see if this works...

As I said, Brownie scampered off the keyboard and back to his palatial digs. Let's see if this works this time.

Now, as for theson, stuck in a hellhole in India, I worry about the train explosions and monsoons in his part of the world. It is just a mother's job to worry. I can't wait till he gets to a civilized part of the world. Being exposed to the lesser work motivated people he has in the past 18 months, I don't want any of that to rub off on him. He is far too intelligent for that. Have to check out his blog (on right) Nomadic Tendencies and Emmas (also on right) Saddle Tramp - to see the latest swimsuit fashion in India. It is SO NOT Emma. Amazing what a pair of scissors can do.

OK - gonna try to go back for a nap - take care and stay healthy all. Later.

yes...i do need a life!

Good morning all! Such a shite morning, cloudy, mother nature trying to decide whether to start torrential downpours or just sputter all day. Now, mind you, Jamboree In The Hills starts today at 3:50 PM, and this is the 30th anniversary of this "get down and dirty" weekend country music weekend. I did 26 years of attendance, and now it is up to the younger crowd to carry on. JITH has always been the third weekend of July, as they did extensive weather studies upon its inception and found that throughout history, the 3rd weekend of July has proved to be the best weekend of the summer. By that I mean, very little rain and sunny conditions. I guess, for the most part they have been accurate 75% of the time. I think it was the summer of '94 when it was Jamboree In The Mud. OMG what a mess, I had to pay some guy with a tractor $50 to pull my car out of the mud. This guy probably retired on the windfall he had that year from just towing cars with his John Deere. Total attendance for the weekend has been estimated as high as 200,000 people. No accurate figures have ever been released.

thedaughter went to the shed last night to get one of our "chairs in a bag" and ran back in the house because she encountered a spider the size of Texas. I hate that shed and want it totally torn down. It sits close to the creek running behind out house and is constantly damp and yucky. I have so much junk in it, would rather see it implode at this point.

Anyway, thedaughter is going to JITH for 4 days (comes home at night), is broke, but still going. I bought her the 4 day pass for Christmas, but told her then she would have to provide her own, beer, food, parking and incidentals. This weekend can be quite costly as everyone knows. She is doing it on a shoestring.

Enough of that garbage. I have been up since 4 am (this not sleeping thing is getting to be a PITA) and been on the computer (of course) since that time. BORING!!!

So here is the product of my boredom. BROWNIE THE HAMSTER.

I decided to bring thegrandsons pet hamster, Brownie, out to play with me. After a quick run across the keyboard, he just wanted to run around and sniff. How a nose can twitch that fast, amazes me. He couldn't wait to scurry off the computer. Oh hell, all of a sudden I can't put anymore pics in this blog. going to publish this one and then add last two pics in another entry. So ttfn, stay healthy all.

told ya so...

I am totally amazed... pictures of the robins on last blog were taken on Thursday and today is Saturday and look at them now.
I wasn't satisfied with this picture, so I came in the house and got a stool to stand on, and as I was getting ready to step onto the stool - ALL 5 BABY ROBINS FLEW OUT OF THE NEST. Scared the shite out of me. So I guess there really are NO flying lessons, they just automatically know what to do with their feathery arms. Now we will wait and see if they fly back home to the nest. I think I really pissed them off anyway. This is just a quick update on the birds... More later. Stay healthy all. TTFN

about ready to fly - i hope...

OK, momma robin has this second "brood" now living in a spoon basket on my back porch. There are five babies crammed into this teeny tiny nest. The one in the back has its mouth open waiting for a worm to be dropped down its gullet. It is not a pretty scene when all five decide they want the worm at the same time. But apparently mom and dad robin have it down to a science as to each finding and delivering the meals. In the early morning, both robins are in the side yard listening and then attacking their prey (poor worms never knew what hit them).

The first brood was nested in early May and there were 4 eggs then. Mama robin went overboard this time and had 5. It is so amazing, because one day (probably in the next week) the nest will be EMPTY. You don't get to see any early flying lessons at all - boom, they are gone.

My plan is to strip this basket when they are gone, put new "artificial" flowers in and then rehang. At the present time there are four nests, one on top of the other. Although, this same nest was used for the last two broods. I have been amazed how the robins apparently mate for life, and take the responsibilities equally. All marriages should be so good.

Not much going on here, the valley is gearing up for Jamboree In The Hills which begins next Thursday evening. the campgrounds open this weekend I believe. After 20+ years of attending, I now watch most of it on TV. I did my duty for a good many years, trudging thru mud and all. Now, it is up to the younger crowd to carry on.

Took my dog Angel, to Mom2's house this evening to let her and Heidi get acquainted. Heidi is an Alaskan huskie (I think), and very territorial. Angel is "just happy to be here." Had to take her up on a leash, she originally turned around and went back home on the first attempt. When I left I figured she would run back home, but oh no, straight across the street and onto the neighbors porch for a visit, and then crawl up the backs of the people walking down the street, before finally back into the house. I probably should try some sort of obedience training, but that would take all the fun out of it.

That's good enough for some lighthearted blogging this evening. Everyone take care and stay healthy... has anyone heard from Paul - he is playing absent blogger again!!! TTFN

...a little time with HOMER

the daughter, thegrandson and i spent saturday at Uncle Windy's for a picnic and plain old fun. we have known for the past year that he has a pet deer named HOMER, but finding the time to get to his place has been difficult.

we got there about 1 pm, but homer was playing shy and hiding in the woods somewhere. the grandson was beginning to get very upset. at least there were a few other children to play with, so that allayed some of his anxiety. i was at the back of the house with some friends when someone came running out and yelling that Homer finally appeared out front and colton was ecstatic.

Bless his little heart, he was so excited he kept wanting to run up and play with the deer, but Homer thinks the kids want to wrestle and he starts head butting. when Homer was smaller that was not a problem, but now he has the start of his adult rack (velvet like nubs) and they can hurt. we had to tell colton to "stand still" several times, so Homer wouldn't send him flying.

there are several more pics you can view at www.flickr.com/photos/mbonen. now i have to figure out how to get the movies downloaded. i know i will need to get a dvd burner at some point. the camera is awesome.

Taking a break, my damn feet keep swelling and I have to put them up. Stay healthy all, more later.

...start building the Ark

Isn't it great to see that Washington, D.C. is under water (realtively so)? Just imagine, the IRS building has been closed, I do so hope they don't loose any records (heehee). Can you see Dubya on the back of a boat crossing the Potomac? Not a pretty picture. He would have Mexicans rowing for him I am sure. (Never guess how I feel politically, could ya?)

I would choose sunshine and no rain if I had my druthers, sunshine is so revitalizing for me!! Like the Caribbean. It is comforting to know my ashes will someday be warmed in the ocean. Now isn't that a droll subject.

On to more exciting things. Let me think.....hmm..... theson had a terrific blog yesterday about his father's mistress (see Nomadic Tendencies). It fired up him, his sister and myself, not to mention our friends.

theson is one of the most interesting, vital, smart individuals I know. (Not that I am predjudiced or anything.) He was never a problem while growing up, he was always my staunchest supporter and rock. He made his way through one of the toughest and prestigious universities (Case Western) and after his "free" freshman year, made me very proud of all his accomplishments. And then I find out his father's mistress communicated with him via email, which upset him tremendously and he definitely does not want me to be upset. But just so you know son, nothing that person says or does can upset me. She is not worth a minute of my time one way or the other. Nor should she fester in your mind. She no more knew what life was like with your dad than the man in the moon. He was a pathological liar and perpetuated his lies with her. You and I (and a good many people around us) know what really transpired in our lives, and the bottom line is - we don't dwell on the past. We learn and go forward.

Russell has probably taught you more than your father ever did. And he is always willing to bend your ear or pass on his knowledge (in fields you are lacking.) Mom2 ALMOST loves you as much as me. We have adopted that family as our own and vice versa. Mom2 is my sister for all intent and purposes. We have been through a lot and probably have a lot waiting in the future.

I loved your blog though - there is nothing wrong with the feelings you have. As long as those feelings can be expressed and not repressed you are a whole person. Just knowing what a terrific husband and father you will be someday, makes me content. For not having a good example you have certainly made some headway in your life.

And that is all I am going to say at this time. Should you need me to stand up for you - just ask. That's my job. Love ya baby. MOM'S GOT YOUR BACK!!!

OK folks, stay healthy, till next time.

...really going to try pics

I have stated how much I enjoyed the cruise and I am going to see if I can get the pics in here. The first pic is taken from the ship looking out onto Port Everglades. And the following are from St. Thomas and St. Maarten. I got a beautiful sunset shot leaving St. Thomas. OK - that's 2 for now, thought I had more time but have to do some things. will add more or give the flickr site to view more. stay healthy all.

SHELBIE REMEMBERED...

Today was a very sad day for my friends - they had to have their pet and friend Shelbie put to sleep after 15 years of companionship. Shelbie was a black, white and brown sheltie, and the protector of the domain for many years. She was companion and friend to Russ, who truly loved this family member.

The one bright side, is the memories that they have over the past many years; their son and his antics with Shelbie when she was much younger, like blowing into her nose to make her jowls flare out. Poor baby, what she had to endure. But always the friend and protector.

Having to say goodbye to our pets is not now, or ever has been an easy task. But a pet should suffer no more than we would have a human endure. Saying goodbye for the last time is hard and will be for days to come, but trust me, the decision made was compassionate and made out of love.

My heartfelt sympathies are with you all.

GOODBYE SHELBIE GIRL!!!

..........so there, MY THING!!!

Just to be funny for theson - he apparently just caught on to the openings for my blogs the (...) or endings, whichever the case may be. I have no clue why I started it, but I think it comes from conversations, I am always being interrupted and what I have to say usually comes out rather choppy. So I feel I am usually starting everything in mid-sentence. How is that for an explanation?

Back to the cruise. When you enter Port Everglades, you have to wait in a winding line to enter the building which houses INS, TSA's and Cruise Personnel. Once in the building there are a multitude of lines again, one for each floor on the ship. One only has to go to their designated line and again wait to be processed through, and then onto the ship. there is also a line for Platinum and Elite members which is considered an "Express Check-In." NOT!!! I stood in line maybe longer than those on the various other lines. They also now have a line for "WHEELCHAIR ASSISTED TRAVELERS." OMG - that line reached to the back of this building (approximately 300 feet). From the moment I saw all those in the "handicapped" line, I knew I was going to have some fun.

