A View From the Porch Rocker

Good Bye Dear Friend

2012-01-28T12:58:00.000-08:00

Yesterday a very good friend of mine took the Lord's hand and left this earth to go home with Him. I know that for her this is a blessing but for the rest of us, it breaks our collective hearts.

I've know Dene Ann for many years. She was a mother, a grandmother, a former teacher. To say she was outspoken, maybe a tad opinionated would be to put it mildly. She was also loving and caring and she loved her Lord and was a faithful servant and prayer warrior. More than all that, she was my friend. More than anyone else I know, Dene Ann made me feel loved.

We worshipped at different services yet we worshipped together. She was always there to lend a hand when I was working in the church office (whether I wanted a hand or not,) we shared many common interests. After I relocated up the mountain, we retained our friendship. If anything, it became closer. She was able to come up here a few times. Once with a group passing through and just a couple of years ago a friend brought her up for the day. Last year friends brought her up and we went to ECCO, the retreat center, and to Bass Lake for lunch; places that brought her happy memories. These were good days - for all of us.

Dene Ann, me, Judy

Dene Ann, Pat, Gene, Jeanine, me

I made it into town for a couple of lunches and her special occasions; her birthday and then her going away party when her children decided it was time for her to pack up and go to Idaho to live where it would be easier for them. While she was here and after she moved, we talked on the phone once or twice a week; even more often during "Dancing With the Stars" seasons. She was a big DWTS fan and we were her groupies. We all watched, groused, cheered each show, contestant, judge, with Dene Ann in the lead. I'll miss her regular calls, and DWTS isn't going to be the same this year.

When I miss her the most, I'll wrap myself in the afghan she made for me. It's always been special but now even more so. Since we can't go to Idaho for her service, a group of us will send condolences and flowers and will gather together in the city to celebrate and remember her. She left a big hole when she moved away but we filled it in with phone calls and cards. Now, we're simply going to miss her! We'll never stop loving her. Peace be with you, Dene Ann, you've earned it. I love you, I'll miss you, I'll see you again!

The Cat (Dog) Tower

2012-01-15T19:11:00.000-08:00

For those of my friends who aren't on Facebook and wonder why I have that glazed look in my eyes; let me share some pictures of the "Cat Tower" I bought for Sombra. The idea was to give her a place to get away from the dog. Yeah, well! So far she still has the penthouse ... don't know for how long, and from there it's a short reach to the top of the entertainment unit ... have to wonder, how soon!

This was the intent, her very own tower, 4 stories, 3 of which were to be all hers

"Why, and how, are you in my lower patio?"

"Do I have to share everything with you?"

"Wait, dogs can't climb, what're you doing in the tunnel?"

"Wow" he said, "a room (tunnel) with a view!"

Another Christmas Past

2012-01-06T17:51:00.000-08:00

It's Epiphany, time to take down the Christmas decorations, so when the boys who do casual work for me were here today, we closed the book on another Christmas.

These are two very nice young kids. Trevor is 13 (14 in a couple of weeks) and his brother, Tony is 11. They normally do my yard work and some other chores for me but when they were here in early December we put up the tree and hung lights and set out the nativity scene. Then, while mom and I ate biscotti and drank tea, the boys had hot cocoa and decorated the tree. It's been years since I got to watch kids decorate the Christmas tree and it was a real treat. Today they did it all in reverse and packed the totes and hauled them back to the shed, with mom's help. She's a real gem!

In retrospect, this was one of the best Christmases I've had in more than a few years. Kids around to help set the mood, participated in the Christmas Eve service at church, friends came over for Christmas dinner, my son and his family came up and spent the day after Christmas (and he brought homemade tamales), no stress, no expectations, no disappointments. A very good Christmas!

The house is boring looking again but now I'll move furniture around and, for some reason, I'm in the spring cleaning mode. Now's a good time to go through stuff and decide what stays and what doesn't. The weather is such that I can still be outside dragging stuff back and forth; no rain or snow to slosh through. I've relocated my kitchen table set to the living room and am ordering a kitchen center for additional counter and storage space in there. I've redone my laundry room and am making better use of that limited space. All in all, a good start to the new year. A HAPPY & BLESSED 2012, EVERYONE!!!

Out With the Old, In With the New!!!

2012-01-02T21:47:00.000-08:00

Good-bye 2011! To paraphrase - "Don't let the door hit you on the way out!" I've had far worse years but I've also enjoyed far better. There were few particularly earth-shattering events, it was just a chronically ugly year in so many ways.

Let me put the ugly in the box marked "past" and dump it in the trash barrel. Now, let me go back and find the highlights ...

Although I lost the last of the cats that came up here with me; I still have my Katie and rescued two new additions to the family. In March I took in a 7 week old kitten that I called Sombra (Shadow in spanish). She's solid black and today is a very large, solid, affectionate and happy kitty. In July I saw a picture of a little puppy who looked a lot like Katie when she was a pup. In July I rescued a little puppy who looked a lot like Katie when she was a pup. This little psycho is a pomeranian/pekingese mix. He was approximately nine months old when he joined the family. I tried a few names and settled on Kasey as it was the first name he responded to. Sombra (she doesn't know she's a cat) and Kasey have bonded and I expect they think they're littermates. They play, chase, wrestle, fight, and sleep together. Katie has entered her second puppyhood and lost weight in the process. She's taken to playing with her new, younger siblings and is getting exercise she was sadly lacking. Katie, Kasey, and the kitty now make up my new family and keep my life full.

Volunteering has made me lots of new friends. Katie and I are still with Therapy Dogs and visit seniors and go to schools and libraries where the kids can read to her. We're more active than ever with the SPCA and I still volunteer with my church, again often with Katie's assistance. And this year I joined a new local Lion's Int'l chapter. These all serve to keep me moving, out and about, and give me the sense that I contribute to my community. They also have helped to keep the anxiety ogre down the road.

And the biggest highlight of all ... Last June I had a down & dirty anxiety attack while down in the valley. The good Lord & the Holy Spirit took the wheel of the car and brought me home. With that team in control, the ogre decided to move on. I have an occasional "uncomfortable" period but I know they'll bring me through it and they do. Last October I went to a dinner down in Fresno. I didn't survive it; I enjoyed it!! In early December a friend and I drove to southern California (5 to 6 hours) and spent a long weekend, she at her son's and me at my brother's, and then drove back. Apparently, the ogre was away or has lost interest. It was a great success!

Last winter my shoulders were giving me great pain and the doctors wanted to replace both shoulders; not an option! Granted, we're not having a severe winter ... yet, but the new non-narcotic drugs I'm taking are keeping me from buying that one bullet that I was considering.

A very good friend bought a house just up the road from me. We've shared dinners, favorite TV shows, trips to the city, wine, fun and our dogs. We look to each other for affirmation (or not) when we move furniture, make major purchases, or take a dog to the vet. I have neighbors who've become friends to an extent but this is a friend who became a neighbor. Speaking of which, a neighbor who became a dear friend let me know that she and her husband will be moving back to the area this year.

All in all, though not a year I would want to repeat, 2011 did have its high points! Sometimes we just have to remember to focus on the blessings and overlook the uglies. Now I'm looking forward to 2012 and its promises!

Tail Waggin' Tutors Day

2011-12-16T19:57:00.000-08:00

Take a classroom of 27 to 30 youngsters, 7 & 8 years old, add in four therapy dogs, and you're in for an interesting and fun hour or more. A team of four "Tail Waggin' Tutors" therapy dogs and their owner/handlers, including Katie and myself, met at a local elementary school this morning.

The premise of Tail Waggin' Tutors is to allow children to read to the dogs. They lose their nervousness and forget about the other children as they read to a dog, who makes no judgements but simply lays there and watches and listens. Many children choose to pet the dog while reading, others after they're done. This activity helps the youngsters gain confidence in their reading skills.

The teacher surprised the children this morning with the visit from the dogs. They had written their letters to Santa and she had them read the letters to the dogs. We had two large dogs - Steve,a mastiff and Cruiser,an irish wolf hound and two smaller dogs - Charlie, a cavalier spaniel and Katie, a pomeranian/cocker mix and the only mixed breed in the group (also the only female and the senior citizen of the group). The children were amazed at the sizes of the two larger dogs and couldn't understand how Katie could be the smallest and the oldest at the same time. They were, to say the least, completely enthralled with these dogs.

Each dog was in its Christmas finery and had bookmarks with his (her) individual picture on them and candy canes for all the readers, and all the children read to at least one dog. The dogs, as usual, were all on their very best behavior ... lying on their blankets, paying attention to each reader, accepting all the petting by any number of children individually and numbers at a time.

It was a great morning! The children had a great time, as did the adults. Even the dogs seemed to be smiling.

Comeback Kid

2011-12-09T13:38:00.000-08:00

As anyone who reads my blog knows, I was hit with panic and anxiety a few years back and my life went on hold. This is the year I got my life back.

In October, the Bishop of our Anglican Diocese retired. He has been a major player in my life and in my husband's and my lives before Larry passed away. I love the man dearly; he has shown me care, encouragement, empathy, and strength. So, when his retirement dinner was announced, I couldn't not go. Stepping out in faith, I went with two friends of mine down to the city to attend this dinner ... completely out of my comfort zone.

Surprise! I had a marvelous time! There wasn't a single moment of concern that the ogre would rear his ugly head; rather I saw and visited with people I haven't seen in years, had a very nice dinner, enjoyed the toasts and the entire evening in general. It was all summed up when the Bishop looked up and saw me and said, "my goodness, look at the size of this room, look at all these people, and look at you standing here. Praise God!"

When the dinner was over and my two friends finally dragged me out of there, I gave a loud cheer that I had achieved this victory. You wanna talk confidence booster?! My first major evening out in years and the realization that I could start doing more.

My youngest nephew was married recently and I was invited to the reception being held at my brother's home in southern California last weekend. A friend has family in the area and she offered to drive down with me. She spent the weekend at her son's and attended her grandchildren's Christmas performance, a win-win weekend for both of us.

Again, a wonderful time! Friday night we went out to dinner with friends of my brother and sister-in-law, people I didn't know (a situation I'm usually very uncomfortable with) and it was fine; it was fun. Saturday was the reception. I'd never met either of my nephew's wives and had never seen my grand-niece who is a year and a half old. Family members and friends that I haven't seen in years were also there. Saturday was just plain fun. Sunday my brother, sister-in-law, sister and I just sat and visited. It was the best weekend in years!! Monday I picked up my friend and we headed home.

Don't know where the ogre went, don't want to know, don't care. By God's will and with the power and protection of the Holy Spirit, he's gone and I look forward to him staying gone. I'm looking forward to having my life back! Places to go, things to do, people to see ... yee-haw!!!

I boarded the two dogs at the Pet Hotel and Judi kept care of the black tornado while we were gone. That's a whole other story and I'll tell it in another post.

Giving Thanks for Thanksgiving

2011-11-25T19:02:00.000-08:00

Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving yesterday! In retrospect, it was probably the best Thanksgiving I've had in more than a few years.

Back in the day, as it were, the kids and grandkids came and we did the traditional turkey day event with the gals watching TV in one room and the guys watching football in the other. It was a serious cooking and eating day. Lots of warm and fun memories as I look back on those times. Dad is gone, the kids are now the parents of grown and married children and are establishing their own traditions ... and I've moved to the mountains and it's winter weather.

Judi, and Foxy, came down and we spent the day putting our meal together, watching the dogs and their antics, visiting and enjoying a little cheese with our w(h)ine. It makes for a very relaxing day when it's spent with somebody you're completely comfortable with; no need for constant conversation or entertaining, just hanging together is cool; no worries about impressing anyone with your housekeeping skills or the table setting or anything else; this is family without any family tension. And dinner wasn't half bad either.

We do dinner together a couple of times a week with one of us preparing dinner and the other bringing wine and dessert. This was a totally joint project with way too much food, but just enough wine, for two "mature" ladies. It was a great Thanksgiving Day!!!

He was bored!

2011-11-24T13:55:00.000-08:00

"Oh, you're back!"

Katie & I were gone, the kitten was outside. There was a brand new roll of toilet paper on the floor. What would you do?

A Day in the City

2011-10-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had a doctor appt in the city. Judi & I with Katie & Kasey went down the mountain with our first stop being PetsMart Pet Hotel. Katie does an hour or two of Doggie Day Camp and spends the rest of her time in Doggie Day Care. I scheduled Kasey for a full day of Day Camp with him going into Katie's kennel when day camp was closed.

Kasey has a heavy touch of little dog syndrome so I was somewhat concerned. He thinks he's meaner than a junkyard dog when it's one on one and he knows he's being contained or held back and/or that the other dog can't get to him, but this was a whole different rodeo. They were taken into the playroom and Katie, as is her norm, went to her favorite corner to watch the action. Kasey, however, found himself suddenly surrounded by many dogs of various sizes, all sniffing and checking him out. His eyes were the size of dinner plates and his little butt hit the floor so fast you'd have thought his back legs had fallen off. He found himself being sniffed all over, being pushed and tumbled (nosed) from one side of the room to the other, basically what he does to the cat all day every day. He's a little dog, 10#, and looked even smaller in the midst of this pack. Judi and I stayed and watched for at least 10 minutes and laughed so hard, we had tears in our eyes. It was the highlight of our day and I'm sorry I didn't have a camera with me. When we returned that evening to pick them up, I was told that it took him about a half hour and then he made special friends with a beagle and ran and played the rest of the day.

After dropping "the kids" off, we ran an errand and went to the doctor's. Very productive appointment. Nothing wrong with the hip replacement, the pain is from bursitis. A cortisone injection followed with ice & heat treatments at home for a few weeks and it should settle down. Now the pain is diminished and the worry is gone. Back in a month for a recheck.

We went for an early dinner at the Elephant Bar. Had a delicious meal but what was really special was our server. Her name is Lori. She is the personification of "Customer Service". She made us feel that she was really glad we were there, treated us like we might have been family or better yet, a couple of favorite aunts maybe. The Elephant Bar has always been one of our favorite restaurants and the wait staff are all skilled in customer service; they all seem to enjoy their jobs. But we give Lori a real shout out, she is special!!

Topped the day off by hitting Costco where I found and purchased my new camera and Judi did grocery shopping, back to pick the kids up, and we headed home. It was a really long but very good day! The little guy must have had a great time, he was exhausted, curled up in Judi's lap and slept his way home.

Canine Check Up Time

2011-10-17T15:56:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. Katie went in for her annual physical to keep her certification as a therapy dog. This year we did a 'twofer'. Kasey had his initial physical as well. They were both tested for heart worm, received their new supply of preventive meds, and their shots are all up to date.

Katie's showing signs of aging (she's 11 years old now) but is still perfectly healthy all things considered. She's slowing down, so am I. She's not as patient, me neither. Her activity level is way down, mine too. She does have a heart murmur that is stronger than it was and bears watching but no coughing at night, so not to worry - yet. She's dropped a few pounds, wish I could say that, but when Kasey isn't stressing her out, he has her a little more active than she was. And more activity, less weight, and a slimmer physique equal less strain on the heart ... all good things.

Kasey is everything a little guy his age (a year this month) should be. His heart is good, everything is sound. His metabolism is right up there and he gets to increase his intake of food by a 1/2 cup a day to bring his weight up a couple of pounds. He got his rabies shot today and now he can get his license just like the big dogs.

While not inexpensive, peace of mind in never inexpensive, all in all it was a very good day ... for them, for me, and I dare say, for the vet!

Is There A Doctor In The House?

2011-10-12T17:31:00.000-07:00

Are you old enough to remember when a doctor was a doctor? I mean, I go all the way back to house calls, so that tells you how close to covered wagon days I am. Growing up, we had a doctor that treated any and all ailments. He was it. You didn't have one doctor for your foot and another for your throat and another for your stomach.

I remember when I first had kids, the family doctor delivered them. By the late 60's, when my youngest was born, I had an ob/gyn. Specialists had entered the field. There were pediatricians, orthopedic specialists, cardiologists, ear/eye/nose & throat. You knew that your doctor had extra "specialized" knowledge and you now were supposedly getting better care.

Today, specialization has reached a new high, or low, depending on how you look at it. Specialties are now broken into finer specialties. The orthopedic man isn't; now you have a hip specialist, a knee specialist, elbows, shoulders, neck, back. There's a doctor for the colon, another for the stomach, another for livers, and on and on.

I've had my share (and yours too) of hip replacements. One leg has been bothering me lately. Since it's painful and winter is coming, I want to know if it's hip again or back or nerve damage or ??? I called my orthopedic surgeon's office and was told he doesn't "do" legs. I finally convinced the voice on the other end of the phone that I needed to start by checking out the hip first and then, if it's not the problem, the doctor can refer me to whichever specialist I do need to see. Of course I won't see the doctor, I'll see a practitioner. (It was bad enough when doctors 'practiced' medicine, now the person who sees and treats you is actually called a practitioner.)

Now I'm happy that the 'practice' of medicine has progressed as it has but at the same time I can't help but wax nostalgic and miss the Dr. Welby days.

Checking In

2011-10-07T18:33:00.000-07:00

So, I'm told that it's officially been one month since my last post and something, anything, must have happened, if not to me, with Kasey, since then. So here I am, checking in.

My friend is right. There's been much going on. Kasey and the Kitty are growing by leaps and bounds and they're doing a lot of leaping and bounding. I'm truly grateful to have each one of them for the other, either one alone would have me in a rubber room. Even Katie has joined in on the playtime on occasion. Not for very long, but the puppy in her pops out every so often.

Being a glutton for punishment, or not very bright, or both ... I kept my friend Judi's dog for 2 weeks while she was on a cruise. Actually, Foxy was extremely well behaved and she's cat friendly. She's an easy dog to keep and she's very comfortable here. Even so, a couple of times a week I'd take her home to spend part of the day in her own surroundings so she'd know she still had her own home.

We had our annual Animal Faire last weekend. It benefits the local SPCA, for which Katie I volunteer. I took both dogs and their enclosure and we spent the day. I worked the event taking photographs, Katie watched the action, and Kasey barked (yapped) at every large dog he saw - and there were plenty of them. My apologies to those working around our area. He doesn't carry on like that at home, but then he doesn't see that many other dogs, let alone the large ones. We walked over to the TDI booth so I could get a group photo with Katie and the other therapy dogs and spent some time, which gave these two some much needed exercise and then it was back to their enclosure while I finished what I was doing. When we got home, two dogs crashed and slept until well after their dinner time. In fact, after their dinner and trip out to potty, they slept the night through. Come to think of it, so did I.

This weekend is the chocolate & wine festival. The "kids" get to stay home but I'll spend Saturday there and then we have some harvest and halloween events coming up. The church boutique is the first weekend in November and then life returns to normal, whatever that is. We'll be heading into the holidays and there'll still be things to do and places to go, but I won't have any responsibility for them, I can simply attend - or not.

I'll try to start posting regularly again and not wait for the nudge from my friend. But then again, I kind of like the attention.

