Monday, July 31, 2006
Hannibal Session
Tonight was the music session in Hannibal.
I'm still tired from my trip to Kansas City, but I was there by golly!!!!
It was a good night tonight.
I found myself hungry and unable to resist an order of cheese bread.
It was really good.
They were having some kind of problem with the oven and there was a back log or pizzas to cook, but it was worth the wait.
I had three sodas tonight!
Very bad girl!!!
Got there at 6:30 and got tuned up and ready to play.
The players tonight were Chris on banjo and fiddle ... me on fiddle and guitar ... Doug on banjo, mandolin and fiddle ... Sondra on banjo and mandolin ... Joann on Irish whistle ... Beverly on Irish whistle, mandolin and percussion ... Dwain on guitar ... Andrew on fiddle, banjo and mandolin ... Larry on fiddle and mandolin ... Betsy on Irish whistle ... Kevin on percussion ... Rob on percussion and harmonica ... Tony on flute, Irish whistle and fiddle ... Lisa on fiddle ... Robert on fiddle ... Dave on guitar ... Dale on guitar ... Sarah on bass and whistle ... Ian on guitar ... Fred on guitar ... Wade on percussion ... Paul on whistle ... and Becky on guitar.
Bill and his wife and daughter were there. Charlie was there. Noel and Mary Jo had a ton of family with them this evening. Evelyn and Bob were there. Evelyn H was there. LA dropped in for just a few minutes. Lydia and Maddie were there. There was a pretty full audience there this evening. That always makes it extra fun.
I missed Harry and Ellen this evening. George was also missing. Don and Jeanie were not there this evening.
I know I've missed a few ...
Thanks to all for making it such a fun evening.
Poetry: Quiet Power
Quiet Power
There is a quiet power
At work in this old world,
The steady, moving force of Love,
it's flag of Hope unfurled.
There is a gentle strength released
With every kind word spoken;
The barriers of prejudice
By understanding broken.
An act of simple friendliness
Moves in where Hate holds sway,
And Love is once again the quiet
Winner in the fray.
There is a quiet power
The heart pays homage to -
The gentle strength of love to make
Man's dream of peace come true.
Helen Lowrie Marshall
Barns:
Here are a couple of barn pictures that I took on my way to Kansas City this weekend.
Yes,
there were a couple of "detours" on the route
that involved gravel roads.
This one was all faded,
but perfect other than that.
Here's an old one.
Look at how the smaller one has settled and the whole thing leans to one side.
I'm back!!!!
I survived my girls only weekend in Kansas City!
Boy, I'm really tired today!!!!
I only took a few pictures, much to my surprise.
Was either too busy or too tired ...
depending upon the moment!
I'll have a few to show you a little bit later though.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Going to KC
Just a reminder that I'm going to be away from the computer for the weekend.
I will be back on Monday!
I'm sure I'll have a ton of pictures ...
especially since my grandson is going to be there!!!!
Hope that you all have a great weekend!
To my friends in Ely ...
wish I was there playing with you all this weekend!
I'll be there for Shelbina though!
To my blogger buddies ...
Talk to you on Monday!
My love to all of you!
Ta ta!!
I will be back on Monday!
I'm sure I'll have a ton of pictures ...
especially since my grandson is going to be there!!!!
Hope that you all have a great weekend!
To my friends in Ely ...
wish I was there playing with you all this weekend!
I'll be there for Shelbina though!
To my blogger buddies ...
Talk to you on Monday!
My love to all of you!
Ta ta!!
Quincy Session
Well, here it is 8:39 ...
and I'm supposed to leave for Kansas City at 10:00.
I'm not dressed ...
Not packed ...
and still have to take the dog to the kennel!
Oh well ...
I'll get there!
Wanted to get these two posts in before I left.
Had fun at the Quincy Session last night.
We had a new person, Jeff, who played guitar.
Jim came back again also,
So that made a rhythm section of three guitars.
It was wonderful!!!
We've figured out Apples in Winter.
Just had to leave all of those "F" chords out and it sounded really great.
We played a new song that Lisa introduced called "The Jackson Stomp".
It was a good one.
Had a blues flair to it.
It's definitely going into our repertoire!
The players were me on fiddle ... Joann on Irish whistle ... Larry on fiddle and mandolin ... Dave on guitar ... Tony on Irish whistle, flute and fiddle ... Lisa on fiddle ... Jeff on guitar ... Jim on guitar... and Rae on percussion.
My lupus was making my left hand swell and I had to quit early in order to let it rest some. It's still swollen today, but not like it was last night.
Thanks to all who came and made it a great night!
Sorry if I missed anyone!
and I'm supposed to leave for Kansas City at 10:00.
I'm not dressed ...
Not packed ...
and still have to take the dog to the kennel!
Oh well ...
I'll get there!
Wanted to get these two posts in before I left.
Had fun at the Quincy Session last night.
We had a new person, Jeff, who played guitar.
Jim came back again also,
So that made a rhythm section of three guitars.
It was wonderful!!!
We've figured out Apples in Winter.
Just had to leave all of those "F" chords out and it sounded really great.
We played a new song that Lisa introduced called "The Jackson Stomp".
It was a good one.
Had a blues flair to it.
It's definitely going into our repertoire!
The players were me on fiddle ... Joann on Irish whistle ... Larry on fiddle and mandolin ... Dave on guitar ... Tony on Irish whistle, flute and fiddle ... Lisa on fiddle ... Jeff on guitar ... Jim on guitar... and Rae on percussion.
My lupus was making my left hand swell and I had to quit early in order to let it rest some. It's still swollen today, but not like it was last night.
Thanks to all who came and made it a great night!
Sorry if I missed anyone!
Ely Opry:
I had a fun time out at Ely last night.
I didn't get home as early as I had planned ... 1:35 ...
but that's okay.
On the way out the door Doug and I were looking at the stars. Boy, there were a lot of them up there! The Milkyway was awesome!! I'm going to have to get my constolation book out and brush up on where things are in relation to eachother. They sure were pretty though. Being away from all of the lights sure made that sky just light up with stars. I can't see them that well in my yard.
I wore my cowboy boots last night ... and all day yesterday. I'm paying for it today!! I just had to wear them though. I hadn't been able to wear them for four months since my foot surgery.
While we were playing last night, I had my hair down except for the front part which was pulled back into a little pony tail. Anyway, the fan kept blowing my hair across my fiddle and my bow was running over it. I reached up to pull the rubber band off, thinking I was going to just quickly pull all of my hair back. Sounds simple enough doesn't it?
Well ... it didn't quite work.
For some reason the rubber band got ALL tangle up and I couldn't get it out. Luckily, Doug's mom was there and she got it out for me. Yes, it was embarrassing! But what can you do? She got it out in no time at all ... with just a little of hair clinging to it . I sat down there on the floor at her feet. Reminded me of when I was little and my mom used to do my hair.
I braided it and then it didn't get in my way anymore.
Thank goodness!
On the way home it was very foggy once I crossed the Mississippi in Hannibal. I had to slow way down and really watch the road carefully. I had the sun roof open and you may not believe this, but the fog smelled like potatoes.
Ever been in a potatoe cellar?
That's what it smelled like.
We used to store our potatoes from the garden in the crawl space under the house. It was my job to crawl down there and get potatoes for supper. I'll never forget that smell. It even left a taste on your tongue.
Well, that's what the fog smelled like last night. Crazy, huh?
There were a couple of people there last night that I hadn't met before.
One was Ruby. Dorothy told me that Ruby is 88 years old (I think that's the number she gave me?) She sure was having fun. She was there with a friend who played guitar, but I can't remember what his name was.
Let's see ... who else was there?
Me, Jim, Deann, Del, Patty, Anita, Kyle, Greg, Ruby and her friend who played guitar, Allan, William, Bill, Bill's wife (sorry I've forgotten your name dear ...), Dorothy, Doug, Danny, and the guy who plays the mandolin whose name I should remember but it's escaping me at the moment.
I blame it on being tired!
Now, I'm sure I'm missing several,
you know the disclaimer ...
Sorry if I missed you!
When Kyle was leaving we hugged eachother goodbye and bumped our heads together. We're both claiming to have concussions now and to have lost our memories!!!!! Hopefully we'll have our memories back the next time we see eachother.
:)
I got to look at some of Bill's pictures.
He had a picture of him sitting on this very big Harley.
It was awesome!!
Then he also showed me some pictures of some of the cars he's had.
Very cool cars!
It was a fun night and I can't wait until next time!
See you all then!
I didn't get home as early as I had planned ... 1:35 ...
but that's okay.
On the way out the door Doug and I were looking at the stars. Boy, there were a lot of them up there! The Milkyway was awesome!! I'm going to have to get my constolation book out and brush up on where things are in relation to eachother. They sure were pretty though. Being away from all of the lights sure made that sky just light up with stars. I can't see them that well in my yard.
I wore my cowboy boots last night ... and all day yesterday. I'm paying for it today!! I just had to wear them though. I hadn't been able to wear them for four months since my foot surgery.
While we were playing last night, I had my hair down except for the front part which was pulled back into a little pony tail. Anyway, the fan kept blowing my hair across my fiddle and my bow was running over it. I reached up to pull the rubber band off, thinking I was going to just quickly pull all of my hair back. Sounds simple enough doesn't it?
Well ... it didn't quite work.
For some reason the rubber band got ALL tangle up and I couldn't get it out. Luckily, Doug's mom was there and she got it out for me. Yes, it was embarrassing! But what can you do? She got it out in no time at all ... with just a little of hair clinging to it . I sat down there on the floor at her feet. Reminded me of when I was little and my mom used to do my hair.
I braided it and then it didn't get in my way anymore.
Thank goodness!
On the way home it was very foggy once I crossed the Mississippi in Hannibal. I had to slow way down and really watch the road carefully. I had the sun roof open and you may not believe this, but the fog smelled like potatoes.
Ever been in a potatoe cellar?
That's what it smelled like.
We used to store our potatoes from the garden in the crawl space under the house. It was my job to crawl down there and get potatoes for supper. I'll never forget that smell. It even left a taste on your tongue.
Well, that's what the fog smelled like last night. Crazy, huh?
There were a couple of people there last night that I hadn't met before.
One was Ruby. Dorothy told me that Ruby is 88 years old (I think that's the number she gave me?) She sure was having fun. She was there with a friend who played guitar, but I can't remember what his name was.
Let's see ... who else was there?
Me, Jim, Deann, Del, Patty, Anita, Kyle, Greg, Ruby and her friend who played guitar, Allan, William, Bill, Bill's wife (sorry I've forgotten your name dear ...), Dorothy, Doug, Danny, and the guy who plays the mandolin whose name I should remember but it's escaping me at the moment.
I blame it on being tired!
Now, I'm sure I'm missing several,
you know the disclaimer ...
Sorry if I missed you!
When Kyle was leaving we hugged eachother goodbye and bumped our heads together. We're both claiming to have concussions now and to have lost our memories!!!!! Hopefully we'll have our memories back the next time we see eachother.
:)
I got to look at some of Bill's pictures.
He had a picture of him sitting on this very big Harley.
It was awesome!!
Then he also showed me some pictures of some of the cars he's had.
Very cool cars!
It was a fun night and I can't wait until next time!
See you all then!
Thursday, July 27, 2006
General:
Went to Walmart to have some extra keys made for the blazer. I also got a couple of key chains and two little flashlights that go on your key chain. Might come in handy sometime.
Went to Autozone and bought one of those nets that goes across your tailgate so nothing falls out. Last Monday Sondra's banjo fell out of the back when I opened the hatch. It was awful!!!! I was so embarrassed.
Now, nothing will fall out again! Problem solved. Only cost $20.00. Worth every penny.
The count down ...
only two hours and twenty minutes until I leave for La Gondola
and
only four and a half hours until I leave there for Ely!!!!!
How much longer?
Seven hours until LaGondola
and
Nine hours until Ely!!!!!
I'm ready!!!
Barns:
Here are a couple of barns that I took pictures of while out on a drive the other day.
I like to do that.
Just hop in the car with no particular place to go
See where you end up and what there is to see along the way.
I found this round barn.No ... it isn't crooked ...
I was the photographer.
(smile)
This barn was in Passa Park,
which is a gun range.
Now I'm going to have to buy me some guns
so I can go to this range.
It was beautiful.
It really is a park ... with gun ranges.
What that means is it is very scenic,
well maintained,
has water, gardens,
and is gorgeous.
I have a 38 pistol ... that will get me started.
Each shooting range specifies which gun can be used on it.
I'd like to be able to use each one!
Now, that's a lot of shopping!
Look out Game Masters ...
I'd also like to get back into archery.
I used to be a good aim with a gun,
good aim with a bow,
good aim with throwing knives
and I used to be able to aim with a sling shot.
It's been a while.
Surely it will come back.
That reminds me,
I've never shown you my sword collection, have I????
Hmmm ...
Music Day
It's music day!
Ten more hours until La Gondola Quincy Session
and
Twelve more hours until Ely Opry!!!!
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Quotes: Opportunity:
There is a tide in the affairs of men,
Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune;
Omitted, all the voyage of their life
Is bound in shallows and in miseries.
We must take the current when it serves,
Or lose our ventures."
William Shakespeare
Buildings: Pittsfield, IL court house on the square
Here are some pictures of the court house in Pittsfield, IL.
It's located in the center of the town square.
I thought it was very impressive.
Look at all of the angles, curves and points.
Incredible mason work.
Here's a close up of some of the windows and the words
Court House
Erected in 1894.
Pig Days
Back on July 7th we went to Pig Days in Pittsfield, IL.
We were there on Friday.
On Saturday they were having a pig roast.
We had supper from this little vending trailer.
Here's a peak inside.
See the little pink big to the left?
Here's my BBQ pork sandwich.
It was pretty good.
Here are some of the booths that were set up.
There were crafts and then general merchandise.
Here's the flyer that tells what will be going on as the day goes by.
I missed the pig calling contest!
Pig Days
Here's a picture of the growing crowd.
Shown below, they are watching the 'Miss Piglet' contest.
There are about seven little girls up there on the stage.
Shown below, they are watching the 'Miss Piglet' contest.
There are about seven little girls up there on the stage.
Here's a closer view of the little gals on the stage.
The winner was the one with the longest "pig tails".
Here are some people eating their dinner.
Here's one of the many smokers that were there.
Flaming!!!
MMMMMmmmm...
Funnel Cakes!
Is there anything better than a fresh funnel cake?
I think not!
Funnel Cakes!
Is there anything better than a fresh funnel cake?
I think not!
Look at that!
I made quick work of that, I'll tell you!
It was delicious!
This is one of the local bands that played.
This one is called 'Jessie and the South'.
They sang country.
Here's a closer look.
Today:
I'm embarrassed to say that I slept in until 9:20 this morning!
There was a nice gentle rain
a little thunder
and it was just too relaxing to get out of bed!!!!
I taught today from 10:00 to 3:00
Then I teach again from 5:00 to 6:30.
Wednesdays are my short day. I like having a day through the week where I have an evening to stay home and not work so late.
I took all of my change in today to the bank and cashed it in. I remember when we used to have to count it all out ourselves and wrap them in the paper rolls.
Now you just take it in, they drop it into a machine that sorts and counts it.
Ta Da!
All done and you get your money lickety split!!!!!
While I was out, I stopped and got a Pepsi.
Yes, that's cheating! I usually only get Pepsi on Monday and Thursday nights. The rest of the time I drink caffeine free stuff. I just wanted one! And I was so close! Couldn't resist!
Fred dropped off some sweet corn from his garden. Can't wait to eat it. It sure smells good!!
Right now I'm sitting here enjoying a quiet moment and eating a poptart.
Blueberry, of course. That's my favorite.
I got a new cell phone and used it for the first time today. I couldn't figure out how to tell what my number was, so I called someone, they called me back and told me what my number is.
Hey,
whatever works!
