Our Flags Fly at Half Mast Again.

 After going outside and noticing that the flag was at half mast again, it made me wonder what had happened this time. Thankfully, Prince Phillip lived a long and relatively happy life. His family will undoubtedly miss him dearly.

Reading the emails this morning and noticed something in the Stilton's Place that surprised and pleased me. Apparently Joe Malay enjoyed the satire and barbed comments from Jarlsburg's fevered mind. The man's comments pretty well are wrapped in barbed wire. Anyway, Stilton's Place made mention of how much he appreciated the comments and barbs from Joe Malay as Rem1875, not sure why Joe chose that as his email address. His Severe Starboard List always made me smile. Anyway, Jarlsburg said that he would miss Joe's comments and lifted his hat to Michelle Malay and family.

Got up early this morning and got the weed eater out of the shop. Cut down a lot of weeds from the posts out front that prevent folks from driving into my yard. Had to plug in the battery for a bit after that. Still have a bunch more to do around the drive way and then up in the area next to the front yard. The poppies are about to go into frantic bloom mode, so it is necessary to be careful to cut around them. Love those pretty red flowers. Planted some other colors from seeds, but who knows if they will ever make it. If we don't get rain soon, nothing is going to last.  

Got four cart loads of chicken poop cleaned out of the three coops. Should have been done a couple of weeks ago, but it is just hard to make myself get it all done at one time. And doing one third just is senseless. Anyway, the birds may be confused again as some things got moved around. We will see. May find eggs in some strange places until they figure things out again.

Walked by the bottom of the bed in my room and caught the bottom footboard. It snapped off. Joy! Just what is needed right now. May just find something to wrap over the ends of the things that fastened to the footboard. That might keep me from getting cut or bruised at least. According to Parr's Furniture Store, they can't get anything ordered like that for at least six months. Rolling my eyes and thinking that at least my bed does not consist of four posts, tight ropes, and a corn shuck mattress. However, looking on Amazon, the kind of frames they have do not have that little lip to allow the box springs to keep in place. Oh well. Will continue to make this work or get a hack saw and cut off that end that pokes out.

Just picked up eggs. Getting a dozen a day means that someone needs to want eggs soon. The doctor and her nurse, my friends John and Mary, Maggie Sewell and family, and the neighbor below me will not use up a dozen a day! The problem that occurs to me revolves around the fact that many women no longer cook at all. It is so easy to buy ready made sandwiches, meals of all sorts, or even just run by Whataburger! In fact, yours truly bought a package of frozen frittatas. That involves eggs baked in a cupcake with veggies and some meat thrown in for good measure. Easy peasy. No clean up involved.

Got a notice from the mail order pharmacy that they thought the drug requested cost too much: $560 for a three month supply of a sleeping pill. Nope, something else has to work. Anyway, let Dr. Blackwell know and then decided to double up on the melatonin. It is at least natural(ish). Last night was an impossible night because of the Famous Indigestion that Debra Jones ordered--so did the old woman. We both knew better and scolded each other--then enjoyed every bite! So, brought the anti-acid tablets in from the truck for whatever doesn't sit well on this night, but think it should be ok. Broiled fish, Brussel sprouts, and a banana for dessert. Maybe that will not cause problems.

Will tell you the story about a really bad dust storm we had once. Was out at Granddad Pollard's farm--about three miles from home. Looked up to the northwest and saw a wall of black coming fast. Got on my horse and told Grandmother to let Mom know we were leaving the farm heading home. Duchess was a good horse, one that liked to run and not just real calm. We got as far as past Mayo's ranch headquarters and ran into an open shed belonging to the janitor at Petrolia school. He was so nice to let me go inside the barn and hold my horse there until the worst passed. Hail, some rain, but mostly gosh awful wind that seemed to be whipping in circles. Duchess stood for me, but it was not easy to keep her still and calm with all the noise blowing over us. Finally got back home and shocked Mom by being there so soon. That horse could cover three miles in three minutes if she wanted to run. And that day she was allowed to have her head. Miss getting to ride like that now, but a lone rider is not real safe any longer. If something happens to the rider, no one knows where to look. And too, horses are terribly expensive to keep. They even have rules about the vaccinations that have to be given. Never thought that was right unless a person was going to be around strange horses. Oh well. Just have to take care of dogs and hens now.

Some of the birds on this little calendar will never be seen in Texas, much less our back yards. But they truly are beautiful. The Purple-crested Turaco is not from Texas for sure! Their feathers are used in the headdresses of the governing folks of Swaziland. Sometimes it just doesn't pay to have bright feathers! 

Not much else going on around here. My neighbors finally got their gas lines laid and the gas turned back on. Patty said a hot shower had never felt SO very good! Can't imagine!

May you all rest well this night and awake with joy! You are loved.

Resting.

 So a very nice meeting of the Route 66 Group was followed by a lie down and deep rest for at least one person today. Both dogs thought they had found their niche as super pups, but they got still very quickly and let me actually rest. Did not go to sleep, but just let my bones relax. That does make a difference when things seem too sore to move easily. Donna Reeves gave me the phone number for the chiropractor that her daughter uses. It would be great to find someone who could do even part of what Dr. Jensen did for me! Making arrangements to have someone stay here and take care of the critters is a major obstacle next to the long drive down there. Oh well. Maybe this guy can help me get some relief. It just feels as if yours truly has become a griper in her old age!

Won't be long before it will be time to put the hens up. They will need scratch and probably clean water. Not sure how they get the water so messy. You'd think a duck had slipped into the flock!

Know that Patty and Donny Anderson are going to be SO happy to get their gas turned back on tomorrow after the inspector comes out and looks at the plumbers' work. Patty said that if she  had had to go somewhere, she would have had to get a "real" bath, but for two weeks she has dealt with sponge baths. Such fun. Remember what that was like after the tornado. And Lewis was working in tractors that were covered with fiber glass. HATE that garbage! It has to be just as dangerous as asbestos ever was. Just my opinion.

Jenn said that Gary was going to hire some guy to dig out a bunch of their dead bushes. At least that is what the plan was supposed to be. Gary has wanted some trees taken out ever since they bought the place, but Jenn likes trees of just about any kind. We learned years ago that trees make shade--even the stupid Western Soapberry! Now have to come up with a way to put a rag barrier up high enough the hens and dogs could not get into it, and then it will have to be soaked in poison for the bugs. Will ask the men at Shoop's about what to get and how much to use.

Need to figure out a restraint system for my dogs when they get to ride in the truck. Have a net to keep them in the back, but really would like to have a harness clip of some sort to hold them down to the seat so that if the truck has to stop suddenly, they won't go flying into the front. They go see the vet this coming Monday for some shots and Sylvia's nails clipped. Not sure the shots for distemper are really necessary, but don't want my critters sick either.

My friend Donna Reeves has a great-granddaughter who is 26 weeks along and has pre-eclampsia. If you would please, say a prayer for both the little mother and the unborn child. Even if they can save the child at this time in its development, it would be better for both if they could go much closer to full term. These little lives matter.

My other friends James and Debra Jones have a daughter who is 41 and about to have her first child. They are going to induce on Tuesday to get this one here before it can get into any trouble of its own. Please pray for the daughter Amanda and that little life.

Meanwhile, some of the waitresses at Pioneer asked about my friend Michelle Malay. They used to work with her years ago and still think fondly of her. Don't know if they contacted Michelle by note or anything, but at least they are thinking about her. Know Paula, Tami Yonts sister, always honks at MIchelle as she drives by on her way to a patient's house. Think both Paula and Michelle like saying hi that way.

Got plum tickled at the description of Janet McIntire and her twin grandgirls. Seems Janet can't get one clean before the other one finds a way to get both of them dirty again. Sand seems to be like the favorite appetizer and decoration at their house. It made me want to tell her that it is a good way to stay young at heart, but can still remember being so exhausted with all the laundry, meals, cleaning, snacks, cleaning, ad infinitum. But these are her GRANDS and not her own children. Probably feels about the same when they are in the same house with you.

Just gave the hens clean water and some scratch. They are almost as fond of the clean water bowls and running water as they are food--unless it is something in my hand that they want. The hands have got it for special effects around here. Have one Black-laced Wyandotte that would just as soon be in my lap as not. Silly hen.

