For years, I have been making my own greeting cards. I have invested scads of $$ in supplies, and etc. to do so. As I sat at my craft table (my studio in 3'x6' form) recently, I wondered if I was wasting my time. Who really cares? I know that I collect the cards I receive for a year, then go back through them for one last look, then either toss them, save the fronts, or donate them to some charity that can use them. Very seldom do I get a hand-made card. So, I ask myself, would people to whom I send cards be just as happy with a store-bought card which I could pick out at the dollar store, or Hallmark, if it had to really "special." I could save myself a lot of time and money by doing so, and it probably would be appreciated just as much. Thus the quandary that I am in right now. Also, the creative juices have seemingly dried up, at least temporarily. Same with the crochet hook, and the gardening. I have just run out of good ideas and thoughts. How does one get those creative juices flowing again?
Any thoughts?
Peace,
JE
Monday, May 27, 2013
Friday, May 24, 2013
Yard
I have turned the corner, folks. I have hired a lawn service to mow and trim my lawn. I have always taken care of this myself, but decided that with all the back problems I have been having, and the fact that I have always hated the "mowing" part of lawn care, I decided to bite the bullet, open the wallet and let our the moths ( ha!) and hire it done. The guys came yesterday for the first time. Wow!!! My lawn has never looked this good. Two guys came, mowed, edged the sidewalks, weed whipped all the edges around stuff, and used a leaf and grass blower to clear the walks, and hauled away the grass! All in about 45 minutes. Gosh, it takes me that long to get out the mower, gas it up and get the back yard done. It's their mower, equipment and gas, for a reasonable fee. Am I happy?? Goes without saying! American Eagle Lawn Care ROCKS!!!!!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Silence is Golden
Gee, it's been almost a month since my last post. Well, maybe that's because there hasn't been much worth writing about. Oh, I could write about birthday # 68 that occurred last week, but sometimes things just go on without saying. It was a nice day, spent with my good friend Curley, who took me out for breakfast, then my daughter took me to a rather swanky restaurant for dinner in the evening. My son and his family had me to there house the next evening for a nice dinner. Otherwise, #68 seemed to be just another leaf turned over in the page of my life.
I have the roof leak fixed in the kitchen and am getting estimates for the interior damage. All of the local contractors that I have contacted are extremely busy (good for them) due to the hail and rain damage throughout the county, so I am on a waiting list. That's okay, I can live with that. I am sure that there are more serious causes than mine. I would post a picture of my kitchen ceiling here, but it's too depressing. LOL!
Not much else to post at this time. So sometimes that silence is golden, and some times it isn't.
Peace,
JE
I have the roof leak fixed in the kitchen and am getting estimates for the interior damage. All of the local contractors that I have contacted are extremely busy (good for them) due to the hail and rain damage throughout the county, so I am on a waiting list. That's okay, I can live with that. I am sure that there are more serious causes than mine. I would post a picture of my kitchen ceiling here, but it's too depressing. LOL!
Not much else to post at this time. So sometimes that silence is golden, and some times it isn't.
Peace,
JE
Sunday, April 28, 2013
The rain, the leak, and things that go "bump" in the night!
Have I told you all about my leaky ceiling in my kitchen? After a high wind accompanied by rain and hail a few weeks ago, my kitchen ceiling began to leak. Now, bear in mind that the roof was replaced less than 3 years ago. It was one of those "rubberized" roofs that is guaranteed for 20 or 30 years. I had the original roof guys here, and they used some sort of caulking around an upstairs window, and around the "flashing" what ever that is. I am not a contractor, so I really don't need to know this stuff, or didn't until now. The last big rain we had early last week had water pouring in like I didn't even have a roof. I had pans, buckets and any other receptacle handy placed strategically around the floor to catch the drips. Oh, have I mentioned that I had contacted my State Farm Insurance agent after the first leak...3 times before he returned my calls. When he did call he said that the adjusters had lots on their lists and were handling the calls by seriousness, and he was sure they would call soon. Meanwhile, I had a contractor here to start figuring costs of repairs, and he agreed with the #1 roof guy that the leak "may" becoming from around the upstairs window. No way to "tarp it" as my insurance agent suggested, and it was sunny out and no rain predicted for a week or so. I thought I was in the clear.
Yesterday, still no call from said adjuster. One trip thru the kitchen doing laundry, I noticed that the drywall on the ceiling was sagging more than it had been. Hmmmm! The adjuster called late that afternoon to set up an appointment for next Wednesday.(Almost 2 weeks later) He asked me how bad it was. I said that I considered it really bad, and wondered how much longer it would be before the ceiling fell in. He laughed! Well, it was no laughing matter, and you could tell it wasn't his house! AND, then last evening, and mind you it hadn't rained for at least 3 days, I was sitting watching TV, and heard a loud crash in my kitchen. I hurried in there and lo and behold, half of my ceiling was on the floor. I began cleaning it up, and another chunk fell taking a blade off of my ceiling fan. Well, that is cleaned up, but let me tell you; wet drywall is heavy. I lugged the big pieces that didn't fall apart out to the fence, and then swept up the small stuff, along with several big chunks of original plaster. Now, my kitchen ceiling looks like a house from the "projects." I have always prided myself in having a nice home. This is so frustrating.
Now, it's raining, and without the drywall and plaster up there, I have drips where it never dripped. And I still can't do anything until State Farm says so. I am seriously pissed off about the whole thing. And I can see $$$$$ signs rolling as the leaking continues! And my beautiful cabinets and stuff might get ruined. Drats!!!
Peace, (soon please)
JE
Yesterday, still no call from said adjuster. One trip thru the kitchen doing laundry, I noticed that the drywall on the ceiling was sagging more than it had been. Hmmmm! The adjuster called late that afternoon to set up an appointment for next Wednesday.(Almost 2 weeks later) He asked me how bad it was. I said that I considered it really bad, and wondered how much longer it would be before the ceiling fell in. He laughed! Well, it was no laughing matter, and you could tell it wasn't his house! AND, then last evening, and mind you it hadn't rained for at least 3 days, I was sitting watching TV, and heard a loud crash in my kitchen. I hurried in there and lo and behold, half of my ceiling was on the floor. I began cleaning it up, and another chunk fell taking a blade off of my ceiling fan. Well, that is cleaned up, but let me tell you; wet drywall is heavy. I lugged the big pieces that didn't fall apart out to the fence, and then swept up the small stuff, along with several big chunks of original plaster. Now, my kitchen ceiling looks like a house from the "projects." I have always prided myself in having a nice home. This is so frustrating.
Now, it's raining, and without the drywall and plaster up there, I have drips where it never dripped. And I still can't do anything until State Farm says so. I am seriously pissed off about the whole thing. And I can see $$$$$ signs rolling as the leaking continues! And my beautiful cabinets and stuff might get ruined. Drats!!!
Peace, (soon please)
JE
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Loss
Today, I am feeling sad. I lost a good friend last night. After a long struggle with kidney failure, a kidney transplant, having that kidney fail, dialysis, my good friend Lynn died of a heart attack. He had been sick for a long time. But he never lost his spirit.
Lynn and I have sung together in choir, a quartet, an adult "swing" chous, and madrigal groups for over 35 years. He sang bass and could reach those really low notes that seem to shake the rafters. He was fun. He was humorous, and was a good Christian, family man.
His passing makes me sad, but it is a sadness that I realize is mine. Lynn has suffered so in the last year, that I know in my heart that he no longer is suffering. But today, that reality doesn't ease the sorrow in my heart.
Lynn was a strong leader in the community, and a respected business man. He had a near death experience several years ago, and because of it, wrote a book which told his story, and maybe made it easier for those faced with death and dying.
Lynn, will be missed, but I know that he is one guy that when he arrived at the heavenly gates, God greeted him with open arms and said, "Welcome home, O good and faithful servant."
Goodbye Lynn, I'll miss you, buddy!
Peace,
JE
Lynn and I have sung together in choir, a quartet, an adult "swing" chous, and madrigal groups for over 35 years. He sang bass and could reach those really low notes that seem to shake the rafters. He was fun. He was humorous, and was a good Christian, family man.
His passing makes me sad, but it is a sadness that I realize is mine. Lynn has suffered so in the last year, that I know in my heart that he no longer is suffering. But today, that reality doesn't ease the sorrow in my heart.
Lynn was a strong leader in the community, and a respected business man. He had a near death experience several years ago, and because of it, wrote a book which told his story, and maybe made it easier for those faced with death and dying.
Lynn, will be missed, but I know that he is one guy that when he arrived at the heavenly gates, God greeted him with open arms and said, "Welcome home, O good and faithful servant."
Goodbye Lynn, I'll miss you, buddy!