It's Official

2011-09-07T10:09:00.000-07:00

As of yesterday the little guy is formally a member of the family. He got his "chip" last night. It's a matter of record with Home Again that I am his mama and this is his home. He'll wear a numbered tag on his collar to match the chip inserted under his skin to prove it. Home Again will have his identification information stored by this number and should he get lost, this tag has Home Again's phone number or if he's lost and without his tag, a quick scan retrieves his chip number and Home Again is notified and they in turn call me or if I'm unavailable, my emergency contact or Kasey's vet. He now is assured that he has his forever home!

He's been having a great time learning his new home and housemates. He learned the Invisible Fence really quick. I still have to keep an eye on him because I have a neighbor who doesn't think his dog needs to be contained or controlled and she's 6 or 7 times KC's size & weight. (That's the downside of the fence.) He's a very loving little guy, picks up commands quickly and is proving to be one sharp little fellow. He's going to be a great little dog! The barking (yapping) still needs some work but he is still a puppy.

He's the energizer bunny, always moving and at the speed of light. My friend, Jennifer, says he has a to do list just a little longer than the day allows, but he's determined to get it all done and done early.

Monday he had his first real outing other than to the vet or up the road to play with Foxy. Katie had a gathering with other therapy dogs and the little guy went along. I envisioned total disaster with him barking and wanting to run and just plain being a pain somewhere slightly below the neck. He was every bit as well behaved as any of these "trained" dogs. He made friends with all of them from the dachshund to the irish wolfhound, never barked once, and when I told him to go "sit", he did. When he'd tired, he went and lay next to Katie and just waited. Very impressive puppy in front of the other handlers!

I had to go to the local bookstore and, due to the heat, couldn't leave the dogs in the car so I put their leads on them and in we all went (with more than just a little trepidation I admit). Katie's been there numerous times and has even joined in children's reading groups. The owner had been waiting to meet the new addition and was very taken with the little guy ... and again he conducted himself admirably. Mom was soooo proud!!!!

This was such a big day for him. When we got home, he jumped up on his favorite chair and slept almost all afternoon, as did miss Katie but she's getting to the age where getting up in the morning calls for a nap.

My house once again looks like I have a couple of two year olds running loose. There are toys strewn from one end to the other. At any time, you can be sitting quietly watching TV, reading, or visiting and suddenly be run over by cat chasing dog or dog chasing cat - or maybe they'll just use your lap for a wrestling ring. I'm not a 50 year old kid anymore and they do wear me out, but they're more fun than I can say and better entertainment than I've seen in a long while. And I love just before bedtime and first thing in the morning when all three are curled up next to or on me. This menagerie has become a family - it's official!

Kasey's Big Day

2011-08-02T17:51:00.000-07:00

Today was the "big" day. The little guy was taken to the hospital early this morning for his "procedure". He went in filled with enthusiasm and excitement and ready to meet new people. He did stop to growl at the metal cutouts of cats that are just outside the front door. Gotta let 'em know who's in charge. They didn't seem terribly impressed by his antics. Well, what do you expect? They're cats.

I went back to pick him up this afternoon and he was a very quiet and very unhappy puppy. Parts are missing. Even his bark is little more than a squeak. He's sore where those parts used to be. While he was "snoozing" someone shaved him (in that same area). He itches where the stitches are covered with surgical glue and he's still very confused and very, very sleepy.

Katie, who quickly accepted him and treats him well but keeps him in his place, was very good with him when we got home. I sat and held Kasey and stroked & loved on him and Katie jumped up next to me on the couch, sniffed at him and proceeded to nuzzle him and lick his head. Then she curled up and lay with us with her head next to his.

While he was there he also had his puppy shots and it was determined that he's a pomeranian/pekinese mix, approximately 10 months old and he weighed in at just 9 1/2#. He's not expected to get much bigger. He and Sombra should be about the same size right into and through adulthood.

I rather expect we'll all enjoy a quiet night tonight and, to paraphrase Scarlet O'Hara, "tomorrow will be a better day!"

Quiet Puppy

Pet Owners' Rights & SB 697

2011-08-01T21:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm climbing on my soapbox, but this has really got me riled!

I've been taking Katie to her regular groomer, Pampered Pets, in Oakhurst, for five years now and every year or two I make an appointment for 'anesthesia free teeth cleaning' for her. In this area, the service is done by scalers with Canine Care, Inc. at the various groomers. Canine Care has been in business for 32 years, a wee bit more than just a little start up company, don't you think? Katie's teeth are in very good condition for a 10 year old dog. Unlike me, she eats right; no people food with the exception of vegetables and she thinks those are treats.

This procedure doesn't get inside the gums and address other periodontal issues. It simply removes (scales) tartar, cleans the teeth, and the tech/scaler lets you know if, in fact, a 'procedure' might be necessary and, if so, refers you to your vet. The biggie, for me, is that NO ANESTHESIA is required. At the risk of repeating myself, Katie is 10 years old, 11 years next month. SHE DOES NOT NEED TO BE PUT UNDER ANESTHESIA UNNECESSARILY. What's the point of a clean dental checkup for a dead dog?

The Veterinary Medical Board in California is currently trying to pass a bill to create a monopoly that will put their perceived 'competition' out of business by making “anesthesia-free teeth cleaning” solely a veterinary medical procedure. So next year will veterinarians be the only ones allowed to groom our pets? Now, I know times are hard. The economy is taking a bad hit. But I don't expect that the veterinarians who treat our animals are going to be on the streets anytime soon. The cost of dental checkups and cleaning is upward of $400 per animal, a big part of that is the always risky anesthesia even with the requisite pre-anesthesia tests. The cost of anesthesia-free teeth cleaning is under $100. I may not be terribly bright, but even I can do the math.

Once again, someone else, who doesn't even know me, feels they're better qualified than I am to do my thinking for me and, in this case, to decide how to best care for my animals. It irritates me that for a few extra dollars, those who are supposed to care for our pets, are willing to put them at risk while preventing someone else from performing a needed and relatively affordable service while earning a living.

Killing this service and putting these people out of business does not mean that my local vet will automatically be allowed to put my pets at risk. It means that the dental cleaning they do get, they won't get any longer. And if my local vets are willing to put my pets at risk, any kind of risk; I need to reconsider where and to whom I take my pets. I won't be railroaded and I won't allow Katie & Kasey to undergo any unnecessary and/or risky treatment for anyone's bottom line.

For more information go to petownersrights.org. If you're a California voter and see a petition to prevent the Veterinary Medical Board from usurping the work of anesthesia free scalers and eventually obtaining sole authority over everything having to do with anything dental (SB 697), please ... please, sign it! Katie, Kasey, and many other animals and their 'parents' will thank you!

New Family Dynamics

2011-07-31T16:22:00.000-07:00

Apparently I have a big "S" on my forehead (sucker). First it was that sweet little 7 week old kitten who is now just shy of 7 months and growing like a weed.

Katie & Sombra

Welcome!

Don't water this plant!

Considering that all the cats that moved up here with us in 2005 have since crossed over the rainbow bridge, the addition of this little black buzzsaw probably makes good sense. HOWEVER,

Now, please allow me to introduce you to the latest addition to the family ...

Kasey

Katie & Kasey

Inseparable playmates

The puppy was dumped a little over a month ago. The lady who found him fell in love with him but was unable to keep him. I happened to see a color photo of him and he looked just like Katie did when she was a pup. That was my undoing. The lady brought him to the house to see how and if he'd fit in and that was it; he was home. I purchased a new collar for the Invisible Fence; he suffered the one requisite learning experience (or, as I call it, a frontal lobotomy) and he's now quite content to stay within his designated area.

This is it. This is our family today. And I'm thoroughly enjoying them. Katie has accepted the new ones, even engages in play with them on occasion although she prefers to just watch. The two little ones have become best of friends. They race, they chase, they tumble and wrestle, and they nap together. She's had her surgery and he'll have his next week. They're slated for their shots and their chips. They've found their Forever Home. Meanwhile, life here is no longer quiet and it isn't dull by a long shot but it's certainly full of laughs again.

By the way, I am having the "S" removed from my forehead - surgically if necessary. I'm quite sure this menagerie qualifies as a 'full house'.

Yada-Yada-Yada, Blah-Blah-Blah

2011-07-25T18:47:00.000-07:00

I don't normally think of myself as a masochist but this evening I listened to ~~Larry & Moe~~, oops, Obama & Boehner. One alluded to where they're supposedly going; the other to where they've supposedly been in their 'talks'. Neither said anything they haven't been saying for months ... "We've got ours, it's protected by the Constitution so we have nothing to lose by digging our heels in and saying, 'my way or the highway', and too bad for the common folk." Actually, neither said much of anything, period. I will give Mr. Boehner credit for not breaking into sobs & tears and that's the only credit I'm giving to either. They said so little even the talking heads had damn little to say when they were done. God Bless and Protect Us!

Has Anyone Sought Therapy for Mother Nature?

2011-07-14T09:37:00.000-07:00

No matter where you live, you may be a tad confused as to what time of year it is. Believe it, or not, this is mid July. I live in the foothills above the central valley of California, just minutes from the gate to Yosemite National Park.

Last week, the town of Oakhurst which is at 2600 ft and 300 to 400 ft and maybe 3 miles lower than my place was right at 100 degrees. The valley was working its way toward 108. Even at my elevation and covered by the trees, we were in the upper 90's. (And the mountain ski resort which closes in May is still open).

Last night I walked around the house early, closing windows though I did leave the doors open until almost 10pm. Outside, a light sweatshirt was in order. This morning is nice and cool; the house is open and comfortable and working the flower beds and pond was still pleasant. The 'forecasted' temp for Oakhurst is only 81 to 83 degrees today meaning I may not get out of the 70's. For me, this is ideal weather; the sun brightened some late this morning so now all is perfect. And I give thanks daily that I live on the Western side of the country. For those of you in the East - I feel your pain.

Bubble burster ... Summer returns this weekend. But I'll enjoy this for now and take advantage while momma nature is napping.

The Saga Ends - Again

2011-07-13T17:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I received a robo call from Sears. Since I was out, the computer left a message asking that I call back "at once". I called when I returned home and the twit who answered following all the "if you wish ###, dial xxx" asked how he could help me and I told him about the robo call and he said, " well, you have parts on order, have you received them?" Me: "No." Him: "Well, I can't schedule your tech until the parts arrive." Me: "I'm not asking to schedule, I'm returning a call." Him: "Let me check, the tracking shows the part being delivered today. Call immediately when it's delivered". Me: "UPS doesn't deliver in my area until after 5pm west coast time. Will there be someone to help me at that hour." Him: "No." Me: "Then I'll call in the morning." Him: "No, you need to call when the parts arrive." What?

Not done yet ... I got home from a meeting last night a little after 8pm and found the pkg on my front porch. Just to be able to say I did, I called. There WAS someone there. (Here we go again) She said, "Did you receive all 3 parts?" Me: "He only ordered one part." Her: "Well, how many did you receive?" Me: "The one." Her: "Three were ordered". Me: "No, just one." Her: "No, there were three, they were ordered on different dates." Arrrrgh!!! Me: "The first two have already been installed in the previous visits." Her: "Oh, so how many parts do you have now?" Me: "Could we just schedule the tech?" Her: "The earliest I can schedule him is Thursday". Me: "Check your notes, I'm not home on Thursdays." Her: "Well then, the best I can do is tomorrow." Arrrrgh!!! "Tomorrow is fine."

I know people who need work and have gone beyond the 3rd grade; probably over-qualified. No disrespect to 3rd graders (or their teachers).

The loud resounding noise heard around the world, or at least throughout western North America this afternoon, was Ryan, the Sears repairman, and me as my dryer proceeded to heat while it tumbled. I'm not sure which of us was most leery about turning the start dial or who was more pleased when the **** thing actually worked. Since he also does washers, I'm going to call and request that he come back and do preventive maintenance on the washer. We're both hoping that doesn't open a door better left closed. Then I still have two other appliances and the TV on the maintenance program. This saga has the opportunity to rear its ugly head yet again, but let's hope not. Please ?!!!!

Happy Birthday, Liz!!!

2011-07-12T09:12:00.000-07:00

One of my dearest and best friends is celebrating her 70th birthday today. We're still trying to figure out how we skipped so many years to arrive at this place in our lives.

Liz and I met over a decade ago (when we were mere youngsters) at church. It was the first visit to St. Mary's for each of us and we were completely taken with the church, the people, and most of all - the priest. We agreed later that had it been anyone other than Fr., Michael, it might well have all ended right there. But he is truly a fisher of men (and women).

We became acquainted and over a period of weeks became friends. In time we realized we were not only joined at the hip, we were joined at the soul. We've been sister/friends ever since. In 2002, she joined my family for a family cruise to celebrate my 60th birthday and was 'adopted' into the family. She was told, "you can walk away from friends, but family is forever."

She was my best friend, my playmate, my support, and Katie's Godmother. We've been through good times and traumas together. We've taken road trips and day trips and sometimes just hung out. We've tested more than a few wineries and some local wines. We have a big book of really fun memories.

Liz was with me during the tough times, to see me through them. When Larry was sick, she gave us both her support. She came to the hospital at 3:00 in the morning to sit with me after he died, and to wait with me for my family to arrive.

When a hip replacement slipped out, she again went to the hospital to meet me in the wee small hours and take me home. We were in the mountains when I lost it again. She drove my car down the mountain behind the ambulance and was with me while they put me back together --- again and, again, took me home then had to return to the mountains to bring our gear home.

She was with me when I found my little house in the mountains and cheered me on when I decided to relocate. Then she found her little house, only it was in Tennessee, not exactly an hour's drive. We're each of us contented in our new homes but we're still joined at the soul. We realize our time together was for a season and that season has passed and now we share via distance and technology. And seasons or no seasons, she'll always be my sister/friend! Today I wish her the very happiest of birthdays!

Liz, have a great day! Know that I love and miss you ... everyday!!!

Thank You, Lord!

2011-07-10T21:11:00.000-07:00

Following a relatively normal, stressful week, today was a great day for me! It was a long day and I was a little nervous going in to it. I attended the late church service this morning, not a comfort zone for me (I'm a born 8 o'clocker,) to participate in a special friend's Holy Confirmation ceremony. I stayed through the coffee hour/reception after. Each of these is, for me, an accomplishment by itself, but we also had a lunch at the priest's home for the Bishop and members of the church vestry. Now, any of these alone can be an opening for the ogre to stop by for an anxiety visit, but together they could well be an engraved invitation. Not even a nudge from that Satan's spawn.

Tomorrow I'm driving to Fresno again. I'm taking another friend, who doesn't drive, to Fresno for a doctor appointment. Because of the incident three weeks ago, I feel I'm again pushing the envelope. But after the protection you gave me and the sign you allowed me to see following that incident, I'm comfortable, knowing we'll be in your care and will have the power of the Holy Spirit with us.

Thanks and praise to you, Lord!

The Saga Just Goes On and On and On and ...

2011-07-09T20:49:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid, our parents bought from Sears because their products, Kenmore and Craftsman, lasted a lifetime. If something did go bad it wasn't repaired, it was immediately replaced. There was pride in product, pride in workmanship, pride in the company name. Obsolescence wasn't yet being built in; appliances, tools, whatever, were often handed down from generation to generation. Times, they are a changing!

So - The Sears dude showed up at Judi's this morning about 11am and quickly repaired her 'new' washer. Then dispatch (who only advises the techs one stop at a time) advised him that I would be his next stop following his lunch break, sometime between 1pm & 5pm. (Remember, I live all of two doors down from her and it's not even 11:30am yet.) After a pleasant phone conversation with him while he was at Judi's, we agreed he'd come to my house, install the new part in my dryer, and then go to lunch. And so it begins - again.

And it's my turn - The timer has been replaced (last visit) and now the resistor is replaced (this visit). Hmmm, tech can't figure out why dryer still won't heat. Tested all other components and they test okay but the voltage isn't getting from point a to point b. Called the all-knowing, all-powerful Tech Supervisor who (who'd have guessed it?) doesn't have a clue. The all-knowing, all powerful Wizard of Oz comes to mind; "pay no attention to that man behind the curtain!"

Now we are ordering virtually all new parts ... emergency order so they'll arrive within days instead of weeks...starting Monday naturally, since this is Saturday. Oh, and a return visit apparently isn't being scheduled until the new parts actually arrive. Been there before too. I can be holding the parts in my hand but if their computer at the distribution center hasn't been updated, the parts are only a figment of my imagination and aren't really here, ergo, no scheduling of a tech.

Remember when my freezer went belly up and I was given a phone number for a department that apparently actually cares about the customer? I called, the young man listened, checked the history of "repair" tries and I was given authorization for a new freezer within minutes. Well, the tech supposedly called them himself this time and advised me that they would call me back within 20 minutes and I could/should explain what's going on and express my displeasure and frustration, blah, blah, blah. It's now been somewhat over 20 minutes, in fact, it's been well over 8 hours.

I truly hope these people have a wonderful weekend and are well rested when I call them Monday. Meanwhile, I'm beginning to look forward to my new washer/dryer. Let the Sears saga continue!

Another Saga (or Two)?

2011-07-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I called Dish Network and requested a technician be sent to the house. I'm aware that some damage was done to a cable during the storms. I HATE calling Dish and said so to the far distant person of another country whose 2nd or 3rd language isn't english but who insisted that she knows all and apparently has a 'bewitched' nose and can reach out and make this thing work.

After reaching that level of frustration that I seem to attain much easier in my, pardon the expression, golden years; I suggested that I hang up, call a stateside dept. (Sales is still stateside) and cancel my subscription. Could I please have her name for reference purposes.

The tech' will be here this afternoon. Please, just one saga at a time ... Sears is due back tomorrow.

Note: The Sears tech said he'd be here tomorrow between 8am - noon. Sears' computer just called and said I'm scheduled for between 1 - 5pm. Guess I'll go make a phone call. The saga(s) continues.

This Could Be Deja Vu All Over Again

2011-07-07T09:37:00.000-07:00

So, many of you remember the Sears Freezer saga (see September 16 - October 15). This was a two-section freezer, one of which decided four years was its maximum. I called Sears, they didn't have food in my freezer so they weren't overly concerned and could send someone out in two weeks. The guy came and, of course, the appliance needed parts ordered from some planet just outside our solar system ... two more weeks. The parts arrived, but having been built by aliens, they didn't fit. Parts were ordered again. Uh-huh, two more weeks. This time they kinda fit. The tech notified the powers that be that it only had an 80% seal and the great mind on the other end of the phone asked if that wouldn't be acceptable to me. I offered him the 80% sealed freezer to use for his children's food but he declined my offer and said they would 'review' the situation and get back to me in - together now - two weeks. The tech, being as fed up as I was, gave me a special number to call and the next morning I talked with a young man in an area of Sears that I hope they never discover, explained the situation, he looked up the history, and that afternoon I took the authorization code he gave me for a replacement freezer and went to the local Sears and ordered my new freezer. By the weekend the old was out and the new was in. Sears is very good about honoring their maintenance agreements provided you have more perseverance than they do.

