Brightest Blessings!

It's Already December

2011-12-06T05:27:00.003-05:00

Today is Tuesday, December 6, 2011. The weather has been fantastic! Fall is for sure here and loving that. This past weekend was chilly, not cool but chilly. The critters seem to really love the cooler weather, they are all out and just running around crazy.

George and I went to the flea market this past Saturday, something we haven't done in years. I wanted to do a yard sale here at the house, but he talked me into going to the flea market. It wasn't a money maker, but it was more than we left with and less stuff! We have just been accumulating "stuff" for so long again. It is so time to unload this "stuff".

I went on a cleaning spree the last couple of weeks. It something hasn't been used in three or four months, it went into a get rid of box. Took all of the curtains down washed and ironed them. The only thing I need to finish is to clean the walls and ceilings. But I am going to have to wait until after the new year to finish all of that up. The house looks and feels so good! New recharged, refreshed energy for the coming new year.

I have also been baking goodies for the season. Have lots more to do but did get started a couple of nights ago. I do think they are eating faster than I am going to be able to make it. The peanut brittle is just about gone. The cookies are gone and the bread is less than half. Hoping that they got their fill so that when I start making it for gifts, it doesn't disappear.

Have started a few lap quilts for gifts and journals too. I think sometimes it is like one of my college teacher told me, "You work best under pressure." that I seem to start so much and wind up pulling all nighters to get things finished up. But that's just me and no shame in it I guess. I will get everything finished and delivered on time.

I have felt pretty good this last month. My hair is growing back where here nuked me so that is a plus. It looked like when the kids were shaving the back of their heads half way up. Now it is about an inch long I guess. George said he would take a picture, but hasn't yet so I will try to con young son into doing it. He always looks at me like I have two heads when I ask him to do something like that. Like when I tried to get him to make a video of the girls sunning themselves and bathing. The movement in my right arm is back for the most part, not going to cry over what I have been blessed to get back. I can brush my own hair and put it in a pony tail too. I can open the door and start the car with my right hand now. Still trying to figure out this humidifier thing. To much time makes mucus, not enough time causes big sticky plugs. I guess in time I will figure it out. Another doctors appointment on the fifth, with the good doctor. She is the one that seems to get things done.

The new journals are coming along pretty good. Excited about getting them done and listed. Well maybe not excited about the listing part, that means taking pictures and we all know how well I do with that. Can you believe that Yule is only three weeks away? This just blows my mind. This has been one of the fastest years ever of my life. It will be a year next month that this roller coaster ride with cancer started, a very long and yet so fast year.

I HAVE to get going and get back at it or I am not going to get things finished. I know I have less than three weeks to finish up and get things delivered. Wishing everyone a day filled with fun and laughter!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessing~

A Good Life

2011-10-30T21:03:00.002-04:00

Today is October 30, 2011. It was a beautiful Fall day here! The sun was warm and the air was breezy and cool. A day that makes you want to be outside, I mean really want to be.

I am not sure I know where to start it has been I think about a month since the last post. Much, much to long and there are no excuses.

Everyone is still living at home let me say that first. I feel like I have stepped back in time and raising three more little ones again. Not sure how it happened, however it has right down to the teacher conferences. These are the cup cakes I made for the Fall Festival at their school. Their grades have came up and they are happy children. We went to the library three weeks ago and got every body their own library cards. My kids loved to go to the library once a week. So now we go once a week either on Saturday or on Tuesday. They love it and are reading! This thrills me being a home school mom! They actually come off of those damn games and read!

I have noticed that since the weather has chilled out, hehehe, that they go outside and play old games after dinner. Hide and seek, throwing a frisbee, throwing a football or baseball back and forth. My heart just soars when they are out in the yard having fun!

I guess that I am just a little disappointed in my daughter and her husband. Neither one of them seem to interact with the kids. They don't get up with them in the morning to get them ready for school or take them, I do. They don't even cook or do their laundry. But that's okay, they give me truly a reason to get this butt out of bed in the morning and they are so grateful what I do for them.

Any way I had to have a CT PET Scan a few weeks ago and I am still cancer free! Whoot! Doing the happy dance I was! Don't get me wrong, to be honest with you, I don't really think about cancer until the week of a scan. Then out of the blue I start to think about it and what if. Do I have bad days, of course I do. Shoot, there was one night that I cried myself to sleep and honestly I don't know why. My ear still has fluid behind it but I will or George will be calling his office in a few days because my 90 day wait will be up for him to do something about it, "I like to wait three months before I do anything.". Well I almost lost my mind from not being able to hear right and that water in your ear feeling, but my wait if almost over!

My hair has started to grow back on the back of my head from where they nuked it and my arm doesn't look like a ham hawk. It is filling out nicely, almost looks the same size as my left one. I will have to take a picture of it and share. My stoma has healed, but I still have so many questions that are unanswered. I have been trying to teach myself esophageal speech, it's going okay, not as fast as I had hoped. The voice prosthesis really bothers me, not just the fact that it requires surgery, but the fact that they have to be changed every six months and can leak. Leaking would NOT be good for me or my lungs. I still have no sweet spot so the little electronic thing doesn't work for me. It is louder than I am so no one can hear me, even me.

I want to try to read a few blogs tonight before I hit the sack, 4:30 comes pretty early for me these days. I sure hope everyone has been doing well I have missed everyone, I truly have. My blog buddies have been a very big part of my life for a lot of years and this last year has really made me realize how much I have missed them. I still can't believe it is October, this year has truly been a blur to me and I hope that next year is a little more picture perfect.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessing~

Worry Brings Nothing Good

2011-10-01T05:44:00.004-04:00

Today is Saturday, October 1, 2011. We have had gorgeous just gorgeous weather the last few weeks. Yes, it has been hot, but it has been so pretty. The afternoon showers still show up, but I guess that is why everything has been so pretty and green. The last couple of days, there is Fall in the air, so much that I have been able to open up the house. Looking forward to that very much, love to open up the house.

So much has been happening......I guess that I never really gave it much thought as to how much this junk can change your life and the life of your family. Never realizing that I would be seeing the doctors every two months and sometimes more often. The last visit last week brought me to another first a CT PET Scan. Having just had a CT Scan I didn't understand why another scan. After doing some research I didn't like why I would be have this scan. So yesterday morning this is what I spent the better part of my day doing. We were supposed to have the results yesterday afternoon, however that didn't happen. No news is good news?

Three weeks ago my daughter and her family have moved back home, they have lost their home. Then came son # 5, he is also home. We have went from a household of three to nine. Her husband is out of work and she isn't getting twenty hours a week. We will make the best of this, so making lemonade.

I have always written appointments on the calender, so my daughter wanted to know why I was having another scan if everything was okay with the CT Scan. I don't know baby girl.....I don't know.

What I do know is that this has just torn me apart watching what it is doing to the members of my family. She came home from work last night, sick to her stomach. George has had this look in his eyes like someone has taken all hope from him. Young son has just hovered over me, don't care for that. The older kids calling George to see what happened.

There are things in this life that we have control over and things that we do NOT. This is something that we do not have control over. Turn it over to the universe or your God and move on. Enjoy your day and the things that you are doing the people that you are with. Worrying will not get you anything other than stomach issues and a headache.

She informed me that I was her mother the only one that she will have and started to cry. Yes little girl, I am your mother, (like I didn't know this) would you like me to find you an adoptive mother? "This shits not funny mom!", she informed me. No, no it's not. However, I am NOT going to sit around everyday wondering what if. I am going to continue to do the things that I have always done and continue to enjoy doing them.

She wanted to learn to sew, so sew we will learn. Get busy girl and start ironing that fabric and cutting squares. Busy hands are happy hands. The holidays are fast approaching at a high rate of speed and in order to make handmade items, you had better get really busy now. Can you believe that this is October already? Another year almost gone.......

If you haven't heard, after the first of the year you will no longer be able to buy the light bulbs that we currently are using. So you may want to consider stock piling them. Oh, I know that they are suppose to be "green" and so much cheaper, however when our restaurant when to these "green" bulbs that were suppose to last forever and be so much cheaper, I found out first hand that they do NOT last longer and are very expensive to buy. Not to mention I really dislike the lighting from them. Needless to say I have started my stockpile.

Well I need to get a load of laundry in and get this body dressed. Then on to cutting squares and working on some new book designs. Wishing everyone an awesome weekend, go have some fun!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessing~

Really?

2011-08-24T09:21:00.003-04:00

Today is Wednesday, August 24, 2011. The weather has truly been gorgeous this summer, I know the heat has been some days unbearable, but it has been gorgeous. We have afternoon storms roll in that seems like every afternoon. But, if you get your laundry hung in the morning, it has plenty of time to dry before they arrive.

Yesterday I was able to get all but three pair of curtains washed, ironed and hung backup and a load of laundry done before they arrived. Poor George trying to keep up with the lawn is just crazy. It is growing like a jungle with all of this rain, but it sure is pretty.

After I had my CT Scan and my doctor said that she didn't see anything, the following week she called George, I had to go in for a biopsy. Let me tell you, I don't have to many bad days, but when I do, just don't fuck with me. Leave me alone.....well this day had been a bad day and I didn't want to hear about a biopsy that "had" to be done within the week. Since the 21st of January I have done nothing but live by doctor visits, blood draws, surgeries, radiation, physical therapy, CT Scans, MRI's, consultations and who knows what I have forgotten.

After dinner George sat down across from me at the kitchen table, he never sits across from me, always next to me. I knew something was up and I knew I wasn't going to like it. He tells me that my doctor called him today and one of the other doctors "seen something" and wants a biopsy done right away. She told George that she still didn't see what he was seeing, but wanted to just be "safe". Okay, what is their idea of a biopsy?

Their idea of a biopsy is a "needle guided" by a CT Scan. Okay I can do this standing on my head, no problem. We get there and I should have known something was up when they told George that I couldn't have anything to eat or drink from 3 a.m. on. Why? Come to find out they are not going to put me out, but I will not be out of it so if they need to get me back for something they can do it. You know when the hand you a gown, something is going on.

They come and get me, wheel me into this little room with a CT Scan and a couple of nurses. She lets me know that she is going to start the "feel good juice". Great..... Next comes in this doctor, oh my goodness is he young, he tells me that he is going to stick a needle into the "mass" while watching it on the machine. I finally had the doctor that knew where this mass was! When he tells me, I start laughing, of course they are all looking at me like I am crazy. I grab the nurses pen and write, "it's a cyst that has been there forever, radiation made it just explode". He looks at me like are you serious? Well I could hear the disappointment in his voice as he told the other doctor that was with him, "it is probably just the left overs of the cyst". So he starts getting the fluid and the nurse asks if I am okay, I give her the 2 thumbs up, I heard her tell the other nurse she is completely awake in there. Afterwards she told George that she had given me three times the medication that I was suppose to have and it didn't do anything. Indeed it was a cyst or what was left of it.

We are having a swap at MHA and these are the things I made for my partner. She likes moons, so I made her a little pin cushion, needle holder, clutch, window/purse charm and a turtle bracelet. I hope she enjoys them.

I have also gotten all of the totes, baby blanket and candy made for my treatment team. I am still having issues with the bucket hat. If anyone knows of a you tube video that shows how to put this bad boy together I would be forever grateful. I will take pictures of them before they are given to them.

Only have one more appointment this month and that is tomorrow at the dentist, have to have my teeth cleaned every three months now, it's been three months. Happy, happy, joy, joy next month is up my nose again! LOL

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessing~

Up My Nose Again, But Cancer Free

2011-07-31T10:04:00.003-04:00

Today is Sunday, July 31, 2011. The weather has been just gorgeous, however extremely hot. Yesterday was at 100 with a heat index of 110. Not that is hot. This is a picture of what George does at work. He loves working on planes. I am still amazed at how clean everything is even after all of these years.

Went to the ENT doctor on Friday, of course he had to stick that thing up my nose, but cancer free! I go again Thursday for a "baseline" CT scan, which he wants to take a "peak" at. I am feeling pretty good for the most part. It does seem like this time healing is taking much longer to do so. I remember after the first surgery it was about four weeks and my stoma was pretty much healed up and the same after the second surgery. Not this time. It will be five weeks on Tuesday and still not healed up. Maybe my body is saying we aren't in a hurry this time, the last two times we healed right up and you slapped us down. I do know that the radiation is still working in my body. Everyday I get one or two new blisters in my mouth. They usually break the same day and one or two more will pop up. They are only painful if I eat something with acid or citrus.

The dead line for getting my thank you gifts finished is fast approaching, this Thursday, so needless to say have to keep moving on them. I finally found a pattern for a bucket hat to sew at Joann's. However they were out of scrub patterns. So I got the number of the pattern and went on line to find them and I did find one! So excited it should be here Tuesday.

I usually don't say to much about what other people say and do, I just really don't care unless it effects my family. I am talking about things people bring on themselves, you know drama. I don't spend a lot of time on FaceBook but I sure get tired of some folks bitching about things they bring on them selves. The first thing they have to realize is that they have to be a real friend to have a real friend. There is one that I am so tired of hearing her complain, however she isn't a real friend. I know this from personal experience. As long as you are doing for her, she is happy as a pig in poop. She is one of those people that I classify as a "user". I have decided to "unfriend" these people that just complain about their lives. If they would stop the drama, their life would be just fine. I just get tired of reading it, I don't allow it to enter my home so I won't allow it to be on my FB page any longer. Sorry about the venting..........

The girls are doing really good. I discovered yesterday that they not only love cheese crackers, but they also love fortune cookies. They are too funny watching them tear them up. Had to get rid of the rooster, he started attacking people and that was the end of that.

I am thinking that I might like to go contracting this winter with my husband, this time by choice. It is just young son and us now and I do think it might be kind of fun to do. I want to do some more work in the RV like put stainless steal up in the kitchen, so much easier to clean and it stays clean. I would like to also replace the carpet or put a vinyl flooring down in the dining room area. Not real big fan of the carpet there, to much traffic and always dirty. I have to go next week for the CT scan and don't have to go back to the ENT for two months so we shall see if travel is an option at this time.

Young sons monitor on his laptop went out, so I am going to have a yard sale in two weeks. We have sooo much stuff, closets that haven't been cleaned out in 7 months, I haven't been able to get anything done this year, not since January 21, I don't think I will ever forget that date. So needless to say we should make enough money to replace his if we shop at Tiger Direct, they always have good deals on their stuff.

Well I have now been hooked to this humidifier for two and a half hours, it is time to get a load of laundry off the line and get back at the sewing. I will you all a happy, healthy, productive day!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessing~

Better Days

2011-07-14T05:37:00.003-04:00

Today is Thursday, July 14, 2011. It was supposed to rain all week, but I took my chances yesterday with laundry and guess what? No rain, washed, hung, folded and put away and still no rain. Which is a good thing, I know, I know we need the rain, however, when it rains here, the sky just opens up, buckets fall from the sky.

Yesterday was mama's 75th birthday. So we got her a Papa John's gift card and her favorite licorice. She loves their pizza and was checking out the licorice before we left. I was so thrilled to hear her say that she wanted to move back into town. She is about 20 to 30 minutes away and it is so hard right now for me to get over there. George has been using my car for work, so I have to wait until after supper to go. Makes for a very long day for this ole gal. I have been going to been be 9:30 or 10:00 every night, no late nights for me.

We got rid of Verizon last month. The price was just out of sight and it was never the same. Every month seemed like there was a surprise, so after I would say 7 years, we are now using a prepaid phone and I like it. Anyway trying to teach mama how to text is crazy. I can't call her and check on her so I try to text her. She tries, bless her heart, but she always rings my phone calling. At least I know she is alright.

I have gotten a couple of things done, not finished. A baby blanket is all put together, but it has to be clipped. Half of the candy is done and my MIL quilt is so close to being done it isn't funny. I have to have it finished by Sunday, George is going to see them, so he needs to take it the candy and the pictures. My energy level seems to be getting better, just not where it was. I don't seem to be able to get things done as fast, I think that's what it is.

Then last night after I put dinner in the oven, young son says mom, there is a fire in the oven. Okay, let me see what is going on in there, well I guess the bottom heating element went out and when it did it caught fire. Lovely, so I put dinner into a smaller pan and put it into the little oven. Now, I need to find a hot plate until my stove is fixed. Son #4 came over while we were over at mom's and I am not sure what he did, but I do know that he threw the breaker and told young son not to let me turn it back on. He does this stuff for a living. So, I am not sure how dinner will be cooked, maybe outside on the open fire like the cowboy days.

Well daughter and her three are supposed to be over today, so I had better get busy on that quilt. The kids usually hang out in the pool while they are here, who could blame them, that's where I use to be.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessing~

It's Over, Now To Start The Healing

2011-07-07T10:56:00.002-04:00

Today is Thursday, July 7, 2011. The weather here is wonderful! Yesterday out of the very blue skies came a down pour I haven't seen in a very long time.

Well the radiation treatment is officially over as of last Tuesday. That was the final treatment. The picture above is where I would spend most of my Wednesdays. It is a little park that is across from the treatment facility. It is a beautiful little park, very quiet, clean and well kept. With all of the trees, even on the hottest of days the breeze was very cooling.

I have to say that these weeks of treatment were very challenging. Not just physical but mental as well. I do believe that your mind set in this situation has a lot to do with the outcome. I made my appoints early every morning or as early as I could knowing this was something that I couldn't put off and had to get my butt out of bed to do. No time for the damn this really hurts. No time to play the poor thing me, no had to get up out of that bed and get moving. You have to remember that I had an hour drive each way, so I had to leave home by 6:30 for a 7:30 a.m. appointment. I will now pat myself on the pat that I made every appoint and on time, drove myself all but the last 6 days of treatment, George decided to take 2 weeks off.

I made it through the PT which I owe so much to my PT lady, Vickie. She gave me back the use of my right hand and arm. I will say I was not happy with the fact that I would sit in some very serous pain in my shoulder, with the heating pad. Really weighing what my options were going to be with all of this. She made sure she gave me that well you know, that kick in the butt to be working on things at home. Thank you Vickie!

My radiation team were terrific. I remember the first treatment, I was scared to death, not knowing how well I would handle laying flat on my back. You see after this surgery, laying flat on your back is a real struggle. But, with their help and words of encouragement, I made it through the first session and the other 34!

My radiation doctors both of them are so sweet and so very caring. They really care what is happening to you and they do listen to you! Something you don't see any more. Even with the rest of my doctors, and goodness there are a lot of them, they look at me like a piece of meat. She hugged me and let me know that I could come back at any time to see her, just because I was being discharged doesn't mean I couldn't come see her and if I needed anything to call her.

Well, I didn't know, but George says I did, she told me, the next few weeks were going to be pretty yucky. I felt good, until last Sunday and boy oh boy. I felt like someone had pulled the rug out from under me. The nausea set back in with everything including water. The stiffness was so bad in my neck I was back to turning my whole body again. Now I know why she put me on Morphine twice a day. However, I quit taking it knowing that was the reason for the nausea. So needless to say I took it less than a week and won't be needing it again. Yesterday was better and today even better.

I will get my butt dressed do my home physical therapy and carry on with the things that have been put on the back burner for so many months. I feel like I am so out of the loop with everything, have so much to catch up on!

I have missed all of you!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

I Have The Sweetest Friends, I really Do

2011-06-16T06:05:00.003-04:00

Today is Thursday, June 16, 2011. The thunderstorms have arrived! Not that we don't need the rain, because we really, really do. But, I don't like driving in the down pours! George woke me up this morning and announced that he would be taking me to treatment today. Okay..what gives? He has a doctors appointment this afternoon and was going to go with me anyway, has nothing to do with the rain. LOL

I received a gorgeous package Tuesday! It was wrapped in a mint green tissue paper and garden tools, topped off with a green poka dot ribbon. It contained TWO books! The beautiful hand written card was like the cherry on the cake. Thank you Suzie!

Then today I received another package, it contained something that I had ordered for a special someone, and something that I didn't. It is a gorgeous Magic Bottle of Hope! George read both of the cards and told me,"You have some really sweet friends, you really do." I know that, I really do! The handmade card was so cool! Thank you Marie!

Yesterday was my long day and also the day the I see my doctor. She told me she didn't know what I was doing, but don't change a thing. I guess because I refuse to have all of the ailments that someone else has, she has a hard time believing it. Like I told her to start with, please don't tell me how I am going to feel, let me tell you how I am feeling. The power of suggestion is just to great. She told me that I was flying through this, yeah I am, FUCK cancer! 11 more treatments to go! Whoot!

Geesh, I can't believe that I didn't publish this before leaving this morning! I think that maybe the radiation is effecting my brain.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessing!

Some Days Are Better Than Others

2011-06-14T05:36:00.002-04:00

She is in some deep thought....

Today is Tuesday, June 14, 2011. The weather here has been just gorgeous! YES, it has been hot buy a dry hot which is real unusual for us. Sinus have been really acting up too not sure if that has anything to do with the dry weather or not. I do know that I am enjoying the weather. I know that I am not suppose to be hanging out in the sun, but it makes me feel so warm, just that warm fuzzy feeling all over. Like a new pair of socks makes you feel.

