Happy Christmas Eve

And so I sit here.........watching out my front windows as the snow whips around in the front yard. It is truly snowing now and the hurricane force winds are just down to West Texas tornado winds. At times, I can't see past my front porch. Is this what they call blizzard conditions? About an hour ago, the winds were calm and we were just watching the snow fall. Now even the now has whitcaps! But, I am sitting here in the comfort of my new home which will be having a covered porch addition added this spring. With a wood burning stove! I don't want to go through ice another year with this porch. So go ahead...forget the whales...for the next year they have plenty of water....forget the elephants...they will have babies and more tusks. Give to Louski back porch fund. There is nothing keeping snow from blowing into my dining room when we open the door. I have to say that I have never been nervous during a "winter weather" warning until now. I have always had a wood burning stove. Hmmm don't have that...BUT I still love the house. I just have to tweek it a bit. My parents are without electricity. Has been out since 7:45 this morning. So, that means that the pigs have NO heat either. So, we may have plenty of bacon, ham and sausage. This is crazy!!! This is TEXAS, not New York! Or wait....has New York moved in? I don't think I would have made a very good "on the prairie person"!
Thank goodness for heaters....the Wii and a television. WE have popcorn made, I have coffee and hot chocolate and we will hopefully find an end to the wind....snow...and my parents will have electricity.

One more for the road?

I need a title for some of my entries. If you have an idea let me know. I thought of Car Musings....Curves in the road.....Point of views to you...or the title for this one. Something like that. It would also have to have numbers after it because I need to number each of those "Great" discussions held in the car when one or both of the kids has "a moment". Like today.
We were picking up one of my last 3 Christmas Gifts at Mardel today. The kids found these Bible cards that are similar to Football Cards, Bella Sara Cards, Baseball cards, and NASCAR cards. I allowed them to each have a package at the price of $.99. What a bargain. Only 3 cards and they have really good educational value to them. On the card are several "did you know" questions about the picture. So M. has one about King Solomon. They were discussing the baby to be cut in half and what a smart guy he was to make that decision. Then the discussion led to the fact that God gave him great wisdom. We all agreed that we would wish for that gift because we all lack true wisdom sometimes. Then M has the next question and the scene went like this:
M: How many wives did King Solomon have?
Me: Over a hundred.
M: Seven hundred to be exact.
K: Wow...he had a mess at Christmas. And that had to be a huge bed!
M: Well, back then they had many wives and they all didn't see the King every day.
K: (quiet which leads to thinking...most of the time) That would mean that he got married everyday for 2 years. Yuck!

And there you have it! Another thought to make you understand the way it really is.

I resemble this photo!

I would love to tell you exactly the minutes and seconds until Christmas, but I only have the number of minutes and seconds until Friday. However, there are 10 days until Christmas Eve.

And, do you wonder why Friday? Go ahead..think that question...because I am going to give you the answer.

On Friday several things happen.....We get out at noon!!! And, at 1PM, I sign my house over to the eager buyer. But, in between now and then......hmmmmm band concert, root canal, orthodontist appointment, moving furniture out of the old house, practice for Sunday's worship, changing schedules, piano lessons, pigs, pigs, and more pigs. So my daughter has so perfectly demonstrated the atmosphere around our house.

I only have 4 more gifts to buy. Oh, but that will get done too.!!!! but the Christmas card have just become New Year's Cards.

Christmas on the prairie

People encouraged me to blog. "Oh, you must blog. People will love it. You will love it." So, I blogged. People encouraged me to do FB. "Oh, you must FB. People will find you; you will love it" so I did FB. Now, people say...."you blog?" Hello, how else do you keep the memories for your kids. Maybe one day I will print all of my posts and make a book for my kids. I will title it "Surviving Mom" or something like that. So I say that to say.....no one may read these things, but I will continue to blog "for the love of the children". Okay, and die hard readers too.
You have read that I have a new house. We love it. Yes, concrete is cold in the morning, but house shoes are the thing for us. My son doesn't have a pair, but he cleans the floor with the socks that he wears around. Anyway, I promised the Lord that IF I got a new house, I would use it for things other than eating, sleeping, yelling at the kids, and cluttering. This past Tuesday, I hosted the "staff (women in the office) party. This weekend, I am helping co-host the shepherding group party. My house was up and ready before Dec. 1st thanks to "the man", my house keeper (Pam), and my friend Diana. Diana is responsible for the tree! Wow, I was just about in tears.

Now, can I confess to you that I have always been in love with entertaining. It is a lot of work. It costs money, but I love it. Instead of china when we married, we received 20 place settings of Christmas dishes. I also got all the service pieces and place mats. I have not used them in the last few years....just because. This week, I not only decorated, but we ate out of the dishes, and they are being used daily. (only after a lecture about the concrete floor and dishes).

So today I want to share a few pictures of my new house with my decorations. I can not tell you how fun, and exciting this is. I have the best Christmas present....a bright, cheerful, new house, with places to park, and decorations. My children come home from school and tell me how happy they are in this house. We had snow yesterday, and my daughter was taking pictures as we drove out to school. I am so thankful that God has given my family this new "undertaking" and we are happy there! It was again another leap of faith that we took.

The walls are not white. They are a sand color. This is the top of the entertainment center.
Top of my beautiful tree!!!

The first is my children's bathroom; the second is my bathroom.

To you they may look bland, but to me.......it is all beautiful and festive.

We are having fun now!!!!

So true...

Sorry, but I had to laugh, cry and agree! The following photo comes with the following thought:

"The only thing children wear out more than shoes are parents! "

There are times that I would almost rather put the board across my back and tell them to get on with it. Someone "will fall off and get hurt, then I can say I told you so." I don't have time for the whining, crying, and "nah-nah-nah-nah - nah" stuff. Hello, there are 4 pigs.....pick two and feed, scoop,water, and walk. Get on with it! Hello, you are the one that undressed in the bathroom, showered without getting a towel to dry off with......cold air on an old wet woman taught me to never forget a towel. You have a long way to go. Hello, You what? dumped the closet out to clean the room and now need to sleep with me because your bed is full? What were you thinking.....I am worn out from just looking in the room. Here's some floor space (which you don't have either) and a blanket that I don't need. Hello, I didn't wear those shoes yesterday so I didn't take them off and misplace them. Excuse me, you signed me up for what? I don't cook!!

However.......I am so thankful that I have two precious children who keep me young but worn out. I may have had them late in life, but life wouldn't be life without them. Love my kids.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!!!

When I was younger....

It has been years (since 1977) that I was part of the 4-H food show. Today I was honored to be a judge for the District Food Show. I really didn't want to do it, but as always, am glad that I did. Really Really glad that I did. I love 4-H. As a thank you, I received a recipe book with all dishes in the district's show. But man, things have changed.
When I was younger.......and in 4-H, the food show was different. Along with the dish, we prepared, we had to include it in a menu for the day and make sure that the daily menu fit the food pyramid as well as the exact amount of daily requirements. We also had to have a place setting that included dishes, utensils, napkins, beverage glass, and "anything that didn't interfere" with the display. The judges came by and asked questions. When they finished the interview, they then asked to be served a portion on a plate furnished by the contestant, and then they judged the taste and texture. The judges were always older women who were scary looking and usually intimidating to young 4-H members who have stayed up all night making their dish which was so complicated that no one else would want to make it.
Now.......the whole thing is the way it should have been. They don't have a place setting equipped with everything you would need for the complete meal. They don't have to hand the judge the recipe.... the 4-H office does this. There are now questions available for the contestants so they can almost plan their "speech". When the judges are finished with the questioning, they are served a portion. Want to know torture? It's all diet food...in other words, you don't gain weight on it because you can't eat it. You can poke it, squish it, smell of it, roll in it, bathe in it, and do anything you want to except eat it! You can not eat it. What is wrong with this picture? AND.....you can wear diamonds and heals, but you must accent your outfit with either gloves or be holding some kind of serving utensil. I had to sit there and judged breads!!! All kinds of breads!! Breads are my weakness! My judging partner and I joked about taking our trash sack and going to the parking lot to eat what we had, with great sadness, placed in the trash..
I told my daughter that next year she could serve cow patties (with icing) and no one would know as long as she knows the food pyramid; the patties are of good texture and are served at the appropriate temperature while she is wearing plastic gloves. It doesn't matter if they taste like poop or chocolate. Just know your business.
And the judges.....they were beautiful, non-scary, wonderful, caring women.

