I thought this was cute and in some cases, ver appropriate!!! Listen up Beau and Schuster!
Dear Dogs of Mine,
It seems that lately things have gotten a smidge slack around here. I feel it is time to remind you of the rules that heretofore we have operated under. You are both cute dogs, but your continued cuteness in no way negates our previous agreement. Let me remind you of a few details of this agreement.
1. In exchange for room and board, you are to guard the kingdom. That would be guarding the kingdom from any and all bad guys, robbers, serial killers, etc. Feel free to bark maniacally at any of those that should appear in the yard. Guarding the kingdom does NOT include barking maniacally at bunnies, squirrels, cows, sheep and invisible things that only you can see, especially between the hours of 5am (when I stumble out of bed to let you out) and 8am (when I actually want to get up). (And let me take a moment here to remind you that the pizza guy is a potential bad guy. He is not your friend. Just because he comes bearing food does not allow him free and easy access to the kingdom. He is potentially way more dangerous than the bunnies that you threaten to tear limb from limb.)
2. All of the stuff that lives in the toy basket is yours. Everything else is mine. Yours includes squeaky balls, random bones, partially unstuffed stuffed animals and chew ropes. Mine includes any and all shoes on the floor (especially the expensive leather ones), underwear that missed the hamper, bras, socks, dishtowels, the remote, the cell phone, the legs of my grandmother's antique chair and the vacuum. Did I mention shoes? ALL the shoes are mine. They come in pairs, not quads, for a reason.
3. The cat gets to sleep on the bed. You do not. You each weigh 50 pounds. The cat weighs 12. You sleep smack dab in the middle of the bed with all four feet spread out covering approximately 12 square feet apiece. The cat sleeps in a neat little ball covering about 2 square feet. The cat does not bring fleas into the house. You do. You, dogs, will never be allowed to sleep on the bed. Quit sneaking up when you think I'm not looking. Your 50 pounds of dogginess negates your stealth superpowers. I know you are up there!!
4. Speaking of the cat- when he hunkers down into that little mound, lays his ears back, squints his eyes and growls way back in his chest, HE IS NOT A HAPPY KITTY. Leave him alone. He does not want to play with you. What he wants to do is poke your eyes out and shread the skin around your face. He can do that, you know. Five of his 6 ends are really sharp and pointy. He has previously shown very little restraint. Clearly he enjoys smacking you upside the head with a paw full of claws. Do not aggrevate him. When he takes your head off after you have cornered him, I will let him. You have been forewarned.
5. The cat is mean. He will lead you down a path to destruction. He likes to tear around the house winding you up. He does this knowingly and intentionally. When you chase him, I will only yell at you for careening into walls and furniture. He knows this. Quit falling for it.
6. If you find something in the garbage can, assume that I intend for it to be there. Plastic tampon shells are not chew toys. Don't eat them.
7. Also not for doggy consumption- anything you find in the litter box. This is why you no longer get to kiss me.
8. You are allowed to sleep on the furniture. You are not allowed to eat the furniture.
9. Yes, I have to leave the house occasionally. No, you cannot go with me when the temperature reaches above 70 -- too hot to leave you in the car. And no, most stores (outside of Petsmart) welcome you. That's why there are two of you, so you can entertain each other. Quit whining about it.
10. I have opposable thumbs. This is why I get to be in charge. I can open cans, doors, and bags of treats. I am the only one in the house that can operate the hose sprayer. I'm also the only one with a driver's license and a car. I win. Being cute is no match for opposable thumbs.
While I in no way wish to suppress your rightful dogginess, I feel that these very simple guidelines will allow us to continue to co-exist in peaceful harmony. Please know though, that should you choose to continue in willful violation of these rules, I WILL PUT THE CAT IN CHARGE. He has just been itching for a position in management. Much thanks,
The Human
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Home again, Home again
Tucson
Whew... we made it. We got home around 2:30 p.m. yesterday and I have to tell you I was dead tired! Too much on my mind I guess.
The rest of Sunday was pleasant. We went over to Billie and Dan's and had a nice visit; loaded up our heater and air conditioner (they fit perfect in the back of the truck!) and then we all went to Sutters Mill in Acton for our anniversary dinner. DO NOT go there! I ordered a rare prime rib....I got a well done prime rib...I sent it back only to get a medium prime rib, which was the last piece they had! Dan and Dad got rare...I didn't. THEN, the twice baked potato was ice cold in the middle, so I sent it back (do you see a trend here??) only to get another one the same way. I gave up, ate my medium prime rib and didn't eat the potato. The salad was good.....
We pulled our of Acton at 9:30 on Monday...beautiful day there. By the time we reached Palm Springs it was 110 degree's...we decided it was too hot to leave animals in the car so we grabbed a sandwich and ate it as we drove. Reached El Centro and it was 126 degrees....we had officially arrived in hell!!!! We were going to stop to refill our water bottles, but we just kept driving! Arrived in Yuma around 3:00 p.m. I asked Dick to back the trailer in for me....it was looking a little to scary for me to put that trailer in between those two posts! We had a very enjoyable evening with Dick and Lano. The dogs LOVE it there...and we brought the cats into their house as well because we had no electric where the trailer was parked and it was 110 there...so we would have definitely had baked cats (hush Ted!)
Tuesday we headed for home .. it was 116 in Gila Bend and 103 when we arrived home. Where is all this cool weather everyone has been telling me about in Tucson? Oh, that was last week! I see!
Our road had been washed out by the monsoons, but had been repaired to the point where we can drive up ... so we stopped at the bottom of the road and put the truck in 4 wheel drive and up we came. Now, some of you have no idea where we live and how we park the fifth wheel up here. We live on top of a hill....and we don't have a lot of room up here to turn the trailer around and get it backed in. In fact for the first 4 years we were here, we didn't even try to get the trailer up the road. Well, Al drove the trailer up the road (I was chicken) and then got it turned around. Then I got it backed in....with his expert directions. It did take us about 45 minutes, but I DID IT! The dogs and cats had, by that time, explored every inch of their territory to make sure nothing was residing in it!!
Jude and Roger Hubbell had dinner ready for us last night and it sure was good to see them. By the time we got back home, we both headed for bed and slept like logs until 6:15 a.m. when the dog alarms went off...COYOTE...COYOTE...woof, woof, bark, bark. So up and at 'em we were.
Tucson is beautiful this time of year...it is so green from all the rain! The Catalina mountains are even green. The desert is green as well. We know it won't last long, but it is pretty now.
Tomorrow we start on our other house. Meet with the contractor at 7:00 a.m. and with the heater/air conditioner installer at 9:30...gotta' get this ball rolling!
We won't be here long, plans are for us to leave next Tuesday and head into Colorado and onto St. Louis and then to Washington so AL can deer/elk hunt. HOWEVER, all of those plans are depending on what Al's doctor has to say next Monday. Al seems to be doing fine, tires easily, but all in all, doing well. He sure did give us a scare tho! His legs are starting to swell again, but that could be from all of the riding and the heat. WE will find out on Monday...so stay tuned!
Whew... we made it. We got home around 2:30 p.m. yesterday and I have to tell you I was dead tired! Too much on my mind I guess.
The rest of Sunday was pleasant. We went over to Billie and Dan's and had a nice visit; loaded up our heater and air conditioner (they fit perfect in the back of the truck!) and then we all went to Sutters Mill in Acton for our anniversary dinner. DO NOT go there! I ordered a rare prime rib....I got a well done prime rib...I sent it back only to get a medium prime rib, which was the last piece they had! Dan and Dad got rare...I didn't. THEN, the twice baked potato was ice cold in the middle, so I sent it back (do you see a trend here??) only to get another one the same way. I gave up, ate my medium prime rib and didn't eat the potato. The salad was good.....
We pulled our of Acton at 9:30 on Monday...beautiful day there. By the time we reached Palm Springs it was 110 degree's...we decided it was too hot to leave animals in the car so we grabbed a sandwich and ate it as we drove. Reached El Centro and it was 126 degrees....we had officially arrived in hell!!!! We were going to stop to refill our water bottles, but we just kept driving! Arrived in Yuma around 3:00 p.m. I asked Dick to back the trailer in for me....it was looking a little to scary for me to put that trailer in between those two posts! We had a very enjoyable evening with Dick and Lano. The dogs LOVE it there...and we brought the cats into their house as well because we had no electric where the trailer was parked and it was 110 there...so we would have definitely had baked cats (hush Ted!)
Tuesday we headed for home .. it was 116 in Gila Bend and 103 when we arrived home. Where is all this cool weather everyone has been telling me about in Tucson? Oh, that was last week! I see!
Our road had been washed out by the monsoons, but had been repaired to the point where we can drive up ... so we stopped at the bottom of the road and put the truck in 4 wheel drive and up we came. Now, some of you have no idea where we live and how we park the fifth wheel up here. We live on top of a hill....and we don't have a lot of room up here to turn the trailer around and get it backed in. In fact for the first 4 years we were here, we didn't even try to get the trailer up the road. Well, Al drove the trailer up the road (I was chicken) and then got it turned around. Then I got it backed in....with his expert directions. It did take us about 45 minutes, but I DID IT! The dogs and cats had, by that time, explored every inch of their territory to make sure nothing was residing in it!!
Jude and Roger Hubbell had dinner ready for us last night and it sure was good to see them. By the time we got back home, we both headed for bed and slept like logs until 6:15 a.m. when the dog alarms went off...COYOTE...COYOTE...woof, woof, bark, bark. So up and at 'em we were.
Tucson is beautiful this time of year...it is so green from all the rain! The Catalina mountains are even green. The desert is green as well. We know it won't last long, but it is pretty now.
Tomorrow we start on our other house. Meet with the contractor at 7:00 a.m. and with the heater/air conditioner installer at 9:30...gotta' get this ball rolling!
We won't be here long, plans are for us to leave next Tuesday and head into Colorado and onto St. Louis and then to Washington so AL can deer/elk hunt. HOWEVER, all of those plans are depending on what Al's doctor has to say next Monday. Al seems to be doing fine, tires easily, but all in all, doing well. He sure did give us a scare tho! His legs are starting to swell again, but that could be from all of the riding and the heat. WE will find out on Monday...so stay tuned!
Sunday, September 09, 2007
Antelope Valley
Acton/Palmdale, CA
We wroamed in here yesterday around noon. We finally got out of the smoke once we crossed the Tehachapi Mountains out of Bakersfield....thank goodness! We actually saw a train going through the Tehachapi Loop as well. This is so interesting to see and to read about. When we lived in Lancaster we would go up and watch trains go through the loop...Railfan have you ever seen it???
We are staying at one of our favorite RV Parks again...after traveling as much as we do, we usually try and stay at places we have been before and know what they are like. Best of all, this one isn't far from Billie and Dan's house.
It was hot when we arrived yesterday and we were setting up in 101 degree weather. We got the A/C going ASAP and put the dogs in the trailer and we were off to "Crazy Otto's" restaurant for breakfast/lunch. Crazy Otto's is a legend in this area....they serve a great breakfast and we always try to eat there when we are in the area. After getting back to the trailer Al took a rest and I did a shopping trip to Wal-Mart to get a new cable for our new TV. I still haven't gotten the cable problem resolved in this trailer...but I am determined to solve it...or maybe have Dan help me today! :-)
We had dinner with friends last night in Lancaster. It was our 26th anniversary yesterday and we were commenting that is has been 22 years since we were here "at the scene of the crime" or where it all began 28 years ago, where we met!
We can't beleive how much this area has grown just in the last two years. Of course the housing slump is affecting the growth now, but this place has become another bedroom community for LA. Who'da thunk?
Tomorrow we are off for Yuma ... then home on Tuesday is the plan. Al has a doctor appointment on Wednesday morning. We will see where and what we do after that. So until next blog...we are still wroamin'!
The Wroamin' Wraspirs....
Al, Jo, and animals..............
We wroamed in here yesterday around noon. We finally got out of the smoke once we crossed the Tehachapi Mountains out of Bakersfield....thank goodness! We actually saw a train going through the Tehachapi Loop as well. This is so interesting to see and to read about. When we lived in Lancaster we would go up and watch trains go through the loop...Railfan have you ever seen it???
We are staying at one of our favorite RV Parks again...after traveling as much as we do, we usually try and stay at places we have been before and know what they are like. Best of all, this one isn't far from Billie and Dan's house.
It was hot when we arrived yesterday and we were setting up in 101 degree weather. We got the A/C going ASAP and put the dogs in the trailer and we were off to "Crazy Otto's" restaurant for breakfast/lunch. Crazy Otto's is a legend in this area....they serve a great breakfast and we always try to eat there when we are in the area. After getting back to the trailer Al took a rest and I did a shopping trip to Wal-Mart to get a new cable for our new TV. I still haven't gotten the cable problem resolved in this trailer...but I am determined to solve it...or maybe have Dan help me today! :-)
We had dinner with friends last night in Lancaster. It was our 26th anniversary yesterday and we were commenting that is has been 22 years since we were here "at the scene of the crime" or where it all began 28 years ago, where we met!
We can't beleive how much this area has grown just in the last two years. Of course the housing slump is affecting the growth now, but this place has become another bedroom community for LA. Who'da thunk?
Tomorrow we are off for Yuma ... then home on Tuesday is the plan. Al has a doctor appointment on Wednesday morning. We will see where and what we do after that. So until next blog...we are still wroamin'!
The Wroamin' Wraspirs....
Al, Jo, and animals..............
Friday, September 07, 2007
Smoke Gets in your Eyes and other travel notes
Bakersfield, CA
WHEW!!! These last two days have been really something! We left Canyonville early on Thursday morning; however, we stopped in Grants Pass for an hour or so and then in Medford for lunch, so we really didn't get wrolling until about 1:00 p.m. Up and over the Siskiyou's, across Lake Shasta, which is, by the way, very, very low! We wrolled through Redding and into the Sacramento valley and into SMOKE! California is on fire! Apparently there are fires all around the valley and I have never seen it so smokey. I felt like I was sitting next to a campfire! Cough, cough, sputter, sputter. We finally stopped for the night at one of our favorite little RV parks, the Camper Inn and Golf Resortin Dunnigan. We have stopped here several times and like it. I managed to drive 338 miles yesterday....so much for taking it easy! And we have arrived in hell...it was 107 today and didn't cool off last night very much.