Hope your day is good.
Now you just take it in, they drop it into a machine that sorts and counts it.
Ta Da!
All done and you get your money lickety split!!!!!
While I was out, I stopped and got a Pepsi.
Yes, that's cheating! I usually only get Pepsi on Monday and Thursday nights. The rest of the time I drink caffeine free stuff. I just wanted one! And I was so close! Couldn't resist!
Fred dropped off some sweet corn from his garden. Can't wait to eat it. It sure smells good!!
Right now I'm sitting here enjoying a quiet moment and eating a poptart.
Blueberry, of course. That's my favorite.
I got a new cell phone and used it for the first time today. I couldn't figure out how to tell what my number was, so I called someone, they called me back and told me what my number is.
Hey,
whatever works!
Hope your day is good.
Salt and Pepper Shakers:
Aren't these little cats cute?
I like the way their each looking different directions.
If you had them switch places, they would be looking at eachother.
I think they look guilty, don't you?
I think these bears are adorable!!!!
I haven't been collecting any new shakers lately,
and may start looking again.
That would mean getting another shelf!
Doh!!!!
How much longer?
Whew- Hoo!!!!
One more day until Ely!!!
Think they'll do the Electric Slide with me??????
I learned how to do it yesterday!
I also learned a dance last night called "Shit Kickin".
Now, that's a fun one!
Let's see ...
One day and eight hours!
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Cats, Birds, water, rainbow:
Now, that little guy looks comfortable!
I wonder what song he was playing when he drifted off to sleep?
I watch bald eagles down at the river front.
They are so pretty and so graceful.
Sometimes I watch them for hours.
My grandparents had a pump like this.
Us kids always thought it was fun to pump up some water and then drink it as it came out.
Yes ...
We got drenched!
But it was so fun!
You know what's at the end of a rainbow ...
Your fortune!
And apparently it's in this little shack!!!
What's up?
Howdy, howdy, howdy!!!
What did you do today?
Me?
I was up at 8:00,
answered some emails,
read some blogs ...
Ate some bologna and tomatoes for breakfast.
Cleaned out the van and then detailed it so it's all nice and super clean.
Smells good, too!!!
Did some laundry,
Ate some icing out of the can,
(was craving something sweet)
Counted all of my change and one dollar bills ...
there was $76.00.
Not bad!
Practiced piano for half an hour,
worked on my crochet project ...
Practiced my "moves" for dancing this weekend in Kansas City.
I saw Nacho Libre again ... for the second time.
I said something that embarrassed myself today!
Ever have those moments?
I was commenting on people driving by and seeing me dancing through the windows.
I said they'd say I was in there flopping around like a dead fish.
Then I realized that dead fish don't flop around.
I think the saying is "flopping around like a fish out of water" ...
I was just confused.
Oh well ... too late ...
I'd already said it out loud.
Doh!!!!!!
Hope you all had a great day!
Chandler and Chris:
There's my little Grandbaby one more time!
They went to get Father's Day pictures taken together.
Oh yes, there will be more to follow!!!
I can't wait to see Chandler this weekend
and hold him
and squeeze him
and kiss him
and talk to him
and sing to him
and hug him!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
General: Want to Dance?
I just spent the last half hour dancing in my living room.
I'm practicing for our girls only night in Kansas City this weekend.
I'm supposed to lead dances.
So ...
Here I am ...
in my living room ...
dancing away!!!!
I did the Macarena,
Hokey Pokey,
Mexican Hat Dance,
The Limbo,
The Hand Jive,
The Hustle,
The Chicken Dance
and last but not least,
the Bunny Hop.
I have to tell you, while doing the hustle I felt like I was in a rerun episode of "Chips". Any of you ever watch that show? Oh my gosh! Crazy stuff going on in here!!!!
I guess I ought to also teach them how to belly dance while I'm there.
That would be interesting!!!!
Anyway,
I hope I know enough to make it fun for them.
That's the whole point, right?
Wish me luck!
I'm practicing for our girls only night in Kansas City this weekend.
I'm supposed to lead dances.
So ...
Here I am ...
in my living room ...
dancing away!!!!
I did the Macarena,
Hokey Pokey,
Mexican Hat Dance,
The Limbo,
The Hand Jive,
The Hustle,
The Chicken Dance
and last but not least,
the Bunny Hop.
I have to tell you, while doing the hustle I felt like I was in a rerun episode of "Chips". Any of you ever watch that show? Oh my gosh! Crazy stuff going on in here!!!!
I guess I ought to also teach them how to belly dance while I'm there.
That would be interesting!!!!
Anyway,
I hope I know enough to make it fun for them.
That's the whole point, right?
Wish me luck!
Tractor:
I don't think this one is going anywhere!
You know, I've ridden on tractors all of my life.
I've always enjoyed them.
You just feel powerful when you're riding on a tractor.
I will always have a soft spot for tractors.
Like any kind of machinery though,
they can be dangerous.
One of our family friends was killed in a tractor accident.
I have a cousin who was riding with her dad, fell off, and was ran over by the tractor before he could get it stopped.
Be careful out there!
Mmmm ... Bologna
I just had a piece of bologna
and a hand full of cherry tomatoes for breakfast.
Not your first choice?
Well,
I was in a hurry and wanted to eat something before lessons started.
I spent the morning detailing my van.
My son Tom is going to buy it.
I found some things!
(He he!)
Monday, July 24, 2006
How much longer?
How much longer until I get to go to Ely?
Three more days!
General: What did I do today?
Hmmm ... What did I do today?
Got up at 7:30
Taught from 10:00 to 12:00.
Went to pick up my Trail Blazer at Shottenkirk at noon and then ran to the insurance office to get verification to put in the glove box.
Barns:
Here's a lovely old red barn for you.
Look at the contrast of how nice the roof is and how the wood is beginning to fade and wear.
There's not a whole lot left of this barn.
It's pretty much colapsing in upon itself.
If you look closely, you can see some loose straw up there in the loft.
View:
If you click and enlarge the above picture,
you will see that it's a logging yard.
Those are all logs floating in a storage spot on the river.
I like this picture.
The trees look so small as you look up the moutain into the clouds.
They just disappear.
Hannibal Session:
Well, I got home from the Hannibal session at 10:25.
We played until 9:30 tonight! Yowza!!!!
We had an appreciative audience tonight.
Lots of applause and hand clapping.
Charlie was there tonight!
I'm always glad to see him there. He lights up my night. Charlie is going to be 100 years old in November I think it is. He's quite the character. He used to judge fiddle contests and he always has tips for me and encourages me so much!
Tonight he commented that he's never seen a fiddler tapping both feet at the same time. I always do that. I find it hard to contain myself when you've got a good groove and rhythm going on. Larry told him that you can only do that when you're sitting down. So true! I think I would trip, get off balance and hit the floor if I tried that while standing up!!! I do the next best thing though ... just dance a little and bob on your knees!!! As long as you've "got it going" some how, that's what matters!
Charlie always tells me that I'm beautiful when I blush. Yes, you know what's coming. Jokes that make me blush!!! I had told him no more of that!!!! Of course, he did it anyway! I introduced him to some friends of mine from Quincy ... and he told them a joke ... and made me blush!
In the audience that I knew tonight were Bill, LA, Evelyn and Bob, Noel and Mary Jo, they had a friend there, I think her name was Betty ... who was visiting, Charlie, George, Harry, Ellen, Lydia, Gracie, Cindy A and many more people whom I did not know or just didn't get listed.
The players tonight were Chris ... Sondra ... Joann ... Dwain ... Larry ... Rob ... Tony ... Lisa ... Dave ... Sarah M ... Ian ... Doug ... Me ... Ned ... Paul ... the girls at the percussion table ... and Sarah on hammer dulcimer, here from Springfield, IL. There was another lady who came in toward the end and played my guitar for a while. I had never met her before and I'm sorry that I don't remember her name. Sorry if I missed anyone!
I took Doug out while it was still daylight and showed him my trail blazer. When we went out, there was another SUV parked right by me, the same color.
I said, "Oh no, which one is mine?"
He said, "Yours is the chevy."
I said, "Oh yeah."
I am such a dork!!!
In fact, everytime I looked out the window this afternoon and saw it sitting in the driveway I thought I had company.
Duh!!!!
When Charlie was leaving, he came over for the hug and kiss that I always give him.
Now...
every other time we've kissed each other on the cheek.
Not tonight!
He kissed smack dab right on the lips!
And not just a little smack either.
It was one of those "linger longers".
Someone yelled, "hey, quit making out over there!"
Charlie looked at me, winked and said "thank you".
Yes ... I was blushing ... again.
I think I'm blushing now!
It was a good night.
We played until 9:30!
I ordered cheese bread and had a soda.
A Pepsi to be exact.
I am now full, tired and will be going to bed shortly.
As soon as I'm through blushing ...
We played until 9:30 tonight! Yowza!!!!
We had an appreciative audience tonight.
Lots of applause and hand clapping.
Charlie was there tonight!
I'm always glad to see him there. He lights up my night. Charlie is going to be 100 years old in November I think it is. He's quite the character. He used to judge fiddle contests and he always has tips for me and encourages me so much!
Tonight he commented that he's never seen a fiddler tapping both feet at the same time. I always do that. I find it hard to contain myself when you've got a good groove and rhythm going on. Larry told him that you can only do that when you're sitting down. So true! I think I would trip, get off balance and hit the floor if I tried that while standing up!!! I do the next best thing though ... just dance a little and bob on your knees!!! As long as you've "got it going" some how, that's what matters!
Charlie always tells me that I'm beautiful when I blush. Yes, you know what's coming. Jokes that make me blush!!! I had told him no more of that!!!! Of course, he did it anyway! I introduced him to some friends of mine from Quincy ... and he told them a joke ... and made me blush!
In the audience that I knew tonight were Bill, LA, Evelyn and Bob, Noel and Mary Jo, they had a friend there, I think her name was Betty ... who was visiting, Charlie, George, Harry, Ellen, Lydia, Gracie, Cindy A and many more people whom I did not know or just didn't get listed.
The players tonight were Chris ... Sondra ... Joann ... Dwain ... Larry ... Rob ... Tony ... Lisa ... Dave ... Sarah M ... Ian ... Doug ... Me ... Ned ... Paul ... the girls at the percussion table ... and Sarah on hammer dulcimer, here from Springfield, IL. There was another lady who came in toward the end and played my guitar for a while. I had never met her before and I'm sorry that I don't remember her name. Sorry if I missed anyone!
I took Doug out while it was still daylight and showed him my trail blazer. When we went out, there was another SUV parked right by me, the same color.
I said, "Oh no, which one is mine?"
He said, "Yours is the chevy."
I said, "Oh yeah."
I am such a dork!!!
In fact, everytime I looked out the window this afternoon and saw it sitting in the driveway I thought I had company.
Duh!!!!
When Charlie was leaving, he came over for the hug and kiss that I always give him.
Now...
every other time we've kissed each other on the cheek.
Not tonight!
He kissed smack dab right on the lips!
And not just a little smack either.
It was one of those "linger longers".
Someone yelled, "hey, quit making out over there!"
Charlie looked at me, winked and said "thank you".
Yes ... I was blushing ... again.
I think I'm blushing now!
It was a good night.
We played until 9:30!
I ordered cheese bread and had a soda.
A Pepsi to be exact.
I am now full, tired and will be going to bed shortly.
As soon as I'm through blushing ...
Chandler:
There's my baby boy!
My grandbaby that is ...
I get to see him this weekend!!!!
I going to a girls getaway weekend in Kansas City this weekend.
It's me, my sister-in-law Tina, my niece Stefanie, my mother Glenda, my daughter-in-law Heather, grandbaby Chandler, my Great Aunt Eva and my cousin Pat.
I think my sister, Ruth Anne, has to work.
I'm not sure.
There are no men allowed ...
well ...
except for Chandler of course!
We're going to spoil him rotten!!!!!!!!!!
How much longer?
I'm ready to go!
Just one and a half more hours!
Just one and a half more hours!
How much longer?
Three and a half hours until I leave for the Hannibal session!
Trail Blazer:
I just drove my trail blazer home!!!
It sure drives different, but I'll get used to it.
I've driven a van for the last six or seven years.
I'm loading that puppy up and driving to music tonight!!!!
Sunday, July 23, 2006
General:
Wow!
I am tired!
Got up at 8:00,
practiced the organ for church,
left for church at 9:10.
Played street music in Hannibal this afternoon.
My fingers are so sore that I could just cry.
I soaked them in Udder Balm this evening and it helped some.
We met lots of people this afternoon. Everyone was very friendly.
Especially the bikers.
I always get a kick out of the little kids who make their parents stop and listen to us play. Sometimes the kids just listen, wide eyed and smiling... and other times they dance. They just can't seem to contain their excitement or energy. Wish I had energy like that again!
One guy even bowed to us when we finished one song. I think it was after my rendition of Ragtime Annie. It was hilarious!!! I bowed back! We had several rounds of applause today ... that's always nice to hear. Lots of smiles.
I'm developing the art of being able to talk to people while I'm playing. It's much harder than it sounds. We're not allowed to use music on the street, so we're relying on our brains. Let me tell you, one little distraction ... and it's over. However, you can't be that way on the street. Too many people want to talk to you and ask you questions. We get a lot of comments on Sondra's mandolin and a lot of people wanting to know the names of songs. I can now say hello, thank you, hello again, goodbye, have fun as well as tell people where the bathroom is and a good place to eat! Yes, sometimes I have to stop, but sometimes I can keep on going.
We saw Chris and Melanie for a little bit when we were finished playing today.
Got home and showered. Let me tell you what, after two days of street playing my costume had developed a life of it's own ... and boy ... was it ever smelly!!!!! Whew! There's nothing like playing the fiddle or guitar with sweat rolling down your back. Yuck.
Spent the rest of the evening on the couch. I crocheted for a little bit. Then watched Funniest Videos, Cold Case and Without a Trace while curled up on the couch under an afghan. It was very relaxing.
It was a good day.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Barns:
Now,
this is my favorite type of barn picture to collect.
To me, this barn is beautiful.
See that cat on top of the post?
Sapsucker Woods, Cornell University
I like how you can see the reflection of the barn in the pond.
I also like the greenery in this picture.
And the hint of the wooden rail fence ...
I also like the greenery in this picture.
And the hint of the wooden rail fence ...
View:
Riddarfjarden, Stockholm, SwedenAren't the colors just fabulous in this picture?
I find the hues of pink against the browns of the buildings very relaxing.
Temple of Poseidon, Attica, GreeceCan you see in your mind's eye what this building once looked like?
General:
Another day has come and gone.
Got up at 8:00.
Got a chocolate iced donut at Daylight Donuts.
Was at Shottenkirk by 9:05 to sign papers on the trail blazer.
Took it for a test drive.
While there, got to see my son and meet his co-workers.
Yes, I'm buying the trail blazer from him.
(wink wink)
No garage sales today. Was too busy.
Left at 11:15 to play street music in Hannibal.
Left the first time ... forgot my purse.
Left again ... forgot the chord book.
Left again ... had everything ... made it just fine.
Remember Thursday night when I poked myself in the eye with my bow and then again with my finger?
Well today I poked myself in the same eye with my guitar.
Yes, it hurt.
No, don't even ask me how you poke yourself in the eye with a guitar.
Let's just say it has to do with putting your guitar strap over your head.
We had a good day today.
It wasn't too hot and there was a breeze.
Chris played bones with us on a couple of songs.
Melanie came out and harrassed us a plenty. (wink)
We even saw George!
We also saw Andrew for a little bit at 3:00 when we were finished.
On the way there, we listened to Roanoke,
my new favorite Bluegrass Tune!!!!
my new favorite Bluegrass Tune!!!!
Went to the grocery store after I got home.
Worked on my afghan.
Watched "The Fugitive" with Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones.
Now I'm headed to bed.