New and exciting things!

Some people get new cars...others get new clothes...some get their Christmas Trees up....and some people have additions to the family. These people get excited. They share their good news with anyone who will listen. I am excited. I want to share my good new with you too. No, it's not a new car......already told you about the new house (photos will come sometime before next summer) and no...I am not getting married or giving birth! (yes, I am excited that the dog is being "fixed" today and no puppies to come) I want to share my news with you..here on my blog. You see, we are excited. We have new pig pens. These are not the best photos. If the "big" was to take pictures, she would stand on a rail and do the "shoot". Well, I am older and wiser and not interested in a fall.
Why are we excited about new pens. Hello, it is just a bunch of metal welded together to hold pigs. Hello, didn't we already have pen? Yes to both thoughts BUT...then pens are the Superman of all pens!!! Let me explain. Instead of opening a sliding door and fighting a pig to keep it in, we slide a door, and there you stand in an "alley" so to speak where you can walk, reach over and feed, fill water tubes, and I can just climb up a little, lean over, and work the heat lamps or fans. There are little gates that open (ever so easily!!!!) so that the kids can let the pigs out to walk them. I mean like let the pigs out one at a time with no pig fighting to get out when they are supposed to stay put. The shavings are thick and the pigs are in "hog heaven". Oh my...life is sooo easy in the pig barn. Well, if someone could keep the stupid hamps from biting us. I hate when these pigs try to eat my shoes.
So, THANK you Donald!!!!! You are awesome. We love our pens and we love you and the family!!! We are so blessed by our "extended" family and support crew! You guys are the best!!!! (Have I used enough exclamation marks?!!!) People have told us what a great "set up" we have, but now we are the "new and improved, ultra modern, go ahead and wish you were a pig of ours pig pens" Thank you Jordan!! Thank you Jeremy ( a friend who showed up to just look at the pigs and ended up shoveling poop, standing in poopie water, and helping set the pens. Thanks Ashley for getting into our lives and bringing so many good things to us by just starting out as a volunteer for BBBS.
Of course, I can't leave out my dad and "the man". Dad does struggle with turning the barns over completely. Rightly so when he paid for 99.9% of it. Okay, all of it "The man" keeps everything in working order (including me when my attitude gets out of whack). Together these two guys have been the "hands" that don't get a hand very often.
Our church is always striving to be a "Front porch community". Come sit on my front porch. You may smell pig poo, but you will find tons of love, support and family! We promise that.

K. taking care of pipsqueak..aka peanut and Marylin (for her figure) You can almost see Sally's nose.

One of the hamps (Daisey) waiting for my muck boot!!! Look at that gate! There is a panel running between the two watering tubes (white things) that separates both pigs. Then, there is another gate for Piper the pig.

Another grand commercial

And so today we are returning from an afternoon of shopping. Just the 3 of us. We held hands, looked at things we liked but didn't want to spend the money on, bought some things that we all liked, and just had fun. Even the son was a great shopper today. And so after a brief stop at our favorite "happy hour" location, we sing at the top of our lungs as we head home.
It went like this.

Daughter: "I hate this commercial"
Son: "Me too. I am tired of them asking 'do you have a problem urinating' "
Silence...for about 5 seconds....you know he isn't quiet
Son: " I know what a prostate is"
Daughter: "Isn't that a man thing?"
Son: "Yes. It is a valve thing that men have. You can get really bad cancer there too. Yep, it's a valve in guys"
Daughter: "Mom, Really?"
silence.....
Mom: "He's a guy...he knows..... I guess."

I should be listening to Christian Music more. We do..sometimes. BUT....those stations don't necessarily lead me into the wonderful family discussions like we have had this week. I think that I love the spontaneity of it all. None of that.. "I would like to call this family meeting so that we can discuss condoms or prostates"
Bring it on. If I can't answer it, we'll call Uncle Timmy or Aunt Traci.

Love these moments in life.

Come on…admit it. You too have those moments where you wonder “No way. I didn’t see or hear that!” If you are over the age of 6 months, you are have probably stood there with your mouth wide open. Love those moments. Don’t you!!

This morning was one of those moments. I could see me with the title “You are becoming your mother” written across my forehead. My daughter and I were driving to school (son was already dropped of at school) and we are sitting and enjoying the quiet. (If you have ever been in the car with my son, you understand the peace and quiet of the car motor and a radio) As we cruise through the school zone, I pick up on a commercial. I wasn’t sure that it was a real commercial, and if it was, I wasn’t sure I was hearing things correctly. At this point, my mom would have turned off the radio which would lead to “Why did you do that?” and then a long explanation. But unlike mom, I keep listening. I wish I could tell you everything that was said during the commercial, but I was in shock…more so when they brought up the word Trojan. Then they talked about the joys…and delight and “almost like not wearing one” and music that was sexy and then like rockets going off and then…well, my mouth is on the steering wheel. Of course, the daughter says “Mom, what is the matter?” I go right ahead and take the bull by the horns. And the discussion ends with:

Mom: “That was an ad for condoms.”

Quiet and questioning looks from daughter

Mom: “Do you know what a condom is?”

Quiet and a shaking of the head with a positive motion.

Daughter: “Like panties and bras or do you mean like ketchup and mustard on a hot dog.”

Quiet and suppressed laughter from mom. (the devious side of me wanted to run with that whole statement….the good mommy side won.)

Mom: “No, those are condiments. Condoms, the kind a young man puts on his p**** (yes I used appropriate terms) to protect a girl from getting pregnant. Of course, they can have holes and you could still get pregnant. They can come off without warning and you can get pregnant. They are not reliable. Staying away from sex before marriage is the only safe way.” I could have turned the radio off. Instead, I found one more way to enjoy the trip to school along the same road, past the same houses, and getting my point in one more time.

Mom was where?

Question of the day: Where was her mother?
Answer: In the pig barn taking care of a pig with an ear infection.
What’s the problem with that? Her daughter “blossomed” at home while mom was in the barn taking care of the pigs, and the only person at the house was not her mother, not her grandmother, nor her aunt, BUT at this all important time …..the housekeeper! Who lovingly told her that "this" is how you will someday have the privilege of being a grandmother.

Question #2 of the day: What did you buy this weekend at the Christmas show?
Answer: Since the guilt of not being at the right place and time for the daughter was getting the best of this mother, I bought the new shaving kit that contains no razor, a "circle on; circle off" method that doesn’t pull out hair, and lasts longer than the average razor. Only, mom once again stepped out of the house and returns to find the daughter with smooth clean hairless legs. Once again….not there for a first.

So to prevent me from missing anymore excitement this weekend, I slept in her room with her!!!! Okay, only because we had company and I gave my room to dear couple who deserved it.

Because I am a working mother, I have missed her very..very first step, and her very, very first solid foods. Not to mention, her first tooth falling out.

Just so you know…I plan to be there for all/many of the “firsts” in her life. Well, I do promise, however, that I will not go on her honeymoon with her. I think I will find a pig with an ear infection!