Jennifer suggested that maybe Daniel Hernandez would be able to help me with my laptop and transferring stuff from one to the other. It always worries me to think some of the poetry that Hanan wrote would be lost. ONE of these days, maybe getting it printed or put on Amazon would take care of that concern. No one ever buys my book, Destinations, so his stuff would probably just sit there as well. We had Boating Alone printed, but they only sent us three proof books. And yes, some stuff needed to be changed, but he let the books get away before there was time to make changes or have more printed. Oh well. Life goes on.

Have a feeling yours truly is going to have to go digging in the closet and see if some shorts can be drug out. Don't want to turn on any AC until absolutely necessary. The fans are usually enough, but no moisture in the air may change that pretty soon. Pray for rain, folks. We can't deal with another five-year drought!

Really don't know much this evening. Have a book waiting to be finished and another one in the queue after that. Have about fifteen books downloaded, so will take my time and enjoy them.

May you all rest well and make good plans for the rest of the week. You are loved. 

All Forked Up!

 Had some salad today that got whooped up right here in my kitchen and doctored to suit me. Went back to finish cleaning it up but still had about two tablespoons more than was desirable. So, fastened the dogs in the living room with the Dutch door that Hanan made to keep them corralled and went outside and sat on the steps to the deck. Of course, "flocking" is one of those things the girls do ever so well. But as the fork with a bite of salad on it was offered to them, one of those yayhoots grabbed the fork firmly and took off a little ways. Of all the carrying on they did over that stupid fork! Crazy chickens! Finally just scraped out the rest of the lettuce pieces to let them clean it off the concrete slab. They may dull their peckers, but at least they got ALL the salad.

It has been a bit of a busy day. Tried to find my cane and looked everywhere reasonable and some not so reasonable places. Still think it was left in the basket the last time a trip to Walmart resulted in actual walking around inside the store. Oh well. Bought a new one that is camouflage green with a nice soft handle. Maybe it won't get set down in the grass and lost that way.

Went to Walgreens to pick up some new meds and looked at their canes. Dearly beloved, they are PROUD of their handicap equipment. Thirty dollars for a cane!! But at least they had several. Walmart had ONE--which is why this ol' gal is carryin' camouflage now. Asked one of the young stockers where to find a cane. She shrugged and said, "Don't know" and just went right on stocking whatever. Some very nice lady came and got me to follow her to where she could point. And she did not even work there! Some folks are just so very sweet. 

Connie just left. She came over for a nice visit and is going to bring a Teeter board to me later--not tonight. It is supposed to take the pressure off of the spine. Thought it might be worth a try. Just about anything beats the tar out of hurting all the time. Have put off doing the MRI until we see if this might make a difference. Connie said that it had helped her lower back after she hurt it. She also promised to stay with me until we get the old girl comfortable enough to know what she is doing. Can just see me lying upside down on a board with the tornado sirens going off. Oh joy! Actually kinda hilarious if you think about it. Remember the big steer in Waurika Lake that got blown there in 1979? Well, how about a woman on a board flying through the air? Or not. Guess it is time to start thinking about where to hide if the sirens go off. sigh

The poppies are blooming! Only have three blooms right this red hot minute, but the buds are there on gobs of them. Then the irises are blooming as well. The wind today was horrible and just beat the loll out of them--and anything else that was outside. Pollen count of 11.6. Is it any wonder we can't breathe? Sterling thinks that it is worse up there in Arkansas where everything is covered in yellow tree pollen. Whatever. Just because it is not stuck out in bright yellow does not mean that we don't have as much pollen. We just mix ours with dirt from Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, and assorted areas west of here. 

Had to change a light bulb in my living room light fixture. Turned on the light and heard it pop! Those three little bulbs do a pretty good job of lighting up the room, but not just any bulbs will do. That is the problem with choosing a fixture that requires a special bulb--can't buy those suckers just anywhere!

Took the covers off the couch today and washed them. They are all put away and different covers on the couch for the dogs to get dirty. If we get any rain, it will take another switch out for clean covers, but the forecast is not looking all that great for moisture. Maybe NEXT Wednesday with a 30% chance of showers. Meanwhile, it is about to start getting a bit warmer until next week when it will be in the mid 60s. Still spring in Texas.

We can assume that Michelle Malay has had a day of it with family and the service for Joe today. She will need our prayers for rest and for comforting. 

Talked to Jennifer Garcia about Kaylee who had to have brain surgery. She is cutting back on the two remaining medications and should be off ALL meds soon. Jennifer was so upbeat about it that it just made me feel good for her. 

Have not been on FB except for a short time this morning, so have no idea what is going on with everyone. Will ask you to pray for Kimberly Alvarado, Sharon Dickerson's niece, who is trying to recover from some major surgery. She is having a hard time of it.

Yours truly noticed this morning that my laptop was not closing properly. Think it is broken in the case. It is still working, but dadgumit! Have the security program, Microsoft Office Suite and other stuff on this one so that it will be a major pain in the keester to have to change it over to another lap top. And really am spoiled to using a laptop now. Being anchored to a room is not nearly as inviting as it might once have been. A tower probably would work longer and stay in better shape, but it is harder to make room for all the stuff it needs. Oh well. Will talk to the son-in-law soon about what to do. My last laptop--before this one--was a touch screen. Really did like that, but now am used to this one. sigh

It's almost time to go out and close up the coops. The girls have been super messy lately with their water, so put out two more containers on the deck and one extra inside the big coop. This morning that container was dirty and still had about one third of the water left in it. Dumped, cleaned, and refilled it before putting out the medicated water. They get a few drops of VetRx each week in clean water. So far they have all stayed healthy. But then, they have plenty of room to roam around. Connie said it was fun to watch them. It really is, especially if you know just exactly what they are doing. Sneaky little dinosaurs!

May you all rest well and get a good night's sleep. Know that whatever your plans may be, it is good to ask God's guidance in those undertakings. You are loved.

Saying Goodbye Softly.

 When we have already been told that the end is close, it is hard to walk away for any length of time, but still necessary in some circumstances. My children were so protective of me when we knew that Lewis would not be with us more than a few hours. It was so very difficult, but the children were so very sweet and loving. It was Jennifer's birthday the morning before he was gone, and it never even dawned on me. He had requested a May birthday party for everyone just about a week before so that he would not miss anyone's birthday. Seems like most of the birthdays are in May in our family. But that was a really hard year for birthdays. And a really hard year for saying goodbye. Lewis died on May 18. My daddy died on October 8 the same year. Jennifer and I sat with him and Mom until it was time to put Mom to bed that night after they had picked up Dad's body. Never was sure she even understood what had taken place, but maybe that was for the best. The next year she went to sleep before October 1, and never woke up. The nurse said she had a smile on her face when she went to check on her. Sometimes we say goodbye and just have to accept that it may be for the last time. Think both of my parents were more than ready for that last goodbye.

This morning Michelle told me that Joe chose Easter Sunday to say his last goodbye. He had already visited with his mom, his three brothers, and two daughters, but he called for Michelle and waited until she got there before removing his oxygen mask. I am so glad that he got to choose the time. Now their family will need time to mourn and heal from loss.

My doctor told me this morning that it is ok to cry, and that it is probably a good thing to do that. It is not easy to deal with emotions, at least it is not easy for me. It feels as if one is in a freefall that has no certain boundaries. Where are the brakes, the parachute, the reins to pull up to a stop? And then there are the dogs who want to comfort their mom with licks, cuddles, and whines. And nevermind about being around anyone else in public. See, tears feel private to me. Only Lewis and the children ever saw me in a "meltdown" moment. And dear hearts, crying gives this ol' girl a humongous headache. Not exactly a migraine, but close enough. Anyway, being emotional over my own feelings about others is enough to keep me away from public displays. So funerals and such are almost impossible. When Janis, Connie's mom, died, I went to be there for her two girls as they had absolutely no family. Not sure just how much help it was to them, but it made me feel as if they knew I cared. Now Connie has spent enough time with me that we both know and agree that some things are just bound to happen with Rebekah. The timing is totally uncertain, but some things do seem inevitable. This past few years have not been easy, but it seems our world just keeps getting more wobbly every day. It is good to know that God is on His throne. And that someday there will be no more tears.

May this be a night of rest for all of you. Remember always: You are loved.

