Dad and I went to see Valkyrie last nite - he loved it! War stories are not my favorite, so I will not voice my opinion except to say that I thought perhaps the facts were "embroidered" upon to make the story longer than necessary. I will google it and check.

Cold and windy today - was outside for a while pouring castor oil in holes in the garden . . . looks like the voles are having a blast in my hosta bed.

we were up before the crack of dawn today and at the grocery store by 8:30 A.M.! Just us and a bunch of other old fogeys! Hope I got enough stuff to last thru next week. We are having steak tonight - Dad's request! - and then tomorrow I will make vegetable soup. That way Dad can eat whenever he want during half time. I am assuming he will be watching as many games as he can. He has a project going in the woodshop - I don't know what but he's having a grand time with it.

I watched Keith Olbermann last night showing some old footage of the presidential campaign. All I can say is Barrack Obama is a class act!

I think I am catching a cold - DRAT! just went thru the medicine cabinet and all our cold remedies are expired. And I'm NOT going back to the store for 3 or 4 days!

Happy New Year to All!

Hey Nancy - The Lincoln Lawyer is called that because he drives and conducts his business in his Lincoln. He buys 5 Linolns at a time so he can get the Fleet Discount. The Brass Verdict that I am now reading is a library book = and I can't loan it out. Your library should have it.

Remember = Jamie and I are making that gingerbread house on Friday - Jaida will probably be there and want to help too.

MAN! It's really cold today = down in the teens I think.

i'm back

Yes, Cox finally connected us up again Sunday evening - I had to call and ask what time the guy was coming, was told anytime from 8am-8pm. Well, he finally showed up around 630ish.
Got to read my garbage email, got to play my game and read the blog.

The boys are out of school for the holidays. It's all nice and quiet until big mouth (Joey) get's out of bed--noon or so. Then all hell breaks loose b/c Jamie can't do this, and Jamie says Joey's bossing him around, and Joey says Jamie's not listening, and blah blah blah - like i can reach thru the phone and smack both. Have told them they need to be like best friends and work it out.

Mom, Lincoln Lawyer=is that about the lawyer who works out of his yellow caddy? If so i didn't borrow it from you. I got it from the library -You gave me suggestions when i called you to ask what to read and i found that book. Anyway, if you have the sequel, I'll be glad to borrow that one...lol.

ok, i'm off - gonna play my game, mabye ...toodles

I guess everyone is too busy getting ready for Christmas to post anything! I still have stuff to do but am procrastinating. I made fudge this morning - now comes the hard part - NOT eating it! Will seal it up in tins. Have also been gathering up things to bring to Virginia Beach. I will make the cheesecake at Jane's - am bringing all the ingredients except eggs, so I hope she has plenty.

Was delighted to find some books at the library that I had wanted to read - Anita Shreve's Testimony - I mostly skimmed it, didn't care for it. David Benioff's City of Thieves which I started and was totally revolted after a few pages and slammed it shut. I still shudder to think of it. Now I'm making rapid progress with Michael Connelly's The Brass Verdict - a sequel to The Lincoln Lawyer - and am having a hard time putting it down. Next up is Doris Kearns Goodwin's No Ordinary Time - I read it years ago and loved it. It will be a good won to have with me over the holidays.

Fritz has knots in his long hair on his ears and I need someone (Zsuzsi and Katie or Ellen) to help me snip them out. He recognizes the scissors and goes running when he sees them in my hand. Need to trim Sandi's eyebrows, too.

Am seeing Nancy online today so I guess her service was restored. Welcome Back!

xxx's

Just a quick note here: This week at 9 P.M. every evening C-span is doing specials about the White House! Looks to be very interesting. I only get 2 C-span channels - hope it's on one of them. If not, I will ask one of you to TIVO it for me.

I started reading P.D. James' latest - The Private Patient - very good. Gave up on Barefoot by
Elin Hilderbrand. Was 200 pages in and just disliking it intensely. The library has Michael Connelly's The Brass Verdict, a sequel to The Lincoln Lawyer, and I will try to get that next. I know Nancy read the Lincoln Lawyer, and I think Jane and Ellen would both like it too. Nancy has my paperback copy I think.

It's cold here today - am trying to think of something "good" for dinner. Not to mention lunch. I get so fed up with planning meals!

Have a great day everyone!

Today is Friday, December 12, 2008, and how many of you can remember exactly what you were doing 51 years ago today? Not to brag about my fantastic memory or anything, but I can remember in minute detail most of what happened that day. I wanted a lot of things that no one would give me like drugs - lol - but when all was said and done, I got what I wanted most in the world - a beautiful baby girl!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY NANCY!!!!!

Dirty Santa

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/95506/dirty_santa_a_fun_gift_exchange_game.html?cat=7

I don't know what Dirty Santa is and I ain't asking! Don't want to know. Wait a minute - memory is stirring back about 40 years - you girls don't want to hear this! lol.

Finally got a good night's sleep - 2 hour nap yesterday afternoon plus 6 unbroken hours overnight.

Have done abolutely nothing about Christmas. Will give Joey and Jamie money and buy something for the little ones.

I am spending way too much time doing jig-saw puzzles - it's an addiction. I will finish the one I'm working on and not let myself do any more - (maybe).

It's been raining off and on so I must look around for Fritzy puddles. He HATES going out in the rain and I can't blame him. He is so short that not only does his back get wet, but his feet and that thing that hangs down get wet. Poor little guy.

Have nothing planned to do today - just the usual stuff.

Smoochies

Don't call Duff...

I am sure between myself, Jane and Nancy, we'll be able to make a Volvo cake for your birthday. It's just a big boxy rectangle anyway, right?

I've been trying to figure out Christmas. I can't put up a tree because......Hello!...cats! And, getting out the ornaments and other decor from the attic means invading...Hello...not a teen anymore but still obnoxious' space. Also, the timeshare sampler we bought won't let us book VA Beach over Christmas Break without an "uprade" of 500 bucks. Scott has vacation time he can use, and will lose if he doesn't, but can't remember to get it... and I am off from the 20th until after New Years! There are a lot of household projects we need to finish:
painting
junk removal
cleaning
organizing

and a hotel in VA Beach would be too much for Mr. Tightwad to spend....although that is all I have asked for for my birthday and Christmas. This family needs to swear off sex in March and April.....December birthdays suck. I am tired of the combo-gift. (not for mom, she is even-steven all the time).

We did go look at having my wedding band resized and discussed a honeymoon next June for our 10th (holy shit, the longest I've ever been with a husband!). We want a cruise since our timeshare sampler includes a "free" one for 30 bux a day per person, + airfare to Florida. And taxes and gratuity. So, for only 1500 bucks, we can have a modest cruise. I am trying to decide if a week on a boat in a tiny room with my old man is really a honeymoon at this point or some sort of marital longevity test. I think there is enough to do separately (sleeping/snoring/eating: his favorites) and (reading, eating, reading) that it will be OK. On the ring, I am trying to make Scott realize that having it reset in a new setting is better than paying them to steal gold from my ring that is too big. I'm also negotiating side diamonds or gemstones. Wish me luck.

Mom hooked me on puzzles, but I need a room to do them without animals, since they sleep, eat, play with and barf on them.

OH, and I got gifts for: Jaida, Christian, Jamie, and Joey, and THAT IS IT. I will make cookies, fudge or some kind of goodie treat for everyone else to be shared, and I will make somethings to contribute to Christmas dinner. Other than that, no more. I have ideas for next year (hint: Farmville + Dirty Santa - just ask for the details).....LOL.

xx Ellen

Insomnia strikes again. Ugh. Fell asleep about 10, woke up at midnight, back to sleep til 2, then laid in bed til 3:30 and finally gave up. I HATE this! I used to sleep a solid 7 or 8 hours and that does happen once in a great while. I can find things to do in the middle of the night - read, watch t.v., but I know I will feel lousy later in the day. I take Tylenol (Equate brand) P.M. sometimes but don't like to use it all the time. I will take it tonight for sure, though, because sometimes if I go beyond being real, real tired then I can't get to sleep at all - this happened 3 weeks ago - just an awful, awful night.

I just finished reading Dewey the Library Cat - a nice book. Am now 100 pages into Barefoot by Elin Hildebrand and am not liking it very much. I will continue on with it - it might get better, but it's definitely "chick-lit" meant for much younger women than I.

We had a little rain and wind during the night and it feels much warmer. Sandi and Fritz wanted out about 2 and it looked all wet. Dad is getting the truck inspected this morning but I will probably stay home. No doubt he will want me to follow him into town in the Volvo so he doesn't have to hang around waiting. HEY - the Volvo is 20 years old now - I should call Duff at Ace of Cakes and order a Volvo birthday cake! It would probably cost more than the Volvo is worth.

Adios everyone - back to the kitchen and more coffee.

Just a short blog to say hello--guess no one is writing anymore. Just wanted to share a little something for the nite and then i will write more this w/end - I promise.

Joey took me out for dinner tonight and bought me a nano for my birthday and hard phone case. But, the best thing about my birthday dinner w/the boys tonight is the fact that there was not one arguement, or kicking legs under the table= i was a proud momma. I guess the boys are growing up. Makes my heart swell w/pride, but makes me sad to know -the day is coming when they will be leaving my nest to make their own nest.

Well, I keep waiting for someone to post something but NADA! Sooooooooo, I will bring you all up to date on my doings. I have been on a jigsaw puzzle marathon for several days. Bought one new one and found an old one I hadn't done in years. Just the thing on cold rainy days. Even Dad will sit down and work on it.

Our trip to Pennsylvania was okay - the trip up was horrible - traffic, rain, and then darkness. Plus Dad sitting in the backseat doing his best to harass the driver. Ellen (the driver) did an excellent job. We arrived at the motel at about 7:30 P.M. - that's right - 7 hours for a 4 hour trip due to weather and traffic. We were all hungry but couldn't face getting in the car again so we ordered a pizza delivered from Dominos - it was okay.