If He planted me then I must bloom

Life is interesting. I probably say that a zillion times a day and usually I mean it!!! The past two weeks have been no exception. And truly I don't really know where to start. I had my week planned. Going to volleyball games, getting a retainer on my bottom teeth (what was I thinking?), feeding pigs, buying groceries (we are out of lunch meat) , paying someone else to clean the house, and just sitting at work getting paperwork done. But you see, I didn't figure in God's set of plans for me. Plans that I forget He has for me. Plans for me to prosper (not always financially) in the location He has planted me. And this week.....the plans He made were not ones I really wanted to be in, but found that it was after all a blessing to be there. Funny how He does that. I think I once blogged about the fact that you should never tell God your plans.
I reminded a friend of mine just this past weekend that I really wasn't thinking about being one of the counselors in our district. I told her the story of the sermon about taking the leap that God wants you to take. Trust....and I did. And so....here I am in the second year of this job; loving it, yet thinking how cool it would be to do the reading class that will begin next year. Could I please do both? God's reply was a student sobbing hysterically at my office door. I took her into my office, shut the door, and turned to ask the counselor's question, "What is happening that has you so upset?" But, before I can do that she says, "My granddad died this weekend." I am thinking....granddad....70 plus years old...has been ill for some time. Only I discover that her grandfather is a year older than I am. She didn't get to see her grandad much even though he lived in town, but when she did see him, it was way fun. And then, she begins to tell me about the accident. My heart begins to hurt as I very quickly realize that her grandfather was someone I had been grieving for over the weekend. I don't know protocol, but I don't think that matters deep inside. You see, her grandfather was my "main squeeze" in high school. I didn't tell her that in those words. I put a smile on my face and said, "I loved your grandfather. My family loved your grandfather, and I can name a bunch of others who loved your grandfather." I told her about us passing notes in Spanish class. About the night of the band banquet...the purple dress mom and I made, and he showed up with long hair after promising to get a haircut. My mom would not let allow me to go in a beautiful dress with a guy who couldn't see the dress for his long hair........solution....she cut his hair and we left for the banquet. I told her about the band trips and him being first chair in the percussion section. I told her stories about his job, our nicknames, and our friendship even after we graduated. The tears stopped, a smile returned, and for me.....I felt the roots grow deeper in the ground where God had planted me! I am where I am supposed to be. What an honor to be in this place at this time. I am glad that I was able to honor my friend from school by bringing a smile to his granddaughter's face. How cool is it that I have been at this desk almost 2 years, and God showed me in His time how important this job would be .....for a teenager.....for a 50 year old counselor. My heart is sad for the loss, but glad for the happiness found in some stories that only I could have told.
I am blooming....in October !

The good, the bad and the fun of October

What, almost a month from the last post? Where has time gone? What have we been doing?
Well, we went to the Texas State Fair. We didn't fair well with our pigs. They had no butt! The judge was all about big butted pigs. Well, the kids could have put me in the arena and shown me. I would have won grand champion. Oh...forgot it was for barrows only...well, some of them have sagging boobs too, so I still had a chance.
We also bought 4 new piggies. We have pipsqueak (aka...peanut..and Marylin(by my grandmother who says she has a Monroe figure). We have Sally, Daisy and Piper. We love these pigs. I must say that when Jordan is spending someone's money, he does very well!!!!
What else have we done? We have played the "Mother like Daughter and Daughter like Mother" game. Do you want to play too? That answer is NO! Reread the last post....Miss thang fell and busted out teeth. So....Tuesday, I followed her lead. Only it was raining and I had walked across the parking lot probably picking up some oil. Walked into the school and went down face first. Left my lipstick on two tiles! Talk about hurt the next day. I am surprised that I didn't bust my nose any worse. The worst part....all of the 8th grade boys standing there looking at me. Of course, Miss thang was standing there just staring. Hello? I have fallen and I can't heal my pride!
The best part about the last 20 plus days.......Tonight our family celebrated My daughter's 12th birthday. I can't believe that 12 years ago I thought that I was giving birth to an elephant! And out popped this precious little angel. She is still a little angel, and as determined as an elephant. No, really, tonight was wonderful. Our entire family (minus Frank and Uncle Truck) came. Mom and Dad served lasagna, salad, and bread sticks. After dinner, we all gave M. a blessing. I was so impressed with the family. Wow, wonderful blessings poured upon her. It was a moment that took all of us out of our comfort zone. But it was the greatest. Kelly's family....my family and our love for M. I thought that God did a great job pulling it all together. We will probably have pictures for you later. Someone in the family will make a scrapbook.
Sunday? She leaves for a concert in Dallas with Suzie and Nikki. More on that when she returns.

As many of you who read facebook know, we have had "the flu" at our house. Bless her heart it for the moment has only hit Miss M. but hit her it did. No matter how bad the flu has been, the lesson learned during its visit in our house was a tough and not so good one.
If you remember, last spring, M fainted one morning getting ready for school. The Dr. said that it has to do with "bathroom" issues. Just leave it at that! Anyway, things have been great...up until yesterday. She started the flu medication on Mon. afternoon. Things were rocking well, she got up on Tues. morning and headed to the bathroom. She sat her bottom down, and even said to me "My tummy hurts" Now begins the lesson: She does this to me about 3 or more times a month...and no, we have not had the "change" yet. I asked her if she wanted some gum to chew but no she wanted water. Got the water then she decided to get gum. I turn to do so and she says "Please stay with me". BUT.....like the little boy who cried wolf, I ignored and walked out to get the gum. With one foot out the door, I heard water hit the floor only to find my daugher face down on the floor...cement floor. Do you realize that we are now wearing braces?
I will not go into the rest of the details, but it does include a trip to an oral surgeon and possibly more and more visits to dentists. Bless her heart, her nose is swollen, lips cut and my heart broken. I have been told we will look back on this and laugh....maybe when she is a mom, but not anytime soon.
The lesson learned..............don't cry wolf .......my lesson learned.........until they are old enough to understand that lesson, listen to your children. The hurt and guilt I have when I look at her face is pretty heavy.
We have been through worse together. We have survived...........We are okay. We just don't like the college of "Hard Knocks". That degree is worth alot, but the course it tough and often not fun.

And who said this?

"Have you ever thought that life is a car wash, and you're on a bike?"

Not my child! My child didn't say this. What is funny is that it is one of our ministers! So..since my son has this sense of humor does that mean he will not grow up clearing trees off the county fence lines but instead be a minister? I can live with that!

50 words won't do it!

I have many friends. I have some that are just those you enjoy being with, but have no serious deep seeded relationship with. I have some who I take in doses. Then I have some who have been there in thick and thin (my life as well as the shape of my body!). But I have one friend who has been my friend from Middle School. She never changes. She is the same today as she was when we met. She has traveled many roads with me and I have traveled many roads with her. She loves me unconditionally! She is one of my two friends (of course I have more than 2 friends) who has seen me at my very worst!! I mean....worst! The thing about her is that it (life, discussions, anything) is never about her. She always wants me to be important. (Stop and think...for those of you that know me...really know me......a lot of the time I seem to think that it IS all about me!). She is never about herself. She is uncomfortable being the center of attention. She is a wonderful supporting mom and dedicated wife! What a great daughter, grand-daughter and niece to her family.
Today she turns 50. It is ALL about her today. So, Suzi....today is your day. I love you dearly. You deserve the best 50th birthday ever. I wanted to write this post in only 50 words. But, 50 words won't do it. So.........you are the center of my blog today.
And I think I am on text #9. Only 41 to go!
Wish her a happy birthday You can leave it here. She checks my post daily!!! Probably hourly today!

Who said it this time?

Conversation at the house last night....before storm.

Me: "You are on my last nerve!"
Child: "About how long is that nerve?"

And NO, I didn't laugh. My final answer: "Not long enough for you to find shelter!"

It hangs from a truck?

We are always trying to be honest with my children. I have a rough time with my son who loves to be the comedian. As you know, sometimes that type of person also has a way of stretching the truth. So, "the man" and I try to tell the truth or be honest and open about the questions that come our way. I would rather be the one to tell my kids about something than some ding dong at school.
The other day, Tony had been to the dentist to have some work done. He was explaining that the little thing hanging in his throat was swollen from snoring the previous night. We continued to discuss the appropriate word for it...which starts with the letter "u". Discussion over. BUT...we are sitting in line at our favorite fast food restaurant and my daughter says: " Hey, look, that guys "u....la" is hanging down from his truck!" I about spewed my diet coke! The man could not quit laughing, and the kids were clueless. Tony gathered his thoughts and explained to her that the pink things hanging from the trailer hitch were not the "u....la", but a set of fake balls from a bull. Now she spewed her coke, then could not quit laughing.

