Fa la la la la la la la la....another Christmas becomes history....

Another Christmas has been committed to our memory. As far as Christmas's go, I think this was one of the better ones. Marsha did a spectacular job of hosting the first "Unique and Festive" Lynch family Christmas at the farm. It was just charming and a good time was had by all.
My darling little daughters came home from Des Moines and we had a very nice gift exchange on Christmas Eve. Despite loud complaints regarding the sleeping arrangements, all else went well. Kurtis and I thank you for all the nice gifts.
So, post Christmas things are beginning to get back to normal. Kurtis has been working non stop again....he's proud to announce sales continue to be brisk! He has been selling to a couple of celebrity customers, including Bobby Ratliff (TV9 Helicopter pilot) Dr Greg Bozek, Michael Jackson (no kidding this was his name) and Julia Roberts (again, Im not kidding!) A couple of these really weren't celebrities, but their names were. Other than his knee continuing to hurt non-stop, Kurtis really does have fun at his job.
Today we had a really fun day. I finally managed to talk Kurtis into going to Thompson RV and going through the walk-thru procedure for the camper I bought last fall. Normally when you buy one of these things you do this and then take it home, well it hasnt worked quite like that for us, but we're getting closer. I really enjoyed it, it was alot of fun. I can't wait until our first official outing! I spent a while on the internet tonight figuring out the best campsite at sugar bottom in anticipation of a spring camp out....but we'll just have to see.
Until next time....MOM

And away we go!!

If I don't have it done yet.....it ain't a goina git done!! It's 5:00 p.m. Friday afternoon and I am declaring the official task of getting ready for Christmas complete! The house still needs straightening up before the tornado hits......but then I have to ask "What is the point?" I am still going to do some baking but that will wait until tomorrow morning before the kids arrive....so tonight I will just wrap a couple of final gifts and do a last minute review of some recipes I want to find. Kurtis should be getting off work soon and heading home, hope he isn't in the mood for any supper because I haven't taken that into consideration. Hmmm maybe a good night for that frozen pizza in the freezer.
So, tomorrow is the beginning of a whirlwind 48 hours, but you know, what would be worse than not being able to take part in that whirlwind! What if you didn't have kids that want to come home and celebrate the holidays with you, what if you didn't have a place to go and feel you were welcome there...It definately would not be Christmas! So until we touch base again, have a wonderful Christmas.....over eat, rip alot of paper and keep repearing to yourself "This is a good thing!" MOM

Zero hour...Last road trip about to begin..

Yep, it is about at the zero hour and all that will be will be. I have a couple more small things to pick up, go to the grocery store and do some baking, and I will call it quits. I am really looking forward to what Marsha is calling the "Festive and Unique" christmas at the farm. Oh that reminds me, I better pick up some throat lozenges and ear muffs while I am in town. If you want a sneak preview of what the atmosphere might be like this year ( during the renovation period) you might want to visit this website http://www.toonedin.com/movies/WhiteTrashXmas.html . Just joking Marsha. Anyway, I'm sure we are all going to have a great time. By the way, this website was sent to my by Dale via email and I thought it was worth passing on.
So, I had best get in my car and get going, have to stop on the way to C.R. and get the oil changed, which is one of my most favorite jobs..right there with putting gas in.
Until next time. MOM

This isn't a very good picture, but I do have my tree up and loaded with presents underneath...no peeking allowed. Just one more road trip and I think I will call it quits.

The clock is ticking.....

Although I am in pretty good shape for Christmas, I just realized what all I have to do yet. If all goes well I will be ok...one mess up and I am screwed! I am so proud of myself though, I did manage to get a Christmas tree up this year. I think its been 4-5 years since I have, maybe more. It isn't your conventional green run of the mill tree, but something a little more retro (the fancy word old folks use to justify how things were back in "their day") I think it is kind of cute. I'm sure my children will have a smart comment or two on it.
So, I'm trying to think of things to bake to take to the farm. I'm really in the mood to do items that would remind me of Christmas during our childhood, but I have already ruled out Fraco American Spaghetti and hot dogs....haha. I'll just keep thinking on this one.
Just a quick note on the weather...I'm really sick of freezing my a__ off in the morning and scraping my windshield. What I want for christmas is a garage if any of you are in the giving mood. What really gripes my behind is we do have a pretty nice building that many cars could fit in, but you couldn't wiggle a matchbox car in there if you had to.. this summer there is going to be a major cleaning at out farm....you may not want to come by for awhile..it could get ugly!!
Until next time.....MOM

Here is our deer hunting buddy Dr. Boyd Castro from Hilo Hawaii...We had a great visit and hated to see him go. (Yes, he has buzzed his beautiful black hair off....I gave him a bad time about it.)

Happy Holidays from the farm...

It is getting closer and closer to the big day, and I am all caught up on everything, my shopping is done, the house is clean....and I am a big fat liar!!
Oh well, what would Christmas be without panic, anxiety, depression and temper tantrums....I suppose it would be like a page out of the Clever's Christmas album.......nothing but lies!
We enjoyed our visit with Boyd very much. He and his hunting party managed to get 22 deer total! Boyd shot a 8 pt buck and took the rack back to Hilo with him. I can't get over how someone from a tropical paradise can have such fun in Iowa in sub zero temperatures....but he does, and that is great! We have a standing invitation to come visit him and Ann in Hilo, they are just completing a new home on 6 acres and he has planted over 100 fruit trees already. I think we may take him up on the offer sometime, just not sure when.
Kurtis returned to work on Thursday at Scheels. He started the day by going back to the doctor about his knee, had 90 cc of fluid drained and then settled in to sell about 6 guns by noon or so. His knee started swelling again so he had to head home about 3.
I had my follow up visit with Dr. Pelsang on Thursday also. You know the crap I said about never having the cortisone shots again....that nothing could hurt as much as they did.....well, I was wrong!! I'm not going into the details, but there is something that hurts more....Its getting a injection into the ball of your foot behind your heel....I suppose I should apologize, as I know I did let out a couple of F-Bombs when he started in. I'll tell you what, that would make the pope himself let out a couple of F-Bombs!!! So now I have a compression cast on the left foot, I walk like I have a cob up my posterior and feel even more old! So much for that, but I can assure you now, even more than before...Im not doing that again!! The next step is either surgery or just living with the damn things.
So, now this weekend I hope to finish my shopping and get ready for Christmas..It seems hard to believe it is only a few days away, but as usual it will come and go. Before we know it we will be getting our W2's in the mail and its off to the tax man.......Sweet!
until next time......MOM

First day of Christmas shopping.......complete.

We just got home from the first official day of attempting Christmas shopping......how did it go you ask?? Well, you might say it was just a bit short. I tried to be very "politically correct" when Kurtis mentioned he would go along, that he needed to "exercise" his leg....I tried to not hurt his delicate little feelings and say something crude like "Are you kidding me?". But, no I didn't, I just looked at him with his crutches and said, Oh, OK, are you sure? Well, I think he lasted about 13.5 minutes in Target when my cell phone went off and it was Kurtis calling from the car. Oh, that's OK dear, just take your time, I will wait out here until you're done. Um huh, you know how that goes. So, my back up plan is to take off on my own Wednesday in a whirl-wind shopping spree and try to wrap things up. By the way, just a little side note, but do you know just how frightening it is to see Kurtis gimping along on crutches........if you get my drift (Richard Richard Richard!)
Anyway, it is sure looking and sounding like Christmas out, and I actually do have some Christmas spirit, just no time. I don't know why I always panic like this, somehow Christmas always manages to come and go rather or not I am ready.
We have our company from Hili Hawaii here, and he is enjoying his hunting expeditions....they got 11 deer yesterday, 9 bucks and 2 does. I think there is a total of 13 in their hunting group, and still have tags for another 12 to shoot yet. I have to give Boyd credit, he leaves a 73 degree tropical climate to come here and walk thru 8 inches of snow, cold winds and snow.....hmmm maybe it isn't credit I should give him...but perhaps a good mental evaluation instead.
Well, Kurtis just told me we have more company coming in about a half hour so better sign off her and go get supper.
until next time MOM

All roads lead home....eventually and if you have 4 wheel drive. Kind of pretty though even if you don't necessarily like winter.

I have the patient home.....

Well, it wasn't until about 4:00 or so, but I finally got Kurtis back home and in his favorite recliner. Things didn't go quite as simple as planned with his knee surgery. We checked in at 7:00 a.m. and the usual hospital procedures began. The only thing I guess I wasn't prepared for was the leg shaving episode.....I think it is a good look for Kurtis and I am going to promote doing the other leg.
It was off to the operating room at 9:00 as scheduled. The surgery took longer than expected, but he was out of recovery about 11 or so. Dr. Mysnyk came in about 3:00 and played the video of the surgery (we got our own souvenoir copy to take home, so feel free to call if you would like a viewing). It turns out most of what mother nature put in a knee to make it function well was removed today, lots of arthritis, torn cartlidge and most of the meniscus. Poor Kurtis, after all of this surgery, it may not help things too much...he probably should of had this done about 10 years ago. The other complication was that immediately following surgery his knee blew up like a balloon, so he couldn't go home until it came back down some.....well, it really hasn't. I suspect I will have to call in the morning and find out what to do......other than take more Tylenol with Codeine.
So, until tommorrow, I will go get another ice bag for the patient MOM

The sights and sounds of winter have arrived....

