My Own Opinion

Patience, trying to learn it again...

2012-01-24T08:04:00.000-08:00

For Christmas, I received a "no-touch" hand soap dispenser. I thought it was going to be a mess, as I pulled my hand away too soon, had I waited, I would have realized it gives the correct amount of soap, cuts off and there is no dribble! Lesson learned. Waiting, ladies if you have need of a son-in-law for one of your daughter's ages roughly 20 to 30, I know some one! Tall, blue eyes, dark hair, has his own car, a job, yes-still working on a career/school, is a return missionary, still speaks and uses his Spanish daily, loves quite a variety of music, plays cello, even with the Chandler Symphony, LOVES basketball, and in spite of his parents being some what introverted, he is spontaneous, loves to play and joke around, enjoys a good time, generally very happy, pretty nice guy, even though he has all those "guy-things"-anyway, patience- not learned here much yet! Accomplishing, patience still in great need here, recognizing what has been done, and can be done, patience, a hard lesson here. Accepting, another lesson on patience, and dealing with what you have, making the best of it, improving when and where it is necessary, ah, yes patience! Learn, remembering and "can't have it all", definitely need a dose or two of Patience! Always will be trying and learning...

Friends

2011-12-27T10:06:00.000-08:00

For the past several weeks I have comptemplated a lot about some of my closest friends. I am so fortunate and Blessed with such shining examples of intelligent, talented and wonderful friends! In thinking about them, many of my friends are musicians, very talented musicians, some of which have written and published their own music! Some are published authors! Some are great travelers, some really know how to really enjoy life! Some are artist, decorators, talented with sewing, crocheting, cooking & baking! Many of them are very spiritually in tuned, gifted in gospel knowledge and may are professionals in their careers! How did I luck out to be in a circle of these marvelous and talented people?!! I don't know but I sure am lucky! I thank them all for associating with me and blessing my life with just knowing them! To my Friends, may God so richly bless each of you as you have done so for me and thank you, thank you for being in my life!

Tuesday?

2011-11-03T11:10:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday it was Monday and no work on Saturday, today, however, it is Tuesday with work on Saturday. It should have been last month and then they thought it was December! Can these people and corporations get anything straight! I'm sure later this afternoon or tomorrow it will be something else! Been so tired lately, just want to curl up and sleep for a week! Want to make a new like, got any suggestions?

2011-10-17T10:23:00.000-07:00

Still waiting for my release to go back to resolutions. Dad has an electric wheel chair now, hope it works out for him. Waiting for cooler weather, wishing and hoping to find or make other changes. Tired and want to go back to bed, but will go to work instead!

A Change and going backwards

2011-09-28T12:38:00.000-07:00

I am going back to the Resolution Center at the Central Pharmacy Operations. I have to do evening/night shift and I will have the weekends off. Not too sure this is the direction to go, but I won't be dealing with a manager who can't control his moods and personality disorder. Wanted to start at 7:30 or 8 am with weekends off, but of course none of those were available. Hope I can remember how to do the job, they will have us shadow, but I might need more than that, as this old brain doesn't seem to remember well any more (sigh)! Seriously been thinking about becoming a truck driver in North Dakota...

Relaxing or catching up?!

2011-09-04T19:52:00.000-07:00

Have had a few days off because I have to use up my vacation time by Oct. 1, or loose it (new rule)! Trying to get through my "piles", wishing for rain and cooler weather! Not much else going on, except another job search!

The Job

2011-08-22T10:42:00.000-07:00

I am currently having great difficulty with my co-worker/department manager. I feel as thought there maybe somewhat of a bi-polar style personality with him. First time I've ever felt "afraid" to go to work!

Seeing Red...Or an Identity Crisis!

2011-07-17T14:00:00.000-07:00

Lately when I have heard people describe me or refer to me, I have been identified as one with "red" hair!? A hair dresser did refer to me that he would call my hair light auburn. When I went to up date my drivers licence, I had put down Auburn, usually I put in Brown, the clerk changed it to red, with out even asking me!

When I was a child up to about 10 years old I was blond, my hair started to darken but could still bleach out some in the summer sun. My mom called in golden, or light golden brown. While on my mission they called me blond, even when I had "true" blond companions! Once I was referred to as Chestnut, but I expected that in a predominately dark haired country, besides a day after tracking in the Summer Sun, the sides of my hair turned blond. Most of the time I just say, brown, however the other day, my own husband said, "Wow! Your hair is Red today!" I may see a few highlights, but I really don't consider myself in the "red" family, unless maybe a little in the Auburn family. Funny how our views of self differ from others! Coming from someone with Light Golden Brown Reddish Auburn Hair, is that right???

Rain, thunder and lightening

2011-07-11T08:31:00.000-07:00

So glad for the moisture even if it did bring massive amounts of humidity. So what's with a bit of frizzy hair anyway!

Just got the news of a goal of $1000 a day @ work! Are they crazy?! A bit unrealistic with the demographics and recession! I was happy when we borke $300 a day! Any one want a lift chair and a scooter? I'll be glad to help you out!

All By MYself...

2011-07-09T13:38:00.000-07:00

Hot summer, big, big haboob (dust storm) still no rain at my house! Keeping up on the laundry so far. Wish I was vacationing somewhere, cool! Wish I was drawing or painting landscapes, flowers, various forms or things from nature. Wish I had time for "mundane" things! Finally got some food in the house, don't want to think about going to work Monday.

Celebrate

2011-07-03T10:57:00.000-07:00

Thank you to the "someone, or someones" who left a sweet little bouquet of flowers and Little flag. Very thoughtful and nice. Thanks for cheering up our day, weekend and holiday! I'm glad I'm home for a couple of days.

Okay!

2011-06-27T11:37:00.001-07:00

So now I apparently have to save my draft and post from there, otherwise I cannot seem to get any where!

Thought the Monument Fire was going to burn down my Dad's house in Sierra Vista, got within 2 blocks! Looks like the Humming Bird Sanctuary/Preserve was saved too! Still hope we can sell the house, I know, that's asking alot for a burned out area!

Trying Again

2011-06-27T11:34:00.000-07:00

Last few times I've tried to post, it has not worked! Trying again before I get too wordy!

Lucky

2011-06-26T13:52:00.000-07:00

We have a really outstanding group of youngmen in our ward right now. They are so polite, friendly, bright and smiling, very helpful to all and just seem a slight bit more exceptional! Today they sang Battle Hymn of the Republic, acappella and it was absolutely fabulous! These young gentlemen really have their act together

Not So Good

2011-06-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

Disappointed with the new schedule. Work's okay when people who are really interested or have a need. Hoping all the fires around the state end. The Heat is on, we are very dry, not expecting much of rain this summer.

Sigh!

2011-06-15T08:43:00.000-07:00

Disappointed in my new schedule. Work's okay when we have people show up who are really interested or in need. Still working on some "kinks". Hope the fires around the state end soon, the heat is on, we are still very dry.

We're Open!

2011-05-27T07:48:00.000-07:00

We always were open, meaning you could purchase any equipment at anytime, but now we got the whole department going. We are still waiting on some product, and I pray I remember how to do some of the paper work and such, they showed me a long time ago, my memory is not so fresh on it! Been having to do a bit of overtime to get the kinks worked out, hopefully it will go smoother now! Next week a lift chair is on sale for about $300 off, so come on by and get yourself one! Been pretty sore and tired, Oh! Also a motor scooter is on sale next week too, you can really save on gas with these battery powered gizmo's! See Ya There!

A Quickie!

2011-04-29T07:06:00.000-07:00

So, the new job is busy, my store not set up yet, sometimes sent to other stores to work on their set ups. Took all month to get my ID reset so I con get paid, do online projects and learning programs, can't wait for things to settle down to find out what the real schedule and job will be like!

