Calif-livin

2007-02-17T11:40:00.000-08:00

What a Week!
Sat 2/17/07
Ugh - what a week this has been! Remember the old saying that if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say it - well let's just say the owners of the company really blew it with me recently. Two weeks ago, they let one of my assistants go, because she couldn't do the work, and also promoted one to a junior manager, leaving me with all of my accounts and 2 8-hour positions unfilled for 2 weeks. What a surprise to them I guess, when people started complaining that their phone calls were not getting returned, and work orders were not being done. They hired a new young girl this past Monday, who seems very competent, but again expected me to train her on top of doing all my own work too. Just how do you fit more work in your already busy day -

I had three board meetings this week and will have three more in the upcoming week too. Not done with the work from the three this week or one of them from the week before, and am not ready for the three this week either. UGH again!

I've been sick with a cold, sinus problems, pneumonia for several months and am on the mending side, but am still not there yet. I get very tired and if the coughing and occassional vomiting would stop I think I would be able to handle the stress more. Not sure what complaining about it right now will do for me, after all it is a Saturday and I need to go work some more to catchup! No time off for ME.

Rachel and David got away to snowboard on Sunday/Monday this week and took Danny (Rachel's fiance) along too for his first attempt too. The results from everyone so far (Rachel & David) is that they had a great time and want to do it again, we'll see what Danny really thought of it the next time I see him.

We moved Matt's items out of his apartment last weekend into a storage facility by the house. I think this weekend we will move some garage sale items out of the garage so we have more room to move around and will use the storage facility to get the garage sale items organized for sales in June/July/August. One more project to tackle at home.

There are so many unfinished projects to get done and just not enough time to do any of them. I'm really feeling overwhelmed. I did take time out this month to have dinner with my high school friends and we laughed so much - they reminded me that we are 53 yrs old and were born in 1953, kinda neat to think about. I had dinner with my bookclub gals late last month, which was so much fun too, and the next book is Sidney Poitier's "The Measure of a Man" (an Oprah book). I just finished a book so I am ready for a new one and think this will be a good one.

It's sunny and warm today - we are having our usual "February Santa Ana Days" and I am wearing a tank top for those of you that are having cold winter days. Got to go sweep the patio, start some laundry, vaccum some and then get to work on work items from last week and the week ahead. Love to all -

2007-01-21T09:53:00.000-08:00

Take a Tour.....of the Beer Factory!
Sunday 1/21/07
Yesterday I took time out and toured the new Stone Brewery in Escondido with my son Matthew. We took the 4:00 p.m. tour and were educated on how beer is made, bottled, shipped and distributed. Matt worked at Stone for one week last year when he was between jobs. He really enjoyed working there (what 23 yr old wouldn't, they got free beer at the end of every day and every month got a free keg!), but the pay was average and he really wanted back to the grocery business where he could advance in his career into management. The tour was very educational, but the commentary I received from my son was more detailed, and I really enjoyed spending the time with him, one-on-one, which we haven't done in a long time. So for those of you Moms out there, that are wondering how you can spend time with your 23 yr-old son and what interests you might have in common, this is a suggestion, for a good Saturday afternoon.

At the end of the tour, they let you sample beer and shop in the gift shop. Matt purchased a hat, a glass cup for me, and a liter of beer, and we obtained a 9th Year Celebration testing glass too, for Matt's collection. I of course, spent some money too, on my son and let's just say he will be enjoying his poster and light for years to come. Who needs Christmas when you can surprise your children on random days and at random times, and get them things they want and will enjoy. He will always think of me when he looks at that poster or light. It was well worth the money spent.

Stone now has their restaurant open and Matt was going to treat me to dinner at the restaurant too, but needless to say by the time we were done with the tour, the restaurant was already hopping and without reservations, it was almost a 2 hour wait. (Note to all who want to eat at the restaurant- call first and make a reservation-it is one of the few places around that allow you to make a reservation, so you can eat when you want too.) So we didn't eat there, but went on to Panera Bakery (one of my favorite spots) and had soup and salad (both Matt and I love soup and salad). My favorite at Panera is the French Onion Soup and Ceaser Salad (it is just enough when you order the half/half). Very tasty and very filling. Matt had the Ceddar Brocelli Soup (also very good) and Ceaser Salad.

We had good conversation over dinner, but was annoyed by a person who decided to come into Panera and went table-to-table trying to sell her loud windchimes. This really makes me mad, when you go into a restaurant to have a nice meal and the staff and manager allow this person to walk around the entire restaurant and disturb the patrons by trying to sell their wares. After all we did not come into the restaurant knowing we were going to be interrupted and shopped, or we would have gone somewhere else. I of course, will be sending off a letter to that restaurant today, as well as their Corporate office too. And on a final note, as Matt and I were leaving the restaurant, I spoke to the manager and told him I did not appreciate the whole situation, of course he pretended that he had not seen the girl. I guess that is what you should expect from young 20 yr old workers who don't have the knowledge or professionalism to escort someone out of the facility with a firm statement that No Soliciting is allowed. This girl was in the restaurant for quite some time and the items she was carrying were very loud and disturbing - she did not go unnoticed by staff at all. She stood next to Matt for quite some time and even pretended to cough, hoping that we would address her. We totally ignored her because she was interrupting us and we were not going to give her the benefit of interrupting our pleasant evening. When she finally walked away, it gave Matt and I something else to talk about.

We had a good time and enjoyed each other's company. I love my children as young adults - it is awesome to have a conversation with them about life and the news. I am so thankful that my children have turned out to be such awesome people (and I am thankful I don't have any grandchildren at this time too-sorry, but I am not ready to deal with little children at this time, maybe in 10 years I will be ready, but not right now). Thanks kids for being such great people - I love you - MOM.

2007-01-06T10:07:00.000-08:00

Saturday 1/6/07
Trying to Feel Better-
It's been nearly three months and I have been trying to fight off and get over this bronchitis thing, which ended up developing into pneumonia. I am on my third round of antibiotics and some days I feel okay and others I feel I am back at square one. I don't think the doctor helped me any when she gave me the flu shot either (the first time I have ever had it). I've been sicker than I have been in a very long time.
It probably didn't help any that the furnace was not turned on until Thursday this past week. We had SDG&E out several weeks ago to get it started, but they could only light the pilot light, but the main burner would not kick on the other two burners. They made an apptmt to come out and follow-up with the main burner problem. Well the apptmt was an all day one, where you do not know what time they will show up they just do when they get to you. Of course it turned out to be almost 4:00 p.m. and I stood there and watched the guy to see what he did to fix the problem. You will not believe what he did - he hit the outside of the panel on the furnace, just in front of the main burner and it kicked the other two on. I then said to him "well is that all I had to do, was just hit the area by the main burner on the outside of the panel with a screwdrivever" and his answer was "yep, pretty much that is what did it". He did tell me that my 30+ yr old furnace is good for about another 5 years and then will have to be replaced. I was worried that the reason why the furnace was not kicking on was because there may be debris in the way from the installation of the new roof. After all there was shingles debris and other misc debris that feel thru and caused the fan above the stove to stop working and is now clogged up, and more debris fell in the kid's bathroom from the heat lamps and fan there too. I will need to have both of those items cleaned out and replaced soon. (I now have no fan in the kitchen to remove odors or smoke-if needed.) Just another expense not really needed, with all the others to be taken care of.

