Love My Cottage Garden

running away

2011-03-30T09:02:00.002-05:00

Isn't my mom beautiful!!!

friday i will run away again,

i will run to the coast and hill country,

i hope it will lift my spirits,

lately days have been rough, super duper rough,

i really don't even wanna be around,

the pain is too heavy,

how will i survive without her,

she was my go to girl,

my everyday talk,

my lifter upper,

i miss her so much,

i have to run,

my heart is too heavy to stay,

i need a change of scenery,

my dear husband will help me escape the misery,

if only for a moment i could feel good,

i sure hope the bluebonnets are there,

i cannot wait to feel the sand in my toes,

and smell the ocean air,

surely that will snap me out of this horrible dark stretch of days.

Look whats blooming

2011-03-23T12:05:00.001-05:00

Wisteria

Snowball

Yellow Lady Banks Rose

Cross Vine

Verbena

Bridal Wreath

Mom's favorite Clematis

Spring Break Campout at Lake Ray Roberts

2011-03-19T17:36:00.000-05:00

Roasting Marshmellows

Kylee jumping waves (windy day at lake)

Luke jumping his wave!!

Sand Play

Fishing

Lake is low, loved natures art!

Peace in the sand, who doesnt like to bury themselves in sand?

Bella joined in on the fun.

It got so hot (almost 90) so we got out the swimsuits. ; )

Luke buried everything and said he was burying treasure. He made a treasure map. Kylee was a Pirate and tried to steal his treasure. We asked Luke "What does a pirate do?" his answer was "Not brush his teeth"

Adorable

Hiking

Biking

April Playing Ball with Luke

Uncle Roby teaching how to climb trees

by the end of each day exhaustion set in!

We really loved Ray Roberts Lake, Isle de bois Unit. It started out at 30 degrees the first day of camp(Monday) and by the last day (Friday) it was a whopping 85+.

Saw my friend and went for a hug

2011-03-07T17:45:00.000-06:00

Today I saw one of my dear friends, while I was on my way to dad's house. I couldn't resist so I turned around and pulled in the parking lot, jumped out, and scurried over for a great big comfort hug. I was so glad I did because then she asked me to walk with her and we got to visit and catch up on life. I needed this wonderful surprise today. Thank you, Joyismygoal!!!

Daffodil Smile and turning 20

2011-02-24T13:06:00.000-06:00

A few days ago my Baby Girl turned the big 20!

I don't have a teenager anymore :( ....is that good or bad?

We went to the Japanese Palace to celebrate!!

This morning I found a smile!

Spring is not to far away when my daffodils say Hello!!!

Grief

2011-02-17T00:28:00.000-06:00

With the good weather lately,
I have been out walking,
which in turn makes me start thinking,
which then makes me start missing my mom,
which then makes me start crying,
it has been three weeks but it feels like forever,
how will I do this,
going through my mind is all the things I would like to share with her,
I talk to her and then I sound like a looney,
so then I just talk in my mind,
my mind races a lot,
I am suffering,
I bounce from pretend happy
to really sad,
to numb,
to angry,
I don't want to become bitter
but I feel that I already am,
why did she have to die so young,
we have been the bestest of friends for such a long time,
I miss you mom....

I am thankful for the time we had

and

I am so thankful for what you taught me

I love you

always and forever!

I hate the word cancer

2011-01-20T08:01:00.000-06:00

Cancer is evil.
It is a devious beast.
We must find a cure.
I wish I was smarter.
I pray that someone finds a way to kill this horrible life stealing disease.

Niagara Falls is breathtaking!!

2010-10-26T18:36:00.000-05:00

Last week we took Mom and Dad to Niagara Falls!

Foliage was at PEAK!

Night view from Canada, They light up the falls.
This is the American Falls.

There is an awesome mist that the falls create.

Mother basking in the sun looking strikingly beautiful!

Here is a view from our hotel, The Giacomo!

Everyone should visit the falls at least once in their life!!

3 miles up 3 miles down SiPaPu

2010-09-23T07:29:00.000-05:00

more pix from last months trip...hiking so intensely that my big toenail is about to finally fall off. ew!

Sipapu, NM hiking the rio pueblo

2010-08-29T13:07:00.002-05:00

This is as far as I got on this log. This river fast and making me dizzy!Hummers at war!

Mountain Aster

Meditating on the Mountain, my favorite past time.

Taos Pueblo visit

2010-08-20T10:54:00.000-05:00

Rain the first 10 days of July....awesome

2010-07-10T08:08:00.000-05:00

It has been a wonderful break to the summer heat wave. North Texas has seen rain...day after day after day!...My grass is green, tomatoes are plump and mosquitos are wild. I try to pull weeds but get bit and run away and say maybe another day......

Time for some Baseball

2010-06-13T08:38:00.000-05:00

butterfly conservatory

2010-06-13T08:01:00.000-05:00

In March we visited the Butterfly Conservatory.Releasing more...

Happy Hollyhock

2010-05-18T09:00:00.000-05:00

These hollyhocks never let me down.

I grew these from hand me down seeds last year

and they came back to greet me again.

Lovin' it!

Bees arrived

2010-05-17T09:44:00.000-05:00

Another May and another hive, this time in my backyard vitex.

How long does it take to make honey? heehee

This is one nice sized hive!!!!!

Casey James in Fort Worth Homecoming

2010-05-16T19:34:00.000-05:00

We went to see Casey perform in the Stockyards this past week.

He is a great performer and plays the guitar with such passion.

Happy Moms day

2010-05-09T17:53:00.000-05:00

I have the most awesome mom in the world!

larkspur is tall

2010-05-09T17:49:00.000-05:00

Some are taller than Kylee sitting.

And some are taller then her when she is standing!!!! Lovin my larkspur!

cool poppy

2010-05-09T17:46:00.000-05:00

This poppy jumped out at me today!

Happy May Day!!! POPPY time : ) and larkspur too!

2010-05-01T15:29:00.000-05:00

Then and Now

2010-04-23T14:25:00.001-05:00

What a difference 5 years can make!!!