Monday morning was the Memorial Service for Aunt Nancy - first a "meet and greet" followed by the service and the trip to the cemetery. It was nice to see Chris and Russ and their families - Chris turned out to be the best looking one. Angie is always sweet and friendly, and I really like Russ' wife. She is down to earth and easy to talk to. She is a school librarian so we always discuss books. After the cemetery we all went to Shirley and Russ' house for a little while - it's a beautiful house. Melissa has made a Swedish cake - Nancy used to make them for special occasions. We left after a couple of hours for the trip home. Much easier this time around - very little traffic and no rain. Went out to dinner in Fredtown with Ellen, Scott, Katie and Mark. - HEY - today is Katie's birthday!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! Dad and I drove home the next morning with a quick "potty" stop at Barnes & Noble - not to mention a small purchase. Then it was on to home and Sandi and my little Fritzy - I adore that little guy and I think both dogs were thrilled to see us.

Now let me tell you about the house! I don't know how Jane does it all - it was only 2 days she was here. Windows washed, house vacuumed and dusted, all carpets shampooed, floors mopped - it hasn't been this clean in a long, long time.

I have really mixed emotions about Aunt Nancy, but I will get into that another time. I really thought she would live to be 100.

Kisses all around!

XXX

November 15th

WOW! Nobody is posting! What's with you all?

We had one heck of a thunderstorm last night - woke us all up - sounded like it was right over our house. It lasted about 2 hours and we got almost 2 inches of rain. Most of the leaves are gone from the trees now and our patio is a carpet of yellow, gold, and red - pretty. Dad and I sat in the kitchen during all this - didn't think i'd ever get back to sleep. (I can't seem to carriage return to make a new paragraph.) Dad saw doctor yesterday and he is making progress in the right direction! I just finished reading The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society having to do with the Nazi occupation of Guernsey during WWII - excellent. Just started Wally Lamb's latest - about 50 pages in and so far, so good. It has to do with the Columbine shooting and had I known that I wouldn't have bought it. Oh, well. Am signing off now - hope you all will be posting soon. Hugs and kisses all around!

lost my connection...lost my blogg

Oh well. Glad the election is over and our Candidate won and it was a landslide!
Mark is on the couch recovering with frozen vegetables and vicoden.
I really don't like my new job....gotta work tonight, 5pm to 1 am.

Take care everyone
jane

Wow - what a couple of days. I loved working the Democratic tent on election day even thru the rain. It was wonderful to see carloads of young African-Americans pulling up and spilling out of their cars. They would look at me warily and then erupt in big smiles when they saw I was handing out Democratic information. Some of them even said they were taking home all the info to keep as souveneirs. Lots of older white folks came (probably to preserve the GOP;), and they all looked grumpy (angry). Enough of them harumphed and sniffed when I proffered my Democratic information and refused to take any. When I told my co-workers (all black) that these old white folks intimidated me, they all howled with laughter.

Anyhow, what a day! We went out to dinner just to pass some time before election results came in. I refused to go to the local "victory" party - wanted my own television with no distractions. We watched all the results and when Obama gave his speech we were sitting up in bed (in the dark) with tears and clapping! What a wonderful man, and his family is darling. Those little girls are beautiful. And I love, love, love Joe Biden. I have but one complaint - would someone please take Mrs. Obama clothes shopping!!!! With her terrific figure she would look spectacular in everything but what she tends to chose.!

I just checked the Virginia Board of Elections website and it shows that Thelma Drake LOST and Virgil Goode is behind Periello. The Goode/Periello result is pretty close and no doubt ol Virgil will demand a recount. It will good riddance to Goode - what an embarassment he is.

Now to find out who Obama picks for his staff and cabinet. I have no doubt that he will surround himself with the best and brightest!

And a little thought I had - how about in 8 years Hilary Clinton vs. Sarah Palin!!!! Wouldn't you love to watch that debate?

NO - I AIN'T GOIN TO DC AND THAT'S FINAL! I like my king-size bed. I like sleeping between Ma and Pa, I like eating crumbs and tidbits off Pa's belly and prowling the dining room table for treats, and I especially like all my "spots." However, I would be happy to become daddy to the first dog's first litter!

AND -- furthermore -- I think the first family should consider cats. I know where they can get a bunch of them!

Fritz, King of my Domain.

Fritz for First Dog

Dear President Elect Obama,

Let me outline my qualifications for the position of First Dog.

1. I am very small, and will have no impact on the national debt.
2. I am gentle and kind.....except to a certain other dachsund.
3. I am house trained....I only mark things that I like.
4. My caretakers, who naturally would come along, will ensure that your little girls wont' have to do a thing except play with me once in a while.
5. My large big sister will guard against any potential intruders. Especially falling leaves or passing deer, squirrels, or acorns.
6. I will not need to take a salary - just a few weeks vacation a year to visit my homestead to make sure it's still there. And my caretakers will be very comfortable in the Lincoln bedroom.
7. I am extremely intelligent and can be sure to make better decisions on such things as economic policy, health care, education, and foreign policy than that other guy who has a Scottie dog now.
8. I am pretty sure I could take that little dog, Barney, any day.
9. My mom comes with a free fashion advice service for the first lady. I hope she likes L.L. Bean.
10. And look at that face, those eyes:

Well - the BIG day is finally here! I just checked Daily Kos and see that Obama won in Dixville Notch - 15 votes to McCain's 6! Hope that is a national trend!

Dad and I will be "minding" the Democratic table at our local precinct. We did this in 04 and I loved doing it. I was just outside with Fritzy - it's RAINING!! hope it clears up before election time. Then later we are going out for dinner but hope to be home by 7. There will be a party at a local restaurant in town and if we go it will be much later. I like my own TV with no interference! Plus, whenever I think of Obama winning I start "tearing" up. I met an Obama volunteer yesterday while grocery shopping and we both stood there crying. I feel so sad that Obama's grandmother died, but then I tell myself that she is now an angel and will watch over and protect him.

My next problem will be figuring out what to do with myself when this election is over. Guess it's back to housework and gardening!

GO VOTE EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!!

Hey gang! This is Fritz and you betcha I'm votin for Obama! That other guy's wife wanted to make a coat out of my dalmation friend, and the saracuda wanted to fly in a helicopter over Virginia and shoot Bambi. Don't trust 'em. But that Obama guy's okay. His skin even matches mine and I like that! So does my ma. That fella Joe is pretty much okay too, even if he has more hair than my pa. I think his hair is peculiar, tho. I'm goin to the polls on Tuesday with ma and pa giving out dog bones to all the democrats and lifting my leg on the snotty republicans - I call it the MARK OF FRITZ kinda like Zorro, ya know. Ma and Pa say they will vote as many times as they can and if I weren't so short I would pull some levers too.

Arf!

FRITZ FOR OBAMA

Heelllooooo out there!

I am hearing an echo!!!! Hope everyone had a great weekend! Mine was pretty quick.
luv to all
jane

boy the previous blogg went out before I could type anything! All is well here....still working...I sold my 1st cruise last night..to the bahamas, a young man from india wanted to take his wife for a little vacation, they are in their 20's. Bobby is still trying to get a job...he thinks he may have one with a fence company.

Big Happy Birthday to DAD ...big 74! Mark and I hope to come visit real soon.
luv to all
jane

hey everyone!

Reminder everyone: we have a birthday boy tomorrow!

We went to see W. last Saturday - excellent. Josh Brolin was really excellent in the part - totally obnoxious. But in my opinion Richard Dreyfus as Cheney "stole" the show. I wasn't even aware it was Richard Dreyfus at first. James (I think) Cromwell played Bush 41 and was pretty darn good too. I have loved him ever since "Babe."

Yo

Hi everyone,

McCain was losing his shit last night..the weirdo eyes, the yellow teeth exposed while laughing maniacally were all that was needed to finally seal his fate.

BUT, We must never become complacent. We must behave as if we are the underdog and fight to the end.

Trust me folks, as a historian, this election is chock full of potentially USA endiing rhetoriic.

VA is Blue!!!

Obama 51% Walnuts 45%...I knew it! I think Obama won the debate 99.9% to .01.
I hope everyone is well.
luv ya all
jane

hello out there!

Yes I worry too, about walnuts and his bitch evoked hate and fears. They twist the truth, and they are evil liers.

Hippy- Zsuzsi is home- her flight on the way home was better then the going...I think.
I am entering into my 2nd week at work, alot of this stuff is quite intense- not what I expected. Today I find out my test results from friday...it seamed pretty easy-but I have problems reading all the directions or the whole question.
Christain and Marianne came by saturday ...christian has really gotten alot taller.
Bobby has an interview at the shipyard(i hope he gets the job).
I spent most of the day yesterday doing home work! yuck

Everyone have a great monday!
luv
jane

I don't know about everyone else, but I am getting very, very uneasy about all the hate spewing forth from McPain/Palin rallies. It is stiriring up the crazies and creating danger for Obama/Biden. McPain's ads are now 100% negative, Mrs. McPain is making statements that are simply misleading (lies) - "chills up and down her spine when Obama voted against funding the troops" - Hey lady, didn't your old man do likewise????? And then we have the vicious bitch inciting her audiences to shout out horrible things - doesn't she feel the need to say something like - hey you guys, that's out of line? Keep Obama and Biden in your prayers.

BREAKING NEWS . . . BREAKING NEWS

As I write this, Zsuzsi is airborne on her way back from Budapest!!! Not only is she a dear, sweet young lady (and very intelligent, besides), she is the best thing that ever happened to Michael and I feel blessed that she is part of our family. Here's to a happy reunion and a lifetime of joy together!

Smooches all around.

