Sounding Forth

Maintenance! What? No!

2010-10-03T17:19:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, I ran some errands in Santa Fe. Wearing sandals that had black rubber foot beds resulted in the bottoms of my feet being…black. I decided to hop into the shower to clean them up, did my pedicure foot scrub, then soaked in the tub afterwards.

I’m “Kindled” up, reading a good story. ThatManILove is sleep on the bed, trying to catch up from late nights of solid customer meetings and entertainment.

I hear something over and above the movie on the television. I think it’s TMIL talking to me, so I say, “What? Did you say something?”

And then I hear, “Maintenance!”

And then, “NO!”

I’m all, “WHAT?

“MAINTENANCE!”

“NOOO!”

“WHAT?”

And then I hear TMIL talking…supposedly to the maintenance man. Who had, by the way, transgressed into our hotel room.

Without our permission. The bathroom door was open, but all he could possibly see is my feet. (That's my story and I'm sticking to it.)

It seems someone’s tub was flooding the Old House restaurant downstairs. They were trying to Sherlock it out. Still not sure if it was ours.

But the manager came up, full of apologies, and comped us wine and cheese.

I would have been happy with a full-out mani/pedi; not to mention a new pair of sandals that don’t turn your feet black.

Just sayin’.

It’s never boring around here.

Paddywhack, Give a Dog A Bone...

2010-09-23T06:06:00.002-05:00

Another week, another fundraiser - actually, two! My event season is nearly over, and I’m so very glad. Looking forward to breathing for a bit.

Yesterday, I kenneled Zanna in the house for the afternoon. Zack’s pretty trustworthy, so I let him have the run of the house. When I came home, Zack had gone to the bone box, retrieved several bones, and placed them at the door of Zanna’s kennel.

Isn’t that sweet?

Y’all have a blessed day!

(Screeching to a stop!) Here I Am!

2010-09-18T04:22:00.002-05:00

It’s been two weeks since I’ve written anything? That’s crazy, but so is mi vida loca.

ThatManILove is pretty much staying non-stop out in the field. He’ll start to complete a well, then get to the end of the completion, which calls for 24-7 out there. It’s not unusual for him to leave on Monday, and not come home until Saturday night. When he does get home, it’s sleep, sleep, sleep. But it’s sure good to see him when he does come home!

Life is hard in the oilpatch. You have to work when you can, and I’m glad for the work. ThatManILove loves what he does, but it’s very intense, high profile work at times. And it plays hell on our social lives. We can’t plan anything ahead, nor have we been able to for a long time. Sometimes our friends don’t understand, unless they are in the oilfield. Those understand full well. It’s a miracle if ThatManILove and I get to go catch a 1 1/2 hr movie, much less a meal together. I never know when he’s going to get to come home - I just know when he does get home, he needs to rest. I bet he’s averaging less than 20 hours home per week.

And then you add in the ups and downs of my life. Meetings. Travel. Events. As part of my job, I entertain quite frequently, oftentimes at restaurants for dinner dates. And lots of times, my customers and their spouses drink. I’m good with that, because I rarely drink. Don’t like the taste of alcohol, as a whole. Every once in a while, maybe a peach bellini. And that makes for one good designated driver! We do have fun, though, while getting business accomplished. I love my job.

I do miss ThatManILove going on dinner dates with my customers and I. He’s so much fun, and so knowledgeable. And my customers miss him as well. One night a couple of years ago, ThatManILove and I picked up one of my customers at his hotel. I've known this customer for about 4 years, see him weekly, and consider him a friend. He got in the back seat, I introduced him to TMIL, and we trucked on to the restaurant. We were almost at the restaurant when my customer actually realized that TMIL was my husband and not just one of my coworkers. He said, “Oh! You really DO exist!” We all laughed...that’s just the way it is in this season of our lives.

Just spent the week in San Antonio, on the Riverwalk, no less. In meetings. It was fun, got to meet new people, and got a lot of things accomplished. Hot. Humid. But fun.

Flying back, my plane was delayed. That’s the first time in a long time good ol’ Southwest has made me late, so I certainly cannot whine about that. I love me some SWA.

Aside: (My husband’s alarm just went off, and it’s 4:00 a.m. His morning report is due by 5:30 a.m. What does that say about his vida loca? )

I think I’ll try to catch a couple more hours sleep - I have to go help with a fundraiser event on this beautiful Saturday morning. Y’all have a blessed weekend!

Kids Rock

2010-09-07T23:44:00.002-05:00

This past weekend was crazy, but so much fun.

On Saturday, I ran to Big Spring to attend my grand-niece’s 4th birthday. It was SO much fun! She’s off the wall smart, and so much fun to be around! She’s definitely a girly-girl at heart, so her presents consisted of many different things…but her favorite? A remote controlled…..wait for it…yup, tarantula. Check out the picture. This girly cracks me up.

And then, I took "almost 1 year old" pix for a friend of a friend. Isn't this one too sweet?

Saturday afternoon, our friend and godchild flew in from DFW, and surprised ThatManILove. He was so excited when he opened the car door, ostensibly to “help me haul things in”, and saw baby Ada Jael and her mom, True! (We had the window shades up so he couldn’t see them as he approached the vehicle.)

We have had the best time hanging with these two little ladies. True was raised in this area, so we just opened our house up, and friends filled the house. It was a joy to see everyone, and some even brought their own babies and little ones, making the weekend even more of a blessing! Everybody fell in love with Baby Ada, and all of the little munchkins visiting. Like this one...gorgeous!

And Zack? Well, Zack fell in love with Baby Ada, too.

Genghis Grill Review...

2010-08-23T22:31:00.000-05:00

ThatManILove and I tried Genghis Grill tonight. It was crowded, and loud, and we arrived at a later hour. We waited about 15 minutes for a table, but used the wait to visit with some friends.

We were shown to a table, and introduced to our waitress, Miravelle. She explained the drill to us, and escorted us to the food line, where we picked our veggies, meat, and starch, then dropped it off at the grill for cooking.

When the bowls arrived at our table, with our cooked food, the taste was delightful. Meanwhile, the clamor had subsided, and we were able to enjoy a great supper. TMIL ordered the white fish, and I stuck with mostly veggies. Good stuff, maynard. Good stuff.

It wasn’t as quick and efficient as say, PeiWei, or one of those larger chains, but it will do.

If you go visit, ask for server Miravelle. She’s awesome. And we will return.

Vamos Por La Casa!

2010-08-22T09:49:00.001-05:00

Wanna know what love is?

Love is stopping at a hotel for the night when you’re less than 2 hours away from your house, but you’re too tired to stay awake driving at midnight. And besides that, you know ThatManILove wants you to be safe. Even if you get the last room at the hotel, there is no parking, and the cowboys, their women and their munchkins are still partying in the breakfast room.

And your eldest son is coming through the same town and wants to see you.

At midnight-thirty.

And his truck trailer loaded with horses is too big to go around the hotel parking lot, so you have to get in your truck and go meet he and his girlfriend at the closest "big enough to turn that honking sucker around" parking lot.

And then you have so much fun visiting with them for thirty minutes that when you get back to the hotel, you’re wide awake.

Awake enough to check out and drive the two hours home at 1:30 a.m.

But you...don’t. You go back to your hotel room and go to sleep.

Yup. That, people, is love.

Foxy Foxy Foxy....

2010-08-18T23:20:00.002-05:00

Once last week, and twice this week, I’ve spotted a male gray fox in our neighborhood. He’s a sneaky boy, and crosses the street about three doors down (surely you didn't think he'd hang around my house with the Hunter Wonderdogs, did ya?) around 6:40 a.m. each morning. And I'm curious. I want to see where he lives, what he’s doing, and who he’s helping to feed. I know there has to be a mommy fox and some babies around. I know, because this is a yearly saga at the house of the Snooty Primadona where the foxes Fernando and Felicia hang out. With all their cute babies, I must say.

I guess I could get one of those infrared body heat cameras that hunters post at their deer feeders.

But then again, no. I really don’t wanna know what goes on in my neighborhood after a certain hour. Just bury my head in the sand, baby. And call me Ostrich.

How Sweet It Is

2010-08-17T23:53:00.002-05:00

This weekend, we visited a local eatery, Pizzeria Venti. We’re friends with the owners, who joined us for supper along with another friend.

When the night was over, we came back to the house, and our friend decided to camp out in our guest bedroom, as she and ThatManILove had been test-driving the wine. I was the designated driver, so all was good, since I rarely imbibe.

This friend of ours is quite musical, and loves to sing. She made some off comment about the guitars, and I said, “If you ask him, he’ll probably play.”

She did.

And he did.

We started out with some James Taylor (of course) and progressed into worship music. It was fun, and washing. And what a joy to hear our friend sing. Before the weekend was over, we even broke out my Korg keyboard and amp and let her at it. Sweet stuff.

Simple pleasures, people. Simple pleasures.

Help Me Make It Through The Night

2010-08-10T23:27:00.001-05:00

Monday.

What a day. My IT department pulled a password change that totally ripped out all my 5K plus contacts and left me whining. Sniveling. Pleading. People, I cannot do business the way I do business without those contacts.

Yes, I have a copy. No, it will not import without a password - never mind that it’s never had a password. So we had to sic the password cracker on it. But he’s in a meeting. And won’t be able to attack it until 7 a.m. tomorrow. And I will be waiting at the office for him to sneak into my computer so we may labor together until my contacts are in their rightful place.

Tuesday

I walk in my door, 6 ish, to find my a/c is history. No workie. Hormonal woman, 100 degrees outside, 150 inside. Well, at least, that’s what it feels like. My normal A/C guy can’t come until tomorrow. I call another, who gets to the house at 10:30, opens my A/C, and says - something’s come loose. Your motor’s fried. And off he goes, out the door, with the last hope I have of being anywhere near cool tonight.

All the hotels are booked.

My dogs are panting. I’m sweating.

Menopausal women and heat do not mix, people.

All I can say is “C’mon, 7 a.m. - at least I’ll be in a cool office.”

Shower The People You Love With Love...