Well ladies, we have 22 treatments down and 14 to go! Whoot, doing the happy dance! I am not one to take pain pills, I like to be in control of me, not a drug. But, the pills that she has given me I have learned to take two when I get home and get busy with what I need to do. Usually eating is the first thing I really need to do, I am starving when I get home. By doing this I don't seem to be as sore or as stiff.

The PT has really helped my arm. It isn't where it needs to be, however it sure is moving better and not nearly as painful. This lady, Vicki is wonderful, I love her! I have to be honest, when I was in pain all of the time from my shoulder and not able to move or use my right arm/hand, I was really having thoughts about all of this treatment and what kind of life I was going to be living. I believe in quality not quantity . She told me that I should have had PT from the time of surgery and things would have never gotten this bad. It is like a door that hasn't been opened in four months, it has to be moved and worked everyday. So it is getting there, has to be worked every day and some days hurt more than others. Looking forward to the day that I don't have to work it so much and it just joins the rest of my body in working together.

Thank you to all that helped Leta to adopt her little fella! He now has a new home and a new mama to take care of him. I still don't have a picture to share with you. If she is anything like I am with trying to make a camera work, it could be years before we get to see him. And as promised, the winner is Rue (Jen)! So if you would please let me know which bracelet you would like and send my your snail mail, I will get it out to you! Again thanks to everyone that helped!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessing~

Middle of The Third Week

2011-06-02T08:09:00.003-04:00

These 2 know how to enjoy the summer!

Today is Thursday, June 10, 2011. The weather has been just gorgeous, hot but gorgeous! There has even been a nice breeze to enjoy. The critters are really enjoy it the birds and squirrels are all over the yard, there are turkeys over the fence too.

This week is the third week of radiation and Wednesdays are slap crazy. It started at 8:30 with my first dose of radiation, then to the radiation doctor, then over to PT, from there to ENT, then to draw blood and then back for my second dose of radiation. Most Wednesdays are that way. Wednesdays are the double dose of radiation. Felt a little rough yesterday when I got home thinking it was the heat, but after a nap, thought other wise. Twenty-three more doses to go, the last one should be June 29.

Still trying to get the quilts finished up, damn this just zaps the energy right out of you, if I get the laundry, dinner, dust or vacuum done, I have done just about all I can do for the day. Not liking that, love to be working on my crafts and don't seem to even be able to sit at the sewing machine or ironing board.

I would like to ask a favor of you that would like to help a friend out. Leta has had cancer three different times now and different types, she is my hero. Anyway she volunteers at the animal shelter. There is this little three pound dog there that has been adopted twice and brought back both times. She says, "his little lipstick doesn't close up all the way." She is on disability is under going breast cancer treatment, and would like to adopt him, however the fee is $105 which there is no way she has. If you feel the need to help her save him, they want to put him down, she has a paypal account at witchywoman1922@gmail every dollar will help to adopt him. I will put up a picture of his as soon as she figures out how to work the camera to do it. LOL

Everyone that donates will be put into a drawing for a bracelet of their choice from my Etsy shop. It doesn't matter the amount of the donation, just make sure to add BBW Blog to the Paypal transaction so that I know to add your name.

I hope to get some things done or finished up today. Really not liking this laying around doing nothing. They have started the farmer's market down town again here, so I hope that this Saturday I will have it in me to get my butt up and down there. Everyone needs to support them now that it is back, including me, no matter how I feel.

I love our down town shops, the shop owners are the coolest folks you ever want to meet. Last summer we were not here and then I got this junk, it feels like it has been years since I have been there, keeping my fingers crossed that I get there this Saturday.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Three More Days

2011-05-14T06:19:00.002-04:00

Today is Saturday, May 14, 2011. The weather has been just gorgeous, we did jump right into summer though, temperatures have been close to 100. Suppose to get thunder storms today so going to get at least one load of laundry on the line first thing this morning.

I have set up a dental appointment for Monday to get my teeth cleaned before radiation starts on Tuesday. I don't need any more issues with any other parts of my body than I already have. The leg is healing pretty good. There is no more sting and only a very small scab in the very center that will fall off soon I am sure. The arm still has a ways to go and not sure why. It seems like it is taking longer to heal than the leg.

This sense of urgency has all of a sudden made this attack on me to get things done right now. The only thing I can figure is it has to do with the radiation starting on Tuesday. I am not looking forward to this at all. I have decided that I will not be doing the chemo therapy. If nuking me 6 times a week doesn't do the trick, so be it.

George is not handling this well at all, the thought of me going to Gainesivlle by myself every day is making him crazy. There is just no way that he can take me every day. He works fifty miles from home and Gainesville is another 50 miles away, not to mention we just can't afford him to miss that many hours a week. I am going to do a little checking to see if I can have treatment here in Lake City rather than having to drive 100 a day, which is just crazy, not to mention expensive. My dentist put that thought into my head. Love that guy!

Michael (son #4) made a request for a blue berry cheese cake a couple of days ago so I made him one this morning. He has been a life saver these last couple of weeks. He has showed up every night after work to help his dad with what ever he has been working on. Of course his wife and daughter come along, a terrific bonus for me. A female to talk to!

Got the chickens really cleaned up and the coop cleaned out yesterday. The boys have been taking care of them and boy have the hay and feed bill gone up. It took 4 wheel barrels to haul off the hay yesterday, that is entirely to much hay being used. Also got 3 blue berry bushes planted yesterday that Michael had gotten me for Mother's Day. Two loads of laundry, the living and dining room cleaned up, dinner and groceries. Needless to say I slept through the night last night, didn't wake up until the alarm went off at 4:30.

Want to get my mother in laws quilt finished up this weekend. It is missing one sons children pictures, because he "couldn't find them after the kids had finished them", sorry not buying this story. So I just reworked it do be able to finish it without his. The back is all but finished, so to put two more rows on the front and then to make the binding out of the left over fabric and put it together.

Time to get busy if I want to get things done. George is working today so I have until this afternoon to make things happen. Wishing all of you a happy, healthy, productive weekend!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessing~

2011-05-02T08:12:00.000-04:00

Today is Monday, May 2, 2011. I truly can not believe how fast time moves. The weather has been super nice,hot but not so hot that you can't enjoy it.

They officially totaled the Jeep and after seeing it, I am so thankful that both of them guys walked away from that mess. Now to find another car. I hate car shopping! So I have started that hunt.
I had found these slippers on Etsy a while back, but it is for the pattern and not the finished slippers. So I had posted on my Facebook about them and a very special friend of mine, she is currently battling cancer for the third time and third different type. She is truly someone that I look up to! Anyway she let me know that she did crochet by pattern and to get the yarn sent to her so that she would have something to do. Needless to say I have the yarn and buttons ready to go. Here is a picture of the slippers and the scarf.
You can get this pattern here, Genevive for only $4 bucks!

This scarf pattern can be purchased here at RobynRenee for only $4. It is just so very cool!

The skin graft went well, and it stings like I knew it was going to! I don't think there are any drugs that will take that sting away. The dressings and staple are all removed now and it is time to start working my right arm. It doesn't bend the way it use to or turn over the way it use to. So I do think I am going to have to really work are getting it to move again. In less than 3 weeks I will start 6 weeks of radiation. From what I have heard from folks and read, the first half isn't to bad, its' the last half that is really bothersome. I have to eat no matter how bad I feel, if I start losing weight and not eating, they will put in a feeding tube and I have already dodged it once.

Woke up this morning to Usama Bin Laden had been killed and had a been buried at sea. Talk about a long time coming. I am so very proud of our men and women who fight for our freedom everyday.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

One Done One To Go

2011-04-19T07:45:00.004-04:00

Today is Wednesday, April 20, 2011. One day before the big 49th birthday. Not feeling bad about this one, 30 was the tough one for me. The weather has been just gorgeous, warm and lots of sunshine.

One quilt is done and the other one is almost finished. Have one child that he nor his wife seem to have time to sit for 20 minutes with their children and let them color a picture. So I will use some of the extra ones that the other grand kids had done, no big deal, they are not going to stop me from getting this done. Hope to have it finished up tonight.

Need to work on getting the laundry done up and the house cleaned up. Not really much to do, but I will feel better when it is done. I don't mind saying that tomorrow is really bothering me. I just have this horrible feeling that this skin graft is going to be worse than the 12 hour neck surgery. I can deal with hurt, but that damn stinging, that is another story. I would rather you hit me than to scratch me. I just can't imagine what my thigh is going to feel like after them have taken a cheese slicer to the skin, I can feel the sting already. Usually I handle pain pretty good, a very high pain tolerance, but not sure about this. How am I suppose to shower or get a bath with one arm wrapped and a thigh too? That bothers me too, the thought of not being able to get under running water to get clean. I went without a shower or bath for two weeks when I was in ICU, just not a good feeling.

One the way home from work yesterday, George totaled the Jeep. He and his buddy are alright, or at least the hospital didn't keep them overnight. No broken bones, although his buddy needed oral surgery. He hit the window, how I don't know with a seat belt and an air bag. George said the inside of the Jeep just exploded. I haven't seen it, son #4 is going to get the personal things out of it today and get pictures for me. I will share when I get them. George is so upset, that was our most dependable source of transportation. The truck is down while is he rebuilding the carburetor, and the bug the crankshaft. So needless to say this is not the time for it to happen, but we are so blessed that they are alright. A cop seen the whole thing and couldn't believe that the guy turned right in front of George, like he didn't even see him. I really thought that he would be super sore this morning, but not complaints. I keep telling him we are getting to old to break bones, we just don't heal like we use to.

I need to get going if I plan on getting the things I want to get done finished. Just the thought of having me arm out of commission again, well it is just maddening. It has been two months since the second surgery and I feel pretty good, time to get something else done, to make me hurt. LOL

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Getting There, I Think

2011-04-14T08:48:00.005-04:00

Today is Thursday, April 14, 2011. The weather has been so nice, warm with little rain. We had a little shower day before yesterday, but it didn't last long. You know when summer is here, the grass requires cutting once a week.

I have gotten all of the fabric cut for my grand daughters quilt and all but the binding for my mother in laws. The drawings are coming out great on the fabric. Should have all of them back by Friday. We are getting pictures of the kids doing their drawings so that I can send her pictures with her quilt. I need to have both of them done by Thursday. Feeling the pressure just a little bit here. I should have grand daughters done by Saturday and mother in laws Wednesday, as long as I get all of the drawings back.

Went to the doctors yesterday, or the "sleep doctor" for pre-op for next Thursday. It truly amazes me that they ask the same questions over and over again. We had just answered these questions on paper that were turned into this person that sat and asked these questions again. They are putting this information into a computer, so where is it going that every time you go into the doctors office they need to ask the same questions again. If this is what electronic records holds, it is a waste of money.

Ladies if you have to renew your drivers license, be prepared! My license had to be renewed, before next week, so we went Wednesday before the doctors. Now you have to have your drivers license, 2 pieces of mail coming to you are your address,social security card, your birth certificate and your MARRIAGE LICENSE! Not that you didn't have to have your marriage license to get your social security card changed you also need it to prove to DMV that you were married. I have had a Florida Drivers License for 25 plus years and now I need to prove who I am. May the Gods help us all! I need to let mama know that she is going to need all of these things before July so she can start gathering them up. Poor George doesn't get mail in his name, he has until August to get some. Maybe a bank statement has both of our names on it, at least I think it does. When she told me that I needed my marriage license, I couldn't believe it. So we went next door to get a $3 certified copy, it was cheaper than going clear back to the house and then back down town again with gas at $4 a gallon. The lady couldn't find our license in the computer. So after about 30 minutes she finds it, who ever entered it into the computer spelled George, "Geroge". The lady was nice enough to correct it and not charge us for the copy. After about an hour and $58 later, I had a renewed drivers license. Not that I have been able to drive since February, my car is a standard, hoping that within thirty days I will be able to drive again.

I had ordered some bracelet blanks to be stamped. Cat over at In The Light of The Moon has an etsy shop catcreations92b where she creates the most wonderful jewelry. I love her stamping, it looks handmade and not machine done. So I contacted her to see if she would consider stamping these for me. Bless her heart she agreed and they turned out fabulous!
So I ordered a stamp set and am going to start practicing stamping these to go with the stoma covers/bibs. Also going to include instructions for CPR on us neck breathers. I am excited about doing them because the possibilities are endless. Denise my home health nurse was impressed with them and glad that I finally had one and was wearing it.

I had better get moving, it is already after ten and haven't sewn the first stitch. Still have to get young son going on his school work. He so struggles with math so we are working extra until he gets it, before moving on to something else.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

WOW Did We Get The Storms

2011-04-06T06:49:00.003-04:00

Today is Wednesday, April 6, 2011. WOW did we get the storms yesterday! We were under tornado watch from 2:30 in the morning until 10. The thunderstorms rolled in at ten minutes til 6 and talk about a light show. The ground was just vibrating, which brought young son and Doc up and out of his room. They decided to come out to the living room where I was and go back to sleep on the love seat. Those two are something else, son #5 never moved, not sure that he even heard the thunder or felt it for that matter. By afternoon the sun was out and so was the pollen again, it looked like it was snowing. Needless to say, I stayed in the house.

George got the phone call yesterday that I will have my skin graft on my birthday. Gee thanks doc! This surgery I think is going to be the one that really hurts like you know what. I just can't imagine having road rash on my thigh. I am thrilled to be getting this done so that within a month I will be able to have my hand/arm back into commission again, I really do miss her. LOL I did learn that if I take off the splint protector thing that I can type, so that is what I have been doing. It is hard to hold a pen yet, but I will keep working at it.

My neck is so tight and stiff, my head wants to lean to the left and not straight up like it should. I know that I have to work on holding it straight, but dang it, talk about a rubber band feeling. I pull it up and as soon as I quit thinking about it, down it goes to the left again and the shoulder comes up to meet it. There were nerves that were cut and others that were not but still are not the way they were prior to surgery. My right shoulder looks like it is out of joint, but it is the nerve that I guess holds or supports it, so I have to work at getting my right arm up and over my head. I never put much thought into what condition my arms, shoulders and neck would be in after this surgery.

Some things just don't change, I now have stoma covers started, and three quilts. I really miss my sewing. Changed that blade in my rotary cutter, wow what a difference that made. I can cut fabric now. Not so much pressure needed to cut through the layers. I have only cut myself three times. All from not closing it when I lay it down and bump up against it while moving the fabric around. The fabric in the picture is going to be used on my grand daughters quilt along with other retro prints, she loves them. That's my girl! Also started one for Georges mom, going to be dong it in primary colors with white squares. The white squares the grand kids are going to make pictures on and I will iron them on to the white squares. She retired a few years back from being a school teacher so I thought this would be most fitting for her. The kids draw their pictures on heavy paper with Crayola Crayons for fabric, then you just iron the pictures on to the fabric.

My daughter came over last night, and taught son #5 and George how to do a pony tail. I don't know why I didn't have her teach them weeks ago. She is so funny the first place she heads is to the frig to see whats in there. We had just finished eating it was a late dinner, home health nurse was running late and then I had to go get groceries so needless to say we didn't eat until almost eight. I was starving. She grabbed a plate and sat there talking and eating, then she needed eye brow rings so she went through a few boxes of them to get what she needed. She tickles me, she misses eating dinner at home, we always sit at the table and talk about our day.

I need to get moving into a forward direction the sun is coming up, looks like it is going to be a pretty day.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessing~

Yesterday Doctor Day

2011-03-31T06:29:00.002-04:00

Today is Thursday, March 31, 2011. The weather this week has been very wet. Thunderstorms have been here every day. Which is a good thing, the plants and trees are really needing it. Everything is so green and clean!

Yesterday was Doctor day, ugh...... It was a good doctor day though. Didn't have anything bad to say. He removed the stitches around my stoma, which I think should have come out earlier than yesterday. There were two that felt like there was flesh attached to them. It looks really good, the swelling has gone down lots too, a little more to go. By him messing with this area, it make me go into a coughing fit, geesh I truly hate to cough.

Next came the removal of that wonderful feeding tube. The stitches holding it in had to come out, the inside of my nose is still sore. That is the nastiest feeling, a tube traveling through your body. I am NOT one to have anything mess with my nose to start with. But it is out! No more tape on my nose or on the side of my face! However, what I didn't know that he was going to put that scope up my nose to check things out. Dang it man, I don't know how people put drugs up their nose! He told me that he would be doing it often to keep an eye on things. How often is often?

Then he took the dressing off of my arm. He said that it looked really good and was time to do the skin graft! This makes me very happy! Let me clear that up, I am very happy that very soon I will have two hands to work with again, I am NOT happy that my thigh is going to have road rash! I am really thinking that this is going to be very painful! I e-mailed Patty she has a shop "A Company of Angels", to see if she had any skirts. Bless her heart she did, so I got two, one for washing and one for wearing. I am hoping I can get one of the kids to take me to the shop, I haven't been there in so long. Her shop is so tranquil, I used to love to go and just sit and soak up all of the goodness. If you are ever in Lake City, stop in and enjoy her shop, your mind, body and spirit will thank you!

He was thrilled with the stoma covers, not as thrilled as I am to be making them. I am going to try to cut the fabric for Allie's quilt today. Have to make George's mom some mints, they are not doing so well. Then to finish up the laundry and get the ironing done.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

It's Been A Wonderful Week

2011-03-26T07:38:00.004-04:00

Today is Saturday, March 26, 2011. The weather has been just beautiful. Starts out with lots of fog in the morning and then the sun comes out warms everything up and in the afternoon, a gentle breeze to keep things nice.

Have been working on the stoma covers the last couple of days. I think I have gotten the pattern down the way that I would like to do them. When I checked out of the hospital, although they told me that I needed to keep my stoma covered, offered nothing to cover it. What ever you use to cover it, it has to be breathable. Anything to heavy makes it hot and very hard to breath.

So I have decided that when I make one, I will make two of the same, one for the hospital and one for me. I am going to donate them so that when folks are discharged from the hospital then will have a stoma cover to wear. The day that I got out it was very breezy out and I used a bandanna folded in half, it was hot and very hard to breathe.

They can also be given to the folks that need a little help with getting a few to wear. You have to remember that our necks have become our nose with a direct link to our lungs. So keeping our stomas from getting anything in them is very important to keep us healthy.

#5 son has moved back home. I have to say I am delighted! I knew that he wasn't ready to face this world, not yet any way, but he had to find out for himself. It will be so nice that he can do a lot of the driving that George has had to do. The great thing is he is still at the age he likes to drive. He mowed the lawn yesterday and made a trip to town for me. He also helps in the the kitchen, he is a wonderful cook. It is a real pleasure to have him home.

I am having a real problem with my skin. It is so very oily and yet just peeling like it is very dry. The only thing I can think of is it has something to do with being in the hospital for 2 weeks. If anyone has had this skin issue, please let me know what caused it and how to fix it. It is very irritating, it itches so bad and at the same time it is very tender, I try to keep my hands off of it.

Need to get going the washer has stopped and I need to get more stoma covers made along with a few other things. Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, productive day!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

I Passed!

2011-03-24T07:20:00.002-04:00

Today is Thursday, March 24, 2011. The weather has been just gorgeous! In the low eighties with a little breeze. Everything is green and either budding or blooming. I couldn't believe on the drive home from the hospital, how much color had bloomed all over, just beautiful.

I am so truly blessed! A couple of nights ago George had come home with a package. I didn't think much of it, he had stopped at the parts house on the way home. I poured him a cup of coffee, we were getting ready to change the dressing on my arm. (Has to be done every 3 days) So after changing the dressing George asked what was in the box, I have no idea, thought it was something from the parts house. He grabbed a knife and said let's find out.

My heart just soared as tears of joy fell. Members of the group Magical Holiday Artists had sent a box of love. They had made everything you see in the picture! Even chocolate covered pretzels, a favorite of mine and green tea, puzzle books, gorgeous drawings and trinkets I get tears thinking about all of the love that went into putting that box together! George was just in awe that these ladies had done this!

Yesterday was a seven hour day at the hospital. Dental day and the big day for my swallow test. I PASSED! So a week from today the feeding tube is to come out. I have no idea way they didn't take it out yesterday other than no coordinating on their part, doctor and speech department. But, that's okay they are NOT going to rain on my parade. Speech doctor, whom I truly adore, Brent told me that I need to make my first couple of meals liquid and then start working into the soft foods. He doesn't want me eating dense food until we see how things are going. I can live with that! George stopped on the way home to get me a vanilla milk shake, talk about a real treat! I felt so special riding home, in the front seat, eating my shake with a spoon. I bet it took 45 minutes to eat that shake!

Now to get back on the protein, need to gain back the weight I lost while on the feeding tube, 7 pounds. I can't afford to lose weight going into radiation. If I start losing weight during treatment, they will insert a feeding tube into my belly. I know the radiation isn't going to be a walk in the park, but I know that if given the chance I can eat and keep my weight stable.

This is a picture of my arm without dressing, so if you have a weak stomach, don't click the link. It is looking good, there is now thickness, or meat to it. Will find out about the graft next Thursday.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Just Catching Up

2011-03-18T19:12:00.002-04:00

Today is March 18, 2011. A beautiful spring more like summer day, of 83 degrees. The trees are budding and there are even flowers blooming.

