisy, crowded, expensive and lots of fun! We stayed at the Bellagio, which is practically a small city in itself. This first picture is of the water show in the Bellagio fountains.

We're not big gamblers, but we did play some slot machines a little. We saw a great show at the MGM Grand - Lily Tomlin. She's as funny as ever. We saw The Blue Man Group at the Venetian. I wasn't sure what to expect on that one, but it was wonderful.

We went to the Liberace Museum - very flashy!

We went to the Hoover Dam. Very impressive! BTW, we looked, but couldn't find any traces of Optimus Prime or Megatron. :)

We had a pleasant drive through the Red Rock Canyon/Mojave desert area. That was beautiful. We were a little disappointed that we did not get to see the burros or ponies, but the scenery was lovely.

AND..... We renewed our wedding vows at the Elvis Chapel O'Love! Actually, the correct name is the Graceland Wedding Chapel. "Elvis" conducted the ceremony and sang to us. He was actually an excellent Elvis and we had a wonderful time. A huge white limo picked us up at the hotel. We got flowers before the ceremony. It was a nice way to top off our trip.

So, now we're home. I'm back to work. We're catching up on things. The weather here has been warm enough that the cherry blossoms along Canon Boulevard are starting to bloom. The Bradford pear trees are all white, and the pink bud trees are blooming. Pollen season has started! Golfer is keeping busy. And yard work is on the "to-do" list.

Stay safe!

JEEPERS! ANOTHER SNOW DAY!

2010-03-03T11:24:00.002-05:00

Hey, all!

Who can understand Virginia weather????? Anyone??

They've been predicting a chance of snow for a couple days. Yesterday afternoon it started to rain a little, then more, and then evidently while we were watching TV and not looking out a window, it started to snow. On the 11:00 p.m. news they announced that for most of the area the snow was over and we'd just have rain. We looked out the window and had a little snow sitting on top of the grill cover. We woke up this morning to more light than usual (regular daylight reflected off all the snow that fell during the night!) We turned the TV on and there were the closings announcements scrolling across the screen. The poor kids in this area will be going to school until July if this keeps up!

Being rather sure of myself and knowing that there was a ton of stuff to be finished in the office, I dressed appropriately and headed to work. The main streets were wet and there was slush at the curbs. The side streets pretty well covered with snow and slush. It has rained a little and some of the snow is gone now. I'm hoping it doesn't get too cold and freeze it all.

Now for some other random thoughts. I like watching the Winter Olympics. There's pretty scenery, flashy costumes on the skaters, daring crashes by the ski jumpers. Many things to comment about. I don't know if it was an NBC decision or an Olympic committee decision, but did anyone else notice that the pictures they put on the screen as they announced participants looked like mug shots?? Some of the athletes are pretty good looking, but you couldn't tell it by those photos!

I'd like to send out a huge *!#**&^%#!!! to the idiot driver who was behind my car last evening. I was sitting still at the end of a line of traffic when this guy came barreling down the road. I saw him in the mirror and thought for sure he was going to hit me. At the last minute he veered off onto the sidewalk and drove the rest of the length of the street on the grass, then turned into a shopping center.

Congratulations to Boxer who is mastering bicycle riding! And at a much younger age than his mother or aunt. (love ya, girls!)

Golfer and I finally caught up on some of our TV viewing. We got a little behind what with watching the Olympics.

That's about it from here. I hope you are all well and content. Stay safe!

A Case of the "Mondays"

2010-03-01T16:52:00.002-05:00

Hey, all,

I hope all is well everywhere else! To be honest, things are okay here, I just have a case of the blahs accompanied by a headache. I thought it might get better after I ate lunch. Nope. Then I thought maybe after I went to the "Y" and had some pool time it would go away. Didn't happen. So now it's time to fix supper, and it's still here. I did have a short nap until the phone rang, made my head buzz, and scared Cinder who leaped off my lap because she had been sleeping, too. I have taken some pills. I know it will get better, but it's still Monday.

In other news, and in order to stop my complaining, the sun is out! It's still cool here, but evidently Mother Nature doesn't care. I've seen daffodils poking out of the dirt, some trees have buds on them, and the robins are all back! Over the weekend I got out and did a little more yard clean-up. Our day lilies have broken through the ground and the Easter lilies are starting to show some green shoots. Of course, the yard still has many muddy, soft spots, but it's still great to get out there! My friend/sister-in-law in Ohio said she couldn't believe I was out doing yard work already. Well, to be completely truthful, I was wearing a couple layers of clothes, but it was great to have the sun on my face!