2010-08-07T00:16:00.000-05:00

Remember the last time I wrote? And said ThatManILove was stuck on a well? He’s still stuck on a well. No sleep. Hasn’t seen a hotel room in a couple of days.

So instead of telling you all the cool things we’ve experienced together this week, I’ll tell you what I saw today at the 4H Larry Ratheal Memorial Benefit shoot.

I saw 7 people, me being one of them, shoot together on a squad and have fun. It was hot. There was very little breeze. But people, we had fun.

I saw two dads work with their respective sons while they shot their shotguns. Both dads were overjoyed at their sons’ successes. This was the first tourney for either boy, and they both rocked the Casbah. Just saying.

I love seeing young people excel at whatever they pursue.

It’s very encouraging.

More than that, I love seeing fathers....be...fathers.

Just A Little More Time

2010-08-01T22:22:00.000-05:00

ThatManILove came home late yesterday afternoon after working 36 hours in the field at one fell swoop. He was exhausted.

He’s been leaving here around 4 a.m. on Monday mornings, and heading 2.5 hours away to work in the oilfield. He’s on location most days by 6:30 or 7, then making it to the hotel around 11 at night. He’s not getting much sleep, after doing reports, etc.

And then, when ThatManILove comes home, there’s always something to do around the house. We’re unable to see our friends much, because we barely have any time together - usually less than two days. We’re close to getting finished with the remodel on the house. Maybe then, he will be able to come home and just rest and relax.

Someday soon.

Someday, soon.

Stop the Insanity Already!

2010-07-31T10:57:00.000-05:00

I’ve figured out what I’m going to do the next time Zanna the WonderDog goes into heat.

I’m getting a new, larger crate. I’m going to line it with the best memory foam mattress, and it’s going to be plush.

And then, I’m crawling in, and locking the gate. And I’m not coming out for Three. Whole. Weeks.

Okay, not really.

We’ve come to the decision that it’s time to spay her. (As Janie does the Happy Dance!) We’d love to have one of her pups; however, weighing a litter of champion bloodline GSP’s vs. all the rescue dogs needing homes just does not compute.

We love dogs. I wish every rescue dog would find a home. And we’re just not going to contribute to the overpopulation issue.

Final answer.

Therapist for $200 (Okay, I love SNL)

2010-07-28T23:58:00.002-05:00

Sunnnnyyyyyy beeeeeeaaaaaches.

It’s been one heck of a day. Not even kidding. I could tell you about Elder Son missing the last flight to Wyoming….no. My breakfast order or 20 people, cancelling on me less than 30 minutes prior to delivery? Nah. Okay, I think I’ll tell you about my contractor subcontractor’s mishap…not even. My customer lunch and learn cancelling? Just a day in the life, right?

Okay. Guess I’ll expound on the never boring adventures of the WonderDogs.

This morning, I’m getting ready, out of the shower, about to dry my hair. It’s about 6:20 a.m. The dogs ask to go out. As is our norm, I go out to the “almost oasis” of a back yard. (I love it in the morning!) I sit down on the porch, grab a water bottle, settle down to enjoy the beautiful morning, and let them do their business.

I’m soon to discover that it’s not to be that kind of morning. Zanna’s in the last stages of her heat cycle. ThatManILove and I have been in some serious discussions this week as to whether or not to breed Zanna, or to get her fixed. Let me take one second to note that TMIL has NOT been in town except on weekends during the last three weeks. I’ve been dealing with this heat cycle, the diapers, the panties, all that drill. It’s making me crazy. ThatManILove doesn’t want her stout championed bloodline to end; I, on the other hand, could care less about menstrual cycles any more, much less my Zanna’s. Whatever romantic vision I had about being an awesome breeder of champion German Shorthairs has this very week faded away in a fluff of shredded cotton and denim. Zanna’s gone through more panty liners, doggie diapers, and puppy panties in three weeks than any woman I’ve ever known (however, that may be because most women I know don’t eat their sanitary products). I’m ready to put this madness to an end. Zack’s interest in her is at…well, let’s just say he’s peaked this morning. I’m not worried, though, because 3 years ago, we made him a sports model. Yup, we had him fixed.

I’m relaxing, drinking a glass of water, and all of a sudden, Zack starts acting kind of aggressive towards Zanna. And she’s, ummm….letting him. The little wench is even coming on to him. She’s flirting. And before I can say “You don’t have the stuff anymore, cowboy, don’t even think about it!” , Zack has mounted Zanna. Oh, yes, he has. You’ve heard “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up?” Well, he’s mounted, and he can’t get down. Or she can’t get loose. Or something.

I scream at him. Totally ineffective.

I run get the water hose. Same result.

I call ThatManILove. He doesn’t answer his cellphone.

So, I do what most warm-blooded over-intelligent females who are seeking answers to such a dilemma do. I run to the door, go inside, shut the back door so I don’t have to watch them do the dirty deed anymore, and go ask Mr. Google what the heck to do.

Turns out the first two things, screaming and water, only make situations such as this, worse. (Don’t say I never taught you anything.)

After I read the article twice, I decide to venture to the back door to peek out and see how things are hanging. Whew! They’re apart. Zanna’s giving me that, “Gee thanks, oh you human protector of all four legged things – you suck at this” look. I, in turn, am glaring at Zack, thinking, “You RAPIST!” I hustle them both into the house and kennel Zanna, pronto.

Then, and only then, does ThatManILove call.

“Hey, babe, did you need something?”

“Ummm, yeah, well, I did…but it’s all good now. Zack mounted Zanna.”

“What? He can’t do that.”

“Oh, yes he can, and he did. I was an eyewitness. And they got stuck.”

“What? Are you sure? I don’t think Zack can do anything.”

“I am not even gonna repeat it. Zanna’s been violated. Maybe even drugged.”

Silence.

And then I can hear him. He’s giggling. And then he starts laughing.

And that just pisses me off more.

“When did we get Zack fixed?” Yup. Still giggling.

And we figure it out. Two years ago.

And you know what he said to me then?

“Don’t worry baby. Semen doesn’t have that kind of shelf life.”

I Knew You...

2010-07-23T05:49:00.003-05:00

In the last week, ThatManILove and I have been not only blessed with a goddaughter, but I also was blessed, and honored, to attend her birth. Mom’s rocking as a new first time mother, and grandmother is right by, fiercely watching over the already strong bond of mother and child. What an absolutely beautiful thing to observe! And yeah, I’d forgotten what joy new babies bring. Just by the very act of holding baby Ada Jael , I am renewed. Refreshed. All is okay in my world, even the funky stuff.

Why is that?

Whenever I see a new baby, I hear the scripture Jeremiah 1:5: “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you. Before you were born, I set you apart for my holy purpose.”

A baby represents many things to me: Promise. Hope, for the times to come, and also, this next generation. A child is open, and full of wonder. Not one bit jaded, and most always delighted. Trusting. Loving. Never judging, just accepting you as you are.

So should we be.

I beg you - the next time you see a little one, take a second to let that baby envelop you. Let yourself be refreshed. Renewed.

You’ll smile, I promise. You’ll feel the love. And you’ll be more able to give out love, yourself.

Meet Baby Ada Jael. Does the word goddaughter translate to spoiled? If it didn’t before, it will now. And you know, I think her mommy’s totally okay with that.

Three Generations of Love (photo by Janie)

The Lackawanna Railroad Has Run Me Over

2010-07-05T17:21:00.000-05:00

I want to write. I’m good at it. It comes naturally.

Yet, when push comes to shove, I don’t want to write. I don’t seem to have the energy. Work takes up so much, and events take up so much, and you know, just life takes up so much. (And, you know, you gotta figure in the Facebook factor. I'm on there like twice a day - once early in the morning if I have time, and once late at night. ) What the hell’s up with that? Yet I feel so much better when I write. Maybe I’ll force it, just for today.

My life is good. My man is good. We have faith in God. We have our health. We’re both losing weight. We have very few bills. We both have work. Our kids are okay and one may be actually seriously finding his way, hallelujah! They’re both healthy, happy, and vibrant. They’re both seriously talented. And they’re both funnier than anyone I’ve seen in a long time.

Our dogs are hilarious. Time-consuming. Costly. I’ve not taken them hunting since the emergency appendectomy in February, and I’m mad at myself for that.

ThatManILove is busy again, which he loves. The only bad thing about it is that the work is out of town. He leaves around 4 a.m. on Monday and gets home late Friday or Saturday. Work is good. We usually do well, together or apart, because we talk on the phone daily, and you know, life is what it is. However, time apart isn’t necessarily good for us at this exact right now minute, because we have things to do and decisions to make.

Our house is still in disarray from the last flood a month ago. And all the things we decide together concerning our house, well, those decisions are probably going to fall to me. We’ve decided that while everything’s torn up that the time is now to install the french doors going out to the courtyard. The courtyard, that for now, anyway, is back to pure dirt since we had to tear it out again to get to the offensive damaged sprinkler pipe that flooded our house.

So, if one thing truly leads to another, we have to wait on (1) specially ordered french doors and (2) a new front door and back door and (3) the contractor who’s going to do the work and (4) the adjustment on the ruined rugs and (5) the french door install before we can (6) paint. (And ThatManILove wants to be here when all of this goes down. Hmmm. That translates to: isn’t going to happen anytime soon, Cowgirl.)

And I don’t even have a clue when the (7) granite that we ordered before the flood will be installed and even if (8) we can raise the cabinets a little bit like I want done and what about (9) the specially made cabinet door that cracked due to the dehumidification of the house that had to happen to dry out the damaged walls from the flood? Much less what are we going to utilize for (10) backsplash, and who’s going to put that in?

The yard, both front and back, and all the cool flowers Susan and Monica have planted, looks beautiful and gives me tons of peace. Even if the (11) pergola isn’t finished, it’s beautiful at whatever stage. Even in the recent rain, you could find me sitting out there, just breathing in the air and enjoying the scenery. Oh, yeah, baby, it’s gorgeous.

At this point, I could care less about (99) remodeling our bedroom, which was JOB ONE a couple of months ago.

Did I tell you we have to have a new (12) roof, as well? Oh, yes, we do. Frikkedy frakkidy hail storms...

