new beginnings

"Life"

2008-01-07T10:54:00.000-08:00

A close friend just sent me this email. I thought I would share it with all of you.

"Life is too short to wake up with regrets. So love the people who treat you right. Forget about the ones who don't. Believe everything happens for a reason. If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands. If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said life would be easy, they just promised it would be worth it. "

"A Thermostat works very nicely for me"

2008-01-03T18:11:00.000-08:00

Because of the high prices of heating oil this past year, Hubby and I decided to heat our home totally with wood this year. I had our oil company deliver us a full tank of oil in September to lock in on a price per gallon, just in case. We had our 5cords of wood delivered last fall and we stacked them on our deck in preparation of the upcoming winter season.

This winter season here in New England, has been exceptionally challenging! But, Hubby and I were determined to press forward and be the hearty Yanks that we are and haul in the wood in the early morning , mid day, evening and late in the middle of the night.(the rule in our house is, whoever gets up first for "pee call", has to tend the wood stove)! Oh! how much fun is this? Are we out of our minds? I am about to turn 60 years old and Hubby, well he is over the hill turning 69 years and we are hauling pounds and pounds of wood into our house, with all sorts of aches and pains. Hubby is scheduled for knee surgery late Jan, and can't even walk. I am doing most of the barn chores, and am just about exhausted at the end of the day. What is wrong with this picture? We are both supposed to be retired and enjoying the good life?

Well, as stubborn as we both are, we will continue this ritual and do what is necessary not to have our pipes freeze. But next year, As God is my judge, believe you me, we will be heating our home the old fashion way. Get up, hang a left down the hall, and turn on the heat the old fashion way. A thermostat works very nicely for me.

"Happy New Year"

2007-12-27T18:53:00.000-08:00

Today is December 27th, 2007. We had a wonderful Christmas and now, this special Day is behind us. We are home and reflecting on the past and the present, and what 2008 has in store for us. ( I, Me and You and our Family).

Today is very stormy. The temperatures plunging into the single digits and the wind is blowing around 25 miles per-hour. We have a blizzard condition with an ice stormy walk way. I cannot even walk to the barn without falling on my A--. (If you know what I mean!) I recommended to Hubby, that we keep the horses in their stall for the day. He agreed. (and the horses agreed!)

Sitting in our comfortable, Lazy Boy Chairs. Our wood stove, soooo! nice and warm. We got a call from our Daughter. She said that her oldest Daughter (KRJ) had gotten into an auto accident, and was taken to a local hospital. Not knowing what the outcome was, Hubby and I immediately got into our 4 wheel truck and headed out.

She is fine. A 19 year, old that refuses to believe that she may have been driving a little too fast for the weather conditions, and she may just have learned a driving lesson or two.

This just made me really think about special things and how really grateful I am for my life and the family I have..

Whatever we believe in. Whatever rituals and holidays we practice and celebrate. Whatever we call our own personal creator, we all share a common dream. And that is....... PEACE ON EARTH! Happy New Year! May your year be very special.

"The Old Mill"

2007-12-22T17:25:00.000-08:00

Oh My! I just love this place! I have been going to this special place for sooooo many years. I had lunch with a very special friend today at the "Old Mill". He and I had a very special lunch and it was very special. Talking over so many very special times we had in our working days together over the past 38 years. Happy Holidays to my very special Friend. Thank you for being My Friend. I love you!. JO

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"Wetting Down the Tree"

2007-12-19T11:05:00.000-08:00

I received a great package in the mail yesterday. It was from my Mom. She mailed me her annual Christmas cookies that arrived in pieces, as they do every year, but soooo yummy. (she is known as the "Cookie Grandma".) One of my favorite things to do when I go home to California to visit Mom, is to listen to all of her great LP records. Barber shop, Paint Your Wagon, Perry Como, Andy Williams. I could go on and on. Well, Mom sent me some of the oldies and I got out the old phonograph last night and listened to the great tunes of the past while decorating the tree. It was really great going down memory lane. (Hubby went into the other room as he was not impressed with Perry.) My Dad sang in a Barber Shop Quartet and He and Mom would travel to all of the events. I am the only child that really loves the music and it was so special for Mom to send me some of her record collection.

As the weather here in New England has been less than perfect for picking out Christmas trees, I decided to purchase a fake tree. I took it out of the box and was not at all impressed. I always have a real tree. It is soooo.. ugly! Placing my special decorations did spruce it up a bit. My Christmas decorations mean a lot to me. Everything on my tree is either hand made, purchased in special places I have traveled, or given to me by special people in my life. Traditions are special like the one called "Wetting Down the Tree". After the tree is up and decorated, you then must Toast the Christmas Tree with your favorite cheer(merlot is my drink of choice) for good luck. So I poured my favorite cheer and sat down in my rocker and began the tradition of, Wetting Down the Tree, while listening to my music.

Oh the holidays are upon us. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

"It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas"

2007-12-17T05:47:00.000-08:00

There is no doubt about it. We will be having a white Christmas for sure this year. Two major snow storms within two days and it is not even officially winter. I sure hope this is not an indication of what lies ahead. We do live in New England and snow is all a part of the total package.

My car poolers had a very long ride home. What is usually an hour and a half commute home from work, took them 6 hours. I sure was thinking of them, but glad I was home sitting next to the wood stove and not in the car with them.

Florida is looking mighty nice right about now.

"Three strikes and your out"

2007-12-14T06:38:00.000-08:00

Well, good old Stormy just can't seem to understand that this type of behavior is unacceptable. Where is the dog whisperer when we need him? I am very afraid Stormy, you may be looking for living quarters elsewhere very soon. You know the saying, "three strikes and your out"

"Miss Estelle" Shuuush! We all have secrets"

2007-12-12T17:54:00.000-08:00

Several years ago. I stopped at a yard sale in town. I just felt a calling, (so to speak). I walked through the things that were for sale. And I just saw this book. I can't even remember what the name of the book was, but I guess it was a special title , so I bought it for, 50 cents.Years later............I am retired, feeling very energetic, to clean.

Well! guess what! I remember!!!!!And found the book and a very special letter.

This is a very special letter that was written from the heart. He was in love. There was no hidden agenda.Just love. They met in 1933 , and had some very special times together.

I did do some research about the author and Ms Estelle they wanted their affair to be silenced forever. And I will respect their wishes. God Bless them!

Shuuush!I guess we all have secrets!

"Days like these"

2007-12-10T07:08:00.000-08:00

Days like these I am so glad I am retired. I woke up this morning and said to myself, "what a relief not to have to go outside, start my car, scrape off the windshield and drive an hour and a half to work". We had an ice storm last night and it is so dangerous to drive. I really feel sorry for my old car poolers that had to attempt the drive in to work this morning. But, on the other hand, I have been making that trip to work, enduring the cold New England weather for over 37 years, so I can feel good about not doing that drive anymore.

This is a day where you just sit back and enjoy being home. With all of my Christmas wrapping still ahead of me, I think that is what I will be doing today. Wrapping presents, listening to Christmas music staying warm by the wood stove and catching up on my soaps. (Yes, I have to confess, I am hooked on All my Children, One Life To Live, and General Hospital.. I never thought I would be a soap fan, but I am. These shows just get you hooked. I was always one to say that I would never watch them, but when I am home alone,(hubby can't stand me to watch them)I do admit I am hooked on the soaps. (Hey!! I am retired. I can do what I want, right?)

