Ever since the beginning of this year - I just have not felt myself. I mean - literally - physically.
And it was no help with changing my feelings when out of the clear blue - I gained 26 pounds in the course of about 4 weeks during the middle of January and first half of February.
You’d think I had sat on my butt in front of this computer for 24 hours - literally - while pushing down piled plates of junk food.
The actual truth - if there must be a fault I carried differently at that time - I tried staying away from what I call ’ false foods ’ - which left me digging a hole to hide and suck down all the coffee I could make - every moment I was awake. I decided coffee was the lesser of the evils - next to the insane calories to be found in scratch baking with ’ real ’ butter.
At the same time - I would sit down in front of the computer after dinner with a full glass of ice water. The computer kept me preoccupied all the way to that one time when I’d pick the glass up to drink - and it would be empty.
I’ve never been a fan of water - beyond a body of water full of fish for me to catch.
All through the growing season this year - I noticed my physical ability was really going downhill.
Normally - my body would acclimate within a few weeks and I could do just about anything. I seemed to be going nowhere but further away from toning muscles and building strength this year.
At the same time - I began developing difficulty in breathing - reaching a point where I had to stop and stand for a few minutes - just to stop gasping for air. I found that not only downright aggravating - but outrageously strange - considering the fact that I had quit smoking in September of 2009.
Finally - I chose to find a different doctor - located closer to where we live - to have things checked out.
A couple weeks ago - my visit with my doctor resulted in her feeling almost positive that I was dealing with Fibromyalgia.
My next appointment with her was to be this coming October 11th. However - I ended up calling and having the appointment moved up sooner. I had reached a point where I could not even finish half a sandwich.
My breathing was becoming worse. But the ultimate concern was - for example - waking up in the morning and eating two pieces of 100% whole wheat toast with a little bit of margerine and preserves - water - coffee - Prylosec and Meloxicam that were prescribed by my doctor.
Within a few minutes after running through that list there - my stomach swells. By the time I try having some lunch - I cannot see my feet while standing. I look like I’m about 7 months pregnant.
I went in to see my doctor this past Monday. I had lost 2 pounds when I’d been to see her two weeks prior to this day.
But on this day - the scale informed us all that I had gained 11 pounds - within only 2 weeks. Yet - I’m doing more - but eating less - and only home-cooked meat and veggies.
My entire body stays bloated and swollen. I fight like hell to use a pen to write checks out for bills - or - sign my name.
It’s never worth getting blood outta me without fair warning and allowing me time to suck up about a gallon of water. I ended up going back the next day to give blood and urine. The chest x-ray came out just fine.
But I go for an ultrasound on October 7th.
My doctor suspects gallbladder - and I may be looking at surgery.
I can only hope that’s all that’s wrong.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Sunday, September 26, 2010
That Honey-Do List in Pictures - Part 1
Over the past few weeks Dwayne and I have been feeling like our goal is so out of reach. Every time we attempt to build up a nest egg for one of the ‘biggies’ - some other crap happens - and it’s never a cheap fix.
But I think I’ve found the ultimate positive reason for taking photos of everyday life.
I began going through photos I’ve taken over this past year. Before I realized it - it became second nature to collect them all into a pile - ( alright - so it’s a virtual pile ) - for posting. I ended up with enough that it will take more than one posting.
But the awesome point in such an effort is - it helps both of us realize something.
Despite the insane work schedule that co-exists with our lives - despite the fact that an additional graveyard shift got thrown into this year - despite the fact that it came only a couple months after Dwayne had just gotten off of a 4-month round - despite the fact that this new graveyard shift came during harvesting and canning season - ( when I really needed his help most ) - despite the issues regarding my health that have come up…
We managed to get quite a bit of our list knocked out this year! And thank God - these photos are the best medicine for helping us - both - keep hope in being able to reach our goal!
We brought home a new addition to our family - a puppy for Zucker - to remove all his feelings of loneliness. Having only one child in a home is - absolutely - cruel.
We named her Carlie! And she went from this…
… to THIS - in no time at all! And she now has an extended nickname - “ Miss Sexy Feet Cow With No Legs Spicy Bitch! “ The latter part comes from the fact that - this goofy dog likes to steal jalapeno peppers from my buckets.
Dwayne constructed an arbor for our green Kay Gray grapevines - which we planted shortly afterward. He built 5 crosses. I know. We joked about it looking like we were prepping for a Crucifixion - and discussed what names to put on 'em.
He moved the front porch stair landing and staircase out away from the house - to the position where it should have been constructed in the first place.
