Happy Halloween!

Whoops, clicked on the wrong image!  Hi Everyone!

The first picture is of the bandstand/gazebo in Healdsburg Plaza.  The house is the one I was going to post!!  One of the many homes in Healdsburg that decorated for Halloween.

Today even myself, that is not a baseball fan has Giant fever!  San Francisco had the parade & big celebration for the World Series winning Giants.  The big celebration was televised so I got sidetracked watching that.  Several people said San Francisco really knows how to throw a party.  It was a lot of fun watching the players, the fans, the newsreporters, everyone was fun & excited.  I'm even in Halloween & Giants colors, orange & black.  My shirt is orange with black pumpkins on it, works for both!!

Sandi, I cannot believe they showed you the door.  Enjoy the time off, destress, rest up, do something fun, of course read!   You are just going to be so much better off than where you were working.  I'm very excited for you.  You didn't say where you would be in California.

Amanda, I hope you & the family are okay.

One last Halloween picture.

Until next time!

Stay safe, happy reading,
Donna M

Wednesday

Well, I am temporarily unemployed.  I can't believe it!  Yesterday I thought things were going so smoothly and they said thank you, and don't let the door hit you on the way out!  I was shocked!  I really thought they were going to have me work the notice out.  So now I get an unexpected vacation!  I should be productive, but thus far all I've done is 2 loads of laundry and a nap!  I'm exhuasted....I think the emotional roller coaster of waiting for the shoe to fall had me worn out more than I anticipated.

Mary, I'm glad to hear that you're safe and have power.  I hope Amanda is ok.  I know she was starting to have some concerns.  I will be relieved to hear from her  Good luck in getting back to normal.

Donna, our power company is also sending people to the area.  I can't remember when they left, but it was a huge convoy of trucks!

The company that I am going to is headquarted in California and therefore my first week on the job will be in California for training.  I'm just so excited.  I have a grown up job!  Benefits and everything!

Today I went to the dentist, and was fairly sure they would say I needed to have something done, but I got a good check up!

Hope everyone is well and good.  I'm going to attempt more laundry, and to pretend I'm productive.  I wonder how the Halloween parties at school are going.

Sandi

Tuesday evening, 10/30/2012...

Hello Everyone,

Mary, I'm so glad you & your family are all okay.  It sounds like any problems are mostly minor.  The images & the news on Sandy is just astounding.  That hospital that had to move the babies & other patients, just wonderful that they were able to evacuate.  These disasters do seem to bring out the best in people.  Too bad about your VCR/DVD.  I know what you mean about the year of replacing things.  Mine has been like that also & it isn't over!!  My TV could go at anytime.  It is old technology!!

The picture above is some very unique trees that grow at Lands End in San Francisco.  I don't know what kind of trees they are but they do fascinate me.  This is just a small area of this park.

Sandi, Congratulations on the job.  I hope it works out to be everything you are looking for.  It sounds like a wonderful match for you for several reasons.  Kudos for saying you will leave before November 8th if they give you any problems.  I think it is wonderful that you surprised them with your resignation.  Keep us posted on everything.  Is this the job that will bring you to California for training?  I am so happy for you.

Here in northern California our power company is PG&E, they are sending a crew of people & equipment back east to help with restoring power.  Some are driving, I think with the equipment on trucks but mostly of the human are on a charter airplane out of San Francisco.  I'm not sure where the plane will be landing but I think the crew is around 100 people or maybe more.  They have helped other areas before after a disaster.

We have rain coming our way tomorrow but not until late in the day.  Unless, of course, Mother Nature changes the timing!

I will leave you with another picture from my day in San Francisco.  These were the steps down to the path at Lands End where we took pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge.  Yes, I walked all the way down them & back up later to get back to the car!!  It is an area I want to go back to do more exploring & hiking/walking.

Everyone have a good evening.  Stay safe.
Donna M

Tuesday evening

Hi guys!

First of all my family and I are fine after the storm. We were fortunate--we did not get much rain here. The winds were bad overnight but we sustained no damage. Karen's power was out for several hours today but has been restored. Our cable is out but that is minimal. There is worst damage here in our county but we seem to be in an area that was not hard hit. As far as Philly and the coast the flooding and wind damage is much worse. I haven't seen the pictures today because of no tv but late last night the pictures from the Jersey shore just made you want to cry. My heart goes out to all those who suffered damage and bodily harm. It is just too much to absorb right now the magnitude of this storm. Thank you for your kind thoughts and prayers.

I haven't been outside since Sunday but will be going out tomorrow. They asked everyone to stay in and actually closed a lot of state roads and interstates for the duration of the storm. Karen and Jeremy stayed home Monday and today because the kids' school was closed as well as their offices. The kids thought it was an adventure having school cancelled and mom and dad home with them all day. I didn't do a lot of reading but I did finish Twilight Whispers which was very good. I started another book called The Light Between Oceans which is a debut novel. It is good so far.

Sandi--congrats on your new job. Well done!

Donna M--congrats to the Giants. I read Girls Night earlier this year and really liked it. I liked the characters and the humor was great. The hero was so good with the h's daughters. I am glad you had a nice day with Dustin.

Cady--I hope you enjoyed all your Halloween activities. I remember being annoyed with the h in And Only to Deceive too.

Amanda--I hope you and your family are ok. Let us know.

We decided to watch Homeland last night on video only to find out our vcr/dvd player no longer works! I was disappointed as we needed a break from the storm coverage on tv. This is the year for replacing things in our house.

I hope everyone is having a good week. I am hoping things return pretty much to normal now. I am planning to go to the library tomorrow to volunteer if they are open.

Mary

Monday

Mary, and Amanda, I'm thinking good safe thoughts for you all!  I hope you make it through easily.

I am still in a state of shock.  I had the interview for the job I really wanted, and then the next day I had an interview for a job I would have taken because it would have been a job.  It was closer to home, and would have been a pay cut, but I know it was going to be offered to me.  However, I had to call and tell them I wasn't able to come for the second interview because the job I really wanted had called to offer me the position! 

I can't believe it!  I am going to get a pay raise, more time off for holidays than I currently get, and I can take unpaid time off for as much as I would like during the slow times of the year!  My new job will be as a corporate recruiter for a company that places people in child care careers both temporary and permanent. 

I turned my notice in today, and I think I totally took the wind right out of their sails!  I'm super excited about that too.  At this point I will work until November 8, 2012.  I'm not 100% sure I will work the entire notice.  If they are disrespectful or rude I will not.

Again hope everyone is safe!

Sandi

Monday, 10/29/2012...

Hello Everyone,

Mary & Amanda, I hope neither of you is in danger from Sandy.  It sounds like the storm from hell!  The pictures on TV of the waves & damage before the storm has even really hit are amazing.  Stay safe.  I wonder if the aftermath of the storm is going to be the hard part due to lack of power, downed trees & flooding.  Keep us posted when you can.

I'm sure you can all figure out this is a picture of the Golden Gate Bridge.  Notice I picked a picture from the nice sunny day!

We have nothing like Sandy coming our way but rain is expected on Halloween.  It is hard to say just when it will hit but maybe around the time the Trick or Treaters are out.  We don't get any here in our complex so it doesn't matter much.

Yesterday I finished reading Girls Night by Stef Ann Holm.  It was very good.  I haven't read any of her books for awhile.  One of the things I like about her books is the humor!  You all know by now that I'm attracted to romance with humor maybe because I really think you need to be able to laugh with the person or people you care about.  Again the image is larger than on her website!!  This is the original cover, the book is being reissued at least on Kindle & I think other ereaders.  It was a good read.



My last post said "GO GIANTS"!  They went!!  They won the World Series.  There was nothing on last night at the 8 o'clock hour for me so I switched to the game...  I got to see them win.  Even thought I am not a baseball fan I was very excited for the team, the city of San Francisco & all their fans.  It is exciting.  Sadly some of the celebrants in San Francisco last night turned destructive they burned a $700,000 muni bus, started bonfires in the middle of a couple of streets & also over turned a car did a great deal of damage to it including tearing off the doors.  I just don't get that need to be destructive when you are suppose to be celebrating something good.  Those people spoil it for the many.  The police had to step in to start making arrests.

This is it for now.  Even though the cover of the book is very large I will leave you with another picture.

This is an area called Lands End in San Francisco.  I took the above picture from this area also.  You can see the trails.  I am looking forward to going back to do some more hiking, exploring, enjoying the wonderful views.

Everybody, take care, be safe, happy reading (if you can),
Donna M

Before the storm :-(

Hi guys!