It's April!!!

2011-04-02T16:04:00.000-07:00

Enjoying General Conference. Lots of changes since last post. Heard a talk about writing down your promptings, could write a short book! Any way, about two weeks ago, I was called in for an interview for a job I had applied for awhile ago, didn't here from them so had kind of forgotten about it. The main reason I applied was, I was still part time and needed to go full time. I had prayed about it and finally said,"Heavenly Father, you know our situation, if this is the way I should go, help me out. If not then lets just go on". Got hired right on the spot! Never has that happened before! Will be working days, no Sundays and a pay increase! It's a pilot program for Walgreen's with durable and home medical equipment and blocked of sections in some of the stores. I start training this Mon. April 4th, after all this I hope I like it and they like me! Yeah! Back to having sometime at home with the family in the evenings, maybe even dinner too :) !

Sigh

2011-03-11T12:11:00.000-08:00

Start full time again, not too happy with the schedule, Sun. through Thursday from 1:15pm to 9:45pm, eight hr days, ( they won't pay for our 1/2 hour lunch). So I will leave about 12:30 pm and if I'm lucky, get home @ 10:15pm. Can't wait for those "mini-bids" with the hopes of getting a better schedule! Still fighting that "black cloud" hanging overhead!

Still February!

2011-02-17T11:04:00.000-08:00

So I decided to say something, anything... Missed work the past two 10 hr shifts, body not behaving normal, hopefully will be back on track soon. Two sisters & crew heading to Texas, this week to retrieve another sister, that puts 4 of us back in various spots of Arizona, the other one is in Maryland, doubt she'll return. Two weeks ago, dad decided he needed to be in a different room, so we (all) moved him, hope he's happy! Now, I think we're just waiting to see what will come back after the last couple of freezes we had, things that never froze before, froze this time, we may have lost some landscaping. May have some changes at work in the near future, of course those could be good or bad, or maybe not even of any effect at all! Well, here's some great bad news, Lee's pay just got cut again! This time we will probably have to cut phones, Internet, satellite (which is the only way we get TV) and who knows, this maybe farewell form me!

No Not Yet!

2011-01-08T08:44:00.000-08:00

No, I don't have the Christmas tree down yet or the decorations put away except for the kitchen stuff. No, I did not put out all my decorations this year either. No, I don't know when I will get it done. No, I do not want to have a D & C Friday the 14th, I have fought it off, but they insist! No, I am not getting other things accomplished and I am not getting my house cleaning done! No, I have not put away the "Happy Birthday" balloons they gave me at work, but I also used them for Brandon's 25th birthday of Jan. 6th! No, I am still not back to full time at work yet, I don't know how I can possibly fit into a longer work schedule yet, besides, they haven't offered it yet! No, I do not have any resolutions, my resolve is to never make any resolutions, nor do I have any plans for anything, just survival mode right now. And No, I have not been getting enough sleep or "play" time! I knew I probably would not like the year 2011!

Once a Month?

2010-11-30T19:57:00.000-08:00

Can't seem to "get with it" lately! Tore ligaments in my right foot didn't break anything this time, but I am back in the boot for a 4+ weeks period. My sister in law and friend was just diagnosed with stage 3 rectal cancer, she's got a great positive attitude, we really pray all goes well. Still working part time, did finally get my annual review with slight compensation. I will definitely take it! Lee did get some outside lights put up with a little help from me. There would have been lights on all the eaves, but they all came crashing down, and the thought of the ladder again was more than scary. Did Thanksgiving at my house, no one died from my cuisine, all in all it was pretty good. Well here are the lights!

Life...

2010-11-07T14:42:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile, Sept. I worked, two weeks were actually full time. October just part time work, helped with "Trunk or Treat" & trick or treats at home, got my 1 year pin at work but they are saving my review until near the end of November. Been somewhat out of sorts lately, guess I am trying to find out who I am, was & will be? Not satisfied with my accomplishments thus far, not that they're bad, just not where I wanted or hope for them to be. Tired of the same old struggles, looking for different ones, not harder or more challenging, just different!

Congrats to all the new babies, pets, jobs and exciting changes & times for everyone in my little circle!

So Fun...Not!

2010-08-02T23:43:00.000-07:00

It was such a nice sabbath after all the rain, fresh clean air & slightly cooler! Four baby blessings two of which were twin girls, who truly have been a miracle! So when we open the garage & I get out of the car, I witness a snake devouring a lizard, only the back half of the lizard is showing at this point. Lee scares the snake, the lizard gets away, but the snake hisses & attacks the flimsy foam tube Lee uses as his weapon! Anyway it takes off, okay, it was only a baby snake, but we did find out it was a rattle snake (not big enough for the rattle yet)! All these years, living in Arizona, I have never had a snake at my house! Now I am totally paranoid around here! They just recently cleared a bit of vegetation near the neighborhood, I guess that's why we got our visitor. Why it didn't go south in the desert instead of north into the neighborhood is any body's guess, but I wish it had not picked my house! I'll probably never go totally asleep again!

Not in the Plans

2010-07-23T16:03:00.000-07:00

The other day I caught myself "grumbling" about "this was never in the plans"! Then I thought, "has it ever been"! Whenever I've tried to more or less map out my future, it never is as I had intended despite my efforts or not! I admire those who do make their plans & stick with them, I suppose they generally have true direction. Sure we all have our detours & unexpected curves, I guess, I just have never been quite on track or the plans I chose were not the ones I needed to follow!

Story of My Life!

2010-07-17T14:04:00.000-07:00

I am glad I took so many photos this spring, because now almost everthing is "dead" from the intense heat, and still no monsoon rain! When I got my hair "chopped" off about 3 weeks ago, I had never in mylife received so many positive comments. My husband, who said nothing, I finally asked him..., well he said, "I liked your hair long"! In the past few months we had to replace the washer & dryer, dishwasher & one car's 4 tires, 2 tires on the other! I hope we actually get everything paid for before they break down again or have to be replaced! Still going partime, which has it's pluses on the extra time home, but not on the money, they're not sure when they expect a change, but with my luck, it will probably include mandetory overtime! Good thing I like the people I work with & my supervisor, the job is okay too for the most part, oh well, everthing has it's ups & downs!

It ain't so..

2010-06-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

Changes at work that were suppose to quick & short termed, changed to difficult & long termed! Was suppose to work part time for 2 weeks only, but now it is indefinite, plus others had to choose between part time, flextime or find another job! This economy still has it long reaching troubled arm out there!
Still trying to get dad's house ready for sale, & my youngest sister is dealing with several devastating trials right now, we are all trying to help her, it just goes on & on..., no wonder people start aging fast & feeling worn out!

uhmmmmm!

2010-05-10T23:31:00.000-07:00

Last Monday morning I went out to water pots, I said "hi! baby" to the baby in the nest, looking very grown, & "poof" the baby was gone! Been a rough week & this one's not looking any cheerier! Really struggling with who I am & where I ought to be and why I am not there. Not a bright future at the moment, & I think the tunnel grew longer, w/a pin size hole for the light to come through, that I just can't see, and then there's the maze!

More spring

2010-04-18T20:12:00.000-07:00

purple robe locust tree & Queen Elizabeth rose

purple robe locust tree

purple snail vine

Heritage rose

side yard boganvilla

yes I even do cactus, as long as it blooms!

Spring 2010

2010-04-18T19:59:00.000-07:00

pink lady hawthorne

Mama humming bird season # 2

boganvilla in the back ground, Lagerfeld rose, smell terrific!

first bud of sterling silver rose, new container plant

More Spring pictures

2010-04-18T19:51:00.000-07:00

Geraniums

pansy

color pots

petunias

this lantana was growing as a weed in an odd part of the yard

Visions of my purple/pink spring!