Worked on my afghan.
Watched "The Fugitive" with Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones.
Now I'm headed to bed.
Correction:
I made a boo boo!
The movie screen is 9 feet by 16 feet.
It was a chore to make,
but worth all the time it took.
The movie screen is 9 feet by 16 feet.
It was a chore to make,
but worth all the time it took.
Off to Hannibal!
I'm getting ready to go play street music in Hannibal in a few minutes.
I just ironed my shirt and vest.
Getting ready to go braid my hair into pigtails.
I play from 12:00 to 3:00 this afternoon.
I signed papers on my trail blazer this morning.
Now we just have to see if the financing goes through or not.
Well, I'm off!
Have a great Saturday!!!!
Friday, July 21, 2006
Horses:
General:
Let's see ...
Today I slept in until 9:00 ...
Which is exactly when my phone rang and the piano tuner was on the other end saying,
"I was worried about you. I knocked on the door and rang the door bell. Thought something might be wrong."
Yes ... I was embarrassed!
Threw on some clothes ...
Thought about my hair ... then ran to the door to let him in.
Then I went to comb my hair.
I had stayed out late playing music the night before but thought I would be able to get up and around ... even take a shower ... and be ready at 9:00 when Jim got here.
Oh well!
Had lunch at Fazoli's ...
Exchanged my broken watch for one that actually works.
Went to Shottenkirk where my son works and looked at a Trail Blazer ...
Which I may be buying ...
Taught from 5:00 to 7:30.
Then I did a sewing project for an hour and a half,
reinforcing the seems on our 9 ft x 10ft outdoor movie screen that I made a couple of years ago.
It's being used tomorrow night and I wanted to be sure it was in good shape.
Now it's 10:08pm ...
I'm going to do some computer projects and go to bed I think.
Hope you all have a great weekend.
Ely:
Well,
I'm already missing my Ely friends,
So thought I would post some pictures.
Above is Patty, William, Bert, John and Danny.
Taking it easy.
Below is Wes on the banjo,
Doug on the fiddle
and is it Kenny (?) on steel guitar?
(I'll have to ask him his name again!)
Quincy Session, Music:
Last night we had a fabulous session at La Gondola!
We had fourteen musicians there!!!!
John joined us for the very first time from Ursa.
Joe joined us for the very first time from Hannibal.
We play with Joe at the Hannibal session on Monday nights.
Samantha joined us with her accordion ... we also play with her at the Hannibal session.
The players tonight were me on fiddle ... Joann on Irish whistle ... Tony on flute, Irish whistle and fiddle ... Jeannie on percussion ... Don on string bass ... Larry on fiddle ... Lisa on fiddle ... Dave on guitar ... John on guitar ... Rae on percussion (for the third week in a row!!) ... Sondra on banjo and mandolin ... Andrew on fiddle and mandolin ... Joe on guitar (he plays a twelve string guitar) ... and Samantha on accordion.
For some reason, I threatened Joe with my bow
and while bringing it back over to my fiddle,
I managed to poke myself right in the eye with it!
Ouch!
Then, not twenty minutes later I poked the same eye again with my finger!
Double Ouch!
We got lots of compliments on the music tonight.
Having a nice full set of musicians sure makes a huge difference.
When the session was over,
Dave said, "Well Ava, no crying at this session!"
I've probably already told you before,
But when we first started this session,
it was just the three of us girls
(me, Joann and Sondra)
We played all alone for a while and it was horrible.
We cried every night when it was over.
But we kept it up in hopes that it would grow and blossom into a full session.
Well,
last night was the night!
It was wonderful!
A great session!
No more crying!!!!!!
Steve, the piper who is moving here from Austin
will be teaching us some new Irish tunes when he gets here.
We're all looking forward to that.
One of the first ones we are going to learn is "Mary's Wedding".
It's one of Rae's favorites and we're excited to learn it for her.
Thanks to everyone for making it such a great night!
We had fourteen musicians there!!!!
John joined us for the very first time from Ursa.
Joe joined us for the very first time from Hannibal.
We play with Joe at the Hannibal session on Monday nights.
Samantha joined us with her accordion ... we also play with her at the Hannibal session.
The players tonight were me on fiddle ... Joann on Irish whistle ... Tony on flute, Irish whistle and fiddle ... Jeannie on percussion ... Don on string bass ... Larry on fiddle ... Lisa on fiddle ... Dave on guitar ... John on guitar ... Rae on percussion (for the third week in a row!!) ... Sondra on banjo and mandolin ... Andrew on fiddle and mandolin ... Joe on guitar (he plays a twelve string guitar) ... and Samantha on accordion.
For some reason, I threatened Joe with my bow
and while bringing it back over to my fiddle,
I managed to poke myself right in the eye with it!
Ouch!
Then, not twenty minutes later I poked the same eye again with my finger!
Double Ouch!
We got lots of compliments on the music tonight.
Having a nice full set of musicians sure makes a huge difference.
When the session was over,
Dave said, "Well Ava, no crying at this session!"
I've probably already told you before,
But when we first started this session,
it was just the three of us girls
(me, Joann and Sondra)
We played all alone for a while and it was horrible.
We cried every night when it was over.
But we kept it up in hopes that it would grow and blossom into a full session.
Well,
last night was the night!
It was wonderful!
A great session!
No more crying!!!!!!
Steve, the piper who is moving here from Austin
will be teaching us some new Irish tunes when he gets here.
We're all looking forward to that.
One of the first ones we are going to learn is "Mary's Wedding".
It's one of Rae's favorites and we're excited to learn it for her.
Thanks to everyone for making it such a great night!
Treasures:
Here are a couple of my "treasures" in my glass cabinet.
The picture above is one of my grandfather's pocket knives.
***
The one below is one of my grandmother's little indian dolls.
I think it's adorable.
Ely Opry:
Last night was Ely Opry time!
I count down the days all week until it gets here.
They are a great group of people,
A great group of musicians,
They relax, enjoy the music and have fun.
I enjoy the drive out there.
It's time to think when I drive alone
And time to talk when Dave and I ride together.
I have to say,
I enjoy it more when there is someone to talk to!!!
By the time I got there a little after 9:30,
it was a pretty small group.
However,
that never affects how much fun I have.
For me it is just as fun whether there is a large group or a small group.
A smaller group just means it's more intimate and you get to visit more,
laugh more,
and we also get to try out more fiddle tunes!
I was SO impressed with the songs that Doug and John have already learned from the music and CD that I gave them.
They're awesome!!!!!!
I'm very proud of them.
Let's see,
I'm working on learning more names of people so I can give a better description of the evening.
It's just that there are a lot of names to remember!
There was Ashley (didn't get to sing with her tonight, I think we were both too tired) ... Allan on his mandolin ... Anita on harmonica (she blows me away!!) ... Bill (who can play that fiddle when he gets it out) ... Mrs. Potterfield (Bill's wife) ... his mother ... Bud ... Carol ... Danny (who plays a mean guitar) ... Deann ... Del on banjo ... Doug on fiddle ... Greg (plays the bass) ... Jessie (plays the banjo) ... Jim on guitar ... John on fiddle ... Patty on fiddle ... William on guitar ... Wes Jr and Wes Sr on banjo and guitar.
Now, these are just the people that I know names for.
That certainly doesn't mean those were the only people there.
I managed to not poke myself in the eye anymore,
although it was still sore from the previous two times!
I'm glad I could see to play and drive!
On the way out there,
I almost ran off the road trying to work my mp3 player.
I pulled over in Palmyra and got it all programmed for the rest of the drive.
Heaven knows you can't listen to the radio if you have an mp3 player in the car!
I was really tired on the way home.
Usually being tired isn't an issue on the drive home, but it was this time.
I think it's just because I didn't get much sleep the night before.
All in all, had a great night!
Six more days until next time.
I count down the days all week until it gets here.
They are a great group of people,
A great group of musicians,
They relax, enjoy the music and have fun.
I enjoy the drive out there.
It's time to think when I drive alone
And time to talk when Dave and I ride together.
I have to say,
I enjoy it more when there is someone to talk to!!!
By the time I got there a little after 9:30,
it was a pretty small group.
However,
that never affects how much fun I have.
For me it is just as fun whether there is a large group or a small group.
A smaller group just means it's more intimate and you get to visit more,
laugh more,
and we also get to try out more fiddle tunes!
I was SO impressed with the songs that Doug and John have already learned from the music and CD that I gave them.
They're awesome!!!!!!
I'm very proud of them.
Let's see,
I'm working on learning more names of people so I can give a better description of the evening.
It's just that there are a lot of names to remember!
There was Ashley (didn't get to sing with her tonight, I think we were both too tired) ... Allan on his mandolin ... Anita on harmonica (she blows me away!!) ... Bill (who can play that fiddle when he gets it out) ... Mrs. Potterfield (Bill's wife) ... his mother ... Bud ... Carol ... Danny (who plays a mean guitar) ... Deann ... Del on banjo ... Doug on fiddle ... Greg (plays the bass) ... Jessie (plays the banjo) ... Jim on guitar ... John on fiddle ... Patty on fiddle ... William on guitar ... Wes Jr and Wes Sr on banjo and guitar.
Now, these are just the people that I know names for.
That certainly doesn't mean those were the only people there.
I managed to not poke myself in the eye anymore,
although it was still sore from the previous two times!
I'm glad I could see to play and drive!
On the way out there,
I almost ran off the road trying to work my mp3 player.
I pulled over in Palmyra and got it all programmed for the rest of the drive.
Heaven knows you can't listen to the radio if you have an mp3 player in the car!
I was really tired on the way home.
Usually being tired isn't an issue on the drive home, but it was this time.
I think it's just because I didn't get much sleep the night before.
All in all, had a great night!
Six more days until next time.
Bridges:
I really like bridges like this.
Nice and long ...
Sun and shadows ...
Nice and long ...
Sun and shadows ...
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Music
I've got my new skirt on ...
Curled my hair ...
And now it's going to storm.
May not get to go to Ely after all.
Will probably make it to La Gondola though.
Drat!
I wish I knew what county of Missouri they were in.
Then I could check the weather channel.
I'll have to look it up on line.
Music:
Today was classical violin Thursday.
I played for an hour and here are some of the songs I played:
Worked on bowing techniqe for quite a while.
Then played:
Chorus from "Judas Maccabaeus" by Handel
Musset by Bach
Hunter's Chorus
Long Long Ago (classical style)
A Waltz by Brahms
Theme from Surprise Symphony by Haydn
Minuet by Haydn
Country Song by Beethoven
Theme from Ninth Symphony by Beethoven
March Slave by Tschaikowsky
I enjoyed them all very much!
I played for an hour and here are some of the songs I played:
Worked on bowing techniqe for quite a while.
Then played:
Chorus from "Judas Maccabaeus" by Handel
Musset by Bach
Hunter's Chorus
Long Long Ago (classical style)
A Waltz by Brahms
Theme from Surprise Symphony by Haydn
Minuet by Haydn
Country Song by Beethoven
Theme from Ninth Symphony by Beethoven
March Slave by Tschaikowsky
I enjoyed them all very much!
Animals:
Hey,
What are you lookin' at?
You got somethin' to say to me?
Bring it on!
Piano Tuning
Jim, my piano tuner, came at 9:00 this morning to look at the new electric piano and to tune my regular piano. He wasn't able to fix the electric one, but gave it a good look over. Some of the connections were loose and he reestablished those for me.
When he got over to the piano, I showed him a few of the problems I was having and he's going to have to come back tomorrow to fix those for me. Poor guy! I heard him say "naughty, naughty piano!".
So, he comes back tomorrow morning to make the piano repair ... my damper petal has severe issues due to the wood swelling. And then he'll tune it all up for me.
I always love playing all of my favorite songs on a freshly tuned piano. Perfection!!!!
When he got over to the piano, I showed him a few of the problems I was having and he's going to have to come back tomorrow to fix those for me. Poor guy! I heard him say "naughty, naughty piano!".
So, he comes back tomorrow morning to make the piano repair ... my damper petal has severe issues due to the wood swelling. And then he'll tune it all up for me.
I always love playing all of my favorite songs on a freshly tuned piano. Perfection!!!!
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Music:
Tomorrow is Thursday ...
That's Ely day.
I'm looking forward to getting there.
Family:
That's Tom in the hat ...
Chris is holding Chandler.
There's me, Chris, Chandler and Heather.
Chris and I together.
Little Chandler,
Snoozing away.
Here's a few of the cherries on my cherry tree.
There seem to be a lot this year.
The birds always enjoy them.
General:
Learned a new fiddle tune ...
a waltz
called Carthage Waltz.
Cleaned house a little.
Did an hours worth of accounting.
a waltz
called Carthage Waltz.
Cleaned house a little.
Did an hours worth of accounting.
Listened to a song called Roanoke
other than the ability to utter the words,
Hot damn!!!
I hope I develop the ability to play like that some day.
Watched a little bit of "America's Got Talent".
Now it's 10:09pm
and I'll be going to bed shortly.
The piano tuner comes Thursday at 9:00am.
Why I made the appointment that early, I don't know!
Now I have to get up early so everything is ready for him.
Oh well.
He's also going to look at my electric piano and see if he can fix it.
I sure hope that he can.
Hope you all had a great day!
Thanks for stopping by.
other than the ability to utter the words,
Hot damn!!!
I hope I develop the ability to play like that some day.
Watched a little bit of "America's Got Talent".
Now it's 10:09pm
and I'll be going to bed shortly.
The piano tuner comes Thursday at 9:00am.
Why I made the appointment that early, I don't know!
Now I have to get up early so everything is ready for him.
Oh well.
He's also going to look at my electric piano and see if he can fix it.
I sure hope that he can.
Hope you all had a great day!
Thanks for stopping by.
Wolves:
I think wolves have such an ancient face.
I have always been fascinated with them.
I actually saw a dark wolf like this when we were at Yellowstone.
I was so excited!
I also saw a bear from a distance
and lots of buffalo.
I was so excited!
I also saw a bear from a distance
and lots of buffalo.
mp3 player ...
Here's a fuzzy picture of my new mp3 player.
I plan on filling it with some new songs to learn to sing.
I've got some Brenda Lee songs ready to load.
Also some fiddle tunes.
And don't forget the Irish tunes!
I plan on filling it with some new songs to learn to sing.
I've got some Brenda Lee songs ready to load.
Also some fiddle tunes.
And don't forget the Irish tunes!
Here are my little ear bud headphones ...
They actually work quite well
and they're not too uncomfortable.
My download cable ...
Yee-Haw!
The software ...
Now, I have to tell you ...
This was wonderful software!
It walked and talked me through everything
in a very relaxed and soothing voice.
No problems at all and I got it completed the very first time!
It took me four tries to get my binocam software loaded.
The instruction manual ...
Who reads the instructions?
I thought they were just a backup plan in case you couldn't get it to work!!
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Music:
*
*
Now Frauline is playing on the stereo ....
*
*
*
Now Frauline is playing on the stereo ....
*
*
Horses:
Here are some of my horse friends from across the street.
This paint is my favorite horse over there.
I think he's beautiful.
And he is so sweet.
He loves to visit.
Here's some of the group.
Just hanging out.
Munching grass.
It's very tasty!
I tried some while I was over there!
General:
What did I do today?
Got up at 7:00.
Was grouchy for about an hour.
(that's my morning ritual until the pain medicine kicks in!)
Started teaching at 10:00 ...
finished at 7:00.
Had chocolate cake for breakfast.
Salsbury steak for lunch.
Sloppy joe for supper.
Didn't practice any instruments today,
But did buy some new violin music to go over.
I have a violin student who needs some new material,
So I bought some to play through and see if it will work.
Sometimes it's hard to tell just by looking.
Oh,
I got to watch the second part of Broken Trail, a new movie on AMC.
It was really good.
I love westerns.
I always thought I would marry Clint Eastwood when I grew up ...
