Trick or Treat

Our little witch ready to hit the streets for candy.

"Bat bones and toad eyes"

I cast a spell on YOU!

Well, here is our cute little witch.  She and Amelia hit the streets about dark.  They went to Cody's and then headed to Trunk or Treat in Freistatt.  Jeff, Jeffery (a cowboy), and Josh (a yard gnome) went with them.  She got a whole cauldron full of candy.  She is headed downstairs for a bath, and then we will get our good night kisses.

I did not go to school today.  I had an appointment with my doctor for my yearly exam.  So far, nothing bad to report. Steve rode with me.  We ran a couple of errands while we were in Springfield.  I had to go to JoAnn's to get my backing for the Christmas quilt.  I also need the sashing and border material.  We stopped by Quilt Sampler to buy the ruler I will need for my class in November.  We went to Bass Pro to get some lined jeans for Steve.  His old ones are strictly for around the house.  He loves the lined jeans.  They keep him cozy when it is cold outside.  He also got a new shirt for Thanksgiving.  We bought a couple of other things, but for the life of me, I can't remember what they were.  Must have been important!

Steve felt fine this morning when we left and while we shopped.  While we were eating lunch at Steak and Shake, he started to feel a little rough around the edges.  He really has been busy since his chemo.  This afternoon he is paying for his playing.  He slept most of the afternoon.  He headed to bed early and was watching a hunting show and American Chopper.  I believe he will sleep most of the day tomorrow.  I think he will need it.  He has mentioned resting several times today.

We had our last footlong for $5.00 from Subway today.  We sure enjoyed only paying $5.00 for the footlong.  I hope Subway repeats this special soon.  Tonight when I was there,  5 families were in front of me...all buying footlongs.

Yesterday we watched the MSSU/MU game.  We kept looking for Kyle in the stands, but we didn't see him.  We had a good time scanning the crowd every time they showed it.   Kyle, sorry we didn't get to see you.

Hope you are safe from all the ghosts and goblins!

Puttin' on the sneak

Today has been an exciting day in Kansas City and in Mt. Vernon.  I will tell you about the excitement in Mt. Vernon first.

Steve felt really rough this morning and early afternoon.  His stomach was really bothering him.  This did not keep him from watching the Tiger's victory with our little tiger, Aubree.  When they won, Aubree called me to announce the victory.  After the game, he rested and woke feeling better.  Elizabeth came to visit him this afternoon.  She brought her dog, Hunter, along.  He was in his Halloween costume, a squirrel.  Aubree also went trick or treating this evening.  She was a witch.  After they left, Steve was feeling better so he camoed-up  and headed for the top-secret, best place in the world to get a deer spot.  Tonight was his lucky night and the deer's unlucky night.  He bagged a nice doe.  He says he "put the sneak" on her.  She was 35 yards away and when he shot her, she only ran 20 yards.  I am thankful for that.  I always worry that he will trek through the woods trying to find a downed deer and will not be able to get back out of the woods with it.  This is his first kill with his new crossbow.  He was sooooo excited when he called me to tell me his news.  It was like talking to a little kid.  I am so happy for him.  I only wish I was there to see his smile and sparkling eyes.  This is a great day.  I was really concerned that he would never really hunt again, but God answered prayers.  He dressed it and kept the back straps for us and is going to take the rest to Lockwood so they can process it into jerky.  Yummy, yummy.  I talked to him about 10 minutes ago, and he is starting to wear down.  The excitement that helped him with the field dressing and those kind of chores has started to wear off.  My guess is he will sleep well tonight.

I have had a wonderful day in Kansas City.  We woke and went to Bob's Shoes.  I got a couple of Christmas presents there.  We hit the City Market next.  Loved it!  I bought some homemade noodles, steak seasoning, winter table decoration, and a glow-in-the-dark yard ornament.  It was so much fun there.  You would not believe all the fresh veggies, herbs, pumpkins, flowers, honey, homemade jewelry and so much more. It reminded me of Pike's Market in Seattle.  It was not as big, but I am guessing during the peak summer season, it would be. I wish I lived near a market like these.  I would be a world class chef.  You would not believe all the bulk spices they had.  Some were ones I would have no idea how to use.  Others were ones I have heard of but can never find when my recipe calls for it.  After the market, we went to Zona Rosa.  We ate lunch and watched the Missouri game at some place with Big Blue and Fish in the title.  I had fried pickles and gumbo.  They were delicious.  I also enjoyed what they called a Voodoo Margarita.  It was black because they used a black tequila in it.  It really looked like grape juice but, of course, had a bigger kick.  We hit several stores, and I came away with several things.  Some of the purchases were even Christmas presents for others, but some of the things purchased were just for me.  After Zona Rosa, we headed back towards the hotel.  We stopped at Crown Center and did a quick walk through shopping.  I got a couple of things there too.  All in all, I would have to say it was a great shopping day for me.  I normally don't find much that I like to buy, but today was packed with things I needed and wanted.  We came back to the room and rested for an hour or so.  We had an exciting dinner.  We went through the drive-through at Winstead's.  Talk about excitement.  We brought our burgers back to the hotel and watched football.  It was a great, wonderful, better than ever, spend time with a dear friend, enjoy good food, shopping day.  I am exhausted.  