While I was in the hospital, I gained a daughter, #4 son and now his wife were married! They wanted to push up the date and I told them NO, life continues to go on and you are going to get married as planned. And they did! They had someone to take a video and loads of pictures. I am so proud of them. They were married at Fallen Creek just gorgeous, am so looking forward to getting that video!

Went to two appointments on Wednesday. One to radiation and the other to the surgeons. They made my mask and did their CT scan, mapped out where they were going to target the radiation. I will have 6 weeks of radiation, one day each week I will have two doses, 6 hours apart. They are talking Chemo also, I'm not so sure about that. That would be 6 doses of radiation a week plus Chemo? Think I will do some thinking on this. This process took almost four hours.

Then to the surgeons office which took under 30 minutes! Have another swallow test next Wednesday. I have to pass this test! I am so damn hungry for food, I haven't eaten food since February 24, that's a very long time. Woke up the other morning thinking about food. Cottage cheese with fruit, cheese, swiss rolls, nachos oh and lets not forget a greasy burger! Within three weeks I Should have a skin graph on my right arm and then about one week should be able to remove all dressing and start working it again. The prosthesis is 6 months down the road. He wants to make sure everything is healed before doing it.

Today I actually felt pretty good. Got me a bath, did some laundry, ironing, balanced the check book geesh what a mess that was and of course dinner. Had to have some help tonight with peeling the potatoes for the french fries, a little hard to do with only your left hand. Son #5 was more than happy to help and together we made dinner.

Hoping tomorrow to make a couple stoma covers made of cotton for the summer. It will be a test, I have no pattern, so wish me luck. I also have to find a few, don't want just one to wear ever day, bracelet that says " I am a neck breather". I really like the hand stamped jewelry, so I am thinking like a cuff style and making one with chain with the tag in the middle, the designs are so endless.

I have ran on here long enough and still need to have George change the dressing on my arm. Thank all of you! You have been a real blessing to me and my family! I love all of you sweet friends!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

There Is No Place Like Home

2011-03-10T16:18:00.002-05:00

Today is Thursday, March 10, 2011. A gorgeous Spring day it was today! Just beautiful!

We arrived home last night about 5 pm, it was a very long day, started with a doctor at 6:30 and finally finished with another one about 2 pm finished up with getting things set up for supplies and the home health nurse about 3 pm, got the liquid pain meds, you know the ones that have to go up your nose before they can get to your stomach. Got on the road about 4 and home about 5 along with the afternoon thunderstorms.

Marie the cancer was Squamous cell carcinomas stage 2. I made him write it down for you. He is positive they got it all and it is not in my chest! So a skin graph in a couple of weeks on my right arm (yes, I am typing one handed) and start radiation for 6 weeks. Oh and the most important my voice box replaced. But I do believe that all of these are the day surgeries. The radiation is about 10 minutes Monday thru Friday for six weeks.

I need to go do a feeding, Bless his heart George is taking a nap on the love seat, and lay down myself with my humidifier. No longer have a trach, I now have a stoma.

Thank everyone for all of the healing positive energy, prayers and cards! Christina I love my roosters!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today!~Brightest Blessing~

Eight Hours Later and We Are Home

2011-02-21T19:31:00.003-05:00

Today is Monday, February 21, 2011. The weather started out a little cool in the morning, but warmed up towards the afternoon. Not that I was able to be out in it other than to come and go. I was suppose to be cloudy, however the sun came out and warmed us and to continue to dry out the earth.

Today was a very long trying day at the hospital arrived there at 6:25 left the parking garage at 3:45. I was one very hungry, tired, score panda. No nap, no food, not near enough water and with a trach water is critical, so needless to say I couldn't wait to get home to eat and find a spot to curl up and nap.

Arrived at 6:25 for a 7:00 MRI. I have a very hard time lying flat on my back now, it makes me cough uncontrollable. So needless to say it took an hour and a half to do this. The guys doing it were very nice, they didn't push or make it to be a huge problem that I was causing. We did finally get the pictures that they wanted to get.

Next to the Doctor at 9:45 we waited about 30 minutes before we seen him, which was kind of nice after the mess my poor body had just went through. When we were called back there were two doctors, one to remove stuff and the other that repairs or reconstructs. The one that removes said he was going to take all of the nodes, the one on the right side has cancer and is rather large compared to the left one. He is also going to take my voice box. I will have a feeding tube placed where the new "voice box" will go. ICU will be my home for the first three to four days after surgery.

The doctor said that I will be in the hospital at least two weeks, due to making sure that things are working like they should and there is no signs of infection. When they remove the feeding tube, after they do a swallow test to make sure that I can now swallow again, where the feeding tube was, they will place the " my new voice box". I will be able to use a hand held machine right away to talk, my goal is to talk like I do now.

Then we went to the presurgical place to have blood drawn, EKG base line done and talk with an anesthesiologist. We we suppose to have an appoint with him at 11:00 and finally seen him at almost 2:00. Which made us late for the last doctor of the day at 1:15.

The last doctor is the one that does the "harvest" of parts to use. My thighs are to thick, which I am soooo thankful for. When I first heard that they were going to use from my thighs or arms, all I could think about is how painful that is going to be with clothes and trying to sit and lay. So then he tested my left arm and because I had broken in when I was very young in life it wouldn't work, the blood flowed tot he upper hand only. This means that I could possible loose my hand if he decided to harvest it. There would be no blood flow. So he didn't want to move to my right hand, but he did and there is blood flow to both the top and bottom. So the right hand/arm it is. So the picture shows what he did with a sharpie, no one is to use this are not anything!

George and I couldn't wait to get home. We were both hungry and tired from the day. This morning I am score and still tired. Got George out the door, lunch and thermos in hand and curled back up on the couch to nap. When I changed out my trach this morning it was very sore. I figure it had to do with all of the talking and poking at things yesterday. So today I will just throw a roast in the crock pot and call it good for dinner, chill and do only the things I feel I want to do. Which isn't going to be much.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Another Quilt Finished and Sexy Shoes and Flowers Too

2011-02-15T07:43:00.006-05:00

Today is Wednesday, February 15, 2011. The weather has still been cooler with rain. Makes one want to just curl up on the couch with a good book or the remote and a big bowl of popcorn. I just keep reminding myself that summer will be here before we know it and we will all be complaining about just how hot it is!

I did get Leanna's quilt finished! Now to get her brothers done. It is all cut out and ready to put together. I figure by the end of the week it will be done. The to work on the one for George's mom. It is going to be done in larger eight or ten inch squares that the kids and grand kids have colored with fabric markers. It should turn out really cute done in primary colors. She will love it having been a school teacher for 20 plus years.

The last couple of days have been tiring and a little uncomfortable. It seems to swell either very early in the morning or later afternoon. When it does it makes me just slap crazy, there is no reason for it to just all of a sudden swell up and a few hours later, reduce in size. I have tried eating cottage cheese and things that are very cold thinking it would help, not yet.

We are going to do a Mexican dinner this Sunday at the house. Since there are doctors appointments on Monday and surgery on Friday, hospital stay about 2 weeks, then radiation treatment, this will be the last chance for a while to all get together. I told them we would make it an early dinner, my energy level seems to peter out around three or four, but then I have been getting up between three and five.

Son # 4 came to see me early yesterday with a very pretty red rose with little purple flowers. I was thrilled to see him and was tickled to see that he even bought his little girl a rose and a little box of chocolates. This is the first year that I have not bought all of the kids a little heart shaped box of chocolates. I am kind of grounded, the truck has had issues again so George has been using the Jeep and the fact that I am just not comfortable with driving by myself just yet.
Found these sexy hot pink sandals in the weekend flyer. I usually buy one pair of sandals for the summer and am good, have sneakers for the rain and cold and sandals for the rest of the summer. So I pointed George in the right direction for Valentine's day. I am so thrilled with them, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the color! They are also very comfortable which is a reason in itself to buy them. They will go with jeans, shorts, and my skirts. Love it!

Well it is now after ten and I haven't gotten one thing done yet. So I think I will go out and spend some time in blog land and see what every one else has been up to. I hope everyone have a super Valentine's day!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. *Brightest Blessings*

I Will Share With You What I Know

2011-02-08T04:31:00.004-05:00

Today is Tuesday, February 8, 2011. The last few weeks seem to have passed so rapidly, and at the same time just stood still in some kind of fog. Second guessing myself as to what has really happened or has talked about happening.

On Friday, January 21, 2011 I went to the ER, I was having a very hard time breathing. They took me to the back right away and there to answer a lot of questions. This is a teaching hospital, which is a good thing in my opinion. So after about an hour, a lady comes to get me for a CT scan. I didn't care for this, I had a horrible time trying to breathe while laying flat and this required me to lay flat. Not for a long time, but long enough to scare me to death. Back to the ER room I went, George and I sat waiting.

After what seemed maybe an hour or so, here come the Doctor that ordered the CT. I was told that I have cancer and he was going to find out where to send me to have this taken care of. A few hours later, he came back to let us know that I would be going to Shands in Gainesville. This is wonderful a terrific teaching hospital.

I arrived by way of ambulance there in the very early morning hours. Once there I was told that I would be having an emergency "awake trach". This mass had taken up 60% of my airway. Things seemed to be moving very quickly at this point and the next thing that I really remember is the sleep doc telling me that he was going to start giving me my drug.

I woke up, not sure where I was, but George was there and I wanted to know where my wedding rings were? The nurse was supposed to give them to George. So off he went to get my rings. Within what seemed like minutes, he returned with my rings and all was good.

I don't know how many days or nights for that matter, but I do remember mama coming into my room. She looked bad, really bad. I was trying to write notes to her, I could no longer talk, at least the way that I knew how to do. She was so cute, she started writing notes back to me. Mama I can hear, I just can't speak. She smiled and I let her know that everything was going to be good again. The hardest was to watch my children walk into that room one by one. I know it was scary thing for all of them, but things are going to be okay, maybe not the normal that we are use to in this family, but we are going to be just fine.

Years ago we had a family that had a deaf child, so we had taken some less than advanced sign language classes, years ago. Of all of the signs that my children remembered, I love you. Each and everyone of them gave me this sign as them came into the room.

The next few weeks are going to be eating loads of protein and trying to gain weight. Thinking back a few weeks ago I was trying to lose weight thinking that maybe weight was the reason for not being able to breathe. I will be getting my body ready for a new journey, eating the proteins to help speed the healing the weight to help with the radiation and losing weight. Off to try to get me a little nap before the rest of the house gets up, a little tired been a long night.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Not Slowing Down and The Holidays Are Over

2011-01-19T04:57:00.002-05:00

Today is Wednesday, January 19, 2011. We have had cold weather and loads of rain. It rained all night and is still raining. Hoping that when the sun rises, it will bring us some warmth to dry up all of this water.

I thought when the holidays were over, it would bring the calm back to our lives. Not so, seems that things are still running at high speed. While the kids were scattered out all over looking for work, things didn't seem to be so busy and now with them all back in town, well things are back to the normal busy.

We have two grand daughters that love the little yellow fellow, Sponge Bob. So I have been busy making pillows, totes, bean bags and quilts of this little guy. And of course, everything has to be made in twos. The second quilt is almost finished, hope to have it done by Friday, Saturday is her birthday. Still have one grand son that I haven't made a quilt for so he will be next. It seems so hard to find little boy fabric, little girls on the other hand, there seems to be such a variety out there.

The in laws really liked their photo album, and everyone was thrilled with the candy. And to think that in just eleven short months, I get to do it all over again. George is working out of town again, this time he is only two and a half hours away. He will be home in two weeks, I think. The up side to this is that in thirty days he will be back home working an hour away from the house.

Update on mom getting her money back, she has gotten so far all but $650. The guy didn't bother to send her a check one month so I sent him a text message and so far so good. Keeping fingers crossed that he will continue to send her checks.

George should be calling soon and then back to working on that quilt. Wishing for a nice evening to enjoy our full moon tonight.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

So Ready For Yule

2010-12-20T05:51:00.002-05:00

Today is Monday, December 20, 2010. We are back under freeze warnings again the last few days. I do think that if it is going to be this cold, we should get to have snow. The thought of having to go to the post office this morning just hurts my bones. Freeze warning is over at 9:00 this morning, high to be 60 degrees.

The candy is finished and ready to be delivered, this is one of the fifteen trays that are ready to go. The album is finished wrapped and ready to ship. This was a learning experience, however it turned out nice and keeping fingers crossed that they like it. Getting the pictures proved to be the biggest challenge. I learned that I can take pictures with my digital camera, load them onto my computer and send them right to Wal-Mart to be picked up all under one hour. George went to get the pictures, one child couldn't seem to get any more than two pictures, they were both of the back of the kids heads.

My Yule log is made and ready to burn tomorrow. Looking back on this year, there has sure been a lot of uncertainty. George working in SC, coming home for a day and a half every other week, not knowing where we were going to be living or for how long. Not knowing how long he was going to be working where. The kids were scattered out all over looking for work. They have all moved back, one a little further away than he was, but they are all working and doing much better. Grandchild #11 was also born this year! Hoping that we stay at #11 for a while.

Tomorrow is Yule, we will have a Lunar eclipse, which hasn't happened on Yule in 274 years and won't happen again until 2094. Hoping that we have clear skies tomorrow, so looking forward to enjoying my Yule ritual. Wishing all of you a Blessed Yule!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Dear Santa

2010-12-11T06:33:00.004-05:00

Today is Saturday, December 11, 2010. Wow, has the cold weather set in here! We have had below freezing here at night for the last couple of weeks and suppose to continue through the next week too. Cloudy with a spray of rain, could we get snow? I can only dream.....

The last few weeks have been busy with getting things done, or trying to anyway. There just doesn't seem to be enough hours in a day. But then if we had more hours, we would probably just try to get more out of them.

Today I am going to get my Yule Log made, I know, I usually have mine made by the first of December. Then to finish up the candy that has to be sent out in the mail Monday or Tuesday. Tomorrow I will start on the photo album for the in laws. George was able to get a couple of their old black and white photos when they were first married. Those will be used for the cover, going to have to get the wood tomorrow and get moving on it. Shouldn't take about three days to get done. She complains that she never gets "real" pictures any more. So I thought I would get the kids to take pictures of them selves with wives and their kids, passing a disposable camera around. This started about three months ago and I have one that has gave me back the camera. UGH...

The girls are doing fine and still laying, this makes me so proud of them with all of this cold weather. I think they are starting to take to different boxes to lay in. The eggs are in four different boxes now instead of just two. The babies are getting bigger, but I do believe that they are all males. While clipping their wings last weekend I checked they legs and all of them have nubs. Not to mention they are doing the bowing up to each other. I am hoping that maybe next spring one of the girls will want to sit, I think they are still to young yet. That would be so cool.

I still haven't gotten my computer back up and running, not sure when I am going to have time to do it at this point. Maybe after the holidays are over and things are back to normal or at least my normal.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

A Nice Thanksgiving

2010-11-28T21:40:00.003-05:00

Today is Monday, November 29, 2010. Fall has arrived! The trees are turning color and the leaves are falling. Just gorgeous ! The temperatures have also fallen, even had a night of thirties.

Was able to finish up three rear view mirror charms, two card holders and a clutch! Will have them listed in my Etsy shop in a little while.

My computer is still down, going to work on it this afternoon. This computer didn't even have a photo editor on it. It does now. Keeping fingers crossed that I can get mine up and running today.

Thanksgiving was very quiet here. Mom came over for dinner, but had to leave right after dinner. I think it had something to do with football. She does love her football. It was nice, we did somethings outside and even had a fire in the fireplace. With George home this winter, it is his job to keep it going.

The babies are getting bigger and more bold about leaving their pen. They still don't go far, but they are at least getting out. Nosey did something to her foot a few days ago and was limping around, but yesterday she seemed to be doing just fine.

Off now to see what has been going on in blog world. Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, productive day!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Review of: The Faeries' Guide to Green Magick from the Garden

2010-11-22T10:39:00.002-05:00

Today is Monday, November 22, 2010. The weather has been fall like and the trees are actually turning colors. Raked up a pile of leaves to burn later only to have the girls spread them out again.

I was asked to review the book, “The Faeries' Guide to Green Magick From the Garden”, written by Jamie Wood and Lisa Steinke, illustrations by Lisa Steinke.

The book is divided into two parts, the first part of the book covers faeries, gardening, and herbal remedies. While the second half covers 33 different herbs. The first half is interesting and explains how everything fits together, however the second half is off the chart gorgeous! The illustrations are beautiful, just breath taking! My mama loved the illustrations, thought they would be beautiful to have prints for framing.

Each herb has the botanical name, other common names and the parts that are used. The herbs also have their own faerie, along the borders of these gorgeous illustrations are the herbs. There are recipes for different teas, cooking (May Blossom Wine, Lavender Chocolate Truffles, Divine Dandelion Salad, just a few.) Other recipes include things like Soothing Lip Balm, Solar-Infused Calendula Salve and Nettle Hair Tonic again just to name a few. There are also spells and meditations.

This is a fantastic read and one that you won't leave sitting on your bookshelf collecting dust. Rather one that will be sitting on the end table, picked up by everyone that sits next to it. This would make an awesome gift for anyone in your life and a terrific collection to your own library.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Computer Down

2010-11-17T08:04:00.002-05:00

Today is Wednesday, November 17, 2010. The weather has been nice, warm in the afternoons and cooler in the evenings. Needless to say the house has been open and loving it. We did get a storm yesterday, the sky just opened up. But, that's okay, we needed the rain, so I have been told.

My computer is down, it's not malware or a virus. So until I make time to get it up and running again, I will be on the "other" computer. You know the one that is in the living room with everything hooked up to it. The one that runs realllllly sloooow. I haven't figured out how to get my pictures on it, yet.

I was so tickled that we made a video of the babies and the girls, but it's on my computer along with everything else. I tell you, you don't know what you have on your computer until you don't have it. Right down to everyone's e-mail address.

Have been working on holiday candy and gifts. It shouldn't be to much longer until I have things just about buttoned up. This has truly been a stress free year for the holidays for me and it is going to stay that way. Made a really cute goddess charm for my rear view mirror, it matches my car. As soon as I figure out how to transfer pictures to this computer, I'll be back in business with pictures to show you.

Working on getting the laundry done today, didn't happen yesterday because of the rain. Then to get young son's school work done, and off to go see mama. Was going to go see her this past weekend, but woke up to a really swollen face. Thought it was a cyst, had them all of my life, but it was an abscess. There was no pain, so I took care of that and within a couple of days it was all but gone. So it is safe for me to go see her. Yes, even at my age I fear mama and her not being happy with me.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Sickening Behavior

2010-11-08T06:28:00.003-05:00

Today is Monday, November 8, 2010. We have had three nights of freeze warnings, this makes for a very cold morning! We were supposed to have two more nights of freeze warnings but this morning it looks like that is over for at least the next couple of weeks. The day time temperatures are supposed to be back in the 80's and the nights in the 50's.

Went grocery shopping early yesterday morning, picked up a small ceramic heater for mama. I knew that she hadn't bought one yet. After leaving the store went over to mama's to wake her up and have coffee. To my surprise she was up! Hadn't been up long, but she was up. And no, she hadn't bought a heater.

I am so angry and shocked at my sister! Mama was telling me that she had talked to my brother the night before. He told her that my sister told him she wants dad's house. What is this nut thinking?!? He has a wife and that is her house, her home. My brother told mama that the house was in dad's name only and so there for she thinks that she should have it. She then told him that she would come up and "help" go through dad's things. My brother was so upset he just ended the phone call with her.

I was so upset at the thought of her even thinking such trash! She has really shown her true colors. This made me so upset that when I came home, I went on line and made a will, got two witness to sign, I signed and it is good to go. It did wake George up to talking about death. He doesn't like to talk about it, never has. Death is part of life, it needs to be talked about.

Our home is in my name, George's name isn't on it. In order to get his name on the house we would have to refinance it according to the mortgage company. I never gave it any more thought until yesterday. The thought of someone thinking that they should have our home, well it really ticked me off. This is our home and has been for a very long time. All of the grandkids know no other home for us.

I have never seen this side of my sister, like a vulture. George says he has seen it in other families, people swoop in. I guess I have been very blessed that I have never seen this kind of behavior before, just sickening. It is hard enough to loose your husband, but to have to worry about someone thinking that they should have your home too?

Right now at this time, I know better than to go see her. There is way to much anger and frustration. In a few days, I will figure out how to handle her and her sick ways. Now is not the time.

This has been very hard on my brother, he and dad fought all of the time, but that's the way they always were with each other. They are so much alike, even look alike. So I am going to gather up pictures of my dad print them on the cotton fabric and make a quilt for my brother. Shouldn't take to long to make.

If you don't have a will, I encourage you to go on line and make one. I know that money is very tight, but for peace of mind it is a twenty dollars very well spent.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

A Couple Of New Things

2010-11-04T07:32:00.002-04:00

Today is Thursday, November 4, 2010. The cooler weather is here in the mornings and late evenings, yesterday afternoon 86 degrees. A few of the trees are starting to change colors! I love all of the colors that Fall brings and the cool mornings. It was cloudy with rain on and off yesterday, looks like it is going to be the same today.

