Surgery Day

Cado Man's surgery was today and all went well. Got home a little after 9 this evening. We settled the star of the day in bed with his fancy ice machine helping to keep the swelling down on his knee. Fixed him some chicken soup, because his little tum tum was empty. He hadn't eaten since 8 or so yesterday evening. I just gave him another pain pill, so he should drift off to sleep before too long.

It's been a long and tiring day, but at least we're over one of the hurdles in his recovery. Rehab is going to be grueling for Cado, but he's a pretty determined kid. I'm optimistic that he's going to be back stronger than ever. He's got a state title in track to win, and I have no doubt that he will do just that.

State of the Tia House Address

Here's the way we rock right now.

Okay, I'll admit it. I'm scared crapless about the state of our economy. I've been through bad times in my life before, but I'm the parent now and I've got two children to worry about. Now I really do understand what my parents went through when my dad was laid off. Or...the time he fell and fractured his skull, broke both his legs and couldn't work. Our family lost almost everything we had. The hubby and I aren't up against the wall like that, but I'm starting to really think about it. He's in the building industry and well...I'm sure I don't have to explain that.

Cado Man is having his surgery next Thursday. Finally time to go under the knife and fix the torn ACL. Mission accomplished with rehab to get his range of motion back, and the doc has given the go ahead. Cross your fingers and send a couple of prayers our way!

I'm battling bronchitis this week. Darned it! I've got better things to do than be sick, like worry all the time. On second thought, maybe being sick could be a good thing...if I could sleep through all this mess!

Nocturnal Visit

Last night I was sitting on the couch surfing the net, and I heard this eerie howl. The hair on my neck stood straight up. Coyotes!

There has been a pack of them roaming nearby the past month or so. Every once in awhile we'll get a glimpse of a couple crossing the back pasture. One day we saw about five going into the woods on the place next to ours.

This time they were close. I could tell from the howls and barks. They don't sound anything like any of my dogs. Lonely and sad....

I was worried about my outside dog, so I grabbed the spotlight to check on him and of course, to see where they were. I finally got a glimpse of them moving in the darkness. Their eyes were glowing a greenish yellow. I can't really describe how it made me feel. They weren't scared and just stared back at me.

I think they were about a hundred yards from me, down by the pond. My first instinct was to get a gun, but I quickly decided against that course of action. I knew they wouldn't hurt the horses, and Ruger (a Pit Bull Labrador mix, we think) weighs more than they do. I decided to let them be. Besides...my light was losing it's charge and starting to dim. I didn't want to star in my own version of a horror movie. It's creepy being outside alone with a bunch of coyotes so close.

I've been in the coyote range all my life, but I don't remember them ever getting up that close except in hard winters. I guess they're a little braver in this area. I really don't know why they are roaming across this place, but I guess I better get used to it.

Gone For the Year

I had more fun this year with these little hummingbirds than you can possibly imagine. The summer started out with just one feeder and one bird. Before the season was over, I had 3 feeders up and the birds were draining them on a daily basis. We had hummingbirds zipping around everywhere. Twittering, chasing, dive bombing.....never-ending activity. Entertainment was always available right on our front porch, and we were lucky enough to have a front-row seat.

I found egg shells, so I'm sure they were nesting in the pecans. I never did find a nest though. They must be really well-hidden and tiny.

I promised some hummingbird pictures, and here they are.

Here's one trying to guard this feeder. In this picture, she is trying to nip another bird.

The Recipe for Fun:

4 cups of warm water to 1 cup of sugar. Mix and fill 'em up!

Every time you fill your feeder it needs to be flushed with warm water. If a build up of black mold occurs, soak the feeder in bleach. Never use soap! The hummers don't like it. If the water becomes cloudy, you need to change it. Keep any unused nectar in the refrigerator.

I can't wait for next year!

I'm Just A Little...

Homesick.
I don't know why. Maybe I've just got the blues today. I miss the grocery store being five minutes away. I really miss the malls and shopping centers. All of our friends...

I just have to keep reminding myself of all the things I don't miss.... TRAFFIC, some of the neighbors, the HOA (Home Owners Association), no privacy. The list goes on.

Out here we can build a little fire and roast weenies and marshmallows if we want. We can shoot off fireworks on the holidays. None of that goes on in the burbs. I can walk out on the porch in my nightie to take the dog out, and no one will see or care! I love that one! Best yet....I've got two horses in my "sorta backyard." Horses would definitely get me a nasty letter from the HOA.

So, I guess there are some pluses to living in the country.

I'm glad I wrote this I feel better all ready.

Texas Armadillo or "Possum on a Half Shell"

Lilly, this is an armadillo. Lovely, freaky creature isn't it?

They're funny looking mammals covered in armor that are extremely common in our wonderful state. Kind of like an anteater with a shell. They remind me of a football with legs. They're not very big, I'm guessing around 12 to 18 pounds at most and around two feet long including their tail. They love to dig and are notorious for destroying lawns. They're just looking for food, insects and grubs, but they make a real mess and a heck of a hole.

Armadillos are often found in the road with tire tracks down the middle of their body. No, I'm not kidding. Very common roadkill. I think it's because they're nocturnal and hard to see at night. It's certainly not because they're slow. Trust me, those little boogers can run! Also, they jump straight up in the air when they get scared. Not a good idea in front of a 60 mph car...

Around here we have what my hubby and I term the armadillo wars. I hate to say it, but he does shoot them when they start tearing up the yard around the house. They think our yard is the local "All You Can Eat Buffet." If they're not tearing up the yard, we leave them alone. I heard they eat snakes. Not for sure on that one, but I'll pick an armadillo over a snake any day.

Question Why did the chicken cross the road??

Answer To show the armadillo that it could be done.

(Just a note....This is not one of my photos.)

Sunday

We're having a relaxed Sunday. Of course, Cado Man is in recovery. He's camped out on the couch with one of his buddies waiting for the Cowboys game to come on.

Baby Girl is roaming around the house with her little friend. I think they've been eating all day. Must be nice to be able to eat like that.

Myself, I'm thinking about making some homemade nachos. Sounds like a plan!

The Week from H. E. Double Hockey Sticks

Grrrrrr......

Baby Girl, cheerleading, flip, concussion

Cado Man, football, tackle, dislocated knee cap and torn ligaments

Just keeping it short and to the point.

Tia's Critters

My blogging friend, Lilly, wanted to know about my animals. At this time, I have 3 dogs, 2 cats, 2 horses, and 2 fancy goldfish. I did have 4 dogs, but we lost our Harley in April.


That's just the animals that call me their own. Ha ha! We have a lot of wildlife that call our place home or might just traipse through. Wild hogs, coyotes, armadillos, skunks, a local bobcat....the list goes on.

Occassionally I have to run a cow out of the front yard, and nope, it's not mine.

We have the definition of coolness, a Manx cat named Jake. A little sweetie kittie that we call Ellie.

My lovie, Bear.

The Unquestionable King, Rudy, our oldest doggie.

Our pasture buddies, JJ and Rowdy.

