It's a long drive to Big Spring

We didn't leave Alpine until 2:30, so getting here in Big Spring at 6:00 was not bad. We only stopped once and then stopped to eat supper before checking into the hotel. I had looked up restaurants on line and there was a steak house called KC's. They also serve seafood and was right off the highway, so that's where we ate. We aren't really red meat eaters (I know...then why go to a steakhouse!) but the seafood platter is what we both got (and could only eat half of and took the balance with us for a snack) and it was wonderful. 

Then we got to the hotel. Quality Inn in Big Spring. It's your ordinary franchise hotel. Kinda weird checking in...the door lock was rather temperamental and the 'folks' outside (who...by the way...are still out there) are suspicious looking...but when we got into the room, it was actually a pleasant surprise. I should say...'just as described' because it is. King size bed, sitting area, huge TV, Microwave, fridge, coffee, tea, lots of cosmetics, iron, ironing board (foreign items to me!!)), free Wifi, a TUB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!, really nice.

It's around 10:00 pm I think. Husband is sleeping. It was a long day and I know he is thinking about tomorrow. It will be fine. He just dreads the invasion to his person. It's an exhausting process and he will go through another round of chemo. I know he dreads that. He has lots of plans when we get home and will be keeping busy which is a very good thing.

I think I'll knit a hat when I am done on here. My eyes are still blurry from the trip.Too blurry to sew ornaments.

I hope I didn't hit a button and wipe out a few lines here. I did a couple of posts ago, and didn't realize it till it actually posted. That's my only bitch about this netbook. I keep hitting the thingy that moves the cursor and TaDa!! Words gone!! Sorry.

I should have gotten some dessert. I was smart enough to bring a few Pay Days, but they aren't cutting it. I think a banana split sounds good. There are tea bags in here...I'll settle for that.

Besides, I can't go outside. Those suspicious looking people are still out there...talking.

Tony Curtis died! I need to look up his art. I knew he was an artist, but I had just never researched his stuff. And Eddie Fisher passed away a couple days ago...eerie. I wonder who is next.

I think I need to soak in the tub. Then...knit a hat.

I be back tomorrow with an update. Have a nice night.

b

post #2 - I'm full of cake!!

Yummy!!! I am full of cake...and I mean FULL!! BFFMS is a witness to this...and she ate her cake faster than I ate my cake! The piece was humungous...but I did my very best. I brought the frosting, and a very little bit of cake, back home to Tom.

He licked it...looked at me like "this is good...where's the rest of it??"

I said "I ate it".

He glared "You fat pig".

I said " Go F**k youself".

We talk like that to each other. We are kindrid spirits.

Now I am too full to do anything. So I'll take a shower in a few minutes and wait for the sugar rush to subside. Maybe I'll eat some tomato soup later. You know...balance the sugar with salt??

Oh...the piece of cake I ate was as big as a pot pie!

Later...

b

The thrill of an early post...

I am writing earlier today. I have several things to do...not necessarily that I'm going to do them...but I'll at least be ready to do them...early. 

We got many things accomplished today. That was great. We hope to go buy floor tile tomorrow. All we need is a check. I'm not paying for this! Lots of times I'll advance the money for a project and submit the receipt on payday. Not this time. I expect the tally will be close to $500.00. I'm nice...but not that nice!!

We cut and sawed and hammered and re-grouted and painted and sealed stuff. Very productive. The room is almost completely painted (just waiting for the second coat of grout in various spots to dry). No doubt that will be done tomorrow. We can also hang some of the stuff back on the walls and it will be an amazing transformation. I've posted a few 'before pix'. I'll take some 'afters', also. This property was built in 1948 as one of the original motor courts on the main stretch to California. I swear most of them still looked like the original rooms when we started remodeling! I am sorry that I never took 'before and afters' of all that we have done. You'd be stunned.

 

Anyway, we are very proud of what we have accomplished. Mostly because neither of us had ever done before, to the extent that we have done here, the remodeling and repair that we have learned from this experience.

Oh yeah...I don't want to do it again.

I think I will pack my bag tonight. I have clean clothes and it's a good time to keep them that way. I hate to rush around at the last minute and I already know what I am taking.

Have you ever rolled dirt off your forehead? I just did. Strange feeling.
know why he feels the need to watch it just because it's on. At least it's on early. God knows what's coming on next. Probably The Magnificent Seven Rides Again....

I just ate a grilled cheese sandwich. It was good. I think I'll eat tomato soup later. It sounds good.

Jennifer just stopped by and told me BFFAL opened her birthday present. We got her a really pretty lavender print over blouse with a black under cami style shirt. She liked it!

I need to get busy. I have a 'list' to get done before I leave. See ya later!!

b

a totally eventful day...

OK...let me get the gross stuff out of the way first.

Question of the Day?? What is almost as painful as childbirth, probably not a painful as a scathing case of syphilis, but hurts as bad as a knitting needle being pushed through your eardrum??

Right!! Passing a kidney stone!! Honest! I am not kidding! Ask me how I know...seriously...ask me! Yep. I think it was as big as a cantaloupe, but I didn't look. I'm telling you...that was an experience I never want to have again. Oh...I mean a flaming cantaloupe...

I looked up kidney stones. It's recommended that a person drink lots of water. I drink enough water every day to float a flaming cantaloupe. I called DR. She said to drink lots of water. OK. Oh, and I may have more kidney stones. Wow...something to look forward to.

As far as work...it was a mother of a day. Remember that 'plumber day from hell??' I had another one. It's my own fault. When I replaced the cold water valve the other day... should have also replaced the hot water valve. Just because. It was leaking, slightly, but why leave a problem. Soooo...I replaced it. Just like the other one...completely. From the outside in. Then...when I slid the unit back in, I heard a crack. I ignored it for a bit, then I looked. The PVC drainpipe had cracked. I'm sure I did it. Sooo...I replaced it. The miracle of this was...that I actually had everything I needed! I still can't believe it. Anyway...that mess is done.

I grouted the ugly tile and that was it. Bobbie painted the ceiling and 3 walls. She had to repair one of the walls in several places. It had water damage and the stucco type shit that is on the wall had broken down...and fallen out. She mixed up a concrete type concoction to repair it and let it sit over night. Tomorrow I will cut plywood. I can hardly wait.

Let's see...what else....Oh yeah, I found a great picture for a letter head. I will smudge the edges and I think it will look great on the ivory paper. It took me forever to find this image. I will put it on some business cards, also. I had used this image, oh, I guess probably 15 years ago, but hadn't saved it. Or if I did, I sure couldn't find it. And I have looked....so when I saw it last night...I saved it, printed it, emailed it, tattooed it....I just like it.( I have also painted it on a skull).

El Dorado with John Wayne is on. Yes, we have this movie. Yes, we could watch it anytime. Nooo!! Let's not watch something else we have never seen....let's watch THIS!!! It's OK...I am busy anyway. I didn't make any jewelry tonight. My hands hurt. And I know they will really hurt tomorrow.

This is how the VA works. Husband got a letter in the mail today for his 'follow up' appointment on October 19th. He hasn't even had the surgery yet. It's not until Friday. Oh well.

