ON A HOT SUMMER'S EVENING.....THE TENT PROJECT...

Thegrandson woke up first thing this morning, saying they were going to put up the tent and sleep outside tonight. I'm like...UH-HUH!!! Well, the project began at 7:30 P.M. Helluva time to start something like this, but we did it anyway.

Theson bought this tent summer before last, and thegrandson has been dying to "camp out" again. Poor little snot, doesn't realize that camping out to his mother, means a Holiday Inn with no room service and a broken ice machine. This could be interesting !!!

Here's the little soldier, so proud of this accomplishment. I made a great foreman...I gave excellent guidance in the setting up of the tent.

I can't wait to see who chickens out and comes in the house first.....I know who it would be!!! Thegrandson is a die hard - does that give it away??? Thedaughter says the first clap of thunder or bug bite - her ass is in the house. What a weinie!

More on this tomorrow.........later.................

JUST AN ABSOLUTE CHAOTIC DAY!!

Thedaughter has been dreading today, as she had a doctor's appointment at 10:30am for a biopsy. She had her annual gyne checkup last week, and for that appointment, she didn't even see the DOCTOR, but a Physician's Assistant. I have not had the greatest experiences with PA's and make an adamant statement on any visits I have, I pay to see a doctor, that's what I expect.

Anyway, my daughter was born with a mole on her breast, (on nipple) and it has never been a worry in her 29 years. Our family physician always checks for changes and such, which until recently there were none. But now, one breast has become larger than the other (the one with the mole), and she had a little drainage (which she omitted telling me). So the PA stated that she felt a biopsy needed to be taken, and thedaughter told her she would make arrangements for when we returned from vacation on the 15th. Hells bells, the PA called thedaughter the next day AT WORK - scaring her to death, stating she was VERY worried and wanted it tended to immediately.

Thedaughter called me from work crying, as this PA was alluding to the big "C". I have to note here, thedaughter told her to call the HOUSE if she needed to get a hold of her. So much for a PA with a brain.

This has been preying on her mind for one solid week. There is a long history of cancer in the family which does not help at all. We went this morning, and our doctor, who is also a friend, was slightly pissed that this PA made such a big deal and urgency over this. I won't go so far as to say I believe it should be ignored - so he did the biopsy, and put an ASAP order on it - so possibly we will have the results by Friday afternoon.

I am exhausted though, as we have been trying to gather everything together for vacation - and if thegrandson had his way - he would pack his entire toy room. So I'm taking a break this evening - and hopefully will have something for tomorrow.

Theson sent me a link I may use, so I need to rest my brain a wee tad. Hope veryone has a great evening. It is frigid here - 50* at the moment. I'm not complaining though. I had to buy a new thermostat yesterday, as the one I had, had a touch pad that decided not to respond to touch anymore, and I couldn't adjust the temp for the AC. Thanx to theRuss for coming to my rescue and wiring it for me. I was going to tackle the job, but I have a healthy respect for electricity.

With that, I leave you....goodnight!!!! I'm going to try and find the Pens on a local channel - jeesh what a job.

AN ENDLESS, PAINFUL DAY............

What else does one do, when one has been sitting for hours in a cubicle in an emergency room....start blowing up the gloves for entertainment. I definitely don't have the talent of blowing it up ala Howie Mandel, but this sufficed.

Thedaughter came home in considerable abdominal pain last night (after work), and after some basic home treatments the pain did not abate any, so off to the ER we go, this morning. We got there at approximately 10:20 am, and the first test (an ultrasound) was not even started till 1 pm. Initially she was given dilaudid for pain, and she was actually bearable as she was now sleepy. Finally, around 3pm, they decided they were going to do a CAT scan, so I left to come home and pick up thegrandson after school. We got back to the hospital by 4pm, her pain meds are wearing off and now they want to do a pelvic...needless to say, her demeanor has hit rock bottom.

Now I have to deal with her and thegrandson, who bores easily. By 7:30 pm, thedaughter has turned into the "bitch from hell." In a way I don't blame her as we are not getting any answers, and after 3 cubicle changes, the nurses hardly even pop in to see how she is doing. I finally go out to the desk and ask this pre-pubescent pregnant doctor, "what the hell is going on with the CAT scan results?" I swear her favorite word of the day was "HENCE." If I had a weapon I would have used it, trust me. Her reply, "well, I can't do anything till the radiologist reads the scan." I immediately reminded her that the scan was almost 2 hours earlier. After she put down her Holly Hobby doll, she asked someone to check with radiology again - big fukking whoop!!

Now, it is almost 8pm and the daughter is starting to remove her IV, and I'm contemplating going postal. The doctorette appears and says that they would like her to stay the night and the doctor may want to do a procedure tomorrow morning. Guess what, thedaughter is having no parts of that idea. Well, not the entire idea...she wants to go home, get a few things and then possibly return for admission. They are not happy about the idea, but said it is workable. The end result was, she is now home and if the pain worsens, she will go back. If not, she is calling the doctor in the morning to arrange for whatever procedure is required.