It seems like we were just enjoying 40's and 50's and now it is a struggle to get to 10 or 15 degrees....oh well we knew it was coming, it is not as though it doesn't happen every year. If you can get past the cold, it really is beautiful out. I took a walk yesterday and took some pictures, it's amazing how quiet it is out in the surrounding pastures except for an occasional crow or pheasant cackling.
Spending the rest of today getting ready for Kurtis's big day in surgery. I think he is well ready to have things taken care of...now the question is "Can I take care of him"? I have warned him that I am capable of pretty good care, if it isn't abused...if you know what I mean. Im sure things will go well, it certainly can't be any worse that what he has done that past couple of months.
Tomorros Boyd comes from Hilo Hawaii. Can you image the culture shock that has to be? I would think going from a beautiful tropical environment and plunging into Iowa's sharp winter would be more than most could tolerate, but he seems to love it. We always look forward to seeing Boyd he is a great guy and certainly enjoys his Deer hunting.
Well, I had best get to my list of "to-do's, so untill next time.....MOM

Beginning to get very busy at the bird feeders...I have to fill them about every three days now. This is one of the loyal cardinals that hang out everyday.

Its so cold....I could just CROAK!!!

Ok, Its time to move on......

I'm sure by now you are all tired of looking at my poor little Maggie, may she rest in peace. I guess I will never know what happened to her, but I have to admit I sure do miss her. I came home from town today and it had snowed about 4 more inches, it just didn't seem right that all of her little tracks hadn't messed the snow up when she comes running around the corner to greet me. I haven't decided what to do about another dog, one thing is for sure I'm not doing anything until spring anyway. I keep saying I wont get another Cogri....but I wont commit to that right now.
Today was my last official day as President of the Cedar County Historical Society. We held our annual meeting today and elected a new slate of officers......I am done!! Although I will still be involved in making sure the museum gets completed, at least I wont have to deal with the day to day hassles associated with being President. We had a small turn out at our meeting today as it was snowing quite heavily and that spooks off alot of the "walker crowd" I was so glad however that my ole buddy Verleen Herman and daughter Peggy was there.....I think Peggy asked me no less than 10 times where Kurtis was....I am beginning to think there must be some left over high school emtions stirring in her. I will have to be sure to mention this to Kurtis tonight. Verleen brought a cherry pie, she claimed she got all confused and thought it was the summer picnic...she claimed "Oh well, I guess if no one eats the damn thing, I'll just take it home" She then began to tell me that she needs the damn plumbers to come to her house and figure out what the f_____ing city has done to her water service. Funny, I don't remember Verleen having such a wide vocabulary as she did today....I think she managed to shock a couple of our older members. Try as I may, Verleen is a bit hard to shut down once she gets on a roll.
I dont have much more to report today, will try to get out and get some nice show pictures tomorrow.....the roads were pretty bad tonight, but all in all it was quite pretty.
Untill next time......MOM

A sad blog update.........

Tonite is a sad blog update....Maggie died today. Kurtis and I went to Iowa City this morning for his pre-surgery blood work up, etc and when we returned back home about 2:30 we found Maggie in the yard dead. It appears she just laid down and died which makes no sense at all. When Kurtis fed her this morning she was fine and ate all her food, but by 2:30 she had died. Makes no sense. That is all for today, I'm very upset about the situation.
Until next time...MOM

Maggie: June 17, 2003 - November 30, 2005

Congratulations on 40 Years of Marriage..

Saturday I headed for Des Moines to help the Youngs celebrate 40 years of marriage. Jessica and Rob and family had a 40th wedding anniversary party for Shirley and Larry and it was really nice! There was alot of good food and lots of folks to say congrats!!
I was a bit bummed out and had to leave a bit early as I think I got bitten by the "Taco Johns" e-coli bug. I stopped on the way up to eat some lunch at Taco Johns and didn't feel well for the rest of the day..needless to say, on the way home I took advantage of each and every rest stop between Des Moines and Iowa City.
Not much news today, its cold out and that is about it.
Until next time.....MOM

Here's to Larry and Shirley Young on their 40th Wedding anniversary! Congratulations!! 40 years is no small accomplishment!

I see alot of faces saying, just let me go find a corner to sleep this off!! Jess seems especially happy that I am flashing yet another picture!

Ummm..Note one one but two bowls of mashed potatoes....! This was the hot food, all the salads and desserts were on another serving table. You know, this looks pretty good again now.

Thanksgiving 2005 ......Success!!

Well, at post Thanksgiving 17 hours, I will call the event a success. We fed about 28 people and all walked away feeling like we had been stuffed instead of the turkey. I guess that is the tradition I was striving for....and as sick as it sounds now, I really could go for more stuffing and gravy for supper tonite.
We had plenty of good food and even some un-expected entertainment when a friend of Father Benda's showed up to go hunting out around the pond, so we all stood with our noses stuck against the window waiting for the big kill...although 2-3 pheasants were flushed up, they managed to out-fox the dog and the bullets and fly off to safety...Score: Hunter -0 Pheasants-1.
I'm kind of poo-ed out today, probably because of the effects of all the sugar content I injested yesterday...It will no doubt take a couple of days to bring the ole blood sugar back down to near normal. I have to go to Des Moines tomorrow to attend Shirley and Larrys 40th wedding anniversary party, so no doubt there will be cake there to help keep the levels high a couple of more days...., the Christmas, etc etc.......oh my! Guess it is that time of the year!
I have posted a couple of pictures of yesterdays activities and for now that is about all the news I have..Until next time....MOM
(Thanks Tom and Jennifer for staying late and helping with the clean up....it really did help out!!)

The final preparations are in the making......

Approximately 36 hours until official Turkey unveiling.....and the stress is beginning to take shape. I just finished my fourth trip to the grocery store to get the last minutes items......I think I am done this time. I just can't seem to get that image of the sacramental turkey cutting moment with Clark Griswald out of my mind. Just a puff of dry air and ole snotz under the table chomping on a chicken bone!! Well, I think Kurtis has a good track record with his fixing of the Turkey, so I guess I won't worry anymore.....we did however purchase a whomping 24 lb bird, looks like a early morning for the prep work to have things on the table for noon. Im sure it will all work out.
On the menu at this time is Turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, Stuffing, corn, cranberry relish, green bean casserole, Ham....desserts pies, pumpkin pie cake, pumpkin bars (do you see a theme here?) So, if nothing else there will be plenty for everyone to sit around and moan and groan about eating too much.....yep the essence of a good Thanksgiving dinner.
So everyone have a nice Thanksgiving and if you are traveling, drive safely.
Now, I promised I wasn't going to discuss my feet anymore.....but I just thought I would let all know that so far the cortizone, prednisone and anti-inflamatories are working pretty well..I think I will be in good shape for the cooking marathon on Thursday. Now, isn't that good news.
Untill next time....MOM

Good Morning!!! I'm still taking oxygen!!!

OOOOH, I was such a brave and gallant women yesterday, I just have to brag a bit. Yep, I have lived through the first round (ah, and maybe the last) of cortisone shots with Dr. Pelsang,,,,and what is even more important he is still able to see additional patients...I didnt even wound or slightly mame him in any way. We did have quite a talk before proceeding which kind of let him know where I stood on the subject......now don't worry, I was very nice. Just for the record the shots "really do" suck!! There is just no way to stick a needle into something that is already extremely painful without needing a bullet to bite on.....and they don't give you one! I'm supposed to stay off my feet for 24 hours...but unfortunately that isn't going to happen! So, in conclusion, I promise not to discuss my feet anymore, and my next appointment is December 8th when he wants to repeat the process.......Hmmm maybe or maybe not.
So, now its on the plan B, preparing for Thanksgiving. I'm really looking forward to the event, just have a few things to do including going out and selecting the Bird. Father Benda demanded that he get the ham, so we have a nice honey glazed ham in the refrigerator waiting for its trip to the oven. I was going to pick up a turkey too the other day, but then Kurtis stopped me when he informed me that the only Turkey he would prepare was a "Butter Ball". I guess since he is fixing it I better not buck him on the choosing the superior product! I think he just likes the little pop thingy.
Well, I'm now going to sign off and head out the farm to meet with Marsha for some advice on her kitchen project..I'm not sure I'm qualified for this since I was not born yet for the era she want to re-create here, but I'll give it a shot. Im especially looking forward to taking a look at the sink she wants to use...no its not at Lowes or Menards, it is currently lying in the weeds out at Waynes house. Oh, now dont just to rashly, it will be a real beauty after we get done with it.......(repeat that 10 times and click your ruby red slippers together..)
Untill next time...MOM

Stage one greenhouse experimentation, complete.