For the first couple of days, in conversations with various people I met, I insisted that the jogging track should be turned into a route for the wheelchair races. Of course there would have to be two separate races, one for motorized and another for non-motorized units. Most saw the humor in my effort. I also thought we might have to divide into age groups as there appeared to be a 30 year gap between some. I figured wtf, how much more liability could there be, since most were on their last legs and needed oxygen, how bad could they get hurt (other than death!?) That was the sick side of my humor.

Princess had to supply an attendant to "de-embark" each and every one of those dependant on wheels - which I assumed was a liability based decision. They damn near ran me over just getting to the gangplank.

There was also a bunch of teeny bopper young girls which about drove me over the edge. Sickening, how they flaunted their little bodies all tanned and shapely. Ha!!! Someday after they have multiple children, they will find out what happens to that body! Probably picked me as a perfect example, all tanned and ROUND! hee hee.

OK, that's enough for now, have to get up early in the morning, so I have things to do. So everyone stay healthy and I will just sign off...

...i'm back - vacation NOT long enough

Hi All!!! I'm back to the humdrum life again. A week's vacation is definitely not long enough. I honestly need to hit a lottery so I can indulge my fantasy of at least ONE MONTH on a cruise ship. Met some very nice and interesting people on this cruise and managed to relax and enjoy myself completely. No clock to dictate my every moment and no schedule to adhere to - wonderful!!!

My very best friends picked me up on Friday the 9th at 6 am and drove me to the Pittsburgh Airport. Now there was a challenge - never in my wildest dreams did I figure it would be bedlam at that ungodly hour of the morning. Since I had to get my ticket from the US Air kiosk, I had to stand in line almost an hour then take my bags to the X-ray department, then go through the screening process and on to the gate for boarding. I stopped at O'Briens and had a quick coffee and cigarette and made it to my gate 5 minutes before boarding proceeded. Whew!!! That was fun. We left 15 minutes late and arrived in Ft. Lauderdale 10 minutes early - not bad and a good flight to boot.

Got a taxi to the hotel (very glad I switched hotels @ hotels.com). It is a very old hotel which has been refurbished and is right in the center of the "posh" shopping area. It was sort of a Rodeo Drive in Ft. Lauderdale. After a two hour nap, I walked all around the area and "window shopped"; there was even a Vera Bradley (cloth bags) store that I did enter. Still didn't buy anything, then I stopped at a sidewalk cafe for dinner. Nice atmosphere and ambience and a nice Mediterranean fare. While I was finishing my meal, everyone came running out of the bar next door screaming "fire" whilst still holding their drinks. It was two minutes before two ladder trucks; a pumper truck and ambulance were all parked in front of the building. I was not even allowed to leave as the police had yellow taped off the exit. So I did what any normal person would do, I called my friend and daughter on my cell to let them know what was going on. The fire was from the AC unit on the roof and the fire department had every thing under control within a half hour. A little excitement to end my day. Back to the hotel and the MOST COMFORTABLE BED in the world.

I got to Port Everglades to board the ship around 12:15 pm and there was already a long line. Cruise personnel opened the doors and the line moved smoothly after that. I was through the check in procedure and in my room by 12:45 pm. Swimsuit on and off to the pool. I was in heaven. There is always a "going away" party and a Caribbean band playing, dancing and lots of fun. That lasted till we were about a half hour out of port. Showered and up to the Caribe buffet. Terrific - lobster and crab legs - yummy! There was a great musical show in the Princess Theatre as always, then I closed my evening out at Club Fusion with a gin and tonic and "Scene It" games followed by the beginning of a week long "Princess Idol" contest.

I will get out the manual for the cacorder/digital camera Slyght bought me for Mother's Day, and try to figure how to download and hopefull get into a future blog. The older I get the dumber I get!!

Have to take thedaughter to Columbus for a check-up today, so will try to add more tonight.

Stay healthy all!!

I am almost outta here...

OKay, the countdown has begun. I will be leaving for the airport in 17 hours, and in 51 hours will be sailing to the Caribbean. I have not slept well for the past few nights, and everyone says I must be excited. I am not sure what to call it!! There is only a handful of people who can truly understand how much I need and will relish "getting away!"

I do well when I am on my own, and just imagining relaxing by the pool and DOING NOTHING, is the ultimate rush. Thank you Slyght for everything!

I will miss thegrandson more than anything, although I don't think it is a reciprocal emotion. Last night he was telling his mother, he wished I was leaving "yesterday." Maybe he is planning a big party, oh that would be his mother!! hee hee.

I have tried to limit what has gone in the suitcase, because I know I am taking more than I need. I will rummage through it one more time and remove any excess.

I bought "The DaVinci Code" for the cruise and started reading it yesterday and am now halfway through. It is excellent and very hard to put down. I will probably have it finished before I even sail.

OK - MOM2 --- DON'T GET BUMMED OUT. Since I have been unemployed, we have played almost every day, and she will have to resort to the "other" best friends while I am away. I know they are not as much fun as me - SO PRETEND!! I will email her from the ship - to let her know I have not gone overboard!!

Still much to do, gonna run for now. Will try to blog tonight if possible, but had a hard time getting to the site just to blog now. So we will see.

EVERYONE STAY HEALTHY!! Don't think of me in the sunshine, by the pool, with a daiquri - it will only depress you!!! TTFN

...five days and counting

It is 1:45 am Monday morning and apparently I have had enough sleep for the night- ARGHHHH!!! Tried to blog yesterday and the day before, but I did the "Personality Test" from Slyght's site and tried to put in this blog and really fukked things up. After deleting both posts, they were still showing up on this site and changed every aspect of the blog. It definitely wasn't pretty.

I have never considered myself as a dumb individual, but for the life of me I have more trouble adding links to this site, and slyght tells me how "easy" it is. NOT. I believe I do much better with visual instruction in my "twilight" years than the written word. When I was younger (soooo long ago) I could just read instructions and "go at it" but not anymore. I must have suffered some sort of brain damage along the way.

Thanks slyght for fixing the problem!!

Leaving this coming Friday for Ft. Lauderdale and sailing on Saturday. My very bestest friend, MOM2, is unable to cruise again this year, due to some physical disabilities, DAMNIT!!! But she better be fine and fit next year as we are planning a 9 day cruise on the Crown Princess out of NYC, and sails to the Turks and Caicos. That should give the neurologist plenty of time to fix what ails her. Definitely more fun with Mom2, as we have a blast "making fun of" all the other people on the cruise. Not in a hurtful way, but in a "they wish they were us" kind of way. YUK YUK! I was looking through all my paperwork for this trip (cruise papers, air reservations and hotel reservation), when I noticed that the hotel I booked had a one star rating out of five. After more checking, I started getting a little worried. So I called Hotels.com and was able to switch to a better locale (get this: a totally non-smoking hotel), for $20 more. I must be nuts.

Have you read about the massacre of the seven people in a home in Indianapolis? It was quite tragic, three children under the age of 11 and 4 adults were shot in their home by 3 or 4 home invaders. Well they caught one guy and then another surrendered to police at the local Hardee's with his minister by his side. My point is this: the sites for comments about this act and the perpetrators on the internet have had me irate as ususal. Especially the ones like - "it was an ACCIDENT, and to forgive the poor guys." Excuse me, I accidently swept my semi automatic guns throughout the room and these poeple just got in the way?????!!!! And to practice forgiveness, blah blah blah! NOPE - AIN'T GONNA DO IT!! Let me start the lethal IV drip, or pull the switch or whatever it takes to rid the planet of this kind of vermin. Between eyewitness accounts and forensics, it is proven that these individuals perpetrated the crime - BANG you are done!! No more tax dollars being spent for their care and housing. I have always chuckled at the statements that it costs more to execute an individual than to house them for 30 or 40 years. Last time I checked a bullet still cost under a buck. And the chemicals for lethal injection do not cost thousands of dollars. ENOUGH OF THIS MORBID SUBJECT. I just get very upset with the moronic mentality we face sometimes.

As for the Personality test, I did not amaze myself at all, guess because I already know who I am, and at this point I probably will not change much.

OKAY PAUL - get on the stick and blog. May 18th was such a long time ago, fill us in on what is happening, any exciting bike trips?? Work going well?? Anything, something!!! C'mon guy, I have no life, need to catch up on others.

Everyone email Emma (Saddle Tramp) on Tuesday, her 28th birthday!!! Wonder how good an Indian Birthday Cake really is?? Maybe Slyght will get her something nice!! Like a big hug and sloppy kiss!! haha!

Gonna go for now - have to go tan in 6 hours. hee hee. More later.

Stay healthy all!!

...don't pay the ransom - I'M BACK!!!

I can't believe it has been a week since I last blogged. My how time flies..blah, blah, blah! I really have been busy, but can't think of anything major I have accomplished. Last Monday, took the daughter back to Columbus to get the cast removed, and that was a day from hell - a murphy's law day. She was in a lot of pain and still cannot move the wrist at all. The doctor scheduled physical therapy at Martins Ferry Hospital which is approximately 8 miles from home - so that is a good thing. Well, maybe!! She scheduled her appointment for Thursday and when we showed up, they didn't do the therapy because the doctor had written a therapists name on the form and she is no longer employed there. DUH!! Tried to tell them that it didn't matter, her name just happened to be a reference on the list he had. Mind you - this place is a specific HAND THERAPY office. But no, had to come home and get the doctor's phone number - give it to therapists office and wait to see what happens. The next day (Friday), therapist called and said doctor gave the OK -- whatever??? I truly hate dealing with morons.

Beginning yesterday, we are in the grip of a hot spell. Ninety plus degrees. Had to start the AC, and I am not a happy camper. That means an escalating electric bill, and higher utilities do not make me happy. Finangled with the phone company this week to get my bill lowered. It worked, had to add 2 types of service (call waiting and call forwarding) to get a break and it lowered my DSL by $10 too. Total monthly savings will be $20. Every little bit helps.