They Call It Easter.

 The term Easter came from Isthar. Several sources on my computer came up with all kinds of interesting factoids: Easter is an ancient spring festival. Long before the time of Christ, the pagan goddess Ishtar, or sometimes known as Astarte or Ashtoreth, was worshiped in different countries. Our modern practice of sunrise worship originates from the pagan festival honoring Ishtar.

A funny source of useless factoids is on this page: 50 amazing facts about Easter! (List) | Useless Daily: Facts, Trivia, News, Oddities, Jokes and more!

Whatever the origins of the celebration, Easter means different things to different people. Obviously the Jewish people do not celebrate Easter. They celebrate the holy days as commanded by God in the Old Testament--Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread. In point of fact, Christ was celebrating the killing of the Passover lamb when He and his disciples celebrated His last Passover. Anyway, the result was the same the year of Christ's death. His death was the sacrifice for our many sins. His resurrection was the assurance that we, too, would live again. 

It bothers me just a bit to not wish someone a happy Easter whenever that is said to me. It's not like they would understand being wished a happy Passover. But nonetheless, asking for God's blessings upon others is the general intent. So, may all of you be blessed by this Passover time and its meaning.

This has been an interesting day. Well, sort of. Cleaning out the vegetable crispers and picked up the top part of the shelf. The glass fell out but did not break. Took the glass to the sink carefully to clean it. It shattered inside the sink. Some of the pieces popped up inside my shirt. Not a problem. No cuts. Closed the dogs up in the living room and began the project of cleaning the sink, the floor, the counters, and then hauling the trash out to the bin. Got the crispers put back without the glass top, so that looks a little different, but what the hey!

Michelle and Tim came and took away the "lawn ornament" that was a Husqvarna mower. No matter what was changed on it, the silly thing would not stay charged. Think Hanan's impatience with the safety feature that brought it to a full stop if the driver got off the seat probably had something to do with the battery not staying charged. Oh well. Happy with my zero turn.

The dogs are standing here panting and begging for liver. Put some cooked liver in the freezer when it came from the ranch in Megargel. Now all is needed is to thaw some when it appeals to me, so it is a liver day. 

John Rhoads just left. He picked up a couple of dozen eggs and left a half sack of corn here. Will call Nikki Smith and see if she wants it. My hens don't eat whole corn. If it were planted, it would produce what is called "field" corn. It is a lot of things, but tender is not one of them. Guess a row of corn behind the iris plants might be ok. We will see how much energy it takes to even think about that. My back is really giving me fits. Will see what Dr. Blackwell says tomorrow. Connie is going to take me over there, and then we plan to go to Market Street for a few things--mainly lunch at the deli. That office is so very convenient.

Hoping to have my truck back by Tuesday and hopefully no later than Wednesday. The mechanic says it depends on parts. Joy!

Don't really know much this evening. That seems to be about par for the course lately. Ignorant but opinionated. Oh well.

Pray for rain and for rest for those who are suffering. Please remember Kimberly, Sharon Dickerson's niece. She is really having a tough time. 

May you all rest well and awake ready to see another day. You are loved.

Zero to Go!

 The little twit that semi-lives over on Lake View behind my place has been driving a puter-scooter all over heck and half of Georgia, and it gave me an idea. Got out my zero turn mower, fastened the dogs in the house, and drove down on the mower to get my mail. So there! Talked to Patty, and she said if she had to she could drive one of Donny's little four-wheel gizmos. I would love to see that! Hooked up to her oxygen bottle and wheeling down to get her mail! It's not like either of us do a lot of walking anyway, but she has the breathing problem for her reason to not walk. My knee is just not very helpful, not like it would hurt me to walk a bit, but not over rough ground.

The wind has blown today, as usual. The pollen count is high, as usual. Connie said it woke her up in the night all choked up and unable to breathe. Yep, pollen is about as bad as it can get for folks who are allergic to that garbage.

Made some bread today. Didn't turn out the best in the West, but tried using some strange kinds of ingredients. Will try again tomorrow and just use regular flour and let it rise twice. Thought it would be fun to use some almond flour and coconut flour. Nope. It tasted ok, but the hens had problems eating the crusts given to them. Now that is some tough crust!

Finished the book With the Makers of Texas by E. C. Barker and H. E. Bolton. It was written back in 1904 and compiled for the University of Texas. Several sections tell about the founding of Texas and its settlement. Some letters are from Travis from the Alamo, Stephen F. Austin from Peach Point near Brazoria, and the founding of the Texas Rangers back before Texas was even a republic. It is truly an amazing book. No wonder our ancestors were happy to be Texans. They had to be a tough bunch just to survive! Asked Lance if he would like to read these two books, but he said he thought he had that part of history covered. As much history as has sifted through my brain, the German settlements and this one that outlines the battles with Mexico and the Civil War just boggled my mind. Know one of my great-great grandfathers was in San Antonio making shoes for the army during the Civil War. His wife and a friend went down there horseback from Traskwood, Arkansas, after word was sent to her that he had been injured and needed a nurse. He was working on shoe leather and pulled an awl up and hit himself in the eye. Imagine riding all those miles horseback without any man to accompany them. Riding through rivers and trying to avoid Indians would be the hard part in my estimation. But according to these stories, thirty miles in a day's ride would have been very hard riding. It has to be pretty tough since there were no roads like today. Today it is 563 miles, or a little over 8 hours, from Traskwood to San Antonio. Divided by the best riding--30 miles a day--it would have taken at least 19 days to get there. You can bet they were not going that fast, however.

While he was up here helping me paint the kitchen, Grayson got to look at my dad's papers from his time in the service. He was supposed to go to Europe in the tank corps to replace the men that had been lost in that battalion. Can't remember the name of it right now, but their signal flag had a big ol' black panther jumping in the air. Daddy used that picture of a panther in one painting he did for the Zachrys for their fireplace. It was a panther about to jump down on a horse coming through under some rocks. Have wished several times that we had asked Clara Zachry if she would let us have that painting. Oh well. Have some of Dad's paintings still. Sterling has the one he did of the old homestead in Jack County. Was only there once and felt terrified by the rattlesnakes and the stinging bugs that would raise a blister if they got on your skin. The men out trying to dig an oil well said it was the worse place they had ever been for stinging and biting creatures! And just think: my Granddad Kennedy grew up there!

The hens are steadily filling up egg cartons. Will have several dozen to take to Dr. Blackwell and her nurse on Monday. Then some of you need to let me know if you want eggs. Sent some home with Michelle and Tim Malay the other day since Joe's daughter was to be at their house. Not sure how that situation is going. Don't want to call or bother them. It can't be easy. 

Have thought several times about how being a widow can really warp one's mind. We don't want to be a burden to anyone, but we really need help of all kinds, plus the assurance from our kids that they truly love us and appreciate us. Know that Jennifer and Lance do their best to check on me. Jenn reads this blog and is one of the administrators. Lance does not get on FB at all any longer. So he knows what Jenn tells him or whatever he finds out when he calls. Have even begun to call my granddaughter just to check on her every so often. She is applying for a job that would truly be good for her, so that has gone on my prayer list. She loves the outdoors and reminds me of some of my friends who are part of the "wilderness" group. Anyway, would prefer to see her working on a tree farm rather than in one of the big stores like Target. She would probably be safer in the woods!

Jenn told me the other day with excitement in her voice that the honey bees were alive and well in their big oak tree. That made me smile. They live in an HOA so they can't claim a beehive as a tax exemption. Thought about Judie Brunson and her mini donkeys and horses. Not sure how she managed to get it declared a farm, but it cuts down on taxes when that is possible. Kinda neat. Can't do that here on the hill within the city limits--at least don't think it can be done. Oh well.

Have you ever thought about the greatest gift you ever received? It is easy for me: forgiveness. The Passover pictures that forgiveness. And His resurrection pictures the victory over death and our sure life in him after death. Thought about the one time when my head got konked, and the next thing of which my mind was aware was the horse standing over me blowing her breath in my face. It could have been minutes or even longer, but to me, it was just a second before when we had been running over that meadow. Truly believe that our resurrection will be like that. Waking up is like that each day, for that matter. Sleep is so necessary, but the waking up part is a celebration. Now is the time to appreciate that God has given us both the rest and the awakening. Just my thoughts tonight.