Just a quick post. We are ready for the storm. At least we have done what we can. Got extra water, flashlight and radio batteries, brought in everything from outside the house. All we can do now is pray and wait. I don't watch a lot of the updates because they can scare you to death. I am getting too old for this stuff! Anyway, I am hoping and praying for the best. Last I heard we could get lots of rain but the wind predictions are what are scary. We have several large, old walnut trees in the yard. We have been through a lot of weather situations so we will get through this one too. Keep us in your prayers. I will check in when I can.

Mary

Saturday night

Good evening ladies!

DonnaH -- Glad you had a great dr's visit.  It must be quick month, because I was only 20 minutes too - lol!  Sorry Joy had a rough day.  Hope she is feeling better.

DonnaM --  Love the pic of the bldg in Chinatown.  And it sounds like a terrific day spent with Dustin.  I am sure there are pictures, right?  I will be watching DWTS too - so glad Bristol finally went! 

Sandi -- That sucks about your job.  I'll cross my fingers for you that you get the one you really want.  Keep us updated.  Sounds like book club was good, minus the wheelchair.  I always check my email if I know I'm going to something to make sure plans don't change.  Sounds like The Addams Family was a good show.  I also love musicals and wish I could go more often.  Or better, get up to Broadway to see one.  One of these days . . .

Cady -- Glad Maggie did better in her latest reading test.  Hopefully the teacher will work with her to keep improving.  And I had to laugh - Amelia and two of her gf's are being zombie prom queens.  Obviously, the "in" costume this year:)  How did Friday's Halloween party go?

Margie --  Glad the yard sale went so well for you.  Nothing worse than spending hours and making nothing or close to nothing.  Sounds like a good deal selling stuff online.  You are definitely right about the pricing - people shopping the yard sales would want the stuff for a lot less, and toys are expensive!

Mary -- Not a good day for Penn State.  Are you ready for Sandy?  They called  a State of Emergency in Philly thru Tuesday, so I guess I won't be going to work.  I don't flood, so that isn't an issue for me.  How about you?  What are they saying you are going to get?  I had to laugh, your opinion of 50 Shades mirrors my gf's, and she isn't a romance reader.  I decided to skip it.

Trudy -- Enjoy your show!  Sorry the legal problems won't just go away:(  Keep us updated.  Will be thinking of you.

Been pretty busy here.  Today I started at the bowling alley with Aurora and had to leave early to drive to Pottstown for a luncheon memorial for my grandmother who passed away last Saturday.  She turned 95 about 10 days before, so not such a shock.  I will have to say, I thought she would outlive all of us - definitely a strong woman.  She was actually put on hospice a year and a half ago, and they had to take her off - not surprising.  I'm sad but happy, as she wanted this and I know she is at peace.  She can also say hi to dad for me:)

I was happy to discover last week that the gym I belong to offers Zumba classes for an extra $5 a month on my membership fee - woo hoo!  But I have to say, that class just kicked my butt.  I also had to get new sneakers.  Absolutely no slide to the ones I had.  Felt like I had lead legs and my shins were killing me.  Sooo not good.  Did pick up new ones this week, so hopefully the next class will be better.  Couldn't take a class this week, as I was busy on all the times I would normally be available to go.  Hopefully Sandy will be gone by Tuesday so I can go.

Had book club on Wednesday night.  That was fun.  Got my gf Jessica to join - yeah!  We decided we needed a group name, and it looks like it might be F'ing Mauraders.  Now, before you ask, the reason this came up was because it was a line in the book we read this month.  The narrator of the book, a 12 yo boy, was sent to fetch a man to "save Two Notch" (the town).  And the lady that sent him made it clear that the "f'ing mauraders" were coming.  So everytime he explained what he was doing, this line came up.  We will shorten the name to FM Book Club though.  Our book this month is The Serial Killer's Wife.  Can't remember the author and haven't started it yet - what  a surprise:-0

Had yesterday off from work to get my windshield of my car fixed.  The nice part is mom volunteered to pay for it.  Who can argue with that?  It seems like anything and everything is coming up that's costing me money - some expected and some not.  The windshield got hit a year ago by a rock a year ago on my way to work, so this was just a "put off" deal.  The brakes being fixed a couple weeks ago was the unexpected.  Also, Aurora came home with a thing for class ring - OMG the prices!  Totally scary.  At least I can make payments on that until April.  So, with my day off, Mom and I went to King of Prussia Mall for lunch at the Cheesecake Factory and some shopping (I didn't buy to much obviously).  Fun day.

Ok, I know this is long - sorry:(  Getting late so I guess it will be off to bed.  Want to hit the gym in the morning and will be getting a lot of wash done, just in case the electric goes out with this storm.  We usually don't lose power, but it sure isn't a guarantee. 

I hope everyone is having a good weekend!

Amanda

Saturday, 10/27/2012...

Hi Everyone,

Happy weekend!  This picture is one of the buildings in Chinatown that is well kept.  It was built in 1920.  Not all of Chinatown is shabby but almost all the area we were was.  It has been there a long time.  I think even before the 1906 earthquake.  Many of the people in that area don't have big incomes.  We were just in the area that is mostly business.

Mary, I've never seen an option as to what size I want the bookcover I am posting.  I just copy the image, then post it here.  The one I posted that was so large was much smaller on the author's website.  Most of his books require a tissue or two!!  Since you mentioned the American Girl dolls I was trying to remember how old my granddaughter was when she got her first one.  I do remember thinking that for as much as they cost she was a little young.  She ended up with several of them over time.  Now she is 14 which leads me to believe she doesn't play with dolls to much now!!  High school will do that.  I hope Sandy doesn't bring to much damage to your area.  My TV has not been on yet today so I haven't heard any updates.  I will when I watch the news.  Stay safe.

Margie, you may not have lasted long for your garage sale but I would say money wise it was good.  I bet you were glad when it was over.  They are a lot of work.  It sounds like you are doing good with the things you are posting on a website.  I say, keep it up!   Did you mention The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch?  I've seen the lecture several times but did not have a copy of the book.  To me it should be read every once in awhile so you remember that you have to enjoy life while you are here.  That is one of the reasons I escape to the coast or out on a photo taking hike.  Sometimes I just need nature!

Sandi, Good Luck with the job search.  Keep us posted.  If you are offered & take it, where would you be in California for training?  I do hope you get the job that appeals to you the most.  I think it is hard to understand employers sometimes.  What a "behind your back move" to offer some one your job while you were on vacation.  I don't think I would want to work for someone like that.

Cady, sounds like you are going to be busy this weekend.  I barely even know that Halloween is this week.  We don't get any Trick or Treators here.  I miss seeing the little kids in their costumes.  Those shootings in your state are awful.  I'm sorry to hear the latest one was so close to you.  It is sad that people come to a conclusion to do that.

Mary, I think you mentioned Homeland on DVD.  I don't get the channel it is on or don't watch it!  Anyway after seeing one of the cast members on The View I was curious so I have it on my Netflix list.  I think it will be awhile before I get it.  I like watching TV prorams on the DVD's because you get several episodes on one DVD & no commercials!  The last DVD I watched was on Hawaii, just loved it.  Made me want to go there even more!!  The documentary is in two parts, I'll watch the second one tonight.

We had rain earlier this week but we are warm again with lots of sun.  It is beautiful here now in this area.  Our next rain is suppose to be on Halloween.  My grandson, Dustin, & I went to the coast on Thursday.  It was a beautiful, sunny day.  I was hoping the ocean might still be stirred up from the storm but it was pretty calm & blue.  We were at Salt Point State Park, Gerstle Cove the same place I took the other grand kids this summer.  Dustin & I had a good day.  We drove down the coast coming home making a stop at Bodega Bay Head where we ended up staying to watch the sunset.  It was so beautiful.  I haven't stayed to watch the sunset for a long time as I usually drive over in the morning.  We didn't leave until early afternoon after his morning class at the JC.  It was such a good day.  I love spending time with him. At the present he doesn't have a girlfriend so he has time to hang out with gramma!!

On Wednesday I took my neighbor to the doctor.  This was an unplanned visit!  Her bone density test showed a loss of bone mass so the doctor wanted her to come in for a shot.  She will have to have two of them a year.  Now that she has had this one the others will be scheduled when she goes for her rheumatoid arthritis treatment.  We were only there about 15 minutes.  We each had one other errand & then back home.  The gas price at COSTCO has gone down considerably, thank heavens!  Most of the stations around the area are at $4.19-$4.39 for regular, COSTCO was $3.89.  I hope it goes down even more & soon!

