My Bijou

Catching Up

2012-01-10T23:07:00.000-05:00

Well I just had to pop in and let you know we are all still alive. The holidays were great and I hope everyone's were as well. Very odd weather going on here, it's january and its 70. Well I can't complain, it beats shoveling snow. I went shopping today and I almost fell over backwards at the prices I'm seeing. They have sky rocketed and I'm sure the rise in gas the past few days just fueled the fire...pun intended lol. Let's hope we get a break in this crazy world soon. Enjoy!

Having A Blast In the Pool

2011-08-09T11:40:00.001-04:00

I will have to say my favorite thing this summer is swimming in the pool with Holly. She is my 1 year old lab, who lovessss the it. She cant get enough. At first she was scared, but I really have been working with her and she has come a long way. She loves to sit on a chair in the pool and I will have to get a picture of that next. So don't try to go swimming without Holly in this pool, it will never work! Have a great summer!

It's Baby Chick Time

2011-03-20T22:06:00.000-04:00

I absolutely love this time of year! We always go to the local feed store and pick up the new chicks. Now don't think this is like going to get a gallon of milk....oh no it is not. We call ahead , days mind you, to see when they will be coming. I made the mistake the first time by not doing this and I got there after they were all gone. Well we went and waited in line and it was well worth it. They are the cutest little peepers! They are five weeks old now and are going to their new home in the barn this weekend. I don't think anything beats a fresh egg.

Beauty In Your Back Yard

2011-02-15T09:56:00.000-05:00

I was on the deck last night and I had to run back in and grab my camera. What a beautiful sight it was right in front of me. The weather was cold enough to need mittens....but this..this was so wonderful I had to share it with you. So if your life is in the fast lane, or you don't have time to look around..step outside with your coffee and enjoy what you have right in your back yard.

Lucy and Ricky's new kids, Fred and Ethel.

2011-02-05T00:26:00.000-05:00

Well all I can say is...finally! We have been waiting for Lucy and Ricky to have babies for a while now and one day...poof, there they are. As you can see they are up and running already. I was once told that goats have such an easy time at birthing that you can just pull up your lawn chair and wait. We have had ours usually happen at night, so when I go out in the morning I hear these new little voices making themselves known.
It has been about a month now actually and the little buggers are working on escape plans everyday. The last time I went out...Fred was out and as soon as he saw me, he rolled back under the fence. I could only laugh and smile at the little thing, sweet as can be. So there they are...Lucy, Ricky, Fred and Ethel, one big happy family.

Do We Really Know What Facebook Does?

2011-01-13T13:13:00.000-05:00

I have been using Facebook on and off now for a few years. Recently I found family members I hadn't located before. This was a nice surprise. I'm starting to believe the bad might out weigh the good as far as privacy and choice issues go when choosing to use Facebook. That's not good, nor a surprise.
If you have noticed FB has made a new page layout for its users. You actually had the option to click the button to change to the new one...or stay with the old. My husband and myself both preferred the old one....but it seem FB now makes the choice for you. I recently signed in and there it was....my page had been changed. I was very surprised to say the least. Is there a little person in my pc clicking ok buttons without my knowledge? Thinking about it, I went to my husbands page to see if it was changed, maybe I hit the button by accident. Wrong answer, his was also changed. So what do we have here.....FB asks you what you want and then changes it anyway?? What else can they click and make happen to my page, or account for that matter? Well to say the least I closed the account and I will make sure to chalk this one up to...why are you surprised? Shame on Facebook and please everyone beware.

Siblings

2011-01-08T21:09:00.001-05:00

I find myself thinking of my childhood and how close my sisters and I were. The three of us, born in a row..."bing, bing, bing, like cherries" dad would say, had always been inseperable. My mother enjoyed sewing our outfits and made sure they all matched, which brought on all the cheek pinching from friends and family a toddler could stand. Those are the days you are the closest, but don't even realize.
As the years go by, life brings so many changes and opportunities. We choose different paths and in turn end up far apart in a lot of cases. The thing we must never forget as life is rolling ahead.....is the beginning. Who you are and how you became that person. Don't forget to call and keep in touch with those who were there from the start. I sure won't.

Are Chat Rooms A Thing Of The Past

2011-01-06T20:53:00.001-05:00

I recently came back to my blog, which led me to see if anyone else still had an active one. I found a lot to be closed....or left behind. I also went back to some old chat room haunts to see if any of the same people were there, they also were gone. I actually got a really weird feeling about it...something that was there on a routine basis...exists no more. I think as time goes by, people move on. I do believe these same people have moved on to different things on the internet and not left it at all. Shopping may be one of those things, lol we are such a "throw away society" as I have termed it.
Ok back to my title. At one point in time chat rooms were a very big thing, but I think that has waned for sure. I was surfing around and the numbers are very small now. Yes I do think Facebook has taken over. I actually believe Facebook was the demise of Myspace. All in all it's like everything else.....fads, but I do think FB will be here for a while.

The WatchCats

2011-01-06T09:07:00.002-05:00

It is for sure nothing can go on that would escape these three. This is their favorite spot in the house I would say. Looking at the birds or just enjoying the warmth of the sun through the glass door, I enjoy looking at them...looking.
It's been a very full year and I'm anxious to start another. It's not spring, but I have started cleaning closets out, along with putting the tree away. We had a very nice Christmas...but I think next year mom and dad get to go on a trip for Christmas. I have all year to decide where.

Snowy 2011 and compose isn't working lol

2011-01-05T23:24:00.001-05:00

Where Does The Time Go?

2010-07-13T10:26:00.000-04:00

It has been so long since I have written....where to begin. For now we will just start with Holly our lab and her sister Autumn in the pool on the 4th of July. Holly is on the right in the pink collar. she is 8 months old now. Wow, I need to come here more..lol.