The first experiment to determine what happens in Sharon's greenhouse when the temperatures drop to 18 degrees with 30 mile per hour winds has been completed......Things freeze.......solid. I just came in from checking on the specimens that I left out there to see how they fared and they are, without doubt, frozen solid. Yep even the water being used to root some passion vine.....solid as a rock. Now, you may ask yourself "What did you expect??" well, I don't rightly know..but I can assure you what is still out there is a gone-er!! But never fear, everything I have in the house under lights is doing well so far. More on that at a later date.
For as myself and this sudden change of environment, I can report heel spurs take the cold weather rather personally.....they hurt like hell!! Enough of that subject....I'm beginning to bore even myself with the whining about them.....besides my appointment with Dr. Pelsang will be the next highlight I'll share. Im looking forward to bragging about how brave I was when the 14 inch needle comes out and just catches the light dancing off the sharp point!! Brave???? Piss on that....give me some mood altering drugs!!!! Now thats brave!!
I have to tell what I think is possibly the sadest story I have ever heard. This is a Kurtis story, so here we go. Back in August Scheels announced a promotion that will run through the months of Sept and Oct (black powder muzzleloader deer season) on the sale of Knight Muzzleloader shotguns. To make a long story short (well, I'll try) when Kurtis reported to work yesterday, he was greeted by the Store manager, his manager and several guys from the department. After everyone shook his hand, patted him on the back and congratulated him.....he dutifully looked up and said "What did I do?" Well, you have won the contest, you out-sold all the other salesmen in the 22 Scheels locations and won the Governors Deer hunt..an all expenses paid 4 day trip and a free gun. Now, here is the sad part. The trip leaves the same week Kurtis is scheduled for knee surgery.....now hows that for a sucky turn of events. He has decided to give the trip to another fella that works in his department. I feel so sorry for him, but he is taking it quite well. I am however, very proud of my Kurtis...He really pulled off an amazing feat considering he is the new kid on the block, and beat out all the other old-timers.
The last thing I want to discuss is Thanksgiving.....for all of you who are reading this you are invited to come to Thanksgiving at Father Benda's log home. I was having it at my place, but decided it would be nice to have enough room that everyone can sit together and have room to spread out. We have Turkey and ham and all the trimmings on the menu. Planning on eating sometime about noon. Hope you can all make it.
Well, untill next time......MOM

This is a picture of the wildflowers in Father Bendas pond area as of 1 week ago. I will spare you the details of how they look today covered in the years first snowfall. Nature is kind of cruel isn't it? See you next spring little guys, hopefully.

Well, I been thinking all day.....

about what to do about my blog needing updating. I had a very un-exciting weekend, so no real good subjects there. I havent been out taking pictures, so no clever or cute things there.....hmmm so what do I do.

Well, I guess you are stuck hearing about my weekend..with no pictures!! HAHA.

This weekend was dedicated to trying to finish up some last minute outside chores before winter sets in...but it really didnt happen. Instead, I decided that I want to re-do the foyer coming into the house. I decided to re-paint and carpet the stairs, so I went to Lowes and got the paint and things I need to start in........except I never got around to starting. How typical is that? In my defense, it really wasnt my fault. I had Saturday all set aside to begin....um huh that was the plan. But, instead I mowed father Benda's yard, fixed lunch for the farming crew (that is another whole story) and did wash. Kurtis had a very bad day Saturday, at least for the most part. To begin with he did get his corn all picked, but in the process Chuck managed to roll over one of his wagons, dumping 250 bushels of corn on the ground. It totally destroyed the wagon. He also managed to break the acelerator on Kurtis truck. By 6 p.m. Kurtis was in the house with his hands around a full glass of Jose Cuervo Margarita! I think I witnessed what a person calls the "final straw!!" So, we got in the car and headed to Nichols.....yep, straight to the Catfish house! You wont believe what we found!!! The Catfish house is now under new management, and things have gone to the dogs.....we knew something was up when we walked in the door on a Saturday night and there weren't at least 50 grossly overweight, moderately handi-capped elderly people fighting their way though the buffet line reaching for the last catfish!!! Nope, I think there were only 2-3 other couples. Kurtis and I almost cried....after a long day of nothing but things going wrong, then only to find that Nichols has fallen too. As a old friend of mine used to say, "Oey Veh!!!" (She was from Brazil and I believe the translation was "Holy Shit!"
Sunday did manage to redeem itself, things were alot more quiet and Kurtis managed to rest up his knee, after abusing it all day Sunday. I still haven't gotten to my foyer project, but I've got big hope for this week.
Today we had out first snowfall of the year. It started snowing about 3:00 and the flakes were as big as quarters. I didnt think it was sticking but on the way home from work, you could see it on the roof-tops and in the grass. I guess it is mid November so we shouldnt be shocked....but I would just as soon have some more 65 degree days.

Until next time..............MOM

Just touching base....

Just thought I had better do a quick update, so the blog watch team doesn't get on my case. It just seems unreal how a week can fly by so fast!! Seems I just update this and when I go back to look, it has been several days.
Have been spending my free time (yeah right) trying to get everything outside squared away before winter sets in. It just doesn't seem that important when the average temperatures have been in the 60's! I did finally get most everything out of the greenhouse, unfortunately most of it ended up in the house under grow lights. The way I figure, it can only help my usual mid February depression to have approximately 6-700 additional watts of flourescent light shining in my face! Besides, its alot cheaper than a therapist!!
Well, the official beginning to my life as a 50 year old is not improving....the feet are back to pre-medication pain levels. I have run out of the pills that I could only take for 30 days, and things are not improving, looks like a trip back for cortizone shots......NO!!!
Kurtis, on the other hand has relented to the fact that he is going to have surgery on his knee. He is working (gimping) hard to get his corn out and cattle worked so he can take time away from Scheels and have it done. This could be a long winter.
On the positive note, I am starting to think about Thanksgiving. Everyone is invited if they dont have plans to come out and eat some traditional farm style turkey and dessing.
Back to the grind-stone...will try to have some more entertaining news soon.

Until then....MOM

Just a shot of the fence row with corn on both sides. The day I was out there, the breeze was rustling through the corn making a nice crunching sound. I think since this picture was taken Kurtis has combined everything to the left....so much for ambiance.

There is a good crop of rose hips this fall. This is a real specialty crop Kurtis and I grow back in the timber..it takes alot of care and constant pruning to produce this beautiful show. (also known as multi-flora rose) Well, at least the cardinals like them.

Jessica - Rob: I posted this one for you..yes that is a baby bed in the fence line. It seems our neightbor (The ax-man) is continuing his creativity in finding "unusual" fencing materials for his cattle lot. Apparently hub-cabs, gates, pieces of tin, old tires and signs just werent clever enough. Looks nice doesnt it?

Its a beautiful day in the Neighborhood....

Im not going to change my sweater or put on sneekers....but it truely is a beautiful day in the neighborhood!! Ok folks, here's a promise..after last week, I am not going to do any complaining or feeling sorry for myself!! All water under the bridge.....Here's to a beautiful fall day with a high around 74 degrees!

I am so glad I can now discuss the up-coming new addition to our family!! Jessica and Rob had their first ultrasound visit and have officially seen the little heart-beat of my future grand-child. I have to admit, I am very excited and cant quite explain how it feels to know your daughter is going to have a baby....it is really different, but nice. Im not going to complain about being 50 anymore....after all grandma's arent suppose to be too young or sexy, right?? Most grandma's do have bone spurs and arthritis in their fingers, right? Yeah, and tomorrow I am going to run right out and buy myself a new head-scarf to wear! Now, that is grandma material! Seriously I am very proud of both Jess and Rob and am wishing them the best.....now, do they understand I will probably be "IN" the delivery room with them?

So, here is to a fabulous 2006, a new baby in June and a wedding.....(Jennifer and Tom) in September. Yep, you're right Steve, its a great life if you don't weaken!! Hope you enjoy my pictures dedicated to a beautiful fall day.
Until next time....MOM

It's Sunday and the week is officially almost over!!!

