August 14, 2008
Moving on
August is half over, already! I noticed the other day that the leaves on the maples are already beginning to turn, a bright red and orange color. I think then of the 7 cords of wood we have coming and have to stack...and sigh...
But, I am also very grateful to have that method of heating our home this winter as the winters here can be brutal and with the cost of oil these days, well...
Summer has winded down quite nicely actually. We spent a week out to camp and it rained and rained and rained some more, but hubby and I did get to enjoy an evening out on the lake in his old row boat and the kids did more camping and then spent the weekend at another campground in NH with family members. I would dare say those two are CAMPED right out this summer, but they sure did have a good time. These are the memories I wish for them to cherish, always!
Now I am planning a short get away with the oldest who is soon to be 16 in one short week! We want to go shopping out of town and then stay over night somewhere and relax and hopefull "enjoy" each others company!
The younger one will stay home and help out Dad with the continuing construction of our new garage. It's HUGE!
Otherwise, I guess autumn is nearly upon us with school soon to start again and another summer gone.
Posted by tracey at 07:17 PM | Comments (0)
August 02, 2008
August Time
So the month of August is suddenly upon us and I ask,where has our summer gone? July was wet wet wet! It rained a lot and August isn't looking too promising for sunny weather either!
Elton John ROCKED, btw!!! We had an EXCELLENT time and I am SO glad I went. He gave a GREAT performance, one I will not soon forget. All his hits and more!
Our shed is coming along, finally...The framing is going up and hubby is hard at work this weekend working on the upstairs part where I will finally have some storage space! WOOHOO! It's been a LONG time coming! Our old shed was just that...old and sinking into the ground and caving in! We now have a nice cement slab and three bay entrances for our cars and other stuff plus a place to work on things. So I am very excited to get this done. Hubby has done most of it himself with some help from a few friends and neighbors.
Otherwise, things are ok. We head out to camp tomorrow afternoon for a week and hopefully the weather won't be too bad and I plan to loaf, enjoy the water, catch up on some reading and movies!
Posted by tracey at 04:20 PM | Comments (0)
July 19, 2008
A glimmer of Grace
Seeing others through Grace, that hurt us and disappoint us is not an easy thing to do. It's actually quite difficult at times.
How do you find Grace in someone or something, that has caused you heartache and despair. Someone who constantly feels resentment towards you no matter how good you have tried to be towards them.
I'm pretty content with the person I have become. At nearly 40 years of age I feel I have made some pretty good strides so far, made LOTS of mistakes too, but have tried to learn from these mistakes and move on. Sometimes though, it is hard for me to move on or let things go because sometimes it's just always the same stuff I'm trying to let go of or move away from. I think I have let a lot go, more than I use too, I try and overlook the little annoyances and keep my eyes set on the good. It's not worth getting upset over every little thing in life right?
I'm NOT perfect, far from it. I do have my opinions, my beliefs, but I don't think I try to shove that down anyone else's throat or at least I'm pretty sure I don't. I'm a hard worker, always have been. What I have I have earned on my own and with no handouts. I don't expect them. I wasn't raised that way. I mind my own business and allow that to others so long as their business isn't causing me distress in some way, directly or indirectly. I go to work everyday, raise my kids and have tried to teach and instill in them the most important virtues in life which I believe are honesty, respectfulness, modesty, purity, justice, generosity, perseverance, loyality and patience. (That last one I struggle with ALL the time!)
I raised my oldest daughter on my own for the first 8 years of her life. I worked full time as a licensed practical nurse and we lived three years in the same apartment and during this time I traveled every other weekend to a University 90 miles each way, to study towards my RN degree. Being a single parent was tough financially and I wanted things for my daughter that I couldn't always afford, sometimes I would charge these things and that was a mistake! But...those bills too, did eventually get paid.
I met my husband in 1997, moved in with him in 1998 and we married in 1999. We have lived in the same home ever since. Another daughter came into our lives in 2001 and completed our family. I graduated with my associates degree in nursing the year we married and have continued to work full time and provide for my family their basic needs and for others in my life things they need and things I have wanted to do for them.
I don't ask alot of anyone except kindness and respect and this I especially ask of my children and I don't think that is asking too much?
I don't expect privileges and indulgences, and I certainly don't feel entitled to exploit other people without any trace of reciprocation. I really try to just go about my own life without causing a lot of grief for others. I don't believe I display any nasty behaviors that would be considered emotionaly stressful to others. I am not entitled to anything in this life, but a little common decency and respect.
I try and remember everyone near to me during difficult and good times, holidays and just visiting because I want to visit and not because I need or want something in return.
I've been told it's better to look for the good in others even if it's buried deep. I've been told we will see the Grace in others if we look hard enough. Sometimes there is only a glimmer that is quickly extinguished! But it is still there, somewhere.
So I try to do this. I look for this in everyone even when I have reached the end of my rope with some. Life is short. I have seen the end in many during my 20 years of nursing. To go out of this world without respect, without grace, without dignity is very sad and I pray for those who persecute me now, from my past and those to come. For Grace is the dignity we harbor in ourselves of who we truly are and can become.
So, I feel very strongly it is not wise to be envious of what others have in life and then become vehemently critical of them when you have just tried to give some positive criticism in hopes that they too will search deep within themselves for that glimmer of Grace... and somewhere...find it.
Posted by tracey at 08:40 PM | Comments (0)
July 11, 2008
Personalities and the summer time!
Without God in our lives things can get pretty complicated. More so then when He IS in your lives. Then throw in all the different personalities we have, envy, resentment and social skills and it makes for a BIG mess!
I try to be as family oriented as possible, I love my family, I want only the best for them and this includes my extended family as well. I've always been at the hub of family. I have especially enjoyed geneaology and have spent hours on this research. I love get togethers and just time spent with one another.
I'm starting to wonder though, why I enjoy this so much? Maybe I shouldn't. I guess I need to back off, make some room and continue to pray for all my LOST loved ones, as there are MANY.
The Devil has a hold at this moment, think he always has actually. So prayer is in desperate need.
The summer, actually, is turning out to be ok despite the choppy start. The girls are off to camp next week with some very dear friends. They will attend their church's Vacation Bible School this year and then spend the rest of the time camping in tents at a campground. Should be a good time for them both and to be with fellow believers is a PLUS!
Our weather has been good, finally cooled off a little and that nasty humidity has let up for the moment.
Hubby and I plan to enjoy our "kidless" time next week and work on our new shed/garage and visit with his brother and wife and maybe have dinner out one night with them as well.
I can't believe it's getting to be that time again to start thinking about school starting and clothes and all that! Our summers just go by WAY TOO fast!
But I am blessed for all I have and all there is yet to be. Time will and can, only tell.
Posted by tracey at 10:14 AM | Comments (0)
July 05, 2008
Bullies
DEFINITION OF:
1. a blustering, quarrelsome, overbearing person who habitually badgers and intimidates smaller or weaker people.
2. Archaic. a man hired to do violence.
–verb (used with object) 6. to act the bully toward; intimidate; domineer.
–verb (used without object) 7. to be loudly arrogant and overbearing.
To treat in an overbearing or intimidating manner.
To make (one's way) aggressively.
noun
1. a cruel and brutal fellow
CRUDE:
–adjective
1. in a raw or unprepared state; unrefined
2. lacking in intellectual subtlety, perceptivity, etc.; rudimentary; undeveloped.
3. lacking finish, polish, or completeness
4. lacking culture, refinement, tact, etc.
5. undisguised; blunt
6. Obsolete. unripe; not mature.
All definitions of a person who is considered a bully and VERY crude. And this pretty much sums it up for me. I just wonder though, is this behavior inherited or learned? Or, maybe it's both...I'll have to do some further research.
Let's just say, having someone like this in your extended family is NOT a lot of fun.
Posted by tracey at 08:31 AM | Comments (0)
June 15, 2008
Long week at an end
Thank the LORD!
It's been a trying week for sure. I've had a never ending headache and stuffiness, part from the pollen in the air and part from tears that seem to turn on as fast as they stop.
No, it's not the change of life, but it sure feels that way.
My mother always said, "Pay back is a bitch dear." and OMG, was she ever right!! But I'll be damned if I'm going to admit it!
Things take time I guess and I'm just hoping that this one will work it's self out, in time. I can only pray that it will and I've been doing a lot of that as well.
On a lighter note, Hannah and I enjoyed dinner out with Andy tonight for father's day. We went to a small out of the way little place and it was very good. Then we took the long way home just enjoying the warm and sunny evening.
I tried calling my father this afternoon to wish him a Happy Father's Day, but there was no answer.
Otherwise, it's peaceful tonight and I will enjoy my day off tomorrow to rest and maybe take another bike ride!
Posted by tracey at 09:03 PM | Comments (0)
June 06, 2008
Just a blog
And that is all this really is. Do people come here to read it, I'm not real sure, but my counter does indicate that someone reads it, occasionaly and that's all I care about, or not. I've always liked to blog ever since I discovered this online several years ago and it's popularity has since grown, a lot!
I don't blog often, sometimes more than others, but for the most part I just enjoy logging some of life's events or thoughts or occasions.
As of late, I've pondered my faith and what is going on in the world around us. It seems that no one, especially this younger generation, say 18 - 30, have no clue what kind of economic problems we are in and the hardships we are facing. They go about life spending on credit, buying things they don't need, driving beyond the speed limits and wasting fuel and I could go on, but basically, I just want to say, how grateful I am for what I have. My home, which isn't a mansion by any stretch, but it's ours and our mortgage is a livable one. We have land to grow a garden and can heat with wood or oil and fortunately my father still cuts firewood and gives a us a deal every year.
I love where I live, here in the green mountains of Vermont where crime isn't running rampant, people, for the most part, are still pretty decent to one another, you can count on your neighbor for a favor and vs/vs. We live near farms where many products are grown organically. We can pick strawberries or grow them yourself!
Recently someone in our community, an out of stater as we refer to them, complained about the smell of manure when it is spread in the spring in summer months. It was a bit entertaining to read her letter of woe and then even more entertaining to read the replies! Basically, she was told to put up or get out, but more importantly, someone, the one accused of the terrible smell, said he understood, it's not pleasant, but to remember it's people like them that work the land here to help feed the millions of people that populate this earth and I applaud him for that.