Who's Been Sleeping In My Bed?

2010-01-09T07:44:00.001-05:00

Busted! Once again we have caught Joey and Delilah taking a snooze in Bailey's bed. I'm not sure if they like the bedding or what...but it has become a daily routine. So yes, all you cat lovers.....our little feline friends do like to be crated . Have an awesome day!

Kitty Tumble Dried

2010-01-07T08:13:00.001-05:00

Hey Everyone! I hope your holidays were great. We are at the start of a new year. YAYYYYYYY. I just had to show you Joey. I was doing a load of laundy and the phone rang. I came back to the drier and there he was. I guess he is trying to stay warm too! I hope everyone is working on their New Year's resolution. This year I hadn't made one...first time ever...does that mean I don't need one...lol. Have an awesome day :)

The Cat's In The Bag!

2009-12-26T11:29:00.000-05:00

The kitties decided to play in the Christmas bags during all the festivities yesterday. They had a nice Christmas , I hope you all did! Just wanted to write a short one, I'm off to my daughter's she has the flu. I'm in full MOM mode. I have my bag full of goodies and meds and all the cheer I can bring her. :) Have a good day.

This is so cute!

2009-12-22T09:16:00.000-05:00

Good Morning!

2009-12-03T07:43:00.000-05:00

Delilah is all perky this morning. I awoke to find her lounging on my bedroom dresser, waiting for me to get up. I swear she is the sweetest thing, I think she was human in a past life. Off to get dressed and finish Christmas shopping. Have a great day all!

Mr. Bubbles Obama

2009-12-02T09:12:00.003-05:00

I have been following the media for some time now about this troop advancement to Afghanistan.. I will tell you right now, never in my mind did I think it wasn't going to happen. Obama spoke a lot about bringing all the troops home during his election campaign, but once again...wishy washy Obama fades off with the bubbles. I do hope everyone realizes that giving a return date for the soldiers is just that old carrot on a stick trick.
Now don't get me wrong, I fully support my country and our soldiers, I have been an Army wife almost all my life it seems. The problem I have is that I believe ....lets go in and get it done. We have the power to do this with no problem. But I do know why we don't, it is because there are all kinds of behind the scenes politics going on and this is less about a countries freedom and more about making money. The one advantage is that we have eyes there now and can see what is going on and maybe stop something before it happens.
To me the reason to go was to capture Osama...let's be real, now he has had so much time to hide, that will be virtually impossible with a country with that kind of terrane. I doubt he is even still there. In my eyes he needed and still needs to pay for orchestrating 911. I don't think that will happen.
Let's talk about the troops. These brave men and women put their lives on the line and have to do many tours to these God forsaken countries. Yes they did raise their hands...but they did not raise their hands for all this political backscratching at their expense. The saddest thing I see is some low ranking soldiers who have to have their families on welfare. Now that's sad. We send them overseas to risk their lives, yet most can't afford a car loan. Pathetic, but no relief there, Obama will never give the military an increase in pay, but he sure will send them away won't he.
This post is a little mish mosh on how I feel about it all and I may have forgotten something, but my heart goes out to all of the soldiers and their families. Have we realistically thought of them during this eight year war? Yes soldiers, do your duty. I expect that, no I don't want your life in danger for nothing and your family to suffer. HOOAH God Bless every one of you.

Peek A Boo

2009-12-01T12:57:00.000-05:00

Stinky thinks she's a dog now. I came downstairs to find her relaxing in Baileys crate. They are best buddies. Now who was it that said dogs and cats don't get along?

Sadie my Savior

2009-11-30T15:37:00.001-05:00

I have a story to tell you, but first, I hope you all remember Sadie. We got Sadie from a man who had saved a litter of black labs. We weren't really looking for a large dog, we had recently lost our other black lab, Ginger, but Sadie found us. She has been here for about two months I think and still fitting in with the yorkies. They are a little leery of each other, really the yorkies, but I am working it slowly. This is how the story begins...
I Had decided to put sadie on a leash in the back yard and then let the yorkies out so they could all be together , yet I would have control of Sadie. I had been doing this for a while now and things were progressing well. Today I did the same, with Sadie on the leash we all visited outside. This day was a bit different, the horses came down to the fence to see us and the craziness began. I still had Sadie on the leash and the yorkies were barking up a storm, so far so good, until the horses began to run. Sadie was new to seeing horses and I'm not sure if she had seen them bolt like that, but I know I never had a leash on her at the time. Anyways she jerked so hard she turned me sideways and twisted my knee. Before I knew it I was on the ground.
So there I was...wind knocked out of me and twisted knee. I had hurt my knee recently and was getting therapy for it, so this was not good. I was surprised at first and assessing the situation, when I realized Sadie was right by my side almost hugging me and very worried. I had left the leash go and she was still right there. This is the first time anything like this has happened to me. I have heard stories about it, but never experienced it first hand. She was guarding me, she knew I was hurt and she was staying right there until I did something. I was kind of stuck because I was out in the yard and had nothing to help me up, putting weight on the knee was almost out of the question, but what choice did I have? So I decided to try. Do you know that wonderful dog came right next to me and let me lean on her to get up! She stood there steady as can be and let me put all my weight on her to get up. If she had not helped me I would have been out there for a while. I was so amazed I went to the deck and sat down and hugged her for a long time. She in turn licked my face. I will never forget this day and I am so blessed to have experienced this and to have Sadie. Oddest thing was, I wasn't sure if she was happy here...funny how things happen.