Well, here we go again. Four weeks ago I called Sears about my dryer. It wouldn't heat. Do you know how long it takes to tumble dry a load without heat? After the mandatory two week wait, a tech came out, tore the dryer apart, determined that it was the timer, ordered a new one and said, " I'll be back in two weeks". This past Tuesday another tech showed up, checked the new part, opened that area of the dryer again and found a surprise. The timer may or may not have needed replacing; but after frying the mouse that had gotten in there and walked on or otherwise touched the resistor, said mouse and resistor were both fried and inoperable ... and had been for a few weeks. As my sister once said when she was very little, "the mouse was so dead, he didn't even wiggle." Guess the first tech just didn't see this dead mouse or thought it should stay where it was as a deterrent to other mice. New resistor has been ordered. The saga continues - again!

A Fun Fourth!

2011-07-05T08:40:00.000-07:00

Every year there's a plethora of patriotic concert/firework shows on TV on the fourth. I am now at the stage of my life where I prefer my hot dog or corn dog in front of the TV watching one of these. No parking hassles, no walking forever to get to a spot that I can't see from anyway, no 2 hour exit for what normally takes 10 minutes. I choose to call it maturity not age!

Of the concerts presented last night, one appealed to the pre-teen, Bieber set, one appealed to those who like their music screamed at them. I did enjoy bits and pieces of the Boston Pops, they're the essence of the fourth of July concerts but to draw crowds they've looked to a much younger generation. My favorite was from in front of the Washington Monument. If I were younger, I could become a Matthew Morrison groupie. And Josh Grobin sings beautifully - always. My favorite, and this is where my age comes in ... was the Million Dollar Music from the broadway play ... faux Elvis, the Man in Black, Bill Haley, and Jerry Lee Lewis. And to top it all off; Little Richard and his piano were wheeled out; he did a medley and it was the 1950s all over again. This was all topped off with the requisite patriotic and military music and the marches (I love Chan & Sousa) and the beautiful fireworks.

Katie and Sombra and I sat here and sang and laughed all by ourselves (well, maybe it was just me, but I think in their hearts they were singing and laughing) and we had a wonderful time. The corn dogs weren't bad either.

Our LOKI dog!

2011-07-04T09:46:00.000-07:00

It's the 4th of July. Independence Day! Fireworks! Guns! Fire truck sirens! Dogs losing their minds!!!

Many years ago, we were living in the southland and we had a 3 year old Norwegian Elkhound. He was a wonderful dog. Great with the kids and took his job of protecting his people very seriously. My husband traveled a lot and when he was away the dog spent the nights in the house. There was more than once when Larry came home in the middle of the night and tapped on the bedroom window to tell me, "tell that damn dog I live here". The kids and I could walk anywhere and the 'dudes' would make their stupid cat calls but they always crossed the street when they got close to us.

Fourth of July was tough for him. Because of the fireworks, legal & illegal, the fire trucks (the station was directly across the street) with their sirens blaring as they came out of the barn, gun shots (there are always a few idiots in every neighborhood) ... and this dog was terrified. We ended up tranquilizing him from about July first for maybe a week.

One year, Larry happened to be home on the fourth and Loki was sleeping outside and, yes, he was tranq'd. We woke to a strange noise and when I looked, this poor dog was under the bedroom window trying to alert us, in his tranquilized haze, to an intruder on the other side of the fence. Once he knew we were aware and in charge, his head dropped and he returned to dreamland.

We discovered there was a man just outside the fence but couldn't tell whether he was injured, on drugs, or what. He'd done his job! Good, no - great, dog!

The rest of the story ... we called the police and were advised that our house and address didn't exist so they couldn't come out to help. When we advised that we were located directly across the street from fire station #48 that didn't seem to mean much either. After 3 or 4 phone calls and my frustration level having peaked, I gave them directions from the nearest donut shop. Okay, not my smartest move. We ended up calling the fire station and asking the guys to call the police. They came over, took the man into custody and made that call. Hmmm, the police were able to find them. I considered notifying the bank that my house and address were non-existent and therefore I'd no longer be paying my mortgage but I was willing to bet the police would find the address and evict us just out of spite.

When we relocated to Fresno, we brought Loki with us. He lived to be over 16 years old and, like my Katie, was one of the best dogs to ever love and be loved.

Friends & Neighbors

2011-07-03T15:15:00.000-07:00

Those of you who read my blog regularly (or as regularly as I've been posting) and who read Judi's 'Bread & Beauty' blog (which,coincidentally, has been on hiatus also), will remember that she was in the process of buying a house earlier this year and it just so happened to be in my area. I'd say neighborhood but up here the neighbors can be a "fur piece up/down the road".

Anyhoo - she's all moved in and is now in the process of making her home what she wants it to be. Having said that, I've been here 5 1/2 years and I'm still in that process. Meanwhile, we've learned the difference between neighbors who become friends and friends who become neighbors. There's an introductory and 'getting to know you' phase with the first. Sometimes it develops into friendship and sometimes you're just friendly.

However, when a friend, who has been a friend for some time already, moves up the road from you, it's like being kids all over again. She comes to your house to hang out; you go to hers. You now have someone to watch your favorite TV shows with - at either house. A trip to the city for dr appt's and to run errands is now a fun road trip. And the dogs are as good friends as you are (the treats each one takes as a hostess gift don't hurt). We gals prefer a bottle of vintage (or not) wine as a hostess gift but I guess there's no accounting for canine taste.

Really important, we've discovered meals again. Crackers, cheese, & wine are great for an occasional dinner but when they start becoming mainstays along with Marie Callendar & Lean Cuisine, something's got to give and it's usually the waistband. Now, we do at least two dinners a week together taking turns making real honest-to-goodness fresh cooked meals. I remember when, back in the day, dinnertime was fun. That stopped when there was just me - and five four-legged critters staring at me while I ate a couple of cookies or some take-out in front of the TV and called it dinner. Now the two of us sit at a kitchen or patio table like semi-normal people and we visit while we eat and dinner has become fun again.

I like having a favorite playmate up the road. It's even better now. No one's mom tells anyone when it's time to go home.

Remembering the Fourth of July

2011-07-01T17:30:00.000-07:00

This is THE weekend! Or, should I say WAS the weekend. The kids and grandkids all came up from southern California to spend a week every 4th of July. The kids and grandkids who lived up here came and joined us. Our very first gathering, our first summer in Fresno, the thermometer on the patio read 110 degrees but we'd started a tradition and it lasted almost 20 years.

It was a big 4 bedroom, 2 story house and there wasn't room to turn around in. At night you didn't dare try walking through the rooms because every square inch of floor had bodies on it. The swimming pool was filled all day and a good chunk of the evening. The animals hid for most of the day, coming out to walk around those bodies on the floor when the house finally got quiet.

The neighbor used to tell me he was going to set up a toll booth --- for outgoing traffic only. He figured he could make his mortgage payment off of us. All the neighbors said they took delight listening to the sounds of this family delighting in each other for that week every summer. Dad and I used to worry they were going to run us out.

We waited for the kids to quit bringing dogs and start bringing grandbabies. When the babies started coming, we had assembly lines on the den carpet for diaper changing and napping. Then we watched the grandbabies grow up. Grandpa taught them how to swim and jump off the diving board. Lisa made Orange Dreams for the grown-ups in the 'Blend-Blend'. Judy kept the dryer going with warm, dry towels. Every year the grandkids put on a show for us. We celebrated July/August birthdays. We cooked, we ate, we drank, we laughed. It was a wonderful time! The memories run through my head like a slide show.

I'm wishing a happy Fourth to all my family and to all of you as well!!!

Trip to the City

2011-06-30T08:51:00.000-07:00

Having had a less than positive experience going to the city a couple of Saturdays ago; I asked Judi, my friend and new neighbor, to accompany me yesterday to go down for a doctor appointment. ROAD TRIP!

We had an unusually fun day. First of all, we re-discovered how evenly matched our personalities are and, aside from the doctor appt., we were looking to make the same stops. Lunch at P F Chiang's, one of my favorites was a first for her and is now one of her favorites. We hit Bed, Bath & Beyond, Macy's, Target (for dog food), Walmart (coffee & dog treats) and most important of all, Trader Joe's. Oh yeah, we did actually work in the doctor appointment as well.

We've road tripped before, with the dogs. This time it was just the two of us. We've learned that we're extremely compatible and just enjoy each other's company, we kept each other on track (there were still a few dollars left in our wallets and we were home before dark). And I got my mojo back. Kate & I can make that run again by ourselves but I must say, it's certainly more fun with another human along as well.

Thanks Judi, for a fun day and for helping me regain my self-confidence!!!

What's Happening?!

2011-06-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

So, according to the emails I've received, it's been just under 2 months between blogs. I didn't drop off the face of the earth, although there were times I thought of jumping. Nothing seemed worthwhile writing about. Of course, much of what I wrote earlier wasn't necessarily worth writing about but it felt worth sharing. May and June were okay but not the stuff great manuscripts or little blogs are made of.

For all that seemed to go wrong and be worthy of scratching days and weeks from the calendar, there were some special events that warranted more than just a mention.

In May, one of my best friends, who is more like a daughter to me, flew out from Texas to spend a week with me after being gone 2 1/2 years. We visited, caught up, watched it rain, sleet, hail & snow (all in one day). We spent a day in Yosemite and we visited other friends she'd left behind. It was one of the best weeks of the pre-summer.

Susan & Katie @ Bridal Veil in Yosemite

My friend, Judi, has officially moved into her 'new' home just up the road. We're truly enjoying the proximity to each other's homes and the dogs seem to be content as well. And this is a great time of year to enjoy dinner or a glass of wine on the deck (hers or mine). We find we're both very pleased with this arrangement. God does work in special ways.

Many of the repairs following the storm have been made. A young neighbor came and cut fallen trees and moved the cuttings to safer locations (he'll take the cuttings for firewood). The contractor finally made it out to replace the patio roof. The cover is great and installed well but since this was not an especially expensive job, it was an exercise in perseverance getting it done. You wonder sometimes how these people stay in business.

Kate & I have stayed busy with our volunteering ... with the church, her therapy visits, the SPCA. I've taken on publicity for our church women events and the SPCA; a labor I truly enjoy.

A few weeks ago we hosted a couple of international students for a weekend and it was a great experience. They spent a full day in Yosemite and were here for breakfasts and to spend the nights after dinner. But we still found time to bond. And, like everyone else, they were taken by the four-legged children who run this house.

Sandra & Brenda

Sombra, Katie, & PITA

Unfortunately, PITA - the little siamese mix (20 years old) passed away the day after this picture was taken.

Katie and her kitten have bonded and are best friends. Kate is delighted to have a playmate again. (That's a whole other blog, with photos.)

There were the downers as well, but I won't revisit or bore you with those. To all who have been chastising me and taking me to task for ignoring the porch rocker ... we're back. And watch for changes to the site. My son is bringing me (and my blog) into the 21st century. At this point, you know as much as I do. It should be a fun and interesting experience.

Have a great summer everyone!!!

It's Perspective

2011-06-25T21:31:00.000-07:00

It hit me tonight! I've reached 'maturity'.

I remember a time when I'd go out for an evening and it was a bust and I'd come home early. "It was such a lousy evening, I was home by 9 o'clock".

This evening I went to a friend's for dinner. We had a wonderful time. We ate, we drank some fine wine, we talked and strolled down memory lane. "We were having such a good time, I didn't get home 'til 9 o'clock".

Apparently 'maturity' gives one a whole new perspective!

Are You Old Enough to Remember 'Customer Service'?

2011-04-30T09:51:00.000-07:00

I finally kept that infamous medical appointment in Fresno yesterday; the one I had to keep postponing because it kept snowing on those particular days. We (Katie & I) drove down to Fresno in the morning and followed the map and driving directions exactly as given; this being my first appointment at this facility.

From Hwy 41 turn left onto Chestnut, turn left again at Dearing, turn right at Fir, follow to Recreation, parking lot is to your left. Sounds easy, huh? After driving up & down Chestnut and now I'm no longer early but will be late instead, I call and get a recording telling me I'm caller #2 and should have no more than a 3 minute wait. Finally get the operator who tells me that the reason I can't find Dearing is because a few months ago the street sign was knocked down by a car so there is no sign any longer. Apparently the city council feels if you don't know where that street is, you don't need to be there. And, it wouldn't occur to those making appointments and sending maps & directions to advise that there is no street sign and to describe the now nameless intersection so new patients know what to look for.

Called Citicard after I got home. Granted, I'd just driven to/from the city and I guess I'm just a glutton for punishment. They'd sent me a letter awhile back telling me they've canceled one program and are replacing it with another and were sending me a new card. I received an email yesterday regarding this new program and my participation in it. I've not received any new card yet (they were due out the end of March, first of April).

When I finally got through to a human (or replica thereof), who is NOT the most intellectual individual in all of India or wherever, he asked for my name & account no., which the automated 'operator' had already taken. I gave him this again and he (took a nap and then) asked for it again. In my sweetest tone I responded, "they haven't changed since you asked 2 minutes ago." He couldn't answer any questions, didn't appear to have any information. then he asked for my social security number. "You want what?" Aren't we told - repeatedly - NEVER GIVE OUT YOUR SSN?

I called a different number and found a young lady (still out of country) who, without asking inane and non-essential questions, looked up my account and answered all my questions ... new card was mailed Thursday and should be here next week. And, and, and.

Okay, maybe I was just a tad cranky but, with the exception of the above young lady, what the dickens happened to customer service and assistance? "Your call is important to us ...". Man, if those people worked for me --- they wouldn't work for me!

Sun is out this morning, maybe today will be a better day; especially if I stay off the phone.

"Tap, Tap, Tap"

2011-04-26T08:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, a local friend who volunteers at a hospital in Fresno, called me. She goes down every Monday and prays with those going into surgery. While she was there, one of those she stopped to pray with turned out to be an old friend of mine. After discovrering this, when she moved on, he asked her, instead of saying "hello," to tell me "tap, tap, tap". He said I would know who he was by that message.

She called me to let me know he was in the hospital undergoing surgery and to share this strange message (and to try to learn the story behind it.)

I shared with her; let me share this memory with you ...

The friend's name is Walt. He and his wife, Betty, would go to Ixtapa, Mexico every February and November. They had a couple of time shares and would take family or friends for a week. The February before we discovered my husband, Larry, was ill, we joined them. Our "apartment" was upstairs. By upstairs, I mean up a narrow, iron, fairly open, stairwell. The apartment was beautiful. A large 'loft' style with a beautiful deck and marvelous view. But that climb was a wee bit uncomfortable if not downright dangerous.

We'd gone walking on the beach one evening and stopped for a few nightcaps along our walk. When we returned, the men were pretty well in their cups and getting him up that staircase, safely, was a process. When we got in to our room, he hit the bed and was out for the count. I moved to a couch and curled up with a book and fell asleep there. During the night I heard a tapping sound. I woke and tried to determine what and where this was coming from and determined it was the entry door. Turning on a light, I discovered Larry wasn't in bed, he wasn't in the bathroom. With the open floor plan, I could see the kitchen and he wasn't there either. Meanwhile, I'm still hearing, "tap, tap, tap". I opened the entry door and there on this tiny landing stood my still somewhat inebriated husband. Looking down, it was a wonder he hadn't fallen to the bottom, not a good thing. "I thought this was the door to the bathroom," he said sheepishly. He came in, looked at me and we laughed 'til the tears flowed.

The next morning we shared the story of his little mishap with our friends and we all had a good laugh. It turned in to one of those stories that lives forever and "tap, tap, tap" became the code for an inside story. It lives on still and always conjurs up a memory of a special and happier time.

"Tap, tap, tap," Walt. Get well soon!!!

And I'm Grateful For . . . 4/24/11

2011-04-25T09:25:00.000-07:00

First, I'm grateful for ... the Resurrection and the promise of forgiveness and a new life with my Lord when this dress rehearsal is over.

I'm grateful that ... we're almost at the end of cold & dreary weather. The weather guessers are telling us, "the sun will come out tomorrow".

I'm grateful for ... now having a friend two houses up the road to share and enjoy day to day experiences with.

I'm grateful for ... knowing I have friends that I truly care for and who truly care for me.

I'm so very grateful that ... the Lord let me spend this season of my life in this wonderful place with these special people.

And as always, I'm grateful for ... my furry, four-legged family who share my home and my heart and their love with me.

It's A Promise

2011-04-24T11:41:00.000-07:00

Today is Easter! The Christian world is rejoicing and celebrating! Our Lord is resurrected and risen and has given us a great promise. He died so that we might live! That's the promise. And on this very special, most beautiful occasion, the sky is grey ... what's that about? Good Friday, okay. That's a day of great sadness for us mortals that can only see the suffering. Let it rain and be dark & dreary; it's fitting. But today should be full of sunshine and warmth, the skies should shine as should the rest of the world. ... In my humble opinion.

In the Christian religion, the new year (the church year) starts with Advent - at Christmas time. I see it differently. The new year (the rebirth) starts, for me, with the beginning of Spring ... the sun returns and brings its warmth, its the rebirth of the ground, many of the plants and trees start to blossom again, and its time again to plant those that don't return on their own, animals come out of hibernation and for others its the season for reproducing and continuing their species. We, who stand on two legs, feel the tug not only to get outside and join in the planting and renewal process but to clean, paint, redesign, out with the old / in with the new, inside as well as out.

Spring, like the Resurrection, is a time of promise! Enjoy! Rejoice! Happy New Year!!!

Not My Best Week!

2011-04-23T10:16:00.000-07:00

This is NOT my "Grateful Blog" but I have to say I am extremely glad to have this week all but over. It was one that could have stayed off the calendar.

This weather reeks havoc on my bones and I've become even more cranky & bitchy than usual. It looks like I'll miss Sunrise Service for the first time since I moved up here. I saw the rheumatologist Wednesday and he's referred me to an orthopedist. The appointment has been made ... for three weeks from now. The Rheum'y did suggest I increase the dosage of my anti-inflammatory. (And I probably need to increase the dosage of my dinner wine - strictly for medicinal purposes, you understand.) When I requested a new rx (since I would now run out before the insurance company allows a refill), they faxed a new rx, for the same dosage! Four phone calls later, that's now straightened out.

Wednesday was the seventh anniversary of my husband's death. Sunday is Easter (his favorite holiday), neither the 'best of times' for me and I know these contributed to my less than awesome attitude.

The Patio contractor was here to give me an estimate on replacing my patio cover. Anyone have a spare $1200 they don't know what to do with? On the positive side, a friend poured and spread gravel on the mud pit formerly known as my driveway (for a really good price, bless him) so now I can not only drive down the driveway, people without 4-wheel drive can drive in, and ... I can once again walk the trash barrels to the road. The boys who do my yard work and heavy lifting were here yesterday. They mowed, edged, blew the parking area and the deck. Katie's taller than the grass again. They brought in more pellets seeing as how winter doesn't want to give up. I put two new lamp posts together and replaced the ones that had been at the end of the driveway and above friend will be back to anchor them for me. We'll cannibalize the two that were destroyed in the storm and I should be able to make one lamp post out of their parts and I'll put it on the back deck.

There are cut trees, and downed trees still waiting to be cut, all over the yard but things are slowly improving and returning to normal. We're even supposed to see sun again by the middle of the week. Remembering that the glass is always half full, I'm sure I'll shape up and will have my list of things to be grateful for by tomorrow.