I must tell you about Koleen and the bum.  Last night we were walking back from dinner.  You know down at the Plaza there are lots of street musicians.  There are also beggars.  One walked up to us and told us he only wanted money for a bowl of soup; he had not eaten for three days.  You know being country folk, we just smiled and kept walking.  A few steps away, Koleen realized we had half of my sandwich and fries leftover from supper.  She turned around and approached the man.  She offered him the sandwich and fries; it had been three days since his last meal.  He opened the container and said he really wasn't interested in the food, but he would take it anyway.  Talk about a scammer.  If it had been three days since my last meal, I think I would jump at the chance to have Tomfooleries' leftovers.  Koleen felt better, but I hope she realized that just because they look poor and homeless, doesn't mean they really are.  Koleen has such a good heart.  It is people like this man that make it so difficult for the ones that actually need the food and money.  I am sure glad I don't have to walk through the gauntlet of beggars daily.

I must also comment on the game today.  I am just in shock that the Tigers could come back and win the game.  As a fan, they are constantly giving me heart attacks.  I just wish they could play well for a whole game.  I would relax a little more.  Hopefully, we can get our act together and will all of the Nov. games.  MIZ

Going to Kansas City, Kansas City Here I Come

I am in Kansas City for the weekend.  It is the annual girls weekend trip.  We are staying at a hotel near the Plaza.  We got here and walked the Plaza.  We had a nice surprise, Kay drove over from Columbia for the evening.   We went to Tomfooleries for supper.  It was sure good.  We walked down to Barnes and Noble to cruise the bookstore.  We are now back in the room watching the Cardinals and Rangers.  It is now 2-5 Cardinals.  They just walked in two runs.  Holy cow!

Last night, Steve watched the whole game.  It was the best game ever he said.  It did not get over until after midnight. I was in total shock this morning when he told me he lasted the whole game.  The day of chemo.  It must be a Cardinal miracle. I, of course, slept.   There was no way I could stay up for it.  He is feeling ok for the first day after chemo.  He kind of slept in this morning.  He ran to McDonald's for lunch...you know McRibbs are back.  After that, he did hop on the mover and tackle the side yard.  I was amazed.  I am guessing that he will be paying for that tomorrow.  But you know, if he feels like doing it, I just stand back and shake my head. When I left, about 1, he was resting.  I know he wanted to nap so he could watch the game tonight.  I feel bad leaving him at home, but the girls said they would keep an eye on him.  He did tell me that he was a big boy, and I needed to get away.  He is so good to me.  He told me that he probably would sleep all weekend so what was the point of me being there?  I know the girls will take good care of him for me.   I've talked to him twice since I arrived, and he seems to be doing fine.  He sounded a little tired.  He is now watching the game too.  Hard to believe that it is already game 7.  Steve really wants the Cardinals to win.  He now has time invested in the Cardinals so he hopes they "pay off" for him.  I am a little concerned after the World Series is over.  I am hoping and praying that we do not go back to watching our regular television line-up, but I am afraid we will watch them more since we have probably miss several KEY episodes.  What did people do before they showed shows over and over and over and over and over?

Parent teacher conferences went fine.  I had 19 parents last night and 8 parents today.  Not a bad percentage considering I have 110 students.  I have not actually done the math, but it does not look good.  I took my quilts to school so I would have something to do when there were no parents.  I am happy to report that I pinned some on my Christmas quilt and on my Barf II quilt.  It is amazing how much I can accomplish when I don't have any interruptions.

Koleen likes her new job.  I am not sure if I told you that she does have a new job.  She is working at a quilt shop, Satin Stitches.  She is so excited.  She was telling us about some of the fabrics and collections they have at the shop.  I think this is a good move for her.  She helped a lady pick out material for a log cabin quilt today.  The lady picked browns, turquoise, and mint green.  Koleen was not sure she liked it, but the shopper seemed happy, and that is all that matters.  She is learning a bunch about mixing colors and patterns.  I know when I used to sew a lot of clothes, I was really careful about the matching colors. Once I started quilting, all that was shot.  Anything goes.  I think the Barf quilt and the Halloween quilt are proof of that.  Koleen has an artistic eye so I can't wait to see some of the projects she makes in the future.

Tomorrow we are planning on going to the WWI museum here.  I am excited.  I love things like that.  I have never been to a WWI exhibit.  It should be really good.  I believe we are going to watch the game somewhere, but I am unsure of where.  We talked about going up North to the Zona Rosa mall.  They have several prime places to enjoy some refreshments and watch the MU game.

Is Winter Here?

I'm afraid I have to answer yes to that question.  I am not basing my answer on the temperature or weather.  I am using hardcore scientific facts to prove this.  1.  There was a pair of cardinals (male and female) hanging out on my feeders today.  I have not seen them until today.  2.  When I took Samurai out this evening, I heard geese flying overhead.  3.  The kids were CRAZY today...what more proof do you need.  I have not decided if I am excited about this or not.  I really like the colder weather because more of my birds are visiting me and stay around for my enjoyment.  I like wearing hoodies and warm wool socks.  It is hot tub time.  Pretty soon Aubree and I will hit the water and soak in the evenings. The bad things are I hate being cold, you can't be outside for long, and it will be a pain going to the gym in the mornings when it is cold.  I'm afraid it had to happen sooner or later.