Christmas Cookies Must Be Made

2009-11-29T10:55:00.001-05:00

In the past, I usually do a lot of baking for Christmas. I have been wondering if I should do that this year. The kids aren't here to nibble on them and heaven knows I don't need to be eating them. So I have been pondering this for a few days now and have made a decision. I will continue to make the cookies as I usually do. It's Christmas for goodness sake, what was I thinking! I love doing the baking and seeing how pretty it all come out. The kids love it and hubby is the cookie monster. I will just have a few and send them along with the girls in a nice big cookie bag. How can we not make Christmas cookies. Santa, I hope you don't read this, but if you do notice there will be a plate for you.

A Thanksgiving for BK

2009-11-28T08:29:00.000-05:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving, I know this kitty did. We got up,went out to the barn before putting the turkey in and there she was. She has adopted us and the horses as her family. I wasn't sure of a name because I have named so many animals, so I came up with Barn Kitty, BK for short. Skinny little thing she is, but as you can see, she won't be for long. This one is all hubby...lol I think he enjoys taking them in too. We went out later to check on her and she is great pals with the horses and the chickens. I am thankful she found us.

Have A Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T19:24:00.000-05:00

U.S. residents fight for the right to hang laundry

2009-11-19T10:16:00.001-05:00

Now, I just may have seen it all. I cannot believe people are being fined for hanging laundry. I really am certain people in this country have lost their minds. Mr neighbor is complaining about someone hanging laundry...do you have anything better to do? I have never wanted to live in these communities for just these kinds of reasons. If you don't like my laundry soaking up the gorgeous sun and getting that clothesline fresh smell.... you can kiss my behind. Besides the infringement of our rights on our own property, what about SAVING ENERGY???? I know these people are insane and I would hang my laundry everyday on purpose.

Again, Mom Had it Right Years Ago.

2009-11-15T13:49:00.001-05:00

Nov. 12) -- A Virginia high school student was released from the hospital Tuesday after developing a rare disease within hours of being vaccinated against swine flu, MSNBC reported. Jordan McFarland, 14, of Alexandria, Va., experienced severe headaches, muscle spasms and leg weakness after getting the H1N1 vaccine. His parents told MSNBC that doctors diagnosed him with Guillain-Barre syndrome, a muscle disorder.

This is going to happen over and over as the years go by. The sad part is the Drug Companies makes so much money making these vaccines, it won't ever stop. The Drs. are paid a certain amount of money to peddle the drugs for the companies. It is a vicious cycle and in the end...WE pay.
I will say, thanks to my mother, once again...I won't be paying in that sense. I have avoided every shot that has been advised to people. I fully believe we have made our own horrible viruses and are still doing so. This is one subject that is very controvercial and I believe it is how you are raised that depends on how you handle the situation. Some people are the type who will believe everything the Drs tell them and others....would rather be responsible for their own health. Don't get me wrong in certain instances, as in broken bones and life threatening diseases, we have to be advised and then decide for ourselves.
I feel so sad for this boy, if only he hadn't had the shot that was supposed to keep him well. Wake up people.

A Quick Glance

2009-11-13T08:42:00.000-05:00

I stepped out on the front porch just now and took these pictures. The rain has stopped and it is very chilly. I won't complain about the rain, because we always need it, but sheesh, lol. Needless to say, the pond is full and we do have a little bit of flooding in the back acreage. I'm not worried, NC is always in need of rain, so it doesn't stay flooded for long. I am glad to see the weather get cold too. That means Christmas is right around the corner. Now that is my favorite time of year. Family comes in from New Jersey and the fun begins. Holidays are always awesome, the kids finally have time to visit ole mom. I will be sure to take lots of pictures...you know me :)

My Teddy Bears

2009-11-12T07:09:00.000-05:00

Jewels and Champaigne have their winter fur on now and they look so cute. Puffy and long haired makes them look like little stuffed animals you win at the fair. The grass has stopped growing so its bring in the hay time. I think they are saying lets go!

Islam Takes More Lives.

2009-11-07T08:00:00.002-05:00

I am totally disgusted, dismayed, but not surprised. It would seem the gunman was screaming "Allah Akbar" as he gunned down his fellow troops at Ft hood. All I can say is I am very glad he survived. I want this man to stand trial and serve the rest of his life in prison. It makes me sick when people come to our country, take advantage of everything we offer and then do something like this. I will not put this man's name in my article, he was trying to be one of those freak martyrs for his radical religion. My husband has been deployed overseas many times during this war. He doesn't need someone like this muslim to kill him on his own soil. This man was to deploy to Afghanistan, at which he was screaming like a baby that he didn't want to go...that was his misson for our country, not kill his fellow commrads at arms. As I stated before, muslims should not be allowed to serve for our country...as it will never be theirs.

God Bless the Families and all of you at Ft Hood

2009-11-06T08:48:00.001-05:00

To all of you at Ft Hood, much love from Ft Bragg. It rocks my world when I hear of things like this, especially when its one of our men in uniform. There is an issue with certain religions in our military deploying to Iraq and other middle eastern countries, we have known this now for a while. This soldier was killing so as not to deploy overseas to the middle east.. He was a soldier...serving in the United States Army...shame on you and I hope you get the punishment you deserve. My personal feelings, muslims should not be in our armed forces. This is not the first incident. God bless all of our troops.

DO NOT PAY CELL PHONE EARLY TERMINATION FEES!