Got up early this morning (5:30 am as usual) and got dressed and got groceries for a cookout. Made potato salad, pasta sald, baked beans, my special barbeque sauce, and chicken. It was super. Mom2 and Kimberly came down and sent a plate hom to Russ. My oldest daughter and her new husband were supposed to come but forgot and made other plans. They may stop tomorrow before he heads back to Indiana. (Cable installer and works independently.)

I've been getting things together for my cruise, making lists, etc... getting excited really. Just to get away and chill out is such a relaxing thought. Just have to ensure that everything will be OK on the homefront while I am away. Don't want people in my house while I am gone. Quirky, but that is how I feel.

Slyght had a bout of "Delhi Belly" or Montezma's revenge of India, and I hope he is feeling better by now. Would hate to think he is pooping his life away, BAD MOMMY!!!

Gonna crash for now, I am worn out. Thedaughter and Colton have gone somewhere, but hope she brings him home soon, he needs a bath and to get to bed. He is a little cranky. BTW, gave him $5 bill to get something from the "Good Humor" man, and he picked a Spider Man Popsicle - $2 frigging dollars!! wtf!!! talk about inflation.
He came in with $3 and said "look what the ice cream man gave me!!" needless to say it was my change from the five - to keep him somewhat calm I had to give him a dollar so I could get two. Amazing what one has to do to keep peace.

More later, take care all!! 12 DAYS TILL CRUISE!! YIPPEE!!!

...daVinci debate or propaganda?

instead of the "infomercials" which run all night long, i have been switching channels and found that one religious channel was having a discussion (only one sided though) about "the daVinci code." It amazes me, that they are harping that this book and movie are only tearing away the deep seated traditions and mores of the bible. Now I have to consider this: the bible and daVinci Code are both BOOKS. each writtten about 2000 years apart. one was written by many individuals over a great period of time - with no hard evidence to support its claims or statements, and the other more recent book was written by one man with backup up reseearch from other books of the same genre. I consider that both belong in the "fiction" section of the library.

this one gentleman was referring to those who "fall" for the daVinci concepts as cultists, but then what are the people who swear by every single word of the bible? at one point the discussion moved to the sect (cult) within the catholic church called "opus dei." i saw an interview with four members of this cult and they are scary. well dressed and spoken individuals in high paying jobs and have nothing. Opus Dei requires that all financial assets be turned over to the "church" and they physically abuse their bodies in service to God daily. Oh by the way, Opus Dei has been an official sect for only 77 years. there is a barbed "bracelet" of sorts called a cellus (pronounced sill-us) they wear for hours at a time wrapped around their thigh. I suppose because your "bad thigh" made you do bad things. and not to forget the knotted whip for self flagellation.

My question is: where does religion start or cults for that matter? what are the organized religions afraid of from a movie? I taught my children at an early age, that movies are not real (unless otherwise stated), just created entertainment.

For a work of fiction, these anti da vinci groups are really hyping the movie whether they admit it or not. Now for Leonardo daVinci. Other than Stephen Hawking (the smartest individual I can think of at the moment), I can't think of anyone as versatile and of a genius nature that we should even comment "against" him. The man was a scholar, artist, engineer, scientist, and anatomy instructor. Definitely a man before his time. He invented the first machine gun for heavens sake. With a brain such as his, I would not be shocked to consider that he put subtle clues in his paintings and other works.

Slyght bought the book a long time ago and I have been wanting to read it, so I bought a paperback for my cruise. I hope there are no religious fanatics to rip it out of my hands and throw it overrboard.

This one gentleman had me laughing, he kept saying over and over, "I am not telling people to boycott the movie, but why should we put our dollars in Sony's coffers over a pack of lies." If he said it once he said it twenty times, makes me want to buy stock in Sony now. And all these new books are coming out to contradict da Vinci code, and reference the Bible, of course and writings from centuries past. Now back to my initial statements, who is alive to verify "old" statements and where is the evidence?

I may burn in hell, but so be it, that is how I feel, and I always love a good argument.

5 am and I think I will go back to bed now. Stay healthy all - 19 DAYS TILL SAILING TIME!!

***Note: daVinci Code grossed $224 million over 3 day span, second only to Star Wars. Gotta love Sony.

i have had enough....

Today started out with a plan. I was finally going to jump into getting my kitchen back in order. During tax season I had moved all my files up and it had become a mess. Files are now back in the basement, and it is 12:30 am Thursday morning - and I am ready for a breakdown, but I digress...

As I was "rearranging" the hutch (moving to another wall), and I then proceeded to move the unit holding my printers, laptop and some office supplies - it collapsed and everything went crashing to the floor. I had electronics strewn everywhere. While the daughter started unplugging and sorting the stuff out, I ran to WalMart to get a stronger shelving unit. When I returned home, she had gotten a friend to come help with the mess. We put the new unit together, and began reconnecting all the electronics and luckily - EVERYTHING IS FINE!!! Oh what a mess.

With all the moving and up and down on the stool (to clean things "higher" up), my body was screaming at me. I then fixed a baked steak dinner, and went to bed at 9 pm. I think I fell asleep instantly. Thedaughter then woke me at midnight to tell me we had water coming in the basement. My nerves cannot take anymore. I spent $65K to have a new foundation put under my house in 2001 so I wouldn't have a swimming pool for a basement, but the jerk who did he job either did not put a check valve in the drain system or used shite materials. I need to have a check valve put in and have been nagging this guy for over a year to do it, and now look where I am?!?!? Tomorrow morning at 8 am he is going to hear from me. It has rained non-stop for several days now and I need this done. After Hurricane Ivan in 2004 - and I lost $20K in property because the basement flooded - I cannot go thru it again. I will more than likely not be able to go back to sleep now.
WHY CAN'T THINGS GO SMOOTHLY?????

How ridiculous to get worked up like this - I have already gotten sick once, my stomach is in knots. I certainly do not handle stress well at all. I am my own worst enemy.

I am so glad Slyght finally started blogging again, I miss his humor and updates during the "down" time.

Gonna go for now - stay healthy all - 23 DAYS NOW!!!!

Lovely Mothers Day

Besides being rainy and gloomy most of the day, Mothers Day turned out to be a lovely event. Thedaughter loved her gifts from her son and was in a good humor all day. I spoke with (and viewed on webcam) the son for almost an hour in the morning. His beard is growing in nicely, the "bug bite" is healing (after his personal surgery with nail clippers - argh!!!), and he made my day complete, just by electronic comunications.

Mom2's brother Donald invited us to his house for a cookout, and it was divine. He cooked steaks, deep fried chickens, lasagna and we took some side dishes. Nice, laid back afternoon and early evening. Thedaughter came down and brought the grandson, Mom2's family and Donald's girlfriends parents were all there, and as usual there was more than enough food. Mom2's son came in later in the evening, which was a real treat for her. She becomes cranky sometimes when she doesn't have her complete family on holidays, so that scenario was avoided. (hahahahaha)

Thegrandson played with the other kids and literally wore himself out, to the point of being a real grumpass. He does not understand that the other kids have to go home at some point and playtime is not eternal. He almost takes it personally and becomes unbearable. (but still love him to pieces.) Our big problem is getting him to go to bed without TV or lights on. He has been spoiled in that way. I can get him to sleep easily by laying with him and rubbing his back, but his mother doesn't want that anymore. I feel at least we should wean him away from that slowly. If he watches TV, he never goes to sleep. I am to blame for some of it, but when I am watching him, I let him watch TV for awhile then do the back rub thing and all is good. Doesn't work as well for his mother. Uncle Zac turns the lights out and just lays quietly in the dark with him for awhile and "zap" he is out. I don't have the ideal solution, but hopefully we will work something out for the little booger.

Enough for the moment. SLYGHT START BLOGGING, miss your humor and insight. Besides, you have to blog and tell everyone about the new job description. Oooooh - now we have a mystery.

Later, stay healthy all - 25 days now!!!

dreary and depressing day...

It almost seems like a fall day. Chilly and cloudy and sends me into a depression of sorts. I have a tendency to dwell on all the bad and very little good, on days like this. The guy just cut the grass, but I am going to have to get my lawnmower out and get it running, this goofball charges me $25 for 1/2 hour of work. My side lot is flat and totally unobstructed and w/ all the junk in the backyard, probably isn't more than 50 square feet to cut. I like to cut grass, but everyone worries I may have another heart attack. Pshaw!!! I can do it in increments.

The neatest event happens every spring on my back deck. (Since 2001). When my sister died, I received a beautiful "spoon" basket, and I hung it and filled it with fake flowers shortly thereafter. Robins have been nesting in it since then. Each nest is made on top of the last. Right now there are 4 robin eggs in the nest and the mother robin gets highly pissed every time I open the back door. Last year, while I was on my cruise, the nasty blackbirds knocked 3 of the eggs out of the nest, so we try to watch them if possible. thegrandson is totally enthralled by it all. The dog can't figure out why the bird is screaming at her all the time. LOL.

Just cleaned thegrandsons toy room and discarded a lot of old toys and pieces of toys. Looks great for the moment, but probably won't stay that way for long. Laundry is going thru the process and going to start on the kitchen now.

Hopefully, my best friend and I will go to Red Lobster for dinner. We always have fun, and all we do is GAB!!! No one is safe from our clutches - the entire public is fair game. We can be merciless too.

More later, this was just a "fill the time" blog.

Stay healthy all - 27 DAYS!!!

He doesn't listen to MOM...

Well, theson has done it again. I specifically told him NOT to buy me anything for Mother's Day or for any of the immediate upcoming holidays, as he has done more than he should. Today the UPS shows up at the door with a box (from Amazon) and I sign for it (a rarity), and place it in the living room, as that is where all of thesons purchases go. later on, thedaughter asks me what I ordered from Amazon, and I said "nothing, what are you talking about?" She proceeded to tell me the box I signed for was for ME. (Note: I wasn't wearing my glasses when I signed for the package either.)