Peace,
JE
Thursday, April 04, 2013
TV, Jeopardy, and Netflix
I have never been too much of a TV fan. Oh, I watched my share of cartoons, and Bonanza, Gunsmoke, and Have Gun Will Travel, as a kid. I watched the original Dallas, and even got hooked on the series Lost for a while, until it got just too weird.
Since my wife passed, I have strayed away from watching too much TV and tried to amuse myself with the internet and books, and of course my hobbies and music.
Lately though, I subscribed to Netflix! I am hooked on watching some TV series. After watching every available episode of Downton Abbey, I am beginning MI-5, a British series about British intelligence. There are 86 episodes, and I am on episode 22. I am not sure I will stick with it, but for now, I will watch one after another after another! I watched the mini series, all 8 episodes, of The Ends of the Earth, and had already watched Pillars of the Earth. I have to admit to watching several movies, and have even watched some foreign flix with subtitles. Wow.
Of course, I always watch Jeopardy. It refreshes my mind, keeps me thinking and besides, I think I would actually win some money if I ever got on there. But, I would be a wreck if I was in front of a TV camera knowing that millions of people were watching be make a complete fool of myself! (smiling here),
All of this combined with my Friday night lineup of CSI New York and Blue Bloods, and Thursday night's Big Bang Theory, adds up to a lot of "boob tube" watching. Maybe when it gets to be Spring, I will get outside and leave the TV alone. Until then, it's late nights,(or early mornings) and the remote control.
Peace,
JE
Since my wife passed, I have strayed away from watching too much TV and tried to amuse myself with the internet and books, and of course my hobbies and music.
Lately though, I subscribed to Netflix! I am hooked on watching some TV series. After watching every available episode of Downton Abbey, I am beginning MI-5, a British series about British intelligence. There are 86 episodes, and I am on episode 22. I am not sure I will stick with it, but for now, I will watch one after another after another! I watched the mini series, all 8 episodes, of The Ends of the Earth, and had already watched Pillars of the Earth. I have to admit to watching several movies, and have even watched some foreign flix with subtitles. Wow.
Of course, I always watch Jeopardy. It refreshes my mind, keeps me thinking and besides, I think I would actually win some money if I ever got on there. But, I would be a wreck if I was in front of a TV camera knowing that millions of people were watching be make a complete fool of myself! (smiling here),
All of this combined with my Friday night lineup of CSI New York and Blue Bloods, and Thursday night's Big Bang Theory, adds up to a lot of "boob tube" watching. Maybe when it gets to be Spring, I will get outside and leave the TV alone. Until then, it's late nights,(or early mornings) and the remote control.
Peace,
JE
Sunday, March 31, 2013
He Is Risen!
Happy Easter to y'all! And a very wonderful and Happy Birthday to my absolutely fantastic daughter-in-law! May you have many more!!!
Peace,
JE
Peace,
JE
Monday, March 25, 2013
Where is Spring?
We did our annual Easter Cantata at church last evening. (I know it's Palm Sunday, but Spring Break here is the week after Easter and lots of our choir will be gone next Sunday,) and we were afraid that we would have to cancel because we knew this storm was coming. Our cut off time was 3 PM. By performance time at 7PM, still no snow. When it was over, refreshments were served, and as people were leaving to go home, it was just beginning to snow a few flakes. I call this a "God thing." He wanted us to present our message of the Resurrection of Christ. And we did!
Peace,
JE
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
My own "Baconator."
The other day, I was reading the latest Alex Cross novel, and Alex's grandmother, who lives with he and his family, was fixing breakfast. I followed Nana Momma's method for fixing bacon. Wow!
First, I fried the bacon like usual, only not until fully crisp. I then drained the bacon well on paper towel, sprinkled it liberally with brown sugar, placed it on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, and topped with my cooling racks, to keep grease off of bacon, and popped it into a 350 F oven for 15 minutes until bacon finished crisping up. Served with scrambled eggs and toast. What a treat!!!
Peace,
JE
First, I fried the bacon like usual, only not until fully crisp. I then drained the bacon well on paper towel, sprinkled it liberally with brown sugar, placed it on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, and topped with my cooling racks, to keep grease off of bacon, and popped it into a 350 F oven for 15 minutes until bacon finished crisping up. Served with scrambled eggs and toast. What a treat!!!
Peace,
JE
Monday, March 18, 2013
Mr. T and Gramps
Yesterday was the big day for Mr. T. He was baptized during our morning church service. In our church, we do "sprinkle" the babe, as a form of dedicating his life, and ours to the service of God. Then, when the children reach a certain age, mostly teens, they take an 18 month confirmation study, then are confirmed.
That being said, at 17 days old, my latest heir to the throne, was dedicated. He slept through most of it, but later, did open his eyes and look at Gramps with a definite "what's going on," look! Such a wonderful time in all our lives.
Peace,
JE
Peace,
JE
Thursday, March 14, 2013
The Things You Do For Your Kids!!
My daughter belongs to a book club. They meet once a month for an evening of snacks and discussion. The book they were to read by next Tuesday, The American Heiress by Daisy Goodwin, is not my daughter's "cup of tea." She is not a lover of romances, and especially romances taking place during the late 1800's. (Though her favorite book of all time is, "The Great Gatsby." Go figure!)
Since she knows that I am a great "Downton Abbey" fan, she knew I would like this novel. So at her recommendation, I read it. It took place mainly in England, during the Gilded Age. It was sort of reminiscent of "Downton Abbey," but would definitely NOT make a good TV show. It contained lots of "upper crust" rivalry and snobbishness. It also contained a lot of the back-biting that went on within the staff of "Lulworth Castle," where the book took place. I finished the book last night. I told Prof that I thought she should give it a chance, so she decided to renew it (due today) and read it. She called me about an hour ago and said that she couldn't renew it as it had a waiting list at the library. (Probably another member of her book club trying to cram it in this weekend before club meets next week!) So, being the great father that I am, (ahem!) I wrote a two page condensed synopsis of a 465 page novel for her. I felt like I was back in 11th grade AP English class. I will remind Prof when I give it to her that even though she is an English major, that right now she isn't teaching and she had better not grade my "book report."
I really need to get a life! Ha!
Peace,
JE
Since she knows that I am a great "Downton Abbey" fan, she knew I would like this novel. So at her recommendation, I read it. It took place mainly in England, during the Gilded Age. It was sort of reminiscent of "Downton Abbey," but would definitely NOT make a good TV show. It contained lots of "upper crust" rivalry and snobbishness. It also contained a lot of the back-biting that went on within the staff of "Lulworth Castle," where the book took place. I finished the book last night. I told Prof that I thought she should give it a chance, so she decided to renew it (due today) and read it. She called me about an hour ago and said that she couldn't renew it as it had a waiting list at the library. (Probably another member of her book club trying to cram it in this weekend before club meets next week!) So, being the great father that I am, (ahem!) I wrote a two page condensed synopsis of a 465 page novel for her. I felt like I was back in 11th grade AP English class. I will remind Prof when I give it to her that even though she is an English major, that right now she isn't teaching and she had better not grade my "book report."
I really need to get a life! Ha!
Peace,
JE
Friday, March 08, 2013
Me!
For some reason, way back when, I saved this. It struck me this morning, after a "restless" night, just how appropriate it is for me now.
I don’t have a masculine build anymore, no appealing abs or a flat stomach. I am far from being considered handsome, but I am me. I eat food. I have some flab. Probably more fat than I should. I have scars because I have a history. Some people love me, some like me, some hate me. I have done good. I have done bad. I love my shorts and flip flops, and sometimes I go without shaving. I don’t need to go to the barber anymore. I am random and crazy. I don’t pretend to be someone I’m not. I am who I am. You can love me or not. I won’t change! And if I love you, I do it with all my heart. I make no apologies or excuses for the way I am.
Peace,
JE
I don’t have a masculine build anymore, no appealing abs or a flat stomach. I am far from being considered handsome, but I am me. I eat food. I have some flab. Probably more fat than I should. I have scars because I have a history. Some people love me, some like me, some hate me. I have done good. I have done bad. I love my shorts and flip flops, and sometimes I go without shaving. I don’t need to go to the barber anymore. I am random and crazy. I don’t pretend to be someone I’m not. I am who I am. You can love me or not. I won’t change! And if I love you, I do it with all my heart. I make no apologies or excuses for the way I am.
Peace,
JE
Friday, March 01, 2013
He's Here!
New Grandson TW, is here. He finally arrived last night at 11:06 PM. He weighed in at 8 lbs, 3 ozs. And was a tall 20 in. long. He looks like his Grampa JE! (Not!) Mom and babe doing fine after a long long day of waiting! Grampa JE is tired! Think I will nap before going to visit! Pics to follow, with Mommy and Daddy's permission, of course.
Peace, (again)
JE
Peace, (again)
JE
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Blessed Event!