2009-11-05T08:00:00.002-05:00

I had decided I wanted to purchase an Iphone, but was going to wait until my contract was up with my current cell phone carrier...Sprint. Last night a situation occurred to my surprise, which made it happen even sooner. I was on the Sprint online page and saw the new Android phone...HTC Hero. I thought I might check it out so I could get a new phone sooner and not have to change carriers. I saw the price for a new customer.and thought wow, with my upgrade discount...what a bargain that would be. WRONG. Long story short, I called the company and was informed even with my discount...i'd end up paying the same price as the new customer. I told the man that is crap, especially since Sprint was claiming I was a "Premier" customer. I told him he can keep his phone. We all know I told him more...but thats another story..lol.
I went directly to the Apple site and got the number for the Iphone. I called, got a really kind man, ordered new service, 2 new phone with accessories. I will end up paying $10 more for my plan a month than I did with Sprint. Considering they are new phones and now I will have internet on the phones, I didn't have the net or rollover minutes on sprint...I made out quite nicely.
The main thing I want you all to realize, I was still in a contract with Sprint when I set up my new service with At&T and the Iphones. The kicker is the Apple rep told me just how to get out of that contract...he said it is quite easy to get out of any cell phone contract....consumers just dont realize. He was talking about ANY cell phone company, so as not to incriminate himself lol. Well wasn't this a nice treat...I directly called Sprint and got out of the contract with no early termination fees. It would have cost me $400! Kiss my Iphone loving fanny Sprint! I keep thinking about the rep on the phone from Sprint telling me he's "sorry" I don't like the price of the phone being the same for older "premier" customers and new ones. In your face! Verizon just changed their fee to $350! NEVER PAY EARLY TERMINATION FEES! ITS A RIP OFF!..
http://tech.yahoo.com/blogs/null/154280 ``````````` the link to the verizon article

Give Me A Light Please

2009-11-04T08:02:00.002-05:00

Stinky got caught last night trying to shed some light on the subject. She was chasing Delilah and I guess she needed a little help. The shinanagans are always at night. One night im going to set up the cam corder and really find out what they are up to..*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

As The Clocks Fall Back

2009-11-02T07:37:00.002-05:00

The weather has finally turned here for good. We set the clocks back and now that heat is gone until next time. I have lived here in NC for ten years now, but I still am not acclimated. The colder weather is so nice to cuddle up in a blanket to. Our horses love the cooler weather too, they run and play for hours. The last of the bugs are trying to hang on outside....these little caterpillers on the front porch come back magically everytime I sweep. The fire ants still have a hold on the front yard, darn things. You have to fight them forever and never give an inch, or they take over. I lost one of my baby river birch trees to them. Sadly, I did not research until after planting, fire ants love to eat river birch trees. I will have to get a picture of one of their mounds out here....some further in the woods are a few feet tall. Sigh...I am still trying to figure what the intention of their life was to be. Anyway, enjoy this cool weather....hopefully we will get snow this year in NC.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

One Size Fits Two

2009-10-31T08:04:00.003-04:00

I just had to snap this one. Pixie and Bailey decided to take over Sadies big bed. I don't have the heart to chase them out. By the way, for any pet owners, dog or cats, this is the best pet bed I have ever bought. Over the yrs I have purchased many pet beds that have had to be returned because the dog doesn't like it. I got this one at the Petsmart in town and the dogs and cats both love it. Every minute of the day, one of them is in it, or two as you can see. ..*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨
PS the cats were on it together after I posted...here they are. :) Joey and Stinky :)

Will We Ever Learn?

2009-10-27T11:04:00.003-04:00

I remember when these first came out. To me, huge red flag. I don't care what anyone says...these do not clean your hands properly. Now they are claiming "concern" over too much use of them. Besides the fact that they are not good for you, people need to realize using hand sanitisers or antibacterial anything is setting us up for sickness. Now, we have these wash your hands with no water crap. If you ask your mothers and fathers, what was it that clean hands the best....soap and water. This has not changed, it's just that someone has found something marketable for the gullible public. Do yourself a big favor, DO NOT use these, also do not use anything antibacterial...not good. I have my mother to thank for helping me be informed about my own health, which I am very glad for, because I have passed it down to my children. Thanks Mom. ..*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Pick a Berry

2009-10-25T08:57:00.001-04:00

I was out walking around and came upon this colorful berry. I snapped the picture and thought how odd our weather is being. One day, like yesterday, it is almost 80, today just the opposite. I think the bugs and plants are confused. The geckos are gone, but the bees and such think they can still be out. It will all work out. I myself, like the colder weather. As you know I am from NJ, so the colder the better. They say this winter will be very cold, I hope so...it takes a lot to get it to snow down here in NC.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Delilah's Favorite New Spot.

2009-10-18T09:40:00.003-04:00

Well look at this. I was looking for Delilah yesterday....and I heard this faint meow when I called her. There she was up on the cabinets. I have now seen her there often, so I guess its official. Just so funny I had to snap this photo. The next one his her getting ready to launch down to the counter. My kitchen is now a jungle gym..*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

How can we not love animals.

2009-10-16T08:40:00.003-04:00

This is Joey when he was little. I love this picture and was reminded of it with my sisters phone call last night. My sister is an animal control officer in NJ. She loves animals too and often brings them home to foster and find a home, or keep. I'd have to say she isnt as bad as me as wanting them all, but if she was at home more, I think she would be. Well, she called and told me she had to put her cat Alley to sleep. She had adopted Alley even tho Alley had feline Aids. She loved that cat and was so upset, she said no more animals. Well that was yesterday. She called today and told me she adopted another cat. I was not surprised, often we get another animal when one passes. So she is feeling better and I am glad. My sister has a gigantic heart and any animal she gives a home is very lucky. That is what made me think of this picture. She was with me when I got Joey and she also let me know there was one at her shelter that looked excactly like him. She is driving the kitty to my home next weekend. lol. I have time to soften hubby...hehehe.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

What is your favorite Halloween candy?