Now, I am the one in total pain...my back is screaming at me, quite belligerently I might add. Hospitals are not conducive to comfortable waiting. Not eating all day was not a great thing either.

So here it is a little after nine o'clock, thedaughter has conked out from the pain meds, thegrandson is in bed, and I am clicking away on the puter. We picked up Dairy Queen for a great late late dinner, so at least I don't have to do dishes.

I guess the hospital will get a treat when they realize she has no insurance and will gladly give them $5 a month. Then again, maybe that's why they treated her so badly!! Hmmm...

So take this ER people - we are pissed!

SLEEPY CHANNEL SURFING...SUCKS!!

Sleep is not a really good friend of mine. Although my body can literally be screaming for sleep, it still becomes a JOB. So as I flip flop from the top of the bed to the bottom, constantly changing positions, I always have the remote in my hand. Let me tell ya...I have rolled over - the remote went flying, hitting the dog in the head, but I scurry out of bed to retrieve my security blanket!

In the early hours of this morning, I landed on the EWTN channel. That would be the "Eternal Word Television Network." Solidly Catholic in all it's formats, but this nincompoop Raymond Arroyo, has a news show and the discussion was all over the Conservative map.

As I tuned in, they were showing a clip of VP Joe Biden, exclaiming that domestic violence is the most heinous crime around. To which Arroyo and his Catholic Bishop cohort jumped in with - "What about abortion?" OK - let me see, the correlation is what? I guess the jerk will take any opening to spew his garbage.

But from that brief topic they jumped into the "torture" discussion. And yes, as good Catholics and citizens of the United States of America, they have no problem with these acts, as they really can't be classified as TORTURE. Their theory is that these young men may have information to keep us safe, so we need to do whatever possible to glean that info. OK - you don't believe in killing the unborn...but it is OK to torture a grown individual, which could possibly lead to death. Oh, I forgot about the Inquisition...it appears to be the same mentality.

I was getting mad at this dialogue, and they were moving on to attack Hillary Clinton, so channel surfing was the best solution. No offense against any Catholics out there, but I have had serious issues with their ideas and precepts for oh so many years.

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Breaking News: PA Sen. Arlen Specter is switching from Republican to the Democratic Party!!! I actually thought this was coming, but it definitely makes me happy now. If Minnesota can get off its ass and tell Coleman HE LOST, and Al Franken gets seated....60 Democratic Senators and they become filibuster proof. Woohoo!

Now, they need to confirm Kathleen Sebalious TODAY!! This is unforgivable, as there is a Health emergency at this moment, and that office seat needs leadership A.S.A.P.

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I have my outside work finished, as least what I can do so far. I have to paint (treat) the front and back decks, but rain is headed this way this afternoon, and will be hanging around for a few days - so that is out of the question.

After an argument with thedaughter last night - she was upset because she said I was bad-mouthing her on my blog (oops - might have), she put her AC unit in her bedroom window. Of course this didn't happen without a great deal of loud "bad" language, and objects being thrown - but at least she can cool off now.

I'm working on laundry now, so behave and play nice, I will return........later...........

I SHOULD KNOW BETTER AT MY AGE....BUT!!!

I have stated many times that I have actually "let my house go" during tax season. I start work early in the mornings, and more often than not, continue till quite late in the evenings during those few weeks. If I had to weigh my favorite activity between the two - work would win out every time.

I took a couple of days off and did NOTHING, but then reality set in on Friday. I tore my kitchen apart, rearranged some of the furniture and washed everything. Thedaughter supplied some assistance AFTER she awoke at one in the afternoon. Trust me, this was an ALL day chore, and we finished around 9 pm.

Yesterday, thedaughter worked 9am-7pm, thegrandson played outside all morning - till it was time to leave for baseball practice at 3pm. By that time, I had my bed down off the risers, all the hidden items under the bed were removed, windows cleaned, bedding in the wash - again I moved a dresser and the bed, and two items completely out of the room.

I could not get out of my car while the little critter had his ball practice. I have managed to piss off my back to no end. Not whining here, but I have had triple bypass and the breast bones never healed. I was allergic to the wire, so when I move my shoulders in certain directions - it feels like the bones become overlapped. This hurts. In 1980, I had back surgery and massive work was done on four lumbar vertebraes.

I had no problems whatsoever with my back till October 2007. I fell over the cat one day, while in a rush - and I fukked up everything that was corrected with the prior surgery. I can't stand for long periods, sitting for long periods is also quite painful. To make a long story short - I am in pain 24/7.

But the cleaning and household chores have to be done and I can't afford a cleaning person, and heaven forbid my daughter would jump right in and help. She manages to yell at me for doing all these things, but I can't wait till the mood swings her - to get it all done.

I won't even mention the arthritis that thrives in every joint of my body. Just another pain to remind me of my age.

There is NO cleaning on the agenda for today - it would be tantamount to suicide. I do have to follow through with the laundry I started. Other than that, thegrandson can entertain himself, and I am going to veg out. The only difficult chore will be figuring out dinner and getting it prepared.

