PHOTOS: Soldiers at Camp Ur, Iraq

U.S Army soldiers from Charlie Company, 1-77 Armored Regiment, 4-1 Armored Division, pose in front of USO2GO Kit boxes, October 24th, on Camp Ur, Iraq. Charlie Company, 1-77 supports 40th IA BDE MITT and conducts joint patrol missions with the IA and Iraqi police, within Dhi Qar Province in southern Iraq. MITT soldiers live and work with the Iraqi army, as well as train, advise and assist the IA in the areas of intelligence, communications, fire support, logistics, and infantry tactics. Pictured from left to right; Pvt. Dexter Neal, 11B, from Houma, La., Sgt. Jefferson Guillermo, 19K, from Porterville, Calif., Pfc. Jonathan May, 19K, from Harrington, Del., Pfc. Jared Morris, 68W, from Independence, Mo., Pfc. Alex Ayala, 19K, from Bronx, N.Y., Spc. Michael Williams, 11B, from Jackson, Tenn., Sgt. Liam Molinelli, 11B, from Stow, Ohio, Spc. Ryan Adams, 13F, from Holland, Mich., and Pfc. Randy Hamilton, 11B, from Columbus, Ohio. (U.S. Army photo/Sgt. 1st Class Alan B. Owens)

The source of this photo and names of U. S. Army Soldiers-----http://www.militarynewsnetwork.com/military-news/news1063.htm

God bless them one and all!! Thanks for your dedication and service!

Windows 7

I can't make up my mind. When I bought this HP computer to replace my Sony that went defunct, I knew I wanted the new Windows 7 because even back in April of this year Windows 7 was talked about big time. This machine has Vista and doesn't qualify for a free upgrade as others purchased after July do. I'm pretty computer savvy and couldn't imagine not getting along with any operating system, but I have to tell you I really really don't like Vista - it is slower than my defunct Sony!

But, I am not sure I want to purchase the new OS system, download it myself then have problems, or do I want to haul it into Best Buy and have them do it and be without a computer for a week. I may just wait and wait and wait until I have made up my mind. Bob says to wait until all the kinks have been worked out. Maybe he's right, this time.

Also, I wondered what will happen to all the photos in Vista Window photo gallery. I don't like that application, but I have hundreds of photos captured there. I can't get an answer to that inquiry because Windows 7 will not have the gallery. Good! I'd rather use my Canon camera's software anyhow.

Any suggestions?

Everyone with total knee replacement - please stand up!

First I was then I wasn't now I'm not, I think! I've been complaining about the pain in my legs for awhile. Limping is not an activity that I have enjoyed. I feel so old and a nurse told me "you're not old" but 'lady, I feel old!!! When you've lived a very active life with little or no health problems, and if there were any, I didn't talk about it - until a few years ago. I've always been pretty pain tolerant but now I don't do so well.

After seeing the orthopedic surgeon and having ex-rays taken, zowie, surgery was necessary. My left knee is a mess - no meniscus, no wonder I was/am in pain!! The right knee is not as bad but lacks a full coverage of meniscus. Golly, I'm glad I found that out! So, surgery date is scheduled for total knee replacement for the left knee and so preparations are on. I am an organizer so the race was on to organize my stuff for the visit to the hospital and the expected stay of four days. Family notified; house slippers ordered - no flip flop types because of activity and physical therapy; nice robe purchased, must look nice walking around the hospital; mp3 player filled with music; and two good paperback quick read mystery books purchased, so just about ready to go - next planning for blood work and final paper work to fill out.

Can you imagine how surprised I was when I received a call from the nurse saying the doctor wanted me to go through physical therapy for a month - it might keep me from having to have total knee replacement, and no surgery now! My husband was angry- what could physical therapy do where it is bone on bone!!! So, here I am faced with this decision, should I go to another surgeon? There's no doubt the physical therapy will help, I haven't been as active as I should be and I know there will be an adjustment after the knee replacement and there will be PT then, but the question is their attitude that PT will cure the problem of bone on bone is another issue. Was this just the words of the nurse? I was too shocked to know what to say.

On top of that - the hospital called this afternoon to remind me of my surgery and continued to ask questions assuming that I was having surgery - I was double shocked!!! They were shocked, everyone's shocked, I guess!! Oh, but upon further searching she did find the nurse had canceled the surgery - but the surgery nurse at a different extension had no clue and she wasn't going to take my word for it - I had to contact the doctor to contact her - the surgery nurse, but she reveals the doctor is on vacation!!! Ah, could he just be on vacation and that's why he didn't want to schedule the surgery NOW!! But, it was his call, I was also in shock (again) when I found out my condition and that I needed surgery.

