River Days

2012-01-18T08:08:00.000-08:00

Family Portrait

Jackson drew this picture of me and his dad and our pet pig (upper right hand corner). No, we do not have a pet pig, but evidently when we lived with Jesus we had a pet pig named George (same name as our current day cat) because we "really like the name George".

Jackson has, since he learned to talk, a long and detailed life with Jesus before "Jesus put me in your tummy so I could live with you and dad". They have gone camping together, skateboarding, played video games, the list goes on and on.

Warms my heart to know he has such a close relationship with his Savior.

2011-12-29T06:59:00.000-08:00

LETTER TO SANTA

On Christmas Eve, with the help of his cousin Taylor, Jackson composed this letter to Santa. Taylor wrote down verbatim what came out of his mouth.

More on Christmas later...

2011-12-08T09:52:00.000-08:00

MASTER OF THE GUITAR

Jackson's Grandma Syble gave him a guitar built for little fingers. Cute little thing, but it came with this GIANT pick.

Anyway, we took it with us to Alex Lafferty's house in AR, and Roy played us a couple of tunes on this little bitty guitar. Roy is a master of the instrument, used to play rhythm and lead at the same time back in the day. And, he never stops smiling. You have to love Roy.

Here he is making the best of a small instrument.

2011-12-08T08:53:00.001-08:00

THIS IS NOT A TOY!

So, the whole family is at Sonic, Tony is explaining to the bored teenager that half of our order is missing or is incorrect and we hear from the back seat a very loud and irritated,

"HEY, THIS IS NOT A TOY - IT'S A SIPPY CUP!!!!!" (if he knew the phrase, What the Hell?, it would have come out of his mouth)

Yes, Sonic, you have been busted. You will not pass a Sippy Cup as a toy to 4 year olds in the Wacky Pack. Step up your game folks, it's a tough bunch to please.

2011-10-28T12:18:00.000-07:00

PARTY!!!!

J: Mom, you know that store Party City? (he must have seen a commercial)

Me: Yes, what about it?

J: Can we go there?

Me: Why?

J: I want to go to a party.

I had to explain that it's a store of Party supplies and they weren't in there just have a big party.

J: Can we still go there?

Me: You won't like it, but ok, someday

J: Can we take Dad?

Me: He won't like it.

J: Why, doesn't Dad like parties?

Me: Son, it's not a party, just a store that sells party stuf

J: I know, Dad doesn't like parties. But he might if he saw all the party stuff.

2011-10-12T07:04:00.001-07:00

WE GOT RAIN!!!

Almost 6 inches at the river and I don't know how much in town, we don't have a rain gauge.

It was beautiful!!!!

2011-10-03T07:03:00.000-07:00

September 2011

Is usually one of my favorite months. The cooler weather is coming in, fall is approaching, Halloween is almost here. But this year, it has been a VERY rough month.

It started with Labor Day weekend. We had plans to have friends over and go to the Bedford Blues Festival and about an hour before everyone was to arrive, Tony's sister called and told me their dad, JB, was dying. Tony was not home, but due back any minute. I threw clothes in bags, called friends told them not to come and we hit the road shortly after Tony come back from the store.

We arrived at his step mom's at 1:30 in the morning. The house was locked up tight and everyone sleeping so soundly they did not wake up to our knocking. Thankfully the room above the garage was unlocked, so we trudged up the stairs and looked sadly at the hardwood floors. There was one very small mat in one corner so we went and robbed all of the cushions off the chairs on the porch and that became our bed.

The next morning, Tony was very hesitant to see his dad, so I went down first. Hospice has been involved, so he was in a hospital bed very frail and seemingly uncomfortable. He did not know who I was, but was comforted if you placed your hand on his forehead. He was alert for a few minutes and then would go back to sleep. Breathing was so erratic, I at one point counted 37 seconds between breaths. The night before when we got the call, Hospice measured his O2 levels in the high 60's if I remember correctly. So, we knew his time with us was short. He did not recognize any of us, except Jackson and called him by name. Jackson is his name sake and his initials are JB and we call him that frequently.

Martha was exhausted, Tony's sister was understandably devastated and watching your hero, your husband, your father in that state was awful to the say the least. Jackson knew Grandpa was sick and kept bringing him stuffed animals to keep him company. He asked why he couldn't go to the doctor and get better and I explained to him that sometimes Doctors can't fix everything and that Grandpa was going to go live with Jesus soon.

Tony and I decided we would go back home that Sunday as we did not know how long this would go on. Nobody knows how long the dying process will take. As we were saying our tearful goodbyes, Jackson said, "bye Grandpa Graham, say hi to my fish for me when you get to Jesus". Tony and I just cried. (a week before, Jackson's beta fish Skye died. We did the ceremonial flush, which is not such a good idea as Jackson wailed that Skye was swimming with poop. I told him he wasn't, that he was swimming in Jesus' pool.)

The next Thursday, September the 8th, JB Graham, was called home at 11:30 pm. He was 83 years, 7 months and 2 days old. We did not get the call until the next morning after Tony was already at work. I called him to let him know and then sent my friend Gayla (Grandma Geela) who works with him to give him a hug. She saw how sad he was and hunted down his boss who sent him home and gave him the next week off.

We went to the river house that night just to relax and then came home on Saturday and hit the road for AR later that night.

Visitation was Sunday and I was able to meet many of the Graham's that I had never met in person before. I had exchanged Christmas cards with many of them, but not met in person. There were also many of JB's buddies from the National Guard who were kind enough to bring pictures from that time. It was truly wonderful to see all the memories and hear the stories from what had to have been a rowdy, but fun group of guys.

JB Graham on the right

Funeral was Monday and I got my boys all dressed up. (Once again, I was reminded how smashing my husband looks in a suit.) Somber morning as we made our way to the funeral home. My step mom Martha has a neighbor named Summer who is a delightful 17 year old girl who has been a wonderful source of comfort and companionship to Martha over the years. It was my job to find Summer and make sure she sits with family as that is her rightful spot.

The funeral starts and not three minutes in, Jackson, "my tummy hurts". I look down and see that face, the one I am finally able to recognize, tuck him under my arm like a football and dash out. I think I stiff-armed some old man in the hallway as I am making a mad dash for the bathroom. We make it in time! He throws up, looks at me and said, "whew, that's better." We quietly re-enter the family room of the funeral sit in the back in case we have to leave again. I wanted to hold my husband's hand, but thought it more useful for me to make sure Jackson doesn't throw up on anyone. Fortunately, we make it through.

Tony's Mom, Syble, Tony, and Jackson

Jackson has been to a funeral, but not one he remembers and at graveside, I explained to him what all the stones were about. We had tucked his school picture inside the casket the day before and Tony wanted to write his dad a note, so we all said our good-byes and tucked it in the spot designated for that purpose. It was a tearful good-bye, but one that was worthy of the incredible, gentle man that he was. This earth is truly missing a good soul with lots of humor and laughter, kindness and generosity. I am incredibly grateful to have known this man.

JB and Martha's church made us delicious lunch and then we went back to the house. No more stepped out of the car and I got that look again from Jackson. Sent him to the grass and told him not to get it on his shoes. Again, he did his thing and said, "I'm good now." Jackson is not a nervous child and usually does not pick up on the emotions of those around him, but he has also never seen his daddy that upset. He also does not tend to throw up alot, so not sure what that was all about.

Leaving the next day was very hard, I did not want to leave Martha, but she seemed to be doing well. The anquish in her eyes was already subsiding. She said to me over the weekend her only complaint about her 30+ years of marriage to JB was that it was over. That broke my heart.

On the way home, we stopped and splashed around in the Ouchita river and then Tony finally let me dig for diamonds in Murpheesboro. It's a diamond mine (pphhhttt! whatever!) that allows the public to go search for diamonds. I have been begging for 15 years and now I know why he has never driven the 2 hours out of the way, round trip, to let me do it. It's a giant dirt field - start digging. I was done in 30 minutes. It sucks, don't do it. If its on your list, take it off, it sucks.

So we make it home and the boys go to the river while I stay home to finish the week out with work. Tony is doing ok, been on the grumpy side, but I understand and just try and give lots of hugs and kisses and reminders that I am on his team - the enemy is out there. Recovery and grief will take time.

Who was JB? He was an outdoorsman. A hunter, a fisher, a great lover of animals. He was kind, patient, quiet and with a sort of serious nature with a hint of tom-foolishness just bubbling under the surface. I have no doubt he had alot of fun in his life. Tony has told me lots of stories of riding motorcycles and hunting and fishing with his dad. He was married to Martha (he called her M&M) for over 30 years and always welcomed me into his home and later into his family. He is from a large family, I think there were 9 brothers and sisters. The sister I met at the funeral, Florene, had his same dialect and the same laugh as Tony and his dad. I have always known Tony favored his dad in many ways, but I didn't realize the Graham family had their own dialect, their own way of pronunciation until I met them that Sunday afternoon. Cousins came out of the woodwork. Sad day, but very nice to see all of these people I have only heard stories about.

He was a tall lean man who had a long stride and finally, someone who could keep up with me without complaining. He walked with a purpose, but often stopped to just look around to see if he was missing anything. Always, always, always, had hunting dogs. In fact, was buried with his hat that said "ole Jake" - his favorite bird dog. Enjoyed horses and kept two until the upkeep came to be burdensome on Martha with the advancement of his AZ. Their names were Sue and Sugar and were very nice, but nosey and scared me to death on more than one occasion since I am afraid of horses.

He played football for SCA (Southern College of Arkansas) and received a degree in Business (I think - Tony isn't for sure). We also think he played college baseball, but Tony wasn't sure on that either.

He was in the National Guard and was called to duty to Guard Central High in 1957. He never talked about it with me, so I am not sure how he felt about what he had to do.

Source: Wikipedia
On the morning of September 23, 1957, the nine African-American high school students faced an angry mob of over 1,000 White Americans protesting integration in front of Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas.^[5] As the students were escorted inside by the Little Rock police, violence escalated and they were removed from the school.^[5] The next day, President Dwight D. Eisenhower ordered the 1,200-man 101st Airborne Battle Group of the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, to escort the nine students into the school.^[5]^[5] At nearby Camp Robinson, a hastily organized Task Force 153rd Infantry drew guardsmen from units all over the state.^[5] Most of the Arkansas Guard was quickly demobilized, but the ad hoc TF153Inf assumed control at Thanksgiving when the 327th withdrew, and patrolled inside and outside the school for the remainder of the school year. As Melba Pattillo Beals, one of the nine students, remembered, and quoted in her book, "After three full days inside Central [High School], I know that integration is a much bigger word than I thought." By the same order, the entire 10,000 man Arkansas National Guard was federalized, to remove them from the control of Governor Faubus.
My in-laws live at the top of a mountain and is a beautiful place. I could sit for hours on the porch and take pictures of the hummingbirds (which I did). Also managed some nice deer shots and one cute rabbit.

And then, I lost my Great Aunt Dorthy on September 13th. She was my Grandmother Parks' sister. She was a retired school teacher and the one of the nicest women I have had the pleasure of knowing. She died on her own terms from heart issues (asked treatment to be withdrawn) and I think that's an awesome way to go - pick your own path and in peace. God knows everything, so no doubt he was prepared, but the giggling going on in heaven between Aunt Dorthy, Aunt June and my Grandmother is keeping people up - I assure you.

Then, to round off this already crappy month, my favorite customer tells me they are leaving to go elsewhere. All driven from the new VP of Marketing who had her mind made up to re-create the wheel when she took her first step into her new office in February. I don't have anything else nice to say, so stopping here.

In summary...I love October!

PS - it's not hot anymore.

2011-08-24T15:57:00.000-07:00

TEXAS!

June 1st:
Just moved to Texas!

Now this is a state that knows how to live!!

Beautiful sunny days and warm balmy evenings.

What a place!

It is beautiful.

I've finally found my home.

I love it here.

June 14th:
Really heating up.

Got to 100 degrees today. Not a problem.

Live in an air-conditioned home, drive an air- conditioned car.

What a pleasure to see the sun everyday like this.

I'm turning into a sun worshipper.

June 30th:
Had the backyard landscaped with western plants today.

Lots of cactus and rocks.

What a breeze to maintain.

No more mowing the lawn for me.

Another scorcher today, but I love it here.

July 10th:
The temperature hasn't been below 100 all week.

How do people get used to this kind of heat?

At least it's kind of windy though. But getting used to the heat is taking longer than I expected.

July 15th:
Fell asleep by the community pool.

Got 3rd degree burns over 60% of my body.

Missed 3 days of work.

What a dumb thing to do.

I learned my lesson though.

Got to respect the ol' sun in a climate like this.

July 25th:
The wind sucks.

It feels like a giant freaking blow dryer!!

And it's hot as hell.

The home air-conditioner is on the fritz and the AC repairman charged $200 just to drive by and tell me he needed to order parts.

July 30th:
Been sleeping outside on the patio for 3 nights now.

$225,000 house and I can't even go inside.

Why did I ever come here?

August 1st:
It's 105 degrees.

Finally got the air-conditioner fixed today.

It cost $500 and gets the temperature down to 85.

I hate this stupid state.

August 3rd:
If another wise guy cracks, 'Hot enough for you today?'

I'm going to strangle him...

By the time I get to work, the radiator is boiling over, my clothes are soaking wet, and I smell like shit!

August 5th:
Tried to run some errands after work. Wore shorts,

When I sat on the seats in the car, I thought my butt was on fire.

My skin melted to the seat.

I lost 2 layers of flesh and all the hair on the back of my legs and butt.

Now my car smells like burnt hair and fried butt.

Aug 6th:
The weather report might as well be a darn recording.

Hot and sunny...Hot and sunny...Hot and sunny...

And the weatherman says it might really warm up next week.

Doesn't it ever rain in this darn state?

Water rationing has been on the last six weeks.

My $1,700 worth of cactus might just dry up and blow over.

Even the cactus can't live in this heat.

August 8th:
Welcome to HELL!

Temperature got to 110 today. Cacti are dead.

Forgot to crack the window and blew the windshield out of the car.

The installer came to fix it and guess what he asked me???

"Hot enough for you today?"

August 10th
My sister had to spend $1,500 to bail me out of jail.

Freaking Texas...

What kind of a sick demented person would want to live here??

Will write later to let you know how the trial goes...
(I stole this from my cousin Mendy's blog)

Seriously, we are 59 days over 100 degrees for the year. We will break the record of the heat wave from 1980. I have never in my life seen it this hot and dry. Hopefully will not again.