2009-10-12T20:47:00.002-04:00

OK. I know. We are older and we aren't supposed to like candy anymore. We are watching our figure and setting a good example for the kids and eating right. Well, I have to say it. Candy corn is the best! I don't eat much of it anymore, but I can remember eating it until my stomache felt sick. There is a certain way candy corn has to be eaten too. You can't gobble it down at one time, or even suck on it for minutes. You must nibble off every color, one by one. That is how you know a true and dedicated candy corn eater! LOL What is your favorite?*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

This photo Says it all

2009-10-08T07:11:00.002-04:00

Four-year old Paige didn't want to say goodbye to her daddy before he was shipped off to Iraq
A family photo that shows a little girl beside her father and his fellow soldiers in uniform as they prepare to go to war has resonated well beyond the tight knit Bennethum clan.

Four-year-old Paige Bennethum really, really didn't want her daddy to go to Iraq.
So much so, that when Army Reservist Staff Sgt. Brett Bennethum lined up in formation at his deployment this July, she couldn't let go.
No one had the heart to pull her away.

Thanks to a friend for sending this to me.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

BOO!

2009-10-04T09:12:00.002-04:00

Well it's almost here, Halloween! This is my husbands favorite holiday. He loves setting up the haunted house, the whole nine yards. For me it is Christmas for my favorite, but Halloween is very special because I know how much he loves it. The kids are grown, but yes, we still decorate...the pumpkins sit on the porch and the entire porch is covered in web. I buy the candy to hand out even though they don't usually come, oh for the old days when we would walk for miles just for that bit-o-honey. Do they even still have those? Now it is mom driving the kids around in a mini van, I just laugh at the thought. I do understand the safety issues but...like I said...oh for the good ole days! Have a Happy Halloween!.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Ut Oh! I'm At It Again.

2009-09-29T07:50:00.001-04:00

Well my husband says I can last no longer than a year before adding someone new to the family. This is Sadie. We adopted Sadie from a gentleman who rescued a litter of black labs and is going overseas and wanted to find Sadie a good home. We were glad to help and she is fitting in just fine. The ironic part about it is, last year my black lab freaked out during a storm, hopped the fence and we never saw her again. The resemblence is uncanny. So yes, I am at it again and I don't think I will ever stop:)..*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Too Cute!

2009-09-22T07:39:00.006-04:00

This was so cute I had to post it. I remember those days, I wish I had caught them on video like this mommy did.. Thanks for sending it Steve.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

My little girl is all grown up

2009-09-15T06:54:00.005-04:00

Yesterday I helped my daughter move to her first little house. She was so happy and so proud. I was proud because she was doing it on her own. I don't think I would be able to help her in any decision making anyway, she is too headstrong. Gee, wonder where she gets that. We went to Lowe's and picked out some paint because the kitchen is a very bright orange, we both said that wouldn't do. I do worry about her, but at least this little house is in a nice neighborhood. Time is going soooo fast. I had wished they would finish college and come home. Now how silly was that, lol.
I would like to mention the passing of Patrick Swayze. What a talented and beautiful man he was. RIP..*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Dangerous staph germs found at West Coast beaches

2009-09-14T07:57:00.005-04:00

SAN FRANCISCO – Dangerous staph bacteria have been found in sand and water for the first time at five public beaches along the coast of Washington, and scientists think the state is not the only one with this problem.The germ is MRSA, or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus — a hard-to-treat bug once rarely seen outside of hospitals but that increasingly is spreading in ordinary community settings such as schools, locker rooms and gyms.The germ causes nasty skin infections as well as pneumonia and other life-threatening problems. It spreads mostly through human contact. Little is known about environmental sources that also may harbor the germ.

My oh my! Now I saw this article the other day and actually saved it to do a post on it because I have thought of this often. My first thoughts came when I decided never to eat fish again because they were being found dead all over the place..and the studies are showing larger mercury rates in the fish. At that time nobody really was listening, but I hope people do now. We have infected our waters and beaches and it is sad. They said to not stop going to the beaches and the waters and I was like um....no thank you. They are even finding it in the sand. If you recall many beaches were and still are finding needles etc coming up on the shore. This is a lot to think about but I have been thinking of it quite a while back. We have again polluted something else on God's green earth. All I can say is, don't shrug it off and I'm glad I have a pool..*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Eaten By Greenery

2009-09-13T07:44:00.003-04:00

Something I noticed here in NC, abandoned buildings. This one is a couple miles from my house. I drive by and look at it and can't help but wonder what's inside. The door is open at the moment, but I have also seen it closed. The other thing that catches my eye is the plants and shrubs engulfing this building. It sits next to this little town hall building which is maintained perfectly. You would think the person who cares for that would feel sympathy for this old building, give it a haircut and shave, or see about putting it to rest. I do think one day I will drive by and not see this relic....it will be totally covered.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Delilah Takes Cover

2009-09-09T07:59:00.004-04:00

Well family has all returned to Jersey and it's back to normal. The pic is Delilah and where she stayed most of the time. I think she was overwhelmed. The food was excellent, yes I made my special tater salad and the ambrosia was even better. Everything went smoothly, but in the end the men burned the grill up. Now I don't know if this is a coincidence, but hubby was bugging for a new grill for the last few months. All I know is when he was talking about how high the fire was, he had a grin ear to ear.
The girls came and filled up on food, you know how they eat in college and I sent a nice package with them when they left. I'd have to say it all went well. I will even overlook some of the mother in law usual chiding, it was a holiday after all. I hope all of you had a nice, relaxing weekend also.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Happy Labor Day!