Well, besides being sick, I have been trying to put together my annual calendar, so I know where I am suppose to be and when. With 10 associations to manage, and three assistants (which I am using a lot), it is a lot to handle. I am constantly worried I will forget something major and of course no one is perfect, but associations, especially board members, never allow you to make a mistake, cause they remember that one mistake FOREVER. Never mind the fact that you can't ever leave the work at the office, you always take it with you where-ever you go-cause it is always on your mind. Despite the old saying of "don't take it personal", you put so much into your job that you can't help but take it personal, after all it is YOUR work product or a reflection on you. And don't even think of telling them that you didn't get something done because you had other accounts to fill your 8 hours (ha - that's a joke, no one can work this job in 8 hours, unless you have EASY associations to manage), or that you were sick, or that you had family obligations (after all my children don't have a dad, I'm all they have), etc. They-board members and associations, just don't want to hear it - they call it "an excuse". Excuse me, guess I am not allowed to be a person, with a life!

Okay enough of that ranting - Rachel and I went out to dinner on Thursday night and had a lovely seafood dinner. We were sitting there chatting after our meal and my niece Kylene came in with her boyfriend and his family. It was so good to see her and chat. She is such a sweetie! She did not know about Rachel's engagement, so that was a nice surprise and Rachel enjoyed showing off her ring too.

This week, Matt got a new cell phone and plan - all his own. He didn't have a cell phone for a while and it was a little disheartening not to be able to get in touch with him when I needed too. I didn't need too very often, but when I wanted too, it made it tough. What did we ever do without cell phones?

Sarah changed her room around this week and half of her stuff is still in the living room because she is sorting thru it and wanting to paint her room too. I don't mind though, cause I too am sorting thru stuff and cleaning out my room for painting and a change too. I know it is not spring yet, and it definitely is still cold outside (except in the daytime when it gets to be 75 degrees), but it must be the renewal of a new year that we have all got the energy to start anew. Even David has said he wants to paint his room this year for a fresh start too, and the outside of the house needs new paint too. Guess the smell of paint will be the odor of the next few months at our house - if you are planning to stop by, bring or wear your old clothes and plan on joining in - we will put you to work!

2006-12-26T10:46:00.000-08:00

The Start of a New Year.
December 26, 2006
Unlike a lot of other people, I see the day after Christmas as the start of a new year. The hype, mess, advertisements, etc. are overwith and I can now begin to move on to another new year. I'm not waiting till Jan 1 to start the diet, or begin exercising more, or make new resolutions, heck - I have the day off and am going to begin cleaning up and removing the holiday items now.

Yesterday David mowed the yard and trimmed it all up in the morning and all the kids came home for dinner, which we had last night. I had a Honey-baked Ham from their store in Escondido, where I spent a gift certificate I had been holding on too, for several years. The real reason I didn't spend it any sooner was because I never had the time off during the daytime hours to order the ham and go pick it up. This year, I ordered the ham, got my reservation number and drove over on Saturday 12/23 to pick it up (along with about 100 other people all trying to get inside the door to pickup their items too- parking was a ZOO!). It tasted good, just don't think I will pay full price for one of those hams again, in my opinion, you can get just as good a ham at the local grocery store (of course I am prejudice, I have two sons working for grocery stores).

We opened our presents at the dining room table, very unconventional to say the least, but with no tree up this year and no holiday lights hung, it was the more intimate setting we have. I did unpack and play a moving ferris wheel and skating rink town setting, which I had purchased from Avon, along with a multi-lite Santa ornament to get us in the mood (but honestly after about 20 minutes of listening to the ferris wheel going around and the skaters on the pond, making a little noise, I had to shut it off). We really didn't need anymore background noise.

Rachel came over alone, her finance Danny had to work on Christmas Day! Who are these people that go to a casino to gamble on Christmas Day? Are they nuts? Who has money to waste at this time of year and boy, can we say ADDICTION TO GAMBLING? It was good to see her and share some time with her. Matt came over too and washed and cleaned his car, while I did a load of his laundry (I don't mind at all for those of you who are groaning right now. He does his laundry all the rest of the time at the apartments, and I enjoy being needed again - even if it is to do his laundry.)

Sarah was totally surprised with the sewing machine that we all gave to her. David did it right, we had it hidden in his closet, so he got up from the table when everyone was just about done opening the last present. He said he had to go to the bathroom and walked out of the room only to state that he found one last present in the hallway. We didn't wrap it, so of course Sarah saw the box and started to cry. She had been taking pictures all night long of everyone else opening presents, and so I said someone take a picture of her for a change - the surprise look on her face was terrific.

More surprises included the fact that about a week before Christmas David went out and purchased new handheld weights. Both Sarah and I scolded him for doing that since people were asking each other what do you want for Christmas, so when Sarah placed a wrapped box in the living room with his name on it and it was quite heavy, he was convinced that it was weights. He then proceeded to tell me and Sarah that we would just have to return them after the holidays - imagine his face when he opened the box to find that she had purchased him a home safe - it was perfect! She truly fooled him.

When Matt moved out of the house in November and into his first apartment with a friend, I joked with him that he forgot to take his "George Foreman Grill" which he had received as a present back in high school. One of his friends had purchased it for him, because he likes to eat healthy and could then grill up a salmon steak on it or other items, and drain off the fat (as seen on t.v.). Well ever since he got that gift, we have all used that grill to death! It is great for grilled cheese sandwiches, tuna melts, a quick steak, salmon is the best on it, etc. So his gift was not just for him - it was enjoyed by all of us over all these years. So of course I went out and bought him a larger nicer "George Foreman Grill". We all had a nice laugh when he opened that gift.

Hope you had as nice a holiday memory as I did - my children were all with me that evening - that was the best gift of all, they were spending time with me, a gift no amount of money could ever purchase or touch. Now I need to go get some things done in my new year - happy 12/26/06 new year!