I might take up the habit of alcohol.

Instead, I think I’ll take the Wonderdogs to the Dog Park. Hope it’s not too muddy...but if it is, we'll deal.

For The Sake Of Grandchildren

2010-06-29T20:30:00.001-05:00

ThatManILove is out of town this week. And I have our Little Brother and his little brother for the week, as their mom’s gone to a teacher conference in DFW.

After I dropped the boys at their respective venues, I called ThatManILove. Here’s how that conversation went:

Me: I’m enjoying these boys. I miss when Brody was little, taking him to school, doing the breakfast thing, hanging out.

TMIL: Well, we could always adopt a couple more kiddos.

Me: Right. And you’d come in the door one day, and, like you did with Zanna the Wonderpup, say, “Jane. Do you realize we’ve just signed on for a 13 year commitment with this pup?” ; except we know now the commitment would be 30 years plus!

TMIL: Yeah, I guess you’re right. But, babe - look at it this way– we might be a little closer to having grandkids if we went ahead and adopted children now and raised them up.

Me: The way our boys are going, you’re probably right!

Not The Talk! ANYTHING But The Talk!!!

2010-06-28T21:03:00.003-05:00

This week, Little Brother Geoffrey and his real little brother are staying with me while their mom attends a teacher conference in Fort Worth. So far, so good.

I say that because kiddos in your house, especially those that aren’t yours, are a different animal entirely. Your own kids are raised ~~and on their own~~ and are out and about. The empty nest syndrome is really, after all, a relief. And then all of a sudden, you have an 11 year old and a 14 year old for the week. And you can't give them back to their mom when she's 5 hours away for a week.

This afternoon brought it all home for me, via a simple text message. I’m heading to pick Geoffrey up from his summer gifted/talented program.

Geoffrey: Guess who got a girlfriend. BTW, the bus is about to leave (Odessa).

Me: You better be on it, and aloooonnnnnneeeee.

Geoffrey: Ohno I missed it......(then this long drill down of multiple spaces)....JK.

Geoffrey: She lives in Odessa. Yeah, and I don’t think they would allow that.

Then, a pause.

Geoffrey: Are you almost here?

Me: On the way.

Geoffrey: Am I gonna get "the talk"?

Oh, Lordy, I lost it.

Me, to him: ~~Not on your best day, son. Not even on your best day.~~ Mebbe so.

He cracks me up.

Where's That Energizer Bunny When I Need Him?

2010-06-09T20:59:00.000-05:00

It’s been a busy month around our place. The Backyard Project is moving along rather slowly - but it’s looking good. My friends Susan and Monica have already placed new perennials and some annuals in the front flowerbeds, and they look beautiful. I love love love LIVE flowers.

ThatManILove is working out in the field again, and he’s loving it out there. The time off was treasured, as well, because he was able to take care of lots of things we’d been putting off. I enjoyed having him around the house, and he was able to travel with me on business trips. I miss him not being here every day and night.

Our API committee just finished hosting our umpteenth annual Scholarship Golf tournament. (I seriously do not know how long this tournament has been in existence - I do know that this is my 23rd year to work it.) We had 504 players, 2 days, 2 courses, plenty of cookers and game holes, ice cream, and fellowship. Some of our scholarship recipients came and worked the tourney, and were just delightful to be around. On Saturday, we played and worked in 110 degree heat.

I could describe that in a myriad of ways, but let me just say I’m glad it is over, and grateful it was such a success. You have to have a committee, a team, to help dot every i and cross every t and drive that big ol’ bus. There is a ton of delegation, a ton of hugs, a ton of sweat. You gotta have sponsors. You gotta have players. And you have to have support on the course, not only with the golf course staff, but also, in the form of cookers, games, ice cream, water, and beer and all the people that make that stuff magically appear. And it all has to flow seamlessly. We received tons of compliments, and appreciation for all the hard work.

The immediate winners are the students who benefit from the scholarships. Some of them have just graduated high school. Some have left college, started families, and have gone back to college.

The ultimate winners, however, are you and I. We have not had one student fall out. We’ve seen students hit a bump, then get back on the trail. Many of them have graduated with honors, and are now working alongside us in the oil industry. Some of them have gone on to be lawyers - doctors - accountants.

They are our future.

And these students - each and every one of them - make it all worthwhile.

Even in 110 degree heat.

Saturday! Saturday! Saturday, Saturday!

2010-05-29T09:47:00.000-05:00

The long weekend is finally here. Memorial Day. The day we honor those who serve us, and who have served us. I'm so thankful for our military, and for my relatives who have served and honored all of us in the United States. Please remember them this weekend as you trek around.

It's a good thing it's a long weekend, because I'm exhausted. ThatManILove got home from the field, and that's awesome.

And this morning, ThatManILove's talking we have to go pick out a new sink (to go with the new granite for the kitchen)....and new outside furniture (to go with all the new backyard remodel).

Dude! Honey, I have things to do. I have to finish the entries for the mega 540 golf tournament stuff and hand it back over to my friend so we can get on with the rest of the duties to get this 2 day, 2 course extravanganza pulled off next weekend.

And I have to go run around with my new friend Melissa who's moving in from Tulsa, and looking for houses. And I have to go take pictures for more friends sometime this weekend. We could go to GlenRose and watch Elder Son rope? Nahhhhhh. Too far....

And, by the way, did I tell you that I promised you'd put that awesome burn on some salmon this weekend for Melissa and her step-mom? We gotta show some of that famous Texas hospitality, even though you've torn half of our countertops down and the rest is still in that are we ever gonna freakin' finish this remodel slightly undone state. It'll be okay, honey. I promise.

And honey? Call me after you get your haircut. I'll meet you wherever. It'll be fun!

Update...(Can You Still Put Them Up For Adoption After 20?)

2010-05-28T00:03:00.002-05:00

Elder Son is doing better - he's mobilized, he's up and going, and already horseback again. I sent him a text to see what he was doing and here's how it went:

Me: What are you doing?

ES: Riding a bronc...he's as hard headed as me.

Me: (Oh.My.God.Does.He.Have.A.Working.Brain.Cell.??) And your leg?

ES: It hurts but what's new?

Me: (I swear he's going to drive me to drink.) What about the doc?

ES: Gonna be Tues or Thurs next week

I guess we'll know more then. His Nanny got out of the hospital today, and will be recuperating at her daughter's house. Thanks so much for your prayers, they are greatly appreciated.

As to the Younger Smartalecjustlikehisfather Son, after his last April Fool's joke - prank - I thought his dad was going to kill him Facebook event where he told the world he had just found out he was going to be a father, he is breathing. I swear. I saw him. Yesterday, he changed his FB status to "single". I couldn't resist, I had to do it. I posted: "But what about the BABYYYYY?" Soon after, one of his friends jumped in: "Oh, did your beer break up with you? how sad."

How did that song go? "I believe the children are our future...teach them well and they will lead the way..." RUN! RUN!!!!!!

And now, for an update on the backyard....FINALLY, things are moving along! Artificial turf and sealing of flagstone this week...and then, in come the plants. The pergola is now framed out, and over the next week we'll probably see it come to "be."

Happy Memorial Day weekend!

A Life In The Day...

2010-05-23T09:28:00.002-05:00

ThatManILove and I booked flights to go to Dallas for the day plus an overnight stay. 8am Saturday flights. Which mean we had to be at the airport at 7 a.m. No problem, just an everyday occurrence at the Sounding Forth casa. And then...it happened. Late Friday night, I get a call. My son just arrived home from a long trip to Arkansas. Twenty minutes later, around midnight, Elder Son walks through the door, saying, “Mom. I’m here. Will you look at my leg?”

Four plus years ago, Elder Son had a serious leg surgery that our good doctor healed with a distal realignment procedure. Sounds easy, but it’s not, by any means. We had problems upon problems - he developed blood clots, lost tons of weight, then the wound would not close because he had lost so much weight the skin wouldn’t stretch, and I could go on. One thing led to another, and it took him 4 months, home health care, and 2 subsequent surgeries before he healed up and got on with his life.

I bet you’re wondering, “Is this the same leg?”

Yes. Darnit. Dang the luck. Creepers. It’s the same leg.

ThatManILove and I and Elder Son discussed our options. Should we go to the Midland emergency room NOW? The leg is hot. Tripled in size. Hard to the touch. Should we go to the Lubbock emergency room, where Elder Son’s doctor lives and practices, so he could followup? Between the three of us, we can’t get to a firm answer.

I had a thought. I ran to get my iPhone...scrolled through the contacts...and found the good Doctor’s cell number - after all these years, I still had it. Elder Son took a picture of his leg, compared to his other leg. And then, he forwarded the picture, and a short message to his doctor. Amazingly, said doctor calls Elder Son immediately (remember, it’s after midnight!), and they formulate a plan for Elder Son to go to the emergency room during the daylight hours when the ortho doctor is on call.

By 1:30 a.m., it’s been decided that TMIL and I will go on our trip, but cut it down to a one day trip, with no overnight stay. Elder Son will go with his father to the emergency room and we’ll be back that night to check on him.

We leave for Dallas at 8am, go take care of our business, have lunch with friends, and head back to the airport. I call my son, who doesn’t answer. I call his father, and find out that his mom, my son’s grandmother, has suffered a stroke and they’re all at the emergency room. So, father and son are at the emergency room where they are supposed to be, but for all the wrong reasons...

We miss our direct flight, and have to fly....from Dallas to Albuquerque, and then to Midland. Yeah. We flew over our town, just to come back 2 hours later.

We fly into Midland, and head straight to the hospital to be with Elder Son, his dad, aunt, and cousin. When we arrive, Nanny has been stabilized to the point that she can be moved into ICU. We all gather in the waiting room, and then, 2 by 2, get to go into her room to see her. She’s awake, and communicating...I’m grateful. We love this woman!

ThatManILove and I head home, hug the WonderDogs, and hit the sack.

Today will find us at the emergency room, working on Elder Son’s leg. We covet your prayers, for healing for both Elder Son, and his Nanny.

It’s never boring around here.