What a mess. I am going to talk to my regular doctor this week. Maybe he can give me some guidance. For now, there may be physical therapy in my future, but the surgery will have to wait until after the holidays. I could have tolerated the challenges coming home after having the surgery the first of November but any later would physically challenge me up through the holidays - and with Soldier Tom and Tine coming home for the holidays I don't want to be incapacitated.

Take good care of yourself and even if you do, be prepared for anything to happen when you get to the tender years of Senior Age.

People talking to themselves

Our day got started early today with our first appointment at our hair stylist. I went to my very all time favorite Kim and Bob to his barber Frank. Both have a shop in Boulder City. If you have ever came to visit Las Vegas then went to Hoover Dam for the tour, you went through Boulder City. I moved to Las Vegas with my parents when I was the tender age of 16 and grew to love Boulder City - a lot! It is separated from Las Vegas and Henderson by the fact there is no gambling in town allowed as it is in the rest of the state of Nevada. It is a very quaint town and most everyone knows everyone.

I've had Kim as my hair stylist for many years. Her husband works at Hoover Dam and knew my husband when Bob worked at Hoover. The beauty shop is an fabulous place - the best atmosphere I have ever experience in a hair salon anywhere I have lived. The girls all have fun and the clientele are all ages. They even bring in the senior citizen ladies to have their hair done, and if they can't make it in, one of the girls will go to the "home" to do their hair. I also have a blast there - you never know what will be the topic of discussion for the day. Kim is awesome with my "doos" too - she listens and does exactly what I request. No matter! I am so thankful I found her! Today our main discussion was about knee surgery and doctors, but once we covered that topic it was on to other things of importance like thinning eyebrows or men losing weight in their butt rather than their stomach when they are on a diet. You know, the good stuff!!!!!!!!!

Bob and I went from there to Costco. I just had to go today, so I "drugged" up on my medication and took it easy, sitting down when I needed too. It was time to buy Norton Virus for my computers, gads zooks, have you seen the price of the software!!! Holy Macaroni!!! My uncle has a MAC and I asked him if he had to buy virus protection and he doesn't - I don't know, maybe I should think about jumping the PC ship and go Apple next time!!!! Costco usually has good software prices and actually I did check Amazon, etc, and found Costco was the best deal in town.

I was outside waiting for Bob to drive up to pick me up after we had made our pass through the store when I heard a person talking. An attractive young woman bounced passed me and she was talking at a loud volume and for a brief moment I wondered if she was talking to me, but no, as she passed I could see one of those weird thing growing out of her ear. She was a pretty woman but frankly, I am developing a huge pet peeve of those stupid ear things - yes, I do have one that I purchase when we traveled so I wouldn't have to fuss looking for my cell phone when we were on the road - I wasn't the driver either - but I never used it - it is still in the drawer. Society has become so anti-social!!!! There are times when I look at people and their lips are moving and sounds are coming out and they seem to be looking straight at me - I smile, preparing to respond - then I realize they have a blank gaze on their face and there is it - the weird black thingie growing out of their ear..... You know, I enjoy watching people - it's a great past time. I enjoy too, smiling at others or saying hi, or have a great day. I'm a friendly person. I think we need more personal contact - I don't mean we all have to become great friends immediate, but just a hello and a smile goes a long way. We've all got our share of difficulties in our daily life today, it's really nice to share a pleasant moment every once in awhile. Ah, but I guess for some, it would be difficult to give up the pleasures that the communication technology has given us.

I hope you all are well and your life is good. Do take good care. God bless!

Egads! I haven't posted in a long time!

Holy cow! Where has the time gone!!! I've been in a state of non-compliance. The part of my brain that comes up with the ideas and words for my blogs has run away to a far away land of unknown destination. For some odd reason, it returned this morning, who knows why, curious!

Seriously though, I guess, deep down in my psychic I've been worried and when I write I relate through the expressions, maybe! A few weeks back I went to the Bone man doctor to check my left knee. I've been in pain for years, but have tolerated it until recently when it got so bad I was brought to tears continuously. So, after ex-rays and examinations Bone Man Doctor told me I would have to have Total Knee Replacement. We did the cortisone shots just for comfort but that only was a temporary fix. The surgery will have to be done on both knees, but my left is the worse. It is a real mess and you can feel it too - yuck! but sort of cool in a morbid way.