A few weeks ago, we stood around watching the Space Station buzz overhead, a bright light zipping through the sky, I got intrigued and spent a considerable amount of time on Nasa's Website. By the way, it was fun to point it out to Jackson and be able to honestly say, "that's a rocket ship." To which he replied, "WOW MOM, a real rocket ship? That's cool!!!"

Photograph courtesy of: NASA JPL/Bill Patzert

Article from http://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2011/24jun_wildweather/

Author: Dauna Coulter | Editor: Dr. Tony Phillips | Credit: Science@NASA

Such sheets of fire, such bursts of horrid thunder,
Such groans of roaring wind and rain, I never
Remember to have heard; man's nature cannot carry
The affliction nor the fear … from Shakespeare's Tragedy of King Lear

La Niña is getting the blame for this spring's crazy weather, but it's really what one NASA scientist is calling "La Nada" — the disappearance of La Niña — that's the culprit.

The United Stateshas endured wild weather this year, including record snowfall, killer tornadoes and devastating floods. Broad patterns of air flow, including those fueled by La Niña — a band of cold water stretching across the Pacific Ocean — in the atmosphere can have a big influence on seasonal weather.

And while La Niña likely did have some influence in the winter, NASA climatologist Bill Patzert says that it's waning; instead, what he calls "La Nada," is really to blame for the intense weather we've seen in 2011.

"La Niña was strong in December," Patzert said. "But back in January it pulled a disappearing act and left us with nothing — La Nada — to constrain the jet stream. Like an unruly teenager, the jet stream took advantage of the newfound freedom, and the results were disastrous."

The jet stream is a high-speed air current that is essentially an atmospheric fence where cool, dry air meets up with warm, moist air — two of the main ingredients for severe storms.

La Niña and El Niño are opposite extremes of a great Pacific oscillation. Every two to seven years, surface waters across the equatorial Pacific warm up (El Niño) and then they cool down again (La Niña). Each condition has its own distinct effects on weather.

The winter of 2010 began with La Niña conditions taking hold. A "normal" La Niña would have pushed the jet stream northward, pushing cold arctic air (one of the ingredients of severe weather) away from the lower United States. But this La Niña petered out quickly, and no El Niño rose up to replace it. The jet stream was free to misbehave.

"By mid-January 2011, La Niña weakened rapidly and by mid-February it was 'adios La Niña,' allowing the jet stream to meander wildly around the U.S," Patzert said. "Consequently the weather pattern became dominated by strong outbreaks of frigid polar air, producing blizzards across the West, Upper Midwest, and northeast U.S."

Before tornado season, Patzert told OurAmazingPlanet that we should hope for a re-emergence of La Niña to bring about a mild tornado season. But the disappearance lingered into spring — and things got ugly.

Wild weather

Strong winds carrying warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico met cold jet stream winds blowing in from the west. The two air masses were stronger than usual this year, and when they mixed, they fueled the intense thunderstorms that spawned the tornadoes that have rocked the country.

"The jet stream — on steroids — acted as an atmospheric mix master, causing tornadoes to explode across Dixie and Tornado Alleys, and even into Massachusetts," Patzert said.

This year, a monstrous tornado hit Joplin, Mo., killing more than 150 people. That tornado was classified as an EF-5, the most intensely damaging on the Enhanced Fujita tornado damage scale. The Joplin tornado is the deadliest single twister to strike the United States since 1953.

This year's tornado season is now tied for the fifth deadliest on record. [Related: The Top 5 Deadliest Tornado Seasons.]

The historic tornado season has combined with devastating floods to look more like disasters from the early decades of last century. The last time any spring in the United States was remotely this severe was in 1927.

The massive snowpack melt, combined with a lot of rain this spring, caused waters to swell along the Missouri River and its tributaries. To relieve flooding pressure, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has said they may be forced to release water from reservoirs until mid-August.

Climate connection

All this because of a flaky La Niña?

"La Niña and El Niño affect the atmosphere's energy balance because they determine the location of warm water in the Pacific, and that in turn determines where huge clusters of tropical thunderstorms form," said Robert Schneider, of the Storm Prediction Center. "These storms are the main energy source from the tropics influencing the large scale pattern of the jet stream that flows through the U.S."

Schneider said that the very strong and active jet stream across the lower United States in April "may have been related to the weakening La Niña conditions observed over the tropical Pacific."

And of course, looking at an even broader picture, there's this million dollar question: Does any research point to climate change as a cause of this wild weather?

"Global warming is certainly happening," Patzert said, "but we can't discount global warming or blame it for the 2011 tornado season. We just don't know ... yet."

Now, what is La Nina you ask...(I told you, I am hot. I have spent alot of time figuring out why I am hot and when I will likely not be hot any more).

La Niña http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Ni%C3%B1a

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Jump to: navigation, search

Sea surface temperature anomalies in November 2007 showing La Niña conditions. Blue=temperature below average; red=temperature above average

La Niña is a coupled ocean-atmosphere phenomenon that is the counterpart of El Niño as part of the broader El Niño-Southern Oscillation climate pattern. During a period of La Niña, the sea surface temperature across the equatorial Eastern Central Pacific Ocean will be lower than normal by 3–5 °C. In the United States, an episode of La Niña is defined as a period of at least 5 months of La Niña conditions. The name La Niña originates from Spanish, meaning "the girl," analogous to El Niño meaning "the boy."

La Niña, sometimes informally called "anti-El Niño", is the opposite of El Niño, where the latter corresponds instead to a higher sea surface temperature by a deviation of at least 0.5 °C, and its effects are often the reverse of those of El Niño. El Niño is famous due to its potentially catastrophic impact on the weather along both the Chilean, Peruvian and Australian coasts, among others. La Niña is often preceded by a strong El Niño.

Effects

Regional impacts of La Niña

The results of La Niña are mostly the opposite of those of El Niño; for example, El Niño would cause a wet period in the Midwestern U.S., while La Niña would typically cause a dry period in that area. At the other side of the Pacific La Niña can cause heavy rains. For India, an El Niño is often a cause for concern because of its adverse impact on the south-west monsoon; this happened in 2009. A La Niña, on the other hand, is often beneficial for the monsoon, especially in the latter half. The La Niña that appeared in the Pacific in 2010 probably helped 2010's south-west monsoon end on a favourable note. But then, it also contributed to the deluge in Australia, which resulted in one of that country's worst natural disasters with large parts of Queensland either under water from floods of unusual proportions or being battered by tropical cyclones, including that of category 5 Tropical Cyclone Yasi. It wreaked similar havoc in south-eastern Brazil and played a part in the heavy rains and consequent flooding that have affected Sri Lanka.

Recent occurrences

There was a strong La Nina episode during 1988–1989. La Niña also formed in 1995, and in 1999–2000. A minor La Niña occurred 2000–2001. The La Niña which developed in mid 2007 and lasted until early 2009, was a moderate one. NOAA confirmed that a moderate La Niña developed in their November El Niño/Southern Oscillation Diagnostic Discussion, and that it would likely continue into 2008. According to NOAA, "Expected La Niña impacts during November – January include a continuation of above-average precipitation over Indonesia and below-average precipitation over the central equatorial Pacific. For the contiguous United States, potential impacts include above average precipitation in the Northern Rockies, Northern California, and in southern and eastern regions of the Pacific Northwest. Below-average precipitation is expected across the southern tier, particularly in the southwestern and southeastern states.^[1]

However, an El Niño returned in May–June 2009 and lasted until April 2010. The effects of El Niño in 2009 were already being seen in the fall of 2009 as the remnants of Tropical Storm Ida strengthened into a powerful coastal storm.^[2]^[3]

A new La Niña episode developed quite quickly in the eastern and central tropical Pacific in mid-2010,^[4] and lasted at least until early 2011.^[1] This La Niña, combined with record-high ocean temperatures in the north-eastern Indian Ocean, has been a large factor in the 2010–2011 Queensland floods,^[5] and the quartet of recent heavy snowstorms in North America starting with the December 2010 North American blizzard. The same La Nina event is also a likely cause of a series of tornadoes of above-average severity that struck the Midwestern and Northwestern United States in the spring of 2011, and is currently a major factor in the drought conditions persisting in the South Central states including Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas. ^[6]

"La Niña" events between 1950 and 2011.^[7]

2011-08-01T13:29:00.001-07:00

IT'S HOT. IT'S STINKIN' HOT. IT'S UNBELEIVABLY HOT. You can't spend any considerable time out doors unless there is water involved.

The drought in Texas continues and gets worse and worse. I pray for rain soon. The crop devastation is mind boggling. The cattle ranchers can't feed their stock, landscapes are dying, lakes are drying up. Nothing we can do, but pray for rain, alot of rain.

Here are some pictures of Lake Travis.

Boat ramp to no where

Ramp to no where

"Already, more than 2 million acres of cotton that are not being irrigated have been lost. That's adding $1.1 Billion to the estimated $1.5 billion loss agriculture officials announced in mid-May. That included livestock and wheat, corn and sorghum crop losses from November through May 1." The Washington Post, July 27th. Until you drive around and see it, you simply cannot imagine. Total wasteland.

http://www.brazos.org/Lake-Level-Slide-Showl-07-28-11.swf

2011-08-01T12:46:00.000-07:00

PARKS PALOOZA 2011

This past weekend, we had our 3rd Parks Palooza. This is a time for all of us Parks cousins to get together, hang-out, drink some beer, get caught up and basically just have fun. We don't see each other near enough, so this one weekend a year means alot to all of us.

Grandma and Grandpa Parks would be proud. Proud of all of our accomplishments, but mostly for sticking together and staying connected. Family was very important to them. Our parties are not as fancy, our tables not as pretty, but despite all that, they are grinning and looking down at us, even laughing at the not so refined moments.

Something dawned on me as we were talking and laughing about our Grandparents, none of the spouses (those lucky ones who managed to snag a Parks) never got to meet Grandpa - he was called home in March of 94. You have no idea what you missed and truly, stories do not capture that man. He was quiet, he smoked alot, he drank Screwdrivers and a tab bit ornery to tell you the truth. He spoke his mind, was of a serious nature and had the nick-name, "Old Iron Ass". I don't really know where this memory comes from as Grandpa retired long before I came into the Printing business, but a customer came in and complained about a set of business cards one day. Grandpa listened to the man, looked at the cards and quietly went over and shook them out into the trash can and started walking to the back of the shop with the box in hand. Customer, "Hey, what are you doing?" to which he replied over his shoulder, "I'm salvaging my box". Wished you could have known him - what a guy!

We were missing this year, Stacy, Charles, Cade and the newest Parks girl - Caelin. At just over a month old, too little to party like a Rock star, but we will have them next year. Also missing was Michael, who was in Chicago. I really did miss him as last year, I was just beginning to get to know this young man who has an incredible sense of humor that I somehow had missed all these years.

Music: - Donavon Frankenreiter - "Lovely Day"

I miss you all and all are welcome to come hang at the River House anytime!

2011-07-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

SAD, HAPPY, BLESSED - ALL ROLLED INTO ONE

I went to Lubbock this past weekend, originally to attend the wedding of my 3rd cousin, Lindsey. However, my weekend changed as I learned the news my parents neighbor Gary Luckie had died unexpectedly - thus my weekend started with a funeral Saturday morning. Gary was a wonderful man, always lending a hand, an ear, or a tool, whatever you may need. He had gone to the doctor and received an injection to which he had a bad reaction and they were unable to revive him. He leaves behind a wife, two sons and grandchildren who are most definitely wondering how to fill that giant hole in their lives. My parents had grown very close to Gary and his family, in fact, their youngest son, Derick, is a familiar site at their house; either raiding the refrigerator or following my dad around. The service was beautiful and captured Gary well. He was transported to the cemetery in the back of his old Dodge pick-up. The only thing missing was a checkered flag as Gary and his wife were huge Nascar fans. I did not know Gary as well as my parents, but even I can feel the loss.

Saturday evening was the wedding and was orchestrated to fit the bride and groom in their carefree spirits. It was a lovely ceremony and I hope they have as much fun in their marriage as they had at their wedding. At the wedding, I saw my two 2nd cousins, Steve and Mark, whom I haven't seen in probably 20 years. Mark and his wife Gretchen and daughter Erica, live in Delaware - soon to be vacation spot for us someday. Steve and his wife Terri, live in Colorado and will likely see us this winter when we hit the slopes. I had a great time catching up with the two of them and wished I could see them more often. We laughed and laughed through the entire evening.

Sunday - we all gathered again to surprise my uncle Charlie (Steve and Mark's dad) for his 80th birthday. Again, good food, good company, what else can I ask for.

Sunday was also my parents 46th wedding anniversary. I married late in life, and I married someone 12 years older than myself, so statistically speaking, we probably won't see that milestone, but it won't be from a lack of effort.

What I wasn't prepared for when I made that turn onto Highway 84 was the drought conditions in West Texas. Once you make that turn, normally this time of year is a sea of green. Healthy, robust cotton, soaking up the sun. This year - it brought tears to my eyes.

This is what you normally would see - as far as the eye can see.

This is what it looks like today. If you are a dry-land farmer (meaning you do not irrigate, just let Mother Nature do what she does) - your fields are bare. Nothing came up.
The only cotton that has come up is being irrigated and it is a month behind - meaning, it will not bloom and produce cotton early enough before the rain and first cold snap, shut down the season. Here's the awful part, in order for the farmers to collect insurance on the crop loss, they have to continue watering what they know will not be a fruitful harvest. I am keeping my fingers crossed, only God knows, that it may catch up and all my Uncle Kenny's efforts are rewarded. Makes me very sad to see these empty fields.
This stretch of land is also quickly becoming home to one of the largest wind farms in the US, but you should still see a carpet of green underneath them during this time of year. At night, driving through this region, all of them having flashing red lights and it looks like an Alien invasion.
With the bare dirt, I saw several Dirt Devils - for my yankee friends, those are little mini tornadoes that draw up dirt and sand. Kinda cool to look at.

You have to look closely for this one, but it was the biggest, I just couldn't get a good picture of it.

All in all, it was a good weekend. My boys went the other direction and were in Little Rock visiting Tony's side of the family. Jackson spent 8 days with Nana and Papa at the beginning of July, so it was time to share with his other side. I missed them, but they had a nice trip.