In just a few hours I will be Grandpa JE again. I am leaving after I write this to head out to the city to sit in the waiting room to await the arrival of grandson #3, (grandchild #4.) I got a text from my son to tell me that there's no rush, but that if things sped up, he would call me and tell me to hurry it along a bit. I was present at the hospital for the other 3 babes, so I must weather the snow and wintry weather and be there for this one, too. After all, this is a part of my heritage happening here. And there is nothing that brings more joy to a family than the addition of another member. So, off I go, book and handwork in tow, to wait! Blessings abound around here today, (and everyday.) I will post details about my new grandson later! Maybe, even a picture!
Peace,
JE
Peace,
JE
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
An "Oh Crap," Day
Just when thing seem to be going well, BAM! Things can go to hell in a hurry. Today is one of those days.
What started out as a fun morning, breakfast with an old high school chum, and then back to the house for a nap and some quality crochet time, turned into an Oh Crap time instead. Not even three years ago, I had a new roof put on my kitchen. It was expensive, but supposedly wouldn't have to be replaced in my lifetime. Something like a 20 year warranty. Well, after raining all day yesterday, high winds and more rain and some snow, it is leaking. So, that warranted a call to the guy who installed it. He's expected here later on today to assess the damage and cure the problem, but my kitchen ceiling has still another trouble spot that will take extensive repairs. I have been saving money all along to redo my kitchen, put in new ceiling and floor covering. I am certainly glad that I hadn't done that yet, though it is on my "to-do" list for spring.
Also, before I left for Texas, at my last dental visit, my good Dr. Toothman told me that I needed to have a crown put on a lower back molar. It is mostly filling and he said that I needed to do that before it fractured. Well, I had used up my limit of dental insurance for 2012, so I thought I would do it when I got back and the new insurance year was in effect. Today, I bit into a jelly bean. A purple one, and I don't even like them very well, and felt something hard in my mouth along with the super soft jelly bean goo. Well, the molar had fractured, and I lost a huge (read felt like a boulder here) piece of tooth and filling. So, I called the dentist and he will see what he can do to either repair or pull (the refer to it as extract...ugh) on Monday next. So, all in all it's been a "no good, very bad, day, so far. And it's only 3:00 PM. What else can happen? I think I will stay in the house and pray for the best for the rest of the day.
Peace, (please)
JE
*NOTE: The roof guys are here and up there with caulking guns and goop. My new roof wasn't leaking. It seems that a piece of fascia board or something was loose and needed caulking and etc. Maybe that will stop the rainwater.
What started out as a fun morning, breakfast with an old high school chum, and then back to the house for a nap and some quality crochet time, turned into an Oh Crap time instead. Not even three years ago, I had a new roof put on my kitchen. It was expensive, but supposedly wouldn't have to be replaced in my lifetime. Something like a 20 year warranty. Well, after raining all day yesterday, high winds and more rain and some snow, it is leaking. So, that warranted a call to the guy who installed it. He's expected here later on today to assess the damage and cure the problem, but my kitchen ceiling has still another trouble spot that will take extensive repairs. I have been saving money all along to redo my kitchen, put in new ceiling and floor covering. I am certainly glad that I hadn't done that yet, though it is on my "to-do" list for spring.
Also, before I left for Texas, at my last dental visit, my good Dr. Toothman told me that I needed to have a crown put on a lower back molar. It is mostly filling and he said that I needed to do that before it fractured. Well, I had used up my limit of dental insurance for 2012, so I thought I would do it when I got back and the new insurance year was in effect. Today, I bit into a jelly bean. A purple one, and I don't even like them very well, and felt something hard in my mouth along with the super soft jelly bean goo. Well, the molar had fractured, and I lost a huge (read felt like a boulder here) piece of tooth and filling. So, I called the dentist and he will see what he can do to either repair or pull (the refer to it as extract...ugh) on Monday next. So, all in all it's been a "no good, very bad, day, so far. And it's only 3:00 PM. What else can happen? I think I will stay in the house and pray for the best for the rest of the day.
Peace, (please)
JE
*NOTE: The roof guys are here and up there with caulking guns and goop. My new roof wasn't leaking. It seems that a piece of fascia board or something was loose and needed caulking and etc. Maybe that will stop the rainwater.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Home!
After almost a month with my family in Texas, I am home. It's nice to be back in the thick of things here, but leaving my Texas family is always a bittersweet time. Lots of hugs and a few tears at the Amtrak station, but then onward and upward.
The trip home was uneventful. I actually was able to sleep on the train this time which was nice. I missed the stops in Little Rock and Poplar Bluff altogether. Wow! Slept right through them.
My daughter was on time and so was the train upon arrival. Well, the train was a few minutes behind schedule because a track switch was malfunctioning and we had to stop in sight of the station for a few minutes while the railroad gurus manually "flipped the switch."
My stay in Texas was delightful. I spent lots of time in the warm sun basking on my brother's outdoor deck. I drank a lot of beer and wine and had lots of good, healthy meals. My sister-in-law is an excellent cook, so I never went hungry. I got to visit some very interesting places, and visit with some friends. I visited the local bakery for kolaches on a regular basis, and was always treated like family. There's just something about the people there that makes them seem a lot more friendly than other places. Could it be Texas hospitality?? Even the cashiers at Walmart and Kroger acted like they were glad to see us whenever we were there.
Already I am looking forward to the next time I visit there. It will probably be in the fall since I just don't thing I am ready to face the Texas summers. When the local weather station fries an egg on the sidewalk, it's just too hot for me.
Peace,
JE
The trip home was uneventful. I actually was able to sleep on the train this time which was nice. I missed the stops in Little Rock and Poplar Bluff altogether. Wow! Slept right through them.
My daughter was on time and so was the train upon arrival. Well, the train was a few minutes behind schedule because a track switch was malfunctioning and we had to stop in sight of the station for a few minutes while the railroad gurus manually "flipped the switch."
My stay in Texas was delightful. I spent lots of time in the warm sun basking on my brother's outdoor deck. I drank a lot of beer and wine and had lots of good, healthy meals. My sister-in-law is an excellent cook, so I never went hungry. I got to visit some very interesting places, and visit with some friends. I visited the local bakery for kolaches on a regular basis, and was always treated like family. There's just something about the people there that makes them seem a lot more friendly than other places. Could it be Texas hospitality?? Even the cashiers at Walmart and Kroger acted like they were glad to see us whenever we were there.
Already I am looking forward to the next time I visit there. It will probably be in the fall since I just don't thing I am ready to face the Texas summers. When the local weather station fries an egg on the sidewalk, it's just too hot for me.
Peace,
JE
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Texas! Another Cold State
When I planned this outing, I was thinking of warmer climate. NOT! I have been here for 4 days now, and the temperature hasn't gotten above freezing yet. It has snowed, sleeted, and rained. But, the weatherman is promising a respite this weekend with temps in the 60s before another cold wave brings more cold into the metroplex area.
But, inside it's warm and cozy and full of fun. It's good to spend time with my brother and sister-in-law. We laugh at almost nothing, eat a lot of good, but healthy food, and just more or less enjoy being together. I sleep until I am ready to get up and I stay up until I am ready to go to bed. We watch a lot of TV, which I am not used to, but my brother is a TV addict! Loves the Western channel, but I can only watch Bonanza and Gunsmoke reruns so many times! I have finished one book and am half way through another one, and have even completed a crochet project and started another since I got here. But I wouldn't trade this time together for anything. At our ages, we know that each moment together is precious. We do plan to do some things like visit a couple museums, and see a movie or two, and of course hit some of my favorite shops that are unique to just this area. We also visit the nearby bakery with frequency where I have made friends with the wait help there over the years. I even made each of the girls that work there a little something as a token for them just being nice to me when I am visiting here. They treat our family like their family. Is that something unique to Texans, or is it just that I don't have that kind of place nearby where I live.
All too soon, it will be time to pack up and head home, but while I am here, I intend to have a Texas style good time, what ever that is!!
Peace,
JE
But, inside it's warm and cozy and full of fun. It's good to spend time with my brother and sister-in-law. We laugh at almost nothing, eat a lot of good, but healthy food, and just more or less enjoy being together. I sleep until I am ready to get up and I stay up until I am ready to go to bed. We watch a lot of TV, which I am not used to, but my brother is a TV addict! Loves the Western channel, but I can only watch Bonanza and Gunsmoke reruns so many times! I have finished one book and am half way through another one, and have even completed a crochet project and started another since I got here. But I wouldn't trade this time together for anything. At our ages, we know that each moment together is precious. We do plan to do some things like visit a couple museums, and see a movie or two, and of course hit some of my favorite shops that are unique to just this area. We also visit the nearby bakery with frequency where I have made friends with the wait help there over the years. I even made each of the girls that work there a little something as a token for them just being nice to me when I am visiting here. They treat our family like their family. Is that something unique to Texans, or is it just that I don't have that kind of place nearby where I live.