I am also going to start making plans for our trip to Florida in February. Hubby and I have not gotten away without the 4 legged critters in years. We are driving and going to take our time getting down there. If we see a place that we like, we may just stay for a few days. It will be so much fun not to be on a schedule. Who knows, we may just stay.

"The Secret"

2007-12-05T11:37:00.000-08:00

Well, so far, today is a great day. (Very cold, but a great day.) I got up and fixed a wonderful breakfast for Hubby consisting of blueberry pancakes, O J and the best coffee ever,(Dunk'n Donuts). Rachael Rae has now endorsed this coffee and is far superior to Starbucks!

Then I took my daily walk with Toby,( my new friend) in the brisk New England cold weather,(10 degrees was the last read this am) and on the way back from our walk, I picked up our mail. A very pleasant and unexpected surprise in the mail. A check in a very nice amount that was totally unexpected.

A letter in the mail from an Attorney that I worked with,(pre-retirement) nominating me to sit on a reference hearing for one of his cases going to trial. I must admit, getting back to doing what I know best, is tempting.

Receiving a call from an old friend from the past inviting me for a Christmas dinner in Boston. So, thus far, it is turning out to be a great day.

I intend to have many great days moving forward, because I have just been liberated from all negative feelings and people in my life. I did this by reading a book that was given to me by my best friend. The book is called "The Secret". One of the most profound books I have ever read. It has changed me and the way I feel about life. Positive thinking brings positive results.

The Amish have a saying that they have in their homes. It goes like this:

"The Way to Happiness"

Keep your heart free from hate, your mind from worry. Live simply. Expect little. Give much. Fill your life with love. Scatter sunshine. Forgive self. Think of others. Do as you would be done by. Trust God. Thank God for all your blessings. Do all you can for people without thought of personal gain. Spread Happiness.

Try this for a week and you will be surprised!

"Family Matters"

2007-12-01T15:17:00.000-08:00

Sometimes life leads you astray from things that matter, and you need to find your way back home. Wow! What a very busy and emotional year for me and my family this has been.

My Son, Darrell coming back into my life, has been such a joy for me and my family. I have a Son, and Daughter-In-Law and 5 Grand Children to buy Christmas gifts for, along with my extended family here in New England. So special for me. It is so strange and nice to be finally called "Mom "and Gram.

A retirement package, I did not expect, nor was prepared for, came knocking at my door, three years too soon. But with a pension and full medical, who could resist? Oh! I just received my retirement gift. A rocker! It is beautiful, but a rocker????
I am feeling old already!

Anyway, I plan on embracing retirement and having a good and healthy life moving forward. Going to Florida with Hubby for three weeks in 2008 will be so special. (A jump start on 30 pounds weight loss has to make a good difference on what to wear.)

I have no regrets! Life has been good to me!

"Things sure have changed"

2007-11-23T10:12:00.000-08:00

When I was growing up , Thanksgiving was a day that we all dressed up for our Turkey Dinner. Dad, would always have his suit on and my Sisters and I had our new Sunday going to church outfits on. Brother Bob, had a cute little suit with a tie that he just hated to wear. But that is the way it way back then. You dressed for dinner.

Well, when my Grand Daughter came for Thanksgiving dinner yesterday, I was surprised at what she was wearing for this blessed day of thanksgiving. Now, she has always made a fashion statement when going out, but this outfit was, out there, if you know what I mean.

What ever happened to all of the good old fashioned traditions? Going to church at midnight on Christmas Eve, singing Christmas Carroll's, dressing for dinner?

Oh well, the Turkey was great and all had a wonderful thanksgiving day. (Except for Tom Turkey, of course!)

"Too soon for the White Stuff"

2007-11-20T08:10:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone. I have been away for awhile with my Blog entries. So much going on, and little time to blog. They say when you retire, you can't imagine how you ever worked all day.

Well, today as I woke up, (with Lil' Miss Molly staring at me with her big brown eyes), I looked out my bedroom window and much to my surprise, I saw the White Stuff. Yes, it is now snowing and I just am not prepared for the snow coming so early. We haven't even eaten our turkey dinner yet. I guess we, New Englanders are spoiled with the mild winters we have had lately, but I just am not ready for getting out the shovels, boots, hats and gloves and everything else that comes with the White Stuff. Oh well, going to Florida in February for three weeks will be something to look forward to, for sure.

We have a new addition to the family. He is a 6 month old baby boy. We have named him "Toby"..... Going back a few weeks ago, Hubby and some of his horsepulling buddies drove to Topeka, Indiana to attend a horse auction. I allowed Hubby to go under one condition ( as if I have control over what Hubby does) that he does not come home with another horse. Four is enough in our barn and all we can handle. He assured me that his intentions were just to observe and not purchase any four legged critters. So, when he called me to let me know that he got a great deal on a horse and just had to bid on him, I told him if he did buy another horse, to just keep on truck'n down the highway in a Westerly direction, cause it is not going in this Barn. (Oh, like I really have that authority) When Hubby finally arrived home with just his pickup truck and no horse trailer behind him, I knew that he was just kidding me about buying another horse.(phew!!!) Not true, Toby is a Miniature Horse weighing in at 100 lbs and is 24 inches high and was in a dog kennel in the back of his pickup. Well........ I instantly fell in love with Toby and now we are inseparable. Picture our large Draft Horses, weighing over a ton a piece standing next to Toby at 100 pounds. A picture, for sure.

Well, the snow is beginning to pile up now, so I guess it is time to get the old shovel out and start shoveling. I do love a White Christmas, but a White Thanksgiving???? Yuk! Oh!, Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!

"A Perfect 10 at the Beach "

2007-09-04T09:27:00.000-07:00

I have not been to the Beach all summer. I checked the weather report for Labor Day and it was a perfect 10 in Ogunquit, Maine. So I packed up the car and my two favorites and I headed for the Beach in Ogunquit. The day was hot with a slight wind. The water so refreshing. I just read and sun bathed and enjoyed every minute of my one day at the beach.

This Thursday I return to Ogunquit to see Hair spray at the Ogunquit Playhouse. This is an annual event with my dear friend Mary. This will be our 20th year going to the play house. It always is a great time. After the play we go to Perkins Cove to my favorite eating establishment, Jackies Too, for our annual seafood feast. (Usually lobstah)

Ogunquit will always have a special place in my heart. Good memories and alot of fun in this very special quaint New England get a way.

But the summer is over and the leaves on my maple tree are starting to turn which means Fall is just around the corner. Fall in New England. What could be better. But the summer went by toooo fast this year. But all good things must finally come to an end, I'm afraid. It is time to move on and get ready for the changing season. Fall!

"Love, What is Love"

2007-09-02T06:48:00.000-07:00

I once knew a woman whose heritage was Italian. Her parents were both from the old country and came to America, via Ellis Island. While I was visiting my friend, her Mother was also visiting and she shared with me her story of how she was married and came to America. It goes like this.