Enjoy a beautiful Easter everyone. Rejoice as the Lord is risen!

A Blast From the Past

2011-04-11T18:36:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I ran across an old friend on Facebook. We only knew each other for a few years but shared those special memories that are made when you're 14 or 15 years old.

I'd have never known him from his picture. Usually you see something that triggers a memory but he completely outgrew himself. As I recall he was good looking as a teen and he's good looking today as a senior (citizen that is). He directed me to You Tube to see how he's spending his retirement. I guess he hasn't changed all that much after all.

We lived in the same neighborhood and took a school bus to/from school each day. We had the coolest bus driver. His name was Gabby and he treated us all like we were his favorite kids. In those days, girls had to take Home Educ. and one of the sessions was cooking. He was our guinea pig. Would you believe everything these 14 - 15 year old girls cooked or baked was "absolutely wonderful"? We believed it, he told us so.

The cool, older kids, the high school crowd, got to ride in the back of the bus. We Jr. Hi. kids couldn't wait for the day when we could graduate to the back. I mean, it's going from scrub to senior; you've reached the pinnacle. This friend sat in the back where he played his guitar and we were enthralled with his playing. It was 1956-57 and we were into Rockin' Robin, Party Girl, Rock Around the Clock. I was set to graduate from Jr. Hi in June of '57. In September I'd be one of the high school set and was looking forward to my turn with the "cool kids". - - - We moved in June, right after graduation. The teen years are tough.

But it was great to make the connection again, after all these years, and to revisit old memories. I have another friend that I rediscovered on Classmates. We email "stuff" back and forth and talk on the phone fairly regularly. The social network is great, it's become my own personal time machine and the 50's are a great place to visit.

And I'm Grateful For . . . 4/10/11

2011-04-10T20:30:00.000-07:00

After a tough & frustrating week, there is still much to be thankful for ...

I'm grateful for ... all the many small blessings God shares with me that I'm not even aware of.

I'm grateful for ... the people God has put into my life; from closest of friends to those who simply pass through never to be seen again.

I'm grateful for ... challenges that the Good Lord places in front of me that become opportunities not only for me but to do His work.

I'm grateful for ... my health. In spite of, or because of, the problems I have with my bones and joints and the discomfort & pain they cause; I recognize that my overall health in general is especially good.

I'm grateful for ... my usually optimistic attitude and sense of humor. These are a gift God has given me to deal with the tough times.

And, as always, I'm grateful for the small four-footed family I've been graced with, including the little tornado that I brought home to foster but who has become Katie's newest best friend.

Musings on a Snowy April Day

2011-04-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

This not being Saturday, instead of 'things I'm grateful for', I think I'll indulge in venting ...

1) The term April Showers was meant for RAIN, light rain, to bring May flowers. NOT one snow storm after another. Rain, snow, and sleet, with sun mixed in yesterday. Today - the snow was 6 to 8" when I got up this morning and it snowed for another 4 hours or more. Can't see the driveway, let alone drive on it, again and chains are required 3/4 of the way down to the city this morning. The high is expected to be in the upper 30's today!

2) There went the power - again! Okay, only about an hour this time, no biggie, but who knew for how long and why didn't we keep the generators at the ready? Oh Yeah, IT'S APRIL!

3) And why is it that while the snow was plummeting to the earth, the satellite dish was fine. After it quit and the skies were clear, the dish went out. Dish & Direct are just about anything except what they claim to be. But since there's no alternative ...

4) The topper to all this is: I called the Women's Medical Center in Clovis this morning to cancel my appointment since I can't get out of my own yard much less down the mountain to the city. I explained the weather situation and she said, "I'll make a note and maybe they won't charge you as a no show." The policy is a 24 hour notice or you pay the full office visit fee." For their sake, I truly hope they have a modicum of common sense. This could get ugly.

5) And last, but certainly not least, the fat egos that are supposed to be representing the people of this country but instead are holding it hostage, really have my ire. I'm not personally affected by the pending shutdown so it isn't about me, it's what they're doing to the country we hired them to take care of. And it really gets me that millions of federal employees and others are going to lose financially, including our 'troops' and their families, but the millions of dollars that the senate, congress, & president accept in paychecks is "constitutionally protected". Can you say amendment? Forget the so called Tea Party; here's another place for common sense.

Where'd the Kitten Go?

2011-04-04T19:50:00.000-07:00

The kitten went missing this morning. I was on the phone and she'd been playing in the living room and then I didn't see her. I heard her mewl a couple of times and then even that stopped. I got off the phone and started looking under and behind furniture. I knew I'd heard her in the living room but since I couldn't find her there, I tore apart every other room in the house.

Now this little girl is only 9 weeks old, very small and can access areas that I can't. I swept under beds, moved the dresser and chest of drawers, even looked to make sure she hadn't jumped on a toilet and fallen in. My worst fear was that she'd jumped up on the pellet stove (an insert) and then down behind it. I went so far as to call the stove dude and ask him if he was in the area and if he could pull the stove out so I could check. I did call him back and left a "never mind" message. I'm sure he thinks I'm ready for 'the home'.

My friend called back to see if I'd found Sombrita and asked if she could have gotten into a cupboard. She's smart but she hasn't learned to open cupboards yet, besides I'd already checked them. Then it hit me ... my friend had asked about a series of booklets and their author when we were talking earlier. The booklets are in the cupboard of my entertainment unit. I had opened that to take one out and check the author's name.

Yep! I opened the doors to the entertainment unit and in the back were two little yellow eyes staring back at me. Thank goodness she wasn't sleeping because I wouldn't have seen her black fur in the back. She came strolling out and her world was fine. I think I aged a couple of years and I can't afford it. I know that's a cat thing. You open a cupboard or closet and they somehow slip in unnoticed. PITA used to curl up and go to sleep waiting for someone to let her out. Cocoa would let everyone within a 5 mile radius know that he was trapped. Apparently this little one figured she'd, pardon the pun, catnap until the door opened again.

Now she's curled up with PITA on one side of me and Katie's on the other. And the floors under all my furniture are all extra clean.

And I'm Grateful For . . . 4/03/11

2011-04-03T21:26:00.000-07:00

So much to be grateful for this week ...

I'm grateful for ... the beautiful weather we've enjoyed this week after the storm passed through. The warm, sunny days are gone again, but we know they'll be back.

I'm grateful for ... the ministries Katie and I have developed. It does every bit as much good for me as it does for those we visit and serve.

I'm grateful for ... the closing of Judi's escrow and her being able to move in to her new house. It's nice to see her so contented. She worked really hard to make this happen. And for me ... It's been awhile since I had a 'friend' living so close.

I'm grateful for ... Karen being able to buy her first home. I'm looking forward to going north this year to visit her and see her new home.

Hi Neighbor !!!

2011-04-02T10:15:00.000-07:00

All I can say is, "it's about freakin' time!" My buddy, my pal, along with Katie's only true canine friend, are finally moving in up the road. Thursday evening, I watched the realtor pull the 'for sale' sign from the front yard. Yaaaay!!!! And if you think I'm thrilled, Judy is elated. This has been a l-o-n-g, drawn out process.

We lined drawers Thursday evening. Well, she lined drawers - I helped separate contact paper from its backing, no small task. And we visited and planned, in our minds, where everything will go, and how it will fit. The backyard is just waiting for Foxy to take her buddy out for a tour.

I'm giving no descriptions or anything else to do with the house or property. When Judy (Beauty and Bread) gets back to blogging, she'll give you all that. I mean, it is her house; I've already stolen part of her thunder. But I am so delighted to have a good friend living just a couple of houses up the road. Walks with the dogs, wine & cheese sessions and dinners on one our decks, just hanging out maybe doing nothing more than each reading a book in the afternoon or evening sun; her place or mine - both; someone you can call and say can you come help hold this while I drive a nail? And all no more than a two minute walk away. And don't forget the road trips ... much easier when half the travel isn't spent getting from one house to the other.

Gotta go plan a housewarming. P-A-R-T-A-Y !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Introducing the Shadow

2011-03-30T18:08:00.000-07:00

A week and a half ago I volunteered at a SPCA pet adoption event. Now I do understand that the intent is that we adopt animals out to their new forever homes. However, a lady came in with a tiny (7 week old) kitten and wanted to leave it with us. The event leader really didn't want to take it in because when we have kittens, people will adopt them but not adult cats. Consequently, I heard this voice saying, " Hey, I'll take it and foster it until it's old enough to adopt out." I looked around and discovered that the voice was mine. We did adopt out some of our fostered pets and the little one came home with me.

on 'the porch rocker'

Am I adorable or what?

I named her Sombre, spanish for shadow, and call her Sombrita while she's small. She is solid black, long-haired, inquisitive, playful, very sweet, and very smart. I brought out a carrier and put an old sweatshirt in it and put her in there when we went to bed. After two nights, she figured out this is her bed and the next day when she was ready for a nap, she went into her carrier. Two visits to the litter box and she had that nailed. She even found the 2nd box on her own.

Now remember, I have two other pets at home; Katie the wonder dog and a 19 year old siamese mix named P.I.T.A. You work out the acronym and be assured that after all these years, it still suits her. Katie has taken to the kitten and vice-versa. We had a Burmese who was Katie's best friend and they tumbled and wrestled and played together. Kate's waiting for Sombrita to get bigger so she can have a new best friend. PITA, on the other hand, is another story ... she moved to my bedroom, coming out only long enough to hiss and spit at the kitten, go eat and hiss and spit again on her way back to the bedroom. Today she realized she was only cutting off her own nose to spite her own face and is back in the living room again. She's still not thrilled but is accepting. The noise the pellet stove repairman made kind of pushed the process a little. All three were scared enough to call a truce and the kitten figured out how to get up on the big bed so she could be close the nasty old siamese for protection.

That noise is scarier than PITA is

Aw, she's not so tuff

wanna play?

Watcha eatin'?

I still have cat/kitten toys from my other cats and have put them out and they keep the little one busy. She's a hoot to watch as she plays and races around the house. My hallway has become a racetrack ending in a slip and slide. She sneaks up on Katie to chew on her ears and bats her tail then runs and hides under the entertainment unit. While Katie's looking under one side, Sombrita's on the other side watching her. Who needs TV?

And I'm Grateful For . . . 3/29/11

2011-03-29T18:55:00.000-07:00

This post is getting later and later. It's Tuesday evening and I'm finally getting to my Saturday post.

I'm grateful ... that there were no deaths or serious injuries related to the recent storm (at least, that we know of) and that the structural damage appears to be damage we can bounce back from.

I'm grateful ... for the crews from all the various utility companies from all over California and a few from out of state who came to our assistance. Also to the CDF, CDCR, and our local fire department.

I'm grateful ... for neighbors, friends, and total strangers who all came together as one community to help each other through this time.

I'm grateful ... that the damage to my home and yard was relatively minimal and that I have so many angels surrounding me to help me deal with it.

I'm grateful ... to have the downed trees cut and out of the driveway and from against the back of the house and to have the power back on and to be able to do laundry, make a decent cup of coffee, and start putting house and yard back together again.

I'm grateful ... for the sun that kept peeking through the clouds today and looking forward to a sunnier day tomorrow.

The Storm is Over

2011-03-29T09:54:00.000-07:00

I'mmmm baaaaack! Seems like it's been forever since my last post. So much has been going on.

Short form: did a pet adoption a week ago Saturday and now am fostering the cutest, sweetest kitten ever. (Story and pictures to follow.) The next day we experienced "The Storm of 2011".

We'd been experiencing winds and rains (can you say deluge?) and it was followed the next night by the storm from ****. Woke up that Monday morning to inches of snow and trees down everywhere. Power was out as well. Our utility company was joined by utility companies from all over California and some from out of state. The Dept of Forestry and the Dept of Corrections (prisoners) were all here helping to bring us power and clear roads. We rejoined the world this weekend and (the community) are now getting ourselves back together again.

Personally, I lost numerous trees. Some of which fell across my driveway and across the carport. Another multi-trunk tree (bad news) took out my patio cover which (good news) prevented the tree from coming in my kitchen door and window. It fell on the propane tank but avoided damaging any tubing or piping.

deck & back of house

looking out my back door

another view of tree trying to come in where it's warm

there's a driveway hidden here

Driving through the mountain community looked like driving through a war zone. Roads and highways covered with downed trees. Power lines down everywhere. Convoys of utility and other assistance trucks everywhere you looked. People without power for one day to over a week, some are still waiting. It's been a real 'camping' experience for many.

Fortunately for me, one of my angel friends brought me a generator for day 3 through this past weekend so I had light and my fridge was plugged in (I could throw away the yuck and start all over again.) We were very lucky. A lot of structural damage but no deaths or serious injuries, just a major inconvenience. My young neighbor is cutting my trees for firewood and cleared the driveway, carport, and back door early so I wasn't trapped.

Everywhere, you see neighbors helping neighbors; strangers helping strangers. This is really a "community" in every sense of the word.

And today the sun is shining and the weather is warming. The ground will dry and we'll put things back together again and go on. Meanwhile, the first thing I did was make a real pot of coffee, run a load of laundry, and flip switches just to watch the rooms light up.

Next post I'll introduce you to Sombre (Shadow,) the little kitten I'm fostering; pictures included. Til' then...

And I'm Grateful For . . . (3-19-11)

2011-03-20T09:32:00.000-07:00

I'm grateful for ... the propane dude who came to fill the tank Tuesday and took time to bring pellets in for my stove.

I'm grateful for ... a dry, warm home and the thoughtful husband who made sure I'd have this after he was gone.

I'm grateful for ... the youngsters who come and help with the outdoor & indoor chores I can't do anymore and who have adopted me as a courtesy grandma. Their spontaneous hugs when they see me, no matter where, brighten my entire day.

I'm grateful for ... the other propane dude who was here Friday to change the regulator on my tank and added to my indoor stock of pellets to make sure they would get me through the nasty weather forecasted.

I'm grateful for ... the weather clearing long enough today so that we could hold our pet adoption as scheduled. And I'm grateful to those who came and gave some of our pets their new forever homes.

Dear Lord, I'd be grateful, too, if now someone would come fix my pellet stove (which died Friday night) so I could use it and not have to burn propane like I own stock.

And I'm Grateful For . . . (3-12-11)

2011-03-12T17:29:00.000-08:00

And I'm grateful for ...

the friends and other caring people God has given me,

the opportunities that God has given me to care for others in return,

having the health and abilities that my mom no longer had at my age,

the birds and frogs who've returned to make my yard cheerful again with their singing; another promise of Spring.

And I'm Grateful For . . . (3-06-11)

2011-03-06T20:24:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful ... that yesterday was such a full day and evening, that I didn't have the time to put out my Saturday list.

And I'm grateful ... that Friday I was able to drive to the city (for a funeral) and back without my furry little security blanket, Katie. This was the first time since the onset of the panic/anxiety disorder that I've made this round trip completely alone and a really big leap of faith.

And I'm grateful ... for the friends and church members who helped put together a very special birthday surprise for our priest and simultaneously for a young man who our church has adopted. It was a real piece of work to pull it together but it was a huge success!

And I'm grateful ... for the daffodils I see blooming along the sides of the roads; they're the promise of Spring.

Looking For a Red Hat Group

2011-03-02T09:09:00.000-08:00

Everywhere I go, mom tags along. She says it's because she has to drive the car and sometimes be on the other end of the lead but I'm ready for something to call my own. I've decided I'm old enough now to join a canine red hat group.

I Gotta Get A Life!

2011-02-28T20:46:00.000-08:00

I just saw the line up for the upcoming season of Dancing with the Stars and I am greatly disappointed in their casting people. Now, just the fact that I've been tugging at the bit waiting for this announcement should tell you something. But having seen the new lineup and realizing that this is what I plan my Monday nights around . . . I gotta get a life!

It used to be a fun little show; the dancing, with the right couples, is wonderful to watch, then it became 'the' show. Friends and I spent hours on the phone (well, maybe not hours) talking about who should and who shouldn't be let go and why. We groused about the so called celeb's, some of whom were doing good to walk and talk, forget trying to dance. Of course we groused about the judges and the voting. We didn't always go for the star, we're more sophisticated than that, we wanted the best dancer, yeh - yeh - yeh.

When the show first started, it actually had one or two for real stars in the mix each season but that's gone by the wayside. They must have been really reaching to end up with this latest line-up. Guess it wouldn't draw much of an audience if you called it, "Dancing With the Has Beens & Wannabes", huh? To top it all off, their best pro is off making a movie and won't be on the show this season. Is this the beginning of the end?

I'm very disappointed and that worries me. Yep! I gotta get a life!!!

Has Anyone Seen My Sunday?

2011-02-27T16:18:00.000-08:00

Got up for church this morning; it was almost 20 degrees outside. Not snowing but really cold (okay, by west coast standards, really cold). Got a call telling me the church parking lot was ice and that with my bad hips & legs, I might want to stay home this morning. Since I was hurting like crazy from the weather anyway, I didn't argue. I got out of my 'go to church clothes', into my grubbies, curled up on the couch with my coffee and my dog and threw a blanky over my legs and tried to get comfortable.

Some five hours later (about noon) a neighbor woke me when he stopped by to check on me (he does this every month or two). He hadn't seen my car leave this morning and the newspaper was still out in front and he thought he'd make sure everything was okay with me. We visited for a few minutes, he left, I reloaded the pellet stove and resumed my position on the couch.

When I woke again at 3:30, I realized I wasn't going to make the prayer vigil at 2pm and decided that maybe a little fresh air was in order, however, and Katie and I went outside to reset the timers for my yard lights and to walk around the yard where the snow had melted and get the fuzz out of my brain.

It's now after 4 o'clock, the day is shot and I have no idea where my Sunday went. Guess I'll settle in to watch the Oscars and critique the "designs" being worn on the red carpet. Sure hope I can sleep tonight. I don't want to lose my Monday too.

And I'm Grateful For . . . (2-26-11)

2011-02-26T16:46:00.000-08:00

This week ---

I'm grateful for ... special friends and shared experiences.

I'm grateful for ... family and family visits.

I'm grateful for ... my two constant companions, Katie & PITA.

I'm grateful for ... all the blessings God has given me this week!

My Granddogs

2011-02-21T20:37:00.000-08:00

My kids came up to spend the day. They brought the granddogs. Cash (after Johnny Cash) is a 3 year old chihuahua that looks and acts like a chihuahua. Chico is a 10 week old chihuahua that looks and acts like a little husky. They are the cutest dogs/pups you have ever seen (or, in this case, don't get to see).

My camera was here, it's loaded, it's charged, it's ready to go, it was in my purse and never made it out. I even mentioned taking a family portrait (my son, his wife, the two "kids"). Then brain dead hit. We went on to other things and my mind, such as it is, went along. I have NO pictures. Next time, but it has to be soon, while Chico is still in his puppy stage.

We had a really good visit and I made a nice dinner using the leftovers from the dinner party that didn't happen last night. This has been quite the weekend. Now, if I just had those award-winning pictures of the cutest granddogs ever to bring some life to this post. Dang!!

