Fuel Trucks

So, last night before we got the race in, it rained. The problem? It's red clay! The wetter it gets, the slicker it gets. So, the fuel truck got stuck in the pits. Here's his first attempt at getting out:



Then, Larry shows him . . . it's all about speed, baby!!!

Saturday after Racing

Wow. What a week. I'm not going to go into all the details, because frankly, it's taken too much of my time and effort already. However. I do want to comment on a little bit of it because, well, I have a blog and that's what it's here for!

I was told last night that I'm just going to end up sad and alone. This after me saying that I didn't want to jump both feet first into a relationship (I barely have time to make a PB&J sandwich, let alone try to BE with someone). He said things like, "I thought your friends WANTED you to be with someone." Yeah, they do. Someone that will make me happy! "You need to have someone in your life". I do. Lots of someone's. Just because they may not be a MALE person who is a signifigant other, doesn't make them any less signifigant. Msh, K., A., they have been there for me LONG after a guy has been! I guess I still believe in the "click". You know, it's either there, or it isn't. Why waste my time, and his, if I don't feel that? And, it's not something that you can make happen after time. It just doesn't work that way. I felt it with the past 2 guys that I seriously dated, and I felt it from that very first conversation.

I jokingly talk about my rules. You know:
1. Has to be taller than me
2. Has to have all his teeth
3. Has to have a drivers license
4. Has to have graduated from high school

5. Has to have a job

6. Better have a REALLY good reason for still living with Mom

7. Probably ought to be a US citizen (this, after a bad experiance with someone who wasn't!)
You'd be surprised at how many this eliminates!!

However, I also know what I want in a guy. I want drive, determination, and strong values. Someone who stimulates me mentally, who can make me laugh, who knows when to push and when to back off. He's got to be a hard worker, a strong family man, and stand up for himself and what he believes. And you know what? I'm not going to settle for less than that. If that means that I die without ever being married, that's ok! So, to the person that told me that:

Yes, I may die alone. But, I won't die lonely. I'll die having led a full, satisfying, well-rounded life that I enjoyed every second of!!!

Now I'm going to bed. It's been a day.

Friday Laugh

D-wayne told me last night that with my dating track record, they're just going to get me a blow-up man. The problem is, with my luck there'll be a hole in him somewhere. Thanks, D-wayne!!!

Guess who's birthday it is?

That's right, it's my DAD's birthday today!!! Since I'm a slacker like that, I didn't forget about it, I just FORGOT to buy a card! So, instead I decided to do this. I realized something though. As I was trying to find photos of Dad, it was durn near impossible! Why? Because DAD was always the one with the camera! So, while these might not be the best, I wanted to share them anyway! The professional was actually in the shots . . .

Above is me and Dad, while we were camping at Yogi Bear Camp. Circa 1997, I do believe! It was awesome. We road tripped up to pick up Brad from a summer camp at SVU.

Speaking of Brad, here he is with Dad helping with some yardwork at our house in Roy. I'd have to guess Brad was about 4-5, so that would make this maybe 1982? And eating tomatoes, from the looks of it!

Dad and Mom. Not sure when this was taken, but it was at the NC house. Aren't they a great couple?Photo of Dad at Oribi Gorge in South Africa. I LOVE this picture of him!

This one is me, Mom, and Dad at Oribi Gorge. Visiting them in South Africa was one of the highlights of my life. Sure doesn't much look like Africa, does it?

Those are just a few pictures so I can actually get to work on time. I love you Daddy! Happy Birthday!!!

Photo that says it all . . .

I just got home from playing at the R's. Now, I was supposed to be helping with projects, but when given the option to get in the pool and play with the kids, guess what I chose to do?
Anyway, A. and L. went in search of the frogs we could hear chirping. K. found one, and the boys couldn't wait to play! A. thought he was all that, showing off his new friend.
Here's where I got the shot of the night. Just as A. was trying to pose for the cam, his "friend" decided to take a flying leap. Please note the location of said friend! He actually smacked L. in the nose! It was hysterical!! I couldn't wait to come home and show my blog friends . . . I never get the timing just right!!!

Another boy post . . .

Ok, so let's dive back into my past and see what we can come up with.

Went out with this guy briefly. B r i e f l y. Actually, I don't know that we ever had a "real" date, but we sure cruised main! He had this "hot" low rider truck that was just all the rage. Just one problem. No reverse. So, we couldn't pull in and talk to anyone unless he could pull straight back out. Yeah, and his name was Judd Goode. Say that with a long, drawn out, southern accent, and you wonder why I'm not there?? Shallow, I know. I was 16.

One summer THE place to be was at Little River campground. You didn't necessarily have to camp, they had this awesome swimming lake, and for a low fee, you could go in and just swim. There was a nice dock thing out in the middle of the lake, and a double decker porch that was perfect for jumping from. Add in a sandy beach complete with Volleyball, and it was heaven for a teenage girl. My friend Kathi turned me on to it, and I loved it. I remember convincing my parents to camp out there for one holiday. It must have been the Fourth, and my dad hated it!! He called it a yuppie concentration camp! The boy I had the hots for came cruising through with his bass just a-thumpin'. The way to "show" your system was to put a quarter on the roof and try to flip it. And today I wonder why I have a hard time hearing things!! The "song" that summer was Sir Mix-a-lot's "Baby Got Back" and we LOVED it! It was just sooo not what our parents wanted us to be listening to.

Now, when I want to go camping, it's out away from people, away from noise, preferrably with a nice creek just far enough away to barely be able to hear it. See, Dad, that time at Little River didn't permanently damage me. Eh? What's that you say? Sorry, you'll have to speak up . . . got my music going!

Monday

Good happy Monday, people! Haven't had a chance to post yet today . . . Couple of random things to write about though.

First of all, lotion. I love lotion, and the smelly kind from Bath and Body works is the best. Right now I'm stuck on Japanese Cherry Blossom, yumm. But, since it's summertime, I have to use the Jergen's Daily Glow. Now, Jergen's finally wisened up, and made their stuff "firming", but what I want to know is, why can't they come up with ONE lotion that does the self-tanning, firming, smell yummy, shave less, all in one??? I mean, come on. What order are you supposed to put that stuff on? I can either have smooth legs, tan legs, firm legs, or smell yummy. Grrr. What's a girl to do?

