Port Oneida - October, 2008

The sun is shining today -- whoo hoo, after a couple days of warmth and melting snow, though very rainy and yuck.  Love that sunshine!  And me, stuck in the house cleaning.....

Spent this AM dropping Chaos at the groomer, gas for $0.99/gal,  getting my annual mammo, and, for the first time ever, a bone density scan.  These and one more, yet to be scheduled procedure, are the signs of turning 50.  Love it!

We took the Christmas decorations and tree down yesterday.  I was going to wait till next weekend but chose to get the chore behind me.  It's done and I was motivated to clean, which is a good thing.  Notice, however, that I'm not cleaning -- I'm blogging.  I do think a nap this PM should be part of the plan.  zzzz........

It's been a wonderful holiday for us.  We've had the joy of Philip home for a few days.  He is enjoying the simple pleasures of his own bed, his own shower, and access to a fridge whenever he wishes.  Not to mention, he doesn't need someone to unlock the bathroom every time he wants to pee.

Santa was good to everyone at our house, as he usually is.  Ed got a digital camera, which is keeping him occupied.  He's learning how to use it.  The biggest challenge for him will be when he wants to transfer the photos to the computer.   While it is a simple task for those of us who do it without thinking, it will be a whole new adventure for him.

Santa brought me lots of wonderful things.  Besides new boots, earrings and lots of cool socks, he gave me diamonds -- lots of them.  Santa has been quite concerned that I don't have a wedding ring and truly felt that a wedding ring was more important than the iphone on my list.  Because I was aware of his concern, I took the time a few weeks ago to pick out a few options for Santa to choose from, thus assuring fit and function to my tastes.  It is a lovely ring and I am pleased.

Today has been wonderful.  I was up early washing pots, pans and casserole dishes that collected in the sink.  I've been putzing with this 'n that, making lists of tasks to complete, and making oodles of phone calls, catching up with friends and kinfolk.  The boys are heading out to the pool hall this afternoon.  That might be my opportunity for a nap.  We take Phil back to GR this evening, though he has a day pass on Sunday and will be home with us all day again.  I've enjoyed having him home with us.

Tis all for now.  Merry Christmas one and all!

Gorgeous day! People, dogs and bikes outdoors everywhere! Three dune hikes this weekend for me & the dogs; 2 car washes for the Highlander.

Chaos enjoyed her first trip to the dunes today. She was still leading the way enroute back to the car. Saw lots of deer, in and outside the park.

Thinking about taking time in a few weeks, head to the UP, to check out Northern Michigan University. I hear there could still be snow piles....

Life is good........

It's been a busy few weeks in Lake Wobegon, my home town....and more busy ones to come. Though I must say, I feel that progress is being made in some areas of life, while others just don't get enough attention. Out of balance, out of sync, for sure.

But....spring is here. Thus, my spirits rise and I am content. Last night I hit the dunes for my 2nd hike of the season. The affects of winter hibernation are upon me, but I will prevail. Saw a deer while hiking and 5 more exiting the park. The sunset was lovely.

So, I don't know exactly at what stage I am in, or how long I have to go, but it is official......trumpet please...........hot flashes..........mood swings.........headaches.....no period..............YUP! Whoo Hoo!!! I have put to good use, frequently daily, my 'hot flash gal' fan. Glad I saved it from the book fair.

Today I’m off to work, though my list is longer than time will allow. Then, up to GR to see my auntie for awhile. Haven’t seen her since Christmas. My bad.

Another tid bit of good news. My folks' vow renewal/reception is next week Saturday. Thus, it's almost over....Hallelujah, Praise the Lord and Amen!



And, THE BEST NEWS OF ALL................this gal’s got a new toy....oh yeah!!!

I tend to hibernate in the winter. It's not necessarily my favorite time of year. But, we have had 2 rather pleasant days. Though cold, the sun has been shining. I'm feeling the effects of my hibernation in both body and soul. Thus, a couple days of sunshine does quite a bit to fill the void.

The littlest mister turned 17 yesterday. We had a quiet evening at home last night with plans for the birthday dinner tonight. I have a pile of king crab legs and lobster thawing in my sink. This, along with some cheesy potatoes, and lots of butter, will be our dinner tonight. Birthday cake was baked early this morning.

I'm off to play this afternoon. Time to get out and enjoy the sunshine and do a little shopping for duds I certainly don't need.

Sunset last night in my backyard.....

Tis a new year. Spent a quiet evening last night with the family. Went out in a snowstorm to see National Treasure; Book of Secrets. We were pleasantly surprised to find that the rock cropping from which we swam (and I took this photo) at Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park, was where Benjamin Franklin Gates and pals discovered the hidden entrance to the lost city of gold .