I Make Plans & God Laughs

2011-02-20T23:47:00.000-08:00

One of these days I'll catch on to the fact that I'm not the one in charge. I make plans and God laughs. Yesterday I had planned to attend a lunch in the city, Friday night it snowed.

Tonight I had a dinner party planned. It was a birthday dinner and besides the guest of honor and myself, I had invited three other couples. We do this dinner every year. I have a dinner party for my friend's birthday and he has a dinner party for mine. Every year it snows and/or rains, but that's the mountains in the winter and we all roll with it. This year the weather was a couple of days early so, although cold, no snow or rain this evening. Just a group of good friends, good food, good wine, and a good time.

Then God shook his head at me and laughed - again! Couple #1 had unexpected company, wouldn't be able to make it. Okay, dinner for six is still a nice group. Couple #2: she came down sick yesterday and was hoping it would pass (not happening, she was really sick!) Couple #3: wasn't sure until today but assured me that she and her adult daughter would make it. Well, with the other two couples canceling, I decided to simply postpone the dinner until the Spring. Seems like we did that last year, only I was the one under the weather. I called #3 and canceled saying we were putting off the dinner party until Spring - again.

From the minute he came through the door we had a really fun evening! I was in the process of making pasta and a homemade ("from scratch") pesto sauce with seafood when he arrived and was able to finish the pesto to his taste. I had a spinach & cranberry salad to go with it. He's a chocoholic so I had a recipe for individual chocolate cheesecakes which we made together, laughing like a couple of kids.

Both the pesto sauce and the dessert were first time recipes for me and I follow a recipe to the letter the first time I make it, then feel free to play with it after that. We followed both recipes as written, adding the pieces of seafood to the pesto when it was done, and both recipes were wonderful. The chocolate cheesecakes are to die for and so simple to make. I'll be happy to share the recipe with anyone who'd like it.

It's been a long time since I had someone working with me in the kitchen. My husband used to tell me that dinner should be more than a meal; it should be fun! Dinner tonight; the prep, the eating, and even the clean up, met that description.

Although we missed sharing his birthday with "the usual suspects," God's plan was just fine! And, tonight, we were the ones doing the laughing.

And I'm Grateful For . . . (2-19-11)

2011-02-19T20:09:00.000-08:00

It's Saturday again. Time to stop, sit back, take stock and review the things I'm grateful for from this week:

1) I'm grateful for ... my physical as well as emotional/mental health this week. Even with the weather taking a turn, no Igor! For this, if nothing else, I'm truly grateful!!

2) I'm grateful for ... being busy and active and having a reason to get up in the mornings, even when I'd rather pull the covers back under my chin.

3) I'm grateful that ... the challenges I'm given become opportunities - for me and for others.

4) I'm grateful for ... this wonderful place I've been allowed to call home. From the beauty I see through my windows, whether in sun or in snow, to the people I've been surrounded with who I call my friends.

5) I'm grateful for ... the happy memories that fill and swell my heart.

Winter Found Us

2011-02-19T10:49:00.000-08:00

Today was the awaited gathering in Fresno of a group of us that used to attend St. Mary's church. Yeah, well, they'll do it without the member from the mountains. Dang it!

We've had gorgeous, dry and sunny weather for at least the last couple of weeks. This weekend, Mother Nature remembered us. Last night we had rain, rain, and more rain. It came down with a vengeance. At one point I woke to thunder and lightening, a heavy downpour, and a terrified dog, and a cat under the blankets with me.

About 4am, it turned into snow. This morning I got up to the birds leaving thank you notes on the feeders, temps in the upper 20's, at least 2" -3" of snow (and it was still coming down). We're promised a high today in the upper 30's; Mother Nature isn't through with us yet.

There's a pond under there

Snowing through the trees

View from porch of driveway & road

The snowfall has lightened up and is just soft flakes right now, the sun's been making an effort to break through and might make it yet. However, the weather guessers are threatening another storm this afternoon and I don't want to have to drive back up the mountain in a downpour, nor while it's snowing, nor find the road has been closed and I'm trapped in the city. I'll just stay up here on my mountain and enjoy the blanket of white all around me.

I Love a Lazy Day

2011-02-15T20:20:00.000-08:00

Lazy day today! No place Katie and I had to be, no commitments. With the exception of a Press Release that had to be finalized and emailed today, I had the option of doing what I wanted when I wanted and not doing what I didn't want to do. Don't have these days often ... and I'm retired?!

I'm having a small dinner party Sunday and a little house cleaning couldn't hurt, but it's supposed to start raining and or snowing tomorrow night and into the weekend. I'll clean on Friday when I'm stuck in the house watching whichever weather we draw. I did get the laundry caught up so when I go out tomorrow it won't have to be in my jammies. Hopefully, the weather will clear up by the weekend. I'm planning to go to Fresno and join the "lunch bunch"; there's over 2 dozen of us scheduled to get together . We only do this every couple of months so, please, no snow over Deadwood!

By the by, if you happen to come across books by Michael Connelly and you're into the murder mystery / trial lawyer genre, pick one up. He's very good! I'm reading "the Lincoln Lawyer" and it's really hard to put down, another reason not much got done today. It apparently was a movie last year starring Matthew McConaughey. Fortunately, I missed it. He has a couple of dozen titles out, maybe I'll make a stop at the library while I'm out tomorrow and stock up for the storm(s).

Valentine Memories

2011-02-14T18:49:00.000-08:00

The picture I keep in the living room of my husband & me is a 'portrait' taken on our second cruise. It's an 8x10 that sits on a shelf by the fireplace. We always referred to it as our 'prom picture'. Tucked into the bottom corner of the frame is a florist's card that came with the roses he ordered one year when he was in South America. The thought still holds true, "You're always in my heart, no matter where I am!" He's still my valentine!

As often as not, he was away on this Sweetheart's day as well as birthdays and other holidays. But he was a romantic and whether home or away, he never let me forget that I was special to him. (I used to put a card and memento in his suitcase - not to be opened 'til the holiday.) When he was home, we always had a favorite restaurant for dinner. The rest of the evening was simply time spent together; sometimes watching a TV movie, sometimes playing UNO.

He always brought or sent flowers. He wasn't big on candy because I wasn't a big candy eater and he was. He felt that if he gave me candy, he was just setting himself up for a chocolate frenzy. And then, sometimes he bought me chocolates for that very reason (and it didn't have to be Valentine's Day. Excuses not mandatory for chocolate frenzies.)

I don't miss celebrating Valentine's Day. The day is now special for the memories it conjures up. Happy Valentine's Day, Sweetie! I love & miss you!!!

A Visit to OUR Hometown

2011-02-13T16:55:00.000-08:00

My new friend, with whom I have a long history, and I decided to get together for lunch and take a virtual stroll through San Pedro today. We'd visit old teachers and places, and find memories that we'd each forgotten. We decided we'd meet and grab a drink from Starbucks and a sandwich from Quizno's two doors down. That way we could sit outside to eat and visit and Katie could go along. Sounds like a plan, huh? As my priest keeps saying, "nothing's simple."

We got to Starbucks / Quiznos. Oh yeah, Quizno's isn't here anymore. Where else can we go, grab a sandwich and sit outside? Let's go to Raley's, order a sandwich at their deli, a drink at Peet's, and we'll go to the park. Jumped in the car and drove to Raley's. Went to the Deli, and after taking forever to make up our minds, the fun began ... "Can I have the Sonoma sandwich?" "I'll check, sorry we're out of those." Ooookay! After a few minutes, "Can I have ---- this other sandwich?" Mmmm, we're out of those too." "Well then," after some thought, "how about the turkey wrap?" "We don't do wraps anymore. There are some pre-made wraps by the cheeses." During all this, friends have walked in and are watching this show we're putting on and they're laughing and having a grand time and darned if she doesn't say "Can I have ...?" Only to be told, "I'm sorry ..." you know the rest. I will say, getting the drinks was much easier, even got a dollop of whipped cream for Kate. I'll probably stick with Subway in the future, however.

Having finally obtained our lunch, Cathy and I jumped back in the car with Katie and took off for the park. We took our lunches, some memorabilia, and yearbooks. What a fun time we had. Went through the books and picked out teachers we both knew (they were considerably younger when I knew them) and we each had stories about some of them, we looked at pictures of places we'd both hung out in or at least been to and remembered others and more stories.

For a short while she had the same doctor my mother had. We lived maybe a block away from each other once or twice. My brother and her brother were firefighters in the same place at the same time. We'd known some of the same people, just at different times. We talked about how, why, and when we made the transition from beach to mountains. We laughed - a lot!!! The similarities in our lives just kept coming. It was a great afternoon! And ... we have a traveling companion (companions if you count the dogs) when we decide to take a car instead of a virtual visit to OUR hometown.

And I'm Grateful For . . .

2011-02-12T20:56:00.000-08:00

I've decided that on Saturdays I need to review my week and pick no less than three things from the week that I'm grateful for. Here goes:

I'm grateful for ...

1) ... the beautiful weather we enjoyed this week. I especially appreciate this weather because Igor, the anxiety ogre apparently doesn't like it and he leaves me alone.

2) ... the phone visit I received from my oldest son; not a quick "just checking on you" with a short conversation. This was a nice long visit and I thoroughly enjoyed spending the time with him.

3) ... the youngster now coming twice a month to help me around the yard and the house. He spent an hour and a half here today cleaning acorns and more acorns from the yard, the walk, and the drive. He went home happy with paper money in his pocket and I can see my lawn and walk out in front again without worrying about sliding on an acorn (like walking on rollers).

4) ... the new friend I've made, with whom I share a long history.

5) ... the promise of a visit this Spring from a special friend and former neighbor who now lives in Texas. Airline tickets bought, visit locked in. My latest "ticket in the drawer" (ref: post of 6/08/10).

Thank you Lord, I'm grateful for this week!

Hey! That's My Hometown

2011-02-12T10:41:00.000-08:00

.Life is full of funny little twists and turns. And, I often find that my little world is even smaller than I thought. I've been living in this mountain area for a little over 5 years now. I used to come up to visit during the foggy winters and triple digit summers in the valley and finally picked up and relocated in 2005.

I "originated" in the harbor area in southern California. My mom was from San Pedro, my siblings and I were from San Pedro, I raised my children in San Pedro. We attended various elementary schools but all of us attended the same junior high school (Richard Henry Dana Jr Hi') and the same high school (SPHS). My kids and I even had some of the same teachers (they were somewhat worn out by the time my kids got them).

Back then San Pedro was a "small town" much like Oakhurst, where I live today. When I was a kid, people who came in to town either lived there or were visiting someone, no one just drove through. In fact, in the 50's & early 60's, you couldn't drive through; there was only one access/egress. As I grew up, the town was full of relatives and my mom's friends from her work so she almost always knew what I'd been up to before I got home. My kids suffered the same circumstance. But it was a great place to grow up, especially in the fifties.

All this to tell a new story ... last month I attended our monthly SPCA meeting. There are a dozen /dozen and a half of us there every month. I've gotten to know some, mostly by working events with them. A few weeks ago I saw one of the gals, that I don't know, on Facebook. Being nosy, I looked at her profile and discovered she was born and raised in San Pedro and graduated from San Pedro High (w-a-a-y after I did). We've since made contact and compared other "similarities". We attended the same elementary school as well as junior and senior high. We knew some of the same teachers. Our birthdays are a week apart (actually 15 years and one week apart but whose counting), and we live off the same road, 2 miles away from each other.

What are the chances? How many of us beach girls end up in the mountains; not to mention - same beach, same mountain? And love it?! I'm really looking forward to getting together with her over a starbucks or Peets and/or a sandwich and seeing what, where, and who else we both know. It'll be fun taking a virtual trip home (and it won't take 4 hours and nearly a tank of gas to get there) I'll keep you posted.

Tidbits

2011-02-09T20:00:00.000-08:00

I attended a graveside funeral Monday. The priest asked, at the last minute, if I would do the reading. I was delighted to be able to participate. After the opening prayer I stood and started the reading. It suddenly dawned on me, I was in the front row ... everyone was behind me, might be a good idea to turn around and read to the people - you think? (I thought to myself, when was the last time you were on stage with your back to the audience.) Do you suppose he was having second thoughts up to that point?

Went to an SPCA meeting last night and stopped on the way home to gas up the car. I'd been home maybe an hour when the neighbor across the road drove over to tell me my car lights were still on. We went out and everything in the car was in its correct position. We moved levers, pushed buttons, scratched our heads, and the headlights would go off and on but the parking lights held steady. Since, even with a flashlight, we were virtually working in the dark, he finally disconnected a cable so the battery wouldn't die overnight and we gave up. This morning I connected the cable again and everything came back on ... including the parking lights. I drove up to where I take the car for maintenance and Mike got in and showed me a button on the steering column (that I can't see and didn't know existed) that turns the parking lights on even when the engine is off. I'd apparently hit it when I reset the trip mileage button. Who knew? Hope that big "L" (for Loser) on my forehead washes off.

At the meeting last night we were setting our calendar for this year and a question arose regarding whether or not the Honorary Mayor Contest would be held this year. I volunteered to go to the Chamber of Commerce and find out. This morning Katie and I stopped at the Chamber office on our way home and I inquired and was assured the contest would be held and was given the tentative kickoff date. Now, we've won 4 of the last 5 years and I was asked who we were running this year. I told her last year's entrant & winner might run again this year. She explained to me ... read this slowly and carefully ... "an individual may run in consecutive years but may not win in consecutive years". Say what?!

And, last but not least, how about Pepsi and their new tall & thin diet Pepsi cans. Nothing wrong with their cans; their logic, however, leaves one wondering. It's promoted as a "taller, sassier, new skinny can ... which is a celebration of beautiful, confident, women." What? Now there's a concept that our teen, and even pre-teen, girls need to grasp. I'm sure it will do a lot for young women who think they're fat when they can't cast a shadow, and on a personal level, being short and round, I suppose I can forget celebrating anything about me, then again, I do still have my confidence. And I'm pretty confident that I'll go back to Coca-Cola!

What Superbowl?

2011-02-06T20:24:00.000-08:00

It was much too nice a day today to be stuck inside watching a football game, I don't care who was playing.

After church this morning, a large group of us went to breakfast. When we left, Katie hadn't had her breakfast yet so we headed for home. Upon arriving I looked out my kitchen window, as has become my practice lately, and was immediately transformed into Mata Hari. To my credit, I fed my girl and then we "went for a walk" up the road to "Judi's house" to check out the car that didn't belong there. We met the nice looky-loo lady who had lots & lots of questions, which I answered ... sort of. I may have been just a little discouraging regarding the property, I certainly didn't mean to suggest that this house just wasn't for her, with its little flaws and foibles. I then proceeded to call Judi, identifying myself as my alter ego and telling her Katie and I were at "her house" and were on the job.

As long as we were out and the weather was so pretty, we finished our walk and when we came home I decided that it was NOT an indoor day. I wasn't in the mood to clean house, was tired of working on the computer, and didn't want to work in the yard. Only one thing to do: "Katie, let's go for a ride in the car." We headed for Fresno. This is not a trip that I normally make voluntarily but I burnt up my toaster oven last week and needed a new one. Today (Superbowl Sunday) is the ideal time to hit the big stores. First stop, Target! A little problem finding someone to assist you as they apparently are all TV/radio salespeople and they r-e-a-l-l-y don't like to be disturbed during 'the game' just to make a sale. Fortunately, I didn't need anyone's assistance. I found the unit I liked, placed it in my cart, and headed for the check out. Wow! No lines!!! I love shopping Super Bowl Sunday!

One more stop at JoAnn's for some material I need (there were more than a few of us not into "the big game," and we were all at JoAnn's). Now it was time to head back up the mountain.

It was pushing 70 degrees in the valley and lowlands today and the drive was as perfect as the shopping, both going and coming. In addition to ideal weather there was a definite lack of traffic. The scenery was beautiful, and when out of the city, the air was fresh and clean. Great day for a drive!

Okay, it's 7:30pm. The game is finally over and now we have to have a recap? Don't these talking heads get enough air time? Go away! My turn! It's time for GLEE!

MATA HARI, 2011

2011-02-05T08:38:00.000-08:00

It's been such a stressful week. Trying to keep up with our daily doings ... therapy dog visits, doctor appointments, office day at the church ... and trying to play mata hari. One of my best friends is, hopefully, moving in up the road. Everything is in limbo right now as we wait for the FHA appraiser so the inspector can finish his job. Absolutely nothing seems to have been going on this week, or last. I take that back, the inspector was there but decided to hold off completing his inspection until after the FHA dude showed and did his/her thing. Meanwhile, Kate and I try to keep watch on the place when we're home. You would think that if an inspector, realtor, worker were going to be there, it would be for more than 20 minutes, giving me an opportunity to see cars, trucks, activity - and that's not happened. On the occasion when we did see activity, we just happened to 'go for a walk' up the road. I even drove up there after dark when I saw lights on. My friend, however, sneaks up and visits for minutes in the wee, small, (non-working) hours and wonders why I'm not on the job.

Sheeesh! Boy, this mata hari gig is downright stressful work. And all for a glass or two of 2 buck chuck. Good thing I love her like I do and am really praying and pulling for this to go through. (Besides me, Katie is anxious for Foxy to get relocated and join us.) Guess I'll have to move the porch rocker to the back deck, although it's in the 30's right now and outside is not necessarily where I want to be. S'pose I could stay home, move my computer to the kitchen table and take up residence at that window, it has quite the view of the house up the road. I understand the inspector is due back Monday, FHA appraiser or no; maybe then there'll be some action worth sitting at the kitchen window for. Maybe we should be offering them the wine!

My Week

2011-01-30T20:08:00.000-08:00

Well, this has been quite a week.

Last weekend, a very good friend of mine, Jennifer, and her older son, Cam, came up Saturday evening. We did pizza, visited 'til all hours, and then had to get up just before dawn cracked for church the next morning. After church a group of us went to breakfast and when we got home she and I visited for another hour or so while Cameron took care of some chores for me (my Christmas decoration tubs were still waiting to be taken down to the shed and he's young and strong). We had a great, if short, visit. I love when she, and they, come up, especially when we do sleepovers.

The weather was wonderful all week. While Fresno was buried in the fog for their second week, we were in the 60's and even hit 70 and enjoyed beautiful sunshine all week. Okay, our nights are still cold (30's) but I'm under a down-filled comforter at night so that's okay.

This weekend members from my former church were up here for a Retreat. A small handful in the group were friends from when I attended there so I called a couple of the gals and invited them to stop off on their way up. Cyndy and Betty were here Friday afternoon, bringing a pastor friend with them. When they got here (up above the fog) I had the house wide open (showing off just a little?) and, while playing catch up, we walked around and took in the warmth and beauty of my little piece of Heaven. It was another really fun visit.