...and not a moment too soon to suit me!! I don't mean to be crude, but the picture below is exactly how I feel about last week. If it could go wrong, it did. Not only that, but I turned 50 years old!! (I guess I mentioned that in an earlier blog, but I am still stinging from the reality)
I really don't know why, but Splash decided to give up the fight and I had to have her put down Thursday evening. I know it is silly, but I am really heart-broken over the situation. I guess I just feel bad that I don't know what went wrong and that I couldn't do anything about it. She was one of the nicest horses I have even owned, there just wasn't one thing she wouldn't do and she took it all in stride. So, just that quick I am totally out of the horse business...and at this point I don't care.
So, so much for the doom and gloom.....The weather lately has just been spectacular!! I took a walk out in the fields yesterday and took pictures of the beautiful fall scenes and will post some of them soon. The leaves this year, I think, were as pretty as I have seen for a long time.
I spent all day yesterday in the greenhouse getting ready for winter. Because I cant stand the thought of everything I have in there dying with the impending cold weather coming, I made a trip to Dyersville (yes, my favorite hotspot "FarmTek") and bought a set (well, actually two sets) of grow lights to bring things indoors. Since I no longer have a husband at my becon call, I spent the afternoon putting them together and set up in the house. All my little cuttings look so happy under the bright lights.......well at least for now. I also re-potted my orchids which was a first for me....they are so strange, and will probably up and croak now.
Well, I have a roast that I need to put in the oven for lunch since Kurtis is actually home and out in the combine picking corn, so I will sign off for now.
Until next time......MOM

This picture is a perfect representation of how I feel about the turn of events of last week. Isnt this hilarious!! I dont know why, but about twice a year a unlucky bird lands on this stretch of high wire down the road and meets their everlasting. I don't know, maybe this is the bird suicide hot-line!!!! Then the most indignent thing is, that they hang like this for weeks untill a good brisk wind comes along......

Opinions..Opinions.....

Talk about kids with opinions, sure weren't very kind about the new look of my blog today...well, I guess I will try this one. I was just trying to go for a more "fall" look with darker colors, how about this one....nice orange and brown for Halloween and fall oak leaves..get it?
untill next insult..MOM

""50""" An official old Bag........

Well, to all of you who always suspected that I was just an old bag, I finally have the official credentials to prove it....I have turned 50!! I really just can't believe it..what happened and where did that time go! It occured to me today that in just 20 years, I will be 70! I had a overwhelming panic attack today that made me feel like maybe I should be browsing garage sales for used walkers and hot water heating pads!! You know how people will step right up and say "Yeah, but I really don't feel 50!" Well, I think I'll save that statement for awhile, because at the moment....I do feel 50! So, to all of you out there that were so kind to remember my birthday, thank you! Is it just me or do more people seem to remember the older I get....and it used to be so common for people to announce "Oh, you are still young, just wait till you get to my age!! You know, I don't think I have heard that this year!!!
So, how did I spend my birthday? Working and tending to my dear injured splash. What I thought was just going to be a small puncture wound has turned into a real mess. I had to have the vet come out yesterday and do some surgery on her to allow the wound to drain properly (I wont go into the gory details) but I think this will do the trick. I usually find that once you spend a couple of hundred dollars in vet bills, it helps things to heal.
I spent the rest of the day pulling plants and getting ready for winter. It always breaks my heart to pull plants that are blooming so pretty, but I know a killing frost is on the horizon and to take cuttings for next year it has to be done. Believe it or not when I was doing the cuttings in the greenhouse, it was 95 degrees in there still. I am attempting to keep my geraniums over the winter and make cuttings of Datura (Brugmansia) and Russian sage. So please be kind about mid December when I am whining about my complete crop failure.....
Oh, by the way I hope you like the new look of my blog, thought the apple green was a bit out of season. Hope you have a great day!
Until next time.....MOM

Are these beautiful or what? Thank you Jennifer and Tom they really made my day!!

What a oh-hum weekend.

This has just not been one of those stand out and remember weekends. I had so many things planned too get done, and unfortunately most of them still remain on the to-do list. Looking out the window I notice we are getting a little shower of rain. It is only about 45 degrees out, overcast and just plain miserable. Kurtis is out picking corn, not much fun to do in the rain either.
We even had a near tragedy with poor little splash (well, I guess she really isnt very little) When Kurtis got up yesterday he noticed her lying on the hillside by the timber with her head down. He assumed she was dead. I went to the window and surmised the same thing, even though I was shocked, as I was just playing with her and brushing her yesterday. When checking her closer we Kurtis found she was actually alive but had gotten up against a log and couldnt get back to her feet. Tractor and loader to the rescue! A few scrapes later she was back to her feet, a little shaky but alive. I felt so bad for the poor thing, and with a few shots and some wound spray later, she seems to be pretty good.
So, other than a couple of photos, I really dont have anything exciting to report. I feel like doing some baking (in between loads of wash, vacuming and dusting) gosh, my life is so intense!
Oh, and I should mention if you dont hear from me in a few days, dont think too much of it, I will more than likely be lying in bed feeling sorry for myself due to a certain event coming up on Tuesday. Certain catch phrases come to mind like "Old Bag", Old women", Old geeser"......get the picture??
until next time MOM

This is one of my flower pots trying to put on the last good show before a killing frost..seems so sad to let them die. Oh well, will have fun re-potting them again in the spring.

Happy Holloween from one of my flower beds.

The dog days of autumn in IOWA.....

I just don't think there is anything more beautiful than the clear sunshine on a autumn day in Iowa. Today was one of these days, highs in the mid 70's and lots of sun.

I started out the day by heading down to the quad cities and taking a look at my camper that arrived on the lot on Thursday. I have to admit, it looks really nice. It has to be serviced, all the equipment tested and cleaned up, then I can take it home (after I sign my life away) I just have to convince Kurtis now to bring it home here to store instead of leaving it at the dealers over the winter. I think it would be nice to have a nice cup of hot apple cider in by the fireplace before putting it away, don't you think? Hmmm me too.
Then if was on with many chores here at home, it was just so beautiful today. I don't know how you could live anywhere else. I have posted a couple of pictures I snapped today that I think show just how nice it was. I'm feeling very bad for my poor brother Wayne lying in the hospital bed at the UofI hospital. I hope they figure out his problem soon so he can get back home. ( He was admitted Friday due to swelling and infection in his leg that is kind of a mystery at this point.)
Well, I smell my meatloaf in the oven and it smells done to me, so I had better go get it before it burns..Kurtis is due home from work soon, so he should enjoy a big piece. Lets see, Meatloaf, greenbeans and apple pie....is this guy lucky or what??? I won't mention what else he is very lucky with, I'll just let your imagination wander.....haha
Until next time.....MOM

The trees are looking spectacular, this is a shot rounding the corner before you get to our house. This is when I get in the mood to paint again, I love these colors.

Even the cows are enjoying the sunshine on their back this quiet fall evening.

Well folks, here it is....fresh from the assembly line in Indiana. Delivered to the dealer on Thursday afternoon. I drove over to see it this afternoon, and after it is prepped and serviced, I can take it home.....(Isnt the little patio window cute?) Maybe I'll get a chance to try out the fireplace before it gets tucked away in storage.

Oh....where does one begin

Yes, it has been a full week since my last update.....seems it is just hard to get time to sit down and do the full brain studying it takes this day to do an update.

Spent the past week doing the normal work routine and trying to keep up around the house. Fall is when I always get complete carried away trying to set the world on fire before winter begins.....but as far as the fire goes, I have trouble these days even getting the matches lit.

A bit of sad news first. Ben and Jerry are gone. Kurtis and I went to Waverly on thursday to send them through the auction ring, but it became apparent late into the day that they weren't going to sell until Friday, so we came home. Friday, about 11:30 they sold. The good news is a fella from Hancock Iowa bought them and it sounds like they will have a great home, the bad news is I did pretty well until I helped them load them into the trailer, they I have to leave. I know it is the right thing to do and they will get used now, but it is hard to let a couple of ole buddies like them go. I guess I'll just have to be happy with taking Splash out once in awhile for a carriage ride.

Saturday I worked around the house and decided to wage war on my personal collection of gophers in the yard. Last weekend I planted about 100 tulip and dafodil bulbs in a flower bed. I had visions of bright red and yellow this spring that would just knock your socks off...I truly expected better homes and gardens would have to come by for a photo shoot. Guess I will have to cancel....it appears the moles created a highway to snack foods right through the middle!!! How do the little F____ers know I put them there?? Were they hiding around the corner with their ugly little eye-less bodies watching me?? Of course, I had to turn around and yell at maggie too..after all if she was worth a crap, she should of had them drug out of the ground and all gummed up by now!!! I bet Martha Stewart doesn't have to contend with this kind of stress!!
Saturday night it was off to the Moose lodge for the premier performace of Jurgen and Klaus Knoop (Debbie's dad) at the October Fest celebration. The place was absolutely packed. I think they under-estimated the Lynch and Knoop clan. Anyway, it was great fun, and I was home by 9:30 or so.

Sunday if was off to Des Moines. Kurtis and I alway enjoy a nice day with Jessica and Robb and Jennifer and Tom. We celebrated the first year anniversary of the newly-weds and heard plans of the next wedding coming up in September of next year. Of course, we had to have a nice lunch at "The Border" mexican restaurant and then cake and ice cream back at Jessicas house. I even went to the mall with the girls while Kurtis and the guys went over to scope out the Des Moines Scheels (suppose Kurtis had to check out the competition in the big city) I seen 2-3 of the salesmen and I'm hear to tell you, none of them fill out a shirt and tie like my big guy!! HA!
Back home by about 8:00 p.m. and in bed by 10:00. We are just such social animals!