Sunday evening update: The ER Doc drained 120cc (for some reason, that is all he would drain) of fluid from Elder Son's knee; the Doc doesn't think his knee is infected. Nanny seems to be coming around and reports have her sitting up eating a meal this afternoon. Thanks for your prayers!

We May Be A Little Claustrophobic

2010-04-18T16:48:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week, ThatManILove and I had a movie date. We split salad and lasagna at at Pizzeria Venti, then headed to the movies.

We went to see "Date Night", the comedy with Steve Carell and Tina Fey. The movie had probably been at our theatre 2 days, so we knew that most likely, the theatre would be crowded.

We were the first couple in the theatre, so for once, we sat in the middle of the second row from the top. (We’re usually side seat aficionados.) Our theatres are of decent size, for a mid-size Texas town, so there are plenty of seats.

We were early, and I was talking long distance to an old friend from North Carolina, and having a good time. ThatManILove was playing poker on his crackberry. In about five minutes, a couple came and sat down on our row, about three seats down from me on my right. And five minutes later, another couple came and sat the exact same distance from ThatManILove, on his left.

ThatManILove starts muttering.

Then, six people, who obviously go to the movies together all the time (I’ve seen them) came and sat...directly in front of us.

I’m still on the phone with my friend, and whispering the play by play to her. She’s laughing hysterically, and I’m trying not to do the same. ThatManILove is starting to steam.

People. The entire theatre was empty. No one was on the side seats, no one was seated in the lower section.

The “Dancing Boxes” (what I call the previews) start, and I get off the phone. But not before 4 people come and sit directly behind us. I kid you not.

ThatManILove was grumbling. I turned to him and asked him, “Did you order those special attractant pheremones from one of those funky 1-800 numbers or something? Because these people are sticking to you like glue, baby. Glue!”

So...to recap, we were instantly surrounded by 2+2+6+4 people. The theatre didn’t fill up. So, Including ThatManILove and myself, there were now 16 people in the theatre. All smacking on their popcorn, kicking our seats, and talking amongst themselves. Surrounding us. In a theatre that probably seats at least 200 people.

And we were dead smack in the center of the top section of 12 seat rows, totally and irrevocably surrounded. You just can’t get much closer than that.

I think we’ll repair to the side seats next time.

My Back Yard Looks Like a Demilitarized Zone....

2010-04-14T21:10:00.006-05:00

Wow. It’s gone from clean to scene in about 2 days here por la casa. You see, ThatManILove had a dream. And one of our friends, Doug, is a whiz at drawing out plans...and they're both good at executing said directive. ThatManILove sees a plan, it's Katy Bar That Door...you can consider that puppy faded, put to bed, complete. No ifs, ands, or buts.

The next thing I knew, there are strange men over here digging up our entire backyard. Bringing over slabs of rock for me to pick out colors. Limestone? Flagstone? or Rosa? Or Arizona? Arrrrrrgggghhhh! Digging major holes which are, by the way, driving Zanna the Wonder Girl crazy, since they have filled them with water in order to ready them for cementing. She swears there are birds in those holes, and tries to swipe them out with her paw. We think she sees their reflection in the water. Her high dollar trainers would be so proud of this girly dog.

this morning....

I digress. Please forgive me.
I came home this afternoon, and there are these huge pillars of wood sticking up in the air. Trenches dug all over our back yard. Zanna’s pissed about that, too. She looks at us like, “Hey. I get time out when I dig, what the hey? You’re not even scolding those guys.”

Did I mention the phone line was inadvertently cut? Oh, yeah. Not that we use it, except for dsl. And at the last minute, when our friend had already come by and replaced our ancient gas line, ThatManILove decided he needed yet another tap for the fire pit? Can you say “Cha-ching!” three times in a row, really fast? YIKES. We passed up the DIY budget days ago. And ThatManILove’s talking about a “water feature”. Maybe even a koi pond. I guess Zack and Zanna would be German Shorthair Fishing Dogs.

That’s right, fire pit - water feature - koi pond. ThatManILove is creating his own little Margaritaville oasis in the back yard. And when he’s on a mission, he’s on one. And Zanna is more than stressed out and acting all weird. There are PEOPLE, Mom, invading HER territory!! And Zack? He’s loving all this activity - because that means ThatManILove is a wee bit distracted. Distracted dad = free Zack. Today, ThatManILove got a phone call from the city.

“Do you have a large brown dog?”

“Yes sir.”

“Do you know he’s running free?”

“No sir.”

The city employee gave ThatManILove the address, which happened to be 4 houses down from ours, and when TMIL went out to get him, the city employee was holding Zack by the collar. Thank God he didn’t call animal control, we would have had to attend Defensive Doggie and pay a hefty fine. I tell you all that to inform you that Zack is quietly standing by any door that might crack open enough to allow him the slightest chance of sneaking out.

this afternoon

Within a week or so, though, it should all be shaping up. And that will be exciting. Today, ThatManILove said, “I might have rushed this all a bit - our timing may be a little off, but babe, I think it will all be worth it.” Me: “I just want to finish the kitchen and paint.” Him: “Babe, we’ll get lots of use out of this outdoor area - I’m even putting the outlets in so we can pull the musical instruments out if we want.” Me: “I know, but people have to walk through our house to get to this outdoor area.” Him: “We are so going to enjoy this, I promise.” I know, I know, but how long is it gonna take this WonderWorld to develop? Did I tell y'all that it rained today, so none of the workers showed up? And when I say rain, I mean SPRINKLED. Weenies. All of them. Weenies.

What can I say to that "We are so going to enjoy this, I promise?" ? I mean, holy crap, we certainly can’t stop now...but if he starts pricing lions and tigers and bears, oh, MY! Our yard may be paid for, but it's not that freakin' big!

Just finish the backyard already...and then, the backsplash in my kitchen and paint, cowboy, and I’ll be one happy camperette. Yes, I will. And honey, you will, too!

It's never boring around here!

Powered Down and Holding...

2010-04-11T14:15:00.000-05:00

This is the ol’ I’m having trouble getting back to my blog whine. Wah. Okay, I’m done with that post, now on to bigger and better things. (Quickest ever, huh?)

This is our first weekend por las casa with absolutely no plans. A friend came in to see us, but basically, we’ve done not one thing but visit, and eat. And visit, and eat. And the guys have played guitars, and I’ve taken some pictures. We’ve gone to the dog park. ThatManILove’s about to put a burn on some salmon a la grill, our boys should make an appearance sometime this afternoon, and play some of their songs for our friend, and then....we’re gonna eat.

It’s been a restful, fun weekend. Powered down, fun, quiet times.

So good.

How about you?

March 2010 in Pictures

2010-03-28T11:25:00.002-05:00

Spring's upon us, and I've taken lots of pictures this month. I thought it might be fun to recapture the month in photography. So, enjoy!

My good friend Connie's dad passed this week, and these kiddos were there to honor their great-grandfather. They brought a lot of laughter to the situation. To me, children always represent hope...and heritage.
Meet Camry and Addison - cousins - who were doing EVERYTHING my friend Tamra told them to do - "Girls, hold your hair up - act like a movie star!"

Aren't these girlies too cute? They loved the camera.

And sometimes, the photographer inspires them to act out a little...y'all know I can't resist a sign - or a challenge!! This is Coby, Camry's brother, posing with his sister and cousin. If the cops ask, I had everything nothing to do with it.

A friend of mine asked me to take Easter pix of her boys. Their dad is a fireman, so we dropped by the station, just as he was coming in from a call. Here, the boys and their mom are watching the truck back into the station. It was so cool to watch the boys run to their dad for hugs once he got out of the truck.

In this shot, Ayden's teaching little brother Maddux the perfect rock throwing technique.

I was so glad I snagged this shot of Ayden giving his mommy some love...it was a crazy windy day, and the boys were tired. We got some great shots, though!

Below, Geoffrey, our Little Brother in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Here, we were at a restaurant, and I loved the light pouring in through the window on this overcast day. Geoffrey's always up for a photo moment - I love that about him!

I've watched Anna grow up...we had so much fun on this shoot day. She's a card!

Happy End of March!!

The Allergy Season Is Upon Me....

2010-03-22T12:52:00.001-05:00

My allergies are killing me!

I woke up this morning, took a Claritin (preventative, I might add!), put allergy eye drops in, hopped in the shower, and started to get ready. Somethings blooming around here (and yeah, it was 32 degrees Saturday) and it’s kicking my butt.

First....makeup, then hair.

I was just finishing with my hair when it started. My left eye went crazy, watering.

Makeup, and all, melted down to my chin.

Did I say it hurt?

It hurt.

So, I wash my eye. Now, I’m really looking good. Like one of those before and after commercials. One side, completely made up, the other, looking like crap.

My eye quits watering.

I start over on that eye....eye shadow, little bit of liner, little bit of mascara. I don’t wear that much makeup, people.

I get up to get dressed, and here it all goes again. PLUS my eye starts swelling. I run to the sink, take it all off, and ThatManILove grabs an ice pack.

I lay down on the bed, with the ice pack over my eye.

Finally, about an hour later, I’m able to get out of the house with some semblance of being “put together.”

My eye’s still watering. I’ve taken my second dose of allergy medicine, which, by the way, gives me a headache.

There might be something to be said for the frozen tundra and the lack of allergies thereof.

I Lost A Week - Can Someone Tell Me Why?

2010-03-20T08:37:00.003-05:00

How did this week fly by?

Let me count the ways. Work takes up a lot of time. And then...constant entertainment. I think it started last week, when friends came over for supper two nights in a row (they were moving, and had no kitchen.) Here are some pix of their little girlies. Beautiful? You betcha. Sweet babies, all of them.

Last Saturday found us tooling around Midland, checking out real estate. Yup. Not to move, though, just to see what was hanging out on the foreclosure market. Because I’m always looking for the next best deal. We saw some funny stuff, some cool stuff, and some very very scary stuff. Interesting. Verrrrrry interesting, people.
Saturday evening, I took some pix of a beautiful young lady. We had to book it to beat sunset (look hard, you can see the fading light in the background. Cool, huh? Who knew?)