Then last, but not least, there is Ruger , The Master of Destruction!

I don't have any pictures of my fish, but they're dubbed Hubba and Bubba. I'll get right on that. LOL

Yesterday

Talk about a day from heaven....
Well, minus the laundry of course :)

I actually woke up shivering, and after a summer in Texas, that's a good thing! A splendirrific beginning. Blue skies and sunshine. Getting even better! No kids at home!! Wow, a home run! I'm gonna have some fun.... yep yep!

Bear, Rudy, and I went for a pasture walk. I visited with my horses, and stopped by the pond for a chat with our big ole heron. He's a real beauty. We meandered on...

Strolled out under the oaks, and Bear found a huge pile of cow manure to roll in. Okay, well add that in with the laundry pile. Heaven for him, but not for me. Since we moved out here, I have discovered that dogs like manure. Not sure what the attraction is, but I have learned to deal with it. Disgusting! He got a bath later and ruined his perfect day.

Off for a 4-wheeler ride.... woo hoo! Down to the bottoms where I grabbed up some horse apples for my pasture buddies, and some air in the hair for myself. To top that off, I played bowling with the horse apples as I rolled them under the gate.

Note to readers: I never claimed to be mature.

Perfectly Bad Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day Weekend was so wonderful and so very, very BAD!!!

It started off with Friday Nite Lights, which in a small town in Texas is everything. My teenage wonder boy got the first touchdown of the season and his first of his highschool football career. I get to see my daughter cheering her first highschool game, and my boy happens to be playing in it.

All that's great right? Oh so perfect...


BUT THEN....

Somebody had to go and SCREW it up.

Do any of ya'll have teenage boys? With more hormones than brains???

Oh yes...Cado Man pulled the mother of all screw-ups. He stayed out all night without permission. Cado and his friend did the ole "You tell your parents you're staying with me and I'll tell mine I'm staying with you" routine.

My hubby and I feel like the biggest suckers in the world. We fell for it, but alas....they got busted. They were so sure of themselves....Ha ha :)....that the two little hormonal goobers decided not to show up for football practice the next morning. Thanks to Coach for placing that phone call.

Our Labor Day was spent in Punishment Phase I.

Oh Joy!

What the Heck Have I Done???

Well obviously I have done something! No telling what...

Most of the time I can't access Google or my Blog. The websites just will not pull up. I've checked my firewall. No blocking there. I've loosened up my filters. Don't think the problem is there. I am really confused on this one. Usually I can figure it out or reverse a goof-up, but I can't find the darned thing. Oh...did the system restore, too.

It just drives me insane when I can't fix a problem with my computer. Guess it might be time to call in the techie geek.

Well, I'm going to back up all my pictures now, just in case I get the big blue screen or something.

Ugh! I hate this......

Rain! Hot Diggity Dog

This is our 2nd day of rain this week! A crazy thing to get excited about, but I can't help it. When you've got cracks in your backyard so big you could lose one of the dogs in it, rain will put a big ole grin on the face! Everyone is in a much better mood.

The Awesome Sea Shell Quest

Baby Girl's fun during our trip was to load up on as many beach treasures as she could possibly find. A quest for the perfect shell, and no easy task.

One evening while strolling down beside the Corpus Christi Marina, she finally found "It." We spotted a shell perched on a rock in the water beside this area here on the right hand side......

(That's my hubby and son discussing the boats in the marina. Hubby got a kick out of some of the boat names.)

"I can get it, Momma."

"Girl, you will fall in."

"No way, just hold on to me." ( ha...tricky, put the responsibility back on me!)

She steps out onto a slippery, wet rock while I'm holding her arm and she's reaching down..... A precarious balancing act at best.

"Ah ha! Got it!"

Flashes that million megawatt smile :) I feel like the world's greatest mom cause I helped her get it. And before you say anything, yeah... i know it could have gone way differently.

Fast Forward to the next morning.....

I'm standing at the sink washing my hands, and I glance down.

"(Insert Curse Word here.) What the hell is that?"

The dang seashell had sprouted eyes and antennae! Not only that, but "It" was in the sink and "It" was ALIVE.

I'm not sure who took the bigger scare, me or the hermit crab...

I bounce into the bedroom. My hubby is looking at me with that all-knowing, ever-irritating grin.

"Damn thing tried to crawl off the vanity this morning while I was taking a shower. Thought I'd save it for ya."

Needless to say, Baby Girl had to put her treasure back in the bay.

Summer Break

Yes, I'm back! Took a little summer hiatus. Have to give the family attention every now and then...

We spent a week in Corpus Christi, a much needed get away, and of course I'm going to write about it. That will happen later this week. Sorry, but my energy is being boiled away by the triple digit temperatures in Texas.

I've been getting medical appointments out of the way and tying up loose ends before school starts. Such a busy month of July. And did I mention it's HOT????


It's so freakin' hot that Campbell soup has changed the directions on soup cans to read "Just Pour and Eat!"

Lazy Wednesday

Lazy Wednesday :)

In a good way though. One of those hot, Texas summer days that makes a person want to do absolutely NOTHING. I did the usual necessary things; laundry, feed and water the animals....feed and water the family. LOL

I tried a new recipe for chicken tonight, and it really was good. I took some chicken breasts and coated them with sour cream mixed with a little garlic salt and onion powder. Then I rolled the breasts in crushed up corn flakes. Drizzled them with melted butter and popped them in a 350 degree oven for 40 minutes. De-Lish-Us!

I don't try new things very often, because my family likes the tried and true. Meat and potatoes kind of folks. Every now and then I'll throw something new at them. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. The "doesn'ts" are always a hit with the dogs though :)

Surfing Texas Style

Moving from the wonderful world of suburbia, planned neighborhoods with walking trails and swimming pools, does have its drawbacks. My daughter is making do....



by going

Slip 'N Slide Surfing!!!!!







Never let it be said that my children can't manage to have a good time for under $15.00.

I would show you our lovely swimming pool, but my kids would kill me. Ha ha!

Internet Causes Brain Clutter

I love to read, and I love it so much that by the end of the evening I have brain clutter. Does anyone else experience this overload of data from the internet? I have always been a pack rat of information, but this is getting ridiculous. It's all right here at the touch of my fingers, and I can't stand it! I want to know and need to know, well EVERYTHING!!!!

No one would ever believe I'm blonde, unless they asked me where my keys are. I can never answer that question. Just ask my husband. I have so much information stored that the mundane is left out. I simply have no room for it. I'm lucky I can remember to tie my shoe, but ask me about microbiology or the latest galaxy discovered and I've got it covered. Top that off with a dose of current events and BRAIN SPAM!!!

When I was a child, I solved this need for knowledge with a stack of books. I could curl up and read for hours. I think that was a lot more soothing than a hot laptop and carpal tunnel syndrome.

I am done for the day. Today I am going to have a Declutter Tia's Brain Day. A break from the computer and the eye strain that goes along with it.

Maybe I'll find my keys.....

My Baby Girl is Growing Up

Tonight was my baby girl's 8th grade graduation. I think I'll go cry my eyes out now :(

Young mothers....