Big Mama

hi everyone reading

Sorry I haven't blogged lately...too depressed over family situations...Bobby ...and Michael..
I went yesterday to my new job..had paperwork to complete, then I start monday oct 6th. The training hours are from 12 noon until 9 pm for 4 weeks then I will most likely be working from 4pm until 1 am ...I am not crazy about the hours ...but at least I got a job...my job offer letter says contigient upon back ground check...so I hope it's just a crimminal background check, or I am screwed. Oct 11th I have been invited to attend a ship inspection for travel agents...the Carnaval Victory,we tour the ship, and they feed us lunch and provide entertainment.
I just got off the phone with Bobby...he wants me to come to his dads and take him out to apply for jobs...he has already applied at all the places within walking distance. I had to tell him I have just enough gas and money to get me through my 1st week at my new job and I don't have a cent to spare. I hope one of the places he has applied at will call him and he cheers up a little. I have told him not to focus on the past...work on the future! but he keeps on falling back on the past.
Zsuzsi used to read the blogg...I don't know if she still does....she has insisted that Michael not go to Hungary...they have gone back and forth on the subject...Michael has spent all of his money and money that he has borrowed from family members to be able to go ....now he will have nowhere to stay if he goes there.................................he is very down....Zsuzsi told him if he loves her he will let her go......she says now it's her and not him....so I don't know what to think.
Mom and Ellen I am glad you had the rally experience. If I was able I would have been standing in the rain with you guys. I will be watching the debates tonight!
Everyone takecare....Ellen and Marianne have bronchitis...get well soon

Notes to self:

And to you guys, too.

1. Don't run toward a secret service officer under any circumstances.
2. Don't believe snot nosed rich kid volunteers who tell you how to get in to a rally.
3. Don't lose your mom.
4. Don't drink wine and take codeine cough syrup.
5. If you violate note number 4, make sure you have a strong babysitter who will hide the phone.
6. Don't stand in the rain, under a tree during a thunderstorm in a thin white cotton blouse while wearing that oh-so-sexy see through white bra.
7. Unless - you want said secret service officer from number one to let you go on your own free will.
8. Don't bother trying to protect the disabled.
9. Ok, ignore number 8, you know you'd do the same.
10. Don't promise your mom a front row seat at an Obama/Biden rally, make her work all day, leave her precious dog, deal with a befuddled husband, and let her stand in the rain waiting for you for 4 hours.
11. Never be lulled into the thought that you will ever be "done" with being a parent or worrying.

Live and learn.

A Day at the Races . . errr . . . Rally

When I got a call to volunteer at the Obama/Biden rally in Fredericksburg at the University of Mary Washington last Saturday in return for preferential seating I jumped at the chance! It meant going door-to-door for about 3 hours and then off to the rally to help with the crowds. And, talk about crowds! Newspapers report 26,000 people and I heard estimates as high as 35,000. 15,000 had been expected. Anyhow, my partner and I generally made ourselves useful, giving out material and information to the long lines of people. Obama and Biden were running late, estimated time for start of rally was moved to 6:15. Late in the afternoon we had a thunderstorm with torrential rain and no shelter being available we were all drenched - and I mean literally sopping wet. Our organizer informed us to be at the gate at a certain time to get into the rally, and I was, but no entry permitted. We were directed to another area and again, no entry. Mind you, it is raining all this time! I had become separated from my partner by this time - perhaps she will tell you the "mischief" she was up to. I could not see anything and was trapped in a sea of people. I decided I would slog back out to the car - about one mile away - knowing that she would eventually come there - and I at least could sit down in a dry area (car was locked and I didn't have key). As I was leaving the campus I noticed lots of police cars blocking the road, lights flashing, and I assumed the Obama/Biden caravan would be passing there - their destination was 1/2 block away. When I approached the sidewalk I was told I couldn't wait there. Turned out to be a Secret Service agent and he directed me to a vantage point on a corner across the street. By that time I was totally dripping but decided to hang around to see what transpired. After about 20 minutes here it came - motorcycles, state troopers, SUV's, and A BIG BROWN BUS. Can you guess I was jumping up and down and frantically waving like a damn fool and as the bus passed the passenger in front gave me a big smile and a wave! YESSIREE BOB - it was HIM! It kind of made all the work and rain worthwhile, but think I've been to my last rally.

When I made it to the car I had to wait about an hour for my partner to appear and I hope she will tell you of her adventure at the rally. I am just happy that I didn't have to go post bail.

TGIF

Good Morning out there--------

All is quiet here on the home front.

As for clean? Not in this household. I agree that God passed by me with the clean genes and gave them ALL to Jane (and Mark-he's just as bad). I wish i could be a better person in that dept. However, I've finally come to realize -I"m a slob, no way around it. Joey and I had a good laugh about it last nite - we decided if anyone was ever to break in here = he'd would be tripping over things - so he would give us a warning - or maybe Bruti would defend his master (me).

As for Bruti - i'm done giving him shots!! Is it really necessary for him to have all those stinkin shots? It's been rough this week w/him crying and bouncing off the walls, but seems he is fine now. I noticed last night when he was in his pen - when i was going to bed - he was upside down, paws in the air, head curled down in his bed - never heard me = he must be feeling a whole lot better. However, he has been getting yappy. If i talk to him, he talks back to me! Joey has been trying to teach Bruti to "speak"!

Ok, FYI - Dad's birthday is coming up - and i for one will plan to go up there - i'm unclear if it's to be the w/end before or after Dad's birthday. So if you folks plan to go to - let's work it out.

Ok, i'm outta here--gotta go bring home the bacon!!

What is this "clean" you speak of, mom?

I cleaned the bathroom on Sunday, and this morning, *somebody* left two huge blobs of toothpaste in the sink.

We have two new babies. Gray Catsby, is the leaner, silvery kitten, and Scout is the tabby point Siamese with blue eyes. They are rescues and very sweet. Errrrrrrrrr the gray one is, that is, Scout isn't quite sure this is his "forever" home.

I am soooooooooo glad that the economy is fundamentally strong, because my retirement account when caput yesterday. But, I am determined to not be a middle school teacher until I die. I still want to go to florist school (do they have that?) and be a florist someday.

Today, we got a taste of a crisp fall day and it made me think we should do a family apple picking outing with Jaida and Christian and everyone and then make a ton of applesauce, apple butter, apple pie, apple crisp, etc. together to freeze for winter. Let's do it!

Well, that is the update from here in the 'burg, hi from: Scout, Gray Catsby (do you get the literary references? You better!), Tabitha, Rosie, Eliza DooLittleKitty, Charlie, Felix, Teddi, Lucy, and, and, oh, yeah, Baby and Lilly. Oh, and Max.

Hi everyone! hot, humid, and yucky here today (and yesterday). Am making myself do a little cleaning - if I do one room a day it's not so bad. Gawd! I HATE cleaning! Jane got all the "cleaning genes." Cleaned the den yesterday - your father is a SLOB! Manages to leave peach pits, Dove bar sticks, etc. all around his chair and then kicks them underneath when he gets up.

I am still reading the Barbara Walters book - it's pretty good and I'm enjoying it a lot. This will be of interest to certain members of our family - she talks about her troubled relationship with her daughter - but all is well now. Next I have American Wife on tap - a roman a clef - it sounds like G and L. Bush. After that comes Black and White by Dani Shapiro. Has anyone read "The Art of Racing in the Rain"? I am sorely tempted to order it - it features a dog.

Speaking of dogs, Fritz and I play this game with my hands. I slap the bedspread and he pounces, jumps up and down, etc. When he "snares' my hand he gives a very gentle little bite not hurting at all. He acts like it's his favorite thing to do. Yesterday he went up a little bit to my forearm and I told him without raising my voice, that it was bad to do that. He stopped immediately and laid down next to me. What a smart little guy.

Saturday nite when I was getting out buns for our hamburgers, I dropped one on the floor. Wouldn't you know, Fritz was right there at my feet, scooped it up and ran under the dining room table (I presume so Sandi wouldn't get it). It took him about 20 minutes to devour the whole thing - it was bigger than his whole head! Sandi got a hamburger bun too.

This is such an exciting post! Have I bored everyone yet? Our pears are ripe now and falling off the trees. Persimmons are all turning a lovely rosy read and I expect they will be dropping soon. The deer love the persimmons, but I'm surprised they are leaving the pears alone. I canned them once, but no one ate them so now they just go to waste.

Off to play a game of Literati and read some political blogs.

my fingers are sore...not broken

I have been kinda depressed ..that's why I haven't blogged lately. I am a little better..the travel agency I applied at called me on friday ..yippee! Now I have to wait for someone to call me back to set up an appointment to take 3 tests. They should be called today.

As most of you know...someone stole my Obama sign I had on the fence facing Princess Anne road......I have ordered some more....this time I am installing a boobie trap! Theiving bastards!

Alot of my plants in the backyard are dying...from thirst, we have gotten very little rain. Nothing else really going on to blog about.
Everyone have a great monday.
btw..did anyone see snl?
luv
jane

NO broken fingers here

Just waiting for better blogger news then mine...nothing new on this homefront.

How come you couldn't post more than a reply to my broken fingers - are your fingers broken?Nothing more than that comment from you ms blogger....lol

Sooooooo - how come the blogger who accuses us of having broken fingers doesn't post something? Broken fingers, perhaps?

I haven't been blogging because I've been spending all my time reading political blogs and watching political programs on television. This Sarah Palin is an interesting character but I fear for my country if she and McPain are elected. I think it would be the end of our democracy! She has referred to Obama by a racial slur - and while I know his "lipstick" on pigs was not directed at her, I LOVED it. Made me laugh out loud.