2006-12-09T10:33:00.000-08:00

Santa came 16 days early this year!!!
December 9, 2006
Santa arrived at our house 16 days early this year, and he gave me a terrific gift. No he didn't come in a sled, he wasn't dressed in red and he didn't have a beard. He is just about my height, dark brown hair with some gray in it, usually is bundled up with a winter jacket, blue jeans, walking tennis shoes, sunglasses, and sometimes wears a hat too. He is not accompanied with reindeer, but is accompanied with a beautiful German Shepherd dog, that he adopted from the pound, with a name starting with an S, but I can't remember it right now.

He and I have been chatting off and on every day as he goes for a walk around our valley, which he says he does because he has a heart condition and he has been able to lower his blood pressure and cholesteral too, by walking his dog. We have talked about our families (he has a wife, children and grandchildren), and he talks about how lucky in life he has been over the years. I too have shared some of the stories of my life, and for those of you who somewhat know me (you can learn the rest when my book is published some 10 years from now), you know I have a lot to tell and say.

Anyhow, long story short, he asked me one day about the Ford Taurus that I have sitting in my front driveway, and asked me what was wrong with it and if I wanted to sell it. Told him I had blown a head gasket and the dealership told me it would cost $5,000.00 to fix it, or they would give me $200.00 for it. I of course decided against both options and drove it home and parked it in the front yard for further consideration. It has sat there for a year now, and that day the dealership told me what was wrong with my Ford Taurus, I purchased a 2006 Ford Focus from them (which I have driven to Idaho and back) and now a year later has 32,000 miles on it, already!

Well my new friend and I have talked about the new roof that I have on my house (which looks awesome) and I told him that I now need to get it painted and new shutters made up for it, which I plan to do when I have the money saved up next year.

Well today my new friend, made me an offer - $200.00 for the Ford Taurus and $1,000.00 towards the painting of my house, but I had to promise to get it painted with the money! He is some Santa in my eyes and what an awesome person, and the best gift of all. I think he sees the struggle I have every day trying to keep my family together and going in the right direction (three of them will all be attending Cal-State San Marcos next year), which for anyone who has ever done it alone knows how truly hard it really is (not to say that those who are married or with someone, don't realize how hard it is, but they see it all from a different perspective, as I did when I had a spouse too), to keep us together as a family and make decent adults out of our children. I love my children and they fill my life so much, but the loneliness inside my heart can kill you from time-to-time, and the decisions are tough, writing checks and juggling the bills is hard too, and sometimes you just want someone else to step in and take over - I have definitely been doing this for too long and miss having someone else to share the burden (it has been 19 years by myself). Now I have dated from time-to-time and loved a few, which lasted, in one case 2 years (he was and will always be my soulmate), and I do enjoy my private time too, but it is easier if there is someone else to handle things too. Okay enough of this - I am not going to get a new "someone" in my stocking this year, so no more whining - sorry!

Anyhow we, my new friend and I, made an appointment for tomorrow when we will go over the paperwork for the car. Now I have something else to look forward too for the new year - getting my house painted! Isn't life just great!!! There are some wonderful angels amongst us and I have one as a new friend! Merry Christmas everyone -

2006-11-27T08:42:00.000-08:00

A Man's Razor.
11/25/06
Today in the mail arrived a "sample" new Gillette Fusion Razor. It has 5 blades in the front and one in the back. Of course it was aimed at the "men" in the household but since I have wanted a new razor for some time, I decided to try out the "free sample".

Wow was I surprised! This razor glided over my skin so smoothly there was no possibility of nicking or cutting my skin. It was gentle and flexible and I really liked it. Now the question arises, of why did they make such a great razor for men and not women. I had hanging in the shower one of my "throw-away" razors and truth be known between the two it was a world of difference. One could be rated as a 10 and the other as a 2(after all it did do the job).

So my question is - Why are the good razors being made for men and not women? I'll have to compare the cost of a "good razor" for a woman vs. a man the next time I am in the store.

Thank goodness for free samples.

2006-11-23T09:27:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving 2006!
11/23/06
We have so much to be thankful for these days, our freedom to speak, read, write, vote, etc. and I feel very passionate about my freedoms. As a single woman raising my children for over the past 20 years, I have become use to making all the decisions myself and living with the good and bad results. It has been no different for me than for you or anyone else who makes decisions every day. We make some good ones and make some bad ones. Luckily for me, I have made some good ones and have surprised myself.
All of the children will be home today for Thanksgiving today, which just makes this holiday even more special. I have so much to do and need more time (which I never have enough of). There are two holidays which I request my children to be at, one is my birthday and the other is Thanksgiving. Both are special to me and only require their presence and no presents. I love their company and we always have a good time playing games at Thanksgiving time. Spoons and Scrable are the favorites around here and last year we added an interactive video game called "Scene It". We love it and get very competitive.
Well I need to get going - hope all enjoy this wonderous day - it is about 75 degrees here, sunny and warm and just beautiful. We have so much to be happy about and hope you do too, (one of my thankful thoughts is of tomorrow-we have the day off and I may just enjoy the day reading a book, walking at the beach-and drinking in the ocean air, having a Starbucks cup of coffee, etc.), here's hoping you are enjoying your day too. Now go eat your turkey!

2006-11-15T23:00:00.000-08:00

Dancing with My Stars
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Anyone who knows me, knows I love reality t.v. Survivor, the Bachelor, Top Chef, Project Runway, the Amazing Race, Big Brother, Top Model, etc. I love my shows. It is particularly fun to share them with friends and this fall, I have been spending Wednesday nights with debi & Bob. They make the dinner and I bring the wine, what a deal. Dinners are awesome and they are both superior cooks.

We have been watching "Dancing with the Stars" which ended tonight, and I joked with them about the fact that the first night we started our Wednesday dates we had tri-tip for dinner and tonight we were ending out Wednesday dinners with tri-tip too. debi the forever sweetheart stated we will have to find something else to watch so we can continue our weekly dinners - she doesn't understand what this means to me, more than any gift anyone could ever give. These two people are my stars and their dance of friendship means so very much to me.

You see the older you get, you don't want gifts, you want people to spend time with you. You can't take the gifts with you, but the time spent together creates a lasting memory. debi, Bob and I have had some great laughs these past Wednesdays, as well as political talks, girl talks (sorry Bob), etc. It is so nice to converse with other adults, besides your adult children.

