Cherish it all.....

I totally love cropping. I love being with my scrapping friends till wee hours of the night, talking about whatever comes to mind, watching their pages come to life. That's what I get to do tonight. I hate leaving hubby home, but sometimes, I just need to be with the girls.

I also find that it is so therapeutic being that it 'cleanses my mind' from all stuff that happened during the week. This week, in particular, was a rough one. There are the fires, all the evacuations going on, the people returning to what was their home, a few returning to find a loved one just didn't make it out in time. One tends to take things for granted sometimes. Like the key that opens your front door. Now there are literally thousands that don't have that front door to open. Like that old rag that your loved one wears that you wish one day would burn. Now there are hundreds who wish they even had an old rag to put on while sifting through the remains of once was their closet. Little things, everyday things, things that one tends to take for granted, lost. My heart goes out to them.

The other night, I make Duane drag out the boxes of pictures...and start to go through them. I look at them differently now. Even the ones that bring up bad memories. I look for the good things connected with those pictures. It's all that we have of our past....memories, and pictures for the most part. I hold one picture in particular. One of my mom, my dad, and my middle sister, Vicki. It's her senior prom. Tears run down my face as I sit there and listen to them discuss what time she should be home that night with her date. I pick up another one of Vicki, and this one is like 20 years later. She's sitting on her motorcycle (actually a '69 Meter Maid, totally refurbished) with her first grandson as an infant. Little did I know that a year later she would not be with us anymore. I pick up a funny one of my mom playing Nitendo, two years later, she also would be gone.

This one of my dad is the most precious one of all to me.


Journaling says: This happens to be the last picture of my dad before he passed away 2 days later. The starfish is the last thing that my dad ever caught. I have the actual starfish, which sits in a huge brandy snifter full of sand from Hawaii.

As we fished, we spoke about his recent heart attack, the past, the future, which he knew wasn't going to be a long one for him. Then I looked up at him, and asked him, "Dad, do you believe in Jesus"? He smiled and said yes, and started to tell me about his religious beliefs and stuff. It was an AWESOME conversation. For the first time, I got to pray with my Dad. We finished praying, and he looked at me, and told me that he had a great day, and that this would probably be the last time fishing for him. I didn't question that statement, and I just let it be. He was right...it was. Little did I know, it was the last time I was to see him alive.

I miss my dad...so very much

Happy Father's Day, Dad...I love you!!

People tend to take things for granted. Once you have lost something...you can't ever get it back. So during our crop tonight, I need to finish up on the layouts that I have started, the albums that need to be finished, because I need to start a whole new batch of layouts. My Family, Our Times Together.

Life is short. so cherish what you have now...for you never know.

When Pigs Fly....

With all the fires and stuff going around, I forgot to let y'all know what our granddaughter bet us. She knows that Grandpa and I are ones of our word. We give it, and that's that.



Well, as we were sitting at lunch Saturday, she was talking about the fact that she will need a car in less than 2 years, (my, how time flies). After a much heated debate, Grandpa told her that he would buy her a BRAND NEW car when pigs fly. Without missing a beat, she says, "do you give me your word"? "Of course I do."



She lets that particular conversation die down. I thought that something might be up, but shrugged it off. After all, he did say when pigs fly. We finish up lunch, go get into the truck. We no sooner drive around the parking lot, when she yells to stop. We come to a quick stop, she jumps out........



Need I say more???

God Bless Our Firemen...

What a day in California. Seems the entire Southern California is on fire. People are losing their homes, which is really sad. I haven't heard of any loss of life, so that's a good thing. There were 12 firemen who had to take cover under the fire blankets as they got caught up in a fire storm. I'm so glad that they walked out of there alive.

I got to work this morning, which was a feat in itself with all the wind blowing, only to see this. I am so glad this happened while I wasn't at work or my truck would have gotten it for sure. It was everything that we could do just to walk in the building. I was afraid more of the tree was going to come down.

This is one looking from inside the office to the outside.

There was a few fires also just a few miles from where I work. A lot of dairy land went up in flames too. I got this while driving by on my way home. You need to click on the picture in order to see the firemen there.

God Bless Our Firemen. You know, their job IS really dangerous. They put their lives on the line everyday for us....and many of us just take it for granted. Thank goodness my Dad taught us kids at a young age to respect the Police and Fire Department.

Aunty Em, Aunty Em...

Went to bed at a decent hour last night, but that wind is about to keep anyone awake. My windows shook so hard at one point, that I thought they were going to bust. I'm watching the news, and all I can say is WOW. The fires are a mess. Everything is out of control. That Malibu fire I think is the worse of all. The freeway closures are bad, all because of the wind. Thank goodness I have about 4-5 routes I can take to work. I'm staying away from the freeway, so it's off through dairyland. I just hope I don't get pelted by cow patties. They say only a few more days of this wind. I hope so, as my allergies can't take anymore.