2009-09-05T12:51:00.001-04:00

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.
That being said...get that tater salad out and I'll take a burger right off the grill! Have a wonderful holiday all, the weather is perfect for it!*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

This Smart Car Doesn't Look Too Smart

2009-09-03T09:19:00.002-04:00

I have never been part of the "throw away" society as I call it. I don't believe in getting new if the old works just fine. I feel cheated and manipulated when they try to tell you get rid of that and buy the newest model. In todays world, it's all about that. An older car would never have ended up like this car. This is an actual accident, not fabricated. Kudos to one of my favorite, the older Monte Carlos....beautiful body and details, plus was as safe as a tank. I guess people are part of the throw away thinking?*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Update!

2009-09-02T08:31:00.001-04:00

I found Buster down by the pond and looking very pleased. He actually came closer to us and I got to snap this pic. We have dug the pond deeper, and now the springs are running much better. The backhoe had to actually hurry and get out it started to fill so fast. Buster is a happy camper!.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Finally!

2009-09-01T11:49:00.000-04:00

Today is the first day I was able to turn off the AC and open windows! I love it when the wind is blowing the curtains and the fresh air is coming into the house. I know it is probably only a tease, but that's ok. Delilah is also enjoying the window breeze :). We are having loads of family coming down for the holidays...so I am very busy this week. Please forgive me if I don't get new posts everyday. See you soon!

Have A Nice Weekend

2009-08-29T09:33:00.003-04:00

Well it's the weekend and I went out this morning and found Merlin, our Walkaloosa, relaxing in the sun. Merlin is also one of our treasures. He was almost put down when we discovered he had String Halt's Disease. This disease effected his legs and we thought he would never ride again. Well I would not let them put him down and thank God I didn't. He has recovered fully with a lot of love and special diet. Candy is in the backround, as always, right by Merlins side. These two stick close to the house....which is why they get in a lot of pictures. LOL The others are in the back acres. I will post pics of them all eventually. I just wanted to stop in and wish you all a wonderful weekend. Take a tip from Merlin....relax and enjoy yourselves..*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Use What You Have

2009-08-28T07:41:00.005-04:00

Living in the Sandhills of North Carolina I have learned one thing about horticulture, use all the naturally growing plants and flowers to your advantage. I can't tell you how many different plants and flowers I have planted and the weather or insects have destroyed them. It is very dry here, hence the name Sandhills and the Fire Ants run rampant. Our soil is mostly sand and clay. This is very difficult for me coming from New Jersey, the Garden State. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love it here, but I can see why I don't see too many people with a lot of flowers.
It came to me last year that the best thing to do was to try and use what's already here and growing wild. Out in the pasture we have a bunch of different colors of flowers or weeds that grow at different times. I have been using that to my advantage and replanting them. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. The wild flower above did work. I have no idea its name, but I found it last year and transplanted a bunch near the house. This year it bloomed. I have given up trying to "add" new flowers because of the heat and dryness, but by doing so I discovered a whole new world.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Nightime Activities

2009-08-27T07:39:00.005-04:00

I was out at the barn last night and just so happened to have my camera...imagine that! lol. I snapped this pic, really because of the horses but what caught my eye was the sky and the moon. I hope it's not too small to see on the blog pic. We were outside last night trying to get shots of the deer in the pond. Apparently a family of about 7, have decided this is their home. We have caught them a few times in the pond with their baby , but no camera in hand. It never ceases to amaze me the wonderful things that go on out here at night. I have seen red fox, deer, just to mention a few. I was hoping to get a pic of the deer...but I will during the day. Hubby said he was out the other day and they stayed for a while, even after seeing him. He watched in awe and then they hopped over the fence, while the baby when through the spaces. I'll try to get a pic next time. I get the feeling the deer are here often and that all of the animals are friends.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Queen Delilah

2009-08-26T08:13:00.008-04:00

This morning the Queen of the house wanted to say hello. This is Delilah. Delilah was saved from a rescue when she was only 8 weeks old and yes, she is named after Freddie Mercury's cat. The song you are hearing is the song he wrote for her. :) We brought her home and I swear she thinks she owns the place. She has a certain way about her that makes you love her even more. Her favorite thing to do is to sneak into drawers from underneath and get anything she can out of it, carry it to the water bowl and deposit it there. I do believe she is going to be a very big cat, like Joey my white one who weighs about 25lbs. Delilah is not a year yet and is as big as Joey. I always had cats growing up, but never in the house. I am so glad I do now, they are beautiful creatures.
Today's post in kind of quick, I have some errands to run. I hope everyone is doing fine and loving their pets this morning. *♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Dr. Charged With Manslaughter

2009-08-25T07:42:00.006-04:00

I always liked a lot of MJ's songs. His videos were fun and very creative. I never fell for all the negative media hype and all I will say is the man was very talented. This man could move and sing like nobodies business. I have loved music ever since I was real young and mom would have the radio playing all the time. I have to say I probably favor a lot of the older music. To me, the newer stuff doesn't take much talent.
I was shocked when I heard what happened that day. I felt right away the Dr. had to be involved, but what I most felt was shame. Shame that I live in a society that people kill each other so easily and don't even think about the human life they are taking. I don't know if it was for money, or some other motive, but it saddens me that this man will no longer sing or dance.

It's a loss for everyone, but many won't see it that way. Caught up in the whir of everyday life...desensitised by all the media we see. The Dr. responsible will hopefully pay for what he's done, but that won't change things will it. I for one, realize we lost a major player in the musical world that day. I'm so glad we have his music to listen to into the future.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Pixie

2009-08-24T07:23:00.003-04:00

This is Pixie, the one and only. She is probably the smartest of the critters in the house. I haven't yet decided if the cats have the dogs beat yet. Whoever stated that cats and dogs don't get along is a fibber. It seems that none of the animals in the house can decide what type of animal they are. The dogs lick the cats and the cats eat the dog food. I try not to let that happen, because stinky, well. she gets gas...lmao. They actually all pretty much go with the flow, which is good in this house. You never know when a new face will show up :) My husband says..."no more in the house"..which translates to.."do what you want honey". Happy Anniversary dear.