These are a few of the card holders and another little bag. The bag is bigger than the other bags that I have done in the past. I enjoyed doing this one, a little bigger canvas to work on. The little card holders are the four seasons, to hold a debit card or other card of the same size. They are not long enough to hold a business card. Have also been working a a couple of needle holders. They are almost finished maybe by this weekend.

Was able to finally get a sweatshirt at Wal-Mart last week so I am excited to be able to start on a sweatshirt jacket. I had ordered the pattern a couple of months ago, and with it being summer, I wasn't able to get a sweatshirt. So when all of my other little projects are finished, this is my next one.

The candy is coming along for the holidays. It sure seems to be taking a while to do, not sure why. But, the great thing is I will not be under the gun this year to get it pumped out in a week.

Young son has taken to the girls, every morning he comes out to help me with them. Not sure if it is the babies that he is drawn to or if he really enjoys watching them. After I clean out their coop, I give them cheese crackers. They LOVE cheese crackers. Now mama will come up and peck at your foot as if to say, where's the crackers and Trouble will take them right out of the package if you aren't moving fast enough for her. They don't like the peanut butter ones, just the cheese and it has to be the ones with the cheese cracker too. They will eat the grill cheese ones but only if there are no cheese crackers.

Young son has been giving them the crackers as soon as he gets outside. So now if he doesn't come out, mama gets real impatient and wants them now, not when I am finished.

The babies are just to funny to watch them scratching. Their little legs are so short, they just look funny scratching like crazy. It just amazes me how much animal instinct they are born with. From scratching to the rooster giving his cry that there is danger and the hens knowing just what to do, even at this young age of two months. If the weather clears up I would like to try to get a video of them to post. This is if Young Son will help his know nothing about posting videos mom out.

I expect to see my mama today, it is Thursday and her get out of the house day. So I had better get the things done that I need to get done before she gets here, or it won't get done.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

A Blur In Time

2010-11-01T05:45:00.002-04:00

Today is Monday, November 1, 201o. The weather has been cooler, not much but cooler, still not much color changing going on here. Keeping fingers crossed that it starts to happen soon. I miss the colors of Fall and the first snow. The first snow always seem to made the world quiet and peaceful . Everything is so clean and fresh.

These last few weeks seem to be a blur. Things seem to be moving so fast, to fast. Not sure why, but it is stopping as of today.

Saturday after George got off we went out to the meat market to get our meat for the next three weeks and then to get three new babies. They are so tiny, it is so hard to believe that my girls were this little when I got them. So we had to add to the chicken house until they are bigger.

I wanted to get older ones, but the lady that I get my chickens from didn't have them, so we got the little ones, they are two months old. I was so worried about the girls excepting them, but the lady told me that they are going to establish "pecking order" no matter what age. And boy howdy do they. These babies already are establishing their "pecking order" among themselves. The smallest one pretty much keeps to herself but when the wing flapping and bowing up to each other is brought to her, she doesn't back down.

Red will protect them, after I had cleaned out their house and the girls and Red had run for a few hours, I put them back in their house. After they were back in I brought out the babies and Red went nuts when he heard them. Like he does when one of the girls screams, he comes running. He paced up and down the side of the house checking them out, not to worried about him.

Made mama ham and bean soup and a plate of chili rellenos Sunday. I figured it was about that time again. She loves both and yet won't make either one of them. Young son and I spent a couple of hours with her and then home to cook supper. Young son told George that grandma was talking a lot! She was just full of herself, I think it's the cooler weather.

Received a phone call on Wednesday that my daddy was losing his battle with cancer. He has been fighting for well over a year now. Got the phone call last night, he has passed over. I am thankful that he will hurt no more. I love you daddy....

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

Are You Kidding Me?!?

2010-10-12T08:33:00.002-04:00

Today is Tuesday, October 12, 2010. The weather has cooled down again here, so happy! The days are in the 80's and the evenings are in the 50's. Supposed to get into the 40's at night starting Thursday. Going to make some really cool mornings here. Looking forward to the fall colors arriving.

I usually don't get to worked up over stupid statements, but let me tell you, this got me all worked up. Mama called yesterday to tell me that there would be no cost of living adjustment in social security again this year, the cost of living has not went up. This statement was just about as good as the "recession is over". What world are these people living in? Surly not this one. In the same breath the price of gas is likely to go to almost $3.00 a gallon, a gas tax, to pay for another spending bill?

Are you kidding me? The cost of living has not went up? These folks haven't gone to the grocery store in a while, have they? When the cost of fuel went up, so did the groceries, however when the cost of fuel went down, the grocery prices never went down, in fact they have gone up. Last week when I went shopping coffee went from $6.98 to $7.60 and the can is now 7 ounces less! This was a hike in just one week! Same thing with hot dogs a one pound package is now 12 ounces, bacon same thing and so many other items.

The price of gas in October 2009 (east coast) was $2.41, this year $2.67, ours is running at $2.69 as of yesterday. The price of electric, I used our electric company, couldn't find any numbers as a whole, in 2009 was $109.30 (based on 1,000 KWH), this year $112.50. These prices do NOT include what they call a "fuel adjustment cost" which is a little over 1/3 of the bill, nor does it include taxes or membership fee of what use to be $7.00 a month and is now $11.00 a month. The cable bill has also went up another $8.00 a month.

I want to know where the cost of living has not gone up and the recession is over. I am ready to pack up and move. These folks that make these kinds of statements have had one to many tasty beverages. Am I the only one that has noticed the prices going up? Am I living in the wrong place? Are my bills the only ones that are going up?

Help me to understand these kinds of statements........thanks for listening.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Cooler Weather Is Here

2010-10-06T06:33:00.002-04:00

Today is Wednesday, October 6, 2010. The weather has really cooled off this week! It has been in the the high 70's all week and in the 50's over night. I do believe that fall is coming!

With the cooler temperatures the house is opened up, loving it. Cleaned the kitchen from top to bottom and cleaned out cabinets of "stuff" that hasn't seen day light since this time last year. If it hasn't been used in a year, it gets tossed. Then I moved things around, so it should be interesting when the guys go looking for something.

George is back to wearing long jeans to work. He has been is shorts all summer and yesterday he decided that it might be best to wear something a little warmer. I am going to put that off for as long as I can. My feet won't know what to do being enclosed, they like nothing on them and only sandals when they are forced into them.

The holiday candy was put on hold the last couple of days. That's okay the house sure feels better. Tomorrow I will get back at it and have it finished just like all of the other years.

Mama called me yesterday and said that she had gotten a check from that guy for $250! Well that's a start. If it takes him six months to pay her back, at least she will get it. I don't think she will ever do something like that again. She told me after five months she didn't think she would be seeing it again. Keeping fingers crossed that he continues to repay her.

While cleaning the pool yesterday, I thought, hey I don't have to close this thing up by myself this year! George is home and he and the boys can do it. If the temperatures continue being cooler, we can get it closed up soon. Nothing like pouring money, time and energy into a pool that is way to cold to use, just doesn't make sense.

The girls laid over ten dozen eggs last month! I am so proud of them. Now I need to get the sides of their house covered and get them some light in there. As long as they have 14 hours of light they will continue to lay. Have to make sure they stay warm so have to get a heat light in there too. Then I read that if they "drink" frozen water it would kill them. So I need to figure out how to keep their water from freezing when it gets really cold.

Added some jewelry to my shop the last two days. Took pictures and even listed them, this is not my favorite thing to do. My pictures never look right no matter how many I take or at what time I take them. I do find it is better taking them outside.

The top for the Jeep arrived yesterday! Needless to say George had a project to do last night after dinner. It looks pretty good, it wasn't available in white, so got the black one with tinted windows in the back. The tinted windows will make it cooler for the kids. Going to see mama today, have to wait until early afternoon. She doesn't get up in the mornings, likes to stay up all night.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

October Already

2010-10-01T07:01:00.003-04:00

Today is Friday, October 1, 2010. The weather has started to cool a little only 88 degrees yesterday, which is about 8 degrees less than it has been. This is wonderful! Maybe fall is on its way here.

This week has been one of those weeks were you say to yourself, "Why bother?". Etsy has been making some changes to the site, which has really messed up loads of things. From the checkout to listing, uploading pictures, even the RSS feeds are not working. Sure hope that they get things back to normal really soon.

I love mama, but sometimes I have to wonder, what were you thinking? I went to see her a couple of weeks ago and I knew that something was up, just didn't know what. So me being me, I asked her what was going on. She dropped her eyes and said I might just as well tell you. Ohhh, what have you done? She "loaned" this man a good amount of money seven months ago and hasn't even got a payment from him. Please tell me that you wrote a check to him. Okay then mama, I will just go have a little one on one chat with him and if he doesn't think he needs to start paying you back, there is always small claims court. He is supposed to send her a check this week, so we shall see. If no check by next Friday, I will go file the paper work.

Mama lives on a very fixed income and only works here and there, not to much any more. She lives well within her means and is usually very careful with her money. This is so not like her to do. We pay a couple of her bills every month and don't mind doing it, so that she will have a little money left at the end of the month. This mans attitude was he would get to her when he could, I don't think so. If he had taken a bank loan, he would have started repaying it thirty days later, not seven months. Keeping fingers crossed that she gets a check from him.

The girls really enjoyed the sun yesterday after all of the rain we have had. I took pictures on my cell phone, but can't figure out how to load them to the computer. Maybe young son will know how to do this. They were all sunning themselves, all huddled together. Looked like a bunch of dead chickens laying there all stretched out.

Getting the holiday candy made and going to make an angel food cake today. I love them, but having to use a dozen eggs I rarely made them. Now with the girls doing such a great job of laying those eggs I can make one without feeling guilty about using that many eggs.

Need to get the laundry on the lines and run to town, all of the critters need food this week. Young son is going to be so happy....okay maybe not. Probably about as happy as I am to have to get the quarterly taxes done this weekend.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

It's Raining, No It's Pouring

2010-09-28T07:44:00.003-04:00

Today is Tuesday, September 28, 2010. The rains have arrived again. It poured buckets yesterday starting late morning. Just when you thought it was going to stop, here is come again. From the looks of it this morning, it is going to do more of the same today.

Yesterday was just one of those days. It looked nice out so I hung out the laundry, then off to let the chickens out and get their house cleaned up. No sooner got their house cleaned and the thunder boomed. Here come the black clouds and rain. It didn't start out with that little sprinkle and then start the down pour, no it just started the down pour. Ran back to get the clothes off the line, then back to the front to get the chickens back into their house. Of course the little white one and trouble thought they would like to stay and play in the rain. So be it girls, play in the rain. They do look funny when they are wet. Not really much to them, they are all feathers. Then with the rains brought the power outages, I so need to get more battery operated clocks. No sooner would I get them all set and it would go out again. Gave up on setting them until late last night, had to stop all of those flashing lights.

Guessing that it was going to rain all day, started making candy. Was able to get eight dozen mints made, only another 37 dozen to go. I figure that in a week the mints will be done and then on to the chocolate candies. I usually make the little fruit cakes last they are the easiest. Would like the cooler weather to be here before the oven starts going for hours.

Got into my car and the set was wet, this doesn't make me a happy camper. Why is my seat wet? Of course the first thing that came to my mind was George what have you done?. After checking out the situation, I find that I need a new top. UGH..... Of course this is going to happen when the rain is coming down by the buckets full. So I ordered another top, sure hope it gets here really, really soon.

CHECK THIS OUT!
It was featured in an Etsy news letter yesterday!Von Erickson's Original Coffin Couch

Young son thought this was great! Check it out to see more pictures, it is truly wicked!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Red Watching The Girls

2010-09-21T07:26:00.003-04:00

Today is Tuesday, September 21, 2010. It has still be in the 90's here and really no sign of Fall other than the pine cones seem to be coming down. It was suppose to be in the high 80's this week, however I think that the 95 degrees yesterday blew that out of the water. Was really looking forward to the cooler temperatures.

Have been getting lots of baking done this last week, almost ahead and then on to getting the candy made. So looking forward to doing the candy, always so much fun, all but the dipping in chocolate. That seems to take forever to do and never seem to have enough counter space to work on.

Was able to get a couple of things cut out and almost ready to sew. So maybe after the laundry is all hung out, I can get back to that.

The roosters got into it two days ago. Red had an attitude from the start of his day and the white one was going to try to rule him. Well, Red took off after him, the white one ran right down into the bamboo. That bamboo isn't the place to run, it's like running into a corner. It is so thick and he got himself trapped. Lucky for him Red couldn't get in the same way he did. So I chased Red back into the coop, it allowed the white one to get himself out. I set up the dog kennel and put the white one in there for the day. The kennel is going to be their "cooling off" place. Yesterday they were okay together, however the white one really didn't mess with Red to much. I know boys will be boys, but I sure hope that don't do that again.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

Something About That Third Box

2010-09-15T06:21:00.002-04:00

Today is Wednesday, September 15, 2010. The weather is still hot and humid, 93 degrees yesterday. It is getting into the seventies overnight this is a good thing. The storms are arriving in the evenings, which makes it nice for getting things done.

The girls are so funny about the box that they lay in. There are six boxes and five hens, more than enough for them. But no, it seems that they all like the third box to lay in. The little white hen lays early, she likes to spend all of her time in the yard. She also likes the third box and laid her egg there yesterday morning. I collect the eggs last after I get the coop all cleaned up, water and food.

After I let them out, I went to cleaning, here comes the black and white hen. Up to the third box she goes. The little white hen's egg was still in the box, she moved that egg all over in there trying to figure out how she was going to sit to lay her egg. She finally get it where she wanted it and got down to the business of laying her own egg. About twenty minutes later, I went back and collected the two eggs. They are so funny about that third box, like this is the only box that they are able to lay in.

The little white one and the black and white one lay their eggs in the morning. Then comes nosy she likes to be where ever you are at and know what you are doing after her comes the "layer". She was the first one to lay an egg and to want to sit, or she thought. That ended after a couple of hours. They both like to lay in late morning, then trouble lays her egg in the early evening.

Now the layer likes the first box and lets them all to know it is hers. She loves to dig, she will dig a hole until all you see is her little head sticking out of it. She also likes to be off on her own, isn't really social, and will let them all know not to bring their drama to her.

Didn't get to much of anything done yesterday other than making the chocolate chip muffins. Young son finally got it yesterday with an English assignment. He really dislikes English and sees no point in having to diagram sentences. The light came on yesterday and he whipped right through all of it. I don't see the point to diagram a sentence either, have never in my life had to do it other than when schooling the kids. So I guess that in itself was a productive day.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

A Baking Weekend

2010-09-13T05:46:00.002-04:00

Today is Monday, September 13, 2010. The rains have returned. The thunder roarer and the lightening cracked, it rained buckets. We only lost power once and it was very brief. We are supposed to have storms all week in the afternoons.

The weekend was a productive one. Made the jam and fillings, baked the starter bread and made some cinnamon rolls. I will say the starter bread is a good one and very inexpensive. I will be able to get six loaves of bread every three to five days, depending on how often you want to bake. The girls are all laying now so we are getting an average of at least four eggs a day. Once we are ahead on eggs, I can start freezing them. My plan is to do make more fillings and apple butter next weekend.

Didn't work on shop things at all this weekend and that's okay, I didn't feel the need to. So I have a few things I will start this week and plan is to finish them as well. Since George is working six days, this gives me an extra day to get things done. Tuesday will be another baking day, both starter breads will need to be baked. Will make chocolate chip muffins with one and six loaves of bread with the other one.

The temperatures are still in the 90's, supposed to be a high of 88 on Friday this would be wonderful to think the temperatures will start coming down. I miss the house being opened up and the fresh air blowing through.

The laundry is going, need to get it out and dry before the storms roll in. After young son gets his school work finished going to go see mama. Haven't seen her since the day she brought her friend over. With football season going, we don't dare show up then. She lives for football! I myself can live without it.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

It's Friday Already

2010-09-10T07:33:00.002-04:00

Today is Friday, September 10, 2010. The weather has still been hot and humid. No storms so far this week. They are still calling for them the rest of the week. Very foggy this morning, going to wait to start laundry until I think I know what the weather is going to do for sure.

This week has been a very short one to say the least. George has to work tomorrow so that will give me an extra day to do what I need to get done. Finished two necklaces this week and got one listed, so I will get the other one listed today. This is the plan any way. Have decided that I am not going to run to town today. Don't have to do anything but get groceries and I can do that tomorrow morning before the rest of the world gets moving around.

The little white hen started laying on Wednesday! We are now at five eggs a day, I am loving it! I am going to have to start thinking about keeping them warm in a few months. If this winter is anything like last winter we are going to have to close up the sides and get some heat lamps for them.

Tomorrow I bake the sourdough bread that I used a really simple starter recipe for. We shall see how well it turns out. Really hoping that this works, three loaves of fresh bread every three to five days. Made a batch of chocolate chip cookies Wednesday night, when I woke up the next morning, they were all gone. So looking forward to making candy. Will probably start making it the end of next month. Might even make some fruit cake, the recipe is easy and believe it or not, it is really good. I know most fruit cake is really bad.....

So looking forward to Fall getting here, the colors, the cooler temperatures, opening up the house and that energizing feeling. Not looking forward to winter, last winter was so cold, I didn't even want to think about going outside.

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, productive weekend!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

It's Monday, Not Sunday

2010-09-06T19:39:00.002-04:00

Today is Monday, September 6, 2010. It was a pretty day today! Unlike what it has been the last few days, the air has been so heavy the clouds aren't even moving. The storms are supposed to return on Wednesday.

I went through the day thinking it was Sunday. George worked Saturday and then had off Sunday and Monday, instead of Saturday and Sunday. So now the rest of my week will be off by one day.

I did finally get the Sisterhood tote finished and listed along with a Halloween eyeglass holder. So it was a productive day. To finish them both, take pictures and list them, well I was on a roll.

Tonight we had breakfast for dinner using all fresh eggs! We haven't had to buy eggs in over two weeks now. The girls have been giving an average of 4 eggs a day. The little white one still hasn't started laying yet, she was the smallest of them, I figure a few more weeks. It amazes me the amount of double yokes we have had.

Dug out recipes for candy that I need to start thinking about making. I enjoy making candy and baking. Also found a new recipe for a sourdough starter that I started yesterday, will let you know how it turns out. Would be wonderful to make bread, rolls and cinnamon rolls and never have to buy them again. The house smells so good when fresh bread is baking. This years gifts will all be handmade and baked. Everyone is fine with that, they all love the candy. Going to start buying the things I need for the candy before the price goes up, you know the closer it gets to the holidays the higher the price. If I buy a couple of things each week, there won't be a jump in my food budget.

Son #3 is back in town, still no job. Figure he will be here for dinner every night. I am so trying to get him back in school. He isn't doing anything else. College for sure isn't going to hurt him, it can only help him when this economy gets better. We can only point them in the right direction and pray.

So this weekend has been a good one, got things finished and spent time with family. And now it will be a short week. LOL

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

An Award And Marie Is Having Another Giveaway!

2010-09-02T06:19:00.003-04:00

Today is Thursday, September 2, 2010. Yesterday was a pretty day, a terrific breeze and in the low 90's! Not to mention no rain! The temperatures have been in the 70's overnight. So looking forward to being able to open the house up again.

I received this very sweet award from a very sweet friend, Chris ! She also has an Etsy shop MagicalFairy's, she makes some of the most awesome fairy's. Thank you so much Becca for passing this sweet award on to me, I truly appreciate it.

So the rules of this award are:

1. Post who gave you the award.

2. State ten things you like.

3. Give this award to ten other bloggers, and notify them with a comment. Here I am going to break the rules, PLEASE if you have not received this award, grab it and enjoy!

The ten things that I like:

1. The sound of real belly laughs when the kids get so tickled about something.

2. The feel of a new sweatshirt.

3. A fresh hot cup of coffee in the middle of the day.

4. Seeing George walk through the door after work.

5. A house full of lit candles.

6. Watching the sunrise.

7. Creating new pieces.

8. The face of a child when learning something new, when the light comes on and you know they got it. The excitement that fills there face.

9. Sitting at the dining room table having coffee with friends and family.

10. Reading my on line friends blogs about their day and what they have been up to.

Marie of Art From My Heart is having another terrific giveaway! Her work just amazes me! There is a button on the top right to take you right to it! Hurry it ends September 8th!

I have to ask a question of bloggers. Does anyone else have issues with the players that are on blogs slowing their computers down? I try to get to the player before it starts to shut it down, but the page load is so slow that is just bogs down and stops everything. It has to be the players, I can watch youtube and have no problems. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Time to get to work, the pool needs to be cleaned and the yard really, really needs to be mowed. Wishing everyone a productive fun day!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Welcome September

2010-09-01T06:19:00.002-04:00

Today is Wednesday, September 1, 2010. The last couple of days we have had no rain, cloudy and windy. A most welcome change in the weather. The sun has peeked out from behind the clouds which has made it look like a fall day.

Time has been moving so quickly, the last two weeks are gone and I am not sure where they have gone to. It is already September and before we know it, it will be December. And then on to another passing year....