Until next time......MOM

It was nearly standing room only at the Moose lodge Saturday when Jurgen and Klaus Knoop fired up the "Squeeze box" for an evening of Octoberfest fun. As you can see by the looks on their faces...was very serious business.

Dig potatoes, plant mums, Go to Party and Pay off Bet.....

Name at least 4 things that must be done this past weekend....and I even managed to do them! A very busy weekend, but managed to get some of the "to do's" off my list.

Kurtis worked most of the weekend so I was kind of on my own. Lets see, Saturday I worked in the yard cleaning off several of my flower beds, I have about 65 mums that I needed to find homes for, so that meant the annuals had to go. Its always great fun to grow them, but then the planting is really another subject, but I managed ok and got things ready for Kurtis to help me Sunday. Saturday night was a great time. Wayne held a nice party at his place and it was just fabulous..I am still very taken how beautiful his house is going to be when it is finished,,,,a real show place!! It really inspires me to get the back porch pulled off this house and a new one in its place...yeah, like Kurtis always says, will have to put that on the 10 year plan. I took a nice big pan of apple crisp for Wayne and there was just tons of good food. Wayne BBQ-ed chicken, brats and hot dogs on his big grill and it was great!
Sunday I had Kurtis helping me and we worked like dogs..We got all the mums planted, dug potatoes, dug glad bulbs and planted tulips (or what I will refer to as gopher feed) We have a very serious infestation of gophers and they really look forward to my planting bulbs in the fall. I've tried every poisoning method available, but to no avail.
Sunday night Kurtis and I took Dale and Connie out the the Lonestar Steak house to settle a bet I lost back fall. Dale bet me that Father Benda would not be in his log home by thanksgiving and like a fool I took him on. Well, Father moved in two weeks "after" thanksgiving, so I was the loser. We did have a nice time and the food was great.
This morning Kurtis and I had kind of a sad job to do. Father Bendas sister died Friday of cancer and her funeral was this morning..he called us Sunday afternoon and wondered if maybe we could accompany him to Washington for the funeral since he is having some trouble getting around lately (bad knees) so we did. Kind of a sad situation, but I think he was very thankful for the company.
Well, I had best finish up my claims and get some jobs done..it is actually about 86 degrees outside today.....not quite what I consider nice Fall weather, but not so bad either.
Untill next time.....MOM

This picture posted exclusively for Mr. Adam Howe. Please note the superior performance of the Viking potatoe, second generation from the Howe garden last year. A great performer even in drought conditions.....haha. Evidently superior genetics. I think we dug about a bushel or so in a row maybe 40 ft long. (Adam if you read this leave your email address in the comment.)

My first load of mums to be planted Sunday.. I think I had about 65 total, these are just the yellow and white..there were purple, bronze and maroon also.

Hmmmmm.....the smell of Fall is in the air

Well, its about 9:40 p.m., I just finished doing my claims for the night and just took a nice big pan of apple crisp out of the oven. What is it about cool weather that just seems to scream for apple crisp and chili. Yep, also made up a big pot of chili. Kurtis will be home from work in about a half hour and I'm sure he will enjoy a big bowl. I already had one, so I guess I'll just have to have a little taste of the apple crisp, I always think of Wayne with Apple Crisp, maybe I'll have to make a batch to take to his party Saturday.
So, tomorrow is Friday again. I have a list a mile long to try to get done this weekend. Its that time of the year when suddenly you realize all the things that need to be tended to before the snow flies. I especially want to get my Mums planted. I was so gay growing them all summer, now I have to dig holes and plant them.....of course I was very convervative and only have about 65 or so......what a idiot I am. I have given some away...and if you are interested I will be glad to share.
Sorry so short tonite, but I'm just kind of fizzed out. Until next time. MOM

This is what Josh, Kurts new buddy from Scheels, drove out Wednesday to go squirrel hunting. ..He and his dad collect old cars and go to Mt. Pleasant Old Threshers reunion every year....gee....can I compete with that?? Seriously, he is a very nice young man and fun to have around (except for all the shooting that takes place)

OK, I know, you're anxiously waiting....Here it is.....

The next chapter in the exciting day to day life of Sharon Voparil..I keep waiting for Shawn Hannity or Bill O'Reilly to call but..........
Well, this was what I would call a very nice but busy weekend....Oops wait....I suppose I should give a foot update first...yes, happy to report I have already had some much needed improvement. I think enough improvement that I will try to convince Dr. Pelsang to hold back on the needle thing for awhile....suppose he will listen to me? Dont want to think about it for now, so more on that later.....much later.
So, Friday night Kurtis and I went to the Coralville Reservoir for a cook-out with friends of ours from Iowa City. We have decided that our next cook out will feature a full fledged Lodge Cookware -Cook-off. We have all become Johnny Nix fans and are decided to give it a go. When in Illinois this fall Kurtis and I purchased a whole line of Lodge Cast Iron cookware, so we feel we may already have the edge. I do have the first official Johnny Nix cookbook on order too, so need I say more. Ready, set, everyone to their pits!! If you still do not know who Johnny Nix is, shame on you, I have covered this subject once before so refer back a few chapters.
Then, Saturday was spent dedicating my entire day to domestic duties.....suck-o. I didnt get as many duties done as I wanted either, so I did the only admirable thing...I called my sister and met her and Mom at HuHot in Coralville for supper. We were going to go have a fine ice cream cone at the creamery next door, but the line was all the way out the door, so we had to pass.
Sunday was the Cedarland Harvest Festival at Tipton. As usual, the displays were nice, but no one there to enjoy them. I was required to participate in the celebrity milking contest......yes, that is what I said "Celebrity Milking Contest". As President of the Cedar County Historical Society I was lined up against Jeff Kaufmann, State legislature, Greg Allen WMT radio personality and Andy Petersen WMT radio personality. I am really ashamed, but they all beat me. But, they had holsteins and I had a guernsey!!!! Kurtis tried to tell me when picking the cow to take a holstein as they give more milk and a higher butter fat,,,,,but did I listen?? NO, and it showed in the milk bottle when the whisltle blew. I didnt do bad, though really, I came in third....just didnt make it to the final milk off! The whole thing was udderly rediculous (get it, udderly?? haha) So then it was off to the spelling Bee. Kids are so smart these days. I have always thought I was a pretty good speller, but some of the stuff they spelled was pretty challenging for 5th through 8th graders.
So, that was my weekend. Hope you had a great one too. Now, its off to make a Pina Colata cake to take to the flower club meeting tomorrow. I think I'll throw an extra bottle of pina colata in ......they may not know a rose from a thistle by the time they go home!!
Until next time.....MOM

Jennifer - Jessica.....recognize these two? Complete with a 1 year old now.

This is a shot of the inside of our one room schoolhouse at the Cedar County Fairgrounds. Hmmm no computers or cell phones...hard to believe kids tolerated that!!

This is Jeff Kaufmann waiting for a 5th grader to spell a word in the 17th annual Spelling Bee Contest at the Cedarland Harvest Festival over the weekend.

OK, I had to promise Kurtis I would upload one picture of what the trail camera actually takes, this is a nice Buck taken in the dark...I wonder how much longer he has to live?

THINK POSITIVE THINK POSITIVE THINK POSITIVE

Okay, I'm going to try my best to have a very positive blog today despite a couple of "tough" days.
Well, here goes..I made it to my foot doctor appointment yesterday, even after a strong urge to cancel it. The good news is I do finally know what is causing my problems, but maybe I was better off now knowing. It goes something like this....So, Ms Lynch what seems to be your problem. I tried to give him the short version, but may have rambled on just a little. I think he was mildly impressed when I said I'v had this problem on and off for about 20 years..you can't accuse me of running to the doctor for every little pain can you?
By the way, I knew I was going to be in good hands when he noticed on my admittance form (you know the one that scares the be-jesus out of mom when she has to fill them out), he noticed that I put on there that I was referred to him by Aaron Lynch. He was just thrilled to talk about Aaron and went on to say he really enjoys the Lynch family....ok so now I feel I have broken the ice and I can pursue this chronic problem with him in comfort.
So, back to the diagnosis. After a good looking at my feet (yes, I took a good shower, trimmed the little dogs and made sure there was no lurking lint in between my little piggy) it was off for a good set of x-rays. I sat with great anticipation in the waiting room and couldn't help but feel this was a big turning point in my life. I was one of the few there that was not walking with the assistance of a walker or cane and didn't have their feet wrapped up in gauze (well, at least not yet)
So, back to the xrays. Finally, Dr. Pelsang returns....he shuts the door to the office and says to me "Do you mind if I call my assiciates in with us when we review your xrays??" Well, I choked, I guess not? (I'm thinking to myself, Oh my god what did I do now?) I wait another couple of minutes and in comes another gentlemen, then another and another and then a young lady. At this point Dr Pelsang shuts the door again (now Im really getting nerveous) and prompty hangs my xrays on the bright little viewer. Without missing a breath, all of them gasp at the same moment and mutter the following "Oh, my gosh thats unbelievable!!" "Oh my!" Now, at this point I'm figuring I either have cancer or my feet are about to explode or something horrible!!!!! Finally, Dr. Pelsang explains to me that in the 20 years he has been in practice he has never seen such heel spurs and bone spurs on a set of feet such as I have......oh how embarassing. He tells me I have a very chronic case and he may not be able to fix my mess. Well, so much for sugarcoating the situation.......so now give me the bad news!!
Finally all the crowd disapates and it leaves Dr. Pelsang and myself alone again....we discuss a course of action with this situation which includes some heavy duty oral drugs and a regime of injections starting in two weeks. If this doesnt help, surgery is the last ditch effort. I cant be too mad because the whole problem is mostly because I have ignored the situation for too long, but we'll just have to see how it goes.
The last thing he said to me before he left was "Oh gosh, I tell you I just love you Lynch's you really give me a challenge!!!" I think I will take that as a compliment.
Until next time.....MOM