All too soon, it will be time to pack up and head home, but while I am here, I intend to have a Texas style good time, what ever that is!!
Peace,
JE
Wednesday, January 09, 2013
Vacation!
I think getting ready to go on vacation is the pits. The packing, the making sure everything is in order, bills paid, house closed up, etc., takes all the fun out of going. I think it would be easier to just stay home.
I decided to go by Amtrak this time. The only drawback to that is that there is no place nearby to get on the train. I can go north about an hour and a half and take a commuter train into Chicago. It leaves the only stop in Indiana at the butt crack of dawn, gets into Chicago early in the AM, then there is 6 hour layover at Union Station in downtown Chicago. I can catch the train after it leaves Chicago in Bloomington, IL, which is ideal for me, except that it is a 3 hour drive from my house to there.
Things are not going according to plan as they were originally for the ride to Bloomington, which I decided would be more cost efficient for all concerned. So now that is a worry, which will work itself out, but could cause some ill will or some hard feelings somewhere along the way. I thought I had it all figured out, but you know what they say about the best laid plans of mice and men!
Then I went to the pharmacy to have a prescription filled before I went, only to notice that I had no more refills left, which meant calling the doctor's office, getting his phys. asst.'s voice mail, telling her the problem, then waiting an extra day to pick up meds. Got that done a while ago, so that's one thing I can mark off my list.
Of course, money is always a big concern with me, and I wasn't budgeting for a particular expense, but looks like I will have to bite the bullet and pay it anyway. Which, in turn will short me on spending cash for the trip. Drats!!
Like I said, I think it would be easier if I just stayed home. But, I'm not going to. It's my time away spent with my Texas family and I am looking forward to it. Things will work out, and be okay in the long run. It's just frustrating. It's the little things that upset me the most. Could that be my age showing.
Next time, I will plan better, even though I thought I had a good plan this time. Time will tell. Friday is the big day. The Amtrak trip is long, but it is enjoyable and it's nice to see the country as I ride along and leave the driving to someone else.
Peace,
JE
I decided to go by Amtrak this time. The only drawback to that is that there is no place nearby to get on the train. I can go north about an hour and a half and take a commuter train into Chicago. It leaves the only stop in Indiana at the butt crack of dawn, gets into Chicago early in the AM, then there is 6 hour layover at Union Station in downtown Chicago. I can catch the train after it leaves Chicago in Bloomington, IL, which is ideal for me, except that it is a 3 hour drive from my house to there.
Things are not going according to plan as they were originally for the ride to Bloomington, which I decided would be more cost efficient for all concerned. So now that is a worry, which will work itself out, but could cause some ill will or some hard feelings somewhere along the way. I thought I had it all figured out, but you know what they say about the best laid plans of mice and men!
Then I went to the pharmacy to have a prescription filled before I went, only to notice that I had no more refills left, which meant calling the doctor's office, getting his phys. asst.'s voice mail, telling her the problem, then waiting an extra day to pick up meds. Got that done a while ago, so that's one thing I can mark off my list.
Of course, money is always a big concern with me, and I wasn't budgeting for a particular expense, but looks like I will have to bite the bullet and pay it anyway. Which, in turn will short me on spending cash for the trip. Drats!!
Like I said, I think it would be easier if I just stayed home. But, I'm not going to. It's my time away spent with my Texas family and I am looking forward to it. Things will work out, and be okay in the long run. It's just frustrating. It's the little things that upset me the most. Could that be my age showing.
Next time, I will plan better, even though I thought I had a good plan this time. Time will tell. Friday is the big day. The Amtrak trip is long, but it is enjoyable and it's nice to see the country as I ride along and leave the driving to someone else.
Peace,
JE
Monday, January 07, 2013
Four-Legged Visitor
As you probably know if you read my daughter's blog, she and her friend adopted a retired Greyhound. She brought "Giles" home to visit this week. I don't know exactly what I was expecting, but this dog is BIG. He comes almost to my waist to the top of his back, and is LONG! Of course, he pretty long legged, too. Lean, and all muscle! And extremely spoiled already.
Greyhounds that have been racers, are not "people" dogs. They are raised in "posh" kennels, travel in "posh" accommodations, and so forth. Giles was a racer. A successful one, at that. During his racing career, he was a winner several times, and won "place" or "show" even more. Then, during a race, he broke both back feet (paws). That ended his career. Instead of putting him down, as they often do, he was treated, and put in foster care with the GPA chapter in Indianapolis, and has since become a real "loverboy". The rest is history. LOL!
Having Giles here for the last few hours has made me reconsider getting a dog. I know now that I don't want one full time. To have him visit is a treat for me and hopefully him, too. But, it's too much responsibility for me on a full time basis. And, I was thinking either Lab or Golden, but have also decided that my house is simply too small for a LARGE dog.
So, Giles can come visit me on a very temp basis, and I will enjoy the time he is here. But, he answered one big question for me. I guess, at heart, I am just not a pet person.
Peace,
JE
Greyhounds that have been racers, are not "people" dogs. They are raised in "posh" kennels, travel in "posh" accommodations, and so forth. Giles was a racer. A successful one, at that. During his racing career, he was a winner several times, and won "place" or "show" even more. Then, during a race, he broke both back feet (paws). That ended his career. Instead of putting him down, as they often do, he was treated, and put in foster care with the GPA chapter in Indianapolis, and has since become a real "loverboy". The rest is history. LOL!
Having Giles here for the last few hours has made me reconsider getting a dog. I know now that I don't want one full time. To have him visit is a treat for me and hopefully him, too. But, it's too much responsibility for me on a full time basis. And, I was thinking either Lab or Golden, but have also decided that my house is simply too small for a LARGE dog.
So, Giles can come visit me on a very temp basis, and I will enjoy the time he is here. But, he answered one big question for me. I guess, at heart, I am just not a pet person.
Peace,
JE
Wednesday, January 02, 2013
There's Music in the Air
Many years ago, I bought a Yamaha Clavinova digital piano. It was the latest thing at the time. I could play it like a regular piano, add 40+ voices, backgrounds, and rhythms. I could also record tracks one on top of the other to create my own style. Along with all of this, I got floppy discs that contained full orchestra tracks, along with song books where I could play along. Wow!
Somewhere along the way, the complete recording device quit working. I began checking into replacing the disc drive and found that if it was even possible, it was extremely expensive. So I just shelved the possibility and continued to enjoy the piano parts that still worked.
Recently I found the manual that came with the keyboard, and had a brilliant (for me) idea. Why not ask Curley's son, Tall Guy, who is my resident computer geek, (no offense Tall Guy) to see if he had any ideas for fixing this thing. Well, let me tell you folks, that guy really came through. He did research on line, asked questions, and so on. And discovered that any (almost) floppy disc drive would work. He installed a drive from an old computer I had stored in my garage. Nothing! He found another one, tried it...nothing! He did more checking and found out that some of the wiring needed to be changed so he came in and did some wire cutting and soldering at my kitchen table. Those wires are so small, and so many of them in a sort of ribbon. He knew just which ones to cut, strip, and solder back in a different configuration. He plugged it in and still nothing. In checking closer, he discovered the simple fact that the wire ribbon needed to be turned half a turn. Suddenly, it was working. He plugged in a disc and hit play, and there was music.
Since then, I have been enjoying the keyboard, and spent probably too many hours sitting there playing one tune after the other after the other..
Tall Guy is a self taught computer guy. He isn't afraid to tear into a computer,be it a tower or a laptop. He's repaired monitors, too. People give up on their equipment, and he takes it home and makes it work. He's smart, and also just a good guy. I will be grateful to him for a very long time for making my piano a "full service" piano once again.
Hey Tall Guy, if you need anything from Taco Bell, let me know. I live closer than you do!! And by the way, thanks!!
Peace,
LE
Somewhere along the way, the complete recording device quit working. I began checking into replacing the disc drive and found that if it was even possible, it was extremely expensive. So I just shelved the possibility and continued to enjoy the piano parts that still worked.
Recently I found the manual that came with the keyboard, and had a brilliant (for me) idea. Why not ask Curley's son, Tall Guy, who is my resident computer geek, (no offense Tall Guy) to see if he had any ideas for fixing this thing. Well, let me tell you folks, that guy really came through. He did research on line, asked questions, and so on. And discovered that any (almost) floppy disc drive would work. He installed a drive from an old computer I had stored in my garage. Nothing! He found another one, tried it...nothing! He did more checking and found out that some of the wiring needed to be changed so he came in and did some wire cutting and soldering at my kitchen table. Those wires are so small, and so many of them in a sort of ribbon. He knew just which ones to cut, strip, and solder back in a different configuration. He plugged it in and still nothing. In checking closer, he discovered the simple fact that the wire ribbon needed to be turned half a turn. Suddenly, it was working. He plugged in a disc and hit play, and there was music.