Mama came over yesterday and had a friend to meet her. My plans for the day were to get the house cleaned and have the rest of the week to create. Well, as mama was doing her laundry, I continued to clean house. What are you doing, mama asked me. Cleaning house.. Why? Because it needs it. You really think it does? Yes, mama I do. I kept the coffee pot full while her and her friend sat and talked. And talk they did for almost three hours. It was nice seeing the two of them enjoying each others company. They are supposed to go out Saturday night and meet up with some other friends. Would love to be a fly on the wall Saturday night, but then again maybe not.

We are up to four eggs a day! This is so exciting! I haven't had to buy eggs in two weeks and don't think I will have to again. I will say the saying about the rooster ruling his roost is so untrue. Those girls run him to death. When one is ready to lay an egg, she goes back into the coop and gets into her box, lays her egg and then goes back outside. They make some noises while they are laying and it is a very different noise. When they make this noise he comes running. Sunday morning while they were outside, every time a hen went to lay, he would come running back to the coop. This happened for a couple of hours, he had to be hungry and tired, all he spent his time doing was running to the coop and back to the hens that were outside.

Trying to get things made for the holidays and my Etsy shop is proving to be a real challenge this year with the way time has been passing. I have even started making notes to myself as to what needs to be started and finished by what time. Working on a photo album for the in laws. I started this a couple of months ago, knowing that trying to get pictures from all of the kids was going to be next to impossible. I still haven't received one picture.....ugh... Thinking it will be easier for me just to grab a couple of those disposable cameras and a few days I should be able to get them. The kids never send hard copy pictures any more, they are all sent via e-mail. This does not make them happy, as she has told me, she can't put that computer in her purse to show her friends.

Time to get in a forward direction, catch up on what has been happening in blog land and back to work.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Where Did Last Week Go?

2010-08-23T05:56:00.002-04:00

Today is Monday, August 23, 2010. It has been another wet and humid week, with no change over the weekend. So will have to get laundry going first thing this morning and see what happens. Suppose to be storms through tomorrow.

Not sure where last week went or the weekend. I remember Monday, Friday and Sunday, but nothing in between. It was here and long gone. Monday because the boys had a long school day, Friday because I ran all over town in the rain, then on Sunday I was thrilled that I listed three more things on Etsy and went to see mama.

Mama wanted to know when I will be making bean soup again. This was a hint, I took the hint and started soaking the beans last night, she will have her soup tonight. This will make her happy at least for now. So tonight before George gets home, I will finish up her soup and make her a batch of corn bread.

Friday while cleaning the chickens, I found an egg that didn't have a shell. Talk about something that looks really weird. So I did the Google search and found out that the correct term for this is a "rubber" egg. Some hens do this with their first eggs, if it happens later on after they have been laying, it is their diet. It felt like picking up a water balloon. But Sunday there were two eggs! So now both of the little red hens are laying! They don't like the rain, when cleaning on Sunday, the rains came pouring down, they ran all the way across the yard to get into their house. They look so funny when they are running.

Have to get a couple of packages ready to mail and start the laundry. Keeping fingers crossed that the rains wait until afternoon to come.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Love Pretty Little Shiney Beads

2010-08-18T09:55:00.005-04:00

Today is Wednesday, August 18, 2010. We have returned to the hot and humid days of summer with the late afternoon, early evening thunder storms. I was so hoping that those three days of a breeze and no humidity were going to last the rest of summer. It was just a big tease.

After setting the live trap we waited three days and no fox to be had. Not sure if it wondered off and died somewhere or the people behind us, they have loads of farm animals, might have killed it. They had to get a coyote a couple of months back. Sure glad that I didn't know about it at the time. Would have made me real nervous being outside.

The other day after work son #5 was mowing the lawn, he calls young son on the phone and tells him to tell dad to come outside, NOT mom. Okay, mom wants to know what is going on that she isn't supposed to know about. Nothing mom.... I am not buying this at all, when George came back in I asked what was going on. He looked at son #5 and then at me. There was a snake in the front yard. Great! Just lovely! That same morning there was a long black one that came in under the back fence into the wood pile. George asks me if it was shinny? You honestly think I got that close to it? I seen it and came in the house. End of story.

In the eleven years that I have lived here, that is the second snake I have seen. The guys have seen them and taken care of them, but not me. Both of them I have seen this summer, maybe the heat is getting to everyone including the critters.Troubles sister is still laying one egg a day. Nothing from the rest of them yet, but she is pulling her weight. The eggs are still not big but they are bigger than her first one. It was about the size of a jaw breaker. I thought the little tan and white one was going to start laying eggs but nothing yet. I can't figure out why they keep kicking the hay out of their boxes. The hay is in there at night and in the morning it has been kicked out.
I had seen these pretty beads in the sewing shop and bought them. I love beads, pretty shinny ones, there is so much you can do with them. So I made a few little bags made of felt and then used the beads on them. They are lined and so cute. Have two more almost done, they will be finished today. So very proud that I have almost 70 items now listed in my Etsy shop. This was something that I have been working on for the last week or so. Now if I list as I finish, it should be so much easier. But, knowing me, I will wait until I get twenty things finished and then have to list them all at one time. I will never learn..... Etsy did get a face lift on the shops, they must have done this last night. Instead of everything on the right side of the screen, it is on the left. The message space is now much smaller and you have to click on it in order to read it all. It seems like the pictures are a little bigger now too.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Oh What A Week

2010-08-12T23:03:00.002-04:00

Today is Thursday, August 12, 2010. After three gorgeous, gorgeous days, the rains and humidity once more came. Those three days of low humidity and a wonderful breeze were truly beautiful days.

I am so excited and honored, I won third place in Marie's generous giveaway! Doing the happy dance! Thank you so much Marie! Can you believe it? I am going to own one of Marie Segal's pieces! If you have never seen her work, check her etsy shop out Marie Segal. Some serious eye candy here!

This week has gone by so fast I can't believe that tomorrow is Friday already! It has been a productive week. Was able to list about two dozen items in my etsy shop, lots of things finished up and a couple of more started.

This week I was blessed to receive a package from Janie aka Mother Moon. She is so sweet and offers so much wisdom. George said that lady really knows how to make jam, there are peach pieces in here and they aren't all smashed up. The whole family enjoyed everything. Thank you Janie!

I have also been so blessed to have several people to swap items with! I love swapping! Thank you Brenda! Thank you Linda! These are always so much fun!

This week we got our first egg and the excitement is still in the air every morning and evening. Did we get any more eggs, if so how many, what color are they? I so love my chickens.

This afternoon while sitting on the back porch, here comes a fox. Now I know that there are a lot of fox around here, but I also know that seeing them in the afternoon is not a good sign. George stopped at animal control on his way home from work to get a live trap. The man told him to shoot it. Son #3 was bitten about six years ago by a fox in the middle of the afternoon. We had to go about 70 miles to get the rabbi vaccination kit to bring it back to Lake City. This was not fun for him. So the live trap is set, keeping fingers crossed that he finds his way to it.

I can't help but wonder why there are so many sick fox here. Truly don't want to kill anything, but to think of what it could do to one of the little guys that are playing in their yard scares me. And then there is an older lady that lives across the street and of course the older man that lives next door. Sure hope to find him in the trap in the morning.

Time to get moving in a forward direction of the bed. It's almost midnight and 4:30 comes real soon.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Gee Where Is The Time Going?

2010-08-11T07:03:00.002-04:00

Today is Wednesday, August 11, 2010. The last two days have been just awesome! We have had a breeze with low humidity! We can breathe again. Even with the storm last night the humidity didn't soar. The heat index was 105 but without the humidity, it was so nice.

I can't believe that this is August already let alone already the 11th. Yesterday morning while cleaning the chicken coop, troubles sister was acting really weird. Usually when I open the door they are ready to run and get them so fresh grub. She left but only for a very brief time and back into the coop she came. I put hay in their boxes every morning, she came in and emptied all of the hay out of them all. I thought this was really odd so I kept watching her. When the other hens and roosters came back, she wouldn't let them into the boxes.

The red rooster "prays" every morning. After I clean the coop, put in their food and scratch along with fresh water, he comes in, jumps into his box facing the wall and goes to "talking". He does this for a few minutes jumps out of his box and then he eats. Well yesterday morning, he tried to "pray" only troubles sister would shove him out of his box. He tried the other ones only to be shoved from them also. He just stood there watching her, like what's going on with you.

She paced back and forth, jumping in and out of the boxes. She finally went to eat, I checked on them a few hours later and she seemed fine. Well last night after dinner, went to check on them again and we got our first egg! I am so excited! It was a little one, but hey, it was her first one.

Mama came over yesterday and stayed a couple of hours. We have been going to see her on Saturdays, I don't want to hear her saying to me again, it's been such a long time since I have seen you. Her eyes aren't what they use to be, I don't really care for her to be driving. Son #5 has told her Grams call me, I'll take you where you want to go. Oh, to be young and want to drive every minute of every day.

Still trying to get things finished up for my Etsy shop. Thought I would get a couple of things finished and at least a dozen listed yesterday. Mama seen to it that didn't happen. That's okay, it is time well spent! I love my mama!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

A Good Busy

2010-08-05T09:32:00.003-04:00

Today is Thursday, August 5, 2010. What a quick week this has been. Could have to do with the fact that I have stayed pretty busy. An enjoyable busy, not a have to busy.

Have been working on little items to put into my Esty shop. I made these pins last year for the holidays to give as gifts. A friend of mine wanted to buy one for her sister, only I didn't have any made. She then wanted to know why not. She is right, why don't I have them made. So I got busy.

Found a couple bottles that I had started before the SC mess and had never finished. So I got those finished up too. Still have a haunted house tote that is cut out and needs to be finished up, a Halloween lap quilt that needs to be finished. Not to mention a couple dozen pins that still need to be finished, Halloween and Yule. There are not enough hours in a day and then I think, if there were more hours in a day, would we ever get finished or just have more to do?

We went to Michaels in Gainesville Tuesday after George got home from work. Boy, do they have the coolest Halloween village. Young son says we have to get that, when I asked him where we would set it up at, he said he didn't know, we will worry about that later. A boy after my own heart. After picking up supplies we went to young sons favorite place to eat, Cici's Pizza. I tried to get the guys to leave me at the craft store and go eat. They wouldn't have it, lucky me. I could get into some real trouble if left alone in there.

Today I will get more things started and others finished. Probably won't get to much done this weekend. George said that they were going to be going on six days, that means this will be his last weekend off for awhile. It is to hot to be working six days in this heat. I don't know how he does it.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Marie Is Having A Giveaway!

2010-08-01T06:21:00.005-04:00

Today is Sunday, August 1, 2010. It is a fabulous day! Marie is having a giveaway for this awesome Unzipped Bee Heart! Marie creates fantastic treasures with clay each piece is very unique. Make sure to hop on over to her blog and get yourself entered to win this piece. She has just recently opened an Etsy shop, Art From My Heart filled with just awesome work.

You can earn extra entries for blogging about her giveaway, adding it to your side bar, going to her Etsy shop and telling her your favorite piece. All of these are easy enough, until you have to have your "favorite" piece. To me this is like a kid in a candy store telling them you can only have one. So if I can only pick one favorite I guess I would have to pick her sacred heart. The sacred hearts that she creates are just beautiful!

She also creates these gorgeous switch plate covers! They are so detailed, just beautiful!

And oh don't want to forget these way to cool runes!

These are just a few of what Marie has to offer. So now go on and get yourself entered into her giveaway. Then jump on over to her Etsy shop, Art From My Heart and have a look. Truly eye candy!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Truly A Surprise

2010-07-31T06:32:00.003-04:00

Today is Saturday, July 31, 2010. The sun is rising, but hidden behind all of the clouds. Keeping my fingers crossed that they blow over this morning.

I have to tell you yesterday I had the wind taken out of my sails. Remember when I got my chickens that I didn't want a rooster, George wanted the rooster. My thinking was that for three bucks it was cheaper to purchase eight week old chicks, if we decided we wanted more chickens. Well, the day before yesterday while the girls and one dude were out in the yard, the "boss lady" was acting weird, just kind of irritable with the other chickens. I just thought it had to do with the weather being so hot. Really didn't think any more about it. Well let me tell you, it had nothing to do with the weather! Yesterday she was in the same "mood" only this time she pinned one of the other chickens down, she quickly escaped the grip minus a couple of feathers. This started to concern me that maybe I was going to have to separate her from the other ones. A couple of hours later I was taking a coffee break on the porch when I hear the little dude crowing away only there were two different crowing sounds.

I sat there a minute waiting to hear the crowing, sure enough it happened again. Off to investigate just what was going on. The dude was on one side of the coop and what I thought was the "boss lady" was on the other, she was crowing! So now the hen I thought was going to start laying first, because of her size, isn't going to be laying any eggs.

It all makes sense now looking back. No wonder "she" didn't take any stuff from him, "she" would stand "her" ground and ruffle those feathers when he would start. "She" was a little bigger than the other hens and suppose to be the same age. It just appeared that "she" was maturing faster than the others.

So now I am going to have to figure out what to do, can't have two roosters in the coop. Mama laughed so hard when I called her yesterday. Mama said are you sure, yes mama I grabbed him up and checked his legs, they have little nubs there. And his tail feathers are starting to drape down over his little butt. You know you can not have two roosters in the same hen house, yes mama I know. Want a rooster mama? Only if he is cleaned and frozen. ugh.....

Going to head over to Live Oak this morning to the farmers market and maybe even find a craft store. If it rains us out, there is a big thrift store there, you know where I'll be.

Wishing everyone a very blessed Lammas! Enjoy your weekend.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Moving Right Along

2010-07-30T06:34:00.003-04:00

Today is Friday, July 30, 2010. WOW! It has been so hot and humid here. The afternoon showers roll in and the humidity soars. I don't remember it being this hot last summer, maybe it was and it is age that is making it worse.

These last couple of weeks have just zipped by. Have been busy making and finishing projects. My mind has just been racing with new ideas, things are laid out and ready to go and a few that are all but finished, have to wait on that dry time. I ran out of sealer, something that I should have been able to pick-up at Wal-Mart, but no, they no longer carry it, so now I have to order it on line and wait for it. Mama said that she read in the paper that we are getting a TJ Maxx and another store. So living for a craft store to land in Lake City! That would be so sweet! Not holding my breath though.

The chickens are getting so big, no eggs as of yet. They are 18 weeks now, so we have about 6 very long more weeks before we can even expect to have eggs. The rooster is so wild to watch. He is so shiny compared to the chickens, learned that the guys have oil glands to make them pretty. He is doing this thing with his head where he rocks it from side to side, so funny to watch. I have also learned that chickens do not eat worms like you see in the cartoons. The last couple of worms that have crossed the chickens path, have survived. The chickens check it out, but move on. They do like grass hoppers, they will chase them across the yard.

Today is go to town day, so it will be a busy hot day. The boys will be happy, I won't need them to lift anything, stocked up last week at the feed store. So they can stay home and do whatever it is that they do. Keep your fingers crossed that I get my order today so that I can get things finished up this weekend.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Pizza Made It All Better

2010-07-19T06:02:00.003-04:00

Today is Monday, July 19, 2010. Yesterday was a hot one, but no storms! The squirrels were out all over the yard. Even the blue jay stopped by yesterday for a short visit. Always nice to see him.

Went to town on Friday, got all of the running around done for this week and the laundry too. So Saturday I stopped to get a pizza, from Papa John's, mama's favorite pizza joint. Headed over to her house. She was so excited to see that pizza box, they don't deliver to her since she moved. Withdrawal I guess almost two months without it. LOL Also took her favorite licorice candy, she is like a kid with this stuff.

The angel light switch covers turned out really nice. So I put those up for her after we ate pizza. We talked for most of the day, when it was time for me to head home, feed my crew, she says, I haven't seen you in awhile. Mama I seen you on the fourth, well it sure seems like it has been longer than that. I guess I had better make it a point to get over there at least once a week. I got the hint mama.

Sunday George was off so needless to say I didn't get to much done. Every time he went somewhere I needed to go with him. If I "disappeared" to my craft room, here he come, what ya doing? He did get the pool vacuumed and a couple of other chores done. So today I don't have to do that. Poor Doc got a bath, Doc doesn't like to get wet. I was going out the back door and seen George bathing him, Doc looked at me like, why isn't he at work?

I think everyone stopped by that could stop by yesterday. Even son #1 stopped by on his way home from work about 10:30 last night. I am thinking that he wanted to talk about something, he just never said because son #5 was sitting with us. He usually doesn't stop that late knowing that we have to get up at 4:30. He will be off the next two days, so I am sure he will be back.

Keeping fingers crossed that I am able to get something done today! Don't even care what it is as long as it gets done.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Not For Sale

2010-07-15T06:39:00.004-04:00

Today is Thursday, July 15, 2010. We have had storms again most of the week and they are suppose to be here through Saturday. Sure makes it hard to get the laundry done.

I have all but finished up two of the projects that I had started. The tote needs to be clipped and washed, the wall hanging is finished. With any kind of luck the weather will change for some pictures to be taken. Then to list them. The third project is going to take time, have about half of the fabric cut out, today hope to finish cutting fabric so that I can start sewing. Maybe by the weekend it will be done.

George knows how much I loved working with the wool from Brenda's wool challenge. He came home the other day and announced that he was going to buy me a sheep, only they weren't for sale. He goes by these sheep on his way to work, he thought it would be cool to buy me one. I am so thankful they weren't for sale. If we had more land it would be different, some day.

I feel like such a jerk. I spaced out mama's birthday Tuesday! So I am thinking that this weekend I will go get her one of her favorite pizzas and spend the day with her. I still can't believe I did that! Have to finish her angel light switch covers and take them to, as a peace offering.

I so want to get outside today. The rain wouldn't be so bad if the temperatures would drop a few degrees, but it hasn't, just hot and humid.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

The Girls are Sun Bathing

2010-07-07T05:08:00.003-04:00

Today is Wednesday, July 7, 2010. The sun made an appearance yesterday before the storms rolled in once again. Today is suppose to be 96 and cloudy, cloudy is okay, just no more rain. The yard looks like a jungle, so maybe if it dries out, I can get it cut in the next couple of days.

So without any sun, I haven't been able to get a picture of the girls sunning. Well yesterday when the sun did come out, they did sun. Not the best picture, but this is the best I was going to get. After I got them cleaned and fed they ate, groomed themselves and then found a patch of sun. I tried to get better pictures around the other side of the coup, but they weren't having it. Maybe this week they will decide to sun in the yard again, if so I will get better pictures.

Have to get the books done for quarterly taxes today. I am not a paper pusher and really dislike doing this chore. But, like a lot of things it has to be done. So that is on the list of to do's first. Hopefully I will be able to finish up at least two of the projects that I have almost done. This depends on the power. I got so lucky last night, finished dinner just before the power went out. There would have been some real unhappy campers if the power had went out first. LOL Those guys have to eat a real meal and a cold sandwich is not a meal.

Time to take care of the critters. The birds are singing and the rooster has been crowing the last 15 or 20 minutes. He sounds so grown up and he is only 15 weeks old. Just think in another eight weeks, we may have eggs. They will come off of their starter food this weekend, and go on their big chicken food.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

A Nice Weekend

2010-07-06T06:13:00.002-04:00

Today is Tuesday, July 6, 2010. The storms have continued to roll in this weekend and suppose to continue through today. The squirrels are at the feeder this morning, I don't know where they have been the last few weeks. The cardinals have enjoyed the feast of food without them. They have been and gone already this morning.

Called mama on Sunday about ten thirty, asked what she was doing. She let me to know that she "was" sleeping. Well glad you got to sleep in, now get dressed I will be there in a little bit to pick you up. Of course she used my first and middle name. She spent most of the day with us. Even with the rain, George smoked ribs. He said he wouldn't melt, I confirmed that.

Have been able to make a game of trying to sew and finish up projects. With the storms, the power goes on and off. So while it is off I cut fabric then when it comes back on I sew. Didn't want to take the chance of making the buttons (clay), wasn't sure what it would do to them in the oven. So I have them ready to bake when I think it will be safe to do so.

George and son #5 went to see the fireworks. Young son doesn't like them. I think they scared him when he was little, he has never liked loud noises. So he and I stayed home, he wanted to work on his math. That blew me away, it's Sunday and you want to work on Math? What's up with that?

I hope that everyone had a great weekend and was safe! Wishing everyone a productive day!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

More Storms Thru The Weekend

2010-07-03T06:33:00.003-04:00

Today is Saturday, July 3, 2010. The thunderstorms are still here and supposed to be until Tuesday. I like a good storm as well as the next guy, but this is getting ridiculous. The wind is blowing and it is still dark out from the overcast of clouds.

George is working today, so I will be able to get things done, that didn't get done last weekend. Have projects that are started and I thought were almost done, and then, they seem to take on a new direction. Planning on getting at least three completed today. That's the plan....

Went to let the chickens out yesterday morning, there was a little maybe six inch across puddle in front of their door. They don't like to get their feet wet, each one stood on the frame of the door and jumped across the puddle. Funny watching each one get their balance and then jump. The rooster is getting a little pushy with my girls. Oh, I know this is natural, but when he is plucking out their feathers, he is going to far! He tried with "Boss Lady" but she quickly put him in his place. I couldn't figure out why the little all white one was always dirty. Well, now I know. Just might separate him from the girls for awhile, until they are a little bigger.