2010-04-18T18:17:00.000-07:00

Geraniums

Blue "Hibicus" Purple Robe Locust Tree Clusters

cute little lavendar pansies

Blossom Cluster from the Hong Kong orchid tree, boy, the Humming Birds love this!

color pots in the backyard gazebo

With all the good rain we've had this winter & spring, the desert floor is green, wild flowers blooming everywhere & even little trickles of water have appeared. But these are some pictures of my yard from March!

The potato bush

An "Angel Face" rose bloom

Johnny Jump Ups

purple fressia, ummm smells sweet!

Okay, I don't know how to load & space pictures, so it will be a guessing game for you! Too bad! I had a lot more pictures!

Where is my memory bank in my brain these days?!!!

2010-03-28T20:41:00.000-07:00

One of my sisters is periodically sending me some pictures from various stages of my life. This is one of the most recent that she has sent and I do not know when or where it was taken, I do not remember the outfit or even ever doing this! I almost wondered if it was my sister Lorie, but it isn't! Then this next one I do remember the whole situation, hair, clothing & going to get it done, I know most of you who know me, have never seen me wear my hair this way I was also surprized at how many freckles showed up in this one! I don't know it you can see it on the blog! The first picture I can date from about the 1980's due to the way my cut/style is, I just can't pull it up from the rusty memory banks. The 2nd one was done at an earlier time, anyway, before the first one, too bad I never got my hair to look that good again kind of an old tint or fade to this photo!

Mile stones

2010-03-12T22:59:00.000-08:00

This month, in fact on the 16th, which is next week, will be our 25th Wedding Anniversary! Years ago, I sort of tentatively imagined or mapped out what it would be like with each turn of the year. Never imagined I would spend my 25th Wedding Anniversary huddled down in a tiny spot, tied to a chair in front of a computer doing "TPR's" as fast as I can and getting to have a sandwich for dinner (if I'm lucky enough) at a table all by myself ! Yep! That's what real life gets ya!

Enunciation

2010-03-11T08:19:00.000-08:00

When I first came home from my mission, my mom commented on my very enunciated speech! I had not realized I was doing it in English, I know I worked a lot on it in Italian, really got into the vowels & double consonants-worried I might miss pronounce something and say something rude or vulgar, worse yet, sound like someone from England speaking Italian, but that's a whole other story! So why bring this up now, well at work I noticed myself almost over emphasizing syllables or endings due to not wanting to have to repeat or to the many non-naturally English speaking people we work with. The one thing I have an issue with, is the lady who can say "thank you" with a beautiful "th", but when it comes to my name, I get Catty! I try not to be annoyed with this, but I find myself "rolling my eyes" every time! Now, my point is this, if you can say "thank you", you also can say "Cathy"!

Thanks Lee!

2010-03-08T07:35:00.000-08:00

I have had the good fortune of my husband being the Ward/Stake organist for all of our married life. He is so meticulous & expressive when he plays, he really brings in a beautiful spirit & a lovely expression of his testimony! Lee always gives at least a half hour of prelude music and people come early just to hear "the concert" as I've heard them say!

About a year ago, it was decided to have Lee "share" his calling with some other players. The first time he was not up there playing, everyone thought he was either sick, gone, hurt hands and/or feet! When we explained he would be sharing his calling, people said, "I'm not coming on the Sunday he doesn't play", "it's not the same", "where's the spirit?" and "I miss it when he doesn't play". Then when it is his turn again, they all are thrilled, relieved & so appreciative of his talent, skill and expression! So "hats off" to you sir for your fine work and as an organist - hey man, "You Rock"!!!

That's Just Fine

2010-02-11T10:16:00.000-08:00

Sometimes there just isn't that much to say. This family doesn't have much adventures, and we have found comfort in routine, mainly because that means all is rolling along and no tragedies to deal with. Brandon has a new job he seems to enjoy, Lee & I are still employed and work's okay. House care suffers some, but it doesn't bother me as much as it probably should! Tired most of the time, but oh well! Not really anything to look forward to for now, just trying to deal with what life hands you and trying to survive! Might be able to get the windows fixed in the mini van soon, so that will be nice (& back to drive - thrus!)! Just another regular day and that's okay!

2010-01-09T14:16:00.000-08:00

I have a new love (shame on you Costco, it's even your very own Kirkland Brand)! Milk Chocolate Caramel Macadamia Clusters! Just the right proportion of salty & sweet, oh and of course the caramel & chocolate, ummmm! I can't keep my hands, or rather mouth off of them! I think I've turned them into a new or another "sin" for me, I think I'll die happy over this one! Ummmm, soooo goood!!!

In General

2010-01-06T22:03:00.000-08:00

Not much going on in blogs these days, seems like everyone is more into the quick speed of Facebook. I know for me, with work & all, not much time is left. As for work, they say I'm doing just fine, it's an okay job, and I am grateful it's better than some I've had!

A Nice Day

2009-12-13T14:38:00.000-08:00

Sitting at my window, looking at the rain, a beautiful full Rainbow, listening to sacred Christmas Music and eating warm freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, now that's a little piece of heaven! We've all had head colds and crazy schedules the past few weeks and now it's just nice to be home and enjoy some tranquility.

Another Change On the Horizon ( or is that Chance?)

2009-11-22T18:38:00.000-08:00

Last week I had 2 interviews for a "sit down" pharmacy tech. position. I did a lot to prepare for the first one, it was a panel interview (scary for me) but I thought I did okay, not out standing, or "I so cinched the job" but just okay. I was oust by someone with 10 years experience, and was given suggestions for experience. Two days later came another interview, seemingly the same job description, but a different area. This time they said it will really just be the math and analyst test. I really didn't do my utmost in dressing ( actually I was ill with a sinus clogged with cellulitis and the left side of my face some what swollen) I've had test there before, so I thought just do the duty. When I completed the test, they decided to go ahead with the formal interview (uh oh!)! Okay, just try to be normal, and don't pull on your buttons (oops!) and act like your ready! As the interview ended we spoke of some other positions opening up, so I assumed I did not get the job. They next day they called to have me start working tomorrow, the 23rd! They could not tell me my shift or schedule, I just hope this one works out and I don't end up with something wrong, say like a "broken tail bone"!

Not What I Expected!

2009-11-12T13:53:00.000-08:00

After working two weeks in the dispensing tech role at the Walgreen's Pharmacy, I found my right foot in excruciating pain. A visit to the doctor indicated a stress fracture on the 4th metatarsal, it may heal, it may need surgery. No workman's Comp. for me,as the exact time of the break cannot be pinpointed! I applied and was interviewed for a "sit down" position, but was not selected. So, no work, no pay and so far no new position. It is also doubtful that I can return to a job that requires 9 hours of standing (mandatory overtime). Brandon's job has cut back days so he is looking too, and Lee's job is the same. We didn't get our "Modification Loan" even though we totally qualified,after 10 months our mortgage company decided our "situation wasn't permanent"! They must know something we don't, hopefully we won't get worse! At this point not much more to say, we now just laugh instead of cry!

The Sore Feet Club

2009-10-24T08:59:00.000-07:00

Made it through my first week at the mail order center! I have the sorest feet ever, I can barely walk when I get home! I don't know why the job is "standing" only. Last night after a cramp in my leg and two back spasms, I eyed a chair across from me and asked the person who was assigned to train me, why can't we sit. He did not know, so later I went and got the chair , sat, working better and faster, a supervisor came by twice and didn't say anything, then this older man came by twice, but on the third time he said "you do know there is no sitting", I said "No", then he said "no chairs at the work stations". So I immediately returned the chair, I did have such relief while I used it, I just wish I understood what difference does it make! (I don't even dare asked the "older man"!) Not exactly the job I was hoping for as a tech, hopefully something else will come up soon. This is more like a factory, assembly line type of job and they have some unusual rules!

