Wheee!

I about had a heart attack -- I wanted to put some pictures in my blog tonight and couldn't find the camera cord. I had my computer checked out and put the cord away . . . but the question was where did I put it??? After searching all over the room I finally checked under the TV and there it was! Just where I put it. So, I can now add some new pictures to my ramblings.

Odie came to visit me over the Thanksgiving weekend. Jim & Mandy arrived on Wednesday evening (with Odie) and they spent Thanksgiving Day with Jim's dad while Odie stayed with me. He's such a good dog. We baked pies, peeled potatoes, made beds, dusted, vacuumed and other exciting things when you're getting ready for a big day. He really was good. Around 7 or so he acted like he needed to go outside so I said the magic words, put my shoes and coat on and away we went. Jim told me to hang onto the leash-- tight! He really meant TIGHT! We flew down the steps, out the door and up the street. He did his job, pulling me the majority of the way and we found our way back to my place. We played tug-a-war with a toy we made and we both took a nap together.

Jim & Mandy made dressing balls for our Thanksgiving day appetizer. They had a little help (as you can see) with Jackson. Jackson took to Jim immediately and seemed to want to see what they were doing so Jim lifted him on the chair and he helped!! The dressing balls were fantastic! Everyone enjoyed them.

I had a full-house! My place isn't small but when you get a number of people here it seems that way. Jim, Mandy & Odie, Barbie, Glee & Ron, Beth & Jackson and Mark & Sandie celebrated Thanksgiving with me. It was great having them all here. Mike and Karsten had to work and we'll get to spend some time with them at Christmas (I hope).

It was fun having Jackson around. Have to get used to the pitter patter of little feet. Next year at this time I'll have a little granddaughter to brag about. I'm very excited about that. I was a little worried about Jackson and Odie being together but they got along great. Like I've said before, Odie is a good dog.

Friday morning Barb, Jim & Mandy got up early and did some shopping. They weren't able to find everything they planned on, but were successful with some of their purchases. I heard them take Odie out and the whole group leave. They were back around 8:00 or so and all went back to bed. I got up around 8:30 and chased Barbie off the sofa and sent her to my room for the rest of her nap. Poor Barb, attempted to sleep with me while they were here and I know there were a few times when she elbowed me so that I'd move and quit snoring. Sorry about that Barbie, I can't seem to do anything about it. Jim and Mandy were my first guests on my new futon. They said it was fairly comfortable! Barb got it the last night of the weekend!! She said it was fine too.

One of the projects for the weekend was putting up my tree. I have a 7 1/2 foot tree with lots and lots of ornaments. Barb, Mandy & I got the branches all in order. Barb put them in the tree and shaped it. Jim, Mandy & Barb strung lights. Mandy was busy taking ornaments out of boxes and putting hooks on them. We all decided there must be a better way to put my ornaments away. We're working on that!! It would make it simpler to get them out -- that's for sure!

As you can see the crew did a great job. Jim did Christmas singing for us. That kept us in stitches for part of the day! He certainly takes after his dad when it comes to making up his own lyrics. When they can't remember the lyrics they just make them up!

We ordered pizza for lunch and went out for supper. I've been telling Jim & Mandy about Mario's for quite some time so we decided this was the time to try it out. The food is great there! One of my favorite places to go in Dubuque. I think Jim & Mandy enjoyed it. They went home on Saturday night. We finished eating and came back and helped load their car. Jim and Odie took one last hike up the parking lot. Now Odie can really move when that leash is around his neck, but Jim was pulling him up the hill when they started on their trek. I think in the end Odie won!!! But it was fun watching them.

This is the finished product. I think we put 600 lights on it and I'm sure there's at least 375 ornaments. I've gotten smarter in the last few years and put the base of the tree on a slick cardboard so that it's easier to push it back into the corner. We decorate all sides of it. It looks great at night with all the lights on!! Thanks kids for all the help. I appreciate it more than you know. Are you willing to come back in January and do it all over again -- only backwards???

I have a meeting in Des Moines Thursday. We had snow today but it seems to have moved out of the area and Barb tells me the roads are good in the Des Moines area. I thought about going down tonight but after all the snow around here decided I would rather drive during the daylight hours. Makes a long day, but goes with my job.

I have some projects lined up for the weekend. Hopefully I can get a little shopping done too. Have to put packages under that tree now that it's done.

Take care all.

Excitement!

I'm so excited! Mandy called me last Friday to tell me that they're having a girl!! After all they have been through I am so thankful that we have finally arrived at a point where it looks like all is well and we're expecting a GIRL!!! Now I can start looking for all those cute little girl things out there.

Speaking of babies -- I met two of my great-nephews over the weekend. My brother's boys were both home (Cedar Falls) with their new grandbabies. Nick & Danelle are currently living in Virigina Beach (Nick is in the Navy) and Josh and Keeley are in Johnston. Josh isn't that far away but we never seem to get together and this was a great opportunity to see all. Nick's little guy is Juneno (I'm sure I didn't spell that right but you get the idea) and Josh's little guy is Jerret, or Jer for short. Both boys were born real close together datewise, but this is the first they've all been together. The boys are darling and it was great seeing everyone else too. Sandie's sisters were there with some of their kids and we haven't seen any of them forever either. Real home week!!! So . . . my brother has 2 little grandsons, my sister has one and I'm going to have a granddaughter! How cool is that!!!

I took some pictures and was going to post some but this afternoon Ken came and picked up my tower. I've been having some trouble with the speed and an unusual noise so they came and got it to check it out. He thought from what I told him and from the looks of the tower that it may be the fan and the fact that the whole machine needs a good vacuuming and cleaning. I'll be very happy if that's all that's wrong. We discussed memory, etc., and I know one thing I need to do when I get my big buddy back -- burn CD's of all my pictures. I have so many in there and would feel terrible if I loose them all.

I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving. My children will be here as well as my sister and some of her family. Jim, Mandy and Odie are coming Wednesday night and will be spending Thanksgiving Day with their dad and his wife. Odie and I are going to get everything ready for our big meal on Friday. I have to do the grocery shopping tomorrow night after work. I talked to my friend the butcher and he put back a turkey breast and was going to take care of a ham for me too. I figured with everyone but me having turkey on Thanksgiving they may want another choice of meat. Barbie will join us on Thursday evening and all are here for the weekend. One of our projects will be putting up my tree. I have all but 3 boxes already upstairs and ready to go. I need help in arranging my room(s). Hopefully we'll have time to arrange my craft/spare bedroom. Mandy is excellent at doing that kind of thing and she'll be here so . . . I'm going to put her to work!!

Glee, Ron, Beth and Jackson will be joining us on Friday. Karsten and Mike both have to work. Told both of them I'd send home some turkey and dressing. Mark & Sandie are going to try and make it, but have something on in the morning so guess we'll just wait and see. I'm looking forward to seeing Jackson again. Hey Beth, I've got my laundry basket all ready for him! He can push it around to his delight!! Jackson is such a sweet little boy and he's definitely all boy. What a cutie!! I'm sure we'll have some pictures of all this fun.

I'm going through some special training at work for the next couple of days. Actually I have one day in already. I'm going to become more involved with our Head Start program as far as personnel is concerned. The program has a tracking program called Child Plus and I already have it loaded on my computer and have been messing around with it. Now I'll actually know what I'm doing. They can track almost everything they do in the program. Helps me too with my statistics for my CSBG reports. It's interesting. The Head Start group are a real fine bunch of people to work with. I'm enjoying it and learning something too.

