How I wish it would rain. . . .

NOT

Ok, enough of the wet stuff already. It seems like it has rained, and rained and rained for several weekends in a row. I have got to get my pool closed. The leaves are slowly starting to fall, and it's time to get that cover on - or we're sunk. My priority is to get it closed TODAY or TOMORROW - even if it snows. Got to be done.

The house has been painted, and we are slowly but surely getting stuff rehung and the house is almost back to normal - Remind you - I said ALMOST. It just seems like the weekends are too short to get anything done. Ahhhhhh to be retired !!!

Been out of the Blog Loop Lately

Just wanted to say . . I'm Baaaacccckkkk.

It's been a long summer and I have been extremely negligent in my blogging.

First, we went on vacation, then we had the house painted. In addition I given in to my Big Brother addiction. Yes, I am going through withdrawal - but in all honesty, I'm glad it's over. My other reality shows don't take up as much time, because they don't have live feeds. I have just realized, I love to spy on people - Oh (Big) Brother !!!!

I've reconnected with the family, I'm getting my laundry done, I have returned to a normal work schedule. Yes, I had it bad !!!!!!

Been Awhile

Oops, I haven't posted in such a long time. Vacation was great, and I really do miss the balcony that looked out over the ocean, and I miss the sights and sounds of each day.

I would awaken very early every morning to sit on that balcony and watch the world come to life.

The light of dawn would happen between 6 and 6:30. The beach inhabitants start early. You have your early morning "enjoy the sunrise" walkers. These walkers saunter on the beach at a snails pace, i'm sure they are taking in the sights and sounds. The saunterers are not in any hurry to get to where they are gonig. These walkers are followed by the "stay in shape" walkers. They walk at a brisk pace, and intermingled with them are the runners. I'm sure they too are taking it all in, but are more concentrated on exercising and staying in shape. Following the stay in shapers are the bicyclers. I put them in a classification with the "enjoy the sunrise" people. Although they are exercising, they are going at a leisurely pace and I'm sure they are enjoying the scenery. Maybe they are a combination of both.

My favorite people are next - animal lovers. The dogs would be out in force every morning. Dog owners would bring toys, throw those toys in the water, and the dogs would fetch. It was so much fun to watch these people. There were big dogs, small dogs and people with many dogs. One couple was particularly interesting. Their doggie toy looked like something attached to a rope. They had a large dog, and a small dog. The couple would toss the toy into the ocean. The large dog would go fetch, and the small dog would meet the large dog half-way into the waves. The smaller doggie would grab on to the toy and the two dogs would carry it it together. Was great to watch.

Next are the "worker-bees". They are the lifeguards that set up the beach umbrellas and chairs. It seems that after the worker bees arrive, all of creation heads to the water-side.

We were part of that action every day. We would spend several hours down by the waterside and it was so enjoyable. The water was perfect.

When the day was done, I would once again sit on the balcony and watch the world come to a close for the day. People left the beach in the reverse order in which they started.

The masses left first, followed by the worker-bees then the animal lovers would re-appear and so on and so forth until dark was cast on those who sauntered.

A great week at the beach indeed - maybe most of it was spent on that balcony watching the comings and goings of the world.

Vacation

Well vacation is less than 2 week away and I can't wait. I made my first list today, and I am really ready to start packing our suitcases.

Found out today that Donna is going to pick up the kids next weekend (keep your fingers crossed). She's already a month late already, and the twins are pretty upset about it. Joshua said this morning, if she don't get us this summer it will be 2 years before she will see us.

They miss their mom, and I wish it were the other way around. She has put off getting them because her apartment is not ready yet. SHE'S HAD OVER A YEAR TO GET AN APARTMENT AND PREPARE FOR THEM TO COME THIS SUMMER!!! Why she would wait to the last minute is beyond me. I would be there the second I could if it were my kids.

I hope she realizes they are expecting their Christmas and Birthday celebrations. I hope she makes it enjoyable for them. I especially hope she keeps them straight on their medications, because they have been doing great.

Mr. O'brien

I was talking to Dianna tonight and explaining her why I was so afraid of doctors. It’s Mr. Obrien’s fault. Thought I would share this story, as it conjured up some vivid memories.

Mr. O’Brien was our insurance man. He would come to our house periodically to collect the insurance payment. He carried all his paperwork in a satchel. The satchel didn’t zip, but it was leather bound and had carrying handles. In all reality it was nothing but a big book with that contained his client’s information. It looked just like a doctor’s bag.
Back then doctor’s made house-calls. I always thought Mr. O’Brien was a doctor. I would be very afraid when I saw him coming. Mr. O’Brien knew I was afraid of him too, and when he would come Mr. O’Brien would pretend his ink pen was a needle, he would hold it in the air as if he were going to give me a “shot.” He would say, “you ready for your shot.” I would run and hide with fear. Mr. O’Brien would laugh when I would run and hide. I remember one day I was so scared, I hid under my bed with all the dust bunnies. I was little, and I would say it was in the late 50’s.

Mr. Obrien got his. My mother used to do laundry in an old wash tub. Mr. O’brien came one day when my mom was doing laundry. He sat in a kitchen chair to write in his doctor’s bag. When he got up, his pants were soaking wet. You could plainly see the wetness of his pants. The pants were tan, and darker brown when wet. Mom had spilled laundry water in the chair – the chair in which Mr. O’Brien happened to sit. . .Tee Hee.

