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.

Nothing new

It's Sunday night and I've had the usual uneventful weekend. I'm basically a very boring person of late. We had a long meeting on Thursday night so I left work early on Friday. Don't know why, I didn't do anything but . . . it seemed like the thing to do at the time.

A couple of months ago I was told to bring my blog up-to-date so I did. But as you can see (if anyone actually reads this stuff) I haven't been doing anything.

My friend Tanya ended up back in the hospital on Wednesday, had surgery on Friday, and went home on Saturday. I haven't heard from her since she arrived home. Hopefully someone will know tomorrow what's happening. Her husband asked that no one call so until she calls us I guess we're in the dark! That's life.

Sounds like the weather is going to be nice this next week. Hope so. I could use some sunshine in my life right now. Whatever we get, we'll accept -- unless we move! It's Iowa!!

That's about it. Told you my life is pretty boring right now. Better days coming . . .

A Busy Weekend

This wasn't one of my best weekends as weekends go. The weather was beautiful and I had hopes of spending some time outdoors but . . . that didn't happen.

I got a call Saturday morning around 10 from a friend of mine. The first call she made to me I ended up accidentally hanging up on her and thank goodness she called right back. I was scrambling around trying to find my cell phone when she called back. She asked if I would do a favor for her and being the skeptic that I am, I said sure, if I can. She then told me she was in the hospital and needed me to do some phone calling for her. She had gone by ambulance on Friday night (Saturday morning) and didn't know at the time she called was exactally happening. She said she was a lot of pain and they were doing some tests.

I called the people she wanted me to and then called my friend Betsy. I had asked Tanya when she called if she could have visitors and was informed that was okay. Betsy and I decided to go up after lunch. She picked me up around 1:00 and we spent the majority of our Saturday afternoon with Tanya. Her Mom and one of her neices came later in the afternoon. Her girls weren't allowed on the floor she was on because of all the flu going around. We were asked to leave by one of the doctor's halfway through the afternoon and decided to visit the nursery. One of our co-workers had had a baby on Friday so we went and visited her and her husband and got to hold the new baby. What a cutie! A little girl named Lila Ann. It's really hard to resist a newborn.

We went back to Tanya's room for more visiting and eventually left around 4:00 p.m. They still don't know just what the problem is.

Monday I went to our Maquoketa Head Start Center to do an orientation and while down there got a call from Tanya again asking if I could give her a ride home. Told her I'd called as soon as I got back to Dubuque to find out where she was, etc. She beat me to it. As we were getting ready to head back she called again and said she was waiting for a prescription and then home. Someone from her church group was helping out. I enjoyed my time in Maquoketa. We have a brand new kitchen in our center there and it nice to be able to see it. (As you can tell I lead a very exciting life -- a kitchen at a Head Start Center is exciting!!!) I think I need a life!!

Tanya is now home and still experiencing a lot of pain. They put her on a number of different pain killers and have decided if the one she's on now does not work she'll have to come back and more than likely they'll have to do some exploratory surgery! We've had some long talks the last couple of days. I hate hospitals. I also can get lost at Finley. The only other times I've been there I was a patient. Glad Bets went with me so I found my way out of the building. I would have used the wrong elevator bank when we left -- eventually I would have found my way back to the parking lot but . . . like I said, I hate hospitals!

I'm still waiting for spring. There's talk of snow over the weekend again. I know it won't last but it's a pain to drive in and move (if shoveling). And it always seems to come on weekends! I want to do something with my deck this spring/summer. I have a friend that knows more about flowers than I and we're going to try and find something I can hang without burning up in the sun. I have a west front to my deck. I also want to buy a small table and chair set to put out there. I'd like to get some use out of the deck but have never gotten around to buying any furniture, etc. Hope we find something that I like AND can afford.

I'm still scrapping a lot. I have a lot of projects I would like done before summer really gets here. Betsy and I have a couple of shows booked for this fall so I need to keep working on those books too. I do enjoy it very much, but there are days when I wonder what happened to my creativity!! I always find it.

Lots and lots of rain here tonight. Weatherman told us to expect periods of very heavy rainfall this evening. Well rain is better than snow!