I'd much rather smell the manure then sticky foggy air pollution or live near a nuclear power plant.
It's a wonderful God given blessing to live in a place such as I do. I am grateful for my family and that my children are growing up here as well.
Maybe it's just the old farm girl in me myself, but whatever the reason, I just felt called to thank God for all I have here...
Posted by tracey at 10:04 AM | Comments (0)
May 22, 2008
The Weather
Sucks, almost as bad as the gas prices!
Where did spring go??? We are turning the furnace on again and starting little fires in the woodstove here and there and...it snowed over the mountain Monday night on our way to buy my wicker set!
Yes, finally I have my white wicker set for our back porch and it looks very nice if I do say so myself! I will certainly enjoy sitting out there in the early mornings and late afternoons. But... I will miss my Beethoven who use to always lay up under the big pine tree in our back yard. I had to have him put down this week. He was my big rotty/retriever mix dog that we had for eight years, but he had become quite aggressive over the past few years towards other dogs and had recently attacked one of our neighbor's dogs while their young daughter was walking her and it scared me enough to finally have him put down so no one, including ourselves or kids, would be hurt. It was a very hard thing to do, but for the best and I'll miss not seeing him out there everyday.
So, now we are without any dogs and I plan to keep it that way. We have had such a bad streak of luck with animals in the past year and half! I like dogs though so maybe someday the right one will come along and be with us for a long time.
I'm also worried about hubby tonight and his diabetes as of late. His sugars are WAY out of control and I know his diet is part of it, but not sure all of it. So, I've decided we all need to take a better approach to our eating habits and serving sizes and start our walking back up again and if this doesn't help I want him to call the doctor as I think he may need to start a sliding scale of insulin in addition to the long acting he is already on. Here's hoping the diet and excercise will help!
So, it's been a long week and I'm glad I have a long weekend ahead of me. I plan to finish Mom's quilt and have a HUGE yard sale to get rid of some junk and work more on my flower gardens!
Posted by tracey at 10:28 PM | Comments (0)
May 16, 2008
Gardening for the soul
So this spring I have found myself in my flower gardens just about every evening. I should be taking my regular evening walks with Hannah, but she's playing til dusk with neighborhood kids and I'm in my gardens, weeding away.
I have come to find this once, daunting task, now to be very relaxing and soothing. I sit or kneel and pull and pull. The weeds actually come right out fairly easy as I've weeded and mulched in the past, but there are still quite a few to pull!
I counted last night and I have 8 flower beds! And I'm looking around the yard to see what else I want to do with it!
I also discovered gardening gloves this year!! I, of course, know they exist and have, I just never thought to buy me a pair! Saves your hands and nails a lot!!
So, I am really enjoying my gardens this spring, more so than in years past. Is it because I'm getting older and these types of things will now give me such pleasure, reserve and a great sense of peace?
Posted by tracey at 07:42 AM | Comments (0)
April 28, 2008
It's raining and cold
today and I'm not sure what happened to our summer like weather?? It's gone! Miss Hannah and I stayed home from work/school today as she hadn't felt well all weekend and was complaining of her ears hurting and I...can't seem to kick this nasty cold I have had for almost two weeks! So, I got her in to see the doc today and sure enough, she has a DOUBLE ear infection and her cold is back as she is all congested again. So got some antibiotics to clear up the ears and lots of juice to flush out that congestion. Sure hope it works.
It's raw outside and I had to go around and close up the house and turn the furnace on for a bit to take the chill away. It is only the end of April, but this past week sure did feel like July! So much for that.
I've been enjoying my little birds once again. Black and white finches and yellow chicadees. They come right to my window here at the computer and eat the seed and suet I have out for them.They are so sweet to watch and enjoy.
I did up some cooking today making a big pot of spaghetti sauce for dinner tomorrow, it's always better to let it set one day after it's cooked!
Off to the grind tomorrow and hoping we are all in better shape!
Posted by tracey at 03:59 PM | Comments (1)
April 25, 2008
Week's End and our Trip
So, Dev and I had a GREAT time in Washington DC. We saw every monument ever erected!! And we walked about 6 miles everyday, sometimes more!
Dev LOVED the subway, don't ask me why??? She thought it was the COOLEST thing ever and had it figured out, how to use it, but the end of the first day!
Our Hotel was not new and flashy, but clean and an easy walk to the Metro in Arlington.
The first day we spent the morning at Arlington National Cemetery. What a beautiful serene place and the cherry blossoms were still in bloom. I captured some great pictures! Also saw the changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown and they played TAPS for a someone just being buried that day and that is all it takes to bring tears to my eyes!
From there we walked over to the Iwo Jima memorial. Something to see, it's HUGE!
After lunch at Union Station we walked over to the Capital and hung out there for a bit before heading down the National Mall towards the Smithsonian Castle and then onward to the White House where we hung out by the wrought iron fence and took pictures of the protestors and police!
Everyday was an adventure and we traveled miles on the metro, ate lunch the second day at the famous Ben's Chili Bowl and had dinner one night at the Cheesecake Factory!
We had a great time and the last day traveled to Mt. Vernon where we got caught in a down pour at Washington's tomb and then thunder and lightening as we ran as fast as we could back up towards the mansion!
It was a great trip and so glad we went!!!!
I had Monday off which was good as we didn't get home until 5:30 am! The drive home took us 13 1/2 hours due to traffic out of NYC because of the Pope's visit which also created LOTS of people in DC during our week there! One morning we stumbled upon five bus loads of Bishops leaving their hotel! Quite a site...
Now the weekend is here and I'm ready to kick back and relax as this beautiful weather surely won't last!!!
Posted by tracey at 09:15 PM | Comments (0)
April 11, 2008
Getting a little nervous
So we are 4 days away from our trip to DC and I'm starting to get flight anxiety! I don't give it much though until the time draws nearer and it is!! I'm really excited to go, the weather is looking a lot better there than here, that is for sure!
Tomorrow is Hannah's birthday party and Dev will be gone most of the weekend to help take care of her nephews for the weekend, she's nice like that...
Otherwise, it's been a hell of a week and I am SO glad today is my last day of work for a while! It's been a tiring and frustrating few days and mainly due to the people I work with. They really know how to stress one out, but every night I ask GOD for calm and his grace to get me through...
And it helps...
So, here's to a crappy weather weekend, but time with my family before heading to the big capital of our nation!!!
Posted by tracey at 07:48 AM | Comments (0)
April 06, 2008
Guardian
So, I love taking these personality tests. I've done it for work in-services we have had and I think I did some in college as well. I always come out the GUARDIAN --- and by GOD, I'd have to say, this IS me, in a nutshell...
These are the general traits of a guardian...
Guardians pride themselves on being dependable, helpful, and hard-working.
Guardians make loyal mates, responsible parents, and stabilizing leaders.
Guardians tend to be dutiful, cautious, humble, and focused on credentials and traditions.
Guardians are concerned citizens who trust authority, join groups, seek security, prize gratitude, and dream of meting out justice.
Posted by tracey at 05:16 PM | Comments (0)
March 30, 2008
Cleaning House
So, it was finally nice and somewhat warm out today, the sun is still shining and our local ice cream shop has opened up!! YAHOOO! And...when Hannah asked if we could go after supper I had a hard time saying no, so...I said YES!!! We still have a ton of snow on the ground, but it's leaving, slowly but surely.
After church today I visited a friend I hadn't seen in a long time. She hurt her a leg skiing a couple of months ago and I've been bad about stopping into say hi. I've called and sent a card, but finally got over there today with a few things from the bakery. Spent a couple of hours visiting with them and then came home to a house that was totally trashed!! WAY too much junk and our front porch, forget it, back up the garbage truck. So, Devon and I kicked out hubby and Hannah and went to work. An hour or so later, much better, but the garbage man has a load and half for tomorrow!
It's terrible the crap we accumilate and going through two toy boxes I decided, "none of this is ever played with..." So I picked out things Hannah still plays with some of the time, kept a small card board box for some toys my nephews play with when they are over and the rest went out the door! You can actually sit out on the porch again without killing yourself trying to find a chair!! And...we hung up our big poster from Wyoming and the Grand Tetons. It's a bit weathered from our trip, but looks nice, forgot we had it! It's amazing the things you come across when you start going though stuff you don't need/use anymore.
So, I feel better now with my house back in order, the weather is better and enjoyed a day shopping with Mom yesterday. I am already for Hannah's 7th birthday which we will celebrate on the 12th and do her birthday dinner on her actually birthday this coming Friday.
Then Dev and I are off to DC for five days! Then it's on to planning Mom's 60th! I am so grateful her best friend is on board with planning and helping out, my younger brother is going to help out as well and of course Devon. Should be a fun time and hoping she enjoys it too!
So, a clean and orderly house sure does improve one's mood, or maybe it's the MUCH needed sunshine!
At any rate, life is good!
Posted by tracey at 04:53 PM | Comments (1)
March 23, 2008
Easter Blessings
So another Easter time come and gone and we all enjoyed a nice day. I had to work, but it turned out to be a pretty good day after a minor melt down with the LNA'S. I guess I expect too much from them sometimes, but I am someone that wants things done and done right, not half done, what's the point???
During lunch time Andy and Hannah surprised me with a nice bouquet of flowers in a ceramic easter bunny! When I got done my shift I ran home to shower and change and then we headed out to Mom's for a nice ham dinner and cake and ice cream for my youngest brother who turned 27 this past Wed. It seems impossible that in three short years he will be 30 years old already!!! Time flies for sure. He wasn't feeling well, has a nasty head cold and I can relate as I spent last weekend home and sick with something very similiar!
Our weather continues to SUCK! I am SOOOOO sick of all this snow and the wind that blew for three days straight. I want spring time and my flowers and birds and sitting out on my front porch and taking the dog for walks!
I know it's coming...it's been a loooong cold winter for sure!
Happy Easter and God's Blessings...
Posted by tracey at 08:41 PM | Comments (0)
February 26, 2008
Dreaded snow
I know I know, I've talked about wanting snow, but now I've about had it with ALL this snow!!! Yesterday was so nice and warm, 45 degrees around 1pm yesterday, felt like a spring day!!! Now we under a storm warning until tomorrow night!! I want spring to come, I want to see the grass, the flowers in bloom and get my new shed built!