I was about 14 years old and I remember working in our fields picking corn to feed our animals. It was a very hot summers day and I remember being very dirty and sweaty. My Mother came running down the corn field where I was working and she said, "Hurry, come with me. You are going to get cleaned up and put your Sunday best dress on and meet someone. Now hurry, come".

Not knowing anything that was about to happen to me, I obeyed and rushed home to clean up and put my Sunday best dress on. My Mother told me to sit outside on the porch rocker and wait. So I did just that. I sat and waited for this person that wanted to meet me for the first time. I still was not aware of what was about to happen. Then I saw an old man approaching me with my Father and Mother behind him. I say old, because I was just 14 years old and He was 30 years old. What was about to happen was a pre arranged marriage. My Mother and Father gave him permission to marry me and take me to America. My Mother and Father was given a handsome amount of money for the marriage to take place and I was sold to this old man that day. I remember crying and screaming at the top of my lungs for them not to do this. He was a stranger to me and I did not know him. I was a child and wanted nothing to do with this arrangement. But I had no choice in this matter and was married and taken away to America with my new old husband.

I was so interested in her story of marriage, that I just had to ask her this question. Did you love him?

Her response to me was , "Love, What is love" ?

I have never forgotten that response. "Love, What is Love"
She went on to tell me that she did what was expected of her in the marriage giving into his sexual ways. She grew to care for her Husband but she never experienced love or true passion in the 50 years they were married.

How sad it must have been for her to never feel the joy of being truly loved by someone special. Not to experience true passion in her love making and to never feel joy during her 50 years of marriage.

I believe that we are put on this earth for one reason. To love and be loved by someone special. I feel very blessed that I have been with a Man that has made me feel very special and loved. I will always appreciate his kindness and the love he has shown me. Love is forever!

P.S. my special thanks to KRJ for borrowing her new "Love" signature.

"My Special Table"

2007-08-30T14:01:00.000-07:00

There is a great story behind this very Special Table. Goooooing back in time, I think about 1965. (not sure, Mom correct me if I am wrong) Mom bought this table at Bruners ( furniture store in Sacramento). I remember her saying this is such a special table. She paid, I think, over $300.00 for the piece at the time. That was a lot of cash to spend, seeing that Mom and Dad were school educators and did not have a lot of extra cash to spend on unnecessary furniture items. But, I remember, Mom, just had to have it. So, it was delivered to our home in Rancho Cordova, Calif. and it stayed in our living room for as long as I can remember.

What is very special about this piece of furniture, is that I had a special moment in time as a young teen next to this table. (DH)

This table has been traveling around the family for some time. Sister Karen had it in her living room . I am not sure if Sister Betsy had it, as she has always said that she hated it. Brother Bob, never really liked it much either. But it did do some traveling. It was always understood, that I was the one that was going to get this table. I just could not ever get it to the east coast.( that is the problem, with inheriting things if you are not local )

I was told that Sister Karen sold this table in a yard sale, or to a friend of hers. I was told that this special table was painted black. YUK!!! Mom found this out and was very upset at Sister Karen. Soooo! Sister Karen got in touch with the person she sold the table to and retrieved it immediately. Mom refinished the table and restored it to its original condition. (Mom's are so nice)

Ok, now the table is back at Mom's. Phew!!! Now, what to do? Yes!!!! I have a friend that has an Uncle that drives truck across country. Yessss!! He has agreed to go to Mom's house in Roseville, Calif and pick up the table and ship it to my home.

It was shipped in less than a month and delivered, undamaged to my home. Now, my special table is finally with me. In my living room, where it belongs.

Now! DH, has expressed to me that he doesn't want me to leave him anything when I pass on. But, DH! You are being willed this table, like it our not. You were conceived next to this table, many memories and I want you to have it.

Life shares us special moments. This is one that I will always treasure. "My Special Table"

"My New Video Camera"

2007-08-29T05:31:00.000-07:00

I purchased a new video camera. It was my retirement present to myself. I went to Wally World to check out what I wanted and then did some research online on the price, quality, etc. I decided that the one that I wanted was the Sony Handycam Model DCR-SR42 306B. A little pricey, but it has a hard drive so I don't have to fool around with installing the tapes. Everything is recorded on the hard drive. And so small that it is perfect for what I want to do.

I went to Wally World and purchased my new video camera and came home to read all about it. I first charged the battery, which did not take long at all.(that should have been my first clue, as usually you must charge the battery overnight.) Then I sat on my deck and read the owners manual from front to back making sure that I understood the operation of my new video camera. What is great about this new video camera is the LCD screen is touch sensitive. Just touch the screen as to what you want and there it is. Perfect for someone like me who subscribes to, Computers for Dummies.

Now it is time to turn the power on and do some recording for practice. I turned my new video camera on and the LCD screen displayed a small thumbnail picture of a little boy about 2 years old. Curious, I touched the small thumbnail picture on the LCD screen and a video instantly appeared. Thinking this was a demo that Sony put on my new video camera to show how great the quality and clarity of the recording is, I began to watch the video. At first it was sweet. Zooming in on the little boy in his colorful underwear, dancing a jig in someones kitchen. A young lady, presumably the Mom, 8 months pregnant dressed very provocative with cleavage like you have never seen before, talking on the cell phone. Then, the operator of my new video camera got alittle carried away. He became obsessed with zooming in on Mommies breasts and showing the crack on her behind, paying special attention to her bright red thong she was wearing. It ended and I said to myself, "I don't want this video on my new video camera and I think it is totally inappropriate of Sony to put something like this on their new video cameras they sell. It was offensive and in my opinion, borderline porn." So I promptly deleted it.

A few hours later, I was doing some shopping in Town and started to think about this whole thing with my new video camera. I think Sony should be aware of how inappropriate this video was. So, I drove to Wally World and sought out the salesman who sold me my new video camera. I explained what had happened. I told him that I thought someone should contact Sony and complain about the inappropriateness of placing a demo on new video cameras. He just starred at me and kept shaking his head. He said, "Mame, Sony would not do that. Someone must have taken this new camera home and recorded the video. Just return the camera, let me look at the video and I will give you a new camera." Sheepishly, I had to tell him that I deleted the video. He rolled his eyes and looked at me , (thinking I'm sure, what a stupid lady I have in front of me) but said that he would order a new camera for me as that was the last one in stock.

I did not share this experience with Hubby, as he too would have rolled his eyes in disbelief. I can't believe I actually thought that Sony would do that. Oh well! I wonder if retirement tends to decrease ones brain cells. I used to be on top of things like this. Hmmmmm!

"We Crossed the Last Load"

2007-08-27T07:02:00.000-07:00

After over 15 years of pulling horses, last night made everything that ever went wrong worth while. We pulled 13,500 lbs and crossed the last load and won first place. The crowd went wild. Our new horse, Mike, pulled his heart out. It was the most exciting pull I have ever been to and I don't think anyone will beat us this season, so says the rest of the pullers. All of the big guns were there and we beat them all. Hubby is sooooooo excited and I am too. WE just had a ball last night. WE did not get home until past 2am.