Didn't quite work out.
I'm sure he would have asked if our paths had crossed.
Worked on my afghan.
Now it's 11:34 and I'm going to go to bed soon.
Right now I'm listening to Cotton Jenny on the stereo.
The dog just came over for a kiss.
Let in my nightly swarm of bugs when I let the dog out.
One went in my mouth, but I didn't swallow it.
Just kind of spit ...
It'll survive for another day.
Thirty-Two hours and Thirty minutes until Session on Thursday.
First La Gondola ...
and then off to Ely.
I'm sure missing everyone.
Can't wait to get there!!
Hope you had a great day!
Got up at 7:00.
Was grouchy for about an hour.
(that's my morning ritual until the pain medicine kicks in!)
Started teaching at 10:00 ...
finished at 7:00.
Had chocolate cake for breakfast.
Salsbury steak for lunch.
Sloppy joe for supper.
Didn't practice any instruments today,
But did buy some new violin music to go over.
I have a violin student who needs some new material,
So I bought some to play through and see if it will work.
Sometimes it's hard to tell just by looking.
Oh,
I got to watch the second part of Broken Trail, a new movie on AMC.
It was really good.
I love westerns.
I always thought I would marry Clint Eastwood when I grew up ...
Didn't quite work out.
I'm sure he would have asked if our paths had crossed.
Worked on my afghan.
Now it's 11:34 and I'm going to go to bed soon.
Right now I'm listening to Cotton Jenny on the stereo.
The dog just came over for a kiss.
Let in my nightly swarm of bugs when I let the dog out.
One went in my mouth, but I didn't swallow it.
Just kind of spit ...
It'll survive for another day.
Thirty-Two hours and Thirty minutes until Session on Thursday.
First La Gondola ...
and then off to Ely.
I'm sure missing everyone.
Can't wait to get there!!
Hope you had a great day!
Dancer:
This was me in my living room earlier today!!!!!
Food:
Mmmm ....
A nice pot of sloppy joe!
And a loaf of fresh bread to go with it.
It was delicious!
Nature:
Here's a picture taken in
Glacier National Park,
Montana.
I can just smell that clean crisp mountain air.
This one is taken of Gay Head Cliffs,
in Massachusetts.
in Massachusetts.
I like the shades of red
and the texture of the grass against the rock.
Beautiful.
and the texture of the grass against the rock.
Beautiful.
Crafts:
Yes,
Now you must look at my craft projects ...
One of the things you must suffer as a reader of my blog.
Above is my newest venture.
I couldn't cross stitch anymore with going blind,
So I opted for a crochet project instead.
Decided to try something new.
It doesn't look like much at the moment,
but it's going to be an afghan.
This one has little individual squares that you attach together to form the afghan.
I've always sewn squares with a needle and yarn.
This pattern has you join them as you crochet ...
No sewing involved at all!
It's great!
This one is made of scrap yarn,
But the next one will be coordinated colors and much prettier.
Oh yes,
I also made the purple afghan on the back of the couch.
I like having them there,
Because I always get cold in the evening ...
grab it ...
and cozy up with it.
Above is my completed counted cross stitch project that I just finished.
It's going to go in my sewing room.
I'm going to have it framed and matted at Hobby Lobby.
I'm pleased with the way it turned out.
It took forever.
There are a lot of tiny stitches involved with this one!
That's for sure!
But worth it.
It's going to go in my sewing room.
I'm going to have it framed and matted at Hobby Lobby.
I'm pleased with the way it turned out.
It took forever.
There are a lot of tiny stitches involved with this one!
That's for sure!
But worth it.
General:
I just did my Tai Chi exercises.
Now I'm all loosened up and ready to go.
It felt so good!
Didn't tackle the exercise ball though ...
Will do that this evening while I'm watching tv.
Sunrise and Sunset:
Here are a couple of sunsets for you to bask in.
The above picture was taken at Edwin Warner Park,
in Nashville, Tennessee.
And take a look at this one!
Now,
that's beautiful!!!
Don't forget to dance ...
Over on Oshee's blog today she was talking about dancing with her kids.
Oh my gosh, did that ever bring back memories!
I used to dance with my boys!
They were so cute!
We danced together from the time they were big enough to stand on their little feet and bounce at the knees!!!
At least two or three days a week,
usually after work and picking them up from the babysitter ...
sometimes while dinner was cooking ...
we'd put the music on loud and just dance away!
Sometimes it was just boogie ...
sometimes just being silly ...
other times very serious ...
teaching eachother new moves ...
sometimes I made them dance disco!!!!!!
We waltzed ...
we two stepped ...
and as they got older and wanted to dance to their own music ...
we rapped ...
For some reason they always made fun of my "rap" dancing.
I still dance almost every day ...
alone ...
in my living room ...
with the music way too loud ...
Don't forget to dance!
Oh my gosh, did that ever bring back memories!
I used to dance with my boys!
They were so cute!
We danced together from the time they were big enough to stand on their little feet and bounce at the knees!!!
At least two or three days a week,
usually after work and picking them up from the babysitter ...
sometimes while dinner was cooking ...
we'd put the music on loud and just dance away!
Sometimes it was just boogie ...
sometimes just being silly ...
other times very serious ...
teaching eachother new moves ...
sometimes I made them dance disco!!!!!!
We waltzed ...
we two stepped ...
and as they got older and wanted to dance to their own music ...
we rapped ...
For some reason they always made fun of my "rap" dancing.
I still dance almost every day ...
alone ...
in my living room ...
with the music way too loud ...
Don't forget to dance!
Hannibal Session: Music Monday!
Another music night has come and gone. Now I'm on the count down to Thursday!!!!!
We had a warm session in Hannibal ... either the AC wasn't cranking out like usual or it was just too darned hot for it to keep us cool. Aren't we spoiled??????
The players were Chris on tenor banjo... me on guitar and fiddle ... Joann on Irish whistle ... Beverly on mandolin and Irish whistle ... Dwain on guitar (and he broke another string this evening) ... their daughter played mandolin ... Andrew on fiddle ...Larry on fiddle ... Don on the bass (and I really liked having him at our end this time) ... Kevin on percussion ... Rob on percussion ... Tony on Irish whistle, flute and fiddle ... Lisa on fiddle ... Robert on fiddle ... Dave on guitar ... Dale on guitar ... Sarah on Irish whistle and bass ... Ian on guitar ... Doug on tenor banjo ... Ned on guitar ... Fred on guitar ... and Paul on flute and Irish whistle. We have three new guitar players whom I'm embarrassed to say ... I haven't got their names and faces together in my head yet. One is Mike ... he just moved to the area. The other two play the twelve string guitar and are a lot of fun to have in our circle. Beverly and Dwain had family in and their little grand children are SO cute!!!!
We missed Sondra (had comapny) and Phillip (working). Elizabeth ... where are you??????
Bill, Evelyn H, Evelyn and Bob, George, Noel and Mary Jo were all in the audience tonight. I missed Harry and Ellen. They don't miss a session very often.
It was a nice relaxed evening. I found myself in a guitar mood and took my guitar this time. I do that every once in a while. Anyway, I had a lot of fun and enjoyed listening to the music. I like playing the guitar because you can actually "feel" the rhythm. (or maybe that's just me) I had a blast although my fingers were sore by the time the evening was over. Of course, when it came time for "Chicken Reel", I found my fiddle to be irresistible and had to switch. There were a couple like "Red Wing" for one, that I also couldn't resist on the fiddle.
My guitar, Wilson, was very pleased to be out of his case and getting some much missed attention. I think he was saying, "Nanny - nanny - na -na!" to Suzie, the fiddle. He'd better behave himself! Hopefully she won't hold a grudge for long. I'm hoping that she will play with me later today.
As always ... please forgive me if I left anyone out. It's never intentional if I do. Blame it on memory loss! And I can always make "corrections".
Let's see ... two more days until La Gondola and Ely!!!!!
Can't wait!
We had a warm session in Hannibal ... either the AC wasn't cranking out like usual or it was just too darned hot for it to keep us cool. Aren't we spoiled??????
The players were Chris on tenor banjo... me on guitar and fiddle ... Joann on Irish whistle ... Beverly on mandolin and Irish whistle ... Dwain on guitar (and he broke another string this evening) ... their daughter played mandolin ... Andrew on fiddle ...Larry on fiddle ... Don on the bass (and I really liked having him at our end this time) ... Kevin on percussion ... Rob on percussion ... Tony on Irish whistle, flute and fiddle ... Lisa on fiddle ... Robert on fiddle ... Dave on guitar ... Dale on guitar ... Sarah on Irish whistle and bass ... Ian on guitar ... Doug on tenor banjo ... Ned on guitar ... Fred on guitar ... and Paul on flute and Irish whistle. We have three new guitar players whom I'm embarrassed to say ... I haven't got their names and faces together in my head yet. One is Mike ... he just moved to the area. The other two play the twelve string guitar and are a lot of fun to have in our circle. Beverly and Dwain had family in and their little grand children are SO cute!!!!
We missed Sondra (had comapny) and Phillip (working). Elizabeth ... where are you??????
Bill, Evelyn H, Evelyn and Bob, George, Noel and Mary Jo were all in the audience tonight. I missed Harry and Ellen. They don't miss a session very often.
It was a nice relaxed evening. I found myself in a guitar mood and took my guitar this time. I do that every once in a while. Anyway, I had a lot of fun and enjoyed listening to the music. I like playing the guitar because you can actually "feel" the rhythm. (or maybe that's just me) I had a blast although my fingers were sore by the time the evening was over. Of course, when it came time for "Chicken Reel", I found my fiddle to be irresistible and had to switch. There were a couple like "Red Wing" for one, that I also couldn't resist on the fiddle.
My guitar, Wilson, was very pleased to be out of his case and getting some much missed attention. I think he was saying, "Nanny - nanny - na -na!" to Suzie, the fiddle. He'd better behave himself! Hopefully she won't hold a grudge for long. I'm hoping that she will play with me later today.
As always ... please forgive me if I left anyone out. It's never intentional if I do. Blame it on memory loss! And I can always make "corrections".
Let's see ... two more days until La Gondola and Ely!!!!!
Can't wait!
Monday, July 17, 2006
Houses:
Here are a couple of houses
in Schenectady, NY.
I like how they've identified the separate
houses with paint above.
Saturday morning we went to some garage sales.
Here are a few of the things that I found.
Here are a few of the things that I found.
Here's my purple hat ...
Here's my plaid hat ...
Here's a book that I found ...
and here's the little piano that I got.
It's electric and Jim is coming out to tune my piano and then look at this one
Thursday morning to see if he can fix it.
I sure hope that he can!!!!
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Getting Personal
Okay, I have to warn you this is not going to be a regular post. It's going to be very personal and not light hearted at all. Not even pleasant.
If you'd rather not read it ... scroll on down.
I try not to get too personal on this blog, but today something just needs to get out. So here it goes.
I was driving home from church today, listening to MC Hammer on the stereo. He has a great album called "Please Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em". As I was driving home, "Help the Children" came on. Today this song spoke to my heart. You see, I was one of the children who needed help.
I'm not going to mention names here. Some of you may already know, so I'm asking you to please not leave "names" of any of those involved in my experience if you choose to comment on this entry. I thank you for your descretion in advance.
You see, a huge secret that I kept all to myself was that I was molested as a child.
I was molested as a child and I know the lasting effects that such abuse can leave on a person. I know the burden of keeping that secret. I know how this burden effects your self esteem. I know how it makes you feel deep down inside, even when you're smiling at those around you trying to pretend that nothing is wrong. I know how to "close the door" on a part of your life and keep that door closed to all of those around you ... even those who love you. I know how it feels to think that no one will understand it was abuse. That you didn't want to do it. That you're not guilty. I know how it feels to contemplate ending your own life.
But I am a survivor. I kept that door closed for twenty years but I can open that door now. I can talk about it when I am needed in order to help someone else. I can cry along with someone else who needs to sort it out and let out feelings that have been hidden and denied for so long.
I can remember the abuse, what was done, who it was, where I was when it happened, how it felt at the time and how it made me feel about myself afterwards. I can remember having to control the thoughts in my head. I can remember being too little to physically stop it from happening and being afraid of the threats that were made if I told anyone. I can remember being around this person and pretending that everything was all right. I can remember it being on going for years and years and years.
I can remember the day that I was physically big enough, old enough, strong enough, brave enough and mad enough to fight back and threatened them in return. I remember them looking me in the eye for a long moment and realizing that I was serious, capable and ready to follow through on the "promise" that I made them that day if they ever touched me again. That was the day it stopped. Not the last time it was attempted ... but the day it stopped.
I think the abuse started when I was four. I'm pretty sure it was before I started school. And it continued all through Elementary School. How can I not be sure when it started? Well, like I said, you "close the door" on things that are too painful to think about.
I think what got me through all of it was the fact that I had very loving parents. They didn't know what was happening ... but by golly they showed me every day how much they loved me. They told me so, they hugged me, they encouraged me in everything I did ... and without that I don't think I would have lived through my teenage years. Maybe even middle school years.
Now, I don't want the comments, if there are any, to be bashing abusers and name calling. That doesn't help anyone. Especially not me. I will delete anything like that is left.
What I do want you to do, especially if you have a history like mine, is to reach out and help someone else. Helping others to heal spiritually and emotionally has also helped me to heal spiritually and emotionally. I have worked with teens and helped several through abuse residue ... you know ... the baggage you are left with when you survive it.
Also, love your kids, your nieces and nephews and your family ... even your friends. Tell them that you love them as often as you can. Tell them you are proud of them and their achievements ... whatever they may be. Encourage them that they are good people and that they can accomplish great things. Encourage them that they can over come obstacles that are put in their path during life. That if you can't go over it, under it or around it ... go straight through it and come out on the other side. Encourage them to not hold resentment ... to be forgiving. Resentment eats at your soul.
You can survive the curves that life throws at you. I did it. I've known other people who have done it. You can do it. Anyone can do it. You just have to try.
Life is good. Life is what you make of it. Be positive. Allow yourself to forgive and let go of resentment. We've all had struggles ... what ever they have been ... let them go. They don't define who you are. You define who you are. You decided life is worth living. You decide to be happy. You decide to win ... and you win by going on on ... being happy ... and reaching for the stars.
Go for it.
If you'd rather not read it ... scroll on down.
I try not to get too personal on this blog, but today something just needs to get out. So here it goes.
I was driving home from church today, listening to MC Hammer on the stereo. He has a great album called "Please Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em". As I was driving home, "Help the Children" came on. Today this song spoke to my heart. You see, I was one of the children who needed help.
I'm not going to mention names here. Some of you may already know, so I'm asking you to please not leave "names" of any of those involved in my experience if you choose to comment on this entry. I thank you for your descretion in advance.
You see, a huge secret that I kept all to myself was that I was molested as a child.
I was molested as a child and I know the lasting effects that such abuse can leave on a person. I know the burden of keeping that secret. I know how this burden effects your self esteem. I know how it makes you feel deep down inside, even when you're smiling at those around you trying to pretend that nothing is wrong. I know how to "close the door" on a part of your life and keep that door closed to all of those around you ... even those who love you. I know how it feels to think that no one will understand it was abuse. That you didn't want to do it. That you're not guilty. I know how it feels to contemplate ending your own life.
But I am a survivor. I kept that door closed for twenty years but I can open that door now. I can talk about it when I am needed in order to help someone else. I can cry along with someone else who needs to sort it out and let out feelings that have been hidden and denied for so long.
I can remember the abuse, what was done, who it was, where I was when it happened, how it felt at the time and how it made me feel about myself afterwards. I can remember having to control the thoughts in my head. I can remember being too little to physically stop it from happening and being afraid of the threats that were made if I told anyone. I can remember being around this person and pretending that everything was all right. I can remember it being on going for years and years and years.