Up this morning and off we go...I was a little concerned about having to drive the rig through Sacramento, but it was a piece of cake...didn't even have to use the brakes traffic was so smooth. We drove to Santa Nella and stopped at Andersen's Split Pea Soup restaurant...another one of our favorites. In the parking lot I discovered I was going to have to back the rig up into a parking spot....ulp...backing the rig up and I don't usually go in the same sentence. But, what the heck...and I DID IT! I was so jazzed after I did it...I actually backed up this behemoth rig and didn't hit anything and got it where it was supposed to be! WOO HOO! I am getting more and more confident in my ability to drive the rig and being able to handle it. After a big bowl of soup (yum, it is sooo good) and a break, off we go towards Chowchilla to visit my parents.
For those of who don't know, my parents retired to Chowchilla many years ago, and this is where they are buried. Everytime we get near here we make a detour to go to the cemetary and put flowers on the graves. For some odd reason, it always makes me feel good to visit here...almost peaceful.
Then we hit Hwy 99...and we were very surprised to see it had been resurfaced since our last trek down it. We were both dreading it as it has in the past, been very rough. Of course it is still choked with trucks, but since we were one of them, we were comfortable driving it. And yes, it is still smokey...very smokey! When are we going to get out of the smoke??? Who knows! We are in Bakersfield tonight and I don't know where the fires are around here, but it is smokey. I drove 350 miles today....didn't intend to, but I was feeling good and so was Al so we just kept going. We pulled into our RV park at 7:00 p.m and it is hot, hot, hot! 101 at 7:00 p.m. ARG! Doesn't it ever cool down? Not until Janurary apparently! And of course, our RV park is very near the railroad tracks...I mean, honestly, where else do you put an RV Park???? The one last night wasn't real close to the tracks, but we were right on I-5 and across I-5 are the tracks. However, after living in Odessa for so long, trains don't bother us! We are immune I think.
Tomorrow we will be in Palmdale/Acton for a couple of days visiting Billie and Dan and seeing some friends for dinner tomorrow night.
Al is feeling very good....of course, he isn't driving at all. No driving for him for a while, at least until he see's his doctor in Tucson next week. I am enjoying driving....I even got a couple of "thumbs up" from some other drivers today!
Ric started his 60 mile breast cancer walk today. We are so very proud of him and he has raised $7800 for the cause. He walked 20 miles today, 20 tomorrow and 20 on Sunday....good for him. He has really trained for this walk and has done so well.....I can't imagine walking 60 miles in 3 days. I am told there is a web cam that is active for this walk, however, I can't find it.
Dogs and cats are surviving well....a little hot for the cats in the trailer in the afternoon, but they seem to be doing okay with it. We stop and check on them every so often to make sure we don't have "baked cats". So until next time...we are wroamin'.
WHEW!!! These last two days have been really something! We left Canyonville early on Thursday morning; however, we stopped in Grants Pass for an hour or so and then in Medford for lunch, so we really didn't get wrolling until about 1:00 p.m. Up and over the Siskiyou's, across Lake Shasta, which is, by the way, very, very low! We wrolled through Redding and into the Sacramento valley and into SMOKE! California is on fire! Apparently there are fires all around the valley and I have never seen it so smokey. I felt like I was sitting next to a campfire! Cough, cough, sputter, sputter. We finally stopped for the night at one of our favorite little RV parks, the Camper Inn and Golf Resortin Dunnigan. We have stopped here several times and like it. I managed to drive 338 miles yesterday....so much for taking it easy! And we have arrived in hell...it was 107 today and didn't cool off last night very much.
Up this morning and off we go...I was a little concerned about having to drive the rig through Sacramento, but it was a piece of cake...didn't even have to use the brakes traffic was so smooth. We drove to Santa Nella and stopped at Andersen's Split Pea Soup restaurant...another one of our favorites. In the parking lot I discovered I was going to have to back the rig up into a parking spot....ulp...backing the rig up and I don't usually go in the same sentence. But, what the heck...and I DID IT! I was so jazzed after I did it...I actually backed up this behemoth rig and didn't hit anything and got it where it was supposed to be! WOO HOO! I am getting more and more confident in my ability to drive the rig and being able to handle it. After a big bowl of soup (yum, it is sooo good) and a break, off we go towards Chowchilla to visit my parents.
For those of who don't know, my parents retired to Chowchilla many years ago, and this is where they are buried. Everytime we get near here we make a detour to go to the cemetary and put flowers on the graves. For some odd reason, it always makes me feel good to visit here...almost peaceful.
Then we hit Hwy 99...and we were very surprised to see it had been resurfaced since our last trek down it. We were both dreading it as it has in the past, been very rough. Of course it is still choked with trucks, but since we were one of them, we were comfortable driving it. And yes, it is still smokey...very smokey! When are we going to get out of the smoke??? Who knows! We are in Bakersfield tonight and I don't know where the fires are around here, but it is smokey. I drove 350 miles today....didn't intend to, but I was feeling good and so was Al so we just kept going. We pulled into our RV park at 7:00 p.m and it is hot, hot, hot! 101 at 7:00 p.m. ARG! Doesn't it ever cool down? Not until Janurary apparently! And of course, our RV park is very near the railroad tracks...I mean, honestly, where else do you put an RV Park???? The one last night wasn't real close to the tracks, but we were right on I-5 and across I-5 are the tracks. However, after living in Odessa for so long, trains don't bother us! We are immune I think.
Tomorrow we will be in Palmdale/Acton for a couple of days visiting Billie and Dan and seeing some friends for dinner tomorrow night.
Al is feeling very good....of course, he isn't driving at all. No driving for him for a while, at least until he see's his doctor in Tucson next week. I am enjoying driving....I even got a couple of "thumbs up" from some other drivers today!
Ric started his 60 mile breast cancer walk today. We are so very proud of him and he has raised $7800 for the cause. He walked 20 miles today, 20 tomorrow and 20 on Sunday....good for him. He has really trained for this walk and has done so well.....I can't imagine walking 60 miles in 3 days. I am told there is a web cam that is active for this walk, however, I can't find it.
Dogs and cats are surviving well....a little hot for the cats in the trailer in the afternoon, but they seem to be doing okay with it. We stop and check on them every so often to make sure we don't have "baked cats". So until next time...we are wroamin'.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Wrollin' again
Canyonville, OR
We are finally on the wroad again. We left Portland this morning and by the time we got here we were both tired. Canyonville is about 40 miles north of Grants Pass and we are in a great RV "Resort" here....Seven Feathers! I remember this area fondly as I was born in Grants Pass and lived there until I was 10. Of course, none of this was here, but the scenery is the same...beautiful Oregon!
I had an experience today that I never want to have again. About 15 miles north of here is a Rest Area...and I had to stop! As I was about to go into the WOMEN'S (for Rowland) restroom a little garden snake slithered in front of me. Now, as all of you know, I am scared of snakes...big time. However, my needing to go to the bathroom over rode my fright...yes it scared me, but it didn't stop me from going to the bathroom. Now, this is the part that gets interesting! As I was sitting down in the stall, I look down and here comes that damn snake! Slithering across the floor right in front of my feet!! Oh, what to do??? It wasn't a pretty picture, let me tell you....here I am on the toilet, with BOTH feet up on the door of the stall. Well, then I got the giggles thinking how ridiculous this must look (now, tell me, who is looking???) -- however, I still am in the bathroom and that snake is to! Finally, after trying to look around (remember I am in a bathroom stall), I very quickly put my feet on the floor, pull up my big girl panties (as Mike would say) and RAN out of the bathroom...not even stopping to wash my hands....I wasn't about to give that snake a third chance at me! Why me?????
The weather has been great for travel...not too hot, but sunny. I suppose once we get over the Siskyou mountains and into Redding, CA and the Sacramento Valley, we will be getting some hot weather. And I don't expect to see any cool weather after that!!!!
We will be stopping in Acton probably over the weekend. We will see Billie and Dan and some other friends there and pick up our heater/air conditioner unit that we will install in the new house in Tucson. Long story, but the short of it is that Dan managed to find us a FREE one...and free is good! We hope to be home by Tuesday...
Al is feeling pretty good....good enough to pick on me, so everything seems to be getting back to normal! My life in a nutshell!
Until next time....we are Wroamin'.
We are finally on the wroad again. We left Portland this morning and by the time we got here we were both tired. Canyonville is about 40 miles north of Grants Pass and we are in a great RV "Resort" here....Seven Feathers! I remember this area fondly as I was born in Grants Pass and lived there until I was 10. Of course, none of this was here, but the scenery is the same...beautiful Oregon!
I had an experience today that I never want to have again. About 15 miles north of here is a Rest Area...and I had to stop! As I was about to go into the WOMEN'S (for Rowland) restroom a little garden snake slithered in front of me. Now, as all of you know, I am scared of snakes...big time. However, my needing to go to the bathroom over rode my fright...yes it scared me, but it didn't stop me from going to the bathroom. Now, this is the part that gets interesting! As I was sitting down in the stall, I look down and here comes that damn snake! Slithering across the floor right in front of my feet!! Oh, what to do??? It wasn't a pretty picture, let me tell you....here I am on the toilet, with BOTH feet up on the door of the stall. Well, then I got the giggles thinking how ridiculous this must look (now, tell me, who is looking???) -- however, I still am in the bathroom and that snake is to! Finally, after trying to look around (remember I am in a bathroom stall), I very quickly put my feet on the floor, pull up my big girl panties (as Mike would say) and RAN out of the bathroom...not even stopping to wash my hands....I wasn't about to give that snake a third chance at me! Why me?????
The weather has been great for travel...not too hot, but sunny. I suppose once we get over the Siskyou mountains and into Redding, CA and the Sacramento Valley, we will be getting some hot weather. And I don't expect to see any cool weather after that!!!!
We will be stopping in Acton probably over the weekend. We will see Billie and Dan and some other friends there and pick up our heater/air conditioner unit that we will install in the new house in Tucson. Long story, but the short of it is that Dan managed to find us a FREE one...and free is good! We hope to be home by Tuesday...
Al is feeling pretty good....good enough to pick on me, so everything seems to be getting back to normal! My life in a nutshell!
Until next time....we are Wroamin'.
Monday, September 03, 2007
He's Home
Portland
I got a call from Al this morning asking me to bring his clothes...he was going home! Oh really? Did the doctor say that? No, he has had it and want's to go home. Hmmmm...must be better?
I got to the hospital around 11:00 a.m. and talked to the doctor. He said that he felt Al could go home today if I was ready to take care of him. Hmmm...okay. So I brought him home this afternoon and he seems to be doing very well. Doctor said we could travel on Wednesday if I felt Al was up to it. Otherwise, wait a day or so. From all I see, we will leave Wednesday; however, I will make the final decision tomorrow. We will be only traveling 200-250 miles a day, but that is usually what we do anyway. And not many stops to visit. We will stop in Palmdale to pick up the heater/air conditioner and probably over night with friends in Yuma on our way to Tucson, but other than that, we stop when we get tired. Al will have to see his doctors in Tucson when we get back.
Al is tired tonight, but he said he hasn't been sleeping in the hospital...that is understandable!! However, he did want to go with me to buy the new TV today...but then he waited in the car. So now, all is pretty normal in the trailer...new coffee pot and new TV, and Al snoozing in bed!
I will keep you all posted on when we move out...until then, thanks again to all of you!
I got a call from Al this morning asking me to bring his clothes...he was going home! Oh really? Did the doctor say that? No, he has had it and want's to go home. Hmmmm...must be better?
I got to the hospital around 11:00 a.m. and talked to the doctor. He said that he felt Al could go home today if I was ready to take care of him. Hmmm...okay. So I brought him home this afternoon and he seems to be doing very well. Doctor said we could travel on Wednesday if I felt Al was up to it. Otherwise, wait a day or so. From all I see, we will leave Wednesday; however, I will make the final decision tomorrow. We will be only traveling 200-250 miles a day, but that is usually what we do anyway. And not many stops to visit. We will stop in Palmdale to pick up the heater/air conditioner and probably over night with friends in Yuma on our way to Tucson, but other than that, we stop when we get tired. Al will have to see his doctors in Tucson when we get back.
Al is tired tonight, but he said he hasn't been sleeping in the hospital...that is understandable!! However, he did want to go with me to buy the new TV today...but then he waited in the car. So now, all is pretty normal in the trailer...new coffee pot and new TV, and Al snoozing in bed!
I will keep you all posted on when we move out...until then, thanks again to all of you!
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Better today
WHEW! After a very sleepless night last night I called Al this morning and was so happy to hear he was feeling much better. After I had a cup of coffee (no easy feat, since our coffee maker took over an hour to brew a pot today...it is now RIP in the trash!) I went to the hospital.
BIG IMPROVEMENT over yesterday. Al was sitting up in bed, catheter no where to be seen, his color was good and his disposition greatly improved! Doctor came in around noon and said that everything was beginning to look normal. White blood cell count was down to around average, which means the infection is going away; glucose looked good; heart was looking much better; HOWEVER, (there is always that) Al is still having trouble with bladder control. Doc doesn't like that much, but he is waiting to see if that will improve with time. They were going to do another bladder scan this afternoon to see if his bladder is emptying completely, or if there is a problem with the prostrate. After yesterdays trama and drama, I needed those positive notes! So now we are waiting to see how it goes; then we will try to figure out what to do as far as travel. For the present, I am paid through Wednesday here.