Back to the office

So, How did you start the first day of school? All I can say is........I locked us out of the house and car at 7:25AM! Hello...we don't live around the block from the school any longer. I actually have to drive more than two minutes.
How did you end the first day of school? All I can say is.........I locked myself out of the building!
How was the day in between the beginning and the middle? Wonderful. Of course, I was more the mom than the "administration". I had to find ways to check on my daughter. She enjoyed the first day of Middle School.
What did you do to prepare for the first day of school? I cried. For 3 days prior to the arrival of the date.My baby started Middle School. She is growing up. I am certain that God allowed her daddy to watch this precious child start the new phase of life. I am sure that he was one of the angels that surrounded her throughout the day. I just wish he had been here to take her to school, hear her stories about the teachers, sign the 18 papers, see the flowers she got, and see her smile. I did get to share in all of it and it was wonderful.
As for the baby of the family? Well, he didn't get a mark on his conduct card so he was jumping for joy! In his new shoes.

Putting it into money talk

Ok, call me silly, call me strange......don't call me! I was sitting here minding my own business when suddenly that little "I wonder ..." bug appeared on my shoulder. He wasn't encouraging me to cheat on taxes, drink more than a glass of wine, lie about my hair color, or run through the streets like David of the Bible did one time. He simply asked me: "how much money would you have today IF your parents had put one penny, one nickel, one dime, and one quarter in a jar every day of my life?" Something so simple to have done. Something that would not have placed us in poverty. And the answer........for my 50th birthday, they would have handed me $12,045.00.
Wow! Of course if it had all been in change, AND I would have taken it to the coin machine at the bank, I would have needed my little red wagon to get it there, and then the machine would have jammed several times, spit out some of the coins, then croaked when it realized the amount. It would have probably taken about .....50 minutes! BUT......hey that would have been worth every day of my life! Wow, turning 50 doesn't look so bad when it was calculated into money! So, I guess I should start putting $.50 a day in a container for one child, and then the same in another. If my kids took charge then they would be worth that much later down the line. Of course...........who would keep us from borrowing from the "till" when we needed to get the car washed or a soda at Sonic happy hour?

From Grass Skirts to Grass burrs

Oh my.......I could live in Hawaii! What an awesome trip. Ooops..did I tell you I was going to Hawaii with a group of girls from college? I am not a fan of flying, but with Nita (whose husband is a pilot) sitting in the seat beside me reminding me that all the noises and bumps were normal, I survived. Well, the "calm tabs" helped some along with lots of prayers. After about an hour in the plane, I was fine. Didn't bother me at all! I even went to the restroom on the plane....3 times and didn't get flushed down!
Our hotel was on Waikiki Beach and we had a 3rd floor room with a glimpse of the ocean. The beach was beautiful. If you ask me to tell you my favorite part of the trip it would have to be the fact that it was a success! Six women who are totally different survived a week together with not a rough moment. Well, none that I know of! It was just great to get away. Great to see places I had only dreamed of seeing. Great to swim with fish and turtles. Great to meet people that God placed in our paths for the whole week. Yes I have a tan! So...here is the list of things other than the "Must See History" to do in Hawaii.

1. Rent an umbrella on the beach and stay the whole day. Order a drink at the bar then come back to the umbrella. No liquor on the beach!
2. Have a massage on the beach! Lizards included for free.
3. Meet the "locals". They know the best way to get somewhere, the best places to eat, and the best things to do.
4. Eat shrimp out of the shrimp trucks on the North Shore. Oh my stars!!!!
5. Eat a REAL Hawaiian snow cone. It includes vanilla ice cream! Oh my stars!!! Glad #4 and #5 were only available on the North Shore. You can eat at the ABC store and save money!
6. Rent a car for the most of the time. BUT....experience the transit system at least once. I can tell you all about a lady's kitchen including the location of her microwave, and what she and "Bob" are doing for the next few weeks. Whoever "Bob" is.
7. Do the Polynesian Culture Center! It was great, and I wish that we would have been there longer.
8. Eat fresh fruit until you become one. I ate the fresh coconut like it was candy. I even bought a coconut at a roadside stand. They "shucked" it, popped a hole in it, and then drank the juice...not the milk. Milk is totally different.
9. Go on an outrigger boat! I originally planned to try surfing, but never saw anyone over the age of 30 take a lesson so we did the outrigger boat. It is the closest to surfing I got. What a thrill.
10. Don't let money be a problem for one week in your life! It was worth every penny I bought. We were there during the monthly arts festival. The majority of my souvenirs were made by the locals.

The worst part? Having to come home after being in charge of no one but me! I was Queen of my life for a week. And so........I left the grass skirts to come hoe up grass burrs. In Hawaii I would close my eyes and see the ocean. Now I close my eyes and see clumps of grass burs. We own slippers at my house. The rule is "Take your shoes off at the door". I am living in the new house (with its little quirks), but have tons (did I say tons!) of stuff (you know that is the nice word for all I have accumulated over the years) to sort through and pack.

All in all................great summer. Fast summer.....busy summer........expensive summer...but a terrific summer. Back to work daily so that I can hoe grass burrs at night.

Yes, it is true! And I didn't throw up!

I woke this morning wondering what I had done! I had to pinch myself to make sure I was really here, and actually on a new road in life. I also realized that I have the task of telling my Grandmother! Of course I have to be the one to tell her, so the family is sworn to secrecy. Wow.....35 minutes and it was done. We signed on the dotted line and that was all she wrote! Isn't it amazing how a few minutes, some ink and a few other exchanges can change your course of life. So now, we begin the job of combining two houses into one. I have made another commitment! This one will groan at times, frustrate me at times, cost me money, cause me more work and make me smile. I am so excited to introduce the newest member of our family:

This was such a God thing. I was looking into another house (remember the 2x4 post?). While looking at the other home, this cute home became available. I looked at it and decided that I really wanted the larger home. I was certain it was NOT supposed to be when the owners called and said they weren't moving and so there was no house to sell. I was still holding out for the original desire of my heart house. A few weeks later, it became apparent that I could not afford the other house either and with many tears, I threw my hands into the air and yelled "calf rope". My parents encouraged me to start looking at plans and were going to give me the acre next to them to build. So, I picked some plans; Dad got rid of some trees, and I talked to a builder. The week school was turned out, the owners of this house called and informed me they were having to move and for me to make them an offer. I looked again and fell in love. Really fell in love with the house and the view. We did the back and forth thing only once and settled on a price definately in my range! This included all the appliances! All of them. However, God didn't stop there. The brand new furniture (bought in Oct. and April) didn't fit in their new home which is smaller but has a pool/patio. So, they offered me the furnishings in the living and kitchen area. I love her furniture...well, now mine. BUT...God didn't stop there. He was determined to prove this was meant to be. While in South Dakota, my sister and I decided to drive over to Marlis's (6 miles by car) and visit. We walked in the door, and the phone rang. Mom called to say that the bank needed me! I was sick! The problem? The appraisal came in lower than the purchase price. Realize that I have to either go to Marlis's or drive into town(45 min.) to use a phone. The couple I bought from is the nicest! We have worked so well together. The bank ran it through so we could close before Hawaii!

It is three years old and about 60 sq. feet larger than the house I have, but it's way wonderful. It comes with acreage and a water well that will hopefully be repaired soon. That red front door has a glass Texas star in it! The garage is detached but insulated, has windows, air, and is ready to turn into a family room at any time. The patio is HUGE and mostly covered.

God knew what I needed. He once again took His time and slammed some doors to get me there. Once I settled down, He even blessed me with more and more surprises. I am certain He already knows who will buy the house I am sitting in right now. And He knows that it has to be someone who will love it like I have.

I am leaving you hanging!

Today is a very exciting day. I think. I mean it is, but it's just that is relates to some emotions that I have had on rare occasions. Those emotions were on days like: the day I bought my first car; the day I bought my house; the day I got married; the times I found out that I was pregnant; and the day I went into labor; the day I let Kelly go home. You know that feeling (like my friend Sarah wrote about).... you think that you want to throw up, but you hate throwing up, and if you did, who would clean it up? It is the "Oh my goodness, what am I doing?" "Is this the right choice?" Those emotions that really mess with you until you see you will be okay.
I am, in my heart of hearts and brain that sometimes functions, certain this is a God thing. This is what He wants me to do. I am, in my heart of hearts, certain that Kelly would approve and applaud. The kids are excited; I am excited; Aunt Traci and Uncle T are excited; My dad is suppressing his excitement according to my mom. The pigs are probably excited! Who knows. Yes, the T man is very excited.
So, when I finish posting the blog spot, I am going to get in the shower then dress in something not covered in pig slop and sweat. I will then walk nervously into the office. Tonight we will celebrate. Tomorrow I will wake up and wonder what the heck I have done...go feed pigs....and then begin packing for Hawaii. Shoot, this makes the Black Hole at Hurricane harbor look like a kiddie slide.
Sorry I am not revealing the rest of the story. Don't want advice...Don't want nerves any worse than I have them.......Don't want to jinks anything. Of course I believe that it is a God thing so it will be right!
Hopefully pictures are coming in the next few days. Anybody curious?