On another note, this is the 15th day of the month and I am really enjoying spending my 2 days a week at home. I am able to get so much done on my accounts, but feel that the office may be purposely finding it difficult without me there and are calling me a lot. I was at the doctor's office this morning, and had told the office staff that I would be there, of course with all that we have on our minds, they forgot and left me messages on my phone to call them right away and I was reminded that I needed to have my phone turned on at all times. Most of you know that when you are in the doctor's office you have to turn off your phone and when I got out of the office and turned it on, was not too happy to hear the messages, which I prompty returned and reminded them of where I was.

It has been a rough start this month, trying to move some of the board meetings around to fit in my schedule and I feel that I am either preparing minutes from a board meeting, preparing board packets, or attending meetings. Don't know when they expect the work to get done, I can hardly breathe these days. It is stressful to say the least.

I do try to get my Starbucks and 30 minutes of quiet time each day - it is my only saving grace and thank God that I am still healthy. Thanksgiving is next week, can't wait to have all my children home and at the table for our annual dinner. Good night -

2006-11-04T15:13:00.000-08:00

There are so many pains in life -
Saturday November 4, 2006
I attended a funeral this morning for the father of two of my high school friends (they are twins). The priest's sermon was about "pains" we experience in life, from the pain of childbirth, thru puberty as well as other pains experienced throughout our lives, to the pain of losing a loved one. He reminded us that the deceased feels no more pain, but we the living feel the pain of missing the person who has passed. Its true that it is one of the most difficult things to experience in life, which I have experienced a number of times-with losing someone close to me, as well as the lesson that we must move on with our lives. We all want to believe that people will miss us when we pass, that we will be remembered - hopefully in a good light. I don't want a dull funeral when I pass, I hope my children will give a fun filled, musical festive party. I want there to be lots of music, pictures of the fun times we all experienced in life and people talking about good times and laughing. There must be lots of laughter.

Well life does moves along and tomorrow Rachel and I are attending a bridal shower for one of my assistants from work. Brooke and her finance will be getting married back east around Thanksgiving, and one of the owners of our company-Julie, is giving her a shower. I had fun shopping for the gifts, since she is registered at Target and they make it so easy to shop when someone has registered. The move to San Diego of our office in Murrieta went fast over the past few days, and I am trying to get use to the new environment, it is a very noisey office, and very uptight. I'm hoping in time to relax and get back to my routine. Right now I am just trying to fit my new associations into my calendar and routine. Not an easy thing to do.

So I am beginning to feel - well - not quite sure what it is that I feel. The kids don't seem to need me as much anymore, although they do fit in time for me especially if I am treating them to dinner. Had dinner last night with Rachel and David at El Torrito in Rancho Bernardo, and it was nice to meet them half way - up from San Diego for me and down I-15 for Rachel and David, coming from home. Can't wait till Thanksgiving which is one of the only two times I require my children to be home (the other is for my birthday dinner). We always have such a good time at Thanksgiving and there is no pressure, like for gifts (Christmas), what to eat - like at Easter (Matt is always on a diet, and all the others are watching their weight too), etc. Most of the other holidays the kids want to spend with their girlfriends/boyfriends, at their houses, or hanging out with friends, which I really don't mind. My days of Christmas memories are long gone - they were the best when the kids were little, and the living room was filled with their laughter and cries of delight. Oh the memories....

2006-10-26T19:35:00.000-07:00

We're making progress!
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Well, the roof was completed today. The entire process started on Tuesday, at 7:00 a.m. with men walking on the roof and scrapping off all the shingles. A very noisey process to say the least. We all moved our cars out of the driveway so they could bring their trailer in and dump all the old shingles and wood directly into it. They layed the new plywood and replaced damaged wood all around the facia and trim, even on the dormer windows. Then they layed down the black paper and left for the day. They did a pretty good job of cleaning up the yard, but Matt, David and I found a number of nails too.

Today, the crew arrived with the new shingles. I chose a very dark slate black color, so they installed three vents to help keep the heat out of the attic. I was concerned with water getting in the vents, but did find out that you can install covers over the vents to prevent water from getting in. The louvers on the vents are angled downward, so not much water should get in unless we have a pretty directional rainstorm.

The next project will be to tent the structure for termites, have it painted, have new shutters created and installed, ...... new vinyl windows... new doors.....(the list never ends, does it). Sometimes home ownership is not all what it is cracked up to be. My paycheck for the next few years will reflect that.

On top of the roof work this week, we have been boxing up and getting ready to move our office back down to San Diego. I am trying to make room for some things here at home, since I will be working here 2 days a week, so I really need to create an office area in the garage (there is just no room for it in the house). I do have a space heater for the winter, and with my hot flashes, I should be okay - at least I think so. Now off to a hot shower and some rest and relaxation.......

2006-10-14T22:29:00.000-07:00

Days of my Life -
Saturday October 14, 2006
It was a rather busy day today, with getting my nails done, stopping by for my daily Starbucks, grocery shopping, dropping off "garage sale" signs at one of my associations, running to the bank, the pharmacy, and the office supply store - whew, and now I am trying to wind down from a very busy week.

We were told this week that the company decided it was too expensive to keep the Murrieta office open, so they decided to close it down by Friday, 10/27/06 (my birthday, just in case you did not know, or for some who may have needed a reminder, ha, ha). They did however make me a deal, where I will be able to work from my home 2 days a week and go to the San Diego office 3 days a week (starting at 10:00 a.m. each day). I really like that schedule - at least I do for now, let's see how well I like it in a month or two. One thing I am sad about is losing my great assistant-I have to say I did train her well and she liked the job and company, and our setup, but she did not want to make the move to San Diego, so we will be parting ways on my birthday too. Doesn't sound like much of a celebration, does it.

Tomorrow Rachel and I are off to the bridal bazaar at Del Mar Fairgrounds which should be fun and interesting. We are suppose to meet up with my niece Amanda there too, so I am looking forward to a fun day (if it doesn't rain). We have had some pretty good downpours and a very dramatic lightning storm last night, and we even used the fireplace for the first time this fall last night. We haven't turned on our heater yet, but are hoping the rain has stopped for the next few weeks. The recent rains may be postponing the installation of our new roof which is suppose to be scheduled for next week (to be completed by the end of the month). With each day that goes by, the roof is getting worse and worse, and we really can't make it through another winter without the new roof. I love my little house, just wish I had all the money to put into it to fix it up as needed. You would think that now that I have it paid off I would have the money to fix it up, but you just end up using the money for something else. I need a stricter budget and a husband who won't let me spend (the first part I should be able to do, the second part is harder the older you get). If anyone out there has any secrets about budgeting to share - I will be listening, but this old bird is hard to retame at this age, keep that one in mind. Enjoy your evening -

2006-10-06T19:06:00.000-07:00

A Year From Today -
October 6, 2006
I talked with Rachel today to remind her that a year from today, she will be getting married. We have been spending our weekends looking at places, talking about flowers, caterers, cakes, photographers, etc. As if we didn't already have a busy life, this just added to it.