The Job?

2009-10-15T09:32:00.000-07:00

To make a very long story short, I start to work at the Walgreen's Mail Order facility, in Tempe, on Monday, for a trial basis. I will be in dispensing on the 3:30pm to 12:00am shift Mon. thru Fri., oh and then I was told alternate Sundays (grrr!), but at least I will make it to church. The trial period is for 90 days. I hope it works out.

"Standards"!!!

2009-10-05T08:01:00.000-07:00

Am I the only one left in the church that still believes you should dress modestly and teach your children that as well?!!! The more I see of, particularly young women, and their parents allowing them to dress "the way of the world" the more distressing I feel it is! What are we teaching them?! What do they know and understand about the council of our leaders?! Follow it only when you feel like it, Standards are optional?!!! I guess that's why I never got to have a girl, I suppose she would be an "outcast" in today's society! I truly am a firm believer that if you choose to unite yourself with an organization, then you also choose to follow ALL of its "rules"!!! Oh and again all of you read the articles about "flip flops" they do not belong with Sunday dress!!! Yea, I get "preachy" from time to time, but my son is suppose to find someone he can date that follows the standards!!! Wake up people, allowing some flexibility soon turns in being stretched too far, I've seen it happen over and over again!!!

"Kreative Blog"

2009-09-25T09:27:00.000-07:00

When my friend Joyce gave me the "Kreative Blog Award", I thought she was being nice or kind! Yes I am fooled again! MY friend Suzanne also sent it to me, now I should have guessed it was a "game" and meant work! I also knew it wasn't for creativity!
The 7 unknowns of Cathy Galloway!
1. I don't like the sound of my voice.
2. I daydream a lot.
3. When I was about 3 years of age, I loaded my bed with all the stuffed animals in the house so they could protect me in my sleep from the large and vicious cock roach I discovered the night before. However, that gave no room for me!
4. I have found that most of my hopes and dreams in life were too grandiose for reality.
5. The table knife is the dad, the fork is the mom and the teaspoons are the little children!
6. I really don't enjoy cooking all that much, it's time consuming and I hate it when I don't have all the ingredients on hand.
7. I tried to fly with an umbrella like Mary Poppins!
Well that took forever! I don't have 7 people to send this too, because between Suzanne and Joyce, they "tagged" those I knew who have blogs! Oh and I tried to add a picture, but it "scrambled"!

What A Week!!!

2009-09-19T19:16:00.000-07:00

I guess it started last week with a job fair, the company was not quite ready for. They did not anticipate the volume of seekers. Any way I got a call back that very afternoon to do an assessment test, and was given a very brief review and told I would be possibly called the next week. Sure enough, I had a brief interview on Tues. and was told the job began this coming Monday. Tuesday morning the very first phone call I receive is to tell me the position has been "frozen for an indefinite amount of time". So I get dressed to go to another job fair that I was "personally invited" to attend because of my previous application and credentials. I was excited because the description and duties were actually perfect for me! Well I lasted a whole 7 minutes! I was told also not to apply to their company again for a least 6 months! The description nor the invite, did not state I had to have "X" amount of experience, even though this was EXACTLY what I was trained for they just walked me toward the door! And these were the "good" opportunities! I have applied for over 30 positions in the last few weeks and I still cannot convince anyone I'm the one they want or need, even when I come to them and they are in the middle of total chaos that I could relieve them from! I tell ya, I don't think I am designed for this world and I am not just talking about job hunting! I actually had a dream where my bishop handed me a loaded gun, which I promptly put to my head and pulled the trigger! He was trying to say "wait a minute", but it didn't matter, it didn't do anything because my brain had shrunk so much the bullet missed it! Well, just about everyone knows I have strange and bizarre dreams! Here it is past the middle of September and I really thought I would be well on my way, employed and bringing home that "mighty dollar"! Not to be!

So Very Tired!

2009-09-03T19:35:00.000-07:00

No job yet, just keep looking and applying. Today I went around trying to make things more personal, such as putting a face to the name and paper. Concept behind this is so they can all SEE how ACTTUALLY WONDERFUL I really am! Not sure that was a very good idea! The whole search is so exhausting, somewhat hummiliating, also having to try to sell yourself to strangers who could care less! Then feeling defeated with "nos", "we're in a hiring freeze", "we'll file this and save it for later. So much for thinking just applying on-line would take care of it and they'd all be calling me for interviews! I wish they would all quit asking me my age! Funny most people in my catagory are thinking about or getting ready to retire, well, and me I have to be different, I try to start a career! I guess I never could follow the "given" path!

Another Hot Summer Day!

2009-08-26T13:07:00.000-07:00

Wishing I had something clever to say...
Wishing an announcement of found employment...
Wishing a return to past income or better...
Wishing for rain...
Wishing for cooler weather...
Wishing for greener and lush landscape...
Wishing for an escape of the daily mundane tasks...
Wishing for world peace...
Wishing for my house to clean itself...
Wishing for boundless energy...

The Way It Is!

2009-08-16T14:42:00.000-07:00

I don't do a lot of pictures, so that is why many are the same.
I don't go anywhere, can't afford to, so no adventures to report.
I am still job searching/hunting and hope to have a resolute soon.
We pretty much stay the same here, day after day, year after year.
On a rare occasion I might come up with something I think is funny or clever.
I know I am about as boring as these repeated Hot Summer Days in the desert.
I have been dealing with a form of depression for years and I know I allow it to hold me back.
I do enjoy reading about other people's lives and I dream a long the way.
In doing and redoing my resume, I see that I've done a few things, some actually kind of interesting and uncharacteristic.
So, that's it, my life.

Certified Pharmacy Technician CPhT!

2009-08-04T12:17:00.000-07:00

I DID IT! I am now a Board Certified Pharmacy Technician, licensed too! It will be harder for people to turn me away for job possibilities, which is why I did this, to get a decent job! I still am having trouble breathing after pressing the "End" button and waiting for the response "Passed"! I get my score and certificate on about Aug. 14! But it's done, I survived and you can teach "old dogs new tricks"!
Catherine Ann Galloway CPhT

Sigh!

2009-07-15T13:23:00.000-07:00

Oh lonely little blog of mine,
No fun for you these days!
No new pictures, No new friends,
Nothing Exciting, Nothing to mend!
No one Comments, No one Cares...
I guess I'll have to do an intervention somewhere!

Don't worry, class will soon be over,
Exams too, a job to look for
Finally with some skills added too!

Then will there be time?
No, I fear, it will be the same and different
But maybe something new!

Tic Toc!

2009-07-04T19:59:00.000-07:00

( These pictures are for fun and are not of the actual clocks, they do reflect a likeness.)

Since moving my dad's stuff out of his house, we've acquired a bit more sound in our house in the form of ticking, tocking and chiming! Mind you we already had some pretty good clocks, but my husband Lee really likes clocks and has taken upon himself to make sure each one is running and to the accuracy of the Atomic clock! It's fun, when it's the hour we almost sound like "Ye Ole Clock Shoppe"!

Compliments!

2009-06-25T15:50:00.000-07:00

One of those very rare things, at least for me! One of my instructor's, just out of the blue, came up to me and said something to the effect, "you're one of the most knowledgeable in the class!" Boy, I was surprised! There are engineers and biologists in my class! I'm not sure if he had graded the quiz yet, I made a dumb mistake on it, mainly a case of not paying enough attention to detail! But I'll take the compliment any way!