*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Off today

2009-08-23T09:45:00.004-04:00

My girls are here today, so i'll see you tomorrow. They are my everything.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Buster Has Beef

2009-08-22T16:53:00.002-04:00

This is Buster. He isn't very happy with the neighbors these days. It would seem Busters swimming pool, (our pond) has gone down about 5 feet and is turning green for a reason. I found out that the neighbors have done away with a very important irrigation ditch. Unfortunately besides the natural springs under the pond, the ditch was also supplying the pond with its water.

I knew that this land had belonged to a farmer way back and they had put irrigation ditches in so that the properties wouldn't flood. Well my neighbor, we will call him....Richard, or Dick for short, decided to fill in the ditch and simultaneously cut of the water to my pond.

Now the dilemma. I don't care for this man at all. Not in the teentsy weentsy least. I can't see me speaking to him about it, well because I have an idea he could care less. So I have a few choices, dig a well for the pond...or take on the arduous task of finding more water. Digging a well specifically for the pond seems kind of redundant to me. I mean basically its moving water from one hole to another...costing big bucks. The other idea will be quite time consuming and...not sure if it is possible. So as you can see. Buster has beef and for good reason. The lesson for today.....even when neighbors are 10 acres apart....... still build a fence.
*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Bailey, Five pounds of silly

2009-08-20T07:30:00.009-04:00

Bailey, Bailey, Bailey, so much to tell. The top picture is Bailey as a little one and the next is him now. He is a Yorkshire Terrier, Yorkie for short. Actually we are very lucky to still have him. Three years ago on Thanksgiving Day, the family was all sitting down to dinner and we heard a yelp. Bailey had decided to chew my cord to my laptop and was laid out on the floor. Before I continue I must say, Bailey never chewed wires before or even bothered with anything like that., none of my animals have. That being said, as you can see, I still feel bad, the story continues. We ran over and picked him up,he was stiff and not breathing. My husband and my sisters husband, whisked him off to the vet. On the way there he woke up while they were pleading with him and calling his name. He has a small scar on his mouth from it, but no other damage. Bailey became the "miracle dog".

These days Bailey gets pampered and treated like a king. It's hard not to anyway, he is the cutest thing with fur. I am very sure he will be on this blog often.*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥

Freddie The Crazy One

2009-08-20T06:58:00.010-04:00

Meet Freddie. Freddie thinks he owns the place. I went out and took pics of him yesterday and almost felt as if I needed his consent. We have thought of getting rid of him because he can be too bossy at times when we need to do work out at the barn. It would seem Freddie and my husband have come to an agreement. LOL He is really a guard dog for the chickens and the horses and honestly I think hubby has developed a soft spot for the bugger. He is pictured above with Candy, our sweet painted pony. They are best friends. I have never seen a rooster before, who was not afraid of being stepped on by the horses. I guess we know who's boss! *♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

The Usual Suspects

2009-08-19T08:37:00.004-04:00

Here is the line-up of the "usual suspects" for the window smearing crew. I wash those windows 2 times a day and you can see the culprits right there. From left to right, Delilah (snooty pitutey), Stinky (known for SBD, hence the name) and last but not least the ringleader, Joey. All three of these critters came from a rescue shelter. I highly recommend saving animals instead of purchasing from stores etc. There are so many that need our help. Whether it's chasing bugs and smooshing them on the window or just nosing it, these 3 have been nabbed red pawed. *♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Our Pond

2009-08-18T08:13:00.004-04:00

I have mentioned our pond a few times and the fact that we need rain so badly. I decided to walk back there yesterday and snap the first picture above so you could see. Notice the color, which is also a factor because of not enough rain. The second picture is last year. There is a big difference in the color and probably about four feet of water. This is why I'm always asking everyone to send me their rain. A couple years back I remember the pond flooding almost to the barn with the fish all over the place. I truly do think we are doing things to make our atmosphere and weather change. I hope someone is paying attention. Oops almost forgot, that's Itchy, one of our fish in the second picture. He wouldn't stay up top for me to get him in the top picture. The fish are still there but lower because of the water. Usually i have fish food for them to get them to surface, but this time I forgot to bring some. *♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

How true it is!

2009-08-17T08:00:00.005-04:00

This is soooo true. I laughed so hard because I can remember making a list for my husband and actually NOT labeling them 1,2 3, etc. I saw it coming. LOL Gotta love this clip!*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

Itsy Bitsy Spider.......

2009-08-16T12:12:00.005-04:00

The spider species Argiope aurantia is commonly known as the Black and Yellow Garden Spider, Writing Spider, Banana Spider or Corn Spider. It is common to the lower 48 of the United States, Hawaii, southern Canada, Mexico, and Central America. They have distinctive yellow and black markings on their abdomens and a mostly white cephalothorax. Males range from 5 to 9 mm; females from 19 to 28 mm. Like other members of Argiope they are considered harmless to humans.