It was a beautiful day today. A perfect September day. It was 45 degrees at 7:30 this morning according to the Weather Channel. Definitely a sweatshirt till noon day. Then it got warmer and stayed that way.

I have lower back pain. I think a piece of grit is forming into another flaming cantaloupe!! (According to DR...it could be 'crystals') If it was diamonds I wouldn't bitch.

I think I'll wind down. I need a shower and sleep. And Tylenol. See you tomorrow...

b
 

Slowly I turn...

So I don't drop the big plate of nothing that I did today!! It was slooow...only two rooms leaving...nobody coming in...we made the girls do pretty much every thing! I got caught up on lists of things to get done around here and in my 'personal' life. Then came home and found my computer not wanting to turn on. I unplugged it and will let it rest awhile. I have not a clue what's wrong. I pray... 'nothing'.

I will cook something for supper in a few minutes, but wanted to post a few lines before then. I want to get out the jewelry making stuff after I eat and...in the event...I am on a roll, I will put in several hours of creativity. I'm in the mood and that's a very good thing.

It looks like we may get some rain later, so I am in for the night. At least getting soaked yesterday had no ill effects. Must be the hot tea.

Oh....by the way. I cheated. I crocheted a hat last night. I couldn't help it. That Stephen King Chenille yarn won...it was too powerful. I caved. I am weak. Francine won.

There is a movie on HBO tonight called Up in the Air with George Cloony. I think it's supposed to be funny. I hope so. I will be half assed watching it....but if it is remotely good...I will all ass watch it. Don't worry, I can make earrings and watch TV at the same time!!

Yummy! Frosted mini wheats come in mini-mini wheats now. I love them no matter what size they are, but mini-mini's sound delicioso!

I found some Christmas cards that I like. They are cute and funny. It's a choice between 3. I had thought of making my own. Painting each one individually. That's the 4th choice. I just don't know yet. Time and dedication. That's the determining factor.

Husband wants a letter head for stationery. A western theme. Cowboy. I need to 'search' for something. He bought ivory parchment paper the other day, so a brown/tan theme is in the running. I also need to check for envelopes. He didn't think of those...I like things that match.

Well...gotta go eat. Have a great evening...

b

Oh No! Don't let the rains come down!!

Too late!! They already did! It rained like a MTHR FKR today! Right straight down, pouring, smash you in the skull and leave a dent in it, rain. I got drenched. My feet are molding as we speak. I will drink hot tea all evening as a precaution. But it's great for the grass. The rain...not the tea.

I got some really pretty yarn in today!! It's sooooo tempting.
It's mostly that soft and fluffy chenille. I enjoy working with that. It knits/crochets up so fast because it's so chunky. I
opened  the box and folded it right back up. But it's right
here beside me....knit me!!! Knit me...please!!! Come on!!!
Don't listen to her! KNIT ME!! It's Stephen King Yarn!! 


I tiled today. The back splash behind the kitchen sink. It's ugly. But that's the tile I had to work with...so...it's done....and it's ugly. We cut it short today. I need to measure plywood and cut it...just didn't want to. Once it started raining we had to move saws and stuff inside and it was way too crowded to even mess with it. I may or may not do anything in there tomorrow, either. We hauled the stuff we don't need to work with back to storage (in the rain) for a little more elbow room. I'm not sure how busy it is this weekend, but we try not to get to involved in the remodeling heavyweight stuff except during the week.

I just checked the book for tomorrow and there is virtually nothing going on. Yippee!! And next week is also almost a big fat zero. So, lots of extra stuff will get done if the weather co-operates. Rain clouds are all around us again tonight but nothing is falling as yet. Lots of flood warnings, though. I understand a few streets in town were closed this afternoon after the deluge.  

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BFFMS !!!!!!

I think I will watch that new Tom Selleck police drama that comes on tonight. It may be corny...it may be great. We'll see.  There is another CSI on tonight. CSI - New York. Right now there is a show on called The Good Guys. Another cop show that features Colin Hanks, Tom Hanks son. I watched it once and it was cute but not great. I'm too lazy to look for anything else to watch.

One of my fellow bloggers posed a challenge the other day. If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and could take 10 songs/music choices that would last you forever...what would you take?? Here's the funny part. She has quite a few followers, and most of them are 'deeper thinkers' than I will ever be. More artsy fartsy...but very interestiing. My choices were simple. George Strait; Queen; Beatles; specifics were What a Wonderful World; Music Box Dancer; Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata...and I already forgot the rest.

Then, I started wondering about books. What would I take. Once again, nothing deep...or thought provoking. And I'm not counting the Bible. More like...The Egg and I; The Complete Works of Janet Evanovich; (as you can see, I am cheating!); To Kill a Mockingbird...wait...I have a better idea. How about DVD's and unlimited batteries for my totally unbreakable DVD player?? I'm thinking...To Kill a Mockingbird; The Grapes of Wrath; What Happens in Vegas...WHAT!! I like that movie...and 7 more that I haven't figured out yet.

I think Tom will wake up soon for yogurt. I'm sure he will      
want to watch Tom Selleck, too. He liked him in Magnum.

In his spare time, he's a butt warmer. Right now, he's sitting here looking at me. He does that a lot.

OK...I'm leaving now. I need a shower...a HOT one and then Tom Selleck. Have a nice night!!

b

Baby it's dark outside!

Earlier this evening there was a huge full moon and a huge dark cloud aiming straight towards it. Now...we are definitely under the cover of darkness. It's quite eerie looking...this would be a great Halloween night. That reminds me! Halloween candy!!! Be right back.

OK...I'm back. I came home today and took a nap. I woke up, ate a chicken salad sandwich and took another nap. We had another busy and frustrating day. I got just a little tiling done. Very little. But I fixed another plumbing problem. Don't ya just love toilets! I should be able to work on the counter in there tomorrow and cut the plywood for the front of the little bar that separates the 'kitchen area' from the 'rest of the room'.

I just run out of energy so fast! The best thing is...our temperatures are going down. There is rain predicted for the next several days. We had a pretty good storm this afternoon. Something was struck within probably 50 feet of us. We are talking flash/crack!!

Tom is sitting here looking at me. You know eats he yogurt every night and he has already had it. But I think he thinks he will be getting more. He's not. He needs to go lay down and quit looking at me...I am making hot tea. It does not have Tom's name on it. Actually, the mug has my name on it! Really!!

I still haven't figured out what I want to buy for me. I thinking hard! I really am...I guess this is a good thing. I don't want anything. Don't worry...I come up with something.

I have decided to take both felt ornaments to work on...and yarn! Why not. I'll pack some stuff up the first of the week. I'll make earrings (jewelry) all next week. It's on the list.

I have a few emails to answer so I better sign off and get busy. Nite!!

b

A plumber I will never be...

What a big, fat, giant, pain in the ass day. And it's my own fault because I continue to work here. We are finally breaking down and remodeling that dreadful room. And I am pushing myself. This is not the smartest stuff for me to do anyway. I'm too tired and physically not as strong as I used to be, but, and I say this reluctantly, I love doing this stuff.

Except today.

What should have been a' routine day' (mega oxymoron) in replacing the kitchen faucet...and I have done this several times before...some more eventful than others...became a Mthr Fkr of a faucet. Um...not just the faucet itself...but the fine plumbing leading in to it.