I have all my candles lit (love my candles), and the sun is shining (temporarily), and I need to heal.

Have a great day all...I shall return later............(I've griped enough!)

P.S. Theson has returned from his R&R in Scotland (I believe), but haven't heard from him as yet. I know he had a great time, as his high school friend met up with him in Edinburgh and she even took 2 extra days off (more than planned) to spend time there. I know he will communicate soon - or else!!

BACK TO NORMAL...I DON'T THINK SO!!!!

Do not think for one minute that I DID NOT put on my apron and headscarf to start the drudgery of housecleaning!!! And pose for this beaver shot...no doubt. I took a rather brief break from posting here (all of one day), but relaxation never figured into the equation either.

Yesterday, we exchanged thegrandson's new Easter bicycle - as the hand break cracked in half - and to me, that is worthy of the store making it right with the consumer. Woohoo, no argument, and I actually upgraded the bike purchase. Thegrandson is quite happy now - and he realized that the damn Easter bunny didn't bring it to the house either. Oh well!!

We ended up at baseball practice (6 pm), which is supposed to last an hour, and we left the field at 8 pm. Now, I was in a grumpy mood - as we are not a family to eat dinner early. We are all starving - so after getting home, we threw a couple of steaks on the grill and nuked a couple of potatoes. The overhead microwave took a dump, just we started everything. We then had to bring up the reserve counter top microwave...and ate about 8:45 pm. I have no problem with the counter top model...but I don't have that much counter space to give up for it to reside there permanently. When I hit the lottery - I'm redoing this damn kitchen!!!

I have been utilizing "Maxine's" method since tax season began...and the scanning has ceased and reality set in - I HAVE to physically CLEAN!! After I returned home from tanning this morning, I jumped into the kitchen mess. Curtains are in the wash, nine foot glass sliding door is cleaned. Files are waiting to be returned to the basement (along with supplies), the kitchen table is covered with "stuff", and my first pot of coffee is almost depleted.

It is 1 pm, and thedaughter just came down with her usual comment "why didn't you wait for me?" Duh!?!? Because I don't like to start new projects halfway through the day - that's why! I honestly don't know how some people can sleep all day. Four or five hours is about my limit.

Thedaughter is also unhappy, because I want to MOVE some pieces of furniture. When I clean I like to see everything in a new way. Call it a quirk, but that is how I am. Since we now have to use the smaller microwave, I have figured out how to utilize a small shelf unit and free up my limited counter space. When I get a strong back in here to help, I am going to switch my table and chairs to a smaller one I have in the basement. Aha...more room!!

In my "next life", I think I want to come back as a cat, and just lounge around all day, lick my butt, and watch the humans do EVERYTHING!! With that comment, I have to get back to the drudgery. I shall return....later........

CAN WE ALL AGREE TO HATE MONDAYS???

This morning started, just as any typical morning. Wake up, scratch ass, grab a cigarette and head to the bathroom, finish there and proceed to computer to see what cataclysmic event may have happened during a fitful sleep.

Egads...an email from theson in Egypt and he has major issues - begging me to look for an important article - adding it may be in this spot or possibly in his room...which all sets my heart racing. Now, don't ask me why I let little things like that bother me...BUT I DO!! If this "issue" cannot be rectified - it could cost him major $$$, and as a mother - I want to do ALL I can to ensure things and life move smoothly.

One thing I avoid, is going upstairs (the netherworld) for any reason. My adult children and one grandson are the proud denizens of that universe. BUT...I am now forced into going UPSTAIRS...blood pressure raising...potential nosebleed coming...to forage through the MESSIEST room I have ever seen. (I take that back, I remember cleaning thedaughters room once when she moved out!) I now take a mental note, that after tax season, theson's room is on the list to be cleaned, along with the basement and pretty much the ENTIRE house.

I move and toss quite a few articles, and cannot find this specific item...but I did find a receipt with appropriate numbers (my great sleuthing abilities), and can now MAKE THIS PROBLEM GO AWAY!! Yippee....Mommy to the rescue and I won!

I then have to DESCEND the stairway back to computer world...which brings me to the reason I hate stairs. My legs and hips (arthritis) just abhor being stressed on steps. Silly me, one foot after the other and before you know it - at the bottom. Cool!

After many more IM's, I believe theson may have had the onus of possible penalties off his mind, and I then completed another chore for him to purchase a product online. All in a mornings work - for a MOM! It's definitely a good thing that I love these critters so much - or they would not know what to do.

Since I have a NEW chore added to my days list (mail the sons form), I cancelled my tanning - because I was now running very late. Oh well, I guess new cancer cells can wait till tomorrow.

I have been trying to get this posted for the past 3 hours...but oh no, clients calling and still dropping off information. Crapola...I have made an executive decision - the rest of the day is MINE - no tax work at all. I will clean the bathroom, since I asked thedaughter to do it this morning (right?!?!) Then decide what I will add to my salad for dinner that is new and calorie free. The decisions are killing me today.