Sunday morning, at dawn, more pix of the beautiful young lady, plus her beautiful sisters. We shot four locations in one hour and took over 300 shots. And had fun!

Then, we cooked out for Younger Son and friends. Or wait, was that Saturday? Arrrrrgh. All week, ThatManILove worked on taxes, and readied for his next frac job. He was a busy man, sometimes home, sometimes on location. And I worked.

We had dinner with clients or coworkers every. single. night. And this morning, we’ll do brunch with co-workers considering moving to Midland.

Plus, the Little Brother and a friend spent the night. They woke up at 6:30 am, I heard them drop something.

And I wonder why I look up, and it’s yet another holiday? Yikes. Okay. Off to brunch.

(PS - having font trouble when I post pix to Blogger. Sorry for the disarray!)

Janie's Fun House

2010-03-11T02:44:00.001-06:00

Tonight, our house was full of little munchkins. Friends with kids came over for supper, as their house is being packed to move to another town. I love children, but y’all probably knew that already, right?

These little girls are beautiful. The two oldest wanted to eat their supper in the TV room, so we set them up on our coffee table. I soon went to check on them, and got there just in time to rescue their food from Zack the Wonderdog. It seems that the girls had gone exploring in the room, and weren’t watching their food.

While they were exploring, they found this bowl that’s sole purpose is to house the remote. Instead, the girls found all sorts of treasures in this bowl.

They found:

An H2S monitor

A lens cap for my camera

A small part of the vacuum cleaner

A sock that someone had rescued from Zanna the Wonderdog

Some highlighters

One of those stretchy headbands with a light on it - for nighttime reading while camping.

A lipstick, and nail polish (thank God I was around for that find!)

It seems our maids have been stashing whatever they find laying around in that bowl.

Of course, girls being girls, we had to try the lipstick on everyone.

And then, we had to get the little mirror in the bathroom out, so the girls could admire themselves.

And while one young lady took me into her mom to show her our lipstick, the little sister found a sheet of postage stamps...

And proceeded to decorate the little mirror with the entire sheet, one stamp at a time.

ThatManILove has a desk in this room, and the oldest girl found a hole punch. That and the highlighters, augmented by some post-it notes, kept her entertained for the better part of an hour.

Who says you need toys to entertain kiddos?

They're coming back tonight for a rerun. Wonder what we'll find?

Tonight was too much fun.

Sponge

2010-03-09T20:53:00.000-06:00

I’m like a sponge. No, I am a sponge. I think I’m absorbing the feelings of everyone around me. I’m up, and I’m down. I’m down, and I’m up. I don’t know what’s going on with me, but tonight, I’m gonna have to go hunting. For me. And writing is part of that, so you get to go along with me!

You see, I’ve lost my smile. Just today, I noticed it was gone. And for no obvious reason. Oh, lots of peripheral things are going on...

ThatManILove is reviewing his business books and though he knew it already, he’s seeing exactly how we dumped way too much into a project that just sucked up dinero like a vaccuum with no return. So, he’s plowing through the black and white of it all. I’m encouraging him, and...loss carry forward on your taxes is a good thing, right?!

One of my best friends is wending her way this week through the halls of M.D. Anderson, trying to find out answers to the pre-diagnosis of a brain tumor. I wish I could be with she and her husband right now, to help, and to just be there.

Two weeks ago tonight, four of Younger Son’s friends and fellow ensemble musicians suffered a horrible auto accident - one is dead, one lost her arm (and she’s a mandolin player), one’s in a coma, and one suffered many broken bones, but is healing. Younger Son was supposed to be with them...but was tired, and opted out of the late movie date. We’re so very thankful Younger Son’s alive and intact. Watching him deal with the grief, the heart issues and the mental part of the accident aftermath is one of the hardest things we’ve ever done. Watershed moments in a young man’s life...

Thanks for listening....

I’m gonna get quiet now, and get back to myself. Yeah, I am. Y'all better be ready.

But for now...Peace. Be still.

Me and My Big Mouth...

2010-02-25T17:51:00.001-06:00

Okay, here’s another hospital happening.

Remember when my brother and I were in the emergency room, waiting on my test results so they could take me into surgery for the emergency appendectomy? How could you forget, you say? That’s all I’ve been writing about? Yeah, that day.

I found out there are rules for all the workers at the hospital. Seriously.

Some of them are annoying. Very, very annoying. And before you say a freakin’ word, like there are reasons for rules, believe me, I know. I didn’t get to this advanced age by always being a rebel without hitting some boundaries in my life. But....I digress.

Every single caretaker that came into my room said something along the lines of “Hi, I’m Nurse Ratchet. I’m here to take care of you. What is your name? (as they looked at my name tag). And why are you here? I was very polite, smiling as much as I could, because, you know, honey gets more stuff done that's how I rock.

Finally, my surgeon’s assistant, a pretty 4th year medical student named Laura, comes in. I’ll call her Surgeon Laura. (names and towns have been somewhat modified to somewhat protect the innocent.)

Surgeon Laura sits down by my bed, with my chart. She’s all smiles, and bubbly, a beautiful young lady. “Hello, I’m Surgeon Laura. I’ll be assisting Dr. McDreamy during your surgery. I understand you’re from Small Local Town.

I assure her I am. Then she says (wait for it), “Why are you here?”

I turn my head towards her, somehow keep a straight face, and say, “I’m here for a sex change operation.”

Her face totally turns to stone, and she looks away. I know, you’re thinking, “Oh, Janie - you did not.” Yeah, I did.

I turn and look at my brother, and he’s about to bust a freakin’ gut. I turn back to Surgeon Laura, and she’s still in shut down mode. ( Inside, I’m mad at myself - it’s obvious I’ve offended her.) Me and my big mouth. I have a problem with that automatic zipper that should be installed in my mouth, oh, yes I do.

I turn back to Surgeon Laura, and touch her arm. I tell her I’m just kidding, She finishes her interview, rather tersely, I might add, and gets up and leaves. Soon after, I’m in the OR, and she’s teasing me about what I said, telling on me to Dr. McDreamy and the surgical team.

The next morning, at 6:30 a.m., she’s in my room, checking on me. Still about halfway drugged, I introduce her to ThatManILove, and tell him “she’s the one I embarrassed about the supposed sex change.”

Surgeon Laura stops me, and she’s smiling. She said, "I need to tell you why I shut down on you yesterday. Last week, I was interning in a mental hospital, FROM YOUR SAME SMALL LOCAL TOWN, and I sat down by this person to admit them into surgery, and basically enacted the exact same scenario.”

Me: Really?

SL: Yes. It really messed me up.

Me: Why?

SL: This person was schizophrenic, and it was one of the personalities talking to me, and it wasn’t joking!!! It was a very uncomfortable situation. After I figured out you were messing with me, I got a kick out of it.

Yeah, I can sure stick my foot in my mouth sometimes. You can count on that. You can dang sure count on that.

Making That List, and Checking It Twice

2010-02-23T01:54:00.000-06:00

Next week, I can go back to work. I’m sort of ready to do so. I’m not a stay-at-home person - I have to be on the go.

But, you know, I could get so used to being at the house! Though I’ve been recuperating, I have been able to get ThatManILove to do some things for me.

He totally reorganized the kitchen, which has been in a state of remodel for some time. One of our friends measured the backsplash for stainless steel, and probably be installing the backsplash. I think it will look amazing.

ThatManILove built our cabinets, and they’re beautiful. All of them have glass fronts, though, which is sometimes hard for storing grocer goods. I suggest putting a frost film on the glass, which TMIL did. It looks amazing, and we may go ahead and do all the cabinets, instead of just the 4 end ones. The film pattern is called Cascade, and it looks like fine line water drops. Sweet.

I still am unable to lift things, so tomorrow, he’s pulling all the bins out of my closet and putting them on the bed for me so I might reorganize them.

I may be walking wounded, but I’m getting some stuff done.

It makes me feel a little better about missing work.

May I? Or....May-or?

2010-02-19T04:00:00.005-06:00

At the beginning of my hospital stay, post-surgery, one of my nurses came in my room, introduced herself, and told me she would be my charge nurse for the next four days. We visited a little bit, and then she said...”I need to ask you something, seriously.”

Me: Okay.

Nurse: Will you tell me the truth?

Me: Of course,

Nurse: There’s a rumor that you’re going to run for mayor of Midland.

Me: Me? (I look at TMIL, and we burst out in laughter.) I think you’re mistaken.

Nurse: No, seriously, that’s what they said during reports.

ThatManILove and I assured her that we were considering doing nothing of the sort.

Later, my brother Scott comes in. I told him what happened, and asked him what’s up with the rumor, and he said that when the surgery team put me in my first (small) room, my friends teased them that I would have more visitors than the mayor.

We fought that rumor the entire hospitalization - but we were sure treated well!

Today, one of my friends called. She and her husband own a local chiropractic clinic.

One of their friends was one of the charge nurses on my floor, and told them she had really enjoyed getting to visit with TMIL and myself.

And then, she said, “So, really, when is she going to announce her candidacy for mayor of Midland?”

Lord help me, this one's gonna take a while to die down - at least amongst the medical community.

Slow (Walk, Don't Run...) Recovery

2010-02-17T19:46:00.005-06:00

Well, the injured is recovering slowly.

I’ve been walking the mall almost every day, until Monday, when I visited my doctor. He took my staples out, told me it was good to be walking, and to take it slow. We went to the mall, did our requisite lap, and went home.

Tuesday, I hit the wall. It was a miracle if I got out of bed for more than 10 minutes. My incision started hurting again, and if possible, drained more than it had before. Like I wanna gross you all out. I think I need to start drinking some high dollar scotch...a lot of it...then I'll have a good reason to hurt!

After calling my doctor, I started breathing again - the nurse told me that after the staples are out, the wound has to go through another level of healing and that the wound would be “pulling” because it had lost its “support” in the staples.

WTH? Good to know. Like I could get out of the pain, anyway?

I could be taking pain pills, but they make me feel like shit funky. It's just not worth it.

Today, we went back to the mall, and walked even further - hopefully, by the end of the week, I’ll be clocking two miles per day. I know, that’s not very much, but you do it with an 8” incision, okay?