This weekend Rachel is out of town, but it doesn't mean I have the weekend off. My job this weekend will be to purchase some wedding magazines or planners for her to use. I also have to work tomorrow at one of my associations, but don't mind cause I get to make some extra money. In the morning I am performing a site inspection with two board members and in the afternoon, I am passing out pool keys, by their pool.

I had a pretty simple week this week except for a few meetings. Last night's meeting started at 4:30 p.m. and ended at 6:30 p.m. Next week I have a busy start of the week, but it should settle down the remainder of the week. The office staff up in Murrieta are all a little bummed cause we were told on Monday that the owners of the company have decided to close our office, after only 9 months. They did offer me a good deal however, which included a sizeable pay raise and two days a week working out of my home, so I am looking forward to that. I can work in my p.j.'s or jeans from my house and save money on driving to San Diego. So on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, I will drive to San Diego and on Tuesday and Thursdays, I will stay home (or at least that is how I am planning to do it for now). Days may have to change depending on what is going on with my associations at the time. Three of my four Mondays I have board meetings, so I will be leaving the office early on those days to get to my account locations, and Fridays are casual dress day, so that day I will be wearing jeans to work. I look at it this way, only have to dress up two days of the week - yahoo. I will be saving money on gas, and clothes (water, detergent, dryer-electricity expense), and can eat lunch at home too (saving even more money). It will be a different change, but I am sure I will be able to adapt.

I'm hoping to get my roof replaced this month and need to get it scheduled. This morning it rained a little here and was quite a surprise to say the least. At 6:30 p.m. it was already dark outside and we haven't even changed our clocks yet for daylight savings time (at the end of the month). It gives us a taste of what the weather will be like next year when Rachel gets married. We were thinking of doing the whole ceremony by the pool, but it may be just a bit too cool for that - plans are still evolving. Stay tuned -

2006-10-01T22:27:00.000-07:00

3/4ths of the Year has Gone By!
October 1, 2006
I can't believe that we are starting the last quarter of 2006, where did the days go? My weekends are filled with trips to sites to meet with wedding coordinators, along with Rachel, and we are in shock by the costs involved. Everything from $1,500.00 to rent a facility up to $21,000.00 is what we have looked at so far, and I am sure there are more out there. You really can get wrapped up in all the excitement and I can see why people take a loan out on their home, retirement funds, etc. to pay for the wedding. Unless you have a house and yard big enough to accomodate everyone, it just costs so much for a large wedding.

Rachel and I counted up the approximate no. of guests and we are at 150-175 so far. We are hoping we haven't left anyone out, from the list, but will firm it up next year. It might seem kinda crazy to some people that we are looking at sites and planning it now, but the dates for reserving places for next year are filling up really fast, so if you don't secure one now, you just might loose out.

There are so many options available at every place too, like using their chef, or hiring your own caterer, they do the cake or you get your own bakery, photographer or videographer, what to have on the tables, birdseed to throw or rice or ???? that is allowed, hotel rooms nearby or on the premises, etc. It starts to get to be mindboggling. A spreadsheet is a definite plus in keeping things organized and for comparison purposes.

I am amazed at my daughter's energy, with trying to plan a wedding, going to school full-time, working full-time and fitting in time for studying and hanging out with her future husband. I am proud of her for having such good self discipline. She suggested today that we go to my office after we looked at a country club and golf course and had lunch, so that she could study (it is very quiet there and has no distractions). Of course, I can always use more time at the office. This past week was a tough one with meetings and board demands, I have been exhausted from the very long days.

We had some exciting news though, Sarah (other daughter) got accepted to Cal-State San Marcos and will be transferring there and beginning classes in January 2007 (in 3 months-yikes more money out the door for the higher cost of education). David will be finishing up at Palomar College in June 2007 and then hopefully will be accepted for transfer to Cal-State San Marcos for Fall 2007 semester. I am proud of them all for working full-time and going to school full-time, their dedication and self-discipline in studying is amazing. I am in hopes that Matt will someday decide to go back and finish his college education, but we must all find our own paths and I can't fault him for that. He is a good kid too.

I am pleased in one way that with the fall weather comes the start of my reality shows, so I am back to Biggest Loser, Project Runway, Top Chef, Survivor, The Bachelor, Top Model, Amazing Race, Dancing with the Stars, and so much more. Yes, between my reality shows and my Starbucks, I truly am hooked! Now off to see my evening shows - good night.

2006-09-23T20:59:00.000-07:00

And it's just the beginning......
Saturday 9/23/06
Today Rachel invited me along while she tried on wedding dresses. I cried on the way to the store, so that I wouldn't look stupid crying there. I guess others don't get as emotional as I do, but I just knew how it would feel to see my oldest child, dressed in her wedding gown. Ever since they are born and you look down on them while they are sleeping in your arms, you think about her wedding day. How she will look in the gown, being the most beautiful person in the world to you, how very proud you are of that child, and feeling the most love in your heart that you can for any one person. You just can't imagine loving anyone more than that child, and then when you have more children, your heart just expands even more, amazing yourself entirely.

Rachel chose a very beautiful princess styled gown and she is going to make a beautiful bride. I am very happy for her. I am of course worried too, I wouldn't be a decent Mom if I didn't worry about her. But she does seem to be a very strong person with her mind already made up on most things, so I just go along for the ride, and enjoy the tidbits and try to keep my mouth shut. I have to remember to keep my opinions to myself and probably now understand why my mother never did help me with my wedding. She did not help me shop for a dress, pick out invitations, look at the place for the wedding or reception, the flowers, or the cake. I didn't even know what dress she was going to wear to the wedding and really up to the date of the wedding, wasn't quite sure if my parents were going to attend or not. I don't think they were against the marriage, just never asked me questions or got involved with the planning. It was something I always wanted my Mom to be involved in and she just wasn't. One reason might have been that she had three other children younger than me to take care of, and just didn't know how to fit it in. (For those of you who know my mother, she is not like me and cannot juggle too many things at one time. She is perfect at the things she does, because she just doesn't take on very much.)

We went to a late lunch/early dinner and got out of Islands restaurant at 4:00 p.m. this afternoon. It is one of the few times, when I have had an alcoholic drink with my lunch, we all did. When I got home, I had to take a nap - I was so tired. Now it is 9:00 p.m. and I am ready for a bite to eat. So Dave and I are on a mission to eat a little something light - there really is no good t.v. on Saturday night.