It's a little rainy here today so no gardening. We had plumbing experts here on Monday to see why we had no water. Turns out a pipe out in the field had ruptured and all the well water was gushing out there. We're back in business now - but it was a good thing Nancy reminded me before hurrican Hanna to fill up some water jugs. People can live without a lot of things, but water is a necessity.

Went grocery shopping this morning - 50 bucks for practically nothing. We have radically changed the way we eat and it still costs a fortune. No more meat, veg, potatoes, salad. Now it's a sandwich or something like that. Perhaps a can of soup!

Made a fast trip into the library - got Barbara Walter's Audition. Had wanted to read it, but didn't want to buy it. Our assistant librarian (an African American) just was awarded her Bachelor's Degree! It was made possible by the aftermath of the closing of the public schools here in Prince Edward County as a part of a reparation program. She is a lovely lady and I was thrilled for her. We also had a long talk about - what else? - politics and the candidates of our choice - Obama/Biden.

Well, it's off to lunch now - cream cheese with chives on wheat thins - love that stuff.

Smoochies all around!

What's the matter with you people out there not blogging? Got broken fingers or what?

Jamie's Birthday

Just a quick hello - i'm in the mist of cooking. Almost forgot about Jamie's cake in the oven...
I wanted to say Thank you to all you - Jamie's birthday was a success. He was thrilled to receive his gifts from everyone -including the mail he received from Mom and a friend of his. Jamie said he wasn't really surprised b/c Grandma did say to him he was having a party on Monday. However, he wasn't 100% sure if that was true since we told him we were having a surprise party for Catherine. Jane and Christian got Jamie good w/that silly spray stuff --Jane was a little kid playing with it. And, Christian well - he totally loved the stuff. Tonight i'm making Shepard's pie with a salad (Jamie's choice) and lemon supreme cake (Jamie's choice) for desert.

School is off to a good start. No SNAFU's this year like last year. Joey is home at 1230, and Jamie isn't home till 415. So far Joey has told me no homework for the last two nights. While Jamie has had homework. I've already reminded Joey - c's or better for a learner's permit, and have told him i'm going to be more involved this year then i was last year. I've already met his guidence counselor. And, she is aware of my concerns.

That's really about it.

We had one drop of rain here

Yes I need my yard signs asap.....I see more and more mcpain signs....we will put one up on Princess anne rd...on the fence with zip ties so it will be harder to steal. I am also looking forward to driving my rover around with an Obama sticker on it...and Mark says he Will wear the button that says truckers for Obama ....he will wear it to work. Marianne still needs to register...I need to follow up on Adam and jackie too....and Bobby....and check if Eric registered...I think Catherine already is ...Obama needs all of our votes!
Bobby has a new girl friend..her name is Missy, she has 2 little girls - 1 in 4th grade and 1 in the 5th, and Jaida loves going over to her house, Bobby says she lives about a mile from the restaurant.
Adam has messed up his bank...his account was seized by capitol one..he has a credit card with them and owed money..he can't even get out the money to pay them! Mean time ..he doesn't have his meal card anymore..he turned it in and has the money added to his pay...so he doesn't have any money to eat....he thinks he will be able to get money on tues....he says his room mate has been feeding him a little....he is too proud to find a western union so we can send him a few dollars. Jackies says she opened a new bank account ...and changed Adams direct deposit to that account(which does not have adams name on it).....I had to tell Adam that his pay will probably go into limbo land because the name and numbers won't match on the new account because his name isn't on it......which will mean it will be longer till he has money to eat!
Today we are having a Birthday party for Jamie...Fried chicken, coleslaw, mashed potatoes. beans and rolls and of course cake, and I am also going to make deviled eggs.
Hope everyone has a Great holiday!
luv
jane
ps...Marianne put your pics up from your vacation

We've had 4 1/2 inches of rain in the past 24 hours!!!! YIPPEE!!!!! Hope it continues!

I looked forward to Joe Biden's speech for 5 days and wouldn't ya know? I fell asleep. Thank goodness for TIVO! Got up at 4:30 AM and was able to see it - excellent. I was hoping he would come on stronger - you know - slash and burn Bush/Cheney/McPain. I was awake for Bill Clinton's and thought he did a magnificent job - but didn't expect any less from him inspite of what the pundits were saying. I think Biden's family was lovely - his old Mom is darling and sounds like she is full of spunk. I was terribly inpressed with Dennis Kucinich's speech - he is a little firebrand. I took a survey about political viewpoints several months ago and I came out to the left of Kucinich (no wonder I loved his speech). The older I get, the more liberal I get. Decriminalize MaryJane, etc., etc. No constitutional amendments regarding marriage, etc., etc. In fact, I have felt for 8 years that I wouldn't trust GWB to meddle with the constitution at all. Another good speech was Brian Schweitzer (Governor of Montana) - a most unprepossessing looking man, speaking simply in a folksy way, but oh, my, what powerful words. I heard both those speeches "live", replayed them both the following morning, and then played them again for Dad! And, of course, kudos to Hillary - she is one brave lady, gave a wonderful speech, and broke the glass ceiling. I hope she is offered something "big" like SofS, Supreme Court - but, on the other hand, with her credentials she could have a long and wonderful career in the Senate. She will certainly be an asset in the Senate to Obama getting things passed.

A funny moment from one of the debates - the candidates were asked to name one thing about the person on their left that they liked - Joe Biden turned to Dennis Kucinich on his left and said he liked his (Dennis') wife. If you have never seen her - she is about a foot taller than Dennis, long gorgeous red hair, and extremely pretty.

I am expecting a delivery from Move.On.org of 45 Obama buttons - place your order here folks and I'll mail them off to you. Have Obama/Biden bumper stickers and buttons coming also - but only 2 of each for my use.

It gives me a great deal of satisfaction to know that in my large extended family we only have 2 Republicans left. I think of my Dad often and wonder if he would still be a die-hard Republican. Even in Nixon's dark days he defended him (Nixon) but he died before Nixon resigned. My Mom always voted, in fact, she always worked at the polling place, but I can't recall her ever discussing politics. I always assumed she followed my Dad's lead and voted Republican, but I do recall that she had high praise for Harry Truman. And, ya know - Joe Biden kind of reminds me of HST. Blunt, honest, telling it like it is.

hey

Well I didn't watch the convention last night but I watched the night before, Michael was coming in giving be the info going on at the convention.
I did order my bumper sticker and I volunteered to help on election day!


I am still looking for employment...I applied at MDV..check in clerk, Mark found out a lot of people applied for the same position, keep your fingers crossed for me!

I am still waiting for the rain....I was out early this morning, feel like rain, I felt the sky squeeze out a drop! News said it was going to rain last night..nope..they were wrong.

I am supposed to be taking care of Christian's Red Tailed Shark...I almost forgot! He was still alive when I got there.

Bobby was supposed to pick up Jaida in Petersburg yesterday...but I havn't heard. A new woman was going to drive him there...he says she is not real pretty but she is very nice and she will also be babysitting Jaida too. I hope he calls me today.

Ok I am going to go over the want adds again.
luv
jane

good morning

Well, despite my plans to go to bed early last night, we stayed up late and watched Joe Biden. He was great - and his son's intro was very good.

We ordered pizza, and when the delivery guy left- I couldn't help myself and yelled out: "I hope you're registered to vote and will support Obama!" The guy turned around and in a heavy accent said that yes, and that he was a new citizen and made sure he got his citizenship and registered to vote so he could support Obama. "No more Bush, no more war," he said.

Scott and I both had tears in our eyes then, and later again when Joe Biden's mother was shown. And, in case mom didn't stay up to see the surprise after Biden's speech, I won't spoil it.

Ignore the negative ads and the editorial junk - read the platform and whenever possible, spread the word - the deadline to registration to vote is Oct. 6th - remind people and if each of us votes (for Obama) and get 5 more each to do the same.....we'll win. Don't listen to the media - they need it to seem like a tight race so that it will get viewers.

Oh, and here is yet another reason to vote Obama - in his own words: "I will close Guantanamo. I will restore habeas corpus. And we will end torture and rendition because you will have elected a president who has taught the Constitution and believes in the Constitution and will obey the Constitution of the United States of America."

Have a good day.

E.

Howdy out there. Well, it's been a rough two days again w/no computer. Friday am woke up and couldn't stay online to save my sole. Joey first he did a lot of chcking w/cox to see why i couldn't stay on and his computer was doing the same thing, cox was all ok...then he said it was my wireless card he install from the old puter-- said it was bad...spent 40 bucks getting a new one and installed last night only to keep having the same problem. So, he called cox again and spoke to Scott and the short of it is--the router is bad. Spent another 40bucks today and have a new router. So far, i've managed to stay online for about an hour - won my literati game after losing four -thanks to not being able to stay online. phewwwwww i'm done w/computers - can't they just invent something like a disk when you have a problem - and the disk runs and says --you've got a bad router, or you've got a virus...just like you've got mail. Then, those out there like me who are stupid about computers can fix it in a heart beat. I'm exhausted to say the least.

And, if that wasn't enough spending money -- poor Bruti --last night we all noticed how Bruti wasn't his usual self..running, jumping, playing tug of war --i took him to the emergency vet. Found out he had a reaction (sort of) to his vacination --he got his rabis shot on friday in his back leg only b/c he got two other shots. The vet said they put the shots in different places so they can keep track of then shots. Seems like the shot made his leg muscle swell - and the area must have been pretty painfull b/c he wouldn't do anything. He wouldn't even would lay right. And he cried a couple of times when one of us accidently touched that area. So the emergency vet gave him a shot of and antinflammatory medicine and gave us more stuff to take home and i will give it to him tonight and tomorrow night. The vet said if the swelling doesn't go away by tomorrow to bring him back to the vet. However, today we've all noticed he's almost back to his old self. That visit cost me over a hundred bucks..so, i'm done spending money.