I don't know if my house is going to be as clean as I'd like it for all my guests, but I can assure everyone the food with be good. I've just been so tired lately that when I get home I usually take an hour or so before I go back at it. Almost got the spare bedroom ready for occupancy!!

Hope every one has a great Thanksgiving. We all have much to be thankful for. Peace to all. Enjoy your holiday.

Ditto

I must have craft fairs on the brain! Last weekend there was a big one here in Dubuque at the Grand River Center. That's such a cool place to go to anyway but this made it extra special.

Glee & Beth stopped by around 9:30 and we took off. I told them I'd drive because Glee always drives to everything. Found a place to park in the parking garage. Didn't have to walk in that wind that way.

I was so excited when we paid our way in. I got an Alaskan quarter for my change. The guy gave it to me then took it back and gave me a half dollar. I requested the quarter back . . . of course he had to dig through his money bag but we found it!! Beth & Glee thought maybe he was hitting on me! That'll be the day!

The show was great. I actually found a bunch of things I wanted. I even finished some of my shopping for members of my family. And we really had a good time just wondering around. I've been told to always bring my cell in case I get lost! How do they know that they aren't the ones lost????

We decided to go out for lunch before they had to return home. We stopped at Mario's. One of my favorite places to eat. Had a great lunch and then hit the road again. Glee & Beth went out to Sam's but I decided I was too tired and drug my stuff upstairs and watched the end of the Hawkeye game and then took my nap. It was a good day shopping.

Work has been very busy and getting more so. I'm scheduled for training 2 days next week. I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving. My family will all be here. Hopefully my brother and his wife will be able to join us. They're going to try. Unfortunately Karsten has to work but he's sending his little boy and wife. We'll send him back some turkey and dressing!!

We're planning on putting up my tree Thanksgiving weekend. I have so much stuff to drag upstairs. I've already started it and have almost everything up here. Now, we have to put the tree together and put the lights on. I wished now I would have bought a tree with the lights already on it, but they're so heavy!! Barb promised to string the lights for me! I love Christmas and the color that goes along with it. My tree goes up early and comes down late. Last year it was February before I got it down. Got busy on the weekends and never got to it until them. The colors were great!!

Back to work for me. I really had a great time this past weekend. I love craft fairs!!

Craft Fairs

I'm a little slow in getting things on my blog lately! Guess I'm just getting old . . .

Last weekend (November 1-2) my sister Glee, my niece Beth and myself made a trip to Ankeny. We spent the weekend with Barb and went to the North Pole Craft Fair in Ankeny. It's a fantastic craft fair and we really had a great time.

Glee & Beth picked me up around 7:00 p.m. and we were off on our adventure. It's always an adventure when you're with my sister and niece! We had some good laughs before we even got to Ankeny. It was Halloween so we asked Barb for some treats when we got there. She obliged and gave us some! She said she actually had about 20 kids this year. The development that she lives in doesn't have a lot of kids so this was an exciting Halloween for her.

Beth brought us pictures of Jackson in his Tigger outfit. What a darling Tigger!! I think he could really bounce like Tigger too! Jackson is at the stage in his life where nothing much scares him and he's climbing all over everything. He has the bruises to prove it! Beth says every time they take him to daycare they ask if the bruises were done at home or at the center!!! He'll grow out of that! (I hope!)

We all found something at the fair. We started out at one of the middle schools hoping the crowds would thin out a bit at the high school. It was crowded but not as much as last year. At least it didn't seem that way! We decided later Saturday evening that we had missed a room at the high school but there wasn't a lot we could do about it then. It was fun!!!

We went out for supper on Saturday evening. Came back and played some board games. Barb & I rule on Trivia Pursuit! We did a lot of laughing and even gained back the hour we lost in April (or whenever we went to daylight time).

Went out for breakfast on Sunday morning. That's where the pictures were taken. There's some others but I thought since Christmas is coming and I want some presents too I better not put them on!! We did a little more shopping on Sunday morning and then took off for home. It was a great weekend and we're hoping to do it again soon.

Work has been extremely busy lately and very stressful. Maybe it's me! We have Tuesday off as it's Veteran's Day and I'm looking forward to doing some shopping and probably some scrapping! I'm collecting lists from my family so that I can get my shopping done. We had snow flurries on Saturday morning. I guess it's that time of year but I'm not ready for it yet!!

I have finally finished Jim & Mandy's wedding album. I literally took it apart and put it back together again. It actually is two books cuz there's so many pictures. It turned out real well and I'm very happy with it. Hope they will be too!!

My family is coming here for Thanksgiving. Barb, Jim & Mandy will be spending Thanksgiving Day with their Dad and his wife but will be here for the evening. We decided two big meals on one day was more than they could handle so . . . we're having turkey again on Friday. Both Barb and Mandy expressed an interest in shopping on Friday so while they shop I'll dog sit and make the meal. Glee, Ron and Jackson are coming. Hopefully Mike will be along too. Both Beth and Karsten have to work and we couldn't figure out when to have a meal when they could be here so we'll miss them and I'll even send home some turkey and dressing for them! I'm looking forward to having Jackson around for a few hours. He's such a cute little kid! I'm also looking forward to having my daughter, son and daughter-in-law here for a couple of days. They've promised to help put my tree together and maybe even help with the decorating! I love my tree and all the ornaments but it is a chore to get all the lights up, etc. It'll be a real family project this year!!

Cold weather is here and I suppose it won't be leaving us for a while. I finally had to break down and put some heat on. I put my down comforter on the bed and put away the summer quilt I use. I have a new look to my spare bedroom so when my kids come they can actually sleep in a bed. I just have to go out and get some sheets for it. Notice in a couple ads they have flannel sheets on sale so . . . off I will go!

I've spent a lot of time this weekend watching football. I really do love that game. My Colts pulled one off this afternoon. Our Hawkeyes did the same on Saturday afternoon. Unfortunately our Cyclones didn't do as well. Maybe next year guys!!

Well it's time to get at a couple of things before bed. Hope all have a good week at work. I have board meeting this week as well as the holiday in the middle. Maybe I can leave early on Friday and do a little shopping them too.

Take care all.

We're Playing Tag!!

I've been tagged by Mandy!! Being the intelligent human being that I am, I know no other way to answer the tag other than put my answers in my blog. Mandy are you there???

Ten Years Ago
1. I was newly divorced and lost
2. I worked at good 'ole Operation: New View
3. Read a lot of books
4. Got my first computer (and learned how to use it!)
5. Learned how to become independent (grew up)

To Do List
1. Pack for my weekend trip
2. Finish projects at work before leaving for weekend
3. Complete Christmas cards (I'm making them)
4. Arrange furniture in 'craft room' (or at least come up with a plan)
5. Enjoy life

Five Snacks I Enjoy
1. Chips with ranch dip
2. Grapes
3. Popcorn
4. anything chocolate
5. soda

Places I Have Lived
1. Monona, IA
2. Serra Vista, AZ
3. Madison, WI
4. Epworth, IA
5. Dubuque, IA

Jobs I Have Had
1. concession stand at local theater
2. secretary @ Eska Company
3. Bookkeeper @ Mississippi Dairy Plant
4. secretary @ Torbet Drug Company
5. HR Director, Operation: New View

Pet Peeves
1. gossip @ work
2. people who chew gum in public
3. whiny people
4. people who don't use their directional signals when turning
5. rudeness

Things That Bring Me Joy
1. My children, all three of them (Barb, Jim, Mandy) and spending time with them
2. Knowing that I'm going to be a grandmother!!! Wow!
3. My sister and her sense of humor
4. My scrapbooking obsession!
5. Christmas

People I Tag (you're it!)
1. Mandy you're one up on me. I don't read anyone's blog but yours! But this was fun!!