We didn’t have air conditioning back then. We had fans in the windows. The fans blew to the outside, pulling out all the hot air out of the house. I can remember very vividly my mom, pulling a chair outside, and Mr. O’Brien standing on that chair, outside, drying his pants via the window fan. I can still see that man, on that chair, trying to dry out his britches. Mr. O'Brien was a tall, hefty man, and I prayed the chair would topple and throw him on the ground. Mr. O'Brien was upset, my mom was embarassed. His wet pants kept him from his clients and other children he needed to scare with that darned ink pen. I was laughing now.

Plays well with others

I need someone to play with. . . . pure and simple. All my friends live 30 plus miles away and we hardly get to hang out together on a regular basis. They come over and all, but not all the time.

I want to get in my pool, but there is no one to play with me. The twins will be leaving soon. The grandkids come over on the weekends, and Markie just doesn't like to get in. Granted he will sit there and talk to me, but he won't play with me.

The house next door is for sale, and my prayer is that someone will buy it who has a woman there who likes to drink coffee, watch movies and come swim with me. I want someone close who can come over.

The neighbors on one side are nice, but hat is a story for another day. Pray that someone moves in that has teenage boys, and a woman that is just a kid at heart - I do play well with others.

The weekend. . . .

It's been a ho-hum weekend for me. The weather has cooled down, and has been beautiful. The pool has cooled off a little, and I haven't been in it at all this weekend. That is highly unusual for me.

This has been a weekend tho, that I just didn't want to do anything. Believe it or not, I wish it had been rainy so I could curl up and watch movies. I feel guilty watching movies when it is soooo nice outside.

I really have missed being in my pool though, and may still get in it this afternoon for a quick swim. It refreshes me a whole lot.

So, the weekend in a coupla words - Ho-hum. Boringly Ho-Hum. Yawnnnnnnnn !

As quick as they came they went

The ants came, they stirred me up for a morning, then they were gone ! Hmmmmmm

To other news: It's been hot here, and the pool is open. I've been in it everyday, except yesterday - it threatened to storm all afternoon, but never did.

I did something in my pool today that I've never done in 4 swimming seasons. I donned goggles, earplugs and nose clips and I went under water. Markie didn't think I would do it, but I did.

I encountered a coupla problems. The first time, things went well, except I kept my eyes closed. Lotta good them goggles did me. I had a terrible time with the nose plugs, they kept sliding off my geasy nose. I couldn't get them to stay on. The second time I went underwater, I opened my eyes, but the nose clippies slipped off and I got a nose full of water.

Needless to say, I did something more than float on a noodle today, but I need some grippie nose plugs. Maybe my nose is just too fat !!! Maybe I need some of them vice grips for my big fat nose.

Now I have funky swim hair too - but it was fun.

Glo Versus the Volcano

I am old, this is true. I am not feeling well – have a cold. This morning I took on Mother Nature.

I went up to the living room with one eye open and one eye shut - I was there just to get coffee. (This, after Orion can’t get in the back door and is laying part in and part out of the door. Michael’s first word of the day - BLOOD!!! Orion had injured a toenail – but is ok. Another story, another day.) It’s not yet 6:00 am.

Michael said the words that will live in infamy. “What’s all those bugs doing there.” I looked and one whole corner of my living room is covered with bugs that fly. There were thousands. I thought they were gnats, but on closer inspection they were fairly large and looked like termites.

I immediately came downstairs and looked up termites on line because I thought they were the termites that swarm. From my googleness I found that the thousands of bugs in my living room were flying ants.

Well, as I was coming up the stairs with my pic in hand, I saw that on my landing there were literally millions of ants outlining my front door, and my landing was full of the crawling type of ants as well. Crawling ants and flying ants Orion with a bloody paw – Gooooood Morrrrrrrning.

Barney to the rescue – or so it seemed. (Insert the opening theme song to 2001 a space odessy). In case you do not know, Barney is my new PURPLE Dyson vacuum cleaner. I was ready for the volcano of ants that was erupting in my house.

In the corner of the living room, I sucked the flying bastards up with no problem but they kept landing from somewhere. I was down to three or four. I then went to the landing to suck up “the others”.

Millions, I kid you not, millions of crawling tiny brown ants. They are the same color as the wood on my landing. At this point I might remind you that I am barefoot. I begin sucking the ants off the door jamb, and the ants on the floor began crawling on my feet. In addition to crunching as I walked, the damn crawlie things started biting my feet, and the flying ones started landing in my hair. I said some very ugly words and was thrashing about trying to get them off my feet because of the biting, and was trying to get them out of my hair because it was icky. Barney was singing his merry tune during this whole time. “I love you, you love me.” I was literally flailing about and had to turn Barney off because his tune was getting on my last nerve. I go back upstairs to find that about 100 of the flying ones had regrouped in the corner of my living room. If anyone had a video camera it would have been one for the books.

My feet itch, I have not had my coffee and I’m calling the Orkin man.

My Vanny

A thing of beauty is a joy forever. This is true of my Granddaughter, Savannah.

I had the utmost pleasure of spending the night with Dianna and kids this weekend, and I had a wonderful time.

I spent a lot of time out in the back yard smoking and watching Savannah and Maddie play. I didn’t realize how grown up Savannah had become. This is exposure to a bad habit, I know, but while I was smoking, I would let Savannah and Maddie step on the fire off my cigarette so no one would get burned. I threw my cigarette butts in the trash, but first I flicked off the fire.