I'm sure 50 years of rust and corrosion had something to do with it. I am lying. This mess must have been replaced in the past 20 years because the cold water pipes were PVC. However, whoever replaced the shit before was really stingy with the pipe!! The 'cracked' pipe. The dried up, old nasty assed cracked pipe. That would be the pipe that snapped off and shot water out into the room like a hydrant hit by a Honda! Straight out. And this would be the room that has no cutoff where it should be so you have to run 1/4 of a mile to shut the water off to the entire property. Yeah...that's the pipe!

Wait!!! Don't even go there! We had shut off all water to the building that was on the original diagram. Oh...but wait a second!! No one ever re-DID the diagram when they re-routed the water!! Silly me! No, that would be STUPID me...to not anticipate such a f**ked up mess. It's so typical for here.

So, we did what two hard working white women faced with such a dilemma would do...we ripped all the old shit out and put new shit in. Viola! It works. This may sound petty...but when you are not born a plumber...and don't naturally think like a plumber...some things just don't come plumbing natural.

Tomorrow is another day. I have no idea what we are going to do tomorrow. I don't give a shit.

I made 15 pairs of earrings last night. It wore me out. My plumbing hands are pretty sore tonight so I may or may not do anything.

I need to make a plan, though.

Husband is having surgery in Big Spring on Friday, October 1st and I will go with him. We will leave on Thursday around noon and will be back either late Saturday or Sunday (I think). He got a call from the VA in Big Spring today telling him that he would have the 'procedure' done there. We are not real sure what the 'procedure' will be, but at this juncture something is better than nothing (for Husband).

What I will do is take some stuff to work on. Although knitting/crocheting is the most convenient, I should take some felt ornaments to sew (embroider). I have quite a few cut out and really need to get busy on them. So far...I have made...zero! I'll think about this.

We are watching Modern Marvels. It's on the History Channel channel and sometimes is pretty good. Tonight is 'Soda and other Beverages'. They just got done with Ginger Beer. I can remember that my Grandmother would sometimes buy that. It was really good and really strong ginger flavor (surprise!!). Now they are on to the root beers.

I'm feeling the need for a shower. I started feeling that way this afteroon when I had to stick my head (and half my body) behind the stove/sink/refrigerator unit while dicking around with the plumbing situation. Lots of gunga back there. Lots of it stuck to my head.

I think I'll treat myself to something special (again) this week. I have that Evening in Paris perfume coming remember...But I think I earned it. Today...I earned it. Now I have to figuue out what to get....

Gotta scrub my head...nite!!

b

Dr Day

It was Husband's DR Day in Fort Stockton. It was eventful. This was a combination new visit/update of previous medical condition with new (local) Primary Care Dr. DR What's his name was not at all happy with condition of Husband's arm and chest. After examination, he assessed condition as needing attention ASAP. The swelling in the chest appears to be under the chest muscle and is advancing. It also appears that the swelling extends through armpit into underneath of upper arm and on into the elbow. DR contacted ALBUQ VA (which I am not fond of) and requested appointment ASAP. Hopefully, they will respond quickly and this situation will be resolved.

This Dr at least was able to tell us the extent of lymph glands that had been removed by reading the surgeons report from 2 year ago that he accessed on line, and could see chemo treatments that had been prescribed, but he was very unhappy at follow up exam just a couple of months ago. I hope he is able to make something happen. Husband is miserable and very concerned. Especially now. Husband asked this Dr if there was more to be concerned about...Dr said absolutely. DR said drainage was internal and this is not a good thing. I keep you posted.

We ate lunch and ran into Wal Mart for cat litter and came home. There were storms all around us and they are continuing as I write. The raindrops are falling and the sun is shining. It's quite pretty.

Husband got a hefty check in the mail today for his 10 minutes of civic duty - Jury duty - which he got out of. Twenty Dolla'!! I don't remember if I told you or not...he went to Court, prepared to tell them he had medical appointments, etc... and they said 'no problem'...it was for the Grand Jury!! We thought is was for a regular trial, but no!...it was for 6 months of Grand Jury service. He had his (today's) appointment card with him and also told them he could have several subsequent DR dates and the Court said there was no question of dismissal. But anyhooo...he has a $20 check burning a hole in his pocket now!!

We got a DVD at Wal Mart. It's the first 34 episodes of Bonanza and it was $5.00. Guess what we are watching?

Now it's thundering south of us.

I knitted a few inches of a Roll Brim Hat on the way back from Fort Stockton. I'll finish it later...it's still 'make jewelry' night andI need to get busy on making a few things. Right now if I laid down I could probably sleep for hours! Not a smart thing to do....I may be back later...

b

Hot Dog Monday

I love hot dogs. I don't care what they are made of. I mean, if you are going to drown them in mustard, ketchup and relish...that should kill any other bad stuff and contribute to that luscious hot dog flavor. I am officially full of hot dogs tonight.

I am also making earrings. It's on the list. I am busy, busy. I got my placement for the Craft Show today. It's a good space. Better, I think, than any others I have had. I know, I said they were all good, to a degree, but this one I like.

I am thinking of getting a friend for Francine. I haven't told her yet. She may not like it...or she could be thrilled. I'll have to wait for just the right moment to break it to her.

I'm watching Bones. Nothing is on and I'm really not really watching this. I don't want to get started watching anything good as I really need to make lots more stuff tonight.

It was a comfortable day again today. There are supposedly showers in the forecast for this evening, but nothing yet. And also for the next few days. The temps are in the upper 70's...This flower may be a repeat. I like the color.

We got some Christmas cards from the VFW in the mail today. They are pretty, but will be backups. So if you get a VFW one...that means I never found anything else that I liked.

BFFRMcS has this great job where she gets to go through and sort out...stuff! She asked me today if I needed some knitting needles. Well of course I do! I mean...after all...

I met BFFRMcS in Thermopolis one day many years ago when Husband and I were at Mac's Bar. She and her BFF, CJ (who became ours as well) were travelling through Thermop in route back to Texas. I didn't actually talk to them at the bar...but Husband did. Husband and I waved 'bye' and on the way home...Husband said he had invited them out for dinner and possibly stay the night.

I said..."You are shitting me! Why do you always do that!!"

"Well"...he said,  "Number one...they are from Texas and two, they seem really nice."

"Whatever, it's your deal. Have a nice visit," I whined.

That night was the beginning of an amazing friendship. A moment hasn't passed since that I haven't felt that Rene and I have known each other every second of our lives. She has been an angel to me...in more ways than one.

They stayed a few days and then had to leave. We talked about everything...arts and crafty shit (surprise!) and she had showed me her crocheting that she was carrying with her. Finally, after a few days, they just had to walk out the door to go home and after hugs and kisses and promises of 'see you soon'...they left. Naturally I was bawling like a baby. I walked back into the living room...and there...on the coffee table/trunk...was her crochet hook. I looked at Husband and said...they'll be back!! I called Mac's and told them if Rene and CJ stopped in, tell them to wait, cuz I had something of hers. We were headed into town to do our routine errands anyway and hurried over to Mac's. There they were! What else could we do but have a few .rounds for the road....and then head back to our house for one more night of laughing and eating. Of course we went though the same farewell scene the  next day...but it wasn't as painful because we knew the future. A crochet hook and knitting needles.