I don't know if I mentioned in previous blog that the RV Park was going to make me move to a different space because they had a tour coming in; however, after I pleaded my case, they decided to let me stay where I was. Well, the tour came in today...I am surrounded by all of the Foretravel Motorhomes...big, expensive rigs. Makes me feel like the unwanted step child! And some of these rigs even have drivers!!! YES, I said drivers...the owners don't drive the rigs themselves! Amazing! Utterly amazing to me.
Again, I truly want to thank all of you for your care and concern. I truly appreciate all of the support we have recieved from all of you who have emailed, called and prayed for us. I can't begin to tell you how much it has helped. We really do have a wonderful network of friends. And our family is so very supportive. Our niece, Sue, who is in Cypress even called today...truly touched our hearts. Melanie and family have been so helpful and supportive here; Jennifer has been busy keeping track of what is going on and putting out updates to family and friends for us; Mike, Ric and Jerry have checked in daily; Billie and Dan have called to make sure we are both okay...Holly and family have as well. Jeannette and Gary have been my rock of strenght the past few days. And to Kathy, you have been here, done that and know what it is about. My sister, brothers and cousins have called; I have talked to friends that I haven't talked to in months as well. And to Suzi and Jack; Jude and Roger, Frank and Lynn, Kathy and Rowland, Pat and Patti, Bill and Laurie...what would we do without your friendship??? Thank you, thank you, thank you.
BIG IMPROVEMENT over yesterday. Al was sitting up in bed, catheter no where to be seen, his color was good and his disposition greatly improved! Doctor came in around noon and said that everything was beginning to look normal. White blood cell count was down to around average, which means the infection is going away; glucose looked good; heart was looking much better; HOWEVER, (there is always that) Al is still having trouble with bladder control. Doc doesn't like that much, but he is waiting to see if that will improve with time. They were going to do another bladder scan this afternoon to see if his bladder is emptying completely, or if there is a problem with the prostrate. After yesterdays trama and drama, I needed those positive notes! So now we are waiting to see how it goes; then we will try to figure out what to do as far as travel. For the present, I am paid through Wednesday here.
I don't know if I mentioned in previous blog that the RV Park was going to make me move to a different space because they had a tour coming in; however, after I pleaded my case, they decided to let me stay where I was. Well, the tour came in today...I am surrounded by all of the Foretravel Motorhomes...big, expensive rigs. Makes me feel like the unwanted step child! And some of these rigs even have drivers!!! YES, I said drivers...the owners don't drive the rigs themselves! Amazing! Utterly amazing to me.
Again, I truly want to thank all of you for your care and concern. I truly appreciate all of the support we have recieved from all of you who have emailed, called and prayed for us. I can't begin to tell you how much it has helped. We really do have a wonderful network of friends. And our family is so very supportive. Our niece, Sue, who is in Cypress even called today...truly touched our hearts. Melanie and family have been so helpful and supportive here; Jennifer has been busy keeping track of what is going on and putting out updates to family and friends for us; Mike, Ric and Jerry have checked in daily; Billie and Dan have called to make sure we are both okay...Holly and family have as well. Jeannette and Gary have been my rock of strenght the past few days. And to Kathy, you have been here, done that and know what it is about. My sister, brothers and cousins have called; I have talked to friends that I haven't talked to in months as well. And to Suzi and Jack; Jude and Roger, Frank and Lynn, Kathy and Rowland, Pat and Patti, Bill and Laurie...what would we do without your friendship??? Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Saturday, September 01, 2007
One Step Forward, Two Steps Back...Al Update
Portland (still)
ARG! Just when things were looking a wee bit better for Al, WHAM...along comes a set back. Yes, he had a set back today. When I got to the hospital this morning I noticed he wasn't as alert as he was yesterday and he was really grouchy. I asked what was wrong and he said he hadn't slept well. About that time I saw the nurse and went to talk to her to get the story .. and she referred me to the doctor. Oh-oh!
The doctor on duty this morning was one I had never seen (Dr. Tony had the day off) so Dr. Grossnickel brought me up to speed on Al. The infection has spread to his kidneys...probably due to the fact that since AL has lost so much fluid the kidneys have been working overtime to keep up. But the doctor felt that the antibiotic's would take care of that infection, but that the UTI was being stubborn. They have identified what kind of a "bug" they are fighting, but it has been pretty resistant to the antibiotic, so he was going to add another antibiotic to help the first one. Then the doc proceeds to say that until Al is able to go without a catheter and empty his bladder completely, he won't be discharged. Fine with me. The urologist is due to see Al tomorrow, and due a complete work up on the UTI again. The doc feels that this isn't something that "just happened" but that had been lingering on for months and finally just got to the "blow up" point. I agreed with that as well. Depending on how AL does, the doc feels that a long road trip probably won't be possible and suggested we look at either 1. staying here, 2. going back to Seattle or 3. flying Al to Tucson. We are opting for #3. But again, we aren't making any final decisions right now, and are waiting to see what happens in the next few days.
That was my morning/afternoon visit. I left the hospital for a while just to help get my head on straight and do some shopping for a TV since the one in the 5th wheel has died. I got back to the hospital at 7:00 p.m. and Al was resting. He woke up and said his chest felt "tight"...so I got the nurse and told her and before I could say anything else, his room filled up with nurses, equipment, etc. They had taken him off the heart monitor this morning as he had done so well. Well, now his congestive heart failure was kicking in again. So back to the nitro patch, etc. and we are just about back to where we started Thursday. This has definitely been an ugly day! When I left the hospital at 9:00 he was resting and stable again.
Melanie (my oldest daughter) and grandson Victor had their hands full with me this afternoon. I am so glad they are here and help so much to keep me on track. Grand daughter Lori is off to a rodeo this weekend...she ran a 21 second barrel this afternoon...her first high school rodeo competion.
I did laugh at Victor this afternoon. I was driving our truck (F350) and we were at Costco and someone had just stolen my parking spot...when Vic pops up with "Don't mess with my Granny--she has a 350 and knows how to use it!"
And on that note, I will end this blog for tonight. More updates tomorrow. Again, I thank each and every one of you for calling or emailing. Your concern, care and prayers are truly appreciated.
ARG! Just when things were looking a wee bit better for Al, WHAM...along comes a set back. Yes, he had a set back today. When I got to the hospital this morning I noticed he wasn't as alert as he was yesterday and he was really grouchy. I asked what was wrong and he said he hadn't slept well. About that time I saw the nurse and went to talk to her to get the story .. and she referred me to the doctor. Oh-oh!
The doctor on duty this morning was one I had never seen (Dr. Tony had the day off) so Dr. Grossnickel brought me up to speed on Al. The infection has spread to his kidneys...probably due to the fact that since AL has lost so much fluid the kidneys have been working overtime to keep up. But the doctor felt that the antibiotic's would take care of that infection, but that the UTI was being stubborn. They have identified what kind of a "bug" they are fighting, but it has been pretty resistant to the antibiotic, so he was going to add another antibiotic to help the first one. Then the doc proceeds to say that until Al is able to go without a catheter and empty his bladder completely, he won't be discharged. Fine with me. The urologist is due to see Al tomorrow, and due a complete work up on the UTI again. The doc feels that this isn't something that "just happened" but that had been lingering on for months and finally just got to the "blow up" point. I agreed with that as well. Depending on how AL does, the doc feels that a long road trip probably won't be possible and suggested we look at either 1. staying here, 2. going back to Seattle or 3. flying Al to Tucson. We are opting for #3. But again, we aren't making any final decisions right now, and are waiting to see what happens in the next few days.
That was my morning/afternoon visit. I left the hospital for a while just to help get my head on straight and do some shopping for a TV since the one in the 5th wheel has died. I got back to the hospital at 7:00 p.m. and Al was resting. He woke up and said his chest felt "tight"...so I got the nurse and told her and before I could say anything else, his room filled up with nurses, equipment, etc. They had taken him off the heart monitor this morning as he had done so well. Well, now his congestive heart failure was kicking in again. So back to the nitro patch, etc. and we are just about back to where we started Thursday. This has definitely been an ugly day! When I left the hospital at 9:00 he was resting and stable again.
Melanie (my oldest daughter) and grandson Victor had their hands full with me this afternoon. I am so glad they are here and help so much to keep me on track. Grand daughter Lori is off to a rodeo this weekend...she ran a 21 second barrel this afternoon...her first high school rodeo competion.
I did laugh at Victor this afternoon. I was driving our truck (F350) and we were at Costco and someone had just stolen my parking spot...when Vic pops up with "Don't mess with my Granny--she has a 350 and knows how to use it!"
And on that note, I will end this blog for tonight. More updates tomorrow. Again, I thank each and every one of you for calling or emailing. Your concern, care and prayers are truly appreciated.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Update on Al
Portland
Things are looking a little better today. When I got to the hospital this morning Al was sitting up in a chair. His color is much better and his fever is gone. He was also more alert and aware of his condition. He ate a good breakfast and lunch, so his appetite is returning. His doctor stopped in around noon and gave us a progress report. Al's congestive heart failure is improving and the fluid in the lungs is better. The UTI is still alive and well, but the antibotics are attacking it and they have seen some improvement there as well. As the doctor said, "Al is 100 % better today from where we started at yesterday; however, we are only about 50% out of the woods". We still don't know if the infection has gone into his blood stream, but as the doctor said, if it has, the antibotics should take care of that as well. Al' legs and feet are not as swollen as they were yesterday and he is breathing without the oxygen. So, all in all, things are looking better. I know he is feeling better, he is starting to pick on me!!!
The hospital where Al is at really is a good one and I can't say enough about the care he is getting. The resident doctor, Dr. Ladogama, or "Dr. Tony" as he says, is great! The nurses here have been super caring and the ER staff tremendous! We are fortunate that we when we needed a hospital we found this one! It is only 5 miles from the RV park as well.
The RV park we are at is a very nice park, except it is a little like the movie, "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" -- and you could include boats in that as well!! The park is located next to I-84, so we get the road noise; under the direct approach to Portland International Airport, so we get the plane noise; and of course next to the rail road tracks...and not far from the Columbia river..need I say more???? And I didn't sleep very well last night, due to the aforementioned noises and just plain worry! I am betting I will sleep tonight. I took a short nap this afternoon, matter-of-fact, I went home and ate a sandwich and in the middle of lunch I fell asleep!! I NEVER HAVE DONE THAT!
The dogs are driving me crazy looking for Al. Beau just sits at the door waiting, Schuster is wearing a path between where I am and the door, pacing. They finally gave up looking late last night, but at 5:30 this morning they were at it again.
I want to thank all of you who have called and emailed...it is truly appreciated. I will keep you posted on the progress. Doctor said maybe he could be released from the hospital on Sunday, but more likely on Monday. I have no idea when we will be back on the wroad. One thing I do know, the truck and trailer aren't moving until I feel comfortable that Al is well enough to travel! He can be stubborn, but so can I!!!
Things are looking a little better today. When I got to the hospital this morning Al was sitting up in a chair. His color is much better and his fever is gone. He was also more alert and aware of his condition. He ate a good breakfast and lunch, so his appetite is returning. His doctor stopped in around noon and gave us a progress report. Al's congestive heart failure is improving and the fluid in the lungs is better. The UTI is still alive and well, but the antibotics are attacking it and they have seen some improvement there as well. As the doctor said, "Al is 100 % better today from where we started at yesterday; however, we are only about 50% out of the woods". We still don't know if the infection has gone into his blood stream, but as the doctor said, if it has, the antibotics should take care of that as well. Al' legs and feet are not as swollen as they were yesterday and he is breathing without the oxygen. So, all in all, things are looking better. I know he is feeling better, he is starting to pick on me!!!
The hospital where Al is at really is a good one and I can't say enough about the care he is getting. The resident doctor, Dr. Ladogama, or "Dr. Tony" as he says, is great! The nurses here have been super caring and the ER staff tremendous! We are fortunate that we when we needed a hospital we found this one! It is only 5 miles from the RV park as well.
The RV park we are at is a very nice park, except it is a little like the movie, "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" -- and you could include boats in that as well!! The park is located next to I-84, so we get the road noise; under the direct approach to Portland International Airport, so we get the plane noise; and of course next to the rail road tracks...and not far from the Columbia river..need I say more???? And I didn't sleep very well last night, due to the aforementioned noises and just plain worry! I am betting I will sleep tonight. I took a short nap this afternoon, matter-of-fact, I went home and ate a sandwich and in the middle of lunch I fell asleep!! I NEVER HAVE DONE THAT!
The dogs are driving me crazy looking for Al. Beau just sits at the door waiting, Schuster is wearing a path between where I am and the door, pacing. They finally gave up looking late last night, but at 5:30 this morning they were at it again.
I want to thank all of you who have called and emailed...it is truly appreciated. I will keep you posted on the progress. Doctor said maybe he could be released from the hospital on Sunday, but more likely on Monday. I have no idea when we will be back on the wroad. One thing I do know, the truck and trailer aren't moving until I feel comfortable that Al is well enough to travel! He can be stubborn, but so can I!!!
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Al is in the Hospital
Portland
Well, we have made it this far -- and now we are stopped!
Al wasn't feeling well on Tuesday night, but he thought he was just tired. Yesteday morning he woke up grumpier than usual....and things went down hill from there. We left Seattle about 11:00 a.m. but before we left, Al was sick to his stomach, but he insisted it was nothing and lets go! We got as far as the first rest stop on I-5 and had to stop for him to go to the bathroom and we stopped at every other rest stop along the way. We stopped in Chehalis to have lunch with an old friend and I could see that Al was having a real hard time contolling his bladder and he was pretty shakey. By the time we got to Portland, he had lost all bladder control and was very weak. I tried all yesterday evening and into last night to get him into the doctor, but according to him "HE WASN'T SICK", he was just tired. In the middle of the night he fell, and it was all I could do to get him up from the floor. By this morning, he was very weak and was still saying he wasn't going to the doctor -- so I gave him a choice...either I took him to ER or I called 911! Finally he agreed to go to the hospital. However, I have to say he was grumbling all the way that he wasn't sick...ya, right! To make a long story longer, as my brother says, Al is in the hospital with a severe Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) and congestive heart failure. His blood pressure when he was admitted was 200/111; fever at 102.9; heart rate at 120; none of it good. And he was very, very confused. Couldn't tell the ER staff where he was, what day it was, or answer any simple questions. He was immediately hooked up to all monitors, and I was told to leave the room for the time being...which was understandable...there wasn't enough room in there for me and all the equipment and ER staff!!!! He was finally moved into a room this afternoon and will be in the hospital for at least 3 days, or longer and I have no idea when they will let him travel. When I left him he was resting comfortably, pumped full of antibiotics, pain killers, etc.