Yesterday afternoon the sun went into hiding preparing for rain. This morning the weather had done a complete 180 degrees. It was raining when I left for church and we had a couple of dustings of snow while I was there. You suppose those people from down below brought this turn in the weather? The first day or two of changes in barometric pressure tends to trigger or tweak my anxiety disorder and leaves me feeling uncomfortable at best, so I left early and came home. Midday, another friend who was at the Retreat stopped by on his way home. It's always good to see him and his wife. They were good friends when we lived in the valley and he and my husband had become close. He still honors that friendship by staying in touch and offering me help when I need. Unfortunately, his wife didn't make it up this trip so the two of us sat and talked about old times and new. I look forward to seeing them both back up here soon.

Those who read "Beauty and Bread" know that my friend Judi has made an offer on a house just up the road, she's now in escrow. Inspection is next week and we're both very excited at the prospect of becoming neighbors. My sister and I had a nice "chat" visit a couple of nights ago, Katie and I did her therapy dog visiting Tuesday and stopped and saw friends on our way home, and an old friend who now lives back east called this evening. Hopefully, the sun'll come out again tomorrow (shades of 'Annie') and I can chase Igor, the anxiety troll, back under his bridge. All in all, it's been a very good week!

My Week

2011-01-30T20:06:00.000-08:00

Well, this has been quite a week.

Last weekend, a very good friend of mine, Jennifer, and her older son, Cam, came up Saturday evening. We did pizza, visited 'til all hours, and then had to get up just before dawn cracked for church the next morning. After church a group of us went to breakfast and when we got home she and I visited for another hour or so while Cameron took care of some chores for me (my Christmas decoration tubs were still waiting to be taken down to the shed and he's young and strong). We had a great, if short, visit. I love when she, and they, come up to visit.

The weather was wonderful all week. While Fresno was buried in the fog for their second week, we were in the 60's and even hit 70 and enjoyed beautiful sunshine all week. Okay, our nights are still cold (30's) but I'm under a down-filled comforter at night so that's okay.

This weekend members from my former church were up here for a Retreat. A small handful in the group were friends from when I attended there so I called a couple of the gals and invited them to stop off on their way up. Cyndy and Betty were here Friday afternoon, bringing a pastor friend with them. When they got here (up above the fog) I had the house wide open (showing off just a little?) and, while playing catch up, we walked around and took in the warmth and beauty of my little piece of Heaven. It was another really fun visit.

Yesterday afternoon the sun went into hiding preparing for rain. This morning the weather had done a complete 180 degrees. It was raining when I left for church and we had a couple of dustings of snow while I was there. You suppose those people from down below brought this turn in the weather? The first day or two of changes in barometric pressure tends to trigger or tweak my anxiety disorder and leaves me feeling uncomfortable at best, so I left early and came home. Midday, another friend who was at the Retreat stopped by on his way home. It's always good to see him and his wife. They were good friends when we lived in the valley and he and my husband had become close. He still honors that friendship by staying in touch and offering me help when I need. Unfortunately, his wife didn't make it up this trip so the two of us sat and talked about old times and new. I look forward to seeing them both back up here soon.

Those who read "Beauty and Bread" know that my friend Judi has made an offer on a house just up the road, she's now in escrow. Inspection is next week and we're both very excited at the prospect of becoming neighbors. My sister and I had a nice "chat" visit a couple of nights ago and an old friend who now lives back east called this evening. All in all, it's been a very good week!

My Little Corner of Heaven

2011-01-29T08:24:00.000-08:00

I've probably remarked on this before,but I going to do it again anyway. I'm sitting in my living room and through every window, living room and kitchen, I see trees, sky, the sun is breaking through. At one window are bird feeders and though they're empty now, in a little while they'll be filled with birds of various sizes all snacking and fueling up for their next flight or nap.

I'm filled with awe every morning as I drink my coffee, do my morning prayer, and gaze out the windows at the wonder that surrounds me but yesterday a couple of friends from the valley came up out of the fog for a church retreat and stopped here to visit. They brought another friend with them and he was really taken with my little piece of God's creation and, through his eyes, I saw it again like I did the first time I came here. I fell in love with my home and its surroundings all over again. Thank you Pastor Dao.

I've said before, living here is like camping year round except I have a warm house instead of a tent, with a comfy bed, a hot shower, and my tv. I don't miss the city. I certainly don't miss the fog that never lifts in winter or the heat in summer. I don't miss the traffic and everybody hurrying to get somewhere. I don't miss being in the middle of a crowd and no one knowing you're there. I don't miss the noise or not being able to see stars because of the brightly lit nights. I don't miss what others refer to as "civilization". Most of my family thinks I lost what remaining screws I had left when I relocated up here. This laid back style of living and small town attitude would drive them nuts. It wouldn't even be a drive, it'd be a short walk. I thank God every day for allowing me to be here in this small piece of Heaven.

The Back Scratcher

2011-01-23T17:32:00.000-08:00

I found it! For the past few years I've told anyone who asked that all I wanted for Christmas was a simple back scratcher. With arthritic shoulders, I find it difficult to reach that itch and the itch knows exactly where I can't reach.

I went to CVS and, like I always do, I scanned my 'loyalty card' before I did my shopping. The read out gave me a great big $1.50 discount on my total purchases. Whoo boy, "don't spend it all in one place". I bought a pair of clip-on sunglasses for my new prescription eyeglasses and a couple of other small items for Katie and then ... there they were, hanging from one of those impulse racks - bamboo back scratchers. The price? $1.49.

I LOVE my new back scratcher. And I love that it was free. Merry January Christmas CVS and a belated Merry Christmas to me. Gotta go, that itch is in trouble now!

"SQUIRREL!"

2011-01-22T08:54:00.000-08:00

There's still life in the old girl yet,the four-legged one that is . Last week, while working at the church, I took Katie out for a breath of fresh air, if you will. We walked the patio and yard, she 'watered the grass' and then she spotted a ground squirrel. Now she has absolutely no interest at all in the tree squirrels around our house, apparently she thinks because they live almost in our yard, they're family like the cats. This was a different scenario, however, and she took one look at that squirrel and the squirrel took off. "Flight elicits chase" my husband used to say, and my couch potato slug of a dog took off like Secretariat. The squirrel flew down a hole next to the building with Katie literally on her tail. I rather expect there's a squirrel in the churchyard that is now sporting a hairless tail; she was that close. Yesterday I took her out again and she went right to the hole but, alas, no one was home.

Yesterday we went to the Feed Store. I had ordered some glucosamine treats for her and they had come in so we were there to pick them up. The young man working in the store was setting up a large gerbil habitat/enclosure on the floor when we got there. Katie, feeling very much at home there, wandered the store, found and visited with a rabbit almost as big as she is and with the resident cat who quickly leaped up on the counter to do her visiting. She then detected movement in the new enclosure. She walked up to the cage and this fairly large gerbil did the same from the inside and they touched noses. Then it hit her ... remember the movie "UP"? We watched her stop, freeze, turn her head, and, I swear, we heard her yell, "SQUIRREL!" She became that great animated hunter of all things rodent again and she tried every move she could think of to get inside that enclosure. That put an end to our visit at the Feed Store. We made our purchase and I talked her out the door.

In case you're wondering; she came home worn out and spent the evening sound asleep in front of the pellet stove, I rather imagine she was chasing, and maybe even catching, fast moving, sneaky little grey critters.

She-e-e-'s Back!

2011-01-21T10:43:00.000-08:00

Don't pay the ransom, I escaped! It's going on a month since my last post. I don't know why. Maybe the well went dry or I had so much other stuff going on ... and the well was dry. I find I really miss it, I enjoy this, so I'm going to do what I enjoy and I guess I have to get out there and prime the pump and fill the well at least enough so I can draw from it again.

I was also really busy the end of the year. There were publications that needed to be done for the church and events for the SPCA; not to mention Christmas events, a wonderful visit from my baby sister, cataract surgery, a cat that died and a dog with bronchitis and reverse sneezing (and who, as near as I can tell, is all better now). Oh yeah, and I turned a year older. And ... after 68 years as a Sagittarius, I'm told I'm some new sign that I can't even pronounce and no one has said whether I still have the persona of the Sagittarius or what the new persona is. You know what? After this many years (I can't make myself write that number twice), I'm just simply me.

This new year seems to be off to a much better start than last year. I certainly hope that's a positive sign. And the weather ... up here, above the clouds and fog, we're still waiting for "the weather". It's been sunny and we're in the fifties. I drove down to the city earlier this week and they're living in the fog. I didn't see sun until I was more than 3/4 of the way home. We've had our share of rain - ours and somebody else's. But, we've had little snow at this elevation. I'll refer back to this post next month or in March when we can't get out of our driveways due to snow.

The 'busy, busy' seems to be on hiatus for now and I'm looking around the house to see what needs doing or changing. I've been moving furniture from one place to another, but can't decide how I like it. I found one configuration that I thought might work but the dog & cat weren't happy with it and since this is their abode and they only allow me to share it with them (so long as I keep the mortgage paid, food in their cupboard, and "the box" cleaned), I've returned most of the furniture to their proper & approved places ... for now.

May the year of the Rabbit hold good things for you in all aspects. Sending you all happy thoughts and best wishes from the porch rocker.

The Twelve Days of Christmas

2010-12-26T08:16:00.000-08:00

The first day of the Christmas Season was a pleasant and quiet day. Had a phone call from a BFF in Texas. Opened the Christmas gifts she'd sent while we talked. My son called, his family's gathering at his daughter's for her first Christmas in her new home this year. Another BFF from across the country called and we used up a good chunk of time wandering down memory lane.

A friend of mine from church was also going to be alone yesterday so I picked him up and brought him to the house for Christmas lunch and a visit. It made for a very nice day. Company for both of us and a purpose for me. And, I got to prepare a real meal. I don't do that much anymore.

Weather permitting, my sister is due to come visit this week. She can go with me to drive me home after my cataract surgery. Yippee! We're looking forward to a couple of days to visit and catch up. She's a southern California beach girl so winter mountains are a real challenge.

It rained like crazy last night but is dry this morning and should stay dry through the day. The sun is even trying to break through, so the trip down to the valley to pick up my sister shouldn't be bad. We have to go back down Tuesday morning (for the procedure) and then back down when she goes home Thursday. The forecast is for rain off and on all week. Prayers, please, to keep the rain and fog in check through the week, at least as we travel up and down the mountain. A little sunshine would be a gift.

Enjoy these 12 days of Christmas as we celebrate the birth of baby Jesus to the visit from the Magi. They'll take us out of 2010 and into 2011. A new church year is already under way and when the 12 days are finished, we'll be into a new calendar year. 'Out with the old and in with the new'. Have a prosperous new year, either/or, or both.

Merry Christmas to All!!

2010-12-24T07:58:00.000-08:00

This is it! Last day to "get ready for Christmas". Hopefully packages are mailed, cards are sent (looks like I'll be sending Happy New Year Cards since I only got half my cards out,) baking is done, decorations are up and outdoor lights are strung. My tree is up and thankfully it's pre-lit because that's as far as the tree decorating has gotten. Everything else actually got accomplished.

The creche has been out since Dec 6th with Mary & Joseph plugged in to light every night. Today I'll plug in the baby and tonight baby Jesus will shine as well.

Happy Birthday, Jesus! And a very Merry Christmas to All!!!

A Backward Sneeze?

2010-12-22T16:19:00.000-08:00

Today was nothing if not interesting. Katie's cough has diminished considerably but she still has the ragged breathing and she does this choking thing. Of course, we save the choking thing for in the wee small hours of the night as a rule. So back to the vet we go. Yep, she still has bronchitis. We knew that, it's going to take a bit to get rid of ... but we also have a relatively rare condition known as backward or reverse sneezing. Never heard of bronchitis in dogs and never heard of this before, either. Does this come under the heading of old dog, new tricks? The good news is that it's nothing serious, most likely an allergy. The bad news is, I suppose now I have to clean house.

The vet took me to her computer and brought up YouTube to show me other dogs with this whatever it is. To see this in action, go to YouTube.com and search 'dog - backward sneeze'. The clip that is most identical to Katie is titled "dog reverse sneeze,' and right down to the facial moves that makes it look like she's breathing out of the corner of her mouth, this is basically what I see and hear when she wakes me. Now Kate can get more intense doing this, but then it is 2:am, maybe it just seems more intense at that hour. You tell me, would this scare the you know what out of you in the middle of the night?

Katie the wonder dog; sometimes I really have to wonder!

A Day WITH Sunshine

2010-12-21T08:54:00.000-08:00

Finally, a break in the storms. We're expecting a dry day today before the next onslaught. It's about 40 degrees so we can get outside for non-canned air. Whoopee!

Now I can get to the post office and get the rest of the pkgs to the post office. I think I'll take miss Katie with me to give her some fresh air. Her breathing is still ragged though the cough is diminishing and all she wants to do, still, is sleep. As a matter of fact, that doesn't sound like a bad idea to me either.

Katie & P.I.T.A.s stockings are hung with care and we're just about ready for Santa Claws to make his appearance. My baking is done and while I'm out today, I'll make some deliveries. I'm having a guest for Christmas dinner and my sister is coming up the day after for a few days. I'm looking forward to our visit. However, I'll need to hit the grocery store and somewhere in there, I have got to do a little cleaning and picking up. And ... I still have Christmas publications to finish for church services Christmas Eve.

But for today, I'll just concentrate on a dry and sunshiny day! Hurray!!!

Nothing's Simple

2010-12-20T13:14:00.000-08:00

This has been quite a month. FatCat, my beautiful calico gave up the fight a little over a week ago. We buried her out front with two of her 'roomies'.

Saturday night Katie started coughing and hacking. By yesterday she'd added gagging. She's had all her shots, including her Bordatella. Last night she'd wake me with her coughing and I'd wake me when she wasn't coughing (I had to get up to make sure she was breathing). We'd passed on Christmas Caroling at the nursing home last night, thankfully!

Did you know dogs can get bronchitis? Me either! She's now resting peacefully and I'm looking forward to doing the same tonight. After a check up, a pair of x-rays to rule out kennel cough, breathing passage blockage, and/or who knows what else, it was determined that she has bronchitis. She's now on an antibiotic regimen and cough suppressants. Looks like her stocking will be slim pickin's this year. But she'll be fine and that will make my Christmas merry & bright!!!!

Amazing Day!!!

2010-12-18T08:19:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the anniversary of my 28th birthday, I could tell you which one but then I'd have to kill you. It was an amazing day!!! 2010 has not been one of my best years, to say the least. But yesterday made up for it in spades.

Thursday evening, after our church vestry meeting, some gals took me to Crab Cakes for dinner and the birthday celebration began. Last night friends had a dinner party for me and we had a wonderful evening!!! As is tradition, it rained like crazy all evening. Ever since I moved up here, we're guaranteed snow or heavy rain for my birthday.

My facebook page was filled with posts from family and friends which made my heart burst. I'd been feeling kind of worthless the last couple of months but my grandkids and nieces and grandnieces/nephews reminded me that they love me even from varied distances. My brother and my kids called. There were f/b posts, cards, you remember - the kind that come in the mail through the postal service, emails, and phone calls. I realize I have more friends - real, caring friends, than I'd imagined. The warm and fuzzies are still with me this morning.

It almost makes turning another year older something to look forward to ... but not too soon. I'm happy to bask in this warmth, at this age, for now.

How'd It Get to Be Christmas Already?

2010-12-16T20:11:00.000-08:00

The lights are strung on the front of the house and porch and on the upper fence railing. The Nativity Set is out and lit. The inside decorations are here and there throughout the house and the Christmas tree is up. The lights are on the tree (only because it's a pre-lit tree) and the angel is on the top, but the ornaments are still in their box and have been for almost two weeks now. If I drag it out much longer (like a week,) I won't have to do it at all. This year, the lights will be all the decoration it needs and/or gets.

The shopping is done and the packages are on the living room floor. That would be a good thing except that they need to be wrapped and then packaged for shipping. Some only go down the road 50 miles or less and some go to SoCal and some need to go to Texas (from central Calif.). I really need to get this task together. Should have been done a week ago, at least the out of state pkgs.

My daughter had a great thought today. Let's celebrate the true Christmas on Christmas and the gift-giving, and partying, and fun at New Year's. Her logic is we could concentrate on what Christmas is really about and then the following week we'd be less busy plus we could take advantage of the post Christmas sales. Yeah, I know, the retailers would catch on and the post Christmas sales would be a week later too, not helping us at all. But it was a good thought.

I love Christmas, I have always loved Christmas. I have such good memories of Christmas' past. We didn't have much when we were kids, but Santa never let us down. We did have some tough Christmas' when my kids were young. I remember one year, in particular, we had the actual, for real, Charley Brown Christmas Tree. The first ornament we put on it, it just bent all the way over and the tip hit the table top; yet it was probably one of our best Christmas'. We'd make Candy Cane and other Christmas cookies and a pot of Wassail. My daughter carries on some of the old traditions, no Charley Brown trees, thank goodness!

When Larry and I were married, we would spend Christmas Eve at his folks'. All the family came together and Santa showed up for the little ones. It was homemade tamales, arroz, frijoles, y tortillas at midnight. We'd spend earlier Christmas Eve or Christmas Day with my family at my brother's home. He did a mean prime rib. Win / win!!

Maybe one reason I keep putting off decorating the tree this year is that I'm feeling just a little nostalgic. Before he got sick, after grandpa had strung the lights, it was my granddaughters' job to hang the ornaments and then we all had hot cocoa and sat around admiring their work.

Our last Christmas was about 3 1/2 weeks early. Grandpa was terminally ill, all the kids came for his birthday and while they were here, we got out the decorations and the dads strung the lights on the outside and the moms and grandkids put the garland on the stairwell and helped decorate the inside and we put up the tree and all the boys strung its lights and everyone got in on the act decorating it. It was the first week in December but it was our very best Christmas.

Well, so much for nostalgia, I guess I'd better put this away and go finish the Christmas presents so I can get them to the post office tomorrow.

And Susan, Happy Birthday!!! Your birthday gift is with your & Tim's Christmas gift ... I'm trying to get them to you before the New Year.

From Katie, P.I.T.A., and me,
Merry Christmas, Everyone!!!

You Can Stay, But It's Only Temporary

2010-12-13T10:06:00.000-08:00

Back in the Spring of 1993 or '94, our neighborhood was inundated with stray kittens. Every cat in the free world had given birth and dropped off all their litters in a 6 house radius, I'm sure.

One kitten was a little female calico. She was a sweetheart but we already had 3 other cats and weren't looking to increase the family. We (including the neighbors) had relocated most of the kittens and she was on the short list when we discovered that this baby was expecting babies. We discussed it and decided to let her stay with us until the babies were born and weaned. This way she could get good nutrition and care while she carried and nursed. No way was she going to a 'shelter'. That was about 17 years ago.

She was very confused about what was going on inside her and terrified the night she gave birth. We brought 5 new little kittens into the world and I showed her how to clean them and nurse them and gave her comfort while she pushed out another after another. It was quite the night. She was a good mama and I tried desperately not to get attached, but I'd just midwifed her and now was teaching her to be a mommy ... she was still just a kitten herself.

As soon as the kittens were weaned, we set her up to be spayed. Just prior to her appointment, she went into heat again and tried every womanly wile she could conjure up to entice our older male. He was willing until he remembered he didn't have the proper equipment anymore. He gave her a slap and skulked away, embarrassed, I'm sure. My husband and I laughed 'til the tears flowed.