What a ride...........

I'm going to get busy now. Have a nice night...

b

Fish steamed in a bamboo steamer is yummy!

A couple of weeks ago a friend of Husband's gave him some redfish that he got when he went to the coast. There were two huge fillets so I cut them up and we had some tonight which we prepared in the bamboo steamer. (I bet you guessed that from the title of this...didn't you!) Well, it was delicious. We used to use a steamer, gosh...pretty much every day. When we got here we naturally stored [almost] everything in storage...where it still is. Rather than look for it...I, being the shopper that I am, ordered one, a smaller one, from Amazon. We've used it a few times but I forget about it. We have been doing more of the fresh vegetable eating as of late, and have been using it more. And stacking them is good.

We had broccoli and cauliflower on one tray and the fish on the second. Husband spiced up the fish with garlic, black pepper, soy sauce and a sprinkling of foo foo dust. Popped it in the steamer and 'poof'...10 minutes later...supper. Add some rice...delicioso! If you can believe this, I couldn't eat all of mine. I was stuffed. It was a healthy size serving, but filling. I'll eat it for breakfast.

We did normal crap today...and hung a door. I'm really tired. I'm thinking this is not good. I am back on the multi-multi-vitamin regimen and am eating healthy (except for the chips and dip...and possibly the lemon pound cake...and an occasional twix bar...only occasional) but I need calories. I need to regroup. Maybe some Ensure for a while. I am still losing weight. It can stop now. In another life, I'd be ecstatic...not now.

I unraveled the hat. It really needs two strands of yarn. I feel better about my choice.

Tomorrow I will start making jewelry. It's on the list. Make Jewelry on Monday. And for several days thereafter. The 'new' yarn won't be here until the 24th to tempt me. I am going to DR with Husband on Tuesday and will probably take the unraveled hat yarn with me so I can be productive as we drive. Or should I say...as I ride.

We watch The Glades (on A&E). It's a pretty good show. There is so little to watch on TV anyway. Correction: There is so little that I want to watch. Boston Legal is on right now (but I'm watching The Glades) and I like that show, also. I used to watch Boston Legal when it was on as a weekly show - DENNIE CRANE - Love it. I was surprised to see it on tonight, but I made my choice. I should see if it's on DVD through Amazon. Correction: I should see if it's on Amazon, and reasonable. I also like The Practice. 

Took a break and took a shower. It's late and I need to get some rest. Got lots of jewelry calling my name. See you tomorrow...

b

I lied about my age...

I was 11 when Jean gave me the book....It's the dementia....thick tonight!!

Sorry!!

Here's the bottle...like you care

I had to find a picture of this bottle. (Thanks eBay-er) I ordered myself some 'parfume'...which will no doubt stink...but I don't care. They actually still make this in a much flashier bottler with a much flashier price.

It was another beautiful day today. Slightly cooler. Another bonbon day.

I have been remembering lots of things lately from 'my early days'. All good stuff. I know I have mentioned 'my first real hard cover book' before. My cousin Jean gave it to me for Christmas when I was 7 and it was called 'Then Came November'. You could have handed me a gold bar and I would have tossed it aside just to have my very own book. Unfortunately, I don't have the original...long painful story... but I felt the need to have it again. Damn I love eBay! It was in perfect condition...and made me feel warm all over.  

Yep...some things just make you feel good. That book did, and this bottle will. Go figure. I also loved Katy Keene Comic books. She was a fashion diva. I think I'll see if they are on eBay. I had tons of them...along with Classic Comics. I wish I had all of those now!! And I collected the Betsy McCall paper dolls in the back of the McCall's magazine. I also had a Betsy McCall doll. I loved paper dolls, too.

I was looking for Christmas cards last night. The western themed Leanin' Tree cards are my favorites...but I am checking out some others.

I got the teddy bears out last night and thought I might sew a few bodies tonight, but now I can't find the thread!! I was sure I had put it in the same bag with the bears...but it wasn't there! Mystery!! Did you know that thread is expensive? Good thread, that is. Don't get me wrong, I only buy good thread...but the price has skyrocketed. So has embroidery thread. Yeah, I know...everything has gone up...but these have gone up since last year. Yes! I know everything has gone up since last year...never mind...I'm not going to win this argument. (But the price of thread really has gone up!!)

I'll knit again tonight. I am half done on a roll brim hat, and I wish I had used 2 strands of yarn. I think it would look better. I may unravel it and start over. I have been known to do such things. I don't like to sell anything that I wouldn't be proud wearing myself. It's a personal thing.

Oh yeah, I found a few cute patterns for crocheted flowers for the hats. Small enough for baby hats and easy to increase in size for adult sizes. There was also a butterfly but it wasn't all that cute. But I like the idea of a butterfly.

I suppose I should pick up the old knitting needles. And find something to watch on TV. See you later...

b

It's a cobalt blue bottle...

Hey! I never said I had total recall...I found the perfume 0n ebay and the bottle is NOT heart shaped and it's cobalt blue with a silver cap. But I was close...

b

I'm an idiot...

It's Evening in Paris...not Evening in Paradise...

Must be wishful thinking!

b

Cut, cut, saw saw

Got some cuttin' and sawin' done. Screwed a few screws...nailed a few nails. Viola!! We have us a door!! Tomorrow...the doorknob. Way too much to accomplish in one day...

It was/is a productive day. And not just at work. I'm a knittin' right now. No I'm not. I'm typing. I am good...but not that good! I found a super simple knitted hat pattern and I'm whipping it right up .Probably 2 hats. And I'm using up leftover yarn. Positively genius. I also got an order for 12 pairs of earrings. I'll hopefully make them later this evening. Damn...when it rains it pours...in a good way!

It's a lovely day today. The sun is shining and the temperature is 75. Perfect. I love days like this and wish I didn't have to go to work. I would sit outside all day and knit and drink mint juleps and eat bonbons. Actually, I choose to work. Big difference. I just choose to work more days than not. I have become accustomed to the money. It supports my habits...good and bad.

Let's see...what are my bad habits. Ummmmm...none?? Yeah! NONE!! No...I'm sure there are a couple...I bitch a lot. I mean a lot!! About everything. It's a character flaw. Possibly heredity. Perhaps I have a no control over it. Bitch 101 - Valedictorian of my class. And, um, let's see...yep! That about covers the bad habits.

Good habits!! Too numerous to mention. I am kind, courteous, a friend to animals, a Girl Scout, change my underwear every day, like to make people happy, have very good intentions, whew! I'm worn out! Oh...I think good thoughts most of the time.

Question of the day? Do you ever do something nice for yourself? I mean it. Something special, just for you. Not like buying new underwear or socks because you need them anyway. But something frivolous...something cute. I bought myself a ring with a heart on it. I just liked it. I think I am going to see if I can find some Evening in Paradise perfume in a purple.blue heart shaped bottle. Someone on eBay is bound to have some. It will probably smell awful to me now...but I loved it as a girl. I was at the store the other day and I swear someone passed me wearing Ambush. I loved that as a teenager...and Tabu. Do something special for yourself tomorrow.