We've tried to get away from the house several times, you know, for a couple of day trip out of town, but the knee just wouldn't give it up, this was before the doctor's appointment. There is a beautiful organic fruit farm up in Utah only a few hours drive from here. They sell delicious Gala apples this time of the year. They also sell lunch sandwiches and organic drinks that are so delicious and unique. The drive up there is so beautiful because it is in the heart of Zion National Park. It would have been so gorgeous this time of the year since it has cooled off here in the desert southwest.

That is a huge disappointment to me AND the fact I cannot go shopping. The last outing to Wal-Mart was a huge disaster for me. Even though I can take pain pills to absorb the brunt of it all at first, it doesn't take long for the medication to wear off and I'm ready to be dragged out of the store crying hideously - so it's best Bob takes over that duty.

Now here's a good one ladies - letting the man do the shopping. Oh Holy Mother of God!!! a true sacrifice for me!!!!!!!!! Please forgive me for being overly religiously expressive, but it pains me deeply to give up one of my biggest treasures in life, I know! I know! I'm being overly-dramatic, probably, but hey, I'm a woman, and that's what I do best - shop!!!! But, I'll give it to my man - Bob - he is a good shopper. His favorite store is Costco, and he is good!!!!! Coupon book and list in hand, man oh man, he can tear through those aisles with the speed of light! No dottling for him, he gets the job done. If there's a question, he doesn't hesitate to call home on his trusty cell phone. He isn't a cell phone person, like, he doesn't have it with him all the time - that's in my job description. But when he shops, he religiously has his phone for any questions or if I come up with a new item we need that I forgot to put on the list in the meantime, I can call.

I picked up a not so expensive MP3 player on Amazon.com - a really small one with only two gigs of memory which may hole about 500 songs or so. I want to take to the hospital with me so I can listen to music. I should be in after surgery for 2 or 3 days. So now I have to fill it will music. I'll take one paperback book - one that is a fast read. Darn-it! I have packed all my good reading books and there's no way we could find the box even though it is marked well. When the painters were coming, we shoved everything in the downstairs that was out in the way into the only two small rooms that weren't being painted. They had been well organized with packed boxes but once the last minute procedure happens of having to shove the rest of the extra stuff in every vacant spot counts and it gets messy! I wouldn't ask Bob to search since his knees are hurting too. I do like Agatha Christie books.

Well, that's it folks, that's pretty much why I've been non-blogging for while. I have kept up with my Farmtown on Facebook only because my husband is addicted to it. It is our retirement fun!!! HA HA! That's as good as it gets right now - that and enjoying granddaughter Alexandra who is growing up too fast. And I am anxiously looking forward to Soldier Tom and his girl Tine coming home for Christmas!!!

Speaking briefly of grandchildren, Alex is at the age of noticing boys, (good grief!!!!). She is a straight A student, very creative, and all that. I am on a diet now, hoping to lose a few pounds before surgery, and as I was drinking an Atkins Protein drink the other day she told me it had too many calories in it and her PE teacher told her diet drinks weren't good for you. So there she was, my granddaughter telling me what was good and not. Even though I showed her on the box that my drink had only 150 calories and very lo sugar, it wasn't enough, her PE teacher was smarter. Oh me! the age of other people are smarter than the "parents" has arrived - again!!! I need a vacation around adults who are on the same brain level and think I am marvelous. But, on the other hand, my 22 year old grandson has told me how smart I was and how he appreciates my advice. Sad, isn't it, you have to wait until they grow up to get a vote of confidence from them!!!!!!! What a beating the ego takes raising children - sometimes!

It's good to be back. I hope you all are well and having a wonderful weekend. Take good care and God bless!

Old eyes and shaky fingers

This afternoon Alexandra and I sat down to make more jewelry. We are new to this hobby although the first go round went pretty well, you'd think it would be all down hill but something has changed.

Alex is very clever and talented. She can put together a necklace or bracelet in the speed of light with a variety of colors, styles, and beads while I am struggling putting the ends on her designs. I am quietly thinking that I must come up with a better strategy or working arrangement because we are not actually working together. I am too grumpy as I struggle to put the string through the little holes of the clamps, crimps, and jollies and all the rest of the doo daas that finishes the piece. We have a bright light in the room but I need a lamp that shines directly on the work, so there's something else to be in the way. Organizing the work area has been another thing. I thought this was going to be a fun way to spend time with my granddaughter but I find myself being irritated and grumpy with her and that is defeating the whole purpose of this time.