One time Savannah was swinging and Maddie was right there when I put out my cigarette, so I let her step on it. Well, low and behold Savannah got mad. Went into her little play house, shut the door and closed the windows. After awhile, she brought a chair outside and sat on it, with her arms folded across her chest (still mad). She was mad at me. I promised her she could do the next one, and she did. That is the first time, I had seen her display any anger. It was kinda cute. She didn’t yell or scream she was just pouty. Soooooo darned cute from a grandma’s perspective.

Savannah is a very giving child. She is willing to share her toys and always seems concerned about people’s feelings. When you walk into a room where she is, her energy and happiness are contagious. You can’t help be in a good mood when you see her smile. She is very, very sweet. She isn’t selfish like some kids her age. She and Maddie made me birthday cakes made of sand, and we would sing happy birthday (to me), and I would blow out the pretend candles and make a wish. She always wanted to know what my wish was. I always told her that it was that Cindy from the Brady Bunch would come over.

Savannah is a girlie girl. She loves to play dressup, loves to dance and cheer. She showed me some of her cheers, and by golly they were cute. She also has the gift of music and is content just to listen to someone sing. We sang several renditions of “On the way to Grandpa’s farm.” She loves music, dancing and singing.

On top of being sweet, Savannah is a beautiful child with striking blue eyes. The whole package of personality and beauty makes my heart jump for joy when I see her and she runs up and gives me hugs. I cherish every moment she is around, because she is full of energy and love. I love her so very much, and am enjoying the changes in her from week to week - it’s astounding. A special child indeed. I love my Vanny.

My Anthony

Anthony is growing at such a rapid pace. He is 14 years old now, and looks so much like his dad, that it isn’t even funny. He and Juanie spent the night last weekend, and I have to say, I enjoyed their visit so much.

Anthony so wants to play basketball in high school. I was in the garage as Anthony was shooting some hoops. It was just me and him. He showed me his special dribbling abilities and how he shoots the basketball. He wants to attend a Basketball camp put on by Rick Pitino. Together, we looked it up on line and found out how much it was. Expensive it is - $300 for one week. I wish I could afford to send him. Maybe next year. I told him I would get him some weights so he could start working out. He so wants to fulfill his basketball dream, and I would love to help him succeed. He tells me that when he plays for U of L he will get me front row tickets. Have you ever just wanted something for someone so much that you wish you had a magic wand and could wave it and make it happen. That’s my dream for my oldest Grandson. Anthony is every so special.

Anthony has a very, very sweet disposition. He told me several times this weekend that he wanted to do something that he and I could do together. He wanted me to play Risk with him and the twins. I told him that I didn’t know the first thing about Risk, and maybe we could play something else. We never did come to an agreement, but the fact that he wanted to do something with me as a participant was very heartwarming. I’m going to make it a point to learn the game of Risk.

We all watched the movie Kong together, and it was good. Anthony had seen it, but when it came to the part where Kong dies, Anthony left the room. I know he was touched by the movie and didn’t want to show emotion in front of his friends. He is a very sensitive child.

Anthony is such a special person who loves his granny, and his granny loves him right back. I could not have asked for a better Mother’s day because I woke up with two special boys at my house.

My Bubbie

I had the privilege of having my grandsons over to spend the night last night. I thoroughly enjoyed their visit, as usual. They are wonderful boys, and I owe that to my daughter Dianna. I always miss them when they leave. Sometime soon, I’m going to have Savannah over for a sleep over. She’s getting at the age now where grammie can keep the pace.

Juanie (Bubbie) is the subject of this blog entry. I will write about Savannah and Anthony too, but Bubbie gets first bill.

Bubbie has such an angelic face and a disposition to match. He is plagued with Celiac’s disease and can’t eat what the others do, and is prone to tantrums out of no-where. There are many times when Dianna has had her hands full I know.

Bubbie is my swimming buddy. He and I are the first ones in the pool and the last ones out. I am teaching him everything I know about taking care of it. He seems to love it, and wants to learn more. The Bub also has a great sense of humor and really gets into playing practical jokes. He likes to clean out the junk drawer in my computer room. When he cleans it out, he gets to keep the money he finds. So, needless to say, I plant lots of change in the drawer for him to find. Shhhh – don’t tell him.

This weekend particularly was special for me with the two boys. My dog Orion only has three legs, and this weekend he has been troubled with his remaining hind leg, to the point of almost not being able to walk. I have been medicating him and it is better. Orion hangs downstairs in my computer room. We now call it Orion’s room. We probably do not spend as much time with Orion as he needs, but he is a good, faithful doggie.

Bubbie took special care of Orion this weekend. He sat on the floor and petted Orion for several periods of time. Bubbie made sure Orion had lots of treats and he even slept in the room with Orion so “Orion wouldn’t be so lonely.” When I woke up this morning, I saw that Bubbie had placed a blanket on the floor for Orion to sleep on. What does that say for a child who is only 11, who yearns for contact with his father and receives none; who has to eat a special diet and is stricken with some behavioral problems.

Bubbie is a special child with an angelic face and a heart-warming smile. I can’t help but feel that Orion is better today because of the special attention he received this weekend from Bub.

Great job Dianna !! Love to you all.

Next up - Anthony and Basketball.

(The picture attached is of Bubbie and Savannah. It’s the best one I have that shows that face that I am talking about).