Seriously, don't blink. It's gone before you know it. The little baby you're holding in your arms right now will be this one sooner than you can imagine. She's my heart!!!!

Backroads with Hubby Continued

Tia took another picture. Actually, I took lots of pics that day, but I don't want to bore you to tears. Bee on a wildflower. Can't get more descriptive than that. I was just amazed that I caught the little bugger sitting still long enough for a picture.

Backroads With Hubby

No couch potato day for us :) Living in the country definitely has its advantages. Getting back to nature just means getting on down the road, and that's what my hubby and I did.

What a day we had!




Here he is checking out the local bird life.


The hubby has developed a real fondness for bird watching since we have moved. Now, if you knew him...you would never believe this is something he would get into. The man has binoculars by every door. He has his bird books and the birds that he has spotted are color coded with postie notes. The ones in our area, but not spotted yet have a different color postie note. Hubby told the guys at work that he does this, but they didn't believe him. Doesn't fit his Type-A personality. He had to take his bird books to prove it. These pics should help :)





Hubby spotted this stunning little guy. I couldn't get a real good shot. My telephoto lens has issues at the moment. ha ha! This is an Indigo Bunting, and I had never seen one before in my life. That's something, huh? The picture doesn't do the bird justice.

My daughter wants to go get a pizza, so I'll finish this post later. Pizza or posting? Hhhmmm.... See ya'll!

A Rose for Lilly

This rose is a thank you for Lilly. You can visit her here.... Lilly's Life ! I know it's not a Lilly, but I'll work on that later this week. Enjoy...

This is a picture of one of my favorite types of rose, the Knock Out Double Rose in Red. Beautiful, intense color and no fuss. Disease resistant and hardy. They bloom abundantly from early spring to late fall. How can you beat that? I absolutely love them, and I'm going to add more to my landscape.

This is the 2nd season for this rose, and I think it's a winner. The plant has all ready grown about 2' by 2' and shows no signs of slowing down. It's covered in blooms all ready, and the color is stunning. Last year I had no problems with the rose what so ever. I never had much luck with roses until I found these. They are so tolerant of the Texas heat and humidity. Finally a show-stopping rose for our state!

Texas Indian Paintbrush

Today rated on the excitement meter about as high as watching paint peel off the walls. I hate to use the same cliche term the kids use, but I was bored. Bored, bored, BORED!!! There I said it. I think my teens think it's "cool" to be bored. On their space their status is almost always "bored" when it's not "crunk." Did I spell crunk the right way? I never know anymore. I'm not even sure I know what crunk is. I'll have to google that one. My kids' definition makes no sense. Teen speak....ugh! I do know that being bored is not "cool." It's just boring. Sorry, couldn't resist.

I tried to paint. My dog knocked over my water. I tried to work in the garden. The hubby came outside to sit on the porch and watch. (He must have been really bored.) That annoyed me.

So now....I'm going to work on my blog. If the computer crashes, I'm done.

On a more creative note, if only to raise your excitement meter, or lower it, depending on your interests....

I want to share my picture. YAY!

This is an Indian Paintbrush, and is one of my favorite Texan wildflowers. When these appear in the spring, they put on quite a show. They are usually grown along roadsides here mixed with bluebonnets. I don't have any blues growing in my pastures, but I do have these red beauties. The Texas Paintbrush only grows about 6" to 8" tall, but they do make quite a statement for their size. An added plus, our hummingbirds love them!

Coding the Cabbage

My sis and I got together this week for a little bonding time. We love to conversate, and often, as with sisters, we spend a whole lot of time laughing. This is just a little snippet from while we were getting our nails done.

We were discussing my sister's day of nursing challenges.

"Hey, did I tell you about having to do chest compressions on a cabbage?"

I was thinking well....okay I'm not sure what on earth this had to do with her day, but I was going to go with it. Sisters sometimes switch directions quickly....

"Chest compressions on cabbage? Did ya'll practice on cabbages in nursing school, too?"

Sis is laughing now...." No, Tia. We didn't practice on cabbage. A cabbage is a patient that just had bypass surgery."

Now I'm laughing...

"Kinya, I've told you before speak English with me. Not nurse speak. I thought you were doing a subject switch on me back to nursing school. I mean, heck, ya'll practiced giving shots on oranges. I just figured why not chest compressions on cabbage?"


For those who need to know : Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery or CABG pronounced cabbage.

Crap, I hate it when she does that to me. I'm beginning to think she does it on purpose just to mess with me.

The San Antonio Chili Cook-Off

My husband sent me this hilarious email, and I just couldn't resist sharing. I was crying with laughter by the time I finished reading....seriously.

This is an actual account as relayed to paramedics at a chili cook-off in Texas .

Note: Please take time to read this slowly. If you pay attention to the first two judges, the reaction of the third judge is even better. For those of you who have lived in Texas , you know how true this is.

This Chili Cook-off takes place about the time Halloween comes around, and it takes up a major portion of a parking lot at the San Antonio City Park .

Judge #3 was an inexperienced chili taster named Frank, who was visiting from Springfield, Illinois.

Frank: 'Recently, I was honored to be selected as a judge at a chili cook-off. The original person called in sick at the last moment and I happened to be standing there at the judge's table, asking for directions to the Coors Light truck, when the call came in. I was assured by the other two judges (Native Texans) that the chili wouldn't be all that spicy; and, besides, they told me I could have free beer during the tasting, so I accepted and became Judge 3.'

Here are the scorecard notes from the event:

CHILI # 1 - MIKE'S MANIAC MONSTER CHILI

Judge # 1 -- A little too heavy on the tomato. Amusing kick.
Judge # 2 -- Nice, smooth tomato flavor. Very mild.
Judge # 3 (Frank) -- Holy crap, what the hell is this stuff? You could remove dried paint from your driveway. Took me two beers to put the flames out. I hope that's the worst one. These Texans are crazy.

CHILI # 2 - AUSTIN 'S AFTERBURNER CHILI

Judge # 1 -- Smoky, with a hint of pork. Slight jalapeno tang.
Judge # 2 -- Exciting BBQ flavor, needs more peppers to be taken seriously.
Judge # 3 -- Keep this out of the reach of children. I'm not sure what I'm supposed to taste besides pain. I had to wave off two people who wanted to give me the Heimlich maneuver. They had to rush in more beer when they saw the look on my face.

CHILI # 3 - FRED'S FAMOUS BURN DOWN THE BARN CHILI

Judge # 1 -- Excellent firehouse chili. Great kick.
Judge # 2 -- A bit salty, good use of peppers.
Judge # 3 -- Call the EPA. I've located a uranium spill. My nose feels like I have been snorting Drano. Everyone knows the routine by now. Get me more beer before I ignite. Barmaid pounded me on the back, now mybackbone is in the front part of my chest. I'm getting sh*t-faced from all of the beer.