I verified that it was for me and tore into the box savagely. OH MY GOD!!! Theson got me a JVC Everio Hard Disk Camcorder. This thing is the bomb. Takes digital pics as well as recordings. Strange as it may sound, this morning I was telling thedaughter that I was going to dig out my old camcorder to take on the cruise. Well, fuggedaboutdat. This unit fits in the palm of your hand (no kidding), and is sooooo light. Amazing. I have figured out how to charge it, take a pic and record. As far as the special effects it has and all the "fluff", I will have to PRACTICE!! The unit came w/ 9 books. Actually only three are necessary, as there is a set in spanish and french also. My understanding is that I can then download pics and recording to a CD when I am done. This is too cool. Now I have to figure out how to beat my son for being so very good to me.

Now for the reality check. the daughter mentioned that this camcorder may very well be for Zac and somehow my name got on the packaging ---- NAH!!! Too bad, possession is 9 points of the law. lalalalalalalalala..! Too late, he will have to wrestle me for it, and that is just too over the top. I am old, fat and fragile. HEE HEE.

Rainy, crumby day here. Yesterday it was 80 degrees and sunny, now chilly (60 ish) and rainy. Gonna stay that way for the next 6-7 days. YUK!!

Thegrandsons last day of preschool was today. We spent the day with the whole class, ate a sack lunch (in the classroom as the rain precluded our trip to Wheeling Park.) Some of those kids I could have strangled. Wild, loud and apparently throughout the school term - learned nothing about sharing. I am sure the teachers are going to enjoy some solitude over the next couple of months. Hope I can teach him to ride a bike over the summer, haven't done that for awhile.

Gonna go for now, stay healthy all. 28 days from tomorrow - sailing, sailing!! lalalalalalala

just resting and catching up...

Well, almost a full week of unemployment. still scared, but guess that will last till i find another job. trying to cut back on some things (wish i hated to shop) to stretch the $$$. I have gotten my front porch in order and have to tackle the back deck now. that will be an alL-day project, as during the fall and winter months, i notoriously "throw" everything back there. so i guess you could call this pay back on me.

the daughter doesn't make it easier either. she misses the point that we have to work together (since she is currently in a cast and cannot work.) no matter what, there is always something that has to be done. she goes to bed late and sleeps till noon or 12:30 and it is hard to accomplish a lot on that schedule.

the grandson's last day of pre-school is this thursday, then he is off till he starts kindergarten in late august. then SCHOOL forever. poor baby. but he has a curious mind and loves to learn so hope he goes far in this world.

that damn "BUSH COUNTDOWN CLOCK" is not going fast enough. the a**hole is still fukking up everything. now he has appointed a "military" person to head the CIA ?!?!?! let's see, he bugs your phone and internet, and now wants a military guy in to suveil the masses even more. NOT. i think there will be a stink over this one. (at lease that is the ramblings so far.) poor me - may have to get on my soapbox again.

had a great day yesterday. mom2, oldest daughter (newlywed), and i went flea marketing and then to BW3's. mom2 was totally impressed with bdubs. guess we will have to do that again sometime soon.

everyone read slyghts blog today about the t-shirt "give away!" HILARIOIUS!!!!

STAY HEALTHY AND EMPLOYED ALL!! 32 DAYS AND I AM OUTTA HERE!!

Is this a midlife crisis?

I have either made a major step forward in my life or one helluva screwup. I quit my job yesterday, a job where I have been for 5 years and ended making $8 an hour. This employer (a family run operaton) hired a new girl a year ago (just at Christmas time), and I started noticing she was getting a ton of hours and no extras thrown my way. After my cruise last May, I had a conversation with the boss, and asked why she was making $8 an hour and in a full time position and nothing was offered to me. Dumb me, I listened and finally realized - HE GAVE ME NO ANSWERS WHATSOEVER. He offered me a quarter an hour raise - to a whopping $7.75 an hour. that was June 2005.

At Christmas time - the boss and I were working a Sunday before Christmas and as I laid the daily deposit record on his desk, he had the payroll record opened, and I noticed this girl wasn't making $8 an hour - she had been making $10 an hour since June. So apparently after our wonderful discussion and I was under the belief that our wages were in sync (somehwat) - fool that I am. Now I realize that after appeasing me, he gave her a $2 an hour raise.

I know he didn't offer me full time, because he didn't want to offer me health care, since I had had a triple bypass in 2004. Which is't a worry, because I have lousy health coverage with my late husbands pension. Anyway, I have been upset since December, and have been loosing sleep, wondering how to approach the subject again. You have to understand, I do not like confrontations, I can hold my own when confronted, but to initiate one - NOT. So Sunday, I laid the groundwork for my feelings in an email to the boss and hit the "send" button. His reply was "we will have a face to face on Tuesday" my next scheduled day to work.

Everything was chummy when I got to work. The boss's daughter didn't show up for work nor did the "full time" competitor, just the boss's wife. Hmmm... something is awry. At 1:00 pm he finally called me in his office and we started a conversation that went nowhere fast. Again, he could not answer my questions. Since he has only been an "owner" of a business for 13 years, I asked him to draw on his years as an employee, and how would he feel if the roles were reveresed? Duh, he really seemed like a moron. He made it clear that I was not getting any more hours and the $8 was the best he could do. Silence. I then asked, what was the best he could do to "bridge the gap" between our pay. Get this - $8.25 an hour. Let's see - she's making $10 - me to $8.25. I said "NO" and I had to leave. He said he was sorry to see me go and he was going to have to hire two part timers after I left. Now do the math, even at minimum wage he wuld be shelling out $10.30 an hour then. OK - I must have been born yesterday.

It is not like I have any savings and can afford to do this, but emotionally and mentally I had to sever the relationship. I am scared to death right now. I do not want to depend on theson, and fear of the future is great. The son arranged for my cruise while he was home, and if I could get a refund for him I would, but to late for that. I will figure something out. I truly do not like where I am at this point in my life, but things will work out I am sure.

Hope you all enjoyed this diatribe - rambling on at its best. Later.

Times Up! Back to India!

Well, I knew the ten or so days Zac was going to be home would go fast, but whew!! they just flew by. A lot had to be crammed into those days, which only accelerated the trip. We had Brenda's wedding on Saturday, Carrie's surgery on Tuesday and had to fit all the visits and playtime in between. It literally broke my heart to send him back today. I've been tracking him on Google Earth and he just passed over New Foundland a shor time ago.

I miss his humor so much when he is not here. We make fun of everything and everyone. We are definitely equal opportunity people. Everything and everyone is always fair game. As far as I know, he managed to get everyone everything he promised, except for 2 cans of Guiness - sorry to whomever that was promised.

The packing was the fun part. If Zac had to do it his way, he would need 14 suitcases. BUT I AM THE QUEEN OF PACKING. One bag was strictly canned goods and food products. His main suitcase was essentials, and I had left over space for more food products. Some non-essential things were left here, which I will get boxed and shipped this coming week. Should be interesting when and if he ever comes home (or leaves India) - he will have to have an entire FedEx semi hired to ship everything back home.

He had fun in Columbus with his "buddies", whether playing poker or going to those "gentlemans clubs." Such a worldly young man.

Totally exhausted, going to bed for now and watch my favorite "Real Time with Bill Maher." Laugh myself to sleep. More later. Take care all. 41 days til I am sailing.!! Yippee!!

PAY YOUR KIDS TO ELOPE!!!

I am a firm believer that all the money spent on elaborate weddings is just pissed down the tube. All that fluff and what do you have to show for it down the road? The same piece of paper you would have if you eloped!!

The ceremony is over the reception is over and the bride (my daughter) and groom are on their way to a hotel in Pittsburgh, as their flight is at 7 am tomorrow morning to Jamaica. AND MY FEET ARE KILLING ME!!!! Not to mention my legs, back and other body parts. So therefore, I must have had a good time. My daughter was a beautiful bride. My other daughter was a beautiful bridesmaid (considering she hates femininity altogether.) We went thru hell this morning just getting my daughters hair done.

I had made an appointment at the Regis hair salon at the mall for 10 am this morning for Carrie to get a wash, cut and style, possibly an updo. I dropped her off and went to get champagne and champagne glasses and when I got back to the mall, the girl was already pinning her hair in silly little curls on top of her head. I said the girl must be quick, and was then informed that they didn't have time to wash or cut her hair, just put it on top of her head. NOW I AM FURIOUS. I made a specific appointment for a specific job and they arbitrarily change the program. It was hideous and they then charged me $35. No wash - no product used - just a head full of bobby pins. I will get my $35 back - I will be contacting the corporate offices and any persons of importance. I had to take her to another salon and get it all redone. ($45 there) Now the wedding is at 2:30pm, the limo is supposed to pick Carrie up at home at 1:20 pm. That went to hell fast. We got out of the salon at 1:30 and made a mad dash home to get clothes on, me fix my hair and travel 11 miles to the church. We made it at 2:25 pm. I hate being late and hate being rushed even more. For that alone I will get even with REGIS SALONS.

All in all, everyone looked beautiful, the limo got everyone where they had to be, and the reception and food was all great. Now I am ready for my breakdown. Carrie and Zac have each gone out for the evening, Colton is at the babysitters, and all I want to do is cry. Just nerves and anxiety, I will get over it.

Zac is leaving for Columbus in the morning and that pretty much ends our visit, as I won't see him till the night before he leaves to go back to India. More heartbreak. I miss the big boy when he is gone.

Tomorrow will be "rest up" day for me, as Monday it is off to Columbus again, Carrie's surgery is scheduled for Tuesday morning. Always something.

Enough for now - I am pooped!!! Nite Nite!!

crazy, chaotic days

My oldest daughter is getting married this afternoon and it has really been chaotic the past couple of days. I must explain, that my daughter is 35 years old and I gave her up for adoption when she was born, as I was an 18 year old unwed mother (a real stigma in those days). I never stopped thinking about her, but knew I had made the right decision for me at the time. Many years later, with my new family, I had never kept it a secret about the child I gave up for adoption. Fourteen years ago, I had made an agressive search to find my biological family (I too, was adopted, with my twin sister), and made great strides. During this process, I got a call from the adoption agency I used in 1970, that my daughter would like to meet me, if I was willing. I had made the process easy for her to find me, and we met, she was married with a one year old son. since then, we have been one extended family. I get along well with her adoptive parents (who divorced) and the "steps", we are just one group of crazy people.