It's Board of Director meeting week. I have a feeling this one could be lengthy. Well that way I can leave work early on Friday. Get a head start on my weekend (please don't snow).

Best get at some of my scrapping and need to make a couple of phone calls tonight.

Hope this finds everyone well.

Where Is Spring?

Okay, who took spring? I thought for a little bit last week it was here, but it disappeared again. We had 3-4 inches of snow on Wednesday. We broke the record for the most snowfall in Dubuque this year so it can quit now. PLEASE. This weekend was down right cold. So, I ask again, where is spring?

Our federal review is over. I haven't heard the results yet, and sure I will sometime this week. The reviewers were still in town Friday. I'm glad it's over, now we can get on with our jobs and not keep looking over our shoulders every time you leave your office!

I took an hour of annual leave on Friday and had my hair cut and permed. I'm not sure I like the perm. I shampooed my hair this morning and I can't find any curls. Hopefully when I use the curling iron in the morning there will be some. If not, guess Sarah will get a call!! It feels better -- it's not so long.

I got a couple new toys to play with for my scrapbooking. For Christmas Barbie got me two templates from Creative Memories. She got me the ovals and the gems. They're really cool and make great mats. Makes my books look even better. I've enjoyed using them since the holidays. I finally found a consultant here in Dubuque and called her last week and ordered the circles. They're cool. Ann called me on Saturday and dropped them off on her way to work. I've enjoyed using them very much . . . so far. I'm trying to organize my scrapping stuff. Just when I think I've got a handle on it . . . it looks a mess again. I did get the room vacuumed and dusted. That part looks better.

Think it's time to get at windows and curtains. I know the windows certainly need washing on the outside. I have friends that own a window cleaning business so think I'll contact the rest of the tenants in the building and see if everyone would like their's done at the same time. They might give us a discount.

I feel a little better. More like doing something so . . . it's a start. I'm still a very boring person, but I'm working on that.

Hope this finds everyone well. Talk to you all next week!

Happy Easter!

Easter Greetings! I worked on this Sunday but couldn't get my pictures to copy and finally figured it out today. Senior Moment!

Such memories! It's been a long time since my children have been this little and that we dyed eggs. They seemed to be having a great time. And they really are cute!

I didn't go any where for Easter this year. I had planned to go to my daughter's but the weather sounded lousy (and it turned out very nice) and I guess what it boiled down to was I just didn't feel like the drive! Barbie had tickets to the Women's NCAA games in Des Moines. I did enjoy watched them on TV. I'm happy to say ISU won their first round game but couldn't quite get around Vivian and the Lady Knights. I'm sure Barb, Katie and Lauren enjoyed it anyway!

Jim & Mandy celebrated their 6th month anniversary. I'm hoping that we can find a weekend where everyone is in Des Moines and we can get together. I've yet to see Jim's house and anxious to see it. I also have a couple of packages for them . I need to do some personal shopping. Barb keeps telling me I need to buy some tops that fit and I guess maybe she's right. I also need a couple pair of dress pants for work and another pair of jeans. I love shopping, just don't like paying the bill!!

I spent Palm Sunday with my sister and her family. Beth's little guy is so cute. He's rolling all over the place and dearly loves my sister's celing fan in her dining room. It was fun being around a little one again. They grow so fast! We had a great dinner and did a lot of visiting. I took one of my latest scrapbook projects up for some proofing! I wanted a couple of opinions on how I had put my latest book together. Basically Glee and Beth thought it was okay and did find a couple of journeling errors that I too had found.

I've been working on books of Jim & Mandy's wedding. I have the one for Mandy's mom complete and am now working on one for Barbie. It gets easier every time I do one. I really do love scrapping! I'm in the process of getting an inventory together and hope to open a home business with a friend of mine. We're considering having a stand at the local Farmer's Market. Maybe not every weekend but every other or some such thing. Have to get in touch with the City and see what kind of arrangements can be made.

We are currently going through a federal review of our Head Start Program at work. It makes the tension a little heavier than usual. I've dug out more personnel files and answered a lot of questions regarding the files and my latest needs assessment. They'll be gone by Friday (thank goodness) and hopefully we can get back to normal.