He is in Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center, Gresham, Oregon, room 333, Phone 503-674-1333. The doctor has asked no phone calls to his room for at least 24 hours.
I am hanging in there... but it has been a stressful few days! At least he is getting the proper care now and maybe we both can get some sleep.
I will keep you posted with progress reports...and you can call me any time at 425-985-7993.
We did have a good trip up until that time. We went to Seattle on Friday; had an uneventful trip over and got set up in the RV Park in Everett. On Saturday we went to the memorial service for Roger Witt. It was a very moving service and a lot of my Boeing co-workers were there. It was good to see them, but the reason wasn't the best. Sunday we got together with Ric, Janet, Cammie, Sherrie and Mike Tangen and fiance Nancy. Monday we did the doctor appointments, had lunch with friends Frank and Lynn Conger and dinner with Bill and Laurie Lince. Tuesday was more doctors and then dinner with Ted and Nona Abber and Nancy and Eric Willliams...so we did get to see some friends while we were there. The weather was beautiful while we were in Seattle and I will say it again, there is nothing prettier than Seattle on a sunny day!
I will keep you posted with progress reports...and you can call me any time at 425-985-7993.
Well, we have made it this far -- and now we are stopped!
Al wasn't feeling well on Tuesday night, but he thought he was just tired. Yesteday morning he woke up grumpier than usual....and things went down hill from there. We left Seattle about 11:00 a.m. but before we left, Al was sick to his stomach, but he insisted it was nothing and lets go! We got as far as the first rest stop on I-5 and had to stop for him to go to the bathroom and we stopped at every other rest stop along the way. We stopped in Chehalis to have lunch with an old friend and I could see that Al was having a real hard time contolling his bladder and he was pretty shakey. By the time we got to Portland, he had lost all bladder control and was very weak. I tried all yesterday evening and into last night to get him into the doctor, but according to him "HE WASN'T SICK", he was just tired. In the middle of the night he fell, and it was all I could do to get him up from the floor. By this morning, he was very weak and was still saying he wasn't going to the doctor -- so I gave him a choice...either I took him to ER or I called 911! Finally he agreed to go to the hospital. However, I have to say he was grumbling all the way that he wasn't sick...ya, right! To make a long story longer, as my brother says, Al is in the hospital with a severe Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) and congestive heart failure. His blood pressure when he was admitted was 200/111; fever at 102.9; heart rate at 120; none of it good. And he was very, very confused. Couldn't tell the ER staff where he was, what day it was, or answer any simple questions. He was immediately hooked up to all monitors, and I was told to leave the room for the time being...which was understandable...there wasn't enough room in there for me and all the equipment and ER staff!!!! He was finally moved into a room this afternoon and will be in the hospital for at least 3 days, or longer and I have no idea when they will let him travel. When I left him he was resting comfortably, pumped full of antibiotics, pain killers, etc.
He is in Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center, Gresham, Oregon, room 333, Phone 503-674-1333. The doctor has asked no phone calls to his room for at least 24 hours.
I am hanging in there... but it has been a stressful few days! At least he is getting the proper care now and maybe we both can get some sleep.
I will keep you posted with progress reports...and you can call me any time at 425-985-7993.
We did have a good trip up until that time. We went to Seattle on Friday; had an uneventful trip over and got set up in the RV Park in Everett. On Saturday we went to the memorial service for Roger Witt. It was a very moving service and a lot of my Boeing co-workers were there. It was good to see them, but the reason wasn't the best. Sunday we got together with Ric, Janet, Cammie, Sherrie and Mike Tangen and fiance Nancy. Monday we did the doctor appointments, had lunch with friends Frank and Lynn Conger and dinner with Bill and Laurie Lince. Tuesday was more doctors and then dinner with Ted and Nona Abber and Nancy and Eric Willliams...so we did get to see some friends while we were there. The weather was beautiful while we were in Seattle and I will say it again, there is nothing prettier than Seattle on a sunny day!
I will keep you posted with progress reports...and you can call me any time at 425-985-7993.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Loss of a Friend hurts
Odessa, WA
Today, we recieved a phone call that we all dread at some point in our lives; but always get. The notification of a friends death. In this case, the friend was someone who I worked with for many years at Boeing and who I admired and respected and was proud to call him my friend. Roger Witt was "MR TRAFFIC" as far as I was concerned at Boeing. When I was first given the duty of "Traffic person" at Boeing Mojave Test Center at Edwards AFB, CA I had no idea what to do. TRAFFIC? Isn't that something on the freeway? No, it is the coordination and movement of freight and goods in and out of the company. Hmmm...now what? There was only one name I knew, ROGER WITT. So I called Roger (I had never met him) and got my first "traffic" lesson over the phone. Roger was the one I called when I had no clue what to do and he was always so gracious and kind and helped me through whatever problem I was trying to solve. If Roger wasn't available, Gary Bell and Bob Barstad were always very helpful and willing to assist me as well...if I hadn't had one of these three on the other end of the phone I would have been in deep trouble!
Fast Forward a few years and I find myself in Seattle and I am working with Roger Witt in the outbound traffic office for the Military side of Boeing. I learned so much there with Roger, and Gary and Bob again. Pretty soon Roger is promoted to manager and I am working for him. He was always kind and considerate and always willing to help. Next thing I know, I am promoted to manager and Roger and I are once more working together. I still relied on Roger's knowledge and sound advise.
When I retired from Boeing, Roger was still working and enjoying himself. He retired shortly after I did, and like all good intentions of "getting together" we didn't. I regret that. Roger and his wife Arleen came to our 25th anniversary party last year and we had a chance to catch up. We were both delighted that they came and we enjoyed our visit with them. We invited them to Tucson and Roger assured us they would try. However, poor health on his part intervened and they never made it.
Today the call came that Roger had died....we lost a friend and we will miss him tremendously. Rest in peace my friend.
Today, we recieved a phone call that we all dread at some point in our lives; but always get. The notification of a friends death. In this case, the friend was someone who I worked with for many years at Boeing and who I admired and respected and was proud to call him my friend. Roger Witt was "MR TRAFFIC" as far as I was concerned at Boeing. When I was first given the duty of "Traffic person" at Boeing Mojave Test Center at Edwards AFB, CA I had no idea what to do. TRAFFIC? Isn't that something on the freeway? No, it is the coordination and movement of freight and goods in and out of the company. Hmmm...now what? There was only one name I knew, ROGER WITT. So I called Roger (I had never met him) and got my first "traffic" lesson over the phone. Roger was the one I called when I had no clue what to do and he was always so gracious and kind and helped me through whatever problem I was trying to solve. If Roger wasn't available, Gary Bell and Bob Barstad were always very helpful and willing to assist me as well...if I hadn't had one of these three on the other end of the phone I would have been in deep trouble!
Fast Forward a few years and I find myself in Seattle and I am working with Roger Witt in the outbound traffic office for the Military side of Boeing. I learned so much there with Roger, and Gary and Bob again. Pretty soon Roger is promoted to manager and I am working for him. He was always kind and considerate and always willing to help. Next thing I know, I am promoted to manager and Roger and I are once more working together. I still relied on Roger's knowledge and sound advise.
When I retired from Boeing, Roger was still working and enjoying himself. He retired shortly after I did, and like all good intentions of "getting together" we didn't. I regret that. Roger and his wife Arleen came to our 25th anniversary party last year and we had a chance to catch up. We were both delighted that they came and we enjoyed our visit with them. We invited them to Tucson and Roger assured us they would try. However, poor health on his part intervened and they never made it.
Today the call came that Roger had died....we lost a friend and we will miss him tremendously. Rest in peace my friend.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
This is August???
Odessa, WA
This is August 19. I keep looking at the calendar to make sure. Why???? Because is was a whopping 60 degrees today and rain! We woke up to a nice, gentle rain, which lasted all day. I am not complaining about the rain for once. What I am complaining about is the 60 degree high! WAIT! We are in Eastern Washington...the average temperature for today is 90 degrees! We missed the average by 30 degrees! Yes, I am freezing, however, I refused to dress for the occasion...I AM STILL WEARING my shorts! Regardless of what the thermometer says...I am going by my calendar! Okay, so I am freezing and cold....but it is AUGUST for heavens sakes!!!
In other news from around our house....Gary and Jeannette visited today with pictures of their beautiful, handsome new baby grandson, Joshua. Kali and Scott welcomed their new baby on Aug. 1 and he certainly is handsome for a new baby. And just for the record, Grandma and Grandpa are so happy with his arrival.
I accomplished something today as well...I finished my first quilt! I had finished the quilt top in June before we left for Alaska, and left it to be quilted while I was gone. I got it back a couple of weeks ago and still had to finish the edges, which I did today. So, I really have a feeling of accomplishment today...and I think my quilt is pretty, even with all the mistakes of a first quilt. IT was fun to do and I will begin another one in Tucson as soon as things settle down a bit.
We are planning on leaving next Sunday for our trip south. I can't believe we are leaving already...it seems to early, which it really is. We usually don't leave until the first part of November, but, since we have so much to do on our other house in Tucson, we are leaving earlier this year. We will go to Seattle for a couple of days to see friends and children and to do our usual doctor routines; then to Portland to get in a quick visit with Melanie and family; then to Medford to visit Jo's sister for a day or so before we head to Palmdale/Acton to stop at Billie and Dan's for a day or so to see them and pickup an air conditioner/heater unit for the Tucson house...then an overnight stop in Yuma and on in to Tucson. We should be fairly well worn out by then. We plan a week stay in Tucson before we head into Colorado to visit Jo's brother and cousins, and then on to St. Louis to see Mike and family. From St. Louis, Al will stay with Mike while Jo and Beverly head on to Washington DC for a week of sight seeing and "girl time". By the time we get back to Tucson it will be time for Al to come back to Odessa for hunting....whew...I am tired just writing about all of it!
We hope this finds everyone doing well and happy with their lives....so until next time...we are getting ready to become
THE WROAMIN' WRASPIR'S again, including all animals!
This is August 19. I keep looking at the calendar to make sure. Why???? Because is was a whopping 60 degrees today and rain! We woke up to a nice, gentle rain, which lasted all day. I am not complaining about the rain for once. What I am complaining about is the 60 degree high! WAIT! We are in Eastern Washington...the average temperature for today is 90 degrees! We missed the average by 30 degrees! Yes, I am freezing, however, I refused to dress for the occasion...I AM STILL WEARING my shorts! Regardless of what the thermometer says...I am going by my calendar! Okay, so I am freezing and cold....but it is AUGUST for heavens sakes!!!
In other news from around our house....Gary and Jeannette visited today with pictures of their beautiful, handsome new baby grandson, Joshua. Kali and Scott welcomed their new baby on Aug. 1 and he certainly is handsome for a new baby. And just for the record, Grandma and Grandpa are so happy with his arrival.
I accomplished something today as well...I finished my first quilt! I had finished the quilt top in June before we left for Alaska, and left it to be quilted while I was gone. I got it back a couple of weeks ago and still had to finish the edges, which I did today. So, I really have a feeling of accomplishment today...and I think my quilt is pretty, even with all the mistakes of a first quilt. IT was fun to do and I will begin another one in Tucson as soon as things settle down a bit.
We are planning on leaving next Sunday for our trip south. I can't believe we are leaving already...it seems to early, which it really is. We usually don't leave until the first part of November, but, since we have so much to do on our other house in Tucson, we are leaving earlier this year. We will go to Seattle for a couple of days to see friends and children and to do our usual doctor routines; then to Portland to get in a quick visit with Melanie and family; then to Medford to visit Jo's sister for a day or so before we head to Palmdale/Acton to stop at Billie and Dan's for a day or so to see them and pickup an air conditioner/heater unit for the Tucson house...then an overnight stop in Yuma and on in to Tucson. We should be fairly well worn out by then. We plan a week stay in Tucson before we head into Colorado to visit Jo's brother and cousins, and then on to St. Louis to see Mike and family. From St. Louis, Al will stay with Mike while Jo and Beverly head on to Washington DC for a week of sight seeing and "girl time". By the time we get back to Tucson it will be time for Al to come back to Odessa for hunting....whew...I am tired just writing about all of it!
We hope this finds everyone doing well and happy with their lives....so until next time...we are getting ready to become
THE WROAMIN' WRASPIR'S again, including all animals!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
This story was passed on to me and I want to share it. It really puts things in perspective.
Tip: Keep inconveniences in perspective.
Beautiful Story
This past week I was on a four and a half hour, non-stop flight from Seattle, Washington, to Atlanta, Georgia. In all my years of traveling, I have learned that each time a plane has the opportunity to stop, there is potential for unexpected challenges. Flight delays, weather and airline crews can create unanticipated challenges on any trip. Therefore, I always try to fly non-stop between my destinations. About an hour into this particular flight, the Captain's voice rang over the intercom. He asked if there was a physician or nurse on the plane. If so, he asked them to identify themselves by ringing the flight attendant call button beside their seat. I listened carefully but heard no one ring their bell. Iimmediately began to wonder what was happening. In a few minutes the Captain informed us that there was a medical emergency on board and asked again if there was a physician or anurse who could help. When there was no response, we were told that we were going to make an emergency stop in Denver, Colorado. He apologized but told us that there would be a medical emergency team waiting to meet us at the gate and that we would probably only be delayed by about thirty minutes. Though it was necessary, we knew we would all be inconvenienced by the extra stop.