This is Brenda's 2nd marriage, and I truly love my new "son-in-law" and feel they will have a good realtionship. Zac and Carrie also get along wonderfully. Going to be interesting, Brenda with her Irish heritage marrying this Italian gentleman. Could be some interesting disagreements at times.

Had the rehearsal dinner last night and met Pete's family (a good many drove up from Florida), he actually has an "Uncle Vinny" and a "cousin Vinny" - so Italian. I just LOVE his mother Donna, she is a trip. Unfortunately, the weather is gloomy and may rain today - so we will just have to make up for it at the reception. Party hardy!!!

***Just a note - I made the arrangements for the limo (a good friend of mine) and have left messages for him with NO return calls and have been having kittens worrying about what to do. Well, the prick just called me and everything is COOl. Whew, another thing off my mind.

The best release of all is --- MY CRUISE, FLIGHT AND HOTEL ARE BOOKED AND CONFIRMED. Took care of everything yesterday, and I am sailing on June 10th to the Eastern Caribbean. Got my balcony room, a non-stop flight to Ft. Lauderdale (one change on return), and a hotel room the night before embarkation. I am soooo excited I could scream (oops, think I did that.) I wish my best friend could go with me (we always have super fun), but she has health issues at the moment that preclude her traveling. I have no problems with traveling alone, I make friends easy and enjoy solitude also. Maybe we will plan another group cruise for next year. I get free internet on the ship, will try to blog, but have to wait and see if it is feasible. Just 48 days from now (I will be putting the countdown in all blog posts) I will be in puppy heaven.

Okay, time to get some things done (hair, makeup and all the "fluff" stuff for the wedding). Details later (and hopefully some pics). Take care all.

my (big) baby is home!!! luv ya zac

Well, I picked up my son at the Pittsburgh Airport last night, and all is well with the world, albeit for a short time. He looks wonderful, has lost about 15 pounds, and his wonderful, crazy sense of humor is still intact. His plane was an hour late, so I made new friends in the airport while waiting, so not a bad waiting period. Got his baggage (it all made it) and headed home. He wanted a steak dinner more than anything, but all the steakhouses (Max & Erma's, Lone Star, Outback's) were all closed. Even his favorite Smokey Bones and Olive Garden were closed. So we ended up at Eat 'n Park (or Arf and Barf) for a burger. We were both starved so it was better than nothing.

Got back to Bellaire about 12:15 am, and Colton (the grandson) was just dozing off, when Zac totally surprised him - it was a Kodak moment and no camera in sight. The little guy LIVES for his Uncle Zac. We were all exhausted and crashed rather quickly.

Zac couldn't even sleep in this morning, he was up by 8:30 am. We had a full day planned, and quite hectic at that. Colton had a cold (coughing and hacking) which miraculously healed itself after we called him off of school. Zac, Colton and I headed to the mall, with a full agenda, and we accomplished 98% of that list. Colton kept his uncle really running, but Zac loves it. Note: Zac started opening all his presents to himself first thing this morning, and he is like a wide eyed child getting a new toy. OH... that is because everything was a toy. How he finds these creatively ingenious items totally amazes me. He has opened about 20 boxes and isn't even half done. Bless his heart.

Zac, Colton, the daughter, Mom2 and her husband, and her brother Donald and Mary, Anthony, Stephanie and Christa (whew!!!)oops and Kim, all went to the famous (or infamous) West Texas Roadhouse for dinner and it was hysterical. We all have an enormous amount of fun when we are there. Zac treated for dinner and left the waitress (or server) a beautiful tip, but that is the way he is. A very generous loving soul!

He has gone to "Flanagans" to meet Mom2's husband for a quick drink and laugh or two (right???) I am worn out and headed to my bed, have to work in the morning, then I am off till next Thursday. Yea!!!!

Hold tight for the next installment, will keep you all informed of Zac's (slyghts) latest adventure. Nite all!!!

Hoppy Easter!!!

Well, it was a beautiful day, baked a ham early, the daughter made scalloped potatoes, and I actually had the client from hell come at 12:30 pm. Now, this old man came to me 2 years ago and I was tickled to death when he didn't return. He questioned every little move I made, and hovered over my shoulder the entire time I was preparing his return, then called a million times after returning home, with the SAME questions. sunny beaches, he called Friday evening and wanted an appointment (and talked on phone repetitiously for over 1/2 hour), and I told him to come Saturday evening around 6 pm, as I worked till 5. He showed up, and said he changed his mind and was going to try and do his own return, which was super fine with me, and stood on the porch talking for another 1/2 hour. He really rambles on and on and never wants to leave. He called and left a message on the machine at 11:15 pm last night, but I didn't pick up - just said he wanted to ask me something. When he called at 9 am this morning - he changed his mind again, and being the nice person I am, I said to come between 12 and 12:30, BECAUSE it was Easter and we had to go somewhere. It took me probably 20 minutes to do his return, and he stayed 2 hours, with questions on the return. HE IS DEFINITELY OCD. With a little Alzheimers thrown in for good measure.

I make the whole tax procedure sooooo easy for my clients. When completed they are given a folder with all information supplied by them STAPLED in said folder, a cover sheet noting whether they get a refund or they owe (and who to make the check payable), and all information (returns) are paper-clipped with envelopes attached and marked where they are to sign. I must have explained this to the old guy a thousand times and he just didn't get it. He kept saying the tax book says this and that - and I explained that I do know what I am doing, have been doing this for 30 years and update necessary courses regularly. I finally had him make out his checks while here and attached them to the appropriate forms and son of a b**ch if he didn't call again at 9 o'clock tonite. If I weren't balding already I would be pulling my hair out!!! He asked if I had caller ID, so if he called and doesn't leave a message, I could call him back. I told him I DON'T have caller ID, so he would have to leave messages (I lied) and he said since he knows where I work, he might contact me there. I emphatically said he could NOT call me at work. I hope the Alzheimers takes over and he forgets where he put the return with my name and number, for next year. I will have to start a series of Prozac to deal with him.

I had 3 pick ups (of returns) and had 2 returns to complete today. In between all this, I got really sick. Barfing up a perfectly good meal. Took a lot out of me, and now feel like crap. I think it is a combination of nerves, end of tax season crunch and the anticipation of seeing my son on Tuesday. Not seeing him for eight months has been so hard. Thank god for the internet and the webcam or I would have gone completely nuts. His stay here will be way to short. He should be getting on his first airplane out of India soon.

Going to put my crappy ass in bed for now, head is exploding also. Happy Easter to all!! Felt bad I couldn't even get to Mom2's even. Will make up for it later. Nite Nite.

well i really got that wrong...

OK - forget everything I said about the daughters surgery last week. I misunderstood the doctor completely. Not that I am dumb or anything (because I definitely am not), but he talks so fast I guess I only caught PART of what he said. We went back for a follow up and to have the half cast removed today, and apparently he did find some bone problems and she will definitely have one bone removed and 3 fused if possible. If not possible, he will be removing several. With this procedure, her wrist will lose some back and forth motion but not enough to be disabling. But he guarantees she will no longer suffer the awful pain she has in the past. This doctor is a trip, funny as hell. Looks like Drew Careys TALL sidekick (c'mom tell me his name). He is at least 6'6". If I were 20 years younger I might chase after him (after beating his wife to a pulp). Right!! The surgery is set for April 25th. We will be in Columbus for another 2 nights again, hopefully for the last time. Probably at least 2 follow ups after that. She will have a full cast for 6 weeks minimum and unable to work at all for a definite 3 months.

They are so efficient at OSU it totally amazes me. Our appointment was at 1:50 pm, and we got there on the dot, and were in and out and on our way home at 2:30 pm. Incredible.

Great Sunday for me, up at 6 am, went to tan at 9 and my appointment was for 11:30 - blew that one. So I cancelled the appointment altogether and came home and worked on tax returns from 9:30 am - 11:30 pm - NONSTOP. I had an incredible headache all day today because of it. I got all but 3 returns completed, but now have to put them together, call the clients and collect my $$$$. I wish I wasn't so cheap. Usually I save most of my tax money for vacation, but have spent a good bit on gasoline and incidentals for all these trips to Columbus. No big deal, you do what you have to do!!! Thanks to Slyght, he used his hotel rewards points for the hotel on two occasions so far. Thank you baby!!

Well, it is 10:30 pm and I am totally exhausted - think it is time for me to crash - behave everyone!! Be back later.

DIDJA MISS ME?????

The end of tax season is ALWAYS crunch time and this year is even worse. Took the daughter to OSU for another surgery this past Monday and it actually had good results. The doctor will NOT have to remove any bones, but she will need another surgery to repair a 3-4" ligament tear. Excellent news. She will not be disabled. But after the next surgery the doctor emphasized she wil not be allowed to work for at least 3 months. The surgery to repair the ligament needs complete "babying" so the seamstress work takes hold. At the present time she has a half cast, and is still in considerable pain. Since OSU is a teaching hospital the anaesthesiologist was a student, and in trying to intubate her, he cut the piece of skin under her tongue, and now has swelling and eating has presented a few problems. (As if we can't afford to miss a meal or two!!! Right!) She is having trouble doing many chores, and i even had to bath her tonight. That was a trip - haven't bathed her in at least 20+ years. God, she is a bigger baby now!! haha - kidding Carrie.

I have all the last minute clients calling and still have some saying "I almost have it all together" - DUHHHH!!! Give me a break. Normally I don't let it bother me, but this year, with all the trips to Columbus, working part-time, tax season and my oldest daughters wedding - I would like to schedule my nervoius breakdown now!! Damnit - I haven't had time to book my cruise either. That is imperitive. That way I can have my breakdown at sea, and save everyone here at home from the gore of it all!

It is 10:15 pm and I have 10 returns sitting in front of me, I worked today till 5 pm, have tanned, bathed both daughter and grandson (and myself), and arranged for the limo for my daughters wedding. Nah - no returns tonite. Work till 6pm tomorrow and tan at 8 pm tomorrow, so I will not get to these returns till Saturday and alllllllll day Sunday. I love the pressure.