I am going to knit a hat now. Have a great day! Nite...

b

Raindrops were falling on my head...like mortars!

We got a mother of all rain today. It was wonderful. I ran home and got pretty wet...wet enough to change shirt and shoes. And then...it really started to rain! I thought it was hailing because the drops were hitting so hard and loud. And then it was gone...but not before dropping the temperature a good 20+ degrees and making the grass grow before my eyes. It was late enough in the day that we didn't have the after the rain 'sauna effect'. It smells so clean...

I think there is plenty of rain on the parsley. Or what may someday be 3 or 4 adult parsley plants!! Perhaps I should move the container...The birds will drink all the water and chow down the bugs by tomorrow morning. This is when I feel guilty about not planting any flowers around here. All I had to do was sprinkle packets of seeds around and hope for the best...but I never did it. I'll try to guilt myself into it...don't hold your breath.

It's planning time again. On October 12th we will have a open house...Meet and Greet the Candidates...here at the lodge. I am calling myself the co-host with the Antelope Lodge. My BFFPG in Austin is the significant other of the candidate for Texas Land Commissioner, Hector Uribe. He is a great guy, the 'man for the job' and is also famous (or infamous) for his acting role in No Country For Old Men, which was filmed here in Alpine and surrounding area, and he was billed as the Well Dressed Mexican. They left out handsome - which he is!

Anyway, Hector will be the Guest of Honor and he will be joined by Alpine's own native son, Representative Pete Gallego. And as many other Democratic candidates that we can assemble. It should be informative and fun. BFFPG and I will see to that. I am not sure yet what we will serve...it will depend on the time frame we select...should it be a lunch time affair? Brisket and the fixins? Hot dogs, potato salad and lemonade...a winning political menu?  Or cold cuts, cheese, crackers and wine...to go with the whine?? Don't know yet. Hey! maybe some homemade ice cream!! I'll let you know...

This is what we had for supper tonight. We had the leftover soup that Husband made yesterday...but there is a new  restaurant in town (that also caters) and they left a menu in the office. It's mostly sandwiches, a 'daily 'soup and and a 'weekly' salad. We ordered a Ruben on Rye with a side of Taboulli salad. It was $10 and worth it. Then I ate cake. Didn't need it but I ate it. It's not always a matter of need, you know...

Got the yarn ordered that I wanted. It should be here in a week and that's about how long it will take me to use up what I have.
Next week, though, I'll concentrate on jewelry. Just to break the monotony. Although I make a lot more progress with yarn than I do with jewelry.

Husband has a DR appointment in Fort Stockton on Tuesday so I will go with him. I suppose we will eat some lunch and come home. There is nothing there to look at. There is a Wal-Mart there, not a 'super' one with groceries and if we go there it will be for cat litter. But at least it will be a day away from here!

I guess I should take a shower. My hair is rainwater clean but I'll wash it anyway. Husband is taking a shower and getting himself for his big Jury Duty Day tomorrow. He's is planning on being there for about 10 minutes.He has his DR appt. card (for Tuesday) and since there are picking the jury on a Friday afternoon, it's likely a trial would go through Monday, so chances are good that they will dismiss him anyway. Of course his line of thinking is...Guilty! Fuck 'em! Hang 'em! You do the math...

Be back tomorrow...nite!

b

Ditto

Re-read yesterday...it's the same as today. Ugly clouds around us right now. This storm may stay north, I just don't know yet.

I was off today. I turned off my phone and stayed in bed till 1:00...got up and took a shower and went to the grocery store and other errands with Husband.

He is making soup. He loves to cook. Thank God.

I ate a can of Campbell's Low Sodium Chicken Noodle Soup last night for supper. It was adequate. I was too lazy to make a sandwich. Husband offered to make it, but I was too lazy to eat it.

Have you ever had those days when you just didn't want to hear any one's voice? I mean nobody. Not a word. Because when they do talk to you...it's whining or complaining. And it's whining and complaining about other people...not even you! And they are not even people that are in your circle...that you care about! They are...THE OTHERS!!

Your' circle' you ask?? - Those are the ones you can look into their eyes and say...'Shut the FUCK up'!! 

I sometimes like silence. Yes, the TV might be on, but I have selective hearing. I am a whiner and complainer...I know I drive people crazy by whining and complaining. And...I am a chronic bitcher!! Bitch Bitch Bitch!!! All I do is bitch. I just didn't want any noise today. Can't even take a quiet day off...

I need to knit. Pink hats. I am moving right along in the hat department. I believe I have 50 done. I will knit and crochet till I run out of yarn. And then I will buy some more. I have a few skeins to make a few scarves to match the hats...remember, Francine wanted them??

We are (I am semi) watching The Adventures of Robin Hood with Errol Flynn. It's a good movie. I'm picking the next one. Gotta be a comedy. And it's early enough that I'll stay awake.

I just got a weather alert for this area. Well...I looked and nothing was there...it wouldn't connect. But I did hear thunder a few seconds ago.

I just tasted the soup. It's friggin' hot!! Temperature hot...and some black pepper hot. But very good. It has bulgur wheat, carrots, celery, green beans, leeks, white navy beans, basil, BLACK PEPPER, garlic...it's good. Very Vegan. I should have a hot dog with it.

I think I'll take a breather. I'll watch Errol for a bit. Later!!

b

Where's my 2x4! I've got a headache...

This one I'm sure is weather related. The sky is gray and yellow and heavy all around us...thar's some thunder a thundering out thar! I was around a lot of noise today. We had to measure and cut some wooden doors to 'fit' and that circular saw is LOOUUDD!!!

I'm drinking Gatorade and snacking on Tylenol gel caps. I think I'll have a grilled cheese sandwich for supper later. Husband is eating the last of the tacos he made last night. I may just have cereal. I'm not hungry for anything. Can you believe that!!

Oh oh...the wind is picking up.

I have started another pink baby hat. They are so cute. And little. They are for babies, you know! I have some Vanna White brand baby yarn and there is enough in one skein to make five hats! Count 'em.....five!! Maybe six!! So I'll make the pink hats till I'm outta pink! I am thinking of looking for directions for a small crocheted flower for them The brim folds up and a little white flower would be the perfect accent.

Went to bed . Headache. Nite...

b

It's a pleasant valley sundaaaay....

I am very busy. I have many projects. So much to do. Busy Busy Busy! And here I sit, thinking of things to write. I will write about being busy. I am very busy.

It was a very short work day. I loved it. But it comes with a price. More than we planned to do tomorrow. Damn it.

BFFLS came by today! I was so happy to see her. She explained how difficult it is to keep in contact (via Internet/cell phone access) mostly due to her geographical location. She lives in OJ, Mexico. (Ojinaga) It is the border town across from Presidio, Texas. She works daily at a flower shop in Presidio, which means she has to cross the border...everyday. That's why I worry about her. She's used to it, and lives a somewhat safe distance from actual 'border wars'...and there is such a place. She is so brave...and happy. What more to life could you ask for but to live the way you want to. But I miss her and worry for her. It was great to see and hug her today.

I got home and made a baby hat!! For a real baby, not a big headed baby. They knit up so fast. I can probably make 2 more tonight if I apply myself. I will.