I'm sorry, I know this is cruel (luckily Kurtis doesnt read my blog) But after hundreds of dollars and careful planning in determining just the right spot to mount a new "trail camera", (is motion activated to take pictures of deer) This is the first big action photo it catches...hahaha WoW look at the rack on this one!!!!

I dedicate my Blog today to marriage.....

Today I am going to dedicate my blog to the subject of marriage. I know there are some people out there reading my blog that may wonder why I would do this, but you have to remember I started this thing as a communication tool for my two daughters, so this subject is what you might call some advice from MOM to them....the rest of you will just have to suffer through.

Friday September 16th, was Kurtis and my 5th wedding anniversary, and this year I actually remembered! Friday morning I woke up and immediately whispered "Happy Anniversary" to Kurtis.....He suddenly looked like a deer in headlights realizing that he again forgot, but I didnt! I really enjoyed finally having one on him!

Kurtis had to work until 6 Friday night, but then Fa Benda demanded that he be able to take us out for supper to celebrate our special day. We went to the Tipton Country Club and had a few drinks and a wonderful meal. Kurtis presented me with a dozen beautiful long stem roses..which immediately gave him full credit towards forgetting the anniversary in the first place...aren't I so forgiving?

Now, for my two little girls, I want to leave some parting advice that I think helps make a marriage everything that it should be.. by the way, these qualities apply to my second marriage....I completely blew it on my first (ha)

1. Make sure the man you marry can be your best friend first, someone you can tell your most private secrets and shares your wants and dreams
2. Keep life light!! Sometimes I tend to be a bit, well....grumpy! It pays to have a person that offsets your weakness's and knows how to charm you back to reality.
3. Laugh, Laugh, Laugh...the man you choose should make you laugh at least once or twice a day!! In my case Kurtis makes me laugh and giggle many times a day. Let's see you try to keep a straight face when he stomps around the living room singing the Romper room jingle! (Jessica you will know what I mean)
4. Make sure you have share hobbies and have leisure time activities in common you like to do together. Except for the gun thing (which I tolerate quite well dont you think) Kurtis and I really enjoy alot of the same things.
5. NEVER SAY SOMETHING YOU CANT TAKE BACK! My last bit of advice is to never say something to your fella that you cant take back! Some of the deepest wounds are caused by words that are said in the heat of an argument. Remember he is suppose to be your best friend, and he deserves to be treated as such.

Ok, Im done.....and now, to Kurtis...HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

until next time...MOM

Now, doesnt this just warm your heart. He was determined to stand in front of the apple trees...not the best back drop for roses, but what a nice guy!!

Mixed Emotions....

I'm feeling kind of sad tonite as today I took Ben and Jerry to Hazelton to go to the Waverly Horse Sale. I finally decided that since I never got time to work with them, it would be best to sell them to someone that can..that is the logical part of the decision, but it was really hard to walk away and leave them there. Im going to spend the next couple of weeks gathering up stuff I never use any more, loading the horse trailer and take it all to Waverly too. Poor little Splash is walking around the pasture looking for them this evening...guess she'll have to make best friends with the cows now. Enough of that subject!

Not too much in the news department, actually a pretty quiet weekend. We went out for supper Saturday night with Bill and Lois Burkett to HuHot's which is always a favorite of mine. Anytime I am eating I seem to be content.

I havent touched my claims yet today, so better get at that...I guess this will have to go down in history as being one of my most boring blogs....will try to do better soon.

Until next time....MOM

It's a nice cool calm evening and all is quiet....

What a beautiful evening..I have my window open here and a gentle cool breeze with the smell of a rain shower is coming in. We had a thunderstorm this evening complete with lightning and thunder. Seems a long time since the last one. I was just getting home from Iowa City when it started. When I got out of the car Maggie came running up to me trembling from nose to tail, so I let her come in the kitchen while it stormed. I dont know why she has decided to be so scared of thunder, but it was kind of nice having someone to talk to while I cleaned up. Now, tell me is that not only pathetic, but very reminiscent of my mother!! See what you are doing to me Kurtis and that damn job!!
I had round three today with Dr. Kampfe and this damn tooth. Hopefully this is the last visit to him and the last root canal for awhile.....ha! fat chance! When I jumped out of the chair (you know, that near orgasmic feeling you have when they take that little paper bib off and you know they are finally done with the torture!!) I informed them both, "No offense, but I hope I never see the two of you again!" No doubt, they have heard that line before. So now, here I sit with a sore jaw and another $500.00 in debt. Oh, but wait that's not all!! Tell em what else she has won Johnny! Yes, another crown and another set of payments to Barb Smith DDS! Oh, could I ever use one of those $2000.00 debit cards they are throwing around down south for the hurricane victims!! Please, just one????
Until next time.....MOM

Finally..I have waited all summer for a bloom from my one Dahlia I planted this spring. With the lack of water they just looked awful! This one finally mustered up enough energy to put out this nice show...

No, this isnt a picture from our trip to Illinois to see the antique farm equipment. Kurtis casually mentioned to me that he had to "chop some corn for his cattle" and something about a piece of equipment he hadn't used since 1987 that is sitting down in the weeds in the pasture. I laughed and didnt think anything if it. Well, here he is after a few squirts of oil and some minor adjustments!! He was so proud! Of course he had to make me eat a fair amount of crow for saying it would be a rusted out piece of shit!! Im so ashamed!

Here is to happy thoughts!!!!

I don't mind telling you, I had one just plain crappy day today...The morning was fine, but the rest of the day went in the toilet!! But, I am going to do the right thing here and just not whine or talk to you about it!! Now, how's that for a break!!

And, just for the record, I did take the time this evening and watch about 20 minutes of the coverage on the destruction that continues to un-fold down in Louisiana. But, I'm sorry, I'm not going to talk about that either. Yes, I do feel very very sorry for those folks, although I do have a problem with people that choose to shoot guns at volunteers that are risking their lives to save them, but again, I am not going to discuss that. If you watch the news at all, you have probably about overdosed on the coverage anyway..so I will spare you with my possibly narrow minded opinion.

I would like instead to try to salvage what is left of the day and be thankful that I happen to live in what my father used to refer to as "the best place in the world", and you know what? He was absolutely right!! So, I have uploaded some more nice, calm, non-controversial...photos of the heart of America and the people that make this country great, having a good time playing with their toys. These are the kind of folks I like to be around, I like their way of life or at least the way of life they are honoring during this show. I'm glad I grew up in the environment I did, and am proud of it, and I think I am a better person for it.

As for you three or four people that really tried to F___ up my day today, you almost succeeded, but failed miserably!! After reflecting back on the days events....I am now sitting back and saying.....WHO CARES!!

Hope you have a fabulous weekend!! I picked peaches this evening and gave most of them away. Just kept enough to make a batch or so of peach jam....will taste good about January or so. Great thing for a diabetic!! Until next time......MOM

Now even if you dont paticularly like farm equipment....this was one "impressive" show. This is three Case 110hp Steam engines hooked to a 60 bottom plow and when the man in orange lowered his arms, off they went. The sound and power was amazing!! They broke the old world record of 55 bottoms which I believe was done back in the 40's.

I have not doubt that had I had the opportunity to meet this fella, his last name would of ended with the letters "chek", as this equipment was pure Bohemie from front to back...although as Kurtis put it " It was a pretty ingenious outfit", but then again...yep...Bohemie. This was a old pull type cornpicker that was hooked to a homemade sheller with a Wisconsin engine and then hitched to a wagon to gather the gold. Well, maybe it was kind of clever!