Hill Country Bluebonnets BEST SEASON EVER

2010-04-22T15:31:00.000-05:00

I Learned that bluebonnets grow just about anywhere!

I also learned that bluebonnets are very hard to photograph!

This year has been the most abundant amount of flowers in 50 years, especially in Mason County.

We traveled the back roads for 4 days, logged in over 800 miles and smelled the sweetest smells, as well as viewing the best bluebonnets at peak going on up hills and thru fields as far as the eye can see.

All I need to say is GO,

do not wait any longer.

If you would like to know some awesome places I will tell you some!We had a picnic here! Best EVER!

Arbor Bliss

2010-04-16T10:44:00.000-05:00

My Zephrine Rose Arbor, ummm so sweet!

the sweetest fragrance drifts across my landscape

2010-04-14T09:08:00.000-05:00

Old Blush climberTruly wonderful place to pot plants. Yummy sweet aroma!

This is my sweet zephrine and oh my it covers the entire arbor!

Texas bluebonnet that found its way into my garden!! What a wonderful surprise!!!

broccoli is coming along nicely!

Rabbit attacks lettuce

2010-04-09T08:24:00.002-05:00

See what rabbits do, they steal your food.

You can see the blood meal I sprinkled on the left of the picture.

It is supposed to keep the rabbits away from MY feast.
Funny thing is they only liked the green buttercrunch.
They did not touch the red leaf.

the ultimate snowball

2010-04-09T08:20:00.004-05:00

I love these Texas Spring Snowballs! Viburnums are the best this year especially!

snow for spring :(

2010-03-21T08:22:00.003-05:00

snow is pretty but not on the 1st day of spring in Texas.

right now honolulu is sounding like a great place to hang my hat.

I dug up the tomatoes,

put them in a bucket in the kitchen

until spring decides to return.

is spring finally here?

2010-03-17T09:55:00.006-05:00

I do looooooooooooooove spring!!!

snowball bush pre bloom

last fall i planted 100 daffodils

my new tomato place

chinese pistachio is budding

lettuce, spinach, broccoli and cabbage

these are the daffodils i planted in 2005

when we moved into our house

this years neon yellow

cool front expected this weekend,

bring out the buckets to cover tomatoes!!

cool season vegies planted

2010-02-21T17:17:00.002-06:00

This week after the snow melted I finally put the cool season lettuce, broccoli, cabbage, etc. in the garden. Now it is supposed to snow again. Oh well, bring out the sheets. If they don't get planted I won't have any salad because soon enough we will have an unrelenting heatwave.

last fall I planted 100 daffodils and they are starting to come up all over

(note in top right of photo lilann decided to plant her dog bone)

One of my viburnum is starting to blossom

winter honeysuckle had some bees today

larkspur sprouting all around Annabelle!

vegies hanging in there for now

wishing away all future snowfalls until next winter..........................oh please stay away snow and frozenness!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

record snowfall family fun

2010-02-13T15:23:00.004-06:00

here is the final measurement!!!! it is a RECORD 4 SURE!!!

I ventured out to feed my birds in the cold snow

while my poochie stays in the warm house!looking down on the record snowfall from upstairs,

birds are feasting below!

i wonder if a birdie is hiding in this house?

Ben's classic truck looks cool!

a bonnet formed on my light post :)

Bays car made an avalanche!!

we decided to make a snow family

goofing off

snow in action, Roby lounging in his shorts

(baby its cold outside)

Ben and Roby molded together lilann! hehehe

what u do when it snows

2010-02-13T15:14:00.003-06:00

sisters having fun thinking about slidin real fast

posing for Aunt Kim by Marine Creek lake

Luke sleddin with his Texas cowboy boots!

Here goes Kylee!!! speeding by

snow dog in snow measured by a yardstick in Texas

2010-02-11T13:58:00.003-06:00

Totally awesome!!! 7 1/2 inches and still falling!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!my lovely snowcovered yard

Lilann in her snow sweater and she still headed straight for the door!

NOT a snow dog!!! hehehe

finally a good snow cone

2010-02-11T10:27:00.003-06:00

my beautiful bottle tree Annabelle's new hat!

would you like to have some tea on my eclectic patio

best grape mango snow cone since 2004

YUMMY

Christmas snow pictures....finally downloaded

2010-01-13T17:04:00.001-06:00

Winter has arrived in Texas!!

2009-12-02T09:15:00.002-06:00

This morning was fun and beautiful!!

Eureka Springs color

2009-10-19T11:02:00.005-05:00

We spent last week in Eureka Springs area. Camping and having a peaceful relaxing time. I will be posting pictures for a taste of fall in the days to come.

Butterfly's 1st moments

2009-09-11T18:02:00.003-05:00

Ben captured this butterfly emerging for its first moments in the sunlight!

Yard Shots

2009-08-14T10:33:00.007-05:00

Texas heat is getting this....

our new friend

lovin the rain

2009-07-20T11:42:00.001-05:00

FINALLY.........................RAIN....AWESOME RAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

back from Uk and France

2009-05-31T09:45:00.003-05:00

WE made it back from our 25th anniversary trip to Europe! I loved it!!!!!!!!!!!beautiful gardens, my dream gardens and rock walls galore.
the yard made it thru us being gone, my kids did a good job in the caretaking. with bays grad party coming up next week i have a lot to take care of !!!!!!!!!!!!!

New camera....lots to learn

2009-05-03T13:56:00.005-05:00

Hollyhocks and poppies with a princess too

2009-04-28T20:28:00.004-05:00

Seleta's neighbor gave her some seed last year and she shared with me. THis is what it gave me!

This was a cool shot!

My favorite of course is this pretty princess at her 1st grade program!~

Zephrine sweet rose

2009-04-15T19:30:00.003-05:00

Here are the buttercups that I have been fighting all spring. Still going strong as I keep pulling! Snowball bush is in full show!
Best for last...here is my sweet beautiful rose, the zephrine rose.

It covers the arbor in the backyard.