CHILI # 4 - BUBBA'S BLACK MAGIC
Judge # 1 -- Black bean chili with almost no spice. Disappointing.
Judge # 2 -- Hint of lime in the black beans. Good side dish for fish or other mild foods, not much of a chili.
Judge # 3 -- I felt something scraping across my tongue, but was unable to taste it. Is it possible to burn out taste buds? Sally, the beer maid, was standing behind me with fresh refills. This 300 lb. woman is starting to look HOT ... just like this nuclear waste I'm eating! Is chili an aphrodisiac?

CHILI # 5 - LISA'S LEGAL LIP REMOVER

Judge # 1 -- Meaty, strong chili. Cayenne peppers freshly ground, adding considerable kick. Very impressive.
Judge # 2 -- Chili using shredded beef, could use more tomato. Must admit the cayenne peppers make a strong statement.
Judge # 3 -- My ears are ringing, sweat is pouring off my forehead and I can no longer focus my eyes. I farted, and four people behind me needed paramedics. The contestant seemed offended when I told her that her chili had given me brain damage. Sally saved my tongue from bleeding bypouring beer directly on it from the pitcher. I wonder if I'm burning my lips off. It really ticks me off that the other judges asked me to stop screaming. Screw them.

CHILI # 6 - VERA'S VERY VEGETARIAN VARIETY

Judge # 1 -- Thin yet bold vegetarian variety chili. Good balance of spices and peppers.
Judge # 2 -- The best yet. Aggressive use of peppers, onions, garlic. Superb.
Judge # 3 -- My intestines are now a straight pipe filled with gaseous, sulfuric flames. I crapped on myself when I farted, and I'm worried it will eat through the chair. No one seems inclined to stand behind me except that Sally. Can't feel my lips anymore. I need to wipe my butt with a snow cone.

CHILI # 7 - SUSAN'S SCREAMING SENSATION CHILI

Judge # 1 -- A mediocre chili with too much reliance on canned peppers.
Judge # 2 -- Ho hum, tastes as if the chef literally threw in a can of chili peppers at the last moment. **I should take note that I am worried about judge number 3. He appears to be in a bit of distress as he is cursing uncontrollably.
Judge # 3 -- You could put a grenade in my mouth, pull the pin, and I wouldn't feel a thing. I've lost sight in one eye, and the world sounds like it is made of rushing water. My shirt is covered with chili, which slid unnoticed out of my mouth. My pants are full of lava to match my shirt. At least during the autopsy, they'll know what killed me. I've decided to stop breathing. It's too painful. Screw it; I'm not getting any oxygen anyway. If I need air, I'll just suck it in through the 4-inch hole in my stomach.

CHILI # 8 - BIG TOM'S TOENAIL CURLING CHILI

Judge # 1 -- The perfect ending, this is a nice blend chili. Not too bold but spicy enough to declare its existence.
Judge # 2 -- This final entry is a good, balanced chili. Neither mild nor hot. Sorry to see that most of it was lost when Judge #3 farted, passed out, fell over and pulled the chili pot down on top of himself. Not sure if he's going to make it. Poor feller, wonder how he'd have reacted to really hot chili?
Judge # 3 -- No Report

Busted for Speeding on Mother's Day

It didn't start out bad, but I have to say...UGH and GRRRRRRR!!!!

Here I am on Mother's Day doing the motherly thing of taking my daughter to the mall to find a dress. My son and one of his friends have come along for the ride. Just setting the scene here...

Cruising down Interstate 30, and I decide to pop in some AC/DC to get the blood pumping. Enjoying my new little Honda Si. It's so much fun to drive! I guess I stomped the accelerator when the song started. I mean, come on...it's "Thunderstruck!" Who doesn't get a little hyper and turn into a speed demon when that song plays. It's meant for that. Sporting events, fast cars and breaking the rules.

Lyrics please...... My thoughts in RED

I was caught By the Highway Patrol
In the middle of a railroad track (Thunder) Nope, it was I-30
I looked 'round, And I knew there was no turning back (Thunder) Damn, I'm getting a ticket!
My mind raced
And I thought what could I do? (Thunder) He flipped on his lights
And I knew
There was no help, no help from you (Thunder) Like you could....
Sound of the drums
Beatin' in my heart Police scare me.
The thunder of guns! Not really...I didn't rob a bank or anything
Tore me apart
You've been - thunderstruck!
Rode down the highway
Broke the limit, we hit the ton Damn sure did. 83 in a 70
Went through to Texas, yeah Texas We all speed here
And we had some fun Didn't last long
We met some guys, Just one and that was enough
Those dancers who gave us good times Bullshit, it was the darn highway patrol
Broke all the rules, played all the fools Broke 'em and will PAY not PLAY
Yeah, yeah, they, they, they blew our minds Cuz they outta be out catchin real criminals!
And I was shakin' at the knees
Could I come again please. Next week....maybe ye ole highway patrol will be elsewhere
Yeah the ladies were too kind Most of us mothers are
You've been - thunderstruck, thunderstruck
Yeah yeah yeah, thunderstruck
Thunderstruck, yeah, yeah, yeah
Said yeah, it's alright No...it's not
We're doing fine
Yeah, it's alright
We're doing fine Whatever, I'm not doing fine. I'm sure gonna pay one though!

No more AC/DC for me.

My Child

Before you were conceived I wanted you
Before you were born I loved you
Before you were here an hour I would die for you
This is the miracle of love.

Maureen Hawkins

We've got Baby Birdies!!!

Isn't this little killdeer the cutest ever??? I wasn't home when the eggs finally hatched, but my daughter was. She called me all excited. "Mom, we've got baby birdies!!! You know the little bird by the driveway that we've been watching?? Her eggs hatched! One of them is all ready walking around, and another one is coming out of its egg!" I told her to go grab the camera and take some pictures for me. I think she did a great job, and what a wonderful thing for her to experience.

Only one of the four eggs did not hatch. I checked it out, and it had a tiny crack. Made me sad, but that is the cycle of life. Some make it and some do not, no matter the care that is taken.

Mrs. Killdeer

Meet Mrs Killdeer. She is steadily bitching at me for taking her picture. Actually I got too close to her nest. She's very protective, and she was quite willing to try and whoop my butt. Ha ha! She is nesting on our driveway. The eggs are really hard to spot because they blend in with the rocks.

Mrs. Killdeer cracks me up because she deserves an Oscar for her performances. The broken wing act is the absolute best, and I swear she channels Katherine Hepburn. Such spirit and courage. Not afraid of me at all and definitely willing to face me head-on. I got close enough to take this picture, but she stayed right there. Griping the whole time and showing me her tail feathers. She was not going to leave those eggs no matter what.

We are very careful when coming and going. I can't wait to see these hatch, and I hope that we see the Killdeers nesting here for many years to come. Matter of fact, we may just add their name to the mailbox, so they can get junk mail, too!

Tears for Harley

Harley Lynn

February 9th 1999 ~ April 14th 2008

Yesterday was hard. So hard that I'm not sure that I'm ready to write about it. I'm going to try, but forgive me if it is a pathetic attempt.

I lost one of my beloved dogs yesterday. Harley hadn't had an easy time for about the past two years, but the light was still in her eyes. She was happy, and in spite of her health, seemed to enjoy our world.