Gotta run for now - will be back as soon as time allows. Pray for me!!

...and how many years have these people filed taxes???

It always amazes me, at the END of tax season, all the people that finally decide it is time to have them prepared. The next 20 days are going to be hectic - actually 18 days as the 3rd and 4th of April I will get little done since Carrie is to have her surgery. I always amaze myself that I do get it all done though. Last year I had all returns complete and only filed 2 extensions. So far this year I know I will have one extension to file, as the gentleman (Uncle Windy) is working out of the area and won't return till the end of April.

Too tired to work on any tonight, got home from work, got into my comfort clothes - and Mom 2 has computer problems. Threw a coat on and up to phyldot's house I go. (**I always visit people in my jammies!! Hee Hee) got their broadband up and running again and BOOM, the daughter calls and I have a client waiting at the house. Now this is the heighth of etiquette to enter my house in my jammies to greet a client. Hell anybody can wear a business suit - NOT ME!! Tra-la-la-la!!

I am babysitting, the daughter has gone out with her friends. Think I will have Colton bathed and in bed by 9 p.m., since one of my favorite shows is on - HOUSE. Made sure I watched "24" last night, getting really exciting, and now another favorite tonight. All signs of a person who really needs a life!!

It appears Paul had a good "BIKE" weekend after all, even if the first planned excursion was a bust. Must be nice to ride free. You go Paul!!

Enough for now, more to come!!! TTFN.

looks like more surgery...

I guess you could say everything went well today in Columbus. The doctor is super cautious, and wants to exhaust every means before a possible FINAL surgery to remove the necrotic bones in Carrie's wrist. He has scheduled a bone scoping (surgical procedure) for next Tuesday. We will go up on Monday again, since she will have to be at the hospital as early as 5 am. The doctor said that 90% of the time he can correct most problems with this procedure but he seriously doubts that will be the case with Carrie. He just as well said that eventually he will be removing the bones. But due to her young age, he would prefer that be a last ditch measure. We have faith in him and will do as he says. We also scheduled the follow up visit for the 10th of April. (possibly to remove stitches.) If he should want to schedule a surgical procedure to remove bones, we told him it would have to be after April 22nd, which is Brenda's (my oldest daughter) wedding. Carrie would prefer not to have a messed up hand for the wedding. I can understand that.

This is really putting the pressure on me, all at the end of tax season. Hope I can get it all done. It is late and have to send some emails, so more later. G'bye for now!!

just don't know where to start...

I know it has been a few days since i last blogged, but I have been busy. The entire time I am thinking of all the idiot things I would like to blog. I think I really need a life!!! It is Sunday morning, and I have already tanned and am back home to begin the backlog of tax returns. BUT FIRST... I had to hook up a DVD (cheap at WalMart = $33) in the kitchen. You have to understand that I am always at the kitchen table, albeit eating a meal, working on laptop or just watching TV. I never go in my living room (Colton has taken that over) and when I watch TV in the bedroom I go to sleep. Since I have accumulated all these DVD's and never get to watch them, I considered this a good investment for myself. Now consider this, I have a cable box and and a TV with NO output jacks on the back. Hmmm...I purchased a RCA Combination RF Modulator and Switcher months back, at Circuit City, just because it was on a clearance table for $1.99. BARGAIN. Aha... just what I needed. I have wires everywhere, but now hidden well, and after only one misstep, it is up and running. I even have "FLIGHTPLAN" in as I type. (btw - excellent movie). NOW AM I THE QUEEN??

As I said in an earlier post, the President (I use the term loosely) was in Wheeling last Wednesday. The local Republican newspapers only praised the idiot and made statements as to how well this Ohio Valley loves the man, blah, blah, blah - wish I owned a newspaper. The next day the headline read "EDUCATOR-IN-CHIEF" - now does anybody have a problem with that. If I knew how to link in this blog I would refer you to slyghts past blog and the TV clips of all the ignorant, stupid, grammatical errors the boob has made in the past. I know I DO NOT consider him any kind of an educator-in-chief, that is plain moronic. There were about 100 protestors outside of the Capitol Music Hall, 100 yards away from the entrance (threats of being arrested if any closer.) I cannot believe all the people I have spoken to (and honestly kept my mouth shut) that think he is the best thing since chocolate. GAG ME!!! The man cannot think for himself nor can he make any strides to help the working man - rhetoric at its best. Enough of that for now - or I am going to rupture an artery.

Slyght is asking that his blogsite get passed around, via flyers or whatever it takes. I am trying to find out if we have any local cropdusters to drop the damn things. Right!!!!! I can see Mom 2 and I(because I won't do it alone) going around stapling the flyers to telephone poles and trees now. Hell with a lost puppy just log on to my son's blogsite PLEASE!! I THINK HE HAS FINALLY REACHED THE DESPERATION STAGE. Call the shrink!!

Mom2 and I took my grandson and her 2 nephews to dinner last night and then to WalMart. What a treat. Actually it went well, Colton ate what he wanted (a buffet place), jello, rolls and ice cream. I know there is nutrition there somewhere, but since he won't budge from the 32 pound mark, anything he eats makes me happy.

Tomorrow, we are off to Columbus again to see the doctor for Carrie's wrist. I am hoping he makes a final decision as to what he is going to do. These trips are killing me with gas at 2.50/gallon.

Better get cracking on the work. Everyone have a good day and enjoy yourselves. LATER!!!

senior moments...

OK - my wonderful plans for protesting are shot to hell. All due to my wonderful "senior moment." I'm plotting and planning how and where to approach this matter, only to find out the Bushista is coming to town tomorrow and NOT thursday as i had thought. to late for me to pencil in "protest" on my calendar. damnit!!! so much for democracy - elite frontment (troopers) making all the plans for an aggressive republican crowd (oops - i wouldn't last long there), and the lines were long to get tickets to see the twerp. IDIOTS. last time he was here (Nov. '04) the frontmen would eject anyone who even resembled the opposition and take them to a far away place till his hineyness left the state. (has anyone caught on to my feelings towards the man???) no free speech in west virginia - that's for sure. oh well, maybe later.

phyldot (mom2) and i went to dinner at outbacks (my favorite) and had a wonderful conversation, which we haven't done for awhile. while we were there, it started snowing (blizzarding). we headed home about 8:15 pm. thank god, we kept talking, because the roads were a sheet of ice. bad wreck by mall exits and once we got on rt. 7, there were at least two bad wrecks. (we were tied up in traffic on rt 7 for probably 20 minutes. (lookeelus). after we got off the highway, i finally told phyl how slick the roads were. didn't want phyl to get scared and dry mouth then have her teeth fly out - Lord have mercy - not a pretty site.

It's official, the daughter got fired from her wonderful pizza baking/bartending/groveling/low paying job!! I would rather she not work for the idiots anyway. (I have a very low tolerance for stupidity. and this "family" more than qualifies for the title.) now we can wAit and see what the doctor has to say about her wrist on monday and what the future may hold.

as one attentive reader has noted (paul) - the year is a quarter of the way over and i should probably update all on my new years resolutions: 1) lose 50 pounds....now who am i kidding. i have probably gained 5. 2.) quit smoking... only when i am asleep. 3.) get a better job...will possibly pursue this more aggressively after my cruise. 4) see my son...NOT YET - but quite possibly within the next month.

I think in the future i will only make one resolution and use the same one for giving up at Lent...NO SEX. it is ever so much easier to give up when you don't get it anyway!!! hahaha. so there slyght are ya blushing!!??? actually, i should consider being a nun...Not!!

OK, i am exhausted, time to crawl in bed. keep those comments coming - PLEASE!! ttfn!

have to take a break

OK guys. I have facts and figures traipsing thru my brain. Hitting the burn out stage for the moment. In order to get a small semblance of relief - i just watch Colton and his antics. He has inherited so much of his uncle's genes - IT'S DELIGHTFUL!! Have to check out slyght's latest - trying to wrestle a water buffalo - well, actually just try to chew the damn cooked meat. Hysterical. He is definitely making the most out of a bad place to be.

Talking to Colton is like talking to a small adult. He has the same expansive vocabulary his uncle had at that age. He has a seriousness (almost comical) when conversing. Can't wait for him to grow up (which will be sooner than we think.) He is all excited about going to kindergarten next year. He has been told to "quit talking" so much at pre-school so kindergarten will be a real treat.

St. Patrick's day was no big thing here, I was tied to the computer and tax returns. But looking forward to cruising, which keeps me sane. Was checking out the site today and looks like May 27th may be the day. Have to finalize things soon. May be going by myself, but no big deal - i make friends easily. But I have to get away to the blue waters and warm temps.

Oh, btw, our illustrious leader (cringingly) Bush, will be visiting here on thursday. Thought about actually being a protestor for the day. Already had one person say not a good thing to do - but I did grow up in the 60's and 70's.