Attended a funeral today for a friend of mine's father. Good service, good 'ole Southern Baptist deal. On the way to the grave side, people were passing the funeral procession. Really. Are you in that much of a hurry that you can't allow for some decent respect? When I attended the funeral for Msh's uncle, the deputies directing traffic stood at attention. I thought that was so cool, and again, it's just a matter of respect.

What else is on my mind? Oh, have you seen the new Tractor Supply Ad? It has doggies in it! Something about, "I've never worn a leash, I've never, nor will I ever, be in a dog show. I'm not a pet, I'm a member of the family." I loved it! That's how I feel about Britney . . . she's a member of the family!

And, since I now know that Laurie is reading this, "Hi Laurie! Hi C.!" Hope your baby girl gets home quickly! Thank you for all you do for me . . . . friends are the best!

That's it for now . . . I need to shower and SNOOZE.

Sunday

Nothing really to blog about today, except for the phenomenal headache I have. I'm sure I can chalk it up to lack of sleep and not eating yet today, but wowza. Racing last night, and we just got it in before it started to rain. Thunderstorm last night was probably the best I've heard in a couple of years! I love the thunder and lightening, and the best part is that it doesn't phase Britney in the least! She just snoozed right through. Did realize, though, getting up this morning that I had left all my towels on the line from my escapade on Friday night. Whoops. Just went on and threw them in the dryer!

Just came back from a family visitation for my friends Dad. There were SO many people there! I know lots of people don't like funeral homes, but they just really creep me out. Then, while K. went in, I sat out with her kids. L. was adorable in a matching dress/shoes outfit. When I asked her where she got it, she told me, "Out of the mailbox!" Now, how do I get a mailbox that delivers perfectly cute outfits???

Typical

So, last night, this guy I met says he wants to bring a movie over. Ok, great, fine. Except, I was NOT expecting company! I flew home from the track, did some quick cleaning (sweeping up the puppy fur!), etc. I decide I have time to water my plants. As I'm carrying the can to the front porch, my "drunk catcher" as my friends like to call it (small lip going from the front door to the rest of the house, caught me! Just hit it with my heel, and BOOM, down I went. So, he's going to be here any minute, and now I have a few gallons of water on my floor, and I'm soaking wet!!! See??? Why can't I just have a normal evening???

PS - good movie. Now, it's off to clean house so I can get ready to go to Msh's baby shower. Oh, and to the person who decided to call me from a "restricted" number at 5:30 am??? Get a life, already!! Mine doesn't need you in it!!!

Let's Race

K. sent me in the direction of this. Since I work at a drag strip AND a dirt track, of course I'm a race fan! I love the song, and some of those photos? Whoa doggie! Let me know what you think . . .

Thursday and Happy!

My new phone came today! Hello, happy orange Env!! Got my ring tones downloaded, games downloaded, and Stacey sent me the bubbles ring tone.

My neighbor brought me some squash out of her garden. Man, if that doesn't say summer . . . slurp! Sauteed it up with some butter and fresh garlic . . . oooyyeee!

Today while we were getting lunch before my meeting, I ran into the gas station to get some gum. On the shelves, was a single jar of Manzanilla olives. What the heck? What kind of person buys olives at the gas station? You know they have to be for some drunk. I can hear it now. "Duuuuude! I used to looooooovvvveee these things!" I mean, what person says, "Honey, could you run down to the local Exxon? I just have to have a jar of olives to finish dinner!" Just struck me as an odd thing to have on the shelves. What do you think?

Math Problems

Alright, my fellow brilliant blogger friends.

Mom asked me this question, and I HATED word math problems. Anyone have the formula or how I can get the answer?

One person was headed north, traveling at 45 mph. Person 2 was traveling south, at 53 MPH. Both traveled 1029 miles. At what TIME did the 2 people pass each other?

Help please!

Confession Time

You know how they say that what goes around, comes around?

This morning, I found this creepy centipede thing crawling on Stacey's station, so I decided to flip her cup of pens over on top of it. When she came in, she shrieked and laughed, and I let the little guy go outside on a bush. She's always good for a laugh.

The end of the day, I was dying to go the bathroom. I get in there, start to do my thing, and out from under the toilet seat crawls this horrific centipede thing that was much uglier and scarier looking than the one on her teller station! He had legs and antenae like a cricket, but about a million of them! I'm sure they could hear me shrieking at the other end of the bank. Oh, and nope, miraculously, I did NOT have to do my business after that!!!

Some days are diamonds . . .

Confession time: I'm sitting here listening to John Denver. Lots of John Denver. Man, it brings back memories for me! Happy family memories like listening to his record (yes, the vinyl kind) in our living room in Roy with the big greenhouse mural on the wall with the hole in it that I did with my knee chasing after Brad one day. Or, rocking out to JD as we rode around in the VW van. Without seatbelts, laying on the improvised bed Dad had made. Childhood was awesome . . .

Happy Weather!

This is why life is so good right now. I love summertime and warm weather, but wow, does this ever make life comfortable! I had to close the windows last night or I would have gotten too cold!

This is how I spend my mornings. Britney brings me her FAVORITE ball, and does this annoying high pitched WHINE to get my attention. If she can't find her ball, she'll come in and whine at me until I follow her to where she last had her ball (usually, it's rolled under some piece of furniture and can't get to it.) Now, why is this her favorite ball you might wonder? I mean, this is her third one in a year, and they're KONG toys, supposedly virtually indestructible.

Maybe it's because she knows I'm going to put a bone in it! Then, she gets to chew the heck out of it until she can get the bone back out! I was hard pressed to get this bone in and the picture took (taken?) before she was trying to get her ball!I used to worry about her getting too many treats, until the latest vet visit. Since her weight got an enthusiastic thumbs up response, he said I can keep on doing exactly what I am. At least it keeps her happy!