Since then, I have been enjoying the keyboard, and spent probably too many hours sitting there playing one tune after the other after the other..
Tall Guy is a self taught computer guy. He isn't afraid to tear into a computer,be it a tower or a laptop. He's repaired monitors, too. People give up on their equipment, and he takes it home and makes it work. He's smart, and also just a good guy. I will be grateful to him for a very long time for making my piano a "full service" piano once again.
Hey Tall Guy, if you need anything from Taco Bell, let me know. I live closer than you do!! And by the way, thanks!!
Peace,
LE
Friday, December 28, 2012
Snug as a Bug in a Rug!
Today it's gray and gloomy, looking even more like snow. What am I doing?? Absolutely nothing. I got up earlier than usual this AM, made coffee and sat, and sat, and sat. This afternoon, I decided to change positions and laid on the sofa, and read. I fell asleep, and about 3:45 PM woke up and decided to shower and get dressed. Then I stripped my bed, straightened up my room and did a load of laundry. I'm "exhausted" so I think it's time for more sitting.
I decided the worse thing about living alone (more or less) is cooking. I have to cook it, eat it alone, then do the dishes.(When my late wife was here, were shared these and most household chores.) I see why so many single people opt to eat out. Tonight, since all meat in the house is in the freezer and not thawed, I will have a delicious bowl of Raisin Bran. I will lay out some pork chops for tomorrow.
Baby, it's cold outside, but in here it's warm as toast and cozy!
Peace,
JE
I decided the worse thing about living alone (more or less) is cooking. I have to cook it, eat it alone, then do the dishes.(When my late wife was here, were shared these and most household chores.) I see why so many single people opt to eat out. Tonight, since all meat in the house is in the freezer and not thawed, I will have a delicious bowl of Raisin Bran. I will lay out some pork chops for tomorrow.
Baby, it's cold outside, but in here it's warm as toast and cozy!
Peace,
JE
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Let It Snow!
The weather outside yesterday was frightful. Here in the Midwest, we got barraged with snow. My area of the world only got 4-5 inches, further south it was worse. Oh well, if we're going to live here, we have to abide with the winters.
Isn't it funny that when we in the Midwest get a "bunch" of snow, we hardly get a mention on the Weather Channel. However, the New England states, and along the East coast gets storms named for them and plenty of hype. Do they not know how to handle snow, or what? I would think that as much as they get in the winter, and that it usually comes to us before them, they would have plenty of warning and be prepared. What a bunch of wimps!! I guess it goes to show who are the heartier people. We are the pioneers, after all.
Today is beautiful. Not too cold, and the sun is out on this snow covering up all the ugliness. I decided to go out and get out the snowblower and get it going. NOT! It will not start. I only used it once last year as we had minimal snow, and it worked fine. I cleaned the sparkplug, put in new gas/oil mix, choked and primed and about pulled my arm off trying to get it going. Nothing would work. So, I resorted to the shovel. But since I am in therapy for my left shoulder and rotator cuff and etc, I more or less shoved instead of scooped. I got things cleared enough to get the car out of the garage, and the sidewalks cleared to the garage, and the front so the poor mailman could get to my porch. Now I feel like I need a nap. So I will.
We are expecting more of the white stuff later in the week, but if my snow blower won't start, I have a number to call for a guy who has a blade on his truck and charges a reasonable fee for snow removal. I will give him a call and save my back and shoulders from more harm.
Again I must say that this growing old is NOT for sissies.
Peace,
JE
Isn't it funny that when we in the Midwest get a "bunch" of snow, we hardly get a mention on the Weather Channel. However, the New England states, and along the East coast gets storms named for them and plenty of hype. Do they not know how to handle snow, or what? I would think that as much as they get in the winter, and that it usually comes to us before them, they would have plenty of warning and be prepared. What a bunch of wimps!! I guess it goes to show who are the heartier people. We are the pioneers, after all.
Today is beautiful. Not too cold, and the sun is out on this snow covering up all the ugliness. I decided to go out and get out the snowblower and get it going. NOT! It will not start. I only used it once last year as we had minimal snow, and it worked fine. I cleaned the sparkplug, put in new gas/oil mix, choked and primed and about pulled my arm off trying to get it going. Nothing would work. So, I resorted to the shovel. But since I am in therapy for my left shoulder and rotator cuff and etc, I more or less shoved instead of scooped. I got things cleared enough to get the car out of the garage, and the sidewalks cleared to the garage, and the front so the poor mailman could get to my porch. Now I feel like I need a nap. So I will.
We are expecting more of the white stuff later in the week, but if my snow blower won't start, I have a number to call for a guy who has a blade on his truck and charges a reasonable fee for snow removal. I will give him a call and save my back and shoulders from more harm.
Again I must say that this growing old is NOT for sissies.
Peace,
JE
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
On Christmas Day
Oh My Golly! What a wonderful day. The kids were all here. My brother called me from Texas, I received awesome gifts, and saw a great movie. If you have a chance to see "Guilt Trip," go go go! It's hysterically funny. Barbra Streisand (Joyce) accompanies her son (Andy) played by (I can't remember his name) on a car trip across the US from NYC to San Francisco. What happens along the way is just too funny to tell.
We even got free popcorn at the theater. (That's to make up for the "highway robbery" of $9.00 a ticket that it cost us to get in.) But it was worth it to spend quality time with Prof and Kiddo and Kiddo's buddy/roommate.
So, after all the excitement of the day, this ol' guy is tired. So, merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!
Peace,
JE
We even got free popcorn at the theater. (That's to make up for the "highway robbery" of $9.00 a ticket that it cost us to get in.) But it was worth it to spend quality time with Prof and Kiddo and Kiddo's buddy/roommate.
So, after all the excitement of the day, this ol' guy is tired. So, merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!
Peace,
JE
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Tis The Season
Tis the season to be jolly! Right! I am beginning to get excited about the upcoming festivities for Christmas. Finally! It's been a rough few weeks for me. Seems like I am missing Tilly more than ever. After all, Christmas was her favorite holiday and it seemed she was the driving force that got the house ready, the cooking done, and the gifts purchased and wrapped. (Okay, I did help with the decorating, and the wrapping.)
I went shopping yesterday for the first time. I had picked up a few things here and there, but the major shopping was done yesterday. I still have some to do. Oh, I haven't bought the two little grands a thing yet. I am at a loss there. Their house looks like Toys R Us now, so I am not buying toys. Mom says they don't need clothes, so what does that leave. BOOKS! I am looking for the classic children's books like Curious George, Goodnight Moon, etc.I haven't found them yet. Maybe B and N will have them if I can arrange a 45 minute drive to the nearest one.
Gift cards seem to be high on everyone's list this year. That is so easy, but so not-like-me. But, if ya can't beat 'em, join 'em. So I got a bunch of gift cards to everyone's fav stores. Then I picked up some smaller things for each adult.
My list for myself was rather simple. Tighty whities, Tee shirts, and socks were top of the list followed by a new set of portable phones, (mine bit the dust last weekend after 15 years of good service), a Kerig coffee maker, and a Chromebook! I believe in giving a list with a wide price span, just in case some one is feeling flush this Christmas. LOL!
My Christmas is made more wonderful each year when our church choir and orchestra present our annual cantata. That happened last Sunday evening to a packed sanctuary. It was a joyful celebration of the Birth. It is our choir's gift to the community and the community surely responded. There were people of different denominations and faiths present. It was glorious!
My travel plans to Texas had to be put on hold for a few weeks due to the expensive repairs on my car last weekend, but it is fixed and safe to drive once more, so maybe next month I will head to my bro's in the Lone Star State. I miss him and his family, especially at this time of year. But I will get there soon.
Peace,
JE
I went shopping yesterday for the first time. I had picked up a few things here and there, but the major shopping was done yesterday. I still have some to do. Oh, I haven't bought the two little grands a thing yet. I am at a loss there. Their house looks like Toys R Us now, so I am not buying toys. Mom says they don't need clothes, so what does that leave. BOOKS! I am looking for the classic children's books like Curious George, Goodnight Moon, etc.I haven't found them yet. Maybe B and N will have them if I can arrange a 45 minute drive to the nearest one.
Gift cards seem to be high on everyone's list this year. That is so easy, but so not-like-me. But, if ya can't beat 'em, join 'em. So I got a bunch of gift cards to everyone's fav stores. Then I picked up some smaller things for each adult.
My list for myself was rather simple. Tighty whities, Tee shirts, and socks were top of the list followed by a new set of portable phones, (mine bit the dust last weekend after 15 years of good service), a Kerig coffee maker, and a Chromebook! I believe in giving a list with a wide price span, just in case some one is feeling flush this Christmas. LOL!