We are in the process of building a new barn. Today, the skidder will be moved and the clearing of the large trees will start this week. Our new barn will consist of 5 box stalls, tack and harness room and a 2nd floor for storing hay. Finally, I will get my three car garage back to actually put my car in for the winter. (we converted our garage into a horse barn)

I guess my new kitchen will have to wait another year or two, but after last night, I will gladly give it up for the Pull of a life time, because We Crossed the Last Load.

"Mike, for my Kitchen" ???????

2007-08-17T08:51:00.001-07:00

I have been patiently waiting for over 10 years for my new kitchen. I have been promised that this time I would get my new kitchen. Hubby and I even had the kitchen measured and we met with Jack from Home Depot to pick out my Hickory new kitchen cabinets. All was going so well until, Mike came into the picture. I was told that Bob and Jeff,(our pulling team) were not a good pair, because they are not leaders . I was told that you must have a strong leader to pull the weight.

So I packed a lunch for Hubby and friend and off they went to Erie, PA to meet the trailer that had good old Mike. Although I was very impressed with his conformation when Mike arrived home, he cannot replace my new kitchen.

Sooooo....to be fair to all parties involved, Hubby agreed that I should have my new Kitchen as I was a sport about Mike . Lets just see if it happens this time around. Hubby's good intentions, sometimes falls short of good horse sense.

"I am a picture taking fool"

2007-08-15T11:13:00.000-07:00

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My Son Darrell came to visit me last week. He was introduced to the Valley's for the first time, via a family BBQ on a beautiful Sunday afternoon in New England.(minus a few little thunder boomers) Lets step back a few days before the BBQ. Met Son Darrell in Boston. Next Day, went to his first horse pull, up country. Had to introduce Son Darrell to all our friends. Picture taking continued. Ok, back to the Valley reunion BBQ. One by one, they (the Valley clan) came and I promptly and proudly lined everyone up and introduced Son Darrell to the rest of the east coast family. I made my poor Son stand for photos and I think he was a little overwhelmed. In fact, I know he was. Now keep in mind that I was informed from daughter in law, Debbie, while we were having the California family reunion that Darrell doesn't do picture taking. Kinda hates it, actually. So I cooled it and did not ask for a Valley Family photo to hang on my wall in the living room. I think the icing on the cake is when Son Darrell walked around my home and viewed all of my pictures on the walls. One in particular, he really went nuts over and wanted it removed. (three of Darrell at different ages while he was a child growing up) He said "Mom, you can take that off the wall anytime now".

So I walked around my home and took an inventory. I have come to the conclusion that I over do it, somewhat in the picture taking category. I like memories, what can I say. I am guilty as charged.

I can't promise you, Son Darrell, but Mom will try to slow it down on the "going down memory lane" picture taking tour. But..... can I take a few on the cruise?

Happy Birthday, Dad!

2007-08-02T18:24:00.000-07:00

Today you are , or would have been, 88 yrs old. I did not post a picture as I just wanted to say Happy Birthday to you. I miss you and know that Mom surely does. She has almost, finished her book. You would be so proud of her. We are going on a Cruise in October. She is really excited. I will take good care of her. Well, Dad. Take care. I love you and really miss you. Happy Birthday! Your favorite. Jo

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2007-08-02T18:11:00.000-07:00

Hi Dad. I don't have a picture now to put you on my blog. But just wanted to say....Happy Birthday Dad! I love you, and miss you. I toasted you tonite with our favorite cocktail. You made the best" Old Fashions". A 1/3 , a 1/3 and a 1/3...You made the best, Dad. I love you and really miss you. Your favorite daughter ever. I love you, Jo.

P S. Mom doing very well. Just about to finish her book. Kiss, Kiss.

"Calgon... Take Me Away"

2007-07-24T11:50:00.000-07:00

Getting in shape and being healthy is my goal for my 60th Birthday, January 14, 2008. Getting my new lawn mower was a start. I can't actually believed I pushed that old relic for so many years. I have muscles I did not know I had when I finished the lawn. That was a good thing, I am sure.

Hubby, being ill, has put me back in the barn doing all of the chores twice daily and that certainly is giving me muscles I did not know I had. Soaking in a hot bubble bath is what I do now after my chores are complete late in the afternoon. Remember the tv commercial, Calgon, Take Me Away?(perhaps I am dating myself) Well, that is what I do now and just love it. Very relaxing, both physically and mentally. Just fill the tub with hot water and bubbles and relax and enjoy the moment. While in Vermont last month getting some grain for our four legged pets, we past by The Vermont Country Store(www.vermontcountrystore.com) a treasure I have found and will definitely be back.(without Hubby, as his patients to shop is less than tolerable). I came across some aromatherapeutic mineral baths. One was called, "Letting Go", a warming ginger bath. The other was called "Tired Old Ass Soak", a bath for exhaustion. My preference BB is "Letting Go". I purchased both and now soak my Tired Old Ass .

While in California, I went to a water arobics class with Sister Betsy. I just fell in love with the entire workout and have decided to join a water arobics class here at home. I love swimming and I really felt great after the class and what a workout. So I am going to start August 10th and plan to include my progress in my blog. I feel posting my blog with my progress will help me meet my goal.

So follow along with me, give me encouragement and think of me, with my Calgon moments ,soaking my, Tired Old Ass in my bubble baths. BFN

"Family Reunion's ,Rock"

2007-07-21T07:03:00.000-07:00

Getting back home was a very nice feeling after being in California for two weeks. It was good to see Hubby. You don't know how much you appreciate someone until you are away from them for awhile. Now, if I can just talk him into going on that cruise in October. He said, "Josey, do you have any idea how much it would cost to get the horses on that ship.". Scary, but I think he was half serious.

Family reunion was awesome. Everyone enjoyed themselves and behaved, too! Naturally, I picked the hottest day of the year, (108 degrees) to have the reunion at Folsom Lake. It would have been too hot for Grandma to endure the heat, so we went to plan B. Had the reunion at Sister Karen's home in Gold River. Air conditioning really appealed to all of us. Then we went to Natoomis Lake for the rest of the afternoon and just had a blast. Grand kids swam and fed the geese and just had a ball. We took alot of photos and I am sure all of us came away with wonderful memories of our first annual family reunion. The family want our next one to be at Lake Powell, Utah. I think I will work on that for next year. It is a special place, I am told. I was also told by Daughter in law that my Son hated to have his picture taken and also did not like to stand and pose for them, as well. I said "Son, come over here. I was just told you hate picture taking and I want you to know, that is what I do, take pictures." He said, "well Mom, I will give you one year to take all the pictures you want, so you are now on the clock." I guess I had better start going on my picture taking tour.

Son flys into Boston Aug 3rd to visit and see how the other half of the world lives. This should be very interesting. I explained country living and he assured me not to worry, as he lived on a farm once and knows the routine. Hmmm! I wonder if Darrell ever shoveled out a horse stall? We are planning to attend a horse pull, a family BBQ to meet the rest of the Valley's, and then up to Maine for some good old Lobstah. Going to also fit in some home repair projects that Son has graciously agreed to. Should be another picture taking event that Son will have to put up with , as I am on the clock.