Jackson is also learning to wakeboard. We will have him up by the end of the summer. We do not push him, but let him take all new adventures at his own pace. He will try everything, but is methodical and careful in his adventures. That may change to the more kamikaze, just jump right in nature of his father, but for now, I like the slower pace.

And me and my boy, enjoying some beach time.

If it doesn't rain soon, we may orchestrate some crazy flash mob for a rain dance. Let me know if you are interested.

2011-07-05T12:39:00.000-07:00

BOB'S RETIREMENT PARTY

Tony's boss, Bob from Nuclear Logistics retired and Todd and Gayla hosted his retirement party at their River House. Gayla and Tony work together, in fact, we can thank Gayla for putting Tony's resume in front of Bob in the first place.

We can thank Bob for giving my husband the opportunity to work at NLI and for the support he has shown Tony since he started. He quickly promoted him to a Supervisor and has always been a thoughtful, considerate boss who will be missed.

His party was fun and ended with Terry McCarty singing acoustic out on the dock - that is until the rest of the River Rats showed up, then it just got loud.

Todd & Tony

Tony playing horseshoes

Gayla and her daughter Rayne

John Marshal
World's Greatest Action Shot! (Very proud of my photographic skills)

2011-07-05T11:33:00.000-07:00

SUMMER TIME, SUMMER TIME,

SUMMER TIME, SUMMER TIME

Hello and are you hot yet? Record heat this year and unfortunately, record drought. Over 75% of Texas is in "Exceptional drought" - the worst rating they can give. Lubbock has completely dried up and I don't know why it hasn't blown away yet. PRAY FOR RAIN!!!!!!! My uncle Kenny needs it.

We had Vacation Bible School last week - Pandamania and Jackson had a blast. It was long days for the munchkins (Daycare all day and VBS from 6:30 til 9:00 pm), but everyone had fun.

Poor Panda was mobbed every night.

On the last night, they were launching toys into the crowd and Jackson was fortunate enough to catch three toys! My sweet boy handed one to a classmate Leila who did not catch one. Then he saw his friend Maddox's little sister, Layla (yes, both named the same, spelled differently) who was crying because she didn't catch one and he gave another of his toys away. Very proud momma at that moment that he chose to give away his toys so the other girls would not cry.

And here it Mr. Graham perfecting his jumping on the sky-ski. I still have not attempted to jump again since the last time I landed on my head and gave myself a headache for two days. Maybe soon, or maybe not - who knows.

Yes, he landed this one and rode it out.

Oh, and last but not least - there is a new person on the planet. Caelin Roe Hall celebrated her birthday on July 3rd . 7 lbs, 9oz, 19.75" long. Parents - Stacy and Charles Hall are doing well and big Brother, Cade is ecstatic. Welcome to the world Caelin, can't wait to meet you!

2011-06-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

MEMORIAL DAY CAMPING TRIP TO

KIAMCHI WILDERNESS

We spent Memorial Day weekend up at our property in Oklahoma. Took our new Pop-up and camped for the weekend. IT WAS BRUTALLY HOT!!! Setting up camp almost did us in, but the AC in the camper works like a champ. We also found a great spot on the bluff underneath a walnut tree that provided shade, and it had a refreshing breeze that helped cool things off.

Tony decided that was a good time to start shooting his 9mm pistol. Which was fine, but Stella, who took off like a rabbit, would not come out from underneath the pick up for almost 4 hours. Fun gun to shoot though.

It is so beautiful up there, it takes my breath away each time we visit. This trip we hiked to the other end of our property, which we had not seen before and found that it too ended in another bluff. The good news, there was water down there!!!! Now, how do we get to it?

So, we hike back, sit in the camper and cool off again. Then, we set out again, but this time, I wanted to go down the bluff at the front of our property, which was also supposed to have some river/creek down there. Never did find it that way, but we did find a huge cave on our land. We did not have a flash light or the gun, or we would have gone in, but without protection, didn't want to invade whatever was living in there. You could walk up-right for a ways and then had to bend over, but it went on forever.

Hike back, cool off and then we all get in the truck in search of the river we found earlier. As we were driving along, we pass the volunteer Fire Department and there are 4-wheelers everywhere, lots of people. I thought maybe they were having their annual Fund raiser...until I say the arch with the wedding bow. Yes, that's right, it was an official Hill Billy wedd'in. Most of the guests indeed, showed up on 4 wheelers in tank tops and shorts, complete with hip holster to hold their pistol. Yes, most everyone was packin. I laughed and giggled, but on we went in search of the water.

Finally found the greatest swimming hole and splashed around a bit. Dogs had fun, Jackson had fun and Mom wished she had brought a bottle of shampoo (remember, we have no running water at camp).

On the way back, I tried to get pictures of the wedd'in without being too obvious. It was hysterical.

It was a very fun trip and I can't wait to go back once it cools off some. Bad thing, we came back with ticks and chiggers. Dogs were fine, they were treated, but I got eaten alive by the Chiggers. I have already purchased some sulfur and it is now in the camper. Won't make that mistake again. And ticks are gross!!!! Jackson also did not want to be looked over for Ticks.

Me: Jackson, I need to check your business to make sure there aren't any bugs down there.
J: No, Mom, that's private business!!!!
(when he's exasperated with me, it's a long, drawn out - MMMOOOOOOMMMMM. The rest of the time, he calls me Momma and sounds just like Elvis)

2011-06-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

BIG UGLY STORM

For the third time in my life, I had to take shelter from a Tornado on May the 24th. This one was the closest, although we sustained no damage.

Before it was due to hit our area, you could hear the tornado to the west - sounded like a HUGE jet, but I knew all planes were grounded.

The sky was a translucent weird green color and you could visibly see both layers of clouds, each moving in different directions.

I gathered up our "take shelter stuff": dog leashes, shoes for everyone, wallet with ID, cell phone. As the storm got closer, I stuck Jackson and the dogs in the bathroom with the Ipad (electronic babysitters come in handy occasionally) and Tony and I continued to watch the storm and the news. When the news caster said, "if you are looking for the funnel before you take shelter, it will be too late, TAKE SHELTER NOW!", I joined the dogs and Jackson in the bathroom. Tony followed suit shortly after (something he has never done). We sat in the bathroom and listened to the wind howl and hail pummel the house. It was scary and I am typically not scared by storms.

It passed before too long and Tony and I emerged to see what was happening now. The wind had stopped blowing - very calm. These are the pictures I took during that time. They do not do justice to the clouds. They were spooky.

Another storm blew through, more hail, but still no damage. Everyone finally emerged from the bathroom, which was good, the dogs don't like movies, or apples we found out, and everyone went to bed.

Another night in Texas weather.

2011-06-21T13:17:00.000-07:00

EASTER 2011

I have been terrible about uploading and updating Jackson's blog, but am trying to get caught up.

For Easter this year, we opted to stay at home and have a quiet weekend at home. Ok, well, maybe not quiet. We did so many fun and interesting things.

That Friday night, Daddy took us out for Sushi and yes, Jackson ate Sushi. The child will not eat a grilled cheese sandwich, but loved sashimi. Who knew?

Saturday, we went to the horse races out at Grand Prairie. I came out about even, Tony was down about $20.00, but it was dollar day and we had a fun time. Dollar Day, however, does mean that every toothless, weirdo showed up, so we had as much fun watching all the people (or what appeared to be people) as we did the horses. After the races, we went to Trader's Village- a giant flea market and only came home with one giant, metal sunflower to adorn the River House porch.

Sunday we went to Church. We opted for the later service instead of the sunrise, lake-side service so Jackson could hunt Easter eggs. The Easter Bunny to hid them in the house again because of the weather (and the dogs), so he spent all of about 5 minutes looking for them, found one with Jelly Beans and that was it. Didn't want to look anymore.

When we got to church, Jackson was dropped off in the Kid Zone and Tony and I were walking to the main building and found out the Main Building had no electricity, so lakeside service it was. We do to a huge church, Fellowship in Grapevine, http://www.fellowshipchurch.com, so the fact that they had to accommodate close to 1,500 people outside, was something they were not prepared for, but were diligently finding and moving chairs outside. Tony did not wear his sunglasses, so he had to spend most of the service with one eye closed. However, it was a nice service under the circumstances.

After church, we went to LaMadeline for lunch, a place Tony had never been. He was worried he was going to get a teeny finger sandwich for lunch, but was pleased when it arrived.

After Church, we hid Easter eggs for the babies next door and had a nice afternoon just doing nothing really.

Jackson has been chattering a lot about Jesus lately. He thinks that before he was born, he lived with Jesus and that Jesus gave him to Me and his dad, which is true for those of us who are believers. He tells lots of stories about his time with Jesus and how Jesus lives in his heart and is always with him. He got mad at me once and loudly exclaimed he was going back to Jesus.

I am not sure if he realizes the true meaning of Easter yet. Still a bit young to understand the entire story, but we are making efforts to make sure at some point he understands it's truly not about rabbits and chocolate, but about our eternal salvation and forgiveness of our sins.

Jackson watching a movie with Lorax

2011-06-21T13:14:00.001-07:00

Jackson's First Year of Pre-K is over!

2011-04-27T15:38:00.000-07:00

And he is bi-lingual...

Jackson told some inanimate object to shut-up.

Me: Oh no, we don't say shut-up, that's a bad word.

J: It's ok Mom, shut-up is spanish for "be quiet"

Alrighty then.

2011-03-24T11:08:00.001-07:00

WHAT A GLORIOUS DAY!

My sweet boy, you are so talented and so funny. I have enjoyed almost every moment of your life. Almost? you ask? Yes, not all have been noteworthy.

However, for a solid week now, you have been wiping your own bottom after a Poo. Took lots of convincing and encouragement that you could do it and your underwears would not get dirty. HOORAY!!!

As I said, your are the light of my life, but I gotta tell you, that particular chore, not my favorite, so it is with great pleasure I hand over the toilet paper wand.

Mommy is very proud!

(hee-hee, one day if and when he ever reads his books that I have printed of his blog - HE WILL KILL ME!)

2011-03-05T19:14:00.000-08:00

PERSONAL BEST!!!

I am not by nature, a "saver". I don't have a fixed budget I religiously stick to. I don't squirrel away a certain amount every week/month for savings, rainy day etc (that's why I married Tony, he's really good at that). However, as the person in the household that pays the bills and buys the groceries and keeps the wheel greased that is the Graham household, the amount we spend on "living" occasionally freaks me out. Groceries is a big freak out. I spend on average $150.00 a week to feed 3 people and 1 cat. I don't include the dogs as Tony buys their food, so not in my spend. I buy store brand, I look at labels, I don't clip coupons on a regular basis.

However, I keep reading about these women who feed HUGE families for $50.00 a week. How do they do it and do it without feeding their families platefuls of crap. You can eat cheap if you forgo health - I am not willing to do that. So, I spent an hour on the computer prior to shopping and printed out coupons on things we use on a regular basis and saved my family 32% off our grocery bill.

What did I learn? Your savings are not going to come off food for the most part, but on household stuff: toilet paper, paper towels, laundry goods etc.

Where are the other big savers: Snacks! Coupons all over the place.

In all my reading and from today's little exercise, you have to pay attention to what your store has on sale and what you can find coupons for. In doing that, I came home with two FREE boxes of Puff's Kleenex, 1 FREE box of Honey Nut Cheerios (with another 1/2 off) and two FREE boxes of Granola Bars.

Couple of sites I found helpful in finding my savings:
http://www.thegrocerygame.com
http://shortcuts.com
https://www.pgesaver.com
http://www.redplum.com

Many of these lets you link to your shopping card for automatic discounts, but if they also offer a printable coupon - PRINT IT, you get twice the savings! The Grocery Game site actually will tell you what items are on sale at the store which also have a manufacturing coupon to pair it up with for huge savings (and where to find the coupon). You really need to get the Sunday Paper with coupons to make the best of this (something I don't do now, but intend to start - this site makes it too easy)

Hoping to make this a habit, but right now, just wallowing in sense of satisfaction and personal victory.

Tomorrow, I will worry about if I bought anything to eat.

Ok - I actually had to amend this post after I lovingly perused my receipt again.
Bounty Papertowels - I paid $-.61 (yes, that's a negative, they paid me to take them out of the store)
Charmin Ultra Soft - 12 roll = $.73
Chex Mix (I bought 4 of them) = $-.19 ea (again, negative. Does that also mean negative calories?)
the box of Cheerios I thought was half was really $.17

I may sleep with the receipt.

2011-02-22T18:31:00.001-08:00

CHORES - YUCK, PHOOEY, ICK

Yes, Jackson now has a list of chores he has to do every day. Completion of task gets a green sticker. Arguing or having to be asked three or more times, gets a red sticker. All greens in one day is special treat the next day. I have no idea what an entire week of green's would be. Could be Disney Land! We'll see if we ever hit that mark.

List of Chores:
Happy Attitude - no grumpy boys, control your temper, be nice
School - if you get a green at school, you get a green at home in this category
Socks - put your socks in the dirty clothes
Toys - pick up toys from the living room and Mom's room
Bath - take one without arguing
Bedtime Business (a whole category)
Babies/Water - gather up all your babies (Wocket, Sneech and Lorax) and get your drink
Kiss your Daddy - self explanatory
Potty - go potty before bed. Getting out of bed after story time and kisses is an automatic red.

And here is Jackson explaining his chores to me so I know he understands them.

2011-02-22T13:59:00.000-08:00

5 SECONDS OF FAME!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZO6sNwRDWc

I am an iron head at heart. What is an iron head you ask? Someone who spends alot of time with loud, noisy, pieces of iron that spits out thousands of sheets of paper and actually thinks it's cool.

I like to see the history of my industry continued in it's finest art form. Computers have taken away that personal touch, that artistry that my grandfather gave every piece he delivered.

2011-02-09T13:21:00.000-08:00

5TH SNOW DAY IN A WEEK!

We are back home for the 5th snow day in a week. Fortunately, I am able to work from home, so I don't get behind in work and Jackson has fun playing in the snow and with the dogs. Here are some of our creative pieces of art during the last week.

Gary the snail

Silly Stella

And yes, we threw snowballs at our kid.

Incoming! (Look for the red arrows, they will point out the snowballs)

Cuddling with some buddies
Jackson and his dogs. He says he has to lay with them because the keep him warm. Its 16 degrees outside today.

So, what have I learned? A four year old can say Mom ALOT!

2011-02-05T18:36:00.000-08:00

TRIBUTE TO MY GRANDPARENTS

I was driving home one afternoon and heard the song "In Living Color" and all I could think about was my Grandpa Schoppa. As the words of the song flowed out of my speakers, snapshots of old pictures of my grandparents were flying through my head.