Both sides are exquisite!

Happy 1st day of APRIL

2009-04-01T12:50:00.002-05:00

I am so happy that April is here!

The first full month of spring!

April Showers bring May flowers.

May is when I see England and Paris!Here are some pix of my snowball bush above and my Zephrine Rose below.

Such sweet yummy smells when I tour the garden.

Garden in March

2009-03-22T15:24:00.004-05:00

Bridal Wreath is in bloom!Yellow lady banks
my fave stepping stone

My mom had my camera for an entire month and did not even know it. Yay!! I can post again with photos!!

Everything is looking SPRINGY!!Here are those persistant butter cups that I have been chasing! And a limestone pathway that I started with my free collected stones.

My new hammock is relaxing!

Here is my bright green lettuce.

My vegies are all hoping that we do NOT have a hail storm this year!

Happy Birthday Roby!!!

Spring Break

2009-03-16T11:23:00.002-05:00

Since my kids have finished school and are not in spring semester college Spring Break has suddenly lost its meaning. We are not going anywhere! boohoo...

Today I will spring clean and then work in the yard.

I still have not found that camera, I am going to have to buy a replacement. Any suggestions? It needs to be easy and fast with a 10x optical zoom.

I did however uncover the big house folder that we received when we bought our home. It has all the important info in it and I had misplaced it along with Bay's birth certificate and ss card. Wow, my new philosopy is to not keep something "JUST IN CASE" we now live in a "just in time" age and I am going to take advantage of it by trying to simplify my LIFE!

Where is my camera?

2009-03-08T19:14:00.002-05:00

I have misplaced my camera and it is frustrating!!! I have lots to take pictures of and golly gee where did I put that thing.....????? The day has been beautiful, still waiting for rain..... The garden is coming alive and many blossoms to enjoy.

On another subject...after many days of planning we have finally made all of our reservations for the UK/France trip. WOW it was challenging to decide. It is going to be an enlightening experience for us! 2 weeks of overseas travel!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OrGaNiZiNg

2009-03-05T18:06:00.002-06:00

I spent 6+ hours today organizing my Aunt's craft room. It was a catch all room, if you know what I mean. It caught all of everything that needed to disappear quickly and then if was not available for use when it was needed. So Baylee and I worked at her home all day well not exactly all day but long enough to get 75% done and then give her some assignments to tackle before we return next week. For me organizing is relaxing. It is where you get immediate satisfaction. Order is restored and everything feels right when it is in its place. I have to say I am addicted to simplicity and organization in the home. I am energized and need to purge a few of my own things but first I will relax with a few cookies and tea!

Where is the rain hiding?

2009-03-04T21:34:00.003-06:00

I look outside and sit and wonder....will it ever rain again?

The ground seems so so so dry almost desert like.

A few seedlings are sprouting

but they will soon die off if mother nature doesn't serve up a feast soon.

Windblown is what happened today when I toured the garden.

It was indeed warm and tomorrow will be warmer.

Where is the rain hiding?

Beautiful day

2009-03-03T17:14:00.003-06:00

Today is beautiful.

Ben and I worked on cleaning more buttercups out of the healing garden. Ugh...too many buttercups! Roby is making Shish Ka Bobs on the barBQ for dinner YUMMY! I managed to REPLANT the lettuce that I pulled up in a frenzy before the twenty degree weather hit. They look happy except for a few blackened leaves I had to remove. Hopefully it will not get THAT cold again but in Texas you never know. March came in like a lion!!!!!!!!ROAR!!!

Heatwave and spring fever

2009-02-27T13:27:00.003-06:00

I feel some SPRING fever comin on!!!

Yesterday was indeed a heatwave.

This week I have spent most of my time outside.

I have enjoyed

walking the dog daily,

building a stone sidewalk (not yet complete),

watering seedlings and transplants,

admiring the blooming daffodils

(I hope to plant 100 next year, I just love these cheery flowers),

spray painting some frames and bunnies,

reading on my adriondack chair,

bird watching,

planning what needs to be done(if I wanna do it)

and so on...it has been a terrific soul filling week.

And now today it is cooling off and feels like the usual February day!

I cannot believe March is sooooooo clooooooose!!!!!!!!!

Lettuce is planted!

2009-02-24T18:29:00.003-06:00

Finally the moon is right and I planted my lettuce. I still cannot locate any spinach at the nurseries yet. Maybe tomorrow! Beautiful gorgeous, glad I live in Texas type of day. Long walk for the dog and me, It is time to prepare for hiking thru Europe!!! Smile!

Happy Birthday Baylee

2009-02-23T07:52:00.000-06:00

Yesterday

my baby girl turned the big 18.

Happy Birthday Sunshine!!

Cool Season vegies need rain

2009-02-18T07:22:00.002-06:00

Finally the moon was right last week and I planted the root vegies (asparagus, potatoes, carrots, onions, & more onions). Now I need rain....

Ben transplanted a few plants for me and they need rain.... oh where oh where is the rain???? I have lettuce and broccoli waiting for the right moon next week and then maybe then we will receive that rain.... until then I will just water away all the new transplants and vegies!

Today is calling for 75 degrees and sunshine, I plan on enjoying it. I hope to even find some photographic moments to post on here.

Sipapu Ski Trip

2009-02-09T18:16:00.004-06:00

Last week we went on a family ski trip! NINE of us...........it was a blast!

Day 3 and Roby is zonked!

Bay and her silly hat!

Cabin time

Uncle Randall and Morgan having a great day on the slopes!

Kim posing silly for Bay!

Some of the gang

My adorable children!

Great Book

2009-02-08T18:34:00.003-06:00

I just finished reading an awesome book that my Aunt Debbie gave me to read on our Ski Trip!!

Same kind of Different as me. By Ron Hall and Denver Moore. Excellent read about friendship between a wealthy art dealer and a homeless man that spent part of his life as a slave and how a wonderful lady brought them together with some Heavenly assistance. This is a true story that takes place in Fort Worth, Texas!!