I can remember the day that I was physically big enough, old enough, strong enough, brave enough and mad enough to fight back and threatened them in return. I remember them looking me in the eye for a long moment and realizing that I was serious, capable and ready to follow through on the "promise" that I made them that day if they ever touched me again. That was the day it stopped. Not the last time it was attempted ... but the day it stopped.
I think the abuse started when I was four. I'm pretty sure it was before I started school. And it continued all through Elementary School. How can I not be sure when it started? Well, like I said, you "close the door" on things that are too painful to think about.
I think what got me through all of it was the fact that I had very loving parents. They didn't know what was happening ... but by golly they showed me every day how much they loved me. They told me so, they hugged me, they encouraged me in everything I did ... and without that I don't think I would have lived through my teenage years. Maybe even middle school years.
Now, I don't want the comments, if there are any, to be bashing abusers and name calling. That doesn't help anyone. Especially not me. I will delete anything like that is left.
What I do want you to do, especially if you have a history like mine, is to reach out and help someone else. Helping others to heal spiritually and emotionally has also helped me to heal spiritually and emotionally. I have worked with teens and helped several through abuse residue ... you know ... the baggage you are left with when you survive it.
Also, love your kids, your nieces and nephews and your family ... even your friends. Tell them that you love them as often as you can. Tell them you are proud of them and their achievements ... whatever they may be. Encourage them that they are good people and that they can accomplish great things. Encourage them that they can over come obstacles that are put in their path during life. That if you can't go over it, under it or around it ... go straight through it and come out on the other side. Encourage them to not hold resentment ... to be forgiving. Resentment eats at your soul.
You can survive the curves that life throws at you. I did it. I've known other people who have done it. You can do it. Anyone can do it. You just have to try.
Life is good. Life is what you make of it. Be positive. Allow yourself to forgive and let go of resentment. We've all had struggles ... what ever they have been ... let them go. They don't define who you are. You define who you are. You decided life is worth living. You decide to be happy. You decide to win ... and you win by going on on ... being happy ... and reaching for the stars.
Go for it.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Crafts:
I finished my cross stitch project about a week ago
and was really bored.
We went to Walmart and I got some yarn
and started a new afghan project to crochet.
I've never made one like it
and it should be interesting.
I'll post a picture later.
and was really bored.
We went to Walmart and I got some yarn
and started a new afghan project to crochet.
I've never made one like it
and it should be interesting.
I'll post a picture later.
Birds:
As you know ...
I enjoy bird watching.
So ...
I also enjoy bird photos as well.
Here's some I'll share with you.
(no ... these are not taken by me)
I enjoy bird watching.
So ...
I also enjoy bird photos as well.
Here's some I'll share with you.
(no ... these are not taken by me)
Here's a pretty little Cardinal.
They are my most frequent visitor in the winter time.
I also have several Robins in the winter time.
They come to my bird feeder.
I have tons of them in the summer!
And the hummingbird.
One of the favorites!
Cute as can be!
General:
Well, today (Saturday) we got up and went to some garage sales. I got a thermos (which I'm taking to Thresher's), two tapes (one of MC Hammer and one of Country dances ... like the electric slide, etc), two hats (one is plaid and the other is purple ... bought those from one of my neighbors), a pair of sunglasses (I left mine at home) and an electric piano for $35.00 (it has an electrical problem, but for $35 I can have it looked at and fixed ... or get rid of it if it can't be fixed). It was a good day!
Jim, who tunes my piano, is coming Thursday morning to tune my piano and then take a look at the electric one to see if he can fix it. Hopefully someone who is "electrical" can fix it for me. It's cool ... has headphones and everything.
Our friend Jason took my hubby in his truck and they picked up the piano and brought it home. It's sitting beside my organ.
Cross your fingers that it's fixable!!!!Cowboys:
Well, it's almost time to replace my vehicle.
I had wanted to get another mini van,
but decided today to get an suv instead.
Why?
Well, I need something big enough to haul
my instruments and music buddies around with me.
But I also need something that will pull a horse trailer.
I still plan on getting a horse.
I seem to get a vehicle about every ten years.
So ...
I need to get one this time that will accommodate owning a horse.
I had wanted to get another mini van,
but decided today to get an suv instead.
Why?
Well, I need something big enough to haul
my instruments and music buddies around with me.
But I also need something that will pull a horse trailer.
I still plan on getting a horse.
I seem to get a vehicle about every ten years.
So ...
I need to get one this time that will accommodate owning a horse.
Anyway,
Here are some cowboy pictures for you.
I love the one above with the silhouette and the sunset.
This one is just an old cowboy.
I like how the scarf adds a splash of color.
Friday, July 14, 2006
Frank:
Here are a few more pictures from Frank's wedding.
We blew bubbles rather than throw rice.
It was fun!!
And there they are!
Without rice in their hair ...
Well ...
rice in her hair anyway!
(sorry Frank)
Bubbles! Bubbles!
There is Natsumi (Tina's mom) in the black dress.
There's my Dad #2 behind her.
It looks like he's blowing bubbles!
More bubbles!
That's my nephew Tyler in the center.
Animals:
Wow!
As long as that bobcat didn't move
would you ever know he was there?
What a great hiding spot!
Here's a little arctic fox kit.
He's so fuzzy!!!!
Looks very soft,
but I bet his teeth are sharp!
Little needles!
Bugs:
I just let in the nightly swarm of bugs
that come in when I open the door
to take the dog out before bed.
Oh well,
I have several friendly spiders
that live with me in the basement.
I'm sure they appreciate it.
The have all sorts of little knats and night time bugs
in their little webs in the corners.
Chris, Music:
Here are some more pictures from my party.
What?
You thought they were finished?
Never!!!!
Here's a group shot.
It isn't the entire group,
but a lot of them.
I can tell by the way everyone is looking to the side
that some people are playing and/or singing.
I'd say it's my friends who came from Ely.
The two groups tended to take turns.
There's Bill in the yellow ...
Doug in the blue ...
And that is one of Greg's sons in the orange.
Here's my song Chris,
inside the house taking a nap.
He had put in a very long day on his new job and was exhausted.
General:
Well,
wait a minute ...
why do I start every post by say "well ..."
Let's start over.
***
Hello!
I've been thinking about getting some little walky talkies or hand held radios
for when I'm at the Threshers Show.
I haven't looked around or priced them yet,
but it was a comforting thought to be "in touch"
with someone if I ramble off somewhere by myself.
I'll have to think about it ...
and even better than that ...
see how much they are.
That might settle the question very quickly!!
wait a minute ...
why do I start every post by say "well ..."
Let's start over.
***
Hello!
I've been thinking about getting some little walky talkies or hand held radios
for when I'm at the Threshers Show.
I haven't looked around or priced them yet,
but it was a comforting thought to be "in touch"
with someone if I ramble off somewhere by myself.
I'll have to think about it ...
and even better than that ...
see how much they are.
That might settle the question very quickly!!
Moody:
Well,
I've just been sitting here reviewing the week that's just finished ...
and I've reached a conclusion.
I "may" have been a little moody ...
which means I "may" have been a little snippy ...
or I "may" have just said or done something stupid or rude without realizing ...
So ...
My apologies to anyone and everyone if I was any of the above to you.
I blame it on lack of sleep.
Makes me moody!
And I know it's hard to believe ...
but I can even be snotty at times.
No ...
I know you don't believe it ...
but it can happen.
I will get some sleep and be nicer in the days to come.
Keep on smiling!
I've just been sitting here reviewing the week that's just finished ...
and I've reached a conclusion.
I "may" have been a little moody ...
which means I "may" have been a little snippy ...
or I "may" have just said or done something stupid or rude without realizing ...
So ...
My apologies to anyone and everyone if I was any of the above to you.
I blame it on lack of sleep.
Makes me moody!
And I know it's hard to believe ...
but I can even be snotty at times.
No ...
I know you don't believe it ...
but it can happen.
I will get some sleep and be nicer in the days to come.
Keep on smiling!
Butterflies:
Here are a couple of butterflies for you.
I have loved butterflies since I was a little girl.
I've always been one to chase them and catch them.
When we were at the drive-in movie,
there were two little girls there with butterfly nets.
They were catching lightning bugs.
It was so cute to watch them running around
and then see their excitement when they caught one.
A Drive:
We went for a drive last weekend and here are some of the things that I saw:
I've said it many times ...
You can't live in Illinois and not see corn.
Here's some of the corn I saw on our drive.
I don't know if you can see the beauty in it,
But I thought this golden field was beautiful.
And here's a shot of the sky that day.
And last, but not least ...
Here's a barn that we found along the road side.
We noticed that it has glass in the window of the loft.
On this particular day we saw several barns with glass windows.
I found that unusual.
Most of the barns I've seen have just plain windows without glass
with shutter that you can close.
Some don't even have shutters.
Here's a barn that we found along the road side.
We noticed that it has glass in the window of the loft.
On this particular day we saw several barns with glass windows.
I found that unusual.
Most of the barns I've seen have just plain windows without glass
with shutter that you can close.
Some don't even have shutters.
General:
Went to lunch with my hubby today.
First, we went to the West Quincy Pawn Shop.
My watch broke,
so we thought we'd look while we were there.
They didn't have any.
We were mainly looking for a BB gun.
They didn't have any of those either.
First, we went to the West Quincy Pawn Shop.
My watch broke,
so we thought we'd look while we were there.
They didn't have any.
We were mainly looking for a BB gun.
They didn't have any of those either.
Then we went to The Ritz for lunch.
He had a Reuben sandwich.
I had a BLT and cheese fries.
It was good.
Mmmm ...
Horses:
Let's go pet the horses!!!
Here we are at the fence.
Let's call to them.
Who do you think will come?
Last time I got to pet the little paint in the front.
He's a yearling and very friendly.
Hey!
Come on over here!
Come on!
Come on!
Well ...
Hello there!
Thanks for coming over to see me.
And then we proceded to give a good neck scratching,
nose rubbing,
ear rubbing,
and chin scratching.
This horse was very interested in the camera and had to smell it over every inch.
He didn't try to eat it though, which surprised me.
This one is a sweetheart.
I gave him a good rub down a few days ago.
nose rubbing,
ear rubbing,
and chin scratching.
This horse was very interested in the camera and had to smell it over every inch.
He didn't try to eat it though, which surprised me.
This one is a sweetheart.
I gave him a good rub down a few days ago.
Music:
I love music ...
It is inside of me ...
Moving through my brain ...
My thoughts ...
It's a radio inside my head ...
It moves in my body ...
Comes out through my hips when I dance ...
Through my expressions when I smile ...
Through my toes when they're tapping ...
Through my fingers when I'm playing ...
In everything I do there is music and rhythm ...
Waltzing through life ...
A turn here ...
A turn there ...
A dip ...
A twist ...
A shuffle ...
The sleek movement of the dancing cobra ...
Muscles tensing and relaxing ...
The contemplation of a new tune ...
The joy of an old familiar tune ...
The anticipation of being with friends ...
Sharing that sweet conversation that music is ...
Closing your eyes and soaking it in ...
Enjoying it to your very core ...
This is life ...
This is peace ...
This is joy.
Ava Jackson
Amo música…
Está adentro de mÃ…
Mudanza a través de mi cerebro…
Mis pensamientos…
Es una radio dentro de mi principal…
Se mueve en mi cuerpo…
Sale a través de mis caderas cuando bailo…
Con mis expresiones cuando sonrÃo…
A través de mis dedos del pie cuando están golpeando ligeramente…
A través de mis dedos cuando estoy jugando…
En todo que lo hacen es música y ritmo…
El bailar el vals con vida…
Una vuelta aquÃ…
Una vuelta allÃ…
Una inmersión…
Una torcedura…
Una barajadura…
El movimiento liso de la cobra que baila…
Músculos que tensan y que relajan…
La contemplación de una nueva consonancia…
La alegrÃa de una vieja consonancia familiar…
La anticipación de estar con los amigos…
Compartiendo eso conversación dulce que es la música…
Cerrándose los ojos y empapándolos en…
Gozando de él a su misma base…
Ésta es vida…
Ésta es paz…
Ésta es alegrÃa.
Ava Jackson
It is inside of me ...
Moving through my brain ...
My thoughts ...
It's a radio inside my head ...
It moves in my body ...
Comes out through my hips when I dance ...
Through my expressions when I smile ...
Through my toes when they're tapping ...
Through my fingers when I'm playing ...
In everything I do there is music and rhythm ...
Waltzing through life ...
A turn here ...
A turn there ...
A dip ...
A twist ...
A shuffle ...
The sleek movement of the dancing cobra ...
Muscles tensing and relaxing ...
The contemplation of a new tune ...
The joy of an old familiar tune ...
The anticipation of being with friends ...
Sharing that sweet conversation that music is ...
Closing your eyes and soaking it in ...
Enjoying it to your very core ...
This is life ...
This is peace ...
This is joy.
Ava Jackson
Amo música…
Está adentro de mÃ…
Mudanza a través de mi cerebro…
Mis pensamientos…
Es una radio dentro de mi principal…
Se mueve en mi cuerpo…
Sale a través de mis caderas cuando bailo…
Con mis expresiones cuando sonrÃo…
A través de mis dedos del pie cuando están golpeando ligeramente…
A través de mis dedos cuando estoy jugando…
En todo que lo hacen es música y ritmo…
El bailar el vals con vida…
Una vuelta aquÃ…
Una vuelta allÃ…
Una inmersión…
Una torcedura…
Una barajadura…
El movimiento liso de la cobra que baila…
Músculos que tensan y que relajan…
La contemplación de una nueva consonancia…
La alegrÃa de una vieja consonancia familiar…
La anticipación de estar con los amigos…
Compartiendo eso conversación dulce que es la música…
Cerrándose los ojos y empapándolos en…
Gozando de él a su misma base…
Ésta es vida…
Ésta es paz…
Ésta es alegrÃa.
Ava Jackson
Ely Opry:
I had a lot of fun out at Ely last night.
When we were finished at the Quincy session,
the weather was still holding out.
Dave and I made a dash for it.
We made it all the way with no rain.
However,
once we were there,
the rain hit big time!!!
There was lots of lightning and lots of rain!!!
But that didn't stop our music playing!
The band played on ...
I had to run out to the car for something ...
The rain hit just as I locked and closed the car door.
Yes,
I got a little wet.
As soon as I got inside, the down pour hit.
There was a great crowd last night.
Both with musicians and singers
as well as listeners.
I sang a couple of songs with miss Ashley ...
She is a very good vocalist.
I'll have to sing with her some more!!!!
Doug's still going strong with his fiddle
and has learned all sorts of new tunes.
William and I were talking about the movie Nacho Libre.
Oh my gosh!
I loved that movie.
I think Jack Black is hillarious!
John was there, so we had lots of fiddling.
I think it is so fun when all of the fiddlers stand together and play.
That fiddle music just sings to my heart.
Fills me with joy.
I am so thankful for my musical talents.
No, I'm not super talented,
but am able to play and be happy.
That's what it's all about.
Wow,
look at me!
Getting all misty!
I was home by around 1:30 last night!
I've got to stop staying as late as I have the last few times.
It's just so hard to stop playing!!!
There were so many people,
and I know so few names ...
Bert was there and told me her latest grades.
You go girl!
It is so hard to be going back to school when you are raising a family.
I've done it ... and there were times when I just wanted to sit down and cry.
Very stressful.
Well, I'm still sitting here with my banjo around my neck,
so I guess maybe I'd better for play it for a little bit.
I practiced banjo for an hour yesterday.
Can't stand it anymore!
Must go play!
When we were finished at the Quincy session,
the weather was still holding out.
Dave and I made a dash for it.
We made it all the way with no rain.
However,
once we were there,
the rain hit big time!!!
There was lots of lightning and lots of rain!!!
But that didn't stop our music playing!
The band played on ...
I had to run out to the car for something ...
The rain hit just as I locked and closed the car door.