Other that that--that's been my w/end. I"m tired b/c we didn't get home till 11pm .. however i'm very happy my puter is up and running.

back to playing..see ya..have a good week ...

Nancy - I can't claim McSame is original to me. I would really like to call him McPain, but as the name of Paine is dear to my heart I won't use it on that reptile - lol - in one of his ads he shows his profile and it looks reptilian to me! Hope he picks McNitt for VP - between the 2 of them they probably have 15 or 16 houses. And talk about your flip floppers - !!

Watched the Obama/Biden rally yesterday afternoon - God! I LOVE Joe Biden, and actully had a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes when I watched him bound across the stage. Listened to the Sunday morning pundits today and they make it sound like it will be a very close election and that Obama will have a really tough time getting elected. Wish I could vote more than once. Wish Mrs. Biden would get a haircut and thought Mrs. Obama's dress was ugly! I am being petty.

I have polished off all the Kit-Kats and an now off to work on the Snickers!

good morning everyone!

Happy 41st to Scott!
Hello to Catherine and Eric....In PA- Michael said you guys were going to the Dodgers vs. Phillies game....we had the game on the tv lookin for you guys...Catherine if you had on a black T shirt I may have seen you!

The Rover is on the road...we cruised the strip last night, the East Coast surfing championship was this weekend, alot of actions...we didn't get out of the car. Marianne and James and Christian are going to Ocean City MD until friday..I hope you guys have a nice vacation.

Mom, I told ya I heard he would not announce vp until saturday.....and it was gonna be Biden! I vollunteered to work on election day!

Mark wants me to look up part info for the tiller...blogging while I was waiting for model number...

Hope everyone has a great Sunday!

okay already!

Here is the update from the north.

Today we went to a cool mexican restaurant for what Scott calls a "light snack."
It was so good, I ate too much and barfed on the way home.
Before that we went to see Brideshead Revisited in Arlington. They have rejuvenated the
village there so it is a plaza with fountains, and the theatre has been refurbished. The movie was fantabulous. Lots of Yorkshire scenes, lovely costumes, some steamy scenes and plenty of plot to discuss at our light snack.
We ate my famous chicken curry for late lunch/early dinner -- I got sidetracked by the Biden/Obama speeches so I nearly burned the whole pot....we salvaged it.
We painted and finished putting up the rest of the border in the guest room/my dressing room - but we didn't have enough border to do the whole room. Tomorrow I will go through clothes and organize so I have a great place to get dressed.
I played a ton of literati and watched lots of food tv and political stuff all morning.
last night we went to a neighborhood place for Italian food then went down to the river to see what was up-- strangely, in a place that has nothing, on the far side was a blinking light up Christmas tree. Weird.
We tried to go through from Rt. 3 to Rt. 17 on what we thought was a completed new road, but it doesn't go all the way through. We did get to see the beginnings of the slavery museum, which has a "Freedom Garden." Looked interesting.

Other stuff: New movie previews were good - a movie called "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" is coming out and I want to see it. Another one, too, but as usual I forgot the whole preview immediately.

Tomorrow is Scott's birthday (41) but more importantly (j/k) it is the laaaaaaaaaaaassssssssssssttttt day of my summer vacay. ShitPissFuckMotherFucker. Work starts Monday morning at 8 with marathon meetings and fake "How was your summer?" questions and updates and a ton of bullshit. As you can see, I have had a nice break and am rejuvenated and ready to hit the classroom with renewed vigor and enthusiasm. Parents better not give me crap about the supply list. Buy the damn notebook and gluesticks and shut up. I bought a ton of them myself already. So, I will mourn the loss of the endless hours of loafing on the sofa with the laptop, my book and the court TV stuff. And the relaxing hours on the new porch and new sofa out there just listening to bugs and cats and dogs. And of course the pajama wearing days -

Funny thing Jamie said to me one day when he was here: It was nearly 4, and I stretched and said, "well, I think I'll take a shower and put on my jammies." He said, "But, you're in your jammies already!" Damn kids. Don't they know the difference between daytime and nightime jammies?

I"m back..........

Helloollloo---

I bought a cheapeee emachine hard drive, tower, box -what ever it's called. Only bought it b/c i'm desperate to be online again (was up till midnight last night getting it installed) and Jane said Marrianne has this brand and hasn't had any problems. So, Here i am.

Neither kid knows it yet - but i've taken a surprise day off tomorrow --i'm cracking the whip. NO one get's to sleep in. Both boys will be rolling around listening to this chief and her orders...
Got a few things to do too.. but no work. YEA!!!!

Mom, i love mcsame's name --think it's great. You should write and let him know he's been renamed mcsame--and he will probably be just as bad, if not worse, then the beany bushy man.

Not sure why Ellen doesn't post, on that same note, why doesn't Marrianne and Katie post??? Helloolloo girls--POST!!

Catherine - you have your hands full with school. Sounds like Eric won't see much of you for a while. I hope he can manage on his own.

ok, i'm off to play a game --yes!! haven't been able to play a game for quite a while on my puter.
hasta....

Catherine - just read your schedule and my head is spinning! Good grief, girl - there needs to be 2 of you! My advice is just to grit your teeth and plunge ahead - it will soon be over and you'll be able to look back on all you've accomplished with pride!

Grampa made his phone call - it was to some manufacturer about a problem with some piece of equipment. They didn't have an answer for him either.

I have been trying to teach Fritz some new tricks but not having much success. He is just so cute, I end up playing with him instead. He knows sit, but then flops to his tummy, rolls over, and paws the air - for a tummy rub, which he gets.

Another dry day here. It's getting so I don't even want to go outside everything looks so bad.

I am almost done with my book, so will spend the rest of the afternoon reading.

Hang in there Catherine!

Well, school starts today. 5 sixteen week courses and 1 eight week course. I can already tell my education class is going to be very time consuming. We have to do observation field work and sit in 40 hours and take notes and fill out worksheets and we have to sit in a school board meeting and also a teacher workshop and answer question about that. I thought I would be able to use my substitute hours as my field work, nope. They won't let me. So now I have to take off work to go sit in different classes and observe. My plan has always been to work my school schedule around my work so I don't have to take any days off, well this totally screws that up. But I figured I could sign up to go into a high school and they start before I have to be at work and then just take a few hours off here and a few hours off there until everything is added up. I'm looking forward to the end of this semester already and it's only day one.

One class I am looking forward to doing is my PE class, Pilates. It's an online class so we just use dvds and a book and do it ourselves. I've done yoga before and really liked it so hopefully I'll feel the same about this. I'm taking two geography courses, both online, and one of the professor set it up so we could finish early. All assignments, quizzes, and tests are posted and available when ready. In the other geography course I get to write a 10-15 page paper, not sure what about yet but it was in the syllabus. Not looking forward to that. The good thing is that I kept in touch with my old English professor and I'm sure she will be willing to help me with that.

I suppose I should get back to work, almost lunch time though. I hope everyone has a good day.

Love,
Catherine

How come I see Ellen on line all the time and she never posts anything here? Jane is frequently seen here and posts once in a while. Nancy just got her computer fixed last night so I expect to hear from her here soon.

Drats - I am so sick of waiting for Obama's big announcement. I check about once an hour - if it's not announced soon I just might vote for the other guy (not McSame)!

This morning my beautiful new television started acting weird - just like my old one did. Grrrrrr. We did buy the warranty - $124.99!! so I guess that is a good thing. Now I just have to figure out what to do. It's always something.

Now dad is hollering for me to get offline - needs to make a very IMPORTANT phone call - yeah, right, sure.

I'm procrastinating! I should be balancing the checkbook, housecleaning, working in garden, etc., etc. Really don't want to do finances - yuck! don't want to clean, too hot for gardening. Sandi and Fritz have been asleep I swear for going on 24 hours now, except for 2 trips outside and a fast dinner! Will probably get more lively this afternoon. Oh, yes, they raised their heads up this morning briefly to receive their milkbones from Dad.

We had a lovely weekend - too much food! Thanks to everyone for all you do! Hope Jamie is doing okay this week and looking forward to school.

Have been snooping on the internet to see what I can find out about Obama's VP pick. Mark Halperin at Time Magazine says he knows - it's Biden. Supposedly Obama will be sending those text messages/emails today that announcement is coming soon and announcement will take place Thursday or Friday. McSame will announce his choice the day after Democratic convention ends to steal away any boost Obama might get. Hah! Also a caller into C-SPAN claims to have picked up a big clue that McCain really did hear Obama's answers Saturday night. Why am I not surprised! Cheating repubs.

Still nothing on Raising Kaine about our local Obama headquarters - I will post something later if I ever get any ambition today.

Have a great day everyone!

Back at home!

Mark and I had a great time at mom and dad's,lots of great food too! Mark is off to work, Michael is too and I will be going over the want adds...boohoo!

Marianne isn't bringing Christian over till thursday...and friday, cause james's mother is going on a cruise.................................
I have been out watering this moring..everything is lookin good except the grass. Mom's hanging basket is doing real well and getting bigger.

Everyone have a great tuesday!
luv
jane

Surprise Surprise...here i am

GM ---------Jane was nice enough to allow me to use her computer while she is at Mom's. Thank you!!! I get a little slice of fun - play my games and other stuff online.

Sold the truck to car max - really got a crappy deal on it. I did not get one call while i had the for sale signs on it. And, Jane said no one answered the ad she put there on Craig's list ( thanks, Ellen ---i will keep this place in mind for the future). If i had known about Craig's list i think i would have put the truck on there sooner.

The weather is nice - Bruti is patiently awaiting me to take him outside---i have to be as quiet as a mouse - otherwise he will let me know to move it.