MASH is on. I have seen this 'Radar gets dog bit' episode 7563 times. Maybe he won't get bit this time...I think I'll go see Alicia in the office.

I'm back...BFFMS was in the office visiting Alicia. You will be happy to hear that the gaping would in her skull is completely healed!! It's a miracle I tell ya!

Their birthdays are coming up. BFFMS was suggesting a drink fest...possibly to  be so monumental that the evening ends with...yes...incarceration!! Naturally, me being the practical one...suggested we start (or end) at Sonic (I think it was me...maybe not)...Slushes at Sonic...Slushes with lots 'o vodka...at Sonic!! Think about it...yummmmmm!!! Maybe a coconut slush with...........Captain Morgan!! How delightfully tropical!! A maybe a choco-mocha frosty topped with whipped cream and birthday candles!! The ones that don't blow out...Oh....now I'm just being silly. Wait!! Admit it...that's sounds really good!!

And we want slut shoes. We talked about getting some a few years ago. A trio of slut shoes. I think that would be a great idea for a shoe store. At least you know what you'd be looking at...and for!

I stopped to eat some Frosted Flakes. Last Holiday is on with Queen Latifh. It's a funny movie.
I had a shower and now I am tired. That's a good thing. I'm not even going to finish the baby hat. It's nighty night for me!

b

Scenario: sitting quietly

I am sitting here, quietly, minding my own business, when a thought crosses my mind.

Thought: I think I'll check my blog for...oh...I don't know...comments on my oh so funny post.

SURPRISE!! Low and behold...comment from...you guessed it!! BFFMS. Claiming injury. 20 stitches. Yeah right!! The hole wasn't that big!!

Ha Ha Ha!! Seriously...do you know what's better than having wonderful friends that laugh with you?? Nothing...Nothing at all. Laughter is love. I am such a fortunate person to have such friends. I love you BFFMS. And I would never hit you! I might shove you around a little....

Here's the deal...BFFMS knows that I shouldn't drink Coke. And I very seldom do. But I really did have a headache and had taken a couple of Excedrin Migraine (which I'm not supposed to take, either...) and the Coke was my catalyst. And I sucked it down. All 32 ounces of it. But it was stuffed with ice, so I can guarantee that there was no where near that amount. But it was suuuurrreee good!!

I knitted a pink baby cap tonight. For a baby with a big head. I used the right yarn with the wrong needles. It's cute, though.

BFFLS contacted me tonight! Responding through an email. I am so excited. She moved several months ago (and I miss her so much) and all of a sudden she was...gone! Off my email and phone. I have had problems with both and had thought maybe she had been spammed off. I never used to check SPAM until one day I just did and I had messages that never should have gone there. So I check it all the time now and try to correct anything that has gone wrong...but I am so glad I got a message from her. She be funny!!

Tom is waiting for his yogurt. He is so patient. At least he is tonight. So I will satisfy his hunger. See you tomorrow!!

b

Scenario: BFFMS stops by

Saturday scenario: Conversation between BFFMS and me:

This takes place in the laundry room where me is sitting, drinking a cold beverage out of an extremely large lidded and strawed styrofoam cup.

BFFMS says, "Whatcha drinking?"

me replys, "Water".

BFFMS looks me in the eye (hatefully!) and says, "Really?".

me says, "Yes".

BFFMS continues to look at me (even more hatefully if you imagine that!) and says: YOU LIE!!!

So I pick up a 2x4 and smash her across the head, knocking her off the chair including, that look on her her face, and rush her...pummelling her like a crazed woman (which I am!) on my own defense of being questioned about a simple beverage...(me is huffing and puffing...)

I'm a liar. I looked at her and said, "It's a Coke...I'm feeding my headache."

Now see...that's what a headache can do to a person.

The End

Those were the days, my friend

We thought they'd never end...we sing and dance...forever and a day...Ah the 60's, 70's, some of the 80's...where does the time go.

I know where it goes...it's goes into turning my hair gray...my skin saggy...my arms splotchy...my mind foggy...my veins blue...my attention span, wait, what was I saying...oh yeah...ummm...my intentions more sincere...my heart softer...my meaness waning...that's where it goes.

I only wish there was an energy clause in there. Oh!! Last night...I'm not sure if this qualifies under my hot tea experiment...of course it does...well, I made some microwave popcorn. I ate it. I drank ice cold water and I felt a heaviness. No! Seriously! I felt a little 'heavy' and said to myself...SELF!! Now is the time! Make some hot tea. So I did. Decaffeinated Green Tea. And I drank it with the popcorn. Chew Chew...drink drink. That bit of pressure receded. I kid you not. Maybe there is something to it. Perhaps at 11:00 pm isn't the right time to test it (I got a little hungry...OK??) but maybe it was the best time. And it wasn't a planned thing. I just happened to click.

Did you know that cold Earl Grey Tea is as tasty as hot Earl Gray Tea? I am drinking it right now. The cold one.

Damn! It's only 8:41 pm and it is seriously dark outside! In a month, it will be dark at 6:00. It's OK. I like fall and winter...most of the time. I guess I need to find some sweatshirts. They are in a Rubbermaid tub. I know...I have plenty of time before it's gets cold...but I like to be prepared. 

Some lady left a hooded sweatshirt here the other day...yes, she remembered it and we mailed it back (damn it!)...anyway...it happened to be a Hanes sweatshirt in a really pretty shade of green. I looked it up on the Hanes site (I already forgot the color) but it was much prettier 'in person' than I would have expected. That's the bad part about ordering things on line. Sometimes the colors are deceiving. But I like that whatchamacallit green. The only thing I need for cooler/colder weather is socks. And they have those at ALCO.

You can barely see these, but there are 4 little 'bozo' looking swallows (the tufts off eathers on the tops of their heads are comical...) in this dried mud nest. They are on the back porch of the office, almost to the ceiling above a conduit pipe.

Remember when I told you about Robert Redford's catalog? It was Sundance. I looked it up online to check out the jewelry...nothing there that I liked (even to almost copy). And nothing like they used to carry. It's more foofooier now. Not the chunky, southwesty, coraly, leathery, natural stoney stuff. Disappointing.

I need to take a shower. Yes, I want to take one..but I need to take one, too. I repackaged some fish...I need to take a shower. Have a nice night!!

b

Shopping day

If only it was a fun shopping day! It was 'buy crap for the lodge day'. Which we did. Shit...there's a mosquito in here! Anyway...we found a few more metal/wire frames for the numbers for the doors, which we still had to modify. Nothing is ever simple. We'll be able to attach them tomorrow. Yipee! And the balance was cleaning supplies, plumbing and electrical supplies, gum, Snickers, paint...you know, the usual.

I got an email from Bealls. They are going to have 'old lady day (20% off) EVERY Tuesday! WOW! What a deal. They must be hurting for sales...considering that they have been trying to get rid of the same 80% off stuff for 3 years. They do have some good deals, but I just don't wear fancy go to meetin' clothes much anymore. And the jeans are too expensive...even with 20% off.

I got a sorta OK picture of the bird hopping to the feeder. Use your imagination...

We had some more wanna be rain clouds tonight but nothing! 

It was very hot today today.No breeze.