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

By that I mean, it has been cloudy and cool for the last several days, and the forecast is for more of the same. This is more like December than May.

One of the things I hate about winter is the cloudy, overcast skies. I can take a thundershower or storm, but this is getting ridiculous.

We even fired up our furnace last night to take the chill off the house - What's with that?

Waaaaaaaaaaaaa - Bring me some sun !

Bummer

I've been drinking the hell out of green tea because I was told it was good for my health. Now I see a report on TV where the FDA says "No No" it ain't doin' a darn thing for me. Sh*t !!!

I was thrilled to death when they told me chocolate was good for me. They are going to take back that piece of news too - I just know it. I'm just not watching the news anymore.

Anyway. . . . I am back in school again, and as you can tell I haven't been blogging. It just seems like there is so much work to do, that I don't have time to do what I want to do. Oh well, such is the nature of life.

As far as the pool goes, it is only up to 76 degrees. I got it in last Friday and got some more dirt out of it, but I can tell you - it's dirty again.

I really need some warm weather, a few hunks of chocolate and some green tea. Yum Yum.

Helicopters and Hypothermia

Well, I did it. Let it be known that on April 28, 2006 I got into my pool. The water was freezing cold (72 degrees) and I got in to vacuum.

The pool was full of those helicopter seedlings from the trees and some explamation point seeds too. It will take another vacuuming and scrubbing and WARMING before we can actually swim.

The water is optimal around 83 or 84. 72??? Shiver me timbers. I loved it though, and I did not want to get out . . . . Just a few more weeks I would presume, then it will be just right.

Monday Monday

Hi ho
hi ho
it's off to work I go

ON THUNDER

I'ts been raining cats and dogs lately, but tonight is Thunder. I love Thunder over Louisville. We are going downtown about 2 and watching the air show then the most fantastic fireworks ever. I simply can't wait. I LOVE THUNDER !!

AROUND THE HOUSE

I LOVE SPRING TIME - THINGS IN BLOOM. ENJOY

Like we do at Christmas time. . . .

Let us not forget what this day is about. . .


To all who read this blog - HAPPY EASTER



Matt 28:5-6 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
Matt 28:6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

Success at Last

YEE HAW - the cover is off the pool. The water was crystal clear and all is well except for a little dirt and debris in the bottom. I'm going to vacuum it sometime this weekend, then we are going to put on the solar cover. (That just helps it warm up faster)

We added all the chemicals for the initial start up and once it warms up, we are ready to SWIM.

Pool Temp is currently a freezing 60 degrees. It is swimmable (but cool) at about 75. 80 is perfect. We got a long way to go, but have taken a lot of steps this weekend.

I just can't wait !!!!! The water looks soooo inviting. Ahhhhhhhh

Pool Status

Yesterday would have been the perfect day to yank the cover off my baby pool. We didn't do it for a variety reasons - one being, we're off today and have the whole day to do it.

I wanted Markie to do it last night and have the boys to help him, because my toe is still not operational, and it takes a little bit of climbing on the side of the pool to get the cover off.

But, dag-blasted - it rained this morning. That means more pumping water off the top. I just cannot wait. We are going to Watson's to buy all the needed opening materials, then we are going to give it a whirl.

I just can't wait to float !

Ho Hum

It's Wednesday night and I'm bored.
My foot hurts
Dog pooped in house
Joshua stepped in poop
Poop all over carpet
Poop all over Joshua's shoes
Mark is cleaning up the poop
Have to wash the doggie rugs
Clothes in washer
Clothes in dryer
Have to fold a load of clothes in order to wash rugs.
Gotta work tomorrow
My house stinks
I love my dog

What does it all mean. . . .

My last two title entries were "eye to eye" and "toe to toe" and there are many more "heart to heart" "head to head". Where do these types of sayings come from? Anyone know? Just curious.

I'm playing "hookie" from work today? What does "hookie" mean anyway? If anyone knows these answers to these questions, please help me out here - I'm bored.

Toe to Toe

In the dark I found the table
Walking? Sure I wish that I was able
In the night my feet met wood
The words I said were not real good
By now I'm sure you have a clue
My toes are now just black and blue

I wear a boot so I can move
The Glo for sure has lost her groove
Baby step from here to there
hobbling 'round without a care


If you think I've gone insane
Let me show you my new cane
My bones they crack, don't bend or fold
For it is hell to get old !!

Not seeing eye to eye

Me and my precious husband do not see eye to eye on raising children. We have a bi-level house. The lower level is mine, and I like it, but the upstairs belongs to the twins. They hang in the living room watching TV.
This weekend, as in every weekend, the movies they watch are Die Hard, Die Hard with Avengence, the Predator. All the movies with blood, gore, murder, machine guns, regular guns, death and blood. . . .all weekend long. It bothers me so badly that just going upstairs and getting coffee of food and seeing and hearing all that has absolutely messed with my psyche.
I discussed it with Mark and he told the boys they couldn't watch those movies for a week. A WEEK !!!! I would say you don't watch those movies EVER !!!! If it messed with my psyche for the few minutes I was in the room, imagine what is happening to their psyche watching them full time 24/7.
I do not understand for the life of me why those kids do not go outside and play, or go outside and hang out. TV is their friend.

Spring break and we are off at work, and no telling what they will be watching. . . . You can bet it won't be Mary Poppins.