Enjoyed a great day of shopping yesterday. The girl's and I and Harriet spent the day shopping and had lunch out, boosting the economy I guess you could say, but it was stuff we needed. Dev and I are going to make a quilt together. We picked out the material yesterday. It's called a rag quilt and you need to make it with flannel type materials. I think, if it comes out good, which it should... we will give it to Mom for her 60th birthday in May. Speaking of which, I'm trying to decide what I want to do for her BIG 60 this year. I kind of wanted to keep it simple, just a small party here at our house with a card shower from others who live away. Now as the time gets a little closer it seems like I should have a big get together and invite lots of people including all of her siblings, she's the baby, so it would be nice to have them all together and get some good pictures. I'll have to see which way I'm leaning more towards as good weather gets here...if it ever does!
Posted by tracey at 05:16 PM | Comments (0)
February 16, 2008
A Stroke of Business
It always feels so good to get some bills paid off, put a little money in the bank and know things are ok for the moment.
I feel so lucky and fortunate and blessed to have such a wonderful family, a great and caring, understanding husband that would and does, move heaven and earth for me. Two amazing daughters that fill my life with more joy and pride than I could ever imagine, even if the oldest one does test my nerves on a daily basis. I know in my heart of hearts that I have instilled all the good I can into her, I know she knows right from wrong, good from bad even if she doesn't always make the right sound decisions. I know she is learning from these choices, good or bad, and that is all I can ask for.
Our home is warm, our cupboards full and life is very good...
We enjoyed more trail riding on the sleds last night, but it was pretty cold so we didn't stay out too late. Tomorrow we plan to make a day of it and despite the chilly temperatures today the sun is shining bright and it almost felt like a spring day today even with our high snow banks! It's coming...
Here's to a splendid weekend of fun and family time!
Posted by tracey at 12:40 PM | Comments (0)
February 13, 2008
Sick? Snow Day...
So, I'm home again, but this time I'm playing hookie from work. Haven't missed any days in like six months, but today, I got up when the alarm went off, went to the bathroom and looked out the window at all this snow, coughed and started sneezing and then my nose was running and I said to heck with it and called out!
I love riding the snow machines, but I must say, this winter has been a rough one! They say to expect at least 8-10 inches today along with freezing rain. School was cancelled, again, and I figured I'd stay home too to keep the fires going and enjoy some time with the kiddos.
Dev is very excited to have her first job this coming summer. A counselor at a camp she has gone to for 10 summers. Now she is old enough to be a counselor there and spend pretty much the whole summer at camp. I plan to send Hannah for a couple of weeks as well. She went last year for two weeks and had a pretty good time.
Hubby is SO excited to have this snow. He LOVES to ride the snow machine, more than I do!
I hear the plows, I'm wondering if I should call someone to plow us out or wait for hubby to get home to do it?
Oh well, we are nice, warm and cozy and glad I went grocery shopping last night!
So, we'll sit and watch the snow today and maybe venture out in a bit as well!
Posted by tracey at 09:26 AM | Comments (0)
February 08, 2008
Day off
So, we are into February and have a lot of our snow back thanks to some nasty weather the last 3-4 days. The kids had a snow day last week and then two days this week that were late arrivals. It's pushing their time in June to be a bit longer and we still have the rest of this month and March to get through!
Today is my day off and I must confess, I hate to do anything on my days off but stay at home, drink my morning coffee, catch up laundry and housekeeping and veg on the computer! I told a friend who was recently injured in a ski accident that I would stop by today and I just haven't wanted to go anywhere. Awful aren't I? But...my job is so consuming sometimes that on my days off I like the time for just me!
Hubby finally got his snow machine fixed, thank you LORD! He was about having a hyper the past two weeks trying to get that fixed. Of course taking it somewhere that does that sort of thing would have cost us well over a $1000, but thanks to someone he works with that knows how to work on them and has a nice heated garage to work in, helped him and they finally got it going last night for a little under $300! Tomorrow afternoon will be the big test as once we are done work we plan to head out and enjoy a big bon fire, sledding and hotdogs in the deep woods! Hannah will go with us as Dev is off to NH with her Gram to attend a friend's 60th birthday bash.
Otherwise, it's been an awfully LONG winter and I'm starting to look forward to spring, despite the fun I have had on my new sled! Hubby is also anxious to get working on our new garage, he's become quite resourceful in his older age!! He's beginning to figure out it's cheaper to do things for yourself rather than hire it out. Everything costs so much today it's crazy.
And...I can't forget about our upcoming trip to DC either. Dev is actually getting more excited about it as well.
Here's to a great evening on the trails tomorrow and safety and LOTS of fun!!
Posted by tracey at 12:25 PM | Comments (0)
January 27, 2008
Winter is half over
So, the days are getting a wee bit longer and we haven't had anymore snow storms, which I would kind of like a little more snow since I have now own a snow machine, but... we may not get anymore this winter. Hubby says not to worry, it's only January, guess he's right.
The weekend at work went off without a hitch. It was busy, but enjoyable and now I'm glad to have tomorrow off and get some things done around the house.
I really need to get some scrapbooking done too so maybe if I can't go out on the trails next weekend, I'll get to work on some of that. I've been going through a can of old pictures, some REALLY old ones and I need to do something with them as they are going to get ruined. It's just I have to be in the "mood" to do that kind of stuff and usually this time of year I am!
Nothing to much else happening at the moment, which is good, I like things to be quiet, calm and peaceful...
Posted by tracey at 06:14 PM | Comments (0)
January 17, 2008
DC Bound!
So, I bought our tickets to Washington DC last night and now I need a drink! The thought of flying always makes me feel strange and nervy! I don't particulary care for it, especially our last flight out to Las Vegas, that was WAY too long! I could never fly to Austraila or China, they'd have to knock me out! But...we are going, Dev and I and I'm excited for the trip! I have never been to DC and Dev was suppose to go on an 8th grade field trip, but they weren't able to raise the money needed to go.
I can't wait to see all the monuments and Arlington Nat'l Cemetary, those will be the highlights for me and the Halocaust Museum.
Right now though, the temperatures have plummented once again to below zero and we lost all of our snow! I doubt hubby and I will be able to go out on the sleds this weekend either, not enough snow and it will be too cold! I offered to take one of my nephews on Saturday so he should keep me busy. Hope we can at least play outside a little.
January is going by fast, the days are getting longer anyhow and because of our upcoming trip I'm getting a little anxious for spring time!
Posted by tracey at 07:35 AM | Comments (1)
December 27, 2007
Nearly a new year!
So Christmas 2007 has come and gone and another year too!
We had a very nice Christmas. Everyone got what they wanted and needed and the only blemish is that Dev's new computer doesn't work right!! Not sure what is the matter with it, but looks like I need to call someone to see if they can fix it. Poor Hubby has spent several days on it trying to get it to work right and it will for a while and then all of sudden out of NO where the screen turns blue, calling it's self a blue screen error, hah! Then it says it is going to dump the memory to protect Windows etc etc etc. I don't know, have never seen that before and it's a real bug a boo because it's "brand new!"
Otherwise, I am very happy with my new sled hubby got me for Christmas. It's used, but in good shape and something for me to be able to go out on the trails with this winter and it looks like we have a little more snow coming this way.
On the family front, we all got together for the day and enjoyed more gifts out to Ma and Pa's and a very nice Prime Rib dinner with all the fixin's! I especially enjoy watching the little ones open their presents and it's nice to get together with everyone and enjoy ourselves, visit and laugh.
Me and the girls attended our church's Christmas Eve service and it was very nice as always. The Pastor recites scripture from our Saviour's birth and we sing songs to rejoice!
Now I'm looking forward to the New Year and I actually will have some time off around that this year! I usually work the Eve and New Year's Day, but this year I took them off. I'm hoping hubby and I can get out on the sleds a little.
Today, my house is a mess and I'm contemplating taking down the Christmas Tree, but I think I'll leave it up a few more days. The girl's are still sleeping! I think I should get them going, but then I think I kind of like the quiet, alot!
Wishing everyone a blessed and healthy New Year!
Posted by tracey at 10:39 AM | Comments (0)
November 28, 2007
Thanks
Thanksgiving was nice this year, it was also my birthday and I endured the Happy Birthday song and my mother couldn't leave out the "How old are you now..." part, but it was cute. I tried to not pay too much attention as I was doing the dishes at the time!
Dinner was great as usual. Mom insists on cooking dinner every year so we always go to her house. This year I was off and usually I work so that was nice for a change. Then...Dev had the "great" idea of driving to Burlington that morning at 4am to hit the sales on Black Friday. I've never done that, but a few people I work with have done it and "love" doing it every year. So, since I was working the graveyard shift that Friday I thought, "What the heck, I'll go." Turns out I didn't get up at 4, but rather 4:30 am when Dev woke me up. We were on the snowy roads by 5 am and made it to the Big B by 7:30, I drove kind of slow because I didn't trust the roads or my new little car, but I was pleasantly surprised with my little car!!
Things weren't too bad until we hit the mall, man oh man! I did get a couple of things for a very good price, but that was about it. It was fun, but not sure I'd do it again!
Then, I awoke the other morning having dreamt of people, cousins, I hadn't seen or heard from in years and I mean like 20! My dream was so vivid and surreal that I awoke, made me a pot of coffee and looked one of their numbers up in the phone book and called him and we talked for nearly a half hour and caught up on sooo much! It was like 20 years hadn't passed! Strange, but nice and now we plan to get together and meet each other's children and reminisce some more! He only lives a couple of hours away, but we have just never kept in touch.
Now it's off to work, it snowed a little last night, but not enough to really say so. I really would like a nice big storm to come for the holidays, we'll see what happens...
Posted by tracey at 07:12 AM | Comments (0)
November 15, 2007
White stuff
It's officially here and I was kind of excited to see it coming down today...snow that is! It's almost Thanksgiving and I was hoping we'd have a little snow for the holiday!
It seems that Christmas is coming too quickly this year as well! I'm trying to rap up my lists, ordering the last few things I need to get and trying to figure out when I should order things for family that lives afar. I only send gifts to my sister and her family in FL and this year I'm thinking just a nice Vermont Maple products basket for them all to enjoy.