I am drinkingTang as we speak...but I have been adhering to the hot tea with the meal plan. I don't notice much difference yet...but then, realistically, I don't eat much greasy stuff to show a difference. I'll keep drinking it and I will be sticking to my routine evening hot tea.

Tom was looking out the window today.

He would love to be outside...stalking and killing. He watches the birds at the feeder and also the smaller sparrows on the ground. But his favorites are the doves. He likes the bigger action!

Right now he's sitting in the bathroom sink. I don't know why...I guess he justs like it.

I think I'll hit the hay. It was a long day. See you later...

b

We dodged a rain bullet

Gosh, as much as we need and want water around here, please don't let us get Hermine! My Mumsy is treading water in SA...she reports no damage to her home, thank God, but branches and trees down in her neighborhood. Power outages...horrendous. I think the worst is yet to come. Austin looks equally as bad...Arlington is under water and downtown Dallas is experiencing tornadoes! And we have nary a drop. I won't whine anymore.

And the fires in Boulder! No snow in sight...and I'm not being a smart ass. Snow would be a blessing.

AHA! Question of the day!!

Why is it...when you spend $50 on medication...before you take the first pill...suddenly all of the symptoms go away. I'm pissed. I should be happy...but I have better things to spend $50 on. That's OK. It's like taking penicillin. You have to take it for the duration in order for it to work. Even if you feel better half way through the dosage, which you generally do. Consequently, I will take the friggin' medicine.

I looked on the Smiley's Yarn site last night for yarn (duh!). They have a nice sale on that Chenille yarn that I like. It is Soooo soft...but there are only 3 colors available. I should have ordered it a month ago. Oh well. And there are a few other kinds that look interesting. Kinda hairy looking stuff...when I make the hats I use 2 or 3 strands anyway, so a hairy one is something I would use. I am pondering black. I think it would be a very good seller.

Tom kitty wasn't doing so well for a while. He lost quite a bit of weight and was acting kind of puny...and all of sudden (because we are such good and attentive parents) we realized that he wasn't eating hardly any of his dry food. He has it free choice and would normally go through a 4# bag in about 6 weeks. But it seems as if the same amount has been in there for...well...6 weeks. So we started paying more attention. Considering the fact that he is 19 years old...that dry stuff was really hard for him to chew. He needs it...naturally...for his teeth (which are part of the problem), and he does get his 'pouch 'o food' every morning. Well...after considerable thought we changed his feeding plan. He now gets 'pouch 'o food' morning and night with cat joint medicine and a couple of vitamin supplements hidden in it...along with the dry food that he doesn't eat much of. He's ecstatic. He loves food. But the little son of a bitch can tell time. He starts that 'me-get up bitch-ow' at 7:20 am. No shit! EVERY MORNING! 7:20 AM.  And I eat yogurt at 9:00 PM. He cleans out the cup. Then at 10:00 PM...it's 'pouch 'o food' again. Then....while I am asleep...Husband doles out soft treats. And just like shampoo...REPEAT!! We implemented this plan about a week ago and Tom kitty already looks better. He's still a royal pain in the ass.

We are going to watch Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation. I'll be back tomorrow...more than likely...come hell. There's no high water. Nite.

b

Sunny day Sweepin' the clouds away

Let me change this to....YESTERDAY!!! F**King internet!! This is what I wrote yesterday and lost service while I was trying to post!! I need an alternative access.....

Today I will type this on Word and send it to post. I have been losing internet all day. Don’t know why. Maybe it’s the balloons. Or maybe the mother ship has landed at the Marfa Lights Festival. All I know is that it is a pain in the ass.



It was a long day today and I am beat. I dread tomorrow. It will be a lot longer. And it’s not that Bobbie and I are doing the whole load alone like we used to. I don’t know how we did it. I’m too old for this shit.

I am going to cut stuff out tonight. Felt stuff. It’s a start! I am sending in the application on Tuesday for the Christmas Craft Show. I want a good table…but I'm not sure where that would be. As a rule…all tables should be good…but it’s funny…a lot of the folks who go to these shows are there to socialize and talk and talk…and sometimes don’t make it all the way around to see everything. Corners are good and it might be worth paying for a double space. I’m thinking along those lines.


I am considering asking Eva (at Eva’s Salon) if I can set up jewelry/art stuff either inside or in front of her shop on Gallery Night. She’s smack dab in the middle of town…a high traffic area…and it would be great if she agrees. I need to think about calling her soon, too.


It’s a beautiful evening. Even though it’s hot during the day…the ‘fall’ evenings in Alpine are nice…comfortable…relaxing to sit outside and smell the clean air. And I consider this fall. After all, it’s only a day away from Labor Day…that means it’s fall. Or should I say...in “The World According to Brenda”. I was trying to get some photos of the hummingbirds and a wren that eats from the feeder right outside the window. Rather than perch on the ‘perch’ on the feeder itself, she sits on a branch close to it and juts out at it as it spins around. I can’t catch her at it though. I am shooting from the room behind the screen and she hauls ass when she sees me coming. One of these days….FLASH!!


I saw a recipe for Caramel Apple Jam. Doesn’t that sound nutritious and delicious!! I think it’s something you should eat directly out of the jar! With the homemade bread or hot biscuits…on the side! I was looking up alternative methods of cooking it…and one was in a crock pot. That sounds easy…

I have slipped of the hot tea in the evening schedule lately and I do believe it's time to resume the practice.  I read an article yesterday about drinking warm/hot beverages with meals. As our eastern com padres, the Chinese, live by this rule...I concur. Simply the example stated was enough to make me a believer. I shall explain:

You have ordered a fine evening meal. Chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes and cream gravy and ummmmm...green beans. Yeah....green beans cooked with diced onion and bacon.OK...there was a green salad in there, too. 

Scenario #1 -  Chew, Chew, (100 times, remember?) swallow...followed by warm/hot water/tea. Smooooth. Goes down well...repeat many times. Hot beverage after each swallow of food.

Scenario #2 -  Chew, Chew, you know the drill, swallow...followed by cold water/iced beverage. Oh-oh...little catch in the throat, slight cough, coooold water is solidifying any residual grease in the food you have just swallowed, not only in your mouth, but straight down the gullet! That fast! Creating an uncomfortable situation before the meal is even done! Gastric distress! And this could have been eliminated, or at least subdued by drinking a hot beverage rather than a cold one. I'm not saying this works for everyone...but I am certainly willing to try it for a while. I don't eat much 'grease' anymore, but even a Pecan Sandies cookie has an emulsifier...and perhaps hot Chamomile tea will assist in digestion. I am taking part in this experiment as we speak.



Chew, chew, etc. - sip (very) hot tea. So far, so good. It may take a few cookies, Tasty!

Husband has put in a funny Tim Allen movie...I won't make it to the end I can guarantee that.
 
I think I'll close now...as I have a couple of issues with the internet tonight. Have a good one and I'll keep you posted on the 'gastric experiment'.
 
b

Why do I want to paint a picture?

I just want to. We were talking about Georgia O'Keeffe today...who I aspire to be...only alive. I love her creations of dramatically simple yet provocative style. She is my hero. I found a box of blank watercolor greeting cards. The perfect size canvas. And I have tons of paint and many, many brushes. I need a subject...which will come to me in my sleep.