I am so excited about becoming a grandmother. I'm driving my friends crazy with questions about gifts, toys, educational things . . . it is so much fun. I'm planning on things I can buy the little person for Christmas. My sister sent me a note and said I'll enjoy it! It's a wonderful time of your life. I believe her and I'm looking forward to having a little one around again. Seems like a long time since there's been one. (Actually it has been a long time, but I still remember how to hold a baby, change diapers, feed them, and most of all -- how to love them.)

I enjoy my great nephew, Jackson, very much. He's at such a cute stage in his life. He's one! He's walking all over the place. Learning how to climb on things. His birthday was a lot of fun. He's such a boy!! But just think in April I'll have one of my own to play with and love.

I really do lead a very dull life lately. It's nobody's fault but my own and I can't seem to get myself out of the rut I've gotten into. I'm looking forward to this coming weekend with my daughter, my sister and my niece. We're going to the North Pole Craft Fair in Ankeny. I enjoyed it last year and can't imagine not having a great time this year. Beth is joining us this year so . . . unless she gets sick we should have a good time.

I decided to try making my own Christmas cards this year. So far, so good. Now all I have to do is get up enough courage to send them. Actually I've enjoyed working on them the last couple of evenings. I finished Jim & Mandy's wedding album(s) FINALLY! They probably thought I lost the pictures or forgot them. I haven't and I'm very happy with the way it turned out. I have a couple of friends proofing my journaling and then I can turn it over to the newlyweds! Sorry I'm so slow in getting it done! I have to admit to enjoying doing it very much. Like I said earlier my scrapbooking has become an obsession!!

Work has been extremely busy and stressful of late. October is a terribly busy month for me. I have my final reports (statistical) due in Des Moines by Friday. (Not going to happen. I've already asked for an extension until November 14.) Our quarterly newsletter was due and needed to be collected, inputted and then published. We had our annual all-agency staffing this past Monday and I put the majority of that together for the agency. I also had a CSBG (Community Services Block Grant) stats meeting the afternoon of the all-agency. I attended a Planner's Meeting in Urbandale last Thursday. Makes a long day. Got up at 5:00, left around 6:00 a.m. and got back home around 7:00! Was I tired the next day? You bet!! We're in the process of getting our Head Start staff completed and everyone we hire has to have an employee orientation. There's always a bunch of paperwork involved with that process. Have 3 scheduled for tomorrow! And my usual workload . . . I'm not complaining, just explaining why I'm so tired all the time!!!! If I'm truthful, I'd rather be a little too busy than trying to find something to do. One of the reports that's due is a narrative with success stories, lots of statistics and addiitonal informtion regrading what the agency has done within the last year. I'm currently working with data for 2007, 2008 and we've begun our 2009 fiscal year October 1. Sometimes I can't remember what year I'm working in!!

I'm making plans for Thanksgiving. My kids are all able to be here. I'm excited about that. Odie will also be visiting and I really do adore that dog!! Only thing about being here is he always wants to go outside and explore. And that's usually when the rest leave me home to dog-sit. He loves my steps, I hate them. I do volunteer to dog-sit so don't feel sorry for me. He's a great dog!! Wished I could have pets where I'm at right now. Maybe in the future!

If you're a Phillie fan you're happy tonight. They won!! I stay busy on weekends watching football (go Colts!) and NACAR. And there's always those old movies that everybody loves!! Soon the snow will fall and I'll close out the world and do my thing -- scrapbooking, reading, watching TV and the other usual things -- like working!

Enough! I'm certain by now I've put some of you to sleep (if anyone other than Mandy ever reads this). I really am excited about the grandmother thing!! What a wonderful experience!! I continue to say a pray for our newest Davis and other members of my family. Mandy had some rough days at the beginning, but things seem to be getting better for her lately.

Hoping to spend a weekend in Des Moines in December. The weather will decide if that happens or not. I have to admit that I'm getting older and weather bothers me a whole lot more than it used to. Senior Moments!! I'd love to be able to do some shopping with Barb and Mandy. We shall see.

Night all!

Birthday fun

Saturday was a beautiful day and a beautiful day to celebrate your first birthday! And that's what we did. Jackson Dean Foels turned one on October 1st, but Beth and Karsten celebrate with the families on Saturday. What a cute little kid!! He's running around and getting into everything but it's so much fun to watch him. He talks about whatever -- nothing is really understandable yet -- that'll come soon enough. Bets and Karsten made a great dinner. We had grilled hamburgers and all the fixings and of course, birthday cake!!
I drove up to Glee's on Saturday morning. She was just leaving when I pulled into the yard. She was going to leave me!!! Actually I got a later start than I expected . . . but did get there just in time to catch a ride with her. She had a small problem this weekend -- you couldn't understand her unless you were right next to her. She was loosing her voice when I got there and by the end of the day it was pretty much gone!

When we got to Beth's the little guy was sleeping. Both parents said he was a bear and hoped he slept until at least 11. Well he did! Beth went up to wake him right around noon. Karsten said the noon whistle would wake him anyway . . . but we all got to see the birthday boy just before we sat down for dinner. Daycare had called Beth a couple of times during the week as he was running a fever. She went and got him on Friday and when they got home he was fine. Karsten says 'he's playing hooky!'

Jackson sat between Glee and I at dinner. It's fun having a little one around you. He really eats well! And you're not going to believe this but he . . . loves tomatoes!!! What a kid! Glee said she gave some to him just to see what he would do and he gobbled them right up. At least it's healthy!!

There's a lot of pictures on here. Jackson fed himself his cake -- and then he had a bath before opening his presents.

He got some really cool things. He loves remotes -- Grandma Shirley found that out. He put hers' in the cat water! The first thing Beth said was pick up the remote and told Mike to watch his phone!! So one of his gifts was a remote control of his own. I think it was Sesame Street! He got all kinds of books, puzzles, and all kind of toys to hit, push, etc. Daddy made him a beautiful toy box. Beth said it looked a lot smaller in the garage! He fits well in it!! Uncle Mike got him a basketball pole, hoop and basketball (go figure). Grandma Glee's pretty good at putting them in the net!!! She'll have to work with Jackson on that.

Great Grandpa Sass made him a little rocking chair that looks like a bear. He loved it!! It sure didn't take him long to figure out how to sit down in it -- and how to stand up on it!! This could be a problem! He also has learned how to crawl up on the coffee table. He thinks it's great and Grandma Glee about has a heart attack!

He enjoyed his special day. More pictures at a later date. I just have a heck of a time getting them lined up within my blog. Guess I better go back to the teacher (Mandy) and get some additional instructions.