He needs to remember that I don't need him and he is costing me more in feed than it would to get more babies. But George wanted to get a rooster.......

It is so nice to have another driver in the house. Yesterday son#5 went to the feed store, then to get hay and the pool supply to get chlorine. He says, "You know mom, you don't have to go." You are so right, see you when you get back. So while he went to town, I made bread. Later went to get groceries and the running for the week is done!

Wishing everyone a great 4th! Be safe!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

My Wool Challenge Is Finished

2010-07-01T07:14:00.002-04:00

Today is Thursday, July 1, 2010. We are still having thunderstorms and they are calling for them through out the weekend. Okay, I have never been one to look forward to the fall, I usually really enjoy the summer and time outdoors, but with the heat of 90 plus, the humidity and not being able to get outdoors, I am ready for Fall.

I finished my little bag yesterday! This was so much fun, something that I had never done before. It can be used to carry business cards, stones or whatever. I made a little clay button with a stone to match, used a purple ribbon to sew up the sides. George was impressed, how did you do that, not telling you. LOL Thank you so much Brenda, I would have never done this on my own. Now I want to make MORE things, bigger bags, scarves, the possibilities are endless! I see myself having a room full of different colored wool, oh so much fun!

So have to get going, George was home way early yesterday, so things that I had planned on getting finished up, well didn't even get touched. He truly believes I am his playmate. He decided to sell the plane. Go ahead, it only sits in the yard. So needless to say, I was the one to take pictures and set up the listings. I have my own listings to do and pictures to take. And to think this is going to be a long weekend.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

The Rooster Is Crowing

2010-06-30T07:57:00.003-04:00

Today is Wednesday, June 30, 2010. The weather has been much of the same, thunderstorms, hot and very humid. I have never been one to wish summer away, but this year, well it surly could change my mind.

I have started my wool challenge piece, excited I am. Not going to tell you what it is going to be, but I will post pictures tomorrow. It will be finished today. This has been so much fun and depending on how this turns out, it just might be my new addiction. Thank you Brenda!

The rooster is crowing! He started on Saturday morning, and he sounds like a full grown rooster, not that teenager any longer. I was so excited when I heard him the first time. With the weather cloudy and raining, the girls haven't had the sun to sun themselves in. So no pictures of that yet, but I will get some.

Not sure if it's age, the hot humid weather or the uncertainty of things, but I sure have felt out of sorts lately. Not sure what is going on, but so looking forward to things getting back to some what normal. Or at least what is normal for me.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

The Weekend Is Here

2010-06-25T06:35:00.002-04:00

Today is Friday, June 25, 2010. Yesterday it rained, buckets came down in the afternoon out of no where, with the sun still shinning. Not one child got out of the pool, I guess it didn't matter, they were wet anyway.

I can't believe that the weekend is here again already. Time seems to be moving more quickly every day. Today have to go to town, not a favorite thing for me to do. But, it has to be done. One of the boys won't be happy about it either, have to go to the feed store, so one lucky fella gets to go with me. LOL

So looking forward to getting things done this weekend. I have felt so scattered, things need to be listed, finished and of course started. It's almost like I have no plan of action. Sure hope this weekend proves to be productive. I was able to add a page of Etsy Magical Holiday Artists with the shop links, to the top of my blog. Along with a contact page, maybe some others in the future. Just not going to happen this weekend.

I did try to get the chickens to sun themselves yesterday, with no luck. I guess they are like kids, when you have a camera in hand, they aren't going to do it. I am going to try again today.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

A Gorgeous Day, No Rain

2010-06-24T07:01:00.003-04:00

Today is Thursday, June 24, 2010. Even though the weatherman said storms yesterday, we had a few clouds, but NO rain! Keeping fingers crossed that the same happens today. Unsure of what has happened to all of the squirrels lately. There doesn't seem to be nearly as many as there were a few months ago.

Mama came over yesterday to do her laundry, she stayed the better part of the day. As much as she claims that she doesn't like to be "out in that heat", she sure didn't miss an opportunity to go with me to do my chores. The chickens will lay in the sun, like they are sun bathing, which is scary to see for the first time. While I was cleaning out the coop, the baby was sunning herself, mama says, "girl, I think she is dead". Which is exactly what I thought the first time I seen them doing this, no mama she is sunning herself. I will have to get a picture of them doing this, it is really an odd sight to see.

Mama was going through my craft room, she wanted to know if I ever just go and shut myself in. Yea, right mom, a closed door here means someone needs company. Like picking up a book to read, mom must be bored, she is reading a book. Let's go keep her company, she couldn't really want to be reading a book.

I was outside last night with the chickens, when I came back inside the tattoo books were scattered all over the dining room table. OH NO you don't! Not this weekend, I have things that I am going to get done. The only thing that I will be doing this weekend is cooking your dinners, nothing more. I gathered up the books and put them in the closet, the shop is closed this weekend.

The washer has stopped, time to get back to my chores. Wishing everyone a beautiful day!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

A Productive Weekend

2010-06-22T05:55:00.004-04:00

Today is Tuesday, June 22, 2010. The weather here has been about the same. Hot, humid and thunderstorms. Let's not forget the bugs that come with the rain. Suppose to have thunderstorms again all week this week.

Much to my surprise and excitement, the rooster has started trying to crow. He sounds like a teenager. The roosters behind us crow and Friday morning he started trying to crow back to them. He is going to be a talker. They are three months old now and really growing.

Sunday night, George asked if I had shut the air conditioner off. Now why would I do that with all of the humidity? No, I didn't shut the a/c off. I heard it kick on, so I knew it was running. It wasn't blowing cold air, the points had went out. So George and son #5 worked on it until almost two, needless to say, George didn't go to work Monday.

He took down most of the oak tree that had been struck with lightening. Good thing he did, it was rotten. If a storm had taken it down, it would have came through the house. While he was watching television last night, "his" tv shut off. Everybody knows that panic sets in when a mans television is on the outs. So he starts with the remote trying to turn it back on. LOL It turns out that a switch was bad, right off to Lowe's to get a replacement, fixed and he was all better.

Was able to get a few bracelets made and gourds washed. So looking forward to working with them, the possibilities are endless. Got an e-mail from New Age Books and they now have these way cool tank tops! Sign up for their e-mails, they don't spam your mailbox. But, they will let you know when they have new items and book sales. Copied this from my e-mail:
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, productive day!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Things Crawling Along

2010-06-16T06:40:00.002-04:00

Today is Wednesday, June 16, 2010. Talk about hot, it was a whooping 98 degrees yesterday! Much to hot to be outside, have to get chores done in the morning or later in the evening. We were supposed to get storms last night, but we stayed dry.

Still not where I want to be with getting things done, but getting there. The TA in the pool is back to where it needs to be so on to the PH. I have found that using Borax instead of PH up works best, because it won't raise the TA. So off to Walmart to get the Borax, only to find out they aren't carrying it any longer. GREAT! So went to CVS, Walgreens, Dollar General, Family Dollar, finally found it at Food Lion. So something that should have taken under thirty minutes to do was almost two hours. It seems like this is the way things have been going lately.

Then the boys had friends over, of course they all went swimming. This wasn't an issue, however when no one brings a towel and I end up with two loads of towels to do. This isn't going to fly. Now this wasn't something that was, at the last minute decided to do, they all had a change of clothes.

So today going to try to move in a forward direction, or at least try to get things finished up. That's the plan anyway.

On a brighter note, I did get my wool from Brenda at Wicked Wool Gathering ! I am truly excited about this challenge. The wool is fantastic! Brenda started with raw wool, washed it all, dried it and then dyed it. I so want to try this process. She has it all over on her blog with pictures. Thank you Brenda!

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, productive day!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

So Glad It's Monday

2010-06-14T06:33:00.002-04:00

Today is Monday, June 14, 2010. The weather has been so weird here this year. Very hot, 95 degrees and up with thunderstorms in the early evenings. Today's forecast, 98 degrees with a few thunderstorms tonight. This makes it very muggy not to mention buggy.

So much for my working weekend. Saturday started out really good, got things done and was moving right along. George got off early, he usually calls me on his way home, he said he wanted to surprise me. So my day ended earlier than I had expected it to. Okay I can live with that, until he tells me that he has tattoos to do on Sunday.

I can't complain about him doing tattoos, he makes good money doing them. But, who is the one to get everything ready, increase or decrease the size of the flash and clean up to set up for the next one? Yep, baby I need this or do you know where that is? So Sunday was a working day, just not working on what I needed to work on.

The pool is almost where it needs to be, have been fighting the TA level. Just about the time I think the levels are coming in to where they need to be, surprise they are wonky again. At this point, I think it would have been better to have drained it and started again. Live and learn....

If you haven't had the chance to check out the Wool Wednesday Gathering Challenge , jump on over to see what Brenda has come up with. This is going to be so much fun and truly a challenge for me. I have never worked with wool before, but there's a first time for everything. Brenda is so much fun and all that she asks of you, to send her pictures of what you have created. I think there are three spots left so hurry.

I would like to thank Not Hannah at Divining Women for the most amazing energy Saturday night. She had an idea and ran with it, it turned out to be huge. Maybe we could do this again next month.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

Friday Already

2010-06-11T07:21:00.002-04:00

Today is Friday, June 11, 2010. The weather has been gorgeous this week, yesterday 95 degrees. Supposed to have thunderstorms rolling in this afternoon.

This week has been a busy one with trying to get things caught up. Did get the yard cleaned up and mowed, with all of the rain we have had, it was a real jungle. The boys actually came out and helped without being asked. I don't know if it was really wanting to help mom, or fear of her having heat stroke and having to do their own supper. The pool is almost back to normal. I will be ready with chemicals when that rain starts again. It blows me away that it will take about two days to turn green and a week to straighten it out.

So today I will get the house cleaned and then to town. George has to work Saturday so I am going to get my craft room finished up and get my sites cleaned up. Things need to be listed and moved from one site to another. This chore will take most of the weekend to get done without interruptions.

The new router arrived yesterday. Dreading the thought of installing it and how long it was going to take. To my surprise it was under an hour to install and network the five computers together. Was doing the happy dance!

Tomorrow is the New Moon, Will You Find Your Way to the Water ? Together we CAN do this!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

So Behind and New Books

2010-06-08T09:58:00.002-04:00

Today is Tuesday, June 8, 2010. The sun is out again today! Yesterday started out not looking to good. But, by the afternoon it had turned out to be a nice, sunny, dry day. We are supposed to have rain again Thursday. Maybe the weatherman will be wrong, it's not like he hasn't been wrong before.

So this morning it is a race to get all of the laundry out on the line, three loads out now and one in the washer. Was sick last week and didn't do much of anything that didn't "have" to be done. The critters had to be done and that was just about the only thing I seen outside. When I seen the pool, heart failure. I had no idea that it was turning green and no one had said anything to me. I should have had enough sense to tell someone to put a jug of Muriatic Acid in with all of the rain we have had. So now all of the chemicals are wonky. This is going to be a pain in the neck trying to get them all right again. Just hoping that they are right again before the rains hit again.

Got my book order from Discount New Age Books yesterday and told myself, you are not going to open that package until you are caught up on everything. So it is sitting next to me screaming OPEN ME! Nope, not going to do it. I love to read and can get so caught up in a book that the rest of the world isn't even there.

Young son informs me that he can't get on the internet, that Comcast is out. I check the modem and it is fine. Check the router and it is not so great. So had to go order another router that should be here Thursday. Wireless is great, but I really like my own network. It is constant and always on. Not to mention that I can print from my laptop and not have to move from one computer to another to get things done. Let's just hope that the new router is easy to get up and running and not an all day chore.

I have so many new ideas that I want to get started on and new books too. There really needs to be more hours in a day.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Thank You Sherry and Chris

2010-06-07T10:37:00.002-04:00

Today i s Monday, June 7, 2010. The weather has been really ugly. Thunderstorms and more thunderstorms. This makes for hot and very humid weather. The yard is a jungle and saturated, no mowing until it dries out.

I have been so blessed, receiving the "Life is Good" award! Sherry over at Byrum Art, a wickedly awesome artist. Thank you so much Sherry for thinking of me! Here are the questions that Sherry had posted:

1. What makes you happy, silly happy?
Watching George and young son having a war of word wits.We are
never sure which one has won. Hysterical!

2. What is your favorite flower?
All wild flowers, I can't grow them,but so love them.

3. What talent would you like to have that you don't?
Would really like to be able to draw.

4. Do you have pets?
6 hens, 1 rooster, 1 pot bellied pig and one dog.

5. Do you like spending time alone?
I really enjoy me alone time, seem to be able to get
lots done.

6. Do you like gardening?
Love gardening, hate having to weed.

7. What is your favorite song?
This all depends on my mood.

8. What do you like to do for others?
Listen to them.

9. Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Both love the quiet of early mornings but love late nights too.

10. How is your bedroom decorated?
Tie dyed teal colors and large Daisey's. Queen size wooden water bed and wooden night stands and of course a book shelf.

Blessed again by Chris at Prim Country Farms with the "Life is Good" award! Thank you Chris for thinking of me. Here are the questions that Chris left:

1. Where do you live?
North central Florida

2. What is the your favorite time of the year?
Spring and Summer then Fall, Winter just seems to be long and very busy.

3. Who would you like to take art lesson from?
Marie Segal, I would love to spend a few months taking classes from her!

4. What is your favorite TV show or movie?
Cartoons the older ones.

5. Which reality show would you like to be on?
None, really don't care for them. I like my privacy to much for that.

6. What is your favorite color?
Lavender and hot pink.

7. Which is your favorite season?
Spring and Summer

8. What books do you like?
I like all books, mostly nonfiction.

9. How many hours do you spend on your art a week?
Lately not near enough. Usually about fours hours a day.

10. What is your favorite ice cream?
Moose Tracks, oh so yummy!

I am going to break the rules here, PLEASE if you have not received this award, snag it and play along. It is really a fun way to get to know one another. Use either Sherry's questions or Chris's questions of a combination of both. Make it really fun and answer all 20 of them!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Catching Up

2010-06-02T06:20:00.002-04:00

Today is Wednesday, June 2, 2010. The weather has been really wild, one minute the sun is shinning bright and the next, thunder and buckets of rain. We are saturated here and is suppose to continue the rest of the week.

We were able to get mom moved on Sunday morning before the rains rolled in. She is so excited to be in a new place, she is renting and no longer has to worry about yard work or anything else. The chickens are getting bigger and they sure like to be outside of their coop. Yesterday morning, they were crazy, I opened the door to clean and out they came. We have to be so careful because of the hawks here. So after about an hour it was time for them to get inside so I could feed and water the rest of the hungry critters. Well they didn't see it that way, they were not ready to go inside.

So today I am going to get back to work in my craft room and finish up things that I had started before we had left for SC. Catch up on whats been going on with all of my blogger friends tonight when everyone is settled in. I really enjoy three day weekends, but trying to catch up is something else. Wishing everyone a very productive day!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

The "Lizard" Lost Its' Legs

2010-05-26T06:12:00.004-04:00

Today is Wednesday, May 26, 2010. The storms rolled in yesterday afternoon as expected. Took advantage of it, opened up the house, so love the smell of rain. Everything seems to be so clean and fresh.

Yesterday morning I cleaned the critters, feed and watered them all. Off to dump the waste into the compost pile. Now after that little "lizard" thing the day before, I do use extreme caution when walking over in that part of the yard. Well, look who is back in the same spot he was in the day before! After my heart stopped racing, I called my son on the cell phone, he was in the house, told him to bring my camera and get out here. Now you tell me that's a lizard! Son #5
didn't know of the day before with this "lizard". I told him about what had happened and he said yeah mom, that's a snake. No kidding!

So today when son #3 comes over to get something to eat, it's about that time, I will have him get that "lizard" out of the yard. He is one of those kids that think they are cool and has a couple for pets. Pets? UGH! And I will hear from him, just like his dad how it won't hurt you and all of the other stuff. I really don't care, just get it out of my yard!

So when George got home, I asked him about where the "lizard" had ran off to. He said he went out towards the pines. Oh really? As he is telling me this story, I am pulling up the picture. I told him that I think the "lizard" had lost its' legs. His eyes bugged out of his head and he wanted to know who took the picture. I did.....You got that close to it? No! I used that zoom on the camera. I will leave the waste for you to dump when you get home in the evening until that thing is gone.

So today I will get some laundry on the lines before the storms roll in this afternoon. Started working at clearing out my craft room, boy is it slow going. With any kind of luck I will get it finished today.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

That Was No Lizard

2010-05-25T06:25:00.004-04:00

Today is Tuesday, May 25, 2010. Yesterday was cloudy, with lots of thunder, but no rain. This morning looks to be more of the same. According to the weather man, we are supposed to have thunderstorms all week.

Yesterday while George and I were in the yard, I spotted this happy couple. Then George says come here, I walk over to where he is at and he says go back over there. Okay...Then he says come over here, now I spot what he is looking at. In between the stag horn and the tree is what appears to be some kind of reddish color snake. I DON'T DO SNAKES! So he doesn't have to tell me to go back anywhere, I am out of there. After a few minutes, he comes into the house to tell me that it wasn't a snake, it was a big lizard.

My eyes aren't what they use to be, but please a lizard? When is the last time you seen a red shiny lizard with a flat head? We have lived here over ten years and I have been blessed not to have run into a snake, the boys have. I know what I seen, and that was no lizard.

With the weather not going to be good today, I will get my craft room finished up. I still have pictures that I need to get framed and hung. Then to list items that are finished, just not listed. Probably won't be able to list because of the sun not making an appearance. But, I can write the descriptions in notepad and then take pictures when it is nice.

For those that like to read Discount New Age Books.com is having their $1 book sale. The shipping is $1 per book so $2 a book isn't bad at all. Their sale ends Thursday.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

The Girls and One Guy First Day Out

2010-05-23T10:04:00.002-04:00

Today is Sunday, May 23, 2010. The weather has been wild here. The days start out beautiful and really end with a bang. Friday night we lost power for most of the evening and even had hail. Found out there was a tornado that had touched down on Brandford highway. It has been several years since we have had one and hoping that it is many more before we do again.

George is off this weekend so with his help to watch the girls and one fella, we let them out of the coop. We have far to many hawks to try to do this by myself, they were so much fun to watch. They have now started this flapping of the wings, when one does it they all follow suit. Running and flapping their wings. Well the little fella hit the roof, so today we clip wings. I think it scared him as much as it did me. To watch them scratching the dirt and leaves is so funny, they really tear it up. Almost like they are dancing, to much fun.

I noticed a couple of days ago that they were starting to lose their feathers, their baby feathers. Their little backsides look so lacy with all of the new ones coming in. They are really grooming themselves, each feather seems to get attention from them.

We did get lots done in the yard yesterday before the storms rolled in. It's so nice to stand back and look at it when you have finished. There has been thunder all morning and clouds coming in from the south, so had better get out to trim those feathers before the buckets of rain come pouring down.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

Already Friday

2010-05-21T08:46:00.002-04:00

Today is Friday, May 21, 2010. I truly can not believe how fast this week has gone! Yesterday was gorgeous! They have been calling for storms all week, we were lucky and they missed us. I love the fact that at 6:15 the sun is coming up.

The last couple of days I have been trying to play catch up. Have taken photos of jewelry which is not one of my stronger points. Taking photos seems to be such a task for me, they just never seem to turn out with the right color. So yesterday after I got the laundry hung, I grabbed up my camera and jewelry, outside I went. The natural light is sooo much better! The color seems to be right on. Very pleased with the way they turned out. From now on, I will be outdoors taking pictures.

Have started cleaning out my craft room, well not cleaning but more like getting things together that I at this moment see no use for. It is so cluttered in there. Seeing the need for a wall of shelves, open shelves so that I can see what I have. Going to have to go dumpster diving at the construction sites, they always have great stuff for building. No wonder a new house costs so much with all of the waste. But one mans junk is another mans treasure.

Mama was over yesterday and was telling her that I dreamed that when I went to clean out the chicken coop, I found eggs. She started laughing, now you are dreaming about those chickens. Don't you think they are just a little young yet? It was only a dream mama... Then she tells me that she went with this friend of hers to Tallahassee on a motorcycle. You did what?!? She said she had a blast. Oh mama.......

Wishing everyone a sun filled weekend!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

A Full Day

2010-05-19T07:26:00.002-04:00

Today is Wednesday, May 19, 2010. The weather has been really weird this week. It will be bright sunshine one minute and then thunderstorms the next. It was nice yesterday morning until early evening when the storms rolled in. We are supposed to have storms all week.

I am so loving my chickens, they are so much fun to watch. The first time I seen them scratch the ground I had no idea what they were doing. I have since learned, looking for bugs. Watching them groom is so funny. They puff up and go to it, or when they see another one with something in their beak and walk by only to snatch it from the other one. I kind of feel for the rooster though, he is not the king of the coop, the hens keep him in line. Poor little guy....