This should catch me up with everyone for now.  The pointed building is the famous TransAmerica building in San Francisco.  It is a real landmark.  The building just in front is a Hilton Hotel.  You can see Hilton on the sign!

Good bye for now.  I am going to go finish my book.  There is no football game for me tomorrow as the Niners are playing on Monday night.  I probably won't really watch the game as I will watch DWTS.  I'll switch channels from time to time to see how they do.  I hate it when there are conflicting things to watch!!

GO GIANTS!!!

Happy Reading,

Donna M

Well the weekend is here again.  I must say, I am a happy camper as we are going great guns right now, lots of meetings between now and Thanksgiving.  Halloween starts this weekend for us.  We have a trick or treating party tonight at a friends.  Then Luke has a halloween party on Sunday and then our neighborhood does trick or treating on Halloween night, so we should get more candy than we can deal with.  Luke is going to be Luke Skywalker, had to order his costume online as we couldn't find it anywhere here and Mags is going to be a zombie witch. 

Mary - I haven't watched Homeland, but I know a lot of people love it.  As for And Only to Deceive.  I liked it, at times the h annoyed me, but this book is definately her growing up book.  I got book 2 and will see if I am interested enough to keep reading.  It is too bad, you don't have an AG store nearby.  I know going to the store in Chicago is great fun and really got Mags excited.  I hope Sandy doesn't come by your way.

Sandi - Most of the shopping trip was looking, but we did pick up some shirts for both kids - we found some good sales and we needed more long-sleeve shirts.  We are finding that Gap is a good store for Mags, so I just need to pop by there occasionally and see what is on sale.  I hope things go better for you at your current job and you can find something soon.  It is so frustrating when your current job is in jeopardy, even worse when the trust is gone.  I will keep my fingers crossed.

Margie - $240 in only three hours is great.  Did you keep everything that didn't sell?  I have a friend who does a sale once a year and just keeps what didn't sell in bins and brings back out the next year, if it doesn't sell after (I think) 2 years she donates it.  Much more organized than I am, but a nice way to make some extra spending cash.

Thanks for all the thoughts on Maggie's reading, she did much better on her test last week - got an 85.  Now we just have to keep it up.  I hope everyone has a great weekend.  I finished And Only to Deceive by Tasha Alexander and am now reading The Wilder Life by Wendy McClure, it is about a woman's quest with Laura Ingalls Wilder, it is interesting so far. 

Cady

Thursday evening

Hi guys!

This has been a less busy week than last week. I am still reading Twilight Whispers by Barbara Delinsky. It is very good. I will definitely read more of her books. I have only read three so far but I like her writing style and characters. I did my library volunteering yesterday. I brought home the Homeland (the first season) dvd. I don't know if any of you watch this on Showtime. We don't have the channel but they had a free week where you could watch the first two episodes of this series. I liked what I saw so I reserved this at the library.

Margie--that is a good amount of cash to make in a short time. Good luck selling the stuff online. You seem to be doing well so far. As for Fifty Shades... I would get it from the library. I would not have bought it either. I borrowed a copy.

Cady--thank you for the info on the American Girl dolls. I think Lauren might be too young this year. I have a catalog and will talk to Karen about it. That is a bit too close for comfort--the shooting. Glad you were not at that mall! I think I read And Only to Deceive. Did you like it?

Donna M--I like the lantern picture as well. It is a shame that Chinatown has gotten shabby.

Sandi--good luck with the job search. I hope you get the one you really want.

Not much to report. Our weather turned warmer again. Now we are bracing for a big rain storm over the weekend and into next week. I hope everyone is well and having a good week.

Mary

Thursday

Cady, so sorry to hear about the shooting, and I agree...15 minutes is a little too close for my comfort.  I'm glad you and Maggie weren't at the mall close to where it happened.  Did you buy anything on the shopping trip or was it more window shopping?  How did the play date go?


Margie, that's great that you made so much in a couple of hours!  I would consider it if I thought I'd make that much, but I don't have little kid stuff, and that's what really sells!

Donna, your pictures are always fun!  When I put up a book cover it asks what size I want it.  Maybe that had something to do with your cover being large?

I finished listening to Gone Missing, and while I did enjoy I was disappointed.  Not in the book, but in myself.  I haven't done book 2 or 3, and I think I thought Gone Missing was something else, and not the Castillo book.  I don't know that you really need to do these in order, but I will go back and do book 2 and 3.

Things are really not good at work.  I am fairly confident that I'm going to get fired and soon!  While I was on vacation last week they offered my job to someone else, and not only did she not take it she ended up quitting, and calling me to tell me how underhanded they were.  I know they are and there are things I don't like, so I've been looking for a job, but trying to be picky.  I've decided I can't afford to be picky, and have started applying for just about anything and everything.

Yesterday I had an interview for a job I really want.  I'm putting it out there that this job is mine, and therefore it will be! If I get it I will be in California for a week of training.  The thought of the challenges ahead with this particular job have me shaking in my boots, but I know I can do it!

As for the burning of Big Tex, I was not there the day he burned, but the day before.  I didn't see him, as I'm not much of a fair goer and to be honest...even sort of forgot to search him out!

Today I have an interview for another job.  This one is closer to home.

Hope everyone has a great day!

Hi Ladies,

I'm just getting back here ...you all saved my place! 

DonnaH, Reading about your daughters fall makes me cringe!  Poor her.  I hope she is feeling better now. Its good to hear you are doing so well with your own health.  That is really great. Love the story of the pushy lady. LOL!

Trudy,  I hope you are feeling better.  You will need all your strength for all the activities you have planned. 

Sandi,   I'm glad you had a good time at the play.  I love going to musical plays but it's been a while since I've been able to. 

Mary, About Fifty Shades, It is interesting how some books just kind of grab us even if we are not really sure we like them.  I am curious so will most likely check it out.

Donna, Those are a lot of lanterns.  Too bad they do not up keep the area.  They should do something to keep it inviting for the tourist.  It rained for a day and was drizzly the next but it never came down hard like in your area.  The past few days have been a bit chilly especially at night.  I love the cover of the NS book.  It looks a bit like a Thomas Kincaid painting. 

Cady, I saw that there had been another shooting in your area.  Fifteen minutes away is very close.  It is just so sad how people will do something like that.  I hope the tips helped Maggie with her test.  I've thought about trying to sell on ebay.  Not cloths but some of my fathers older records and things like that but I doubt I will get around to that anytime soon. 

We did end up having our garage sale last Saturday.  We tried to organize things the night before onto tables I borrowed but after an hour or so of going through boxes, we got frustated and decieded to just open the door and toss clothes out that morning.  We mostly had clothes, baby, toddler, men and women.  We also had shoes and some nic nacs. We were out there from 8:30 to about 11;30 and started cleaning up.  It was crazy busy with people and I was overwhelmed.  Gavin got sick with a fever the night before and was sick that day so he was clingy and wouldn't let my sister help very much.  I practically gave everything away.  Most clothes sold for .50 cents to a dollar or more for jackets.  In the end, we made $244 and change.  Not bad for clothes and nic nacs! 

I've been putting more of the really nice baby jeans, shirts and shoes on the website.  Tonight I put two toys on there.  A leap frog musical table and a dino musical rocker.  I got a three responses for the table withing five minutes.  I'm asking $10 for it and they are all willing to pay it.  It is in really good condition and I know people at the yard sale would have wanted it for a couple of dollars.  So far I've made a bit ove $80 dollars for my sister.  I've had at least three ladies make plans to meet and not show.  I understand things happen but when I send them a message asking if they still want it, and they don't respond, I will just assume they are being rude.  I'll just keep a list and not deal with them.

I finished reading Dangerous Highlander by Donna Grant and I like it.  I'm reading book 2 now.  Forbidden Highlander.   

Hope you all have a good Thursday.
Margie

Hi Ladies,

Just a quick "Hello" to let you all know I'm still around. I tried to post last night and watch DWTS recording at the same time.  I was so tired I fell asleep and woke up after 1:00 a.m. with the computer and t.v. on!  I'll be back tonight to update you all on the garage sale.

Margie

Donna - what pretty lanterns on the street there.  Since you love flying and live in Northern California - have you been up in a balloon?  We always see those photos from Napa and other areas near there and they look so pretty.  Make sure you have a box of kleenex when you start reading the Last Lecture.  I listened to it on tape in the car and found myself crying all too often.  Very good book.