I have to work this Christmas and I'm a little bummed about it, but we've decided to have our Christmas on Christmas eve instead and still enjoy dinner out to Mom's after I get done work. I don't mind working really, I do enjoy making the patient's day a little brighter if I can, just haven't had to work Christmas in a long time.
Otherwise it's quiet around here, well, I did holler at the neighbor's the other night, 3:30 am to be exact! Now I feel bad about it, but I'd had it with their pesky dogs howling and barking all night long and waking me up! It totally blew me away that they did not hear this at 2 am!! Other neighbors have complained as well so I finally made a call at 3:30 am the other morning and kind of told him what I thought of his barking dogs. Haven't heard them since and so now I feel bad, but maybe it took care of the problem.
Oh well...
Guess that is all for now!
Posted by tracey at 06:35 PM | Comments (0)
November 08, 2007
Goodbye old friend
So we had to have little Bandit put to sleep today and it about broke my heart to do it, but I couldn't stand to see him suffer anymore.
The vets said his kidney's weren't working anymore, yet he was peeing a lot, but he stopped eating, wasn't drinking, wanted too, but couldn't. Then when Dev got home from school she took him out of his crate and he fell forward onto his head and could hardly stand up.
I didn't know what to do. I had them do blood work, x-rays and then they didn't call me back today to let me know what the results were, but when I got home and saw what condition he was in I knew I couldn't let him suffer like that anymore.
So, he's gone and we will bury him tomorrow near the cedar hedge he liked to lay in during the summer when it was hot. He would always bark to let us know when the kids were coming through the hedges to go play.
I'm going to miss that little stinker...
Posted by tracey at 09:10 PM | Comments (0)
November 06, 2007
Pets
So my poor little Bandit isn't well and I fear he may have to go down. He's been acting funny for about six weeks now and despite my best efforts to get him well, he seems to not be able too. He's painfully thin and now he's not eating at all.
I put off taking him to the vets because I really don't have a lot of good things to say about the vet I have always taken my pets too. For one, they charge you an arm and a leg before you even walk through the door, then they tell you not too worry, we'll do this and that and take your $400 and then your pet has to be put down anyway...
So, this time around I decided to get Bandit all cleaned up and nicely trimmed, which did make him look better and I'm sure feel a little better. Then I went about cooking him special treats and trying to get vitamins and iron into him, but that doesn't seem to work anymore. His mom had cancer so I'm starting to think he may have it too. Then I discovered tonight he's starting to drool and has a HORRID odor coming from his mouth. Can't really see anything out of the ordinary, but the stench is AWFUL.
So, I will take him to the vet's tomorrow just to see if they can tell me what it might be, but I have my doubts it's going to be a good prognosis.
Poor little guy...
I love my pets and just hate it when they get sick and there is nothing you can do to fix them.
Posted by tracey at 09:06 PM | Comments (1)
November 01, 2007
The month of "gloom"
So November is upon us and the weather has finally taken a turn. The days are a bit warmer than the evenings and I like the cooler nights. The woodstove warms the house just enough to take the chill off and it's back to crock pot favorites for supper!
November can be gloomy though, cloudy and overcast skies and that chill in the air with a few snow flakes slying about here and there, but despite the dismal days, it can also be a month to reflect and enjoy the changing seasons, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving and my birthday!
A friend and I enjoyed an annual craft fair this past weekend and hubby and I had friends over for dinner to show off our vacation pics and then I developed some nasty cold symptoms and a bit of laryingitis that kept me home from work one day this past week. Hannah has been sick as well with a nasty cough that acts up at night when she is trying to sleep! But I think we are both on the mend now!
The kids enjoyed a nice Halloween this year and had fun dressing up and trick or treating (even though Devon is a bit too old to trick or treat now!) with the neighbors this year. Because they went with the neighbors I forgot about their grandmothers who always like to see them dressed up! Will have to make up for that this weekend!
I've also started my Christmas shopping already! Have my lists made and quite a few things already bought. I'm staying practical, getting things people need, not necassarily what they want!
I've also started some home projects, quite by surprise actually. Got home from work one evening and began pulling wallpaper off the downstairs bathroom. Created quite a job, but hubby got right into it and it's half newly painted now and looks WAY better!
Now I'm picking out paint boarder for the kitchen!!
Posted by tracey at 11:00 PM | Comments (0)
October 21, 2007
Well...
I thought the winter was coming, not sure where it went!
72 degrees today and for the end of October, that is just plain strange!
Had a very nice visit tonight from old friends that live about 2 hours from here. They surprised us this afternoon and we had a nice dinner and then enjoyed homemade desserts compliments of Dev. She baked all afternoon and it was good!
We've actually had a lot of company these past few weeks and have enjoyed showing off our travel album of pictures and the videos we made! I still can't believe we saw ALL those places and traveled to so many different states! I still can't believe we did it all in 12 days!
Worrying about my oldest brother lately and hoping he can get out of this huge rut he is in. It's so hard to watch someone you care about so much, suffer unnecassarily, but there is only so much you can do. I keep him in my prayers and hope he can see the light pretty soon and realize, there is light at the end of this tunnel.
I'm off tomorrow and will have the house to myself for the day so I plan to do more scrapbooking and cook a roast, but hubby says it's suppose to be near 80 degrees tomorrow! Not roast weather for sure!
Posted by tracey at 08:51 PM | Comments (0)
October 10, 2007
A chilly rainy day
and I'm off to work this morning, but my heart is heavy. I received a phone call last night from another co-worker and she didn't have very good news. An old friend of ours, mentor, boss and a terrific lady in general is on her death bed in a hospital a couple of hours from here. We visited her last year during her 50th wedding anniversary get together. She's been fighting cancer for 7 years and it has finally gotten the best of her. Her husband called us because she has asked to see us one more time and say goodbye.
So, after work this afternoon Judy and I will travel down to say goodbye to her. This is a little strange for me as I've never been summoned to someone's death bed before, but leave it to her to ask that of me! She always knew how to keep me on my toes! The neat thing is, I've been praying a lot for her lately. I know how much she has suffered and knew the time wouldn't be much longer and I've prayed for her to have peace and comfort in her final days and now she has asked to see me one last time...so I really feel my prayers have been answered, not because she wants to see me, but because I knew somehow she needed prayer even though it has been over a year since I've seen her.
God does work in mysterious ways.
Posted by tracey at 07:42 AM | Comments (0)
October 04, 2007
The Harvest Moon
has already arrived and I haven't even had time to decorate much for fall! Our trip has really put me behind and I was actually quite tired after getting home. I didn't really feel tired, but I was yawning ALL the time and finally it dawned on me, "I think I'm really pooped out from all of our travels!"
BTW, if anyone is interested in reading about our trip and seeing some fabulous pics, if I do say so myself, you can go here and have a look see. I'm only about half way through posting on our photo blog about the trip and uploading pics, so check back from time to time.
It's been quite a task getting all 800 photos checked out and trying to figure out what you are going to do with them all!
We had such a good time though and am so glad we took the time and money to go. It was something hubby and I always wanted to do and never thought we would get the chance.
The leaves sure are changing fast and next week will be our 8th wedding anniversary. I want to do something special that weekend, but not sure what yet. Maybe try and get in a nice foliage drive before the stormy weather of winter days get here!
I also can't believe the holidays will be here soon. It seems like once Halloween has come and gone things move fast toward Thanksgiving and Christmas! I've actually started my shopping already and can't wait to hit the Essex Craft Show the last weekend of this month. I LOVE that place and will go every year that I possibly can!
Well, I need to hit the hay, it's been a long week at work and I do have tomorrow to myself once I get Hannah on the bus so I'll be hanging out doing some housework I'm sure and more picture playing!
Posted by tracey at 11:26 PM | Comments (0)
September 25, 2007
Back on track
Well, September is quickly winding down, but mother nature has forgotten it's autumn time! Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the nice weather, but 80 degrees here in the northeast in late September is a bit too warm for me!
I hear the rain drops tonight though outside against the window and it is MUCH needed rain indeed!
We've been back home nearly a week now, how time flies! Finally getting back on track as far as work and school schedules go. Devon is all caught up on her work and Hannah still has a few things to get done and turned in. Her open house is tomorrow as well as picture day! Dev missed her pics this year, but hopefully she can still get them done if I make an appt with the photographer. Need to call him about that!
The leaves are turning quick, our anniversary is in a couple of weeks, my little brother's 3rd anniversary is today! I want to plan something special for ours this year, it will be our 8th. I'll have to get to thinking on that.
My boss also wants me to think about taking a trip to Washington DC in April too. Andy would stay home with Hannah, but Devon wants to go and she is old enough to enjoy a trip like that. I've got the travel bug I guess!
So, there may be another, shorter, trip to plan here in the next few months!
Posted by tracey at 08:27 PM | Comments (0)
August 27, 2007
Starting Out
Autumn is fast approaching and with it thoughts on the summer days we enjoyed, canning veggies from the garden, it was pickles I made this year and maybe some salsa if my tomatoes ripen up.
The kids enjoyed a bon fire Saturday evening and slept out in their tents in the back yard. I left the porch light on for them which attracted the bugs and moths.
I've entered a pie baking contest for our annual facility carnival day where I work. I think I'll make apple this year.
I've been looking at pictures of Montana and Wyoming, AWESOME scenery and gorgeous sunsets. I told Hubby that we MUST get up early every morning while we are there to see the sun come up over those magestic mountains. And...we can't miss any of the sunsets either! SPECTACULAR and it's going to be SO much better than any picture could ever paint.
Posted by tracey at 09:06 AM | Comments (1)
July 26, 2007
July
has almost gone by!
Time sure does fly and the older we get the faster it seems to go.
Our wild west trip is fast approaching now. With August nearly among us we are down the final days of getting ready to go!
I've been packing things here and there, checking my list of things we need to bring, I can't wait to go! Even the girl's are getting excited about it and in the beginning the oldest one wasn't too keen on the idea, but she's coming around. Of course buying her a brand new luggage set from LLBean helped her along some too! She said it could be her birthday present for this year and I thought, "Hey, what a great idea!"