I was very very blessed with two spectacular sets of grandparents. Completely different, but each had a profound impact on my life. My Grandma Schoppa taught me to sew and to cook and to be patient. She was a cuddler and was my "safe spot" when the world was too close. Being the wife of a farmer is not an easy life, often taking its toll on a lady's appearance, but she was always put together and lovely. My Grandpa Schoppa was a quiet man who taught me to two-step. He had perfect teeth and was an incredibly handsome man. Very soft spoken and allowed me go on every tractor ride I wanted, regardless of how slow it made his progress in the fields. Taught me to drive at 8 years old (not because it was the cool Grandpa thing to do, but needed my help hauling irrigation pipe).

Recently, someone asked me how I knew what I wanted to do when I declared my major in college. My answer, "I wanted to dress up everyday and go to an office like my Grandma Parks", thus my career in print sales. http://tony-shellygraham.blogspot.com/2008/08/mary-cue-agnew-parks-november-28-1922.html She was a beautiful lady who loved pretty clothes and the finer things in life. She taught me how to eat at a formally set table and reminded us grand kids frequently on our manners. With that being said, she also had an infectious giggle. My Grandpa Parks was a serious man who would tell you exactly what was on his mind and didn't take shit off anyone. His nickname, "Old Ironass". However, that tough exterior came crumbling down when it came to his wife. The love that passed between those two was almost tangible.

All of my grandparents have passed on. My Grandpa Parks died in the spring of 94 and my Grandparents' Schoppa died 4 days apart in the fall of 94 of unrelated incidences. What a terrible year, but time has healed those wounds and now fond memories and laughter fill my head when I think of these 4 people.

Enjoy!

2011-02-05T18:33:00.000-08:00

BURP!!

A small but audible burp escaped from Jackson to which he replied:

"Scuse Me!" Mom, I burped, but I said scuse me so I am still delightful"

2011-01-30T15:04:00.000-08:00

LAKE TAHOE 2011

We just returned from a fabulous 7 day trip to Lake Tahoe. It is truly a beautiful place and the people were fantastic and very welcoming to their community. The Lift attendants were all very helpful and would slow down the lifts if we needed to load or unload Jackson. Very unlike Ruidosa where I grew up and learned to ski. If you fell getting off the lift, they made no attempt to stop it, just let it bang you in the back of the head and drag you out of the way with the first piece of clothing they could grab. Very undignified and this was before folks started wearing helmets.

So, glad Jackson's first two experiences (Utah last year http://tony-shellygraham.blogspot.com/2010_02_01_archive.html) were positive and enriching. I even wore a helmet with him, (can't exactly enforce a rule I won't do myself) and actually liked it. Kept my head warm without all the itching hats generally cause us girls with long hair. Now, if they would only put a pony tail hole up high on the helmet, I would be happy (all those ponytail holes in hats that are way down low, what's the point, it still makes my neck itch and hot. We like high ponytails people).

The trees at Lake Tahoe were weird. I have never seen evergreens grow like these did. One variety grew straight up, not out like a Christmas tree and several would grow a branch outwards, like normal, and then it would sprout up like a whole new tree. (Double click on the images, it will enlarge them for better viewing)

We had a great time, but Tony and I didn't get to ski a single run together, except for the runs with Jackson down the green slope. There was only one on the side of the mountain where we were, so we stayed there most of the week. On Friday afternoon, I took him on the Gondola (complete whipping for Mom hauling kid, skis etc), but he liked the ride and there was a different green slope for him to ski on which he really enjoyed.

Last day, the wind started blowing hard and cold, but the rest of the week couldn't have been more beautiful. In fact, my sexy new ski coat (no pictures, the ones in the video is my old one) was too hot. Ended up wearing a short sleeve T-shirt underneath it and didn't even have it zipped most of the time. The warm weather wasn't that great on the snow, but Heavenly Resort did a superb job in grooming the trails at night to keep them from turning to ice. They have not had a single flake of snow since December, so it could have been worse.

One of the strange things about Heavenly, I have never, in all of my life, on all of the mountains I have skied, seen so many people hauled out by medics. 4 and 5 a day, on the stretcher. I finally asked one of the instructors what the deal was and he claimed it was the condition of the snow being hard packed powder and some ice. It was not Utah conditions, by any stretch, but it really wasn't that bad. I guess people were just going too fast and losing control. I know alot of the injured were snow boarders and while they wore helmets, they are very prone to concussions due to how they fall (either face forward or backwards on their butukis).

So here's the video - enjoy and stay tuned for next year's location. We are always looking for ski buddies to go with us so we can ski at least one run together, so let us know if you are interested.

2011-01-09T12:28:00.000-08:00

HAPPY 4TH BIRTHDAY JACKSON!

I cannot believe you are 4. As I am typing this, four years ago, you were just brought into this world and were whimpering like a puppy. Your dad and I just sang a rather obnoxious version of Happy Birthday to you which made you grin.

We had your birthday party yesterday complete with a magician and friends from school It was a great party and everyone had a great time. You were more excited about your friends coming over to play than you were about anything.

I hired a magician for your party and he did a really great job. Kept everybody thoroughly entertained and had some really cute assistants.

I wonder why your performances up until this point in your life, you look utterly bored.

Now you are kinda smiling!

Rylee looks utterly horrified by this trick. Her expression was priceless!

And the show ended with the world's cutest fuzzy rabbit!

We sang Happy Birthday and you blew out your candles like a pro!

After we had cake, we opened presents and let me tell, MASS CHAOS! I tried to take pictures, but found myself trapped in a circle of frenzied four year olds, all giggling and laughing and tearing into presents. I had to encourage you to put down the present you just opened so you could open another. You wanted to play with each one right away. And, your exclamations of "OH WOW! LOOK MOM A SUPER HERO!" or whatever the present was, was great.

Jimmy with your SWAT team helmet on

And last but certainly not least, Todd and Grandma Geela gave you a drum set. It is LOUD! Not exactly sure where we are going to put it, or how often you are going to get to play with it, but Mom is trying not to be that parent that doesn't let you play with your toys because they are nerve-wrackingly LOUD! She needs lots more practice with that!

2011-01-09T11:47:00.001-08:00

CHRISTMAS 2010

Merry belated Christmas! This year was an Arkansas year and was tremendously better than last year: if you remember, we got snowed in at home, while Jackson was in Lubbock already. Christmas without my kiddo was no fun!

Tony's mom is doing great. Health seems good and she is still sharp as ever. His father was in a nursing home over Christmas recuperating fro aspiration pneumonia. He has Alzheimer's and that terrible disease is progressing rather fast. Since Christmas, he has received Hospice orders from his doctor and they have set up care for him at home. Hopefully he will be more comfortable in a familiar surroundings.

We got to see our nephew Drew who was on leave from the Navy. He is really enjoying it and seems to be a good fit for him.

Seeing Santa stuff for the first time!

Santa brought Spongebob socks!

What's in my stocking?

Opening a??????

What in the world? A fuzzy glove?

It's Tickle gloves to go with the new Tickle Monster book!

Playing with Dad and new toys

Santa also brought a basketball goal, a T-ball set, a Wocket for your Pocket and book to go along with that fuzzy creature, a King on a horse, a smart cycle video game, some transformers, some tractors and lots of other fun stuff.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

2010-12-22T09:11:00.001-08:00

2010 Bedford Baptist Temple Christmas Program

Jackson had his performing debut on the 14th with the Christmas program at school. Nana and Papa came into town for the show, Dana and Richard and even cousin Leigh Anne came to witness the grand performance. It was a truly cute show even though I am not sure Jackson actually sang as much as he just mouthed the words. And he had been practicing at home. Feliz Navidad was Feliz BadeeBa, but the night of the show, he had it down pat.

Could he look more bored?

Hands in pockets - just like his daddy

Now this is kinda long, but I edited out the narration, just the kids singing.

2010-12-17T15:06:00.001-08:00

THANKSGIVING 2010

We went to Lubbock this year for Thanksgiving and rolled in at 1:30 am. Tony's throat hurt so bad by the time we got there, he couldn't talk. He felt terrible. Good news is, by the next morning, much improvement and he continued to get better through the weekend. We had a great time and Nana & Papa's and even celebrated Tony's birthday with a cake covered in candles. It's been a a while since he actually blew out candles since he doesn't eat cake, it's not a tradition I have insisted upon, but his son certainly enjoyed shining the spot light on his daddy.

What? You haven't learned by now that I often throw in random shots of my dogs?

Colby - my cousin Nancy's baby - he is so stinkin cute - even when he's mad.

Me delivering Tony his birthday cake and trying not to melt my mascara

Tony blowing out his candles

Waiting patiently for a slice of his daddy's birthday cake

An old halloween picture I found in the camera

Kayden and Jackson - Kayden is Colby's older brother. Those two had a great time playing together.

Nana and I took Jackson to the Ranching Heritage center on the Friday after Thanksgiving. He liked the cows and seeing where the cowboys lived.

A cowboy lives here, but he wasn't home that day because he had to take his cows to where there was green grass. At least that's what I told Jackson. On the way home, we passed a field with winter wheat that was a beautiful green and a gleeful voice from the back, "that's where the cowboys are Mom!"

Nana and Jackson looking at the old school house.

Jackon enjoying his Christmas train

It is Christmas yet?

My sweet, sweet boy! So good natured, always willing to share, always ready to kiss your mom and tell her that you love her. I love you very much!

2010-12-17T14:45:00.001-08:00

End of Season Fun!!!

You know that commercial where the subjects of photographs are grappling for position so they can be let out of the camera? I had some of those. So, in order to catch up 2010, here are some pictures from the late summer season on the river.

We spent a day on our friend's boat, Marion and Jenn. Jackson got to tube for the first time and Tony got to skurf. I just sat in the boat that day as I didn't have my mojo.

Jackson's first tubing experience. He is hanging on for dear life and she is examining her fingernails. Priceless!

Mackenzie and Jackson - she is there for moral support on his first tubing expedition.
Marion and Jenn like to skurf, which is surfing right behind the boat.

At some point this summer was the annual Texas Fly-In, where a bunch of sky-skiiers gather up and play on the water and talk non-stop about sky-skiing. It's fun and all, but that gathering gets bit star-trekky. I just don't have three days worth of stuff to say about sky-skiing.

Now, if you are wondering how some folks get HUGE air behind the boat, they load it down with 200 people.
This guy is not Santa in the summer. His name is Mike Murphy and according to legend, he invented water sports. Seriously, his name is on my Sky Ski, so he has definately had a hand in creating some of the toys we all play with on the water: knee-board, sky-ski, and some others.
Heather showing off
Todd and Tony looking cute
And, I don't know who the rider was, but he was awesome. Did some fantastic tricks.
Is he flipping me off? I don't think so, but it's hard to tell.

And I leave you with a cute shot of my kid.

2010-11-17T07:45:00.000-08:00

Sponge Bob Halloween

Jackson was Sponge Bob for Halloween this year as this is one of his favorite "movies" (everything on TV is a movie, not a show). He really got into it this year and insisted on doing everything himself. "I do it Mom, I'm gonna ring the bell". Sometimes he just stood on the doorbell and I had to explain one ring was enough.

As usual, he was the cutest kid on the block. He didn't like the super scary houses though. One neighbor said, "hey Sponge Bob, you look great!" Jackson replied, "I'm not really Sponge Bob, I'm Jackson Graham."

We trick or treated for almost 2 hours in our neighborhood. Sent Dad home after about an hour to hand out candy at our house. Towards the end Jackson said he was tired and ready to go home. So we trick or treated Daddy - rang the bell and all.

Have tons of candy that we dole out one at a time for good behavior. One evening, he offered to share half of his KitKat with his dad, so he got to choose a second piece for being such a good sharer. Seriously, what kid offers to share his beloved candy all the time with his parents. I have the greatest kid in the world.

And I leave you with a beautiful double rainbow we saw one Sunday afternoon.

2010-11-16T17:43:00.000-08:00

Breast Cancer 3-day 2010

I did it! I walked in the Susan G Komen 3-Day for my third year. I had a new team, but kept the team name Rack Starz. My honorary team members, Mendy and Stacy sat this year out. Mendy is about 22 months pregnant (yes, I know I gave her the gestation of an elephant, but that poor girl has the biggest belly I have ever seen) and Stacy has to stay close awaiting the eminent arrival of Jaxon Bentley Blevins. Any day now - I will keep you posted.

This year was exciting as I walked with all newbies. Stephanie, my friend who battled breast cancer last summer - A-type organzied very well put together, competitive and high spirited, her sister Rhonda - the world's best fund raiser (more on this later) and the only one to cross the finish line without a blister - COMPETITIVE, low-key, quiet and conversational all at once, shares my taste in music. I wouldn't exactly fit her into the A-type model, but she likes timeliness and organization, likes to have plan at hand. And my cousin Leigh Anne - one of the funniest peeps I know, who also laughs at all my own jokes, so of course, I am going to keep her around. It was great to see them experience the event for the first time. It is truly an amazing sight to see all those people come together for a common cause.

Team Rack Starz - with one adoption we picked up along the way, and a fifth member who joined our team, but did not participate in our team at all, this was one of two times I saw her at all during the entire weekend.

Day One proved to be the hardest as we walked on uneven side-walks that made my usual blisters show up a day early. Gigantatoe made her third appearance and will likely loose that toe-nail as it was loose on the walk, but it's still hanging in there. (kinda like a badge of courage to loose a toe-nail. Afterall, some of these women I walk with have lost a breast(s), I can certainly sacrifice a toe-nail or two). When we got to camp and I pulled off the shoes, my right heel had a ginormous blood blister. That heel always gets a blister, but usually not until day two. There were some volunteers helping set up tents and one of them asked me in this horrified voice: "are you ok?" He was freaked by my foot.

World's Grossest Blister - the Medical tent personel was even impressed with this one.

Day Two was Hard. Hard to get going, hard to keep going, just plain hard. It was really cold at night and while I stayed warm and cozy in my sleeping bag, getting out of it and into the cold to walk and walk and walk is not an easy task. I learned last year to sleep in the clothes I am going to wear the next day so I don't have to change in the cold in the morning. So cold in fact, Leigh Anne and I had forgotten to brush teeth before we went to bed and wasn't going to walk the 100 yards to the bathroom facilities, so we brushed at the tent and rinsed out with Diet Coke. Decided the bubbles helped clean our teeth.