Mary - The chili sounds yummy.  I haven't started our soup time, but since the weather is turning colder, it is definately the season.  As for American Girl, Maggie started with the Bitty Baby - somewhere between 4 and 5, then she got the Girl Twin (the one with hair), according to the catalog,  you can only order two, but at the store, they will let you buy just one.  I am thinking she was 6 or 6 1/2 when she got her first doll.  She got Rebecca - she liked her as much about the hair as anything else - it was curly like hers.

Sandi - So were you at the State Fair when the big statue is burned down?  I saw it on the News and thought of you.  Sounds like your Book party went well, as for the lady in the wheel chair,  you had contacted her, so that was on her unfortunately.  What do you think of Gone Missing?  I read the last book and enjoyed it, but haven't gotten to this one yet. 

Trudy - I hope you feel better soon.  Hopefully, the sun there can burn that cold right out of you.

DonnaH - You are totally right about the teachers, we have had good ones and just so-so ones.  This one seems okay, but I am holding judgement to see how things go with Maggie.  Great news about your health.  It is nice when you see your efforts paying off.  Sounds like your waiting room gal learned a thing or two about karma.  :)

Margie - Wow, sounds like selling online is the way to go.  I know one of our friends does a bunch of ebay selling.  How was the garage sale?

We had a good weekend here.  Mike's brother came up as his son was playing in a Lacrosse tournament near us, so the two of themm stayed at our house, as he played Saturday and Sunday.  It went well.  We went and saw one game - they were outplayed, lost 10 to 1.  Then the kids and I watched The Avengers - we hadn't seen it yet, so that made for a fun Saturday night, Sunday, Luke had a playdate and Maggie and I went shopping.  Unfortunately, there was another big shooting near us - luckily, it was at the mall about 15 minutes from us rather than the one we went to.  Another tragedy, the second in just a couple of months.  Very sad.

Thanks for all the good thoughts on Maggie's reading.  Her teacher wants to try and work with her a bit more.  She had a reading test on Friday, but we haven't gotten the results.  We went through her last one and we tried to work on hints that would help her.  So I have my fingers crossed for this one.  We did take her for a vision test, but her sight is fine, so that isn't the answer.  I did a bit of reading this weekend, read a Special Edition by RaeAnne Thayne, Cold Creek Reunion, it was pretty good.  Then, I started And Only to Deceive by Tasha Alexander, it is another mystery series, the first one in it, am liking it so far.  Hope everyone has a good Tuesday. 

Cady

Another try! 10/22/2012...

Hello Again!

Now you are all wondering why the again!  Well, Saturday late afternoon I was here caught up on all the posts, wrote a long post including pictures, then when I was correcting a misspelled word it all disappeared.  I think I accidentally brushed a key on the keyboard, not sure which one but I was not happy!!  Yesterday I just never got around to coming back.  No real excuse either other than maybe disgust that it could disappear so easily.

The above picture is in Chinatown.  The lanterns hung up above are so pretty.  This area of San Francisco is a very popular tourist destination.  After spending several hours there I came to the conclusion that it is getting very run down & shabby looking.  A little cleaning up, sprucing up would make a huge difference.  A restaurant that was at one time a favorite is all boarded up, looks sad.  The people in the picture are there because I couldn't get one without people getting into my view!    Not one of my better pictures.

On Saturday I did read all the posts, made comments to each of you.  I'm sure I will leave something out but I did not go back to read everything, but most of them.  Here goes!

Amanda, loved the picture of you & the family in the helicopter.  One of my long time wishes is to ride in a helicopter.  I will go up in just about anything!  I love planes, flying.  My first plane ride was from Medford to San Francisco, CA. when I was probably 9 years old.  My grandparents lived in San Jose at the time.  One of my uncles along with his family was also on the plane with me.  After that first time I always went alone.  That was so long ago when it was safe for children to do that.  The airline always took good care of me, made sure I was met by my grandparents.  They were always there waiting for me.  Did your girls like the helicopter?   Nice to know that your girls are doing good in school.

Donna H, Yea, on the good news from your doctor.  A visit like that makes the day better.  I'm happy to hear your health is improving with your life style change.  Is your daughter doing okay after that nasty fall?  I hurt just reading about it.  Your Thanksgiving/birthday get together sounds like it was great fun.  What is pepe?  I've never heard of it.  The pie sounded good.  I do love my sweets!!

Trudy, all this legal "stuff" just has to stop soon.  I cannot believe it has all dragged out this long & that more has come up.  No wonder people get low opinions of lawyers.  I'm so glad you have the Celtic "lads"  to look forward to.  At least you know you will have an enjoyable evening at the performance.  I'll look forward to hearing about it.

Cady, maybe by now you have heard something from Maggie's teacher.  I hope he will have a suggestion that will be helpful for her.  How soon is her eye appointment?  Your day at the church with the paths & tower sounded like fun.  Going up & down those steps will really get to you when you are not use to it.

Margie, if I remember correctly you had your yard sale this weekend.  I hope that went well.  I'll look forward to you telling us about it.  Selling the clothes over the Internet sounds like it is good.  Did you do more of that yet?  Did you get rain today?  We had rain overnight here & then early this afternoon we had a down pour.  I was talking to another resident here then went to go out for my mail & it was coming down in buckets!  My grandson & I were suppose to go to the coast tomorrow but we moved it to Thursday due to the weather.

Sandi, was your train ride to the fair fun?  It has been a very long time since I took any type of train ride.  Glad you enjoyed the show.  I also love musicals, always have.  Too bad the lady in the wheelchair did not check her email.  I would almost think that she would know most homes are not wheelchair accessible unless there is a disabled family living there.  But what do I know since I can walk?  You have been reading & listening to a lot of books!  Yes, I love the cover on Robyn Carr's book Blue Skies.  I do know her husband was a pilot as she tells that in her Acknowledgements at the end of the book.  Soon her Virgin River Christmas book will be out.  I just love her books.

Mary, good that Penn State won.  Especially since Sandusky has been in the news again.  Such a sad burden for the athletic department to have.  Thanks for your view point on the Fifty Shade of Grey.  I'm still not inclined to read them!!

When I was here on Saturday I was surprised to find out it had been almost a week since I was here last!  I had kind of a busy, crazy week.  There is only so much I can manage in one day!!  Saturday I went to Farmers Market here in town then drove to Santa Rosa a little later to go to the Friends of the Library sale.  They hold them twice a year.  I really hate missing one!  Yes, I got deals!  In the "special section" where the CD's, DVD's & other "special" items are I got 3 CD's & a mini book "Digital Photography for Dummies".  It is a small size that will easily slip into a backpack or purse.  I'm finding after doing a little reading that it helps to know about some of the functions on the camera.  For instance ISO setting, yes I knew it was there but didn't really understand what it is!  That is just one thing I've focused on so far.  I also got a hard cover copy of Randy Pausch The Last Lecture, which along with the CD's & "dummie" book was $9.50.  Then in the other section which is huge & all books both hard cover & paperback I spent another $6 on 6 paperbacks.  Sometimes I'm not sure the sales are a good thing!!!

Since the 49'ers played on Thursday night there was no game for them yesterday.  I think the next game is a Monday night game.  I'll still watch DWTS but catch some of the game during commercials & before DWTS.  Speaking of DWTS!  I was not sorry to see Bristol go.  They were on The View that week after getting voted off.  I have nothing against her, in fact I think she has improved in many ways since she was on the first time but I think other dancers are better.  This week, tonight, will be only an hour long after the presidential debate.  I thought last week was the last presidential debate!!  I will be very glad when it is all over.  The ads on TV, mail, robo calls will all go away!  These days I'm looking before I pick up my phone!!  With everything going on last week I did manage to go get my flu shot.  It is so easy since you can get them in several places without any appointment.  I went to CVS!!

This morning I finished reading The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks.  It was very good.  I've read a lot of his books.  The image was smaller when I copied it!!!




That should catch me up for now.  Hopefully I won't be gone so long this time!  since this image is so large I won't post another picture.

Happy reading, have a good week,  By the way, I did not go back to proof read!!  Any mistakes are mine!!!
Donna M

Sunday morning

Hi guys!