Harley's weight had steadily increased, but we had not a clue why. She didn't over eat, and she had plenty of room for exercise. I thought she would start dropping the weight when we moved to the country.

Harley did become more active, but the weight didn't drop. At some point she threw her hip out of place while running. Medication treatment and it got better for a time, but her hips were never the same.

Harley's hair stopped growing, and she seemed to drink a LOT of water. Those symptoms along with the weight gain seemed to me to point to her thyroid. I had some blood work done on her and sure enough, she was hypothyroid. Started her on medication for that with high hopes.

She dropped weight quickly. This seemed to have no effect on her health, and just getting around was still hard. At times I would have to help her stand up. Other times, I would just look behind me and there she would be, struggling to follow us on our walks.

This past weekend she took a turn for the worse. We saw the light go out of her eyes, and it was obvious she was in pain. It was time to let her go.

My tears are for her. My love is for her, and I was blessed to have her in my life. She never gave up, and she always wanted to be with us.

Our black shadow, our little Har Har Harley Boo.

Dear God, please take care of her until we get there. Will you give her those snacks she loves and her favorite chewies. Just until I can do it myself. And please tell her that Rudy misses her. We all do.

Damon buried her underneath the oak tree out back...

Tears fall again...

Slept My Day Away

I slept ALL day. I guess I ran out of go juice. Does that mean I'm getting old, or I'm just lucky enough to be able to do it? Both of my kids were gone for the day, and the hubby was out piddling on the tractor. It was a peaceful way to spend my Sunday. Feeling a bit lazy, but trust me...I'll get over it.

I'm Chicken around Chickens

We were watching this show on TV, and it was about this guy that was hunting giant anacondas. Can you say DumbAss??? Anyway, he was interviewing this Amazon native that had supposedly come into contact with one. The native shot the B.O.B. (Big Ole Bastard) because it was eating his chickens.

Me, being a "DumbAss," asked my hubby if he had thought about getting some chickens.

"Ya know what? ....I have." replied my dear hubby in all seriousness.

(HUH??)

"I don't know anything about chickens, though. You'll have to handle the chicken stuff." he said.

"I don't know anything about chickens either, honey. I only gathered the eggs. I just remember my Grandma sending me into the chicken coop with a hearty, 'Tia Lynn, watch out for those chicken snakes.' "

If he thinks I'm going in a chicken coop to battle giant Anacondas aka chicken snakes, he's a bigger DumbAss than me.

So much for living off the land...


FYI to my readers and my other half...My hubby's not really a dumbass and anacondas are not chicken snakes. ah ha ha :)

Daddy's Girl and My World

This is my baby girl, and my reason for being. ha ha! She really is....

All boys that think they might want to take out my daughter, I'm putting you on notice. We go by the Daddy's Rules AND you might want to give a listen to that song by Rodney Atkins.



It's called....

Cleaning This Gun (Come On In Boy)

Come on in boy, sit on down
And tell me 'bout yourself
So you like my daughter, do you now?
Yeah we think she's something else
She's her daddy's girl and her mama's world
She deserves respect, that's what she'll get
Ain't it son?
Now y'all run along and have some fun
I'll see you when you get back
Bet I'll be up all night
Still cleaning this gun


Hee Hee!!!

Seriously though, she's adjusted to the country life pretty well. She has a boyfriend that we tolerate. He's a good kid (thank goodness), but her daddy still isn't on board with it. Neither is mom for that matter. I really would prefer that she still thought boys were gross.

For anyone that doesn't know, we went from a 5A school to a 1A. My kids have gone through culture shock, mall withdrawal, and for my son... girl withdrawal. LOL! Meaning he can't switch girlfriends every month. They miss their friends tons. A lot of the kids they have known since they were babies. I miss the little boogers, too. Homesick? Yes, sometimes.

My baby girl wanted to move out to the boonies, but I did have to ask her the other day if she would rather live there or here. She says, " Well, I'd rather live there, but only if I could pick up my school and move it." I guess we'll be staying.

Daddy's Rules for Dating My Daughter

Having a teenage daughter myself....
I thought these were pretty funny!

Rule One: If you pull into my driveway and honk you'd better be delivering a package, because you're sure not picking anything up.

Rule Two: You do not touch my daughter in front of me. You may glance at her, so long as you do not peer at anything below her neck. If you cannot keep your eyes or hands off of my daughter's body, I will remove them.

Rule Three: I am aware that it is considered fashionable for boys of your age to wear their trousers so loosely that they appear to be falling off their hips. Please don't take this as an insult, but you and all of your friends are complete idiots. Still, I want to be fair and open minded about this issue, so I propose this compromise: You may come to the door with your underwear showing and your pants ten sizes too big, and I will not object. However, in order to ensure that your clothes do not, in fact come off during the course of your date with my daughter, I will take my electric nail gun and fasten your trousers securely in place to your waist.

Rule Four:I'm sure you've been told that in today's world, sex without utilizing a 'Barrier method' of some kind can kill you. Let me elaborate, when it comes to sex, I am the barrier, and I will kill you.

Rule Five: It is usually understood that in order for us to get to know each other, we should talk about sports, politics, and other issues of the day. Please do not do this. The only information I require from you is an indication of when you expect to have my daughter safely back at my house, and the only word I need from you on this subject is 'early.'

Rule Six: I have no doubt you are a popular fellow, with many opportunities to date other girls. This is fine with me as long as it is okay with my daughter. Otherwise, once you have gone out with my little girl, you will continue to date no one but her until she is finished with you. If you make her cry, I will make you cry.

Rule Seven: As you stand in my front hallway, waiting for my daughter to appear, and more than an hour goes by, do not sigh and fidget. If you want to be on time for the movie, you should not be dating. My daughter is fixing her hair, a process than can take longer than painting the Golden Gate Bridge . Instead of just standing there, why don't you do something useful, like changing the oil in my car?

Rule Eight: The following places are not appropriate for a date with my daughter: Places where there are beds, sofas, or anything softer than a wooden stool. Places where there is darkness. Places where there is dancing, holding hands, or happiness. Places where the ambient temperature is warm enough to induce my daughter to wear shorts, tank tops, midriff T-shirts, or anything other than overalls, a sweater, and a goose down parka - zipped up to her throat. Movies with strong romantic or sexual themes are to be avoided; movies which feature chain saws are okay. Hockey games are okay. Old folks homes are better.

Rule Nine: Do not lie to me. I may appear to be a potbellied, middle-aged, dimwitted has-been. But on issues relating to my daughter, I am the all-knowing, merciless god of your universe. If I ask you where you are going and with whom, you have one chance to tell me the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I have a shotgun, a shovel, and five acres behind the house. Do not trifle with me.

Rule Ten: Be afraid. Be very afraid. It takes very little for me to mistake the sound of your car in the driveway for a chopper coming in over a rice paddy near Hanoi . When my Agent Orange starts acting up, the voices in my head frequently tell me to clean the guns as I wait for you to bring my daughter home. As soon as you pull into the driveway you should exit the car with both hands in plain sight. Speak the perimeter password, announce in a clear voice that you have brought my daughter home safely and early, then return to your car - there is no need for you to come inside. The camouflaged face at the window is mine.