The weather certainly has been warm this week so the girl's have had a great time out to camp, better than their first week the beginning of the month.
I'm hoping this weather holds out until Heather, Randy and the kids get here next week. We want to make a trip to our favorite water park and hoping it's a day like today!
Posted by tracey at 05:47 PM | Comments (1)
July 07, 2007
Just Breathe
So summer is winding up, but cooling down! It's been nice weather, but chilly the last couple of days, it rains a little and then the sun comes out.
The girls had a great week at camp, Hannah's first year and Devon's 9th year. She attended the counselor in training week and earned another free week towards the end of summer so she is happy about that! Me too, a free week of camp! Hannah is going to go for another week as well, if there are openings.
Weeded and pulled weeds and weeded some more tonight, but the gardens look MUCH better now!
I think I'm finally on a regular schedule again at work so maybe I can get on track again, if no one else quits before fall!
Our wild west trip is coming together pretty well. We have most of our rooms booked now and a pretty good itinerary in place for which days we plan to be where and places we want to see. I'm getting pretty excited! It should be a fabulous time, one we will enjoy for sure! I've even started packing some! Making lists of things not to forget to take with us, Devon says it's my OCD kicking in, can't help it, want to be prepared as the time is getting near!
It's been a good weekend to relax, the girls are both home for a change, Devon didn't want to be, but I decided she needed to be, it's good she's on the go so much, but I think it's also good to reign her in a little too!
Heather and Randy will be home in August so hoping I have some time to spend with them as well and then before you know it, it's school shopping and pumpkin picking time!
Summer sure does fly by!
Posted by tracey at 10:24 PM | Comments (1)
June 06, 2007
Thoughts on Life...
BE THANKFUL
Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful when you don't know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable lessons.
Be thankful when you're tired and weary, because it means you've made a difference.
It's easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles, and they can become your blessings.
Posted by tracey at 09:49 PM | Comments (0)
May 18, 2007
Thinking of Mom
So my Mom's birthday will be in a couple of weeks and she is going to be 59 years old, 59, that kind of freaked me out! I thought, WOW, she's almost 60 years old, 60, it's not that it's ancient, it's not, really...but it just made me step back a little and think, Holy Cow, how can that be?
Mom and I have had a strained relationship, at times, over the years, but I do have very fond memories and a pretty good relationship with her now that I'm grown and have a family of my own. My mom has always been VERY strong willed, yet in some ways, she's kind of complex and difficult to understand too. Hard to explain, I guess you would have to have grown up with her.
Mom is loyal, dependable and absolutely adores her grandchildren. She's old fashioned, to a fault sometimes, but she never faulters in her love and devotion to her family. She maintains relationships with her own siblings and their children, she is always there for her grandkid's birthdays, basketball games and to keep them over night whenever needed.
Mom is a hard worker, she rarely misses a day of her job of 21 years at the local hospital/medical offices and she's always worked hard at home too. When we farmed back in the 80's and early 90's Mom was up every morning at the crack of dawn to help with the milking, taking care of the calves, haying in the summer months and then going to her job in the afternoon until 11 pm at night.
As teenagers us kids always thought we had it pretty tough having to do chores in the afternoon, make supper and keep an eye on the younger ones, but Mom never said anything about the days work she had to put in.
Now as an adult, I like to pride myself on her work ethic and loyalty to my family and children. I too put in long hours at work, but am always there for my family, immediate and extended. I never miss one of my kid's outings for school, games, concerts or dance recitals. I stay in touch with cousins, aunts and my own brothers and sister and their families. I remember them at birthdays, Christmas, Thanksgiving and Easter. I've even made lasting relationships with some of my husband's family members.
I credit these attributes to my Mom, a woman that has lived her life for her family in all the ways that truly count, no she's not perfect and we have had our battles over the years, but at this particular time in my life I'd have to say, she's about the best Mom anyone could ever ask for!
Happy Birthday Mom with Love!
Posted by tracey at 04:29 PM | Comments (1)
May 11, 2007
Memoirs
So, I've been writing my memoirs. For Christmas this past year I received a very nice leather bound journal and even though I keep a personal diary outside of my online blog, I wanted to use this nice journal for something other than just writing about our day to day events. So...I put pen to paper and started writing about my life and the most memorable parts I can remember and...it's not easy to remember stuff, at first. You have to be in a nice quiet place, usually my bed in the evening time, with my night stand light on, the window open so I can hear the crickets and frogs and the TV playing in the background with the volume on low, and then I start to think back to my earliest childhood memories of growing up in northern NH.
My earliest memories seem to be of my grandmother, my mother's mom, Delima, the only grandparent I ever knew. I remember her old farm house and her porches, how I LOVED her porches! I think back to how us kids use to explore her attic and play house upstairs in all the bedrooms, I recall the big old Maple Tree in her back yard that stood on the hill leading downward to the riverbank and how in the winter we would slide down that hill and in the summer months we often walked on the rocks along the river leading us down stream.
So, that is where I am starting, at my Gram's house and I'll go from there...and see where it takes me!
Posted by tracey at 08:10 AM | Comments (1)
April 30, 2007
The elements of humanity
The Definition of Human in the adjective form:
a : having human form or attributes b : susceptible to or representative of the sympathies and frailties of human nature a constituent part: as a plural : the simplest principles of a subject of study A constituent part, the simplest principle of a subject... Simple, is that how I would describe human emotion, thoughts and actions? A simple act of kindness, a simple excerise in compassion, a simple way of saying I'm sorry. The last one, I suppose, would not be so simple, depending on what it is you have done. It's sad how some go through life, hating instead of loving, ignorance vs awareness, thoughtlessness vs kindness and understanding. Unable to forgive others trespasses when we have trespassed ourselves. The element of humanity, simple? I would say NOT, trying to understand what makes another tick, impossible. Praying for what we don't understand... Is all we can do.
Posted by tracey at 08:36 AM
| Comments (0)
I was thinking today about my brothers, both live here in town, well, within just a few miles of me, and I don't see them much, but do make it a point to visit or call every so often. Both are younger than me, one by nearly 11 years. Growing up it was my job and my sister's to keep an eye on them, babysit until my father would get home from work and make supper for them at night and put them to bed. My older brother, still younger than me, but the older of the two, wasn't home much during the school year as he attended a school for the deaf nearly 3 hours away from home. My younger brother, was a pure hellion, but now as adults, I feel somewhat closer to him than my older one, I think because he was home all of the time. As kids they drove me crazy, wise, surly and always into something, hiding so I couldn't find them even though I would yell and yell their names and they would be right behind a door somewhere and never make a peep! Oh how that use to make me mad! Because for some reason, I was scared I might have lost them! I went to visit the younger of the two tonight, he lives about 15 miles from here, he was tired from a long day at work, took a shower and then fell asleep on the couch! So I continued to visit with his wife and of course played with his two little rugrats, 2 years and 1 year and I kept thinking back to when their Dad was little like that and how I played with him, took him for walks and tried to protect him from all the bad things in the world. Time sure does keep moving on but it's nice to be able to remember the days gone by and how even in this hurried world of ours, things somehow, remain the same.
Posted by tracey at 10:37 PM
| Comments (0)
Elton said it best... It's sad, so sad
Posted by tracey at 07:38 PM
| Comments (0)
a nicer day! And thank goodness it finally is! Hannah and I have been outside bike riding and walking and now hubby is beginning to work on the yard and getting things picked up again for summer time. I always enjoy this time of year before it gets too hot and muggy which, in the last few years, it has. So from now until say around the middle of July it will be just right!
Posted by tracey at 01:47 PM
| Comments (0)
What is happening to our society? Does anyone have any thoughts on that? I have many, but the one that haunts me the most is how this world is crumbling around us and no one really gets it. People get angry when things like Va Tech happen, they blame the school for lack of security, I'm sure it's out of their own grief, but let's think about it, these things are happening all the time, everywhere, they just get worse and more gruesome. Look at 911. Can we truly prevent these horrible things from happening? Do we all need to start living in bubbles and staying home behind iron walls? I personally, don't believe there is much of anything we can do about this kind of stuff, it's become the way of the world and I believe, it's suppose too. Do I like it, do I feel safe everyday? NO. Do I worry constantly, more than normal, about my own children, family members and friends, you bet. I hate the thought of my kid's growing up in this menaced society, I sometimes feel guilty as hell for ever bringing children into this mess of a world because it's NOT safe anymore, what are they facing in 10 - 20 years from now if things are this bad right now as I write this? I HATE turning on the news, there is never one good thing to announce, look at the weather, just as irratic. Nor' easters in April, heatwaves of dramatic proportions in the south, people dying from this stuff. Pollution, radiation killing our birds, causing cancer, the War in Iraq and now our children being massacred at a college. Does my opinion really matter? I'd like to think so, but will it make any difference in the world at large, doubtful. But I'm sharing it anyhow and I pray for those in Va who have lost loved ones and suffered in this terrible heinous act of another so called human being. God be with you.
Posted by tracey at 09:28 AM
| Comments (0)
What a spring we are having, six inches of that white stuff today, heavy sugar snow that weighs all the branches down and telephone wires. Now the weather report says a Nor'Easter is on it's way for Sunday. It's April!! NOT January! It's getting me a bit depressed! I know it's been good for the maple sugaring, but... Come on spring time, you gotta get here and fast! One thing that did crack me up today was when my husband told me that Don Imus got fired from CBS radio. I laughed, I don't like him and never watch him, only when I come down stairs in the morning to get ready for work and my husband has the TV tuned to him and I hear his "commentary sarcasm, vulgar insults and sour pussed voice of droan - and so on..." UGH! Thing is though, he'll make millions on this! Don't they always??