I hope everyone is having a good weekend. We are here. Penn State won their game last night and that makes the hub happy. Today we will be watching NFL football all day. I am also making a big pot of chili this afternoon. That will give us several meals. The weather has been very fall-like since a couple days of rain. Today is a typical beautiful late October day. I finished reading Fifty Shades of Grey yesterday. I am still thinking about what I think about it. It was an intriguing, dark, sometimes disturbing book but it did have some humor. Mostly it made me sad while reading it. The reasons for Christian Grey's lifestyle are hinted at and are sad. Ana is an innocent when she meets him and it makes me sad that she is completely beguiled by him but at the same time I can understand. I will probably read the other two books because the first one leaves the reader hanging and you do want to see what ultimately happens to these two. The writing is not that great but tolerable. Although the book is over 500 pages it doesn't take long to read. I started reading Twilight Whispers, an older Barbara Delinsky book.

Cady--I hope that Maggie's teacher did get back to you. It is good you are getting her eyes checked. So often that is the problem and is easily remedied. Sounds like Luke got a good report. I think I remember that Maggie got an American Girl doll for one of her birthdays--how old was she? I have been considering getting Lauren one for Christmas. Of course I will talk to Karen about it first.

Trudy--it sounds like you need a big hug! I hope you are feeling better. That is cool about Celtic Thunder at the Pentagon.

Margie--did you have the yard sale this weekend? Hope it went well.

Donna H--congrats on a good report from your doctor. That is always a good thing. I hope your daughter Joy is ok after her fall.

Sandi--thanks for the birthday wishes for Lauren. It is hard to believe how quickly the years go by. I can remember when Cady was pregnant with her kiddos too. I love musicals too and would love to see more. Karen enjoys them too so I have someone to go with to the shows. Glad all went well with bookclub at your home. Yes, the lady in the wheelchair should have read your email.

Amanda and Donna M--I hope all is well with you and you check in soon.

Everyone enjoy the rest of your weekend.  

Mary

Friday

Well, I caved and took a couple of days off.  I took off Wednesday and Thursday.

Wednesday was bookclub night, and I was expecting 20 people for dinner. I felt really bad because one person is wheelchair bound, but occasionally will use her crutches.  I sent her a message that I fretted over letting her know my house wasn't really handicap accessible and bringing the crutches would probably be the best idea.  I ended it with looking forward to seeing you.  Well, as Richard and I were cleaning and generally getting ready for the evening people began to drop out.

I was getting stressed not because of people dropping, but because I broke the new towel bar, I couldn't find the guest towels, Travis hurting his paw and requiring an emergency trip to the vet, and cooking for all these people!  Then the party starts and the person in the wheelchair and her daughter ring the bell.  Well, actually just the daughter...her mom can't get to my house with her chair.  I said I was sorry, but in my head I'm thinking I was fretting over how you would take my message, and you didn't even bother to read it, because if you had you probably never would have come in the first place!  At least I know next year they will respond no when invited.

finished 10/17/2012

I guess things went well, people left early, and hopefully had a grand time!  I stayed up until about 10:30 finishing my book.  I  read Don't Cry For Me by Sharon Sala.  It's the second book in her Rebel Ridge trilogy.

Thursday I got up and hung out at breakfast so long that I barely had time to get home, grab a few things, and head out again.  I met my friends at the train to go to the fair.  With our musical tickets we got entrance into the fair.  That was pretty cool!  I am not much of a fair person, so a couple of hours prior to the musical was more than enough for me.  You have to pay for everything with tickets, and I forgot to give my friend my  extra ones, so I gave them to a person who was helping direct people as to which train they wanted to take to get back to where they were going.

I wasn't sure what to expect from the play, but when it started I was disappointed in the Wednesday character.  Then I realized she was a grown up, even though Pugsley isn't.  Once I got past that it was a really great show with a lot of wonderful one liners, great comedic timing, and fun singing and dancing.  Trudy, I think you'd have loved it!

I have wanted season tickets for years to the musicals, and I think this year come hell or high water I'm getting them!

I finished listening to The Great Escape and am now listening to Gone Missing by Linda Castillo.  I'm also reading Goodnight Tweetheart by Tereasa Medioros.

Who has weekend plans?

Sandi

Thursday

Well, it's still sort of summer in Florida, no humidity, thank God but heat.  I have the a/c on again.  It's been on and off for the last week or so.  We are having our "autumn."

Now about my legal situation.....The personal injury lawyer won't take the case b/c the damage to my car was too slight to bother with and even though I was injured, State Farm would win.  He has spoken to my attny (told them they could speak legalize together and he laughed) and now I'm waiting to hear back from my attny about the next move.

Meanwhile, I've gotten sick, sore throat and extremely tired (wonder why) and I have a doctor's appt. shortly.  I rescheduled the stress test I was supposed to take today for next week and didn't go to an Oldsmar Cares mtg Mon. night or a function for them last night; I don't think I'll show for another function tonight either.  I've signed up and paid for a party for my grad. school tomorrow so I'll put in an appearence and Sat, I've got to go into downtown Tampa (ugh) b/c I've signed up for Cancer research study (did I send you all the info about it).  You can't have ever been diagnosed with cancer and they are building a database nationwide to help w/Cancer research.  With my mother and both grandmothers dying of various kinds of cancer, I want to be part of it.

I've just about finished the book I received from Mia Marlowe, Lord of Fire and Ice,written with Connie Mason.  It is a story that takes place after the Viking conquests of the British Isles but still in ancient times.  As a love story goes, it's wonderful.  Brandt is everything you'd want in a hero and Katla (love that name) is a strong-minded leader of her community who isn't going to fall in love easily.  The threat is deadly; the Old Ones want to make a comeback.  You need to be steeped in Norse lore to understand all the nuances.  Brandt also is a fire manager; he can call forth fire at any time and manage it.  The evil people are really evil.  There are elements of beastailty too which really grossed me out.  But it's a good book.

Celtic Thunder played the Pentagon Tues. and the live-streamed.  Guess who was watching?  Oh, and it's posted on their website if you're interested: celticthunder.ie.  It was totally awesome and lasted about an hour.  The lads said that they were so honored to be there.

Trudy

Hi Margie

When I checked my message after posting it, I started reading the post right under mine, and wondered how I had missed it.  Then I looked at the time.  I was typing when you were posting. . . 

I didn't take any notes, so if I missed anyone, please forgive me.  

Now I'm for sure going to bed.

Evening, ladies -- or should I say Good Morning. . .

Once again it's after midnight here. . .

Cady, I don't think my niece cared one way or another how she had the baby, as long as it came out safe and sound.  It was her dr's idea to try for a vag. birth. 

My daughters are forever complaining, too, that some teachers care, and some are just putting in time.  It's too bad, as they are often the role models for many of the next generation.

Goodness, Sandi, you are surely having tire problems.  I hope they're fixed properly now.  We used to have Firestone tires up here, and the company actually had a very good name, but they closed up shop and moved away many years ago.  The place where the shop was is now a parking lot.  {:-o

My dr's app't this morning was very good.  My bg has gone up a bit, but considering I'm working on half of one med, and none of another, he was very pleased with it.  My cholesterol is down, and my triglycerides, too, so that also made him happy.  My bp was 120/60.  I said well, for climbing 2 flights of stairs 5 mins ago, that wasn't bad.  He very much agreed. 

There's a story behind that.  As I started up the stairs, a woman was getting into the elevator, which is right beside the stairs.  I got to the Dr's office and was walking in the door when the elevator stopped and this woman got off.  She followed me into the office, and when the receptionist looked up, she quickly pushed forward and gave her name.  The receptionist said have a seat please.  Then I gave her my name and she said you can come right in.  I almost laughed out loud.  I wasn't in the examining room 2 mins and my dr. was right there.  From walking in the door, up 2 flights of stairs, seeing the dr, making another app't for 3 months from now, down 2 flights, and out the door, took less than 20 mins.  I think I need to write that one on the chimney!  {:-D  Hardy didn't even get where he was going and I was phoning him to come back and get me. 

I asked him about my ears, he checked them both, said there was a tiny bit of wax in the one bothering me, but not enough to need to do anything about it, and the other one was perfectly clear.  So I guess what I got out was about all there was.  Thank goodness for that, as my dad is forever getting his ears syringed out.  I also asked him about the finger that keeps getting a hard lump on it, and burning like fire, when I do a lot of typing.  He checked it out and feels that it is a ganglion -- similar to the ones people get on their wrists.  He said next time it gets bad, instead of holding it tightly until it goes away, I should hit it with a heavy book, in order to burst it.  He said that then it shouldn't bother me any more.  He said I probably got it when my ring was so tight (I think I told you about that before) and that it was the result of inflamation. 

So, all in all, a very nice, clean bill of health.  He said whatever I was doing I should keep doing it.  He was very pleased with the effort I've been taking to keep myself healthy. 