It's been rather quiet and dull w/out Jamie - no FIGHTS. However, i still have fights w/Joey.
Joey got his scedule and he is not pleased - he gets to go to school later then earlier. He's already demanded that i write a letter to switch his free block to the end of the day rather then the beginning. I may do it b/c it will mean Bruti isn't in his pen so long....9-noon. And, I don't have to worry about Joey getting up for school..cause it's done. Jamie won't have to leave till 9am. And, i got the letter from his school that he can't come to school until he has his vacination...so i have to call the school and get his shot list to them - cause he's good to go.

Other, than that --I hope all had a good time at MOM"s. I'm jealous cause everyone is there and i'm here. HOPE ELLEN is fine and feeling better too...

Toodles for now..playing my game...yeah!!

Hi everyone!

Mark and I will be leaving for Alden's pond as soon as Mark gets home from work, so I figure we will get there around 7 or 8 pm.
Adam left for fort drum...he thought he would be deployed as soon as he got there, but found out he has training in Oct. ....thats good cause he needs it. I don't think Jackie will send thankyou cards...cause she has not asked me for anyones address yet. Adam is turning 21 next month...he and Jackie...do quite a bit of drinking.

I didn't get the job at map...got a letter.....due to overwelming response to their add....there were alot of people....and I had a feeling when I left..oh well ...on with the job search.

I am looking forward to seeing everyone this weekend...I didn't know it was Scotts birthday!
I am bringing the pork shoulder!

Mark hurt his wrist at work...he fell ...also skinned his elbow, his wrist is swollen(and his hand)
he says he just sprained it, he has been wearing my wrist splint.

Nancy wants me to take a walk on the beach this morning...so I will be giving her a call when I am done blogging and see what time she wants to go...then I will pack...have beans and coffee and kitkats and twizzlers and snickers and skittles too.
luv ya
jane

Well, here it is Friday already - time flies when you're having fun! Ellen and Jamie are here, arriving yesterday afternoon. Right now both are sound asleep - Ellen in the guest bedroom and Jamie on the den sofa. Jamie hadn't seen the upstairs bedroom since we painted it and thought it looked pretty nice. Said he would be sleeping up there, but fell asleep in front of tv - I knew he would. Max is in bedroom with Ellen, and Fritzy is now curled up with Jamie!

Looking forward to seeing Catherine and Eric tonite - Bowzer, too. It will be pretty lively around here with 4 dogs! Fritz will do his best to rule the roost I'm sure, but his growl and bark are all there is to him.

Jane and Mark arrive tomorrow afternoon - Scott, too. We'll have a birthday party for Scott on Sunday - don't tell him.

The biggest news in town is the opening of the local Obama campaign headquarters! You can be sure I'll (we) will be attending.

Went to the dermatologist yesterday and he removed 2 things (?) from my face - nose and upper lip, so I look a mess. They're supposed to take 2 weeks to heal, was hoping it would be faster. Word to the wise - STAY OUT OF THE SUN!!

Looking forward to seeing you Catherine and Eric. drive carefully!

Gramma

Good Morning

Hello everyone.

I am looking forward to Farmville this weekend and I know Eric is too. We are leaving Friday after work.

Jane- if I don't get a chance to stop by and get my camera this week would you mind bringing it up to Grandma's when you come up? Thank you :)

I'm at work and I cleaned the entire warehouse the past couple days. We have this catalog room where we have a bunch of shelves with all the catalogs we order fixtures from and they are in no order what so ever so I decided my job today will be to sit in that room and get that all straightened up. That's going to be no fun at all but once it's done I'll be glad.

Well, I suppose getting started on that would be the best thing. I hope everybody has a good week and I'll see Ellen, Mark, Jane, Jamie, Grandma and Grandpa this weekend :)

love,
Catherine

hi

We went to DC yesterday. We saw the new Museum of Crime and Punishment. It is one of the expensive museums -not free like the Smithsonian. It was cool and Jamie liked it. Then we had lunch at a place called Pot Belly's and saw the National Building Museum (yawn). We trekked home and stopped at the fabulous Wegmans!!! Jamie took pics with his cell phone of the sushi bar and bakery. We ran into my principal there. Then, by the time we got home we were too tired to make any dinner and not really hungry, so we pulled out the bed and Jamie and I watched the Olympics. We saw Phelps win the gold! Scott went straight to sleep and is still there - 14 hours and going strong on the snoring.

No more weddings....but we could ponder a big welcome home for Michael and Zsuzsi when they return from Budapest???!!???

Today, we'll be lazy I suppose. No good movies playing even. Blah.

Hey to everyone reading

Well I have a job interview on tuesday...ugh! We are going to Aldens pond on saturday when Mark gets home...so we can bring the truck, Mark wants to get some fire wood ...and mom wants to see if Mark can fix the tiller. Adam and Jackie came home last night sometime after we went to bed....no phone calls from them letting us know if the would or would not be home for dinner....tonight I am fixing fried chicken...I don't think they will be getting any of it even if they are here- I saved them some pasta salad from the wedding....lol.

today I plan to see what I have to wear to the job interview that fits...ugh.
Everybody have a great weekend.
luv
jane

ok..quick blog...Jane's doing my hair now. My ^%%$#%&* computer is fried --i'm going thru literati withdrawls..had to play a game here at Jane's.


Ellen --i have to get married again..we have to have another big family gathering...lol

ok..later--have to go shower before i fry my hair too..

love ya..HI JAMIE

Guess everyone is recovered from the big event. I don't see how Jane and Mark accomplish all that they do - makes me worn out thinking about it! The food was great, especially potato salad and barbecue. The wedding cake was darling. Everyone was on their best behavior except for Denise - she also takes the prize for being the ugliest and rudest - lol. Hope Jackie and Adam live happily every after....

My poor yard is scorched and burned. Can't remember the last time we had rain. Lost some potted plants while we were gone, but I figured that would happen. Wal-Mart has New Zealand impatiens for $1.48 so will replace what I lost with those. Bought a new hanging planter and put in white wave petunias with pink New Zealand impatiens.

I wish I had brought Jane some of my redbud seedlings. The shady area where the ceremony took place is a perfect spot for a woodland garden - redbud trees (they grow fast), hostas, ferns, impatiens, coleus, etc. would be great there.

Sandi and Fritz slept all the way home and couldn't even be bothered to raise their heads for their dinners. They slept most of yesterday too, and had Monday's dinner for breakfast.

I had a horrible night last night - woke up about midnight in severe pain with the muscle pull in my leg, and managed to hobble out to the kitchen where I sat until it eased up somewhat and then made it as far as the couch where I watched a ton of programs that I had TiVo'd. Finally took 2 tylenol PM's about 3 a.m and managed to sleep until 6. I hope this leg business is not a regular occurence.

I think we will probably go up to Charlottesville on Friday. Dad is complaining about high cost of gas and that we shouldn't go, but he already agreed to the trip before we left Jane's or I never would have brought that stuff home with me.

Jane, I hope you are spending this week lounging in front of the t.v. or computer - you deserve a nice rest. And thanks again for all the hospitality.

Love
Mom

ok - here's my update

Wedding was perfect. The decorations, food and planning were impecable. A little drama - but that is what happens when family is together, I guess.

Fun playing with Christian and Jaida.

Have to go to this stupid conference - but Jamie is here and we're having fun. He made a model car yesterday by himself, then took it apart, reconfigured it into a different kind of car. I think there is a talent blooming there. Today we're making hemp jewelry. Right now he is sleeping. He makes little sounds like he is dreaming.

We went to Carl's for ice cream last night, a Fredericksburg tradition. We're also watching our spider, Charlotte, build her web each night and catch bugs in it.

Looking forward to watching the Olympic opening ceremonies and the games. Not much else going on - trying to decide what big field trips we'll take on Friday and Saturday. And then next week I am mostly free.

So, who is left that has to get married? Eric and Catherine - in the future - hopefully just a rehearsal dinner will have to be hosted. But, if a wedding needs to be done - we know how to do it. And to Denise: Kiss my fat ass!

-Ellen

bloggs anyone?????

Wedding is over!!! YEAH

Thank you everyone for all the help. I am sure glad everthing is over...and Jaida went back to Carolina with her mother. Now I am going to take a rest.

Thanks again
luv
jane

Hey there! Sounds like you're making good progress there Jane. Dad got out the table yesterday and I scrubbed it this morning. It has some stains on it so I hope the tablecloth is good and thick to cover it up. Bobby called yesterday to ask if I had a rack for a canner - I have 2 of them - so I will bring them to your house for him. I also have packed up 3 boxes of empty quart jars and a few lids, too. He and Sal are going to make marinara sauce. Yum.

i will try to fit in my hanging plant, too, but since I used up all my boxes I'm not sure that will make it. I got my new outfit all hemmed up and just have to iron it now. The big decision is which jewels to wear - lol!

It's really hot and humid here today but hope we have a little rain. Everything is parched. I have a few tomatoes (4) that I will try to remember to pick to bring to your house. They're just little ones. Do you need any more pears? The pears are beginning to get a little "blush" on them now and look very pretty. I'll try to remember to bring some anyway.

You know, when dad and I go anywhere, he starts nagging at me until I get all distracted and forgetful. He already started today. I told he we would stop at the bank in the morning to get some $$$. He said that would delay our departure - bank opens at 9!!! I told him it didn't make any difference what time we left - 5 in the morning or 2 in the afternoon. He is driving me nuts!

I have picked out some CD's to bring for Sunday - something to play before hand and some lighthearted stuff for afterwards.