All righty then. LOL. thank God they are harmless, because they live on my house and front porch. I usually wisk away any spiders and their webs from the area with a broom, but these I keep. They eat every other bug in sight, so I let them be the spider guards. When I first came across them I have to admit, I freaked out. These two are females, which are quite a bit bigger than the males. Right now I think they are about 5 inches long. The females like to stay in one spot for a long time and I can vouch for that because i have one out on my pool fence since we opened the pool. The eggs these spiders lay contain 100's of babies, I know I saw one sac smooshed and they all ran. But the most incredible sight is the web. It's nearly impossible to get a pic of it in daylight because they put the most elaborate one out at night. It is like a silk and spun very intricately. So here are two more critters to add to our group. I don't think I'll name these lol. *♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨¨*♥ ♥*¨

More of my little ones

2009-08-15T16:37:00.004-04:00

Here'ssssssss Lucy....and Ricky. LOL My husband thinks I come up with the silliest names for all of our animals. These are our Pygmy goats. Lucy is preggo and I'm hoping she has at least twins. They still are a little skittish so I stayed outside of the fence to get a pic. Hopefully soon they will get used to me snapping away. Ricky is very protective of her and doesn't let me alone with her yet. I prefer the Pygmy goat, the ones here, to the bigger goats. They are much friendlier and don't ram you. As you can see, I'm crazy about animals, so I'm sure you will meet them all.

Last thing to worry about

2009-08-14T07:41:00.003-04:00

SALT LAKE CITY – A southern Utah newspaper has rejected a gay California couple's wedding announcement, saying its policy is to publish announcements only for marriages legal under Utah law.
The Spectrum in St. George initially accepted a paid wedding announcement for Tyler Barrick and Spencer Jones last week, but then changed course, Jones said. The San Francisco couple were legally married June 17, 2008. They wanted the announcement printed in Jones' hometown paper ahead of a family party next week.

Now with everything going on in the world, tell me why this is so shunned. I think it's totally ridiculous that people spend so much time fighting other people about their lives. Why does it matter who gets married. The structured family is already gone with both mom and dad at work. This makes no sense, why not protest and argue about all the immigrants in our country, taking advantage of our system. There are so many other things people could get outraged over. As I see it, it's WHO is going to get upset about certain things, not WHY. Trying to get the moral compass to go straight now in today's world is futile and this is not the place to start. Look at how many opposite sex marriages end in divorce! Why not let people marry who they love? This is all about who might get mad and won't read a paper I say. Shame on you.

Let it rain!!!!

2009-08-13T10:31:00.004-04:00

Well finally it has started to rain, so I stepped outside on the front porch and snapped this picture. As you can see the river birches up the drive have been under a bit of heat stress, losing quite a bit of leaves for this time of year. If you are wondering about the little tree, that is a little gem magnolia. I had to replace a river birch tree with it after the fire ants had killed one of the six birch trees I planted. I planted these trees about five years ago and five made it...so I'm happy about that. I would have much rather replaced it with another river birch, but my local nursery guy didn't' have anymore and wasn't getting any. So we shall see how this little gem does, it was just planted last year, so it's a lil one.

As far as the rain goes I hope it goes on for days...our pond in the back is so very low. Tomorrow I'll take a walk back there and take some pictures. I was asking a friend yesterday to send his rain this way...thanks a bunch Rick and keep it coming.

Blog Ghost Towns

2009-08-12T12:15:00.005-04:00

It's funny how I actually started my blog back up, now that I think about it. I occasionally would visit some older blogs we all know and would see if there was any life to them. Well I found one that still had my old link on it so I clicked it. I saw the link name that once was and decided to fire it back up.
Since then I have visited a lot of the older blogs and found only a couple still in existence. People move on with life and the net is a good example of that. The net for me is discovering and learning, though there had been a time when it was for chatting and debating. Thank goodness those times are gone, they got a little crazy, (you all know who I mean ) haha. I think back on all the characters and smile, every one of them was needed for the chat world we were living in at that time. I can't help but LOL.
I stopped by the old room today, didn't hardly know a soul. A couple people were there I knew, but not many. Life is meant to move on........and so it has :)

Now these are two of the best

2009-08-11T09:08:00.004-04:00

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Brooks & Dunn are done.
Best-selling country duo Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn posted a message on their Web site Monday saying they agreed to "call it a day" after 20 years of making music together.
"This ride has been everything and more than we could ever have dreamed ... We owe it all to you, the fans," they said in the message. "If you hear rumors, don't believe them, it's just time."
Brooks & Dunn will release a greatest-hits album on Sept. 8 and tour one last time in 2010.

Well I could say I'm sad, but they well deserve the rest. These two men brought us some of the best country songs i have ever heard. The compatibility of the two set the stage for a perfect career. I was going to tell you my favorite song, but I can't...they are all excellent. I will miss them, but there is so much music to keep them going in our hearts forever. They will never be forgotten. Hat's off to you boys, you did your job and you did it well.

Let decent players take his place

2009-08-10T09:02:00.004-04:00

CANTON, Ohio – Michael Vick (notes) wasn’t anywhere near the latest Hall of Fame ceremony, and he hasn’t even returned to the NFL yet. However, there was a reminder of the impact he might have if and when he returns to the league.
Fliers were left on the windshields of cars in the parking lot outside the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday. The fliers read: “Help Wanted: The NFL Hires Pet Killers.”

I have heard both sides of this controversy and tell you the truth, the man should never play football again. This is a man who had everything...and threw it all away. The biggest issue i have is this guy was a hero figure for many kids, not to mention the abuse and killing of animals. Now look at him. I don't go for the "I made a mistake", or the, "I didn't know what was going on", bull crap. This guy knew and was benefiting from it in many different ways. Let the up and coming athletes take this dirtballs place in the NFL. You blew it scumbag!

How things change

2009-08-08T16:59:00.000-04:00

I have decided to start my blog back up, but with a different intent. There will be news postings, my own material and some fun stuff. Life is too short to be an angry person all your life people :) Why not look at the good things in life, but at the same time just be "aware" of the bad. Centering your life on the bad things in life that may happen is not a good policy to live by, but remember always to be safe.