When Hardy got back to pick me up, I was outside waiting by the curb.  Our youngest daughter, Joy, was with us today.  Anyhow, she got out of the front to get into the back, and as she's stepping out of the car, her foot hit the curb, slipped off it, and down she went.  Both knees got skinned, and one elbow.  She landed on both wrists, which of course hurt both shoulders, which is why her arms gave out and she banged her elbow.  This is the daughter who's been having all the medical problems.  She wears a splint in her mouth at night for TMJ, wears splints on both wrists night and day, and has already had surgery on one knee, and might need it on the other pretty soon.  She sat in the car and cried for about half an hour because the pain was so bad.  It finally eased off enough that she thought she could function long enough to get home to take her pain meds (she doesn't carry them with her as they knock her out).  She didn't want to take any tylenol or motrin as then she couldn't take her prescription stuff when she got home.  What a day.  High for me, low for her. 

But after she slept for an hour she felt good enough to come to our place and help us take her trampoline down for the winter.  We have her trampoline and pool at our place as where they live now, there is no room for either of them.  I don't mind as our back yard is hidden from view, and hers is open to the view of anyone walking by.  (We've got kids in our town who would be over there every day without permission, jumping or splashing, especially if no one was home to chase them away)  All she'd need is for someone to sue her because their kid got hurt while she wasn't home.

It's 1:05 a.m. guess I'd better hit the hay. . .  {:-)

Hi Everyone,

Mary,  Happy Birthday to Lauren.  My goodness the time passes so fast.  I was curious about all the fuss on the book.  I'll be interested to hear how you compare it to the more steamy books you've read by authors you enjoy.  My friend works at an elementary school and said she was surprised to see some staff reading it in the break room.  I guess every one is curious.  I check to see if it was available at the library but there are over a hundreds of holds and even though they have many books, it is a super long wait. So, I'll hold off a bit.

DonnaH, I hope all goes well with your appointment.  You should be proud of your weight loss and that you, at least, have not gained.  That is great. 

Cady,  That is great new about Luke and Maggie doing so well in school. Too bad the teacher wasn't more helpful about how to help Maggie.  I hope you do end up hearing something from him soon.  Your weekend sounds so nice.  Busy and fun but it sounds relaxing too. 

Sandi,  Good for you to fight for the tires.  Every penny counts.    I really enjoyed the dancing on Monday night.  Everyone did well...even Karina and Apollo with their error.  I think this was Bristols best dance.  She was more loose and not so stiff.  I was sure she would still be in danger of going home even with the better performance and she did.  Have fun at the Addam's Family.

We've been having our normal October weather again.  It was about 80 today and it is suppose to be the same all week and into the weekend so the weather will be nice for all the garages sales.  My sister's ex helped me put a few of G's toddler sneakers and shoes on a county facebook group.  There is so many people looking for kid's stuff. 

I've gone out to meet three people at the market parking lot about 2 minutes from my home.  I've sold 4 pairs and a costume and have made $33.00.  Way better than I think we would get at a yard sale.  There were other people out there meeting up to do the same.  I told my sister I would try to sell more things for her this way because I really think she will make more.  We listed his very gently worn and very nice shoes and now I want to put his cute jackets and hoodies (I know it is hot but the evenings are very cool) and some jeans.  I want so see how those go so I will post them tomorrow. 

It is time consuming so I didn't even get time to read today.  I've been taking pictures and I want him to show me how to make an album so anyone can click it to see all I'm listing.   I have to have my computer on all evening in case someone responds to my post.  This is when it would be convenient for me to have a smart phone!

Hope you all enjoy your Wednesday.
Margie

Tuesday

Donna, my tire pressure light came on again! This time I had a nail in the tire, and the place I took it to fixed it for free. That was really nice. They did however tell me that the tire had a different issue that could only have happened upon installation. I took it back to Firestone (but a different one than the one that installed them) and filed a complaint with national Firestone. I'm really not happy at all with Firestone, and today had to put tires on Brian's car, but didn't get them from Firestone! I'm waiting to hear from a district manager for Firestone, but the store I took the car too ended up replacing both tires at no charge, as I told him they were barely 5 months old and I shouldn't have to pay when I gave them a car in decent shape, and got it back in a condition that could have been very dangerous to my health!

We had rain on Saturday Night/Sunday Morning. According to a friend almost 2 inches! Go Dallas!

Glad you got a new battery. Your pictures are always amazing! I love that you share with us!

Isn't that a pretty cover for Blue Skies? I have it on my kindle, so doubt I'll buy the print, but you just never know! Did you know that Robyn's husband was a pilot for many years? If I'm remembering correctly he helped to establish Braniff.

Donna, glad you had a nice time at mom's party. So sorry to hear about the mess with your children and their house. Hopefully someone somewhere fixes it for them soon. I still haven't done anything about redoing my kitchen. Just doesn't seem to be a person who wants to follow through on actually giving me an estimate! So annoying!

5 kids and not even 21 hours of labor? I don't know about the rest but I'm totally jealous! Richard took about 28 hours, and Brian was shorter at 9.

Your parents still make a strking couple! Imagine what they must have looked like as young marrieds!

Amanda and Cady, Brian too had reading issues in school. He too went to a special program. It helped but to this day he hates to read. Richard does too! I remember when I was at school talking about Richard and his reading problems, the counselor said it would help if I modeled reading at home. I said I read 100 books a year how much more modeling would you like? She didn't have a response!

Trudy, I can't believe that you continue to have one lawyer issuea after another. When all is said and done do you plan on having a rather serious discussion with the Florida Bar? I've got my fingers crossed for you that things settle soon! Enjoy the concert!

Donna, glad you had a nice Thanksgiving. I don't even know what we'll do when it gets to be Thanksgiving here.

Margie, what did you think of Bristol dancing? I thought she did pretty good considering.

Mary, glad Lauren had a good birthday! Imagine 5! I remember when even Cady was expecting Maggie. What changes we've all gone through! What are you thinking of 50?

Donna, what did the Doc have to say? I'm having ear wax issues too. I wonder if it's age or weather.


Cady, that had to be frustrating that one teacher was being concerned enough to be running behind, and the other was like too bad so sad. I hope you get some assistance with Maggie soon!

I've been once again having work issues. Friday was awful! Saturday I went to book club and had a great time! Sunday I went to the Buns and Roses Tea for Literacy. Before that I met a friend for Brunch. We found out that neither of us is much of a Breakfast person, and we should have gone to a real lunch instead! LOL!!!!

Tomorrow is book club at my house, and I'm going to take the entire day off! Thursday is the Addam's Family, and I'm trying to decide between taking the train and driving.

Well, we had parent teacher conferences and they went pretty well.  Luke's teacher was running really behind and as we had Maggie's immediately after, we only got to talk to her for less than 10 minutes (they are normally 20).  Luke is doing well, his behavior is good and his reading and math are where they should be or above.  Maggie's conference was a bit frustrating.  She is doing really well in Math, Social Studies and Spelling.  But her writing assessment was a little low, her reading assessment was high and she is in the second highest reading group, but her scores on the quizes has not been good.  I didn't feel like he had any recommendations for us.  I asked him about study plans or if we should get her a tutor.  Since he had to go through certain things, this was towards the end of the conference and I haven't gotten a response back from him - asked him to email his thoughts to me.  We are going for a vision check on Thursday, but hopefully he will have some additional ideas. 

DonnaM - I did see some of the photos of Endeavor, did you hear that the City of LA had to take down a bunch of trees to get it to where it is going.  I hear they are going to be replanting them.  Can't imagine how much that cost.  It is great you are comfortable at their houses.  I imagine in a way it does feel like a vacation. 

DonnaH - 21 hours, oh my.  Did she want to try and have it naturally?  That was my biggest fear that I would have to go through a long labor and then have to have C-Section.  I hope your Dr. Appt goes well. 

Margie - Happy belated birthday.  Like Donna, I think the Countywide sale will bring out additional people, so it could definately help.  Good luck with your sale.

Amanda - Great photo of the helicopter and family.  Don't good grades make you feel wonderful.  The day before Maggie brought home her reading quizes, she brought home her social studies, math and spelling tests.   i was so happy as that was the first time they had gotten grades.  I guess highs and lows should be expected with kids.

Trudy - Sorry to hear the legal stuff is still being a pain, I hope you were able to get things sorted out.  The concert sounds good.  I had wondered about that one guy from the band, glad to hear that things are working out so well for him.