Finding Myself

Cliche I know, but that's what I'm trying to do. Somewhere in between changing diapers and getting the kids off to school....I lost ME.

In the very beginning of my blog, I said I didn't have any writing ability. It's true... for this moment in my life. It hasn't always been so.

Once I was creative. I started writing at a very young age. Poetry, short stories, diaries...it didn't matter. I loved it.

I was also born with a pencil in my hand. I drew.... A LOT!

I sit down now to create, and it's as though I have nothing to pull from. Is it always going to be this way? Have I lost every creative thought in my head, or am I just out of practice?

I'm hoping it's lack of practice that is the answer. The more I write, the more I paint...
It will just become more and more ME...

Blast Dog Ruger's Strike Zone (No one is Safe)

This is my Bear Boi and he is running from something.....

This is "Something."

This is "Something" about to tackle our Harley.

I'm not kidding when I say that Ruger is a blast. A Heat-Seeking Missile! Our other 4-legged critters get this deer-in-the-headlights expression when he's turned loose.

This bomb was dropped on our house around Christmas. Tia adopted again...sorry, honey! Sorry to my other animals, too. None of our furry critters want to be his friend. I think he might be growing on Harley, but it may just be that she has accepted her fate as his favorite target. Ruger gets this wild look in his eyes like he has spied a T-bone steak. The next thing ya know, one of the dogs is biting the dust. He literally whomps them one and plows them right over. Crazy.

Link Love for all my Blogger Buddies

Thanks to Crista (you are so awesome!) I have been tagged! Woo Hoo! Hot diggity dog!

Rules:
1. Copy all the links below and replace your blog beside the appropriate letter. For example if your blog name starts with the letter "D" then replace the link beside "D" with yours, and put the replaced link at the bottom of the list. Also add the person who tagged you at the bottom of the list.
2. Tag at least 5 people and encourage them to take part of the game - tag blogs only and only those without bad rated material like pornographic, violence, racism etc.
The List:
A acowboyswife.com
B bloggingcents.com
C chatbugkaren.com
D Domestic Goddess
E everythingandanythingblog.com
F
G GeekMomMashup.com
H hoysater.no
I ipentimento.com
J juliesjournal.com
K kabalyero.com
L Life is Beautiful
M My Happiness Haven
N nicusor.com
O Open the Door
P peapodsquadstuff.com
Q qweddings.com
R ringtailsquealer.blogspot.com
S stephanmiller.com
T TenaciousCreations.com
U utada-online.net
V valmg.com
W wickedbabylon.com
X xaviermedia.com
Y yimto.com
Z zbudapest.com


Replaced Link originalmx5.net
Previous Tagger The Domestic Goddess

I am tagging.....
A Blessed Life
It's A Woman's World!
Stuff I Feel Like Writing About
Snow Trapped Southern Girl
Sweet Happenings

Ruger what a Blast of a Dog

This is our puppy, Ruger, and he lives up to his name as you can tell. Can you see that smile on his mug? That is one happy mutt! He is 100 mph 24/7. I wish some of his energy would rub off on me. My daughter and I went on a walk last week to enjoy the woods and sunshine. The dogs tagged along, and Ruger was the life of the party. My other dogs don't much care for this wallop of a dog. They get tackled. He gets yelled at. Everyone strolls along sniffing and exploring. Then when they're checking out some interesting scent, he clobbers one of them again. He's a mess, but it's fun to watch the joyful abandon of an animal that is new to the world. His life could have been much different. He was abandoned and me being me, we have a new pet. He's only about three months old, and I know he's gonna be a big 'un. One of these days, maybe I won't drag home strays anymore. HA! My hubby just wishes!

Blogging for Money? Naw....but I'm getting a big butt

I've been doing a lot of surfing lately. Too much, and I'm getting the big butt to prove it. I've read so many different articles about blogging and this way of doing it...AND that way of doing it. This is how you make money and these are the words you need to use. BLEH! I have decided to just write what I want to when I feel like it. I don't know about anyone else, but I haven't made jack squat blogging. Nor do I really care... I mean it would be nice to make some spare change, but hey this is fun. I think it is anyway, but don't be surprised if I don't write every day. I need to get some sunshine and work off some of my winter padding. Is there seriously such a thing as internet addiction? I think I might have it, and that just will not work. After all if I'm not out living life, what on earth will I have to blog about?

This could be me in a couple of months if I don't kick the internet addiction.

Fight Club for Kids?? WTH??

Warning! I'm having a rant on my "be nice" day. Dang it! Sorry, but I couldn't let this one slide!

Sitting here watching the news and I catch this...

Fight Clubs or Ultimate fighting for kids as young as 6 years old!!!! What in the hell are people thinking? Have they lost the ever-loving minds??

Just when I think our society has all ready reached its low point and couldn't possibly get any worse. Ugh and Grrrrrrr! What is this teaching our children? The parent interviewed said it teaches them positive reinforcement and discipline. Huh? Oh and they're learning to defend themselves! I'm beginning to think some people should have to get a license to parent.

I'm going to go cool off now. It's "Be Nice" day! Tia's not feeling very nice at the moment.
Serenity Now..... ha ha!

My Camera

People often ask me what camera I use. This is it. The Sony DSLR-A100. I have to say that I love it. Christmas gift from my hubby, and he did an excellent job of picking it out. It's 10.2 megapixels and has image stabilization. Plenty of features for the pro and ease of use for the novice on autofocus. Check out some of my pictures on my photo blog.

http://southernsoulpics.blogspot.com/

This Photographer's Muses

These two teenage goofy butts keep me constantly inspired. D is giving me his version of striking a pose. I was trying to get some decent shots, but D couldn't even be serious long enough for that. I told him to stop posing and just do his thing.... this is the result. Oh well.... I warned him I was going to post it on my blog. Gotcha!

Speeding 4 fun

An older lady gets pulled over for speeding...

Older Woman: Is there a problem, Officer?

Officer: Ma'am, you were speeding.

Older Woman: Oh, I see.

Officer: Can I see your license please?

Older Woman: I'd give it to you but I don't have one.

Officer: Don't have one?

Older Woman: Lost it, 4 years ago for drunk driving.

Officer: I see...Can I see your vehicle registration papers please.

Older Woman: I can't do that.

Officer: Why not?

Older Woman: I stole this car.

Officer: Stole it?

Older Woman: Yes, and I killed and hacked up the owner.

Officer: You what?

Older Woman: His body parts are in plastic bags in the trunk if you want to see

The Officer looks at the woman and slowly backs away to his car and calls for back up. Within minutes 5 police cars circle the car. A senior officer slowly approaches the car, clasping his half drawn gun.

Officer 2: Ma'am, could you step out of your vehicle please!

The woman steps out of her vehicle.

Older woman: Is there a problem sir?

Officer 2: One of my officers told me that you have stolen this car and murdered the owner.