I made an appointment to have my hair cut on Friday. Can't wait!! It needs a color job again too. Think I'll wait until it's curled and shorter!!

Well, since I made the pictures work I feel like I accomplished something. I've got the garbage drug out for the week and should probably conquer the kitchen. I've been real lazy lately! I've lost my appetite lately so don't eat much of anything but have a habit of cheese and crackers, etc. around 8:00. I don't always put everything away.

Doctor appointment this a.m. Had to go back and have some meds checked. I've been experiencing practically all the side effects listed on the bottle!! My doctor tells me they'll get better as my body adjusts to the medication. Hope so. Some days its rough but I think I can get through it. My numbers have been good lately and don't have to go back now until July. Yipee!!

I lead a very boring life. Just don't do much lately. Must be getting old. Hope this finds all well. I stopped at the Credit Union this afternoon to pick up some cash and the girls were telling me we can expect snow Thursday or Friday. I'm real tired of winter! One thing with snow this time of year it melts fast!! We still have a number of good sized piles hanging around Dubuque.

Take care all.

Check It Out!

Like I said on the previous blog -- it's been a long time. Meant to mention that you all should check out Jim & Mandy's blog. It's great. Mandy redid the whole thing and I love it. I even checked out where she got it from and am a little scared to try something new. So Mandy, next time you guys are home want to help create a new look for my blog????

Check out Mandy's photography blog too. Mandy you did a great job on that. Love it!

Gotta run. Check that out!!

I'm Back!

I have been reminded by a number of friends that they haven't read anything new on my blog for a while. Well -- it has been a while, like the first of the year. I guess I haven't had anything to share with anyone. Still don't.

Like I tell Barb & Jim, I'm boring! I haven't done much of anything since the holidays. Been sick. Does that count for doing something?? Obviously there's some kind of bug going around the Dubuque area, and New View in particular, that's been causing all kinds of illness. I spent 3 days at home and finally decided I better get my butt back to work. I'm don't know if what I had/have is the flu bug or a problem with a new medication I'm on. I have a doctor's appointment next week so will talk to him about it at that time.

I did do the doctor/blood work thing right after Christmas. My numbers are good. My blood pressure was up a little but I was also experiencing some discomfort with some stomach problems. Hopefully the next visit my pressure will be back to normal. The doctor wasn't real concerned so I'm not either. I'm fortunate that the meds I am on are on HyVee's $4.00 list. Sure saves a few bucks every month of the prescription bills!

It's been a winter of lots, and lots, and lots of snow. I think the count is up around 72 inches for our area. The worst snow in years! We had a couple of days when we didn't report into work cuz you just couldn't get there. We've also had our share of ice!! A lot of the school districts have had to call classes numerous times since the holidays. Now they have to make up that time. I'm thinking I'm glad I'm not a school administrator with weather like this. Spring is just around the corner, and it can't get here fast enough for me.

I'm still scrapping. I'm currently working on books of Jim & Mandy's wedding. I never do a book the same way so it gets interesting some times. One of my projects for this spring/summer is to organize my craft/bedroom. I've looked at some cool ways to organize but haven't gotten around to deciding on what I really want. Plus I keep thinking I should probably look for a different place. One with less steps!!!

Jim & Mandy moved into their new home in January and I didn't get there. I have to admit the snow makes a big chicken out of me. I'm always afraid I'm going to run into someone or they into me. I'm looking forward to spending a weekend in the Des Moines area soon and getting to see the house and their pets. Well and Jim & Mandy too! Pictures they've posted on their blog look great and can't wait to see the original thing.

I'm planning on spending Easter with Barbie. Jim & Mandy are going away for the weekend but Barb will be home. She has tickets to the NCAA tournament on Saturday and Monday but will be home the rest of the time. I think I'll go down on Friday afternoon and come home sometime Sunday afternoon. UNLESS there's a snowstorm!! And that's not impossible either!! But that's the plan for now. Barb took a vacation in January and I'd love to see the pictures. It was one of those WARM places!!