Yes,
I got a little wet.
As soon as I got inside, the down pour hit.
There was a great crowd last night.
Both with musicians and singers
as well as listeners.
I sang a couple of songs with miss Ashley ...
She is a very good vocalist.
I'll have to sing with her some more!!!!
Doug's still going strong with his fiddle
and has learned all sorts of new tunes.
William and I were talking about the movie Nacho Libre.
Oh my gosh!
I loved that movie.
I think Jack Black is hillarious!
John was there, so we had lots of fiddling.
I think it is so fun when all of the fiddlers stand together and play.
That fiddle music just sings to my heart.
Fills me with joy.
I am so thankful for my musical talents.
No, I'm not super talented,
but am able to play and be happy.
That's what it's all about.
Wow,
look at me!
Getting all misty!
I was home by around 1:30 last night!
I've got to stop staying as late as I have the last few times.
It's just so hard to stop playing!!!
There were so many people,
and I know so few names ...
Bert was there and told me her latest grades.
You go girl!
It is so hard to be going back to school when you are raising a family.
I've done it ... and there were times when I just wanted to sit down and cry.
Very stressful.
Well, I'm still sitting here with my banjo around my neck,
so I guess maybe I'd better for play it for a little bit.
I practiced banjo for an hour yesterday.
Can't stand it anymore!
Must go play!
Quincy Session at La Gondola
Well, the weather held out enough for me to get where I was going last night.
I was worried there for a little while.
But it turned out okay.
We had a great session at La Gondola.
The Red Wing motorcycle club was there for dinner.
This was the second time they've come and stayed to listen to us play.
We like it when they are there because there is thunderous applause when we finish a song.
It's great!!!!!!
We were a small session but still played great music.
The players were Lisa on fiddle, Dave on guitar, Rae on drum, Tony on whistle and me on fiddle.
Andrew and Sondra came for a little bit.
Andrew played drum, fiddle and bouzouki.
Sondra played bouzouki and guitar.
Well, if you could see me right now,
You would laugh.
I'm sitting here at the computer making this entry ...
wearing my banjo around my neck!!!
Hey,
what can I say!
Benny the Banjo was lonely and wanted to play a few tunes.
We played one ... Girl I Left Behind ...
only to find out that my fingers are still sore from sessions last night.
Poor Benny!
I was worried there for a little while.
But it turned out okay.
We had a great session at La Gondola.
The Red Wing motorcycle club was there for dinner.
This was the second time they've come and stayed to listen to us play.
We like it when they are there because there is thunderous applause when we finish a song.
It's great!!!!!!
We were a small session but still played great music.
The players were Lisa on fiddle, Dave on guitar, Rae on drum, Tony on whistle and me on fiddle.
Andrew and Sondra came for a little bit.
Andrew played drum, fiddle and bouzouki.
Sondra played bouzouki and guitar.
Well, if you could see me right now,
You would laugh.
I'm sitting here at the computer making this entry ...
wearing my banjo around my neck!!!
Hey,
what can I say!
Benny the Banjo was lonely and wanted to play a few tunes.
We played one ... Girl I Left Behind ...
only to find out that my fingers are still sore from sessions last night.
Poor Benny!
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Canada:
Isn't this a fabulous picture?
Takes my breath away!!
I would love to be paddling in that canoe ...
Out across the water ...
Toward the hills ...
Maybe stop to fish ...
Maybe just keep cruising in the boat.
I'm there!
I'm there!
Takes my breath away!!
I would love to be paddling in that canoe ...
Out across the water ...
Toward the hills ...
Maybe stop to fish ...
Maybe just keep cruising in the boat.
I'm there!
I'm there!
Weather ...
Well, now we're under a severe thunder storm warning for the next 45 minutes. I just went out and backed my van up to the house so I can load my instruments without getting soaked. Now unloading when I get there ... that's another story!!!!
Plants:
Here are a couple of my house plants.
Don't they look happy sitting there in the window?
They're great company!!
Music
Well, it's Thursday which means music night at La Gondola and Ely. That's the good news.
What's the bad news? We're supposed to have some severe thunder storms with possible hail and tornados. That means if it's storming at 8:30, I won't be heading out to Ely after all. Boo hoo!!!! And I have CD's to pass out too! Hopefully it won't be storming and I can go as usual.
I hate it when the weather interferes with my plans!!
Drat it!!!!
Oh well, we really do need the rain. So I guess I'll be happy either way.
What's the bad news? We're supposed to have some severe thunder storms with possible hail and tornados. That means if it's storming at 8:30, I won't be heading out to Ely after all. Boo hoo!!!! And I have CD's to pass out too! Hopefully it won't be storming and I can go as usual.
I hate it when the weather interferes with my plans!!
Drat it!!!!
Oh well, we really do need the rain. So I guess I'll be happy either way.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Water, Hannibal:
Here's another view of the Mississippi.
This time the train is just coming into view.
And here is another view of Hannibal, Missouri.
The town is heavily dotted with trees.
Very nice.
General:
In the evening,
when I go let the dog in or out
a bunch of bugs always slip in when I open the door.
They're attracted to the light in the window.
Anyway,
I just smacked a bug on the computer screen ...
Gross!
Now there are bug guts on it.
I think the bug was better!
I'll have to remember that next time.
when I go let the dog in or out
a bunch of bugs always slip in when I open the door.
They're attracted to the light in the window.
Anyway,
I just smacked a bug on the computer screen ...
Gross!
Now there are bug guts on it.
I think the bug was better!
I'll have to remember that next time.
France:
Anyone been to France?
My friend Lisa just got back from there.
She has some fabulous pictures!
I only had time to rush through,
but hope to get a better look.
Music
Well, this evening I completed my recording project.
I'm very relieved to have that finished.
All that is left to do is to print the labels.
Ya-hoo!!!!
Is anyone out there watching the show
America's Got Talent?
That harmonica player just blew me away!
I still think the yodeler is fantastic!
I'm very relieved to have that finished.
All that is left to do is to print the labels.
Ya-hoo!!!!
Is anyone out there watching the show
America's Got Talent?
That harmonica player just blew me away!
I still think the yodeler is fantastic!
Salt and Pepper Shakers: Dad's
Here are a few more salt and pepper shakers
from my Dad's collection.
The Mr. Peanut shakers are my favorite.
They are so cute!
They are missing their hats,
But they are still precious to me!
The pair of praying hands are marked Japan on the bottom.
Look how perfectly you can see the knuckles
and the fingernails.
Very cool.
General:
Well, it's been a crazy day today!
I slept in too late and had to rush around.
I hate that!
Thank goodness for pop tarts!!!!!
My knee is sore and the pain medicine is wearing off.
I can't take another one for two more hours.
Oh well, nothing I can do about it.
My students have been great today.
It's a rare day when everyone is in a good mood on the same day!
God must have known that I needed it today.
Thank you!!!!!
Hope you all are having a great day!
Tomorrow is Thursday and that means music night!!!!
I can't wait!
I slept in too late and had to rush around.
I hate that!
Thank goodness for pop tarts!!!!!
My knee is sore and the pain medicine is wearing off.
I can't take another one for two more hours.
Oh well, nothing I can do about it.
My students have been great today.
It's a rare day when everyone is in a good mood on the same day!
God must have known that I needed it today.
Thank you!!!!!
Hope you all are having a great day!
Tomorrow is Thursday and that means music night!!!!
I can't wait!
Gardens:
Here we go for a walk amidst the garden.
I don't know about you,
But I can smell those flowers from here!!!
Family: Frank's House
There are some of the pictures from my brother, Frank's house.
This is the only unfinished room in the basement.
It has this little wood stove in it.
And the ever popular pool table.
My nephew Isaac in the sold blue ...
My nephew Tyler in white ...
Tiffany's brother in blue stripes ...
Here's the deer feeded that sits along the edge of the woods.
You can see it from the windows in the house.
Ocean: Spotted Dolphins
I think dolphins are so cool!!!
I saw wild dolphins in the ocean
when I was in California.
I grew up watching "Flipper"
and I've been in love with dolphins ever since then.
Family:
Here's a picture of my Dad and Mom #2.
I have my Dad's chin!!!
Here's a picture of my Mom and Dad #2.
Caught ya sleeping!
We were all wiped out that day!
From left to right:
My oldest son Chris
Heather (Chandler's mama)
My youngest son Tom
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Religious, Stained Glass:
I thought this stained glass was very pretty.
I like the colors used in the background.
Very pretty.
Family: Pat, Glenda, Eva, Ava
In the black is my mother, Glenda,
And in the white is my cousin, Pat.
Couple of cut ups, aren't they??
Here I am with Pat.
That was the first time I had seen her in years.
I was thrilled to have her there!
Here's Pat again,
this time with her mother, Eva.
Yes, this is my Great Aunt Eva and the person I was named after.
I sure do love that woman!
The last weekend of this month a bunch of us girls are going to meet at Pat's house for a sleepover.
It should be fun.
I've already been given strict orders to bring all of my instruments.
Apparently,
I'm the entertainment!
Heaven help us!
Roads:
Here's a view of a road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park,
in North Carolina.
Wouldn't it be great to be walking or riding a horse down that road right now??
For me it would be a horse ...
For Pasadena it would be her bike ...
I love the colors of the trees in the fall ...
The rustle of the leaves in the trees ...
The rustle of the leaves under your feet ...
After the leaves fall is the best time for birdwatching.
Yes,
you do see more variations of bird types in the spring and summer,
but you have an unobstructed view in the late fall and winter.
In the spring and summer
I have to rely on recognizing bird calls and then trying to locate the bird by sound.
It works,
it just takes longer.
Some days I am more patient than others.
(wink wink)
Music
Well, I did some more recording this evening.
I have about four more left to record and then I'm finished for a little bit.
My husband sure does a good job with it.
Well ... let's see ...
I worked ...
Did laundry ...
Practiced fiddle ...
Blogged ...
We had breaded chicken, spinach greens and roasted potatoes for supper ...
We watched Hildalgo again ...
What a great movie.
Now I'm blogging again before I go to bed.
Last night I was working with some computer files ...
That was at 9:30 ...
When I looked at the clock, it was 2:00am!!!
Dang!
I immediately turned everything off and went to bed.
So ...
I'm a little sleepy right now.
Not too bad, unless I sit still for too long ...
I have about four more left to record and then I'm finished for a little bit.
My husband sure does a good job with it.
Well ... let's see ...
I worked ...
Did laundry ...
Practiced fiddle ...
Blogged ...
We had breaded chicken, spinach greens and roasted potatoes for supper ...
We watched Hildalgo again ...
What a great movie.
Now I'm blogging again before I go to bed.
Last night I was working with some computer files ...
That was at 9:30 ...
When I looked at the clock, it was 2:00am!!!
Dang!
I immediately turned everything off and went to bed.
So ...
I'm a little sleepy right now.
Not too bad, unless I sit still for too long ...
Funny, Animals
Family, Jessica:
This is my niece Jessica and I posing for a picture.
I got an email from her today.
She needed the blog address.
So ...
I thought I'd post our picture again and say hello.
Hello Jessica!
I love you, beautiful girl!!!!
Music: Fiddle
Well, I practiced fiddle tunes for two hours today.
It was nice to just be able to relax and enjoy playing.
My dog howled along with me a little while.
Then he laid down and just listened.
He is so funny.
The expressions that he makes are priceless!
Tomorrow I need to practice banjo.
Oh, Oh, Oh ...
I added a new piece to my memorized list.
Now I'm up to 50 tunes in my head!
I just wish they would all always show up on demand when I'm wanting to find them!!!!!
It was nice to just be able to relax and enjoy playing.
My dog howled along with me a little while.
Then he laid down and just listened.
He is so funny.
The expressions that he makes are priceless!
Tomorrow I need to practice banjo.
Oh, Oh, Oh ...
I added a new piece to my memorized list.
Now I'm up to 50 tunes in my head!
I just wish they would all always show up on demand when I'm wanting to find them!!!!!
Birds:
This little guy is a bird gouldian finch.
Very colorful.
Treasures:
Here are a few of the things in my glass cabinet.
The mug and saucers were mine and my brothers.
We had matching ones.
The swan belonged to my Grandma Testerman.
It used to sit on a shelf that Grandpa Testerman made for her.
The owl is a night light that my Grandma Testerman made for me at the ceramic shop.
If I remember correctly, it had a red light inside of it.
I kept it on top of my dresser.
Nature:
Yes, yes, yes
I'm very well aware that I post some strange things sometimes.
That's just how I am.
Today,
I'm posting some nice little pebbles.
Ever thrown pebbles at a sibbling?
Or into water?
These aren't skipping rocks, of course,
But I used to love skipping rocks on the pond or the creek.
It would entertain me for hours!!!!
When fishing gets boring ...
I skip rocks!
Which scares all the fish away!!!!
Castles
Here's a view looking up the hill toward a castle.
Have you ever been in a castle?
I haven't yet ... but I will one of these days!!!
This castle is called Pousada Castle
and is located in Obidos, Portugal.
Salt and Pepper Shakers, Grandma Williams:
These belonged to my Grandma Williams.
This little parrot always got a lot of attention from the younger grandkids.
It sat on her hutch by the phone.
The shaker has no mate.
I know I'll find some like it one of these days.
I know I'll find some like it one of these days.
Clearly Canadian
Tree, Bridge:
I can feel the dampness of this place on my skin just looking at this picture.
Isn't it beautiful?
I find the greenery of nature to be very soothing and relaxing.
Add the sound of running water on top of that and I'm hypnotized!
Seriously.
I could just sit there for hours and listen to the sounds around me.
Growing up, we had woods on our property.
My father cut walking trails through it.
Very non invasive.
I would go out there and sit under a tree and read books, draw, write ...
Sometimes just sit and listen.
If you're in the woods and you're quiet and sit still for about fifteen minutes,
The wildlife will accept you and go on about their business.
Oh, if I'd only had a camera then.
I even had a bobcat walk by once.
Now THAT was exciting!!
We also had a Black Panther in the area.
I never came across him in the woods,
But we would see him and especially hear him at night.
Very eerie sound to hear that.
To know he's out there,
somewhere,
very close
and you can't see him.
Wow!
We would see his paw prints too.
I used to be able to track and identify all sorts of animal tracks.
Not so much anymore,
But ...
I did see bear tracks at the edge of the lake out at Siloam Springs.
I also saw the tracks of a very large cat at the edge of the water.
Cougar?
I've talked to several people and they've said that the cougar/panther is making a come back.
I'm a little more careful walking alone out there since I've seen those tracks.
Although the odds are that I will never see either one.
I'll just be a little more careful walking up to dens to see what's in there.
(yes, I do that)
The Mission:
Here are a couple of pictures of The Mission.
We went there a few years ago when we were in California.
It's beautiful inside!!!
The restaurant was marvelous.
The food was delicious.
The atmosphere was very nice.
The patio area was superbly furnished with flowers.
I enjoyed it very much.
Birds:
While out bird watching at Siloam Springs,
Which,
by the way,
is my favorite place to go bird watching ...
We saw a Pileated Woodpecker.
I was SO excited!
What's so great about that?
Well, I was 37 at the time and had never seen one before.
They are a large bird.
Reminds you of the dinosaur era when you see one flying by.
I would never have seen it if it hadn't been frightened and flown right in front of us.
I think I remember jumping up and down because I was seeing one for the first time.
It was very fun!
I've not seen one since, but I know they're out there!!!
I hear them when I'm walking at Siloam Springs.
I'm sure I'll see another one some day.
I'll keep my fingers crossed.
Windmills:
I've always been fascinated by windmills.
They always look so lonely.
Most of them stand alone, not near other structures.
I think they are romantic.
This particular windmill
is the
Wicken Fen Windmill
in
Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom.
Wood Carvings:
How would you like to ride in this old convertible??
Barn:
This picture is rather dark,
But I think you can still see the barns.