I had intended on staying with Glee and Ron for the weekend but Glee really didn't feel that good. She says she was fine but she was ready to take a nap when I left. I think we're going to try and do something on my birthday. That would be cool!! Get well soon Glee!

It was raining when I got up this morning. It's a little fall like out there today. Guess we better get used to it -- I think it's here to stay. I've got boxes all over my bedroom. I don't have room for all my clothes to be out at one time and I went looking for long-sleeves last Friday so . . . I'll live with it this way for a little longer and then pack away summer things.

I watched my Colts finally win a game! It didn't look very good until the 4th quarter but Peyton pulled one out! They needed the win. Unfortunately I watched the Cubs last night and that chapter has now been closed . . . again! I'm a NASCAR fan too and the race today was exciting. Tony won one Glee!!!

Well, it's time to get to work. I have laundry to fold and figure out what to have for my evening meal. Probably nothing too exciting -- I ate too good yesterday.

Have a great week everybody!

New News!

What a beautiful day we have today! Wonder how long this will last?? The feel of fall is definitely in the air -- football weather. I really miss Friday night football. Even the cold evenings -- I just plain miss football! Course I can remember a couple of nights when I sat in the rain that turned into snow and walking home was an adventure. First you had to get down the hill from the football field in Epworth!

It's been a while since I wrote. I haven't done anything that was real thrilling so didn't have anything to write. Well tonight I have some news. It may not be what anyone is looking for but it's news to me.

Barbie was here over the weekend and one of the first things she said to me was -- when are you getting something done with your hair??? Well, tonight was the night. Glee has been after me to not get it permed and wear it a little shorter than I have been. Sooooooooooo, I went to Sarah tonight and this is what I ended up with. What do you think?

I take awful pictures when someone else takes them but even worse when I try doing it myself, but it gives you the idea of what I had done. We've talked about putting highlights in but will see how this all works on within the next couple of weeks. Think it's going to be much easier to take care of, but probably need cutting more often!!

We celebrated Barb's birthday this weekend. I bought her some presents and put them all away in a gift bag for her to open when she got here. She seemed pleased. Told her we could take them back and exchange if she wanted. She didn't take me up on it so . . . guess they were okay.

We did some furniture shopping on Sunday. I've been wanting to change my spare bedroom/craft room for some time and Sunday was it. We stopped at Shopko and found a futon that looks great in my new 'den.' I'm not sure how Barb got it drug up the stairs but she did it. That gal is strong!!! Thanks so much Barbie!!! It took a little doing but we got the old bed taken apart and the new piece put together. But not before we had to take one part apart again as we put it together upside down. Duh!!! Actually Barbie did the majority of the putting together. I can't thank her enough. What a great birthday present. She promised me that she wouldn't even get me a card!!! Now we have a place for her to sleep when she comes and a place (other than on an air bed on the living floor) for Jim & Mandy to sleep. And the room looks much bigger. I still have scads of scrapbooking stuff sitting around, but that'll come. A little more arranging. Come check it out anytime!!

Barbie was hard at it in these two pictures and finally took some time out for a beer and a short rest. She left me to put things away as she had to get back to the big city. I really do appreciate all that you did for me for the weekend Bob!! Love you!

So I have some things to put on my Christmas list. Like regular size sheets, and colored pillows for my new futon! Family alert -- I'm already looking for Christmas lists from all of you!!!

Work has been a bear lately. I'm having some trouble getting some of our jobs filled. I think I have 5 open right now. Plus we now have a union in our Head Start program for the classroom personnel, so that makes a difference on how I open those positions. I'm not against unions, I just don't think they belong in a Head Start classroom. But guess we'll learn to live with it.

End of the year is quickly coming for me. Our fiscal year is October 1 through September 30th so I'll have all kind of final reports that will be due October 31. All part of the job, but it's all the little things that come inbetween!!!

I better get something to eat as I'm hungry and Knight Rider (new edition) is on tonight. Have to check that one out.

You all take care out there.

Labor Day Weekend

So where did summer go? I can't believe that summer is almost gone and fall and all the activities that go along with it are almost here.

Hope everyone had a good weekend. I didn't do much but it was nice not to have to go to the office on Monday and be able to sleep in a bit.

Jim & Mandy came late Saturday night. They were on their way to Chicago and a mini-vacation and thought an overnight was better for their health than driving straight through. It was a very short visit, but I was glad that I could see them for the short amount of time that I did. They went to see the Cubs play on Sunday and were going to be bums for the other two days planned. Hope they had a good time!! Cubs, unfortunately, didn't win the day they were there.

We had hot and muggy weather and now the hurricane is bringing us some rain. Actually we need the moisture. I hear all my friends that have gardens and lawns that things are starting to get extremely dry! More hurricanes to worry about on their way. When Barbie lived in the Charleston area I went out to visit during hurricane season. First thing I noticed when I got there was candles and water placed by the doors. Her answer was hurricane season!!! Nothing happened while I was there (thank goodness) but it's always something the east coast worries about this time of year. I so want to go back to Charleston one of these days. I enjoyed the time I spent there. It's an old city but lots of things happening and lots of things to see. Especially when you're from Iowa!!!

We're getting busy at work. Head Start classes have started and all the fun of enrolling kids and assigning them to classrooms, etc. It's been hectic and probably won't settle down much until the end of the month. But that's life!! Fuel season will soon be upon us and that's always fun. We get really busy in October/November and then December is here and we participate in the Santa's Helper project and that keeps us hopping!

I noticed Christmas things are out already. When I was a kid they at least waited until after Halloween!! I was at Hobby Lobby the other day (aren't I always) and they have all their trees up and all kinds of beautiful ornaments out. Of course I had to check them out, but family, you'll be happy to know that I didn't buy anything . . . . yet!!!

When you're a crafter you have to pick up things for the seasons when they're out or when the season finally does arrive there's nothing left to finish your project. My scrapbooking is coming along nicely. I've gotten to the reception part of Jim and Mandy's wedding. I've been organizing my pictures of their wedding within my photo program on my computer. I finally got smart and divided everything up so I can find the photos I want for my pages. I have processional, before service, service, etc. When you get to the reception part you have sub-groups -- like garter throwing, bouquet toss, dollar dance, etc. It's fun!!! I've promised a wedding book to the gal that does my hair. We're going to decide if she wants me to put the pictures in for her or just do up the book with the embellishments and she do her own journaling. Keeps me out of trouble, but not out of the craft stores!!

My sister and I went to a big craft fair in Ankeny last fall and are planning on it again this year. Barbie will try and get early-bird tickets so we can have breakfast before we go shopping. It's pretty neat really. With the early-bird ticket you also get to shop the first hour with only the early-bird people shopping with you!! I have a list already! This year my niece Beth is coming with us. The show is November 1 so Jackson will be doing his trick or treating a night early. He's actually too little yet to remember much of it, but there's always pictures!!! He's going out as Tigger! He should make a darling Tigger!! Daddy said he'd be babysitter for the weekend. It would have been nice to have Jackson with us but carrying a baby around at craft fairs is heavy work so guess we'll just enjoy his company at a later date. I'm looking forward to spending some time with my daughter, sister and niece. I'm hoping Mandy (my daughter-in-law) will also be able to join us for the shopping!!

I have Christmas lists started. You never know when you might run across something someone wants. From everything I've heard this winter is suppose to be worse than last year. I don't know if Dubuque can handle much more snow than we had last year. We have over 75 inches of the white stuff. Guess we'll take what we get and handle it as well as we can!!