That's about it for me. Told you I was pretty boring!! Maybe better weather I'll get going and do something again. My scrapping keeps me occupied and I love it. My friend Betsy and I are still organizing so that we an get an at-home business going with scrapping and card making. Wish us luck.

Take care all.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year to All! Hope this finds everyone is good spirits and ready to tackle a new year. Have you all made your New Year's resolutions? Have you broken any yet? I gave up on New Year's resolutions years ago. I just make personal wishes and/or wish list that I contend with throughout the year. Last year I had 3 wishes. Of those 3 two came true. Here's hoping for the same success this year.

Couldn't write anything without adding some pictures. I can't seem to get them in the body of my text so this seems the best way to do it. My family had a great time at Christmas and these pictures show some of the reasons why!

Glee modeled her newest hat (helmet) which can also be used to mix cookies, etc., up in. It's that 'big' bowl she requested on her Christmas list. ISU strikes again. Mike got an ISU spinner (that's what I call them) from his folks. He said it would look nice hanging on his patio. Jackson was such a good baby. And he's such a cute baby! I think he's listening to something his Grandma Glee was telling him. Got a picture of the newlyweds by the tree. They look happy. Last, but not least, Barbie and her new luggage tag! She's going on a cruise in late January and my sister thought this was appropriate!! My sister and her husband are heading to Mexico later in the month also. Now me -- I get to stay home and work!!!

Did everyone celebrate the new year? I watched some TV and played some computer games and went to bed around 2:00 a.m. Nothing exciting, but did see the new year in!!

I've been on vacation since December 21st and hate the thought of going back to work tomorrow. Wonder what my desk looks like? I called in on Friday to get my timesheet there on time (need that paycheck Friday) and took care of a couple other things for Bridges Out Of Poverty, but other than that didn't really think too hard on the office. Tomorrow will be soon enough!!

I've been doing a lot of scrapping. I'm working on a book for my neice. I told her I would do a book for her new baby. Just about have that completed. We can always add pictures at a later date. Talked to my sister this morning and she said she got a couple of good pictures of Jackson over the weekend, so we may have some new ones to add already!!

My wedding pictures came Monday. I ordered some prints from Jim & Mandy's wedding. Ordered 2 - 14x11's and an 8x10 of the whole group. They're great! I got one of Jim & Mandy and another of Barb & Jim. Now I have to get them in the frames and back up on the wall. Jim & Mandy also gave me a copy of their wedding pictures CD and I'm anxious to get at those. I promised a few people a book of their wedding. Now to get at it!!

Got a call Saturday from a lady that is interested in my work. I think I'm going to exhbit some of my 'stuff' at a show here in Dubuque in March. Want to talk to a friend about it and then must get to work. I did a couple of books for Christmas presents for my friends (the kind where you put your own pictures in) and they turned out pretty well. Guess I better get to work!! I'm excited about the whole thing, just hope that something comes of all the hard work I've been putting into these projects.

I best get back at the scrapping. Back to work . . . . it's a short week and then we have a weekend again. Sounds like rain around here. There goes the snow!!! But we did have a very white Christmas!!

Take care all. Until next time . . .

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from our house to yours! Hope you had a great Christmas. We sure did. As usual lots of pictures were taken. We used my ugly green chair as our base for pictures this year. We actually couldn't get in front of the tree for all the gifts. The first two shots are of the tree and all the gifts. Ya think we had enough? The next one is my family. Aren't we a good looking bunch? Picture #4 is my children and Odie. Odie is Jim & Mandy's dog. Picture #5 is Jim with his brand new ISU sweatshirt! He was very happy about it. The last picture in the bunch is of all our kids. Barb, Jim, Mandy, Mike, Beth, Karsten and the newest member of the family -- Jackson. Jackson is Beth & Karsten's son. Isn't he adorable? We all think so.



Jim & Mandy arrived for the holidays on a snowy, icy, windy Saturday night. The Davis' had their Christmas Saturday, December 22nd at Duaine & Linda's in Luana. I got a call from Barb around 5:00 p.m. that they were heading out and that the roads and the weather were terrible. It took them over 3 hours to get here. Mandy & Jim drove one car and Barbie and her dad and his wife were in another. They all arrived at their respective homes safely but it was a bad trip for all. I was so happy to see Jim & Mandy when they finally got here. Thank goodness for cell phones. I was able to talk to Barb a few times to find out where everyone was! Jim & Mandy slept pretty good Saturday night -- they were pooped from the trip.