Yesterday's ice

2009-01-29T18:13:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was a little messy!

More Poppy seeds planted

2009-01-25T19:15:00.003-06:00

I planted the rest of my poppy seeds in the fresh bedding mix.

I am waiting for one more shipment of seeds and then I will be ready for spring time beauty.

It turned out to be a sunshiny day but I hear that cold and maybe a wintry mix is on the way!

Winter is NOT my favorite time of year.

I guess that is why I plant my seeds and wait for spring to arrive.

Beautiful Texas Day

2009-01-22T18:03:00.002-06:00

We had a little taste of spring in the air today. I love it. I rode my bike with my neice and nephew and then we took lilann for a walk by the creek (where a saw 4 deer crossing this morning). I did a little yard work and soaked in the sunshine. Tomorrow is supposed to be warm too, then the weekend oooohhh yucky! I planted some poppy seeds, larkspur, and birdeyes in the new compost that Ben spread out yesterday. One more load to go and the new flower bed will be ready for planting. As I gaze out my window I realize things are building up around us, but I think that is alright for now since the deer are still around.

Inauguration Day Bliss

2009-01-20T09:46:00.004-06:00

I have been waiting for this day with much anticipation!
Welcome Mr. President Barack Obama!
Welcome to the beautiful, strong 1st Lady, Michelle,
and of course, welcome to your wonderful excited daughters!
Today is glorious.
Your peaceful disposition is an inspiration to us all!

Kidney Stones are hereditary

2009-01-19T20:20:00.003-06:00

Last week Baylee and I spent a painful night in the ER at Baylor All Saints. She was in horrendous pain and I rushed her there for relief. What a mess!! This hospital was not ready to help my baby girl at the speed we would have liked! In the end we found out what was causing the pain....................kidney stones................just what I had suspected in the first place since I have been present each time my dear hubby has had kidney stones and there is a distinct behavior one exhibits when they are in such evil pain. UGH!

She managed to pass another stone last night. All I can say is next time we will try another ER

but we all sincerely hope there is not another such severe episode.

New Orleans

2009-01-15T09:12:00.006-06:00

Roby's parents celebrated their 50th anniversary last week.

Eight of us got together for a celebration trip to New Orleans!

We stayed in this beautiful hotel that was built in 1907. We visited a cool cemetary.

Notice they bury their dead above ground due to the fact that when you dig down 1 to 2 feet there is water. The graveyards are so verrrry interesting.
Here is one of the pretty rooms.

The St. Louis Cathedral was spectacular.

Bourbon Street was full of strange and kinda sad.

Here we had the happy couple pose like it was the 1800's.

Pretty elevator doors even though we took the stairs.

Group pose in hotel lobby.

Mardi Gras Masks at the French Market.

Leprechaun on Bourbon Street!

Eating Beignets at Cafe Du Monde.

This summer we are going to visit Europe and celebrate our 25th and their 50th.

I hope when Roby and I celebrate our 50th we have their spunk.

Drums

2009-01-07T20:34:00.003-06:00

Baylee got a set of drums for Christmas, I really like them.

I think I may learn how to play if I can find any rhythm!

Goldfinches Galore

2009-01-04T10:14:00.003-06:00

They put up an ugly fence outside my kitchen window.

I decided to make use of it and hung a goldfinch feeder!

Wow, the back porch feeder is popular! All pretty goldfinches eating me out of thistle. This is what I love about January.

This morning a giant hawk wanted to make a meal out of my birdies.
I ran him off before I snapped a photo of him.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T19:38:00.002-06:00

Ha Ha, I am a party pooper, last night I was alone

(Roby worked and the kids were with friends)

so I went to sleep with my chihuahua at 9pm.

It felt great to get some rest until the fireworks woke me at midnight.

I am looking forward to an adventuresome 2009 full of TRAVEL!

Our first trip is next weekend to New Orleans.

Then skiing in February and Europe for our 25th this summer!

Of course there will be lots of camping trips and maybe even a cruise.

Plus a fun graduation party for Baylee this spring.

Busy year for the Judge Family!!!!!!!!!!!!

Merry Christmas to ALL!

2008-12-25T09:24:00.003-06:00

ICE! in Grapevine

2008-12-14T13:05:00.004-06:00

Beautiful....9 degrees!

They handed out parkas!!

I love the reindeer slopes!

We walked a LOT!

Kylee didn't feel very well but tried to enjoy herself.

The detail in the Nativity was amazing.

Luke loved sliding. He wanted to go on the bigger one but he wasn't tall enough!

Santa was there but they did not want to sit on his cold lap.

Roby and Luke peeking thru the window! Luke had a blast.

Eagle Mountain Park

2008-12-12T14:51:00.003-06:00

We visited the new Eagle Mountain park last weekend.

Hiking was nice, we saw a buck.

The trails were simple.

I was hoping for more of a challenge.

We did 5 miles easily.

I was disappointed that lilann was not allowed to go.

Crazy!

It will be nice to go again and see it in the spring.

Thanksgiving day fun with family

2008-12-02T18:54:00.004-06:00

Mom and Dad celebrated both their birthdays on Thanksgiving this year! Brother and sister love!

Lovin that basketball!

Baylee is so silly for her cousins!

Enjoying a Turkey wing!

Decorating Grammy and Pepa's new WHITE revolving tree!

Baylee loved it!

More outdoor fun!

Cousins!

Inks Lake State Park

2008-11-29T18:35:00.004-06:00

The beginning of Thanksgiving week

we borrowed mom and dad's camper and took off to Inks Lake.

Baylee found a fun tree to play on... Lil'ann joined us on our adventure.
We spotted a family of turtles bonding on the lake.
The closer the canoe got, they jumped off one by one.

Me and my love and our sweet poochie at the Devil's Waterhole!

Awesome fall color everywhere.

Canoeing around is a great workout with wonderful scenery.

I was not very good at steering so Roby took over and did a superb job (of course).

Hi ducky!

Swinging at Sunset!

We had a golden time!