Older Woman: Murdered the owner?

Officer 2: Yes, could you please open the trunk of your car, please.

The woman opens the trunk, revealing nothing but an empty trunk.

Officer 2: Is this your car, ma'am?

Older Woman: Yes, here are the registration papers.

The officer is quite stunned.

Officer 2: One of my officers claims that you do not have a driving license.

The woman digs into her handbag and pulls out a clutch purse and hands it to the officer. The officer examines the license. He looks quite puzzled.

Officer 2: Thank you ma'am, one of my officers told me you didn't have a license, that you stole this car, and that you murdered and hacked up the owner.

Older Woman: Bet the liar told you I was speeding, too!!!!

Don't Mess With Old Ladies

Dallas World Aquarium-2 More Pics

Hard to get a decent photograph in aquariums. I couldn't use a flash, so I had to be very still. That's not easy for me, but I did get this shot. I love the colors.

This little guy was really hard to photograph without blur. This was the best I could do. Doesn't do him justice. Very delicate. Kinda looked like lace floating in the water.

Spring Break Part II

We made it to The Dallas World Aquarium!!!!

This is not just an aquarium, it's an adventure into another world......

If you're expecting the typical aquarium, it is not for you. It's more like walking through a jungle or rainforest. Lots of ecosystems.

These penguins live in temperatures similar to the Dallas area. Cute, huh? We got to watch them being fed. Nothing I would eat, but they loved it :)

This guy?? He's from my favorite level...the Aquatic Level. So many colorful fish....overwhelmed.. Displays from different parts of the world. Japan, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, British Columbia, Fiji, Bahamas, Australia.....just to name a few. A stunning display of moon jellyfish from Palau that was beyond amazing. The underwater viewing area was a big "WOW!" We walked through a tunnel surrounded above and on the sides with sharks. Pretty cool.

I'll post more of my pics later. I need to get some work done around this nasty house!

Slim Fast (Made Tia Laugh)

I couldn't resist posting this funny that my hubby sent me....

One evening a husband, thinking he was being funny, said to his wife,"Perhaps we should start washing your clothes in Slim Fast. Maybe it would take a few inches off of your butt!!"

His wife was not amused, and decided that she simply couldn't let such a comment go unrewarded. The next morning the husband took a pair of underwear out of his drawer.

"What the Hell is this??" he said to himself as a little "dust" cloud appeared when he shook them out.

"April," he hollered into the bathroom, "Why did you put talcum powder in my underwear?"

She replied with a snicker, "It's not talcum powder......it's Miracle Grow."

Spring Break Part I

My sis and I made plans for a visit to Dallas. The Dallas World Aquarium and a night at our fave hotel in Richardson. Our hotel was booked up, so we found another one in Rockwall. I should have known that was a bad omen, but I don't give up easily.

Monday!!!!
Lazy family....we were late getting up and my sister who is ALWAYS late was, for once, on time. Dag nab it! I really thought I could count on her. I was wrong.

After much running around, packing, forgetting what I forgot and all of that...we were finally on the road. wheeeeeeeeeeee! I thought I was escaping the country. I was wrong.

I had to drop my son off at a friend's house. It's not "cool" for him to spend spring break with his mom. I took the back road short cut from the country through the semi-country. I saw this car stopped in the middle of the road. Why? Goat in the road. I thought that only happened around our neck of the woods. The goat finally got out of their way and into mine. She just stood there and looked at us like we were the idiot. It was almost as if she were asking, "What in the heck are you doing on MY road?" I started honking at her. No effect at all, so I have to get over on the shoulder. As I passed her, she turned around and said "beeehhhhh." I think she called me the "b"word.....seriously. I think if that goat had a middle finger, she would have used it then. I got past her and then it was my sister's turn. I was just about to take a picture, and the silly goat got out of her way. My sis was giving the goat the finger. Classic sis!

Cat and Mouse

Our cat, Jake, is spending the night in the garage. It seems we have acquired a mouse. Now... our Jake has a reputation to uphold, so i hope to find one deceased mouse delivered to my door in the morning. We have had Jake for a couple of months and so far he has presented three mice, but I did see him having another one for breakfast. (not sure that rates up there with Fancy Feast in the diet plan of cats) Two of the mice he dropped in Harley's water bowl, much to her dismay. Jake's way of putting it to the dog. I have to admit it kind of grossed me out. Confirmed dead? Four in two months. Not bad at all. How one in the garage has survived, I'm not quite sure.

We got Jake from a friend, who thought Jake needed a country home. Jake likes to hunt outside, and due to increased traffic, he was worried Jake might get hit. We needed a cat and Jake needed a home. Perfect solution. He told us that Jake had brought him mice, snakes, possums, large rats, rabbits, and skunks. This is not your normal cat. Did I mention he swims? Yep, you read that right. He swims, and he LIKES it!

Jake is a solid black Manx. I say solid black, but he does have one white spot about the size of a dime and various battle scars. He is big with huge fangs, and the site of him has scared quite a few of my kids' friends. LOL! He's been compared to a panther. My mom calls him gorgeous, but I'm not quite sure that's the right description. Striking, regal, fierce, intimidating....
He patrols our property diligently, and the feral tom that sometimes roams the area has been put on notice. ha ha! One of Jake's war wounds is a result of that encounter. Something tells me they don't like each other very much.

Our friend recently called and asked if he could borrow Jake back for awhile. Seems some skunks have taken up residence underneath his office. Funny....we haven't had a problem with them lately....

Ellie and the Aloe Plant

My aloe plant isn't looking so hot. Would you like to know why it isn't looking so good?
This is "the why" my plant looks like crap. Meet Ellie. Ellie has decided that sitting in my plant is the cool place to hang out.



I don't know why she loves to sit in my plant, and frankly I don't care. What I do know is that I have had that plant for years. It's healed many sunburns and accidental owies for my whole family. I love this plant. It's made it through 3 moves and 2 other cats. Ellie....well, she has made it on Tia's Crap List.

I repotted the momma aloe plant and her aloe babies, so I can try and keep my beloved plant for a few more years. Hope the Miracle-Gro works its magic soon. Summer sunburns will be here soon.

What do you think?? Do they look happier?

This is a pine cone that I have put in the pot. This is for Ellie's butt should she decide to be so inclined as to try to make a bed in my plant again. Do you think she'll like it?

I'll give an update on the Ellie vs. Aloe saga soon! Smile...you know you want to :)

Shopping Day!!!

After getting the kids off to school, my mom and I started our day with strawberry pancakes at IHOP. They were yummirific :) Off and running after that because we were hyped up on coffee.

Gander Mountain was the first stop, but nothing interesting for us there. Looked like a guy's heaven though. All the hunting and sporting gear. I did get the hubby a new coffee mug. I know...blah!

TJ Maxx to the max!!!!! 2nd stop and I spent a little money in there. They actually had a few Dooney & Bourke purses, but not one I wanted. Mom picked up a cute purse. I spent my money on some body butter. Strawberry and Mango. Heavenly scented if you like the fruity stuff, and I do! I picked up a nice mirror. Mine's about had it. Although I'm not sure that I want to see my face magnified anymore. Getting older sucks big time.