Speaking of sleep...I woke up with a headache from hell this morning. The inspiration I was hoping for, in my sleep, came in the form of exhausting dreams! In one...I was moving railroad ties. From one pile to another. Go figure. I also remember a pile of rocks. A HUGE pile of rocks...but I don't remember moving those.  But when I woke up...pain. And I was exhausted. I hope tonight will be better. I won't be painting railroad ties.

This will be a short post. Its already 11 and I am tired. I had great plans of a long and funny repartee earlier... then I took and shower and got tired. Sorry. Maybe tomorrow. Nite.

b

Rain?? What rain!!

What a disappointment. We got next to nothing for rain. More of 'Play Misty for Me". That's OK. And it was cool. That was refreshing.

Today was 'Brendito the Electricianado' day. I replaced 2 bathroom light fixtures and one kitchen light fixture. And lived to tell about it. That's a good thing.

Lots of people meandering about the town. Balloon frenzy! I saw a few vendor wagons headed to Marfa this afternoon...BBQ pits and such.

We are watching The Horse Whisperer with yummy Robert Redford. Seeing him always makes me think of his catalog...and now I can't remember the name of it. It'll come to me. There are great, and extreeeemly expensive clothes in in...but I love to see the jewelry. Great patterns to copy...I mean...for inspiration, of course! Is it Sundance?? Possibly. I honestly do 'sorta copy' lots of styles and patterns. I'm not great at original thought...

That's not quite true. Do you now when I get lots of inspiration? When I am asleep. I think I mentioned this many moons ago. I always used to keep and pencil and paper next to my bed and I would actually write things down in my sleep. Perhaps and clothing pattern idea. Or a story subject. Even poetry. Now it's designs and bead patterns...color schemes.Even remodeling solutions. But I still like catalogs.

I have cut out several new paper patterns for ornaments. I need to get the felt out and get busy on those.

This computer is acting stupid. I am trying to open another whatchamacallit and it won't do anything. That little 'search' circle just goes round and round and round...Damn it!

I think I'll lie down for a bit. I have a dull headache. Not yet to the throbbing stage...and I popped a couple of Advil PM a bit ago. They must be kicking in...Nite.

b

Early evening rain...

It was a nice rain...our afternoon rain, it was...but the skies south of us are BLACK!!! And I just saw on line that there is a possible tornado watch for Odessa. Ookie Spookie!! Right now...the sky is projecting that eerie yellow look...we'll see!!

We had a semi busy day...prepping for a remodeling job. On the morrow we shall haul ass to True Value to get the stuff we need for the job...paint, trim, texture, shower faucets, adheasive...all that kinda stuff. We won't necessarily be in full force tomorrow or even the next day, as this weekend is full and we like to pace ourselves!! But we shall be prepared!!

I just ate a grilled chicken salad that Husband brought home for me. He bought it at the Buffalo Rose Restaurant here in town...I ate it. Let's leave it at that.

I simply cannot believe that it is September 1st. It's crazy I tell ya. I'm almost shivering!! As I mentioned, we do have cooler temps coming in...but it won't be 'cold' for quite a while. I can dream.

Nothing out of the ordinary going on. I don't think anything is coming on TV tonight. I should do something artistic...creative...constructive...nah...don't wanna. But I should.

Oh! I forgot!! (LIke you really want to know) Colon Cleanse day!! I have a hard time with this... what's the word...program(?)...I have had too much going on the past week to stay on a 7-10 day consecutive plan...but I think I can do this now. So today was day #1. As I have also said, it's not as bad as it sounds (God bless Sunny D) so I'll continue. Rest assured...I will have the ccleanest colon in Alpine! What a title!!

I got a catalog of Christmas stuff today. There are some really cute things that would make cute felt ornaments. That would be a good plan for later...possible pattern making. 

I decided to write earlier tonight so I could spend some time looking stuff up this evening. Like Christmas cards. Can you believe that I have almost used up all of Francine's yarn!! I haven't told her yet...I would like to get some more of the chenille. It is SO soft!! And makes beautiful hats. Smiley's Yarns has great deals...

Well...guess what...I am going to post this, even though this is not my original ending! The powers that be in the 'blog world' didn't save a few of my original paragraphs!

I can't even remember what I wrote...damn that pisses me off. Oh well...see you tomorrow.

b

Tra La La...

OK...so BFF-AL was telling me about this stuff that her sister told her about...COQ10. Not only does the body make it...since we need it, but evidently...so do pharmaceutical companies!! Surprise!! It's supposed to [cure, kinda] just about everything...so I checked it out.

Benefits -  reducing symptoms of: Brainfog (my personal favorite); Hypertension; Cardiovascular; Parkinson's Disease; Migraine Headaches; Magnetic Field Exposure (I have no friggn' clue); Weight Loss (don't need it); Sudden Heart Failure; Angina...

Here's a snippet from one of the websites...Hmmm?? Watcha think?? Sounded good to me...till I read...

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a type of enzyme found in the cells of your body. CoQ10 is biosynthesized, that is, your body produces it naturally. It works to provide energy for organ function and is found in high concentrations in the heart and liver cells. In supplement form, CoQ10 is designed to replace or replenish the coenzyme in case of deficiency.
Coenzyme Q10 is concentrated in the mitochondria of your body's cells. The mitochondria convert matter (nutrition) into energy, and CoQ10 is needed for this function. The coenzyme also acts as an antioxidant -- it works to prevent the formation of cancer cells and boosts your immune system. Your body produces CoQ10 the same way it produces both HDL and LDL (good and bad) cholesterol.

One remarkable aspect of Co10 is its ability to drive metabolic reaction in the body more efficiently.

If you are eating well, but not losing weight; if you are working out but seem to have no energy after a few minutes; if you are over 30; if your immune system seems weaker than it should be, chances are you are Coenzyme Q10 deficient.

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CoQ10 Supplements are not recommended for diabetics or those with hypoglycemia.

Well shit...so much for that.

Side effects include: Nausea and/or vomiting; Heartburn; Diarrhea; Loss of appetite; Skin itching; Rash; Insomnia; Headache; Dizziness; Itching; Irritability; Increased light sensitivity of the eyes; Fatigue; Flu-like symptoms...

Holy Supplement Batman!! I feel that way all the time! The only thing it doesn't do is make you grow a penis! Why take a pill and double up!!

Consequently...I ain't takin' none. I must say, though, that I was seriously impressed about that Brainfog issue...

I bought a Christmas present today. Official. The Christmas season has landed. I'm thinking I should add...'write Christmas cards/letters'...to my 'daily to-do list'. I will, after I find them. Oh hell..I better just buy some because I have no idea where they are.

Husband made me some horsehair tassels so I can make some earrings. I need to cut those antlers, too. No...I haven't cut them yet! 

Rambo 3 is on...in Spanish. Do you know what's dumber than that? Pretty much nothing.

Oh-oh...is appears that we are watching COPS. Whatcha gonna do when they come for you...bad boys, bad boys... At least it's in English. 

Do you know what would taste really good right now? Brownies. With pecans. Lots of them

I suppose I should wind down. It's a little after midnight...and since I don't have any brownies, I might as well go to sleep. Ho-Hum. Nite!!

b.