My Christmas is made more wonderful each year when our church choir and orchestra present our annual cantata. That happened last Sunday evening to a packed sanctuary. It was a joyful celebration of the Birth. It is our choir's gift to the community and the community surely responded. There were people of different denominations and faiths present. It was glorious!
My travel plans to Texas had to be put on hold for a few weeks due to the expensive repairs on my car last weekend, but it is fixed and safe to drive once more, so maybe next month I will head to my bro's in the Lone Star State. I miss him and his family, especially at this time of year. But I will get there soon.
Peace,
JE
Friday, December 14, 2012
With a Heavy Heart
I, along with the rest of our nation, am with a heavy heart tonight. The senseless killings of 20 children and 6 adults today in Newtown, Conn. has brought the nation to it's knees in prayer. My heart goes out to all those who suffered loss today, and too, to those parents who suffered through the minutes until they found their children safe. Unless we experience something like this, we cannot even imagine the hurt and the tragedy.
I remember the fear that surged through me when I came upon a car accident on a nearby highway, noticed that the mashed up vehicle on its top out in a field looked a lot like my son's car. It was! But he was unhurt, thanks to seat belts and a roll bar. So, I can relate to some level of fear that those parents of surviving children must have felt. I cannot, in any way, imagine the loss that the parents of the murdered children are feeling. I only know that it must be devastating.
My big question is what was the young man's mom doing with automatic firearms. For cripe's sake, she was a teacher of young people. What did she need with an assault rifle?
There is no excuse for what this young man did. I really don't give a damn what his problems were, or what his motivation was. Who cares? He had to be sick, but who cares? I don't! I only care about those poor people in Newtown. How can they possibly overcome this tragedy.
I admire the law enforcement personnel who responded. What a job! And they did it so well.
What else is there left to say except please remember these folks in our thoughts and prayers as they mourn. May God be with them all.
Peace,
JE
I remember the fear that surged through me when I came upon a car accident on a nearby highway, noticed that the mashed up vehicle on its top out in a field looked a lot like my son's car. It was! But he was unhurt, thanks to seat belts and a roll bar. So, I can relate to some level of fear that those parents of surviving children must have felt. I cannot, in any way, imagine the loss that the parents of the murdered children are feeling. I only know that it must be devastating.
My big question is what was the young man's mom doing with automatic firearms. For cripe's sake, she was a teacher of young people. What did she need with an assault rifle?
There is no excuse for what this young man did. I really don't give a damn what his problems were, or what his motivation was. Who cares? He had to be sick, but who cares? I don't! I only care about those poor people in Newtown. How can they possibly overcome this tragedy.
I admire the law enforcement personnel who responded. What a job! And they did it so well.
What else is there left to say except please remember these folks in our thoughts and prayers as they mourn. May God be with them all.
Peace,
JE
Cars! I Hate it When They Need Repaired!
I am not a mechanic of any sort. I know where to put the gas in my car, and that's about it. I used to be able to change the oil, and even install new brakes, but with today's new "car tech." even that isn't possible anymore.
My beautiful red '06 Chrysler Sebring was making a "clunking" sound when I turned the steering wheel. It's been doing it for about a week, but was getting worse. So, yesterday I called the local garage and made an appointment to have it looked at. The "gal" I talked to was rather rude and abrupt, made no overture of being the least bit helpful. I explained that it was my only "ride" so I would at least need to be taken home, or else I guess I could sit there all day while they fix the car. A few other questions were met with either snide or rude remarks. They are the only Chrysler dealership around this area. The one where I bought the car is about 25miles away and I didn't want to risk going there with the noise it was making. So, I made the arrangements to go at 8:00 AM this morning.
In the meantime, I related my phone call to Prof. Sooooo, on her way home yesterday after school, she dropped in at the garage. She talked to the Service Manager, who she said looked to be about 12 years old (LOL) and she told him that his people were not very "people friendly" and told him how I was treated by whom ever answered the phone that morning. She said that I had been a Chrysler fan for a long time, and might just want to buy a car there sometime, and that if that was the kind of service...and so on and so on.
This morning when I got there, they were ready and waiting on me. With a free loaner car for the day. They called when they had an estimate of time and final cost. They called me again to tell me that I will be needing new brakes soon, or did I want them to do that today, and also called when the car was done. They were polite, and very accommodating.
Now, why and what made the change?? Was it because the service manager is just that much better at his people skills, or did the fact that Prof stopped in and was polite, but firm with him that made the difference. Do they treat all Senior Citizens like second class citizens unless they are stood up for by someone else, or what? Made me questions their ethics, though.
I bought my last car somewhere I had a friend working. He no longer works at that establishment, so I have no ties at that garage. So I might buy here locally the next time, or I might go 40 miles away where my friend is working now.
Customer service is so important, and whether or not I am wealthy or just middle class, old or young, should not make any difference.
But, now it's fixed,(broken tie rod) and paid for and I am satisfied with the job they did, even if I am not too impressed with their people skills.
Peace,
JE
My beautiful red '06 Chrysler Sebring was making a "clunking" sound when I turned the steering wheel. It's been doing it for about a week, but was getting worse. So, yesterday I called the local garage and made an appointment to have it looked at. The "gal" I talked to was rather rude and abrupt, made no overture of being the least bit helpful. I explained that it was my only "ride" so I would at least need to be taken home, or else I guess I could sit there all day while they fix the car. A few other questions were met with either snide or rude remarks. They are the only Chrysler dealership around this area. The one where I bought the car is about 25miles away and I didn't want to risk going there with the noise it was making. So, I made the arrangements to go at 8:00 AM this morning.
In the meantime, I related my phone call to Prof. Sooooo, on her way home yesterday after school, she dropped in at the garage. She talked to the Service Manager, who she said looked to be about 12 years old (LOL) and she told him that his people were not very "people friendly" and told him how I was treated by whom ever answered the phone that morning. She said that I had been a Chrysler fan for a long time, and might just want to buy a car there sometime, and that if that was the kind of service...and so on and so on.
This morning when I got there, they were ready and waiting on me. With a free loaner car for the day. They called when they had an estimate of time and final cost. They called me again to tell me that I will be needing new brakes soon, or did I want them to do that today, and also called when the car was done. They were polite, and very accommodating.
Now, why and what made the change?? Was it because the service manager is just that much better at his people skills, or did the fact that Prof stopped in and was polite, but firm with him that made the difference. Do they treat all Senior Citizens like second class citizens unless they are stood up for by someone else, or what? Made me questions their ethics, though.
I bought my last car somewhere I had a friend working. He no longer works at that establishment, so I have no ties at that garage. So I might buy here locally the next time, or I might go 40 miles away where my friend is working now.
Customer service is so important, and whether or not I am wealthy or just middle class, old or young, should not make any difference.
But, now it's fixed,(broken tie rod) and paid for and I am satisfied with the job they did, even if I am not too impressed with their people skills.
Peace,
JE
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
My "grown up " Christmas List
Okay Mel, here is mine. (Note that you and I have a couple of the same ones.LOL!)
1. Last Christmas play you saw in a theater? Scrooge
2. What is your favorite Christmas movie? The Preacher’s Wife
3. Who is your favorite fictional Christmas Character? The Little Drummer Boy
4. Favorite magazine for Christmas ideas? Taste of Home
5. Favorite smells of the Season? Pine and Spices
6. Favorite sounds of the Season? Love the sound of jingling bells!
7. The saddest part of Christmas? Missing those who have gone on before us.
8. What is the first thing you think of when you wake up on Christmas morning? Is everything ready?
2. What is your favorite Christmas movie? The Preacher’s Wife
3. Who is your favorite fictional Christmas Character? The Little Drummer Boy
4. Favorite magazine for Christmas ideas? Taste of Home
5. Favorite smells of the Season? Pine and Spices
6. Favorite sounds of the Season? Love the sound of jingling bells!
7. The saddest part of Christmas? Missing those who have gone on before us.
8. What is the first thing you think of when you wake up on Christmas morning? Is everything ready?
9. Favorite Christmas treat? Chocolate fudge
10. Where is your best hiding place for gifts before Christmas? Car trunk, only I have the keys
11. Finish this statement. “If I had lot of money I’d….give more to charities and good causes..
12. What is the best present you remember ever getting for Christmas? There have been scores of "BEST" presents over the years. I loved them all!
13. What kind of weather do you like to have on Christmas? It’s Indiana, so snow and cold is a must!
14. Favorite holiday drink? Spiced Cider
15. Something I used to do at Christmas that I don't do anymore.....Buy lots of gifts and send lots of cards
16. Do you wear anything special for Christmas? Nope
17. Favorite Christmas memory? Seeing Prof and Kiddo hauling all their stuff off the train from Montana. Maybe not a “favorite, but was a hoot.”
18. What is your favorite Christmas activity? Singing in our Christmas cantata.
19. What activity is traditional in your family on Christmas Day? After unwrapping, we go to a new movie. We all have to agree on the same one.