No, don’t. I wouldn’t wish this on anyone!

Thanks for all your support, I’m trying to get back in the swing of writing, and responding. You guys rock. Next story will be funny, I promise.

Oh, yeah - Did I tell you all my girlfriends were drooling over my surgeon? Oh, yeah - they were a sight to see. He could have told them I was dying, and they'd say, "Yes, sir, anything you want, sir."

Cracked ThatManILove and I flat up.

A Father and His Daughter

2010-02-13T13:43:00.000-06:00

As we walked into a restaurant today at lunch, I noticed a man and his daughter sitting at the bar in a local restaurant. I was just drawn to them. They were sitting side by side, and as Steve and I sat down waiting on our food, I observed them as they talked. They were sitting so close, you couldn’t have put a piece of paper between them.

The young lady was probably 13 years old, and she was telling her dad a story, something personal she had experienced. She was very animated, and you could tell whatever had happened had touched her deeply.

Her dad was very calm, and never took his eyes from her face. He heard every word daughter said, and daughter knew it, with all her heart. When he started talking to her (and not in correction), she visibly calmed and listened to him - their conversation never missed a beat. They were definitely in their zone.

It was a very cool thing to watch.

She got up, and walked past our table to refill her drink. I said, “She’s beautiful!” Steve commented that the daughter might have some attitude, as she flounced by him. I had a clearer view of her from where I sat, and I said, “Maybe, but I think it’s more “confidence” than “attitude”. She knows she’s her daddy’s daughter, and she’s cool with that - and in her God-given place. Watch.”

So, we did.

Beautiful. Absolutely beautiful, this father with his daughter.

"Daughters" by John Mayer

I know a girl

She puts the color inside of my world

But she's just like a maze

Where all of the walls all continually change

And I've done all I can

To stand on her steps with my heart in my hands

Now I'm starting to see

Maybe it's got nothing to do with me

Fathers, be good to your daughters

Daughters will love like you do

Girls become lovers who turn into mothers

So mothers, be good to your daughters too

Oh, you see that skin?

It's the same she's been standing in

Since the day she saw him walking away

Now she's left

Cleaning up the mess he made

So fathers, be good to your daughters

Daughters will love like you do

Girls become lovers who turn into mothers

So mothers, be good to your daughters too

Boys, you can break

You'll find out how much they can take

Boys will be strong

And boys soldier on

But boys would be gone without the warmth from

A womans good, good heart

On behalf of every man

Looking out for every girl

You are the god and the weight of her world

So fathers, be good to your daughters

Daughters will love like you do

Girls become lovers who turn into mothers

So mothers, be good to your daughters too

Bury Me in My Hat and My Boots

2010-02-11T14:57:00.001-06:00

Late last week, I had a horrible night. I was running 103 degrees fever, and in terrible pain. I should have just gone to the emergency room that night, but the pain eased. Chills stopped.

The next morning, I told ThatManILove I was going to the doctor. He was heading out to the field, to substitute in for a guy that needed a day off. I told him to go on, and promised I would call my brother Scott if I needed a ride, or anything. TMIL left around 4:30 that morning.

I got up, took a shower, fixed my hair and put on makeup, and called my brother. He assured me he was coming to Midland and would clear his day for me “just in case.”

I went to my office to collect my computer, since I was working on a project. And everything started again.

I drove straight to my personal physician, who diagnosed : appendicitis. He called the emergency room, I drove to my house, and Scott met me there. We went to the hospital.

Because of my level of pain, they immediately put me in a patient room. They got me comfortable, gave me drugs, and I settled in for a long wait while they ordered tests, started i.v., and asked a million questions.

At some point, I had to go to the bathroom. Since I was on drugs, a nurse had to walk me to the bathroom down the hall, and back to my room.

I came in, looked at Scott, and said, “These drugs must be some good shit.”

Scott: Why?

Me: I kid you not, as I was walking down the hall, I saw a guy all gowned up, with his stuff all hanging out, and...he was wearing a cowboy hat.

Scott, laughing: Seriously? His cowboy hat? He’s wearing his cowboy hat with a gown?

Me: Yeah, you might be a redneck stuff, huh? I dunno. It may be the drugs. But will you go look? (at this time, he would do freakin’ anything to stop me from hurting and to make me laugh - which, by the way, hurt just as much.)

Scott goes out of the room, and shortly comes back with this killer grin.

Scott: Yup.

Me: I’m not hallucinating?

Scott: Nope. And....

Me: What?

Scott: He has on his cowboy boots, too.

I had to call for more drugs. Yeah, baby. I’m from Texas.

Needless to say, this story has been told over and over again post-surgery. What a way to heal, huh?

Ouch.

Operation Blog Fodder - or An Operation IS Blog Fodder

2010-02-10T01:48:00.000-06:00

Sorry I’ve been away from blogging, but I have a good excuse. Oh, sure, she says.

I've been out doing research for more blog fodder...as if I needed any.

Last Wednesday (if my mind is working right) I had to have an emergency appendectomy. Oh, yes, I did. If MiVidaLoca wasn’t loca enough, I had to add that milestone to the route.

I finally got out of the hospital on Monday. I will have two weeks off to recover, and yeah - it was major surgery. I was shocked. I thought an appendectomy was a lot like going to the mall. In, out, over, done. Wrong. So very wrong.

I’m doing well, and was totally surrounded by friends and family, and have been loved on more than a person deserves in one life.

Lots of funny stuff happened, I’ll try to remember it all and put it down.

For those of you who knew what was going down, called and sent cards and e-mails, thanks so much.

Life is good..and my body hurts. But I forgot, this is a no-whine zone. Have I told you ThatManILove rocks?

Knock, Knock, Knocking on Heaven's Door

2010-01-30T23:08:00.001-06:00

After the Casino night, we had a busy day at the Symposium. On less than 4 hours sleep. Stupid, huh? Needless to say, ThatManILove those of us who had imbibed alcohol the night before had a sinking spell around 11 a.m. - and then again, around 2:30 p.m. Those of us who didn’t drink (namely me) somehow carried on without cratering at all.

The social hour finished around 6 p.m., and we were trying to decide where to eat, and with whom. ThatManILove and I went up to the room to change. He ended up laying down for a minute, and he immediately went to sleep. My co-workers were going to make a plan, and call us shortly. After 20 minutes passed, and no call had been received, I decided to put on jeans and boots and head back down and see if I could get all my fish to swim the same way.

Turned out, about 25 of us wanted to go with each other...and someone decided they were going to eat...(can you guess?) at the Casino. I knew a few of my customers were not going to want to drive that far, so I made other plans. While I called the Bonefish Grill to make reservations for 10, I had one of my coworkers call ThatManILove to tell him to come on down. We couldn’t get him to answer.

My friends Lonnie and Dawn decided to go up to their room to change, while I was still on the phone with Bonefish Grill and trying to keep all my people together. I quickly gave Dawn my room key, and asked her to go by our room and tell ThatManILove to come down.

He came down forthwith, and looked at me with one of those looks of love - you know, girls, the dark ominous ones? That portend no good will?

Yeah. ThatManILove didn’t answer his phone, but he did try to answer the door when Dawn knocked. Just as she was coming in the room, to wake him up he was heading to the door - not quite dressed. I’m not sure who was more surprised, ThatManILove or Dawn!

I heard lots of “Janie told me to” (from Dawn) and “Janie, I can’t believe you did that” (from ThatManILove). We laughed a lot heading to the Bonefish Grill!

It’s never boring around here!

Come Dance With Me, My Darling!

2010-01-24T21:54:00.001-06:00

I promised to post some of the funny stuff that happened while we were in Oklahoma, so here goes.

One night last week in Tulsa, we decided to go to the Hard Rock Casino for a couple of hours. A friend, Doug, was in town, so we picked him up at his hotel. We all made promises to each other we’d only stay for a couple of hours. I already said that, didn’t I? Yeah. Doug doesn’t even like to gamble, and just went to spend time with us.

We don’t gamble often, nor do we stake big bucks. I don’t play table games. ThatManILove doesn’t play slots. So, we’re often apart once we’re in the casino.

Doug would go hang out with ThatManILove, then he’d come play some quarter slots with me.

I quickly got tired, and so did Doug. We agreed we’d go rescue ThatManILove and go back to our respective hotels, so to the tables we went. We quickly found ThatManILove, so started watching.

The blackjack dealer won’t let a bystander hang around long, and ThatManILove was on a mini-roll. I turned to the quarter machines right behind the table, so that once Doug talked him into leaving, I’d be right there and we could jet.

Doug comes over to my machine, and we play together for a couple of minutes. Then, Doug says, “I’m gonna go get some of his drink.”

Fade back about five years. We’re in Las Vegas, with friends. Serious gambling friends, the kind that know what they’re doing and do it well. We are but mere amateurs. It’s been a long night, I’m major bucks ahead, so I tell ThatManILove I’m going to bed. He’s not been doing well, all night - our friends have been teasing him that he must be confused - the ATM machine is NOT a slot machine.

I go to bed, and several hours later, ThatManILove wakes me up. He’s a little under the weather, and figured out that the waitress kept topping off their bloody marys without permission. At that point, he decides he’s never going to drink and gamble.

Back to Doug. I said, “ThatManILove doesn’t drink when he's gambling!” Doug said, “Okay. Yeah. I’ll be back.” And back he comes, with ThatManILove’s drink. He said, “We’re sharing.” I said, “Ooookkkaaaayyyy.” We laugh. I’m ready to go, but Doug keeps telling me ThatManILove is on a roll, we can't go yet. There’s lots of activity at the table, laughing, whooping, so I acquiesce.

And then Doug says, “I didn’t know ThatManYouLove smokes.” I say, “He doesn’t!” Doug grins, and says, “Really? Look!”

Sure enough, ThatManILove is dangling a lit cigarette from his fingers. Curses. Foiled again.

Finally, we leave. I’m driving, as it’s obvious that once again, that waitress, who must have migrated from Vegas to Oklahoma, has been surreptitiously topping off ThatManILove’s drink.