As the afternoon wore on, talking stopped, heads drooped and everyone just kinda turned in on themselves and found that strength, endurance, and small amount of insanity to continue to put one foot in front of the other. We all made it to camp. My knees at this point are screaming mad! So I went to Medical to get them taped up and was introduced to Kinesio tape. Miracle tape my friends, read up on it. It does wonders. Not sure what it's made of, spit, tree sap, and a pinch of dragon snot, but it works and works very well.

The sisters - Stephanie and Rhonda

Day Three - cheering sections were amazing, miles and miles of well wishers with dogs and babies and candy and Popsicles. It was greatness and kept us all in good spirits and walking, walking and walking. I, of course, have been popping Ibuprofen like M&M's again along with Fire in a bottle. However, the high dosage of ibuprofen was certainly masking the toll I was taking on my knees (more on this later).

The greatest part of the day, was walking arm and arm into closing with my three, brand new team members and watching them complete their first 3-Day. They all did an amazing job and are three of the strongest, competitive, and funniest women I know. All three days, we did alot of laughing as usual. Even when we were hurting, always found something to laugh about. As is ceremony, the survivors are separated from the rest of us to walk into closing ceremony last, in a sea of pink. When I told Stephanie it was time for her to join the elite, the confusion that crossed her face was bitter sweet. She did not want to separate from the rest of us, but wanted to honor that battle she had waged against this disease. With hugs and kisses, she finally went, but I think with an itty bitty tear in her eye.

Stephanie in the honorary line of survivors

Rhonda, was up for the top fund-raiser for the entire Dallas 3-Day. She officially did not win, but I am not sure it was a level playing field and in my book, she won hands down. She raised over $17,000 by pure determination and grit. The 3-Day did give her a lovely sterling silver bracelet which she as able to give to her sister the survivor. I have had alot of conflicting feelings over how the whole top fund raiser was handled and at the end of the day, it all goes to the same great cause. However, it was disappointing to know Rhonda had the top dollar amount at the deadline and they let some sandbagger sneak in with another donation 5 minutes after the deadline. But happy, happy, cheery, cheery, it all goes to the cause. With Rhonda's help, Team Rack Starz

raised over $27,000 this year. In it's 4 years, that brings our total to over $50,000. That's just plain crazy.

Tony and Jackson met me at closing and we got home and I took a bath and went to bed. I awoke the next day with knees very swollen and so sore, I could not walk. I staying in bed with knees elevated and on ice. They were a mess. It has now been over a week since the walk, and I can still hear them talking. Just murmuring at this point, not screeching like they were before. Leigh Anne's husband Damon was with my boys and we gave them a ride to their car. I think he was shocked at our condition. He even murmured, "I am not sure if I could do that if you two are beat to hell like this" - and he is a manly man - never admitting defeat. LeighAnne did discover however, that most of her blisters were probably caused by her allergy to athletic tape that was covering 90% of her feet. I reminded her of the excellent cure for weeping blisters, tie a panty liner to your boo-boo. Works like a charm!

Panty liner band-aid for a terrible case of poison ivy

Not sure exactly why the knees did not fair too well this year. I blame it on the side-walks from day one. The fact that I didn't train a step in preparation, didn't have anything to do with it all. If I were not so stubborn, I could have swept mileage in one of the sweep vans, but you know me, have to walk every step.

My feet and legs at closing ceremonies

So, will I do it again. I think I taking a break. My wonderful supporters who helped me raise the money deserve a break - I have been begging for money three years now. My team members have already decided they are walking next year, so I will be their official "Walker Stalker" and be at every pit stop to take extra clothes, give kisses, wrap up body parts with that amazing Kinesio tape. I told my team members, I would make a flip chart on how to wrap certain ailments. I didn't need to know why it worked, just what it looked like. I got a raised eyebrow from Rhonda on that one who was a trainer in high school.

Our Walker Stalkers this year were Steph and Rhonda's mom and Steph's best friend Jimi. I cannot conjure the words or phrases to say how important they were to us on this walk. They were at every pit stop, every lunch, with lattes, homemade cookies, trail mixes, and my fav - mommy kisses from Mom.

So, keep up those mammograms, Husbands - grope your wife, it could save her life.

2010-11-16T17:38:00.000-08:00

State Fair 2010!

Yes, Tony finally relented and let me take Jackson to the State Fair in October. (I am very behind in my posts) The last time he went was way Pre-Shelly and he and his guests were caught in the cross fire of a gang shoot out. Nobody was injured, but having to hit the deck is certainly not something he wanted to repeat.

However, I had to go during the week and during the day. No night time. He even took 1/2 a day off and joined us. My friend Colbie and her little girl Rylee was with us too. Jackson and Rylee are very good friends. In fact, Jackson calls her his "favorite, favorite girl friend".

Tony and the kids on one of the rides. Tony sure looked cute with a little girl on his arm - not enough for us to try and have one of our own. We will just borrow Rylee

I think the kids had fun, but I think I could have bought Jackson a bag of cotton candy and thrown him in the back yard and he would have had just as much fun.

Colbie and Rylee on the world's fastest carousel

Jackson wasn't too sure of this whole thing

He was giving me instructions on where to stand and how to hold on etc.

So - do we have an annual family tradition? Wait and see!

And something for your funny bone!

2010-08-31T11:04:00.000-07:00

I HAVE FOUND MY LIMIT!

I am not a queasy person. Stuff generally doesn't gross me out, unless I am pregnant and have that super nose thing where I can smell everything. I tried to get Tony to let me change the door knobs in the river house because they smelled like onions - he told me, "no, go wash your hands". Buzz kill - but I digress.

Love Trauma in the ER, watch most medical procedures performed on me - shots, blood draws, the crazy digging around in my arm to remove the expired birth control alien stick - it just doesn't phase me.

Until....

my child, very nonchalantly walked up and had a GIANT piece of wood embedded in his foot. He wasn't crying, just said look mom. Trying not to freak - so as not to freak out said child, "Dad, this one is yours" as I am now gripping the edge of our friend's pool and holding my breath. Tony whisked him away for some minor stump removal and I try to resume breathing. My friend Heather laughs, "I have never seen you freaked out before!" I replied, "I don't do embedments. Tony gets crap jammed up under his finger nails all the time and it's all I can do not to vomit on his hand. Am I breathing again?"

Tony did a superb job in removing the tree from that delicate little foot and Jackson hardly cried. He is such a good boy.

So, now you know my weakness. Want to freak me out? Jab something under your skin.

2010-08-25T13:31:00.000-07:00

NOSE CANDY

ok - so Saturday evening, we return home from watching the football game at a friend's house and Jackson tells me his nose hurts. He has asked for a tissue several times that afternoon and I just thought "allergy season has already started". I replied to his comment, "noses don't hurt, why does your nose hurt?" I barely got the question out and whirled around, "did you put something in your nose?" A barely perceptible nod, "yes". "What?", I ask. "Dirt", replies the boy. Loud exhale, "Tony can you please get me a flash light - your child has put dirt in his nose."

So, we lay him down and I peer up this tiny nostril and low and behold - a rock. Another loud exhale. "Can you get me some tweezers, there's a rock up there?" Jackson is now crying, it's late, closing in on midnight. So, Tony and both attempt to retrieve said rock from the child's nose, who is now screaming at the top of his lungs and wiggling like his life depends on it. We alternate between trying to hold him while the other tries to get a hold of the stupid rock and concede defeat. Can't get the stupid thing and fear we are just pushing it farther into the nasal canal since Jackson has not stopped screaming or wiggling.

I call my mom at 12:30 at night to see if this is an emergency room visit or can it wait till Urgent Care is open in the morning. She hates the phone ringing late - it's never good news, so my first utterance, "it's not an emergency....but your grandson has stuck a rock up his nose, do we need to go to the ER?"

We talk it over and decide that a $100.00 co-pay is worth the peace of mind than worrying all night if it's going to dislodge and Jackson choke on it, or aspirate it into his lungs. So, I go get the boy out of his bed, "Now we have to go to the hospital because he stuck a rock in your nose!"

"I don't want to go to the hospital!!!!" wailing....

All the way there, "I don't want to go to the hospital Mom. My nose is ok!" "No, son, it's not ok, you can't stick things in your nose or your ears or we have to come to the hospital".

We get there, get settled in our room in a very narrow bed and find Penquins on the cartoon channel. Jackson tells me he likes this bed because he can watch TV. I told him he better not get too attached to that bed.

Doctor comes in - sees the nose rock and goes and retrieves the official nose rock puller. Which I don't really know what it was, but a super thin thing he stuck up the nose that must have had some kind of jaws on the other end. To keep Jackson from flailing about and turning into super strength toddler like he was for me and his dad, they wrapped in him a blanket to restrain him. The doctor told him he made a cute burrito to which he replied, "I am not a burrito, I am a schwamwhich (Jackson lingo for sandwich)."

It was quite the rock - much larger than I was expecting. I asked the ER doc if this was indeed an ER visit, on the rare chance he dared do it again and the answer is/was yes. The longer the foreign object stays in the nasal cavity, the more trauma to the tissue and the more invasive they may have to be to get it out. Once the rock was removed, his nasal passage swelled shut.

All is well now, he does have to take a really gross antibiotic for 10 days because of the abrasions in is nose. He tells me every day when I try and give it to him, "mom, I don't need medicine, I am not sick." "I know, but this is the consequence of putting things in your nose, you have to take really gross medicine."

On the way out of the ER, he saw a lady lying in another room and asked me what was the matter with her. "She is sick honey." "I'm not sick, I just stuck a rock up my nose" was his reply rather loudly and got the entire nurses station chuckling. Glad someone thought it was funny.

Next day, I said to Jackson, "you owe me a hundred dollars".

J: "I don't have dollars mom"

Me: "Then you need to get a job""

J: "School is my job mom" and off he struts, not a care in the world.

2010-08-02T19:54:00.001-07:00

Parks Palooza 2010

This past weekend was the 2nd annual Parks Palooza. It is a weekend for all of us cousins on the Parks' side to get together, hang-out and laugh till our faces hurt. No grown-ups, just us kids.

And what a motley crew!
1. A nurse
2. A printing Sales rep
3. A computer geek
4. A State Employee (sorry Mindy, I can't for the life of me think of what you do for the state)
5. A Child Protection Officer
6. A teacher
7. An Ivy League Student studing Forest and Environmental Stewardship

Holly said to me this weekend, "we aren't broke, we aren't ugly and we arent stupid, so we got that going for us?" And as funny as it was, we are a blessed group and have many, many things to be thankful for. We are all college graduates with shout-outs to: Texas Tech University, University of Texas, Baylor University, University of Louisiana, Washington University, Yale University. (Dear God! Can you imagine what we are worth in respect to tuition? Thanks again Parents, we really do appreciate it!)

For the most part, our Grandparents would be proud. Grandma, I know we had labels on the table and we used paper plates, but we were also drinking straight from the can/bottle so real dishes wouldn't have fit in. We talked alot about our Grandparents and the impact they have on our lives. We looked at their stuff that we all now have in our homes. We looked at old pictures, and we drank ALOT OF BEER!

First part of the day, we rented two pontoon boats and floated on lake Travis. The second part of the day, we gathered at Danny & Sally's beautiful home and had hamburgers and watched the kids play on a slip and slide.

The personalities of our group run the spectrum and yet we still all get along and seem to mesh very well. This weekend was one of the first opportunities for me to spend with my cousin Michael. He is a Fulbright Grant recipient and has spent many many months in Mongolia and is heading to Yale in the fall to get his master's. Before this weekend, when I thought of Michael, what popped into my head was a shy, cute, high school kid who didn't talk alot, but always was part of the group. Who I spend time with this weekend is this super cool 26 year old kid who has traveled more than I, well spoken, well educated and FUNNYYYYY! It was a blast to replace that image in my head and can't wait till Tony and I can go hang with the college kids at Yale.

Mindy is expecting baby Jaxson in November so she had to take it easy - although she didnt as she wrenched her back trying to get Mackenzie in the boat. She put on her game face and tried to have a good time, but I have spent enough time with Mindy in painful situations (she is my Breast Cancer 3-day buddy), that I know she was really hurting. And being pregnant, there wasn't anything I could do for her. Sorry Mindy, I hope you are better now.

So, here's the gang!

Now this is a little bit backwards, but before we went to Parks Palooza, the Graham Family spent the day at Sea World. Still has magical to me today as it was when I was a teen-ager. In fact, after my first visit way back when, I was going to be a Marine Biologist so I could swim with Shamu, but then I took Marine Biology in High School and decided that career path was not for me. I also wanted to be on the ski team, but since that's all my family does now on the weekend, I wasn't too impressed with that show anymore.

I think Tony and I had more fun at Sea World than Jackson. I don't think he liked getting splashed and of course, I had to sit in every splash zone. Either that, or he is laid-back like his dad and doesn't show much enthusiasm. Looks like Enthusiasm School will be in his future as I require excitement and appreciation from my loved ones when I give them gifts. Once, I gave Tony this really cool umbrella that clips on your chair for the river. He showed no enthusiasm at all, so the umbrella became mine. He asked about it a few days later and I told him he was no longer the owner of such umbrella as he showed no enthusiasm. The next token of love I gave him was accepted with a great, over the top, "WOW, thanks MOM! It's what I always wanted!"

And lastly, it was 106 outside today with a heat index of 115. Rolling brown outs in the city of Dallas and Jackson wore his snow boots all night long. I convinced him not to sleep in them.

2010-08-02T18:37:00.001-07:00

July 4th

This post has been in my head for a while. I wasn't sure I was going to post it. It could and most probably will bring up some sad memories and some current thoughts for many of my loved ones. But the entire point of this blog is for Jackson to see a glimpse of his life through his mother's eyes. So, here goes- tissue warning.

We went to see Tony's family over the 4th. His daddy has Alzheimer's and is getting progressively worse. He is still joyful and happy, but I do not think he knew who we were. I think he recognized our faces, but didn't know our names. My grandfather had AZ and I clearly remember the time he did not know who I was. The same man who let me take naps on his chest while he watched wrestling in the afternoon. The same man who had eating contests with me in regards to pancakes: is it faster to cut as you go or cut all up at the start and have your bites all ready? Seeing that same vacant smile in my wonderful father in-law was very very hard for me.