On Patience

Day Off

Got up at 5:00 am
tripped over dog
let dogs outside
Drank coffee
Watched a recording on Waverly Hills
Took nap
Ate Breakfast
Drank more coffee
took another nap
Scheduled a vacation
took a shower
Ate Lunch
Watched Survivor and Days
Updated blog

I love these Friday's off

The couch

Hi, My name is Gloria W - and I am a couch potato. I admit it, and I'm proud of it. I'm 55, I've been through my share of crisis and I've earned my time on my couch.My couch is my friend. My blankies are there, the telephone is there (when it's not lost), my coffee table is there and most of all my TV is there. On winter nights, my fireplace is going and it's my escape of the hectiness of the day or the dread of the next day.I've had this relationship with my couch for some time now, but I've kept it well hidden. I've only given my couch up for one person, and have since run many a person off it when I needed to sit in my spot. It's Monday here at the West household, and I've set my favorite TV shows up for the week to be recorded. I lead such a boring life. My life consist of The Apprentice, American Idol, Survivor and now Lost. I can now count in weeks how long it will be before the drab black cover comes off the pool. There are approximately 6 if we take it off in early May. I can't wait to hop into that bad boy. Only problem is. . . Big Brother starts in July. . . More TiVo-ing for me.Couch potatoes float !

Watch what you say. . .

The twinnies. . .what can I say.

They are so picky with food, except junk food - then it's anything goes. When you are cooking something you cannot say what you are putting in it, because if it is something they don't like, they won't eat it. Mark made a meatloaf one night, and the twins were gobbling it up, until I mistakenly asked Mark what was in it. When he began to tell me, the twins stopped eating cold in their tracks. Mark is very sensitive to explaining what he puts in stuff.
That's a little background information above.
Tuesdays is Chicken and Dumplings day at Thornberry's Deli. I bought 4 quarts of the stuff, because it is so darned good. I brought it home for supper. Well the fat in it had gotten somewhat hard and I had to scrape it out of the containers. IN the pot I kept stirring it until the fat content melted and it was liquid. Mark asked why I was stirring it all the time. I was afraid to say until the FAT melts, because I was afraid the twins would hear the word fat and wouldn't eat it. So I carefully chose my words and I said "I am trying to get this gel stuff to melt." I didn't give it another thought. I thought it was pretty clever too.
So while we were eating the chicken and dumplings the twins were picking at it. Joshua then says "this stuff tastes like gelatin and I don't like it" Shit !!!! He heard my reference, and I was trying to be sooooo careful. It's like - OH BROTHER !!!! Me and Mark tried to tell him there was no gelatin in them and he wouldn't buy it. . . .Soooooo, needless to say there will be no more chicken and dumplings at our house because they have jello in them.

Telehpone Hell

I have three remote telephones. They serve me well. One upstairs in the LR. If i'm up there, it rings - bam - got it. (Hold on - telephone ringing - have to go find one).

There is a remote phone also in my computer room and one in my bedroom/family room. Ahhh, I can do almost anything and the telephone is right there.

(Darn- hold on again, didn't get to it last time and it's ringing again - gotta go find one somewhere).

SOMEONE HAS UPSET MY TELEPHONE APPLECART. The black telephone in the family room/bedroom went missing. Couldn't find it anywhere. So, I carried the one in the computer room to the family room. Mark and I called our home phone number from our cell phone and found the missing black phone, tucked in the crevis of the couch (Grrrrr - brb - persistant caller and I still havent found a phone)

The black phone needs to be recharged, but I feel better now - but there is still problem. The phone in my computer room is now missing. . . . I dare not carry the phone down from the upstairs.

I'm spoiled and I realize that, but I have just spent about 10 minutes looking for a phone to answer and this will never get posted. . . .

Well with the persistant caller, I found the computer room phone, but it too is dead. . .So. . . it's charging. Hold on - - - - HELLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO !!!!!!!

One final exam away

I'm one final exam away from completing this class. It has been pure hell trying to work and write all these papers. I'm down to the final exam. The class ends tomorrow, then I can get back to semi-normal.

I"m not taking another class until after April. I need a break. Anyone who takes a 5 week class knows what work is involved. Imgaine cramming a whole semester into 5 week. One good thing tho - it goes by fast.

I spent yesterday with Dianna, Kyle and kids and it was wonderful. I had not seen their house since they've done the work. They are almost done with it, but it looks absolutely wonderful.

Ahhhh my grandbabies, what can I say?

It's been a long blog lonely time

I haven't blogged too much lately because I am so darned busy. Work is taking it right on out of me. School when I get home, then to bed.

This little blogger is tired.

We are entering week 4 of my latest class and only have one more week on this one, then I am taking a break until after Thunder over Louisville. I'm not breaking because of Thunder, it's just that work only gives me $5200.00 a year on education reimbursement, and I have to plan my classes right. I'm tired of writing papers. I have one more to write on this class. Yipee.

I plan on fishishing up Henry on the family blog this weekend or next, it's going to be a long story, him being my dad, there's a lot of stuff to write about.

I sent the family some pictures - did anybody actually get them?

"fish head, fish heads, roly poly fish heads. . . eat 'em up yum"

Punch drunk tired,
Glo

The dream

I had a dream Friday night that so disturbed me. I dreamt that two people planned this grand wedding for me. It was really a nightmare. I was marrying my last Husband (whom I loathe), and I was worried about my Markie. I had married the guy and went home and Mark was not there, but I had to tell him I was married now to someone else. All my ex-husband's family was there and all. It was awful.