So its back to square one and starting my plan all over. I think the best would be for me to put the finishing touches on the jewelry after both of us have worked together on a couple of pieces. Until I get the hang of it and can whip right through the most difficult part, I think this will work out the best - she won't mind waiting until I put on the finish touches. This way we will have time to work together and share ideas.

There are so many beautiful beads, chains, hooks, finishing thingies and so many other things to add on - beading is an art in itself. I know we will have fun and enjoy our accomplishments once we get situated and organized together. We have lots of books to go through for new ideas.

I have made myself a bracelet which fell apart but I do know why - I didn't have it connected correctly at the end. Believe it or not, there's a lot to know and learn. My hands shake more these days than when I was younger and my eyes have trouble dealing with putting the stretchy string through the small holes - like threading a needle, but I can do it if I keep trying. Like Thomas the Train, I think I can, I know I can. We will reap the rewards of our accomplishments and the time we spend together.

The sound of quiet

Candy to my ears - no noise, no TV, no radio, or music, no one hammering or mowing the lawn or construction work. No yelling or shouting, no traffic, just quiet. It is rare here in our home. I know it's a lot to be thankful for - to have a home that grandchildren can grow up in, but there are those moments when quiet is a diamond moment. This is it right now. Awwwwwwww! taking it all in.

The sun is setting and there are a few hummingbirds getting their last licks from the feeders. They are amazing - they are up early and still feeding way after dark and the other birds have settle in their designated trees.

This has been a very busy week. Bob celebrated his 68th birthday yesterday. A quiet one by most standards. We did go out to eat at our favorite pizza place - Metro Pizza, but we had the birthday cake celebration tonight - it was a time factor yesterday. He was melancholy yesterday and a little depressed today - I don't know if it was the age thing or the health age thing. He has accomplished a lot in his lifetime. I know how he feels though, we do wish we were at a different place in our life, but sometimes there are things we can't change. There are times when we should be thankful for what we have but not give up hope.

I'm going to to doctor for my leg on Monday, gosh, I can't wait - what a pain in the butt it's been dealing with this. I'm not one to give in to pain, but as I've gotten older I sometimes feel like a big baby. Oh well, we just keep on plugging don't we as long as we can.

Soldier Tom's birthday is in a little over a week. He and his gal Tine are so full of energy and we are so dull compared to their lifestyle. He said to me that we are at the age we don't want to celebrate birthdays anymore. I don't know where he got that idea, I don't mind it, but would just like to have a big party but no one around here knows how to give a big fun party so its the same ole thing. My husband is a quiet man with a sense of humor and I am grateful for him from the bottom of my heart to my tippy toes. I am blessed to have him in my life and to celebrate birthdays with him.

Weekend breaking in on us again, where do the days go! Hope you have a great one, keep safe, God bless.

ჱܓDirty Dancing "She's Like The Wind" by Patrick Swayze (1987) ჱܓ

Patrick Swayze has passed away at age 57 after a 2 year battle with pancreatic cancer. He will be missed but his spirit will live on forever and he will suffer no more.

The men, they are cooking Sunday dinner..

As previously mentioned, me and my water bound knee plus large black and blue lump on foot of leg of same water logged knee is reporting no change and ability to get around remains difficult and limpingly to say the least. However, one bright star at the end of the universe is a husband who will try anything. Sunday dinner is something we look forward to, so husband Bob agreed to do the work while I supervised from the kitchen chair. Agreed!!!!

As time neared to get things rolling in the kitchen, the telephone rang, it was Soldier Tom calling from Ft Bragg, well actually his car as he was on his way to the grocery. He was hesitating, but inquiring apologetically, he needed advice. He was determined to cook dinner tonight for Tine, and he needed help. How do I cook lasagna he asked? This was the meal he had decided to do to prove he could put together a dinner for Tine. The men in this family can't turn down a challenge, so I imagine Soldier Tom was challenged and he was determined to complete his cooking mission. So, how do you give advice over the phone on how to cook lasagna? Holy cow!!!! My brain went into freeze zone then thawed because this was my forte - cooking and computers. I gave him suggestions especially the quick way will be to use the recipe on the box of lasagna noodles for measurements which is what I follow and not try to make the sauce from scratch the first time. I'm available if you need more help was the final words before we said final sentiments of love you and take care. Then twenty minutes later as Bob was cooking, I remember the time difference - it was 7:30 PM his time, it would be 11:00 PM probably before they eat. I called him and suggested something less time consuming or easier, but he wouldn't budge - he was committed. So, we parted on those word and I haven't heard from him since. I'll give him a call in the morning to see how it went. Bob and I wondered if Tine was helping out too or was this a "do it alone" challenge? I know he helps her in the kitchen all the time. I'm proud of him for learning and achieving involved cooking skills.