Where have I been?

You have probably been wondering if I was rendered unconscious by the 2x4 and the answer if NO!!! I have been in another frame of mind. Doors have closed and doors have opened. God is good. I just wish he would turn off the heaters and get some cooler air here.
So...where have I been? Those of you who are friends with my sister know that we have made the "trek" to South Dakota this past week. We left on July 2nd, and returned on the 11th. Usually I gripe about something so here is my gripe. I HATE grasshoppers, but stood firm in my belief that they are just trying to get away from me and are confused as to how to get around this body of mine so they just land on me. Walking through the grass was like walking through a field of feathers. Grasshoppers hopping every where. What did I love?
1. I loved the weather. Never over 85 and at least 2 days of wearing sweats. Rain..Rain on the roof, rain on the porch...rain and cool weather. Grasshoppers stay down when the temp goes down.
2. Time with my friend Marlis. She asked us to help entertain at the Rest Home in Phillip. We had a great time........if you can call it that. Kelly's grandmother lives there so we got to see her. When we sang Amazing Grace, I noticed that she sang along on the first verse. As we were finishing the last verse, I had Marlis return to the first verse so Grandma Helen could sing along with us. Yep, I had a tear or two. Then I went to pay taxes on the land, and my precious daughter decided to stay and visit with family. I was proud of her! My kids are soooo good.
3. Visiting the church in Pierre (pronounced like the pier you walk on, not a French poodle). The people there are wonderful! My heart was saddened to find one of my "older friends" in the beginning stages of Alzheimer's. Of course...the Mexican food after church was unbelievable. We also have the privilege of leaving Pierre at 4 and getting home at 4!
4. The air..........it is such a different smell up there. The air is sweet this year.
5. The walks in the evening. We found a bird nest in the middle of the 1/2 mile driveway. She had them camofloged very well. We collected rocks and of course...lots of grasshoppers.
6. I loved watching my son learn to drive his granddad's/dad's John Deer tractor. I have the stages on video. K. in front with Papaw....Papaw standing on back while K drives. K driving and Papaw sitting on the bumper of the car saying..."you can do this just remember what I told you". We also enjoyed K's imitation of calling a turtle. You will have to see that one sometime.
7. Miss thing was just fun!!! She is quite the young lady. She and Grammie worked on building her little church out of pine cones and Popsicle sticks.
8. Memories. Memories and more Memories. We traveled to Wall Drug for our usual. Donuts and coffee. We traveled to Mt. Rushmore. Stopped along the way to drive through Bear Country USA. It was fun. BUT while these memories were being made, others were running their course through my mind. I remember the first time I saw the Black Hills. I remember how excited Kelly was and the picnic lunch we took. I remembered being scared he would leave me there IF he changed his mind and decided he didn't really like me. Those are the things that will never change, and I hope and pray that God will let me NEVER forget them!
Now, enjoy this post because the next one will be in a few weeks. When I return from Hawaii!!!

Okay, Lord....I don't need the 2 X 4!

Many of you know that I have been wanting to move from my present location (home) to a place next to my parents. That situation didn't pan out due to the fact that I had to sell my house first. At one time I had someone interested, but she didn't qualify. After discovering what she did qualify for, she decided not to rent, but to begin the search for a house in that price range. I had to say no to the house I was interested in because..........$2,400.00 a month until my house sells was steep for me, the counselor..mom...pig farmer. Although by looking at my body, you would think that bread and water WOULD be good diet for me, if I did dish out that money, I hate to tell you that my son would get tired of popcorn, and my daughter tired of lettuce.
So. Door number one closes.
In the last 4 days, door number two opens. A friend's son and his wife are moving here, and would like to rent now then possibly buy. My house is the perfect house for a young couple. It is just the right size, big back yard, right payments, and has been redecorated in the last 3 years. We all agree that when the "kids" got to town this weekend they would come to see the house and make a decision. At this point, I get the house plans out of the vault and just prepare to build. Line up the plumbers, heating/air, brickers( which is not a word in the spellcheck)and the builder. I have the land so let's see what happens. When I had not heard from my friends by 6PM, I decide they are not coming in tonight and I just went with the flow. Tony goes to get peppers and chicken so we could grill out. I go out to the "suburbs" to get my son, and visit with his friend's parents. I leave my cell phone in the car because I am not joined at the ear to it. But, Little did I know that while I was there, the "kids" had arrived, Tony was cooking at the house; my neighbor was in there to eat with us, and although I had cleaned, there were a few things not finished that.....well, would not be finished because they are standing in my house taking a tour. Tony was doing his best to show off the house when suddenly the sounds of sirens filled the living room. After checking the porch for fire from the grill, they step out to see 5 police cars, a fire truck and an ambulance pull up next to my fence. They(officials) rush to the apartment complex, and soon 3 are taken out in cuffs. This precious, well-protected, from a well-to-do family had a major shell-shock moment and soooo.....door number 2 closed before the first police car drove off.
At this point I feel like I must tell the Lord that I get it! I don't need him to take out a 2 X 4 and hit me in the head for a third time. I will sit and wait upon Him and his time. I have a roof over my head, food on the table, two wonderful kids (one of whom lost her glasses and is getting braces), a good job, wonderful neighbors, a new puppy and 3 new pigs arriving on Monday evening. And....only 3 more days of school!

Where was my brain?

For the last year or MORE, my son has been "hounding" me for a puppy I have said NO, No way, Not today, The Budget doesn't allow it, you are not responsible enough, NO, Not this year, When you are ten, and when your room is clean. I thought I covered the bases. Obviously that doesn't stop the begging and tears so I found a sure fireproof way of making sure he didn't get a dog. I told him when he got $100.00 I would let him have a dog. Now, you must understand that my son does NOT save money! He is all about buying new "whatevers" of whatever is on his "collection" list. One month it is "trading cards"; the next month it is race cars (that would be this month's "blue light special).
Let me show you what you get when you have a clean room and $100.00 in your pocket.

Her name is Maggie. She is 11 weeks and a full -blood Miniature Australian Shepard

Where was my brain? They say she herds pigs! I think she herds families too. We seem to jump when she barks.

And today's question is...

One of my birthing experiences asked me last night when going to bed: "Mom, do you burn calories when you fart?"
My answer to that is, "If we did, you two would be nothing but a 'leaver'! " ( a leaver is the lines of steam coming from hot foods/drinks...because.......duh.....it is leaving!)
Nough said!

Not the cool "ride"

My friend Sarah wrote an article about the joys of school traffic. The where you can park, where you can't park and why it is dangerous to the health and social stamina of our children if we don't follow the school rules for "dropping off and picking up". I love that family. Sometimes I wonder if she is watching and writing about my family.
A few weeks ago (during TAKS testing of course), we were on one of our "up and running ahead of the clock" days. You know those....far and few in between, and mean the world to you when they happen! All bodies safely loaded in the car with our happy attitudes and smiles. we begin backing out. We live on a very busy corner during the "drop off" and "pick up" hours of school, and I was trying to back out of the driveway without saying things I would wash out mouths for. I am turning my head this way and that way when Kauy says...."Wow mom, did you see that motocycle. Some kid got a real cool ride to school!" It was soon followed by, "Man, did you see that eighteen wheeler go by? Wasn't that cool!" I agreed to all statements and finally found a moment to shoot out the driveway into the caravan. We turn the corner in time to see the student getting off the motorcycle, and the dad unloading his two children out of the 18-wheeler. After a few: Wow's and Oh's from my son, he sweetly says, "hey, mom, just pull way up to that other corner and let us out of the car!"
I am sure he was just trying to save me some time, but it made me laugh, and I SO wanted to tell him that if he thought those forms of school transportation were cool, I would be glad to hitch up the horse and wagon.