Last night Rachel, Sarah, David and I all went to the Padres game as guests of Vista Paint Co. We had tickets for reserved seats along with drink/food coupons. It took us a while to get to the game with all the freeway traffic and the usual parking structures were all full. We had to park several blocks away, and got one of the last two spaces available in a lot on 14th street. We arrived at the game a little after 8:00 p.m. (it started at 7:05 p.m.) Good game in that the Padres won 6-2, almost a shutout, cause the Pirates scored their two runs at the top of the 9th inning. Haven't been out to a game for a while, so really enjoyed myself and my children. (Missed my son Matt though)

2006-09-16T19:22:00.000-07:00

A Sea of Fun!
Saturday, 9/16/06
Today & tomorrow is the 31st year of Harbor Days in Oceanside, with all funds from the event raised for the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce. I was honored as a long-time volunteer for the event and was introduced to the crowds at the noon time event held on the Main Stage in the Harbor. Then there was a harbor cruise for friends and family of mine as well as being treated to the Mayor's lunch at the Oceanside Yacht Club. Rachel, her future mother-in-law Pam, future cousin-in-law Courtney all attended the luncheon with me. The rest of the day, I was back to my usual duties of collecting cash and performing my "cash-control" duties.

Tomorrow I am suppose to be one of the judges for the Nail n Sail boat races, and perform a few other duties as my job as an honoree. It's been a little difficult today, in that I was so full from lunch, and it took a chunk of time too, that it got me behind in my duties and I really had to hussle all afternoon to catchup. Some of the booths, like out at the beach, didn't get their cash picked up until I closed them out at 6:00 p.m. this evening. I felt bad for overlooking them - but don't think they minded too much, cause they weren't calling me on the radio for change or a pickup of cash.

The beer gardens did quite well today, given it was our first day, which usually is slow, but Sunday is always a better day. I have two tickets for the pancake breakfast in the morning and I know Ashley and Matt (my son and his girlfriend), are going to make it as well as Sarah (my daughter). So I am looking forward to breakfast on the beach in the morning with at least a few of my kids

The day today was awesome. Weather was perfect, not too hot, with a slight breeze at all times. I didn't get to shop too much today, but the booths usually have things for sale on Sunday anyhow and I will be looking forward to picking up something (like I do every year) for the house or yard, or me, personally.

I met some new awesome volunteers today, two brothers in about their 30's and we had a great discussion about religion, life and how we were raised, and how we raise our children too. I was impressed with their perspective and their love towards one another, their children and wives too. People are what this life is all about and my conversation with these two gentlemen this evening touched my heart. I know I am a good person for giving back to the community, by donating my time, but I was impressed by these young men who will be doing it too, long after I am gone. I can tell they feel the same way I do about Harbor Days and the beach! I'm home now to take a shower and wash the grit from the day off, but I want so badly to go back to the beach and sit on the sand (even in the dark) and listen to the sound of the waves crashing on the shore. I've told those waves so many of my dreams, secrets and wishes!

2006-09-10T20:08:00.000-07:00

Remembering the Past
9/10/06
Tomorrow is 9/11 and so far I have to admit that I am sick and tired already of all the rememberances of the 9/11/01 tragedy. Perhaps that is really bad to say and I am probably a terrible person for thinking that way, but I really feel sorry for all the future unborn babies that will be born on Sept. 11 this year and future years. I feel sorry for anyone who has a birthday on 9/11, or an anniversary on 9/11, became engaged on 9/11 or anything else that holds a wonderful memory on this one day, for they will forever have to share it with all the negative "rememberances that the publicity and news reporting", that will always throw it in our faces. Do they really think the public is so stupid that we wouldn't remember those people in our prayers, every day? When those people who have a happy celebration for that day (b'day, anniversary, etc.) go out to dinner to celebrate, have a b'day party, etc. what an awful thing to have to share it with everyone else who is remembering that awful day.

I lost my parents on January 19, 1964, but every January 19, I do not go around "remembering" that awful car wreck that we had. I don't dwell on hearing my Dad talking and pleading with the people who came to our aid to help us, I don't dwell on hearing my parents last conversation in the car just before I remembering hitting hard and feeling all wet instantly (from the blood all over me). For that day 1/19/64 has come and gone and will never occur again. All the January 19th's thereafter are new days to be experienced with new memories, as life goes on.

All of this came about, as my son David came home from work today and asked me if I remembered what today was - for it was 10 years ago my children's father died, at the age of 43. I reminded David that today was not a day to feel sad, but to make today a good day in David's life for it is not 1/10/96.

The lesson in all of this is that we should not wait to honor or think of God only on Sunday or Saturday, or whatever day is your "day of worship", but we should be thinking of him, talking to him, praying to him, holding him in our hearts each and every day, as a celebration of life and all the good things we have to enjoy, not dwell on the negatives. Now go enjoy your day tomorrow and each and every day. I'm smiling, how about you?

2006-09-08T22:10:00.000-07:00

Air Conditioning is Wonderful!
Friday 9/8/06
Our office has not had air conditioning all this week. On Tuesday (Monday was a holiday) we started realizing that the lower we turned the thermostat in the office, the hotter it was getting and it felt like the fan in the system was just blowing hot air instead of cold. By the middle of the afternoon on Tuesday, we had called the management company for the building to report the problem. They told us they could not get someone out until Saturday, but would try to bump a residential repair & substitute us for today. Wednesday we came to work in shorts, tank tops, hair up in rubberbands or clips, sandals, etc. anything to stay cool. By noon, it was too hot to work and we went home. On Thursday it was the same thing, except I had an appt with a Developer about one of my communities in Escondido, so I left the office at 1:00 p.m. when the temperature had reached 89 degrees inside. I looked wilted for the meeting and needless to say did not look like a professional, very self defeating.

For those of you that don't know, I work in Murrieta, Ca. It is in the high desert of CA, and temperatures outside at this time of the year reach over 100 degrees in the daytime, on an average it is about 105 degrees. The evenings, like around 7:00 p.m. cool off to about 80 degrees. It doesn't start getting cool there, until very late fall, then the weather goes to the other desert extreme of being very, very cold. So without air conditioning in the summertime, it is unbearable, inside and out, you just have to have air conditioning if you live in the Murrieta area. That is why also, I don't live in the Murrieta area, I live closer to the beach & love our ocean breezes and evenings of 70 degrees instead. We don't have to have air conditioning at my home, and get by on the really hot days with the use of fans in our home.