Pharmacy Technician, I Hope?!!!

2009-06-04T15:10:00.000-07:00

Well classes have started. Day one wasn't too over whelming until he said memorize these 15 drugs ( yea, I know only 15, but there is more to come) brand names, generic names - none of which I could pronounce, use and drug class. So after making flash cards, reading and studying 4 chapters, doing the work book for the 4 chapters and starting on the math workbook, I felt I was doing alright!

Then came today. We were told we would go over some pharmacy math. I did not expect 14 chapters in 4 hours! Alright, like the first 9 chapters were called "elementary" - excuse me! It's been 35 years, for me they were not all so "elementary"! But, I was okay, still, but then came Chapters 13 & 14...What kind of math is this!!! I seem to be grasping it, then about fainted with two other major charts and graphs that have to be memorized!

Anyway here's my newest best friend:

Things...

2009-05-26T21:46:00.000-07:00

Mom and dad took pride in their home, how it looked and the nice items they had in it. Some "things" were family heirlooms passed down, some from other countries - military tours, or just their taste and likes. When I was a child and also older, my sisters and I would ask "can I have that?" or "can I put my name on that?, and other such statements with great hope of getting the "things" we requested sometime in the future. I guess you could say that "future" is here and it is really with mixed feelings, fun reminiscing but also sadness. Today, Lee and I tried to make "things" fit into our home, which probably added more clutter than anything, but I hope I adjust to it soon with more fondness, than sadness, memories instead of regrets. Then sometimes I don't want any of it, or even my own "things", after all they are only "things".

Dad's continuing story

2009-05-21T15:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my sister Lorie and I helped move dad to an assisted living home in Phoenix, across the street from the Biltmore Mall! He has progressed in a lot of ways, but still cannot get himself up and does need help with steadiness when he uses a walker. His room is big, big enough to make it a bedroom and sitting/living area, it is very nice. He is set up with his own furniture and has requested various accessories, so it looks very nice. The rest of us who live in Arizona, this weekend, will be packing up some of his house in Sierra Vista to prepare it to go on the market. Our sister Martha, who currently lives in Maryland, will be moving out here this summer and will live in the house with her family to do minor repairs and up keep until it is sold. We are finding, or I should say I am finding this period in my life quite depressing. First, I thought both parents would live a bit longer and be healthier, plus the nation's economic situation has had a bigger impact on us then originally thought which obviously influences everything else. My original plans for this stage in my life are totally "shot" and I'm not sure I will be able to return to them later, if ever! All priorities had to change, and family members are on edge, myself included. I was released from working in primary 2 weeks ago, but I was called for an appointment for next week, feeling like not showing or "forgetting" about it! (Just kidding!) It is hard when I feel like my life is "not my own" right now and I have all these dreams of running away! (Easy to interpret those dreams!) I start Pharmacy Tech classes the first week of June through July. I pray my "old" brain can grasp and remember the information, pass the boards and I finally get a job! We've been using plastic like crazy to stay afloat and I need to pay it all back! I think my life has turned into a month of Monday's, if you know what I mean!

Dad

2009-05-02T20:52:00.000-07:00

After dad's fall and brain injury in March, things are turning around for the positive. We went through a period of almost loosing him to where he is now responding to speech, physical and occupational therapy. If he can get to the point of lifting himself to the chair, bed and bathroom, he can go into assisted living otherwise it would be something more like a nursing home. He does not want to live with any of his children, we all have offered. He really can't go home again, because he will always need some assistance with meals, medicine and home care. We are hoping to place him in the Phoenix Metro area since two of us live here and it is closer for the rest, we don't know yet if he will accept this. We just pray therapy works for him.

Left the nest!

2009-04-20T18:43:00.000-07:00

Empty nest syndrome again! I wasn't home, I was helping at my dad's house and I was hoping for at least one more picture so you all could see how fast they grew and how much they looked like humming birds now! But, Lee went out Sunday morning before church and saw both babies leave the nest with mama guiding them from above with their first flight experiences! I was hoping they would all return for one last glance of home but we've not seen them back. So farewell my little ones may your lives be precious and rewarding, you are always welcomed back for nectar!

One more!

2009-04-11T16:22:00.000-07:00

I forgot to add this picture! Can you tell I'm excited!

Spring Babies!

2009-04-11T15:52:00.000-07:00

Guess what everyone, They're Here! Yes, my sweet little mama humming bird had TWO babies! We're not sure what day, due to behavior, I am thinking Thursday. Anyway, Brandon climbed a ladder for these "shots". I know it's kind of hard to see, but they are there!

Dear Friends and Readers

2009-03-28T16:31:00.000-07:00

I have been absent and without Internet access for a while, helping my father through his "fall", brain injury, surgery and first stages of recovery. As for my "little lady" humming bird, no babies yet, but she spends longer and extended periods of time on the nest. I hope to keep all informed, so stay tuned...

A Nice Surprise!

2009-03-13T07:14:00.000-07:00

In some areas of the world, having a bird nest on your roof, chimney or somewhere on your house is considered "good luck"! At our house, we've decided, in the Southwest desert having a hummingbird nest at your house has got to be some kind of special sign! This sweet little lady is at the top where the porch swing hooks into the ceiling. She loves Chinese food, because she feasts on the blossoms of the Hong Kong orchid tree in our front yard!
We're pretty excited about it, and I go as far as humming lullabies when I sit out on the swing! Last year at the Home Depot near us they had a nesting humming bird in the garden center, after the baby hatched, you could occasionally see the mom feed the little chick. I've noticed now, that plant has already been sold! This is definitly a treasure to me!

"THEY"!!!

2009-03-08T18:54:00.003-07:00

Here I am again with a post for those wonderful "they" people! Why is it some people's goals and plans go just as expected, and then there is me, almost to the point of why bother! Even when I try to fool "them" and set the opposite, "they" know!!!
Next, what ever happen to the "principle" reason?! Don't excuse it as "culture", "a little doesn't matter" (in fact isn't that just like "a little bit pregnant"!?), or are we all really that capable to rationalize away everything and feel justified? I beg you all, go back to the real issue at hand, replace your sense with integrity and accountability! Stand for Principle, stand for Righteousness!
Yeah, I know, you'd be surprised by what I let bother me! I should go back, look in the mirror and evaluate myself, what an "eye-opener" that would be!
So, any way, the 4 years old kids weren't too "out of hand" today, not too many displeased looks when I had to tell them there would be no coloring today, I hope we continue on this uphill climb.

March

2009-03-04T14:21:00.000-08:00

Okay, it's March, still no employment. Exhausted from the many workshops to "update", "innovate"and "invigorate" this whole depressing process! Just enough info., to tell me how out of date or behind the times I am, and to go get some training! Okay, fine, but, I NEED INCOME NOW!

Signs of the Times

2009-02-26T15:23:00.000-08:00

We prayed and hoped this economy would not attack my husband's job, but alas 'twas not to be! So I have left my position of "Domestic Engineer" and am in the big wide mean world of the unemployed, seeking one of those very limited positions! After finding out how ill equipped I appear to be for today's work force, my days are ending up like these fine examples:

It's "Baby" ME!

2009-02-11T09:27:00.000-08:00

I've not been here in awhile, kind of like journal writing, not been there much either! But I thought I would add a "rare" glimpse of my past, as stated in a much earlier blog there are not may of these...

I'd say I'm about 18mos. old and we probably lived in Stephenville, Texas at this point.

Dreaming....