I was never so glad to wake up and see that cowboy lying next to me. Mark has been giggling at me all weekend.

The dream was awful, awful, awful - blah, puke, eikes. . . . . Made me want to cringe everytime I thought about the dream. As you can tell, I'm still cringing.


Boy, my blogging butt is behind - I haven't blogged since Tuesday.

"dream a little dream of me" (record ends. . . .screeeeeeeeech)

What day of the week is this???

IT'S TUESDAY !!!!! American Idol night. I love it because tonight begins the performance shows. Yipee. Now, mind you folks, I'm a granny and I love AI.

I have been extremely busy at work. I'm working 1/2 to an hour over every day, and it's getting to me physically - I'M POOPED. I would normally get off at 3, come home and do my school work, then I would have the evening. You wouldn't think that half hour would make much of a difference, but it does. It seems I run behind all the time. It really is a good kind of stress.

My boss at work is giving me stuff to do and that feels really nice, because he has enough trust in me to do my job. I really like the field of Human Resources, but it can be quite hectic and I can honestly say that there is never a dull moment. That's what makes it so interesting. Something new everyday. Actually folks, I kinda look forward to going to work again.

I am still working the family blog, and have decided the next one is going to be the one on the house I grew up in. I know that the house is not a person, but it has a real significance in my life and my memories.

For all you bloggers out there - I'm painting the inside of my house this summer - and you all are all invited to come dip your brush into the bucket and put it on the walls. In all seriousness, I'm going to have to hire it done because the task is overwhelming.

Only a few more months till that darned pool cover comes off.

"Pool days, pool days, dear old golden rule days" (yup, I got the words all screwed up - didn't I - Or did i?)

The Sounds. . .

of summer
a basketball bouncing on the pavement
rollerblades on the street
bumble bee buzzing past your ear
cooking food outside
splashing of water
kids playing
lawn mowers
thunder
lightning
rain

You can't hear but you can see
rainbows
sunsets at bed time
daffodils
dandelions
grass
blue skies
dark clouds
puffy clouds
mosquitos
sunshine

T.G.I.T

Yes, you read that right. Thank God its Thursday. Tomorrow is my Friday off and I am so glad. Another class started this past Tuesday and it seems I am busy, busy, busy. I want to work more on the Family blog than I do school or work work. Now that's sick. I'm not sure who I will write about next, my mom, dad or the house I grew up in. Yea the house I grew up in will get it's own chapter, as that house had a lot of character and saw a lot of "stuff". Stay tuned.

I wonder if the teacher in my class would let me turn in a family blog as one of my papers.

My job is going great, but I am really busy. I have more work to do than you can imagine. I even brought some home to do this weekend. Now that's dedication - or is it stupidity? I'm not sure - I'll let you all know.

. . ."to sleep, per chance to dream. Ahhhh, there's the rub."

HAPPY HAPPY

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY TO YOU
MAY ALL YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE
MAY HEARTS ABOUND
LOVE ALL AROUND
AND LOTS OF CHOLOLATE TOO !!

Fast Forward - Again

Now it's Saturday again, and you all know what that means - More laundry.
Today is a little more hectic though. Michael has a doctor's appointment this morning. The piano tuner is coming. Markie and I are going to the movies (No not Doris Day) and I have to work on the Laundry and clean my downstairs. U of L is playing (great).

Once again there was a promise of snow, but we didn't get any. Bummer.

I start classes again on Tuesday and it seem the last one just finished up. I'm not sure where the week went.

Work was absolutely wild this week, and I cannot share those stories. I read somewhere that someone was fired for stuff they put on their blog. I'm not going to do that, but take my word for it there is NEVER a dull moment in the field of Human (or lack thereof) Resources. Let's just say that my returning boss is ready to pack his bags and head back home. Noooooooooo. Not really, but it's been a busy week for him. (poor guy).

How's that for a little color to an otherwise boring blog?

"with the thoughts i'd be thinkin, I could be another Lincoln, if I only had a brain."

YEA, Performances on AI begin Today

I love American Idol, and I am so glad that the actual performance begins tonight, and that those auditions are finally OVER. They are fun to watch, but I like when it's down to 12 and everyone starts to show their stuff. I'm also glad that AI comes on in January because it sure does take the edge off winter.

In addition - I recently got TiVO and I love it. It's great !!!!!!!!!

Not much going on here today, but I'm off to watch my TiVO'd soap opera.

Note to Linney: The theme for this years pool party is also going to be Hats and sack lunches. Michael L. says he already has his hat. So start planning, and remember only one rule. No sharp objects.

Nanna - you can always be my pool buddy. However, Juanie is going to be my pool maintenance guy. I'm trying to teach him everything about taking care of it. You know he and I are the first ones in and the last ones out. He's my helper bud, and he does a fine job helping his granny out.