May you all find a corner of your thoughts to share with those you love. May you rest and awake with joy. You are loved.

Twenty Years of Service.

 Twenty years ago Lewis sent me down to Decatur to Karl Klement Ford to pick out a truck. When my decision was made, they started the paperwork for Lewis to sign the next day. We got there, signed the papers, and drove out of the parking lot. A great big ol' gravel truck threw a piece or two of gravel which hit the windshield and chipped it. Dadgumit! Lewis had it repaired in whatever way the glass people knew to keep it from cracking all the way through the glass. Since then, my son-in-law had the brakes redone on the truck about three years ago so that it was safe to drive. Other than that, the truck has just had the normal care given to any vehicle. So today Texoma Truck and Fleet Repair told me that the truck needed about two thousand dollars worth of work done on it. That is a pretty good sized bill, but for twenty years of service, hardly anything to gripe about. SO glad that it is being done before something got ruined. Anyway, maybe the government will get around to sending my $1400 deposit soon. Between my decision not to replace the flooring and the government stimulus, that pretty well takes care of things. God is good.

The hens placed 15 eggs in the nests today. They certainly have been producing their fair share and then some. As long as they have fresh water and plenty of feed, they are happy. They keep the grass down pretty good, too. Little lawn mowing dinosaurs!

The weather is cloudy and cool. Won't gripe, but rain is actually needed. Took a couple of buckets of water down to the new Macintosh and then ran water around the dwarf cherries. Still am disappointed that the apricots did not bloom out this year. Maybe they will surprise me. Not likely, but still.

Jennifer was wishing for some kind of bird that would eat the freaking love bugs. Only so much can be done to prevent those insects without damaging the soil or poisoning the critters that are beneficial. She thought maybe some kind of bird would eat the stinking bugs, but if they had a bird that would do that, you can bet that Florida would be hand raising those birds! Think they are so bad down there that they have to carry windshield wash just to drive from one town to the next. Won't chop down the Western soapberry trees, but the bugs don't seem to get on any other tree. Maybe a ring around the tree too far up for the hens or dogs to jump and soak the tree with something that would kill the bugs. Diesel? Nah, that would kill the tree. If any of you have an idea, please let me know. Dread having to fight those bugs.

Have failed to post the past several days of birds. The one for today is the Helmeted Guineafowl. Never have seen that kind of guinea, but know that the noise the regular ones make will send a person straight up the wall when those critters find a snake or anything in their territory that does not belong. Loud and obnoxious, but great snake hunters! If ever a person was infested with any kind of snake, a bunch of guineas would take care of the problem. Not likely to make any neighbors love a person who has them, but still. They roost up in the tops of trees in the summertime, and maybe they would roost in a barn or some other place in the winter. Not sure that they would adjust too well to a covered place unless they were raised there first. So many different characteristics with fowls! Hens are sweet like the kind out in my back yard, but have heard peahens screaming and would definitely not want any on the place. And ducks are so nasty that only someone with a good stock tank out in the pasture would want any of them around. They are funny, but such messy eaters and well . . . just nasty! Geese are more likely to take over a place and herd the other livestock! A drake will attack anything he considers a rival--especially his reflection in a glass door. We had to try to get inside the school before the school was moved away from Sikes Lake and the geese that lived there. Such fun to be chased down the sidewalk by a big, heavy winged drake! Have heard that swans are even worse! Oh well. At least they are not mean like hogs.

Mother used to tell the story of learning how to twirl a baton for her drill team. She carried that baton everywhere and twirled it along her way. They had an outdoor facility and geese between the john and the house. Mom apparently attracted the attention of the drake because he came after her. She used her baton to her advantage and the drake lay down and died. She cried and told Granny Kennedy, "I killed your big drake when he attacked me!" Granny told her not to worry because she needed a new pillow and that drake would make a good pillow full of feathers. Granny must have been a sweet ol' woman.

Just talked to Patty Anderson, my neighbor to the west on the lake. We were talking about how blessed we were to be able to afford repairs on this, that, or something else. During that week of the horrible weather, we had no electricity. Both of us had pipes burst and were without water for a week. And now the gas company found a leak in their line so they have been without gas for a week! Yep, we are blessed. Told her to send Donny up if she needed something cooked, but he has been going to get their food from wherever for the past week. They should have the gas back on by Wednesday. My truck should be ready by Wednesday--hope, hope, hope. Anyway, it is a blessing to be able to deal with such situations.

Just stepped outside to see what had the dogs in an uproar. The neighbor behind me was hauling crud out to his trash bin and making lots of noise. At least he did not hollar at them. They don't like him even a tiny bit because he has shot Thompson with a BB gun. You can imagine how this ol' woman feels about that. Patty says she would take a shotgun out there and ask the dogs, "Is that man bothering you?" But no sense escalating the problems unless it gets worse. Not that shooting my dog is in the least bit acceptable!

The dogs got a good case of the zoomies while they told me about things. They scatter hens every which way and run around and across the deck and the walkway to the hen house. Good exercise. Wish my ol' body could manage that kind of exercise!

Don't really know anything worth talking about. It is a good weekend for being at home and being still. Happy that we have not had a bad storm yet and praying that we will only get rains and such without the high winds and hail. It is Texas, but sometimes it can be mild weather even here.

May you all rest well and awake with the energy to appreciate life. You are loved.

Service with a Smile?

 Talked to a man at Texoma Fleet about taking my truck in today rather than in the morning. Asked about what time would be best: "Oh, in about six weeks." Then he added a slight chuckle. Yep, six weeks might not be the best thing for the truck. Anyway, they have it now, and because of Connie Cooke, yours truly is not exactly on foot. We had lunch at some place called Cheddar's. Have been there before, but dearly beloved, won't be back for a long while. The service was friendly but totally inefficient. One has to ASK for salt and pepper. And the dishes that came out were not complete until we asked about the food that we had ordered. Connie ended up asking her to remove part of her order since it was not brought out in a timely manner. The young girl finally brought my broccoli by the time everything else on the plate was finished. Good thing broccoli in one of my favorites! Would have been 100% cheaper and better to make this stuff at home. The dogs might have begged a bit, but hello, at least the salt and pepper would have been on the table.

Maybe Covid 19 has caused many of the current problems, but sometimes it just seems that is an excuse. A meal has to be complete and served in a timely manner or it just doesn't seem as if it is worth the bother. Gripe, natter, natter.

Spent some time visiting with Connie and laughing about some of the things we both consider strange. She left home at 24--and to go to another college. My first real stay away from home was in 1966 for one semester of school at Texas Woman's University in Denton. Never been so homesick in my entire life. Missed my parents and my dog and horse. The dog had to be put down before the semester was even over. He had been hit by a car earlier and it developed into cancer or some kind of internal abscess. Poor Freckles was the sweetest dog ever. He was a shadow for Duchess. She loved him almost as much as he loved her. Sad to think how many dogs, cats, horses and assorted critters have moved my heart over the years. Know my children felt the same way about their dogs and our cat Oliver Twisted. Harley Bastard was Hanan's first dog. He ended up here with us after Hanan went to California. Such a sweet ol' boy. Lots of good memories.

Michelle Malay and Tim came by this morning. She brought the dogs some treats and brought yours truly some teas, honey, and lemons. Going to try very hard to stay completely away from caffeine for a while. So if a headache blooms in the morning.....Oh well. 

Jennifer was saying that she thought the ragweed must be blooming. Did you know that most ragweed does not even appear to have blooms? The tiny yellow buds just look like part of the plant. But the results are still the same no matter how it looks. However, ragweed normally blooms in September or at least in the fall until the frost gets it. Honestly, if it is growing and is in the ragweed family like asters or chrysanthemums, nobody will have to tell you they are blooming. Lifting my Allegra to you!

Had to water the plants today. Yep, we could definitely use a good soaking rain. And it isn't even May yet. Texas never fails to get weather in May, but let's hope it will bring a good rainy few days. Won't even mind wading out to the hen house if we just get some solid rain.