Will see you tomorrow afternoon. And DON'T cook a big dinner for us. We have been having very light meals in the evening.

xxx'S
Mom

hmm no new blogs....

well it's thursday I have a few things left to do, and I have to go to the store one more time.
Weather report yesterday says 94 for sunday and today it says 88...I am hoping for 8with no humidity.
Jamie helped me carry in all the soda cases and beer yesterday and Jaida and Jamie will help me make some cupcakes today.

what I need people to bring...mom 1 table, ellen ice bucket and favor basket, Catherine 2 tables. Jackie's mother-Kerry sent me an email yesterday..justice of the peace needs to start right at 2 pm as he has another wedding at 2:45 pm. Adams mother marybeth and her boyfriend will not be coming- Adam uninvited his mother!
I am cooking a ham for friday night...not sure about saturday..I have a big chunk of beef ...we will see how it goes.
everyone have a great day and I will be seeing everyone soon.
luv
jane

it's quiet ...for a few seconds

Well Jaida was just waking up when Christain arrived this morning...jaida had fruit loops...and christain didn't want any....they played nicely for about and hour and a half....then the fighting was on...I thought I might beable to pull a few weeds while they played..WRONG...they were fighting over everything...they both went after each other...I had to break it up..Christain has a MOUTH on him...and has been a little naughty and earned 2 spankings so far today. They have both been begging me for the giant lollipops from Great Grandma...I said after lunch and after they have been good for a little while.

Mark is busy working in the yard..he decided to take down the gutters he started to put up because there are too many missing pieces and we have to pay for it first and be reimbursed ...and that won't work for us right now, but it looks a lot better with the new paint.
ok well I better say bye for now
luv
jane

I have not been posting here because my life is so quiet and uneventful - and I like it that way! Jane, Marianne, James, Christian, and Jaida were all here this weekend and we had a lovely time. The little ones ran around a lot and fell in love with the beanie babies. Jaida has a nice little tan and was kind of quiet. Christian was his usual irrepressible self. I had made lasagna before they came so I wasn't tied up in the kitchen very much. Jane and Marianne managed to do most of the clean-up, too, which was great. My cake turned out okay - almost sickening sweet - just the way I like it.

There was much talk about the upcoming wedding - Jane seems to have lost a lot of her enthusiasm - Jackie and Adam have little or no interest in anything but each other and drinking vodka! Jane says they stay in their bedroom just about 24/7. Jane took home my geraniums and lobelia for her garden - she's done her utmost to make it a success but it is terribly frustrating to work with uncooperative participants.

It's been so hot and humid that I haven't done much outside except watch plants keel over from lack of water. I used my last Barnes and Noble gift card to get 2 books by Elizabeth Ironside, one by Leif Enger, and one by Anthony Doerr. I am immersed in Barack Obama's Dreams From my Father - am finding it very interesting - what an interesting life he has led. I find it curious that his father is constantly referred to as a goat herder when in reality he was a Ph.D. and Phi Beta Kappa to boot.

Today I will work in the garden until it's too hot. We have had 3 tomatoes so far. I know I planted them too close together, and with lack of water they look terrible, but as long as they produce enough for my tomato sandwiches I don't care.

Nancy - does Joey still lift weights? And Jamie needs to stuff himself with ice cream - lol.

See you all this weekend!!

HElloolloollooo----seems no one including myself, except Jane wants to blog any more. Are we too boring, or just lazy? ok Ladies - we carry the family - let's all blog. We want to hear the tales of the young and the spirited! That means, Marrianne, Catherine, Katie, Zsuisi and now Jackie. The middle aged, but wise folks need to blog more. And the family patriot - MOM....LET'S all BLOG!!!

Nothing new on our homefront. Joey is doing very well w/his summer school class. Don't know why he could do this well in regular school. He's probably got a average of a B. And, he will retake the sol on the 31st. Keep your fingers crossed he will pass.

As, for Jamie.. I think he's testing me. He's always being sassy. He's just a carefree young spirited soul with his own opinions. I hope he let's up on being sassy!! He's also been staying up late and sleeping in.

Joey weighs a whooping 194, Jamie weighs about 85lbs. I told Joey he weighs more than me!!! I hope he will pay attention and watch what he eats.

I'm looking forward to next weekend --seeing my sisters and parents all together -meeting at our usual place -- Jane's. I don't have any extra time off--boo!!.

Ok, enough about my boring life -- i hope to read someone else's blog now. Love ya all.

Jaida is just waking up

good morning!
Jaida and I are going to the mall today to find her a cute dress for the wedding. I guess it's going to be HOT today again.
We made cupcakes yesterday and played with the water hose. Christain will be coming over tomorrow, and saturday morning we'll be going to Great Grandma and Grandpa's house. We are hoping to see a snake while we are there!

luv
jane

hey from bobby's house

I will be leaving today when it's time for Bobby to go to work...he has to make me some pizza before I go!
Jaida had her dentist appointment yesterday...they give her medicine to calm her down before they start it's called "versed" I am going to look it up....on the way to the car...she was like a noodle...and she vomited twice on the way home...then she slept for several hours. I have been doing Bobby's laundry...what a chore...I don't think he has done laundry since I was here the last time. The air conditioning here at the house is broken....Bobby has a window unit up stairs...gets pretty damn hot downstairs....It also fells real hot to me at the restaurant. We went to the restaurant about 4:pm yesterday (me, Jamie and Jaida) Sal made us stromboli, it was very good. Jamie pulled Jaida around in the wagon for hours and hours...I just tried to stay cool.We came home around 9pm. It's going on 9am here and everyone is still sleeping! Got only one more load to dry and the laundry will be done!
take care everyone
luv
jane

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE SNAKE KIND!

As I stepped out the kitchen door this morning I did a scan of the yard - ya never know what lurks in these here parts. And I sure don't want my little Fritzy boy tangling with anything ominous. Emerging from the flower bed was a black snake - I stood still as did he. Fritz was still inside. I summoned Dad to help me shoo away this critter but he slithered off without any prompting from us. NOW comes the scarey part -- about an hour later I approached the picnic table to water my little seedlings, got within about an inch, and guess what was having a sunbath just below my hand. I am sort of proud of never, ever screaming when confronted with something scarey, even when I almost stepped on the big fat copperhead, but this time I let out one blood curdling holler! Dad came running, as did Sandi and Fritz, but by the time they got to me, little blackie had slithered off the table and disappeared in the azelias. Am pondering a decision to give up gardening (you know I won't, but won't go out again until I stop shaking). Why won't those stupid snakes go down and eat up the moles and voles!? Folklore says that black snakes will keep away poisonous snakes, but it ain't so folks!

Ellen - thanks for finding my missing post - you must tell me how you do it!

adie odie

hi from the burg

Scott is getting ready for his business trip - he leaves on Monday- only going to DC, but he'll be working from 5:30 am to 9 pm. I may pop up to visit since he is in that swanky hotel. Swanky is a cool word. I have a ton of stuff to do -so much I can't decide what to start on. I have 2 tomatoes on my plants. I've lost 2 pounds. We went to petsmart last night and I almost got another cat. I am nuts. This is a bit rambling, I know. One of my chores today is to do something with all these centerpiece things. I have an idea what I may be giving as Christmas presents this year! Ok, later ya'll.

E.

hey!

Mom I don't know what in the world is happening to your bloggs???

I have painted the front door...it looks like I need to go over it again with paint. The shutters need another coat of paint too.

Tomorrow morning I an going to Bobby's, Jamie is going with me, to pick up Jaida. We will be coming home friday. Friday night Adam arrives, his flight does not arrive until 11:30 pm so I may or may not be awake.

I haven't heard anything else from Jackie or her mother....I did get a rsvp from her grandfather...he will attend with a guest.....

Catherine and Mom I am counting on your tables for the wedding!
Ok I guess I will get busy painting.
luv
jane

recovered post from mom:

Glad Nancy's home safe and sound. Must be hard to go back to work! The cabin in the mountains looks terrific. I am picturing what it must look like with snow all around. Treacherous drive, though.

Nothing much going on here. Did a little yard work yesterday. We had 1.3 inches of rain Monday night which was wonderful but the garden still looks like !$#@%$#. I am so engrossed in the book I'm reading (Death of a President by William Manchester) that I'm finding it difficult to do anything else by read. I read this book when it was first published - 1967 - and I find it interesting to reflect on the feelings I had then and the feelings I have now. We spent (my Mother, Father, and Dad) that whole weekend - Nov. 22, 1963 standing in front of the television. I don't think we ever sat down - peculiar - and our meals were finger foods as we stood there. It also mentions lots of people I had kind of forgotten about - like Everett Dirksen, a very interesting Senator, so I've having lots of fun googling people and events.

I have been watching Flipping Out on Bravo - is this guy Jeff an AR (anal retentive) or what. He needs some time with a shrink, along with the guy he fired. Interesting show.

I am hoping the New Yorker will give John McSame with same attention they gave Obama - like in diapers or something. I know that cover was satirical BUT!!!!!

Back to my book - Toodle oooooo --

hello to everyone who reads the blog

Well I am not going to work on wedding stuff for a while.
Christain was here but Marianne got off work early and came by to pick him up...he was kinda grouchy anyway. Jamie is here now ...Nancy will be picking him up soon and we are having a thunderstorm.

Mark painted the shutters and soffets..was supposed to be a brick color and a tan color...looks more like orange and yellow after it's been painted...I hope it mellows out, cause I'm not liking it a whole lot, it looks better than before.
The rain is excellent for the garden and the new grass.
ok I must take a rest now.
take care
jane

We are home....sad to say, but glad to be in my own bed

Yeah, vacationtime will be over for me tomorrow - back to work. It was a very nice vacation. Relaxing when i didn't have to drive long distances. The scenery was very pretty from the Virginia route to the North Carolina route coming home. When we left, thought i would back track home, the way we came. And, we borrowed Mark's GPS. I programed it for the shortest route. Thought we were going home the way we came w/the GPS, however, while driving we came across a sign that stated "Welcome to North Carolina"! Then i realized we were not going the same route. OH WELL!! I wasn't going to turn around. I will say the route along the Tenn. Smoky Parkway was very pretty. A lot of steep grades. Glad there were not too many truckers out there. Everyone was whizzing by me --i did not go more than 65mph the entire trip. Jamie had a severe case of gas...now called "walmart bathroom" farts. He never gives me a heads up either..it's just a smell and "Jamie, is that from you?" Couldn't roll the windows down either due to the heavy rain!!!