Tomorrow is Chemo for Steve.  He has an early lab so he will be home before noon.  I am not taking him.  He is going my himself.  It is hard not to go with him.  I feel like it is my job to look after and take care of him.  I am like a mother hen.   It makes me nervous that he is driving home.  Sometimes, the chemo makes him tired.  I am praying that all goes well.   He has been feeling well.  He had a couple of bad days this week.  It seemed that all was well and them without warning, fatigue hit.  You know the kind that totally wipes you out and you have to stop whatever you are doing and sleep.  On his good days, he did accomplish several chores this week.  I am always so grateful when he is able to do the things he does.  It is a big help.  It makes me feel good and makes him feel good.

We are watching Wed. Night Football.  Dr. Lou just said, "Fools and big people do not change their minds."  I must confess, I do agree with the doctor.  I know several fools that will never ever change their minds on any topic.   

Tomorrow is parent teacher conferences at Mt. Vernon.  We get out at 1, and then have conferences on Thursday 4-7 and Friday 9-12.  I don't have to tell you, I don't like conferences.  We must tell parents bad things about their kids, but do it in a way that they think we are complimenting them.  It is just a word game.  You think I would love them because I can BS with the best of them.  I am guessing that the attendance will be down because of the Cardinals' game and the Mt. Vernon football game.  I also think that Parent Portal will make parents feel that they have been kept up-to-date, and they don't need to meet with us to discuss grades.  Oh, well.  I'm not sure what it right.  I just know that the hours drag.  

My friend Lorene has her second chemo tomorrow.  Her appointment is later than Steve's, so I am not sure if they will see each other.  I talked to her this evening.  She sounded great!.  She was in very good spirits.  She had even been doing walnuts this week.  That is wonderful.  Her hair has been falling out, so she had her head shaved today.  I think that takes a lot of courage.  Sometimes it amazes me how in the face of "bad things" some people still shine.   I admire her for her great spirits and courage!  

You have got to be kidding me

Standing in Alaska

Thought I would include some pictures from our trip in this post since the downloading is going quickly this evening.  

This weekend has been wonderful.  Friday we went to Springfield to run a few errands.  I went to the Quilt Shop and dinner.  We ate at Logan's on Battlefield.  Steve had ribs and I had a steak.  We were home pretty early, so we went to bed.

Saturday we went to Springfield again to eat dinner with Elizabeth and Justin.  We headed up a little early to run some more errands.  We went back to the Quilt Sampler where I signed up for a quilt class in Nov.  It is to learn how to make what they call a pineapple quilt.  I am so excited.  I have already bought the instruction book, but I still need to pick out the material.  I hate doing that.  Sometimes it takes me forever to decide.  I need to go early in the day so I have plenty of time.  After the quilt shop, we headed to Bass Pro.  Steve needed some new insulated coveralls.  We were very lucky because they had his size, and they were on sale.  I can't tell you how happy my heart was to see him in his camo hunting stuff again.  It has been way to long since he has shown any interest in that stuff.  I stood there and watched him try it on and almost cried.  He was sooooo handsome in a hunty man sort of way.  It made my heart smile.

Dinner was at Elizabeth and Justin's was wonderful.  They made chili.  It was good...not to hot, just the way I like it.  Of course, Steve and Amelia had to add hot peppers but not me.  They also made cornbread, which was good too.  Amelia and Jeff bought a Red Barn chocolate pie, and that hit the spot too.  The kids really have their apartment looking nice.  Their dog, Hunter, is really growing.  He is very hyper, and I guess barks a lot when they are gone.  They had a complaint and are now trying to figure out a way to keep him from barking when they are gone.  They bought a little muzzle thing, so I hope that works.  Justin starts his new job tomorrow.  He is a driver for Holiday Inn.  He will drive people back and fourth to the airport.  He said the hotel is 12 minutes away from the airport.  He goes in at 1:00 pm and gets off at 11:00 pm, I think.  He will work M, W, Sat., Sun.  That is nice since he and Elizabeth will be home on Tues. and Thurs. together.   After we had dinner, we came home.  The kids all went to the haunted houses in Springfield.  I guess they had a good time.

We went to church today.  There were no weirdos running around, unless you count the regular Lutherans that hangout around the church.  :)  After church, we had KFC for lunch.  Not my favorite, but Steve likes it.  We went home and he rested.  I worked on a quilt.  Yes, my Christmas quilt.  We went for a Sunday afternoon drive.  We drove past the farm and several friends' farms too.  We ended up in Monett.  We ate Blizzards at DQ and headed home.  On the way home, we went the back way and drove past some other friends' places.   We checked out the new vineyard near where we used to live.  They actually have a wine named Janie, so of course, I like them.

When we got home, we started watching two shows we had never seen before.  This is where the you've got to be kidding me comes from.  The first show is called Extreme Couponing.  It is about these crazy, yes I mean totally crazy people that shop and don't spend any of their own money.  They are obsessed with coupons.  Yes, I'll give them credit for getting great buys, but they are crazy.  Some of these ladies spend 40 hours a week searching for the coupons, store bargains, price matching...on top of their full time job.  They shop for hours, yes I mean hours.  Most of them spent at least 5 hours or more at the store.  They carry huge notebooks and bags with all their coupons.  Some of them even have applications on their devices and computers.  The worst part is the hoarding that they do.  All of the couponers we saw on the shows we watched have at least one room of their house that is floor to ceiling shelves with their purchases.  Some have 100 bottles of BBQ sauce, thousands of bottles of soda and sports drinks, deodorant, body wash....you get the picture.  One had 6 years worth of laundry soap stockpiled.  They don't just buy one or two items at a time.  They pride themselves on clearing the shelves.  One gal bought 240 rolls of paper towels.  Another bought over 1400 bottles of drinks and 300 packs of Tic Tacs. See what I mean when I say crazy.  Steve thinks he should start clipping coupons.  I told him to go right ahead.  There was no way I would do it.  I told him he must have been gipped when he got me because I have the most difficult time finding anything on sale.  I am just not a good shopper, coupons or not.