I'm outta here before something else happens.....later............

Crazy, busy, need time to breathe....or not!

Yes, it's tax season, my busiest time of the year. Don't get me wrong, I truly love the activity, since I have been doing this for over 30 years, I must. I have no secretary or receptionist, just thedaughter who helps me file, answer the phone (when she is awake), and call clients for pickups. Although technically tax season begins January 1st, I normally do not get busy till February 1st, as I prefer my clients to have ALL documentation before I prepare the return. This year has been a little out of the norm, as the IRS requirements of a January 31st deadline for taxpayers to receive documents has been changed to February 15th. It never fails that at least a couple of clients are in a rush to file - and WHAM - after preparation, they call because they have received additional information. Tsk. Tsk. Then they have the nerve to get upset because I charge a fee to redo a return.

I have a decent clientele of almost 500 - and that is probably because I am quick and efficient and I CHARGE NEXT TO NOTHING. When my former partner and I started our business in the 70's, we named our business such that it implies "low prices." Our philosophy was and remains to this day - that people pay so much in taxes, they should not have to pay an arm and a leg to get their money back. Thus the reason for a large client base.

My partner and I split up in 1996, and we each developed our individual business, with me keeping the original business name. At first, the split was a little strained, but after five years, we caved and let bygones be bygones. Now, we split the cost of our tax program, which eases my financial burden. Some have no idea what this business entails - I will try to be brief here in describing what I provide.

• a paper copy of prepared return
• a presentation folder w/ all pertinent info regarding my business (address-phone #'s)
• a cover sheet with detailed info on refund/payment and how to sign documents
• all necessary envelopes - addressed to proper agencies
• normally a 24-48 hour turn around period for preparation
• will schedule evening and weekend appointments at convenience of clients
• will pick up information at homes when requested - and deliver (usually the elderly)
• I keep a paper copy and backed up copy of all returns
• will help clients deal with any problems from tax agencies
• will assist with any audits that may be required (no audits since 1998)

I'm sure there are many other things I provide, but can't think of any at the moment. In all honesty, I kept most of our original clients - for reasons I will not relate here. I get referrals every year which is a good thing, as I usually have the occasional "death" of a client also.

Today was one of those crazy days...two clients show up within 10 minutes of each other...4 clients appeared to pick-up their returns at the same time...the phone rang constantly...had to meet a client downtown in between all this turmoil. And then the dog decided she had to puke - which entirely capped off a terrific morning. Psycho kitty will make an appearance soon I am sure.

I promise not to neglect any of my fellow bloggers, but right now, I have decided to step back for the remainder of this day and chill. Later this evening, after thegrandson has gone to bed, I will try to catch up on your postings. So, play nice everyone, and check with ya later...........

The BOX has finally arrived....3 months later....

I have blogged about awaiting the arrival of theson's personal belongings, which he shipped home (here) the beginning of November. What a colossal clusterfuck. Theson had no "tracking number" or bill of lading to reference, so until 2 weeks ago - we had no idea where this package was - in transit.

After conversing with the shipping company in New York last week, arrangements were made to get this LARGE box shipped to the house. Money was mailed and verifications made. After being assured the delivery was being made in a 25 foot box truck by the NY company - all I had to do was await word from the local trucking company, as to specifics of date and time for arrival. Hell, then we had the hassle of a semi trailer - and the weather and omg - I wanted to shoot someone.

But today - a smaller truck located - the package arrived and all is safely within the confines of the house.

Thedaughters friends helping to unload the monster box - weighing 440 pounds.




Now I am armed with scissors and utility knives to break the box open - as it contains multiple, individual boxes - but I encounter two 1 1/2" wide metal straps encasing the behemoth. Grrr...well, one of the guys is smarter than me and used pliers to twist and break the strapping.

The second picture shows ALL the individual EMPTY boxes that were used as packing material. The fun part came when I had to break down all the boxes. That job is now complete and all the packing material is in the back of theson's truck awaiting a trip to the recycling center and landfill. Whew...I'm so glad this task is complete and very thankful for the assistance from our friends.

I have some smaller boxes I now have to open and go through, as theson purchased a boomerang for thegrandson, on his Australian vacation. The little snot will be so excited when he gets home from school this afternoon.

So there son - you can see that your stuff is finally here. Gotta run, things to do...I shall return...later...............

Breakfast with Santa....actually it was fun!

Thedaughter's employer (huge corporation) Wheeling Island Hotel, Racetrack & Casino...whoo that's a mouthful...had a breakfast with Santa today for all employees. It was held in the showroom and I'm telling you it was packed. But then again, there are thousands of employees. Here are a few pics:





The lighting was terrible and I only had a brief period to snap the pictures, as other children were getting antsy, behind us. Little beastly rugrats! Just kidding.

I think I will take a break, and wrap what FEW presents I have bought so far. I still have to get theson another birthday present (the 23rd), my little Christmas present baby...he will kill me for that one!! But I like living dangerously.

Be back later..............

NOT at Christmas time....never a good thing...