I'm going to try and post a few pics of our cabin and the scenery. The cabin was very pretty. I wished i owned it..but on flat land. Driving in the mountains is just too much for me. Let alone this place..had to drive up a steep hill. The cabin is right against the mountain. The balcony's both are on stilts and have sheer drop offs. MOM- if you were there you would forbid anyone to go and walk on the balconys!!! When i see you guys i can show you more pics if you are interested!! OK, I'm done for now.

Am I crazy or is it just me?

Do you mean that if you are crazy, the rest of us are sane? Or, if you're sane, the rest of us are crazy? This is making my head spin. I am NOT crazy - aren't crazy people the only ones that say that? I have been thinking about the definition of normal for about 50 years now and have never come up with a satisfactory answer. I am NORMAL, go^&*(mn it), except for a few little idiosyncracies and prejudices, none of which I can remember right now, except that I can't bear to even be in the same room with Republicans. Gerald Ford was the last republican that I liked. I can't even look at the t.v. if a republican a*%hole (you know who I mean) is speaking. Oh, enough of this dribble ----

No, you are not crazy. I am not crazy. Repeat after me - I AM NOT CRAZY.

hola

Am I crazy? Or is it just me?

I wrote a long blog yesterday but it did NOT appear! Oh, well, my dial-up provider was having problems all day so I suppose that's why.

Nancy called yesterday and said it's beautiful where she is and the cabin is lovely. Hot tub, 40 inch TV, king-sized bed, another TV for the boys, etc. The pond for Jamie to fish in is quite small and just for children. He will love that.

I have been thinking about flowers and pots for the wedding - I have pots - 3 pink geraniums, 3 pink impatiens (double bloom kind), 2 pink flowering almonds (not in flower, but nice greenery), 1 medium blue lobelia, 2 pink New Zealand impatiens with green viney type around base with small white blooms, and assorted empty pots - 3 or 4 I think. I think lavender chrysanthemums will be available in early August for the empy pots. My problem will be transporting them - Can Ellen come here with her big station wagon to help with that?

I told Dad about Denver trip and he wants to go!!!! Lol - not a chance in hell! You know, if he went he would never remember it!

Spent yesterday morning cleaning refrigerator - yuck. Somehow tomato juice got spilled and dried on the bottom - looked like a hemorrage - don't know how to spell that. I do have some cleanliness standards even if they're low, and am gearing up to do some major cleaning. Today will be spent in kitchen - too hot for any gardening.

Am thinking lots about Zsuizsi - imagine by this time she is safely in Budapest with her family! Sure hope so. Let me know if you hear.

Update from beach and beyond...

I am at the beach, on phone w/Jamie now. They are nearing Salem, VA. All is well. We are going to take care of Bruti... tomorrow to the ocean. I am giving Jane all my wedding ideas and she is promptly rejecting them. We are going to Michaels' so I can show her topiary making stuff and ivy and stuff. Mom: we need ivy...got any? Not the poison kind, though.

*toodles** E.

hey no one is blogging!

We had a nice 4th of july, bbq chicken, pasta salad, deviled eggs, baked beans and watermellon. Zsuzsi and Michael went to Chics Beach with friends and Mark and I watched the Mt Trashmore fireworks from the window in the den.
We finally got a little more rain too, overnight. Marianne and James went to the ocean front for fireworks and Nancy and Jamie went to Mt Trashmore.Eric and Catherine went camping at Lake Gaston, and Bobby says the Earlysville annual 4th july parade is lining up at the restaurant.
I hope to see a little more blogging
luv
jane

mom the hydrangas have always been pink!

the yard is looking better and better..I figured if I got the edge of the flower bed really straight I would not need border rocks....I got that done yesterday, and it looks pretty good.

EVERYONE READ: THE WEDDING DATE HAS NOW CHANGED TO AUG 3RD. ADAM SAYS HE HAS HOME TIME RECRUITING FOR THE 1ST 2 WEEKS, EVERYDAY...I got the call yesterday.
Jackie says she is going to get her dad to buy the cake...
Jackie says her mom wants to come over and see the area for the wedding....jackie said something about tables...so maybe they will rent them. They also wanted it at night..which I explained to Adam..the reason for having it at 2pm. So now I really don't know whats going on....
Ellen...I told Jackie to come over when you are here....ok

I am going to go out and water a little now.
Everyone have a great day!

Plants and plants....

I'm glad to hear they hydrenas are doing so well! And, it must be nice to talk about plants all the time..ha ha..i should be so lucky to stay home day after day and piddle around in my garden. I'm getting jealous....However i do believe i have a brown thumb and not a green one. I've been told i'm good at killing plants. Anyway, the vacation plans are ----we are here in Va Beach. I'm considering spending $5bucks for limited parking for the day at Mt. Trashmore. Have to get their early at Mt. Trashmore. Then if we can --I would love to sit at the top of the Mountain and watch fireworks. Want to do this once in my life= and since i don't have to work the next day, this may very well be my opportunity. I plan to leave next monday for our trip outta here. I will do an email to you all w/our itenitary. I will give Jane one of our spare cells so she can be in touch if needed. We will return home on the 13th of July. Then i will have the 14th off - and will visit with Jane and Ellen if she is still here. Then back to work on the 15th --BOOO. I'll send ya all a picture of Dolly Parton!!!

Nancy - when are you leaving on your trip? Are you still planning on going to DC for the fireworks?

The hydrangeas we are talking about are the ones you provided for our anniversary party. They originally had blue blossoms but are now pink - a very pretty pink. Mine is not as big as Jane's but seems to be quite vigorous. The others are not in very good spots, but I will move them come fall.

We haven't had any rain to speak of and everything looks horrible, even the tomato plants. The sky darkens up every afternoon and the wind blows and we get about 3 or 4 minutes of rain drops - not even enough to get the sidewalks wet!

glad to see people doing a little blogging

Yep, Nancy the hydranga does come back every year, 2 summers now blooming.

Mom, now I have the jap. beetles, Mark sprayed with sevin yesterday. There was one right on top of the heliopsis that just bloomed, and I guess they are eating the petunia flowers. Looks like we got a few drops of rain over night. I moved the impatients to the shade, they were out front, I planted wave petunias in their place.
I also planted the heliopsis in the big flower pots that mark painted, and I put small white wave petunia's and a small plant that has very small lavender and yellow flowers...don;t know what they are called but they will hang down the side of the planters.

I hope we get more rain today!
luv
jane

Greetings People

I've done nothing this w/end except wash clothes - a bizzion b/c Wiiiiam bought Joey alot of clothes.
Too nasty, smoky for me to go outside. It smells like dam smoke everywhere.
Worked in my room - stocked up stuff in my little frig, Jane. Getting excited about our vacation to the mountains. Still have the hersey bars - unopened Jane, for our s'mores!!
Found clothing in my closet that i can fit into again. I have a yellow dress - and if i can lose alittle more weight, i can wear it to Adam's wedding. So, i will give it a try to see if i can do the job.
Mom - good to hear your hydrenas are doing well--is it a plant that will come back each year?

It's been a quiet weekend otherwise. Tootles for now

Loved the pictures, Jane. The hydrangea is gorgeous. Tell Nancy I have 3 of them, one is blooming now, same color as yours. The other 2 are much smaller - don't have them in the right spot yet. The small lavender flowers with the dark markings is a musk mallow - malva sylvestris Zebrina. It gets pretty tall and reseeds abundantly. I like them as "background" plants because the leaves are large and quite attractive. The other plant that you described as a cross between a snapdragon and a pansy is torenia, I think. It was really too small to be certain. I don't know where it came from - not here, I don't think. I had some a few years ago and I don't think it's a perennial. Can't imagine it reseeding and having tthe seeds sprout 2 or 3 years later! Anyhow, it's named after Olaf Toren, a Swedish missionary who discovered it in China in the 1700's. It does pretty good in our hot and humid summers.

Speaking of hot and humid - YUCK! Supposed to get thunderstorms today - don't I wish! Ellen and Scott are on their way to Lynchburg now with Katie's "stuff" for her appartment. She will still have her dorm room and dining privileges, so we know she won't starve or be cold (or hot) and will always have a place to go to. They will be back late this afternoon and then Scott will go back to Fredtown. Ellen says she will stay over a couple of days which will be nice.

Somthing is eating my tomato plants! It must be something tall as only the top parts are gone. I have never known the deer to bother the tomatoes so can't imagine what is going on with them. The leaves are curling up too and I can't find out about that either. It's driving me crazy - I even dreamed about it last night.

I am now reading the last of the 7 new books, The Garden of Last Days by Andre Dubus III. Just started it - hope I like it. I have enjoyed the others very much, Lottery was just a nice, nice story. In the Woods could have used come judicious editing - just went on much too long, The Commoner was pretty dry. Katie left me her copy of Malcom X which I have meant to read for years now, so I will start that next. Dad and I had a conversation about how in the world the German people could have allowed Hitler and his regime to gain so much power so I recommended Stones From the River to him, which he has just started.

Well, that's all the news from the homefront. Oh yeah- one more thing - haven't caught the little siamese kitten but we did catch a cute little bunny. Set it free.

Nancy - will get Joey's birthday card in the mail this week!

I forgot the hydranga!

I have been out in the yard

mom the 1st 3 pics...do you know what they are, I noticed where I planted the forget-me-nots, there is something else blooming...looks kinda like a small pansy mised with a snap dragon. My hyacinth bean is doing very well and my malva alcea is huge and getting ready to boom. There is the dames rocket and hollyhocks that have huge leaves.

luv
jane