20. What is your favorite Christmas Carol? There’s so many, but I love “In the Bleak Midwinter” and “O Come All Ye Faithful.”
21. What is your least favorite part of Christmas? Taking down all the decorations and packing it all away again!
So, what is on your Grown-Up Christmas List??
Saturday, December 01, 2012
On Getting On...
The older I get:....
The more I enjoy sleeping in.
The more I like just staying around the house.
The more I enjoy the giggles and laughter of my family.
The more I like the smiles of my friends and acquaintances.
The more I enjoy a good book and a cuppa coffee.
The more I appreciate a hug.
The more my faith means to me.
The more I admire the "heroes" of my community. ( Medical personnel, Fire and rescue, and police.)
The more I enjoy the beautiful lights and sounds of Christmas.
The more time I want to spend just being me.
The more I love being alive and being free to do all things.
Senior citizens and those of you who aren't there yet, but might be close, enjoy life today. Tomorrow isn't here yet, and yesterday is gone and done with. As someone wiser than me once said, "Today is a gift...that's why it's call the "present."
Peace,
JE
The more I enjoy sleeping in.
The more I like just staying around the house.
The more I enjoy the giggles and laughter of my family.
The more I like the smiles of my friends and acquaintances.
The more I enjoy a good book and a cuppa coffee.
The more I appreciate a hug.
The more my faith means to me.
The more I admire the "heroes" of my community. ( Medical personnel, Fire and rescue, and police.)
The more I enjoy the beautiful lights and sounds of Christmas.
The more time I want to spend just being me.
The more I love being alive and being free to do all things.
Senior citizens and those of you who aren't there yet, but might be close, enjoy life today. Tomorrow isn't here yet, and yesterday is gone and done with. As someone wiser than me once said, "Today is a gift...that's why it's call the "present."
Peace,
JE
Friday, November 30, 2012
Getting ready for Christmas
Christmas is coming. (Yes, at my house we still call it CHRISTmas. Not "the holidays" or "winter break.") Anyhow, last week I dragged out the BIG Christmas tree from it's storage area in the garage, and put it together. Last year I put up the little tree, and it just wasn't the same.
the BIG tree is 7 1/2 feet tall and is one of those "pre-lit" jobbies. I got it all together and found that half of one row of lights didn't work. Too many years have passed to return the tree to Hobby Lobby where I purchased it. So, I spent two hours tracking down the problem, only to find that one of the sockets, way in the back near the "trunk" of the tree has a weird connector and the wire splits and goes two different directions after making a 180 degree turn in the connector, and that's where the current ends. (I had a special tool that detects the current in the wire, I am not an electrician). Obviously the wire is broken, thus the outage. I simply turned that portion of the tree to the back. Yesterday I carried in the ornaments and after putting on about 2/3 of them decided that "less is more." No one else really cares what my tree looks like anyhow, and I have to take it all down and put it away after Christmas, so I stopped decorating. I think it looks beautiful. Usually, the tree is so full of ornaments that one cannot enjoy each and every one, so this year I spaced them out and by doing that, I remember them one by one and the "story" that goes with each one.
I put up a few of my collection of Nativities. One is a small Victorian-era set and another is a hand carved set from Haiti. I always put out the one we got Kiddo when he was little. It's soft pliable plastic and the figurines are "kids." Those, along with a music box is the extent of my decorating so far. I keep thinking of other things I want to get out, so probably today I will rummage around in the garage and find the rest of the cherished, memory-holding things that seem to make the Christmas season a little brighter!
the BIG tree is 7 1/2 feet tall and is one of those "pre-lit" jobbies. I got it all together and found that half of one row of lights didn't work. Too many years have passed to return the tree to Hobby Lobby where I purchased it. So, I spent two hours tracking down the problem, only to find that one of the sockets, way in the back near the "trunk" of the tree has a weird connector and the wire splits and goes two different directions after making a 180 degree turn in the connector, and that's where the current ends. (I had a special tool that detects the current in the wire, I am not an electrician). Obviously the wire is broken, thus the outage. I simply turned that portion of the tree to the back. Yesterday I carried in the ornaments and after putting on about 2/3 of them decided that "less is more." No one else really cares what my tree looks like anyhow, and I have to take it all down and put it away after Christmas, so I stopped decorating. I think it looks beautiful. Usually, the tree is so full of ornaments that one cannot enjoy each and every one, so this year I spaced them out and by doing that, I remember them one by one and the "story" that goes with each one.
I put up a few of my collection of Nativities. One is a small Victorian-era set and another is a hand carved set from Haiti. I always put out the one we got Kiddo when he was little. It's soft pliable plastic and the figurines are "kids." Those, along with a music box is the extent of my decorating so far. I keep thinking of other things I want to get out, so probably today I will rummage around in the garage and find the rest of the cherished, memory-holding things that seem to make the Christmas season a little brighter!
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Black Friday Shopping
Yesterday I spent the day window shopping. I laid on my couch, with a good book, and had QVC and HSN on the TV while I window shopped, read, and napped. And you know what? I didn't get dressed until 4:00 PM and there was absolutely no traffic to fight!
Peace,
JE
Peace,
JE
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Thanksgiving Wishes
No fancy words or pictures, just a heartfelt "Happy Thanksgiving" to all my blogger friends. Hope today was filled with good friends, good fellowship and good food!
Peace,
JE
Peace,
JE
Monday, November 12, 2012
Could this work?
I had this idea today while sitting here crafting. I like to craft, and I run out of people to give the stuff to, and I am sure that some people just take the stuff I make to be kind and then foist if off on someone else, or make a little profit off it at their next garage sale.
I think it would be a good idea to organize an "artisan cooperative." A place where artists and craftspeople could come together and sell their wares. Finding a place to do this could be a problem, though. I thought about having it once a month on a Saturday (the same Saturday each month) at our local Senior Center. We could price our own things, man our own booths, and donate 10% of our total sales to the Center. It would be win-win for both. It would probably start out small with only a few booths, but as word got around to both craftspeople, and the general public, I think it would work.
I have no idea how to organize or start something like this, but I would be willing to learn, and help.
Another possibility would be setting up booths at my church on the first Saturday of each month in conjunction with our Community Outreach Breakfasts that we hold there. Craftspeople and artists (aren't they the same) would not have to be members of our church. I think the cooperative could donate the 10% of the sales to local charities, or local food banks, or our new free clinic, or our local mission store.
I have made numerous hats, scarves, shawls, and etc and given them away. I could use a little profit to keep my yarn supply active, as well as the incentive to make more for the public's consumption, and also help out the community as a whole.
It's just another idea milling around in there in my mind. What do you all think?
Peace,
JE
I think it would be a good idea to organize an "artisan cooperative." A place where artists and craftspeople could come together and sell their wares. Finding a place to do this could be a problem, though. I thought about having it once a month on a Saturday (the same Saturday each month) at our local Senior Center. We could price our own things, man our own booths, and donate 10% of our total sales to the Center. It would be win-win for both. It would probably start out small with only a few booths, but as word got around to both craftspeople, and the general public, I think it would work.
I have no idea how to organize or start something like this, but I would be willing to learn, and help.
Another possibility would be setting up booths at my church on the first Saturday of each month in conjunction with our Community Outreach Breakfasts that we hold there. Craftspeople and artists (aren't they the same) would not have to be members of our church. I think the cooperative could donate the 10% of the sales to local charities, or local food banks, or our new free clinic, or our local mission store.
I have made numerous hats, scarves, shawls, and etc and given them away. I could use a little profit to keep my yarn supply active, as well as the incentive to make more for the public's consumption, and also help out the community as a whole.
It's just another idea milling around in there in my mind. What do you all think?
Peace,
JE
Thursday, November 01, 2012
Traffic Jam!
A railroad (freight only) goes east and west thru our town. There are 12 different crossings within the city to get across. There is only 1 underpass. Today, I left the house to go downtown at 12:05. I finally arrived downtown at 12:20. A train was stopped across 10 of the 12 crossings. Traffic was either at a standstill, or people were driving like they were nuts diverting down side streets trying to find a crossing that was open. I, knowing my way around town, went thru the city park, where the only underpass is, and slowly made it to my destination, which at any other time would have taken me about 3 minutes tops. When I left downtown, a friend told me that the 2 West most crossings were open, so I circled back, went west on the south side of the tracks, crossed, and then slowly made my way home. What would have taken me about 5 minutes, took 45. In a small town like this, we need better passage when a train derails or hits something or has to be stopped. The town was more or less at a standstill until after 2:00 PM. It's a good thing we have fire stations on both sides of the city, and a police substation, too. People were frustrated, and rightly so, and were driving crazy, even going the wrong way on a one way. Semis were trying to make their way down our narrow city residential streets. It was ugly. We have two major state arteries running north and south thru town as well as one US highway running east and west. What a mess! But I made it home safely!