I should probably get back to work. It's actually cold in here today. You just can't keep some people happy no matter what you do!!!

Hope all is well with everyone. Take care.

Reunions

I attended a family reunion over the weekend. All at once I'm one of the oldest in my family! That's scary!!! My sister, Glee and her husband, Ron, hosted the Klingerman family at their home on Sunday. The Klingerman's would be my dad's side of the family. My Grandma Baade originally came from southern Minnesota so . . . a lot of family are still in that area. They live around the Rochester area and beyond. The numbers are dwindling . . . less every year. All that's left are cousins. Every other year the gathering is in Iowa so next year we'll make the trip to Minnesota. It's an interesting day. You never know for sure who's coming but know that there will be plenty of food and lots of visiting.

Glee's children were there. I enjoyed spending some time with Jackson. He's such a darling little boy. He's so good with a bunch of strangers! We kinda passed him around for a bit in the afternoon. My brother, Mark and his wife, Sandie, were also able to be there. That was a plus. We don't see much of each other and they only live in Cedar Falls. Sandie and Mark are anxiously awaiting news of their first grandchild. Son Nick, and his wife are expecting any day now. Actually she's overdue so . . . we're all waiting to hear the news. Hopefully soon, Danielle was due July 7th. Nick and Danielle are stationed in Virginia. Nick's in th Navy and in and out of port. I can't remember the last time I saw him!!! Brother Josh and his wife, Keeley are also expecting so it's a lively time in their household at the present. Josh and Keeley's little bundle should arrive sometime in August!!

It's kinda fun getting together with relation you don't see very often. We talk a lot about old times when Grandma was still here. We also bring each other up-to-date on what all our famlies are doing. Lots of cousins in Minnosta that we don't see often at all. But their parents, or grandparents fill us in when we get together.

Mark & Sandie stayed a little later and we 5 all had a good visit. Hopefully we can all get back together soon, with our children, and have a real Baade family reunion!!!

I'm hard at work on a scrapbook for Jim & Mandy of their wedding. I do so love scrapping. I spend a little time everyday of the week on something associated with scrapping and the weekends I usually try and get X amount of pages done on whatever project I'm working on. Jim's wedding is so much fun to work on. It's like re-living the whole thing again. So many pictures were taken. Some extremely good pictures and I can't seem to decide which to scrap so end up with lots and lots of pictures. All of them are great memories

It's very humid in our area these days. I put the air on in the morning so that I can do something when I get home at lunch or for the evening hours. I usually end up shutting in down around 8:30 or so and use my tower fan the kids got me for Mother's Day. Sounds like the humidity is going to be around the majority of the week. Fair time. It's always warm for fair!!

I best get something done around here. Hope all have a good week. Talk to you soon!!

Just another day . . .

First of all, how do you like the blog? Thanks to Mandy I now feel like I too am in the 21st century. She did such a great job on the first one, that I asked her to make the change on this one. I'm impressed. I love it! Thanks for the long-distance fix Mandy!!

I read Jim & Mandy's blog before I do much of anything. Gives me ideas and reminds me that I need to continue to write in mine more often. So here goes . . .

I complain all the time that I'm boring (and I think I am) but I did finally DO something this weekend. I and a friend went to the local production of Beauty and the Beast. They did a great job and I enjoyed it very much. Local productions are put on in the Grand Opera House. The Grand was originally a theatre and I can still remember going there to watch movies. One that sticks in my mind is the Dean Martin films where he was a super sleuth!! Anybody else remember them?? The next production is Peter Pan and I may pass on that one. Depends if anyone asks me or not!!!!

I spend the majority of my time in my spare bedroom doing what I love -- scrapping!! My sister says it is no longer a hobby but an obsession! Probably!! As of late I've finished a number of projects in record time. My biggest expense seems to be my ink. I have the majority of my pictures all scanned and in my computer or on CD's, but when I work on a project I change the size of some of the pictures. I finished a baby book for my niece (her Christmas present 2007), another baby book for my sister (Grandma brag book) and a Christmas book for a gift for the upcoming holidays. I've found a place on-line that has some of the cutest stickers and emblishments and have added to my current collection of that. I did a book of Jim & Mandy's wedding for Mandy's mom, Jackie, and she was so gracious when she gave me a thank you card and added a gift card to Michael's and now I'm itching to use it. I asked Mandy if she wanted a black/white album or one with some color. She gave a very nice compliment and said to go ahead and do whatever cuz she likes my work. (Tell your friends, etc., as I'm trying to get a business started on the side with scrapbooking!!) Anyway, my project right now is a complete book for Mandy and Jim. This one could take some time. I have pictures of the engagement party (everyone has their copy of that), Mandy's shower in Dubuque (copy of that to the bride) and am now working on the wedding day itself. I have all kinds of shots of the rehersal supper (compliments of my daughter -- she took lots of pictures) and lots and lots of snapshots and wedding pictures from the photographers and family to work with for the before wedding fun (getting dressed, etc.) through the service, after the service, pictures at the park and the reception. I also have some pictures Mandy forwarded to me of their honeymoon. I told both Mandy and Jim this will be at least a 2 book project and probably 3!!! I can never decide which picture to put where and they had so many good ones taken of their wedding day. I'm excited about it.

It's fair time in Dubuque County and for the first time in over 15 years I am not going to work there. I just can't get up enough ambition to go to work for 8-9 hours, and then hike out to the fairgrounds and stand out in the middle of a parking lot and direct traffic. I'm sure the fair will continue without me. I already miss the people I worked with on this project but to be truthful my health just won't permit me to do that anymore. I might sneak out some evening just to say hi! I always worked the paid lot and know that Kevin will probably let me come in 'free' for a short visit with those that are there.

I gave in last week and went to the doctor. I just haven't been feeling very well. Been taking time off from work hoping that whatever has a hold on me will give up and leave my system but that hasn't been working either so . . . off to the doctor. We had a long talk and as usual they wanted some of my blood. I stopped in Friday on my way to work and gave them some. I have a beauty of a bruise to prove it!! I have an awful time giving blood for testing and my nurse is now used to me and my problems. This time she used a butterfly needle and took it out of my forearm. Hurt, but we only had to do it once!! Results came back on Monday. I'll live until I'm at least 60 years old!!!

Actually my C1A came back at 6.8 (down from 7.3), my blood pressure was a little high (130/80), my cholesterol is at 130, I've lost 11 pounds and all the other junk they tested for came back fine. So what is my problem??? Stress! They told me it is stress! Well, I guess I'll just have to learn to live with the dizziness, the stomach aches and headaches, cuz I can't afford to quit this job!! Life goes on . . . .

We have a family reunion scheduled for this coming Sunday at my sister's. There are not many left on this side of the family. This would be my grandmother's side (or Dad's). Only people left are cousins and the majority of them are getting up in years. Unfortunately my children won't be able to attend. I wished they could, but they too have other things planned for this weekend. Barbie is on vacation and Jim & Mandy have a conflict. It's kinda fun sitting and talking to these folks as they tell a lot of stories about my Grandmother Baade and my Dad. Interesting, but boring for my kids!! Always plenty of food . . . .