Fall camping

2008-11-10T18:24:00.019-06:00

Arkansas is beautiful this time of year!

Cool Mushroom!

Like Alice in Wonderland?

.....................................................Bay and me making our way down after a scary fun climb.

Yay for Baylee! She graduated! Early!

.....................Jumping for joy! She was asked what she wanted to do to celebrate and chose a camping trip! Good Choice!

*****Roby and his best friend!

!!!!Cool waterfall!!!

*****I loved the roots of this tree. I wonder what is under the X?

**********Reflections are gorgeous!!!!!!

Family time is priceless!

God Bless America: A great day to be alive!

2008-11-05T06:05:00.005-06:00

America I am proud of you!!

Today is a wonderful day to skip out to get my newspaper at 5:30am and read the headlines. Life is good at this moment in time.

I would like to bottle the good feeling and open it as needed.

I am proud to live to see this.

America has proved anything is possible!!!

Let The Good Times Roll!

2008-10-06T18:18:00.009-05:00

Jeeps are so fun to speed around in!!
My hair is blowing in my eyes....help...I can't see...
You can't see me now... hahaha!
That's nothing...watch me drive....hehehehe!

Hey, come back here with that Jeep....

Whoa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Simply irresistable face! Let me get my Princess Traffic Cop Shoes on!
Watch out, I can go soooooo fast.....
Stop in the name of Princess Cinderella Law!
Take a picture of me going faster....

School Work

2008-10-06T18:08:00.004-05:00

I got to see my neice and nephew today.

They were working on homework!

Luke drew him a picture of a happy face

and then decided he wanted to make it a

Cowboy Hat. Kylee was busy writing her words.

Very Neatly for 1st grade!!!

Lesson today and Aunt Betty

2008-10-03T14:12:00.006-05:00

My Lesson today is from my hero, the late Randy Pausch. I am studying the Last Lecture AGAIN!! This book is a must have. Sooooooooo many lessons!

Quote from the Last Lecture by Randy Pausch...

"We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand."

**************************************************************

My Aunt Betty

Attitude....it is all in the attitude in which we view life. This week I buried my beautiful Aunt Betty. She did everything at a snails pace, never, ever was she in a hurry. She took time to smell the roses in life. She had the most gorgeous smile and attitude. There were many, many, many hurdles in life for her yet she never raised her voice and always tried to find the best in everyone around her. I know that she is experiencing pure joy in Heaven today! Aunt Betty played her cards right, Thanks for such a great example. We will all miss you.

Things Ike taught

2008-09-27T07:58:00.002-05:00

I received this email today and it gave me a chuckle, so I decided it was worth a posting....

1. Coffee and frozen pizzas can be made on a BBQ grill.
2. No matter how many times you flick the switch, lights don't work without electricity.
3. My car gets 23.21675 miles per gallon, EXACTLY (you can> ask the people in line who helped me push it).> >
4. Kids can survive 4 days or longer without a video game> controller in their hand.> >
5. Cats are even more irritating without power.> >
6. He who has the biggest generator wins.> >
7. Women can actually survive without doing their hair- you> just wish they weren't around you.> >
8. A new method of non-lethal torture- showers without hot> water.> >
9. There are a lot more stars in the sky than most people> thought.> >
10. TV is an addiction and the withdrawal symptoms are> painful.> >
11. A 7 lb bag of ice will chill 6-12 oz Budweiser's to> a drinkable temperature in 11 minutes, and still keep a 14> lb. turkey frozen for 8 more hours.> >
12. There are a lot of dang trees around here.> >
13. Flood plane drawings on some mortgage documents were> seriously wrong..> >
14. Aluminum siding, while aesthetically pleasing, is> definitely not required.> >
15. Crickets can increase their volume to overcome the> sound of 14 generators.> >
16. People will get into a line that has already formed> without having any idea what the line is for.> >
17. When required, a Lincoln Continental will float,> doesn't steer well but floats just the same.> >
18. Tele-marketers function no matter what the weather is> doing.> >
19. Cell phones work when land lines are down, but only as> long as the battery remains charged. > >
20. 27 of your neighbors are fed from a different> transformer than you, and they are quick to point that out! > >
21. Hampers were not made to contain such a volume. > >
22. If my store sold only ice, chainsaws, gas and> generators... I'd be rich. > >
23. Price of a can of soup rises 200% in a storm. > >
24. Your water front property can quickly become someone> else's fishing hole. > >
25. Tree service companies are under appreciated. > >
26. I learned what happens when you make fun of another> states’ blackout. > >
27. MATH 101: 30 days in month, minus 8+ days without power> equals 30% higher electric bill????? > >
28. Drywall is a compound word, take away the> "dry" part and it's worthless. > >
29. I can walk a lot farther than I thought. > > > > >

compliments to *Mrs. Jenny Billot* for her insight!

Bloomin Tuesday

2008-09-23T10:36:00.004-05:00

My Texas Fall Aster(aster oblongifolius) is blooming beautifully.

This is one of my favorite fall color. It is covered with blooms.

I love it when it is a mature 3ft tall plant.

Hubby finished up my new rock veggie garden.

These are the rocks I got for free by scavenging the vacant lots nearby.

Now we have to get the compost!

One of my faves....ornamental grass, 5 ft tall.

It will turn beautiful burgundy soon.

What happened to the red bell peppers?

They never got any bigger than this. Did I buy miniatures?

More beautiful Cosmos!!

Fall is in the air and I am loving it.

Have you done it?

2008-09-18T07:06:00.002-05:00

Have you done it?

Thanks Joy this one was fun! Thanks for sharing...

You should do it too!

Just copy and paste the 200 statements then bold the ones you have done!

Hope you enjoy it!!

The idea is to highlight the things you have done out of the 200 items on the list.

The things I have done are in bold print and larger letters!