Posted by tracey at 07:49 PM
| Comments (0)
So my hubby is trying to quit smoking, he's a heavy heavy smoker and it's going to take all his strength and then some to stop, but I'm praying he will. He's talked about it for a while now, but he hasn't really ever tried that hard. My suggestion was to cut down first, go outside to smoke so when you want a cigarette you actually have to get up and go outside no matter the season. He smokes alot in the basement which the kids and I never go down there and then in the spring summer and fall he's outside, but in the winter time he tends to smoke in the house after we all go to bed. It's not so much where he smokes, it doesn't really bother me as I grew up with it, but it's the amount and the terrible cough he has, that nagging smoker's cough, which with time, is only going to get worse. His biggest time of smoking is when he's driving the car. He chain smokes then! There is this new medication out called Chantix and it's a bit pricey, $112 for the starter kit. It's for three months and a man he works with, who is also a very heavy smoker, has been taking it for a little over two weeks and hasn't had one cigarette since he started, says he has absolutely no desire to have one. So, I told hubby, by all means, ask you doctor about it and see if he can write you the prescription and try it. The kicker is though, the insurance that I pay over $500 a month for won't pay for it!. They even have the audacity to charge me an additional smoker's surcharge of $12 a month because my husband smokes, but they won't even pay for part of this medication that actually sounds like it would cure his 30 + year habit! Unreal. On a lighter note Miss Hannah is 6 years old today! Time flies that is for sure! Happy Birthday sweetie!
Posted by tracey at 07:48 PM
| Comments (0)
So I was spring cleaning, again, today and was looking around at all my pictures... I thought, maybe I have too many photos around, they all get dusty and need cleaning and that takes a while and is just a pain really. But then I thought, no, this is our home, these are the pictures of our lives and it's neat to have them around to remember the times that we have had. We do have a lot of pictures though, but what's neat is, I have noticed that when people visit they always look around at all of our pictures and smile...
Posted by tracey at 06:25 PM
| Comments (2)
spring in the air as all I have done the last few days between work and other stuff is clean and tidy up! I began with dusting and taking down blinds and curtains, putting away boots and washing some jackets then I hit the porch, oh my...what a wreck that was! But...it's looking better and better. The snow is going, slow but sure. I see only a few "snow," probably more like rain showers in the forecast. That's ok, it will take the snow away even quicker! We are starting to see some of the lawn again, but it's muddy! I've been looking at flowers on line, I want to get planting soon. Hannah's birthday is coming right up and usually soon after that, we start getting outside and doing things again. We can't wait!!!
Posted by tracey at 02:28 PM
| Comments (1)
It seems with the last two holiday's, Valentine's and St. Patty's Day, along with them comes big snow storms! No more holidays from the Saints, PLEASE!!!! Poor birdies, haven't seen them in a few days either. Here's to all you Irish! Happy St. Patrick's Day! And here's hoping spring is not far around the corner either.
Posted by tracey at 09:13 AM
| Comments (0)
Posted by tracey at 09:08 PM
| Comments (1)
A patient where I work weighs heavy on my mind these days. She is 61, relatively young for a population that usually ranges any where from 70 - 104. She is dying of cancer, breast cancer that metastasized to her colon and now, it's every where. What is hard is she won't talk about it. She won't speak of it with her family or the nurses, but she came to be with us, to die. She didn't want to burden her family with her end of life needs so to speak. Death is no stranger to me, a nurse of nearly 20 years I've seen a lot of it. As a hospice nurse for five years I dealt with it all the time, young and old, but this lady makes me sad. She has fear in her eyes like I have never seen and I don't know how to help her feel safe, I don't know what I can do help ease her fears. As a nurse when someone is dying of a terminal illness your first thought, usually, is comfort, keep them comfortable. Don't let them hurt, physically or mentally/emotionally. It's terrible to have to watch someone suffer, but when they are suffering over the fear of dying, it's the worst. I worked the night shift last night and nights on these people are hard. It's quiet, it's dark and it's lonely. They lay in bed, half awake, half asleep, half unknowing of when they will take their last breath. You try to comfort, you hold their hand and tell them you are there for them, they can talk to you, they can ask you to listen, they can pray or ask you to pray with them, but there is silence, no response and then you see a single tear streaking their face and it's suddenly impossible to hold back your own tears. You wonder what they could possibly be thinking, you ask, but again there is no answer. So you continue to sit with them, holding their hand and praying silently for their peace, their comfort and for God to come and take them home.
Posted by tracey at 09:02 AM
| Comments (1)
become so crazy?? My father always said that fame and fortune was a mixed blessing and he was right. I don't usually blog about things of this nature, but I'm getting so tired of hearing about these two on every TV channel, even Dr. Phil!, magazines at the check out in the grocery store and on and on and on, the craziness of Britney Spears and Anna Nicole. No wonder these poor woman have succumbed to such horrid outcomes and for one of them, the end. They are scrutinized beyond belief. There isn't one piece of their lives that isn't commented on, written about, photographed. It's no wonder they "lose" it, become depressed, turn to drugs and alcohol and just plain foolishness. I've always wondered why they just don't get away from it all. They have more than enough money, why don't they just fly away somewhere peaceful and live a "normal" life for a while. I guess they can't. They want that fame and notoriety, they want everyone to know who they are, what they eat for breakfast and who they go to bed with at night etc etc. And people want to know this stuff, that's what I don't get! And what saddens me even more is the future of their poor children. They too will and do, get sucked into their madness and on goes the never ending drama, stranger and sadder than some of the greatest romance novels ever written or movies ever directed. I just wish they would go away...whatever happened to the stars of the past who had some class and character and kept their problems to themselves? I guess it just goes to show how shallow our society has become. There, I've said my peace, may they somehow find peace...
Posted by tracey at 08:34 AM
| Comments (0)
have been blowin' terrible! We are just about out of wood, had to call the oil company to come fill the tank, again! Doesn't that take care of the pocket book real fast! Sheesh, it's been a LONG winter and I'm looking forward to spring time hence the new look to my blog. You gotta get here spring and fast!!! I'm anxious, once again, to get back outside and start enjoying the yard, our long walks and having supper on the deck. Winter seemed to take forever to get here and now it won't go away, ah, such is life I guess.
Posted by tracey at 07:09 PM
| Comments (0)
So winter is NOT flying by! It seems to be dragging it's stubborn big feet, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel, there usually is isn't there? March is almost here, one more month of cold and snow and wind, but the temperatures should rise some, each day actually, should get a bit warmer. Hannah's birthday is the first week in April, it's usually starting to feel like spring by then, muddy outside, but spring like weather. All this snow so late in the season just seems to put a "damper" of sorts on things. Ah well, it could be worse, we've made it through for many years past! I hope we are done with our last round of colds viruses too! Goodness gracious, first it was Hannah, then me, then Devon and now Hannah and I are still a bit stuffy and coughing some and she also has conjunctivits in her Left eye. I finally convinced the doctor to just order some drops and we'll see how it does over the weekend. Thank goodness school vacation is next week. She's missed a few days in the past couple of weeks from her cold and now her eye. We have little Josh today too, he's busy busy. I can't believe he's going to be 2 next month! And then there is my car. Not running right, wants to die out all the time, I did spend $300 on it this past week and it's still not acting quite like it should. I don't know, hubby thinks it may be the gas cap, if that turns out to be the problem it will have been an awfully expensive gas cap!! Devon is off to a friend's tonight and babysitting tomorrow. I've got to pick up three extra shifts that I hadn't planned on this weekend so I hope I can snooze a little this afternoon, but I bet I won't be able too, I never can when I have to go into work at 11 pm! Well, here's to warmer weather and brighter days and all our blessings we have for right now!
Posted by tracey at 11:43 AM
| Comments (0)
So I did my Valentine's shopping today, flowers for Devon and some chocolates and rubber stamps and a card for Hannah and a card for hubby, a nice, romantic one which he liked alot. :-) Then we got a call that Hannah won first place for her age group for a handmade Valentine she made at one of the local grocery stores this past Saturday. She won a $10 gift certificate and her name will be in the paper! She was pretty proud of herself, as was Mom and Dad. I've heard a big storm is headed this way, they are predicting like a foot of snow, I'll believe it when I see it. What I do know though, is it is too darn cold! BRRRR! Hopefully the snow will at least warm things up. Hannah is still fighting a nasty cold and tonight my throat feels a little scratchy too. I hope I'm not coming down with it too, I had my annual bad cold back in November. So here's hoping this throat thing will be gone by the morning. I intend to cuddle up snug tonight and go to bed early!
Posted by tracey at 06:58 PM
| Comments (0)
maybe? It's been a bit chilly the last couple of days and we actually had some snow yesterday, big ol' snow flakes that fell most of the day, but not much accumilation. I hear there is a storm headed this way for Monday, we'll see. That's an awful long ways away. It's been a strange winter, alot like last year. I've had no good pics of the weather this year, yet... We'll see what Monday brings.
Posted by tracey at 05:54 PM
| Comments (0)
Another year has come and gone, how can it be? The older I get the faster time seems to go. I haven't celebrated a New Year's in a long time and this year was no different and for some reason, this year just didn't seem to be that big of a deal. It felt different, but yet it didn't, strange. I look back on recent years gone by and those that have long since past and I reflect on what was, what wasn't and what is yet to be. As always I am wishing and praying for health, safety and prosperity in the coming year. I pray for peace and goodwill and for the things we need and not want. Father time, he stops for no one... Happy New Year and God's love and blessings to you and yours!
Posted by tracey at 02:35 PM
| Comments (0)
I worked this weekend, but it was busy even still. Devon babysat both Friday and Saturday night and last evening we all went to the movies. Andy took Hannah to see Charlotte's Web and Devon and I went to see the Nativity Story which I thought was done very well. I really enjoyed it, Devon did too. I can't believe it's a week til Christmas and we still have NO snow! I must say, as much as the snow and cold can get to you sometimes, it does seem very strange not to have any yet this time of year. We've had one cold snap and a few inches of snow, which is all gone now! All of it, not a trace except for up in the mountains. Very strange that is for sure. I think I am mostly done my shopping, but there always seems to be something I need to get still. Since I am off today I need to get more wrapped while the kids aren't home. It's a little chilly today, but not bad, about 40 degrees, for December! It just doesn't seem right!
Posted by tracey at 08:49 AM
| Comments (0)
Each has his past shut in him like the leaves of a book known to him by heart and his friends can only read the title. ~Virginia Woolf It totally surprised me, but it was so nice to talk to him again and catch up on our lives. It actually flattered me that he remembered me after all these years. ;-) A ghost from Christmas past indeed!