2009-01-27T07:15:00.000-08:00

My husband and son claim I have the weirdest, strangest dreams, I just find them interesting and perhaps creatively unusual. I tend to compress decades, all the people I've known and to stretch across the globe to get everything to happen in those few hours. And yes there are always some unusual occurrences, I prefer to call them interesting, whereas my family finds them rather strange! But this morning after listening to the news, I was hoping, actually praying that I would wake-up from this bad dream or tremendous nightmare! Having to check back into reality, I really think there should be a law that you have to balance the "bad" with the "good" when you are presenting the affairs of the world! I mean please, give us some hope!

2009-01-20T07:57:00.000-08:00

This can be fun and I know of things not on the list, I possibly have done some of these things or very similar things and don't exactly remember them or did them in a different way. For example I was almost born in Hawaii and I did tour the canals in Venice but it was on a ferry boat, we could not afford the gondolas while on my mission! Also, the portrait, for me was actually a drawing not painting, and I published an article, actually 2 of them, but not a book.

1. Started my own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than I can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sung a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught myself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown my own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitchhiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of my ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught myself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had my portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten caviar or escargot
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had my picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Been to a foreign country
Try this for yourself!

Equality/Inequality

2009-01-19T09:52:00.000-08:00

Having had somewhat of a unique position of being raised "in the military", and mainly military schools, gave or eliminated some perspectives on racism. The military is it's own "melting pot" and we were taught by and attended with every "color". Black, brown, red, yellow or white was always a constant in the various places I lived, so in my youth, I did not always understand the racism displayed on television or the news papers. On occasion when we attended "civilian" schools, we were occasionally the "minority", and still appeared to be accepted. As I grew older, even though it did subside significantly, I was appalled! But maybe more with those who seem to perpetuated or extend the distances even further by accentuating what would have been very minor differences. For references you can check out the DVD "Military Brats" or comments from the radio talk show host the "Black Avenger". I pray some day we can all always see through those "rose colored" lenses with all that is placed before us!

The New Year

2009-01-07T17:17:00.000-08:00

Okay, here it is, the beginning of the year. Chance to renew, start over, begin, lament, review, resolute and all those many adjectives we use, and I come up with pneumonia to kick off this beginning! So pardon me while I sniff, cough, choke and feel miserable through my entry! Tissues and partial filled glasses every where and no possible way to find comfort or relief for awhile! Well we've all been there a time or two, it's just hard having enough patience to "ride it out"!

2009

2008-12-31T20:54:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE !

Christmas Traditions

2008-12-24T06:38:00.000-08:00

This is NOT Swedish Fish. In fact it is hard candy in a lot of wonderful flavors! My father's father was from Madison Indiana where fish candy is a long standing Christmas treat! My father's grandmother would send Dad and his sister the candy for Christmas when they were children. About 16 years ago, I traveled to Madison to "unravel" some family history mysteries and found out about this little loved treat and was able to renew this tradition for my dad and his sister Aunt June! Here is a link that gives the whole story of more than 100 years: http://www.mundtscandies.com/! I keep a large container around to remind me of that fun and special part of my family history. It is really sweet both literally and figuratively! MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

I HAVE LIGHTS!

2008-12-21T11:04:00.000-08:00

Look! It's my house with Lights!!!

Brandon and I made a first attempt to hang with those "command hooks". We were sure it would work as we rarely get 115 degrees during December! We did our "artistic" best and then the storm and rain came! Guess what doesn't hold up when the wood gets wet! Anyway our live in professional, Lee, was not well pleased with mine and Brandon's effort, so he mustard the courage to touch lights again this year and "fixed" ours to the house! Well, yes, most of them are "Snowflakes"!

Nature's Jewels!

2008-12-10T07:17:00.000-08:00

I'm a snowflake girl, let me correct that! Not a "flake", but one who enjoys these little jewels! Maybe it's because I live in the desert and snowflakes are so very rare, practically non-existent here! (We do get a rare "snow day" about every 10 years or so!) But I have quite a collection from cotton, beads, glass and porcelain up to silver and crystal. Some of these I've made others I've found and some I have received from friends. Some have thought I was "nuts" for this grouping, but then I explain that these are actually "Angel Kisses"! Anyway, I just love these little lacy and delicate unique gifts from nature! I love their simple and quite Joy and Peace! Yes, I even have books on the magic and miracles of real snowflakes! I was even a member of a "Snowflake Club" we made several different kinds of snowflakes, but alas we've since have all gone our separate ways. So you see, this is why there are so many included in my Christmas decor! I do have to control my impulse to gather all that I see, so I have all this little limits throughout my collection of what I decide to keep! Watch out I may send some your way, they might be contagious to you too!

A Celebrity Among Us!

2008-11-30T18:34:00.000-08:00

Their will be no living with him now! Yes, this is my husband holding the light power box for "American Idol Top 5" Brooke White, to throw the switch! How was he selected, he had on a white shirt! Well it's actually a bit more than that! Lee not only is high counselor over our area at the Mesa temple for light decorating, but is also on the light committee that oversees everything. He's worked very hard since Oct., after work and on Saturdays ( who's the stranger in my bed)! Too bad the media spent more time on the candle vigil across the street of those supporting "gay rights" or something. Anyway, it's all in response to Arizona passing the 102 amendment of marriage being defined as being between one man and one woman. You'd think the LDS church was the whole cause for this the way people are reacting! But the news did show a few shots of the lights! If anyone has ever helped with the lights, then you know how hard it is to do those Sega palms, just multiply that 100 times as to the work Lee has done!

Happy Holidays

2008-11-28T07:13:00.000-08:00

The turkey was succulent, the pies divine!
The stuffing was savory
the green beans, yams, rolls and mashed potatoes were perfectly fine!
Cranberry and gravy topped it all off
But the best was the company it all brought!

Happy Holidays to All!

( stay out of the shopping lines!)

Is it? or Is it not?

2008-11-20T07:14:00.000-08:00

Is she or isn't she? Could it be or not? Maybe, maybe not? To be or not to be? Okay, here's the story! This plate has been hanging on my wall for at least 22 years. It is a print from a collection or series called "Gentle Love". The artist is A. Heesen Cooper and is entitled "Alexandra and Amy". My mother and one of my sisters found this in one of their favorite "knick knack" shops. They were so sure I had posed for this picture! I was expecting at the time and we all had hoped for a girl, because at this point there were no granddaughters. Even though I had a boy they gave it to me, because the complexion and profile of the baby matches my son. My mother took me to the store when Brandon was a baby in my arms, went to the owner and said "see I told you this is my daughter", pointing to me and the plate! The owner agreed with her and was impressed! At one place of residence I hung it above a chair I frequently sat in, and visitors asked me when I had posed for it. In another home it wasn't so obviously displayed, but when some one noticed it they asked "is that you?" (Mind you I'm getting older now and maybe it is not so apparent!) Now when it is noticed, only some people question if it could have possibly been me. I must admit though, when I first received it, I too, was so surprised at how much I thought it looked like me too! Even the expression and gesture! Normally when people say something reminds them of me, I don't agree, however with this portrait, I had to agree. I generally do not like pictures of me, but if they all came out similar to this I would be fine! So the story goes and I answer "what do you think?"!