1. Touched an iceberg
2. Slept under the stars
3. Been a part of a hockey fight
4. Changed a baby's diaper
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Swam with wild dolphins
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a tarantula
10. Said "I love you" and meant it
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Stayed up all night long and watched the sun rise
15. Seen the Northern Lights
16. Gone to a huge sports game
17. Walked the stairs to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
19. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
20. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Bet on a winning horse
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Taken an ice cold bath
28. Had a meaningful conversation with a beggar
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Ridden a roller coaster
31. Hit a home run
32. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
33. Adopted an accent for fun
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Felt very happy about your life, even for just a moment
36. Loved your job 90% of the time
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Watched wild whales
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Gone on a midnight walk on the beach
41. Gone sky diving
42. Visited Ireland
43. Ever bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited India
45. Bench-pressed your own weight
46. Milked a cow
47. Alphabetized your personal files
48. Ever worn a superhero costume
49. Sung karaoke
50. Lounged around in bed all day
51. Gone scuba diving
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Done something you should regret, but don't
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Been in a movie
60. Gone without food for 3 days
61. Made cookies from scratch
62. Won first prize in a costume contest
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Been in a combat zone
65. Spoken more than one language fluently
66. Gotten into a fight while attempting to defend someone - verbal not physical
67. Bounced a check
68. Read - and understood - your credit report
69. Recently bought and played with a favorite childhood toy
70. Found out something significant that your ancestors did
71. Called or written your Congress person
72. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
73. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
74. Helped an animal give birth
75. Been fired or laid off from a job
76. Won money
77. Broken a bone
78. Ridden a motorcycle
79. Driven any land vehicle at a speed of greater than 100 mph
80. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
81. Slept through an entire flight: takeoff, flight, and landing
82. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
83. Eaten sushi
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read The Bible cover to cover
86. Changed someone's mind about something you care deeply about
87. Gotten someone fired for their actions
88. Gone back to school
89. Changed your name
90. Caught a fly in the air with your bare hands
91. Eaten fried green tomatoes
92. Read The Iliad
93. Taught yourself an art from scratch
94. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
95. Apologized to someone years after inflicting the hurt
96. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
97. Been elected to public office
98. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream
99. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
100. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you
101. Had a booth at a street fair
102. Dyed your hair
103. Been a DJ
104. Rocked a baby to sleep
105. Ever dropped a cat from a high place to see if it really lands on all four
106. Raked your carpet
107. Brought out the best in people
108. Brought out the worst in people
109. Worn a mood ring
110. Ridden a horse
111. Carved an animal from a piece of wood or bar of soap
112. Cooked a dish where four people asked for the recipe.
113. Buried a child
114. Seen David Cook in Concert
115. Been inside the pyramids
116. Shot a basketball into a basket
117. Danced at a disco
118. Played in a band
119. Shot a bird
120. Gone to an arboretum
121. Tutored someone
122. Ridden a train
123. Brought an old fad back into style
124. Eaten caviar
125. Let a salesman talk you into something you didn’t need
126. Ridden a giraffe or elephant
127. Published a book
128. Pieced a quilt
129. Lived in an historic place
130. Acted in a play or performed on a stage
131. Asked for a raise
132. Made a hole-in-one
133. Gone deep sea fishing
134. Gone roller skating
135. Run a marathon
136. Learned to surf
137. Invented something
138. Flown first class
139. Spent the night in a 5-star luxury suite
140. Flown in a helicopter
141. Visited Africa
142. Sang a solo
143. Gone spelunking
144. Learned how to take a compliment
145. Written a love-story
146. Seen Michelangelo’s David
147. Had your portrait painted
148. Written a fan letter
149. Spent the night in something haunted
150. Owned a St. Bernard or Great Dane
151. Ran away
152. Learned to juggle
153. Been a boss
154. Sat on a jury
155. Lied about your weight
156. Gone on a diet
157. Found an arrowhead or a gold nugget
158. Written a poem
159. Carried your lunch in a lunch box
160. Gotten food poisoning
161. Gone on a service, humanitarian or religious mission
162. Hiked the Grand Canyon
163. Sat on a park bench and fed the ducks
164. Gone to the opera
165. Gotten a letter from someone famous
166. Worn knickers
167. Ridden in a limousine
168. Attended the Olympics
169. Can hula or waltz
170. Read a half dozen Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys books
171. Been stuck in an elevator
172. Had a revelatory dream
173. Thought you might crash in an airplane
174. Had a song dedicated to you on the radio or at a concert
175. Saved someone’s life
176. Eaten raw whale
177. Know how to tat, smock or do needlepoint
178. Laughed till your side hurt
179. Straddled the equator
180. Taken a photograph of something other than people that is worth framing
181. Gone to a Shakespeare Festival
182. Sent a message in a bottle
183. Spent the night in a hostel
184. Been a cashier
185. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
186. Joined a union
187. Donated blood or plasma
188. Built a camp fire
189. Kept a blog
190. Had hives
191. Worn custom made shoes or boots
192. Made a PowerPoint presentation
193. Taken a Hunter’s Safety Course
194. Served at a soup kitchen
195. Conquered the Rubik’s cube
196. Know CPR
197. Ridden in or owned a convertible
198. Found a long lost friend
199. Helped solve a crime
200.commented on Marcia's Blog

Wow 93 of these that I have done, a few of them I hope to never ever ever do! Again, this was fun joy, thanks for sharing.

Garden Bloggers Bloom Day September 2008

2008-09-15T15:17:00.005-05:00

Gardening in Texas this summer has been tough. Most of my plants did not perform as they have in the past. I am really going to have to work the soil this fall. Today is a beautiful sunny day with temperatures in the upper 70's. I love it and I am looking forward to the fall weather.

Here is a view of my Mexican Bush Sage.

It is large, full, and cheerful.

The best performer in the garden.

Strawberry Globe Amaranth, Pavonia, and the Mexican petunia

that decided this year it would take over a large portion of my walkways. I will definately be weeding some of these out.
More Mexican Petunia!
Obedient plant that is as obedient as my teenager! ha
My one and only gerber daisy bloom all lonely in her pot.
Cosmos from some seeds that I planted this spring.
MORE cosmos with a very interesting color...
Wonderful cinnamon basil
Purple passion vine growing like a beast on my tower! Gotta Love it..
Purple berries are popping up on my american beautyberry.
Yummy for the birdies! Eye candy for me!