Posted by tracey at 07:55 PM
| Comments (0)
What I am thankful for... that I am saved through Jesus Christ, my health, my freedom as an American Citizen, my family, esp my children and husband, my career, my friends, my home and car, good neighbors, my pets and SO much more!
Posted by tracey at 08:30 PM
| Comments (0)
I think I am pretty much all set with my Christmas Shopping. I've made it to the mall and other places several times in the past few weeks! Just need to pick up a few more things and I will be pretty much done! Now, onto my Christmas card list and thinking about something different to make for Thanksgiving this year. We always have dinner out to Mom's, but I like to bring something each year to share, usually something I haven't brought before. My big brother Frankie celebrated his 30th birthday yesterday and we had dinner and cake and ice cream and got to see the little ones for a bit. I worked an unplanned night shift last night and have tried VERY hard NOT to sleep all day as I won't be able to sleep tonight! Family get togethers, they are always good for some new photos! And...in just a few days my birthday will be coming around.
Posted by tracey at 02:41 PM
| Comments (0)
So, I've been planning this trip to a big craft fair about two hours away for weeks now and wouldn't you know, tomorrow they are predicting terrible winds, rain and sleet and even maybe some snow! I have my snow tires on anyway! So, I'm still going! I don't care if we get blown away, I'm going and I'm going shopping too and then visiting my friend Dodie and her family and I'm going! Did I say that already? Probably? It's only October and already this nasty weather is here, it's too early!! WAY too early! The week seemed to fly by and I'm sure the weekend will fly by even faster! The kids are off to the neighbors tonight, Hannah is having her first sleepover, by herself without big sister. I'm anxious to see how she does. I'm expecting a phone call anytime to come get her! At least they live just next door!
Posted by tracey at 09:41 PM
| Comments (0)
I can't believe it's already the 21st of October! Where did the fall go?? The leaves are almost gone, the wind has blown so hard the past 24 hours there aren't any left on the trees! I'm surprised it didn't snow last night. Our pumpkins didn't grow very big this year and I'm wondering if I should have bought some bigger ones to carve out for jack o' lanterns. I guess it's too late now? I visited a friend yesterday and did some Christmas shopping. My snow tires are on and the mechanic tells me I need new tires for next spring and he said, "You better buy them now because they keep going up in price." UGH. I think about trading my car in, but then think, No, it's almost paid for and I don't want anymore car payments! It's getting to be that time though that now that it's close to being paid for I'll have to start putting money into it to get it fixed up, not that it's in that bad of shape, but you know what I mean! Hannah just crawled out of bed and is cuddled up on the couch. It's one of those mornings to cuddle up and watch cartoons! I'm working an odd shift today to help cover some time on evenings. Monday I have to go for my recertification in CPR. I hate doing that! But at least it's good for two years! To all of you experiencing the chill and wind and rain, stay warm and dry!
Posted by tracey at 08:09 AM
| Comments (0)
I am now a member of the EFCA church and I'm pretty proud to have become a member. I gave my testimony to about 20 people that belong to the congregation after church on Sunday and both Val and I were accepted as members. They believe that all members should be believers in Christ and saved and that is why they have you give a public testiment of your faith. I was pretty nervous to speak in front of so many, but there could have been more and there wasn't so that worked out well! Phew! It's turned rather chilly here and I know the snow won't be far away now. It's dark so early at night. By the time we get home, have supper and get the dishes done it's way too dark to go for a walk outside. So, it's time to get back to the rec center and start walking there and swimming! Hannah is excited to get back into that routine. I'm getting anxious to start some Christmas shopping. I've already ordered a few things and am thinking about Christmas cards already and the pictures I want to send out. I know, I'm bad! It's not even Thanksgiving yet! I've also decided to sponsor a child through COMPASSION. It's something I've wanted to do for a while and this is a Christian based organization and the girls and I want to choose the child to sponsor and we can also send a Christmas gift and Birthday gift as well. We are looking forward to it. A very dear friend of ours use to do this and that gave me the interest to want to do it as well. A busy week lies ahead with work and visiting an old friend on Friday. She use to be my boss many years ago and sadly she is very ill with cancer so I want to go and visit her as it may be the last time I'll see her. She is exicted to see Devon as she hasn't seen her in over 10 years! I want to get some pictures too.
Posted by tracey at 08:56 PM
| Comments (0)
So, I've applied for membership at the church I have been going to for just about 2 years now. I really like it there. I like the pastor and his sermons, I like the people and they have some good groups for kids and adults. Dev is enjoying the youth group and Hannah enjoys AWANA. So, I had to take four classes, meetings, to learn more about the church and what it believes and preaches, then I had to write my testimony to share with the congregation this coming Sunday. I am pretty nervous about that, but we had a mini rehearsal on Wed evening when (My friend Val is joining too so we got to do them together,) we met with elders of the church and got to give our testimony to them and it wasn't too bad. I'm hoping I can get through it with the congregation! We also have some new neighbors and they are very nice people. Devon invited them over for dinner Monday night and come to find out this lady LOVES to scrap book and she has TONS of things and a big basement all ready to do it in! She has invited me over Friday night and I can't wait! It hasn't snowed here yet, but today I thought for sure it was going too. The sky got really dark and it started raining and then it cooled off, but then it passed. Oh well, it's that time of year and even though I don't really like this time of year, I shouldn't complain! One more day of work and then off for two. I hope to get some crocheting projects finished up and work more on my scrapbooks. I heard from my big brother Frankie last night. He lives nearby, but I never hear from him much and I had been thinking about him a lot lately. He's applied for another job and I hope he gets it and I also pray he can get his own place and settle down a little. I asked him what he needed, if anything, he said jeans, so I ordered him some. I guess that is what big sisters are for!
Posted by tracey at 07:10 PM
| Comments (0)
hubby and I were married! He always knows how to make me feel special everyday, but especially on our anniversary. It started out with a beautiful card, breakfast out and then a nice ride, just the two of us, to take some foliage pics. It has been an all around very nice day! You can sneak a peek at our special day here... Andy & Tracey ~ October 9, 1999
Posted by tracey at 05:51 PM
| Comments (0)
Pick your battles. I've heard that so many different times over the years when it comes to raising your teen. I'm trying, honestly I am, but it's NOT easy!! I'm trying to instill good morals, judgment and being responsible into my 14 year old. I know she is interested in all kinds of things these days, boys, mainly. She tells me she has a boyfriend, but she won't tell me his name?? She talks on the phone constantly, I remember doing that too, but I over hear things sometimes that I do NOT like. She seems to have friends that have really colorful vocabularies, but when they are here you don't hear a peep out of them! So when I hear the language they are using, whether it be in a note or on the phone, it's quite shocking! I also know she talks this way as well, with her friends and I don't like it! I'm not perfect myself and probably haven't set a very good example at times, but I really don't like knowing she is this way when she thinks I'm not listening. I guess, at least, she's good enough not to do it in front of me, is that a good thing??? I don't know. She's off tonight to babysit for my brother and his wife. They are having a get together at their home with some friends. We were invited, but declined. I know there is going to be ALOT drinking there, I over heard her asking her aunt if she could have one, I didn't say anything, cuz she thought I wasn't listening. I really don't think my brother or his wife would let her get sloshed...I know she is going to be doing this stuff at some point, I did when I was a teenager, not at 14, but...I guess I shouldn't worry too much, she's with people I know and hopefully can trust. It's the others there I don't know so well that bothers me. I told her she had to be home by 10 am tomorrow for church and I meant it. I feel like a bit of hypocrite though, letting her babysit for people who are going to be getting drunk and then making her go to church the next day! I think it's a battle this time, better left alone maybe and see how far I can trust her since it is with family and not her friends. I don't know, maybe I worry too much. On a lighter note... It's the last day of September today, it doesn't seem like October should be here yet! I took a short ride with the girls today after helping a friend get her wood in for the winter. We have some pretty good color, I hope to get some more pics in a couple of weeks.
Posted by tracey at 05:53 PM
| Comments (0)
They spoke of him as being a hero, a MAN, a loving and kind individual that valued nature and it's animals and it's children. They spoke of juicy fruit gum, which he always carried in his pockets for the kids. They remembered him loving coconut cream pie and ice cream, basketball games and stopping to listen to the Vermont brooks whenever he passed by one. The pastor said he loved Jesus and lived a true Christian life, one we could all learn to be more like. He took very little in his life, lived simply and gave generously. Walking into a pasture of grazing horses, which he loved, they would gather around him one by one and he would pat them and talk to them like only he could. Young and old gathered to remember and celebrate the life of a very expceptional man and it was a beautiful farewell to someone we will all miss dearly. Rest in peace dear friend.
Posted by tracey at 06:32 PM
| Comments (0)
It's been a trying week, at work, at home and in the heart. Work is busy ALL the time, never a quiet moment or peace. With both the kids at school full time now there are all the after school things to look forward too, be prepared for, places to go, things to do. We are still trying to get our wood in for the winter, just one more cord to go. Hubby has been picking up the yard, cutting down all the dead flowers and turning the ground over of the vegetable garden. Nothing grew too hot this year so no canning as I don't have enough to make it worth my while. Then later this week a dear friend of the family passed suddenly and it hit me harder than I thought it would. We had the pleasure of enjoying his company this summer for a few weeks when he came to lend a hand out to my parents with the horses, feeding them and watering them. He's someone we've known for a long long time and he was getting old, but in such good shape. I would often remark how he could out walk any one of us, never break a sweat or be breathing heavy when he was done! He lived a good life right to the end though. Took care of himself, did what he wanted, went where he wanted and he was such a character with a kid like sense of humor, always ready to tell a good hearted joke or tale. We miss him, but I know he's gone onto his reward because no one deserves it more than him! I'm also currently taking two Bible studies, one on my own and one short one with a friend of mine in which we are seeking membership to the church we go to. They are both very interesting and thought provoking. Tomorrow begins a new week, I hope it's quieter than the past one. I want to get a little more decorating done for the fall and I hope to get some more foliage pictures before the season is all over! We need one good frost to get things a bit more colorful!
Posted by tracey at 09:47 AM
| Comments (0)
are finally here and so far so good! Hannah has done really well with starting school this year, but I really think going to preschool a couple days a week for the past year and a half helped her adjust! Going five days a week and riding the bus have all been new for her, but she's enjoying it and I'm glad, but also can't believe she's begun her school years! As for the season, the leaves here are changing quickly for September and it seems the snow will fly before we know it! Tomorrow is the BIG day for our Beethoven.