About half an hour later, we landed at Denver International Airport and the medical crew immediately came on board. However,everything took longer than had previously been expected. An elderly gentleman, about 85 years old, had suddenly taken ill. It was not clear whether he had experienced a stroke or heart attack. Even after the gentleman was carried off of the plane, we still sat there for quite a while. The original "short" stop turned into about an hour and a half. When we finally pushed back from the gate and were in the air, the pilot apologized profusely for the unavoidable delay. He said that since the stop had taken longer than expected, those passengers who needed to make connections in Atlanta would miss their flights but would automatically be booked on the next flight out. You could almost hear the moans and groans throughout the airplane of everyone who was being inconvenienced by the unexpected stop.
Then the pilot did one of the classiest things I have personally ever seen or heard anyone do. He spoke into the intercom and said, "Ladies and gentlemen, I thought you might be interested in one bit of information. The elderly gentleman who was taken off the plane was a Marine in WWII. I am holding in my hand a copy of the Congressional Medal of Honor that was awarded to him and signed by President Harry Truman in 1945." The pilot went on to say, "I realize that we have all been inconvenienced today. However, in light of the fact that this gentleman was a war hero and was inconvenienced for four years of his life in order that we might experience the freedoms that we enjoy today, I thought you all should know that."
Immediately the airplane was filled with applause. Everyone was cheering and so pleased to know that the gentleman had been cared for in a way that was fitting and appropriate. As we continued to fly, I thought to myself, "Isn't that interesting? We were concerned that we were inconvenienced for a couple of hours and yet, this gentleman's entire life was interrupted and inconvenienced for over four years while he went and fought in a war to protect the freedoms and values that we love and hold dear in this country today." I breathed a prayer for the gentleman and asked God to bless him for all he had done to help us understand what freedom is all about.
History does not entrust the care of freedom to the weak or timid." - Dwight D. Eisenhower
*******************************************
Minorities
We need to show more sympathy for these people.
*******************************************
Minorities
We need to show more sympathy for these people.
* They travel miles in the heat.
* They risk their lives crossing a border.
* They don't get paid enough wages.
* They do jobs that others won't do or are afraid to do.
* They live in crowded conditions among a people who speak a different language.
* They rarely see their families, and they face adversity all day every day.
I'm not talking about illegal Mexicans; I'm talking about our troops!
Doesn't it seem strange that many Democrats and some Republicans are willing to lavish all kinds of social benefits on illegals, but don't support our troops and are now threatening to defund them?
I'm not talking about illegal Mexicans; I'm talking about our troops!
Doesn't it seem strange that many Democrats and some Republicans are willing to lavish all kinds of social benefits on illegals, but don't support our troops and are now threatening to defund them?
Friday, August 03, 2007
What a trip!
Odessa, WA Aug 3, 2007
We are finally home....we got home at 11:30 last night. Tired and a little cranky, but home.
We got out of Anchorage about 35 minutes late, and arrived in Seattle about 40 minutes late....still have no idea where we lost the additional 5 minutes as the pilot claimed we were "making up the lost time". Oh well, I have, nor never will, understand the airlines and their time tables.
Alaska Airlines had 10 planes arrive within minutes of each other, so baggage claim was a nightmare! We stood at our "appointed" baggage carousel for well over 45 minutes waiting for our luggage. Hmmm...three other flights arrived after us and their luggage was there, where in the heck is ours? I kept looking at the information board and it said our luggage was on carousel 14....where we were! FINALLY, I happened to look up and realize there was only 4 others from our flight was hanging around! Huh??? So I track down a very harried looking airline employee, who tells me, "Oh, your flight's luggage was unloaded on carousel 12 --- 30 minutes ago...we made an announcement." Er, uh, well, I didn't hear it and neither did the 4 or so of the rest of the people. So we trudged over to carousel 12 and retrieved our luggage....fish and all. I had visions of losing our fish for days and then getting some very stinky fish...whew!
WE finally got to Jennifer's at midnight...exhausted. And then my body and mind had a debate about my not sleeping...I would doze off only to be awake again due to some cramp somewhere on my body!! ARG! Finally, up and at 'em on 2 hours of sleep.
Al had 3 doctor appointments yesterday in Seattle, which went well. Of course, this is Seafair weekend and the Blue Angels were practicing over Lake Washington, which made the bridge on I-90 be closed, so getting across the lake on the 520 floating bridge was s-l-o-w. And since the terrible tragedy in Minnesota, crossing any bridge for me is a frightening experience, let alone one that his old and "floats" on the lake...I have called it an accident waiting to happen for years! Traffic in Seattle isn't good on any given day, but let one of the main bridges be closed and it turns into your worse traffic nightmare! We finally got out of Seattle heading to Odessa around 5:00 p.m. Now, being that we were back up in the Everett area, we decided to take Hwy 2 home...which is a beautiful drive, not the fastest drive, but very pretty. We got into Wenatchee around 8:00, stopped for a bite to eat and headed home. It was still 82 degree's at 9:00 by the way! A far cry from our last month of 60 degree weather. HEAT...yeah!
We drove through a "bug storm" last night.....my goodness, the car is literally covered with bugs who committed suicide last night! Our granddaughter, Cammie, had just washed our car and it was so pretty and clean until we got into this "bug storm" and now I am not sure we will ever get all the bugs pried off the car! There are even dead bugs on the TOP of the car....and I haven't figured out how that happened!
We were driving east out of Ephrata last night when we looked up in the sky to see the strangest site...what is that??? A UFO? The moon??? No, the moon is not a bright red oval shape...what is that???? We kept looking at it, knowing it was the moon, hoping it was the moon; but the oddest, weirdest moon we had ever seen. It was bright red and oval! And HUGE! I have never seen anything like it. Amazing. Also, on our drive, from Ephrata to Odessa, we were on the lookout for deer....the highway is known as "deer alley"....and yep, we came upon a deer in the middle of the road. Had I been not aware of the deer problem, we would have probably had a dead deer joining the dead bugs on the car!!! All in all, we were very glad to get home!
Our cats had some words for us last night as well. Oh boy, did they ever! I think it is very good that I can't understand "cat meows" because I am sure they were really cussing us out for them being left alone for a month. They were real pests last night....and wouldn't leave us alone all night long. I thought about kicking them out side, but the coyotes were howling last night, so I didn't want the cats to become coyote food. I picked up the dogs this morning and they too had some words for us. Right now, all four animals won't let us out of their site...if one of us is in a different room we have at least two animals with us at all times! I think we were missed...and we missed them as well.
So we are settling down for a few days here in Odessa. Our plans are to leave here heading south to Tucson around August 27-28 time frame. Al had a doctor appointment on the 28th in Seattle, and then I think we will head down I-5, stopping in Portland, Medford, Chowchilla, Palmdale and Glendora on our way to Tucson. We won't be staying long in any one place however, as we want to be in Tucson no later than Sept 8. WHEW!!!
So until next time......we are home and happy. Hope all is well with everyone else...let us hear from you.
We are finally home....we got home at 11:30 last night. Tired and a little cranky, but home.
We got out of Anchorage about 35 minutes late, and arrived in Seattle about 40 minutes late....still have no idea where we lost the additional 5 minutes as the pilot claimed we were "making up the lost time". Oh well, I have, nor never will, understand the airlines and their time tables.
Alaska Airlines had 10 planes arrive within minutes of each other, so baggage claim was a nightmare! We stood at our "appointed" baggage carousel for well over 45 minutes waiting for our luggage. Hmmm...three other flights arrived after us and their luggage was there, where in the heck is ours? I kept looking at the information board and it said our luggage was on carousel 14....where we were! FINALLY, I happened to look up and realize there was only 4 others from our flight was hanging around! Huh??? So I track down a very harried looking airline employee, who tells me, "Oh, your flight's luggage was unloaded on carousel 12 --- 30 minutes ago...we made an announcement." Er, uh, well, I didn't hear it and neither did the 4 or so of the rest of the people. So we trudged over to carousel 12 and retrieved our luggage....fish and all. I had visions of losing our fish for days and then getting some very stinky fish...whew!
WE finally got to Jennifer's at midnight...exhausted. And then my body and mind had a debate about my not sleeping...I would doze off only to be awake again due to some cramp somewhere on my body!! ARG! Finally, up and at 'em on 2 hours of sleep.
Al had 3 doctor appointments yesterday in Seattle, which went well. Of course, this is Seafair weekend and the Blue Angels were practicing over Lake Washington, which made the bridge on I-90 be closed, so getting across the lake on the 520 floating bridge was s-l-o-w. And since the terrible tragedy in Minnesota, crossing any bridge for me is a frightening experience, let alone one that his old and "floats" on the lake...I have called it an accident waiting to happen for years! Traffic in Seattle isn't good on any given day, but let one of the main bridges be closed and it turns into your worse traffic nightmare! We finally got out of Seattle heading to Odessa around 5:00 p.m. Now, being that we were back up in the Everett area, we decided to take Hwy 2 home...which is a beautiful drive, not the fastest drive, but very pretty. We got into Wenatchee around 8:00, stopped for a bite to eat and headed home. It was still 82 degree's at 9:00 by the way! A far cry from our last month of 60 degree weather. HEAT...yeah!
We drove through a "bug storm" last night.....my goodness, the car is literally covered with bugs who committed suicide last night! Our granddaughter, Cammie, had just washed our car and it was so pretty and clean until we got into this "bug storm" and now I am not sure we will ever get all the bugs pried off the car! There are even dead bugs on the TOP of the car....and I haven't figured out how that happened!
We were driving east out of Ephrata last night when we looked up in the sky to see the strangest site...what is that??? A UFO? The moon??? No, the moon is not a bright red oval shape...what is that???? We kept looking at it, knowing it was the moon, hoping it was the moon; but the oddest, weirdest moon we had ever seen. It was bright red and oval! And HUGE! I have never seen anything like it. Amazing. Also, on our drive, from Ephrata to Odessa, we were on the lookout for deer....the highway is known as "deer alley"....and yep, we came upon a deer in the middle of the road. Had I been not aware of the deer problem, we would have probably had a dead deer joining the dead bugs on the car!!! All in all, we were very glad to get home!
Our cats had some words for us last night as well. Oh boy, did they ever! I think it is very good that I can't understand "cat meows" because I am sure they were really cussing us out for them being left alone for a month. They were real pests last night....and wouldn't leave us alone all night long. I thought about kicking them out side, but the coyotes were howling last night, so I didn't want the cats to become coyote food. I picked up the dogs this morning and they too had some words for us. Right now, all four animals won't let us out of their site...if one of us is in a different room we have at least two animals with us at all times! I think we were missed...and we missed them as well.
So we are settling down for a few days here in Odessa. Our plans are to leave here heading south to Tucson around August 27-28 time frame. Al had a doctor appointment on the 28th in Seattle, and then I think we will head down I-5, stopping in Portland, Medford, Chowchilla, Palmdale and Glendora on our way to Tucson. We won't be staying long in any one place however, as we want to be in Tucson no later than Sept 8. WHEW!!!
So until next time......we are home and happy. Hope all is well with everyone else...let us hear from you.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Goin' home again......
Anchorage, Ak July 31,2007
Tomorrow we will depart this beautiful place and head back towards Odessa...eventually.
I have been thinking of how to describe the beauty that is Alaska...and I have came to the conclusion that there aren't enough adjectives to describe it. Every time I see it, and not for the first or second time, the beauty of the scenery still takes my breath away. Everything is still pristine; well for the most part and especially on the drive from Anchorage to the Kenai River. Even tho there are so many people at the river at this time of the year; it is still beautiful.
We came back to Anchorage on Sunday after closing up the trailer for the season. It is a chore to close it up as you can not leave ANYTHING that will possibly freeze during the winter; so all canned goods, anything with liquid you have to take out and either 1. Give away; 2. toss; 3. give to your nephew or brother.
We have had a good visit with my brother, who will be moving to Tucson in late October and live in our other house along with my nephew. We are glad to have them with us and since my brother is not in very good health and can't take the cold winters any longer, we are happy to have him.
While here in Anchorage I helped my niece find a mobile home to live in. She had been looking, but today we finely found one and she made an offer on it. She has been living in her fifth wheel and about froze last winter, so we are glad to see she will be in a warmer house this winter.
Tonight we went to Glacier Brewhaus for dinner. It is one of the many micro brewery's here in Anchorage area and the food was excellent. And Cortney, eat your heart out, I had the best king crab legs I have ever had!!!! I thought of you the whole time.
Tomorrow we will depart this beautiful place and head back towards Odessa...eventually.
I have been thinking of how to describe the beauty that is Alaska...and I have came to the conclusion that there aren't enough adjectives to describe it. Every time I see it, and not for the first or second time, the beauty of the scenery still takes my breath away. Everything is still pristine; well for the most part and especially on the drive from Anchorage to the Kenai River. Even tho there are so many people at the river at this time of the year; it is still beautiful.
We came back to Anchorage on Sunday after closing up the trailer for the season. It is a chore to close it up as you can not leave ANYTHING that will possibly freeze during the winter; so all canned goods, anything with liquid you have to take out and either 1. Give away; 2. toss; 3. give to your nephew or brother.
We have had a good visit with my brother, who will be moving to Tucson in late October and live in our other house along with my nephew. We are glad to have them with us and since my brother is not in very good health and can't take the cold winters any longer, we are happy to have him.
While here in Anchorage I helped my niece find a mobile home to live in. She had been looking, but today we finely found one and she made an offer on it. She has been living in her fifth wheel and about froze last winter, so we are glad to see she will be in a warmer house this winter.
Tonight we went to Glacier Brewhaus for dinner. It is one of the many micro brewery's here in Anchorage area and the food was excellent. And Cortney, eat your heart out, I had the best king crab legs I have ever had!!!! I thought of you the whole time.
This is what is left of the king crab legs after I got done with them...............
So until next time, we are on the wroad again, heading home.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Rain, rain go away
Sterling, Ak July 25, 2007
Rain, rain, go away!