Sorry no pictures this time around. Although I've been looking through some old pictures and find some I'd like to put on here but I'm at work at the present time so guess they'll just have to wait.

Speaking of work, I should probably get back at it. I'm working on our quarterly newsletter. Trying to come up with some activities that our Dubuque office has done in the past 3 months and upcoming events we have planned. Doesn't sound all that difficult but when you sit down and try to do it . . . I have a Senior Moment!!

Catch you all later . . . .

Summer

Barb & Mandy's Uncle Harry on July 5th.

Bob trying to grab the rope off the garage with a tiki torch!!

The other newlyweds -- Cheryl & Jesse.

My sister.

Jim & Mandy at Macaroni Bar & Grill in late June.

Yes, summer is definitely here! Hot and humid weather, rainy mornings, hot afternoons! And parties on Jim & Mandy's deck!! I spent part of my July 4th weekend in Ankeny/Urbandale. Jim & Mandy invited a number of family members to help 'baptize' their deck. Jim had replaced a lot of boards, painted, put back together, they bought a beautiful patio set and some new torches so . . . it was time for a party. And it was a great party!

Harry, Bob and Jesse brought tools to help trim trees around the house. Jim drug a lot of branches to the back of their property that afternoon. Harry used Jim's new ladder to get to the top roof and cut additional branches down that needed to be removed. While up there he asked Bob to throw him up a rope so he could lower the chain saw back down. Bob responded with throwing the rope . . . only it landed on the garage roof rather than the house. But as you can see he retrieved it! It was amusing!!! And I don't think it was part of the party entertainment.

Mandy fixed a fantastic supper. We had grilled brats, hamburgers and hot dogs, cheesy potatoes, and baked beans -- every kind of chips you could think of, fruits, dips, brownies, snicker salad, cookies, ice cream, strawberry shortcake, etc. Everyone brought something to share but Mandy did the majority of the work. No one left the tables hungry! If they did it was their own fault!!

My sister and husband came down for the weekend too. It was nice they were able to come. They have a Canadian trip coming up shortly. I'm sure they'll have a great time.

I came home on Sunday. Took a different route than usual -- I usually go 151, #1, and then 80 into Des Moines. Since all of the flooding my route has had to change. Highway 1 is currently not travel able. Barb & Jim both told me to take 151, 380 and 80 and I'd have no problems. I do kinda remember going that way many years ago but have gotten into the habit of going on 1. I had no problems at all -- until I came back home. I have no clue what I did but all at once I realized that I was on 151S/30W and heading back where I came from!!! So . . . I took a quick scenic trip through parts of Cedar Rapids and got back to where I was supposed to be. Only took me a few extra minutes and I got home okay. Duh!!! Guess I must be getting to the age where I have to have everything written out for me!!! But I will venture out again soon. I want to spend some time with the kids again. I need Mandy's advice on a couple of things and visiting with them is as good as an excuse as any!!!

I always complain I never go any place or see anyone but after looking over my calendar for the last month find that this is not true. I've seen more of my sister in the last 6 weeks than I did all of last year. She came down for a long weekend and some major shopping. I certainly enjoyed that a lot. Always fun to help spend someone else's money!!! The following weekend my niece had a party and Barb and I were both invited so . . . we headed north on Saturday afternoon. Made a stop at Glee's to check out the new bedroom. It's cool!! Had a nice time at Beth & Karsten's. Spent some time with Jackson, but would have loved to have spent more. Maybe next time. The following weekend Glee called me on Friday night to see what I was doing the next day and said she was getting her car serviced could I pick her up. Well that was really hard as we went out for breakfast and a little shopping. The really weired part of that visit was that I took my car to have a light replaced, pulled into the garage and she started talking to the guy fixing the light. She worked with him at Cabela's at one time. From there we went to Kohl's and we ran into some people she knew, went to Target and the same thing happened. I live here and didn't see a person I knew at all! We went to Perkin's for breakfast/lunch and our cousin and his wife were there!! At least I knew them. Like I said it was interesting! We missed a weekend and then spent time together at Jim & Mandy's again. Now I probably won't see her again until the holidays!!!

I had a vision appointment late this afternoon. I'm waiting for my eyes to come back to normal. I was really hoping it would stay cloudy this afternoon but the sun came out just as I left for the doctor's office. I got home okay, but boy is it bright out!!!! Eyes turned out fine. Don't even have to get new lenses!

As usual I've been scrapping. Finished Beth's book that I gave her for Christmas. Took it with me to Urbandale and gave it to my sister, so Beth should have it by now. Told her I'd be happy to add pictures if she wanted. "You snap 'em, I'll scrap 'em"!!!

I did a book for Jackie (Mandy's mom) and finally got that finished and Mandy got it to her. I had a very nice surprise from Jackie at the party. She gave me a beautiful thank you card but also included a gift card to Michael's. Thanks so much Jackie! You really didn't need to do that. I'm beginning to think that scrapbooking has become an obsession rather than a hobby!! And I do love it!!!

Time to do some dishes. I actually made myself a decent supper. I made out a shopping list for tomorrow night -- I'm just about out of everything!! I've decided it's about time to plan my meals and try and eat more healthy!! A friend of mine at work plans her meals for about 2 weeks in advance. She said it really helps on the budget and you can always change something if necessary.

I have a co-worker that was told her husband has cancer this morning. She's having a real hard time with it. He's beat it before, plus a couple of major heart attacks, and this one has gotten both of them down. John's not certain he really wants to fight this one or not. He's scheduled for some tests on Monday, but the last time I talked to Donna she wasn't sure that he would even do that. Say a prayer or two for both of them, please. They've been through a lot in the last 7 years and are about to start on it again -- if he decides to do treatments.

Best go. I told my sister I'd try to keep this up better than I have been. I'll try!

Take care all.

Father's Day

Happy Father's Day to all the dad's out there! Another holiday with dangerous conditions in our state.

I just read Mandy & Jim's blog and saw the pictures she took of some of the preparation for the flooding in the Des Moines area. It is unbelievable what is happening in our State. It's also very scary. All our local TV stations have been on air 24/7 showing the results of all the rivers that have overflown their banks. Words cannot describe what we see. I'm sure that up close and personal is even more indescribable.

Barb was scheduled to come for the weekend to spend some time with her Dad and attend an Open House at my niece's (her cousin's) place but with all the road closings decided not to come. But on Friday evening I got a call that she was coming anyway! She found a route that wasn't dangerous would be arriving sometime Saturday morning/noon. I was happy to have her come but also a little concerned because of all the flooding throughout the State. They have rerouted part of Interstate 80 through Dubuque. Yes, I said Dubuque. Highway 20 was full of semis on Friday and very congested coming into town if you were foolish enough to take Dodge Street. After the morning commute Friday all exits off of Dodge Street were closed. It was unbelievable the traffic!

Barb did make it. She brought me a new chair!! Well, it's new to me. She ordered a new recliner for her living room and willed me her glider/rocker. She really hates my big blue chair!! We got it upstairs okay and it is now sitting in my living room. Now my living room needs to be rearranged. Barbie also thinks I should look for a new sofa (maybe an apartment size one) so guess I'll put some ads in the paper and see if I can get rid of my sofa and chair. I'm kinda excited about changing my living room around. Sounds like the painters will be here shortly too. Now that's exciting!!! Obviously the little things in life excite me!