Posted by tracey at 09:31 PM
| Comments (0)
So the weekend is almost over and I have tomorrow off and it's cold and rainy outside and I kind of wish we could start a little fire in the wood stove, but then it would get too hot and well, you know. It was pretty warm again yesterday, but it's all gone today and the rain came, all day actually, even though the weather channel said only afternoon showers. Hannah and I have been really good about our walking and last night she did two miles with me and as she so fondly reminded me, "She didn't whine once!" See, she usually whines a lot on our walks, but she has been pretty good lately. Today she got to go to the pool at IR@C and she hasn't done that since at least last May. It's getting to be that time again to get back into the rec center. We all enjoy the pool there and they also have an indoor walking track. Next weekend we are off to the fair and I can't wait to check out the craft center, my whole reason for going actually! Well, that and the fried dough!
Posted by tracey at 04:38 PM
| Comments (0)
Home from camp today. We had a nice time. Always wish we had more time to spend out there, but the summer goes by so fast before you know it, it's heading into fall. We enjoyed some boat riding and Devon tried out tubing which she found was rather fun! We could only throw her off once though, but boy we tried awful hard to do it more! Hannah loves playing in the beach sand, making castles and then resting in the big hammocks Devon celebrated her 14th birthday on Monday, had her party on Saturday and this morning I dropped a very nervous, but excited freshman off to school for her first day of highschool. (she doesn't look too happy here...) It seems just like yesterday she was heading off to her first day of kindergarten... Now she's on her way to becoming a young adult and finding her own way in this crazy mixed up world. I can only hope that I have instilled some good values and morals in her. I know she will make mistakes, I just hope she always learns from them and is always safe and certain of what she wants in this world...
Posted by tracey at 11:59 AM
| Comments (0)
We are on our way to hubby's family camp today, spending the rest of the week and the weekend out there. We usually go this time of year for about a week. It's quiet and relaxing and the kids just LOVE it. This year we will also have Devon's 14th birthday out there! 14 years, I honestly don't know where the time goes. I had an email this am from my wonderful friend Dodie and she says that her and Bob may come up this weekend for a visit and I am SOOOO happy! I can't wait to see her as I haven't seen her since her diagnosis of breast cancer. She says she is doing really well. Her hair is gone, but she has a wig that looks just like her natural hair! I so hope they can make the trip and spend some time with us. We did grocery shopping last night to stock up for the week and the kids loved that too! LOL I've been enjoying the new reality show, Gene Simmons Family Jewels on A&E. OMG, LMAO! I watched two episodes Monday night and then I dreamt about the beast of a man ALL night long! Why would I do that? I don't even like KISS that much! I certainly never thought he was sexy, but you know, I think it's his voice! There is something about his voice, I like, and NO, it's NOT the tongue!! EEEEW!
Posted by tracey at 09:43 AM
| Comments (0)
It rained this afternoon, rather hard at times, but no lightening or thundering! It stopped us from taking a trip to the park, but hopefully we can do that tomorrow. Both my girls have always enjoyed the park and Hannah, I think has especially enjoyed it! We finished stacking the first load of wood in our dingy dirt cellar this morning, Devon and I, Hannah helped a little. It seems good to have those three tiers of wood all in a row and ready for the snow and cold that is headed our way. Just two and half more loads to go! The oil guy came too and left the bill in the door like he always does. You have to take a big ol deep breath before you look at that thing! We are going to start working with my big dog Beethoven. We want to get him better trained and be more of a family dog. He's a good boy, but spends most of his time on his run. I'm getting some pointers from a dog trainer that will come to the house and show us how to work with him, I'm hoping we can make it work! I'll have to post on his progress. All for now.
Posted by tracey at 04:51 PM
| Comments (0)
I felt it today, the seasons beginning to change once again. It seems summer had only just begun, but now the winds feel cooler, the evenings seem shorter and I am thinking of autumn, the leaves are already beginning to fall! I will call to order more oil tomorrow and then start stacking wood again for the winter that lies ahead. It is strange as it's only the beginning of August, but I feel like fall! The kids are getting ready to go back to school. Shopping for clothes and school supplies. Devon will be a Freshman this year and Hannah will start kindergarten. How the time flies! This is my favorite time of year though, the cool evenings, the anticipation of the beautiful fall colors, getting ready to harvest our garden and do some canning. Stacking wood, thinking about Halloween costumes and going to the fair! It's funny, because no one but me wants to think about these things, just yet anyway!
Posted by tracey at 09:06 PM
| Comments (0)
This is a blog of peaceful thoughts, so I can't share everything that is on my mind because so much of it just isn't peaceful, but...My sister Heather did get married! It was a lovely service and we had a great time. They looked wonderful and so did all the kids. Other things happened that weren't so pleasant, nothing to do with them, but just stuff. I hope it all irons out in the end, but I'm not so sure it will. But, I am HAPPY for them! Congrats guys!
Posted by tracey at 03:03 PM
| Comments (0)
And the living is easy... Is that how that goes? I think so, but I'm not sure. Anyhow, it's been better weather here in the very northeast, finally getting some sunny days and oddly enough, for July, there is little humidity! Tuesday was hot! I got my first sunburn while watching the 4th of July Parade. The kids got to ride in the parade this year and they enjoyed that alot. My brother and his boss paraded their new tow trucks for his business and all the kids, including theirs, got to ride so that was fun for them. Dad is doing better with his broken leg, it finally was set about two weeks ago now and should be healing. Although, he's not staying off it like he should be, so I would imagine the healing process will be slowed a bit, but you can't keep him down that is for sure. Frankie will be home the end of July as well as Heather, Randy and the kids. We are planning a small get away the 21st of July, just a couple of days away and going to Six Flags and doing some school shopping. Work has been busy busy busy! I'm looking forward to a few days off and then before you know it school will be back in session! Dev has been spending a lot of time babysitting this summer and she also brought home a new kitten, Midnight she calls her. She was good about it though and is using some of her babysitting money to help pay for her to be spayed and get her shots. We now have three cats and we don't need anymore! So, Hannah and I are off to run some errands. I need to check back in her more often and be a better blogger! Ta ta for now!
Posted by tracey at 09:24 AM
| Comments (0)
and it's been so darn busy!! The heat on Sunday was GAWD awful and today wasn't much better! Dad got hurt in the woods a week ago Tuesday, broke his leg and had to walk a mile out of the woods before he could get to the horses again to ride out. He has been in the hospital since Monday and he called today to say it was looking a lot better and that they plan to set it next Monday and then he can come home. He's so darn stubborn! He wouldn't listen to the doctor's to begin with so now he's stuck in bed for another week or so. My SIL Sally has been in the hospital with a burst appendix. Talked with her tonight and she is doing well and plans to go home tomorrow. My dear friend Dodie had emailed me a couple of weeks ago to say she might be facing breast cancer, but so far the biopsies say everything is negative so praise GOD for that! I need to call her tomorrow and see how she is. Dev was at the ER Tuesday night with horrific back pain, but the doctor said it was just muscle spasms from falling off a swing! (She had fallen off a swing a couple of days earlier.) Now she is in Oswego NY with my friend Kim and her two girls for a few days. Hannah hurt her foot on the trampoline last night and she is still favoring it tonight, but it doesn't look swollen and it's not bruised so I think she'll be ok, but don't tell her that! Just yet anyway! She had her first day of summer preschool today and she enjoyed it. She is going just one day a week until the first of August. Work is busy busy, but I may be changing my hours again to better fit my needs in the fall when t
The Definition of Element as a noun:April 26, 2007
Siblings & Father Time
April 23, 2007
The hardest word...
It's a sad, sad situation
And it's getting more and more absurd
It's sad, so sad
Why can't we talk it over
Oh it seems to me
That sorry seems to be the hardest word
April 20, 2007
It couldn't be
April 17, 2007
It's a sad sad world...
April 12, 2007
So much for spring time
April 04, 2007
Addiction & Insurance
March 26, 2007
Our Lives in Pictures
(Our girls as they grow up.)
(A corner shelf of all those we hold dear.)
(And some who have left this world.)
(And all the fun times we have had as a family!)
March 23, 2007
I sense a bit of
March 17, 2007
Holiday Storms
(Looking out my livingroom window this am when I got home from work. UGH!
March 15, 2007
Ain't this the truth!
March 11, 2007
The end of one's life
March 07, 2007
How can one's life
March 06, 2007
The Winds of March
February 23, 2007
It's Been a LOOOONG Winter
February 12, 2007
It's cold
January 11, 2007
A little bit of winter
January 02, 2007
2007
December 18, 2006
A Busy Weekend
December 13, 2006
The Ghosts of Christmas Past
I opened up my email the other day and what to my surprise, but an email from someone I knew over 20 years ago! A childhood sweetheart from my youthful days that found my website on the big World Wide Web. Who would have ever thought!
November 23, 2006
Happy Thanksgiving
November 13, 2006
Shopping and Birthdays...
October 27, 2006
Winter is on it's way...
October 21, 2006
October closing in
October 16, 2006
It's official!
October 12, 2006
The week closing in
October 09, 2006
7 years ago, today...
September 30, 2006
Raising Teens ~ Lesson #1
September 20, 2006
A Fond Farewell
September 17, 2006
A Heavy Heart
September 06, 2006
Kindergarten Days...
The trainer is making a home visit to see what we can do to get him more socialized and at least be able to take him for a walk once in a while without having your arm pulled from it's socket! He's a big boy and gets a little too excited. I'm hoping it's not too late to teach this old dog some new tricks!August 27, 2006
And it rains
August 23, 2006
Home Again
under the cedar trees. She wasn't too up on the tubing, but did like the boat rides.
But, I'm sure she'll be fine. I hope! I remember how nerve racking it was my first day of highschool, but in my case, I knew no one, she at least has some friends she's known all her life.
August 17, 2006
On our way to camp
August 10, 2006
It's raining
August 07, 2006
The Season is changing
July 30, 2006
Happily ever After
July 07, 2006
Summer Time
June 22, 2006
It's HOT and Muggy!