INSTANT GRATIFICATION

I've thought about nothing all day but my swimming pool. I don't know why. It's such a form of relaxation and it so helps my achy bones. I can have a stressful day and come home and bob around on a raft or something, and I'm sooooo relaxed, almost like taking a drug or something. I look out at my pool now and it's all covered up and looks all lonely. I can't hardly stand it ya know. I can almost feel it.
I shouldn't wish my life away because it seems I do so much of it at times. Wish it was the weekend, wish it was summer, wish it was Christmas (NOT) and I need to learn to just be in the moment whatever it is. I get excited about upcoming things (except dentist visits) and just want them to happen quickly - Instant gratification I think it's called. Why do you all think I like buffets - no waiting.
I am so buy at work, it isn't even funny. It feels so good to do my job once again, and that I feel like a part of something. It's a good stress really, if there is such a thing.
My current class is over, and I've got a week break until the next one. I always miss it though. I'm not sure when I will obtain the degree, but I'm plugging away ever so slowly.
When Mark's twins came to live with us, it was quite an adjustment. Our family went from 2 to 4. Most of you know that the twins have problems, and it has been tough, but I have really become used to having them around. Joshua is on the right combination of medicines, and has been exceptional in his behavior. He voluntarily gets the mail for me, feeds the dogs, carries down his laundry. Michael is somewhat less motivated, but he is a good kid. He's funny and has read 11 Stephen King books since they have been here. I gave him a list of the Stephen King books I've read, and he's comparing the list. They both tell me time and time again that Johnny is the best role model they have. I'm glad, they ask me continually if he is coming in town for the weekend. They really like it here and are dreading going to VA for the summer. Well, I'm kind of dreading it too. They are my swimming buddies, and I will miss them.
"for you may still be here tomorrow, but your dreams may not."

I watched a movie last night

I finally watched the movie Crash last night. OK, so i'm a little behind and I either wait till they are on video or pay-per-view.
Well, this movie affected me on more levels than I care to comment about.

The movie was actually billed about racism, and true racism seems to be the running theme, but to me it was more about assumptions we make as people.
We assume someone is bad
We assume someone is good
We assume someone is racists
We assume someone is our friend
We assume someone may have done something they did not

With all the assumptions we make about life and people - none of them may be true.

Very interesting movie - and I would recommend it. It certainly gets one to thinking.

Well my car is running so I must also.

Later,
Glo

I HAVE TO ASK THE QUESTION

Why do I have to chisel two inches of ice off of my car when I have a garage?
I'll never understand. This spring, we are gonna make room for the vehicles one way or another.
I so so love the snow - but it doesn't chisel v/well when it becomes ice.

Well, it isn't quite as bad as this pic, but it sure felt like it.


"I complained because I had no shoes, until I met a man who had no feet."

Blogging this morning

Hey I know I blogged this morning. Did anyone read where I wrote about the snow and smoking? It seems to have disappeared.

BETTER TO ASK FORGIVENESS THAN TO ASK FOR PERMISSION

I am the only female in my house. My house is full of that darned male hormone. The guys are constantly watching Star Wars (One through Six) Star Trek, Terminator. I have to hide downstairs for my dosages of Lifetime Channel.Last week the boys were in their room and my husband was watching a movie in the living room all by himself. I went up there and he was watching Pillow Talk with Doris Day. I teased him immensly about this being a chick-flick, and he admitted he loved Doris Day Movies. I told him I would not utter this to a soul, much less to his macho male friends. I haven't until now.Today, the cable company came to insall TiVO. Mark was asking the guy how to set up something, say, a week from now. The cable guy said he would show us. Mark asked him again how to set something up a week ahead of time. The cable guy asked Mark before he left if he could assist Mark in setting up the program he wanted to watch a week from now. Mark told the cable guy "No, that's ok, thanks, I'll figure it out." As the cable guy was going out the door I asked Mark what he wanted to record next week. He squinted like "shhhhhh" and said in a whisper "A Doris Day Movie." The cable guy was not yet out the door, and I broke into hysterics. Men do NOT want other men to know that they like chick flicks, much less Doris Day movies. Mark tried to stop my laughing by telling me that this particular movie had Ronald Regan in it - Like that added that needed testosterone. Hee Hee. Men do have their images to protect. So, for all of you who will be shopping for Markie-mark next Christmas - Get him a Doris Day movie.

Ahhhh The Weekend

It's a Thursday/Friday. What I mean by that is I have tomorrow off which is Friday. These three day weekends are so nice, and I get to sleep in tomorrow, get my paper done for class and oh yea - try and quit this nasty habit.

Dear God - I need that positive light about now. I know it's going to be hard, and I know I'm going to be grumpy. I really hope the weekend is not stressful because stress is one of my smoking triggers. I think Mark and the twins need to pack up and go somewhere for a few days. I chose to quit on a long weekend, because I won't have to take my grumpiness to work with me and piss all those people off. I can just piss the people off that I love dearly. They'll forgive me, and so will my doggies. I will also have three days with no nicotine in my system so it will be easier if things get stressful at work. Being in HR and all is somewhat stressful pretty much constantly.
I get to work at 5:30 am and by 6:20 I had been filled in on a situation on 3rd shift, got two people out of bed because the 3rd shifters didn't get their paychecks and the phone was ringing off the hook. I NEEDED A SMOKE !!!!

Enough Babbling I've gots to go. More later.