This Sunday is Easter. When we were children that was a big deal because everyone had to dress up more like a funeral than just normal Sunday services. Hats and shoes and gloves for the ladies were extended to the little girls. The boys got by with wearing dress pants and polishing their shoes nicely. And then we had to take pictures with the grandparents each Easter. Not sure why it had to be Easter, but that was how our family did things. Then the big meal after church was over. Yep, not your everyday fried chicken Sunday dinner. Ham and deviled eggs, mashed tators, English peas, gravy, and pies or cakes or both. It was like Christmas without all the wrapping paper and much warmer weather. Have thought about my parents these past few days and wondered how they afforded to do all they did back then. But it could have been cornbread and beans and they would have made it feel special. Daddy never let a reason to pray stop his respect for the Creator. And we learned so very much from him and Mom. Miss them now more than ever.

For years my own family celebrated the Passover and Days of Unleavened Bread. Lance had just turned three when we started doing that. Jennifer never knew any other way until she was older. And yes, they heard many a prayer from their parents over many situations other than meals. So very glad that we both believed that God was in charge. It still makes my life much easier knowing that whatever happens will work out for the best as long as our faith remains in God. Can't imagine a world without that kind of faith, but the times are certainly changing in this society. God hasn't changed. But people don't really realize how much their lives depend on the blessings afforded to us by His hand. From the smallest problems to the largest worries, God is always there for us. We have much for which to be grateful.

Not really much on my mind today other than old memories. Jenn was reminded of having the chicken pox so bad that she could not stand up straight. Kept her out of the hospital through prayer and Jello water which was the only thing she could keep down! How we ever made it through the years is not really surprising, but nodding my head knowing how we were always blessed with love. 

May you all rest well, my friends. Let the Master take your worries and sift them out like sand. You are loved.

Pollen Count.

 When the pollen count is so high that breathing is hard work, it is time to be still, take the stupid allergy meds, put drops in eyes, soak in a hot mustard bath, and go to bed early. Pardon my bitching. I feel like a leftover wet noodle. And the forecast is for more of the same. Thrilling, just thrilling. 

Sorry for not being more positive, but currently am only positive that this is miserable. Hope that the rest of you are not having the same problems.

Rest well, stay healthy, and may the Good Lord bless you in all that you set your hands to do. You are loved.

For Michelle Malay

When Our Hearts Break

Those whose love comes so freely to us in word or deed have no idea that they also put in place the pieces of our heart when it is broken by their loss. Our hands become empty; the space inside where their love fits becomes hollow with only echoes that we try to grasp in thought and in little meaningless things that we still try to do to touch that love again. We remember their words, their actions, the laughter they gave us and the thoughtful things they did just for us that no one else saw. We stand empty, but move us and listen for the rattle of the pieces of our love. We can’t put the pieces back together again. All we can do is cover our faces in tears and try to breathe. May God comfort those who mourn for no other loss is as deep as the loss of life itself from someone who loves us.

Mechanical Ineptitude.

 Yesterday it surprised me to find the zero turn totally bereft of fuel. Today included the discovery that the nipple for the air compressor was not the right one, and wasn't even attached at its collar. Yes, someone else's hands were involved in this situation. But since the likely source of both situations is currently in jail, maybe the situation will improve. At least it doesn't matter that no fuel was in the gas tank over the winter months. The other situation is more than a little frustrating. Thinking that the riding lawnmower needs to be sold. It has a new ignition, new battery, new starter, and something else--can't remember what now. It needs a new tire on the front left side. But otherwise, it is in good shape. Just will not be using it. Don't need the extra things cluttering up the yard either.

Back a month or so ago, the stapler that runs on air was needed in the chicken house. Could not for the life of me find the fixture needed for the stapler. It is still missing. Will get Lance to try to help me find it or get the part to connect the air hose to it. My mechanical abilities have not improved over the years. Just my frustration level.

Talked to Vicki January earlier. Told her to come get some eggs if she wanted them, but she never showed up. And then she did not answer her phone. Hoping everything is ok with her and her husband.

Talked to my granddaughter this afternoon. Told her about cooking liver for breakfast. She did not say a disparaging word other than: "For breakfast?" Then we proceeded to talk about what kind of foods she makes for herself. Seems she likes zucchini spiced and prepared in the toaster oven. See, it takes all kinds!

Have to take the truck in on Friday in hopes that they can figure out what is making the noise and smell. If it has to stay over the weekend, so be it. Then made an appointment to see the doctor over this scar tissue that has taken a turn for coloring. That is in April, too. Hard to believe that Friday begins April for us!

Glad to see the big boat got floated in the Suez Canal. One of the headlines said, "Human error probable cause of disaster." Well, duh. But at least the tides during a full moon and lots of extra pulling and pushing have managed to get the big boat out to the middle of the canal. Even so, millions of dollars have been lost to the delays. Thinking about the refrigerated lamb that was a total loss. Glad my food sources are not so easily distracted by a truck or boat.

The pollen count has me shaking my head. It is mostly tree pollen, but the wind has blown so hard today that it would not surprise me to find part of Midland and its oilfields in my teeth. Folks with allergies just have to enjoy this time of year--well, along with the fall blooms of asters and such. Gripe, gripe, gripe.

Not sure exactly why my get up and go feels as if it got up and went, but as soon as those birds go inside this evening, this ol' gal is heading for bed. Getting up at 6:30 to let them out is not a problem, but staying up until they decide to go up for the night is just a bit more difficult. Sitting here wondering how my grandparents were able to take care of the livestock and still get everything done. They only knew to work until it got done, so maybe that is what it takes--just get the job done.

My mom was a good seamstress. She made all my clothes and the prom gown for my senior year. Then she was so disappointed by my choice of material and pattern for my wedding dress. It was a simple A-line dress. My thinking was not what it should have been as the dress had long sleeves--for a June wedding. Oh well. Only worn once is how it usually works out for such things. And it did. She later used the under slip and the material from my prom gown to make a bassinet cover for Lance. And she made his layette. My contribution to that effort was embroidering initials on his little blankets and gowns. The wedding dress ended up being used to piece a baby blanket together. Think my granddaughter has that one now. She has the quilt that four generations put together, also. It is called a Dutch doll quilt. Each little doll was made and put in Mother's arms so she could rock it while her mom made the rest of the quilt. Mom had me help her to quilt it so that she could say that four generations had made that quilt. Great-Grandmother Kennedy cut out the dolls, Grandmother Kennedy sewed them together and put them into a top, Mom made a back for the quilt and then we quilted it there in the house in Petrolia. Yep, a generations quilt means something.

Mom asked me once if her flower garden quilt had come to my house. Had no idea what she meant at the time, but now it is in the backroom. She crocheted each block with a different color thread to make a flower garden. It is big enough to go on a king sized bed. Not particularly fond of crocheted stuff, but it is Mom's and pretty.

Visited on the phone with Connie this morning. She says that Rebekah is just having all kinds of problems. This is a situation where Connie can't tell her sister anything at all. Frustration. Let's face it, life can certainly be complicated.

Have not heard from Michelle Malay or from Sharon Dickerson. Let us just continue to pray for Joe and for Kimberly. God knows what they--and we--need. Sometimes it seems that help is just a phone call away when a person is dealing with mental illness, but we can't tell other people what to do. Sharon has told me about NAMI for the families who deal with emotional messes, but telling someone about it might be all the "action" we can take. 

Not very perky or happy tonight. Forgive me for being a bit blasé. Maybe tomorrow will be a better day. 

Rest well and look for joy in whatever you find to do. You are loved.

Lawnmowers and Hens.

 Dear Hearts, hens are the latest in barnyard Marines in more ways than one. Well, yes, they tend to attack anyone that has something that looks as if it might be edible. And it's not like they are actually hungry! But go out there with some leftover rolls from Chicken Express and see what happens! But the main thing they do when "helping" with the lawn care is dig small holes every freaking where! Just finished mowing with the zero turn. The grass and side lots look nice, but it was almost beside the point. The hens had that grass cut down to the nub in most places. Only weeds got ahead of them. But everywhere they had been nibbling on the grass, they also dug out a little foxhole! Thumper is the new name for my mower. Thump, bump, thump! 

Went to Tammie's to get gas--the expensive, less than 10% leaded--and all the pumps were covered up. Hmm. So went back to Stripes to get the two-gallon containers filled up. Went ahead and filled up two of them. The mower had ZERO fuel in it! Not sure how that happened unless it got siphoned out by a certain neighbor. ARGH! Have not heard if he is going to get out of jail anytime in the near future. At least it is fairly quiet over there.