We did make it to Beth & Karsten's but first made a stop at my sister's. Glee re-did her bedroom and we had to see what that looked like. It's pretty cool. I love her new spread and the wall coloring she choose. Looks good Glee!!

We traveled up Highway 52N out of Dubuque. Last week parts of that highway were closed because of high water. We could see where that was!! Lots of farmland has nothing left but mud! Crops are gone. Lots of debris left over. Where there's fencelines that stayed put they're full of growned trees that were removed by the fast moving water -- roots and all. It looks very sad and that's only a very small part of what's been happening in our world. That little flood is nothing compared to what the people of Waterloo, Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Palo, Vinton, Iowa City and many other small towns are going through. I'm thankful that the city administration of the City of Dubuque had the forthought to erect the flood walls that we have protecting our City. What a lifesaver! The Mighty Mississippi looks very full too. Frenchman's Island in Guttenberg is an island of itself these days. The river was beautiful yesterday evening when Barb and I came back home. We should have stopped and taken some pictures.

We had a very nice time at Beth & Karsten's. Their new addition is beautiful. They still have some work to do on it and additional plans for future work to be done, but they have a great kitchen, bathroom, laundry room and deck. Beth fed us well. Good food Betsy!!! We spent some time with Jackson. He's growing so quickly right now. Glee & Barb put him in the swing and he took a quick 'power nap.' Like most babies he can sleep just about any place!

The other picture is of Jackson and his Mom at our Easter celebration at Glee's on Palm Sunday. Jackson loves noise and pounding his hands on the dining room table makes him happy. A baby's giggle is one of the most beautiful sounds in the world. He's a very sweet little boy.

I finished a wedding book for Barb and also did one for Harry. I thought he might like a memory of his son's wedding. I hope so anyway. I really had a good time working on both of them. It's getting easier and easier to complete them these days. I must be getting faster or maybe I'm just getting better!!! You know -- you're not getting older, just getting better!

Sounds like more weather is moving into our area sometime today. I heard something about a line of storms coming through here and stretching down toward Cedar Rapids (like they need more water) and into the Des Moines area. Enough!!

I have laundry in and am working on finishing off my bedroom. Finally put my winter quilt away and got out my summer one. Makes the room look lighter! Washed the curtains and windows, now just have to put everything back together. Best get at that.

Hope all is well in your world. Take care and God Bless all.

Memorial Days Remembered

This has been a Memorial Day weekend to remember. We've had a lot of storms go through our area. Tornado sirens went off last night a couple of times. I don't get scared anymore, just nervous! I walk the windows just like my Dad did. I did talk to my neighbors out of my bedroom windows last night. That was a new experience! We were very fortunate -- all we got was a lot of rain and some hail. The hail wasn't all that bad either, just scary. Further to the northwest of us wasn't so lucky. Seven people were killed in Iowa during this Memorial Day weekend. Five in Parkersburg and two in New Hartford. I've been to both towns at one time or another in my life. The last time I was in Parkersburg was about 2 years ago. The pictures that they've shown on TV are unbelieveable! Homes completely destroyed. I hope and pray that none of us every have to live through anything like that.

I spent the majority of this weekend doing what I love . . . scrapbooking. I'm working on a book for Jim's Dad and as usual, having a great time doing it. I'm not sure I'll ever outgrow my love of this fantastic hobby. I subscribe to a couple of magazines and get some ideas from them but usually just use whatever I have to do what I want. I take parts of other articles, pictures, etc., and use them the way I like them. Might not be right, but it's my way!!!

I sat here the other night and went down memory lane. Remembering what we did on Memorial Day (or Decoration Day as it was called when I was in high school). From 8th grade until I graduated from high school we always had a slumber party at Pam's house. It was tradition. And we always had to march in the Memorial Day parade. The majority of the girls that attended that party were also in band. Some times it was extremely difficult to march the 2 or so miles to the public cemetery cuz we were really tired! But we sure had some good times. When I was in 8th grade (yes, I still remember some of my eariler years) I ended up in the back row of the band with mostly juniors and seniors. I think we were the leftovers. I can still remember marching along with them and all the fun we had. Made me feel like I was part of the group and being only in 8th grade that was important. We never did get much sleep. Took walks very early in the morning, called boys we knew early in the morning. I'm sure their mother's appreciated us and they probably did also. It was always the same boys we called. Wonder why? I'm sure if I look through my boxes of pictures I'll find plenty of those parties. I know I slept the majority of Memorial Day.

It was also a time to go to the cemeteries and place flowers on the graves of our loved ones. We'd pick lilacs from our lilac bushes, honeysuckle, peonies and other flowers growing in or near our garden. We went to a lot of cemeteries. My mother's parents were buried in the Postville Cemetery, my Dad's parents in the Monona Cemetery, my grandmother's sister in a private cemetery in the country. My aunt and uncle and cousin Jane were also all buried in the Monona Cemetery. As I got older and got married Harry and I still visited the cemetery on Memorial Day. His parents were in Luana, and mine at Swede Ridge. Swede Ridge is a little country church and cemetery outside of McGregor. It's a very beautiful place on a summer day. Overlooks farm fields. A fitting place to bury my parents who spent their whole life on a farm. My nephew Jer (my brother's little boy) is also buried there. It was just something we always did. Put flowers or plants on the graves of our loved ones. I've gotten away from that habit the last few years. That's sad.

I still love and honor my parents, my little nephew, my grandparents but just don't get up there any more. My excuses are many. Not enough time, gas too expensive, flowers and plants expensive and have to be off the graves after the holiday. Really not good enough, is it? We honor our dead on Memorial Day -- we honor all the men and women who lost their lives serving their country. God Bless them all. I think that's enough walking down memory lane for today.

I talked to my daughter last night. This is her holiday to work. She was out earlier in the evening babysitting her friend Katie's triplet neice and nephews. I remember when they were born -- March 31st. And they're beautiful children. I haven't seen them since they've been walking and getting into everything. Barb says they're a handful, but all healthy and happy. That's the important part.

They had storms in the Des Moines area too. Congratulations to my daughter!! She has accepted a position with one of the clinics with Methodist Hospital. The great part about this position is no more weekend work or holidays. Wooo Hooo! Congrats Barb! Here's hoping all goes well in the new position. Leaving a job is hard. You leave behind friends and in Barb's case patients. She told them they could find her at her new clinic. It's exciting and nerveracking going into a new job. Here's to you Barb! I know you'll be an asset wherever you are. I'm very proud of my daughter! Does it show???

I'm furstrated at the moment. I'm putting this book together of Jim & Mandy's wedding and went to add pages and none of the page protectors I have fit the book I'm using! Guess I'll start all over with a new book. I buy albums and page protectors when they are on sale at Hobby Lobby -- now I have to remember to buy page protectors that fit into my albums I bought. We should all have such problems!!!

Back to work tomorrow -- oh darn. But it is a short week. Have a food distribution on Saturday. Hope to spend some time with Bill. He usually comes to all the distributions and sits and talks to me for part of the time. My job is mainly to take applications on new people that come in for the food. It gives me some time to talk to him and some of the other people that volunteer for this program. I'm usually really tired when I get home from there. So take a nap and then, hopefully, get to work.