The weather didn't cooperate very much better on Sunday. My children were all getting together with their father in Cascade -- but there was a lot of ice and snow with windy conditions so Jim & Mandy made the decision to stay here for the day. I kept them busy getting ready for Christmas Eve festivities here. Barb made the decision to head back to Ankeny Sunday afternoon. Thankfully she made it safely. Monday dawned much better and the kids went out to do some last minute shopping. Odie and I held down the fort!! I had a couple of errands to take care of after lunch.



Glee, Ron and Mike arrived around 5:30 with Beth, Karsten, and little Jackson not far behind. Barb called around 3:00 and said she was on her way! She had to work Christmas Eve Day, the rest of us worked it out so that we didn't have to! We had plenty to eat while we waited for her. She got here around 6:30. It was great having everyone together for the holiday. We sat down and ate chili (which Jim & Mandy made) and cheesy potato soup.

Gift opening is always a lot of fun for us! Lots of gag gifts. This year Karsten got the CHICKEN, but I also got 2 more! One is a chicken keychain that plays the chicken dance song and the other crows! We'll see where those go next year!! Mike got Mikey money ($300). He told me when Jim & Mandy got married that I owed him $300 so that's what he got!! Jim and I had a good time putting that together! Mike also told me he needed candles for his home so . . . he got candles!! He got used candles, used candle holders and new candles! Barbie got her fuzzy pen again! Glee got some darling things for her rock garden. One was a frog from Jim & Mandy and Barbie found her a bug to put out when the weather is good! Can't wait to see what they all look like.

I fared very well. I got an ISU jacket from my daughter, beautiful towels for my bathroom (I'm changing colors, etc.) from Mandy & Jim, a wonderful pullover fleece from Jim & Mandy, music box, reed difuser, snowman lamp, Mandy & Jim gave me a beautiful book on their wedding (what a keeper!) and they also gave me the CD of their wedding. I promised a number of people books about their wedding so . . . this should keep me busy for most of the winter. I got other things as well, but sitting here and trying to remember is not working. The majority of them have already been put to use or put away. The tree will stay up for a while (when I get ambitious enough to put everything away), but I'll enjoy the lights and colors until I get to that point!!

Jim & Mandy took off for Council Bluffs after the gift opening. We just couldn't talk them into staying and leaving the next morning. They got into Des Monies around 3:30 or so and Council Bluffs a little after 6:00. They enjoyed Christmas Day with Mandy's dad's family. Roads were good going back to Des Monies.

We had a nice dinner on Christmas Day. Spent some time just visiting. Ron & Mike, Beth, Karsten & Jackson left after dinner. Glee stayed with Barb and I another night as she was picking up their new car on Wednesday! That was fun!! Barb and I went with her. Got some good pictures and got to see the new car. It's pretty cool!!!

Barb left this afternoon (Thursday). She helped me with some laundry, and putting some stuff away. We did some shopping both Wednesday and today. I had a couple things to return and was lucky and found something to replace what I returned. Hope Jim likes it! Barb should be home about now. Sounds like more icky weather coming for the weekend. Before Barb left we did some grocery shopping. I think I can handle whatever comes as long as I don't loose my electricity!

One of my gifts was a cutting system from Creative Memories from Barb. Can't wait to try that and a couple of other things out. I have Jim & Mandy's wedding to play around with, as well as a couple of books for my neice and sister. I'm going to do a baby book of Jackson for Beth & Karsten and a brag book for my sister and her husband. Should be fun!! I really do enjoy my scrapbooking!!

Well, it's about time I quit boring everyone and do something constructive around here. Like sweep the kitchen floor. It looks like it could use it!!

Hope all is well with everyone. Hope you all made some wonderful memories of Christmas and have many more in the new year.

Peace.

Where did the time go??