The second show we watched was the one that really blew my mind.  It is called Sister Wives.  It is about a man that has 4 wives and 17 children between them.  They used to live in Utah in one "compound" house, but now they have moved to Las Vegas where the wives each have their own house.  That "poor" man has to travel between those houses.  I tell you, watching that show just made me mad.  Of course there is the first wife that simply loves the idea and has the most kids with this man.  There are two, lets say middle wives, that have had or are having troubles with this situation.  The fourth wife is set on having a honeymoon relationship.  Please!  The kids all travel between the houses and feel at home anywhere.  Each woman sees the husband every four nights.  They are trying to start a "family" business, but they are having a difficult time deciding what to do.  I guess that some people will not hire the husband or the wives because they are polygamists. The thing that kills me is the wives have to put up with their kids 24/7 and he waltzes in every fourth day and pretends to be the father and husband.  I don't know why this show gets me mad, but it does.  It bothered Steve so much, that he left and went to the bedroom to watch something else.  I only watched two shows, and I don't think I will watch it again.  Can you imagine him going to parent teacher conferences?  I'm not sure what kind of father he really is.  He even confessed to calling the wives by the other's name.  Now, that would really make me mad.

I don't know what it is with us and stupid television shows.  It seems like we find them all.  I won't go into details on the others because if you are a regular reader, you know what I am taking about.   My only regret is that I didn't have the ideas; therefore, I am not making the millions.  Instead, I am stuck at home shaking my head at the stupidity.  I don't know which is worse...watching the stupid shows or complaining about them and watching them.  Either way I think I must be pathetic.

Amelia in Seattle

We are now watching game 4 of the World Series.  I guess we have become WS fans.  Kind of like E and C people.  You know the people that only go to church on Easter and Christmas.  We are fair weather fans.  I, personally, have not stayed up for a whole game yet.  I don't think it will happen tonight either.  I have to get up about 4:30 to get to the gym and coffee in the morning.  You know I went all 5 days last week.  Yea me.  I am going to try and do 5 days this week too.  The worst days are Thursday and Fridays. Those mornings I am really tired.  Steve has promised to help me get up on those mornings.  We shall see.

Elizabeth in Seattle

The family in Alaska

Koleen in Seattle

View out the back of the ship while in Glacier Bay National Park  

Pictures

I have some pictures I need to share with you.

The first are from Elizabeth and Justin's wedding.  I didn't actually take them; the photographer did.  Here is the website you can visit to check out just some of the pictures.  All are not posted yet.  When I find out that more are posted.  I will let you know, so you can see all the pictures.  I really think you will enjoy them.  They are very good and Elizabeth is beautiful.
www.kasieleighphotography.blogspot.com

The other pictures are of Steve's newest wood project.  You will also enjoy these.  Like me, you will once again be impressed with Steve's talent.  He made three, but he thinks we need one more to complete the circle.  They are so sturdy and comfortable.  I took several angles so you could really appreciate the detail that each bench has.  Today his legs are sore, mainly his thighs and calves.  This is because he had to bend and get up and down to stain them.  I wonder what he will tackle next?

He has been feeling quite well lately.  Yesterday, he went to Golden City to spend the day with Dale S.   Dale was down helping Jerry with his beans.  He spent all day watching Dale work:  replacing the bearing on the auger.  He only had to go to the truck once to warm up, and it was really, really cold yesterday.  They went to eat lunch at Cooky's (Those of you that are familiar with it, know how good the food is)  I won't get started on the fact that we have been married over 18 years, and he has never taken me to this iconic restaurant.  Remember he went there earlier this year when he went with his mom and dad to visit Aunt Doris and Uncle Melbert.   When he got home around 4 he was really tired.  We did watch the Cardinals play but fell asleep about the 7th inning or whatever inning they scored their last run.  I must confess that we are not really Cardinal fans.  In truth, we have not seen a single game all year until last night.  I'm sure they have a name for people like us...it is probably not fan.  We are watching it again tonight.  Steve's excuse is that there is nothing else worth watching on television tonight.  You know, I find that hard to believe since I am sure there is a myriad of realistic, hillbilly, fishing or hunting shows on.  I guess we have watched all of them at least 10 times, and I am not exaggerating as you know.  

Last night I went to Springfield to get my hair cut.  I ate supper with Elizabeth and Justin.  It was nice to see them.  We went to Applebee's.  Their food is always reliable and good.  The only thing that was wrong was it took a really long time for our food to get to us.  I guess it gave us more time for conversation.  They went with me to the fabric shop before we ate.  I didn't purchase any material, but I did get some batting...BOGO.  That is a real bargain.  Batting is very high priced.  It sometimes makes you wish you could use something else.  It sometimes costs almost as much as the fabric.  I opted for the low loft batting.  I like is much better than the fluffy stuff.  That is just a personal preference, but since I am the one making the quilts, I get the choice.  I was looking for some pretty specific material and really didn't think I would find it at JoAnn's.  Oh, well, I can always try online.