We planted a Kwanzan Cherry tree in front of the porch - to honor Monica - a dear friend that had passed away just before last Thanksgiving.
I was shocked to see the blooms that appeared shortly after planting! It was almost as if Monica came to make it happen - a way of saying thanks.
We planted a Granny Smith Apple tree.
We drove down to Georgia to buy our tractor. Dwayne even turned that trip into a surprise weekend down in Savannah - a gift to me for Mother’s Day - which was absolutely wonderful!
And so far - Dwayne has replaced the seat - two rear tires - moved the exhaust stack to revamp the tractor for cutting hay - and a few other tasks to boot.
This spot became….
The home for our Chicken Hotel that my wonderful husband constructed so meticulously that you’d think some human was moving in to live there. And next - came the construction of the chicken tractor - for allowing them to range on the property.
Both - became the home to a mess of these little bobbles!
And just look at how much they’ve grown in only 3 months!
We had beautiful ‘ volunteer ‘ sunflowers sprout into tall beauties - from seed that hit the ground last year. Sadly - I only caught sight of three honeybees around our property this year. Plenty of the bumble bees and others. Not quite sure what to think of that.
Zucker became 3 years old this year. His whole demeanor seems to have changed - especially now that he has someone to play with at home!
We survived a bit of a dry spell that threatened everything.
But then we were compensated with a spell of longlasting showers for days that helped everything come back to life!
And it made good on the second cutting of hay for this year - even offering a possible promise of a third cut!
And we are now only into the very beginning of the Fall season. There’s no telling what lies in wait for us before the end of the year. I only pray that it’s all good.
But I think I’ve found the ultimate positive reason for taking photos of everyday life.
I began going through photos I’ve taken over this past year. Before I realized it - it became second nature to collect them all into a pile - ( alright - so it’s a virtual pile ) - for posting. I ended up with enough that it will take more than one posting.
But the awesome point in such an effort is - it helps both of us realize something.
Despite the insane work schedule that co-exists with our lives - despite the fact that an additional graveyard shift got thrown into this year - despite the fact that it came only a couple months after Dwayne had just gotten off of a 4-month round - despite the fact that this new graveyard shift came during harvesting and canning season - ( when I really needed his help most ) - despite the issues regarding my health that have come up…
We managed to get quite a bit of our list knocked out this year! And thank God - these photos are the best medicine for helping us - both - keep hope in being able to reach our goal!
We brought home a new addition to our family - a puppy for Zucker - to remove all his feelings of loneliness. Having only one child in a home is - absolutely - cruel.
We named her Carlie! And she went from this…
… to THIS - in no time at all! And she now has an extended nickname - “ Miss Sexy Feet Cow With No Legs Spicy Bitch! “ The latter part comes from the fact that - this goofy dog likes to steal jalapeno peppers from my buckets.
Dwayne constructed an arbor for our green Kay Gray grapevines - which we planted shortly afterward. He built 5 crosses. I know. We joked about it looking like we were prepping for a Crucifixion - and discussed what names to put on 'em.
He moved the front porch stair landing and staircase out away from the house - to the position where it should have been constructed in the first place.
We planted a Kwanzan Cherry tree in front of the porch - to honor Monica - a dear friend that had passed away just before last Thanksgiving.
I was shocked to see the blooms that appeared shortly after planting! It was almost as if Monica came to make it happen - a way of saying thanks.
We planted a Granny Smith Apple tree.
We drove down to Georgia to buy our tractor. Dwayne even turned that trip into a surprise weekend down in Savannah - a gift to me for Mother’s Day - which was absolutely wonderful!
And so far - Dwayne has replaced the seat - two rear tires - moved the exhaust stack to revamp the tractor for cutting hay - and a few other tasks to boot.
This spot became….
The home for our Chicken Hotel that my wonderful husband constructed so meticulously that you’d think some human was moving in to live there. And next - came the construction of the chicken tractor - for allowing them to range on the property.
Both - became the home to a mess of these little bobbles!
And just look at how much they’ve grown in only 3 months!
We had beautiful ‘ volunteer ‘ sunflowers sprout into tall beauties - from seed that hit the ground last year. Sadly - I only caught sight of three honeybees around our property this year. Plenty of the bumble bees and others. Not quite sure what to think of that.
Zucker became 3 years old this year. His whole demeanor seems to have changed - especially now that he has someone to play with at home!
We survived a bit of a dry spell that threatened everything.
But then we were compensated with a spell of longlasting showers for days that helped everything come back to life!
And it made good on the second cutting of hay for this year - even offering a possible promise of a third cut!