Mother's Day 2009

Can you believe it? I remembered my password to open up this sight so that I could once again in all my goofiness impart "life" to you. Not like you have "life" of your own to deal with. And if you don't have "life" to deal with then.....how in the heck are you reading this?
Before I really get into what I have had running through my brain, I do want to recognize a few people who were thought of on Mother's Day.

#1 Mother Ray....my little Great-Grandmother who was the Rock of the family. We all (the women of our family) have a little of her in us. My sis probably got the most of her!
#2 Mama Becky......If it weren't for her there would be no Suzie in my life. I sang/testified (don't tell the CofC brethren) with my friends at a gathering on Tuesday. There in my mind was Suzie cleaning out the fridge during my darkest moments. I so want my daughter to have a Suzie and Becky in her life, so please pray that she will find them.
#3 Kelly.......he made me a mommy! I may not be the best at the growing, but he was the best at the planting!!! Did I say that? And since he was not here, I went to his mom and told her thanks for making me a mom. Without her I would not have had him.

Speaking of the men in our lives (or not), that brings me to the "told you so" moment I was able to experience this weekend. You have been down the very road I am speaking of. The moment you purchase something and the man in your life says "What are you going to use that for?". Now, you have no clue when you will use it. Not sure you know what you will use it for, but you are certain beyond a doubt that it has your name on it and was yelling "pick me, Trina. Oh, pick me!!!" I recently (like January...recently...you know how time runs together when you are 50!)..any way I picked up this item because.....I might need it one day. It was on 1/2 off, and it matched my office and my house. Of course we have moved it in the garage several times because it had to sit in front of the electrical outlet.

Every time I moved it over, I groaned at the fact I could have purchased a 1/4 tank of gas to move me around with instead of moving this. BUT...Mother's Day proved that I made the correct purchase, and it is no longer begin moved around. It sits proudly in my office displaying my Mother's Day gift:
Told you I would use it.(please in your mind insert the smiley face with the tounge sticking out and "the look" in the eyes!) Isn't that a great picture? So that was the "errand"!!!! I was sooooo surprised when they gave it to me. Oh my..they kept a secret from me. It should probably scare me that they succeeded at the hush hush, and for an 8 yr. old who NEVER stops talking....that is a miracle. Kauy's "big" had my mom bring the kids to a park and she took several pictures. They didn't get dressed up. Kauy didn't even wash his face. The hair was like it is every afternoon. I love IT!!!! It is perfect!!! Thanks Ashley and Jordan! and MOM!
The roses in the vase are from my "adopted" daughter. Aren't they beautiful!!! She had them shipped by ProFlowers. Thanks Kayla!
The purple flower......well, Kauy made it. It is actually a pen and sits in a votive holder filled with black beans. He made me promise not to cook them because he knows I am all into black beans lately!
Yes, I had a great Mother's Day. It was time with family! It was great food! Beautiful weather! With my mom, my grandmother, my aunt, my cousins, my sister and it was "life". Our everyday, put your britches on and get going, everyday life. And I loved it.
Who wouldn't....God made it!

Oh...and my son told me he would dress nicely for Mother's Day...as long as he DIDN'T have to match. I think he was successful!

As soon as the photos arrive...I will show you Makaley's Gift. To other mothers! Stay tuned

Just tooling...

I could have said "just tooting" or just "trouping" along....any of those would have probably worked. BUT.......I am just tooling along. The kids are just tooling along. The family is just tooling along, and I love it that we are tooling along! If you think my posts are far and few between, check out my sister! Talk about slow...and she isn't 50 yet. Let me just tell you a few of the reasons that I am NOT up to writing some wonderfully, inspiring, thoughts for you lately.

#1. TAKS testing...

#2. TELPAS testing...

#3. LAT testing...

#4. GT testing....

#5. Retesting for those that didn't test well the first time.

#6. Testing my nerves and my ability to actually account for everything!!! I took this job and thought the first week was difficult. Hello, they warned me to enjoy it! They(the ever present third group) told me that even when it was slow and I thought I might have a spare moment, that I should inhale the fresh air, enjoy the moments of "thoughtlessness" and smile. Now I am smiling because I am squeezing my rear-end so tightly that the little creases in my mouth make me look like I wear a smile! And so, the picture above is me....waiting for the testing truck to run on over me!

Have a great weekend....And Suzie...I think you have 19 weeks left.

I have arrived !!

Okay, I am there.............I hit the big 5-0 and nothing grand happened. I must say that turning 30 was wonderful, turning 40 was just as fun, so.........I am sure that the 50's will be just as exciting. You are only as old as you want to be, and by the age of my children, I will be at least 40 for a while. I do have pictures that I will someday add to this spot so you can see where I spent my 50th.

Who is counting?

Well, I am not counting but someone is!!! Let me give you a sneak peak for you young whipper-snappers out there about turning 50!!
1. Some of your friends will never mention it....others won't let you forget that you are now at the "down side" of the hill as far as age is concerned. I promise you there are plenty of "Happy 50th Birthday" cards. Aren't there SUZIE!!!
2. About 2 weeks out from your 50th, you will get your AARP card! Yep, in the mail. Hey, I am not afraid to use that card if it saves money! I will enjoy it!
3. Just to prove that I can..... I went to a workout class with my sister. They let us use those stretchy "tubes" for your arms and these huge balls for your abs and thighs and the music was my kind of oldies. Now, for my comments on the hour long class............I lived through it!!!! Let's talk tubes...those things are tough. I calmly told the ladies around me that I can not do too many of those due to the fact that K would be upset if my "bat wings" were to thin any! As for the ball....well, I had to use a squishy one because a "younger" person wanted the more firm ball. They made us put them between our knees and squeeze our rears. I was pleased to see that I could still see the ball after I put it between my thighs! I informed them(leaders) that I was not happy that they made my "moon craters" be so defined on my rear. However I think that the one that made them laugh was me doing the "Saturday Night Fever" dance with the purple ball. You know, my sister worries about me so I asked her permission before playing with the balls. She is afraid that I will get hurt! I loved the fact that I survived and with style. I really enjoyed working with my sister who is ONLY 2 years younger than me. Of course I am still only 49...for 2 more weeks!
I have never been one to worry about those milestones! I was single at 30 and lived through that birthday. I was 40 and had a 2 year old while my friends were buying cars for their kids, but I lived through that with a smile, and 50 doesn't bother me either! Well, for today!

Hey SUZIE....

In 25 weeks, you will get to join the 50 club!

Musings of our home...

Oh my stars, has it been almost a month since I last posted on this thing? Just for the record....I have not switched my loyalty to face book like so many have. I am still loyal to my readers who love me enough to read the musings of my family and or lives.
So, the common question for the week is: "So, what are you doing for Spring Break? Or what have you been doing for fun this week?" Answer.............I couldn't really tell you. Not because it is classified information, but because we are just moving along. BUT for those of you that live on the "need to know" basis, I will try to give you an update.