I like in this picture how all of the barns and the house match.
Very coordinated.
Looks very organized.
Monday, July 10, 2006
Nature, Water:
How's that for beautiful??
Breath taking!
Those are the Boulder Mountains, in Idaho.
Cowboy town
I just want to go for a ride in that wagon!!!!
Where are the mules???
Where are the mules???
Hercules and the Wagoner (Aesops Fables)
A man was driving his horse and wagon along a muddy lane when the wheels of his cart sank deep into the mud.
The man got down and tried to push the wagon along.
It was no use.
The wagon was stuck.
The man lifted his head and cried in despair.
"Every thing happens to me!" he wailed.
"Why doesn't someone come and help me?
What about the mighty Hercules?
He is the strongest man on earth.
Where is he now that I need him?"
Hercules heard his name being called and came to see what was wanted of him.
"Stop moaning and put your shoulder to the wheel," he told the wagoner sternly.
"How can you expect others to help you, if you do not help yourself?
If you show that you are willing to do your share, I will gladly help you."
Moral:
Heaven helps those who help themselves.
Salt and Pepper Shakers: Dad's
Here are some more of the salt and pepper shakers from my Dad's collection.
These are single shakers ...
missing their mate ...
But I love them anyway!
These are single shakers ...
missing their mate ...
But I love them anyway!
This is a wooden one.
Now, I can remember this pair being on the table and using them.
Here's a metal one.
It's in good shape ...
Just lonely.
This white one is marked on bottom ...
Lustro Ware
Made in USA
Cols. Plastic Prod. Inc
Columbus, Ohio
This metal pepper shaker is marked Japan on the bottom.
Here's a glass one ...
I think this little fish is just precious!
I sure wish I had the mate.
I keep looking on ebay, but no luck so far.
It's marked Japan on the bottom.
Here's an unusual one ...
It's a plastic egg on a stand!
Very cool!
It's a plastic egg on a stand!
Very cool!
Prairie Dog Kisses
I love you ...
Oh, I love you too.
Let me kiss you ...
No, let me kiss you!
Your fur is so soft ...
You smell like apples ...
Your nails are so perfect ...
Your ears are so clean ...
Oh, I love you too.
Let me kiss you ...
No, let me kiss you!
Your fur is so soft ...
You smell like apples ...
Your nails are so perfect ...
Your ears are so clean ...
Hannibal Jam Session
Well, after playing street music two days in a row on Saturday and Sunday ... I wasn't sure that I would survive to play again on Monday. But I did!!!!!
However, within the first hour of fiddling, one of my fingers was bleeding. Seriously! My left pointer finger. Oh well ...
We played and had a wonderful time. Unfortunately, my brain is too tired to even think about listing who all was there and who wasn't. Sorry.
We played to a standing room only crowd tonight! Very cool!!!!! That made it even more fun than usual. We've had a crowd that big once before a few months back. Loved it!
Well, on another note, I'm working up some new songs to sing out at Ely. I'm getting tired of singing the same six ones every time. I need a little more variety ... you know ... spice it up a little. I spend most of my time playing fiddle, but love to sing. I'm also working up some more "country oldies" for La Prairie, as well as some new fiddle tunes.
Well, must move along. I've got some laundry going ... 10:30 at night ... but hey ... when you need clean clothes ... you need clean clothes!!!!!
I need to spend some time brushing back up on my banjo tunes this week. I've been focusing on fiddle and guitar ... Benny the banjo is crying for some attention. Actually, Sondra and I were offered a job and they want banjo and guitar. That way we could switch off ... it's so much nicer when you can break it up by switching instruments. They liked the banjo and the fact that we were "two girls" ... they thought that was unusual.
Oh yeah, I was going ...
Talk to ya later!
However, within the first hour of fiddling, one of my fingers was bleeding. Seriously! My left pointer finger. Oh well ...
We played and had a wonderful time. Unfortunately, my brain is too tired to even think about listing who all was there and who wasn't. Sorry.
We played to a standing room only crowd tonight! Very cool!!!!! That made it even more fun than usual. We've had a crowd that big once before a few months back. Loved it!
Well, on another note, I'm working up some new songs to sing out at Ely. I'm getting tired of singing the same six ones every time. I need a little more variety ... you know ... spice it up a little. I spend most of my time playing fiddle, but love to sing. I'm also working up some more "country oldies" for La Prairie, as well as some new fiddle tunes.
Well, must move along. I've got some laundry going ... 10:30 at night ... but hey ... when you need clean clothes ... you need clean clothes!!!!!
I need to spend some time brushing back up on my banjo tunes this week. I've been focusing on fiddle and guitar ... Benny the banjo is crying for some attention. Actually, Sondra and I were offered a job and they want banjo and guitar. That way we could switch off ... it's so much nicer when you can break it up by switching instruments. They liked the banjo and the fact that we were "two girls" ... they thought that was unusual.
Oh yeah, I was going ...
Talk to ya later!
Are you my Mommy?
These photos were sent to my by my friend Bonnie.
I had never seen anything like this.
I thought they were amazing!
Be sure to click and enlarge,
Because they are just darling!
The little fawn sure looks comfortable with the horses.
And yes,
in case you're wondering,
the attached note said that when the horses went on their way
the mother deer did come back to get the fawn.
All is well!!!
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Music
Sondra and I played music in Hannibal Saturday and Sunday (today).
There were tons of people on Saturday and we were a big hit. The people were a little more sparse today, but they still loved us!!!!
I found out that working on the street two days in a row is exhausting! We got really hot today but it wasn't so bad yesterday. However, we were both still tired from yesterday before we even started today!!! Awww ... we'll toughen up!!!!
One little girl posed with us for a picture. She plays guitar and drums. She had just purchased a harmonica which she was planning to learn to play. I think she was six or seven.
One little boy danced on the sidewalk while we were playing.
Someone offered us a job ... I'm supposed to call about it tomorrow.
Lots of people smiled and waved.
I'm glad we decided to do this because I am having a lot of fun with it.
After a nap, a shower, lots of water and a good meal ... I've come back to life. Heat exhaustion is rough!!!!!
There were tons of people on Saturday and we were a big hit. The people were a little more sparse today, but they still loved us!!!!
I found out that working on the street two days in a row is exhausting! We got really hot today but it wasn't so bad yesterday. However, we were both still tired from yesterday before we even started today!!! Awww ... we'll toughen up!!!!
One little girl posed with us for a picture. She plays guitar and drums. She had just purchased a harmonica which she was planning to learn to play. I think she was six or seven.
One little boy danced on the sidewalk while we were playing.
Someone offered us a job ... I'm supposed to call about it tomorrow.
Lots of people smiled and waved.
I'm glad we decided to do this because I am having a lot of fun with it.
After a nap, a shower, lots of water and a good meal ... I've come back to life. Heat exhaustion is rough!!!!!
Saturday, July 08, 2006
Movie Night
Well, Friday night
we decided to go to the drive in movie
at Summer Hill,
which is just outside of Pittsfield, Illinois.
Yes, yes ...
Pirates of the Caribbean.
It was a good movie.
we decided to go to the drive in movie
at Summer Hill,
which is just outside of Pittsfield, Illinois.
Yes, yes ...
Pirates of the Caribbean.
It was a good movie.
As you can see,
The drive in is in the middle of a farmers field.
There's corn to the left,
corn to the right,
and a drive in movie in the middle ...
just a little square.
The drive in is in the middle of a farmers field.
There's corn to the left,
corn to the right,
and a drive in movie in the middle ...
just a little square.
Here's a picture of the screen and concession stand.
There were only a few there when we first got there,
But it filled up by the time the movie started.
There were only a few there when we first got there,
But it filled up by the time the movie started.
Movie
Here we go ...
Here we are in line waiting to get in.
I hadn't been to a drive in movie in YEARS.
My parents used to take us to one all of the time.
It was in Neosho, Missouri ...
I don't remember the name of it,
But it was right be the bowling ally,
Right across the street from the skating rink.
I hadn't been to a drive in movie in YEARS.
My parents used to take us to one all of the time.
It was in Neosho, Missouri ...
I don't remember the name of it,
But it was right be the bowling ally,
Right across the street from the skating rink.
Here's the guy taking money and passing out movie tickets.
My luck,
I would lean out too far and fall right out that window!!!!!
My luck,
I would lean out too far and fall right out that window!!!!!
Movie
Here's the sign with the prices
and
directions on which radio station to turn to ...
and
directions on which radio station to turn to ...
Got it!!!!
89.9
89.9
Movie
Well,
the movie can't start until sunset.
So,
I thought I'd share some sunset pictures with you.
the movie can't start until sunset.
So,
I thought I'd share some sunset pictures with you.
and ...
and ...
and ...
and ...
and ...
and ...
and ...
and ...
Movie
And here I am ...
all comfy and ready for a movie!!!
The seat's leaned back ...
My feet are up ...
Ahhh!!
Movie
Hmmm ...
I'm hungry.
Got anything to eat?
Oh yes!
Popcorn!!!!!
It was only $2.79 for that big tub of popcorn!
And it was delicious!!!
Mmmm ...
Cotton candy!!!
Yes, I ate the whole thing!!!!
Mmmm ...
Nachos!
And yes,
I totally woke up with a stomach the next morning!!!!!
Nachos!
And yes,
I totally woke up with a stomach the next morning!!!!!
Movie
Here I am with my feet up,
Getting all comfortable,
Ready for the movie ...
Wow,
My foot is bigger than that movie screen!!!!
Hey!
My foot could smash that man like an ant!!!!!
But I didn't.
The movie was great!
I got cold and had to roll my window up.
There were lots of people,
lots of kids
and some people even brought their little dogs.
We got home late.
Gas jumped up ten cents per gallon during the day,
So we crossed over into Missouri on the way home,
where the gas is cheaper,
and got gas.
We stopped at the BP station to see if Larry was there,
and surprise him ...
but he wasn't.
We got gas,
crossed the Mississippi back over into Illinois
and headed home.
My foot could smash that man like an ant!!!!!
But I didn't.
The movie was great!
I got cold and had to roll my window up.
There were lots of people,
lots of kids
and some people even brought their little dogs.
We got home late.
Gas jumped up ten cents per gallon during the day,
So we crossed over into Missouri on the way home,
where the gas is cheaper,
and got gas.
We stopped at the BP station to see if Larry was there,
and surprise him ...
but he wasn't.
We got gas,
crossed the Mississippi back over into Illinois
and headed home.
Friday, July 07, 2006
General:
Well, it's 1:04 am and we just got home from the drive in movie!!
What fun!
And now ...
I'm going to bed.
I'll tell you all about it later!
Yodeling
Yee Haw!
I just found a site on line where I can take yodeling lessons!!
Ho-la---doh--ooh--dee, -heh---ee---dee, --ho--ooh-dee---ho,-----Ho-la
yoh-ooh-dee,--heh--ee--dee, -ho--ooh--dee--yo!!
How does that sound?????
I just found a site on line where I can take yodeling lessons!!
Ho-la---doh--ooh--dee, -heh---ee---dee, --ho--ooh-dee---ho,-----Ho-la
yoh-ooh-dee,--heh--ee--dee, -ho--ooh--dee--yo!!
How does that sound?????
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Music:
Even my squirrels play music with me!
Me and this guy hang out under my big oak tree.
He's also a pretty good singer as well.
Very talented, my little squirrel.
He has friends,
but they don't join us very often.
Mississippi:
Here's yet another view of the Mighty Mississippi!
This time you get the river boat AND the train going by!!
This picture was taken from atop Lover's Leap.
This time you get the river boat AND the train going by!!
This picture was taken from atop Lover's Leap.
Wolves:
I don't know about you,
But I think the wolf is an inspiring animal.
So majestic,
So beautiful,
So agile ...
Sunrise:
The official title of this picture is ...
A New Day ...
Isn't that a beautiful sky?
A New Day ...
Isn't that a beautiful sky?
Quincy Session at La Gondola
We had a great session tonight. I was definitely ready to play after not playing since Monday and I hadn't played with a group since last Thursday! A whole week!!! That's just not cool! Not at all!!!!
Anyway, my fiddle was happy to be out and I sure enjoyed playing.
The players tonight were Tony on fiddle, flute and Irish whistle ... Lisa on fiddle ... Joann on Irish whistle ... Don on bass ... Jeanie on drum ... Dave on guitar ... Larry on fiddle and mandolin and me on fiddle and guitar.
Lucas came and brought someone with him to eat, but left when they were finished. My friend Scott from Smith Music came and had supper. He gave us the "thumbs up" as he was leaving. I had just been in the store last Friday, but he was off that day.
Tony passed out a bunch of new music that I'll be playing through tomorrow to see what new treasures there are. I get really excited over new music!!!!
Dave is working over time and wasn't able to go to Ely with me after all. Some of our audience members are thinking about running out to Ely to listen one of these nights. That would be fun.
Well ... that's it for now I guess. As always ... if I forgot anyone ... please forgive me. I'm always thrilled to have everyone there. We missed Sondra and Andrew this evening and hope that all is well.
Until next time ...
Puede usted tener sueños dulces,
La suerte del irlandés,
¡Y porciones del juego de música!!!!
(May you have sweet dreams,
The luck of the Irish,
And play lots of music!!!!)
PS My spanish isn't that great, so please understand if my translations are lacking!
Gracias!
Anyway, my fiddle was happy to be out and I sure enjoyed playing.
The players tonight were Tony on fiddle, flute and Irish whistle ... Lisa on fiddle ... Joann on Irish whistle ... Don on bass ... Jeanie on drum ... Dave on guitar ... Larry on fiddle and mandolin and me on fiddle and guitar.
Lucas came and brought someone with him to eat, but left when they were finished. My friend Scott from Smith Music came and had supper. He gave us the "thumbs up" as he was leaving. I had just been in the store last Friday, but he was off that day.
Tony passed out a bunch of new music that I'll be playing through tomorrow to see what new treasures there are. I get really excited over new music!!!!
Dave is working over time and wasn't able to go to Ely with me after all. Some of our audience members are thinking about running out to Ely to listen one of these nights. That would be fun.
Well ... that's it for now I guess. As always ... if I forgot anyone ... please forgive me. I'm always thrilled to have everyone there. We missed Sondra and Andrew this evening and hope that all is well.
Until next time ...
Puede usted tener sueños dulces,
La suerte del irlandés,
¡Y porciones del juego de música!!!!
(May you have sweet dreams,
The luck of the Irish,
And play lots of music!!!!)
PS My spanish isn't that great, so please understand if my translations are lacking!
Gracias!
Ely Opry:
Well, after the Quincy session was over at La Gondola, I headed out to Ely for some more music. What a great night. There were lots of people there and the music was still going at 1:00am. I love nights like that. From about 1:30 to 2:00am it was just me, Doug and William on guitar. We ran through fiddle tunes. That's always my favorite part of the night. Which is the reason I always get home so late.
While I was there, Jeff, who is my neighbor, said he can get home in 35 minutes. It usually takes me 45 going through Palmyra. I go that way because I'm leaving from La Gondola. Anyway, since Jeff said 35 minutes I thought I would try it. You know ... every minute counts when you're playing music. So ... I stayed on 36 and came home through Hannibal. I think I did make better time. Next time Dave rides with me I'll see if he'll drop his car off at my house. It's sure a more pleasant drive staying on 36 all the way.
Anyway ... after having sore hands and not being able to play music for three days ... it was wonderful to have my fiddle out and play to my hearts content!!! And better yet ... with friends!!!
Awesome!!!!
I plan on having my recording finished and some CD's to pass out next Thursday. I passed out some new music and my CD is to play along with or just listen to while learning the songs. It's been a fun project and I'm almost finished with it.
Well, it's 3:03 am and I'm heading to bed.
Adios amigos!!!!!
Ahora me estoy yendo a la cama. ( I'm going to bed now.)