I guess from looking at all my blooms the best ones are purple this September.

There are so many more that I didn't not photograph because they look

scraggly.

Here is a list of some of my bloomers that I did not include pix of:

crepe myrtles
oleanders
turks cap
russian sage
autumn sedum
salvia
zinnia
red cascade rose
zephrine rose
old blush climbing rose
morning glory
anicanthus
pomegranate
tomatoes
butterfly bushes
blue mist flower
hot lips

I cannot wait for October and Pumpkin time!!

New porch lights have arrived!!!

2008-09-13T15:38:00.004-05:00

I am sooo excited!! Our Anniversary present has arrived.

We celebrated our 24th over 2 months ago but couldn't decide what to get.

Then it popped in my head,

we have been wanting

new porch lights

since we moved in this house(builders have ugly lights).

So we ordered these from Rejuvenation and they are simply beautiful.

Maybe Roby will get them hung next week!

Pretty Purple

2008-09-10T17:48:00.002-05:00

Pretty purple passion vine fascinates me.

This stuff is all over my yard this year, just like a weed,

a beautiful one indeed.Sweet Kylee grabbed the camera and photographed herself.

Don't ya just love the cheeto smile! Priceless!!

Poor brother, Luke was resting with a fever, we hope he feels better soon.
It has been raining off and on for 2 days now and I just love it.

The flowers are heavenly.

I cut 2 roses for my vase today.

Hurricane Ike is headed this way...rainy all weekend. Still lovin it. Check back on Sunday I will probably be out in the MUD!

Quote of the day

2008-09-09T08:13:00.000-05:00

"Never give up, never, never give up." - Winston Churchill

Fall was in the air this week....shortly

2008-09-06T07:31:00.003-05:00

Nobody took up residence this year in my beautiful birdhouse. Red Cascade rose is sending out shoots and blossoms everywhere.

She must know that I contemplated moving her this fall.

red salvia that arrived on its own, and my favorite grass as a backdrop
I planted cosmo seeds this year, 100's of them and this is what I got....
red hot pepper, too hot for my family so it sits and shrivels
We had a short short cool front midweek and it made me want fall so so much. I want to see pumpkins and mums..............

Bring it on!!!

Washington DC

2008-09-05T08:44:00.003-05:00

The Washington Monument was verrrrrrrrrrrrrrrry impressive.The President of all my book reports and research throughout school.

This is a bench we passed on our way to the Library of Congress.

I felt it's strength.
Truly magnificent art and architecture!

Such beauty and grace. The peace lingers with you even after you have been gone.
I think about this place and know that our country will be back on track one day.
This circus we are in right now will begin to focus on what is truly necessary to have peace.

I end my vacation with this quote in mind...

Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process,
gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers,
quietly building new structures. John F. Kennedy

Statue of Liberty day

2008-09-03T19:17:00.003-05:00

So we took the ferry out to Liberty Island and this is what we found after we lost each other while getting off of the ferry.

Me and my Love at the Lady Liberty!
Peace! What we hope for! Freedom is what she stands for.
It was an interesting trip to see our National Monument. Most of the people surrounding us spoke a different language than us. We felt like foreigners in our own country. Unfortunately, we did not stop at Ellis Island. It was packed on this particular day. We did capture a few nice photographs and get a great view of the city.

CBS Early Show with Harry

2008-09-02T13:32:00.003-05:00

We visited the CBS Early Show and got to see Harry Smith and Maggie Rodriquez.

We called our folks and told them to tune in

and we would be on TV. It was fun and they actually saw us in the background!

Times Square

2008-09-01T17:41:00.004-05:00

Roby is looking around trying to decide what the heck we are doing here. See that pile of trash, well that seemed to be on every street corner. They just pile it up through out the day (at night the pile grew to as tall as me) and I think they pick it up the next morning. I did not see any recycling. It was disturbing...they definately have a trash problem.

I can't even imagine it on New Years.

We rode the ferris wheel inside the store and got the cabbage patch car which was by the way cute but it was not the scooby doo or even sponge bob. We went around and around and even saw a wedding taking place on the top floor. Can you imagine getting married in a ToysRus.
Here is an awesome part of the store. The lego department was so cool. This empire state building was made of 10's of thousands of legos. I could have stayed here all day.

Below Baylee and I toured the barbie house that is built inside the store.

Fun Fun Fun!

Times Square was my least favorite place in NYC. We could not figure it out. We
loved the Toys R Us Store but other than that it was dirty, and tooooooooo congested. Next time I would skip it. Little Italy is the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and we were so excited and were having so much fun we did even take one photo. ha

FAO Schwartz in NYC

2008-08-31T16:40:00.003-05:00

Magical..............

I need this dragon in my entry to greet all my guests.

This soldier boy was made from jelly beans.

How fun!
This is a piano like in Tom Hanks movie Big. This sucker cost one quarter million buckeroos. Can you imagine have that to splurge on the kids? ha

This is one magical place. I would love to have some of these wonderful oversized stuffed animals in my home for us all to enjoy. Immediately I thought of Randy Pausch when I saw the larger than life animals. I love his last lecture and all the fun and joy he had and shared with us all during his last few years. Thank you Mr. Pausch, you are my inspiration.

Central Park Day

2008-08-29T19:20:00.002-05:00

Central Park is an interesting place.

Beautiful and peaceful all the flowers placed on John Lennon's IMAGINE.

I love the shadows of the sun shining through. Here is what I remember as Bethesda Fountain and it is quite lovely.
We visited the Metropolitan Art Museum and were intriqued.

The rules are you can stand on the steps but you may not sit.

The girls were told to move along and I asked them to please sit for a picture.

New York has many many rules. Sitting anywhere is not allowed. (hahaha)

One of my favorite, somewhat scary faced statues.

We do not have black squirrels in Texas (that I know about).