Today weather permitting, I am going to work in the garden and work on the pool. The garden needs some real attention, the pool, well I think is just an excuse. But, if anyone asks, the pool "needed" to be done.

Have to get orders packed and shipped out this morning and go to the produce stand, then home to get the boys schoolwork done. Then outside to get the fun stuff done.

I have felt so scattered since I have been home. Can't seem to focus on anything for any length of time. So need to get pictures of products, listed and sites updated and just can't seem to get it together long enough to do it.

Thank you to all that engaged in the "Life is Good" award. It has been so much fun learning about each of you! Thank you Lisa !

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Chris Gave It Back

2010-05-18T05:49:00.003-04:00

Today is Tuesday, May 18, 2010. We got the much needed rain, the raspberries really needed it. The thunderstorms are supposed to continue through today. With the storms bring the power going on and off, really messes up internet time.

I had passed the "Life is Good" award to Chris at Christina Primitive House and well she passed it back. Thank you Chris! Yes, life is very good! It's good people like you that make it good.

In order to accept the award I have to answer the 10 questions that Chris has asked, pass the award along to 6 other blogger with 10 of my own questions. Here are the questions that Chris has asked:

1. What is your favorite dessert?

My very favorite is a blueberry, cream cheese, whip cream pie that my mama makes. She only makes it once a year, for my birthday. Makes me hungry just thinking about it.

2. What is your favorite color?

Lavender is my favorite and hot pink.

3. If you could go one place in the world for a vacation where would it be?

An island with my hubby, just the two of us, no computers, no phones, no pagers.

4. What is your dream house like?

My dream house is a two story log home in the middle of 200 acres. All kinds of critters and a big garden. Two kitchens one for everyday cooking and the other for canning, making jam and freezing. Our bedroom would be a loft with a huge window. Let's not forget the wrap around porch.

5. What is your favorite pet?

Charlotte, our pot belly pig. She is an old gal now, but the kids use to love to play with her and she loved to eat pop corn. Now she just wants to be left alone to root and sleep in the sun with a good scratch now and then.

6. What would you like to be doing in 5 years from now?

I have no idea, really. I try to live day by day and enjoy the present. It seems that no matter how much time and detail go into planning, it never seems to go according to plan.

7. What is your favorite music?

This is an easy one! I enjoy all kinds of music, except rap.

8. What is the one thing you love to do?

I love holding babies! There is nothing better to calm you.

9. What is the one thing you hate to do?

I really dislike mopping.

10. What do you collect?

I use to collect dolphins. Over the years the kids, friends and family have slowly taken them to new homes. This is fine, I know they will be taken care of and enjoyed.

Okay I am going to cheat on the 10 questions and use the same ones I had asked before.

1. Besides friends and family, what makes you truly happy?

2. What is your favorite thing to do for "me" time?

3. What is your favorite, most fun to make item that you have ever made?

4. If you had one wish, what would you wish for?

5. What was your favorite thing to do as a child that you still
enjoy doing?

6. How many children do you have?

7. Any grandbabies yet?

8. Favorite season?

9. The job that you loved, where and doing what?

10. Where do you prefer to live city or country?

I would like to pass this on to:

Mary at Moontides

Janie at Mother Moon

Sherry at Cross Stitching Wiccan Blog

Marie at Art From My Heart (If you haven't visited Marie's blog, you are truly missing out on some serious eye candy!)

Jeannine at By Way of Salem

Michelle at The Vintage Sage

Wishing everyone a peaceful, productive day!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

Thank You Lisa!

2010-05-17T05:59:00.002-04:00

Today is Monday, May 17, 2010. The weekend was gorgeous, the rains waited until late evening Sunday. It is still raining, much needed rain.

Lisa at Groggy Froggy
surprised me yesterday with this "Life is Good" award. Thank you Lisa! Yes Life is Good, very good! To accept this award I need to answer her 10 questions and pass it on to 6 bloggers. So here we go.

1. If you could spend 6 months doing anything you wanted, uninterrupted, what would you do?

Work in my yard, planting trees, flowers and working the garden.

2. What was the last song you heard and did you choose it?

Purple Haze, it was on the radio in George's truck.

3. Have you ever said "yes" when your head was screaming "say no!?"

Yes, when looking at a house mom wanted to move into.

4. If you could learn one new thing next month, what would it be?

To take clay classes, oh that would be so much fun!

5. Facebook or Twitter?

Has to be Twitter, I still don't understand Facebook.

6. Tightwad or Crazy Spender? (or somewhere in the middle)

For sure not a crazy spender! I am very careful with money and
do my homework before making a purchase. However, I don't consider myself a tightward, someone that won't come off with a dime. You know that person that wants to leave the server a buck tip? UGH....

7. What is your guilty pleasure?

My most favorite is a Mocha from Andy's.

8. Urban or Rural?

Rural for sure! A couple hundred acres with a house set right in the middle would be wonderful!

9. Sweet or Salty?

Really like both, like the chocolate dipped pretzels. Those are so good.

10. New stuff or old stuff?

Old stuff for sure. To make it even better something handmade from something old.

Thank you again Lisa! I would like to pass this on to:

Suzie at Cat In The Pumpkin Moon

Chris at Christinas Primitive House

Lisa at LLA Studio

Brenda at Wicked Wool Gathering

Cindy at Shabby Hag

Becca at Magikal Seasons

These are the ten questions that I came up with.
1. Besides friends and family, what makes you truly happy?

2. What is your favorite thing to do for "me" time?

3. What is your favorite, most fun to make item that you have ever made?

4. If you had one wish, what would you wish for?

5. What was your favorite thing to do as a child that you still
enjoy doing?

6. How many children do you have?

7. Any grandbabies yet?

8. Favorite season?

9. The job that you loved, where and doing what?

10. Where do you prefer to live city or country?

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

One Little "Guy"

2010-05-15T06:34:00.002-04:00

Today is Saturday, May 15, 2010. It is 6:15 and the sun is rising. Going to be another gorgeous day! The birds have been singing since about four this morning.

Trying to get pictures of my chickens and one "guy" is proving to be a real challenge. It's like trying to count goldfish in an aquarium. I go into the pen they head for the door. Trying to take pictures from the outside with the wire, next to impossible. This is the "guy" of the group. It's funny that we have 7 children, 6 boys and 1 girl, now we have 7 chickens, 6 hens and one rooster. They are now seven weeks old. We still have to build the nesting boxes, which probably won't happen until next weekend. Suppose to have rain tomorrow and Monday, which we really need.

Talk about things happening for a reason, I was cooking dinner Thursday night and washing dishes as I went. I kept smelling something, but didn't know what it was, knew it wasn't a good smell. There was a small baking sheet on top of the little oven, so I moved it off thinking it was getting hot and producing this smell, back to the dishes. The smell got worse, looking around I seen the electrical outlet slowly melting. Ran and threw the breaker, George was pulling into the yard so I waved him to come into the house first.

There was nothing plugged into the outlet, it didn't throw the breaker or the breaker on the outlet that also has a breaker. George is always so calm, he gets a screw driver and removes the outlet, "yep, that could have been bad, real bad." There was a very good reason for us coming home when we did, if no one would have been here, we would have lost everything.

So today going to clean up my craft room and work on my sites. They are a mess and need a little love. Going to try to get some better pictures, thinking outside will be best. So it has to get done today, because of rain tomorrow.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Weeds?

2010-05-13T06:39:00.002-04:00

Today is Thursday, May 13, 2010. The weather has been just gorgeous! Yesterday was 90 and today is supposed to be 93 degrees. Can't ask for better weather.

I thought these were pretty. George says they are weeds. The pedals are a soft lavender, have never seen these "weeds" before.

Had to get groceries yesterday, while getting eggs I noticed brown "organic" eggs in a clear plastic container. My jaw hit the floor when I seen the price of over $4 a dozen! That is just crazy! Maybe it's to pay for the earth friendly "plastic" container they are in. So much for organic. I don't know about you, but my family can't eat that container and to know that it is going into a landfill really ticks me off. Most of you know that I sort my trash, burn and landfill, we are averaging one small kitchen bag of landfill trash a week. Love the "organic" food companies that charge very high dollar for their foods only to use very unfriendly earth packaging to fill the landfills.

Haven't had time to work on my sites since we have been home. So this weekend while George is working on Saturday and the boys have no school, that will be a good time to get them cleaned up and organized. Bonanzle threw me off, when I set my booth on vacation. When we returned and I took it off vacation, it put everything back for sale, even things that were on reserve. So needless to say that is going to take some real time to fix.

Today is a New Moon, remember to write those abundance checks and smudge.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Wednesday Already

2010-05-12T07:22:00.002-04:00

Today is Wednesday, May 12, 2010. It has been gorgeous here, in the high 80's and low 90's. Going to be a great summer!

The pool pump arrived yesterday and tried to hook it up only to find out that the connections are not the same as the old one. After about an hour of frustration, I gave it up. When George got home we went to Lowe's to get a new hose. I have to say that I was relieved to know it wasn't me not knowing how to hook up a little pump.

Mother's day was wonderful! Worked on the chicken coop most of the day, then went to see mama. She has been over every other day since we have been home. Took her out to see my chickens, she just laughed and shock her head. Told me I needed to be on a farm in the middle of no where. I won't argue with that.

The boys are back on track and loving being home. George moved the RV to the other side of the pool out of the front yard and Doc went on the hunt for it. I do believe that he thinks this is his new way of life. He now refuses to eat or drink outside, this is now done inside. He goes outside to take care of business and then knocks to be let right back in.

This week is zooming by! It's already Wednesday the week is half over. I am loving the fact that my husband is home every night. He has been one happy man in his yard. He told me last night that he has seven months of things to catch up on out there. LOL

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

A Wonderful Surprise

2010-05-08T21:07:00.002-04:00

Today is Saturday, May 8, 2010. It was a very warm day with loads of sunshine! The birds were just a singing.

The pool is almost clear and the lawn is mowed. The sheets and towels filled the clothes line today! The RV is completely unloaded all except for the things that are staying in there. George was one happy man today in his yard.

After dinner George said lets go for a ride, okay. So off we went we rode for about thirty minutes. As soon as we pulled up I knew we were going to get my chickens! Aren't they cute! We decided on six chickens and one rooster. George insisted on getting the rooster.

The lady was so nice and full of information. If we decided later on that we wanted them to "sit" there is a good chance that the hens wouldn't like or take to a new rooster. She said that she had two hens kill a rooster. So I let George have his way, and a rooster we got.

So tomorrow we will finish up the chicken coupe and I will take some better pictures. They are six weeks old. She had some that were about a week old and they were sooo cute. Made you just want to pick them up and love on them. An early Mother's day gift and an awesome one they are!

The best of all gift is knowing that tomorrow at noon, my husband doesn't have to head back to SC to go to work.

Wishing all of you a very happy, healthy Mother's day, may you spend it with the ones you love.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

A Beautiful Mess

2010-05-07T19:17:00.002-04:00

Today is Friday, May 7, 2010. It was a gorgeous 87 degrees today! Cooling down now, but not cold.

Our first day home has been a busy one. Take a look at the jungle we have! It is a beautiful mess, but our mess. Son #5 actually grabbed the mower this morning and was able to get a little more than half of the yard cut. The pool, just as I thought is green. So threw some shock and baking soda in there and started the pump. Big pump not working, hooked up the small pump and ordered another big one. Should be here the middle of next week. Pool should be ready by tomorrow night to use!

The clothes lines have been loaded all day. Will get the sheets and towels done tomorrow. It is a beautiful sight to see my clothes on those lines and not in a dryer. Not to mention wrinkle free. Got the stores back on line and made a sale! Whoot! So will get that order ready to ship in the morning.

Going to try very hard to get to the farmers market tomorrow. Hoping Sunday to get the chicken trailer made. I am so looking forward to this project. Mama still thinks I am crazy, well mama the apples don't fall far from the tree. Thinking four chickens would be great.

Well let me tell you about Doc. Here I was thinking that he was not liking the whole RV thing. When we got home, George had to push him out, he could have cared less about the yard, right into the house he went. Tried to get him to come outside today and he looked at me like, you have got to be kidding me, it's hot out here. Went out to do his business and then knocked to be let back in. He went back to young sons bed and went to sleep. He has become a lazy house dog in less than three weeks. How does this happen? I was feeling so bad about him being couped up.
Well look at that, he has made his way to the living room to look out the window. geesh......

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Home Bound This Evening!

2010-05-06T12:39:00.002-04:00

Today is Thursday, May 6, 2010. It was a really nice day yesterday. Very warm with a breeze and NO rain.

George told me last night that we would be leaving today after he got home from work. I am so thrilled to be going home!

This means that I will have lots of stuff to do when I get there. Have to get that garden going really fast. No messing around this year, if we want to get anything from it. This also means that I will get to have my chickens! I was really bummed over the thought of not being able to get them after we had planned on building the chicken trailer.

Then I hope to get some strawberries and other goodies at the farmers market and get some jarring done. This really bummed me out thinking that I wasn't going to be able to do any this summer.

Oh and the pool, I can see the shades of green now. That will take a couple of days to clear and then we will be able to use it. There isn't a better way to cool down and relax after working in the yard than a swim in the pool.

So knowing that we would be leaving right after dinner tonight, I have already cooked dinner so we can heat and eat, hook up and hit the road. George said that if he gets tired we could pull over for an hour or so to take a nap. Oh no, no, no! You pull over, I drive the RV and son #5 can drive the truck behind me. I ain't getting this close to home to stop for nothing or nobody.

So in about twelve hours from now, we will be home going to sleep in our own beds and Doc will be running free.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Start Date is Monday!

2010-05-04T06:29:00.002-04:00

Today is Tuesday, May 4, 2010. Woke to pouring rain yesterday. It was cooler, but not cold.

George got all of his paper work done and his UA. Called the company back to let them know that it had been faxed to them, they gave him a start date of MONDAY! So we are heading home Saturday morning? Oh, no we will be outta here Friday, he informed me. In a hurry to get home are you? I just thought we could get up early on Saturday and leave then, I'll be fine, he said.

There are three or four of them that used to work together in Lake City, that will now be working together in Jacksonville. He has been sitting for eight hours a day doing nothing but waiting on QC's. When he called me at eight yesterday morning, he informed me he had had enough. George is a doer and doesn't sit well, so for him to sit and do nothing for eight hours is just pure torture.

The boys are really excited about going home. Young son informed me he wants dad to put a diving board on our pool, good luck with that one. Son #5 is going nuts not driving and listening to all of that bass they play. And of course their friends, good thing for me that they have their friends on the "friends" list with Verizon, or I would have to auction them off on e-bay to pay their bill.

As for me, I have learned a lot. My four bedroom, 2 bath, one which the boys do not use, is a beautiful place to be. My kitchen didn't use to have near enough counter space, however it does now. No more dryers for me, my clothes line is my friend. And Doc running around chasing the birds and squirrels without a chain, free to run, barking when someone is coming up to the gates will be such a welcome sight. I doubt he will ever step foot in this RV again.

Thinking back on all of this, when it all first started seven months ago, there are things that we do not know. We tried for months to get a house here, tried to even buy, but nothing was happening. If we had rented and signed a lease, we would have six months of rent to pay on a house. If we had bought a house we would have another mortgage to pay. We just had to go through this. It has shown us how blessed that we really are and made us all a stronger family unit. Even the boys now know how great their privacy is at home, they have missed that, but then I have too.

So Friday afternoon or early evening, we will head home, where our hearts are.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

A Great Weekend

2010-05-03T05:53:00.003-04:00

Today is Monday, May 3, 2010. It was a warm, cloudy day yesterday. It gave a light mist every so often, but not really rain.

We did make it to the flea market yesterday spent a better part of a day there. Anderson Jockey lot is the name of the market. It is huge or at least to us it was huge. I didn't find any seeds only plants there, but I did get pole beans, strawberries, peppers and avocados. The strawberries were beautiful. The boys found their "stuff" and were happy.

When we returned back to the RV of course I started the cooking and slicing of strawberries, while everyone else went to the pool. I am in NO way complaining, the fewer people in here while I am trying to cook, the better. Made Chorizo and eggs for dinner with strawberry short cake for dessert. The boys returned to the pool after dinner, yes!

George got a lead on a Jacksonville position. This is awesome news! The overtime here has not happened in two weeks. The management is having a pissing contest with the QC's which means nothing is getting across the call boards. The plane is at a stand still and the work has stopped. So today he is going to get the paperwork faxed to Jacksonville and tomorrow take his UA test. Hoping for a start date of Monday, yes one week from today.

These past couple of weeks has been some kind of an adventure. The first night here at this RV park, George woke me up we had no power. Their box wasn't working, which was a VERY good thing it was a 50 amp and not a 30 amp. It it had been working, our electrical system would have been fried. So yesterday before the flea market we moved to another site. Now the fan relay switch in our box isn't working which means not running to many things at one time or we trip a breaker. Cooking has just become a little more creative.

It is starting to get daylight, time to start this day. I do think that getting the boys to do their school work is going to be a little easier, they want to go swimming and play pool.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Moving Day

2010-04-30T05:38:00.002-04:00

Today is Friday, April 30, 2010. It was another gorgeous day yesterday in SC. The sun was shinning and the shield was lifted, there was warmth from the sun.

Yesterday I was able to get all of the laundry finished and RV cleaned. Got the boys done with their school work and then started working on the outside. George stopped at the other RV place and said it looked good.

So today he gets off a one, should be home by 2:30 then we move on down the road closer to a town. Then to finish dinner, going to put a roast into the crock pot and finish when we get there. So glad that today is an early day and don't have to do this later when the sun is going down. This is going to be so much better for him driving to work.

Then on Sunday we are going to the flea market. The boys are excited, a real flea market, unlike the one at home. Would rally like to find some pots and get some seeds planted. No garden going at home so I have to plant something.

No young son is not going to be dropped off at the skate park by himself. I too am an overprotective mom and that isn't going to happen with or without a phone.

Wishing everyone a very Blessed Beltane tomorrow!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Friday Moving Day

2010-04-29T06:10:00.002-04:00

Today is Thursday, April 29, 2010. It was a very pretty day yesterday, but still very cool. I think SC has some kind of shield up that allows you to see the sun, just not the warmth of it.

Yesterday was nonproductive. The boys were both "needing" help with school work. It seems like this was all that was done, then on to dinner and cleaning up.

Last night a migraine set in just before bed, thought I could just sleep it off. Nope, so at 4:30 broke down and took some meds, by 6:00 I am feeling better. So when the sun shows I will get the laundry done before the boys wake up and clean as far as I can until they do.

We have decided to move closer into where George is working. Right now we are and hour and a half from his job. Now it didn't start out that way, something happened and they have shut down the interstate, so he has to take the long way around. I do think that getting closer into a town will help the boys. There is nothing here at all, nothing like the brochure pictured or said. Live and learn. So tonight on the way home from work George is checking on one we found last night on the Internet, keeping fingers crossed. Only thirty minutes from his work. Not bad considering he had a twenty minute drive in Lake City.

This weekend will be busy "moving" after work on Friday, George working on Saturday and if all goes well, flea market on Sunday. Love them flea markets and son #5 does too. Young son has found a skate park to go to. Which brings me to last night, he wants to go alone, "Just drop me off." I so struggle with leaving my kids anywhere alone. I know he is fourteen, but I am still a mom. He is in a strange place, doesn't know anyone and he wants to just be dropped off? His reasoning is that he has his phone. And this means what to me?

It is starting to get light out so off to the laundry mat to watch the dryer destroy my clothes while I feed it quarters to do so.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

From My Friend Sherry

2010-04-28T05:04:00.002-04:00

Today is Wednesday, April 28, 2010. It was a pretty day yesterday, although it was very cool here. Sure hope that it warms up today.

Sherry of Byrum Art has given this award, I have taken this off of her blog for you to read:

It has been a long winter and I've had some difficult transitions in my life this winter. Many of my online friends have continued to inspired me and helped me just by being their selves. It's been awhile since I've given this Award out but I would like to pass it on to some of the ladies here on blogger land that have encouraged me to continue despite my personal problems and despite the economy. To me the greatest spiritual gift one can give is encouragement and support to others! So I want to thank

Sarah of "Cottage Garden Studios"
Becca of "Magical Seasons"
Jeanne of "The Candy Corn Chronicles"
Suzie of "Cat In The Moon"
Brenda of "Wicked Wool Gathering"
Dede of "Brightest Blessings Wiccans"
Cindy of "Shaggy Hag Decor"

and my
special friend Heather of "Witch Hollow Primitives" who is greatly missed!!

I was very touched when I went to her blog and seen this. This was very unexpected! Friends and family are what really matters and we have to stick it out through all of the times, not just the good ones. Thank you again Sherry and remember we will always be here for you.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

One Week Today in SC

2010-04-27T04:10:00.003-04:00

Today is Tuesday, April 27, 2010. It was cloudy and windy most of the day yesterday, no rain. I was thankful for that. There is so much of that red clay here and it so hard to clean up.

Made a chocolate cake and got the spaghetti made and into the crock pot for dinner. The boys were really good about getting on their school work and getting it done. I told George that if I ever complain about the counter space at home, just slap me.