:)
While I was there, Jeff, who is my neighbor, said he can get home in 35 minutes. It usually takes me 45 going through Palmyra. I go that way because I'm leaving from La Gondola. Anyway, since Jeff said 35 minutes I thought I would try it. You know ... every minute counts when you're playing music. So ... I stayed on 36 and came home through Hannibal. I think I did make better time. Next time Dave rides with me I'll see if he'll drop his car off at my house. It's sure a more pleasant drive staying on 36 all the way.
Anyway ... after having sore hands and not being able to play music for three days ... it was wonderful to have my fiddle out and play to my hearts content!!! And better yet ... with friends!!!
Awesome!!!!
I plan on having my recording finished and some CD's to pass out next Thursday. I passed out some new music and my CD is to play along with or just listen to while learning the songs. It's been a fun project and I'm almost finished with it.
Well, it's 3:03 am and I'm heading to bed.
Adios amigos!!!!!
Ahora me estoy yendo a la cama. ( I'm going to bed now.)
:)
When is music????
*
*
*
Well, let's see ...
It's 3:20pm right now ...
That makes it ...
Three hours and forty minutes until music tonight!
*
*
*
*
*
Well, let's see ...
It's 3:20pm right now ...
That makes it ...
Three hours and forty minutes until music tonight!
*
*
*
My bunny:
Okay, my secret is out!!!!
This is my security bunny.
I've had it since I was born.
Yes, he's a little ratty,
dirty,
flop eared,
banged up ...
But he's still precious in my heart!
He'll soon be leaving my desk and going to the glass cabinet upstairs
that safe guards my little treasures.
Have you ever seen such pretty blue eyes?
He played music once upon a time,
But that is long gone.
General:
Well, Happy July 6th to you!!!!
I'm very happy that I've made it to Thursday ...
A great day to be alive ...
Because ...
It's music night!!!!!!
Two music nights in one!
Play with my friends at La Gondola
And then with my friends at Ely.
My hands are still hurting, but I'll be able to play at least some.
Or I'll just ignore what my hands are saying and play the whole time!
You never know ...
I'll just have to see.
Sometimes when they are sore I can't grip that bow.
I'll play something though ... no problem there!!!
Hope you all have a great day!
Toodles!
I'm very happy that I've made it to Thursday ...
A great day to be alive ...
Because ...
It's music night!!!!!!
Two music nights in one!
Play with my friends at La Gondola
And then with my friends at Ely.
My hands are still hurting, but I'll be able to play at least some.
Or I'll just ignore what my hands are saying and play the whole time!
You never know ...
I'll just have to see.
Sometimes when they are sore I can't grip that bow.
I'll play something though ... no problem there!!!
Hope you all have a great day!
Toodles!
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Pitcher
You can't see it very well ...
It's sitting up in the cabinet ...
This is a little pitcher and basin that I made in ceramics for my Grandma Williams.
I remember making it.
I concentrated very hard while painting it ...
Trying to make everything just so ...
It's sitting up in the cabinet ...
This is a little pitcher and basin that I made in ceramics for my Grandma Williams.
I remember making it.
I concentrated very hard while painting it ...
Trying to make everything just so ...
General:
Who wants to blow the puffs and watch them fly???
Such a little thing to bring such joy.
Such a little thing to bring such joy.
I found this on the side of the road during a walk.
It looks sort of like burro's tail,
But I know that is not what it is.
It looks sort of like burro's tail,
But I know that is not what it is.
General:
Well, tomorrow is Thursday.
I'm really looking forward to it.
Since we didn't have a music session on Monday,
That means I haven't played music with anyone for a week!!!
Dang!
That's a long time!
I'm looking forward to the Quincy session at La Gondola
and to playing music at Ely.
I'm hoping that my hands will be all the way better by then,
and I'll be able to fiddle away!!!!!
I also play street music this Saturday and Sunday in Hannibal.
So, don't worry about me ...
I'll get my "dose" of music in before the weekend is over!!!!!
I'm really looking forward to it.
Since we didn't have a music session on Monday,
That means I haven't played music with anyone for a week!!!
Dang!
That's a long time!
I'm looking forward to the Quincy session at La Gondola
and to playing music at Ely.
I'm hoping that my hands will be all the way better by then,
and I'll be able to fiddle away!!!!!
I also play street music this Saturday and Sunday in Hannibal.
So, don't worry about me ...
I'll get my "dose" of music in before the weekend is over!!!!!
Water
This picture was taken after a rain storm.
Looks like there might be some flood water in there.
It looks pretty muddy.
Looks like there might be some flood water in there.
It looks pretty muddy.
Visual Pun:
Horses:
Here's a beautiful Arabian mare.
I like how her mane and tail are flowing.
This horse looks just like Midnight,
He's the horse I rode last year out at the equestrian center.
He was gentle as a lamb.
We had a lot of fun together twice a week.
I like how her mane and tail are flowing.
This horse looks just like Midnight,
He's the horse I rode last year out at the equestrian center.
He was gentle as a lamb.
We had a lot of fun together twice a week.
General:
Well, for some reason I was not sleepy last night at all ...
Stayed up until 4:00am ...
Got up at 8:30am ...
I have a feeling it's going to be a long day.
I have two lessons this morning
Followed by ten this afternoon.
On a good note ...
My hands are feeling better today.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Testing...
Yes,
I know you've seen this little deer before.
I'm moving some of my pictures to disk
And just testing to be sure they're uploadable.
I know you've seen this little deer before.
I'm moving some of my pictures to disk
And just testing to be sure they're uploadable.
Baby:
Ahhhh!
Isn't this little guy cute?
He's an African Leopard cub.
Horses:
Here's a little picture of some arabian horses.If you know me ...
You know that I like horses.
They are such beautiful creatures.
What is a binocam????
I always get questions about my binocam,
So I thought I'd show it to you.
So I thought I'd show it to you.
So, here it is.
It's a pair of binoculars with a camera in the middle.
You're supposed to be able to take a picture exactly as you see it through the binoculars.
It's a pair of binoculars with a camera in the middle.
You're supposed to be able to take a picture exactly as you see it through the binoculars.
I haven't got it "all" figured out yet.
I'm still working on it.
They are fun to use.
I just wish my bird pictures would turn out better.
I'm still working on it.
They are fun to use.
I just wish my bird pictures would turn out better.
They take great still shots though.
Great nature pictures.
Great nature pictures.
Don't worry ...
I'll get the manual out and triumph some day!!!!
I'll get the manual out and triumph some day!!!!
Collectibles:
These two items are special to me.
They both belonged to my Grandma Williams.
The top one is a boy with a watering can.
He used to stand on a base, but was broken off.
You can see that one of his shoes are missing.
They both belonged to my Grandma Williams.
The top one is a boy with a watering can.
He used to stand on a base, but was broken off.
You can see that one of his shoes are missing.
This one is a Bicentennial Liberty Bell.
Ranacker Conservation, Nature, Water:
Here are a few shots that I took out at Ranacker Conservation Area.
The above shot was taken with my binocam.
I was trying to capture the bird sitting in the brush pile.
Can you see it?
It's in the center of the picture.
I was trying to capture the bird sitting in the brush pile.
Can you see it?
It's in the center of the picture.
Here's another shot of the same bird.
So far, I've been disappointed with my bird pictures.
I thought the binocular camera would take great bird pics.
Of course, the failure is probably due to operator error.
The just general still shots seem to turn out okay.
I think it's a focusing problem.
So far, I've been disappointed with my bird pictures.
I thought the binocular camera would take great bird pics.
Of course, the failure is probably due to operator error.
The just general still shots seem to turn out okay.
I think it's a focusing problem.
Here's a shot of the creek.
This was taken with my binocam.
I like the reflection of that tall tree trunk in the water.
Even though that picture is a little blurred,
I was pleased with it.
That shot was taken from a LONG ways away.
This was taken with my binocam.
I like the reflection of that tall tree trunk in the water.
Even though that picture is a little blurred,
I was pleased with it.
That shot was taken from a LONG ways away.
The log picture was taken with the regular camera.
I like the woodpecker holes ...
I like the woodpecker holes ...
Water: Mark and Lisa's place
Here's a picture of the water on my brother's property.
They are in the process of building a house on the property.
They should be getting it done any time now.
It's a beautiful place.
They are in the process of building a house on the property.
They should be getting it done any time now.
It's a beautiful place.
Music
Here are a couple more pictures from my Memorial Day party.
This is my husband Paul (in the red) and Jeff.
Here are Dwain (in the hat) and Fred getting ready to play some tunes.
General:
Happy 4th of July to everyone!
I just took it easy today. My lupus flare is getting better, but still couldn't work my hands very well. Couldn't play any of my instruments ... hurt too badly. I'm hoping to do some more recording tomorrow if my hands are up to it.
I watched movies today.
The Tall Men
Take Her, She's Mine
O Brother Where Art Thou
All of this followed by
a Monk marathon.
The Tall Men
Take Her, She's Mine
O Brother Where Art Thou
All of this followed by
a Monk marathon.
For dinner we had grilled pork chops, corn on the cob and twice baked baked potatoes. Mmmmmm!!!!! Then we had Triple Bypass Brownies with icecream on the side for dessert.
Oh my gosh! To say it was good doesn't even describe it.
Had a good day.
Hope that you did too!!!
Hope that you did too!!!
Monday, July 03, 2006
Mountain stream:
I know it's a little blurry ...
Sorry ...
While I was in Utah sight seeing
We walked up a mountain trail
To see the water sights.
This is one of the bridges we crossed during the walk.
It was a fun walk ... wore me out ... but very scenic.
Sorry ...
While I was in Utah sight seeing
We walked up a mountain trail
To see the water sights.
This is one of the bridges we crossed during the walk.
It was a fun walk ... wore me out ... but very scenic.
Frank:
Somehow ...
My brother, Frank
Ended up with wedding cake up his nose.
Let's take a look and see how it happened ...
My brother, Frank
Ended up with wedding cake up his nose.
Let's take a look and see how it happened ...
We're approaching the cake ...
What a beautiful cake ...
I think we're supposed to cut it ...
And gently feed eachother some cake ...
What a beautiful cake ...
I think we're supposed to cut it ...
And gently feed eachother some cake ...
We're getting ready to cut the cake ...
Are you going to cut?
I don't know ... are you?
Let's cut it together ...
Pick up the cutter ...
Are you going to cut?
I don't know ... are you?
Let's cut it together ...
Pick up the cutter ...
Pose for a picture ...
Here we go ...
Steady ...
Here we go ...
Steady ...
Ready ...
Get set ...
Feed eachother cake!!
Get set ...
Feed eachother cake!!
Ohhhh ...
That would explain it!
That cake is going right up his nose all right!!!
Hers too!!
That would explain it!
That cake is going right up his nose all right!!!
Hers too!!
General:
Well, today I worked until 5:00pm.
We had company over for dinner.
My hubby cooked Indian food and it was delicious!!!
Mmmm ... mmmm!!!
Then I just took it easy for the evening.
I'm having some lupus aches and pains,
Which I hope will be better tomorrow.
We had company over for dinner.
My hubby cooked Indian food and it was delicious!!!
Mmmm ... mmmm!!!
Then I just took it easy for the evening.
I'm having some lupus aches and pains,
Which I hope will be better tomorrow.
Birds:
I think swans are beautiful creatures.
In the water they look so graceful.
In the water they look so graceful.
Chris, Tom:
We'll title this post:
Brotherly Love
Brotherly Love
Here are Chris and Tom
Sitting on the couch together.
Can you feel the love?
Sitting on the couch together.
Can you feel the love?
Oh,
Don't worry!
It's all staged!
Just pretend!
Don't worry!
It's all staged!
Just pretend!
Really!
Just pretend.
Just boys showing off for the camera!
Just pretend.
Just boys showing off for the camera!
Fourth of July
Happy Fourth of July!!!!
I thought I would share some fireworks!!!!
I thought I would share some fireworks!!!!
Fourth of July
ohhhh ...
ahhhh ...
ohhhh ...
ahhhh ...
ohhh ...
ahhhh ...
I thought this was an awesome picture ...
Sparklers were always one of my favorites!!!
ahhhh ...
ohhhh ...
ahhhh ...
ohhh ...
ahhhh ...
I thought this was an awesome picture ...
Sparklers were always one of my favorites!!!
Fourth of July
ohhhh ....
ahhhh...
ohhhh ...
ahhh...
ohhhh ...
ahhhh ...
ahhhh...
ohhhh ...
ahhh...
ohhhh ...
ahhhh ...
Sunday, July 02, 2006
General:
Well, today I went to church ...
Played Irish whistle with Joann ...
Did some more recording ...
Watched tv ...
Did some cross stitch ...
That's about it!!
Birds:
Here's a blurry view
of the bird nest outside the front door.
This is the second batch of babies ...
of the bird nest outside the front door.
This is the second batch of babies ...
My little sparrows just keep 'em coming!!!!
Chris, Chandler, Heather:
Here's little Chandler ...
Blowing a spit bubble!!!!
Blowing a spit bubble!!!!
Here he is with his Dad ...
Chris
And here's his mother ...
Heather
Heather
Saturday, July 01, 2006
A New Tuner:
Well, I went to The Jam Factory this afternoon
And bought a new tuner.
THIS one is NOT going to get left out
And eaten by the dog!!!!!
$39.95
But worth every penny!!!
And bought a new tuner.
THIS one is NOT going to get left out
And eaten by the dog!!!!!
$39.95
But worth every penny!!!
Fed Ex and Nash:
Well,
My wonderfully brave watch dog
Just backed the Fed Ex delivery man away from the house.
Don't worry ...
He was tied out on his lead ...
He didn't hurt anyone.
My dog has never bitten anyone,
But he sure is protective of me.
He'll let women up to the house,
But not a man ... don't EVEN try it.
I went out and got the package.
It was my new MP3 player!!!!
Hooray!!!!!
I'm putting me some yodeling tunes on that baby!!!!
If you find yourself at a red light ...
And the lady in the van next to you is yodeling ...
It's me!!!!!!!
My wonderfully brave watch dog
Just backed the Fed Ex delivery man away from the house.
Don't worry ...
He was tied out on his lead ...
He didn't hurt anyone.
My dog has never bitten anyone,
But he sure is protective of me.
He'll let women up to the house,
But not a man ... don't EVEN try it.
I went out and got the package.
It was my new MP3 player!!!!
Hooray!!!!!
I'm putting me some yodeling tunes on that baby!!!!
If you find yourself at a red light ...
And the lady in the van next to you is yodeling ...
It's me!!!!!!!
Nacho Libre
Went to see Nacho Libre today.
I thought it was quite funny.
But of course,
I think he is hilarious anyway.
Seriously,
He could just stand there and make faces
And I would think it was hilarious!!!
My husband was a little alarmed at how funny
I found the "fart" humor ...
Anyway ...
I enjoyed it!
Then we had icecream cones on the way home.
Yummy to my tummy!
I thought it was quite funny.
But of course,
I think he is hilarious anyway.
Seriously,
He could just stand there and make faces
And I would think it was hilarious!!!
My husband was a little alarmed at how funny
I found the "fart" humor ...
Anyway ...
I enjoyed it!
Then we had icecream cones on the way home.
Yummy to my tummy!
Garage Sale:
Well, we went garage saling this morning.
We were specifically looking at a soft serve icecream machine
And a popcorn machine.
We have a lot of yard parties
And thought it might be interesting to have one or both of those.
Well, for the price they were wanting for them
We can get new ones.
Sooo ...
Came home empty handed.
Oh well ...
We were specifically looking at a soft serve icecream machine
And a popcorn machine.
We have a lot of yard parties
And thought it might be interesting to have one or both of those.
Well, for the price they were wanting for them
We can get new ones.
Sooo ...
Came home empty handed.
Oh well ...
Wood Carvings:
Here's a scooter for you!
Do you think it goes very fast?
Do you think it goes very fast?