I loved this little guy and he came right up to us wanting to eat but we had 0 food.

Central Park is loaded and I mean loaded with a diverse group of people. They walk their dogs, play sports, climb on statues, eat, lay around, jog, ride bikes, kiss all over each other, etc.... They wear swimsuits in the Sheep Meadow and there is not a swimming pool in sight. Restrooms are disgustingly gross. We witnessed a woman dancing topless for a long period of time(no photo. Thank you) later we found out they had a permit to film in the park. Imagine that.

No wonder they put IMAGINE in Central Park.

Contortionists entertained us at the Seaport

2008-08-28T06:53:00.004-05:00

These street performers did the unthinkable. Bending in unbelievable ways with such energy. If you look closely or click on it an blow up the picture you can see that he actually squeezed himself in that 17" clear acrylic box. The seaport in NYC was very interesting and filled with life. After watching them bay decided she wanted to be a contortionist and I decided that maybe no definately I needed to try stretching more often. Ha!

Buildings and bridges of NYC

2008-08-27T08:25:00.003-05:00

I just loved the architecture in New York City! Unbelievable workmanship. Texas is definately lacking in appreciation of historical buildings. It seems tearing down is easier than preserving.

Here is the Brooklyn bridge. It took 13 years to build this bridge.

It opened in 1883. 125 years ago.

In this photo the Manhattan Bridge is also visible.

It was built in 1909 so it is no baby either.

We just couldn't resist the awesome walk over to Brooklyn.
View of part of NYC from the Brooklyn Bridge.

Baylee and Roby outside the Dakota.

Baybay got emotional due to her love for John Lennon

and the senseless shooting that happened here.

Beautiful Churches all over town.

New York Stock Exchange guarded with police dogs and heavily armed NYPD.

I could have taken hundreds of beautiful photos of the buildings in this town.

I spent most of my time looking up up up!

Cook Rocks

2008-08-26T09:37:00.003-05:00

Clearly the best of the night.

We waited with much anticipation and Mr. Cook did not disappoint, he is very comfortable in his shoes and outperformed everyone else. (In my biased opinion) ha

My camera decided it was going to be crabby but I did get a couple of nice photos and videos. Our favorite hometown boy was adorable!
Here is the loudest fan of the night. ( It got quiet at one point and I yelled"I love you David" and he paused and said "what was that, I just heard". hee hee hee I think he heard me!
The 2nd loudest fan for Jason, Michael, and Mr. Cook!
We stayed out until midnight on the 1st day of school! woohoo!! Memories!

David Cook AI Concert

2008-08-25T13:55:00.002-05:00

I cant believe I just did it. I couldn't bear the thought of David Cook being in town and not being there. I just bought tickets for Baylee and me. We got center floor tickets row o section 11. I can't wait to leave. What do I wear???? ARGH!! I am so happy and sweaty excited!!!

Datura on steroids

2008-08-25T09:22:00.002-05:00

While I was away on vacation, my datura decided it would grow so large that it would block the pathway. I am debating on allowing it to stay or taking it out. It is indeed beautiful but ....I do like to walk around my fountain. This booger is a monster!

First day of School

2008-08-25T08:24:00.004-05:00

My Scanner and photo editing program decided not to cooperate today. But here it is anyway....Baylee on her first day of Kindergarten 1996. She had so much enthusiasm.
Here she is arriving to her class and she is not so sure now. First day of her Senior year she is telling me to hurry up the sun is too bright.

Inside was a little better. This is her last first day of school.
Here is my neice Kylee on her 1st day of first grade. The sun didn't bother her!
Here is my nephew Luke on his first day of Pre K. Happy and Jolly!
Now I am free until around 2. What shall I do?

Emotional Day at WTC in NYC

2008-08-24T16:37:00.002-05:00

First day in New York....we ate at Friendly Gourmet Pizza.

It was good and the owner was definately friendly and sooo busy and fast! And then the tears began....this hit me hard...a firefighter was wearing this during a rescue at the World Trade Center attack...he did not survive.
Here is one of the walls covered with photos of those who lost their lives in the attack.
This is where the World Trade Centers once stood. A memorial is being built and should be completed by 2012..I believe.
Here is the fire station that lost thier crew during their heroic rescue efforts.

Amish Country

2008-08-22T15:01:00.003-05:00

What can I say? Pennsylvania was fascinating to me!We visited the Amish community in Lancaster County

and the girls got a kick out of the town's name!
I enjoyed viewing the simplicity of life that these very caring people live.
Cornfields abundant. This country is not having a shortage of corn. It was a peaceful sight.
Here is an Amish farm. I thought of it often while enduring the hustle and bustle of NYC the next four days of our trip. We bought some delicious food from the farmers market here.
I would definately want to visit this part of the country again.

Kentucky Cabin

2008-08-21T18:13:00.003-05:00

We stayed in this wonderful brand new cabin for 2 nights on our road trip to NYC. It was practically new and such a bargain. If you are ever in eastern Kentucky and need great peaceful clean lodging be sure to look up the Cabins of Birch Hollow. This one is called Mountain Spirit. It had everything you would need just like your own home but better. Here we are on our way to the hot tub on the porch.
Bay and me soaking after a day hiking.
This was a fun tunnel to explore!

One thing about Kentucky that surprised us was the tobacco sheds. These were little drive thru shacks all over the place selling cheap Kentucky cigarettes and there were lines. Practically everyone had cigarettes hanging out of their mouths, even at the concession stand the people serving the popcorn at the drive in movie. Bay wondered if they knew about cancer.
The drive in movie was fun and soooooo many stars in the sky and lightning bugs everywhere.

My GBBD Bloom Day Post LATE

2008-08-20T16:38:00.003-05:00

Here is my turks cap and lantana blooming happily! Front view of my path.
Black eyed Susan in front of the Maryland Welcome Center. These were spectacular. They are the state flower and they were planted ALL over.
The White House backyard view.

Here it is my garden on Bloom Day. My computer was down on that day. I took a couple of photos of some pretty and then I posted some flowers from my road trip.