Son #5 was really missing home yesterday. He told me mom, I miss my room, my stuff, my car. I laughed when he said car. He is a putters like his dad, ready to get to work on something everyday. There isn't to much to putts here. He takes Doc for lots of walks, which Doc doesn't seem to mind.

Young son came back from taking Doc and informed me that Doc embarrassed him. Puzzled by how Doc could have done this I asked how. He was "talking" to a female Shepard and her owners were laughing at him. Well we all know how much Doc likes to "talk". I was proud of him for only talking to her.

It has been one week today that we arrived here in SC, it truly seems like so much longer. Not sure how long this is going to last, as long as need be, but I am certain of one thing, we all miss home.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

A Wet Weekend

2010-04-26T06:17:00.003-04:00

Today is Monday, April 26, 2010. Saturday rained all day, but Sunday cleared up to be nice. Things were wet for most of the day, seemed to dry out towards late afternoon.

On Sunday we went to Caesars Head Mountain, we weren't able to see to much for the rain and clouds. Not a picture taking day here. Then we went to lunch and then to get groceries. We left the RV about ten that morning and didn't get back until after six. It was a long day to be pinned up in the car.

Sunday night George and I keep hearing this noise that we had never heard before. After about 20 minutes George says I have to find out what that noise is. So off outside he goes. The awning was holding water. Just like the pool cover, if that rain finds a pocket to fill, it will. So he decided to roll the awning up. "We have to remember to put that up when it rains."

Gosh I pity the folks that have to use a laundry mat. Talk about wasted time, at home throw a load in the washer thirty minutes later , hang it on the line and go about your business. Not so with the dryer, you had better be right there when that baby stops or you will be doing loads of ironing. Not to mention the funny smell your clothes have from the dryer. Granny use to tell me that if it is something that you really like , you don't put it into the dryer.

It's Monday, so I had better get the boys up and moving, to get their school done.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Thank You Cindy

2010-04-24T10:22:00.003-04:00

Today is Saturday, April 24, 2010. Another gorgeous day yesterday. However, we woke up to rain this morning.

I was awarded the award by Cindy of Shabby Hag Decor. This award means the world to me coming from someone with the talent that this lady has. She does the most wicked Halloween art! Thank you Cindy you made my week!

So today George is off, they were supposed to work, planning on a trip to Greenville. Going to check on an RV site that Sharon told us about. It's only about ten mile from where George works. Talk about cutting down on his drive time from and hour and a half to 15 minutes.

He said that we were going to some mountain going to take the camera with me and hope that the pictures turn out pretty good. They we have to do the chore of getting groceries. I so dislike that chore. Anyway it should be a good day even if the rain doesn't stop. We will be spending the day together and that's what really matters.

Hope that your weather is good where you are and can enjoy the outdoors.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Thank You All So Much

2010-04-23T05:32:00.003-04:00

Today is Friday, April 23, 2010. It was a gorgeous day yesterday! If it is another day like yesterday, I will get some pictures. Located my camera last night after my brain returned for a brief moment.

I want to thank all of you for the encouragement, it truly made my night last night. With the sites on vacation, there isn't a real pressing need to check my e-mail as often. Last night before we went to bed, I couldn't believe how much love and encouragement I had received. Yesterday was a pretty good day and now I know why. It would have been really hard to have had a bad day with all of the good thoughts that where sent my way. I truly thank each and everyone of you from the bottom of my heart!

After the sun came up I went and did a couple of loads of laundry, made my six loaves of bread, put a roast in the crock pot, moved the picnic table redid the outside to make it work for us, graded the kids school work, and cleaned up the dishes before supper. There was no time to sit and have a pity party. It was a productive day thanks to all of you!

Dacholiday Sharon, I sent you an e-mail last night. I didn't shut off Comcast so we will continue to receive our e-mail. Thanks for the heads up on the RV Park.

mxtodis123 Mary, I never thought about moving or having to change so much so fast. If nothing else, I have learned how truly blessed I am and so very much about myself.

Sherry aka AutumnTurtle Sherry, Doc has never been chained up, I so feel for him. Being human I know what is going on, he on the other hand isn't sure, only knows that this is not his yard and all of this noise makes him batty. I think I am getting some routine to this living or at least knowing a little more than I did a couple of days ago. Love and hugs to you my friend.

Suzie Oh Suzie, after reading your post, I have NOTHING to complain about! I did bring my sewing machine and fabric, working on how or better yet where to set it up. Doc goes on "walks" every couple of hours, and he is not liking someone taking him to do his business. LOL You are so right about having the constant here. No matter what, I will always have my friends here and I thank you for that.

Brenda LaBell Brenda, you a quite a woman to spend four months in an RV! You are so right about the cleaning, doesn't take thirty minutes to run the vacuum, sweep and mop and wipe everything down. Like I told George, the next time we think we need more space or the boys start complaining about something, I am going to tell them load up the RV we are going on a road trip. Doc was funny yesterday when George got home, he talked to him like a child telling on me. And of course George had to say things like I know Doc she is so mean to you, chaining you up like that. Thinking about that wool thing, I could to that outside in a washtub. Just not sure what to do with it from there other than to send it to you. More slippers oh yeah! You are right about getting settled in and a routine.

Halloween Spirit Cindy, thank you so much for honoring me with this award, it means the world to me coming from you! I will post about it tomorrow. Change is not one of my stronger points either.

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Day Two

2010-04-22T07:57:00.003-04:00

Today is Thursday, April 22, 2010. It was a pretty day here yesterday, although still need jacket most of the day. The temperatures at home are in the eighties this week. Here I sit wearing a jacket.

Yesterday taught me a lot about myself. I am truly a creature of habit, I like my neighbors at least 1/2 acre away, I do not like having to sit and be quiet from 3:30 to 6:30 in the morning waiting for the sun to rise, no more than I like Doc on a chain or telling him no, sit and stay. At the top of the list I do not like small spaces.

Poor Doc looks at me like what did I do to be on this chain, there is no pink on his nose, no wag in his tail. He has never been on a chain except for vet visits and those are not often. He has always had his yard to run and protect and now he is chained.

Watching George getting ready for work in the morning is funny, but I wouldn't want it to be me. The whole putting the pants on is a chore. LOL At least he is a guy and doesn't have to worry about hair and trying to put on make-up. Then there is the brushing of teeth, this morning he caught his elbow on the wall. Ouch....

Then of course you have that one guy that knows everything about everyone. We had the pleasure of meeting him last night while having supper. We are sitting at the picnic table having supper and here he comes. He introduced himself and then gave us the run down on everyone that had been here over two weeks. George looked at me and I looked at him in disbelief. There are still people like that in this world. This just blew me away in an RV park. We have one neighbor that is like that at home, but she likes to suck them beers down, so no one believes her stories to much. Of course he doesn't work, he stays in the RV all day while his wife works. I think this guy needs a real day time job. He had to get going, wanted to see what his wife was cooking for dinner. He doesn't want me to meet her, wouldn't be good for him. If he is staying at home all day, he should have already had dinner cooked when she walked through the door. Shame on him.

The sun is up and it looks like it is going to be another pretty day, still have the jacket on, won't come off probably until this afternoon. I do know that this is going to get some real getting use to, but I really wish things would start happening at home again real soon. I think I will do a load of laundry today, I can sit and watch a dryer go round. LOL There are no clothes lines h"allowed" here. Something to be said about owning your own home.

There is supposed to be a seed company here somewhere close by, going to make it my business to find it this weekend. I will start a garden in the back of George's truck. Now that is a thought.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

We Made It To SC

2010-04-21T09:45:00.000-04:00

Today is Wednesday, April 21, 2010. I have no idea what kind of day it will be. It is only 4:30 in the morning, the sun has not yet to rise.

We are now in SC arriving about 10:30 last night. The trip was a good one other than one spot of really bad rain with water standing on the road. We didn't get to leave until about 2 yesterday afternoon, paperwork issues.

It was hard locking up the house to leave knowing that it would be a couple of months before we were “home” again. It was nicer not seeing my husband pulling out of the yard knowing that it would be two to three weeks before I seen him again.

So this morning as I write this in “writer” to copy and paste later, not sure about the internet connection, need a user name and password to get on. So we wait until the office opens to register and figure all of this out.

I sit here not quite sure what it is that I should be doing or what to do. The kids and Doc are still fast asleep, who could blame them. If at home I would throw in a load of laundry, read my blogs and write mine all while on line. This is going to take some real getting use to. Hoping that in a couple of days I will have some sort of a routine down. So for today, I will wing it and hope for the best.

I know that the boys are not going to want to do their schoolwork today, but I am thinking that the faster we get into a routine, the easier it is going to be. Thinking about dinner, just hit me that George just took off with the BBQ in the back of his truck. Dang it, he won't be back until about five this evening, now thinking that dinner will be a little late tonight.

Have to come up with another way for messaging, we used the chalkboard that we use for school. If I had to run somewhere before they were up, I just left a message there for them. Have to think this one out. Not to much room to put to much on the walls in an RV. Then there is Doc who is not really social. He has only been around family and his sister. He is not big on people that he doesn't know and other animals, remember the skunk? So if nothing else, today should be very interesting to say the least.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

First Bonanza Happens Today 20% Off

2010-04-15T00:25:00.003-04:00

Today Thursday, April 15, 2010 will be my FIRST BONANZA that I have ever had. It will be held from 4 - 7 eastern time with 20% off. Because we will be leaving early Monday morning to start our adventure all orders will ship out on Friday with Delivery Confirmation Numbers sent to all buyers.

Even though we will be out of town, I will still have my laptop, just not my product. So I will put my Bonanzle Booth, Etsy Shop and my website on vacation mode until we return. We will be away for at least three months.

I would be thrilled to have you stop in and say hi, have a look around.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

To Comsumed

2010-04-13T23:56:00.004-04:00

Today is Tuesday, April 13, 2010. It was a gorgeous day, bright sunshine with a breeze. This is the first bloom of the year. She is just to gorgeous.

I have been so consumed with doing the RV that I haven't even noticed anything happening in the yard other than the fact that the grass needs to be mowed again. This gorgeous rose had bloomed completely and I hadn't even noticed her until this morning. Then the vine that George had planted last summer along the fence, just look at her!

I am so not happy to be so consumed with something that I don't notice the beauty that has been happening all around me. How can I not have noticed any of it? To be so "busy" not to notice something so wonderful. So tomorrow morning I will get to know my yard and all of the beauty of it with my coffee. I will not be so consumed not to notice again.

Mama came over again today, that is two days in a row. I think she is going to miss her favorite child. She said don't be silly, go and have fun. But, you know, I do think she is really going to miss me. I tried to get her to go with us, but the answer was no. Maybe she will decide to come up after we are there. The place we are going to be staying also has these really cute little cabins. She would so love it, maybe not for three months, but for a few weeks. We shall see....

I was so in a bitchy mood yesterday. Mama said you know what is wrong with you don't you? If I did maybe I wouldn't be in the mood that I am in. It's being inside everyday all day, you need to be outside and you haven't been in almost two weeks. I think it is that I realize that we won't be here for most of the summer and I am really going to miss my pool, garden and flowers, the grandkids, the BBQ's all of it. Mama says, well you can't have it all. LOL I really love her words of wisdom.

Keeping my fingers and everything else that I can cross, that the RV will be done Friday. At least the things that I am responsible for. I refused to do the front brakes, not my job. So maybe this weekend after I get the house really cleaned, I will be able to spend time outdoors.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Thank You Becca

2010-04-13T10:55:00.002-04:00

Thank you Becca! This award truly means a lot coming from you. I received this award from Becca of Magikal Seasons, this award is for art that you think is wonderful. Becca so deserved this award, if you haven't checked out her work, you are truly missing out!

There are so many wonderful artists out there so I will limit my list to five to pass this on to. This list is in NO order.

1. Sonia at Dark Ravens Nest

2. Sherry at Cross Stitching Wiccan Blog

3. Chris at Prim Country Farms

4. Cindy at The Shabby Hag

5. Pam at Yoborobo

Like I said there are sooo many more, but I wanted to limit my list to five. Thank you again Becca!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Not Moving Along Fast Enough

2010-04-08T12:30:00.003-04:00

Today is Thursday, April 8, 2010. It started out to be a beautiful day and then the clouds started rolling in. To think that this Oak tree was naked about a week ago and look at her now! She is going to be beautiful again this year and a wonderful shade tree.

Don't feel like to much got done today. Knowing that one week from tomorrow we need to be all but ready to leave. I guess that tonight it hit me hard that I have really got to kick it up a notch in order to make this happen. It's not like we can leave a couple of days later, he has to be back to work.

So needless to say I am really going to be busy for the next week. The boys seem to know when I need them to get their school work done, they seem to "need help" for the entire day. The past week we have been doing their work after dinner when it is starting to get dark and I can no longer work outside. I am so glad that tomorrow is Friday and I will have two full days to work in the RV.

Me and my bright self have decided to make new curtains too. My to do list is filling up instead of getting checked off. I sure hope that we get the rain that we are supposed to get tonight. There is so much pollen everything is a yellow/green color and the house inside is just as bad from having the windows open. To think I wonder why I can't breath......

I have to tell you something that happened, it was funny after the fact, however not at the time. I went to cut another board yesterday and the blade wasn't in right. I discovered this after the fact. So I grabbed another wood blade and young son said to me while I was changing it, "Show me how to do that, dad and I tried for the longest time and couldn't get it out." Now I know what happened to the blade and who did it. I have been the only one to use it and couldn't figure out what had happened. The older saws have a screw to loosen to remove the blade, the newer ones have a clip that you hold down while changing the blade.

Hoping to finish up all of the wall paper tomorrow and then to work the ceiling and steam clean the carpet and furniture. At least this is the plan, maybe I can teach the boys to use the saw and I can just yell out what I need. It's a thought.....

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Got Some Much Needed Help

2010-04-04T23:01:00.002-04:00

Today is Sunday, April 4, 2010. It has been gorgeous and hot all week! No rain and I am so thankful for that. It is supposed to be another 87 degree day tomorrow. It gets cooler in the evenings in the fifties which is great.

George showed up at the gates about 6:30 Friday evening. It was a wonderful surprise! I can't seem to get through to him that if he doesn't file a flight plan and something happens, who is going to know where to start looking for him and at what point to I start worrying when I don't hear from him.

The things that I was so stressed over are gone. He found the answers to the issues and everything is back on track again. My nerves were shot, he came home and everything just smooths out. He leaves and within two hours the electric is screwing with me again. I don't like messing with electric, at least with gas I can smell it. There is no seeing that electric coming through those wires and they aren't those little wires either.

When he calls me, I explain to him what is or isn't going on. He says here is what you need to do baby. NOT on your life! You call your buddy down the street that likes to play with this stuff for a living and tell him what you want done.

I went out into the shed last week and oh my word! The squirrels have take it over. George isn't going to be happy when he realizes that they have destroyed all of the insulation in one wall. He says he knows that they are in there, but I don't think he noticed the wall.

I still have work to do before we can start loading up the RV but I do think we are going to be able to leave on the 19th as planned. The boys took the cover off of the pool yesterday. Still a little cold for me to get in, but they and their friends had a blast today in it.

So we have 12 more days until he returns again and this trip back we will be going as a family. I hope that everyone have a wonderful Easter!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

Making Head Way

2010-04-01T06:58:00.002-04:00

Today is Thursday, April 1, 2010. This week has turned out to be a gorgeous week and is supposed to stay that way until Saturday, cloudy. I can live with that, today is supposed to be 82 degrees today.

Things are moving along with the RV, not done thinking it will be another week. But I am making progress. The boys came out yesterday and wanted to help. WOW, this was different. Maybe they thought I wasn't moving fast enough for them. Having the help was wonderful.

George won't be home until the 16th and on the 19th is our go date. This is the longest that he has been gone, four weeks. So we are almost half way there.

I changed the boys school work to do in the evenings instead of the mornings. This seems to be working better for them and me too. I have all day to work on the RV and then dinner and school work.

Mama came over yesterday and was sitting outside while I was hanging the laundry. I guess that she never really sat out in the yard here. She thought it was so quiet and peaceful, just us and the critters. This made me start thinking about how we were all going to react to being in an RV park. I don't think there is to much space between each other. Sharing a pool will be another real eye opener, however I won't have to clean it or worry about the chemicals.

We are all looking forward to the new adventure, being together again and doing things we have never done and seen before. But I do think that at the end of a couple of months, we will all be really happy to see home. The yard that will take a couple of days to cut, the pool that will need chemicals and a few days to clear, and a home that will need to be opened and aired out. And life goes on.....

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

A Overwhelming Week

2010-03-26T21:12:00.004-04:00

Today is Friday, March 26, 2010. It was a beautiful day after the rains that came yesterday. I didn't think it was going to stop. Everything is soggy, very soggy. But look at the new rose buds! And to think everybody said she was dead, HA! She was gorgeous last summer and is going to be gorgeous again this season.
With the rain brought the growth of the grass. Got the laundry out on the line, got the kids finished up with their school and then outside I ran. Got the water draining off of the pool cover and thought how bad that grass needed to be cut. So off to get the new mower to see how that baby was going to work. OH she is wonderful, one pull and away we went to cut that soggy mess. It didn't take as long as I thought it would being so wet and wow does it smell good.

I have to say that this last week, I have felt extremely overwhelmed. This is not a feeling that I have, ever. This was something very new to me. I think because of the work that I have done most of my life, I just never felt overwhelmed, just pushed forward. That was that.

However, this has not been the case. Tomorrow I start redoing things in the motor home. I need to get somethings at Lowe's and need to bribe the kid across the street. He has a truck and with George gone, this really sucks. Usually when I needed to go to Lowe's, George would just take the Jeep and leave me the truck. Not now...... I have to really hit it hard to have everything ready to go on the 16th. Maybe this is where this overwhelming feeling is coming from. If it isn't ready by then it will be another week down the road. I know that everything is resting on me to get it done.

On a brighter note, I did get to order some dishes and glasses. I want it set up so that we don't have to "pack" and "unpack" every time we come home or leave. These are the dishes. I really wanted the red ones, but they were out of stock. So we will have the black ones.

Now to get the sheets, towels and pillows. I am sure there are other things that I will think of, like right now I just thought about the first aid kit. And of course the things on the walls that make it home. Have to find a few of the little basket like organizers that go on the inside of your cupboards too. So much to do, however it is dark and after ten, so I am now going to go see how the rest of my blogger buddies have been and what they are up to.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~

New Beginnings

2010-03-21T19:46:00.003-04:00

Today is Sunday, March 21, 2010. It has been raining all day and is supposed to through tomorrow. Yesterday was like a beautiful summer day, seventy-three degrees and sunny! Couldn't ask for a more gorgeous day.

I couldn't have asked for a better weekend! George got home late Thursday night and Friday went to pick up this motor home. After almost six months of trying to buy a place or rent a place, we decided to just be still. There was a reason that things were not happening and it was time to just be still. We were still and in just a matter of two weeks, a friend that he use to work with, has a brother had a motor home he wanted to sell. He was paying storage fees, it belonged to his father in law that had passed a couple of years ago. He just wanted it to be gone.

This is a wonderful answer for us. With George having to contract, if any of you have had to contract or married to someone that has had to, you know that you don't have a clue as to how long a job will last. He is in Greenville, not to far from the coast and summer is coming. The boys are really excited about going on the road. There are some things that I want to redo and those home touches that need to be done but we are all really excited.

So now if this job ends and he has to go somewhere else, no big deal. Just load up and go. Spring has brought this family, new beginnings and for sure lots of new adventures.

Hoping that everyone had a Blessed Ostara!

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today.~Brightest Blessings~

Terrific Giveaway and A Game of Tag

2010-03-17T22:05:00.004-04:00

Today is Wednesday, March 17, 2010. It was another very wet day. Wishing everyone a Happy St. Patrick's Day! With all of this rain, the yard is turning a beautiful green.

Take a look at the beautiful picture! This is an AWESOME giveaway over at the Magical Holiday Artists blog. This is one terrific giveaway! Get on over there and enter to win.

I was tagged by "x" over at Bogaman's Blog in the picture tag. This is something very new or at least very new to me. So here is how it works:

Go to your first photo album and pick the tenth picture, post it, and tell the story behind it.

Tag five other bloggers.This picture I took to show George what the dogs had done to his, yes his Hibiscus tree. This was a beautiful plant that stood about five feet and was just full of flowers. He and I had talked about where he needed to plant it. I tried to explain to him that he can't plant anything that the dogs could get to. Oh no, they are almost three and they are out of the chewing. Okay baby, it's your tree. When I seen what they had done, I almost died. I sent him a before and after picture.

Here are my five tags:

Claire over at Clairedulalune

Brenda over at Wicked Wool Gathering

Becca over at Magikal Seasons

Sherry over at Cross Stitching Wiccan Blog

Suzie over at Cat In The Pumpkin Moon

Things have been a little more than crazy lately. I really don't care for things to be this busy or to be spread so thin. Although I do have some great news that I will share with you this weekend. I talked to George this morning and he will be home Friday. I am thrilled, he shouldn't be home for another week. But this is a good thing and I will share everything with all of my blogger buddies this weekend.

Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live today. ~Brightest Blessings~