We have an all jeans week coming up at work. June 2nd through June 6th is hygiene week at work. We're getting together with the local Dollar General stores to promote our hygiene program. So . . . if you want to wear jeans through that week you bring a hygiene product or $1.00 a day, to cover buying some. I think we should do this more often with other projects. Everybody likes wearing jeans to work. Unfortunately we have a board meeting that week. Have to see what the boss thinks about wearing jeans to a board meeting!!

I'm getting hungry so I think I better go find something to eat. Hope everyone is having a great weekend. Stay safe.

In addition . . .

Good Morning! Just in case anyone actually reads this . . . I forgot one of my Mother's Day gifts. Barbie also gave me a set of knives and a knife block. She was tired of using my old, beat-up knives when she visits. Thanks Barb. They're already up and being used. The old block and knives will go to Goodwill or some such place. Maybe somebody can sharpen them and get some use out of them.

I think I have everything drug up stairs that I brought home with me from last weekend. This weekend one of my projects is re-potting a bunch of my plants. I have a jade plant that is living on about an inch of soil and the water that I dump into the pot. That's the first plant to be re-potted! The soil is thanks to Barb also. She couldn't find a small bag when we bought plants last weekend so gave me some leftovers and believe me I can use it. I'm going to break up some of my aloe vera plants (some of the gals at work said they were interested in having a couple of them) and just give some of the others new soil.

Got my fan upstairs also. I haven't put it together yet, but will tonight. I'm interested in seeing how it works. Had not Jim & Mandy got that for me I would have bought one. It should definitely make my bedrooms more comfortable when it gets really warm.

Scrapbook alert . . . I finished Barb's book of Jim & Mandy's wedding last night. It turned out well. Or at least I think it did. And it's not a monster one either -- I tried to keep it down to size. I have a real problem when I scrap and have all these pictures to chose from -- I don't. I just put the majority of them in the book! They say less is more, but guess I haven't got to that point yet!! I have 3 more books to do on the kids' wedding and a couple of baby books and just thought of this the other night, but I never did a Colorado book for myself from last year. I should be good for a few months!!

I better get back to work. Weekend sounds like it's going to be a nice one. Enjoy everyone. Until later . . .

Mother's Day

Hope everybody had a great weekend. I sure did. I had a board meeting on Thurday night so was able to take the majority of Friday off as OD (off duty) time. I took care of some errands, etc., around town and 'got out of Dodge' around 1:15. I arrived at Barb's house about 4:30. Glad I have a key so that I was able to get in. She's suppose to get off work at 3:30 p.m. but had paperwork to do so I just moved all my junk inside and waited for her.

We made connections with Jim to find out what he and Mandy were doing for the evening. He was out with friends (a coworker was leaving) and Mandy was on her way to pick up Jayke. Jayke is Mandy's nephew from Council Bluffs. He spent the weekend with them. What a cutie!!

We stuck some laundry in (I always take my laundry to Ankeny)! We decided we were hungry so left a phone message for the kids and took off for Old Chicago. Had a little wait but did that at the bar and a great meal after. As usual there were plenty of leftovers so . . . Barb has lunch for a couple of days this week!!

Watched some movies when we got home. Have you ever seen "27 Dresses". It's a riot! One of the gals at work was just talking about it Thursday morning and when Barb said she had it, I had to see it! If you haven't seen, do. It's a really cute movie (chick flick!).

Our plans were to go to Farmers Market on Saturday morning, but it was raining nicely when we got up. Change of plans! We grabbed some breakfast and took care of some errands. Barb wanted to go flower shopping so we headed to Mernard's and bought flowers for her flower boxes. We even got them in the soil before we left for Jim & Mandy's. They look real good!! The sun finally came out later in the afternoon, but it sure was windy and cool. Rain came back for the evening hours.

I just had to go to the scrapbook store in Ankeny and pick up a few things. Scraping is my life!!! We also made a stop at the Dress Barn and got me some new tops for spring/summer. I'm hoping it soon gets warm enough to wear them. Can't wait.

I've been doing a lot of scrapbooking (surprise, surprise) and finally finished a book for Jackie (Mandy's mom). I had promised her one at the wedding. Mandy was checking it out when we took the picture of her and Jayke. Jayke found pictures of his mommy and his grandma. It was really fun watching him pick people out of the book. Hope Jackie enjoys it as much as I did putting it together.

We had lunch at Barb's. Did some more laundry and headed to Urbandale. Jim & Mandy gave us the grand tour of their home. It's great. They've done a marvelous job so far and have some great ideas for the future. I love it! I enjoyed my evening with my children. Jim grilled ribs (in the rain) and Mandy had stuffed potatoes, salad, burnt garlic bread (sorry Mandy, had to put that in) corn-on-the-cob (delicious) and fresh strawberries and bananas with a fruit dip. It was a fantastic meal. Mandy had just told Barb and I that she usually ends up burning the garlic bread -- about 2 minutes later that's just what happened. We ate most of it anyway!!! Jayke is a great kid to be around. He's very entertaining!! He's a very sweet little boy. I can see why Jim and Mandy love having him around.

Mandy & Jayke went to get movies while Barb and I tried out Jim's Wii game. Is that how you spell it? He has Guitar Hero II. What a hoot! Jim's pretty good at and Barb didn't do too bad either. I could really get into those games. I got booed off the stage the first two times I tried it but finally got all the way through one song and didn't die! It was fun. I want to try bowling next time. Beware Jim & Mandy I'll be back!!

We watched "P.S. I Love You" while Jayke watched "Sherk" and went to sleep. He's such a good boy. It continued to rain, but it was a great evening with my children.

Sunday was very windy. Barb lost her grill cover -- someplace. We looked around for it but didn't find it. At least her Iowa State and Cubs hangings didn't disappear. We decided to all go to the late church service together. Barb already belongs to St. Stephen's and it's just down the street from Jim & Mandy's house. Worked out real well. We went to the comtemporary service. Jayke enjoyed it. He was very good in church. Jim & Mandy bought me an orchid to wear to church and out for dinner. That was so sweet. I love flowers and they know it. Thanks so much kids!

Mandy wanted some pictures of us since it was Mother's Day and here are a couple of them. There's one with Barb, Jim and I too, but that's in Mandy's camera. I'm sure she'll send one on soon.

We had lunch together and then it was getting to be time to take off. Jim, Mandy and Jayke were going to McDonald's Playland until it was time to take him home too. Barb and I headed back to Ankeny and copied some pictures for me of Christmas. I'm a scrapbooking nut and wanted some pictures from a different angle than the ones I have. Hey family, if you have some good ones, let me know and I'll get some copies from you. Got packed up and left Ankeny around 3:30. Always takes longer than you think it's going to.

I faired pretty good on Mother's Day this year. Got a new shower curtain, and beautiful towels from Barb. I can now take down my snowman curtain. Barbie also bought me my shirts at Dress Barn. Thanks sweetie! I love all of it! Jim and Mandy got me a tower fan (with remote). My apartment is air conditioned but it's a window unit and he mentioned to Mandy that the bedrooms get pretty warm sometimes so they decided on the fan. I love it! I was thinking about buying one myself. Now I don't have too. Jim & Mandy also got me my orchid. It's lovely. It was a good Mother's Day weekend. Thanks guys. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Hope we can do that again some time soon.

There, I finally wrote about something other than scrapbooking or how boring my life is. Things are looking up! Have a great week. Talk to you soon.