Last night, my phone rang off the hook, with people wanting to know "how bad is the fire?" Being the well-informed person that I am, I reply "what fukking fire????" Just because I live in the West part of town - it is assumed that I must know what goes on in this residential area at all times. (Usually I do, nibshits like me, have antennae!)

This house is approximately 2 blocks away, and I know the family well, that lives (lived) here. There are seven children, ranging in age from 3 to 17. That is as personal as I will get, as I could actually say more about these people (actually the mother) but I am restraining myself. No matter what issues people may have, living through a fire is a very traumatic event, and can possibly affect many years of your life.

Luckily, NO one was home when this home became engulfed (probably due to a faulty wood burner in their basement). The father was at work, and mother and kids were Christmas shopping. From what I gather it started (or was noticed by neighbors) around 6 pm last night. The fire department was on site again at 4 am this morning as it had rekindled.

The good news is, all their Christmas presents are safe, as they were wrapped and stored in their garage...and they do have good insurance coverage. They will have places to stay, although I am sure they will be split between homes of grandparents and such.

The upside is, the family was not in the home and will recover from the loss of "stuff" that is replaceable. In our case, when our home burned in '84, we were in the home, surrounded by flames and toxic fumes, but managed to get out safely. (Except for my 21 year old cat - who awakened me to the fire). But that trauma stays with you forever.

When thedaughter viewed this scene last night, she had flashbacks to what she remembered (she was 4 at the time), and the smells. These are things that stick in your memory for quite some time.

We live in a "giving" community - and this family will have a good Christmas I am sure. It is just a tragic incident in and of itself...combined with the season.

***Just a note, that is a swimming pool in the front yard of this house which abuts right onto the main street. Not a great landscaping theme, but that was them!

More later...getting excited, theson will be home soon!! Have a good day all!

Later...........

Man --- this gets harder and harder every year.....

and I would be talking about Christmas decorating. With the pain in my back, I can't stand long, and definitely can't lift and tote like I used to. Screw this...decorating for the Holidays is one of the few enjoyments I get out of life!

I made it as far as getting the tree completed. I have one less string of lights on, as thedaughter didn't want to help me peruse the other boxes to find more lights...and I know I have probably 8 new boxes in the basement. Oh well, looks good anyway.

Thegrandson has been bugging me to put his train around the tree this year and I acquiesced. I told him once we start putting the presents under the tree, the train will NOT be running. I wanted to get a "skinny" tree this year, but didn't like the pricing, so being the ingenious person that I am...I bent the arms of the branches where they go into the hanging slots, and now the tree is not as full, which works well. The room is small, and I hate having the tree overpower the room.



I shook off the dust bunnies from my old "step ladder" and thegrandson decided he like his 3 tiny bears placed on the rungs. Oh well, he likes to help and feels better afterwards - that can only be a good thing. I have had this ladder for at least 15 years, and I actually forget what I used to place on the damn thing. I have brought up the pine and ornaments for decorating the top of the entertainment unit, but I honestly don't have the energy to finish it tonight. This may be a rough decorating season at this rate. Usually I am much more organized, but this year, first box found - I deal with it. Considering I never fulfilled my own promise, to REORGANIZE all this stuff prior to this holiday, I have to bear my own consequences.

Thedaughter has dinner ready, so I will post pics of any progress I might make...key word being "might!" Taking drugs for pain now.

Later all..........

WHEN IT RAINS IT POURS!!!! Literally....

Yesterday, started out pretty much like any other - thedaughter was on her second day off in nine days, we were getting things accomplished....and then. She ate a chicken salad sandwich and a tooth which she was having problems, decided to flare up royally, sending her into excruciating pain. We immediately get on the phone and NO ONE takes her insurance, let alone emergency calls. I had reached the point of "not so nice" retorts to these people. Give me a break!! What is a person to do when in serious pain??? Even the walk-in dental clinics, like Sears, wouldn't take her insurance. I finally found one who would take her immediately and I had to pay $200 for the extraction. This tooth was rooted into her sinus cavity, and we hope we are out of the woods, but he did say that an infection or perforation could cause problems. Lovely. At least she came home with Vicodin and no tooth ache.

We had already made plans to carve the pumpkins for thegrandson last night, so after her friend left (who took her to the dentist), she laid the papers on the living room floor and marked the pumpkins and started on the smaller one first. It was being carved with a "spider", and just when she gets alllllllllmost done - the grandson dropped something, scared her, and she cut out a BIG chunk! Ruh roh! She was not a happy camper now.

Me, the ever vigilant peacemaker, told her to calm down - "I have toothpicks." I'm all for jerry rigging anything. The toothpicks worked, and as she got up off the floor, she slid on the papers laid out - and did a header - busting the pumpkin - and now ----after leaving the emergency room this morning - has a BROKEN ARM!!!!!!!

Damn, damn, damn!!! I gave her ice for her arm last night (she also sprained her ankle), as it was after 10 pm, I did ask if she wanted me to call 911 - she said "no." Since she was taking the Vicodin for the tooth problem, she at least had a little relief.