Here on the home front, Bob's assignment was Beef Stroganoff. My recipe was a simple recipe. I volunteered to be his sous chef since I could sit and chop. Since Bob became retired he has taken on many kitchen chores. He does seem to enjoy himself and follows instructions very well. The dinner was excellent. It was very nice to enjoy our Sunday dinner together tonight.

The only downside of men in my kitchen is their persistence for turning the heat too high under the skillets. So, my saving grace was to buy them their own pans to cook with and I hide my good cookware. It is lovely to turn over the duties of cooking of fine cuisine to the men in the house. There are bonuses all round.

Saturday evening with George Strait & Favorites

It's been a full day with some accomplishments - did check off some stuff that's been muttering "me next!, me me me!" yes, finally crossed through those things. Bob moved some furniture in Tom's room so we could fit in my nice typing table that Alexandra and I will use to make jewelry. We can spread our jewelry making stuff out and not have to worry about putting stuff away. This was my biggest accomplishment but the day took a turn for the worse when a heavy piece of wood fell on my foot that was the letters and a coat holder spelled out in the letters THOMAS.

My foot is really swollen tonight coupled with the fact my leg has been in pain all week - my regular doc said I had water on the knee but he didn't do anything about it on my last visit. I fell down twice and I'm sure now all that is coming to light. The first time was a few years back when I was taking classes at night at the Community College. We were walking up carpeted stairs that had little strips of lights, but they curved and I didn't see it - I tripped and hit my head and landed lopsided on my knees. They hurt for weeks on end. I didn't go to the doc then - I didn't want an ambulance, but had to sign a paper saying I wouldn't sue the school. The last time I fell was in my kitchen on my slick kitchen tile floor - it was wet and I went a flying. The knee got infected and doc gave me an antibiotic and that was the last of it until now. Hoping in a few days it will get better if not I'm off to the knee doc - he knows our family personally. Husband Bob and Son Don has been in to see him and had surgery several times - so we're old pros at joint pain. I'm limping around like Festus did on Gunsmoke with Jim Arness. When I was younger I never had accidents and I was active. We had a farm and I was all over the hay wagon, doing tobacco, running cattle and pigs, and running after my kids too. Old age stinks!

Bob has picked up the slack on the tasks at hand, no big deal stuff, just odds and ends. I appreciate his help very much. Son Don has just stopped by for a short stop. He's come up from Phoenix and has to be in Salt Lake City - he's my truck driving son. It's always nice to see him regardless of how long he's here. Kev's working a night shift so we're responsible for granddaughter Alex. Don will aggravate her and she will tease him. She loves it when he stops by.

I haven't had much time to be back here in my back office alone without any interruptions so I can play George loud and sing off key to his music. Bob bought me George's new CD "Twang" for my birthday. There are several really good songs. George is good candy for these old eyes and I love his music - he gives his fans a variety of styles, so you never know what's next with him.

I also enjoy the smooth selection from the Eagles CD, and then there's Sting and Chris Botti - sweet!

I hope you are having a very nice weekend - a very special time for our country in many aspects. May God bless and keep you safe . Take good care.

Talking in my sleep

My friend Ann will be surprised to know that I carried on a telephone conversation with her in the wee hours of the morning. Ann is a regular visitor here to my blog. She's been a friend since the first time I met her when I went to work at Southwest Gas in Las Vegas, back in 1989. She's been my friend through some really rough times in my life, mainly, Brian's accident, caring for him and then his death. I've known her through her own trials as well, especially when she lost her loving father and now as she takes care of her mom.

Ann is one of those kind of people who is very trustworthy. You know whatever you tell her, she wouldn't repeat it to anyone. You can be who you are even if you are having a very ugly day or on the top of the mountain. She also laughs at my jokes which is the main aspect I look for in a close friend - I can be a dingielingie so a friend must understand I have those days. She has a deep love of God and trusts Him to always watch over her.