We are having another typical Alaska summer…rain!!! Actually, rain, cold (to me) and clouds seem to be the norm here. I am one frozen person! I know this is July… I know I should be in shorts, tee shirts. Instead I am in long pants, socks, and long sleeve shirts and shivering! What is wrong with this??? Me, the warm weather lover!! Cold! Again, I am missing summer!
The sockeye fish (reds) salmon are running. Apparently, everyone else can catch them but me! I just don’t understand!! Cortney, where are you??? Jerry, where are you??? I can go down and beat the river to a froth…everyone around me catch salmon, but I can’t seem to catch any! Spaid luck? Probably! Last night the “Germans” were catching them beside be on each side, but I couldn’t seem to catch one! I even traded poles and they caught one on my pole!!!!! How disgusting is that? ?? Doesn’t seem fair.
Al has been fighting a bad cold -- and so have I. He has been so bad he hasn't been down fishing for 5 days. I think he is finally getting better today. Maybe he will feel like fishing tomorrow.
On another note............We are still saddened by Sun Country RV closing…however, we are excited that we will have Gordon and Denise with us this winter in Tucson! I talked to Denise today and they are in the last throws of business….We will really miss them, however, we think this could be the best thing to happen to them. They will be able to travel now and spend more time with us…yes, we are selfish! I feel for them however, it must be hard! After being in business for so long, and being so popular in the Moses Lake area, it will be hard to not have them there! They are such good friends, and we will be glad to see them in Tucson!
Well, our days here are numbered. We will probably head up to Anchorage on Sunday and spend some time with my brother; then Wednesday we fly back to Seattle. We will leave the trailer available for my brother's use or any of the family that want's to use it. Then in September my nephew Bruce will close up the trailer for winter. I am anxious in one way to go home...I miss my dogs and cats; however, I feel like we should stay up here another couple of weeks!!! But I am tired of being cold, wet, etc...so time for me to stop whining and go home I guess!
Rain, rain, go away!
We are having another typical Alaska summer…rain!!! Actually, rain, cold (to me) and clouds seem to be the norm here. I am one frozen person! I know this is July… I know I should be in shorts, tee shirts. Instead I am in long pants, socks, and long sleeve shirts and shivering! What is wrong with this??? Me, the warm weather lover!! Cold! Again, I am missing summer!
The sockeye fish (reds) salmon are running. Apparently, everyone else can catch them but me! I just don’t understand!! Cortney, where are you??? Jerry, where are you??? I can go down and beat the river to a froth…everyone around me catch salmon, but I can’t seem to catch any! Spaid luck? Probably! Last night the “Germans” were catching them beside be on each side, but I couldn’t seem to catch one! I even traded poles and they caught one on my pole!!!!! How disgusting is that? ?? Doesn’t seem fair.
Al has been fighting a bad cold -- and so have I. He has been so bad he hasn't been down fishing for 5 days. I think he is finally getting better today. Maybe he will feel like fishing tomorrow.
On another note............We are still saddened by Sun Country RV closing…however, we are excited that we will have Gordon and Denise with us this winter in Tucson! I talked to Denise today and they are in the last throws of business….We will really miss them, however, we think this could be the best thing to happen to them. They will be able to travel now and spend more time with us…yes, we are selfish! I feel for them however, it must be hard! After being in business for so long, and being so popular in the Moses Lake area, it will be hard to not have them there! They are such good friends, and we will be glad to see them in Tucson!
Well, our days here are numbered. We will probably head up to Anchorage on Sunday and spend some time with my brother; then Wednesday we fly back to Seattle. We will leave the trailer available for my brother's use or any of the family that want's to use it. Then in September my nephew Bruce will close up the trailer for winter. I am anxious in one way to go home...I miss my dogs and cats; however, I feel like we should stay up here another couple of weeks!!! But I am tired of being cold, wet, etc...so time for me to stop whining and go home I guess!
One more bear story to tell before we leave here. Last Saturday night about 9:30 p.m. I was out playing with Buddy, the owners labradoodle. We were playing "bone"--not ball, but throw the bone! And of course I was really having a good time and Buddy is like Beau with a ball, once you start throwing it he is obsessed with it and only it...only this is a bone. After about 20 minutes of this I was getting tired, he was still ready to play, but I decided it was time to stop. I had just put the bone away when I heard "BEAR"! Huh? WHere? Ulp! Buddy, of course, was only interested in where I had put the bone....hey, dog, B-E-A-R! Buddy finally must have gotten the point, because all of a sudden he hightailed it for the house! Uh, where is the bear??? Apparently the bear was right behind the lodge! Now, to set the scene...the lodge is right next to the house, and I am right in front of the house. Too close for me! I very hurriedly walked back to our trailer...and watching out for everything. The bear was the same one Al had seen the day or so before down on the river. And everyone thinks it is the same bear we had last year. Anyway, the bear very calmly walked through camp, and wandered back down to the river and paced on the dock for a while before saundering off to the woods again. So now, we are all on bear alert! Again. Except Buddy, who is still just interested in playing "bone" or today, "stick"...gotta' get that dog a ball!
Our critter count is very low this year. One bear (seen twice) and too many squirrels to count. No moose! Oh, and mosquito's -- at least a gazillion of those.
Until next posting..................
Saturday, July 21, 2007
The Reds are Here!
Sterling, Ak July 21, 2007
The Reds are here! In great numbers! 48,000 came through the fish counter on Thursday, so they are now in our water! And a lot are in our freezer! So far I have packaged 48 pieces of fish and they are in the freezer being frozen; and one in the refrig waiting to hit the bbq tonight. My vacuum sealer has been humming for two days. And with the fish come all the people in the camp! EVERYONE IS HERE! It's a busy place right now and getting a spot on the dock to fish is tough....I just wait for someone to pull out a fish, then while they are taking the fish off I go fish in their spot, and everyone seems to do that. Of course, the SPAID luck is holding, I catch one fish to every 20 everyone else catches. Bruce and I have decided it must be in the blood!
Today was the memorial celebration of life for Ray Geerin, the owner of Fish on Inn until he died last October. He was a wonderful person, and we count ourselves fortunate to have known him. There was a huge pot luck today at noon and boy was there some yummy salmon dishes. Salmon wraps with sweet/hot sauce were my favorites. YUM
Our neighbors in camp, Chuck and Kate Sullivan from Sequim, have sold their trailer and they aren't coming back up on a regular basis anymore. This really saddens us as they are great neighbors and people. Chuck reminds us so much of a taller Gary Wraspir.....he has the same disposition and looks like Gary and treats people like our Gary does. Chuck is a family practice doctor in Sequim, so it was nice having him near when we were up here. There are plenty of other doctors in the camp, so we won't be short on help if we should need it. We hope to keep in touch with Chuck and Kate.
The weather is nice and warm...80 today...wah hoo. I am loving it! So are the flies and mosquitos tho! OH WELL, such is life here!
Gotta' go....I hear a sockeye calling me..................
The Reds are here! In great numbers! 48,000 came through the fish counter on Thursday, so they are now in our water! And a lot are in our freezer! So far I have packaged 48 pieces of fish and they are in the freezer being frozen; and one in the refrig waiting to hit the bbq tonight. My vacuum sealer has been humming for two days. And with the fish come all the people in the camp! EVERYONE IS HERE! It's a busy place right now and getting a spot on the dock to fish is tough....I just wait for someone to pull out a fish, then while they are taking the fish off I go fish in their spot, and everyone seems to do that. Of course, the SPAID luck is holding, I catch one fish to every 20 everyone else catches. Bruce and I have decided it must be in the blood!
Today was the memorial celebration of life for Ray Geerin, the owner of Fish on Inn until he died last October. He was a wonderful person, and we count ourselves fortunate to have known him. There was a huge pot luck today at noon and boy was there some yummy salmon dishes. Salmon wraps with sweet/hot sauce were my favorites. YUM
Our neighbors in camp, Chuck and Kate Sullivan from Sequim, have sold their trailer and they aren't coming back up on a regular basis anymore. This really saddens us as they are great neighbors and people. Chuck reminds us so much of a taller Gary Wraspir.....he has the same disposition and looks like Gary and treats people like our Gary does. Chuck is a family practice doctor in Sequim, so it was nice having him near when we were up here. There are plenty of other doctors in the camp, so we won't be short on help if we should need it. We hope to keep in touch with Chuck and Kate.
The weather is nice and warm...80 today...wah hoo. I am loving it! So are the flies and mosquitos tho! OH WELL, such is life here!
Gotta' go....I hear a sockeye calling me..................
Thursday, July 19, 2007
THE REDS ARE COMING! THE REDS ARE COMING!
Sterling, AK July 19, 2007
THE REDS ARE COMING! THE REDS ARE COMING!
At least we hope they are! The sockeye salmon count is still low, however, word has it that the fish were schooling up in Cook Inlet, just outside the mouth of the river, getting ready to run upstream, where, hopefully, some of them will be found on the end of our fishing line. The run is late again this year. Usually you can count on 4 days on either side of July 13 for the run. However, in the past few years Mother Nature has changed her mind and the run has been late, later, or latest. Most of the regulars are here in our fishing camp now, and all of us are just waiting. Every year “The Germans” come over to fish. There are 4-8 men from Germany that come every year to fish here and boy are they ever fishermen! From early morning to late at night they are beating the water to a froth and usually catching fish. I enjoy listening to them talk…only two or three speak any English, and then not the best English, so it is fun trying to communicate with them.
Al went down to fish yesterday while I went to town to do the laundry. Yes, more laundry! I swear we dirty more clothes here than anywhere else, or maybe my laundry basket is just smaller here! At any rate, while he was down at the river fishing with some of the guys from camp, they saw a huge grizzly bear not far from them on the bank. ULP---they’re back! Of course, the bears have probably never left, but I haven’t seen one, yet. Al said it was the biggest bear he has ever seen! After the bear looked them over, he/her retreated back up the hill, towards our camp. However, no one has seen him/her since. So I am on bear alert now! Boy, if it isn’t snakes in Odessa it’s bears in Alaska! I still think I would rather encounter a bear than a snake, but right now, it’s a pretty close toss up which one I would encounter. I think I want to go back to Tucson where I only encounter an occasional Javalina or Coyote!!! I feel like I am living in the Wild Kingdom!
Dan and his dad, Rod, left Tuesday morning to fly back to LA. We really enjoyed our time with them here and hope they will return next year. And yes, there will be a next year here, at least we hope so. We had talked about selling this trailer, but have decided to try one more year here. The owners of the camp have the camp up for sale, so who knows, we may not have an option for next year if the camp sells and the new owners decide to do something different with the land. Anyone want to buy a fish camp on the Kenai? Only $1.7 million! Come on, I know some of you have some loose pocket change you can gather up and buy this place!
Not much else happening here. I am enjoying watching the eagles fly up and down the river, and watched one catch a fish yesterday. They really are exciting to watch and especially when they do catch a fish. They circle around and then, whoosh, they dive and grab a fish! We also have a little red squirrel in residence at our trailer. He/she is sitting on our picnic table right now looking for food. Billie, our squirrel girl would like watching this one, and taking a million pictures of it!
It’s been cold, rainy and windy; then hot and sunny; then cold , rainy and windy again. Both of us have a cold….courtesy of the weather I am sure. Dan left with a cold and I was hoping he took it with him, but he left just enough here to share with us! Al has really been feeling down with the cold and I am just starting with the sore throat, stuffed up nose, etc. Woo hoo..what fun!
So, until next time, when I hope I can say, The Reds are HERE, we hope you are all happy and healthy and enjoying life to the fullest!
Friday, July 13, 2007
Halibut and a Sinking Boat
This is a view from our trailer of the Kenai River. Great view to get up to every morning!Sterling, AK July 13
We had a great day yesterday! However, according to my body it was a rough day. Guess I need to start at the beginning.
Son-in-law Dan and his dad, Rod, arrived as scheduled on Tuesday.
We sat around and yakked and visited. On Wednesday they tried their hand at fishing for some sockeye, but the run isn’t really strong yet and they didn’t catch any. Late afternoon we headed to Homer to spend the night before going out on our halibut charter on Thursday. We enjoyed the drive down, scenery beautiful as expected. This is Dan’s first time in Alaska and we hope he is enjoying it. We had dinner at the Elks Lodge in Homer, which sits right on the water and has wonderful food. We were all stuffed to the gills as we waddled back to the hotel.
Thursday we were up at 5:30 a.m. (there isn’t much I will get up for at that time, however, Halibut fishing is one thing I will get up early for!) and off to the Silver Fox Charters.
We were assigned to the Silver Fox II boat; just a luck of the draw. “Silver Fox I” was the other boat and then the charter company had leased a boat for the month, the Fat Kat, to handled the seasonal crowd. This charter company runs their boats together, in other words, they never go out with just one boat, a minimum of two always go out for safety reasons. The ride out was uneventful…a little rough, but we have been in worse. There were 7 of us on board, besides us four, Matt the captain, and Mike and Mark, long time buddies from Minnesota. OH, and by the way, it was raining a good, steady, cold rain the whole time we were out fishing. We got out to the “fishing grounds” after a two hour ride, so we were probably about 45 miles out. We immediately began catching halibut. OW, OW, OW. Hey, I forgot how much work this is! My arms are complaining loudly over how much I am working them! First reel in and dang, I have a halibut. Woohoo….I only have to catch one more and I am done for the day! However, getting this first halibut into the boat was harder than I remembered…but finally, with help from Dan, I pull in a measly 25 pounder. The captain asked if I wanted to keep it, HECK YA! By now Dan has caught his first, at 52 pounder (show off!!) and Rod has caught a nice size one as well. Al is still fishing, Mike and Mark have both caught fish as well. To make a long story long, we all caught our limit, which is two each, however, we threw back smaller ones we caught and in all we also caught (and brought up from a depth of 250 feet) 6 sharks (dog fish) and 3 skates (relative to the sting ray). Just checking your bait got to be a challenge as we are fishing in 250-300 feet of water and dragging the bait and a 10 pound weight up time and time again is hard on the body. At least on Al’s and mine….Dan, didn’t seem to have any trouble with it….young whippersnapper! Rod did well, even though the day he flew up here he had a kidney stone blasted out! OW OW OW.