And speaking of happy, I'm ecstatic! Remember back to where I lost my cell phone? And I was so upset that they replaced my pretty orange ENV with a silver one? Well, that silver phone has been nothing but problems. The ear piece doesn't work after a 5 minute conversation, and I have to thunk on it to get it to work. The camera takes horrible pictures, and the "OK" button periodically takes the day off. I can power the phone off, back on, and then it will work again, but who has time for all that? I finally got the time today to call the replacement people, and proceeded to explain the problems I was having. Well. The girl tells me that because I had "thunked" on the phone, I had abused it, and there-by, voided the warranty! Now, I could file another claim, and pay another $50, but that was all they can do. I did the one thing I HATE to have done to me. "Can I please speak with your supervisor?" After about a 10 minute hold, the supervisor agreed with me that I had just gotten a bad phone, and she would have a replacement to me tomorrow. "Oh, but ma'am? We don't have it in silver, just orange and green." Orange, please! What the heck? They had originally told me that I COULDN'T get the replacement in anything but silver! And, Verizon said that I can again download all of my ring tones, so I'm just tickled to death! Yay, and stuff. See? It really DOES all work out!

Speaking of cell phones, are you one of those people with different ring tones for each person? What kind of songs do you have? Drew used to laugh when he'd hear the different ones. "Hi ____" He knew them as well as I did!

Bruce

I'm going to have to write about Bruce a bit, 'cause he deserves a shout out. That, and I'm pretty durn shure he's never, ever, going to read this. Hear about it, probably, but not read it. Anyway, see this?

That's my old rotor! See that screw there at the bottom between the two posts? That's what made Bruce say a couple of bad words, but his persistance paid off, and now I have new rotors! Yay, Bruce! Thank you! So, I'm going to be baking him Pioneer Woman's Scrumptious Caramel Apple pie to show my gratitude. Yeah, 'cause I love baking and all that!!

This is a drawing that I have hanging in my bathroom. It was done for me my senior year by a guy that I was interested in. Why do I still have it? Because it reminds me that at one point, someone saw great things in me! I used to stick my tongue out at him (he worked the kitchen, I was on the drive-thru at Hardee's). Yes, fast food has been one of my many jobs! He said he started to believe in God after meeting me and going to church a few times with me. The Cat was because my nickname at the store was Kit Kat, the eagle represented freedom. The Genie lamp was one of our dates (he took me to see Aladdin!). Corny, well, yeah, probably, but you know what? It took him some time and effort to do it, and I've never forgotten him nor the sentiments he expressed. I went away to school, and when I came back, he had moved on, but he was still one of the sweet ones that I remember quite fondly.

Tagged!

I got tagged! Ok, so maybe I shouldn't be so excited about it, but this is my first "tagging" where I didn't just swipe the idea from someone else's blog. Thanks, Stephanie!

First the rules ('cuz I ALWAYS play by the rules!):

Link back to the person that tagged you.

List the rules.
Share 6 important things about yourself.

Tag 4 people at the end of your entry.

Six important things about myself:
-I love to try new recipes. Cooking makes me happy! Tonight I'm having pinto beans that turned out perfectly.

-My life can fall apart and I can handle it, as long as my house is clean. When the house falls apart, everything else does, too!

-I firmly believe that when you get to feeling sorry for yourself, do something nice for someone else. There is ALWAYS someone worse off than you.

-I might, might, just have a touch of OCD. I like things just my own certain way.

-Even after all the crazy drama and swearing off men each and every time, I secretly still hope to be swept off my feet.

-I love ringtones. I have a secret addiction to them. Right now I've got as my generic, "Settlin'" by Sugarland to remind me not to. And for messages? The cutest "bubbles" thing that Stacey sent me. Msh once called me in the middle of a meeting. I couldn't get to my phone fast enough to shut off "Girls just wanna have fun" The guy doing the meeting said, "That better be your best friend. Tell her we said hi!"

Four people who have been tagged:
John Deere Mom

The Gremlin Wrangler

The Righteous Buzz

Half-Past Kissin' Time

Go forth and tag!

This makes me feel old

Why? Why would this make me feel old? Well, you have to realize that this kid was an infant, not even a year old, when we moved to NC. And, wasn't that just about 5 years ago? Right? RIGHT? Kind of like my saying that I had just graduated in '04. Well, there was a 4 in it, but it was '94, not '04!

I still remember being told that we were moving to NC. We were at a BYU football game, playing the Air Force. I was 13, almost 14. Can you think of a worse time to move? During a recent conversation with Mom about PM and JS, she reminded me that there was a boy before we left Utah. Oh, and I REALLY liked him. Can't quite remember how we met . . . I'm thinking that it was during Pear season, and I called to see if they wanted to buy any, but, we met once at the roller skating rink and it was wonderful. I got these cool plastic sunglasses that I just knew were perfect! Those were the days of the 2 t-shirts with the sleeves rolled up to show the other color, and the 2 pairs of socks, same deal. Oh, and the pegged jeans! Yeah, we were styling.

At some point, I wanted to go see said boy. Mom said no, so resourceful me decided to take the bus to Layton. As I recall, this was about 30 minutes from my house. I can't remember how I got caught, but wowza. Talk about being in trouble! I was banned from ever seeing said boy again!

When we moved to NC, my parents allowed me to see him one last time. I vaguely remember him coming by the house. When I went back out West to go to college, I looked him up. Him? What was I thinking? Whoa. Not at all the boy that I remembered! He took me to see his cousin, who literally fell over when he said, "You remember Sheri, right?" I "dated" said cousin that summer (letters, mostly) but realized we could have no future when he put "I think you are defiantly the one for me." I'm sorry, but if you don't know the difference between defiantly and definitely, then you are not the one for me! Ricks was going to have bigger and better things for me, I was sure of it!

Creepy Crawlies

Ladies, if you have a big, strong man around, please be grateful.

For the longest time, I've had a spider living in the corner of my bathroom. I'm ok with this. Where I live is affectionately referred to as Skeeter Flats, and as long as the spider stays put, fine. He eats the things that like to nibble on me while I snooze.

This morning, as I was getting out of my shower, Mr. (Mrs.?) spider decided he was going to drop on down and say hello. Only by my quick shimmy out of the way did I barely manage to miss him literally landing on my shoulder. I shiver just thinking about it! The worst part, for me, of killing a bug is hearing it crunch. However, when faced with a spider hitch-hiking or hearing a crunch, yup, I grabbed a Kleenex and that crawlie found itself going down the toilet! I then also re-sprayed all around the window. No more!

When I was in college, we had a rule that if you squish it, you clean it. Eventually, the housekeeping department would get a call from the kitchen, "We need our glasses back." We would trap the bugs so they couldn't go anywhere, but yet, since we didn't squish them, we didn't have to do anything with them.