Saw a couple of small planes doing loopty loops. Not sure if they were playing games or what, but it looked as if a person could certainly lose their meal over the way they were flying. Whew! Straight up and then straight down! Can think of much better places to practice insanity--not over a residential area.

While Jenn was here, she asked if the grass had been mowed yet. Nope. Chicken trimmed, but not mowed. She could hardly believe how much grass they eat. But when we had my six hens on her yard in Mansfield, Gary did not have to mow at all because the hens kept the grass eaten up! Bet that is why their eggs were so pretty, all that green grass.

It's kind of funny, but all these eggs hardly ever are eaten at my house. Once in a while, French toast, boiled egg on a salad, or scrambled eggs and bacon. So very many eggs come out of those nests, but seldom find their way into my meals. Guess it would be better for me to eat some more of them. They don't have anything in them that is bad for a person.

Just talked to JoAnn. Jerry will be in jail for a while. Meanwhile, he is doing well. He seems to adapt to the way they live in those places. And no drugs means that his mind is clear. Too bad he can't keep that way on the outside.

Today's meal of the evening is leftover chicken. Not too crazy about chicken tenders, but the last time some fried livers were brought home, one of them included a gallbladder! BLEAH. Whoever prepped that liver did not pay attention!

Back when Lewis and the dingy young Nancy were "courting," my daddy took us to the Wichita River to hunt some squirrels. Yours truly sat down on a tree stump to wait for Dad and Lewis to make a turn around a bend in the river. The grass was not even out good yet, so who would have noticed where my rifle butt was sitting? Then put the rifle up to my shoulder and chin later. Poison ivy. Had the worse case of poison ivy ever. It was all over the lower half of the right side of my face. It made scars. Now the scars are beginning to peel and may have to be looked at in case this develops into something other than just normal scar tissue. Jenn noticed it when she was here, but it did not occur to me at the time to tell her that a trip to the doctor was going to be scheduled soon. Most things like that are pretty easy to ignore, but am well aware that scar tissue from something as drastic as that mess could become a bigger mess down the road. Anyone who has ever had a bad burn and scar tissue forms, be aware that such tissue can change drastically overnight!

Something else that we learned when mother-in-law was still alive: a cyst--about the same thing as a blackhead or zit--can become infected and need to be removed. If more than one cyst is in the vicinity, BOTH need to be removed at the same time. Dr. Blackwell said that it is easier to put in a couple of stitches than to have a major lump form wherever. Joy had two major cysts form on a place on her back. Obviously she could not reach them to keep them cleaned out, but that is what has to happen unless they are removed. So, those of you who do not have someone at home to help clean your back, get a facial expert to clean out your back for you at the same time you get a facial! 

Thought about Charlie Anderson while typing this. He used to get a pedicure fairly often because he was unable to trim his toenails. Jennifer suggested that we could go get a pedicure while she was here, but there were just too many other things that needed to be done. So, may just schedule a pedicure this coming week. 

Green tea with watermelon flavoring! Umm. It will probably keep me awake tonight, but it is so satisfying! Usually don't have any caffeine after 10 a.m., but sometimes a bottle of tea or something like that just hits the spot. 

The bird for yesterday and today was the Green Jay. Yep, we have them in Texas. Have seen a Stellar's Jay, but not a Green Jay. They run around in flocks and give other birds a hard time. They also attack snakes, squirrels, and any other critter that bothers them. Sounds just like my neighborhood as a child. Saying that with a smile.

Guess tomorrow the weed eater might come out and do a little bit in the front yard. Let some hens and the two dogs out in the front this morning while my bottom sat on a sack of potting soil in the wagon out by the flowerbed. The hens were funny. They would have that grass gone in nothing flat if my patience would allow them to stay longer. The dogs, on the other hand, would find something to chase in a heartbeat! Wish those orange fences that construction companies use were available and cheap enough to put across an area to keep the girls inside and safe. They could have a ball out there on the side next to the east lots. The dogs would probably figure out how to go under it too quickly. But the hens would love it!

Still reading a book about Texas. Not sure that Grayson was all that interested in having the book. He may be trying to find a job right now, so that won't be one of his major concerns. Think he has some resumes sent out, but not sure. Grandmothers are not always in the know or even on the list of interested--or interesting--parties. Jenn and Gary are going to be surprised one of these days to find their house echoing from just the two of them rattling around in there. Remember that absence well. And now that it is just me and two dogs, well, the dogs are good company. They don't carry on a conversation at all, however. That was one of the nice things about going to classes at The Zone. At least once a week someone said hi to me. Now it is a phone call to Connie every morning at 10 a.m. Oh well. Books keep my mind active, too.

Guess everyone is about the same as far as health issues. Let's remember Joe and Michelle Malay. And Kimberly Alvarado, Sharon's niece, is still recovering. Meanwhile, the entire nation is hurting in places with flooding, storms, murders, and assorted horrors. God bless us as a nation.

May you all rest well this night and awake with purpose in mind. You are loved.

 

Amarillo by Morning.

 The forecast folks say it is only twenty-three mph, but dearly beloved, the wind is still blowing. It feels as if grit is coming in on that wind. Wondering if Amarillo has lost a bit of top soil--or maybe Paducah? Just spring weather, though. Won't gripe too much right now. But thinking it is going to be a good time to dig out the summer shorts. Already have my sandals out and on my feet. Awww.

Jennifer came up Friday evening and spent the night and most of the day today with me. It is wonderful to be able to love your children and enjoy them. And she is such a good girl to be around. She helped me unload and place 200 pounds of scratch in the bins. Dug holes for two more fruit trees, and took me to the place to get those gummy things that help with pain. We talked and laughed some. She gets how much these silly dogs mean to me. And she likes my hens--and not just for the eggs. She got to see how they "help" with digging dirt. She would not put her hand in the nest with one of the Marans because it pecked at her. Shaking my head here. Their pecks are just not that big of a deal. But if it bothers a person, guess that is all it takes to persuade them to leave the hens alone.

Both kids ordered beef from BillBrownBeef.com and both orders were ready last night, so Jenn was able to drop off his order to Lance this afternoon. Hope they all enjoy it.

The neighbor behind me has his lawnmower out and is cutting the grass down there across the fence from his place. Not sure where the woman is who was keeping that place up, but have not seen her in a while--just the grandson and his mother. Kinda wondering if they will be there much longer. Oh well. They are not that much of a nuisance to me anyway.

Passover begins tonight at sunset. Lots of memories for this day in my life. My children will remember the Passover of 1979 when we were basically chased out of WF by a humongous tornado. When we drove back into town that night, we drove over fences and dodged poles on the freeway. No lights were visible in the town at all unless it was a flashing light on an ambulance or police car. What a mess. For days we had absolutely no services from the utility companies: no water, no electricity, no phone, and no natural gas--or gasoline from any of the pumps! It was horrible to see the devastation, but so many had been killed. My friend Karen and her husband Neil lost their two daughters. Karen and Neil had been out at the site where their new house was being built, but the girls had stayed in their home on SW Parkway. It was gone! Ah, such sadness for a Passover to remember.

Jennifer messed with my phone trying to get it to make noises when calls or messages came in. She got it to more or less work, but it was funny to see her as bamboozled by this mess as it makes me feel. Technology is just a bit weird in my estimation. But the kids just keep messing with it until they get something to work the way they want it to go. My patience just does not extend to buttons or bells and whistles that may or may not indicate success at communication!

My friend AnnaBeth Graf just reminded me of our mutual friend Mrs. Abe Baker. She was one of the sweetest women around back then. She came to our home more than once for different reasons. She knew my family and watched us grow up out there in Petrolia. Good memories.

Beth reminded me that they had brought water into town for their son Peter the morning after the tornado. We had zero water! This was before the days of folks buying cases of water or having a Britta jug filled up to filter the tap water. Zero water is dadgummed hard to deal with when everything seems to require water! Finally an orange juice company in Burkburnett started filling their jugs with water and giving them to folks. What a blessing!! Never been so happy to see a gallon of water in my life! It reminded me that Grandmother Pollard said that her mother watched her house burn to the ground THREE times! And not even a wet cloth to clean her little girl's face. Simply can't imagine.