Aubree and I went to visit Betty today after school.  It was a very good visit.  Betty really loves Aubree, and Aubree loves Betty.  The Vets Home asked me to help out with a new project.  They are making curtains for all the rooms.  They are having a "cutting" party next Thursday.  I am going, and I am excited about it.  I love doing things like that.  I also told them I would help with the sewing if they needed it.  They said it would be simple valances, so that shouldn't be difficult (I say that now, but sometimes the words come back and bite me in the butt)

I have been going to the gym every morning before school.  I am getting stronger.  I have moved the weights up on all but one machine.  I don't know the weights because I don't wear my glasses and the numbers on the sides of the machines are so small I can't read them.  All I know is I get to move the peg, and that makes me feel GREAT!  I don't know if I will ever get to move the weight on the one machine.  It is one where I sit and basically push two bars away from my chest.   It is getting easier, and I can do all my reps each time, but it is a struggle, and I am cussing the whole time.  Tomorrow is my big day...I do a full circuit instead of one day upper body and one day lower body.... I am noticing a change in some of my clothes, so I'd say all the swear words and sweat are worth it.  Steve has even commented several times about a change.  WEEEEEE me!!!!

Sunday News

Well, our morning started off differently than we planned.  We got up and got ready to go to church.  Right before we left for church, Grandma called and said it was canceled.  Apparently, some crazy man broke into the school and vandalized it.  While he was doing the vandalism, he pulled the fire alarm.   The authorities were notified and Freistatt was packed with First Responders, Sheriff, and Highway Patrol.  They said the crook ran off on foot with a shotgun.  They told everyone to go back home and lock the doors.  So, we stayed home from church.  We did go to Grandma's for lunch.  It was Mike's birthday dinner.  He turns 57 this week.

ME ME MEEEEE!  Happy Birthday to you!

After dinner and the excellent brown sugar angle food cake, they boys went out to try Steve's new crossbow.  I must confess they all shot well.  Everyone hit the target, even me.  Michael did the best.  He actually hit the exact spot we were aiming for.  Sorry, Kyle.  Steve had a wonderful time shooting with Mike, Kyle, Grandpa and me.

After we came home, we went to Aurora's Walmart.  You know going with Steve is like taking a little kid.  I end up with more in my cart than I would have normally picked up.  The nice thing is, he is feeling well enough that he helped me load and unload the cart of groceries.  Like I said he is feeling well.  He did not even have a nap today.  Of course, he is feeling a little worse tonight.  He is really tired and sore since he didn't rest.  He will sleep well tonight.

Yesterday we had an unwanted visitor in the front yard.  It was at least 5 feet long.  Aubree was really freaking out.  What is the deal with us and snakes?  I think we must have a vacancy sign in the grass.  This afternoon Aubree and I filled the bird feeders.  We are hoping with the cold front coming through this week, the birds will come along too.  We put out sunflower seeds and thistle.  Bring on our feathered friends.

 

Well, here it is Friday night, again.  Another week has passed.  We have been doing well.  Steve feels great.  He has been doing a lot of stuff.  Today he mowed the yard.  As usual it looks wonderful.  He did not get the whole yard finished, but I am sure by the end of the weekend, it will be finished.

We went to Bamboo Gardens for their buffet.  Steve ate a monster plate of Chinese food.  He loves boiled shrimp.  Aubree does too.  Her favorite was what they call sugar rolls...we call them donuts.

This morning, my hunter was back.  Steve dressed in his camo and hit the woods.  I could tell you where he went, but then I would have to kill you.  He went deer hunting with his crossbow.  Unfortunately, he did not bring a deer home.  He didn't even see any.  The funny thing is tonight he saw four deer just a few feet away from where he was hunting this morning.  I think if it is not very cold in the morning, he will go again.  We are really wanting jerky and deer sticks.  Aubree is really thrilled that Opa is going to kill a deer.  I'm afraid she does not understand exactly what that means.  She only knows that she loves jerky.

I also finished the table runner that matches the fall quilt I made.  

A full view.  If you stare at it long enough, you might get sick.  

A version of the log cabin pattern.  A little out of my comfort zone with colors and mixes.  Now my zone is bigger, so watch out for the next quilt.  

All the blocks are the same except the outside colors.  I rotated the blocks in the rows for a different look.  I tied it with black and orange ribbon. 

I finished the Halloween quilt.  It looks kind of wild, but I like it.  I just wish I could figure out how to make the back tighter.  I am already thinking about the Christmas quilt I will start next.  I have several pieces of material.  I just need to figure out how to put them all together.  I am leaning towards a half-square scrap look but with Christmas fabrics.  We shall see.

I am not sure what is on the agenda for tomorrow day or Sunday.  We have a party to attend on Saturday night.  We are excited about that.  We love to see people that we have not had a chance to visit with in a while.  I just hope it is not very cold because it is an outside affair.  If it is chilly, we will have to bundle up so we can stay.  There is usually a fire, so that will help.  We are fire people.

The perfect dinner

I came home tonight to the perfect dinner.  Steve was feeling great so he fixed a very special meal.  We had grilled T-bone steaks, baked potatoes, salad, warm bread, asparagus, and then s'mores.  Yummy, yummy, yummy.  He tried a new steak rub, and it was perfect.  I was so excited.  He had a wonderful day, and I came home to a cooked meal.  I guess you can call me lucky, lucky, lucky.