Fast forward to about 3 years ago, when I found a HUGE, and yes, I do really mean, huge spider hanging out right beside the toilet as I tried to do my thing. I had one of those McDonald glasses, you know, the Shrek ones with about a 3.5" diameter opening, right beside the sink. I flipped that glass down over the spider and it barely covered it! I finally tracked down one of my guy friends to come and dispose of the creature.

You know Cindy? My co-worker? She hates things that jump. She'll barely go into an office if there is a cricket on the floor! Chris once threw away my whole trash can. He had taken them to the dumpsters for me, but when he pulled the lid off, there was a giant black snake curled up looking back at him! He said he just didn't even bother - just threw away can and all!

Any good creepy-crawlie stories out there that you've had?

Father's Day

I've read numerous posts today about father's, but mine is absolutely the best!

Growing up, many of my friends were "oops" and "unexpected's" You know what? I was wanted. Desperately. I'm adopted, but have never, ever, felt the need or the desire to find my "real" parents. I've had them for the past 32 years.

My dad has taught me about just about everything I know. Here's one of my favorite pictures I took while I was in Texas. Even when we were on the safari in Africa, Dad was asking about the plants. He loves things that grow in the dirt!

Thanks Dad, for everything. From your love of twizzlers, taffy, the color purple, walking home with kittens racing around your middle, to your love of family and your testimony, thank you.

Saturday

Please keep in mind that generally, Saturday's are the one day I can sleep in. I got up, let the mutt do her thing, then we went back to bed. Well. Then my "friend" Chris called. "Aren't you coming to help the Ruritan's spread mulch?" 5 hours, one aching back and a nice sunburn, and the mulch is spread. As soon as we were done I grabbed the puppy and we went and cooled off in the river!

Took a quick nap, then headed for the track. However, the thunder boomer that rolled through put a quick end to racing, so now I'm watching old Indiana Jones movies. How was your Saturday?

More on PM

Let's fast forward a year. I just come home from college, and dead set against going back. I got to wondering, "Whatever happened to PM?" So I decided to send him a letter. Hard to believe now, with cell phones and text message and IM's and email, but yup, a good old fashioned hand written letter. And, this was a LONG time ago (1995!) That same week, he started wondering about me! Our letters actually crossed in the middle. Yes, you can sigh over the romanticism of that. Anyway, one thing lead to another, and when he got back stateside, we decided to give dating a go. I had planned on being ready to meet him at the airport on Friday night, but some last minute changes had him driving in on Saturday.

This is what siblings are for, right? I was getting ready, hot rolling my hair, getting the make up just right so I could be casually laying around the house when he showed up. Dear sweet Brad, decides to let PM IN without telling me. So, the first time I lay eyes on him after almost 2 years, I have 1/2 my make-up on and rollers in my hair. Yup, I was mortified. Now that I'm older and wiser, I would have rocked that look, but nope, I had to slam the bathroom door on his face!

We dated for a few months, him coming in. It was so romantic to have a man in uniform, and even better, MY best friend was dating HIS best friend! Unfortunately, we had a falling out. I told him that when he was ready to hear what really happened, to call me back. Since it's been almost a decade, I'm pretty sure he's not calling!

I had kept every letter he had written me. My senior year of college, Msh finally convinced me to let go of the past and let him go. I threw away those letters, and I've regretted it ever since. I used to love to read back through them, some of them 20 pages in length, and realize that yes, at some point, he really DID care for me. I think once you get married to someone is when you need to throw out the old stuff . . . til then, it's a nice reminder of where you've been!

More adventures on JS later. He's another tale to tell!

Let me tell ya 'bout this boy . . .

Since the blog title is "Life, Love, and other Drama", let's talk about boys for a bit.

I wasn't allowed to date until I was 16, and even then, I couldn't go out with the same guy more than twice in a row. Dad didn't want me getting too serious about anybody. Of course if he had known that I would still be single now, he might have re-thought that, but anyway.

This guy, PM, rode the bus with me. He got on first, and I got on second. Everyone called him Gerbil. I think it came from a drama class nickname. He was on the fire department, and I remember that I thought the George Strait song, "Fireman" should have been about him! I had THE biggest crush on him, but I was going through my rebellious stage and wearing a whole lot of black with blood red lipstick. Did I mention I tried to go blond with peroxide? Not such a good idea on a brunette! He later confessed that I scared the bejeebies out of him! PM moved on, graduated, and joined the Navy.

Meanwhile, I fell in love with JS. Now, JS will take a few posts, but basically he was my first **real** boyfriend. The summer I was 17 involved a lot of time down at Lake Lure, along the river, hanging out with Nicole, her boyfriend, and JS. Nicole ended up not being such a good friend, and broke JS and I up, but still. That summer is still one of my favorite memories. I think we survived on 80's hair band music, Black Cherry Mystic Juice, and Slim Jims.

Now, it's my senior year, and PM came home from the Navy. Stopped by the fast food place I was working and wanted to give me a ride home. Headed home, he decides to take this back route, that involves a dirt road. I'm rather turned off that he's trying to show off, and he asks, "Does my driving scare you or something?" I didn't want to admit it, but it did! Smart me, says, "Not a bit," and he speeds up. Next thing I know, we're off the road, through a ditch, and did I mention it was pouring down rain? If I had known then that this escapade was nothing compared to later adventures . . . I should have quit while I was ahead! But, I get out of the car and go stomping down the road.

"Where are you going?"
"Anywhere but around you!"
"At least take my jacket, so you stay dry!" I've always been a sucker for a gentleman.

We got to the main road, and I knocked on the door of some nice stranger. I can't understand why they wouldn't let this soggy, muddy girl in to use the phone, but they did bring me their cordless. PM was panicking, "Don't call your dad! Call my brother!"

I was SOO late getting home for curfew (and grounded for every minute I was late. Weren't my parents HORRIBLE?) However, I think this time my parents were just relieved I was alright, and let the punishment slide. PM was gracious enough to come in and admit that my being late was his fault. The next day, he wanted to come visit again! I couldn't get him back on a ship any faster.

More on him later . . . I didn't really start out to write a novel!