When she came down this morning, she was crying in pain, so after we got thegrandson off to school - off to the ER we go. We finally get the verdict of the fracture and are told to see an Orthopedic Surgeon. Guess what - not a single Ortho in this area takes her insurance either. (She has Ohio Medicaid - Caresource.) Now, there is another twist. three years ago, when she had an Orthopedic surgeon who took her insurance, she had to have 3 surgeries to remove the wrist joint. She had tumors in the bones that were "killing" the bones. After ten years of ER trips and being told it was a sprain - we went to Ohio State University hospital in Columbus to find the truth and have the proper surgical procedures to correct the problem. All in all, we made 25 trips to Columbus - but it was well worth the ride.

The end result was highly limited range of motion in her wrist, but she managed to adapt and relearn to type, so it never really interfered with her employment. Unfortunately this break is right above the joint removal. So, in all honesty, this is still a broken wrist as opposed to an arm. If surgery is needed, which I sincerely doubt, we will head back to Columbus - the doctor there deals ONLY with wrists, and we loved him.

Now, I have a headache, and want a nap...but can't see that happening right away. Thedaughter will definitely not be able to work for the next few days, and I guess I will be playing nursemaid. I need to train thegrandson better I guess.

Updates later...I must catch up on blogs and news now!!! Surprise, surprise!

***The X-ray above is not actually hers, just an example.

UPDATE: 7:45 pm - after utilizing some straight pins, thedaughter - with one hand put the pumpkin back together and thegrandson is very happy. Pic 1 with flash - pic 2 without flash.

Pumpkin picking day!!! And a lovely one at that...

Thegrandson loves to traipse through the "pumpkin patch" this time of year. It turned out to be a lovely day, albeit quite chilly. I am definitely not ready for cold weather - as it always trigger the arthritis which extends from head to toe.

Thedaughter had a day off work, so we figured out all the places and errands that needed to be accomplished - and made a plan. I am still in "conserve the gas" mode. I am managing to make it a month on a tank of gas, even though gas prices have come down - food prices and utilities have still gone UP!!

The place where we get our pumpkins (Ebbert"s Farms) is not really a farm, although they bring all their produce to one central location and set up a nice retail establishment. The pumpkins are basically laid out by size and one just prances through the fields till the ideal pumpkin is spotted. The grandson found a small one immediately (just his size), but his mother told him they would also get a larger one for the porch, and this did not upset the little guy at all.

We managed to finish all errands within approximately 3.5 hours and back home to rest. I have been getting dizzy and not so sure-footed (hypoglycemic), so I didn't help much in putting things away.






THEGRANDSON AND HIS TREASURE!

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Just an aside - Minnesota Cong. Michelle Bachmann has raised almost $100K FOR HER OPPONENT - because of her idiotic mentality. There are also over 30,000 signatures so far to have her censured. Small things like this make me very happy. Call me trite I don't care.

I'll probably be back tomorrow for more shits and giggles. TTFN.

FEAR is the only way to desccribe...

FEAR is the only way I can describe the events of just an hour ago. I was returning home from running a couple of errands, and in order to get to my house, we turn off the main road, and bear to the left at a fork, and straight up the road to my home. The normal course of driving means we have to go relatively slow, as the road is narrow (although 2 cars can pass), and it is a residential area. As I made this left onto our street, a young boy came flying (running) off the hill from behind some bushes, I hit the brakes - putting my car sideways, thinking I had hit this young lad. In my mind all I could see was the kid (all in red - OSU) flying behind my car. Admittedly I was frozen - then the boy appeared at my passenger window, with eyes as big as saucers, saying "I'm all right!" WTF - I tried NOT to yell at him, but made him verify to me that he wasn't hit, no injuries, and followed that up with getting his name and where he lived - and told him to "get the hell home!"

It took me a couple of minutes to compose myself, and make it the entire block to get home. I couldn't even get out of the car...had to honk for thedaughter to come out. By now, I want to cry, scream - or beat the little shit up - for being stupid. Thedaughter was furious at this kid, for the condition I was now in. She got her car keys and proceeded to find the kid and make sure the parents knew how irresponsible he was. It turns out that he is the son of one of theson's classmates (A. Vinka), and thedaughter informed her of what had transpired. The mother, in an air-headed way said, "he isn't even supposed to be on your street!" No mention of grounding or he acted poorly, blah blah blah!

Thedaughter called the local P.D., and stated the situation, just to have it logged, so there can be no repercussions from this family...they are sending a policeman to get a statement to that effect also! It's a shame that you have to cover your ass so well, but we know how people like to litigate everything! Now all I have to do is get rid of this screaming headache and get rid of my rubber legs.

I cannot describe what actually went through my head, but I honestly believed I had hit this boy...and that I could never live with! Thank heavens this had a good outcome, and my heart appears to have survived the shock. I certainly hope the day improves.

Take care and TTFN.

Baseball time is here again! Whoopee!

Today was opening day for the Little League teams. As usual a lot of hustle and bustle, be here-be there, parade and game between moms and kids. So tedious, but the end result is a fun day for all.