It is so weird not to have to get up in the early AM to travel to work. I have to keep pinching myself to see if it is really real. I have a hugh, To Do List on my Frig that will take me well into 2008. Don't think I will miss work a bit. No time to miss work, too busy doing other fun things. Bye, for now!

"Stormy....... Take Two"

2007-07-01T05:46:00.000-07:00

It is a well known fact that I love animals. When I was a kid, I would always pick up the strays in the neighborhood and bring them home because I felt sorry for them. Stormy, on the other hand was just placed on E-Bay and is presently for sale to a good home. Free too! Just kidding of course, but this morning she really tested me.

Now, if you remember back a few blogs ago, I wrote about "Stormy Weather". Stormy promised that she would be a good little doggie after destroying Hubby's choppers, and then the ultimate no no, the steaks. Since that time, Stormy has been a very good little doggie. Nothing really under the ordinary, digging a few holes in the back yard, but normal doggie stuff. Ok, I can certainly deal with that. Now mind you when Hubby brought Stormy home (without my knowledge or consent, mind you) He told me "Not to worry, this was His Dog and he would take care of her and train her to be the perfect dog". I feed the dogs, so guess who they like most and hang out with? Me, of course.

The Sunday morning routine in our house is Hubby gets up early, makes the coffee, goes out to feed the horses and then makes this great breakfast. That has never changed in over 25 years of being together. It is a tradition that was in my home when my Dad would make waffles for breakfast before church on Sundays. Now, like I said. This is routine. Well... this Sunday, Hubby asked if I would get up first and make the coffee. He wanted to sleep in alittle longer. Sure, I said. Why not. I am retired now so I can start doing more of the cooking. So I got up, went down stairs, hung a left, then another left into the kitchen, and said, "Stormyyyyyyyyy!!!!!,
what the heck, (I think I did not say heck, tho) have you been up to". "Get out side now"!!! She got into the rubbish last night and just had a ball for herself. Luckily, paper products only scattered all over the kitchen floor. What a sight to see the first thing in the morning. I am now wondering just why the previous owners of Stormy really gave us this Free Dog. I'll bet Stormy got into just one too many rubbish cans , ate one too many steaks and off she went to a free home.

Well, me being a sucker for animals, I am willing to give her another chance. I had a long talk with her this morning and she again promised not to be bad anymore. Sooo.... we will see.

One thing kinda bothers me and makes me think. Last night, I asked Hubby to go downstairs to get me a cold bottle of water. Now that cold bottle of water is in the refrigerator which is in the kitchen. I now am wondering if this mess that Stormy left was already there when Hubby came down to fetch the water. After all he did break tradition with the breakfast thing. Nooooo! he surely would not have done such a sneaky thing to me. No way, not my Hubby. No! Hmmmmmm??????

"The End of an Era"

2007-06-29T09:57:00.000-07:00

Well, I got up at 4AM for the last time this morning. Got into my car and off I drove to meet my car poolers at K Mart parking lot. Same routine, down Rt 2 to Rt 128 and pulled into the N&D parking lot.

I spent most of the morning cleaning out my desk and taking things of personal nature to my car. Everyone saying their goodbyes to me and wishing me well in the future years to come. Very emotional day and I will be very glad to finally leave the parking lot for the last time. I am blogging at work on their time today as I have nothing to do, but must stay to take my car poolers home. I guess I did not plan this very well.

I am excited about retirement and going to see my family in California. My Son and his family will join us from Utah. That should be a fun time at the Family Reunion. We are having it at Folsom Lake. I remember going there often growing up. In fact when I was a senior in High School I cut class with two of my classmates and we spent the day at Folsom Lake. My Dad was an educator at the High School I attended caught me red handed and I got suspended from school for three days. The others had there parents write them notes excusing them from class, but good old Dad wanted to teach his daughter a lesson. It is beautiful there at the lake. I can't wait to see it again.

I just got a message from My Daughter-in-law. She wants me to retire in Utah and visit my Hubby on holidays and every 5th Sunday. I may just consider that option as you could not blast Hubby out of New England. He is a Damn Yankee, you know. I am sick of the cold weather, the black flies and the humidity. Fall is the best time of the year in New England. I could come back for the Fall and stay in Utah. Hmmm! Something to think about.

I just called my sister Betsy at her work to discuss plans on picking me up at the San Francisco Airport and the progress on our Family Reunion. (can you tell I am bored and have nothing to do) We talked and talked and then she said "Joanne, I know that you don't have a job anymore, but I do, goodbye".

Well it is almost time to pick up my belongings and head out the door for home. My car poolers await me for my last ride home from the Good Old N&D. See ya later everyone. It has been great knowing all of you and working with all of you, but like they say, all good things must come to an end and the end has finally come. Bye Bye!!!!!

"Countdown- 3 more Days"

2007-06-27T08:43:00.000-07:00

Well, the count down begins for my final departure as a full time employee at the good old N&D. Friday, June 29th 2007 is my last day of employment. Bitter-sweet emotions fill my head at this time. The decision has been made and there is no turning back. Hmmmm! What is next?

Yesterday, I had a dentist appointment in the early morning (yuk) and on the way back to work, I stopped in to see about a job opportunity that was knocking at my door. This is an Insurance Agency in a small community near home. Seems nice the people were great to talk to. First, I met the Big Guy, Mr. Murphy. Jovial and very friendly. Seem ok so far! Then I met Miss Jones the young HR Manager with her three piece suit and high heels with matching Coach bag. The interview begins. Now mind you, I have conducted countless interviews in my career and this one , I could tell was going to be a nightmare. First came the personality test. I guess I passed that with flying colors, stupid as it was. Then the questions. "Joanne, What is your greatest accomplishment"? (to make it through this interview, I thought) "Joanne what motivates you"? (God, I always hated that question) "Joanne, Where do you want to be in 5 years?" ( this one really got me. RETIRED! Hello??? Joanne. What are you doing here?)

Well, I said my goodbyes and graciously thanked everyone for their time and exited the building, went back to my car and just pondered and reviewed what had just taken place. Joanne, (I talk to myself at times when I am confused about things) what the heck are you thinking? You are retiring! Go home and review your options again. So I did just that. I came home, fixed myself a glass of the red stuff (not cool-aid) and reviewed my options. After carefully reviewing all areas of my Wheel of Life,(took a course in Personal Development) and I determined that this retirement thing that I am embracing is really going to work out for me. I don't have to get another job if I don't want to. I can stay home, join the local college's health facility and relax. What a great feeling and I am doing just that. I leave for California in July to spend time with the family and old friends, return to work for a few months then... RETIREMENT! Yeepie!

I do plan on doing something with my time, but it won't be in Insurance. Perhaps a career change is in order. I know, I'll hang a shingle out and counsel Women whose hearts have been broken. I am a good listener and have a basic understanding in relationships that do not work out. My friend came over to my home, sat down in our large recliner and began to shared her sad experience with me. I listened to her sad story on how she was just dumped by her boyfriend with complete empathy. Then I said, with much sincerity and compassion in my heart, "He's a Jerk, dump Him." She then looked at me with total disbelief and said, "But I Cried a River". I then said, "Build a bridge and get over it". I don't think that was the response she was looking for and perhaps I should re-think my career goals in the field of relationships and romance.