This is a problem

Now, don't get me wrong. I love animals, all kinds. I have a bird feeder, and in the wintertime, I put food out for the squirrels. Britney loves to watch them, and I do as well. I am all for all kinds of birds. I even have a little bird bath thing. But. I have these hanging flowers that I can NOT get to bloom again. (remember . . . me, black thumb). When I lived at my other house these same plants bloomed like crazy but not so much now. I've Miracle Gro-sticked them, kept them nice and moist, let them dry out, I don't know what else to try! I have noticed, however, that the birds have decided that since they are high up and rather sheltered, that they are GREAT places to have a nest. Every couple of nights, I go through, and pull out the OLD nests. I'm sorry, but birds are messy, and I do NOT need that on my front porch! Trees, yes. Flower pots, no. This morning, I pulled them down to check on them, and find THIS!

I can be pretty insensitive at times, but even I don't have the heart to throw out potential babies!!! I think they're just sparrow eggs, but still! The one egg is in a spot where I threw the nest out last night. Mama must have gone on and laid the egg this morning anyway!

Speaking of babies. I was talking to Msh this morning, and getting the update on how she's feeling. Part way through the conversation, she tells me, "I think I'm allergic to the bunny." "Well, throw it out then!" I was thinking she had a stuffed bunny of some kind. Nope. She proceeds to tell me how she was helping H. put up hay, when she saw a large black snake with a wriggly belly. It was eating a family of baby bunnies! So, H. scooped up the last one, and deposited it on Msh's lap. She took it home, and has it in a basket. Has had it for about a week now, and been bottle feeding it. She said it's really cute, and is trying to figure out how to eat grass. I see a new member of her family, if she can keep it away from the 4 dogs!

Vet Report

I just got home from the vet, where I got Britney's "spot" checked. He said he felt it was a hystio-something or other. Basically, while it is a tumor, it will go away on it's own in 3-4 months. He said it will literally be there one day, and gone the next. I have to watch it for growth and for excessive bleeding, but otherwise, she'll be ok. Everyone at once: WHEW. I am SOOO relieved. He was extremely pleased with her weight loss. He had wanted her 75-85 lbs, and she's actually at 69.5. WOW. He said if I kept her there, she would be fantastically healthy, and much better on her poor knees and hips. They are so good out there. Anyone in this area, Bedford Animal Hospital. I can't recommend them enough!!!! Thank you everyone for your well wishes for my baby girl!!!

I blame K.

I went with her yesterday to the greenhouse, and she got it into my head that yes, I really can grow things. I have an ivy plant at home that's been working on dying for a while now, so I figured that maybe if I repotted it with some fertilizer it would help. One pot. One bag of potting mix. Instead, now my credenza looks like this:

The one brighter violet in the middle is the one that I've worked on for several months now. The one behind it is the one I purchased yesterday. And, since I have SUCH a green thumb, why not try an orchid? (The one on the far right is a member of that family.) And I love peace lilies, or whatever their real name is, so I got 3 different "greenery" things and put them in the pot on the far left. And that sad looking ivy thing on the front left? Yeah, that's what started all this. Any tips or suggestions? Things like give up while I'm ahead? Oh, and the pretty orange thing? That just smells good!

Cheetos

Alright, so I like Cheetos. I like stale Cheetos. Open the bag, let 'em sit a day or so in the humidity, then they are perfect. However, I'm not allowed to eat Cheetos anymore. I've purchased 3 bags in the past week. Each time I come home, I have a pretty black puppy with an orange forehead. So. This last bag, I put up. Here.

I figured they're up. Ignore the mess, but that silver bowl? On the highest countertop above the bread box? Yeah, that's where there WAS a bag of Cheetos getting nice and stale for me. Let's see what's in the bowl now! Tell me how that mutt manages to get up there and eat my Cheetos! You know, if I leave celery, she doesn't touch the stuff. Too smart for her own good . . . .

Msh

I've mentioned Msh in passing before, but I think you ought to hear a bit of the back story on her. First of all, she is one of my most-bestest friends ever. She and I met in 1997 when we both attended SVU. When I first saw her, she was roommates with a girl that was, shall we say, a little unbalanced, and I initially felt so bad for her! Later, when I actually met her, she kind of scared me. See, I'm a simple girl from Western NC, and she SCREAMED high fashion. You know, the perfectly coordinated outfits, with the "right" hair, the "right" look. Not a whole lot in common. One evening, she and another girl took pity on me since I was working at the bookstore and would miss dinner. She fixed me a PB&J sandwich. Did you know that it IS possible to mess that up? I thought she had poisoned me! Who in the world puts butter on a PB&J sandwich? Evidently, she did! Said it was to keep the jelly from coming through the bread. Yeah. Ok. Whatever! Anyway. One evening, we were sitting around talking, and I guess I surprised her with some of my escapades, and it's been on ever since! She knew how much I loved country music, and would allow me one country CD each road trip! Fast forward to last year, when I got in her 4 Runner, and she's listening to Merle Haggard. Honey, come BACK from the edge . . . you've gone too far!

Anyway, the first summer after college, I was worried about what I would do without Msh around. She said, "Do you know where ___ is? I'm going to be a camp counselor there this year." Uh, yeah, it's about 20 minutes from my house!!! After we graduated from college, neither one of us really wanted to move out or on. Brad had died, so I didn't want to go back to NC, and she was ok where she was. Eventually, she got married, and moved back to DC, but no matter what, we've been there for each other.

However, life goes on, things change. She is now pregnant and due the first of August. Whoa. That changes life up some! I'm still so excited for her though . . . and I'll get to spoil that kid rotten!!! Msh has the most awesome sense of humor. Quirky, fun, and always a great voice of reason for me. And, she doesn't mind when I get stuck on one subject and that train keeps going 'round and 'round in my head! What about you? How did you meet your best friend? How long have you been friends? Any great stories you want to share?

Flowers

Karey convinced me that I could handle just a few flowers, so after a business call to the greenhouse, I was off and running.
I picked out several purple things, and the woman assured me they'll do just fine all together in the pot. Yeah, that was until I touched them!

These are kind of small right now, but they promised me they'll grow quick and big and pretty, so we'll see! The bad thing is, they're annuals! I'll have to do it all again next year! I am so not the domestic-y type person for this!