Enough for now - back to the grind. Take care all!!!

crazy weather...

can you believe it - almost 80 degrees today and tomorrow it is going to be 40 degrees. everyone in this valley is going to be sick all over again. storm threats all day today, supposedly winds reaching 70 mph. so out i go to "batten down the hatches!" called the guy to have the check-valve put back in my outside drain line again - and again he didn't show. after the flood of september 2004 (hurricane ivan), and the financial loss of all my stuff in the basement, i would prefer NOT to go through that again.

chatted with slyght online this morning, and as he was "typing" to me, the FedEx guy came through and told him he had delivered a package for him at his hotel. so ST. PATRICK'S DAY is on. zac will be able to have his green beer and wear his guiness boxers - YAY!!!!

spent a wee tad too much time in tanning bed yesterday and have been itching like crazy (burned!) smart person that i am - i have cancelled my next two sessions. anything beats looking like "styrofoam!"

slyght is leaning a little political lately and i am rather proud of him. i didn't realize he even paid attention to world matters. you go kid!

almost time for "24" and i CANNOT miss an episode. best show. it has been years since i have been hooked on one tv show, but this is the one. got hooked in boston in January of 2005.

gotta go for now, have fun all!

check out time clock for bush

zac has this on his blog and i love it, gives me something to look forward to. haha. more later.

soapbox time....surprise!!

ok i have not bothered to vent my political thoughts on this blog thus far, but TA DA!!! IT'S TIME. since i am such a news junkie and a highly opinionated liberal democrat - i have saved you till this time, but after reading an item this morning i just have to comment.

there is a white house aide (now "former") who has been indicted for various acts of theft. now our illustrious leader tried to appoint this individual to the federal court of appeals out of virginia in 2003, but the democrats raised some pertinent issues and that nomination was canned. so instead, he wa appointed as one of bush's top domestic policy advisors - fair trade i guess. he is now being charged with theft from target and hecht stores in the virginia area. he would go into these stores and purchase items such as: bose stereo systems, designer clothing and even small items costing $2. he would then proceed to his car, leave the items, and proceed back into the stores and collect identical items to those just purchased on his credit card, and go to the service areas and RETURN the merchandise. thus getting a complete credit on his visa or mastercard or whatever and leave. going home with thousands of dollars of merchandise FOR FREE.

now i don't know about anyone else, but i am surprised that HE DIDN'T get his previous nomination. he fits in so perfectly well with the other idiots in control - those who all say THEY WILL BE VINDICATED. everyone else is lying and the truth will win out - oops, must have forgotten about the camera surveillance. he and his wife just purchased a million dollar home in the same area, so you know he had to be making a pretty penny in his government position, but just goes to show what greed can do - it is NEVER enough.

the white house press secretary has stated that they have "given him the benefit of the doubt", as a person in his position had to undergo an in-depth background search upon hiring. hmmm.. background...kind of leaves out this moment in time.

sen. bob ney is a local boy and in considerable trouble, but he too says he will be vindicated. amazing to me, that just because so many people know him personally, they really don't know him, but will still keep the crook in office. look at delay in last weeks election. oh my tolerance for idiots is definitely waning - can ya tell?

had to get that off my chest - i feel so much better now. as we all know - none of this will change the graft and corruption in our government, but i LOVE when each one is uncovered.

TTFN!!!

didya miss me?... probably not

ok - i have been running around like crazy - trying to get every thing done - and only half succeeding. slyghts blog's have been great lately, keeping me highly entertained. finally got his st. patricks day box fedexed to him today - YAY!! (there are things in it he requested for valentines day - better late than never!!) so limited on certain things that can be shipped, the biggest problem is NO LIQUIDS. he has been begging for italian dressing and now green food coloring. well MOM 2, has taken care of the italian dressing dilemma and sent the powdered kind plus a CRUET. knock yourself out irish boy!! i have been everywhere trying to find powdered food coloring and struck paydirt at a tiny cake supply store in wheeling. so turn that beer green baby!!

the daughter had her doctor visit on Monday in columbus, and he is really trying to avoid surgery to remove the bones, but this week he is pretty certain that will be the route we take. he shot her wrist full of a numbing agent and steroids - to see if she gets any relief from the inflammation and we go back in 3 weeks (27th). she was in one of the worst moods this time. we have gotten along super for almost 6 weeks until monday. she was worse than a bear. snapping at colton, me and anybody nearby. she slept all the way home, which was a relief for me, but unfortunately, i was actually getting sleepy. i kept rolling the window down for cold air (it was snowing)and colton kept yelling he was cold. DAMMIT. as soon as we got home - i was wide awake. poop.

haven't made my vacation plans yet, but will soon, so i started tanning so i will be ready for the sunshine. my bones are crying out for warmth and sun. unfortunately MOM 2 is having some problems and i am probably going to end up going on a cruise by myself. could be interesting. i don't think anybody wants to throw me overboard or anything - at least i hope not!!

well, back to the tax returns. everyone behave and i will be back later. TTFN!!

damnit Slyght... I'm hooked

If anyone has read slyght's blog lately he mentioned taking the Intelligence Tests #1 and #2. Well... let me tell you, I am totally hooked. Slyght sent an email with the answers to all of them, but I am adament I am going to do as many on my own as possible. On Test #1, I have 27/33, but am not as good on #2 - think I am up to 9 right so far. I have always been a puzzle and trivia junkie. Knowledge is a wonderful thing - right? I can rememebr Slyght sneaking to my crossword puzzles and filling them out (as best he could) at a very early age. Now we have the Soduko thing going on also.

I showed this test to a few select people yesterday and I was tickled to find out they are definitely dumber than the proverbial "hoe handles." Which poses a question, why do we choose hoe handles to compare ones intelligence too? Why not a shovel handle, door knob or hair brush? Hmmmm....

I read all of Paul's "blogs" the other day, he too is an engineer who was once assigned to the India project. Interesting fellow - I know I would enjoy his company and conversations for sure. I can only imagine how he and Zac got along on the site - "mahvelous" I am sure.

Well, back to Columbus on Monday, so I will tie myself to the kitchen table (makeshift office desk) and work till I am caught up. I have told many people, I am thinking about removing the stove and replacing it with filing cabinets.

Since I am soooooo busy here at work, I better go and at least pretend to accomplish something. Have a good one everybody. Be back soon....I hope.

sorry...been busy

i can't believe i haven't blogged since last saturday. tax season and my job really keep me busy this time of the year.

took carrie to columbus last monday, the biopsy came back benign, which is a good thing, but the doctor says he wants to find out why these 3 bones in her wrist are DYING, before taking the drastic step of removing the bones. she was so upset when we left columbus, she just wished they would cut both hands off, so she would have no more pain. although that is quite extreme, i understand her frustration. because she is young, the doctors would like to have all the answers before taking this extreme step. we go back again this coming monday (6th) to get results of blood tests and to have stitches removed from biopsy.

OK - phyldot hates my pic on my profile, and i tried to change it last night, and with all my brain damage, i have forgotten how to do it already. so sorry phyl...like it or lump it for now. hee hee.

the "gang" all went to dinner for donald's 51st birthday last night, at where else...Steve's West Texas Roadhouse. some things just never change. phyldot is currently hobbling around, with a bad hip (i think it stems from the cervical surgery.)

read all the blogs posted from slyghts former coworker (oops, don't know his name but blog is "bikerless"). seems like a cool character. glad to see he hated india as much as everyone else. at least he found salvation and returned home -- POOR SLYGHT.

will add more later, have to get ready for work. have a good day all!!

i need more hours in the day!!

this will be a short one - but i really do need more hours in the day to accomplish everything that needs to be done. i worked my "part time" job 4 days this week and when i get home at 5 or 6 pm, try to squeeze in a couple of returns. now i am off till tuesday and hope to get completely caught up. monday, we head to columbus again, for the results of the biopsy and to set a plan of action. so i will only get to work on the returns in the evening.

talked to slyght this morning, guess the company is driving him nuts again. that damn power house may never fire up. semi sort of talked to his "DRIVER" - slyght told him to say "hi" to his mom, and i heard a faint (with a laugh) indian "hi". our conversation ended as he and emma were exiting the vehicle on their way into THE BAR!! How typical.

ok - a word to slyght, time to put up another "countdown" clock, maybe for JITH, i know it is 302 days till christmas, any other suggestions??

well, back to the tax returns - g'nite all!!

the biopsy.. one hurdle down...

well, we went to columbus yesterday - late afternoon - carrie wanted to stay at a hotel and considering all that she is facing, no problem. her brother, slyght, made all the arrangements for which we are both grateful. nice hotel, holiday inn conference center. can't say much for the restaurant in the hotel, we waited for 45 minutes for our dinner when the waiter, his first day, came out to tell us that they only had ONE chicken dinner and he could bring it out, while one of chose something else. NOT!!! we told him we would pay for our drinks and go elsewhere. the manager, said not to charge us for the drinks since it was their fault. cool. we went to a BP behind the hotel and got some beer and pop and headed back to room to order pizza. the hotel gave us menus for a place called King's. omg, the food was fantastic and cheap. we both got chicken parmagiana, came with garlic bread, and an order of chicken bites and the total was $20. We brought home the left overs and had another meal out of it tonight.

We did a drive by when we got to the hotel, to check out the hospital. A real cinch. 2 miles away and a straight shot. This meant we would not have to leave exceptionally early in the morning to find the place.

Carrie did not sleep well, nor did i. nerves i guess. we were out of the hotel by 7 am, and after cruising around the hospital and parking in the WRONG lot (too far away), a nice lady going to work showed us exactly where to go in the hospital to register. The registration clerk and everyone at the hospital were exceptionally helpful and nice. Carrie went into pre-op at 7:57 am, and into surgery at 8:46am, and to recovery at 9:05am. Unbelievable. Dr. Litts came out and explained that she could not work for a couple of days, the pain she would experience and that he had taken 3 tissue samples to biopsy. He more or less told me that she would eventually (soon) have the 3 bones in the wrist removed, and she would lose the up/down motion in the wrist completely. Not a good prospect but certainly one she will learn to live with. we will check into job options at a later date. Bottom line - is remove the damn BAD THING!!

I went into recovery and helped her get dressed and got the home care instructions and we were on our way home by 10:30 am. She was still dopey (like the dwarf haha) and we stopped at Big Boy to get some food in her, but she was still nauseus (sp), so we just came right home. She slept (or dozed) all the way home. just me and the radio for 2 hours.

Dr. Litts prescribed oxy's, so she should get some rest tonight. her hand is bandaged well, and she is to wear the splint or sling as she sees fit. Now we just wait till we see the doctor next Monday - again, we will be on the road travelling. Colton is being the little doctor, kissing her wrist to make it better and all.

we are both tired so it will be an early evening for us. take care all...till later.

Brownie is at it again...

OK - it is 3:30 am - and I am having to figure out how to barricade the little buck-toothed critter AGAIN!!. I wonder if this is going to be a regular Sunday morning thing?!!? I fell asleep around 11 pm and at 1 am I heard the dog yipping in the kitchen, like it was playing with the cat. Got up, and the dog kept going to the same spot (floor under hamster cage.) I couldn't see the little bugger in the cage, and then noticed a front slot was open on cage (different one from last time.) Then the little darling just peeked out at me, like "oh goody more people to play with!" BACK TO ISOLATION - SIX MONTHS IN THE HOLE!!