Today-Friday- they fixed the air conditioning at about 11:00 AM - what a wonderful relief and I stayed until 8:00 PM working in such comfort. It was heaven!! They found out that the filters on our brand new unit (we have only been in the office for 8 months and it is a brand new building), had not been changed and with all the desert dirt blowing, the filters need to be changed every 3 or 4 months. Barbara, our receptionist, took our office cat home during all this because we were afraid she would die from the heat inside the office, but boy was she missed. It was strange to come into my own office space and look at her red royal pillow (which she sits on and looks out my floor to ceiling windows) and see it empty. Then during the day, as I worked on the computer and talked on the phone, no one was bugging me for a scratch on the chin or in my face begging me to pet her. Right now as I type this, I have one cat right almost on the keyboard and another behind my back, sharing my chair and another one on the rug behind my chair, all begging for attention.

Can't wait until Monday when the office should all be back to normal with our air working correctly, the cat back in her place and life back to its routine. It's stressful when things happen and upset our normal routine.

2006-09-04T11:19:00.000-07:00

Labor Day 2006
Monday 9/4/06

I can't believe it is Sept already, and more than half the year is gone. Time is flying by. Had dinner Sat nite with my friend Lori & her 2 children, at Chuck E. Cheese. Haven't been there since my own children were little. They have redesigned the place, to make it a better setup and control (you can't get in unless you have children and they stamp your wrist with a number, so you can't leave without being checked out too). Lori & I had so much fun talking & catching up that we lost track of time (the kids had a ball too, playing games, winning tickets & spending them), we actually ended up closing the place down - I think we were the last people to leave!

We had an almost complete family dinner Friday nite at a local pizza restaurant too. Danny & Rachel joined David & Kimber, and Sarah and her girlfried Alicia and me too. Sarah's boyfriend Scott had to work. We ate outside on the patio and it was so warm outside, we didn't even need out sweatshirts. We all had a good time viewing Rachel's ring, hearing the story about their engagement and Vegas, and had a roudy discussion about "Rainbow kisses" (no its not a gay thing believe it or not - worse than that), and about the new Sprinter train that is under construction. Great kids all of them and I am so proud that they don't mind hanging out with their dear old Ma (or maybe I am just fooling myself - cause I paid the bill).

Well today I am off to do laundry, clean the house (a bit) and head up to the office (to feed our office cat). With no phones and quietness, I want to get a jump on my week and month ahead before it starts. Hope you all are enjoying a "labor free" day. David is working today (triple pay at Ralphs), Matt is working today (triple pay at Ralphs), and Sarah is working today (Legoland rarely ever closes). I am enjoying the quietness of the house too.

2006-08-17T00:14:00.000-07:00

Rachel's Engagement

8/16/06 Wednesday

It's after midnight, so I guess officially it is Thursday instead. I worked till about 11:30 p.m. tonight, starting my day at 8:00 a.m., a very long day to say the least. This has been one heck of a week already. My 35th class reunion was last Saturday night and I just wasn't up to going and visiting everyone. I was not very good company, which for anyone who knows me, knows I am an upbeat happy person 95% of the time. I did have a dinner date though, so had a good meal out, which was nice.

I have exciting news to share. Rachel, my beautiful 25-yr old daughter, is now engaged. Her boyfriend and she went to Las Vegas this past weekend, it was his first time in Vegas, and he proposed to her there. He did come see me the week before on a Monday night at Starbucks and we talked for about three hours, where he asked for her hand in marriage. I thanked him for asking me, since I am somewhat of a traditional gal, and in today's day and age, most 20-yr olds don't bother with the tradition of asking the bride's parents for her hand in marriage. Now a days it is more likely that they just go and do it and then tell you afterwards, so I applaud him for doing it right. The ring is very pretty, of course (anyone ever seen an ugly one?). Her boyfriend's name is Danny and he and his parents and other family members were present for the proposal.

Sarah and I tried to rearrange our schedules to drive to Vegas to be there for the proposal, but since Danny had decided to do it on a Friday night, it was impossible for us to be there. Now for the expenses....... stay tuned

2006-06-23T13:55:00.000-07:00

It's Just Like a Postcard
Friday June 23, 2006

We are home from our trip to Idaho and whew I am so glad to be out of the car. Traveling in a Ford Focus from Calif to Idaho and back with my son and daughter (20 and 21), while you can imagine it was one packed car. The trip itself was great, in so many ways. We left Wed 6/14/06 (Flag Day) at 9:00 p.m. and drove all night. Sarah (daughter) was such a trooper and drove most of the distance and I stayed up talking to her and David (son) to keep them awake. I drove from Cedar City, Utah to Salt Lake City, where Sarah picked up again and finished the last leg into Idaho Falls. She drove from home to Las Vegas and Dave did the rest.

Thank God there were no vehicle problems and the drive was a smooth one. We arrived on Thurs. 6/15 just in time to pickup Rachel (daughter) who was flying in to Idaho Falls. at the airport. Checked in to the hotel and unpacked. We went out to dinner locally and had a good time chatting and catching up.

Friday 6/16 we got up early and headed up to Yellowstone National Park. Paid $25.00 for a week pass, and continued our journey visiting the park. The Yellowstone Lodge was closed down for repairs (they were working on the roof), so once again, I was not able to see the inside of this historic lodge, but perhaps one day will get the opportunity again. Stayed to see Old Faithful shoot off, which was so awesome! We saw a Bald Eagle's Nest on the way up and lots of geysers along the side of the road. So on our way back, we spent a considerable amount of time, walking a number of the trails and viewing the geysers. I enjoyed Painted Pots (remembered that one from my younger days), and several others, really enjoyed the clear blue ones that look like you are looking into a swimming pool of water. Just have to remind yourself to stay on the path, cause the water coming out of the holes is extremely hot. Did not like or care for the sulfer smell, but that comes with the territory. We saw Bison up close and personal on our way out of the park and a few Elk too, that were drinking at the Snake River. Just couldn't stop myself from saying "It is just like a postcard" which became a joke around me, from my other traveling companions, the entire trip long, but the countryside and animals really were .... just like a postcard. The picture that will forever stick in my memory though is the random fisherman standing in the Snake River, fly fishing, just like the movie "A River Runs Thorough It" - it really did look "just like a postcard". Awesome to say the least!

We called my sister Lynette when we got back to the hotel and after a quick change we headed over to her house to meet up with the rest of the family and to plan the surprise party for Dad to be held on Saturday 6/17. My brothers Paul (from Vista) and Dennis (from Tennessee) were there as well as sister Mary and her son Christopher (from San Diego). Lyn's husband Brent and son Gabriel were there (with his cute girlfriend Clarissa), and Jeremiah & Gwen, with their darling two children, and two other sons Lucas and Joey all showed up too, so we could all have a great and noisy family reconnection.