My New Happy Flavor

What is this happy thing? First of all, you need to realize that I'm lactose intolerant, so I usually don't do ice cream. I was actually on the hunt for Popsicles, since I like to have something cold when I get back from having a river adventure with Britney, but this caught my eye. It sounded interesting, I was hot, I was hungry, so I gave it a whirl. Oh my lands! Whoa. Dangerous territory. Life was fine before I knew about this.
Yes, it really tastes like frozen cake batter. Yes, the chocolate frosting is just the perfect amount. Did I eat WAY more than I should have? Yup. Then, right after taking this photo, I very carefully put it away in the freezer. It's so good, you really only need a couple of spoonfuls! Oh, and yes, I did get the Popsicles as well. They're not quite as good as Cake Batter Ice Cream, though, but they do the trick. Britney also gets frozen treats-low sodium chicken or beef broth that I freeze and then give her. She thinks they're the greatest things ever!!! What do you do as a quick beat-the-heat trick?

You ate a what?

Here's another embarassing moment for me to add to the collection, but it goes back a few years.

We had answered a squad call over in the Snowden area that turned out to be unfounded, and were headed back. C. was driving, and LM was in the back. All of a sudden, C. hollered (yes, hollered, really.) "Look out!" and did the whole "mom" thing and flung his arm across my chest. Because that does a MUCH better job than the seat belt I had on. Anyway. From out of nowhere, off the bank, came this HUGE turkey. I mean, it must have weighed 50 lbs. It's my story, it was 50 lbs. The poor birds feet got hung up in the windshield wipers, so it's squawking away, I'm screaming and carrying on, and C. is yelling, "Don't let it get away!" Yeah, and who's the redneck here? He gets the unit quickly pulled over, and the bird is DOA. Some hunters popped out of the woods, "Hey, I shot that bird!" C. gave it a once over and said, "You might have shot AT it, but I HIT it!" Ok, so now what? Yeah, I can do IV's, and I can do CPR, but I am NOT about to do it on a bird! (Dogs, yes. Birds, no) I've seen the movies of the "dead" animals that come back, but C. was adamant that he was taking the turkey with us. After securely strapping down the bird, we headed back. Once back at my house, C. entertained Britney by cleaning said turkey in my back yard. I stayed hidden in the house. He came in with the breast, and seasoned it up, fried it in butter, and you know what? It was delicious. I cringe to admit that, since in my opinion turkeys come from Wal Mart with funky bags of stuff in them, but it was good! Msh called, and I was relaying the story to her. She was quiet for a minute, then said, "You mean to tell me you're eating roadkill?" Errrrr, who's the redneck now? And you know what? I couldn't choke down another bite!

Life is Gooooood

I used to have a friend that would say that . . . . drawled, out, g uuuu ooooo d. And, it is. Friday night was spent at the Drag Strip, nothing new there. Saturday was started at the Drag Strip, and can I just tell you how HOT it was?!?! I have friends who ride motorcycles: this is not directed at them, but I HATE MOTORCYCLE SHOWS! First of all, no one wants to listen to the rules, or pay attention to what is going on. Second of all, UGH! It's just a headache to keep up with. Then, I headed to the round track. Out of the frying pan, into the fire. HOT, hot, HOT! And, I think the heat just got to people. One guy in particular cursed me, but whatever. I was just mad that he would use language like that in front of a kid. Of course, I'm sure A. has NEVER heard language like that before, but still. A. was so nice to come over with the golf cart so I could have some kind of shade! Still, with the sunblock, and the bug spray, once the track started kicking up dust, I was a lovely shade of red clay!!

Sunday I went to the river twice to cool off. See, I didn't have my window A/C units in yet . . . and poor Britney was just roasting. The above picture is my indoor/outdoor thermometer. Yeah. HOT! Came home, took a COLD shower, and fought Britney for the spot in front of the fan. Annette came over, let herself in, and had her son and his friend right behind her. I lurve Annette. Not only did she bring me my car BACK with the window UP, but she brought my big A/C unit, and the 2 boys and she (I got more in the way than helped) got those units in quick! Now, my house is going to resemble the bat cave as I keep the blinds drawn and the light (and heat!) out. Me 'n the mutt slept SOOO good last night! THEN, S. mentioned that a friend of his has a car that he's going to go check out for me. For the price, I really can't turn it down if it's actually running and in decent shape! And, if that wasn't enough, K. told me that her FIL is an electrician, and may be able to look at my window (D. thinks that it's a wiring problem). So, B. can do the rotars/struts, FIL may be able to look at the window . . . what was I pouting for???

Even better, since I have MY car, now I can get in the river completely with Britney. Too bad tonight is Skills Drill. Be a great night for swimming!!! I love living where I do. When I met cute river boy a week or so ago, he said that my town really was the place that time forgot. People still wave at each other, stop to help someone who needs it, and generally keeps an eye out on each other. I can't imagine a better place to live!

Pouting

This is what happens when I decide to leave for the day. I get this mutt laying wherever I'm getting ready, and then this look . . .

Flowers

You need to know . . . I have NO green thumb. Growing up, Dad had a greenhouse in our basement, but I have not a clue when it comes to green stuff. Although, if it's green and has leaves outside I don't touch it, since I am HIGHLY allergic to poison ivy. Once, I got a tiny patch in the inside of my elbow. I was told to put bleach on it, since that will help dry it out. Welllll, if a little bleach is good, a lot is better, right? I put some on a cotton ball and let it sit on the spot. The doctor told me he had never seen a chemical burn on TOP of poison ivy!! Anyway, I had a client give me the violet, and I just water it when the leaves get droopy, and leave it alone. The other green thing was sitting on my front porch. This week, I had to REPOT both of them!! They haven't died! I guess they are both the kind of plants that like to be left alone!! So, I now have a total of three plants that I haven't killed yet. Yet. That would be the key part of that phrase!

Co-Workers

These are the amazing ladies I work with. From left to right, Carrie (who does the same job I do), Laurel, Cindy, Stacey, Kristin, (all tellers), and me. Cindy is also the supervisor on the teller line. She's the one that knows all my secrets. Aren't they a great group? D. is SO lucky to get to work with all us wonderful women!! Think he realizes it?

Burns

Ok, so I've now given the girls their laugh of their day. First of all, if injuries make you cringe, now might be a good time to start reading.