Can you believe that it's almost Thanksgiving? This fall sure went fast! Course we were a little busy with Jim's wedding, Beth's baby and my birthday. It kept us all pretty busy! Added some more pictures of wedding, baby and birthday.

As I told you all last time I wrote, my birthday party was really a surprise. One of my gifts was a new digital camera. It's so cool! I'm still learning how to use it but some of these pictures are from it. The one of Barbie holding Jackson and the one of Jim & Mandy. Aren't we all a great looking bunch!! It was really fun!! Glad I dressed up a little more than I was going to. Marilyn suggested I might want to. Now I know why!!! My sister gave me some wine (just like what we drank in Colorado) and a couple of snowman items. I love snowmen! I'm not particularly fond of snow, but love those little creatures made of it!! She collects Santas and I collect snowmen! Not hard to figure out what to get us for Christmas!!

I'm celebrating Thanksgiving in the usual way. I'm putting up my Christmas tree and all the other goodies in my house. Have to do some re-arranging of furniture, but think I have it figured out for this year. My friend Marilyn, is coming for Thanksgiving dinner. Actually she's bringing the turkey, pie and cranberries. I'll supply the rest. She volunteered to help with the tree. Don't think she has a clue what's involved with putting my tree up. I'll have pictures! Don't I always?? My children are both busy this Thanksgiving. Jim & Mandy are going to her family and Barbie has to work. My sister invited me for dinner but think I'll just stay home and do the tree thing. Now if only the weather cooperates!! Sounds like a storm is brewing in the west. Guess we'll just have to wait and see.

Went to a craft fair in Dubuque over the weekend. Found a couple of things for family and friends. It was fun. Went with a co-worker and Marilyn and her sister Roni. I think I bought the most, but I do have a couple of people on my list already finished. And a good start on a couple more. Betsy and I went partially to check out what others do for tables, etc., at the fairs and we're thinking of getting a table for some spring shows and get our scrapbooking/card business going. We're planning on an ad in the local papers about scrapping holiday pictures. We'll see what that brings!!

Work is busy. I have two newsletter to get out before Wednesday. I know the one will go but have my doubts on our agency one. We have a number of people that just can't make deadlines and of course, that makes me late too. We'll do what we can with the time we have. Our agency has Friday off also as a holiday. Gives you a nice long weekend!! And I'm looking forward to it.

I'm working on some books for Christmas presents. They're going pretty well. Maybe I'm just getting faster at what I do. They still look the same!!

Well, it's 8:15 p.m. and I haven't had supper yet. Think I go rustle up something to eat and watch a little TV yet tonight. See if my ghost shows up again during the night. I have a touch lamp in my bedroom that goes on and off by itself. Hasn't done it for some time but started in again over the weekend. Weird!!!

Here's wishing a blessed Thanksgiving to all. If you're driving to your Thanksgiving dinner, pleae take care. Have a great one.

Surprise!

Well I had the surprise of my life Saturday evening. A friend came to spend some time with me for the weekend and said she wanted to take me out for my birthday on Saturday night. Sounded good to me and the two of us have a great time doing things together. She came Friday night after work. We spent the evening eating pizza and gabbing about anything and everything. Saturday morning we got up and went shopping! One of our favorite things to do together. She was looking for votives for her church so we made some stops at St. Vinny's and Salvation Army. Luckily she found some at both places. We also made a stop at Hobby Lobby to put together a gift for my daughter's birthday. Barb's birthday was early September but with all the excitment of the wedding and all I never did get a proper gift to her. We found something that between us we could put together for a fairly nice gift. I also spent a little money on more scrapbooking items as I have several projects I want to finish for Christmas gifts . . . hope I get the majority of them done!