Oh well, whatever I decide to do with my time I am sure it will be productive and fun. Maybe I will write a book. I sure do have alot of material to write about. It has been an interesting 59 years here on earth and I sure hope to have a lot more years to follow. Goodbye N&D, Route 2, Route 128, car poolers. It's been a great ride, but I'm not going to miss you.(except my car pool buddies, of course)

"Lobstah and the Brown Paper Bag, Come on Down"

2007-06-26T09:41:00.000-07:00

Every Fathers Day our Son drives his Harley Davidson into the yard with a brown paper bag strapped behind him. The brown paper bag is very large and partially wet. Our Son slings his leg over the seat, takes off his helmet and unwraps the brown paper bag which is secured to the bike. He proudly marches up the walk with the brown paper bag under his arm pit and hands his traditional Fathers Day gift to his Dad. You guessed it. A hugh lobstah weighing in at approximately 10 lbs. Our Son always picks the largest Lobstah he can find as he knows that is his Fathers favorite thing in the world to eat. He salivates when he sees his Son on Fathers Day because he knows what he will be eating that day. He never shares the Lobstah with his better half, either. He boils up the water, puts that poor Lobstah head first in boiling water and cooks it until done to perfection. He then sits down with drawn butter on the side, a non alcoholic beer, a smile on his face, and he is in his glory feasting on the poor old Lobstah.

It just does not seem right that the 10 pound Lobstah should die of such a horrible death. He is approximately 75 years old and in a matter of seconds he is dead. It usually takes 5-7 years for a Lobstah to reach 1 pound. This old Lobstah was around when the Yo-Yo was introduced, the First Class Stamp was 2 cents, Popeye made his debut, Herbert Hoover was President, Stock Market Crash/Great Depression begins, Dick Clark was born, the NY Yankees put numbers on the back of uniforms and Penicillin was first used to fight infections. Just doesn't seem right.

Do you think I am just a little jealous that I am not offered just a little taste of the Lobstah? Well, I am jealous. It is my favorite thing to eat too. All I get for Mothers Day is a hanging plant that I seem to kill in a matter of days. Not that I am not appreciative of the plant but, just once, would I like to see that Harley Davidson come down our driveway on Mothers Day with the same brown paper bag affixed to the back of the bike. Maybe next year?

"Green, Green, Grass of Home"

2007-06-25T04:53:00.000-07:00

My Hubby felt sorry for me Saturday, when I dragged out the old lawn mower. I am the one in the family that does all of the yard work. Always have and always will. Don't feel sorry for me as I love it and it is my choice to do so. However, there are times that mowing the lawn, with this antique lawn mower is not the most pleasurable experience in the world. Especially, if you have had too many birthdays and have had too many aches and pains lately. I bet you that this relic is all of 15 years old. Hubby bought it at a yard sale so the age is really a mystery. It could very well be 20 or 25 years old. Every year when I drag it out of our storage shed it starts right up. No priming or hard to start pulls, just purrs like a kitten. It never fails me. It is not a self propelled one though, and through the years it is really hard to push.(like I said, too many birthdays) Last year I really thought it was the end of the mower. I backed up my car and ran over it. The wheels flattened out like a pancake and I thought for sure it was time to take it to lawn mower heaven. I gave it to a friend of mine that was to take it to the dump. I said my farewells and kissed it goodbye as I watched it go down the driveway. The next day, my friend returned with the lawn mower. He said he fixed the wheels and it started right up. I just can't seem to get rid of that old thing. I thought for sure this was the year I was getting my new lawn mower.

Hubby came home with a surprise for me in the back of his truck. It was a beautiful new green lawn mower with all of the bells and whistles you could imagine. It is self propelled, has a bag catcher, it mulches and does just about everything a real lawn mower should do. Hubby started it right up and away he went for a dry run. Ouch!!! I heard this loud, horrible noise. Hubby ran over something and the mower stopped. Now, Hubby never reads the instruction manual that comes with our new purchases. He is of the mind set that he can figure it out. Apparently, there is a kill switch somewhere on that machine that he can't find to start up the machine. I said, "read the instruction manual, Dear". "Not to worry, I will figure it out".

Well, I had things to get down that day and could not wait for Dear Old Hubby to figure it out. Soooo! I started up old faithful and finished my lawn like I had done for the past 15 years. Although I know that Hubby will figure it out eventually, and I mowed my lawn with the old fella for the last time, it was kinda sad to finally say goodbye to an old friend.

Ya know, I think I will keep the old mower and make it a lawn ornament. Maybe place a pot of flowers on its carb, or something. I think it has earned a place on the green, green grass of home.

2007-06-24T15:24:00.000-07:00

"Traveling Down Life's Highway"

2007-06-22T04:31:00.000-07:00

On December 28, 2001, Hubby loaded up his horse trailer and headed for Ohio to pick up two horses that he just purchased. While traveling on interstate 80 in Pennsylvania, Hubby was involved in a 56 car pileup. A white out occurred unexpectedly and all of a sudden, Hubby saw all of these cars in front of him sprawled all over the road. He attempted to avoid the cars but was unable to pass safely. He came to a halt and then the cars in back of him just kept hitting him and each other. A large Mac Truck carrying gasoline exploded and caught our trailer and other vehicles on fire. 8 people, including a 2 month old baby died as a result of this horrible accident. Thankfully, Hubby only had bumps and bruises as a result of the accident.

For the past 6 years we have been in litigation due to this accident. 8 law suits were filed against us. Several trips to Pennsylvania for depositions and many sleepless nights thinking we would lose our home and everything we have worked so hard for. It has been a nightmare for us to endure, as I am sure it has been for the victims families.

Yesterday, while traveling home from work, my cell phone rang. It was our Attorney representing us in the law suits. " Hi Joanne, this is Chuck. I have some good news for You and Frank. The cases against you have been settled. I have obtained full releases and it is finally over." I wanted to cry with happiness. Such a burden has been lifted from our shoulders. It is finally over. What a great feeling.

Many good things have happened during this past year that have been wonderful and life changing. The fact that the law suits have been settled is such a relief. Taking early retirement. Meeting new and old friends. And the best thing of all, My Son Darrell, who has put joy back in my heart.

Traveling down life's highway can be dangerous and hurtful if you don't know how to avoid the road bumps.I have hit some of them head on in my life time, but always seem to bounce back and continue on with my journey where ever it is taking me.

Well, this blog certainly was serious in nature, wasn't it! Sometimes you just gotta express yourself, I guess!

" Pure and Natural"

2007-06-20T16:37:00.000-07:00

Today I had a hair appointment after work,(my Grand Child, Kelsi Rae, thought I should color my hair and get rid of the grey. Soooooooo! I am now a bleached blonde hussy that will have a root problem in about a month. If you believe that, you don't know my Hubby. Mr. Ivory Soap, Pure and Natural, no perfume allowed, kinda of a guy. His moto is "If God wanted you to have a hole in your ear, He would have put one there".