So, it's not surprising that I would have an out loud verbal conversation with Ann in the middle of the night. I asked my husband this morning if he heard me talking out loud in my sleep and he said he did but he didn't realize it was Ann I was talking to this time. It was a telephone conversation with Ann and a side conversations with one of my kids, now I've forgotten who except that was about erasable markers on a white board. Ann was holding on the phone as I spoke with my kid. Ann's conversation consisted of her telling me what time she would be at school and my out loud response an explanation of when was I going to be there.

Oddly, neither Ann nor I are in school nor do we have kids in school. I have no clue where this conversation with Ann stemmed from and we haven't had a conversation about meeting at school ever. I did wake myself up talking out loud to Ann and that's why I can remember only this part. My family tells me I do talk out loud sometimes in the night and I remember it's usually when I am sick. Actually, I am sick right now, so I must have been delirious last night.

My husband and son sometimes talk in their sleep although I wouldn't repeat what my son says. My husbands speech is so blurred that even straining to hear doesn't help. One night a long time ago, he did hollower out a cuss word and was laughing (not anything promiscuous so don't go there!!!). I had never ever heard him really cuss like a Navy shore man before during those early years and even now it's very unusual so I guess that's why I still remember and it was hilarious!

I wonder if talking out loud in our sleep tells something about our inner thoughts like our dreams? If so, I guess I was thinking Ann and I needed to go back to school for some reason. I wonder what she thinks about that?

Afghanistan Photos of the Day September 7th, 2009

U.S. Army Soldiers from 1st and 3rd Platoons, Apache Company, 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, wake up after spending the night inside a compound in the Tangi Valley in the Wardak province of Afghanistan, August 30th, 2009

U.S. Army Specialist Christian Jimenez cuts the hair of Specialist Indra Geerts at Combat Outpost Tangi in the Wardak province of Afghanistan, August 31st, 2009.

See more photos of our Army in Afghanistan here.

Day after

The 45th anniversary celebration came and went. Bob and I agreed no gifts or cards this year - we both have most everything we want and why get more stuff to move when or if we ever find the home we want to buy.

The day was relaxing, fun, and enjoyable. Very casual with only Kevin, Suzanne and Alexandra present. We had a good time. Son Kevin cooked an absolutely delicious seven course meal and cleaned up. He is an excellent cook. Suz helped where she could.

I was only permitted to contributed the task of doing the deviled eggs because I have this really simple way of mixing the yoke and other ingredients that results in no lumpy yokes. Years and years of lumpy yokes in my deviled eggs and now with a simple suggestion of putting all the ingredients in a plastic bag and mushing it all together, snipping off the end of the plastic bag and piping it into the boiled egg white - presto, fast, quick and done in no time, no mess and fuss.

We talked and joked and reminisced. How did we get here together 45 years through all our fits, arguments, trials and tribulations, and mixed in with all the many joys is a result of our faith in God who is the glue that gives us guidance and shows us the path to take when all else fails. We both know our life would be unbearable without our faith and praying daily for His presence in our life. So many times we don't see the way clearly. We don't understand why things happen. Sometimes the answer of why is obvious. It's always a surprise. Our life is sheltered and protected with His Love and through the wisdom of the Holy Spirit. Our marriage could not have lovingly survived had it not been for His Blessings.

crap happens when least expected---or wanted!

Bob and I are approaching our 45th wedding anniversary date. We can't do anything big deal fuu-fuu, but we were hoping to get out of town for a couple of days just for some quiet time ---- alone, that is the operative word----ALONE - Together,,,,,,,,,! Well, shuckie darn! Crap does happen when least expected, especially when all seems good.

Everything was moving very smoothly, things were ready to go, we went to bed with everything organized, all bases were covered, Kevin was here to take care of things, no big deal problems, smooth sailing. But, it was not to be this time - - woke up at 3 AM with a minor headache, dumb me, didn't take anything for it - - - now, mind you, I hadn't been drinking anything, sometimes certain wines or mixed drinks will give me a headache and I only drink two - three makes me incessantly continually giggly........So by 5 AM the headache had advanced into a migraine. I can't remember the last time I had a migraine - at least back when Brian was alive and that was back in the 90s. If you are one who have migraines, you know you need quiet and dark and the toilet free at all cost. I hugged the pot for an hour - and fortunately we have a nice cozy place where ours is situated and one can grab the walls and not fall or stumble if sick - even laying one's head on the wall and sleeping has happened too -not a perfect place, but when you're sick, who's picky!! Plastic waste can very available, lined with bag easily taken out - quickly - - - well, you get the drift. Bob is a dear, he knows the drill, cold wet washcloth to the forehead and leave. I ended sitting in the bedroom chair - the best position with migrane, laying down is horrible. By noon, I was one-fourth a human being again, quick recovery I think. Bob again is a good nurse, serving chicken ramon soup with 7 up later in the day. I could hear him checking in on me as I slept in the chair.