Chandler Symphony

2008-11-08T07:30:00.001-08:00

Maybe it's not the world's foremost orchestra, however, they are quite a "Class Act"! My son is one of the cellist and they just gave a wonderful concert last night! Three of their 5 pieces were some of my favorites and on one of them, Brandon played principle in the 2nd smaller orchestra. This piece is "Fantasia on a tune by Thomas Tallis" by Ralph Vaughn Williams. Tallis was the court musician for King Henry VIII. Vaughn Williams took this beautiful line of melody, entitled "I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say" and just sent it through the most beautiful musical landscape! It is designed for a combination of a quartet, regular size orchestra and then the second small orchestra which is about the size of an octet. It kind of does a back and forth conversation or question and answer piece. Excerpts of this piece were heard on the movie"Master and Commander". It is one of the most beautiful pieces of a symphonic repertoire! Brandon does not have a degree in music, but is definitely a superb cellist! There are quite a number of professionals (paid musicians) with notoriety who are members of the symphony and they consistently complement Brandon on his skills and playing ability! The Chandler Symphony is funded mainly by donations so their concerts are free with the exception of the once-a-year fund raiser. One can send a donation at anytime or even sponsor a musician and then your name is credited in the program! We are grateful Brandon has continued to play and even though he will not tell you, deep down inside he is very grateful too ( he accidentally revealed this to me!).

2008-10-28T08:37:00.000-07:00

Okay Suzanne some of the movies I saw that were on your list were August Rush, Enchanted and the Notebook,this one an earlier year. Others I saw not on your list, 27 Dresses-funny in some spots, Emma-okay, but I expected something different and The Return to the Secret Garden-kind of a 3rd,4th generation, contemporary return with a girl soccer player, it was good. That's probably about it, I am sure I watched some other DVDs but I guess they didn't impress me enough to remember them! There are some I still wish to see, maybe or maybe not, I'll see them before the year is over!

Some thoughts on Patriotism

2008-10-08T08:30:00.000-07:00

I really love this country, in spite of faults, mistakes, bad choices & etc. . Living in other countries really has made me realize how fortunate and Lucky I really am to be a citizen! I believe in voting what a privilege and right! To be a true patriot you have to support those in command and if you can not agree, than do all you can to make that change through our democratic process. If you "run away", ie. to another country, just because you don't like something, then you were never a patriot, especially if you never tried to make a difference. We do not always get the "prime" people running in office, but we must consider the whole picture, the president is only one third of the governing trio and the senate and congress have the other two thirds to promote our interest, so we are not voting for an "all powerful king"! Be responsible in your choice studying all areas or don't bother complaining if you do not like what's happening, especially if you do not vote!

Life in Mesa...

2008-09-15T08:50:00.000-07:00

I want to share with you all a clip of what we've been doing for a while. We started this whole project in 2003 and it has really become a "smooth production" from a puzzling start.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pedESthzJo

Quirks!

2008-09-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

Quirks! I can't think of that many, maybe I can make up some, we'll see how this goes! One thing for sure, and I found out this is genetic because my father and his father have/had this too, I have to hang on to the bed post or headboard at night! It only has to be a slight touch, usually it's a full grab, but if I don't, I generally fall out of bed! (Ask my mission companions, you know you don't get much to hang on to with a cot, and they thought I was "jumping" out so excited to get started on the day, even at 2am!)

Next, if I bring in the mail, books or paper, I have to be the one who reads everything first, then I'll pass it on to you.

Again with the mail, out going or incoming, it has to be sorted by size, ie. smaller pieces on top, larger or longer on the bottom.

I like to put things away when I am finished using them, where they belong, so I can find them if I need it again.

I don't mix my dish cleaning tools with other cleaning tools, just too unsanitary for me!

I have a bit of a fetish for towels of all things, I like them looking fresh, in sets and not faded!

I was taught to set a table a certain way and if I am somewhere, where it is done different, I have often caught myself quietly trying to make the change with out being noticed in the process!

I almost hate to go on, my whole lifestyle might just be a big Quirk!

Life goes on!

2008-09-07T16:22:00.000-07:00

Well here it is ! Brandon's first car! A Dodge Avenger SXT! I am not allowed to call it "cute", apparently that does not fit it's name! He is excited, Dad is excited and well Mom is too, but there's a mix there too! Those of you who are dealing with your children growing up too fast, gaining too much independence and freedom so quickly, know what I mean! After all, I spent all these years trying to teach, encourage, inspire and protect him. It's not that I don't want him to "fly" on his own, I will always wonder, did I do and say enough, did he understand, does he know no matter what, the "worry & concern" never really goes away even though he has become a responsible adult! Yes, I've loved being his mother, I've watched him become his own person (and believe me, it wasn't exactly what I had planned-?) and am grateful for many choices he has made on his own, but he is still my special "little baby boy" that Heavenly Father entrusted me with and I never took that responsibility lightly, so many emotions involved! I always wanted more children, I don't know if that would have made it any easier, probably not, always a mixed blessing this life is!

Books and Clubs

2008-09-05T17:08:00.000-07:00

So many people I know are involved in one kind or another, Book Clubs! I have read many of the books of the clubs my friends belong to and often ask, "what are you reading this month?". Although I frequently read the book (not in the ascribed time frame), I never have joined a club, usually due to schedule, distance, availability or what have you. I was listening to some perfect strangers talk about their club and what they were reading, I also noticed another friend listing as one of her favorite books, is also one of mine, so I decided to "chime in" and solicit another all time favorite, which to me is a type of "ode" to them all - "And the Ladies of the Club"! (I also thought this would make a great movie if done right!). It may have a lot of pages, but it reads fast! It has been more than 20 years since I've read it, but it played an important role in my life at that time!

Where is it that I live?

2008-08-29T15:25:00.000-07:00

Heat of the desert, humidity of the swamp, rain and wind of the hurricane, thunder and lightening of the rain forest, where is it that I live, Oh yeah, Mesa, a suburb of Phoenix, oh and it is still the "Monsoon" season. Yeah, ducks probably could swim in the backyard last night, fish too! But then it dries up pretty fast, that would leave a rather pungent smell! We were lucky this time, not to loose any trees, gazebos or other yard goodies! But wow, Tempe, just down the street lost their $8 million air conditioned tent for the ASU football practiced field, which they had just barely finished building, umm, I wonder how the school of engineering is explaining that one this morning? Whew, that was a fun one, power out everywhere practically, decapitated trees, smashed roofs and cars, another typical and fun summer in Arizona!

"Jenibelle"

2008-08-26T05:50:00.000-07:00

To all of you who, for some reason felt that I was the anonymous blogger that Jen wrote about, IT STOPS HERE! Reasons in my defense:
1. I did not write on her birthday blog, I meant too but inadvertly commented on the one below.
2. All the comments I have written, as of last viewed, are still there.
3. I felt her daughters wedding was FUN, EXCITING, WONDERFUL, and beautiful...
4. As far as I can tell they are a very loving family, Jen impresses me as a person with a lot of caring and compassion.
5. I thought her birthday blog was very clever, fun and a joy to read!
I did write two comments because I felt terrible someone would do something negative to such a neat and beautiful person who is so full of love for life! I may be quite opinionated, but I am generally thought to be kind by those who actually know me. I very much enjoy her "Where is my white picket fence" blog and appreciate all that she shares with everyone! I again feel it was terrible that someone said derogatory things to her , so for that I apologize!

Is there enough for everyone?

2008-08-20T15:29:00.000-07:00

It's been one of those days when I concerned myself too much with my own issues and problems, only to receive devastating news from others I really care about. A young husband with no insurance gets a tooth pulled instead of fixed-to save money, just to find out from that he has non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. A close friend whose mother just went through having a brain tumor operation, healing and therapy(which has been pretty well drawn out) just to find out her father has a brain tumor, probably malignant and the cancer probably will be found as having started elsewhere-she is the only child, oh, and her father had just recently gone through a double bypass. I still have not recouped from my mother's death nor the close call with my father, do we really have enough coping skills? Is there really enough blessings/hope available? I really don't like finding myself questioning this, I want to be strong and fearless in the face of all difficulties, oppositions and dis-heart-ments, but I find that I am so very weak and vulnerable, I just find my brain spinning! I want to do, say and pray all the right things but so often I feel I come short, I guess I probably really think I want to fix everything, to avoid grief and sorrow(yeah, we all know whose plan that is!) With all so much world grief and tragedy, how do we still exist? Such a "school of hard knocks" none of us can avoid!