Sat. we (me and the mouse in my pocket) decided that the pig barn needed a good cleaning and all the shavings needed to be shoveled out. The kids and I got started around 2PM and worked until dark. (Almost dark)
Sun. we struggled out of bed so that I could sing......
Mon. we slept late and ran errands. I picked up laundry, delivered the taxes to be figured, picked up my computer and then had a date. Yep....a date. I didn't change boyfriend (I use that word because if you know any man, you know that no matter the age, they still act like a boy more than a man.) Tony and I had a date. We have not had one in a long time. It was nice to just sit at the restaurant and talk. No one begging to go home, no one needing to go to the bathroom, no one arguing about what they did or didn't want to eat. Of course, I wouldn't give up my precious children....dirty rooms and all.
Yesterday we shopped after lunch.
Today.........there is moisture falling from the sky, and I have a fire in the wood burner!!!
Now, was there anything that was consistent about these days? Yep!!!!! Let's see. Besides sleeping late daily, I am very sore from playing the Wii. K. decided that I should do the boxing. Oh my, even though I did BEAT the kid's scores on the dodge ball section, I am so sore that I am wondering if the victory was worth it. Okay, I will admit it....pain never felt so good! ha ha Now, the fitness section that you do daily says that yesterday I was 33 years old. Ha Ha Ha
As my friend Suzie knows, I am not 33. Which brings me to the other constant for the week...or should I say for the past few weeks. About 2 weeks ago, I got a card in the mail. After opening it, I discovered it was a birthday card...to celebrate my 50th (which is NOT here yet). I was very concerned about Suzie. We have been friends for a long time (37 years to be exact...according to Suzie). I couldn't believe she would forget my birthday....of course I never remember hers because ....well, I am not the world's best at dates (ask the man). It wasn't until the next day when I got the mail again and there was a card with the number 49 on the back that I realized what my dear, precious, sweet friend was doing to me. DID you know there were at least 40 plus cards with "happy 50th" on them? Most of the cards have the big 5-0 on them somewhere, somehow, but there have been a few that don't. Some of them have made me cry...like the one that reminded me how long she and I have been friends, and the fact that we have been through more than we care to share! Some of them have made me laugh like the one that was in Spanish, or the one that talked about the fact that at age 10 I wanted a pony, 20 I wanted a drink....and 50 I forgot what I wanted. My kids can hardly wait to check the mail daily. We have NEVER checked the mail daily! They can hardly wait to see if I got another card. Sometimes they come at once for the week, and the kids make me go one day at a time. Who would have thought that turning 50 could be so fun!!! Just be forewarned....Suzie turns 50 after me.....I will have the last say, and I am calling in all the help I can get! Plans are being formed...cards are being purchased, and I am buying "forever" stamps just in case postage goes up before Sept. You...my readers...stay tuned! I will keep you posted on the approaching 50th of my dear friend!

Looking forward to the next round!

Things to remember when preparing for next year’s show:

1 Bling. It was obvious that my daughter does NOT have enough bling for the arena. Pigs may be dirty. Pigs may be smelly. Pigs may be nasty to some of my readers, but they are what is being judged. The girls have enough bling to blind ya! (and it doesn’t help the pig!) K. will not need the bling. He fits in with the guys….jeans, western shirt, skinny, thick hair, the “boy look”. M on the other hand will need MORE bling.

2. You don’t need to wear a watch at the show. You just live there and when the parking lot begins to clear, you go to the hotel, eat a bite, shower and lay down just long enough to get comfortable then you just get back up and redress. ALTHOUGH…Jordan and Ashley cut us some slack! We knew pretty much how this chapter would end, so he wasn’t as demanding. This was a trial run year.

3. Practice a little better on my mom’s favorite line: “This is your project, not mine so let’s get going. And don’t you even think about whining!”

4. Practice Jordan’s line: “We started this job so let’s get ‘er done.” New pigs next year!

5.Let someone else do the video camera! “The Man” has a video camera like mine, but when you are recording it shows a green dot and a red dot for pause. Mine is the opposite so I have none of M going into the alley way with the judge, but I do have a lot of red pipe fence and wrangler butts! Don’t get me wrong. there is nothing wrong with Wrangler butts, but this was supposed to be about my daughter!

6.Those people we thought were a little weird wearing those masks were the smartest ones there! I have no voice. None. Part of it is due to the fact that I slept with the room below 71 and in the direct line of the vent. The other part is the fact that I probably inhaled the odors and dust of the barn.

7. Do not follow cars that can’t see chains blocking an exit! I now have beautiful yellow paint, two dents and a police report on file! All because this guy ran through a small barricade and the pvc pipe hit my car. I don’t like the color yellow! Never have.

8. Buy everyone in the family including Jordan and Ashley, an exhibitor’s and parking Pass. That is easy! No juggling of passes.

10. Don’t arrive between 10AM-2PM on a Saturday. No one directing traffic really knows what is going on. They are mainly there to say you MUST turn whatever direction the little red “airplane directing” light points you. If you want to turn left..sorry. Get a livestock trailer and you can turn any direction. But just me….a mom with NO trailer…you must turn right then you can do a U-turn in front of the officer to go left. They even suggest it. And don’t hesitate to do it either because IF you don’t, you will find yourself waiting 2 hours in line just for a parking place. Yes, even with my parking sticker. Let’s see….lot 5 was full so I wanted to go to lot 6, but you can’t turn left and the traffic won’t let you U-turn so you continue to go right and end up in a line that takes 2 hours to get back to 150 yards from where you started.

11. Finally………….don’t give the ding dang pigs a name! Yeah right, like that won’t happen next year. My children were so stoic. I was such a wimp. I cried. They didn’t see it, but Tony saw it coming on and took charge. I understand better than they do as to what is happening to our pigs who are now family. I didn’t lie though…they do put the pigs in a pen…….. for awhile. Not weeks like they think, but at least until the truck is ready to load. Anyway, I cried. I continued to think about the fact that I willingly gave this pig over to be your breakfast food, or you lunch meat. I watched my kids hope for the best and love this pig that was barely going to make it down the alley. M didn’t want to disappoint her brother, Jordan or Ashley, and I didn’t want her to feel like that. What a mess we were. WE help with my mom’s garden, and I love cucumbers, but I don’t cry when I give them away! And think, we still have Wilbur in barn. I have not been out to see him because he is due to leave next week.

12. The judging. Well, I now understand phrases like “penning”, “weigh back”, weigh out” and “dead sea”. I also understand that you actually have a chance AFTER the one judge sends you on down the line because the second judge can still throw you into the ring. And in the ring we will be sooner than later. Bring it on. We are ready with enough bling to blind you and a pig that will blow your socks off. We won’t need a second judge next year!

I never dreamed I would like just sitting around watching pigs walk around an arena, enjoy the smell of a barn, actually "want" to hear what a judge was about to say concerning a pig, and think: "I could really enjoy this for awhile". Pigs were breakfast, and Easter Sunday meals. Pigs were nasty! They were part of a fun memory of a Grandad and two little girls on vacation. And...people who had pet pigs were desperate for a pet. Now...I have a different view. Yep, the honeymoon is probably over....the real work about to begin, but I love what I see in my kids, and the responsibilities they have taken on and done well with.

Now, if you are tired of reading this list…..click off. IF not, I have a few more things to say.


Dear Ashley and Jordan,
Thanks! That word only has 6 letters, but it carries a lot of warmth and love for you guys. You put up with some strange quirks in our family, a grumpy little boy, a nervous young lady and a mom who is ……..older and just goofy. You guys probably took on more than first thought when you signed on at BBBS. But thank you for doing so! You have done so much for us in so short a time. We love you and thank you from the bottom of our hearts (and my pocket book!). Let’s get ‘er done next year.

Family and friends (mine, Jordan's and Ashley's)………..Thanks for the support this year. Mom and Dad, thanks for watering and feeding on cold mornings. Thanks for cementing the barn, running errands, and buying things here and there. Mom thanks for not missing a show..even in San Antonio. To all those who keep checking on the progress, checking on the kids, checking on the pigs, going to shows and loving us....thanks. You helped create this monster! Get ready for the second year to be just as fun, interesting, expensive, and hopefully more successful. And remember.....you are invited to come sit in the show barn anytime. We get lots of visiting done.

M. and K.

I am so very proud of you. You guys did a great job with your pigs this first year. I know that you are not morning people. Sometimes you are “not any time people”, but you got up and did what had to be done. You two did what was asked and I have been so proud. I can’t wait until you can figure out food amounts, and clipping, and are able to do by your self, some of the things you have been learning. Let me say that even though your daddy didn’t like pigs in anyway except cooked, he would have been sooooo proud of you. He would not have missed a moment of it, and would have supported you to the max. You are precious children, and I am so glad you are mine! (Even when you frustrate me) Let’s get ‘er done next year.
Mommy!

Ready or Not, here we come!