Halibut!! Our catch is 8 of these! The two largest are Dan's.
We had just finished fishing, eating our lunch when over the radio came a “MAY DAY, MAY DAY, FAT KAT TAKING ON WATER”! WHAT????? Fat Kat is the other boat in our fleet! Our captain literally threw our boat in gear and off we go! In the mean time we are getting out our life vests and throwing them out on the deck incase they are needed. We are looking for the Fat Kat, which by now is sinking at a very fast rate. We are literally flying over the water…. Still can’t see her! Over the radio, Silver Fox I says they have all the passengers and crew (total of 7) rescued and on board. We arrive, mind you only 7 minutes after the first may day, and the boat is already two thirds under! And remember, the water is a whopping 50 degrees! I have never seen anything like this. No one is injured and they even managed to rescue the halibut they had caught. The crew of the Fat Kat said she belched a lot of black smoke and started taking on water immediately at a rapid rate. Since this is a leased boat, and only the first time the charter company had her out, one has to wonder. At least everyone is safe, scared, but safe. Both Silver Fox boats circle Fat Kat, waiting for her to completely go under, but she never did while we were there….must have a big air pocket somewhere! Our boat picks up what we can of the stuff floating around that has came off the Fat Kat, but we were unable to retrieve much. We finally take off back to Homer. After getting back to shore and learning that it was an exhaust problem on the Fat Kat they think that sank her. WOW! What a day!
The Boat "Fat Kat" sinking in Cook Inlet, Alaska.
We finally get our fish to the processing plant where they will be packaged in to one pound packages and flash frozen and shipped home. We have a total of 141 pounds of filleted and trimmed halibut…not bad. Dan, Rod, Al and I split up the total, 70 pounds each. Yummmm….halibut for next year. But our halibut fishing trip was just a little more exciting than we anticipated. We are just glad the passengers and crew of the Fat Kat were okay. I talked to one of the men on board and he said it was very frightening from the time they started taking on water to when the Silver Fox 1 arrived…just over 4 minutes and they were already capsizing. Thank goodness Silver Fox 1 was just a little closer than we were or those passengers and crew would have been in that 50 degree water. Makes me wonder why these boats don’t have life rafts on board. I know the next time we book a charter that will be question I ask. And, I will also ask if they boats go out in pairs just for this reason! If they had been out alone, they wouldn’t have survived as most other boats were at least 10-15 minutes away.
We finally got home around 9:30 last night, after a stop at Suzi’s, our favorite restaurant here. We were all exhausted and it didn’t take us long to get to bed.
We all woke up this morning a little sore, but moving. At least Dan and Rod are, Al and I are still wondering if all our body parts are working!!! Dan and Rod and my nephew Bruce are out in his boat on the river today fishing…Al is resting and I am on my way to do my favorite thing…yep , laundry!
So until next time, we are here, fighting mosquitos, hoping for more sockeye to run and having a great time.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Cold, wet Alaska
Sterling, Alaska Kenai River July 9, 2007
BRRRRRRRRRRRR -- it’s cold. Even Al says he is cold! Yes, we are in Alaska…land of the midnight sun. We arrived last Thursday after an uneventful flight. Rescued all of our luggage, got our rental car and went to my brothers house in Anchorage. We spent Friday and Saturday with him, just visiting and getting supplies (aka groceries) to take to the river. My brother seems to be doing well, he has various heath problems, heart, diabetes, breathing, etc., but for his age we think he is doing well.
The weather in Anchorage was cool…in the 60’s, and we did have 2 sunny days. Of course, it had to rain part of the day, which I am beginning to believe is normal for this area.
We came to the river yesterday. It is such a beautiful drive down here. I can’t even begin to describe the beauty of the mountains, rivers, glaciers, trees, etc. It is really breathtaking. There was a lot of traffic going to Anchorage, but traffic was fairly light coming this way. One thing we have noticed is the reduced amount of RV’s on the road from the lower 48 states. The last few years it has been amazing to see the number of RV’s from the lower 48…however, this year it is really evident the reduced numbers. Still plenty of RV’s bearing Alaska license plates. Along the upper Kenai, near Cooper’s Landing, it looks like the fishing war has begun! We saw wall to wall anglers, or combat fishing as they call it here, on the river yesterday.
In our fish camp, only a few of us are already here, only 4 trailers opened up so far, including ours, thanks to Bruce, our nephew. He is really good to us, closing up our trailer for winter and opening it up for the season. The salmon are beginning to trickle in; however, it looks like a few days before the run starts in earnest….but up here one never knows.
We have pretty much settled in…most everything is unpacked; now the problem is where to put the empty suitcases….never thought of that! They will probably be stored in the shower, so when we take showers, we will have to rearrange, but that is the only place I can see to store them.
We both remembered why we love it here after we got here…it is so beautiful and tranquil (at least until everyone arrives in camp) and the scenery is something we never tire of. We haven’t seen any critters yet, unless you want to count the moose size mosquitos! I am back to wearing my favorite perfume, “Off, with deet” and walking around with my bug zapper in hand. I am looking for my bald eagles that had a nest in the tree above us, but haven’t spotted them yet.
Today is cold, (59), cloudy and breezy and some rain. I bet some of you roasting in the heat wave would trade with me right now, and as cold as I am, I could use some of your heat. The fire near Deep Creek (Ninilichik) is contained, so there is no smoke in the air and so far there are no other fires burning. I still don’t see how a fire can burn up here…everything is so green.
Dan (son in law) and his dad Rod are due to arrive here tomorrow. Sure hope the fish start to run while they are here. We do have a halibut charter scheduled for Thursday out of Homer (and these fishing boats have the very needed bathrooms on board, unlike the ones we took last year out of Ninilchik) and we hear the halibut fishing has been great. I can’t wait to hook on to one…then I will need someone to help me get it in the boat probably…it’s like pulling up a barn door!
July 10
It is busy raining here today...a nice, gentle, steady rain, which we are enjoying right now. However, if it continues this way, I am sure in a day or so I will be cussing the rain. And it is a toasty 55 degrees! brrrr
At least we aren't burning up as most of you are....more later
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Ready, Set...fish?
Seattle
July 3
Happy 4th of July early....
We are in Seattle, getting ready to fly to Anchorage on Thursday. The dogs are on their "vacation", aka...staying at Ardis and Jerry's and being spoiled rotten (and hopefully, watching out for snakes!)
We got here on Sunday after stopping in Moses Lake to have lunch with good friends Gordon and Denise, who are the owners of Sun Country RV. We got some real bad news from them...as of the end of this month Sun Country RV is no more! Oh woe is us....now we have to sell our 5th wheel...they are the only ones we trust to work on it. They lost their lease and with only 30 days to find another place (which is damn near impossible) they decided to bag it and retire. It just isn't going to be the same without them there. On a good note, they will still have their mobile RV repair business and they are planning on coming to Tucson for a few months this winter...so we know where they can park their trailer and operate out of...we seem to have the room since we have decided not to take the 5th wheel to Tucson this year. That is another story for a later blog.
Al had his sleep test on Sunday night....and yes, he passed! He has been studying for it for weeks. His results were fine, CPAP working fine so he is good to go for another couple of years.
I saw something on Monday morning I haven't seen in a long time! A SLUG! I had conveniently forgotten how much I detested those slimy things! I almost stepped on it...that would have been a big, gross mistake...ick, ick, ick!
Traffic here is not any better...not that I expected it to be. We drove to La Conner today (a favorite place of mine) to meet friends Ann and Gene for lunch. I-5 was moving fairly well for a Tuesday...about 45 mph! UGH. And coming over I-90 on Sunday we were roaring along at 7o mph when all of a sudden everything came to a dead stop! WTH? We then did the stop and crawl for over 40 miles and for over an hour....never did figure out what slowed traffic down! Again, too many cars and too little roads. And the roads in this state are in the worse repair we can ever remember....rough, worn and pot hole city!
La Conner was a blast today. For those who don't know what La Conner is, it is a small city north of Seattle that has charm charm and more charm. And the drive through the Skagit Valley was absolutely beautiful....I had forgotten how pretty it is. And we stopped and bought berries..strawberries, blueberries and raspberries that all were picked this morning and oh boy are they ever good. And we had oysters for lunch...and then stopped and bought more at this tiny, country store and we fixed them for dinner tonight and needless to say, my tummy is very happy...they were excellent. There is nothing better than pacific northwest oysters.
July 3
Happy 4th of July early....
We are in Seattle, getting ready to fly to Anchorage on Thursday. The dogs are on their "vacation", aka...staying at Ardis and Jerry's and being spoiled rotten (and hopefully, watching out for snakes!)
We got here on Sunday after stopping in Moses Lake to have lunch with good friends Gordon and Denise, who are the owners of Sun Country RV. We got some real bad news from them...as of the end of this month Sun Country RV is no more! Oh woe is us....now we have to sell our 5th wheel...they are the only ones we trust to work on it. They lost their lease and with only 30 days to find another place (which is damn near impossible) they decided to bag it and retire. It just isn't going to be the same without them there. On a good note, they will still have their mobile RV repair business and they are planning on coming to Tucson for a few months this winter...so we know where they can park their trailer and operate out of...we seem to have the room since we have decided not to take the 5th wheel to Tucson this year. That is another story for a later blog.
Al had his sleep test on Sunday night....and yes, he passed! He has been studying for it for weeks. His results were fine, CPAP working fine so he is good to go for another couple of years.
I saw something on Monday morning I haven't seen in a long time! A SLUG! I had conveniently forgotten how much I detested those slimy things! I almost stepped on it...that would have been a big, gross mistake...ick, ick, ick!
Traffic here is not any better...not that I expected it to be. We drove to La Conner today (a favorite place of mine) to meet friends Ann and Gene for lunch. I-5 was moving fairly well for a Tuesday...about 45 mph! UGH. And coming over I-90 on Sunday we were roaring along at 7o mph when all of a sudden everything came to a dead stop! WTH? We then did the stop and crawl for over 40 miles and for over an hour....never did figure out what slowed traffic down! Again, too many cars and too little roads. And the roads in this state are in the worse repair we can ever remember....rough, worn and pot hole city!
La Conner was a blast today. For those who don't know what La Conner is, it is a small city north of Seattle that has charm charm and more charm. And the drive through the Skagit Valley was absolutely beautiful....I had forgotten how pretty it is. And we stopped and bought berries..strawberries, blueberries and raspberries that all were picked this morning and oh boy are they ever good. And we had oysters for lunch...and then stopped and bought more at this tiny, country store and we fixed them for dinner tonight and needless to say, my tummy is very happy...they were excellent. There is nothing better than pacific northwest oysters.
Tomorrow Ric and Janet and Sherrie are coming over to Jennifer's (that is where we are now...our home away from home...thanks J!) for a bbq for the 4th. From the sounds of it outside, a lot of people have started to celebrate tonight. Poor Pookie, our grandkitty, is scared of the loud noises going on outside. I feel sorry for the animals.
Thursday Al has a doctor appointment in the morning and then we head to the airport and will fly to Anchorage. Plan is to go to the river on Friday...we shall see.
Jennifer is going to the UK for a week, leaving the 7th. I am not sure I am too happy about that given all that is going on over there right now. She is going on business as the company she works for, Content Master, is headquartered outside of Bristol. She is excited, but I think a little apprehensive as well, again, due to the terrorist crap going on over there now. All we can do is hold our collective breathes and pray.
So, until next time, here fishy, fishy, fishy...................
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Trains?
Odessa
For those of you who don't know this, our house in Odessa is located fairly close to the train tracks. We hear/see about 20-30 trains a day. Going BOTH directions. That got me to thinking last night...when I couldn't sleep, what or who, keeps trains from running into each other? Now I know, given my previous profession with Boeing, I should know the answer to this question. Apparently I was missing or asleep during trains 101. Do they have a FAA controller type for trains? They must since the trains know when they should be on the siding to let another train go by. And did you know that trains have different sounding horns/whistles? And Amtrak has a completely different sound of a horn/whistle than freights do. And speaking of that, who controls how long and loud the whistle is? If it is someone on the train, I would like to have a talk with a few of them who seem to keep their finger on the whistle button waaaaaaayyyyyyy to long! One thing we have noticed since being home this time is that there seems to be more trains on the tracks this year. Fuel costs???? Hmmmm And I still can't go to sleep until Amtrak goes through at night...it usually goes through at 10:45 p.m.....although, some nights is has been as late as 12:30 a.m.....I know, I will still be awake waiting for it!!!! And some of you Boeing people can answer this question for me....are we still shipping 737 fuselage's from Wichita to Renton?? I haven't seen any this year.
Other than listening to/for trains, we have been sticking pretty close to home. Last week Joyce, (Al's sister), Ardis and I went to Spokane for a girls day. Joyce needed to do some clothes shopping, so Ardis and I decided it would be a good time for us to just go and look around. Neither of us bought a whole lot, we let Joyce do that! Then yesterday Ardis and I took the dogs, Beau and Schuster and her Simon to Ephrata to be groomed. We decided to stay there and bum around for the day. We went to Moses Lake and got a pedicure...which was Ardis' first pedicure...I think she is hooked. I got even with her...she hooked me on quilting and I hooked her on pedicures!!!
The weather has been bizarre here. Cold one day, warm the next, then windy, cold and rainy, then sunny and cold. I can't figure it out! And apparently neither can the weather guesser....he is always wrong.
We are getting ready for our trip to Alaska. We leave on July 5 and I am "gathering" and sorting things to take. And worse of all, I can't remember what I left up there last year. I have been watching the weather and it has been fairly nice in Sterling, but I still can't figure out what to take as far as clothes. This year I am going to make a list.......... then be in the same position I am now next year, as I probably won't remember where I put the dumb list!!!!