Yesterday, Steve had his flu and pneumonia  shots.  He went to see Dr. Hinojosa and he even signed his crossbow permit.  He was so thrilled.  Unfortunately, it has rained yesterday and today.  I guess he will have to wait to get the big one until the weather is a little nicer.  Those shots really hurt his arm.  The pneumonia shot hurt the worse.  It was a little early for the flu shot, so he will have to go back and get another one in January.  Better safe than sorry.  Dr.  Hinojosa thought he looked great.  Steve was happy; therefore, I am happy.

I have been working on the Halloween quilt.  I am in the final stages.  The top is pieced with borders attached.  It is ironed and placed on the batting and backing.  I just have to make a few adjustments.  Hopefully tomorrow night I will be able to start tying it together.  I am thinking about using black and orange, skinny ribbon.  I'm excited to finish it so I can show you some pictures.  Believe me, this quilt is way out of my normal box.  While I have been sewing, I have been watching more chick flicks.  I've watched Sweet Home Alabama, Pride and Prejudice, and The Holiday.  I must say I sure do like the leading men in these three films.   My favorite part has to be when Mr. Darcy tell Elizabeth that he loves her, "most ardently".  It just melts me.  It also makes me tear up.  I love when they hate each other at first and then fall madly in love.  The funny thing is, I hate to read romance books.  They kill me.

I talked with my friend, Lorene, today.  She had her first chemo last Thursday.  She sounded great.  She is really fatigued, but she did run errands in town by herself today.  It just takes a few chemo sessions to figure out exactly how your body reacts on what days after chemo.  I know it is hard for active people to have to rest and stay inactive.  It is probably one of the toughest parts of being sick.  I am very proud of her attitude.  She is in great spirits.  Tom made sugar cookies and brought them to school to share.  They were delicious.  He is always making us goodies.  We sure do love Tom!

We are watching Rocket City Rednecks, again.  They are working on making an arial recon surveillance spy platform.   It is going to be attached to a huge weather balloon.   I really do not understand exactly what they are doing.  All I know is that it is a good laugh.  The best part tonight is the one guy, Rob, has a plan for the arial recon surveillance sply platform that involves beer and guns.  They are going to do paintball combat to simulate actual battle. This involves paint guns, blindfolds, walkie talkies and beer. Can't wait to see what that exactly is.  They do have what they call the Code of Three S's:  You always have to be serious, a Southern gentleman, and safety third. This is a little different from our code because we say, "Safety first".  That is one of Aubree's favorite sayings.   Like I mentioned last week,  if you have not seen this show, you must check it our.  Who knows, one day we may see the Rocket City Rednecks' arial recon surveillance spy platform that is made from garage junk in the battlefields aiding American soldiers.

Elizabeth and Justin are on a mini holiday.  They are going to a place in Dixon, MO.  I don't know many of the details, but will tell you all about it when they return.  It is a very primitive cabin with no running water, no electric lights, and close to several wineries to tour.  Sounds like a wonderful time to me.  I love doing the primitive and camping stuff.  It might be a place we can go and take a break.  Wouldn't that be wonderful!

Sunday Again?

Yes, it is Sunday evening, and it is time to get ready for a new week.  Today was a good day for us.  Steve woke up feeling ok.  He wanted to go down to Apple Butter Makin' Days.  We did.  We walked around the square.  He bought a new wallet.  It was camo with leather and a Browning deer head on the leather.  It was a tri-fold.  He really did need a new one, so I am glad he found one he liked.  We had a funnel cake.  It was not really crowded.  In fact, it was really nice.  It was cool with a breeze.  We had lunch at the Cattleman's tent.  Thanks Steve J. for cooking our lunch.  It was perfect, just like it has been every year I can remember.  There is nothing like their steak sandwich.  I think Steve was craving one, so it worked out perfect.  There was no line, which is a miracle.

After our ABMD adventure, we came home to relax.  I worked on my Halloween quilt, and Steve rested.  I found out I need a few yards more of material, so off to Joann's Fabric I went.  Boy was that a mistake.  I arrived and got my cutting number.  They were on 62; I was number 82.  I had about a 45 minute wait to get my material cut.  I guess everyone and their brother was there to purchase the supplies needed to make Halloween costumes.  I got my border material and headed home.  I worked on the quilt for several hours.  I am trying to finish the quilt this week.

We are now watching a new show on National Geographic call Brain Games.  It is a very interesting show.  Our brains are amazing.  It is a shame we don't use it to full capability.  You should check out this show if you get the opportunity.  It is very scientific, but it also uses everyday experiences to explain things. I have been a sucker on several of the observation games they have shown.  I am really going to have to work on my observation skills.  The second part is on multitasking.  It seems that people are not as good at it as they think they are.  Driving gets worse when we multitask..like talking on the phone.  It causes 330,000 accidents a year and 2500 deaths.  It is almost the same as driving while buzzed.

Another show I want to comment on is Rocket City Rednecks.  It is on Wednesdays at nine on National Geographic.  If you thought Swamp People was great, you will love this show.  I asked Steve to help me explain it to you, but he said you would just have to watch it to understand it.  I think it puts rednecks on a whole new level.

Tomorrow I do not have school.  We have teacher meetings.  I almost wish we did have school.  I really dislike some of the meetings we have to attend.  I'll let you know how tomorrow's meetings go.