Mr. Cool Dude (thegrandson) in his shades and thedaughter posing for their annual "together" baseball portrait. I managed to get some really good pics of the day. After the parade, I stayed at the field and "watched" the team play against the "moms." Since thedaughter had to be at work by 3 pm, she wasn't there, and I'll be damned if my decrepit body is going to play ball at this stage of my life. I used to play on teams years (eons) ago, but physically I cannot endure the challenge anymore. It turned out to be a perfect day for all this - temp was about 71 degrees and sunny - the past two days would have been unbearable as we surpassed the 80 degree mark.

Thegrandsons first "real" game is tomorrow night at 7 pm, in a neighboring city (Martins Ferry) and the kids are excited beacuse they may get to play "under the lights." I didn't want to burst his bubble, but they only play 5 innings and they don't take long, sun doesn't set till almost 8 now. Boo-hoo!

I rearranged my kitchen yesterday, moving all tax files and paraphernalia back to office space in basement. Now I have room again in my kitchen. Moving my hutch from one wall to the other was a task, but I managed. My back is aching a little, but I will get over it. I continue to do stupid things on a regular basis. I do believe in consistency.


I have always LOVED rainbows - and my friend and I were coming home from Red Lobster Tuesday evening, and the rain showers were intermittent, while the sun was still shining - and voila - of course we have rainbows. This one waned and brightened between showers, but remained for almost 45 minutes. I finally got this shot from my front porch and, although it didn't film well, it became a TRIPLE rainbow. Each less bright than the original - but there were 3. Thegrandson was hooting and hollering how unbelievable the whole thing was - doesn't take much to make us happy.

Just a scintilla of what has been going on - back to cleaning something - actually folding laundry. Take care and stay healthy. TTFN. 9 DAYS TILL I LEAVE FOR EGYPT!

I ENJOYED A SHORT BREAK - RIGHT?!?!?

Tax season is now over and I have taken a few days break from blogging - although I have tried to keep up with viewing the rest of my fellow bloggers sites. Thedaughter is working a steady 3-11:30 pm or 1-9:30 pm shift, so babysitting is all I seem to do. The mother challenges fall back on me, with seeing that the homework is done and that we make it to baseball practice. Of course while the little stinker is in school, there is always houswork to do - something thedaughter never accomplishes.

When I return from Egypt, I am going to tackle "the basement." I imagine that will be at least a 2 day job. My basement has turned into a netherworld of "not sure where to put this" items. When in doubt - pitch it to the basement. Out of sight - out of mind. But it is driving me nuts, because I at least like organization. Since I am looking forward to my trip, I have come to the conclusion that it would be better to tackle this job AFTER I return, as I will probably throw my back out, or have a massive coronary. Ha!

My new Dell Laptop arrived on Thursday, and I have been going nuts transferring data from the old laptop to this one. Yesterday I tried to find a USB to USB cord for easy file transfer, and was unable to locate one, so I have been using my 2GB flash drive, going back and forth from one unit to the other.



I have told thedaughter she may USE my old laptop, I am not giving it to her, as I have data on there that still needs transferred, also, she isn't known for taking very good care of "stuff." I set up an account for thegrandson, so he can play his games and go to the math site for help. First, I am teaching him the proper way to open and shut down. Sometimes he just likes to hit all the keys, but he is learning very quickly. He likes the fact that he has his own password and no one else will know it - but for the fact that he tells everyone - so funny.

I have cleaned both closets in my bedroom and have so much stuff to donate to Goodwill, and thedaqughter says "NO way - I am having a yard sale." I don't have a problem with yard sales, just that hauling all the stuff in and out is too tedious. The last yard sale thedaughter had with her friend, left my front porch loaded with all their crap for over a month. My thoughts are that what doesn't sell - immediately goes to Goodwill. We shall see how this project evolves - till then, my "stuff" is headed to THE DAMN BASEMENT!" Argh!

I have to get my nails done today and finish up some laundry - so I am going to get started. Everyone have a great weekend and TTFN.

Medical Update on thegrandson

Well, I may end up going into my tirade about the medical profession after all. Our family physician saw thegrandson today and was immediately alarmed. His colleagues viewed the rash, redness and swelling and were equally baffled. He has "some" symptoms of scarlatina, but then again other signs lead in another direction. The were thinking Kawasaki's disease. I had a lunch date with a friend, and thedaughter called my cell almost crying, when the doctors mentioned this possible new diagnosis and were sending her to a pediatric specialist. My fatass immediately headed over to the hospital.

I was quite impressed with this pediatrician and I already knew his partner and his qualifications. He has serious doubts about the Kawasaki's, but feels it is either a serious strep or staph infection (but NOT MRSA.)