The Way I See It

2008-08-18T18:51:00.000-07:00

I lost the original message, so I will try to repeat it. As the title of my blog says, this is my opinion. I try to be real and me. At this point I've not gone into the controversial areas, even so I consider this a forum, wherein I can express what I stand for. I am not here to convince, change or discredit anyone, rather I feel we need to respect each other's opinions. I apologize for those who did not see humor when I attempt to express it whether sarcastic or not. Generally I do want to be and strive to be a nice and kind person. I do not claim to be any sort of writer and have impressed myself with anything I've already done! I enjoy the many different blogs I have read and pray my comments have not been misunderstood.

Home for Now

2008-08-09T21:02:00.000-07:00

Change in "target" date for my dad is now Sept. 2nd. It's okay, everything is going well now, and I am not running down to Tucson every week. His infection(s) was so severe he nearly died from it, but now is very much back to himself! Therapy is going well and seems to show progress daily, we are all so relieved!

Surviving

2008-08-02T09:13:00.000-07:00

Dad is showing signs of improvement, but still has a lot of work towards literally getting back on his feet! The target date is Aug 26th, provided he can at least use a walker, which he is working on in physical therapy. He had his left knee cleaned out of the infection and some parts replaced. This is the third and final time otherwise they will have to remove the knee and fuse and shorten the leg. After he is off IV antibiotics, he will be on a "maintenance" dose for the rest of his life, hopefully to avoid a recurrence of the bacteria. Two of my sisters and a niece have been helpful with all the trips to Tucson and time sharing to keep dad going, at first he appeared to be giving up, but tries harder now. All those nice visits has rewarded me with some type of sinus and cold condition, so I need to "lay low" for awhile.

The Long Summer Dulldrumns

2008-07-19T09:09:00.001-07:00

Okay, I feel justified in expressing my "normal" summer complaints. Even though Phoenix/Tempe has had Great monsoon rains thus far, at my house on the east edge of Mesa we have had barely a trickle! The 110's & 111's have returned, this time with a higher dew point so no "dry heat" here! Maybe, just maybe we will get some rain at my house this weekend, of course I won't be here...my dad is in the VA hospital in Tucson. Not sure of all the issues, unknown bacterial infections in his legs, exploratory operation on Monday and who knows what else! This time I am sharing shifts with two sisters who live in-state, but mine is the "long haul" due to being the only "stay at home" mom of the group. As I said before it is so hard to watch ones parents grow old, my poor son will have no one to share it with when it's mine and Lee's turn, of course the world could end before then, what's that new prediction? Dec. 21, 2012?

20 years ago today....

2008-07-11T18:22:00.000-07:00

Okay Cynthia, I'm not sure my memory will be very accurate!

So lets see, 20 years ago...
I had an adorable 2 year old
I ran a day care (for 8 years)
Settled into a house we bought one year earlier
Still full of hopes and dreams

10 years ago...
Finally finished replacing everything in the house, floor, air conditioning, evapcooler (twice), stove,oven,dishwasher (twice), paint and wallpaper
Found out interesting information about my family and genealogy and that "Hooper" was never suppose to be my last name (maiden name)
Brandon started cello lessons and was exceeding quite nicely, this also may have been the year we had to buy a cello instead of renting!
Some where in between 10 & 20 years we went back east, first time for Lee and Brandon to experience fireflies.
Also acquired a dog and two parakeets

5 years ago...
We were building the house we are now in, we moved in Sept. 2003
Brandon toured Europe with his high school honor orchestra
Brandon would graduate from high school in the spring
Lee has pretty much had the same job all this time, although the business moved several times and changed ownership once
Within this time the dog and parakeets died, not all at once
Brandon started working to save money for his mission which he would go on in April of 2006

Last Year...
My mother died in May
My dad had several surgeries
My eldest sister had a bleeding ulcer
My next to the eldest sister was hit by a car and suffered several injuries, which also required her to move and she had to have assistance because she was not mobile at this point
I had 3 "fun" stints in the hospital 2 for infections and one for an angio gram
I lost some weight (surprise!)
I had "coined" this year "MY Year of Unfortunate Events"

This year (so far)...
My son returned from his mission, Yeah! He was so MISSED!
Gained back the weight
I was released after serving 3+ years as Relief Society President
I teach the 5-6 years old in Primary
Trying to learn how to parent a "green" adult

Today...
Caught up on some work and visits

Tomorrow...
Errands, practices, lesson preparations
Next Year...
I have a "grandiose" plan for some home improvements
Rob a bank, oops! I mean find the funds to support my "grandiose" plan
Make sure my son has some more schooling completed
Dream up some more "grandiose" plans and wish that some day I would actually accomplish them!

Refreshing...

2008-07-11T08:11:00.000-07:00

Some got more, some got less, it is here at last (sigh) the rain....

Just a Change

2008-07-09T13:16:00.000-07:00

Not much to say today, but did work out some of the photo issues by changing the layout. Still searching for a few more different or interesting photos, they are probably not on the computer as of yet!

So....

2008-07-07T17:34:00.000-07:00

I just figured out on my own how to find some pictures and put them on. BUT, I cannot seem to put them where I want them nor control their size! Please forgive me while I experiment!

10 points of July

2008-07-07T09:18:00.000-07:00

July, hot!
July, humid! (yes even in the desert!)
July, dust storms!
July, disappointment! (Rats! Lots of clouds, but no rain today!)
July, birthdays and celebrations!
July, vacations for some!
July, long!
July, short!
July, a little cooler! (but you can't tell with the increased humidity!)
July, Ahhh! A little refreshing rain! (Hopeful!)

The "They" People

2008-06-30T20:44:00.000-07:00

We have all heard from them or about them from time to time. I personally have never met any of them, but it seems their advise or knowledge is pretty freely given. Where does one gain all this intellect and wisdom these folks have acquired? Where was I when it was all being passed out? Where was their scholastic achievement completed? How does one actually get to meet them, face to face? These geniuses must be able to depart of their knowledge to other "they" people to continue their species! How does one qualify to meet, or become one? Who told the "they" people "what they say"?! Qualify yourself! Give me multiple references! Appear! Show yourself, don't hide behind your title! Ah! Is it honesty or integrity you shy from? Is it fear of the "known"? Be at peace, someday the rest of us will KNOW!

"Life's Hard"

2008-06-24T11:09:00.000-07:00

I have not been available lately as my father had a "falling" accident. So being the closest travel-wise, "child" I have been in Sierra Vista trying to help and assist. Having to watch my Strong, Courageous, Able bodied, skilled, Army Col. dad slowly deteriorate is very heart breaking. I wish we could all just have "normalness" as we mature and then "Poof" your gone when your time is up. My dad said last year at the death of my mom that he planned to live to be 100. Not that impossible, there is longevity on his side, but it won't be "smooth & easy" if he does make it. Dad unfortunately, due to two knee replacements and another knee surgery and being 80 years old, cannot do some essential things without assistance, but he does not yet accept that he needs daily assistance and that his driving is quite undesirable! His sight is very good, but the driving is beyond scary! Fortunately, he did not break anything this time, but was literally stuck for 2 or more hours, could not get out and could not get his cell phone out of his pocket in the position he was in. We have since talked him into an alert program. I can only hope if and when I get there, I accept the council of those who care. Good luck to you all!