Mary - Let us know what you think of the Shades of Gray book.  I thought about getting it from my library, but when I found out it was a trilogy, that turned me a bit off - they are all long books.  I also can't believe Lauren is 5, time sure does fly.

We had a nice long weekend.  On Friday, we went out to a church in the neighborhood, it sits on the top of this huge hill and has a very high tower you can climb and see what seems forever, then they have great walking paths in the hills.  We had a lot of fun, but oh was I sore the next day.  There were a ton of steps along with the hills.  I figured after the exercise, we should definately get some ice cream.  Then on Saturday, we went bowling with some friends, which was fun and then Sunday, church and playdates.  Boom, the weekend was over, then it felt.  Normal week, this week.  Did start a new Elizabeth Peters

I also read a Harlequin Superromance

In this Town by Beth Andrews

It was a good trilogy, although, I must admit I would like to hear the cousin's story as well. 

Hope everyone has a good Tuesday.

Cady

Margie, usually if there's quite a few garage sales in one area at the same time, that brings out the serious garage salers, and you'll do better than if you're the only one.  At least that's what happens around here. 

I finished reading Liz Talley's A Little Texas, and like I figured, by the end of the book, the h and I had connected and she actually turned out to be quite nice.  I've now started reading A Touch of Scarlet, and for several pages there were references to Scarlet's chef sister, and I was having a terrible time trying to place her.  I finally realized that she was the h from A Taste of Texas, but the references in this book totally did not match my remembrance of what the story line had been in the other book -- and it wasn't that long ago that I read it, either.  I'm sort of liking Scarlet a little better than I did the other h that I mentioned before, but she's sure done some stupid things.  I honestly can't believe that anyone with a head on their shoulders would do some of the things she's done.  But I'm sure by the end of the book I'll like her better, too.  I do like the way Liz Talley writes.  I find it very easy to follow, and quick reads, too. 

I've picked up the first three Shelter Cove books from the library, so I'll be getting at them fairly soon.  I have to read a couple more Diane Pershing ones first because they'll be due sooner than the JoAnn Ross ones. 

I've got my 3-month check-up at the Dr's tomorrow.  I haven't lost as much more weight as I'd like to have, but at least I haven't gained any, and I'm still very slowly going down, so I'm sure he'll be happy with that.  I can now look in the mirror and see me looking slimmer.  For a long time to me I looked just as fat as ever.  I can truly see how people can become too skinny.  If they lose it too fast and still perceive themselves as fat, they'll keep on losing and pretty soon they'll be anorexic.  Also, my blood glucose is still fairly close to what it should be, even on the lower meds, so he'll be very happy about that.  I think I've wrecked a tendon in one finger, and I keep getting large chunks of dark colored wax out of one ear, so I'm going to ask him about both those things, too.  Other than that I feel really good. 

Well, my clock says 12:09 a.m. so I'd better head to bed. . .  {:-)

Monday evening

Hi guys! I had a lot of posts to read so sorry if I miss anyone.

We celebrated Lauren's birthday yesterday with a family party. We had a great time. She got lots of presents. Jacob was excited with everything also! Lauren liked her ladybug dress I made her. We had good food, company and lots of laughs. I still can't believe she is 5! I got my new recliner last week and it takes some getting used to but is working out well. I did a lot of reading since I was last here. I can't remember if I mentioned finishing Heron's Cove by Carla Neggers. It was very good.  I read Bad Medicine by Aimee and David Thurlo. This book is part of an earlier series of theirs and was a good read. There were a lot of characters to keep track of and several possible villains. The book was slower paced but necessary to keep up with all the characters. Then I read Thrill Me to Death the second Bullet Catchers book by Roxanne St. Claire. I read it in two days. Her plots tend to be loosely woven IMHO but the books are impossible to put down and her h/H relationships are great.

Margie--Happy belated birthday! Good luck with your yard sale when you have it. I hope you make a good haul. It sounds like you have a lot to sell.

Donna M--as always your pictures are fun to see. Both our teams suffered loses this past week. Hopefully next week will be better. :-(

Donna H--I enjoyed seeing the picture of your parents. Glad the party went well. I love the name Kaylee Elizabeth.

Trudy--good to see you here. I hope your tests go well and the legal problems start to be solved.

Sandi--I wish Richard well if and when he returns to school.

Amanda--the weather was nice over the weekend but we got rain today. Glad your bp is good. The meds must be working well for you. Liked the picture of your family. Sounds like your dd got a good report at school. Good for her!

Cady--there are good exercises to do for reading comprehension. Hopefully your school will have something to help Maggie. Don and I used to play a lot of Pinochle but haven't played for a while. It is one of the hardest card games to learn.

We have not heard anything more from the IRS. Our lawyer sent his letter so now we just wait to hear that it is cleared up. Don's elbow is better. He was released by his therapist but will continue the exercises at home.

After learning yesterday that I am the only adult female in my immediate family who has not yet read 50 Shades of Grey, I started it last night. After dinner and a little wine the women were discussing it. I borrowed the book from Karen. I was surprised because she rarely reads romance but it is the popular book to read so she read it. I will keep you all informed as to what I think. I have only read 2 chapters so far.

I hope everyone has a good week!

Mary

Hi Everyone  

Thanks for the B day wishes. It was a really quiet day. I worked then went to get my eye's examined and came home to have a nice dinner.  

Trudy,  I'm with DonnaH...(((Hugs)))  I hope you see a change in your situation soon. 

Cady, That is good that Maggie loves to read.  Hopefully the teachers can give you some answers on their plan to improve her skills.  I was really disappointed in SL's Bride trilogy.  I was so slow and I hated reading about the cults constantly after them.  Just really made me loose interest in her books because they were all the same.  I just glad to hear this new one sounds better.

DonnaM,  It was me that mentioned the cruise ship.  I don't go to SF often but I know that there have been big ships there.  I've just never been to SF when one was there but I am sure it looks impressive.  Your day with your daughter looks like fun.  It is amazing what some of those street performers can do.  There is so much talent out there.

Amanda,  That picture in the helicoper is cool.  To bad you didn't get to go up. It will be interesting to see what happens with Bristol after tomorrow.  She and Mark got rock & roll and I just can't see her moving very well to that music.  We'll see.

DonnaH, Congratulations on the new addition to your family.   That was nice that you could go see your mom for her birthday.  I understand how hard it is to see your mom so thin.  My mom is tiny in height but she has always been a solid weight.  Not over weight but full.  Now she is about 87 lbs.  She recently gained 3 pounds to get there.  I really want her to gain another 10 she could use it.  Anyway I hope your mom had a nice day.  I remember turning to look at my dad when the chunky little Gus mouse tried to climb the stairs and he was rolling his eyes and was shaking his head probably wondering why he had given into me.  I thought it was so funny.   Yum your Thanksgiving sounds delicious. 

Thanks for the good wishes on the garage sale.  I found out that Saturday is a county wide yard sale day...???   I guess it could be a good thing or a bad thing that so many people will be having one.  I'll let you know how that works out.

I started a new series.  It is called Dangerous Highlander.  I thought it was a trilogy about three brothers but now I found out there are six books. It is a Historical Highlander fantasy/paranormal.  Not sure what to call it.  It is about an evil queen who uses her magic against the brothers.  They become immortal and have to try to find a way to distroy her. I'm liking it. 



It is really late and I'm just now getting tired.  I couldn't sleep but I better get to bed now.

I hope you all have a good Monday.
Margie

Short and Sweet -- I think. . .

Not too much news tonight.  Baby's name is Kaylee Elizabeth.  Mommy did end up having another C-section after all.  21 hours in labor first, and then having surgery.  Oy.  Not my cup of tea. . .

Have any of you heard of George Canyon and Graham Sharkey?  We had them in our church last Sunday.  Total waste of time and money as far as I'm concerned.  Staying at home and sleeping for an extra hour would have been better use of my time.  (How can you tell I don't like Country & Western singers who can't carry a tune in a bucket and who's only accompaniment is 2 guitars?)  At least if there's a full back-up band, it kind of hides all the howls and off-key notes.  I basically don't like just guitars anyhow, so that was strike #1 right off the start. 

We had combination Thanksgiving Dinner and Grandson's 16th birthday party at our daughter's place today.  Very good!  I made ziltze -- German head cheese.  You should have seen the grandkids fighting over it.  I haven't made it in over 12 years, so that made me feel good.  Then we had deep-fried turkey, pepe salad (I think that's how you spell it) hash-brown casserole, marinaded veggies, and sweet & sour lazy cabbage rolls (made with sweet cabbage and sauerkraut)  For dessert was Skor dessert -- cream cheese and whipped topping mixed with skor chips on a graham crumb crust.  Delicious!!! 