Now does this look like a man in his element or what? Antique farm toys all around him doing their thing....and yes, you got it he has a ear of corn in his hand....and I personally witnessed him taking a few kernels and putting them in his mouth!! Shocking flash backs of Johnny Lynch with a mouth full of corn in his mouth suddenly shot through my brain!! I caught him at kind of a cute angle with the leg dont you think??

The Chanute Naval Base Museum was spectacular. This is one of the many planes they have stored in the hanger. The main runway was right down through the middle of the show and small planes were landing all day..kind of a contrast from the antique farm machinery.

Well folks, here is the proof...Yep that is me (yeah, the fat one!) chating with Max Armstrong and he is signing my T-Shirt. He was just as nice in person as I thought he would be! Of course, I suspect he enjoyed meeting such a good lookin' women too...............

Everyone at the show had a mode of transportation to ride on (Kurtis and I rented a golf cart..yeah, laugh, but it was great!) I kind of thought to myself when I seen these three ole fellas riding around...you suppose this could be Steve, Wayne and Larry in about 20 years!! That may be Dale in the back there looking the grounds over.

DID YOU MISS ME??????

Would you think I was lying if I said I missed all of you?? Well, I actually did, but being away even if for only a few days was very nice. We had a wonderful time at the big HALF CENTURY OF PROGRESS SHOW. I will post a few pictures over the next week or so, and for some of you it will probably bore you too death (Jessica and Jennifer), but what the heck...
We had very nice weather the whole time we were in Illinois, the last day however, it creeped up to about 92 degrees with humidity to match, so we headed home. We stopped over in Galesburg Illinois to do some Antique shopping, and Kurtis got to go to a gun shop he has read about in one (of his many) gun catalogs. Neither of us spent much money, and actually came home with room in the car for more things......hard to believe isn't it!
The big highlight of the show had to be my getting to meet the most famous (well, at least to me) Max Armstrong. I got to talk to him and have him sign a T-shirt for me (oh yes, I have a picture sealing the moment)
There were tons of tractors and farm equipment, Kurtis was in his element. I don't hesitate to remind him just how lucky he is to have married a female that actually enjoys this stuff, has to be a rarity don't you think? Or, maybe it is that I am just a bit odd.....but that's ok.
We also really enjoyed touring the Chanute Air Force Base, where this show took place. The museum was just spectacular!! I have to admit, I actually found myself getting very emotional viewing what these young men and women did for this country and what they endured. Really sad to see such a spectacular facility deteriorating since 1993 when the government closed it down. I think it covers close to 2000 acres in Rantoul. I can imagine it was quite a blow to the town when things were shut down.
So, here we are back and ready to happily return to work tomorrow (well, at least Kurtis is), and life goes on. So for now, here are some pictures to enjoy and until next time, Max, I'll just have to be content seeing you again on RFD TV. MOM

Zero hour.....last of the packing in progress..

Yep, just finishing up the final packing before we embark on our big trip to Rantoul Illinois.....Max Armstrong hang on..I'm on my way!!
Lets see.....pills all packed......check
Video Camera packed (For Kurtis)......check
My camera packed .......check
Finally figured out which motel we booked........check
Golf Cart rented (oh, how embarassing).............check
Kurtis diabetes insulin and needles packed........check
Cooler with water and some snacks packed (doesnt this kind of sound like Margaurite and Ralph Zousel) .......check
and last and not least,......my laptop, just in case I can find a wireless network somewhere and update my Blog so you wonderful people wont miss a single day of my "Extreme exciting life!"......check
So, off we go! Oh, I almost forgot to mention the new CD's I bought so we can listen to tunes on the way...especially my kids will be so impressed with my selections.....Lets see, John Denvers all time country hits, and the soundtrack from West Side Story (a jump back to a time when I was in Jr. High and fell in love with the leader of the SHARKS street gang) and the soundtrack from CHICAGO (Kurts favorite because of the song "You be good to MAMA", and a new CD from Josh Groban. Now, who wouldn't be swept at the opportunity to be crusing along in my little explorer, "You be good to MAMA" cranking on the CD and Kurtis telling his latest adventure selling a gun to a mental patient that escaped from the nursing home in Iowa City! Ah, life is good!!!! Until next time.....I'm on vacation.....MOM

Yep, just a shot from the vacation spot of North America......Orlando drop dead!

I just had to put this one out here for Steve...His favorite RFD TV show "The Big Joe Polka Show!!" Now doesnt this look like a have a good time fella!! I hear there are even fancy dancy artist's out there that enjoy a good polka or two!! (OK, I confess, I really do hate Polka, but I tolerate it because I married a Bohemie)

Yep, this is my favorite cooking show on RFD TV..Johnny Nix Campfire Cafe...ohh doggie, the things this old southern boy can cookup...Just wait till I get that Camper and a good fire pit goin' You'all gotta come over for some good viddles. (may he rest in peace, Jed Clampett)

NOW ENTERING VACATION MODE!!

As of this morning I am considering myself on vacation!! Even though I still have wash, cleaning the house and packing on the list to be done...somehow it just feels different knowing I don't have to head upstairs and face the daily illness's of claims processing. Yeah, for the next 5 days I don't give a damn if your hospital or doctor gets paid..so take that!!
Just a little update on Maggie.....she is currently pouting under the porch and refuses to come out..no, it isn't because I took her to the vet for a.....oh, I can't say it....a, a, abortion, but it is because I have put the dreaded invisible fence collar back on. She hates that thing, and I guess for good reason. The neighbors dog is back again and I'm afraid it isnt leaving without some encouragement, so Kurtis has his orders (I'll leave the details up to your imagination). I'm not normally violent (really I'm not!) but this dog has pushed his luck..he beat Maggie up the other day, so now she walks with a limp too, although it is hard to tell when she won't come out from under the porch...she will eventually, just has to get brave it guess.
Well, Kurtis and I are off soon to RANTOUL, Illinois. Yep, the vacation spot of Northern America. This is a show called the Half Century of Progress, and if you watch RFD TV at all, you are well familiar with it..if you don't watch RFD TV, well, you are just losing out! It offers high quality viewing with shows such as Big Joe Polka Show and Johnny Nix Campfire Cooking...see what you're missing??? Anyway, we are looking forward to the show and I just got off the phone reserving a golf cart to use to get around.....ok stop snickering!!! I have a heel spur that I have not managed to get any better, so its old folks procedures from here on out. Cant you just see us..maybe we should pack a little lunch in a cooler..and strap on a couple of fannie packs before we mount our cart...oh the visual is overwhelming!!
So, until next time (probably Sunday or Monday) take care......MOM

The Joys of Gardening in August....

Lets see, its Friday afternoon and here is what I still want to get doen this afternoon. 1) All my claims...so I dont have to work this weekend (fat chance) 2.) Gather all my onions and put them in the shed to dry. 3.) Pick the tomatoes and god willing can them. 4.) Pick the apricots and make apricot jam (see photo below) 5.) Dig some potatoes (thanks to Adam I have two varieties and am anxious to see which did better in this now famous Iowa drought) 6.) Run the weed trimmer and clean up my Strawberry bed (guess it is obvious if I need a weed trimmer how I kept ahead of the weeds this year) 7.) Water all my containers AGAIN! 8.) Mow the yead. Well, lets see, that is about it for today, them tomorrow........Oh, screw it, Im going to go take a nap!!!! Until next time....MOM

Lets see..Its about 98 degrees outside, the apricots are nice and plump, the humidy is just awful...sounds like a nice day to make apricot jam....please stop by and have some. I may have a stroke and die of heat exhaustion, but it will be worth it!

Just thought this was kind of a charming picture of Kurt seeding under the old cottonwood tree. I can hear the whine of the seeder chain and the locust in the cottonwood. I usually got the job of riding in the wagon and loading the seed hopper so I guess I got lucky this time.

This is Father Benda's new Brittany "Molly" I snapped this of her in her kennel out at the log home. Looks happy doesn't she? (yeah right)

No, this isn't a shot out of a 1963 farm catalog..This is Kurtis seeding prarie grass's and wildflowers on Father Benda's pond ground yesterday. I dont know, but I think that wagon looks better with a team of horses in front of it..

For those of you that know our friend Boyd Castro from Hilo Hawaii, this is a picture he emailed me on the last day of his Ukulele class..yeah he sent me a whole series of the class showing him making this from a chunk of wood through the finished product...pretty nice huh? Although he emailed me today he doesnt have a clue how to play it...but that is the next class..

A little of this and a little of that.....

I said in my earlier blog I would post a couple of pictures I took yesterday, so I will do that. Today is one of those days that after working this morning I am having a high degree of trouble getting motivated to work this afternoon, so instead of doing my claims, here I am posting pictures....thats ok, I'll work later... MOM

YES, I SWEAR..I AM PRO-LIFE!!