My cousin Elizabeth told me that when we were visiting their home in Louisiana when they were just girls, they thought a cloud was going to be a tornado. My reply, "No, that is not a wall cloud. Just a thunderstorm cloud." They thought their cousin was marvelous for naming the silly clouds! They had no idea how many times my parents stood us on the steps of the cellar to look at the clouds that were so dangerous.

We went through a five-year drought not too many years ago. Now we just hold our breath and hope that it does not happen again. No amount of water in the nearby lakes can make it better when a drought lasts that long. Can easily see why California has to ration water so often.

Getting tired. Have clothes to fold and put away. Will just tell you that talking with friends about how life has been for us over the years makes me realize that what we have experienced is not all that different for so many who lived on the land. Those who have always lived and grown up in the cities have no idea how dependent we are on things like the weather, fires, droughts, and assorted illnesses that affect livestock. God has always been a blessing in our lives. And that never has changed.

May you all rest well and awake with purpose and happiness. You are loved.

Playing in the Dirt!

 So the corn, sunflower seeds, and assorted flower seeds have been planted today. Still have not watered them in, but the day is not quite finished. Just had to sit down and just S I T for a bit, ya know. Won't come right out and say that the body is tired, but it does seem to have reached a maximum level of ooommph. Oh well. Tomorrow is another day, too.

Went over to Sutherlands and handed the lady at the desk the cut out label of the gardening soil that was needed. She found a man and it is mostly in my front yard. Still have not found appropriate containers for one sack, but maybe that will happen tomorrow as well. Or not. Can't ever have too much potting soil stuff.

My friend Marilyn Smith only reads my blog here on blogger rather than on FB. She said the one yesterday was messed up and couldn't be read because of the background, so will try to remember not to post a picture of a bird before writing the blog. Thinking that was what caused the problem. Anyway, the bird for the day is the Green-headed Tanager. Apparently it is a bird found in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. Not a Texas bird, obviously. We don't have many places in Texas that have the humidity they would seek--well, maybe Houston and East Texas. Someone could release a few pairs in that part of the world and see what happens. But then, that is what caused the starling influx all over this country. Nevermind!

Talked to Michelle Malay a bit ago. We need to keep Joe in our prayers, but let's remember his family as well. Mother Malay saw him for the first time today since he was hospitalized and was very shocked. They have him on morphine for the pain, and his mind is not as sharp as it could be, but at least he is still fighting for his own breathing. Michelle said that he has lost so much weight and strength. On top of everything else, they have to be concerned with how many days his insurances will allow him to be in the hospital. Good grief! But Michelle said that he still has something to say about the hospital food! No, it is NOT good tasting to him. That may be why he is hardly eating anything. Wish it were possible to take him a hamburger!

Thompson jumped off or fell off the end of my bed last night and hurt his back leg. Not sure if he got it caught in the bed stead or what, but rubbed it for him and moved it around to be sure nothing was broken. He is using it, so guess he is tougher than the old woman who lives here. My dogs mean the world to me--just like anyone who has "children" with four legs and a bark or meow.

Jennifer may come here tonight so she can take home her meat and eggs. Have about six dozen eggs for her. Twenty hens just do not fill up the cartons as quickly as twenty-five or thirty. The plumber came by with the container he used to take home the four hens from my place. He says his hens don't have as much room as mine. He thinks the wild critters would get them if he turned them out like mine. He just needs a good guard dog or two. Can't see a bobcat or coyote stupid enough to get in the yard with my dogs!

Got a message from the doctor today saying that there was degeneration of the disks with lots of arthritis and some slippage of 5 mm of L4 on L5. Now if you understand that verbiage, you are a better critter than this one. My feelings are that something hurts like a son of a buck, and not a lot helps stop the pain. Sounds like Dr. Jensen was right about the "slippage" of the L4 on L5 anyway. Think that means that one disk is infringing on another. Oh well. Like Granddad Pollard used to say, "Just keep going and don't just SIT." He was only 79 when he died, but it was not the arthritis that took him out. Think he needed a roto-rooter job on his carotids. Plus, he was a geriatric diabetic. Think that happens to so very many elderly folks. Sugar is not our friend, and carbs are just as bad if not worse.

Sharon Dickerson has mentioned this to me a couple of times. Sometimes we have a tendency to feel responsible for other people's choices. T'aint necessarily so, McGee. NAMI Wichita Falls. 909 8th Street, Suite 400. 940-244-6264. This is in my area of the world, but guessing that NAMI is available anywhere in the U.S. Wishing that some of my friends who deal with handicapped or mentally ill folks could have this help. 

Kinda letting the steam out of my head and relaxing now. May or may not make it to open another book today. Just a bit pooped out. May just take off the shoes and let it all hang out!

May you all realize how blessed we are to be so very loved and cared for. God has given us just what we need and then some. Rest well, keep your mind on the good things in life, and remember His love and blessings. You are loved.

An Interesting Bird!

 Ok, this bird is an absolutely new one on me. The Rifleman Bird.

The rifleman (Acanthisitta chloris) (Māori: titipounamu) is a small insectivorous passerine bird that is endemic to New Zealand. It belongs to the family Acanthisittidae, also known as the New Zealand wrens, of which it is one of only two surviving species. The rifleman resembles a wren in form, but is not related to the family of true wrens, Troglodytidae, nor the fairy-wrens of Australia.

This little bird does not fly long distances, so it makes its home in a narrow area to defend along with its mate. Not likely we would ever see one in Texas, but hey, it is a neat little bird.

It has been a cool day, but it finally dried up a bit this afternoon so that a few things got accomplished. Not real spunky about doing anything today. That happens. Walked out to see my new apple tree and was followed by most of the flock. The man who was going to replace the Anderson's gas meter wanted to know if they thought they would get a handful of scratch. Had to tell him they wanted worms or grubs, not grains! These birds are spoiled rotten! They did get some leftovers from lunch, but that was good for them--plus makes clean up a little easier when every freaking grain of food is gone! They never miss a bite.

Sharon Dickerson said that her niece Kimberly is having a hard time getting any sleep. Can't imagine what she must be going through. Anytime one's gut is messed with, the repercussions just don't seem to stop. Please pray for her that she will be able to get the rest she needs. She and her family also need the peace of mind that only God can give us.

Michelle Malay says things with Joe are about the same. Maybe that is at least something to be encouraged by if things are not worse. sigh Wish he could come home, but know he is where he needs to be.

Have saved up over five dozen eggs so far to send home with Jennifer. Not sure which day she will be here, but by Saturday she should have enough eggs for the entire family. Passover begins on Saturday night. It is seldom the same as Easter. But knowing God's calendar, the Jewish people observe the days and the calendar that God set up for their nation, His people. And no, this has nothing to do with eggs! Oh well.

My mind wanders freely and sometimes takes me places that are pretty unexpected. When the engineer for the city came out yesterday, it made me want to go ask him questions, but it just seemed too nosy. Not that it matters if an old woman feels nosy or not. Have wondered several times if the city was getting ready to do something with Lake Wichita. It could be not only a good source of water, it would also make a wonderful place for families to boat or play. The water might never be drinkable, but it would do to put on plants in the medians. Just the parks alone would take quite a bit of water. Scary to think that this lake was once the source of our drinking water! Possum Kingdom was a much better source and did not have the pollution of Lake Wichita. Oh well. 

Put a few seeds in a pot today to try to start them. Covered the top of the pot with plastic after watering the seeds in. That was what was recommended. We will see what happens. Think tomorrow is going to be sunflower seed day. Have to get the mound made out there inside the little corral. Have a strange looking little spade thing that cuts grooves in the dirt and removes any grass. Not that the hens left any grass in there! Think it is about ready to plant except for leveling it out a bit. Then the corn will go around the inside of the rows of sunflowers. This may get interesting. Just hope it turns out well.

Still trying to finish a book started a couple of days ago. It is not the most interesting, but hate to start a book and not finish it. This uncle is the most unrealistic person who ever lived and cared for his nieces! No one in his/her right mind allows children to go to school alone even if the car does take them right to the front of the building! A driverless car is just not too hard as a concept for me, but putting kids inside and telling the car where to go? Nope. Not in my way of thinking. Then there are the strange meals he feeds them. Good grief, Gertrude! Peanut butter sandwiches for meals on repeat! Ack. Oh well. It is just fiction, but it worries me that someone would think that sort of life is acceptable!