Until next time..................
For those of you who don't know this, our house in Odessa is located fairly close to the train tracks. We hear/see about 20-30 trains a day. Going BOTH directions. That got me to thinking last night...when I couldn't sleep, what or who, keeps trains from running into each other? Now I know, given my previous profession with Boeing, I should know the answer to this question. Apparently I was missing or asleep during trains 101. Do they have a FAA controller type for trains? They must since the trains know when they should be on the siding to let another train go by. And did you know that trains have different sounding horns/whistles? And Amtrak has a completely different sound of a horn/whistle than freights do. And speaking of that, who controls how long and loud the whistle is? If it is someone on the train, I would like to have a talk with a few of them who seem to keep their finger on the whistle button waaaaaaayyyyyyy to long! One thing we have noticed since being home this time is that there seems to be more trains on the tracks this year. Fuel costs???? Hmmmm And I still can't go to sleep until Amtrak goes through at night...it usually goes through at 10:45 p.m.....although, some nights is has been as late as 12:30 a.m.....I know, I will still be awake waiting for it!!!! And some of you Boeing people can answer this question for me....are we still shipping 737 fuselage's from Wichita to Renton?? I haven't seen any this year.
Other than listening to/for trains, we have been sticking pretty close to home. Last week Joyce, (Al's sister), Ardis and I went to Spokane for a girls day. Joyce needed to do some clothes shopping, so Ardis and I decided it would be a good time for us to just go and look around. Neither of us bought a whole lot, we let Joyce do that! Then yesterday Ardis and I took the dogs, Beau and Schuster and her Simon to Ephrata to be groomed. We decided to stay there and bum around for the day. We went to Moses Lake and got a pedicure...which was Ardis' first pedicure...I think she is hooked. I got even with her...she hooked me on quilting and I hooked her on pedicures!!!
The weather has been bizarre here. Cold one day, warm the next, then windy, cold and rainy, then sunny and cold. I can't figure it out! And apparently neither can the weather guesser....he is always wrong.
We are getting ready for our trip to Alaska. We leave on July 5 and I am "gathering" and sorting things to take. And worse of all, I can't remember what I left up there last year. I have been watching the weather and it has been fairly nice in Sterling, but I still can't figure out what to take as far as clothes. This year I am going to make a list.......... then be in the same position I am now next year, as I probably won't remember where I put the dumb list!!!!
Until next time..................
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Lookee, lookee, what I can do!
Odessa
Look what I learned to do today! I did my very first quilt top!
I can hardly wait to get it finished now. I had NO IDEA how to quilt, but thanks to daughter-in-law Ardis and her mom, Maryann; who own the Quilt Crossing in Odessa, I AM HOOKED! Now all I want to do is sew another one! What fun! How exciting to see it all come together. Albeit, this is a very simple pattern, and very easy to put together, I had a blast doing it. And, you have to start some place, right? The next step I have to do on this quilt is put more border on it so it will be big enough to cover the bed in our cowboy room in Tucson. Then, I will have it quilted professionally. I don't have a quilting machine and I can't hold a needle long enough to quilt by hand. But this still was fun. I already have the fat quarters purchased for my next quilt...and I am trying to decide on a pattern. It will have to be easy tho....no hard ones for this person.
You should see the quilts that Ardis and Maryann have made! WOW! Maryann is working on one right now that is absolutely beautiful. Ardis finished a quilt top today that would knock your socks off! They are so talented.
Anyway, just had to share my first quilt.
Jo
Look what I learned to do today! I did my very first quilt top!
I can hardly wait to get it finished now. I had NO IDEA how to quilt, but thanks to daughter-in-law Ardis and her mom, Maryann; who own the Quilt Crossing in Odessa, I AM HOOKED! Now all I want to do is sew another one! What fun! How exciting to see it all come together. Albeit, this is a very simple pattern, and very easy to put together, I had a blast doing it. And, you have to start some place, right? The next step I have to do on this quilt is put more border on it so it will be big enough to cover the bed in our cowboy room in Tucson. Then, I will have it quilted professionally. I don't have a quilting machine and I can't hold a needle long enough to quilt by hand. But this still was fun. I already have the fat quarters purchased for my next quilt...and I am trying to decide on a pattern. It will have to be easy tho....no hard ones for this person.
You should see the quilts that Ardis and Maryann have made! WOW! Maryann is working on one right now that is absolutely beautiful. Ardis finished a quilt top today that would knock your socks off! They are so talented.
Anyway, just had to share my first quilt.
Jo
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Walk for the Cure
Our son, Ric, is walking the 60 mile walk for breast cancer and is looking for support. Please read the following:
Friends & Neighbors;
My name is Ric Wraspir, and in recent years many persons in my family and inner circle of friends have been affected by breast cancer. Most recently, my mother and my cousin have battled and are currently celebrating survivorship. With this inspiration I have decided to participate in the 2007 Breast Cancer 3-Day walk. I'll walk 60 miles over the course of three days with thousands of other women and men with a common goal to “end breast cancer forever.”
Without a cure, 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will continue to be diagnosed with breast cancer – a devastating disease with physical, emotional, psychological and financial pain that can last a lifetime. These numbers have created a scary awareness to me with a wife, two daughters, aunts, sister, nieces and contact with scores of young ladies in youth sports. The realization that one of these women may become one of these statistics is disheartening. Everyone deserves a lifetime.
Now you understand why this is so important to me and understand why I'm asking for your financial support. I've committed to raise at least $2,200 in donations. My personal goal is set at $4,000. So, I need your help. It's hard asking my friends and neighbors for money, but this cause and this event are very important to me. I hope that you can make a tax deductible donation of $50, $100, or more. I trust you will designate the amount that's right for you. The net proceeds benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund.
There are several easy ways to donate.
By Mail: Mail your contribution to me and I will submit proper paperwork to get your donation acknowledged and a receipt sent to you. Check payable to “Breast Cancer 3-Day”
Ric Wraspir
3810 NE 113th St
Seattle Wa, 98125
By Phone: Call 800-996-3DAY. Mention that I am participating in Seattle and my Supporter Number (160764370) and your donation will make it to my total and a receipt will get sent to you.
By Web: Donate through my personal webpage (www.the3day.org/seattle07/ric_wraspir)
Receipt will be sent to you.
So, yes, this is a plea for your emotional and financial support. I thank you in advance for your support and taking this journey with me. I look forward to seeing your name on my honor roll of donators.
Ric Wraspir
savingsecondbase@cs.com
2007 – Breast Cancer 3-Day
Friends & Neighbors;
My name is Ric Wraspir, and in recent years many persons in my family and inner circle of friends have been affected by breast cancer. Most recently, my mother and my cousin have battled and are currently celebrating survivorship. With this inspiration I have decided to participate in the 2007 Breast Cancer 3-Day walk. I'll walk 60 miles over the course of three days with thousands of other women and men with a common goal to “end breast cancer forever.”
Without a cure, 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will continue to be diagnosed with breast cancer – a devastating disease with physical, emotional, psychological and financial pain that can last a lifetime. These numbers have created a scary awareness to me with a wife, two daughters, aunts, sister, nieces and contact with scores of young ladies in youth sports. The realization that one of these women may become one of these statistics is disheartening. Everyone deserves a lifetime.
Now you understand why this is so important to me and understand why I'm asking for your financial support. I've committed to raise at least $2,200 in donations. My personal goal is set at $4,000. So, I need your help. It's hard asking my friends and neighbors for money, but this cause and this event are very important to me. I hope that you can make a tax deductible donation of $50, $100, or more. I trust you will designate the amount that's right for you. The net proceeds benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund.
There are several easy ways to donate.
By Mail: Mail your contribution to me and I will submit proper paperwork to get your donation acknowledged and a receipt sent to you. Check payable to “Breast Cancer 3-Day”
Ric Wraspir
3810 NE 113th St
Seattle Wa, 98125
By Phone: Call 800-996-3DAY. Mention that I am participating in Seattle and my Supporter Number (160764370) and your donation will make it to my total and a receipt will get sent to you.
By Web: Donate through my personal webpage (www.the3day.org/seattle07/ric_wraspir)
Receipt will be sent to you.
So, yes, this is a plea for your emotional and financial support. I thank you in advance for your support and taking this journey with me. I look forward to seeing your name on my honor roll of donators.
Ric Wraspir
savingsecondbase@cs.com
2007 – Breast Cancer 3-Day
This 'n That -- Here 'n There
Odessa
Al, Jo, Victor, Lori
That brings us to today...Ric, Cammie and Jennifer left around 10:30 this morning and we are just being lazy today. AL is reading the paper and I have been reading my book. All of the kids have checked in to wish Al a happy father's day, so all is well with us.
Since our last blog we have been busy, busy, busy. At least I have no more snakes to report about!!!
Bruce, Holly and Cortney arrived here on schedule in late May, but unfortunately for us, only stayed a day or so. They were off to discover the beautiful states of Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Colorado. We were glad to have them for a the time they were here and enjoyed our short visit.
Holly and Cortney
After they left, we packed up the old Explorer (commonly known as the "Exploder" any more -- it's so old!) and headed for Seattle. We had our usual round of dentist and doctor visits and Al's doctors were all pleased with his current health state...thank goodness! We have decided Seattle and the surrounding area is one big traffic nightmare! Too many cars, not enough roads!
We were able to have lunch with friends Frank and Lynn Conger while we were there and also visited with Jan, another long time friend. We also got in a dinner with Ric, Janet and Cammie one night at the Keg and another night with friends Rowland and Kathy Brasch....so we did some visiting in-between doctor appointments.
On Saturday, June 9 we loaded up dogs and our belongings again and headed south to Portland (in a driving rain I might add...) with Jennifer following in her car for a visit with oldest daughter Melanie and her family. Grandson Victor was graduating from high school and Melanie and Ron hosted a graduation party on Saturday. It rained all day of course...as it usually does in the Pacfic NW when you plan a party outside! Oh well, we managed. Also grand daughter Lori was graduating from Jr. High; so we celebrated for her as well. Don Miller, Jo's ex-husband was there as well and we had a great visit with him. And yes, we are still all friends.
Jennifer, Mom, Melanie
Al, Jo, Victor, Lori
Jennifer headed home on Sunday (something about having to work?) and we decided we would all go to the movies to see Shrek 3. You have to know that Shrek movies are my absolute favorite, so I thoroughly enjoyed it. We met up with Don for dinner that night at a great Chinese Restaurant (I have no idea what the name is).
Monday and Melanie and Ron had to go to work (I just don't understand this concept any more!!) so we took advantage of the day and went tire shopping. The Exploder needed new shoes! Sears we found had the best deal....so $700 later for tires and shocks, we reeled out of Sears. OUCH!
Tuesday was graduation day for Victor. The ceremony was held at University of Portland, Chiles Center....way the heck across town from where we were staying. Vic graduated from Oregon City High School, class size of 400+. The ceremony was great, however, a bit moving for me realizing that yet another grandchild has graduated from high school. The score now stands at 6 graduated and 2 still in High School...ugh! Darn, we are really getting old! Graduation wasn't over until 10:00 p.m. and we were starved. We had to be there at 5:00 to get seats (even though we had tickets, getting seats was still tough), so we had had a late lunch, but didn't expect to be there that late. And of course, getting out of the parking lot was a challenge, along with the other 600 or so cars! Don had gone with us, so the three of us only had one thing on our mind...food. We were in an unfamilar part of Portland so we made a beeline back to where we were staying and wound up at a hamburger joint for dinner and it was very good.
Wednesday was Lori's graduation day. We spent the day just taking it easy, taking the dogs to the park, etc. She graduated from Ogden Middle School, but the ceremony was at Oregon City High School, where she will attend next year!
Thursday we drove back to Odessa. We got home around 5:30 after needed stops at the grocery store in Kenniwick.
Friday I spent the day unpacking and doing laundry and straightening up the house. Friday night Ric, Cammie and Jennifer came rolling in to spend Father's Day weekend with Al. We barbequed ribs Friday night and Ardis and Jerry joined us. It is fun to have family around.
Yesterday Jennifer, Cammie
, Myrna (Al's cousin) and I headed to Spokane to attend a baby shower for Kali, Gary and Jeannette's daughter. Kali and Scott are having a baby boy, Joshua Dylan, which is due on Aug. 8. She really looks healthy and happy and has that special glow that pregnant women have. We had a great time and I can't remember the last time I was at a baby shower...oh, wait, it was for friend Nancy in Seattle and I think that was 6 years ago! OUCH! Of course, not many of my friends are having babies these days --- can't imagine why!
, Myrna (Al's cousin) and I headed to Spokane to attend a baby shower for Kali, Gary and Jeannette's daughter. Kali and Scott are having a baby boy, Joshua Dylan, which is due on Aug. 8. She really looks healthy and happy and has that special glow that pregnant women have. We had a great time and I can't remember the last time I was at a baby shower...oh, wait, it was for friend Nancy in Seattle and I think that was 6 years ago! OUCH! Of course, not many of my friends are having babies these days --- can't imagine why!Kali Wraspir-Mason & Joshua Dylan
That brings us to today...Ric, Cammie and Jennifer left around 10:30 this morning and we are just being lazy today. AL is reading the paper and I have been reading my book. All of the kids have checked in to wish Al a happy father's day, so all is well with us.
The weather here has been cool....only 68 right now and the wind is blowing....brrr! Hope it warms us soon. We will be leaving for Alaska in two weeks for a month stay, so I hope I get some warm weather here before I leave!
We have closed on the new Tucson house, and work is starting to begin on it. We have actually had 2 people call us wanting to know if we were going to rent it....how they got our phone number is beyond us! For the time being, we have decided to not rent it and see if my brother and nephew from Alaska want to stay in it this winter. If they don't they we will rent it. Time will tell....
So, until next blog, we hope this finds you happy, healthy and living life the way you want.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)