And so tonight before heading to dinner with my whole family (except Uncle T because he had to go out of town) the kids and I met with the "bigs" to take pictures of Bevo. Tonight is his last night to sleep in the barn. The last night to wake up and grunt with his friend Wilbur. The last night to enjoy the "country life". Tomorrow he heads out to the San Antonio Livestock show. He will travel with one of the breeders, and we will arrive on Sat. afternoon. And I must say....I have some mixed emotions. I have loved having these ding dang pigs. They are now family, but I am tired of cleaning up after them,changing their bedding, feeding them and getting nothing in return AND being ignored when I want them to do something. Oh, my I promise I am really talking about Bevo and Wilbur, not my two children. My children do not have aliases. Anyway, give me about 6 months, and it is like birthing a child. You forget the "labor" and would do it again.
We are already in the "next year" mode. We are planning for this and we are planning for that. But for now, we have to brace ourselves for the fact that as of Monday, unless by some wild chance we get to sale the next Sat., Bevo will load on a truck and head to another home(maybe even yours). I have been packing for two days. Hair ribbons, polished boots, jeans, kleenex, shirts, bling jewelry, kleenex, snacks, drinks, kleenex, joke books, swimsuits, and kleenex. Will this be the way it is the day my babies decide to move out? Will I need the kleenex? Will my stomach be churning, or will I be ready for the vacation only to begin planning for them to come back in a few months?
So, besides the packing for the trip, I am bracing and packing for the return home without our BEVO! A few days later, we will load Wilbur up and he will have a new home too. I always try to remember....he is just a pig. But there once was a spider who figured out like we have that he is "some pig" and quite "radiant". And she loved him. Have I mentioned that we actually had a spider sack in Wilbur's pen? I got rid of it because I don't need a spider writing phrases like "eat more beef" on the barn walls.
During this weekend, remember our family as my kids deal with this. I keep telling them: Don't look into their eyes for the next few days. AND, no more kissing Wilbur!
And in a few months there will be 4 little pigs in our barn. All fresh and new. All poopy and hungry. Spending my money! Eating the food. Demanding attention, and NOT cleaning up after themselves. Hmmmm I think I will practice raising my children before I get this next round of pigs.
San Antonio........ready or not, here we come!!!

This time next week

This time next week we will be getting ready for the San Antonio Livestock Show. Wow, I can't believe it is actually here. Not the show really, but the date we have dreaded. The day that we come home to the empty pig barn. I already have that sick to the stomach feeling. I already wonder: "How am I going to handle this so that the kids can handle it?" and then of course the next thought is that I don't want Jordan and Ashley to see me go to pieces. You, my friends, know that I don't like letting go....even of pigs. They have become our family. I have used my hard earned money to feed them, lodge them, purchase grooming for them, and change their shavings. So, I have to admit that I have stayed out of the barn for the last week. Yep, I am the chicken in the family.
Now, to more pressing matters. Is it my writing that does not stir your heart to respond, or is everyone now so caught up in face book that no one has time to read blogs? Hello, where are my friends? That's right...we talked on face book right before my computer crashed on Sat. morning. AND so....I am leaving to take it to the computer doctor.
Oh, and by the way..I can not tell you everything that goes on in school but the button I found on face book (before the crash) said: "If drama was vodka, our school would be wasted". That described last week! Drama, Drama, Drama.....then....my computer crashed!

Ice days

So, the ice is melting, the kids still in pj's, a mess in the living room, and a fire in the wood burner. What do you do with ice days?
Yesterday? I signed up on facebook. My friends and some family have been after me to get on there. So like blogging....I did it! If it were my daughter I would say something like.."If all your friends jumped off a bridge would you do it too?". I am a leader, but in technology and the cyberspace, I will just follow. Today I woke to 15 emails of people inviting me to be their friend. Hello? Aren't we friends already? ha Ha Just wondering. I have friends that I haven't talked to in at least a year. I have family I haven't talk to in a year. Love this technology.
Today? It is funny to think that a year ago I would have been praying for another cold front with 8 inches of snow so I could just stay out the whole week. Roll those lesson plans on over to the next week, so I don't have to get them written by Friday. Now as the counselor......Mercy! I have so much to get done. TAKS writing is coming up and I have to get the 7th graders taking a different version of the test with modifications grouped together. I have some ARD (Special Education) meetings I need to finish. I have to get ARF's for my 6th graders using modifications on the test. I have to laugh with the secretary, joke with the co-counselor, and listen to a child whose life I don't understand at all. Now, don't get me wrong. My two and I have had a great two days. They have not really driven me crazy. After a few reminders, they cleaned their mess up, and I have cooked meals! Yep. I can cook. Ask the T-bird. He loves my cooking. We have had a great two days.
Now comes my quandary. My mom raised me to believe that if you miss school, you stay at the house unless you run to the doctor, or go pick up medication. I need to pay my taxes (Property), and I to go to the bank. Hmmmm that is not how I was raised. So, I am off to get my hormone pills (5 left) refilled and in the process will drive across town in the melting ice to pay my taxes and then on the way back? Hmmm guess I will run by the bank.
Tonight? I will cook AGAIN and probably meet you on facebook......yes, sister T, after the kids are in bed.

The short on History being made

Well, today was one of those days that will make schools adopt new history books! It was even more interesting that I was able to watch this happen via my computer screen. Whether you agree with the new President or not, you are part of history! You lived to see it being made. But what is as exciting to my family is that my son will be able to tell his children what he did 4 hours prior to the Inauguration Ceremony for President Obama. My son was chosen by his teacher to lead his campus in the Pledge of Allegiance today. That was cool! Many children lead the pledge each day, but not many can remember the exact day. Well, I promise that Kauy will not forget! He was pumped!

Wondering?

So, have you been wondering what is going on with our lives? Wondering how the pigs are doing? Well, to catch up go to Ashley & Jordan's blog. She did a great job. she is precious. Well, so is Jordan.
I just want to say that God continues to send angels into our lives! Not only are they angels sent to us, but so is the gentleman who "bought"Bevo at the sale. That pretty much sums up what I know about him!!!
Now for our day off..........We went to see Hotel for Dogs only after a day of cleaning. The kids had to clean their rooms today because they were disgusting. (Not the kids, but the rooms). We made piles of "Get Rid of", "might get rid of", and "don't you dare" The hall if full of "get rid of" I just have to get rid of it before they go through it again. You will never ever guess what they found in their rooms! CARPET!!! Wow it was still there. We even vacuumed it!!!

I was afraid it was just me.

I am glad to know that I am not the only one who uses that line! If only I didn't have to wash, dry and hang them up.

And did I mention....

My baby had a birthday on the 3rd? Yep. He did. And being the brave mommy that I am I took my boy and 3 of his friends to the movies, bought snack packs, went to a play ground, fed pizza, and had cake. One friend even spent the night. It was his first "sleep over for guys" and no one went home at 2AM!!!! The last conversation I heard before the soft snores was something about: SBDT's and the fact that other mom's can actually gas their children out of the home! For those of you with no brothers or sons....SBDT is not Soprano, Bass Tenor and Deaf. It is: Silent but deadly toots!

Holiday Top 10

I have NO excuse as to why I have not posted anything for several weeks. I guess I was busy...sleeping until 9'ish then being lazy. Oh, one day I did take the family to Dublin, Tx. to the Dr. Pepper plant..after picking up 5 bags of pig feed. I honestly could NOT tell you what I have been doing but I can tell you at least the top 10 of the holidays.
but first...What didn't I like?

The fact that Christmas Eve morning my boobs were in a photo session! I wish that the flesh they pull on during the mammogram would add to the bust size instead of flattening them out and making them hang longer.
The gift that I know Santa worked hard to give, that didn't work and wore several of us out just trying to make it work with NO directions.
The weight that somehow appeared on my body!

Now for the top ten....


#10 Believe it or not, the white elephant/Chinese Christmas exchange with Kelly's family. I got a beautiful old Santa.

#9 Spending time in the pig barn or playing games with the kids

#8 Dinner at my sister's house

#7 Community wide Church service

#6 Seeing my dad actually LOVE what he got for Christmas

#5 Playing Christmas Carols on my head with whacking tubes...visit Brandi's blog

#4 Discovering that even Santa can deliver defective gifts and I can look like a shining star

#3 The bracelet from M and the earrings from K that they bought with their OWN money

#2 The homemade snow globe (paper plates and glitter) to M from her brother, and the dinner plate he made for me, the calendar I wanted last year but didn't get until this year, my new pink coffee mug which supports fighting breast cancer, the money, the CD (not musical type)
AND the #1 thing about the holidays....

The two straight A report cards on my refrigerator!!!

So, did you have a favorite?