A few loose ends

 Today I am going to catch you up on a few things.  We planted the four mums that Elizabeth gave us from her wedding.  We put them under the bird tree in the backyard.   When we went out to get the pots, this is what we had waiting for us.  Needless to say, there was a little freaking out.  Steve hates, I mean HATES snakes.  We do not know what kind it was, but we are sure it was a rare, deadly species that they have not discovered any anti-venom  for yet.   Notice everything is past tense since he, the snake, has passed on.  It was a tragic meeting of snake and shovel.  I had to witness it all.  I will have nightmares for weeks :)  The sad thing was it was either Steve or the snake.  A guy has to do what a guy has to do.

 We have all recovered from the big wedding last weekend.  I did discover a few pictures on my camera that I will share.

Opa and Aubree

Two beautiful girls

The wedding cake from Cake Cottage.  Lovely to look at and good to eat!  Who could ask for more!

If you are a good girl at your Tia's wedding, this is what you get... a brand new bike

It is a big girl bike.  Look at the difference between the old and new.  She can really ride the new one.  It is a perfect fit.

Steve is feeling very tired today.  He spent most of yesterday and today in bed.  He has gotten up a few times to eat and visit, but he has not stayed up for long periods of time.  This is normal for this time after his chemo.  It is still hard for him to be so tired.  You know when you are tired, you just don't feel well.  The good thing is we know this shall pass, and THE CHEMO IS WORKING!!!!  He did not go to Apple Butter Makin' Days on Friday or Saturday.  It was just so hot and would be so crowded that it was not worth it.  I worry about him out in public until he gets his flu shot later this month.  We called to get it next week, but Dr. Hinojosa's office will not get any until the end of October.  Dr. Hoos does not have any either.  Steve is going to see Dr. Hinojosa on Tuesday.  He is going to get his crossbow permit signed.  He is excited about hunting again.  We got a new crossbow Thursday after chemo.  It is called a Ten Point, but that is the extent of my crossbow knowledge.  It does look pretty cool and has a cocking system that is easy for him to use.  I am so excited that he will be hunting again, and we will have deer meat.  I am not sure where he will go, but right now, that is not important.

I went to ABMDs on Friday.  I stayed about 2 hours.  That was enough for me.  My big purchases:  two large bags of kettle corn(for Steve), two hand woven place mats, and a mirror hangy thing that sparkles.  I put this in my front window.  Koleen, Shawn, and Dot were down there yesterday for an hour or so.  They bought apple butter.  Elizabeth, Justin, and Amelia went this morning for a little while.  They didn't buy anything except apple butter too.  There were some different crafts there, but overall, it was the same as last year and all the years before. 

Today we have been watching, you guessed, football.  We watched the Red River Rivalry.  Oklahoma was unstoppable today.  I didn't care who won.  I just wanted it to be a good game.  I was not disappointed.  Next, I watched the MU/K-State game.  Man, I thought we might be able to pull it out, but we didn't.  We even had a couple of calls go our way near the end and couldn't do it.  I was sad, but we really didn't have our act together the first quarter, and that hurt us.  There is always next week.  I am a little concerned about Missouri's future conference.  Are they staying in the Big 12 or are they going to the SEC?  I have mixed emotions about it.  I am worried if TCU joins the Big 12, we will have a difficult time with Texas recruits.  You know we have a large number of players from Texas.  On the same topic, if we go to the SEC, we might get more recruits from other areas.  Who really knows?  I also heard that KU said if we go to the SEC, they will not play us in any sport.  It might just be gossip but disturbing just the same.  Who would be our rival...Arkansas?  As I post, I am watching Arkansas/Auburn.  I am for Arkansas.  I thought that was the neighborly thing to do.  So far the game has been goo.  The score is 21-14, Arkansas. It is almost halftime.  As I watch football all season, one thing really bothers me.  Who dresses the announcers?  Please, some of the shirt-tie combinations are repulsive.  I like it when they are coordinated and it doesn't make me sick when I see the tie and shirt together.

I am reading a new book.  It is called Graveminder.  I am almost halfway through it, and it is really good.  It is one of those books that the library put on the New Books shelf.  The one you are automatically drawn to when you go in the public library.  It worked.  I checked it out and am glad I did.  It is about a small town that has a graveminder, a person that keeps the dead from coming back.  The town ancestors made a deal that the town would be safe from trouble if they kept up their end of the deal.  Of course, the woman in charge of keeping the graves is murdered.  The job must be passed on to the next woman in her family, but she knows nothing about the deal and the responsibilities that go with it.  Of course, there is a little romance, or the hit of it so far.  The book is by Melissa Marr.  I have not read any of her books before, but if this book stays as good as it is now, I will check out her other books. 

Well, you are now all caught up with our lives.  As I read over the post, I realize that our lives are not very exciting,but I manage to fill page after page with normal.  You are a good person to read my rambles.  You help me out more than I could ever tell you.  Without my readers, there is no reason for me to post.  If there is no reason for me to post, I feel all the things get locked-up inside and make me go CRAZY.  If I go crazy, who will take care of Steve or educate the youth of Mt. Vernon?  Wow, who would think a silly blog would control the future of so many? :)

WEEEEEEEEE!!!

Before you get on to me for not posting all week, I must share the great news we just got from Dr. Hoos.  The old spots are finally shrinking, and there are no new spots.  This is the best report ever!  I cried when they told us the best news ever.  I am soooooo excited to tell you.  Dr. Hoos seemed very excited too.  He made sure we understood how good this news was.  We did get a call from Vickie, his nurse, yesterday telling us the report was good, but she could not fill in the details.  Let me tell you how relieved I am.  It is like a total flood of emotions.  Dr. Hoos said that the increase in dosage must be the difference.