25 Years ago, when Hubby and I met, I had a very nice soft fragrance Perfume that I loved. I would place it behind my ear, ever so gently, and off to work I would go, thinking I would leave the scent of intrigue and romance in the house when he returned from work. I am afraid, just the opposite happened. As our relationship became more comfortable( as all new relationships eventually do) he told me that he did not want me to "stink". Hello? stink? I was trying to be, how should I say, somewhat appealing to him, and he said I "stink. He even threw my lovely fragrance out of the window on the Mass Pike one night to make his point.

Ok, I realize that compromising is a plus in a new relationship and I did just that. No more stinky perfume for me. Just Ivory Soap and Pure and Natural just to please my Man. So I adjusted to what would be a non stinky kind of relationship.

25 Years later....... Hubby just came in for dinner with Horse Manure on his boots. Hello????? You smell very stinky, Dear... "Yes, Dear, but it is Pure and natural".

2007-06-19T17:52:00.000-07:00

I have a new friend. Her name is Chris. She is one of two, that reads my Blog. She makes constructive suggestion on improvements for my blog and I like and thank her for that. Debbie,(daughter-in-law) so kind in her comments, is the other one that reads my Blog. My friends and family think that I have lost my marbles with this Blog thing. But, I like it, and am having a good time expressing may thoughts and feelings....sooo...I shall continue.

Today, we had our annual Company Outing. I was always on the committee, but since I am , soon to be a retiree, I just observed. It was a great time and the meal was great. Clams, chowder, steamers, salmon , steak, etc. So many games and events. Great fun! I will always remember the good times I have shared with my fellow employees and will never forget my many years with this fine company that I have been with for so many years. Ok, I guess enough of being sentimental.

Ok, Chris, can't wait to see what your plate looks like!

"Car Pooling in the Fast Lane"

2007-06-18T10:01:00.000-07:00

Monday mornings are always a drag, especially when you have to get up at 4am in the morning in an effort to meet the car pool. I am an early riser and am usually the first one to arrive at our designated car pool location. One CPer is always late and that drives me nuts. I told her, too. We just laugh about how she is always late. After I get my traditional large Dunkin Donut Black Coffee I patiently await my car pool buddies. I must admit, I really miss the "I Man". I really enjoyed his early morning talk show with all of the famous guests and news personalities. If he only kept his mouth shut about the women's basketball players I would still be listening. He gave me a jump start to the day. (Dang you, I-Man.)
Once all aboard, we start our long journey (appr. 1 hour) down Rt 2 east to Rt 128 south to exit 18 to the good old Norfolk and Dedham. Once we pull into the parking lot, we all pile out of the car and the day begins.

Settling Insurance Claims has been my career for the past 38 yrs. I can tell you it has been a good career, but at times I questioned myself why I did not become a Nurse. With my retirement approaching in two more weeks, I find myself slowing down somewhat,and pondering the fact that shortly I will not have to be getting up so early, saving mega bucks on Dunkin Donut Coffee (that will be $1.95 and you have a nice day), listening to rude and obnoxious insureds that are not happy that I will not pay their claim because they burned their house down, and doing the car pool thing.

Life in the fast lane is slowly becoming life in the breakdown lane. Although I am nervous and anxious about retiring, I am also very excited what the next chapter of my life will bring. Got to go now, my car pool awaits me.

"Hang in there"

2007-06-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine who is going through a tough time in her life sent this to me. I wanted to share it with you as I felt it was very beautiful. It goes like this.

As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn't supposed to ever let you down probably will. You will have your heart broken probably more that once and it's harder every time. You'll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken. You'll fight with your best friend. You'll blame a new love for things an old one did. You'll cry because time is passing too fast, and you'll eventually lose someone you love. So take too many pictures, laugh too much, and love like you've never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll never get back. Don't be afraid that your life will end, be afraid that it will never begin.

I plan on placing this on my refrigerator next to my magnet collection (places I have visited) so I will remember to think of only the happy memories I have and not the bad ones.

"Three Part Harmony"

2007-06-14T05:15:00.000-07:00

I recently returned from visiting my Son and his family in Utah. While sitting in the kitchen, watching his wife make cookies, I heard my Grand Daughter playing the piano. She is twelve years old and really plays very well. I stood behind her and watched her play, remembering the old days when my two sisters and I would sing and my older sister Karen would play the piano. Oh yes, we sure had some memorable times around that old piano. Usually, we would start off with our traditional song, Ave Maria. Three part harmony was what we would try to achieve. We started off in perfect pitch. Ah- Vay- Ma- Reeya.....etc. I would be the page turner sitting on the bench with Karen. By the time we reached the high pitched notes, I would sing a different tune and change octaves. Betsy would get really annoyed at me, and say, "Joanne, you are singing my part". We would then start over and attempt to get it right. But that did not happen, as I would always get to that spot in the song and switch to Betsy's part. We then would attempt to start again and we would start to laugh so hard that we could not finish the song. Ah- Vaaaaay ha, ha ha ,laugh ,laugh, ha ha... Such a riot to watch. My Father had a beautiful voice. He would often join in with our sing-a-longs. Mom would join as well, but her voice was terrible so some times we did not invite her. I think she was insulted.. That became a running joke in our family about Mom and her singing voice.
We are all grown up now, with families of our own. I live 3000 miles away, but get together with the family when possible. We still gather around the old piano at Karen,s house and attempt to finish, Ave Maria, without laughing. To this day, Betsy still says to me, "Joanne, you are singing my part".

It is that time of the year!!!!

2007-06-13T04:53:00.000-07:00

Every April for the past 15 years My Hubby starts getting all excited about the upcoming Horse pulling season. The phone starts to ring off the hook. All of his horse pulling buddies exchange gossip about who got what horse at the Topeka Horse Auction, how much they paid for the horse, etc. I have always said that there should be an inoculation shot administered to all of the horse pullers around April because there is nothing that gets done around our house from April tell late October. Every weekend we pack up the horses in our horse trailer and go to a pull at one of the New England fairs. Usually a drive that is over two hours away. WE never go on a real vacation because, God forbid, we miss one of the pulls. My Sister and her Husband invited us to go on an all expense paid Cruise to Mexico in October. I am bunking alone, as my Hubby will be at the Roundup. (last pull of the season). Can you believe that one! Who wouldn't want to go on a cruise?
Last year I attended a wedding, alone as always, and a fellow horse puller friend of ours asked where I was. My Hubby relied, "she is at a wedding". Our friend replied, "My Wife is also at a wedding". My Hubby replied, "who got married"? Our friend replied, "My Daughter". Now do you get my drift?