The other morning I was rushing around, trying to get ready for work, and realized that my clothes were just a little to wrinkled for my taste. Well. I pulled the iron out, plugged it in, and kept on gettin' ready. Whipped off my clothes, and starting whisking away with the iron. Weeellll. Just as I was finishing a swipe closest to me, I leaned in as I pulled the iron towards the inside of the board and . . . yeah. The side of the iron side swipped my stomach! Now, it really didn't hurt so much as startle me, and then I realized what a total dork I was . . . and got ready for work. That night in the shower. . . yowza! Pain! I have a beautiful burn, about 5" long, running long ways. Yeah. That's right. I'm the idiot who tried to iron her belly into submission. I think maybe diet and exercise really IS the best option!!!! Please tell me you're laughing right about now. So, let's tally. In October, I kicked the stick, straight into my foot. Last month, I splashed hot oil on same said stomach and toes. And, then the iron. Someone please save me from myself!!!

YouPet

See what happens when I run out of things to do? I read other people's blogs, and then I find neat ideas like this. Yeah, 'cause that's just what Britney needed. I may have to agree with A., she's a bit no not spoiled WELL LOVED! Yeah. That's it. Well loved. Excuse me while I go let her back in and give her breakfast!

Store run

Stacey, being the oh-so-observant one around here, noticed traffic was being crazy, and this is what we went outside to find. Can't exactly figure out what's going on, but while I was out snapping these shots, one guy ignored the police and drove right under that wire! At least it would have given the medics something to do . . . . . it definitely slows down the traffic into our branch!

I ran up to Wal-mart (hey, it's a small town . . . choices are limited) earlier today. I know better than to not have coffee on hand for Cindy, and since the Man is currently out on daddy-duty, we're all doing things we don't normally do. Stacey requested "Wild Cherry Diet Pepsi". Oooo0-Kaayyy. Sure, whatever. Wait, while I'm on Stacey. She's adorable. She's perky. She's a blonde. Not a natural one, but at least she's back to the color she should be. Anyway, on Monday, she came in ROCKING this look. If I had worn it, my friends would have wanted to know what I was drinking as I got dressed. She had on a Kelly green shirt, that was designed to look like it was three shirts. It had cute multi colored spots on it. Underneath, she had on an aqua tank top. So, it looked like she had FOUR shirts on. Then, to top it off, she had gray pants that had dark gray stripes. To sum it up? Spots and Stripes. AND, she looked like she just stepped out of a magazine. Only Stacey could do it. Anyway. I digress. I'm at Wal-Mart, and they had a power surge, so all the registers were being crazy. I saw that the 12 pks of Dr Pepper were 2/$3. Duh, more is always cheaper, so I got the 24 pack. When I FINALLY got to the register, I realized they were 6.48. What the heck? Shouldn't they be cheaper??? At that point I was so hot (when did Summer get here?) I was aggravated and said the heck with it and came on back. But, now everyone has the drinks they want, Cindy is stocked on caffeine, so all will be good for Friday. Now, who's bringing the donuts???

Caffeine

OnePlusYou Quizzes and Widgets

Help with spot

Ok, so I'm reaching out to my blogger friends. Britney has this spot on her ear. Been there going into the 3rd week now. I have a friend who gave me some Animax to put on it (this is the 3rd day of treatment) Any ideas what else it might be or what to do about it? I really, REALLY cannot afford a vet visit right now, so any suggestions would be appreciated! There's no heat in it, and although she shakes her ears a lot, it doesn't seem to itch or cause her pain. She's ok with me fooling with it, until she just gets aggravated and wants to play. Suggestions, please!

Fun Post

Coffee Bean has this posted on her blog, and I thought it looked like fun!

Read my answers, then copy and paste to your blog, making sure to change the answers before posting. Can't wait to read about you! Please post a comment back here with a link back to your blog. If you want to, that is.

The Letter A
Are you available? Depends on what you need me to do. Oh, wait. THAT kind of available. Oh, sure, why not. As long as he meets my rules requirement, I can run with that.
What is your age? 32
What annoys you? People who drive just under the speed limit, and then speed up when you hit a no-passing area.

The Letter B
Do you live in a big house? I live in a more-than-adequately sized house for my wants and needs. A whole upstairs I rarely use.
When is your birthday? April
Who is your best friend? I have so many very good friends, they know who they are. And, I don't like to use names on here.

The Letter C
What's your favorite candy? Reese's cups
Your crush? The girls have been teasing me about my WM friend, so let's let that stand right now
When was the last time you cried? Sunday. Huge Pity Party. I'm over it now, thank you.

.The Letter D
Do you daydream? Way more than I should.
What's your favorite kind of dog? A Britney dog, of course!
What day of the week is it? Wednesday.

The Letter E
How do you like your eggs? Scrambled
Have you ever been in the emergency room? Yes. I rammed a stick into my foot. And, yes, it was as painful as it sounds.
What's the easiest thing ever to do? Eat.

The Letter F
Have you ever flown in a plane? Yes, numerous times.
Do you use fly swatters? Only if I can find mine.
Have you ever used a foghorn? Nope.

The Letter G
Do you chew gum? Yes, even though I know it's un-ladylike, mom. Stride Spearmint
Are you a giver or a taker? Definitely a giver.
Do you like gummy candies? Eh, if I'm in the mood for it.

The Letter H
How are you? Right now, feeling very grateful.
What color is your hair? Dark brown

The Letter I
What's your favorite ice cream? Pistachio
Have you ever ice skated? Shore'nuf have!
Do you play an instrument? The piano

The Letter J
What's your favorite jelly bean brand? Jelly Bellies.
Do you wear jewelry? Yes, but pretty simple stuff

The Letter K
Who do you want to kiss? No one at the moment.
Do you want kids? Sure, at some point, if it's meant to happen.
Where did you go for kindergarten? Roy, UT

The Letter L
Are you laid back? Most of the time.
Do you lie? Generally, No. I do sometimes to avoid hurting some one's feelings. Sometimes I say I am fine when I am not

The Letter M
Whats your favorite movie? Too many to chose. Right now I'm still loving "Enchanted"
Do you still watch Disney movies? Ha! See above answer. I love Disney.
Do you like mangoes? Don't know that I've ever tried one!

The Letter N
Do you have a nickname? Mom used to call me Simply Wonderful.
What is your real name? Sheri.
Whats your favorite number? 17

The Letter O
Whats your only dream? To be able to make a difference.
Are you an only child? No, but Brad is no longer physically around.