She grew to be a large cat. We'd (since we planned to not keep her) taken to calling her simply Miss Calico. Her new and official name became FatCat. I had to buy a dog carrier with a luggage dolly to take her to the vet and the groomer's. She was so round, she couldn't properly clean herself and that meant a monthly trip to the groomer for bathing and shaving. Talk about indignities.

When she was maybe 3 years old, she was mauled by 3 very large dogs. They'd gotten between our garage door and our front porch. She ran into the neighbor's yard, but because of her size, she couldn't get under or over their fence. On the plus side, because of her size, they couldn't gain purchase either. About that time my husband came home and ran them off. He called me and I came and took her to the vet. She needed drains, sutures, and various meds. She'd lost a couple of claws and even a tooth. By the time we had her healthy again, she was worth her weight in precious gems. But she was forever terrified of anything and everything. People who came to the house regularly never saw her. They thought she was a figment of our imagination.

She was a good kitty; loving, easy, she squeaked, she didn't meow. She got on well with the other cats. She wasn't a lap cat; her preference was to lie next to you with her forepaws and head in your lap and the rest of her on the couch. She was obviously appreciative because she brought me gifts --- half a lizard, half a mouse, either half at different times. Eeewe! She wasn't a lap cat. She lay with just her front paws & head on your lap. She used your legs for kneading tortillas.

When Katie moved in and adopted us, she accepted her easily which was surprising because of her fear of other dogs. She seemed to sense that Kate was family, and no bigger than any of the other cats, so it was okay.

We relocated to the mountains in 2005 (4 cats, a dog, a bird, and me) and she went outside once and decided she wasn't missing a thing and being a housecat would be perfectly fine. Just this past Spring she started going outside when Katie was out. Then she found herself a place on the front porch and a chair on the back deck. Life was good.

A few months ago, I took my little siamese mix to the vet and we discovered she has kidney failure and he expected she'd be gone by Christmas or year end. She's not only holding her own, she appears to have put on some weight. She does, however, have kitty alzheimers and that's a challenge. Meanwhile, FatCat took on the symptoms of kidney failure and was dropping to a mere shadow of herself.

Her temporary stay came to an end this past weekend. She was just a handful of fur and bones and Friday started to quit eating and even lost interest in drinking water. Saturday morning she gave it up and took her last breath. Her little body is out in the yard by the pond with George & Cocoa and St. Francis is watching over them all. I catch myself heading for the front door to let her out first thing in the mornings and being careful where I put my feet at night so I don't knock her off the bed. And it seems strange not to have to watch my every step so I don't trip over her. She was a good old kitty but she'd used up all nine of her lives and it was time.

My little family is diminished yet again. And each one is terribly missed in his/her own way. But they're together and they'll all keep dad company now. 17 years, not bad for a 'temporary' stay!

A Very Special Day

2010-12-06T08:35:00.000-08:00

Back in the day, and I'm talking w-a-y back, when I attended the Roman Catholic Church, I made my First Communion at age 7 and my Confirmation at age 13. It was a major occasion! We had studied for months memorizing responses that would be forgotten by the next day. There was a large class of confirmees with all their immediate and extended families in attendance. It was filled with pomp & circumstance as any grand occasion/sacrament. We all lined up and went forward toward the altar to be confirmed by the Monsignor as "Soldiers of Christ," we vowed never to smoke or drink or indulge in inappropriate behavior before marriage (the word 'sex' hadn't been invented yet.) You can imagine how long that lasted - the smoking & drinking part that is; in the 50's 'petting' was a mortal sin. We were all presented with a certificate and a scapula to show we had accomplished this great step in our growth in our faith.

Since then, I have left the Romans and have joined the Anglican church. My husband, who was also a former Roman Catholic was confirmed in the Episcopal/Anglican church a few years before his death. Yesterday, I attended another Anglican Confirmation Service.

The son of friends of mine was confirmed with a handful of others as part of a special Sunday service. The procedure was a little different, a little less pomp & circumstance with the attention being placed on the confirmees rather than the ritual. They are no longer referred to as "soldiers" of God, rather they are children and representatives. They've committed themselves to serving God in their daily life. It's not unlike the Jewish tradition of Bar Mitzvah ... yesterday, he achieved manhood.

It was a beautiful service. I'm so glad the weather held and I was able to drive down to the city to attend. We had a nice reception for all the confirmees and those attending the service and then a small group of us went to lunch together. This is always special because I get to visit with people I haven't seen in, usually, a long while. I did leave early as I wanted to beat the incoming storm coming home; made it by minutes.

Thank you Wes, and your family, for inviting me to share in this special event. I'm proud of you and I was very pleased to have been a part of your special day!

Hwy 41, aka: Memory Lane

2010-12-01T09:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I drove one of our church members down to the city for a doctor appt. He always has interesting stories to tell and we talked about Thanksgiving and Christmas, but somehow we got onto vacations when we were kids.

His family was big on camping and when his dad had to haul whatever he hauled from southern to central California, he took the kids and made a vacation of the trip. My parents didn't do vacations. My dad was a merchant seaman and my mom didn't drive until later. A vacation for me was a weekend trip with the girl scouts or a visit to my aunt & uncle's.

My husband's family vacationed all their lives and when I joined the family, we (my kids & I) were introduced to this concept. Vacationing meant camping and I fell in love with it. Maybe that's why I love living where I do. My daughter says my home reminds her of camping except you can go in the house, take a shower, and sleep in a bed. Many times we camped with my in-laws. We camped locally and we camped out of state. Our favorite spot were the lakes above Beaver, UT. We camped at Anderson Meadows at about 8,000 ft. Fishing was excellent, we ate a lot of trout. The kids hiked and we took horseshoes and a tetherball set and board games for them; the girls would lie in the sun at the campsite and then go around the lake and play in the snow. Swimming was out of the question. The people in the town were so friendly and always helpful. And, it was one of the most beautiful spots I've ever seen. When we took the kids, we'd break camp a day early and go into town to spend the last day and night at a KOA campground so they could all swim and the girls, especially, could enjoy the "modern conveniences". Each trip was a story in itself and I'll break them out on occasion.

Yesterday, Hwy 41 became Memory Lane. Thanks, Earl!

The Long Holiday Weekend

2010-11-27T10:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was catch up day. Katie and I made a visit to the residential extended care home that we couldn't get to last Tuesday. I went out to my shed and brought in all my Christmas "stuff". I may not get anything done with it until later in the week or next weekend but the weather guessers say there's another cold front coming our way and we can expect more snow later today or tonight and in the early part of the coming week so I want to have everything where I can get to it when I'm ready. I still need to gather my harvest & thanksgiving decorations to put away until next year.

Today and tomorrow are for cleaning. I'm going up to True Value to buy a steam mop to get these floors really cleaned. I also want to pick up a pole & clips for hanging my outdoor Christmas lights when the weather permits. (I no longer do ladders.) Wish me luck, we'll see how well this device works! If we get snowed in again, I have ample cleaning, laundry, and dvr'd TV shows to keep me occupied. Hot homemade soup tonight. Last year my daughter-in-law gave me a small 2 servings crockpot. I love it! It's perfect for making small meals just for me.

The sun is trying to break through. We're at 40 degrees. Guess I'll get out and back before the weather turns again. Have a great weekend, everyone. Stay warm and dry!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T19:37:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I will go up to the Evergreen Conference Center of Oakhurst for Thanksgiving. I have much to be thankful for this year! We'll have a liturgical worship service in the chapel and then we'll move to the dining hall for munchies and visiting. About 1 o'clock, the birds, potatoes, veggies, cranberry sauce, the rest of the trimmings and the pies will all come out and we'll eat our fill and then some. The Anglican Bishop of our Diocese will give the Eucharistic Service and he will be the surrogate patriarch at the meal.

Friends of mine from the valley are coming up. Some will come for the weekend and some for the day. We'll visit and catch up on what's been going on since the last time we were together. Other friends from the local area will also join us. And there will be television for football addicts.

The weather this week is r-e-a-l-l-y cold!! ECCO is at about the same elevation as where I live so I'll dress appropriately and be ready for the chill. I'll help serve the wine before the meal (one for you, two for me - that'll warm me up) and wander around with my camera. I'm looking forward to a very pleasant day.

Our church office printer/copier went on the fritz this afternoon so I'll slip into their office and run the Sunday bulletins and inserts between the service and the meal (yes, I have their permission) and after the meal, I'll find someone who wants to help fold & stuff while we visit. I can drop them off at the church on my way home and the rest of the weekend is mine.

My husband is buried in the Columbarium on the premises so I'll go up and visit. The Center is one of the most beautiful spots in the area. Coming here for special events and holidays is becoming tradition for me, especially more so since I moved up here. It's easy to get to, the food is fabulous, I get to spend the day visiting with good friends, and no clean up after.

However, being a traditionalist, I did buy a small turkey since they were on sale, and threw it in the freezer for roasting later. It'll be good for another turkey & trimmings meal with leftovers for picking, and the rest will make frozen one-serving hot dishes & soups for when I when I want homemade but don't feel like cooking.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving everyone!

I Remember ...

2010-11-23T09:30:00.000-08:00

Sitting here watching the snow, I remember w-a-a-a-y back in the day when I had moved to the midwest and experienced my first real snow. I had gone to Minnesota to stay with my in-laws. My husband followed later. About this same time, pre-Thanksgiving, I woke one morning to deep, midwest snow.

Being barely 20, if that, and a southern Calif girl, I was entranced. It was beautiful to look at and fun to play in. I was still too young to realize that it was freakin' cold out there. I did learn to avoid driving from November into May. I had one experience on black ice my first year and the following year, when I was pregnant, I had the experience of not being able to find the sides of the road ... that was enough for me. We had moved to a house of our own by then and the neighbor, a girl my age, taught me to can and we stored foods for the winter, made our own baby foods, and I baked bread or made tortillas. No need for us to drive, her husband managed a grocery store and he'd bring home milk and whatever else any of us needed.

I wasn't into winter sports, didn't have the ankles for ice skating, but I could throw a mean snowball and roll a mighty fine snowgirl . We'd go to St. Paul for the Winter Carnival. I'd watch while everyone went skating and then we'd check out all the ice sculptures and eat our way around the carnival and stop at White Castle on the way home. Being from California, I'd never heard of White Castle (they're these one-fourth size hamburgers). It was a really special and fun time, I also found I enjoyed ice-fishing with my father-in-law. You put up a little hut (or not), dig a hole in the ice, drop a line and hope something down there is not only awake but is hungry. I did a lot of fishing, I don't remember doing any catching.

When my two oldest children were babies, they loved to play in the snow in our front yard. They enjoyed "snow"cones that I'd drizzle with homemade fruit syrups (no yellow snow). We had a Springer Spaniel that thought the babies were 'her' pups. She drew the boundaries in the yard and watched over them with me. If they looked like they were going to toddle beyond her set boundary, she'd grab their diaper or snow pants and drag them back. She was great with them. I enjoyed those winters.

Some years ago, Grandpa & I took my son, his wife, and our two granddaughters up the road toward Yosemite. We were living in the Valley then and made it a winter weekend outing. Fortunately it was a snowy weekend. We spent the night at a little inn and Grandpa and the girls made a snow midget. Grandpa got too cold to stay out long enough to make a full size snowman. The girls went down to the main building and warmed up in the jacuzzi. The next day we went next door to 'the hill' and the girls and their parents used a round toboggan thing to slide down the hill. The granddaughters had never seen snow and their dad didn't remember being in the snow. Everyone had a great time. The youngest still enjoys snow sport.

I don't have any great desire to be out in it anymore except maybe to take some pictures and then not for very long; I get too cold too soon. Katie's no longer fond of walk-abouts in the snow either. Guess we're both getting old. We're perfectly happy sitting in front of the fire watching the snow through the window. And we have months ahead of us to do just that. Usually it doesn't snow too often and not for too long. The again, when I bought the house, they told me I'd only get a "dusting" of snow. I'm so gullible.

Time to Dump Dish Network

2010-11-21T10:34:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I woke to a light layer of snow on the ground and no TV reception. This morning it was snowing but the TV worked fine --- until about 9am. The dish apparently can't find the satellite - again - because it's out - again. Granted, it was snowing when it went out; it stopped snowing almost 2 hours ago and the sun is breaking through. Wait - the dish was out yesterday AFTER the snow (no build up of snow in front of the dish on my roof, I checked. I've suggested relocating the dish so it hangs over the roof but it's been explained to me that that would take extra wire, what was I thinking?)

Let me see, during the winter rain & snow is the only time I would have the idiot box on during the day and it's also the only time I can count on it not working during the day. Hmmm. And, since Dish feels no sense of responsibility - after all, these are Acts of God - you'll see no rebate for loss of service (sometimes days not just hours). Meanwhile, since I DVR the shows that are on too late for me, I can put a recorded show or shows on until the dish warms up and I have reception again and I'll make good use of the DVR feature until I can replace Dish. You'd think I'd get used to this and just accept it. It happens every rainy and snowy season.

I checked with DirecTV. They advertise that they have better reception since they have many more satellites available from this area. When they got here, they told me I have too many trees. Tomorrow I'll call the local cable company. I won't save a dime because they don't use DVR's, I'll have to subscribe to TIVO but I'm told by those who have cable up here that they don't lose reception like we do with satellite and I'll be getting what I pay for, so maybe I am saving money. I'm not paying any longer for this thing sitting on my roof that's there just for looks and not necessarily attractive at that.

Maybe I'll just make a cup of hot cocoa, grab my Nicholas Sparks book and a blanket.That would make for a good day - unless the power goes out.

Nov 20th, There's White Stuff on the Ground

2010-11-20T12:35:00.000-08:00

The weather guessers predicted rain for last night and/or today - I woke up to snow. Wasn't much of a snow, just enough to knock out the television reception for a few hours and to leave patches here and there and my deck and the roads icy. It was maybe 33 degrees and the snow still falling when I got up this morning. It quit about 9am and the sun came out about noon. More of that white stuff is expected tonight thru Sunday night at my elevation. Looks like good baking and soup-making weather. Not much chance you'll find me playing slip-n-slide out there once it starts. I'll just hunker down until it's deep enough to walk in.

Apparently I had a critter try to cross the bridge over my pond last night. I found the large geranium plant that sits on the center of the bridge in the pond this morning. The pond has a pergola over it and we didn't have winds (it's a heavy planter, would have had to be extreme winds to move it). I had planned to bring it up onto the front porch today to protect it from the cold & snow but instead I found myself out in robe & slippers in falling snow pulling it from what I'm sure it thought was a watery grave and dragging it up onto the porch before I even had my coffee.

From what I've seen this past week, I'm thinking I may have a small bear hanging around. Monday morning I found one trash barrel pulled out from the carport and part way down the drive. The lid had a hole in the center and had been worked off the container. There was some trash strewn but there was nothing it wanted so it was easy to clean up. The other container was dragged to the other end of my property and behind the storage shed. And it was the heavy one!! I've had dogs & raccoons get into the trash but this wasn't their M.O. so I'm thinking not dogs or rac's; that leaves pooh bear. I put the containers in the shed for the night since the next day was trash day, closed the doors, crossed my fingers and hoped the shed would still have doors in the morning. Tuesday morning everything was as I left it, so I put the containers at the end of the drive for the trash dude and haven't put anything else out this week. I'm hoping that whatever my visitor was, it got discouraged and has moved on to somewhere that serves a better buffet. I bought a new container that's marked "critter proof", Knowing that my critters can't read, I'm not inclined to hold my breath.

Guess I'll make a quick run to the grocery store for some flour, butter, and milk before the skies let loose again. Everyone have a wonderful weekend; that's my plan!

Let It Snow, Let It Snow

2010-11-19T09:07:00.000-08:00

We've been enjoying beautiful weather both in the valley and up here as well. Temps have been in mid to high 60's at my house and I'm a couple hundred feet higher than Oakhurst proper.

The weather guessers are showing rain all weekend in the valley but they're forecasting snow for the foothills. The forecast reads 5" of snow at the 3000' level for Saturday night and 8" snow at 2500' or lower for Sunday night. My house sits at 3000'. Guess I'll go out and wrap pipes, cover planter boxes and bring other plants in or at least put them on the front porch where they'll be somewhat protected. I need to remember today or tomorrow to charge the batteries in my emergency lanterns and camera and to bring in bags of pellets for the stove. A crockpot of a hearty soup and cornbread ready and waiting sounds like a plan.

I'll miss the warm & pleasant days we've been enjoying but I always love the first snow of the season. I could easily have waited a few more weeks, however, because it makes me want to get out all my Christmas decorations and we haven't done Thanksgiving yet.

Enjoy the change of seasons, everyone!

The Week That Was

2010-11-17T08:59:00.000-08:00

It's been an eventful week. Had a doctor appt in the valley Tuesday of last week and met up with my younger granddaughter for a short visit while I was there. Thursday, being a holiday, her dad came up for a few hours. Yesterday, I went back down into the city and had lunch with my daughter-in-law and the older granddaughter.

In between, we've put together a funeral and reception for one of our church members and are now into working on Christmas and year end projects. I have all my Thanksgiving decorations in place, both inside and out, and Katie and I have resumed our daily walks up the road and back down. The weather has been beautiful this past week so the yard called to me and has now been properly manicured and all the debris (leaves, acorns, twigs)from the deck and the front areas, has been blown into the meadow or ravine and it's safe to walk outside again.

Due to the fender-bender in my front yard a couple of months ago, The Hartford decided to not simply raise my rates but to double them so I've been researching other carriers until I found one that has realistic rates and is reputable at the same time. (All these carriers that can save you $300 - $400 dollars by signing with them ... yeah, well.)

We have one or two days of this weather left before the cold front and rain move in so, since I work most of tomorrow, today we'll go out and clean and winterize the pond. The fish keep starting to go into hibernation and the weather warms and they come back out and cold weather hits again. They're as confused as I am, but I think this is Fall's last hurrah so I'll clean the pumps and filters and get the pond ready and tuck the fish in for the long winter's night.

I am, however, leaving time today for one more warm Fall afternoon taking in the view from the porch rocker.

Happy Birthday, Katie

2010-11-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

One Wednesday a month is Library Day for Katie. That's the day she joins a reading group at the library in Madera Ranchos and the kids read to her. Since November is her birthday month, the kids threw her a birthday party.
the kids took turns reading to her as they do every visit and then the cake came out and the birthday hats and her presents.

The kids took turns taking a piece of a treat, rubbing it in their hands for the smell and then getting her to follow while they hid the treat and encouraged her while she looked for it. They'd give her the command, "take it" when she found it and she munched it down and was set to play this game again.

It was a fun visit for the kids, their moms, the library staff, and visitors in the library who looked at us like we'd completely lost it. I mean, a birthday party for a dog in a library? But I noticed no one walked away from the cake empty handed. I guess if you're going to hang out with crazy people with cake, you might as well enjoy the cake.