Ross next but I didn't find a darned thing. Unbelievable...

Hobby Lobby!!!! Definitely spent some money here. Canvas to feed my art habit and various other art supplies. Looked for scrapbooking paper, but they didn't have the color I wanted.

We may be off to Plano tomorrow. Who knows which way the wind may blow the ole Lexus tomorrow. hee hee! But you can be sure that we're having fun!

I told ya'll I'd make up the mud romp to her :)

Walk With Mom

I spent time with my mom today, so I'm going to share. We went for an afternoon stroll down the road with two of my dogs, Bear and Ruger. My mom just loves to visit and have her daughter drag her down the dirt roads. I'll make up for it and take her shopping tomorrow.

Bear and Ruger enjoying themselves. Walking this far is a big deal for Bear, because at this time last year, he wasn't walking at all. He suffered spinal cord damage due to a run-in with the four-wheeler. He was exhausted afterwards, but he enjoyed every minute of it. They were into mud, water, leaves, crawling under fences, sniffing and exploring non-stop. A couple of little cyclones.

Here they are again after we crossed the creek, and this is where the road turns to dirt. After a rain, it's muddy. Kind of a mix today. Just my luck. Did I mention they managed to find roadkill? Oh yeah! An armadillo carcass and a dead SKUNK!!! Yep, I said skunk. We had a hard time getting Ruger away from that smelly treasure. What a doofus!

Looks like something went exploring before we did. A good thing Ruger didn't meet up with the coon that made these tracks! I'd still be chasing him....

We all got tired and made our way back home. Bear paid for all his fun with the dreaded bath, but it was a necessary evil. He was FILTHY!!! Mom and I, well....we paid for all our fun by going to eat Mexican food!

Bear is sleeping now. I think he's wore out. I think I might be, too!

Good night!

Wanted for Destruction of Property

Ruger is wanted for destroying tomato plants, chewing up satellite wires, assaulting the cats and the other dogs, dragging off rugs, scratching the door, digging up landscaping, barking non-stop, aggitating the horses, jumping on visitors, crapping in the garage and peeing on the floor. He is considered armed and dangerous. Please do not attempt to apprehend as you will suffer the above offenses also. If seen, please contact blog owner.

Feelin' Good

Today was a salon day, and I feel so much better. Got my hair done! My beautician gives the most heavenly shampoos, too. With a neck massage even! It's days like this one that make it all better. I'm still a little peeved about the snow thing, but hey....it's looking up.

I do have to get up early tomorrow though. My boy has a track meet, and it's up and at 'em before 8 a.m. Bleh! On a Saturday, too. Oh well....

I'm off to bed now to make some ZZZZzzzzzzzz's! Scoot over hubby. I'm gettin' in my spot!

Lots of SNOW?? Not here...

My Handsome Hubby and I were just sitting here and decided we'd watch the news to see who's the funniest idiot standing out in the snow....
It's a weather update from Christine....blah blah blah Well.. u know it's true. Happens every time there's bad weather in the great state of Texas. On the news this evening... It snowed this afternoon a LOT. (everywhere but where I live) Started about 12.... Great reporting! M'kay this dingleberry is showing us a handful of snow. woooooo....never saw that before. They all look soooo thrilled that they have this great job. How lucky can you get? Now they're reporting about some doofus sitting in a hot tub during this nasty crap. Here's the token snowman.....oooo it's a Tony Romo snowman! Now that's excitement right there!
What I want to know is where's our snow? Seems like everyone around us got at least 4 inches. We got nada. Nothing but nasty ass cold rain, which makes nasty ass mud....bleh! I want snow damn it! Dang Denton! I think they stole it all....
Weather man again......
"Wow....we got a lot of snowfall.. 5 to 6 inches almost every where around the metroplex." I can't tell you how much that thrills me....
Total BS for our little town. Which by the way, to get more snow is one of the reasons I moved further north! So I am really pissed! I was so excited that we might finally get a decent snowfall. Once again...we're in the "no fun and no snow day" zone. Waaaaaaaa!

Snow makes my Alien happy

As I've mentioned, my daughter has turned into an alien. She's moody, sulky, and stays holed up in her alien cave.

It started snowing yesterday evening, and by the time night arrived, we had a gorgeous snowfall. Now this is Texas, so this brings great excitement. My daughter is no exception. I saw my little girl again last night, and I have to say I have missed her. She came running into my bedroom holding out a snowball for my inspection. Grinning from ear to ear.

"Look what I got! Cool, huh?"

If snow is all it takes to make my little alien happy again, I'm going to freeze some of that crap. Whenever she gets in her moods, I'll just pop a snowball out of the old feezer and let her have it! Problem solved.

Floating Away Here

One time...at bandcamp...

Just kidding!

One time in Texas...

Actually today in Texas

Dreary and raining! I really wanted to work outside, but that isn't going to happen. This is our "Little River" that flows when we have heavy rains. Guess what it's doing today...

My teen goofball enjoying floating down the "Little River" last summer.

The kids had a redneck moment and decided it would be cool to ride down the creek on blow up air mattresses. I laughed my butt off. Couldn't do that in the city! Oh what I wouldn't give for one more day of being a kid.

Canton Was Awesome

What a way to lose the blahs! I had two spectacular days in a row. Today was spent at First Monday Trade Days in Canton, Texas. Bow down to the funnel cake. Love 'em! I'm going to be running around the pasture tomorrow working that off, but I really don't care. WORTH IT! If you've never been, you seriously don't know what you're missing. I could wander around that place forever if my feet would allow it. My dogs are barking for sure. The junk and treasures to be found and the FOOD. Something for everyone. There's even a place called DogTown for the animal lovers. Me...I'm checking out the linens, candles and antiques. And the plants, and the jewelry. My hubby he goes for the sunglasses, hats, knives, and guns. It's heaven on earth for the guys, too. We got a smokin' deal on a new saddle pad for our Rowdy. Woo Hoo :) Did I mention the frozen cappuccinos or turkey legs? I can't wait 'til next month!



My only warning....watch out for the crazy cart people. I got my toe run over today....

Today in Texas

It was a gorgeous day in Texas. I think I made the most of it. I decided I would take a few photos today, so me, my dogs, and my Sony camera headed for the back pasture. My horses come running to say hello. This is Rowdy. He was my father-in-law's partner in the roping arena. As a reward for all his hard work, he gets to hang out with us now. He's not alone anymore either, because he has a pasture buddy named JJ.

This is our JJ. He is so much happier now that Rowdy lives here. What a pair! We love 'em!

This other shot is of Harley and JJ. I don't think she was real appreciative of the horses getting so close to her. Space Invaders! Both of the boys did the same thing to her. At this point, I think Harley had gotten her fill. Look at that face. She did snap at them, but I swear they both laughed at her.

The last picture that I'm posting tonight. I took a lot more, but I think I'll save those.

Think I can convince Harley to go back in the pasture with me again? Ha ha!