We get to the Renaissance, which is a square shaped hotel, with one bank of elevators for each floor. We go up to the Club floor, to get water for our room. We get back to the elevator bank, which opens up to a big waiting area. We’re waiting for our elevator, and ThatManILove is talking, talking, talking. I’m trying to keep him quiet for the other sleeping guests, which only leads to a lot of giggling and laughing between us. It's a futile effort, keeping quiet.

We are facing each other, as I listen to him. I take a step back, and he takes a step towards me, still talking. I decide to give it a test. I take another couple of steps back, and he matches me, step for step. It’s like we’re perfectly matched...we could have been on Dancing With The Stars. I back some more, and he follows me all across the waiting room, until we’ve completed a perfect figure eight, around the circular seating bench, finalizing our little impromptu dance in the elevator.

We get to our room before I crack up laughing and explained to him what he’d done.

He loved it, and has laughed about it ever since!

I love this man - this man who doesn’t ever drink when he gambles, and who certainly would never smoke in a casino!

Welcome to yet another chapter of Mi Vida Loca!

Think I Should Run For Governor of Oklahoma?

2010-01-23T10:22:00.003-06:00

We’ve been in Oklahoma for the last two weeks. Yes, Two. Weeks. One week, both ThatManILove and I were in a directional drilling school. (Yikes. The brain strain I suffered!) The next week, I had a national board meeting and we attended a technical drilling symposium.

Needless to say, both events were peppered with customers, friends, good fun and lots of hilarious incidents...but I’m glad to be home.

Over the next week, I’m going to try to grab some of those funny things and put them down on paper for you all. Mi vida loca, huh?

I finally got to meet Georgie of Decisionally Challenged! We had a quick lunch at Pei Wei in Tulsa. What a sweetheart, and she’s so flipping funny! Can’t wait to see Georgie again, and meet her family. And maybe play "Seven Degrees From Georgie".

I So Understand - Now If I Could Photoshop Me!

2010-01-07T15:53:00.006-06:00

Y'all know I love photography. And sometimes, I make mistakes. Like leaving boogers in one guy's nose as he and his little daughter started lovingly at each other. (Oh, yes I did - but I don't get paid for this stuff...so, nobody griped.)

But this one is hilarious! Burberry's new Emma Watson campaign left her handicapped - just a bit!

Goes to show even the pros make mistakes sometimes!

Now, me...I'd want to shave some stuff off me...I could have a whole new figure and be a legend...on my computer, and in my own mind!

The Cure to Any Marriage Woes - Just Shoot Like a Girl!

2010-01-06T05:06:00.003-06:00

Scanning the online news today, I saw the headline How To Live Longer on msnbc.com.

One of the sub-topics was “Don’t Be A Drama Queen” and you’ll live longer.

Who writes this stuff?

The article had some great points, though, for couples...

Fight fair.
Women’s hearts suffer when they hear or make hostile comments.
Men’s hearts reacted badly when confronted with domineering words.

Please note the article did not define a "Drama Queen" to be male or female. (And baby, I’ve seen both! Remember, I hang out a little bit with golfers, shooters, AND team ropers. Grown-up ones! Whinier people I’ve never seen - but I won’t go there. Oops. Already did.)

Well, okay then. I’ll make you a deal, honey darlin’, ThatManILove. I won’t tell you what to do if you don’t get hostile. Bueno? I mean, I can't remember you ever getting hostile, but this is merely a preventative step.

Agreed? Truce-amundo? Capiche?

If we ever get to the point where we can’t agree, then let’s at least agree to repair to the ol’ shooting range. And you can even pick the shotgun shells, the date, time, and weather conditions. A duel, as it were. Our shotguns are of the same quality and caliber, so it's a push there (even though I did win the Beretta Teknys, give it to you, then beg for it back when I started having major Browning Gold malfunctions. But I’m NOT an indian giver - and you were so sweet to let me have it that day I shot 89/100. Notice, I ran right to the gunsmith and he cut the stock down for a custom fit - for me! Have I told you lately that I love you? And I love that 30" barrel?) But, I digress. Back to the case in point.

When and if we ever disagree and I admit, there is the rare occasion, let’s just take it to the sporting clay range. Let’s work it out there. Okay? Then, you’ll be dominated without hostile words, and you’ll live longer. Just pure-d talent will prevail. And we’ll both take our aggression out on those little clay targets.

In other words, rope up, cowboy, and shoot like a girl. Your girl! And we'll both live longer.

Finish that job and hurry home. ThatGirlYouLove misses you!

Love,

Zack Took The New Year's "Get Fit" Challenge!

2010-01-04T20:05:00.001-06:00

I came home to this tonight. I'm perplexed. What the heck has happened here? And when? And then, I turn and look at the kitchen counter. My box of Cheerios has been stolen! I feel violated!!!

Just as I looked at the counter, I turned around and the ornery culprit had come into the room and was sitting by the evidence. (Yeah, they say the criminal always returns to the scene.) Doesn't he look healthy? Oh, yes. Zack the Wonderdog "Took The Challenge"; however, I think the rules are 1 bowl a day - not half a box.

And certainly not one half of the 1 lb 9.25 oz box. Good Lord, Zackster!

And I thought he wasn't paying attention to those commercials!

It's never boring around here!

The Down Side of Going To The Movies With Janie

2010-01-03T20:36:00.001-06:00

Today found me at our local theatre, enjoying the movie “Up in the Air” with ThatManILove. Fun stuff, that!

Until....the urge came upon me. Yes, that urge. I had imbibed too much of my 1 liter Dasani water and had to crawl across my husband’s legs to make it to the ladies’ room. We’re in Theatre 14, which means I have access to the least utilized bathroom - yeehaahhh!

I go in. The bathroom, overall, seems clean enough. Onwards, I trudge, past stall 1, to stall 2. (Wonder how many people do that? I should probably go in stall 1, if it’s clean.) I open the door, ready the place (which means I killed three trees lining the toilet seat with toilet paper, not that I even sit down on it) and do my business. I slide the latch with my elbow, and open the door with my foot.

All while counting. Don’t ask me where that came from, I’m just trying to get out of there asap.

I’m so ready to get out of there, I get to the main door and reach for the handle when I realize I’ve been so concentrating on getting out of there, I’ve not yet washed my hands. I turn, and run back to the sink, where for once in my life there is hot water and soap. HALLELUJAH! Can you sing Happy Birthday and still count? I did it! Wonder if I'm a little OCD??

I wash my hands, and turn to the air dryers, still counting. What is that freaking counting about? I turn on the air dryer with my elbow, and start drying my hands.

And then, I remember someone saying how more germs go through those air dryers than any other appliance.

I start praying over the air dryers like I pray over my food...”Lord, please dry my hands to the nourishment of my body, and kill all those germs.” Crap. What number was I on? Dang it!

Finally, my hands are dry enough to get out of that germ-ridden place there. I pull my hand into my hoodie sleeve, and open the bathroom door. Inside, I'm exulting - I feel like I’m a prisoner, been set free.

Lord help me. Now where's that anti-bacterial lotion?

Christmas In The Hamptons

2009-12-27T00:32:00.000-06:00

Our up and back trip to Fort Worth turned into four days and three nights in the Hamptons. Well, that’s ThatManILove’s version - Christmas in the Hamptons.

Since the highways were closed due to snow (yeah, in TEXAS!) and the airports were closed as well, it’s not a far walk to figure out he meant the Hampton Inns - one in Hurst and one in Mansfield, Texas.

He’s comical that way!

We met up with friends for dinner in Mansfield, then went to Euless the next day to meet a friend from TMIL’s past. They had actually gone to Israel together in 1992 or 1993. It was awesome to see them reconnect. (TMIL’s friend brought his 21 year old son with him - what an awesome, intelligent young man! I so love seeing young people with a plan - Godspeed to this one!) We had a great time visiting with our friends. While we were at the restaurant, Mother Nature decided to dump a ton of snow and ice on the DFW area, effectively pooping on destroying all our travel plans. It turned out to be a good year for Younger Son to be in Ruidoso NM and Elder Son to be in Angel Fire NM!

Yesterday, we spent Christmas Day resting, and then took in two movies - “It’s Complicated” and “Nine”. We loved both of them. So shoot me. Today, we drove back to Mansfield to pick up the power cord to my Mac (I’d left it in the "Hamptons") and had lunch with Mike and Pam. Fun!

Oh, yeah...and I was stupid enough today to go into Coldwater Creek, where they were having a 50% off sale. I had grabbed two armfuls of stuff before I realized the checkout line was all the way to the back of the store and up again. What’s a girl to do, leave all the stuff she’s gathered it, in a pile on the floor?

Believe me, I’m more polite than that. Nooooooooooooooo! I stood in line (sounds like y'all might need to call Shopaholics Anonymous) and waited my turn. Have I told you I HATE shopping? By now, Mike and Pam had arrived and waited, along with TMIL, for me to finish. Well, truthfully, they went to Hoffbrau and had a drink and waited. (Sots) Sweet, huh?

Now, we’re driving home...gonna stop by my brother Scott and Lisa's, see the kiddos, and have Christmas hugs and stew, since I missed our Christmas. And then home to Midland to reconnect with the Wonderdogs, who might have a thing or two to say to us about why we left them at home!

It’s been a very good Christmas.

We are so blessed.

A Blessing

2009-12-24T12:25:00.003-06:00

It’s Christmas Eve. We’ll hopefully be headed towards home soon, and I’ve been reflecting. Remembering the ups and downs of the last year, the tears and thankfully, the laughter. The blessings that have been showered down upon my life - my husband, my sons and my crazy dogs. Woven between all those strands of the tapestry that is Mi Vida Loca are each of you, my bloggy friends.

I have laughed with you, travailed for you, and cried with you. I’ve celebrated with you, and for you. I’ve prayed with you, and sometimes, have screamed out your name to the Heavenlies because I didn't know what else to do and thought the good Lord might need a little reminder that you needed a miracle. (I know, He gets a kick out of me, He has to - he designed me!)