Dang it!! We'll make plans to go maybe next week. Only a couple of days just a few miles away, not a long drive, but pretty, just to get away. We have responsibilities to help our son and granddaughter, it's different when your our age, and still have responsibilities and can't just pack up and go. I envy those our age who can. After all, we're Senior Citizens and have paid our dues!

You know you never know what God has in mind for your life. I am blessed the best with a loving husband. Forty-five years has flown by so it seems. Dreams have been fulfilled, but I'm not finished dreaming - I have a list, and that list includes loving and laughing, and traveling with the man I've shared my bed with for these past years. We may have situations in our life we can't do anything about right now, we both have health problems that we can't do anything about, but not as bad as they could be, but our reward is our marriage that has stuck. It has worked because of our faith in God and our head strong determination to make it to work. There are those little things - like holding hands still give me chills, he says the same, seeing him in a crowd, watching him walk toward me, the jokes he plays on me, we laugh at the silliest things, just knowing what to do and when, the respect for each other's space. Just knowing he's there.

I can't imagine my life without him. Long lasting love is sweet.

These photos are Humbling! Thank you Marines for your sacrifices and service!

These are a couple of photos presented on the MilitaryNewsNetwork website - link here. The troops are the U. S. Marines at Patrol Base Jaker in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Please check out the link above for more information on our brave men and women in the Marines.

Caps lock

Time marched on and waited for no man. Retirement isn't all it's suppose to be, in my thoughts and deeds anyhow. As I was going through some of my FaceBook friends.I discovered a lady who I worked for many moons ago. We have now become Face Book friends and have exchanged several notes and she has sent photos of her now adult children and photos of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. However, after sending the photos, I failed to responded as appropriately as I should have and I felt badly for that lack of attention. I realized today that it's my husband's fault.

Now, don't laugh - although, I can just hear him giving out a huge "gaff fall" or laugh after reading that sentence. He and I are tied at the hip since he's retired. I am grateful he is a workaholic and enjoys working around our home - - - especially outside. I do have to have a plan and let him know when I will be washing the kitchen floor so he won't be coming in for water - I never seem to get it timed correctly so its better to prepare. The tall and short of it is it is great to have a solid relationship and know you can depend on one person entirely. But, as I realized not just an hour ago, I have neglected my blogs and email notes to friends, and unfortunately - my household budget! Yikes!!

Yes, we are involved with Farm Town, you'd think we didn't have a life off that "farm" and for awhile that's all we did because we shared harvesting each others crops to make more coins to buy more property to buy more animals and for me buildings and things. But, I was going nuts and complaining as I clicked with vehemently unintentional disdain for those little booger crops and that avatar that is representative of me - she is an aggravating little thing - - - - sometimes!! I have finally gotten control of the mouse pointer and know how to get around her silly movements. I know, it sounds beyond reality, and it is, I agree. Right now my life is in limbo and Farm Town is on some days fun planning. For my husband, hearing the "cockadoodle-doo" from all his chicks and roosters are music to his ears. He actually isn't from the farm life but he did spend a lot of his life growing up around farms with his grandparents and aunts and uncles and he worked during the summer with a good friend of the family. So it was inevitable that when we first met, he shared his dream of one day wanting to own a farm, and I knew we would - and we did. He had plenty of baby chicks, chickens and roosters and all of the rest of the farming necessities. We left the farm back in 84 but now in 2009, he is playing farm on his computer. Now, how funny is that!!!!

The painters have been here and gone, but have to come back tomorrow to fix a room that turned out lousy. The rest of the place looks fantastic! Bob and I are tired and very slow at getting things back to normal. This ole grey mane ain't what she use to be and I just can't move it like I use to. My mother-in-law told me once back in 1993 that I moved through my duties like I was the Duracell Bunny - now I think my Duracell Bunny is in a coma.

What day is this?

Gosh dawg, I can't keep track of the days. Oh me how I yearn for the sound of the highway under the rubber of the tires of my RV! We've been so busy seens like for years I wonder if I'll ever feel really retired.