Stormy Weather

2007-06-07T04:25:00.000-07:00

We have a new dog. Her name is "Stormy". She is a lovely little dog and so smart. Very well behaved, comes when she is called and just a joy to have as a new addition to our home. She is a registered Blue Healer and we got her for free. Well, Stormy is a great dog, but........... Stormy has some issues. First she eat my Hubbys teeth. That cost us $1,200.00 to replace. Hubby was gumming it for two weeks before he got his new choppers. Then last night, I wanted to make a beautiful dinner for my Hubby as he has been a little down lately. So I made a great salad, he marinated the steaks and I went outside to check on my veggies on the grill. When I came back into the kitchen. I saw a plate with a small amount of marinade left on the plate. No Steaks???? I called out to my Hubby, "Where did you put the steaks"? "On the kitchen counter"! Ooops! Stormy ate our steaks. No evidence of any steaks anywhere. My Hubby abruptly walked to the house, and I knew Stormy was in trouble. My Hubby scolded her and sent her to Time Out. My Hubby said, "that dog is going, she ate my teeth and I had to wait two weeks to eat my steak and now she ate my steak. She is gone". I could not contain my laughter and got in my car and drove to the store to purchase two new steaks that cost my $13.00. Now, lets see. To replace the choppers, $1,200.00, vet bills $160.00, have her spayed another $250.00. two steaks $13.00 for a grand total of $1,623.00 Not bad for getting Stormy for free. Several hours later... Hubby and Stormy have kissed and made up and Stormy promised Hubby she would be good little doggie for ever and ever. We shall see.......

"My Bob"

2007-06-06T07:10:00.000-07:00

I want you all to meet "BOB". He is my favorite. So much fun and what a character. I don't think he thinks he is a horse. If he could, I think he would come into our home, sit down and have dinner with us. We have a Jack Russell by the name of "Charlie". Bob and charlie are buddies. They play ball together in the paddock. It is a riot to watch. Charlie pushes the ball and Bob kicks it back to him. I should video the ordeal and send it to Most Funniest Videos. I might win a bale of hay!

trunks up

2007-06-04T10:06:00.000-07:00

I have a hobby in collecting Elephants with their trunks up. I am told that they are a symbol of good luck. I started collecting Elephants when my Dad became ill 10 yrs ago. I have all kinds and I love everyone of them. My good friend bought me one to get me through the hard times. It is silver and small. I have it on my desk and I look at it constantly and rub its trunk for good luck. It reminds me to be happy and not sad. It reminds me of the good times and not the bad times. It reminds me of going back in time and remembering the good old days, knowing you can never back up. It reminds me to think in the positive not the negative and to always be kind and understanding to others in times of hardship and misunderstandings. I love my Elephants, they are memories for me to enjoy as I grow old. My Mom once told me, "Memories are like a bank account that you draw on when you get old". I hope to have many more Elephants and many more happy memories to draw on in my older years to come.

"Are You Crazy" lets get some Horse Sense

2007-05-28T11:45:00.000-07:00

After all of the excitement about retiring in a month, I finally came down to earth and decided to met with my Financial Adviser. My FA just happens to be my Son In Law who works for Merrill Lynch. We met at his home and planned our strategies for retirement. This was done during our Hamburger and Hot dog cookout in their back yard. He started out by asking me what my assets are, how much in the 401K and my pension plan. I gave him the information needed to give me his professional opinion relative to retirement and his comments to me were "Are you crazy? Lets get some Horse Sense. Keep in mind my FA is extremely , shall we say, conservative, and feels if you don't have a million bucks in your savings account you cannot retire. Well, the possibility of me and my Hubby ever acquiring that much cash in our life time is slim to none. Now, bear in mind if we did not have this little hobby of ours, we could have had a million bucks in our savings account by now. Well, I am exaggerating of course, but it would be more than we have now, by a long shot. Our little expensive hobby happens to be purchasing our beloved Belgian Draft Horses at a very high price and selling our beloved Belgian Draft Horses at a very low price. You see, you just can't make any money when you do things like that. My Hubby has a very kind heart and thinks that everyone is honest and fair in their business dealings. Now, lets go back a step. We are dealing with HORSE TRADERS here who make their living by selling horses. Every horse we ever purchased was sound, ( in good health), eight years old (they all say that the horse is eight yrs old, because after eight yrs old you can't tell how old they are by looking at their teeth) and they all are stout and can pull like the devil. Well some of them turned out to be all of that, but the ones that were not , we really took a licking on the resale value of the horse.

So, that is my story on why my FA thinks I am crazy for considering retirement at this time in my life with my, less than impressive nest egg. In taking everything into consideration, it is the right thing for me to do at this time of my life. I could always get a part time job being the "Greeter" at Wally World. "Hello, Welcome to WalMart" A friend of mine suggested that perhaps we should considering down sizing to Mustang Pony's. We won't have to feed them grain or hay every day, but the gasoline my be of concern!

Playing the Retirement Game

2007-05-25T04:47:00.000-07:00

I have been working since I was 15 years old. My Dad was the Principal of the High School and I worked during the summer in the office ,typing, running that messy mimeograph machine for $1.50 per hour. That was a good amount of pay back then. As an adult, I have spent the last 38 years working in insurance adjusting claims. I was on a three year plan. When I reached the age of 62 my plan was to retire. I had it all planned out. My new car that I just purchased would be paid off and I would be able to collect social security and also my pension. What a plan I had. It was perfect. Then on Saturday morning I walked to my mail box and saw a registered letter from my employer. It really looked important and very scary. What was this all about? I opened it up and read the content of the letter. Early retirement package was being offered to some of the employees. They included me on their list. I was so excited all I could do was say, "Yes, there is a God"! I danced around the mail box, (neighbors looking at me) and ran to the house to tell my Hubby. Now that I have decided to take their offer I find myself scared, confused and very nervous. How do I retire? I am too young. My car is not paid off. What will I do with myself. Being with my Hubby 24/7 could be a concern. I have always worked. Attending meetings with financial planners on how to roll over your 401k and are your retirement expectations realistic is just blowing my mind. Help me someone!!

Ok, I have settled down now. I am really excited about retiring and will accept the challenge head on. You go girl, and all that good stuff. Actually, I am scared , excited and happy. It is not easy to accept the reality that you are getting older and that you now could be on Medicare in a few years. Where has the time gone? Well, we shall see what the next chapter of life has to bring. I have been so blessed lately, that I can't wait to embrace the challenge of retirement. Watch out everyone, here I come!

Things happen for a reason. Just believe

2007-05-24T10:53:00.000-07:00

My life is a little complicated now, but in a very good way. The pondering of accepting an early retirement package my employer has offered. Decisions on how to manage my, not so impressive nest egg, and the best thing of all, being reunited with my Son after 40 years. A great story that I would like to share.

40 years ago, I gave my Son up for adoption. I have had a hole in my heart for all that time. Wondering about him, did I make the right decision, etc. Sept. 9th, 2006 at 9:15pm is a day I will never forget. The phone rang. A woman asked me my name and date of birth and had I given up a baby boy for adoption 40 years ago. My heart sank as I answerd yes to all of her questions. She told me that my Son had hired her to find me and would I be interested in being reunited. With tears of joy and disbelief, I said, "absolutely". The next morning the phone rang and it was my Son. "Hi Mom", he said. Wow! I can't explain what I felt at that moment. To be finally called, Mom. I never had any more children and this was truly a blessing, indeed. The next step was to try to explain to my Boss that I needed some unexpected time off from work. I started the conversation with "how does one apply for maternity leave"? I flew to where my Son now lives and for the first time in 40 years our eyes met. There was an instant bond that fell over me. For the first time in my life, I really know how it feels to be a Mom. Things happen for a reason. Just believe.!