OK, I'm off as I think it's going to be awful on any route that I happen to take to work.

Wind, Lobster, A Good Book....

As we were taking my granddaughter home this afternoon, we thought we had better feed the scrawny thing, so off to Red Lobster we went. As we go down the 15 freeway, we encounter winds like never before. I had the gas peddle floored, and we were only moving not even 10 miles per hour. That is how strong the winds were blowing today. Over the news it was stated that the winds were about 80-100mph. Look at what we drove through. I'm sorry that the pictures aren't any clearer, but my granddaughter was scared as she took the pictures because my truck was literally going all over the place. It was harder than heck to control it. At one point, the visibility as zero. You can see in the first picture, as the dust/dirt just started...and within 20 minutes, my windshield was being pelted with gravel, rocks, paper, and anything else that could be air born.

It was a strange feeling, knowing that you are in this heavy duty truck, and you can't keep it on the road. The little cars in from of me were going from one lane to another. The dust bowl effect lasted from about the Santa Ana River all the way where I got off the freeway at 4th, just one exit north of the 10 freeway. I imagine it was worse as you got closer to the Cajon Pass, which by the way, has a HUGE fire. Then we got to noticing, the sky was particularly quiet. No airplanes in/out of Ontario Airport. WOW. For some reason, I immediately thought of Sept. 11, when all planes were grounded. It was just surreal.

We made it to drop her off after we dined on lobster, shrimp and crab legs without incident. I'm so glad to be home. Now, as I sit here, I can hear the wind whip through the trees outside, and I am thankful I have my cozy blankie to curl up in.

I'm off...to make me some nice hot tea, gather my glasses and my book, and then to curl up on the sofa, while hubby rubs my feet. Awww, life is grand indeed.

He's the BEST....

How do you like the 'new look'? It still needs a bit of tweaking, but for now, this will do.


Dan is here tonight, moving the last of his stuff out. It's sad to see him leave, yet I'm so very happy for him. He and his new wife are so very happy...and that's a good thing. He deserves it. He's a good brother....one that I wouldn't change for anything.


I often think of my sister, Vicki. I miss her. She was so young when God called her home. She was only 42. She was in the prime of her life. Because of her death, and because of my dad's, I have been obsessed with my heart. I feel every little beat, every palpitation, every skipped beat. It's scary. One just never knows when their time is up.


My granddaughter is coming for the weekend. I'm always eager to have her. She's a handful, but then what 14 year old isn't? LOL I can hardly wait for Duane and I to get our RV and take all 3 grandkids traveling. You know, like grandparents should. Take them to see the sights and wonders of the United States. I love the way our grandkids love Duane. They call him grandpa and always seem to want to be around him. Look at the way Kaydence looks up at grandpa. I love that. He's the best ever grandpa around too. Just ask the grandkids, they will you.


We're going to take Alix to Oak Glen this weekend so that I can get some more pictures of her. She's so photogenic....and loves to have her picture taken. She knows that I will use them on a layout, and she gets really excited when I have entered the layout(s) in a contest. She tells me that if I win (and I have won my share) that I have to split all the winnings. LOL I usually do.

Work was rather slow today. When it's slow like this, I actually have the time to write all the 'HOW TO' manuals for the department.

It's a bit late for me....and the only reason why I am up so late is because I took a nice, long nap earlier. Sucks getting old, I guess. LOL

Take This Job.....

PARENT - Job Description

This is hysterical. If it had been presented this way, I don't believe any of us would have done it!!!!

POSITION :
Mom, Mommy, Mama, Ma
Dad, Daddy, Dada, Pa, Pop

JOB DESCRIPTION :

Long term, team players needed, for challenging permanent work in an, often chaotic environment. Candidates must possess excellent communication and organizational skills and be willing to work variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends and frequent 24 hour shifts on call. Some overnight travel required, including trips to primitive camping sites on r ain y weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities! Travel expenses not reimbursed.
Extensive courier duties also required.

RESPONSIBILITIES :

The rest of your life. Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily, until someone needs $5. Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly. Also, must possess the physical stamina of a pack mule and be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat in case, this time, the screams from the backyard are not someone just crying wolf. Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges, such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets and stuck zippers. Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and coordinate production of multiple homewo rk projects. Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings for clients of all ages and mental outlooks. Must be willing to be indispensable one minute, an embarrassment the next. Must hand le assembly and product safety testing of a half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices. Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.
Must assume final, complete accountability for the quality of the end product.
Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and janitorial work throughout the facility.

POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT & PROMOTION :

None. Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills, so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE :

None required unfortunately. On-the- j ob training offered on a continually exhausting basis.