We got back to my place around 3:30. Both of us were pooped so we spent some time just relaxing. I finally decided I better take a shower and clean up for the evening. I was going to wear jeans but Marilyn thought we should dress up a little bit. Glad she talked me into that! I was ready to go around 5:45 but she insisted that I watch the end of a football game we were watching and then we had to go to her sister's to deliver something she had forgotten! So off we went. I drove. We were going to Olive Garden for supper. Drove into the parking lot (and it's always full) and got rock star parking right across from the front door. I remarked that there were a number of people waiting, but noticed there was a bench free so thought we could just sit and talk some more before we were seated. She stopped to check in and the gal said follow me. I made another remark about knowing the right people and followed the hostess. Walked around the corner and there was my family!! Surprise! Surprise! Surprise! Cameras flashing and people yelling! Was I surprised?? YES! Very much so. My children, Barb and Jim & Mandy came in from Ankeny/West Des Moines, my sister and her husband were there and my neice, her husband and their new baby joined us. It was definitely a surprise, but a wonderful one. My birthday was the 17th but in the middle of the week and everyone was busy the weekend after. I thought maybe someone would come home the following weekend but they told me they were all busy, etc. Actually my children have a life of their own so I was disappointed but definitely understood, but the surprise of having them there was great! Thanks for making the trip guys. It really meant a lot to me.

I need to thank my sister, as I understand it was basically her idea. What a wonderful way to remember you 60th birthday! I haven't had a birthday party since high school, so this one was extra special!! My children got me a new digital camera (of which I love and can't wait for Christmas and all the pictures I can take). Jim set everything up on it so basically all I have to do is point and shoot! My sister and her husband gave me a bottle of wine (just like what we drank in Colorado), a snowman candy dish and another snowman for my collection at Christmas. Thank you so much. I love them both. The wine will get drunk real soon. We sure enjoyed it in Colorado! It's definitely a birthday to remember. Pictures next time!!

Can't write in my blog without wedding pictures (or some pictures of some kind). Since the wedding it the last big event in our lives (baby baptism coming up next) you get wedding pictures. These are some of my favorites. I have no clue what was so funny but Barb, Jim and I are certainly having a great time. I love the one of Barb and I. It's a keeper! The one of Jim & Mandy is one of my favorite snapshots I've seen so far. They look so happy! My sister had a great time and hamming it up with Jim is one of her favorite things to do. The picture of Barbie and Glee is great too. Lots of memories.

Jim & Mandy have got some of their pictures back from the photographer. I'm getting ready to order my prints. I definitely want a couple of larger prints for my livingroom wall. I also want a number of the 4x6 size shots for scrapbooking. Want to make up a number of books for different people. I'm looking forward to that project. I love weddings, and this one was very special.

Hope you enjoy the pictures. Obviously I do. Work has been busy. It's end of the year for me. Our fiscal year ends September 30th so there's all kinds of statistical reports due to Des Moines. I've requested an extension on those. I should be able to get everything together by November 16th. Or at least that's the plan. We had an all-agency staffing today. Lots of work goes into those meetings. I also had a CSBG (community services block grant) stats meeting this afternoon. We went over all the stats for the year and plan on some changes in our reporting data. It's good to get together like this, but we had so many priority projects going at once it's a little hectic. The agency is also involved in a day-long workshop entitled "Bridges Out of Poverty," We're doing the registration part of it. Well we also sent out the flyer. We used snail mail as well as emailing a little over 100. That was an experience. I had a terrible time getting them out but finally they all went but 3. Bad addresses, I guess.

Hopefully things will slow down a little in the near future.

My sister and I are traveling to Ankeny for the weekend. Ankeny has a big craft fair this coming weekend. We're doing the 'early-bird' thingy. Barb and her friend Katie are season ticket holders to all ISU football games and there's a game being televised Saturday. When they televise games they start earlier in the day. This one starts at 11:00 or 11:30. Anyway, to make a long story shorter . . . Barbie is getting us early-bird tickets to the craft fair and my sister and I are going to spend our Saturday morning attending that. The early-bird part is a hot breakfast, goodie bags from vendors and the chance to shop early. Hopefully we'll find something we like and want to buy. I'm hoping Mandy can join us later in the morning to shop with us. She told me Sunday she really didn't want to get up at the crack of dawn on a Saturday for a craft fair. She gets up around 5:30 every morning for work. Guess we'll let her sleep in. Hope she can meet us later in the morning.

I'm hungry. Think I'll go find something for my supper. Just wanted to post some more pictures and thank my family for the wonderful birthday party. Thanks guys. I love you.