As a prelude, when he was initially taken to the ER, the only test done was a throat culture for strep - NEGATIVE. Tuedays visit to the ER involved a blood test for Mono and a urinalysis for proteins. No full screen labs at all. This pediatrician was visibly pissed - not to mention myself and thedaughter. (I am not done with the ER staff and their methods yet - letters of complaint will be written.) Now we have been to the lab and a full screening is being done on the urine and every blood test imaginable will be run. We won't know anything really till 9 am tomorrow. Thegrandson has been taken off the penicillin and is now taking Omnicef a very strong antibiotic which works against bacterial as opposed to viral. I pray this gives the little stinker some relief. I can't even take pictures of how horrible his little butt looks - his skin is peeling as if he had a serious sunburn.

I know you all could care less, I just need to vent somehow or I would go postal on those at the hospital and their blase attitudes. This little guy has been suffering and rather than admit "they might not know" what the problem is and consider referrals, they just say "take this" he'll be fine. If we didn't take the initiative of threatening to go to Children's Hospital, (and they start worrying about their liability premiums) I don't know how far they would go in treating the little guy.

Tomorrow, hopefully we will find out if we are on the right meds and hopefully exactly what we are dealing with. I'm pooped, I think I will take some Tylenol PM and head to bed.

Everyone stay well PLEASE!! TTFN

Emergency Room run...

We have been doing quite well on avoiding the Emergency Room lately...until yesterday. Thegrandson came home from the babysitters, and immediately tells me he is itching all over, and upon further examination - he has a "rash", like sandpaper ALL over his body. Thedaughter was working at her new job (she also has flu-like symptoms), and doesn't want to jeopardize her 90 probationary period by calling off. I made the call to her, and explained I was taking thegrandson to the ER for evaluation - she starts into a panic - now my job gets hairier. Thedaughter has a penchant for over-reacting anyway!

Her supervisor was sending her home anyway and told her to go ahead and leave, so she met me at the ER. I always carry a copy of their medical cards, but have failed to get a written permission for treatment from thedaughter (this will now be taken care of.)

I had a feeling of what may be the problem, as thedaughter also had this same rash many moons ago. The grandson has SCARLATINA!

SCARLET FEVER (scarlatina)
Scarlet fever is simply strep throat with a rash. The throat infection is caused by a streptococcal bacteria. It is most commonly seen in school-aged children in the winter and early spring, but it can occur in individuals of any age and in any season. It is very contagious, and the risk of transmission can be decreased with good hand washing.

The rash is not serious, but serious complications can occur from the underlying infection, strep throat. The most worrisome of these is rheumatic fever, a serious disease that can damage the heart valves and cause long-term heart disease.

Symptoms
The child's symptoms begin with sore throat (which can be mild), fever, headache, abdominal pain, and swollen glands in the neck.
After 1-2 days of these symptoms, the child develops a rash on the body that is red and has a sandpaper texture. After 7-14 days, the rash sloughs off.
The face may look very flushed, but the skin around the mouth appears normal.
Treatment
Streptococcal bacteria can be treated with antibiotics.
Have your child seen by your doctor immediately if you suspect he or she has strep throat or scarlet fever.
Your child will require a full course of antibiotics, which should be finished even if your child is better before completion.
Your child may return to school in 24 hours if the fever has resolved and he or she is feeling better.

There is really no pain with this other than the itching, and where the rash has spread in the back of the knee is more irritating to him at the moment. Thank heavens for Benadryl...it helped him sleep through the night. He will probably be going back to school on Wednesday (per ER doctor's instructions), but I am sure the rash will be around a few more days.

I really tried to get a gory picture, but damn...this rash does not photograph well at all. I'm such a mahvelous grandmother.

His mom will go to work today and I will indulge the little fart unbelievably - AND GET NO WORK DONE AT ALL!

I need to vacuum, dust, laundry and much more, and try to squeeze in completing some tax returns - and thedaughter thinks I don't work!

Everyone else stay well (even pseudo heart attack man) and TTFN!

What a lazy, sneaky HOUND!!

Our lovely dog, Angel, really has to be one of the best pets we have ever had. Someone dropped her in the neighborhood when she was a few months old (probably because she is a female), and she adopted us.

Since it has been so cold, my weird house has NO cold air returns upstairs, so thedaughter and thegrandson sort of "camp out" in living room on super cold nights. Also, thedaughter is not quick on "redding" up her bedding, and also I didn't make the mess, it remains on the floor till she gets home from work. If I have clients coming, I will pick it all up, if not I keep on working.

Anyway, Angel now thinks that all this bedding is there for her - and even a pillow for her head!


She has a perfectly adequate blanket in my bedroom, which she has chewed a hole in (don't know when, because she actually chews nothing)! When I get ready for bed, she comes in and goes to sleep on her blanket, unless psycho kitty gets there first. Since Angel is a passive critter, she refuses to devour the nasty feline. I do believe the next few nights are not going to be as cold - so the "children" can retire to their room upstairs again.



I have to get back to work now, the grandson has taken a lot of my time - he just had to have blueberry muffins - so they are cooling on the counter for him. He wants to get on the computer, but he does not understand that my work involves ME utilizing MY computer at the moment. So he's mad at me.

Later guys...behave and get better or stay well. TTFN!