The Letter P
What fear are you most paranoid about? Being alone
What are your pet peeves? People smacking their mouths while they eat or chew gum. Ugh.
What's a personality trait you look for in people? Honesty and a sense of humor

The Letter Q
What's your favorite quote? I love quotes! The one this week is the "Life isn't about how many breaths you take, but the moments that take your breath away.
Are you quick to judge people? I don't think so, but in some circumstances, yes.

The Letter R
Do you think you're always right? No, I am an idiot and I know it.
Are you one to cry? Yes, but I HATE to do it where people see me.

The Letter S
Do you prefer sun or rain? I love them both but don't like too many consecutive days of either.
Do you like snow? I love snow!!!
What's your favorite season? Depends on what it is. Right now I'm loving spring.

The Letter T
What time is it? 812:05 p.m.
What time did you wake up? 7:03 a.m.
When was the last time you slept in a tent? Probably been a decade or so

The Letter U
Are you wearing underwear? Of course!
Underwear or boxers? Undies, baby!

The Letter V
What's the worst veggie? Raw Tomatoes
Where do you want to go on vacation? Beach, beach, more beach please!

The Letter W
What's your worst habit? Self doubt
Where do you live?Southwest Virginia

The Letter X
Have you ever had an x-ray? Yup. For teeth and a broken collar bone. Not at the same time.
Have you seen the x-games? Nope
Do you own a xylophone? No, but I used to play one!

The Letter Y
Do you like the color yellow? Yes! It makes me think of Spring and being warm
What's one thing you yearn for? The happy ending

The Letter Z
Whats your zodiac sign? Taurus. Yes, I'm that stubborn
Do you believe in the zodiac? Not one bit.
Favorite zoo animal? Elephants, giraffes, and otters

Quotes

I can't help but share these. I work in the financial world, and while I realize not everyone understands finances, (heck, I can barely balance my checkbook!), there are some requests that just blow our minds.

"If I take money off my Home Equity Line, can I pay it back?" Umm, actually, we hope you will!

"I keep trying to cash my check with the auto-teller, but it won't do it." --Ok, where exactly were you trying to cash it? "I keep trying to shove it in that little slot thing, but it won't take it!" --To be fair, I have seen ATM's that WILL cash checks, but ours isn't one of them, and doesn't remotely look like one!

"Are you open today or is it a holiday?" Nope! We just have people here answering the phone for the people who call in.

Just a few we've had this past week. Really. I'm not kidding. Before I die, there are two sentences I want to say. #1 is how I'd like this conversation to go. "I can't understand why I'm overdrawn." Me: because you've spent more money than what you have!!

Let's move on the squad things, since I just came from a meeting, so squad calls are on my mind! Normally, when we say we're headed to the hospital, it's based on the level of service we can offer. So, Basic Life Support would be, "Rescue 33, enroute." Paramedic level would be, "Medic 33, enroute." Just once, I want to say, "Taxi 33" I'll have to make it on my last call, because I'm sure it won't go over well, but people! Really! Getting there in an ambulance does NOT mean that you are going to get better/faster service. I promise! Note to self to stop talking about this, since I am on call tonight and am sure to jinx myself! Gotta love the people that call 911 at 3am for General Illness. We roll up in there, "So, what made you decide to call for the squad NOW?" "I just couldn't take it anymore." Or, how about this one. Person calls in, well after midnight, for "extreme tiredness" Yeah, dude, me too!!!! When I joined the squad, I had 2 goals. I wanted to deliver a baby, and save a life. Know what? I have YET to do either one!!! I'm frequently told, "I could NEVER do that." I used to think that. Then, Brad was killed in a car accident, and it really bothered me, to wonder if someone better/faster/smarter had gotten there, if it would have made a difference. I now realize, er, um, nope. Dead on impact really means dead on impact. Seen it. Really. But, it made me want to be able to prevent another person from feeling that if I could. Then, my friend joined, and convinced me to do it with him. I can count on both hands, in 6 years time, the number of "gross" calls I've had. And you know what? They're usually gross in such a cool way that it doesn't freak me out! Plus, volunteering makes me feel like I'm giving something back, and I love helping people. Maybe not so much in the middle of a dream about my yummy friend, but hey, we don't get to pick the times! But, I should show some special love for a particular breed of people who have AMAZING patience - our dispatchers. How often can you get PAID to tell someone where to go? For the most part, ours are wonderful. I'm horrible with directions, and I usually need someone very patient to repeat the address, or get me in the right direction. They should involve, "Turn Right/Left out of the parking lot." We're out in the boonies, and it's easy to get turned around! These people sit, waiting for that phone to ring, and then get to coordinate everyone there. I lurve me some dispatchers. Yes, I'm saying that so y'all will keep things shhhhhhhh tonight. :-)

ETA: I just got up this morning (730), and I KNEW better. We had two calls last night - Mutual Aid for a tree down in the road (we don't go for the tree - not much we can do there, but for the people who might run into said tree, and the people working on clearing it out), and a Tractor/Trailer on fire. Guy realizes his rig has flames coming out, so he pulls off the interstate . . . right at a gas station! Yup. People just amaze me sometimes, but needless to say, I'm a little sleep deprived this morning.

Moments

"Life is not about the breaths you take, but the moments that take your breath away."

I've had very few of those moments. Saturday night is one of them. Sitting there, under the stars, talking to him, I felt beautiful.

Drawing

Pity Party

Hi people. Today, not such a good day. 99% of the time, being single is AWESOME. However, when things start to go south fast, sometimes, it would be REALLY nice to have someone else just say, hey, we'll handle it. It will be OK. Really.

Last night was . . . aaarrrggghhh! I can't even talk about it here, but talk about screwing with my head . . . big time. Huge. Mega. Wow. I've spent all day trying to wrap my head around it, and it's just not working for me. Why the heck do guys SAY things like that??? I mean, there are some words that you just don't throw around casually, and those are NOT some of them! No, I'm not talking about the L word. This was way deeper than that. I just don't know what to think anymore.

Car issues. Having some problems with getting the rotars fixed, and now we're on the hunt for a window motor. Turns out, my car is a REALLY good car, because there are none in junkyards to be found! So, if you happen to know where I might look, let me know!!!

You know, for all the frustration I've had this weekend, it's just made me grateful to my friends. A. & D. have been SO good to lend me their car, and K. and M. keep me sane, and C. & L. are now joining the car parts hunt, and out of the blue, S. called today, and what am I griping about? Life really isn't THAT bad!!!