Now the dilemma, do I duct tape over the holes in the one cage or do I check at pet store for safer additions to already expensive condo? Oh the decisions I have to make.

I am so glad I made this discovery (finding hamster on the lam) before it packed a bag and headed to greener pastures up the road at phyldots. I'm not sure her dogs would just PLAY with him. Ferocious animules!! haha just kidding.

That's it for now - have to try and get back to sleep, lots of work to catch up on tomorrow. GOODNIGHT!!

awhhh.. ain't it sweet!

GO FIGURE!! My kids have me totally dumbfounded! One minute they really hate each other, the next all sweetness and light. Honestly, I am happy about their connection at the moment. Unfortunately, with the pressing medical problem at hand, I would only hope that a connection bond remains. It is almost comical in a way also. Slyght is such a "softie" and he knows it.

This is just a short commentary, as I am at work and I should actually DO some work!!
Maybe more later tonight. Have fun all - it is colder than a bitch right now!! BRRRRR...!!

experimenting with adding pics...

everytime i keep doing this, i end up "x" ing all the way out of blog. brain is just not functioning well this early. Anyway, thought i would add a pic of the grandson (in drag) for shites and giggles.

Also, found a great pic of the Caribbean Princess, docked in Ft. Lauderdale. Took this pic from at least 2 miles away, it is a monster. I will be on this ship in a couple of months, even if i go alone. Such a beautiful, relaxing time for me.

Will see how this all looks, may need slyght to help in placement of the pics, the program seems to have a mind of its own.



EDIT: slyght fixed it a bit (poor colton), will have to walk you through it later. when you have the code on your template, you can cut and paste where you want it (like it did for your ship to make it in a relevant position, TheMom, click edit on this post and see where it is now. also, once you click preview, when you want to go back, just click in the same position 'hide preview', you'll be right back where you can work with it. good luck and good job.

mother nature run amok...

here it is - the middle of winter and it was almost 60 degrees today. i was chatting with a client in the front yard (what little there is of it) and i was being attacked by a "confused" and "pissed off" bee. the idiot flying creature is supposed to be hibernating in some obscure hiding place, but oh no - marie is fresh meat - LET'S ATTACK!!!! and crazy bee hater that i am, i'm just swatting at it making it more irate. it succeeded in driving me back in the house. all the while, i am sure the bee is just humming "job well done!!"

a beautiful sunny day and i am stuck in my house calculating tax returns. can't complain, the extra money comes in handy. think i did around 20 returns in all.

update on carrie's OSU appointments. tuesday the 21st, dr. litts is performing a biopsy on the tumor within the "triquetrum" bone. we then will go back to columbus on the 27th to get the results and start a plan of action. i should get an "auto pilot" installed on the equinox, as many miles as we are logging. oh well, it has to be done.

the grandson totally lost it today. while playing a PS2 game (Spiderman) he threw down the controller and started crying hysterically, because he can't beat the "flame" guy. wants me to help him, but i have NO clue as to the strategies of the game. it broke my heart. but decided to limit him today on game time, no child should get that upset over a stupid game.

i don't know about anyone else, but OUR vice president shooting a fellow hunter, has become fuel for the fodder, and i am loving it. talk about trying to cover your ass. an avid NRA advocate to boot. then he doesn't have the proper stamps for his hunting license?!?!? OH WELL DICK, THAT'S ALL RIGHT - JUST SEND THE $7 IN AND WE ARE FINE WITH IT!! right, if it were you or me - ten days in jail, and no hunting license for 3 years. the old coot should not have lethal weapons in his possession. i could go on and on - but not worth it.

think i can cram a couple more returns in before bedtime. have a good one everybody.

...unbelievable

sorry i have been away from blog for a few days, but as i said before, TAX SEASON. but anyway, got up this morning and both the cat and the dog were scampering around the kitchen and i didn't think much of it, they always play together. after about a half and hour, i noticed the cat was parked beside me and had her nose under the hutch. i looked down, and there was our pet hamster Brownie, poking his/her head out from under the hutch, teasing the cat. Now, i spent a small fortune building a condo for this rodent, and amazingly enough after at least 7 months, the little critter figured out how to knock a side panel out of one of the cages. (2 cages joined by running tubes). I put the rodent back in the cage and less than 2 minutes later it was out and just staring at me (almost laughing) from outside the cage. Gotta laugh, the cat and dog and hamster were all playing together (for probably most of the night), and Brownie wanted out to play some more. I now have the little booger isolated to one cage, till i get a new cover for the one she breaks out. I think Brownie is mad at me now, because he/she (we really don't know gender, pretty sure a male) is used to dining in both cages, and sleeping in two separate comfort zones (one for am and one for pm). I do believe I have spoiled the buck-toothed critter. Needless to say, the hamster belongs to grandson, but I have the duties of cleaning the cage, and buying supplies. I HOPE SOMEONE SHOOTS ME IN MY NEXT LIFE!!!

Update on Carrie's wrist. The doctor called and after meeting with his colleagues, the unanimous decision was made to perform a biopsy to discover what type of tumor this is and where to go from there. We go to Columbus again tomorrow to fill out paperwork for the biopsy, not sure whether it will be done tomorrow or not. We are playing this by ear. Carrie's attitude is a little better, plus the xanax helps. (helps me cope with her too!!)

Finally got a break and went to dinner with my best friend "Phyldotcom" the other night. Had to be funny, we had planned this for a couple of days, just the two of us, and when I picked her up, her hubby wants to go to. Gotta love him, I get along with him well, probably because he is in love with me, but we won't tell his wife!!! HAHAHAHA!!! We will get our evening together soon, trust me!!

Back to the tax returns, more updates later.

a few pitfalls along the way...

sorry, with tax season upon me, work and family problems, i have just not had time to get back to the blog. yesterday, the daughter had an appointment at OSU orthopaedics in Columbus, Ohio -to finally have someone with a brain, help find out why she has ben having swelling and incredible pain in her left wrist for over seven years. we (the daughter, coloton and I) met with a very nice doctor (christopher litts) who is the foremost specialist on hands in the state, and the news was not great. he suspets a tumor within one of the bones in the wrist. apparently the mri show that no signals are getting thru this bone (nerves, synapses, etc.) he referred to this bone as "dead" and "necrotic." he expressed concern and worry, and also the fact that he has seen this type of tumor in other bones, but never in the wrist. he is consulting with his cohorts and promised we would hear from him within the week.

having a "C" history in the family, has not helped the daughters attitude. anyone would be concerned in such a situation. her father died from the dreaded "C", i was diagnosed with cervical cancer when i was 34 (total hysterectomy fixed that!). Although the upside to this is, we have been to doctors and hospitals for over 7 years, and no other problems have manifested, so if it is a tumor, the odds of it being "benign" are great. but until, the damn thing is dealt with, your mind has a way of running amok.

i am sure that surgery will be needed and we will deal with this. she is young and has her whole life ahead of her, we just have to get over this hurdle.

the tax files are piling up on me at the moment. being sick in bed for a week has not helped me, time wise. i'm off friday, so plan on playing catch up all day, so i can go to dinner with my best friend in the evening for rest, relaxation and humor. we always have a blast - even if it is at the expense of others! HAHA.

I CALLED IT !!STEELER SUPERBOWL CHAMPS

it wasn't the best game of the year, but no matter what - the end result is glorious. STEELERS RULE !!!! I even called the MVP early on. heinz ward has the best hands i have ever seen. two incredible passes, a little out of reach and he managed to pull them both down. waited for the "gadget" play and sure enough, randel el let it fly right into heinz' hands. i knew it wouldn't be a high scoring game - think vegas had the over/under at 47. for me, a rookie at best, to critique the game would really not be pretty, but i know what i like and i truly LIKED this game.

it is late, but i am still on such a high from the game. considering i didn't have much a voice before the game (due to cold/cough), i have even less now.

slyght must not have had his blackberry with him, sent 5 text messages and didn't hear back from him - so baby - I HOPE YOU WERE ECSTATIC!!!

more later - going to crash (try), i am exhausted.

IT'S STEELER DAY!!!!! ALL THE WAY!!

OK - the doctor gave me a miracle drug, it is drying up my head and relieving the damn pressure. thank god for miracles. i still can't smell or taste, but hopefully that won't take long. the SUPER BOWL is today and i am so excited. i KNOW the steelers are going to get this one!! (much to the chagrin of my Browns friends!)

i am going to a super bowl party at a friends (have been going there for the past 4 years) and of course we are all big steelers fans, so being able to finally cheer on OUR team - is SUPER WONDERFUL.

the fun part is when i get excited i start a coughing jag that won't stop. could be interesting.

tax season has begun and being sick has really put me behind. had to lug 4 file bins up from basement (been asking the daughter for a couple of weeks), and that about killed me. the computer program was released late this year, so finally got it installed yesterday. now to tackle the 25 returns backed up on me. OH THE PRESSURE!!! i always manage to get it done though.

enough babble, i'm off to the PARTY. gonna text slyght during the game to make sure he is catching it all. more later.

...yes, i think i am near death

this is definitely more than a "cold".; i think it is some new strain of flu, far more severe than the impending bird flu. i do not usually complain, nor do i miss work, but i assure all that i have been a chronic complainer and to date have missed 1 1/2 days of work. i tried to go to work yesterday, but left at 1 pm, because of the pressure in my head. i have gone through two complete boxes of tissues, my nose is ready to fall off my face, and my head feels like it is the size of a basketball. one head (even if the size of a basketball) should not be able to produce so much junk like this. i have been in bed most of the time, and you flip from side to side and so does the JUNK!!! and the kicker.... i have lost my sense of taste. i want to eat something and have been consuming stuff just because my stomach says "feed me!!" but alas, i cannot totally appreciate the taste. Phyldot - i can understand your plight.

slyght wants a fully descriptive account of this plague, but i do not have the talents he has in describing things (see his blog, re: rabbit poop!) this is the best he will get from me.

again, i am going back to bed for the 4th day. there must be a cure soon or i prommise, you will all miss me when i am gone!!!

hopefully to return later, i remain....SICK!!!