I try so hard to be strong for my husband and not cry, but this weekend brought many tears for me. I remember how hard the disease was on my Grandmother as she watched her husband of over 50 years lock himself away in his own head. I can see that same strain on my Mother-in-law Martha. I cannot imagine how difficult it is to see your partner, your lover, your friend regress back to a child and no longer be someone you can lean on, ask questions, or rely on for advice. All of the responsibilities of the household are yours along with all decisions.

My in-laws love animals like no one I have ever seen. Highest count since I have known them was 2 horses, numerous chickens, 5 dogs and 1 cat. This weekend, all that was left was 2 dogs and the kitty. While I had been urging Martha to get rid of the horses as they were so hard for her to care for, I walked out to that empty pasture and cried. It was very quiet without nosy Sue and Sugar wondering what was in my pocket. They are on a ranch that raises race horses, so I know they are at a good home, but I missed them - and I am afraid of horses.

I also try and be a stable source of support for Martha, but found myself bawling in her arms. She understood and let me get it out, but oh it was so hard. Hopefully, I did get it out and will not do that again. She needs a shoulder, not lending one out.

Anyway, I miss my grandaddy. I miss my grandmother. I do not miss that awful disease and yet it is here to greet me again. So, hug the old people in your life, listen to their stories, learn everything you can from them now. Spend time with them. Take them fishing, watch a movie, or do a puzzle. It's those moments that will help you through the rough times that may or may not be before you later.

While we were home, we went to the Arkansas River to watch the Fireworks. Unfortunately, we were a day early, but the weather was beautiful and we had a great picnic.

Debbie and JB
The Graham Family
Tony and the bugBridge over the AR river

Breaking the DirtThe bike trail along the AR river

Got caught in a smoochSweet Jackson

Jackson and Aunt DebbieThe Graham Family

The Graham FamilyMr. and Mrs. Graham

My sweet beautiful husband
RacingAnd I got started remodeling Jackson's bathroom. After I removed the tiles from his shower, this is what I found. TERMITES! Fortunately, it looks worse than it was and all has been repaired. The bathroom is not done yet as we are waiting on the fixtures to arrive (this is why I am not a contractor) so Tony can fix up the plumbing before I put up the new concrete board. Final photos to come soon.

2010-06-21T16:09:00.001-07:00

Jackson and Mom - floatin in the RiverJackson has learned the Brazos River Chill!

Jackson also rode on the wakeboard with his Daddy for the first time.

And finally - after a very busy weekend, POOPED. This is about 6:30 pm and he did not wake up until the next morning at 6:30 am.
And finally, the video I made for my beautiful niece, Taylor

and finally - the latest, greatest news. My nephew Austin, Taylor's brother, has decided to move to Texas and make a fresh start. I am ecstatic about having him close. He is a wonderful young man: thoughtful, sweet, caring, helpful, funny and fun to be around. It will be an adjustment in that house-hold, so keep everyone in your thoughts and prayers, but they will all do fine.

PROUD OF YOU AUSTIN - I CANNOT PROMISE IT'S GOING TO BE ALL BLUE-BIRDS AND BUTTERFLIES, BUT IN THE END, IT WILL BE WONDERFUL!

2010-06-14T19:51:00.001-07:00

Yep!! That's right - I have a niece who is a high school graduate. I can't believe it! It was truly yesterday that I sat in a Mass Communication final, wearing a beeper, the old fashioned kind that you could hear the person's voice, it was Dennis, Taylor's daddy, "come on Shelly, it's time". I had one question left to answer, flew down the isle, while the class of over 100 cheered me on. I dumped my back pack all over the floor at the front. My professor made me sit down while he gathered up my things for me. I flew out the door, ran all the way across Texas Tech campus (it's big people and I am not a runner) flew across University to the Methodist Church where I had a parking pass. Ran every light between Tech and St. Mary's hospital. Can't remember where I parked, but knew the elevators were too slow. Ran up the five flights of stairs and got to the Door of Dana's delivery room that was cracked. I had about 30 seconds to catch my breath before that beautiful little girl cried for the first time. I hit my knees.

She has always been very special to me and often referred to as my "mini me" even though she is not my kiddo. We are very much alike and enjoy alot of the same things.

She moved to Dallas to in the 2nd grade. Dana and Richard are both nurses so they had to be at work REALLY early, so Taylor was dropped off at my house, crawled in bed with me and then we got up at a more reasonable hour and got ready for school.

This was the year that in efforts to strengthen her eye sight, Taylor had to wear a patch over her eye. She looked at me with a sad, mournful face and told me she didn't want to. I sat down with her and told her that I couldn't let her go to school without it, that it was really sucky and that I was sorry she had to wear it. More importantly, I didn't want to fight about it every morning, so I told her to yell, scream, cuss, kick, do what she had to do to get it out of her system, but the patch was going on and would go on the next day, and the day after that. That precious child looked at me and said, "I can cuss?". "Yes, baby, if that's what you need to do, let it out". This cute, little girl stomped her little foot and yelled as loud as she could and with as much anger as an 8 year old can muster, "this is SHITTY!" I hugged her and told her it was shitty and then we put the patch on and she never said another word about it. Ironically, she had surgery today on that same eye to re-attach the muscles. Doing well, but sure wished I could take away the eye-sight problems for her.

I took her to school for two years and then they moved to Keller. Then I was her "Room Parent" for three years. Note to teachers - stop complaining about parents participating if you cannot be more organized than that. Sorry - I digress, but Holy Cow, I was amazed some of those teachers found their way to school everyday.

So, as you can see, my relationship with my niece goes a bit deeper than the norm. She is my baby girl and I am very proud of her. Often, our relationship reminds me of my Aunt Roxie. She has always made HUGE efforts at staying close with me and supporting me in whatever crazy plan I have going at the time. I remember spending the night with her while she still lived with Grandma. There has not been an event in my life that my Aunt Roxie has not been there, beaming at me and wishing me well.

Taylor and Austin

Austin, Roxie and TaylorTaylor and her mom

Jackson and "Tator"
Nana and Taylor (isn't this a stunning picture?)
Taylor, Austin, Dennis (Taylor's Dad) and Millie (Taylor's grandmother). Dennis and Millie drove down from Nebraska for the big celebration. It was good to see them both.
Nana and Papa and their grandchildren.
The Smith Clan
And my handsome, funny, charasmatic nephew Austin.
Jackson has also finished her first swimming lesson and something clicked for him this weekend. He just started swimming. Needs to work on bringing his head up and taking a breath and not just leaping into the pool and taking off. He thinks he is a whole lot better than he is, but doing well.

Including jumping off the diving board!

And, my sweet, handsome, funny nephew spent the weekend with us at the River. We had a blast and did lots of giggling. He too is growing into a polite, caring, young man. He is amazing with Jackson and spends lots of time with him even if he doesn't want to play that game for the 100th time. I am eager to watch him continue to grow and live up to the potential that God has given him. 16 is rough, but he will prevail!
I am blessed.

2010-06-02T17:40:00.000-07:00

SUMMER TIME, SUMMER TIME, SUMMER TIME, SUMMER TIME!!!

YEAH!!! It's summer time again and water season has begun. If you remember last summer, Tony and I were just learning to Sky Ski and last weekend was my first ride since last season. I was nervous, but it all came back and felt really great. Now I just have to learn to do some jumps and tricks.

Taylor came out and spent Saturday with us and she is really good on the wake board - especially since she doesn't get to do it very often. As always, I really enjoyed my time with her. She is such a bright light in my life.

Monday morning, while we were out on the water, 4 F-16's kept buzzing over the water. We got closer to our friends Mike and Barbi's place and they had a huge American Flag that about 20 of them were waving to the pilots. Those 4 jets, buzzed us for almost half an hour. At one point, I was on the sky ski and one of the jets came up behind me super low over the water. You can't hear them coming until they are on top of you and this guy was flying low and gave us all a wing wiggle to say thanks for the flag. I didn't wipe out, but close. Seeing those jets in the air always brings tears to my eyes as they are up there for our freedom, for our liberties and for the right for us to goof off on the water while they are at work. But, can you really call the chance to fly one of those jets work? I bet they would all tell you no. They knew we were having a blast as they gave us our own little air show on Memorial Day. Jackson get laughing and saying "Mom, those are the good guys!!!"

So, to all of my armed services - I thank you from the bottom of my heart for doing what you do. For doing it, so I don't have to. To all of the family members of the armed services - I know you miss your loved one and I am greatly appreciative of that sacrifice you make day in and day out. All of you are in my prayers everyday.

signed,
Humble and awed civilian (who incidentally thinks men in uniform are the BOMB!)

2010-05-18T12:40:00.001-07:00

Mother's day - Owls, Bugs & Dirt

Several weeks ago, Jackson and I went to my Mom's house and visited a neighbor who rehabs wild birds. These two baby barn owls she received that day and they are raised my a surrogate mom.
She also raises bats and takes them to schools for educational purposes. I don't like this guy's teeth.

For Mother's day, we took Jackson camping on our land in Oklahoma. We had a great time. None of us wanted to come home.

My new tent.

View from the neighboring properties bluff. If I took out a few trees, i would have the same view.

JB and his dogs (who at one point, ran off after Tony in the Mule who didn't know they were chasing him. They followed him all the way back, never caught him and were two very hot and thirsty dogs)

Jackson and I found a tarantula.
JB: Mom, why is it hairy
Me: Just is, that's the way God made it.
JB: I'm gonna poke it.
Me: No you're not! We don't poke spiders just because
JB: Where' his mommy?
Me: I don't know, but if you poke it, she may come out and be really mad.

Really was a neat bug. Interesting to watch it carefully touch things around it with it's feet.

A few weeks ago, our friends Chris and Diane had a crawfish boil. They are neighbors at the River and are having to move to CO. Not selling the river place, so we will see them again, but hate to see them go.

One of Chris's friends had this old truck which reminded me of one my dad used to have. Dad - this one's for you.

Chris & Diane's little girl Sydney and Jackson checking each other out. J told me Sydney could not come to live with us.

Chris McClure and Heather McCarty - River Rats

2010-04-12T13:47:00.001-07:00

In Memoriam, Easter, Dogs, Ants, & Texas Stadium

I cannot start this post without saying how much this world will miss Bertie Hagedorn. She and her husband "Hagi" are long time friends of our family and Bertie was called home late last week. She and Hagi were married for 69 years. She was always so thoughtful and kind, with always a smile. I remember at a wedding shower, she bestowed upon me the advice for a long, happy, marriage - "Never go to bed angry". We have all heard it, and yet, it's not an easy thing to do. Sometimes, I want to huff in my madness - not saying it's the right thing to do, but it is what it is. With those two, however, I sincerely believe, they lived by that rule of thumb. Hagi's world is certainly not the same and I hope he finds peace and joy on this earth until he too is called Home. Whisper a prayer for him - it's sure to be a lonely next few months.

And now, on to Easter...

The Easter Bunny brought Daisy and Stella toys too.

And some fascinating ants and contemplative men...

And can't have a post without cute dog shots.

This is the same dog who can't/won't jump into the back of the Mule

And of course, cute Kid shots

And finally, what's left of Texas Stadium. I work right by here and this morning, it was truly weird.

2010-04-02T07:59:00.000-07:00

HE IS RISEN!

The true meaning of this time of year is often forgotten beneath the mounds of milk chocolate and plastic easter eggs.

I am truly humbled and brought to my knees by the suffering and sacrifice my Lord went through on my behalf.

Warning: some graphic images included.

2010-03-29T20:24:00.000-07:00

Jackson's First Circus

Yes, folks the Circus has come to town. It was a small circus that showed up in the Irving Mall parking lot, but we had a blast. The staff was incredible, especially since our family was one of the few who could speak english, but they were patient and kind to all. The animals appeared to be happy and well cared for which is a BIG deal for me. So without further adu... (how do you spell that?)

And a little something to tiggle your funny bone. Saturday, we braved the winds for an short outing on the river. The plan was for Tony to drop me, Jackson and the dogs at the beach so who ever wanted to could dig in the dirts and then he was going to go fishing.

The sun was out, it was quasi warm, but its spring time in TX and the wind was howling. Fortunately, the sand was wet, so we didnt get sand blasted the entire time.

Stella, ran full speed ahead and found every cockle burr she could in that small area. She didn't seem to mind and had a smile on her face so maybe that is a sign of a great day - "get really dirty, get crap stuck in my hair, bounce around with little thought in my head, muttering, which way did it go, which way did it go- WWWWOOOOHOOOOO". Wonder if she was still thinking woooohooo as she had to sit still for an hour and half getting all that out of her hair. - Anyway back to the story.

Upon our arrival, you have to go on a short excursion to see what treasures you may find on the beach. I was walking along, hands clasped behind my back - a frequent posture for me, an indication of contentment, all is good in my world - and looked back to see my precious son, following me along, constant chatter, hands clasped behind his back. Occassionally, the mind-less chatter that most certainly comes from my gene pool would stop to say "Momma, look what I found" and we would both star in amazement at that stick.

He worked hard getting all the sticks off the beach and into the water, but Daisy, the ever faithful black lab retrieved every single one of them and dropped them at my feet.

About 45 minutes go by, Jackson's moving sticks, Daisy's fetching sticks, Stella's just jumping around like an idiot and Tony starts floating by on the water. No motor, just floating with the breeze. Daisy starts racing up and down the beach barking and whining, Stella follows, does the same - she doesn't know why and Jackson starts hollering "Daddy, Im over here on this beach. Hey Dad, Hey Dad, Hey Dad, Hey Dad." (My father is grinning right now as that was my mantra as a child "Hey Dad, Hey Dad, Hey Dad"). Then giant splash - Daisy has jumped in and is swimming to the boat - I call her back 5 more times all while convincing Jackson that Dad is not going to leave us. "But Momma, I'm on this beach. Dad's going to the other beach and I'm on this beach" turns and shouts for the 7 hundreth time, "Dad over here, I'm on this beach!"

And so now you know why we dont often get to go on the fishing trips. We brought the circus home with us.

Ever forward !

PS - I am walking in the Breast Cancer Three day again. Please donate!

2010-02-21T19:25:00.000-08:00

UTAH 2010

We went snow skiing this past week to Salt Lake City and had a great time. Time share goofed up our reservation and so they put us up in an even nicer condominium. It was the same place where the athletes stayed during the 2002 Olympics.

We skied 6 of the 7 days we were there and all had a blast. Jackson couldn't get enough of the snow, which is good as it's supposed to snow here again on Tuesday. Yes, I still live in Texas.