And you, my friends? You’ve been with me, every step of the way. Traveling with me on my many trips across this nation, making calls with me. Having adventures beyond compare. Never will I forget the support you showed me when I experienced the layoff, or the the way you celebrated when I took another job. Or how you support me when ThatManILove is working away from town. Or how you encouraged me to go away with ThatManILove and take much needed time for ourselves - time that changed us and melded us.

I have been greatly blessed by the gifts I’ve received. Never could have I imagined making friends like you - some of you, I’ve not even met in real life - but God, The Lord Almighty, is good. He gives great gifts...and you are a such gift to me.

Merry Christmas to you and yours. May you be blessed beyond compare in this next year. As for me? I bless you. I bless you with love, life, health, friends - and laughter.

May you hear the music specifically designed for your life...and dance. Baby, dance!!

Much love. Much much love,

It's About Time...

2009-12-21T01:39:00.001-06:00

It's late tonight - we've had a full day. And ThatManILove and Younger Son are flying to Dallas tomorrow for a day trip.

I walk into our TV/music room and find them both playing guitars. And finally, Younger Son plays a couple of his songs and sings for us. We've heard him play, but this is a first, him singing for us.

His voice? Beautiful. His lyrics? Awesome.

I'm blown away. I've waited for this for a long time - I knew the apple didn't fall far from the tree - ThatManILove has a tremendous gift in writing and singing. It's sweet to see the manifestation of heritage in Younger Son.

It's a precious, precious thing I'm seeing tonight, and I'm so very grateful to the Lord for his giftings to the men of my house.

Inspiration...and Reflection

2009-12-20T09:44:00.006-06:00

Last night, we attended a Jubilee party for friends of ours who were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. It was a beautiful celebration. We saw lots of old friends. It's always a blessing to reconnect with people we love.

We visited for a while with one couple, Chris and Terri. Chris asked, “Do you ever write stories about when you were young?” (Chris and I grew up together in the small town of Big Spring, Texas.)

I thought about it for a second, and said, “Wow. I don’t guess I do. I’ll have to think about that!”

He said, “You know, I know you as two different people - now, and then.”

And, in a way, I guess that’s true. I think what he was referring to is the “then” me didn’t have a relationship with the Lord...and the “now” me does. It’s true of a lot of of people I know, but I’ve never thought about it, until now.

So, Chris, thanks for the inspiration. And I’ll start resurrecting some old stories...which is kind of scary! I’m sure brother Scott will be glad to help me out!

PS - Chris is an acccomplished jewelry designer - you can check out some of his designs here.

Secret Santa - Is Here!!!

2009-12-18T18:00:00.005-06:00

CHECK THIS OUT, PEOPLE!!!! Woohoooo!

Does my Secret Santa know me, or what? Burt's Bees...SUGAR DADDYS...a beautiful red jewel ornament/pin...a huge Christmas tree lollipop.

And to top all that off, a $10 Starbucks card!! There was really nothing I could put on my list...(yeah, how do you buy hunting stuff for a hunter? A girl in the oilfield?) Georgie and Amy had to ask me to get more specific.

Let me tell you all - my Secret Santa could not have done any better on my present!

I love my Secret Santa - YOU ROCK!!!! Thank you so very much!

This was so much fun....Georgie, Amy - can I play again next year, please?

Have a great Christmas, y'all!

Secret Santa....As Yet to Be Revealed!

2009-12-17T23:27:00.004-06:00

Little mother-son talk while I'm downloading pictures...and I snuck in a couple of shots! "Mammarazzi!!", he says. He cracks me up.

I think I received my Secret Santa Soiree box.

I say I think, because I've not yet opened it.

Tomorrow afternoon, I will, I promise. And I'll post the little Linky thingie.

Elder Son threw a wrench in my plans...by announcing he now has a job at Angel Fire as a ski instructor. And he has to be there...yesterday. Needless to say, when he hit town last night, we got busy. And busier, today.

Here, he is packing his truck, my son of many vocations! Anyone need some ski lessons in Angel Fire, NM? Here's your man!

All is well, he's enroute. And I'm a little sad he won't be here for Christmas - but he's only young once, right!??

Grounded

2009-12-10T23:56:00.003-06:00

Yeah.

I would post a picture of my current dilemma, but I cannot.

I'm pinned to the bed. And it's not what you think. Remember, ThatManILove is in North Dakota.

Zanna the Wonderpup is crashed across one leg, all 35 spotted pounds of her. And Zack, the big 75 lb. lug, is snoring across my other leg. I say, "Kennel". They shift a hair or two, you know, like they are in full obedience, and keep on snoring.

Will someone please bring me a bottle of water and a blankie? The rest of me is freezing.

Yummy...

2009-12-01T22:35:00.004-06:00

Y'all know the definition of a friend?

A friend is one, when her dad is in the hospital in ICU, who remembers that the hospital deli makes awesome homemade apple dumplings and, with all she has on her mind, brings one home to you. Thanks, Connie!

Want a bite? Yummmmm.

I've been a wee bit busy - please forgive me for my lack of reading/blogging. I'll be back!

On The Oilfield Road Again!

2009-11-25T22:41:00.006-06:00

Here we go again.

ThatManILove has received a work assignment in the Bakken Shale in North Dakota. (Why doesn't my industry drill wells in Hawaii?)

So, Thanksgiving morning will find us flying to Denver to spend a couple of days together before he flies up to the beautiful land of North Dakota for his first gig. And it could become sort of his home away from home, like Pennsylvania did last year. One thing's good - he has his cold weather clothes from Pennsylvania. I think it snows in North Dakota!

We’re staying at the Magnolia Hotel Denver . The good thing about booking a hotel on Thanksgiving? They’re having a special! We’re staying in their top room for around $150 per night, and it’s a boutique hotel.

I LOVE it when we find deals like that. I'll post pix, I promise!

I’ll be back home Sunday night - a friend is keeping our dogs and housesitting - and all is well with my world.

Except it’s 10:30 p.m. and I’ve not packed a thing. And our flight is at 7:30 a.m.

Such is mi vida loca!

Happy Thanksgiving, y’all!

And...happy trails, until we meet again!

My iPhone Needs A Little Charge...

2009-11-22T22:07:00.003-06:00

I just flew into Houston.

Walked past all those iPhone/iPod vending machines without a second thought.
Arrived at my hotel room, and unpacked. Clothing, makeup, etc. for tomorrow - check.

Computer, charger - check.

iPod - Two. Two? Yup. Mine. AND ThatManILove's. He's gonna kill me. Oh, maybe not. Earphones - Three. Sets. Again, mine, TMIL's, and an extra he bought me because I liked the color of the earphones. Cord to hook iPod up to radio in room? One. Except, the radio has no iPod hookup. People! What are you thinking??? iPod plug in jack - One. Cord to plug in to iPod and electrical outlet?

None. Nada. Zip. Zilch.

Charge remaining on iPhone? About 1/8.

Lord - You turned water into wine. You parted the seas. Would you keep my iPhone charged until I can grab another cord in the morning?

'Til then, I respectfully remain...

The Time is Now...

2009-11-17T21:47:00.008-06:00

This evening, ThatManILove and I arrived at the house around the same time. We decided to take the Wonderdogs to the park.

Upon our arrival, I noticed a pit bull pup I met way back in August. She had grown so much. Her owner walked up, and we visited. I confirmed that the pup was indeed the same little bitty pup I’d seen in August. She is so sweet, and it was good to see her and her owner.

I had my camera with me, which caused the pup’s owner to ask me questions about it. She asked about pictures, and I told her some of my dog park pix were posted on my blog, and on the Midland Dog Park site. We introduced ourselves, and my last name stopped her in her tracks.

“Are you related to Sherry?”, she asked. “Yes,” I said, “She’s my sister-in-law.”

(I’ll stop there for a second, and give you some background. TMIL is one of 6 sons in his family, 5 of whom are living. Some 4 or 5 years ago, after one of our huge extended family Christmas gatherings where we draw names for presents, TMIL and I suggested to his family that instead of swapping presents between 5 brothers, their wives, and all their chilluns, that we all come together and adopt families for Christmas, through our churches and the Salvation Army. On the night of our family celebration, we would come together, separate the adopted family presents, and all go different ways to deliver presents to those families*. In addition to the presents, we gave the parents of each family a gift card to HEB. Afterwards, we would regroup at TMIL’s mom’s house, and have Christmas dinner.

The family loved this idea, and it’s since become an annual tradition.

Okay, back to the dog park.)

She said, “I will never forget your last name. I need to tell you a story that happened in my life.”

Her sister’s family was one that was given to TMIL's brother, his wife, Sherry, and TMIL's mom for adoption that Christmas. At the time, this young lady was living with her sister, had just given birth to a son, and as such, was a single mom. She wasn’t on anyone’s list, but Sherry and TMIL's mom found out about her, and included she and her son in the adopted family’s Christmas.

I said, “I remember this story! No way would anyone in our family leave you and your newborn son out!”

The young lady said, “I’ll never forget that Christmas. And someday, I hope to be able to do that same thing for someone else.”

TMIL and I both said, “You will. You will.”

She and her son lived at Midland Fair Havens** (an awesome local facility that helps single moms find jobs while providing child care and housing)and she worked and entered college. She is now married, attending college full time, and will soon be entering nursing school. She runs into Sherry from time to time, and always thanks her for that Christmas way back when. She is such a precious woman, and doesn’t even know how much she blessed us tonight by sharing this story.

I wanted to write this tonight because:

The time is now to help someone.

The time is now to contact your church, or your local Salvation Army, and ask for a family to adopt for Christmas.

The life you bless...may be your own.

*Most organizations ask you to buy gifts and clothes for kids up to age 14. When we found this out, we asked for more information for each family...because what if there was a 15 year old in the house? Or a 17 year old? In almost every family, there was extended family including older children. They would have been excluded. It was in the asking for more information about the household that we discovered the situation with this single mom and her newborn son living with her sister, and included them. Don’t be afraid to push for more information concerning your adopted family.

**Right now, if you'd like to donate to Midland Fair Havens, Denver Mattress will match your donation dollar for dollar! If you have an extra $5, $10, or whatever, please go and donate!