Peace,
JE
Peace,
JE
The Move
About three weeks ago, my grandson, Kiddo, moved into an apartment with a buddy. The shopped around for one, with Prof's help, and ended up with a nice apartment in an older building , in an older, but reputable part of town. They signed a year's lease. Prof warned them that with both their names on the lease, they had to get along, and be civil to each other , sort of like a marriage.We helped them round up used furniture, gave them some sheets, towels, cleaning supplies and etc. So far so good.
Kiddo stopped by last evening to borrow some clothes for a Halloween costume.(is my wardrobe really that scary?) I asked him how it was going living in an apartment. He loves it. He said I would be proud of them, because they haven't smoked in the apartment once. They have a balcony and smoke out there. He said that they were out of groceries. I mentioned that they might want to pool some cash and go shopping, but he laughed and said that if they had extra money, they would rather party!!! (His mom and I bought their stash of groceries as a housewarming gift, and they are all gone now.) Kiddo is learning how to budget his money so he has rent and gas money. He will soon have to start paying back his school loan, so he is trying to save some, too.
His roommate, Lou, makes more money that Kiddo, but spends a lot more, too. He has debts also, so they are trying to work out their finances. I think it funny to hear them talk, but I also think it's a good thing that they made this move. It is teaching both boys, at age 19, to be more responsible, how to take care of themselves and a home, and, too, how to get along with their fellow man.
Oh, I remember the college days when I had an apartment and a roomie. We got along well then, and after almost 45 years, we are still best friends. I hope that Kiddo has as good an experience.
(And I'm loving the P & Q!)
Peace,
JE
Kiddo stopped by last evening to borrow some clothes for a Halloween costume.(is my wardrobe really that scary?) I asked him how it was going living in an apartment. He loves it. He said I would be proud of them, because they haven't smoked in the apartment once. They have a balcony and smoke out there. He said that they were out of groceries. I mentioned that they might want to pool some cash and go shopping, but he laughed and said that if they had extra money, they would rather party!!! (His mom and I bought their stash of groceries as a housewarming gift, and they are all gone now.) Kiddo is learning how to budget his money so he has rent and gas money. He will soon have to start paying back his school loan, so he is trying to save some, too.
His roommate, Lou, makes more money that Kiddo, but spends a lot more, too. He has debts also, so they are trying to work out their finances. I think it funny to hear them talk, but I also think it's a good thing that they made this move. It is teaching both boys, at age 19, to be more responsible, how to take care of themselves and a home, and, too, how to get along with their fellow man.
Oh, I remember the college days when I had an apartment and a roomie. We got along well then, and after almost 45 years, we are still best friends. I hope that Kiddo has as good an experience.
(And I'm loving the P & Q!)
Peace,
JE
Sunday, October 28, 2012
That Just How Friends Are!
Friday, my good friend Curley and I spent the day together. She came in from the wild country, and we went out for breakfast. There's this fabulous restaurant in a nearby town that is run by Amish. They have the most wonderful biscuits and gravy, so we went there. Then off on a hunting trip to another town looking for a yarn shop that Curley wanted to visit. We had very general directions, and lo and behold, we never did find it, but we had a great time looking. (We since have gotten the proper address and can Google a map the next time.)
Anyhow, we arrived back at my house with most of the afternoon available. I asked Curley if she would help me move my living room furniture around. I have the "easy gliders" and all that stuff, so it wasn't a taxing job, and I basically wanted her input on arrangements that I had in mind. Well, all in all it was a success, but Curley switched into her housecleaning mode, and had me scurrying for dust rags, Pledge, the sweeper and broom and dustpan. I had to get a damp rag and clean the woodwork behind whatever we moved and then again before we moved a piece into its new spot. Wow! My living room looks and feels so clean. I tossed some stuff that had been piling up, gathered stuff that needed to go upstairs and generally got everything put back in place.
I didn't intend for Curley to clean my house, just help me decide where to put stuff. But she said that when you move furniture there is no sense in putting it in a "dirty" spot, thus the cleaning. I feel like I owe her "big time," but she just insists that that's just how friends are. How lucky I am to have a friend like that! Thank you, Curley!
Peace,
JE
Anyhow, we arrived back at my house with most of the afternoon available. I asked Curley if she would help me move my living room furniture around. I have the "easy gliders" and all that stuff, so it wasn't a taxing job, and I basically wanted her input on arrangements that I had in mind. Well, all in all it was a success, but Curley switched into her housecleaning mode, and had me scurrying for dust rags, Pledge, the sweeper and broom and dustpan. I had to get a damp rag and clean the woodwork behind whatever we moved and then again before we moved a piece into its new spot. Wow! My living room looks and feels so clean. I tossed some stuff that had been piling up, gathered stuff that needed to go upstairs and generally got everything put back in place.
I didn't intend for Curley to clean my house, just help me decide where to put stuff. But she said that when you move furniture there is no sense in putting it in a "dirty" spot, thus the cleaning. I feel like I owe her "big time," but she just insists that that's just how friends are. How lucky I am to have a friend like that! Thank you, Curley!
Peace,
JE
Thursday, October 25, 2012
What I've Been Doing...or Creative Chaos!
I've been busy in the "studio" lately. As witnessed in the photos (that
is if this dumb Blogger interface will let me do what I want with them) I
have been making my annual Christmas cards.
Here's my work table and all (not even close) my tools of the trade! See what I mean by "creative chaos?"
Here's my latest toy. No it's not a purse, but it does look like one. It's a Sissix brand embosser. Thanks to Prof and her astute buying skills, we went together and purchased this gem. Hobby Lobby, with a 40% off coupon. It's fun to use, and will add another dimension to my cards.
Now, I need to clean up the work table, grab some more coffee and get back to work. I think I need only about 20 more cards to complete the list. Then, I have some gifts to make. When do the leaves get raked and the house swept and dusted. Maybe next month! And that's just a "maybe."
Peace,
JE
Here's my work table and all (not even close) my tools of the trade! See what I mean by "creative chaos?"
Here is the fruit of my labors. I don't know why I think every card has to be different. This year I vowed to "mass produce" only one card for everyone. NOT! It seems that once I get the creative juices flowing, I just keep on going.
Now, I need to clean up the work table, grab some more coffee and get back to work. I think I need only about 20 more cards to complete the list. Then, I have some gifts to make. When do the leaves get raked and the house swept and dusted. Maybe next month! And that's just a "maybe."
Peace,
JE
Monday, October 15, 2012
A Must Read
I read it yesterday afternoon and finished it this morning with my coffee and doughnuts. It is a wonderful tale about people on a train bound for L.A. at Christmas time.
It will talk to you, remind you of your childhood, and make you want to ride a train, maybe before the railroads in America are only history.
Please take the time to read this short novella. I know it will make you cry, smile and even laugh out loud. Definitely, it will make you believe in Christmas and the miracles that sometimes happen during the celebration of Jesus' birth.
Peace,
JE
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Wednesday Blues!
Have I ever told you all just how much I hate to do laundry??? If I could afford it, the one luxury I would bestow on myself is sending my laundry out.
Yuk!
Peace (please!)
JE
Yuk!
Peace (please!)
JE
Tuesday, October 09, 2012
Post Photo Shoot Post
Well, all 7 of us showed up, on time, and in coordinating outfits. The shoot went very well. I wasn't too sold on the photographer at first, but she did well. The only one who didn't smile was the littlest one, RJ, but he didn't cry either. He was just "serious." Kiddo came along, after taking the rest of the evening. I have pics of me alone, me with my two adult children, me with the 3 grands, and then all of us together.
After our shoot was over, my son and his family did their session. THEN, they said that they had a family shoot already scheduled with their own photog next week, so they were being very generous with their time as well as themselves. I was able to purchase a few, (very high priced) and will show you the goods when I get them.
It was for a good cause, though. In a church with a large (for our community) congregation, it's helpful to have a pictorial directory so I can put a name with a face. We have a lot of new people that have started attending, and it will also help our new pastor to put names and faces together of us older members.
All in all it was fun, a lot of laughing and very few tears. Like I said, knowing my family the way I do, I knew it would all go well in the end.
Peace,
JE
After our shoot was over, my son and his family did their session. THEN, they said that they had a family shoot already scheduled with their own photog next week, so they were being very generous with their time as well as themselves. I was able to purchase a few, (very high priced) and will show you the goods when I get them.
It was for a good cause, though. In a church with a large (for our community) congregation, it's helpful to have a pictorial directory so I can put a name with a face. We have a lot of new people that have started attending, and it will also help our new pastor to put names and faces together of us older members.
All in all it was fun, a lot of laughing and very few tears. Like I said, knowing my family the way I do, I knew it would all go well in the end.
Peace,
JE
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