Golfer has played a couple more rounds of golf. He says it's good to be out on the course, even if his game has suffered because of the long time off because of medical issues.

Speaking of medical issues, we seem to be in period of "see all the doctors". It's time for our annual check-ups and associated testing, routine check-ups with eye doctors, orthopedic doctors, rheumatologists..... so far, nothing new and horrible has shown up. Other than the raging bladder infection that I have that I fortunately did not have symptoms for. The doctor was stunned, prescribed antibiotics, and wants to see me yet again. So, there's one for the books.

Well, enough of my blahs. It's time to get to the kitchen. It also might be time to break open the Thin Mints! Girls Scouts were posted at the entrance to the grocery store this past weekend to pressure good people going in to buy fruits and vegetables! I couldn't resist!

Stay safe!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BOXER!

2010-02-28T13:17:00.001-05:00

We hope you have a good birthday!

A TASTE OF SPRING!

2010-02-21T15:20:00.003-05:00

Hey, all!

It's a gorgeous day here - sunny and probably around sixty degrees now. Golfer is playing golf again today. I am so very glad that he is able to do that.

I spent several hours working out in the yard. My new leaf blower definitely has "more power". When I first turned it on it lifted up the heavy door mat at the front door and sailed it out onto the sidewalk. Then I turned to a lower power level. All our mulched areas but one are now cleaned up and ready for new mulch. I'll try to get that last area sometime this week.

I am anxious to get some flowers planted out front. Will have to check on that!

The neighborhood is busy today. Quite a few of the neighbors are also doing clean-up work in their yards. A couple were even mowing. And a couple were washing cars. Tomorrow is the bulk garbage pick-up for our neighborhood and the guys are going to have a bunch of bags to haul away.

BeyB has bronchitis, but Nurse J has taken her to the doctor and she is on medicines and is starting to feel better.

That's about all from here. I'm taking it easy the rest of the day! Stay safe!

Hey! Where Did the Time Go?

2010-02-20T17:05:00.002-05:00

I feel like I've been in a time warp or something. Nothing momentous going on, just lots of regular stuff and routine things that needed doing. And of course, for the last few days, I've been caught up watching the Olympics. There's nothing like watching an athlete slide down a big hill! And on another topic, too bad the Russians are such poor sports. I think the American skater was way better and had a nicer attitude!

It was sunny here today and made it up to 50! Tomorrow is supposed to be a little warmer and I plan to try to do a little work out in the yard. I want to do some clean-up and get things ready for the new mulch to be put down. We have someone lined up to do that and prune the Crape Myrtles, and he likes to do the pruning early. Also, I got a new electric blower for Christmas that I want to try!

Golfer finally got out to play golf today. He said it was better than he had expected. His golf buddies have been supportive and told him they didn't care how bad he was after not playing since September, just come on out. So maybe things are looking up!

I've spent the day doing some housework, getting groceries, and working on Golfer's retirement scrapbook. Got to go fix supper now.

Stay safe!

THAT'S AN "OOPS!" FOR THE WEATHERMAN!

2010-02-10T10:33:00.002-05:00

While much of the country is being dumped on and enduring blizzard conditions, I hate to complain. But as I have said before --- I am ready for Spring. The weather forecast for our area for today was a possible "dusting" of snow with no accumulation. Nurse J called us on her way in to her office to tell us that was wrong and it was way worse than that. I was in the process of getting ready to leave for work myself and headed on out. Carefully. It was snowing great big fluffy flakes. And they came down fast and thick and the wind picked up. Visibility was about a block ahead and it was sticking to the streets. Ick. It has let up some now and is just lightly coming down and piling up. But it's supposed to snow more later today and the wind is to increase.

Bikini says it's snowing in Georgia again, too, but she's thinking there won't be any accumulation.

Other than that, all is well here. Golfer and I have been taking care of odds and ends around the house and cleaning out a few things. There's a long "to-do" list in my head for things that need to be done outside if we can ever get out there. With all the rain and snow, I'm sure the yard will be muddy for a long time. Unbelievably, I saw daffodils coming up in a neighbor's yard. A sign of hope! We don't have any. Daffodils, that is. We have plenty of hope. It's been my experience that if I plant daffodils, the squirrels eat them, so I just enjoy others'. I try to to always have hope.

So for now, that's about it from here. Stay safe!