Mixed up some jello. Have not had any in a long time. Let's hope it is still as good as it used to be. No chewing, just open mouth and swallow! Kinda like my dogs when they get treats that are bite sized. 

Lay down today for a short nap. The dogs "helped" me settle down. One head and a couple of paws worth of help, ya know. One of these days they will get a surprise and get put in their crate. Or not. It is so hard to UNspoil a critter. And they curl up right inside my body to keep both of us warm and touching. Sweet dogs.

Talked to Connie today and heard about how it was when she got old enough to drive. She had to take her little sister and her friends with her whenever she went somewhere--but was not allowed to correct them. Argh! Could not have done that. Know my children would tell on each other. They knew better than to pull anything on Lance, but he was about ready to leave home by the time Jennifer got to high school. And poor Hanan thought he was a teenager by the time he was four years old! He was nine years younger than Lance. Connie said that Rebekah was eleven years younger than she was. That had to be hard running around with a little sister that much younger! We all think we have it hard until we see what goes on around us!

One of the things my father-in-law used to tell me was that this ground up here was the best soil there was for growing things. Yet he did not plant things up here, just on the farm. Not sure why, but it seems strange to me. Maybe there was just not enough room back then. Three houses were down from his place here. This road used to have a lot of traffic. Now it is just the city trucks, Mr. Anderson and friends, and the occasional visitor over at Jerry's. He is still in jail, so who knows when and if he will return. Meanwhile his place is growing up like a bad weed--typical. Hope JoAnn has her nephew lined up to clean it up pretty soon. Guess it is not my problem. The "privacy" fence keeps most of the stuff on this side out of sight. Yay!

Wow! My phone just reported a bad supercell tornado mess from Alabama and Georgia that covered 150 miles! Five folks were killed and a bunch are missing. Lord help them! We know what that is like, unfortunately.

So far this year, only Thompson has crawled under my desk. Yours truly just looked at the weather report and kept on going. But it is the right time of the year. Talking to Patty about going to the basement the other day. She said she did not think she could make it down there. She would also have to carry her bottle of oxygen, so she was thinking about having a safe room built inside the house, but she had not decided where she could have it put. They have one entire room that is full of guns safes. Seems like a good place for a person safe!

Have more flower seeds to plant tomorrow. Really kinda went overboard buying seeds this year. But last year the poppies were SO pretty. So got more poppy seeds of different colors. We shall see how that turns out. Anyone here ever plant columbine? Got four different colors of that seed. Can hardly wait to see what it looks like as a plant and flower. 

You do know that anyone who plants anything has to be an eternal optimist! And expecting to be happy about what grows, well, that is even more optimistic. But let's face it. If no one ever planted things while expecting them to grow, the world would not be nearly as pretty. Yes, God does most of the work, but we can at least herd the flowers into the best little corners of our world. We are so very blessed with beauty. 

Tonight let's remember those who are hurting, having trouble breathing, and otherwise in mourning. Let our prayers be heard on high as our world sorrows. Let us ask for peace and give as generously as we can of our prayers.

May you all rest well and get a good night's sleep. You are loved.

Barking Dogs!

 Some company that has to do with power lines and assorted things of that ilk has had a man in a black Ram out here part of the day. No, it has not been particularly interesting nor cause for a mild case of curiosity. But the dogs have announced their feelings each time he moved. At one point, he was walking out in front of the house with a long yellow pole in his hands when he suddenly became aware of the dogs hanging off the back of the couch cussing him in dog for all they were worth. He seemed a bit shocked--maybe he understands dog--or maybe he was just reassured to see them INside the house and not where they could get to him. Anyway, never a dull moment around here.

Have brown rice in the steamer that is going to be joined with stir fry veggies and sauce from another type of meal. Rice and veggies--especially with mushrooms--makes a pretty decent meal. Lewis would not have concurred, but then, unless the mushrooms were deep fried in a batter, he did not eat mushrooms. Sometimes coming up with a decent meal for anyone is a challenge, but feeding myself has been anything if not boring. Same ol' same ol' just doesn't do it.

It is cold and wet currently. Have a sweater on over my tee-shirt and am actually wearing shoes. After finishing off the weeds in the east side lot, it made me appreciate how nice the weather was yesterday. Warm. Right now the wind is brisk and cool. The hens don't seem to mind overly much, but inside the house, Thompson is enjoying his fuzzy jacket.

Took a couple of pictures of Athena the Campine hen yesterday, but have not uploaded them to FB. Just kinda lazy today. When coming inside today after picking up the first round of eggs, Isa reached over and grabbed my pants leg. Think she was trying to get some attention. Poor babies just need to be handled more. They are like small children who want your attention. They even yell about it--especially one hen that has been called "The Squawker." She is really loud and demanding. Thinking about Lewis' pet cow--his first calf from working for his dad. Shirley would let Lewis sit on her or even ride her. Our kids loved giving her watermelon or anything she liked. They got to grow up in a totally different atmosphere than their friends from school. Think it was good for them.

Currently reading a book about a computer engineer who programs driverless cars. The storyline is pretty out there, but it makes me think that the "Rover" car would have so many good applications--especially for those who can't drive due to seizures or some other physical handicap. Of course, in Wichita Falls, there would be very little demand for driverless cars. We have such big distances between one side of town and the other for one thing. But it would be a great service to those who can't ride the bus or otherwise have transportation at their demand. Wouldn't it be something to have better taxi service in a place like this. But the expense would probably keep most folks at home. sigh

Well, Sylvia was not impressed with the green bean offered to her. Have to agree just a bit. Not impressive sauce or texture. Oh well. The hens don't turn up their beaks to anything. Nothing is ever totally wasted when the livestock take on the leftovers.

Have skipped the Chilean Flamingos, the Northern red-billed hornbill, and today the Crested Penguins. Somehow my hens are more impressive to me. And they come when called, don't ya know. Besides, we will never see one of these birds unless we are outside the U.S. Flamingos have been known to fly through this area, but again, not likely to see them. And penguins? Nope, not ever gonna happen around here. It does amuse me, however, that each bird comes up quickly in the search box. Apparently someone else--or many someones--have been looking up the same birds. Maybe someone gave them a bird calendar!

Kinda hoping that Jennifer may make it up here this weekend. She wants more eggs for one thing. But she also put in an order for beef to be delivered here. We will see how that works out.

Hoping to get the sunflowers and corn planted soon. All the plants put into pots are looking good so far. May have to go pick up some cucumber seeds, but that should be it for seed purchases. Gotta have cucumbers! Last year three different people brought cucumber seeds--and they all made good little cukes! It does seem to matter where they are planted, however. The ones out front did the best, but the ones under the AC unit lived longer. It is just awfully dry and hot here on Dickerson Hill in the summertime.

Years ago we walked through the mall--Sikes Senter--for some reason and a lady at GNC offered us each a small sample of papaya juice and said it was SO good for digestion. Lewis loved it. So we bought a bottle of it that had to be mixed up with water. As much as we liked it, the price was pretty high. But now yours truly has bought some dried papaya chunks. Sweet without being too sweet. And it does not make my stomach hurt or burn. It would really be something if those chunks could reduce the need for indigestion meds. And yes, have tried ginger, pickle juice, Tums of assorted kinds, and something prescribed by my doctor. Think it is caused by a stupid hernia because even water has a tendency to hurt just for a minute. Oh well. Life goes on, lolly lolly.

Sitting here glancing up at the little whatnot shelf that Lance made for me years ago in junior high. Jennifer has about filled it with little horses, a rock or two (amethyst), a tractor, and a little blue motorcycle. Just good memories. But then, most memories from my children make me smile and feel loved. They have always been the treasures of my life. 

Don't really have much on my mind tonight. Have not read anything that has set me off on a spiel about our government, so there's that. 

Just got a call from "Shelby" of BillBrownBeef. Jennifer's order is on its way here! She accidentally ordered twice, but one of the orders was cancelled, so she will just have a few boxes instead of an entire deep freeze full. Hope they like this stuff. I look forward to liver and onions soon.

May you all find peace this night. Please remember those like Joe in your prayers. And keep your attitude positive! You are loved.