The painters are here, this is their second day. They are doing the back bedrooms and bath. They have done a beautiful job and are good workers. Isn't it marvelous when you do pick a good contractor on whatever house project you need accomplished. It is expensive too as I am sure you are very aware. Bob use to do all this stuff but he's old now and can do some. He would have done the painting but I said no because I wanted it done this year. He's a workaholic on slow down pills. I don't expect anything more of him. He's put in his 2 cents and then some during our marriage. Bob is a jack of all trades and a master of many skills. He has built a one may plane, a boat, canoe, summer swing, build an addition onto our home by himself, and on and on - he is a very dependable worker if I may say so.

Here is a recent photo of my farm on Farm town. I've been putting a cross outline with my crops. It's amazing what others have made with flowers and crops. Many very creative people out there in cyper land.

While the painters were here yesterday, Bob and I hibernated in my office all day. There's a day bed in there so he caught up on his sleep and there's a TV and we had both our computers, also plenty of juice and fruit cups and water. Today, we've moved to the kitchen area with our computers. Bob is anxious and biting at the bit ready to get to work putting this end of the house back in order. I've got windows to wash and other things to clean. Things were sure dusty - seems to be very common for the desert.

Hope you are doing well and life is good for you. Take good care and have a great day!

Another day older and deeper in dept!

Yesterday was my 65th birthday, I don't really feel older. Actually, my body does and that seemed to happen about eight years ago when things started falling apart, maybe a little before that. Thanks to the computer world, my mind is sharp as a tack - ha ha!

I think some of us have this vision of what we hope our birth-day will be like. For me it's all a fantasy. There were no clowns or balloons or strippers or anything fun like that - actually once I got a balloon but never clowns except for those regular family members in attendance and I have never ever seen a stripper. Maybe after 65 years I should think I am missing something - or not! My husband is very conservative and I doubt that he would approve even at this age.

It was a beautiful day and there's always lots to be thankful for whether the day goes as you had hoped or not. Just being alive and have comforts are blessings enough. My husband and I have reached the time in our life where it would be unusual if we actually gave gifts on special occasions like birthdays or Christmas. I know that may seem odd or unloving, but it's our choice and is working out well. For example, I have wanted forever a Canon SLR/Digital camera and when one came up on sale with good payment no interest deal, that was my early birthday present. I am so grateful to have the camera whether it was early or not. It is the thought that counts after all, isn't it?

Our 45th wedding anniversary is coming up in a couple of weeks. We had hoped to go somewhere but the costs of having the interior of our house painted and having the jacuzzi repaired sort of knocked that idea in the head to kingdom come! We have one more job in the house to do before we put the For Sale sign up and that is to replace the rug in what was Brian's room and is now the grandkid's TV/Computer room. It was and still is a very active room. I've also decided to get a new stove top - the really cool ones in glass, but I know they aren't "real" glass. My stove top is very old and has been wonderful to cook on with a grill in the center, but the burners wires have played out, and only in fairness to the new lady of the house, she'll need a working stove when she moves in. So there you are, there's always something. Hopefully, we can get out and do something special. Looking forward to a cruise one of these anniversaries.

We all have our priorities, don't we! God brings tasks into our lives and the attitude we handle them with determines the outcome of the situation. We can mumble and groan or just do it and pray for help and change for the better. Some of us may seem to have more burdens than others but I believe God doesn't give us more to handle than we can take care of - although there have been times I've argued that point vigorously. We are here to serve and take care of one another and some of our duties are more dependant than others and those individuals need more help. But sometimes I wonder when will that dependency ends and our freedom begins.

Sunday - Thank You to our solders at Vehicle Patrol Base Badel, Afghanistan

Sunday morning at the Sullivan's has progressed as normal. TV and coffee first thing, breakfast, then computer stuff, and just lounging around. We will make a drive up to visit son Brian's grave at the Veteran's Cemetery and put flowers at his grave. But, besides that, it is quiet and we are keeping cool in our nice air conditioned home - the temp being 102 out right now.

It is with deep teary eyed emotion that I think of the contrast between my world and the soldiers that are fighting the war in Afghanistan. We are so grateful for their service to defeat the enemy and their courage of conviction and perseverance. They have no air conditioners in the 120+ temperatures and protections from the sand storms.

Please click on this link to see more photos of the Solders at Vehicle Patrol Base Badel, Afghanistan. Thanks to the Military News Network for these photos and stories.

The soldiers are in our daily prayers. May God bless each and every one of them and keep them safe.

Military Video: Combat Outpost Apache, Afganistan

MilitaryNewsNetwork says to check out this video that shows daily life for Soldiers at Combat Outpost Apache in Afghanistan where they go toe-to-toe with Taliban fighters.