WAGES AND COMPENSATION :

Get this! You pay them! Offering frequent raises and bonuses. A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because of the assumption that college will help them become financially inde pendent. When you die, you give them whatever is left. The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that
you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.

BENEFITS :

While no health or dental insurance, no pension, no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and no stock options are offered; this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth, unconditional love, and free hugs and kisses for life if you play your cards right.


Forward this on to all the PARENTS you know, in appreciation for everything they do on a daily basis, letting them know they are appreciated for the fabulous job they do... or forward with love to anyone thinking of applying for the job.


** AND A FOOTNOTE THERE IS NO RETIREMENT -- EVER!!! **

Sad day indeed

All I can say is "WOW". Lot going on over on that message board. I sit and read it with my mouth hanging open in total disbelief. I mean, I have heard rumors of this happening, but to actually SEE IT in print. WOW. Someone has a lot of explaining to do.

It is just totally sad. Will it change my view on them? Yes. Will it change my buying habits when I go to buy products? Yes. I just don't have time in my life for liars, cheats, or other negative crap like this.

Check out what I am referring to. http://www.creatingkeepsakes.com/mb/viewtopic.php?t=73414 Just a sad day on the old MB.

Personal Training Session

Dear Diary,

For my fiftieth birthday this year, my daughter Nichole(the dear)purchased a week of personal training at the local health club for me. Although I am still in great shape since being a high school football cheerleader 43 years ago, I decided it would be a good idea to go ahead and give it a try.

I called the club and made my reservations with a personal trainer named Belinda, who identified herself as a 26-year-old aerobics instructor and model for athletic clothing and swim wear. My daughter seemed pleased with my enthusiasm to get started! The club encouraged me to keep a diary to chart my progress.

MONDAY :
Started my day at 6:00 a.m. Tough to get out of bed, but found it was well worth it when I arrived at the health club to find Belinda waiting for me. She is something of a Greek goddess - with blonde hair, dancing eyes and a dazzling white smile. Woo Hoo!! Belinda gave me a tour and showed me the machines. I enjoyed watching the skillful way in which she conducted her aerobics class after my workout today.

Very inspiring! Belinda was encouraging as I did my sit-ups, although my gut was already aching from holding it in the whole time she was around. This is going to be a FANTASTIC week-!!

TUESDAY :
I drank a whole pot of coffee, but I finally made it out the door. Belinda made me lie on my back and push a heavy iron bar into the air - then she put weights on it! My legs were a little wobbly on the treadmill, but I made the full mile. Belinda's rewarding smile made it all worthwhile. I feel GREAT-!! It's a whole new life for me.

WEDNESDAY :
The only way I can brush my teeth is by laying the toothbrush on the counter and moving my mouth back and forth over it. I believe I have a hernia in both pectorals. Driving was OK as long as I didn't try to steer or stop. I parked on top of a GEO in the club parking lot.

Belinda was impatient with me, insisting that my screams bothered other club members. Her voice is a little too perky for early in the morning; and when she scolds, she gets this nasally whine that is VERY annoying. My chest hurt when I got on the treadmill, so Belinda put me on the stair 'monster'. Why the h*** would anyone invent a machine to simulate an activity rendered obsolete by elevators?

Belinda told me it would help me get in shape and enjoy life. She said some other s*** too.

THURSDAY :
Belinda was waiting for me with her vampire-like teeth exposed as her thin, cruel lips were pulled back in a full snarl. I couldn't help being a half an hour late, it took me that long to tie my shoes. Belinda took me to work out with dumbbells. When she was not looking, I ran and hid in the restroom. She sent another skinny b**** to find me. Then, as punishment, she put me on the rowing machine -- which I sank.

FRIDAY :
I hate that b**** Belinda more than any human being has ever hated any other human being in the history of the world. Stupid, skinny, anemic, anorexic little cheerleader. If there was a part of my body I could move without unbearable pain, I would beat her with it.

Belinda wanted me to work on my triceps. I don't have any triceps! And if you don't want dents in the floor, don't hand me the D*** barbells or anything that weighs more than a sandwich. The treadmill flung me off and I landed on a health and nutrition teacher. Why couldn't it have been someone softer, like the drama coach or the choir director?

SATURDAY :
Belinda left a message on my answering machine in her grating, shrilly voice wondering why I did not show up today. Just hearing her made me want to smash the machine with my planner. However, I lacked the strength to even use the TV remote and ended up catching eleven straight hours of the Weather Channel.

SUNDAY :
I'm having the Church van pick me up for services today so I can go and thank GOD that this week is over. I will also pray that next year my daughter Nichole(the little s***) will choose a gift for me that is fun -- like a root canal or a hysterectomy. I still say if God had wanted me to bend over, he would have sprinkled the floor with diamonds.