We are sitting in the front room waiting for our turn to go to the Infusion Lab.  You know, today the wait does not seem so bad.  I guess it is because we know finally that it is all paying off.

I will post more this afternoon or evening.  I was just so excited I had to share the most excellent, can hardly believe it, great, wonderful, long awaited news.

It is now later, so here I am posting.  Steve is still doing well.  He is sleeping really hard next to me.  I am waiting for the Thurs. night football game at 8.

I have so much to tell you.  The wedding went off without a hitch.  Elizabeth was beautiful.  Can't wait to get the pictures.  She has the rights, so I should be able to post several.  I have no idea when they will get them.  We really enjoyed seeing people at the wedding.  We saw some friends that live in Jeff City and some that live just down the road.  It was a good time.  Steve did great.  He was starting to get tired towards the end, but he held tough.  The arbor was a wonderful touch to the wedding scene.  We cleaned up our part and were home in bed by 11.  Not too bad.  He sure was pooped on Sunday.  He rested all day.  I drove Koleen and Shawn back to Columbia.  I told you last post that his car broke down.  It was not a quick turn around trip.  I toted my bike, and Koleen and I rode on the Katy Trail connector in Columbia.  We did 9 miles.  It sure was fun.  I really do love the Katy.  I wish I could plan another trip and ride it again like I did a couple of summers ago.  I just don't have any riding partners to ride with.  Oh, well.  Maybe some one will ride up  :)

This week was really tough for us.   We were so tired.  It was the perfect lazy week.  Steve rested quite a bit.  He needed it.  He worked so hard on the wedding and just the stress wore him out.  It is a great father and looked wonderful dancing with Elizabeth.  I am so glad he made it through all the festivities. I was totally zonked on Tues.  I went to bed at 7:30 and slept all night.  I didn't even wake when Aubree came bouncing in to give us sugars.  I went to the gym on M T and Thursday.  Not bad.

Elizabeth and Justin moved to their new apartment in Springfield.  It is adorable.  We went up last night to see it and take them out to dinner.  Any excuse you know!  They are still missing most of Elizabeth's things and are expecting them to arrive from the Army early next week.  They will be glad when they are  here so they can put the final touches on the apartment.  Can't wait to see it all finished.

I was very lucky tonight.  Amelia fixed pizza for dinner.  It was sure good.

Shawn, Koleen, and Dot are coming home tomorrow.  They are picking up his car, and Koleen and Dot are going to run in the Apple Butter Makin Days 5K.  They will not be here long.  They are expecting to pull out around noon on Saturday.  I think they will eat lunch with her daddy before heading back to Columbia.  Yes, it is ABMD weekend.  I am going down tomorrow afternoon with some chick friends from Springfield.  It will be a great time.  I hope they have some different stuff.  I need some new house decor that is different.

I am planning on riding the Frisco Trial in the morning.  My goals are to ride to Willard and back.  It is about 10 miles.  I would like to ride more and may double back to get a few more.  I don't want to ride through Willard because there will be a bunch of traffic since it goes right by the high school.

I am getting a little tired, so I think I will kick it in.  Steve did wake up and seems to be feeling ok...just tired.  We know how that goes.  The only difference this time is, we had a wonderful report from Hoos. Call us lucky, lucky, lucky, or as my secretary says..."Blessed, blessed, blessed."  The Lord is really taking care of us.  We are truly blessed.

A few minutes down time

The wedding is today.  I have a few down minutes so I thought I would let you know that everything is going great.  Yesterday we had the rehearsal dinner.  It went well.  They ran through the ceremony several times, and I think they have it down perfectly.  I also think Aubree will steal the show.  She is going to be a little darling as the flower girl.   She looked so cute last night as she walked down the aisle spreading the fall leaves.  What a little ham!

The dinner went well.  I was very proud of the dinner I served.  I could not have done it without the help of my dear friend, Mona.  She was a huge help and made the dinner a success.  There were about   40 people there.  Grandma made the desserts, and they were a big hit.  We are lucky to have such a good support system.  

Today is a little hectic.  Steve is down at the EF building helping with the last minute touches.  He just has to be there.  He is pretty tired already, but he is always bullheaded.  I know I have  told you that before.  He said he would not stay long and come home to rest before we have to be there for family pictures at 3. All the bridesmaids are there getting their hair fixed.  They start their pictures around 2 or so.  I'm not sure how long it takes to do hair, but they wanted to be there before 12.  The wedding is actually at 6.

Koleen and Shawn came down Thursday night.  Shawn's care is broken down.  We had to take it to a local shop this morning.  He has a busted Y joint or something like that.  Of  course, all the mechanics and parts places are closed on Saturday.  The place we took it tried, but could not get the part until next Tues.  That means I will probably be making a turn around trip to Columbia in the morning.  They  have to be back there by 3 since they have commitments .  It may change between now and then, but that is how it stands now.

I have still been hitting the gym every morning.  I went yesterday and did my big rotation.  It took a little over an hour.  I went this morning a 7 and did the elliptical for 30.  A great workout.  I think I am beginning to feel a little difference.  I sure do like it.  Believe me, it is really difficult to get up at 4:30.  It is not so bad once I am there;  it is the actually getting out of bed that is the killer.

I will do my best to post tomorrow evening to let  you know how the day and night went.