As part of her birthday month, she had her annual check up at the vet's. Because she has a number in her blood count that has always been off kilter, we do a panel every year and every year it's still off but it's consistently off. Therefore, I'm happy to announce I have a happy, healthy, if slightly overweight, 10 year old Katie dog. But then that just means that we're now right around the same age, a couple of senior citizens, both slowing down, and slightly overweight. I have AARP and she has Aarf. Just two pups in a pod, still good for a few more years and birthday cakes together!

The Gathering!

2010-11-10T19:06:00.000-08:00

I had the very best time on Tuesday!!! Friends of mine in the valley were throwing a surprise birthday lunch for another friend at Marie Callendar's in Fresno so I planned a full day around it and Katie and I drove down. There must have been twenty of us gathered in that room. It was a celebration and reunion both. You could feel the warmth, the love, and the happiness generated by this group.

I haven't seen some of these gals in almost 5 years, since I moved up here. Others, it had been 2 or 3 years and there are a couple I still see regularly. These are all friends from my previous church when I lived down below and, unfortunately, all but a couple of them and their families have left that church since the new priest took over. Consequently, most of them haven't seen each other in maybe a year. The eating was the least of the "lunch". It was all about celebrating Jeanine's birthday and the gathering . The visiting and memories and stories were wonderful and made us all homesick for each other again. There'll be more of these get-togethers, I guarantee.

I hope you had a really special birthday, Jeanine. And, Sara, we have a date in December at Crab Cakes!

Whether the Weather

2010-11-10T18:07:00.000-08:00

Had to drive down into Coarsegold on Monday. We'd had a rainstorm the night before and the scenery was glorious. The air was brisk and cool, the skies were clear blue with some white, fluffy clouds, a few of which had tinges of gray to let us know the rain wasn't done yet. We've had warm weather longer than usual but have already had a couple of inches of rain as well.

We passed meadows that had shrubs still in blossom and meadows that were already yellow and brown. The trees were a real sight! Leaves of orange, yellow, red, various shades of green yet. Ah yes, this is what living in the mountains is about. Having said this, we were treated to a doozy of a hailstorm in the late afternoon. Pea-sized hail that covered the ground and gave us a preview of things to come.

Tuesday we drove into the city and were treated to more clear skies and another bounty of color. Almost makes that hour long drive a treat. And it's a little warmer down there; I think they hit the mid-60's.

I love having the four seasons up here. Fall is probably the prettiest season even though Spring is the one we most look forward to following a long winter. Downside of this glorious weather? Tomorrow I get to go out and walk behind the lawn mower and edger again. But, I'll enjoy it while it lasts. Winter's only 6 weeks away. Already we've been waking up to 32 degree weather. We may warm up to a high in the upper 50's again for a few days yet, which is acceptable as long as we can have the sunshine.

Halloween Memories

2010-10-29T09:50:00.001-07:00

It's almost here! The night of little ghosts, goblins, princesses, and other fantasies. It sure is different from when my kids were little and w-a-a-a-y different from back in the olden times when I was trick or treating age.

Today we take our cars to a common area and park almost side by side with the trunks or backs open and the kids, in their costumes, come strolling through to claim their treasures. No more door to door. For one thing, I live in a fairly remote area and two hours of trick or treating would garner some poor child a lunch sack half-filled with candies - maybe. The main reason, however, is safety.

Kate and I will go to a venue that we've been doing for the last few years and it's a "treat" to watch the little ones when they see the 'puppy' dressed up as a jack-o-lantern. She's in more family albums than I can imagine and the kids want to "pet the puppy" before they think about asking for candy. The costumes haven't changed much, some new ones, of course, but we still have the ballet dancers and princesses and pirates.

When I was trick or treat age, there was an apartment building or duplex down the block from us that was always decked out like a haunted house. We were terrified of it, but you couldn't have kept us away. The screaming was part of the fun. Some people served hot cocoa or candied apples or homemade cookies. Wow, have things ever changed, how sad! One year my dad was home for Halloween (he was a merchant seaman) and he let me have a party. We went trick or treating and when we got back, we carved pumpkins for prizes (amazingly, everyone won a prize,) and then he made taffy and we had an old-fashioned taffy pull. This night became one of the highlights of my youth.

When my kids were small, we'd "do" the neighborhood, and then because it was my daughter's birthday, we'd have a post trick or treat birthday party. It gave the parents a chance to go through the goody bags looking for anything they didn't want the kids to have. Even then we had the 'razor blade in the apple' scare.

When my granddaughters were small, we'd go to the pumpkin patch and they'd each pick out the perfect pumpkin and, with Grandpa's help, they'd carve their own 'friendly' jack-o-lantern. As they grew older they would go to a harvest festival and then come to the house with friends and do a little trick or treating in our neighborhood.

When I was volunteering with the Lung Association, I had a Bear Costume, not unlike the ones you see at Disneyland. I would wear it to "Say No to Drugs" events and various other community functions. One Halloween, my husband and I went next door. He stood out of the line of vision and hit the doorbell. When the neighbors came to the door with the candy, there stood this bear with an empty wine glass in her hand saying, "trick or treat". He came up behind me with his glass and a bottle of wine and the four of us had a really good Halloween!

Halloween has always been a fun night and Katie and I will try to continue the tradition. Happy Halloween to all of you! Wishing you many treats and no tricks!!!

My Kinda 'Saturday'

2010-10-27T17:04:00.000-07:00

It was a perfect Saturday today even if it is Wednesday. The little square on my calendar was empty. Don't see that too often anymore. We slept late, didn't get up until almost 7am and then only because I was ready for my coffee. Sat and enjoyed my coffee while I thought about planning my day, fed the animals, made english muffins with p-nut butter & honey for my breakfast and decided not to plan the day but to just let it happen.

Took the broom out of the closet where it lives and swept all the floors, put away the dishes from last night and cleared the mail from the kitchen table and decided I'd earned a rest. Watched a couple of the shows I missed Sunday night and then we went outside. The weather was ideal, high of 63 degrees, mild sunshine. Great day for walking behind the lawn mower. Katie's ecstatic, no more fear of getting lost in the tall grass. Still need to edge and to take the blower to the walkways, but not today.

First, I feel a nap coming on and then I should catch up on some of my reading. It's my idea of a perfect 'Saturday' and just the right afternoon for enjoying the view from the porch rocker.

Don't Slip on the Carpet!

2010-10-25T18:54:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine was here this weekend to drain my swamp cooler and cover it. He always blows off the roof while he's up there. With the weather we've had recently, and my house being surrounded by oak trees with some pine and manzanitas in the mix, he really laid a thick carpet of leaves around the house. Unfortunately, it started raining within minutes after he left and I didn't have the opportunity to blow the leaves off the walkway, deck, or front drive. It looks like Fall has literally fallen, everything is covered by this carpet of wet, slippery leaves. We had a dry day today and hopefully will again tomorrow so maybe I can get the blower out Wednesday and at least clear a path. With all this rain, I need to break out the lawn mower as well; Katie's becoming lost in the tall grass.

All my Halloween and Harvest decorations are set out and in another week, the Halloween stuff goes back in the box and the Thanksgiving decorations come out. My two oldest were born this time of year. My eldest will celebrate his birthday on Nov 5th and my daughter was a halloween baby. She thought it was really cool that on her birthday everyone got to put on costumes and went door to door and they all got candy and goodies. This coming weekend Katie and I will participate in 'Trunk or Treat'. This'll be our 4th year. She wears a jack-o-lantern costume. (I wear warm clothing and a jacket.) Weekend after next we return to standard time. The church ladies' Holiday Boutique is that weekend and I'm busily painting Christmas tree ornaments. Can the holidays really be that close? Next thing you know, it'll be snowing! Where in the world has this year gone?

I Can't Hear You!

2010-10-23T18:49:00.000-07:00

I'm sometimes overwhelmed by today's technology. Actually, I'm overwhelmed by yesterday's technology - I haven't graduated to today's yet. My cell phone does many wondrous things, or so I'm told. I've even learned to text with my granddaughters. I can make & receive calls, use the calendar, the calculator, and the camera ... sort of. I'm told, as simple as my cell is, that it does so much more. I expect I'll never know.

I do what I think is a lot on the computer. I like not messing with carbon paper or White-Out. I've learned to send photos with my emails, I can now post on Facebook and, obviously, I blog. Earlier this week I even used a GPS when we went to the coast. I cheated - I know how to get where I was going; I thought it'd be a good test.

But at this time, my favorite piece of 'hi tech' is the DVR or TIVO or whatever you use to record your favorite shows for viewing later. Until November 3rd I watch none of my shows in real time. I DVR everything. It affords me the opportunity to not only fast forward through commercials; we've been doing that since the invention of the VCR, (ever notice how short an hour show really is?) but I'm no longer insulted or talked down to or lied to by any politician or PAC. I haven't seen one political ad since I decided to watch everything at least an hour after it broadcasts. That's not to say I'm going into the booth ignorant, I am studying the issues, pro & con, and the candidates, such as they are.

There is a time and place for this particular technology ... the time is now. Let's hear it for recording and the ability to fast forward. That's 'hi tech' enough for me and that gets my vote!

Getaway

2010-10-21T09:25:00.001-07:00

Tuesday morning my friend Karin and I dumped the two dogs, a cooler, and a couple of overnight bags into the car and left the mountain and headed to the coast. Now the nice thing about going to the coast from here is that we have to go through wine country. However, we only stopped at one winery on the way down this year. Eagle's Castle is very different from the typical winery and I wanted Karin to see it. It looks like an old castle, is surrounded by a moat, and has very interesting period rooms and items. Yeah, I know, I should have remembered to take the camera out of the car. The good news was, since I still have E/C wine in my rack, we got away cheap.

We drove to Cambria, a little town with motels right along the beach. We stay at a motel where they allow their VIP's (very important pets) to bring their people.
There's a large lawn in the center of the complex for sitting out and drinking wine with your crackers & cheese. Too bad it was so foggy and damp when we got there. But it worked out. We went down the road to another winery in a little town called Harmony, population: 18. I heard they've had a population explosion and are up to 22.

We found a dog park on our drive back through Cambria and stopped and let our dogs get out and stretch their legs. The weather here was beautiful and we just sat back and let them enjoy themselves for awhile.

Katie and I have been coming to this particular "dog-friendly" motel since 2004 and it's a wonderful spot. Directly across the road from the motel is a boardwalk that runs along the beach which affords us long walks. There are large families of ground squirrels under and along the boardwalk which affords the dogs great excitement and spurts of increased activity.

We were so tired from the drive that we stayed in for dinner. We'd brought sandwiches thinking we'd stop along the way; fortunately that didn't happen so we were able to enjoy our chicken sandwiches with the cheese & crackers in our jammies.

Wednesday, before checking out, we walked the boardwalk for all we were worth. You'll see in the pic's, Katie's little legs (and the rest of her) are much shorter than Koda's. She walked two to three times Koda's walk. She's still tuckered. Here's a shot of Katie and Koda at a viewing point.
Katie found a tree stump that had petrified and made a great resting spot.
While we were checking out, Koda made friends with the resident (rescue) pup at the motel. (A little Mutt & Jeff here?)

Back into Cambria for lunch. That little town really decorates for the holidays. There were harvest and halloween decorations everywhere. Went to a little mexican restaurant that has a dog-friendly patio in the back and had lunch and then headed back north. Made a couple more stops and then hit the highway. The dogs slept almost all the way home. They weren't nearly as excited as the day before. You could almost hear them saying, "are we there yet?" We were home by 6:pm, dog-tired, pardon the pun, but refreshed and planning our next excellent adventure. Now we know the dogs travel well together and we travel well together. We felt a little cheated about not being able to sit out, watch the ocean, and do the wine & cheese, but the rest of the trip was so much fun. Katie and I slept like the dead last night and are ready to face the real world again this morning.

Scary Story?!

2010-10-16T17:48:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week my friend Judy asked in her post, "what's the scariest thing that's ever happened to you?" Without a doubt, the scariest time in my life was just a few years back when I dove head first into panic & anxiety. But I'm not going there, at least not now.

When I was 9 - 10 years old we lived in a haunted house. No joke; for real. You wanna talk scary? Especially for a 9 or 10 year old. And to add insult to injury, it appeared that the bedroom my baby sister and I shared was the only area in the house that the spirits called home.

I would wake in the middle of the night and "they" were taking a train through our room or they were hanging out waiting for the train. I apparently made them very angry when I woke and interrupted whatever they had going on. They'd pull the covers off my bed, throw my toys around the room, dive into (or through) my face, wreak their havoc, and simply terrorize me in general.

I hated bedtime. I was terrified of my room. I'd wake the house for any number of nights in a row. My mom wasn't buying any of this until one night when she came in to quiet me down, she saw 'the baby' - my sister - in her crib pointing at, and following with her eyes, something my mom couldn't see.

Unknown to me, my mom took a small bottle down to the catholic church; came back with holy water, and sprinkled the corners of my room. This kept things at bay and quiet for a month or two or three and then they returned. This became a routine; the haunting would start, my mom would sprinkle holy water in the corners of the room, the haunting would let up and the cycle would again repeat itself.

The day we moved from that house was one of my happiest. I never looked back nor went back. Even now I would not spend a night there for any amount of money ... I'm pretty sure you couldn't get me to go in there during the daytime. That, Judy, is my 'scariest memory'.

The Saga Ends

2010-10-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

For those of you who remember the Sears Saga; it is ended, over, fini', done. My new freezer is sitting in the laundry room chilling and waiting to be loaded.

Thankfully, all my appliances are covered by Sears' Maintenance Agreement. However, it has only taken since July to bring this adventure to a close. I believe I related that the tech' discovered it needed new parts and he ordered them. After some weeks they were delivered. At least I thought they were delivered. I was looking at cartons, parts, packing lists - one of which read "order complete" but some yahoo's computer didn't have the input yet so I was told that they weren't really here and I should call to reschedule the tech' when the parts arrived. Say what?

Tech arrived. Parts: no good! Tech reordered parts. Here we go again! Last week the new parts arrived. Two days later, the tech' returned and rebuilt the freezer. The drawer still wouldn't seal. Tech was here over three hours. He called it in and said, this isn't happening, it needs replacing. Some genius at Sears asked how close it was to closing & sealing. Tech responded "approx. 80%,I can slide a dollar bill in and out of the gap so it's allowing air in." Genius: "Will she accept the fix?" Tech: "You're much further away, why don't you ask her?" My response: "This isn't horseshoes, close don't count. If the genius would like to come get the freezer and use it for his children's food, he's welcome to it." Tech & genius: "Guess that means 'NO'!"

Tech advised that report had to be sent to manufacturer for review and disposition. I won't put in writing what I replied. He gave me a card that they'd received a week earlier with a "problem resolution phone number" on it. No promises, give it a shot!

I called the next morning and nice young man said, "why have they dragged this out for so long?" I simply expressed my concern that after all this time my neighbors must have me figured as a cougar and that the tech and I must be having an affair. He's here almost every two weeks for 2 to 3 hours each time. Fifteen minutes later, when he'd finished laughing, I had an authorization number for the cost of replacing the freezer. That evening I'd been to Sears, the new freezer had been "purchased" and delivery / pickup scheduled.

Out with the old, in with the new!!! And it only cost me four months of pure frustration. With what Sears spent on the tech's time and the funky parts, they could have given me the Taj Majal of freezers. I'll admit, I love the bright, corporate mind and I really love messing with them. I'd prefer doing it over a shorter period of time but it's not how long you play the game, it's that you win!

It's Apple Time

2010-10-05T15:10:00.000-07:00

I read a post a few days ago about apple picking and it sent waves and waves of warm memories flowing through me.

My dad made killer apple pies! They were loaded with apples, lots of cinnamon & sugar, and usually a handful or two of raisins. Warm from the oven with ice cream ... didn't get any better than that. Unless, of course, he was making his lemon meringue pies. He was the king! Marie Callender, eat your heart out. No one has ever come close!

I thought about my mother-in-law and her empanadas (the mexican version of a tart or turnover). Everything was made from scratch and the aromas in her house were wonderful. Grandma made empanadas stuffed with everything from apples to beans to chili. Apple empanadas & wine, it was some goooood eating!

Before my husband took sick, we had a neighbor who would go to visit a friend in the mountains about this time of year and come home with bushels of apples. Originally, I'd peel, core, slice, season and bake them but when he retired (my husband, not the neighbor) it became a joint effort. I bought him one of those gadgets that peel/slice/core all at the same time while you crank the handle and that became his job. Then I'd make applesauces and apple butters, pies, breads, muffins, brown bettys, empanadas, and freeze apple slices for later. The house smelled nummy for days and we had a freezer full of Christmas gifts ready to go. The fact that by the time we were done neither of us could stand the sight or smell of an apple for the next month was a small price to pay. Oh yeah, it was also his job to clean all the sticky off the kitchen floor. It was a lot of fun and we shared a lot of laughter; we had a good time working together in the kitchen turning all those apples into marvelous treats that lasted us until almost the same time the following year.

All the places you go, the trips you take, the things you buy and do and isn't it funny where the warmest memories are?!

Sound & Light Show in the Mountains

2010-10-04T13:25:00.000-07:00

Last night was a hum-dinger! Katie woke me shortly after midnight totally freaked. It was the thunder & lightening storm to put every other storm I've ever tried to sleep through to shame. Poor Katie's terrified of a normal sound & light show so this was major panic time. It didn't help that I had my window wide open and the noise was increased accordingly. And then, of course, the animals feel all the electrical impulses.

I got up, got her a benadryl to help calm her and went on a hunt for the cats. They weren't anywhere to be found and then they suddenly appeared out of nowhere, velcroed to each other. No telling what they'd been hiding under, but they were very best of friends at the moment. The storm calmed and we all went back to bed and, eventually, back to sleep.

It stormed off and on throughout the night/morning and we were up and down until a little after 4:am when not only did the storm increase with a vengeance, but it set off a neighbor's alarm system as well. That fool thing went off for about half an hour, shut off for maybe 2 minutes and back on again for another 20 minutes.

It was a glorious light show and the percussion symphony was extraordinary. But at my age (just short of 68 years) I prefer sleeping at night. The cats, as cats do, have put the night behind them and are exhibiting that attitude that felines are famous for. Katie, however, will need extensive therapy. The benadryl has worn off but not the effects of last night and ... don't tell her, but ... we may have a repeat performance tonight. I'm fully expecting to see a For Sale sign by 4 Paws Realty out in front of the house by this time tomorrow.

We (Almost) Went to the Animal Faire

2010-10-03T18:12:00.000-07:00

The annual Eastern Madera County SPCA Animal Faire was scheduled for today. It's one of the most fun days of the year and a great fundraiser for our local SPCA. We have contests for the dogs and their people, information booths, demonstrations, food, and an abundance of great raffle prizes. The day starts with a "Tails on the Trail (pledge) dog walk. The pooches, with their person, walk a lap around the park then down the trail along the river, back up to the parking lot and into the park again. For those pets who want (or need) there's also a Blessing of the Animals by a local priest in honor of St. Francis' day. It's a great time enjoyed by dogs and their people alike.

Until this year ...

"Rained out? Oh no! What about my blessing? Hope it gets rescheduled!"