"quick with a joke and a light of a smoke, but there's someplace that he'd rather be"

TUESDAYS WITH GLORIA

Well, I cannot access my classroom this afternoon, so I'd thought I'd blog a bit. My friend came back to work today, and it was so good to see her. She said her doctors do not know why she is having those seizures, and why there was a sudden onset at the age of 55. Both times she had them at work, and was looking at a very old computer monitor. They took care of that and gave her a flat screen, so hopefully that will help. It's just all so strange.
I live my life these days as measured by how many days there are till swimming season. Those of you who do not know me must learn quickly that my swimming pool is my friend. After about 50 years of being on this earth there was NOTHING that would get me outside in the summer, except that pool. I hated summers, because I hated the heat. NOW - I look forward to summer and swimming season. So we can measure here.
I can safely say that around Derby time, It's time to start the preparation. So. There are about 8-9 weeks until Thunder over Louisville (opening ceremony for Derby festival). Then about 2 more weeks, and it's time. Ahhhhhhhh. I look at that old, ugly cover on it and it makes me sad. I actually shed tears when it's time to close it for the season. But in 10-11 weeks, it may be time once again. All together now. . . Ahhhhhhhh
Well I must go and try to get into the school classroom again. Don't you think it's amazing that I can earn a college degree in my jammies. . . . Later folks
"Splish-Splash"

Good Morning all. I posted this picture because of my daughter Dianna. She has slowed down on her computering and she says her house is cleaner. There you go nanna.

It's Monday and I am getting ready to jump in the shower and head to work. This is a short week, and by that I mean - I have Friday off. I love the long weekends.

Well, I'm trying to break some of my smoking habits, and I will have to say that this is going to be harder than expected. I'm already grumpy from smoking in the garage. Can you imagine what it's going to be once the nicotine stops. I would have normally had one or two cigarettes just from typing to you guys (girls).

Special Note to Lemon Deb. I want to check out our blog, but form some reason I can't access it. I guess I need a direct link. When I go to respond, it takes me back to my own profile. I already know about me-self, just want to stop by and say howdy. I've been successful in responding to Linney and all, but don't know how I did it. Some of them there blogging whipper-snappers need to come over and teach me a lesson. Hmm maybe that's give me a lesson. Oh well - show me how.

Off to work folks. . . .
"Just another manic Monday"

Fast Forward

Fast forward now and its suddenly Sunday again Yup, I still hate Sundays and it's the regular hum-drums.

Johnny and Angie came for a visit and it is nice to have them. Dianna/Kyle and the kiddos will be here soon, and it will be nice. The problem is they all go home and it's back to the ho-hum Sundays.

Well, I'm going to try and quit smoking next Friday Feb 4. They are having classes at work and all and that is the date that was set. I have already started to break some of the habits, like smoking in my computer room. I have removed the nasty ash trays and have banished myself to the garage or outside. Once some of the habits are broken, hopefully it will be easy - NOT!!!!!

And. . . .Oh. . . .yea, ahem, check out me comments. People are now dropping by. I'm trying to respond to some of them, but I get lost in blogger-hell and am not successful.

. . . ."any way the wind blows". . . . . .

Sleepy Saturday Morning

What am I talking about, sleepy Saturday Morning? I must be out of my head. I was up at 12:30 doing school work - What is the matta with me. I did go back to sleep though for a bit and am still in my PJs and it's nearly 11.

Shhhhhh listen - the laundry is calling me and I am not wanting to hear it. My day is going to be consumed with Tide, Downy, Hot Water, Cold Water, Agitate, Spin, Rinse and U of L basketball. Hope they play a clean game. . . har har.

Hopefully Johnny is coming in today. It's been awhile since he's been here, and I miss him. For those of you who read this (Ha!!!) (Hey Mary O-Lee), Johnny is my son of whom I am very proud. He's a lawyer. He worked very hard to get where he's at, and it makes my heart want to burst.

Well the voices in my head are calling me. . . (still listening?) they are saying "wash me". No, I'm not scizo, just having a laundry denial moment.

Hey, I'm practicing uploading pics. I chose this one of Michael because he is the king of dirty clothes. Good Kid, but he wears his clothes for days sometimes.

"Saturday, Saturday, Saturday, Saturday, Saturday, Saturday, Saturday, Saturday, Saturday night's all-right"

Da Blog

No bloggers for me. I guess I must be purdy darned boring and stuff. How does one obtain blogging friends? I even paid my daughter big bucks to pimp my blog for me. That's sad. Don't senior citizens blog? I can compare aches and pains with the best of 'em.

I've been so busy lately. My friend recouperated from her seizure quite nicely. She will be back to work on Tuesday - Yea. I'm glad she isn't off for three months this time. Work isn't the same without her. My old boss comes back and my friend goes out - Dang it.

I am bored out of my wits as you may tell from my ramblings. I have nothing to report except that we had Brats for dinner and I am full and fat.

"Won't you be, won't you be, please won't you be . . . my neighbor" (my blogging neighbor that is)

SLEEP

As I sit here waiting for my car to de-ice I'll discuss sleep. It comes when you need it believe me. After dinner last night I laid down on the couch at 7 pm, in anticipation of American Idol and a U of L game. I woke up at 4:00 this morning - missing both.

Typically I would switch back and forth with the remote. U of L won (finally) and I'm not sure what happend on AI. Waaaaaaaa

Sleep is a wonderful thing, but there isn't any time for it. But man - it feels good to get enough of it. What a conundrum !!!


Time to go to work now.

"hi ho, hi ho - it's off to work I go".

Hey It's Me.

Well, I guess I can welcome myself to my own blogging expeirence, because I'm not sure where everyone is, and hopefully someone will find this somehow, and I can now blog with the best of them.

I copied my daughter's format because, simply put, I don't know what the hell I am doing. I don't even know how to post pictures or add something about myself. Great fun I'll be.

Welcome to all who view this, and hopefully I can find my way back to blogdom.