{{{{HUGS}}}} for everyone who needs them, mostly Trudy and Mary, I think, but enough to go around so we can all have one or two. . .  {:-)

Goodnight.

Sunday night

I enjoyed the pics of the cruise ships!  I saw huge ships like them when I went to Miami; one even had flowers painted all over the hull and it was beautiful.

I received another book from Mia Marlowe as a result of a contest; it's a collaboration between her and Connie Mason.  I'm looking forward to reading it.  It's hard to concentrate enough to read.

Well, would you believe.....I have to see yet again another attny?  I went on Friday, prepared to sign the papers to file my case and the attny asks me about the hit-and-run case I was in two years ago and whether I had uninsured motorist on my policy then.  Long story short, if I don't sue State Farm for it, the bankruptcy court could take the money! rolling eyes here!  He acted like I should have known to call a lawyer then even though I have know idea who the other driver is.  He also wanted me to sue the car dealer which sold me my car b/c they didn't disclose that it was in an unreported accident (I don't think they knew); I declined.  Meanwhile, this lawsuit against me is still out there waiting to get me; their attny has a phone hearing scheduled for Nov. 14 and I must have something completed by then or I'm screwed.

I'm getting so psyched for the concert.  Besides second row seats, I have backstage passes thanks to my friend.  One of the lads, Ryan Kelly, you remember, fell and fractured his skull in June and was put into a medically induced coma for three weeks.  He has made a miraculous recovery and is touring as if nothing has ever happened.  Just shows the power of prayer!  Another lad, Keith Harkin, was picked up by David Foster who launched Michael Bluble, Celine Dion, Josh Groban, Jackie Evancho, and many others; his CD has hit #1 on the World Billboard charts and there is a PBS special in the works.  Keith did an impromptu street concert in front of the Tower Theater in Upper Darby the other night if you happened to be in the neighborhood.  Tomorrow at 14:30 CT will appear at the Pentagon and it will be live-streamed!  Oh yes, I can breathe again!

I have a stress test and an echocardigram this week.  The doc wrote for a combo test but my insurance denied it.  I think it's a money thing myself.

I would have liked to been in L.A. to watch the shuttle go down the street.  It would have been totally awesome!  Someday I want to to Kennedy Space Center and see the one on display.  I regret that I never got to see a launch live although I did see many from this coast.

You all have a good week.  Maybe some day I'll be normal again!?

Trudy

Sunday Night

Hello Ladies!  The above pic is also from Dover Int'l.  The Armed Services had a huge display there with a number of cool machines.  Probably the first and last time I will be in a helicopter - bummer!

So, I started reading the posts, got a phone call, and then 666 Park Ave started, so I am not sure how much I will actually remember.

DonnaH -- Great picture of your parents!  Glad your mom's 90th b'day party went well.  Is there a name for the new baby yet?  You are soooo lucky you didn't have to do 21 hours with any of your kids.  I went that long with Aurora, from the time my water broke until she arrived - via emergency C.  Not a wonderful experience, I have to say.   Swore many a time that I would never do it again - lol!  Amelia was just as painful, but only for 4 hours of the 8 hours (I was induced).

DonnaM --  Love your pictures, as always.  Gorgeous blue skies on your day at Pier 39.  I love days like that.  Had it for most of this weekend, which was great.  Eagles lost today, so no winning team here.

Sandi -- So what is Richard thinking of going back to school for?  The State Fair sounds like a good time - enjoy!  The PA state fair use to be in Bensalem (about 20 min from me), but the added Parx casino at the racetrack there and that ended the fair coming.  Use to enjoy taking the kids and sometimes I picked the right night to go and got to see a good music act (the last one I saw was Rick Springfield).

Cady -- Had did the conference go?  Did they have any suggestions to help Maggie's reading?  Aurora's reading problems started in first grade because she refused to read out loud.  Had to take her in before school started every day to attend a class just for reading.  It must of worked because she hasn't had a problem since.  How was your long weekend?

Margie -- Good luck with the yard sale.  Sounds like there will be good money to be made on baby clothes.  Hope that is the case for you.  Happy belated birthday to you!  Hope you had a great day:)

Mary -- Glad things are looking up with both Don and the IRS.  How did you like the weather this weekend?  I could take this all the time.

Trudy -- I can't believe that lawyer has someone working for him that treats clients that way.  How horrible!  She wouldn't be there long after I would write reviews everywhere about that.  Talk about total disrespect - ugh!  Glad you have Celtic tix.  That will definitely put a smile on your face.

On the DWTS, I couldn't believe Bristol is still there!  I love Helio and hated to see him go.  People are idiots.  I don't understand why she is back - she's not a "star".  Not even on the D list.  Crazy.

So its been the normal here.  Had a dr appt this week to renew my bp meds and the dr told me I had the quietest blood pressure.  I didn't know there was such a thing.  She took it three times to be sure (its fine, btw).  This week I'll be sitting at the eye dr with the girls -sigh.  Will definitely take a book there.  Been back at the gym finally and lost two pounds last week - woo hoo!  Now, if I can just keep to the schedule - lol.  Amelia came home with a mid marking period progress report - all good.  Every teacher was "an excellent student", "works great", "wow!", "a pleasure to teach".  This is for the child that tells me she doesn't like school.  Her lowest grade was an 88 in social studies (a class she doesn't care for).  Just hope she doesn't let her social life make her grades slip.

I finished my book club book - The Man who Saved Two Notch.  Can't remember the author.  I liked it - a different read for me.  Kind of like a western set in the future, with no laws to speak of.  Started a Blaze last night - a new release.  Its two shorts in one.  Fun so far.

Ok, off to go let Jen's puppies out.  No doubt they will be happy to see me as always.  Then off to bed.  Need to make sure I'm up tomorrow so I can pick up my gf Sandy and take her to work (she works literally right around the corner from me).  Will take me longer, so I have to make sure I am out of the house.  And I am so not a morning person - sigh:(

Hope everyone has a good week!

Amanda

Sunday afternoon, 10/14/2012...

Good Afternoon Friends,

First of all, I want to apologize to Margie because I neglected to realize her birthday was on October 4.  If she mentioned it I don't recall!!!   Big whoops.  

Margie, a very belated, but from the heart "Happy Birthday to You".   I hope you did something fun & wonderful that made the day special.

The picture above is pretty obvious as it is the Golden Gate Bridge.  Hard to miss!!  Speaking of San Francisco I hope the  SF Giants do a heck of a lot better today than the 49'ers.  The  NY Giants (football) beat the socks off San Francisco 49'ers today.  What a bust.  I hate watching games like that.  No fun!

My morning got off to a late start!  I woke up early but it was foggy & drizzly outside so I tried to go back to sleep!  It didn't work!  Finally, got up a little before 8 o'clock, got dressed then decided I would go for a walk despite the weather.  I took the camera again to take pictures around town especially any Halloween decorations.  Some people here really go all out with outside Halloween decorations.  They are fun to see, mostly.  Some are a bit creepy.  By the time I did my walk, which takes much longer when the camera is with me, took my shower it was almost 10 o'clock!  Since then I haven't done much, fixed French toast for a late breakfast, spent time on the computer, sorta watched the football game & read the Sunday paper.

Tomorrow I am taking my neighbor to Santa Rosa for one of her doctor appointments.  This is the one where she has to have the IV for her rheumatoid arthritis so the whole morning is gone.  She has to go even earlier than usual as she has a bone density test tomorrow before they start the IV.  I'm planning to take a walk in one of my favorite old neighborhoods in Santa Rosa with camera in hand!  It is so nice having all of you as an audience.  You have no idea how much fun it is for me to share these pictures.  Walking around on Friday & today with my camera in hand made me notice (again) just what a lovely area this is.  We have many beautiful old, well kept up or restored homes.  Those pictures will get here eventually!!

By the way, the next birthday in our group is Trudy on December 3rd.

Did anyone watch some of the Endeavour being moved to its new location.  That would have been fun to see  in person.

This is all my chatter for now.  Here is another picture from the day in San Francisco with my daughter.

This is down the street a way from Pier 39.  The two street performers are all in silver, including their faces.  The guy on the left was funny,  In fact, here is another picture with me talking to him!  My daughter took the picture for me on my camera.

Did your team win today?  I sincerely hope if there is a football team that you like to watch that they did well today.
Happy reading,
Donna M