On the way home, we volunteered to give up our seats and take a different flight 2 hours later. In doing so, Southwest gave us $300 in travel vouchers and reimbursed us the cost of the that leg. So, we basically flew for free and now get to take another trip somewhere fun.

Too many pictures, so I put together the attached slide slow. Enjoy!!

There is sound so adjust volume accordingly!

2010-02-02T18:15:00.000-08:00

Big Burp!

Me: Hey, what's on your jammies?

Jackson: What? I dont see anything?

Me: your jammies are dirty.
(walk into his room)

Me: DUDE! You threw up in your bed!

Jackson: No Mom, that was a big burp!

And it happened to be the one time for whatever reason the housekeeper took EVERYTHING off the bed when she changed the sheets - little kid catch all pads, matress protector-Everything.

Thank God for product called What Odor! Works great.

2010-01-11T07:15:00.001-08:00

JACKSON TURNED 3!!!!

On Saturday, we celebrated Jackson's third birthday. We started the evening off at Medieval Times where Jackson was riveted for most of the show. His favorite part was the fighting.
Jimmy and Christine Hoffman along with their two girls,Scott and Sue Studebaker and their little one, Sydney and my friend Colbie and Rylee all joined us for the show.

If you have never been, it is a theme restaurant where you feast on roasted falcon (baked chicken), dragon breath soup (tomato soup), dragon eggs (potato), dragon toes (ribs) and some garlic bread - all without silverware. You sit in a section where you cheer for your own knight - ours was the Yellow and Gold.

Our knight

Yellow Knight

Commentator on a really pretty Draft Horse

The full Court

The King

Rest of the knights

Really cool horses who did all kinds of tricks

And Jackson's favorite - the hand to hand combat

My beautiful friend Colbie

and her precious little girl Rylee

The girls at the show

Jackson and his dad at the show

Sweet Skye - she really liked the show. At one point, a Falcon was brought out and swept through the arena - it was amazing to watch

After the show - we all drove like idiots trying to get back to our house to watch the Cowboy Playoff game. Tony had set the DVR and they were able to catch up to the live show in the first quarter thanks to the commercials.

Halftime was the perfect time to sing Happy Birthday to Sir Jackson

The streamers above Jackson's head are exactly the same length as my belly measured all the way around the day I had him.

Opening Presents

Taylor and her friend Charlie

Jackson and his "friends" that he called "that girl" all night

And of course, as was the same last year, Jackson's favorite toy was the decoration on his cake.That is of course, until mom brought out the inflatable swords. In the kids goody bags, I had inflatable swords, tattoos of knights stickers and candy. After everyone left, Mom, Dad & Jackson all battled in a sword fight complete with chasing each other through the house. If Jackson stabbed you and you fell down, he would lean over you and say "I sorry mom - here's your sword". Love my big hearted little boy. So with a sniffle, he is now 3 and still the most precious child I have ever met. And...I promise I was there, but yet again, an entire evening passed and I was behind the camera, never in front, so Mom was not "officially" captured at his birthday party (sigh!).

2010-01-01T10:45:00.001-08:00

I am way behind on Posts - so here's to getting everything up to date.

For Thanksgiving, we spent 5 days in Little Rock with Tony's family. Had a great visit.

Drew and Jackson

SybleJackson
Tony

Tony also turned 50 that Saturday and we spent the evening with many of Tony's friends from high school. What a great group of people, but boy am I glad I was never one of their teachers!

Tony & Sam Keathly

Alex Lafferty and Lisa

Shelly and Tammy Keathley
Terry, Shelly, Sam, Alex, Tammy, Lisa
Shelly, Alex, Tammy, Lisa
Tammy Keathley
Roy Sanders - a guitar playing genius. If you happened to be at the House of Blues on Halloween and saw the Easter Bunny tear it up on stage with the Robert Randolph and the Family Band - the bunny was his son.
Tony and Roy (never without a smile)

Alex is quite the hunter and has all kinds of critters around his house.

So, here are some pictures of Christmas when Jackson finally came home.

Santa has been here

Jackson sees his FortGiving it a try

Fastest slide in the neighborhood - Mom waxed it up

New tent - it's going to be the home of the porta potty in Oklahoma
That's all folks - the park is closed!

2009-12-31T16:35:00.000-08:00

TECH YOU REALLY STUNK IT UP!

If you know me at all, you know I am not a football fan. Could care less! I am however, embarrassed by my Alma Mater Texas Tech University for it's rash decision to fire the very successful head coach of the football team.

So why am I even mentioning it if I could care less? Because there is a huge group of young men who put forth a great deal of effort to make sure all you folks who dig football have something entertaining to watch. They are the victims in this situation - with the exception of the cry baby who started it all.

So, go kick some ass boys! and Show the world you can do it without Leach.

Make sure you watch it all the way through

2009-12-26T09:08:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Well, it didn't turn out exactly as we had planned. Jackson went to Lubbock with my sister, Dana on Wednesday and me, Tony and Taylor were going to head out on Thur when Tony got off of work. By the time we left, Lubbock had already received 5 inches of snow and it was snowing in Bedford. Tony, being my constant voice of reason, advised that we didn't need to to go. I have never liked using tears as a weapon to get my way with my husband, but I seriously could not stop crying. He, against his better judgement, relented and loaded the expedition and off we went.

It was immediately clear that if we got there at all, it was going to a VERY long drive. The wind was gusting up to 60 mph and Tony battled keeping the Expedition on the road, much less in blowing snow. Travel was ok until we got to the other side of Weather and the conditions quickly deteriorated. Cars were sliding off into the ditches and the snow and wind was coming down harder. What was just wet pavement was now turning into snow covered pavement. I was monitoring the TXDot website for updates, especially on Ranger Hill in Eastland county. A pretty steep hill that is often the first thing to close in inclement weather.

More cars sliding into the ditch, more terrible wind and finally, the report, I20 was now closed between Ranger Hill and Abilene. I was not going to get to spend Christmas with Jackson. I called my dad to let him know we had to turn around and simply sobbed. Giant crocodile tears running down my face.

Taylor was too very disappointed, but she kept up a good face. After about 30 minutes of crying, I looked at my niece and the realization hit me, she needs a good Christmas too. So I wiped my nose on my sleeve, sucked it up and tried to act like an adult.

Heading back towards Fort Worth, the east bound lanes, where we had just traveled, looked like a war zone. Semis were jack-knifed, missing parts, had cars wedged underneath them, cars flipped over in the ditches, it was awful. The car in front of us stupidly hit their brakes and Tony started sliding. Fish tailing one direction, then the other, then we slid sideways towards the median to the left of the idiot who sent us in the uncontrollable spin. Tony fought to regain control off the truck and swerved his way right past them on the left and then just slipped back onto the road like he had meant to pass them on the left the whole time. I told him I was, at that moment, grateful for his childhood in AR acting like a moron in the snow for most of his life.

We arrived back home without further incident and even provided shelter to Michelle, our friend from the River who is a flight attendant for American. She had just landed and there was no way she was going to be able to get home.

So, here we are, all looking at each other, trying to make the best of a pretty sad situation. I revised Jackson's letter from Santa and emailed it to my mom, asking her to "special deliver" it to Jackson in the morning.

We monitored Facebook alot, and it seemed everyone who had tried for Lubbock on Christmas Eve was not going to make it. In fact, many of my peeps sat on highways for over 12 hours. So with that in mind, Taylor and I decided this Christmas, "wasn't that sucky". We could be sitting in that truck, stuck, and no where to go.

One Sad Mommy

I gave everyone a Christmas Eve gift to open (a family tradition), even Michelle, and we settled in to watch 'UP' for the hundredth time. SQUIRE LL.

After Taylor went to bed, I did the best I could to make sure she had a decent Christmas morning. I rounded up an old tube sock and stuffed it with some of Jackson's Christmas candy, some left over Halloween candy, tied a bow around it with a bell, stuck some Holly in it and placed it on the fireplace, next to Jackson's stuff. Daisy, Stella and George were also visited with new collars and leashes and George got some cat treats. I made Michelle a Santa bag with candy, some fancy tea bags I like and a book, but she must not have seen it on Christmas morning.

Santa has been here!!

When Taylor got up, the smile on her face over that silly Tube sock made everything ok. She enjoyed her other gifts and was, as always, a very grateful young woman and helped me make the best of it. We had pancakes for breakfast and spent the day playing Wii Resort games which Santa brought to me.

Taylor opening her Christmas Stocking/tube sock

She too got a letter from Santa.

It wasn't great - but it wasn't that sucky.

Jackson should be home around 4 today and then we get to do Santa with him. Santa has brought a giant, swing set Fort in the backyard and I will have one very happy little guy. I waxed up his slide so it would be the "fastest in the neighborhood".

Stella with her Christmas Bow

Hope you had a great Holiday and as for me, I am still very blessed, I am very grateful for the Lord above for keeping us safe and for his ultimate sacrifice of his only son for my life everlasting. Tis the real reason for the season.

2009-12-20T18:12:00.000-08:00

Jackson received an email from Santa!!!

http://portablenorthpole.tv/watch/22f89fe089a0d5b9398bbc1c9a3d66e8

2009-11-11T08:31:00.001-08:00

60 MILES IN THREE DAYS!

I DID IT! I walked every step of the 60 miles this year in the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day. If you remember, last year I was unable to complete all 60 due to an injury, so this was a HUGE accomplishment for me. Every single member of my team, Mendy, Charles & Fred, walked every step and not one of us visited the Medical tent.

It was a test of endurance, an emotional roller coaster, a reflection on the many blessings I have in my life, a testament to the strength of the survivors and a comedic disaster all rolled up into three tremendous days.

The day started with arrival at Opening Ceremonies at 6:00 am. Thankfully, this year was not as cold as last and the route was much improved. It was a great start and one that did not make us have to rush to keep with the schedule and avoid the dreaded "sweep van".

Having had the experience of last year, I pre-taped all the toes that gave me issues to hopefully ward off the blisters. That worked on all except my pinkie toe that henceforth became known as "Gigantatoe". The blister is a big as the toe itself and goes underneath the toe-nail. Not sure if that toenail will survive, but it's worth one measly toe-nail (and seriously, that toe-nail is so small, who really needs it).

The pack that I carried contains Blister care stuff, 7 million Ibuprofen and a vat of deep heating pain relief cream - two different kinds.

Somewhere in this world is the Dot Wall - where I posted the three ladies I walked in honor of this year.

Ok - now I know you are asking, what's a comedic disaster. There is nothing much to do as you walk... and walk.... and walk. So, you have to do something to keep yourself entertained. They won't let us listen to Ipods, so it's up to yourself and your team mates to keep up spirits and frankly, at some point, you just have to laugh, or you will cry. I call it a disaster as most of it really isn't funny unless you are there and even then, you have to get me and Mendy's dry sense of humors. Mendy and I are always tickled by the GIANT fanny packs some of these people carry. And when they walk, they rock from side to side and it's funny (to us anyway) to accompany that visual with an occasional "BA-BOOM, BA-BOOM". Alot of this is situational humor, you just have to be there.

And then there's Mendy - God love her. She is the consummate planner, organizer, be prepared in any situation type A girl. What did her pack contain? The economy size can of Sunscreen - you know the one, it advertises a FREE EXTRA 20 ounces at the top. Spray kind because she doesn't like it on her hands along with a package of wipes to get any off her hands. One teeny vial of Aleve which only allows 2 tablets in a 24 hour period and she is a rule follower and did not vary from those instructions. 2 gazillion band-aids and enough Mole skin to cover a small Asian country. I am not exactly sure what Mole Skin is or what it's supposed to do, but Mendy should be the Mole Skin spokes person because she slapped it on everywhere. I think she eventually covered the entire sole of her foot before the walk was over. This was a constant source of laughter as we watched Mendy stick mole skin on every square inch of her feet. And incidently, she is the only one who got sunburned even though she had the economy size - and where you ask? On her knuckles (remember, she doesn't like it on her hands)

What was in my pack? Another 2 gazillion band-aids, 1 entire roll of athletic tape which I used every inch of, 2nd skin squares to keep the band-aids/tape from ripping the blisters off, Antibiotic spray - the cute thing soccer moms carry (and I got to whip it out and give a lady a squirt when she fell off the side-walk into the street and rolled down into the gutter). 7 million Ibuprofen which I ate like M&M's all three days and my favorite - two tubes of the pain relief cream - both of which are gone. Pit Stop 2 on Day one - I told my team "Kids, I'm stinkin it up" and started rubbing the Walgreen's version of Deep Heating Icy Hot. I pretty much smelled like a boy's locker room for the next three days. I also had this other stuff that did not smell that I found at REI - a gradual heating pain relief cream. Later, on Day one my lower back started whining, so I smeared some of that on it and trudged on. Fred also smeared some on his knees. Fred and Charles walk at a faster pace than me an Mendy, so they were always ahead of us. At one point, I said to Mendy, "it's so hot - the sun is just baking my back" I then remembered the gradual heating cream. It became renamed fire in a bottle. Then I remembered I forgot to tell Fred about that side affect. When we caught up at he next Pit Stop, I asked him if his legs were on fire. He couldn't figure out why his knees where the only part of him that was hot.

When we were going to bed on Day 1 at 7:00 pm (yes, 7pm, you read that correctly) I lathered the ole legs up with Fire in a bottle, nestled down in my mummy style sleeping bag and wandered off into dreamland. Slept like a baby until I was awaken by the sensation that my legs were on fire. I struggled with the zipper on my sleeping bag which got caught all the while thinking any minute I am going to spontaneously combust if I don't get out of this sleeping bags and peel my PJ bottoms off. I can't really explain how hot this stuff gets. It's the damndest thing.

Day Two is by far - the hardest day. You know you have an entire day and then some to walk. And - the route LIES!!!! Our route cards said we walked 20.2 miles on Day one and had 20.6 to go on Day two. We have all walked enough in training walks and the 3 day to know what a mile feels like. There is always a sign that says "Lunch 1 Mile" or "Pit Stop 1 Mile". They are usually posted 1 1/2 to 2 miles away. There is nothing else to say other than that straight up pisses every walker off. We did find out from a Crew Member that Day One we actually walked 24 miles, Day 2 was 22 miles and Day 3 was 18 miles. Why they can't just tell us that - I don't know.