Saturday, we met up at Jeremiah & Gwen's church hall and helped put the finishing touches on the decorations that were already in place. We had stopped by Walmart with the list of items Lyn wanted me to pickup, including some smelly brocelli, which caused the room to contain the smell for some time. As the time got closer and closer to the 3:00 p.m. original planned arrival time for Dad to show up at the hall, I suggested Lyn call him and tell him to come at 3:15 p.m instead, since everyone was in transit and still not present and accounted for. Lucas arrived with Carrina and Giddeon and Caleb, Kelly and Evans arrived from Logan Utah (they were just getting back from their vacation), Joey, and Sister Trudi & Eric and children Joette, Kylene and Trudianne arrived too. Lyn and family stayed in the room to sing happy birthday to Dad, as he arrived and the rest of us hid out in the room next door waiting to surprise him. Once he entered the room they all sang happy birthday to Grandpa and we started filing in singing happy birthday Dad and the look on his face was total surprise. As he hugged me and my children, he commented he was hugging people he didn't even recognize (meaning, as he stated later, he would have never recognized Sarah and David had he met them on the street, it has been about 10 + years since he has seen them). Party went well and I don't think he left his new rocker recliner chair except perhaps once or twice to get food and visit the bathroom. He really liked that new chair. The professional pictures and others taken by everyone will forever commemorate this event.

At one point in the party, the sisters all left and went over to the house to see if we could convince Mom to join the party. Since she had just had emergency surgery last Saturday, the likelihood of getting her out of the house was pretty slim. We did surprise her though and I think we lifted her spirits some. She was pretty down at the time. We left her at home after many tears with a promise to come by on Sunday, one at a time (to not overwhelm her) and visit. Following the party, Dad went home with the boys delivering the new chair for him and removing his old one. We continued the party at Lyn's house, with all the cousins going with Joey out to a local site so they could give the old recliner chair an appropriate going away party. The kids all had a great time and it left them with quite a memory to enjoy. The rest of us stayed at Lyn's house and visited some more. Paul had loaded up the pictures from the party as well as pictures of his new grandchild Madison Joy (Cyndy's new baby), and we all enjoyed viewing them.

Sunday, we went to Mom and Dad's house for our one-hour visit and then took Rachel over to the airport in Idaho Falls and saw her off, to return to Calif cause she had work on Monday. We went back to the hotel and took a much needed nap after that and when Lyn called us, we ended up going back to her house and eating dinner with her and Brent and Lucas & Carrina and Giddeon and Caleb. Lyn took me for a tour of her property (she has an awesome garden and nicely laid out property too). She is such a worker, and is an amazing person with so much energy. Brent was hard at work the whole time we were there too, fixing and installing a new latch on the gate on the rear deck. He is such a hard worker too and it is amazing what the two of them accomplish. He works two jobs and is such a good provider and father for their family, no wonder those 6 boys turned out so well, with parents like that as examples. We had such a good time with them all and hated to leave, once again.

Monday, we headed up to Swan Valley (with instructions on how to get everywhere from Brent, thank goodness or we would have been lost for hours) to see Grandma Goldie's old house. Brother Dennis had stated that the roof on Grandma's house was falling in, so we were curious to say the least and I had not been up to the valley in about 20 years (the last time was with Stan-my deceased spouse). The roof on Grandma's house is just fine, just has a few leaves on it and we drove around on several sides just to be sure it was not falling in. Someone is living in the house too. Property looks so different now without the other old house on it (which Grandma Anna Backus use to occupy) and fences down, trees removed, etc. Dad's firestation is still there as well as the old general store, but the general store has long since been closed and is up for sale. There are so many new homes built in the valley as well as post offices, and it is much more populated than it ever was previously. I was truly amazed. It is a different place all developed and occupied now.

We then went over to the Palisades Dam and I remembered one winter when Lyn & Brent and Stan and I went toboganning off the face of the dam. They don't let you do it anymore, cause now there is a fence at the top of the dam, so you can't do it. They also have a large nicely laid out picnic area at the bottom too, that is a good improvement too. We finished our day up in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Stan and I had spent some time up there when we were younger and I remembered the Elk antlers in the park in the center of town. The kids and I had lunch on a blanket in the park and took a moment to take in the beautiful scenery. Next time we are up this way, I want to stay at a hotel in this town, so we have time to enjoy it more. It has really become a tourist attraction now, and we did stop in a store or two to pickup some memorabilla.

Tuesday the kids and I went to Craters of the Moon and explored the area. An awesome place to say the least and I wished the kids were not so tired, cause we could have enjoyed it more. It was quite warm that day too, and with the black ground (covered by volcanic remains) it was warmer than usual, and so they were pretty hot and uncomfortable. The street crews were working on the highway streets (2 lane roads) leading up to Craters of the Moon, so we had to sit in the car and wait for periods of up to 30 minutes before we could proceed further. It took us a while to get there with all the construction going on, so ended up being a full day trip anyhow. We got some good pictures and hiked up a very large hill of volcanic debris, where the wind was so strong it pushed you almost over. At another location we looked down in a volcanic remain and saw snow still there, what an amazing feat, since the air outside was very warm in the 80's and inside was snow. Took a number of pictures and stops throughout the area and it was amazing to see flowers growing thru the volcanic debris.

On Wednesday, we went to Mom and Dad's house to visit. We had a pizza lunch and had a good time with them asking Sarah and David questions, so they could get to know them and visa versa. We spent a good six hours with them and Sarah was able to get some photos. We left their house (with tearful comments of have a good life - knowing we would probably never be able to see them again), and headed over to Gwen and Jeremiah's house. They had kindly invited us to dinner, and we had an awesome spagetti dinner and delicious homemade pie. It was so nice of them to invite us over and spend more time getting to know us outside of the realm of the family group. We were thankful for a home cooked meal too. It is amazing how you miss homemade food and are tired of fast food when traveling.

We were suppose to leave for home on Thursday morning, but decided we wanted to get started right away, so we packed up Wednesday and left for home after dinner with Gwen and Jeremiah. Made really good time on the way home and arrived Thursday about 10:30 AM. There were less stops on the way home, for many reasons - it was daytime and we could see where we were going, we knew the way after traveling it a week ago, we were anxious to get home and settle back in, we were emotionally tired and needed to feel familiar territory. It was so great to see the animals and empty out the car. Wonderful trip, cost me a pretty penny (not sure I can afford that for quite a while), but well worth it!