I try to be a good catholic, go to church regularly and I AM pro-life (for the most part) but, yesterday I took my poor little Maggie to the Vet for a puppy abort shot...oh, the shame of it all! I definately think this falls under the "if the pregnancy is a life threatening situation" clause. A corgi attempting to deliveer rottweiler cross puppies seems destined for disaster. So, we walked hand and hand (paw) together into Dr. O'Donnells office with heads hung low and took the cure so to speak. Maggie was a big hit rolling over to allow as much tummy scratching as possible. So now we have a clean bill of health, a current rabies shot, distemper and no sign of ear mites.....all is well again..until the next six month call of nature arrives! But, we are still confined to the greenhouse at night.
In addition to the vet trip yesterday our day was a hectic one! Kurtis spent the day discing, then harrowing, planting, then harrowing again the entire area around Father Benda's pond. We seeded it in Iowa Prarie mix and wildflowers. If the rains cooperate it should be beautiful, if not, well, it was a good effort and the button weeds can have it back. I was out taking some pictures and will post them later. Then, we assisted Father in hosting the Mechanicsville Knights of Columbus meeting at his log home. We were told there would be about 20 people, but about 45 turned out......luckily we weren't in charge of anything but having some tables set up, they brought a big grill and did Steaks, baked potatoes and salad for everyone. It was a beautiful evening and almost 11:00 before they all left. Until next time.....MOM

Knock, Knock, Knock, Kurtis! Sharon! Are you in there??

Just about to walk out the door Monday morning to go to work and a knock comes to the front door.. someone shouts Kurtis, Sharon are you in there!! Its our neighbor Rob Glick and he is obviously excited about something! Kurtis runs to the window where he is shouting in (Yes, I admit it, we werent quite dressed yet) "I have kind of a emergency, there is a big dog down the road and he has your little dog trapped down in a road culvert!" AAAAh.....so you've had enough, I think, and you are now hiding in a road culvert!! True love has obviously passed in the night! So, we jump in the truck and scoot down the road..Maggie immediately upon seeing Kurts truck squirts out of the culver, runs to the door and tries climbing in ( too short of couse but nice try) She has thrown all pride to the side and exhibits pure "Take me the hell home!!!!!" So, the story has a happy ending, Maggie is back home.......locked in the greenhouse for the time being. We go to the Vet tomorrow morning for the famous "morning after" injection. The fleeting lover was a 80lb black lab/rottweiler cross.....no, I don't think so!!
As far as the weekend went, it was a pretty good one. Unfortunately, I spent most all of Saturday looking for the little tyrant, but I guess that was ok. Sunday, Kurtis and I headed to Des Moines for a big day at the Iowa State Fair. I would like anyone out there that says fairs are a dying breed, to take the time to attend the Iowa State Fair on a sunny 78 degree Sunday and see what they find!!! I have never quite seen anything like it!! The crowds were unbelievable! To see anything you had to stand in line forever!! Congratulations to Jessica for winning a bottle of Cookies BBQ seasoning. We were having lunch at the Cattlemens pavillion were "Mark Pearson" of the famed "Power Lunch" Agriculture program on WMT was interviewing Speed Henderson, owner of Cookies BBQ sauce. The question was thrown out "Who can tell me the hometown of Cookies BBQ sauce", and without so much of a split second hesitation Jessica shouts "Wall Lake Iowa!!" and won herself the prize! Needless, to say I was quite surprised of her knowledge in this regard ???
So we did have a nice time, but the crowds really messed up seeing as much as I normally like too, and made us very late by the time we wrestled our way out of there..never again on a Sunday..and this bone spur has got to go!!! I was exhausted by the time we headed home at 7.
Until next time....MOM

OH WHOE'S ME....

It is now amost 9:00 and no sign of the missing canine. I can't decide if I am just furious at the little mut for forsaking our friendship for some testosterone driven male, or heartbroke because I thought she liked us most....or at least the treats in the greenhouse. Well, I am making up some missing doggie signs for Kurtis to place in the neighbors mailboxes tomorrow morning as he does chores. I don't know how the search for the Holladay girl in Aruba is going, but as you can see I have bigger problems!! (I know, that is a disqusting thing to say)
So, other than this dilema, all is well. Kurtis is held up in the bedroom with the beginnings of a Migraine headache. He had a extremely busy day at work and got a low blood sugar episode about 10:00 a.m. and hasn't felt good since. I keep warning him he can't just blow off meals if he's going to be under the gun (no pun intended there) and has to make sure he has access to something if he gets in trouble. I hope he gets better soon..I hate those headaches, it is really not a very pretty picture.
Well, back to my sign making...Oh, Maggie you little shit..I hope you're having a good time!!

Until next time,......MOM

OH WHERE OH WHERE HAS MY LITTLE DOG GONE..OH WHERE OH WHERE CAN SHE BE???

Nice little song huh? But, I'm afraid the reality of the situation is that Maggie is out Whoring around with some male dog that came by and swept her off her feet (or paws). I spent two hours this morning driving around and talking to my neighbors looking for her. Gee, let's see, we put in invisible fence to keep her off the roads, but I didn't consider the "slut" syndrome!! I should of gotten her spayed, but kind of held out a hope to have her bred. Gee, I wonder what a Corgi and Rottweiler cross would look like. In my very detailed detective work, I can see that a rather LARGE dog was visiting here, he left his tracks all over my garden and yard. I hope the bastard gets one hell of a crotch cramp when he bends down to do the short legged wonder!
Im mad at her, but do hope she comes to her senses and comes home....then it will be a quick trip to Doc Byer for some much needed surgery. Oh, the embarassment of it all!!
Looking forward to my trip to Des Moines tomorrow, I not only get to spend the day with my "sales crazed" husband, but look forward to seeing my two little girls too (and their guys). We are planning a nice day at the fair......hmmmm corn dogs. I may even try the new craze, a deep fried snickers.....my idea about 10 years ago, ya know!! Jessica can vouch for me on this one!! Oh, I can hear the sound of the loud speaker in the air.....come on ladies and gentlemen step right up here and have a look at these knives, they never need sharpening!!! Pots and Pans the like you have never seen!! Am I the only one that likes to go to the fair and listen to these obnoxious loud vendors selling their wares.....probably, I confess to even enjouing info-mercials on cable. One things for sure, I will surely walk out of there with newly cleaned and polised glasses..that guys is alway there. Then it is off to the Agriculture building to inspect this years crop of vegetables from the garden...oh boy, peppers, onions, green beans, etc etc. You girls are surely lucky to have a mother that really hits the bright spots!!
Well, I best finish up my claims so I can have a free mind of guilt while carrousing through the displays tomorrow..and I suppose I should go check of Miss Maggie the slut has returned home.....gees, I already have enough to worry about with my husbands new found obsession...did I mention he got a special sales award yesterday for going beyond the call of duty when selling a shotgun??? Oh yes, two old boys from southern Iowa came in to by a rifle, but thought Scheels was too expensive.....by the time they left, they both bought one and Kurts manager was absolutely amazed, so he gave him a "on the spot reward"....I think Im screwed!!!!
Until next time.....MOM

OH MY GOD, I'V BEEN SHOT!!

Now that I have your attention.....picture this, it's 12:36 a.m. I am dreaming that I can't get in my front door, I struggle and struggle with the keys (you know this is a dream now, have I ever locked a door??) Finally, I manage to get in the door and I see a shadow of a man with a gun (no doubt an fixation based on the fact my husband works with guns all day) I'm trying to get the door shut when a shot rings out and I feel the pain in my temple!!! Oh my god, I'v been shot!! I reach to grasp my forehead in my hand and I suddenly wake from an awful dream.....oh, what a relief, I'm not really injured at all......but, wait, the pain isnt going away....oh shit, it still hurts....Oh crap!! Its that damn tooth I have been nursing away from a root canal for 2 months, guess what..it wants attention now!!! I stumble downstairs to the cabinet and begin downing tylenol, Advil, Bufferin and the Ansaid Dr. kampfe gave me the last time this happen....but with no relief! I've put in worse nights but I dont remember when. 8:10 call to Dr. Kampfe's office and I beg for a appointment for the inevitable.......ROOT CANAL! 2:30 appointment....by 2:55 the whole ordeal is a memory. I can tell you why this whole horrible thing happened too, just two weeks ago I sent in the last payment for the two porcelein crowns I had put on last year!! I dont know what hurts more, the root canal or the $700.00 bill. Anyway, it's over and now I am just tired from the lack of sleep last night, sore from the novacaine shots and have a very upset tummy from the 4000mg of junk I popped trying to get some relief.
The good news is, we finally did get some much need rain last night, unfortunately I think it is too late for it do do any good, but we'll take it anyway. With that pleasant thought in mind, I think I will sign off...I'm posting a couple of pleasant pictures to help heal my tired little mind tonight. Have alot of claims to do yet, but suspect I wont get to them. Who cares!!
Until next time MOM