On the afternoon of Day 2 - we were within a couple miles of camp. Mendy is hurting because she won't take anything other than the 2 allowed doses of Aleve and she has 4lbs of Mole Skin stuck to her feet. She is literally chanting, "I will not sweep over a blister, blisters don't need chemo". I feel great because I have a vat of BenGay smeared on - I smell like a boy - and I have taken about 18 Ibuprofen through out the day, so I start telling her jokes. What did the mommy tomato say to the baby tomato? KETCHUP! What did the number zero say to the number 8? Nice Belt! Funny, I know! Then we passed a lady who was clearly hurting. I asked her if she was ok and she replied, "I have been crying for the last 15 minutes". I told her it wasn't much farther and she could do it. She said, "this is my 5th walk and I am having a really hard time this year". 5 time walker - WOW!!! Then she said, "I never cried through Chemo and now I can't quit bawling". This is what I mean by this being a humbling experience. This lady, whom I found out was named Sue, was not only a survivor, but had walked the 3-Day 5 times. Thinking about Sue was one of the ways I managed to get through Day 3 and walk every step.

My feet after Day 2. I had a Henna tattoo on my right foot and leg along with the Breast Cancer Ribbon and the initials of Tony and Jackson on my wrist. Swollen feet. My right foot had to be wrapped to ward off the blister trying to form on my heel - same spot as last year.

Home Sweet Home. The sea of Pink Tents

Entrance to camp - coming off the route.

Day Three - they put us on a bus to the Ursiline Academy and we walked from there to Turtle Creek, Victory Park, the West End, The Grassy Knoll, Pioneer Park and finally ended up in Fair Park.
Morning of Day Three

Day Three was hard. My heel did get a ginourmous blister that shot up like a geyser when I lanced it at lunch. Gigantatoe would occasionally wake up and start screaming and my right knee cap hurt. Knee cap? I don't know what was up with that - I just smeared on more Icy Hot, ate more Ibuprofen (I, in contrast to Mendy, did not follow the recommended dosage) told my knee outloud that it had nothing to whine about and to shut up and marched on.

As you are on the journey, you have alot of time to reflect, alot of opportunity to find strength and perseverance to get you through. We were walking along and there was man standing to the side, by himself, cheering us on. I looked up and he smiled at me and in that man's smile, I saw my friend Edwin, who was taken from this world several years ago by another person. Edwin was kind, patient and the most optimistic person I have ever met. I truly believe Edwin was smiling at me through that man and telling me in his Nigerian accent "You got this girl - you are going to be ok". It's those types of moments that make every blister, every ache, every pain worth it and so much more.

The cheering sections this year were phenomenal. Hundreds of people gave up their weekend to be at every cheering station and yell words of encouragement, shout out Thanks You's, hand out candy, water, and one women had an ice chest of Popsicles. Those cheering sections get us through the day. We can't wait to see the faces, the babies and the dogs that come out to keep us marching on.

Finally, we get to Fair Park. At the entrance, there were some crew members shouting "you did it, you are home". We walked through and Mendy said, "was that it, that was our homecoming? I am a bigger deal than that". Hysterical because you have just walked 60 miles and need more than 5 people there to greet you. What we didn't know at that point, was we had to walk through Fair Park to the holding area where we were greeted by all 400 crew members and walked through a line of other fellow walkers who cheered, clapped, whistled and congratulated us on walking across that finish line. Mendy and I looked at each other and said, "now, that's what I am talking about". It was a great home-coming.

Finish Line

As they were organizing us for Closing Ceremonies, the divide they walkers who are given white T-Shirts from the Survivors who are in Pink. I saw this very young girl standing there in a Pink Shirt. I swear she could not have been more than 25 years old. I approached her, hugged her and told her it was my pleasure to walk for her. She had been cancer free for 5 years.

Closing Ceremonies were great with the survivors in the middle clad in their Pink and raising their hands in triumph over beating this disease. The Susan G Komen is on track to have raised $7 Million this year to go towards research and help pay for treatment for women who need it.

I am not sure if we are going to walk again next year. Might give the many generous folks who have helped us raise the required amount to walk a break. I will be a part of it, however, whether it be a crew member, a camp angel setting up tents, or a lady on the side-line with a cooler full of Popsicles.

What did I learn this year? Horse does of Ibuprofen work even though I am sure not medically recommended. Fire in a bottle is amazing, but use in small doses and not with a mummy style sleeping bag with thermal PJ bottoms - you will catch fire. People will still hug you even if you smell like a boy's locker room. Mendy's shoes were too small and she is the only person I know who gets blisters in between her toes that go from the top of her foot to the sole. And I cannot break her of her Mole Skin addiction.

I could not finish this Post without a giant thank you to my cousin Stacy who is a brand new mommy and could not walk with us this year and her Mother-in-law Cindy (Charles' mom and Fred's wife) who were our official "walker stalker". They kept up with us on the route - honking and waving, met us at lunch with lunches in hand so we didn't have to stand in line and at Pit stops to help get water, snacks whatever we needed. Did all of this with a 12 week old baby in tow. It was an amazing source of comfort and help to have them there helping out. They even had out tents set up when we got to camp after Day One.

And lastly a HUGE Thank you to all who donated - you touched MANY MANY lives.

2009-11-02T19:59:00.000-08:00

Me: "Frogs go Meow"

Jackson: "No mom, they go rivvett"

Me: "Oh, ducks go rivvett"

Jackson: "no ducks don't rivett, they qwack"

Me: "cows go woof"

Jackson: "no cows say MOOOOO!"

Me: "What do daddies say?"

Jackson: "NO SHIT!"

2009-10-16T09:48:00.000-07:00

Today is my anniversary - 5 years. If I didn't feel so yucky, I would tell you my Prince charming story, but that will come another day.

I love you Tony Graham - thanks for picking me.

2009-09-30T08:56:00.001-07:00

METALLICA - LONG LIVE THE LEGEND

Last night - I fulfilled one of my dreams and attended my first Metallic concert. It was loud, it was rowdy, it was smoky in a non-smoking venue, there was a Mosh-pit, people were body surfing through the crowd - IT WAS AWESOME!!!!!I stood out like a sore thumb next to most of my fellow concert goers (I am fairly certain I am one of a small few who shops at Talbots who also enjoys a little head banging every now and again) but was thoroughly impressed, humored, entertained and proud to have spent the obnoxious amount of money I did on the tickets.

Why Metallica? I am intrigued by their longevity, I am impressed with their guitar playing, I am more impressed with Hetfields vocal range and ability to sing a tune, while keeping up the volume and raw edge that heavy metal music seems to require.

Have you ever jumped on a mountain bike behind a group of three boys who ride often and have the endurance to complete Grapevine's north shore and determine to keep up? (Ok - so again, I am in the minority here). Plug your ear buds in and give your self a nice LOUD rendition of "GIVE ME FUEL, GIVE ME FIRE, GIVE ME THAT WHICH I DESIRE"... and you will get through it. (Side note: I have done a fairly good job of keeping up and only collapsing from heat exhaustion once. This was all pre-Jackson so not sure if I can still claim that one)

I have been a follower of the band since the 80's and have had to buy two of their Black Album because I wore the first one out. They are the 7th largest selling Act in American Music History.
The 2009 Death Magnetic Tour is slated for 26 shows. Of those 26 shows - 14 of them are already sold out as of today - I expect the rest of them to sell out prior to each performance.
Death Magnetic stage - photo courtesy of www.metallica.com

Metallica started in 1981 when Lars Ulrich, drums, approached James Hetfield to record a track with him in some rinky dink recording studio. As the two learned each others styles, the eventually put a band together consisting of James, Lars, Cliff Burton and Kirk Hammett. There were some other fill-in members prior to this foursome, but they are the beginning to the legend that is Metallica.

In 1983, they launched "Kill 'Em Dead" and life as they boys knew it, was over. Their poplularity soared in both the US and Europe.

In September of 1986, a tour bus crash took the life of bassist Cliff Burton. I don't need to tell you how many bands have fallen apart after the loss of a key member. The fact that Metallica stayed together, grieved through the loss of their family member and emerged the other side, is a true testament to their committment to their band and the fans.

Jason Newsted joined Metallic as the bassist after Burton's death. Having seen a few documentaries about the History of Metallica, they will be the first to admit, it was a party, a long, drawn out party, that almost did them in. It contributed to the turmoil that eventually led to Newsted leaving the band in 2001.

In 1991 Metallica launched the Black Album - It was number 1 on the charts for weeks and sold over 15 million copies worldwide. This is my favorite Metallica album - the one I mentioned earlier having to replace as I wore the first one out.
Metallica in 1991'ish.
Photo courtesy of www.metallica.com

2001 and was the year for healing, new beginning and refocusing on their creative energys and where they wanted to take the band. Hetfield went to rehab and the others "embarked upon various levels of deeper discovery about themselves" (excerpt from www.Metallica.com) They were not in a hurry to replace Newsted and in fact had rented an old army barrack - The Presidio, to begin work on what would be the next decade of Metallica history. After holding open auditions, in walks Robert Trujillo, bassist who has played for Ozzy, Suicidal Tendencies and some others, but was not widely known in the industry. As I remember from the documentary, according to James: "in saunters this long haired kid who was so laid back, we just thought he was here to meet the band - we had no real expectations. He picked up a bass and started playing every one of our songs to precision" (paraphrase - it was a while ago since I saw the show) "and we knew he was the fourth member"
Hetfield and Hammet on stage.
Photo courtesy of www.metallica.com

Who is Metallica?

James Hetfield born in 1963, married with 3 kids and attends his daughter's ballet classes when time permits. A perfectionist who is often at times difficult to deal with in the studio if he doesn't think you are giving it your all and will require several takes before he is satisfied. (another curious thing to me - I wouldn't have thought this type of music required perfection, but to see the documentary where they literally would redo the same guitar riff over and over again until he was satisfied)
Photo courtesy of www.metallica.com

Lars Ulrich - born in 1963, father of three, who will speak his mind and always let you know where you stand with him. Last night he pulled a young boy out of the audience and let him pound out the first three beats of "Seek and Destroy" on the drums. Very cool to watch.
Photo courtesy of www.metallica.com

Kirk Hammet, born in 1962, married with one child. A self proclaimed student to the guitar. After the Black Album tour (remember 15 million copies sold world wide), he went to City College of San Francisco to continue his education and open further channels for music writing and theory.
Photo courtesy of www.metallica.com

Robert Trujillo - born 1964, married with 2 kids. Calm, even keeled man who occassionally uses a pick, but is described as a "baaaaaaad motherplucker, a finger playin bass monster".
Photo courtesy of www.metallica.com

I cannot even begin to describe how amazing it was to witness these 4 guys, bring an audience of over 18,500 to their feet in one big-foot stomping, fist pumping, frenzy and have for over 26 years. 26 YEARS!!! Very few bands in Amercian History can say they have sold out crowds consistently for 26 years. This is a band that does not loose a fan, but gains a new one in younger generations. The age mix at the concert was all over the place, but every person in the crowd was on their feet, bouncing to the rythm that you couldn't help but feel in your chest each time Ulrich pounded that bass drum (kudos to the sound engineer!)

Photo courtsey of www.metallica.com

I wont put any of the video I took with my cell on here because it doesn't do them justice, but here is a small snippet of "Unforgiven". This particular song has three renditions, all recorded in different times of the bands history. I know I probably wont convince many, if any, of you to enjoy, appreciate or even like this band, but for whatever reason, they are one of a few who will remain at the top of my list. And so you know I am well rounded, I also bought tickets to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra this week as well.

Correction- snippet below is Nothing Else Matters. Oh the horror - for not knowing.

2009-09-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

From the mouth of a babe

Mooshels - as in, "I want big mooshels (muscles) like dad"

Skwewwa - as in, "Stella, the giant brain dead poodle"

Hairpwane - "Look mom, a hairpwane"

Wemowade - "I want wemowade (lemonade)"

Dirts - "i want to go play in the dirts" Translation - I want out of the boat and want to play in the sand.

Mommy Juice - Beer

hottapuss - Octopus

simmich - "may i have a sandwhich

Jackson dog - anything small or baby like, Could be a Jackson turtle, a Jackson bear, a Jackson bird, a Jackson cat, a Jackson elephant

Mommy dog - anything medium sized, Mommy turtle, mommy star, mommy pillow, mommy car

Daddy dog - the largest of three of anything - daddy boat, daddy fish, daddy cat, daddy book,

Tator - his cousin Taylor -she will be crushed when he learns to say her name correctly. I know I was when I was no longer "Lelly"

Baby jaugar - anything relating to the large cat family - Thanks Dora!

Cracker - any cracker, chip or otherwise unhealthy snack

Wakeboarder - those little green army men that stand on the little platform? Yeah, those are wakeboarders.

Jump to the MOOOON! - His daddy just jumped/flipped on the wakeboard

Big Truck - anything that closely resembles a Ford F-250. Do not, however, confuse with a big car

Poop Patrol - I have spotted some poop in the yard and would like for someone to come get it please.

No No No - I no go see Ms. Lupe, I go to Richuud wook - ??? To my knowledge, he's never been to Richard's work, but that's where he wants to go some mornings.

Skewwa Knocked Me Down! - Jackson fell on his own accord, Stella might not have even been in the yard, but EVERYTHING is her fault (see he doesn't need siblings, he has Stella)

I sorry! - and always with a kiss and a hug for any wrong doing.

Mom, Let's go! I go to bed now - His way of telling me and his dad it was time to leave the party and go home. He was asleep before we left the driveway in the Mule.

Hooray! I tee-tee in the potty! Where's my tweet? - Thanks School - we didn't do treats, we just said it was our job.

HOOOORAAAYYY! - anything that needs to be celebrated

Weft - go to the left, and he is usually pointing in the right direction. It took me forever to learn that.

Talk to Jesus - time to say a prayer

Your my favwit - that's what he tells me. Not sure favorite what, but I am at the top of his list.

Geenus - as in genius -

Dooorty - I don't want those pants - their dooorty.

Yeah, Yeah, Yeah = I am in agreeance!

I'm ok! = Letting me know he has survived the boo=boo, or not to worry Mom - I got this (walking along a really high cement wall)

What about ME??? - Hey, I am not feeling included and if you don't pay attention to me, I will continue to repeat louder and louder.

George - you go outside! - George is in the house, get him out.

No, No Skewwa, that's Rude! - who knows what she did this time.

2009-09-04T06:18:00.000-07:00

Stella has stolen the tiger...

Sorry its so dark - the lights have to be on for video on the Iphone to really work well.

River Days

La Niña http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Ni%C3%B1a

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