And we are now only into the very beginning of the Fall season. There’s no telling what lies in wait for us before the end of the year. I only pray that it’s all good.
Friday, September 24, 2010
He-Roo' Ain't No Hero...
Confiscating recliners has become - a disease - in this house.
Our babies are getting big. And I have a confession.
My mindset has reclaimed taking form as - mother of infants - all over again.
These photos were taken during the second day of fun - ever - out in the garden - working on cleaning up the mess.
They just don’t know that.
The mother in me was an absolute wreck during their first day. Fear of - ‘something getting them’ - drove me plum nuts.
I didn’t get much accomplished inside the house that day.
But things relaxed more during the second day - including my nerves. And the whole bunch felt gutsy enough to spread out all over the entire area of the garden - to discover - and pig out!
This guy - we go round and round. He seemed to step up to the plate after my buddy passed away from the Cocci.
However - we go at it over his bullying and trying to keep others from eating out of both feeders.
I think it’s safe to say chalk him up as a Roo’.
He may be gorgeous. He may enjoy sitting up in my arms and expecting me to hold him all the time.
But as you can see - He has not been given a name - yet. And if He doesn’t square up and figure out the order of things at this house…
He won’t need a name.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Little Pods and Sailing Morons
“ Whaaaaat - in the world - do you want? “
“ It’s all mine! I went through Hell getting up here. I deserve this recliner. I earned it. You lose! “
Miss ' Cow With No Legs ' has confiscated my recliner - permanently. Next time anyone hears Dwayne mention the amount of time I spend at the computer..... ahem.
We had a bout of weather during this past round of time off that just screamed for us to drop everything and try a day of fishing. The previous cooling temps - especially during nights now - have done favor for the water temps enough to wake the fish a little more.
This time we decided to try docking off in Loudon - which turned out to be a pretty good idea! Except - the fishing was so good that I forgot all about taking out the camera!
That is - until we came across this MORON and a few of his pals following behind - all in desperate need of Boater’s Safety classes. If you have brains and education - You never plow past other boats when they are sitting still with human beings fishing aboard. And having way too much money and too much of a toy for two people does not exempt you and count you special. Well - not in the way you - obviously - consider yourself to be special.
My first thought was to drop my drawers and moon the jerks.
But then - my second thought was - “ Why become one with the Idjits? “
Anyway - back to the Redbud pods.
I’d noticed seed pods abound - hanging from almost every Redbud tree around both banks of the river. We have not one single Redbud tree on our property.
Despite mentioning wishes to snatch a few before we ended our day and headed back to the dock - we forgot - as goes with those signs of aging we have been experiencing.
But - my husband loves me.
No. I mean - he really loves me.
In fact - he’s probably the only one that truly loves me. And I have this as evidence to testify on behalf of my proud claim…
I woke up yesterday morning to find a surprise sitting on my desk.
No. They are - indeed - that grainy. These are Redbud pods.
I discovered getting my hands in the middle of Mother Nature’s job requires a very particular process for success in sprouting these seeds.
Best time to collect the pods is after they turn brown on the trees in the fall. I’ll let them dry out for about a week - before shelling the seeds. Come 8 weeks before the official day of Spring - I’ll drop the seeds into boiling water for 1 minute - and store them in our refrigerator - (small paper bag kept in the veggie drawer).
I will celebrate the first day of spring for 2011 - God willing - by planting these seeds into small pots - about ¼” deep.
My wonderful husband was thinking of me while he was at work. And somewhere in time - before driving back home - he remembered that we had forgotten to snatch those Redbud pods the other day. And he got lucky!
THIS is a perfect example of how my husband loves me in the best of ways! To bring home some seed pods appears to be somewhat trifling - until - you know all those small details behind the effort.
These little things - are the nourishment that feeds my constantly growing love for this man.
Friday, September 17, 2010
A Not-So-Ready For Fall Day
I shot these photos a few days ago - after a storm that came through and dumped 3-inches of water on us - within only 1 hour.
This is a great time to post them. Somehow - they render some sort of - compensation - for the disappointing and frustrating growing season we’ve had here this year.
I can remember this day so well. It felt very odd. My mind was struggling with - “ But… it’s almost Fall. “
Yet - my skin and eyes stood hand in hand - bound by a blanket of absolute awe - staring at and feeling the beauty of what seemed like - a perfect Spring day.
Our best days here at our place happen after storms. Especially while everything is mostly green and the sun is shining.
The air is clean and clear - enough that we can enjoy the view of the Great Smoky Mountains from our front porch - one of the reminders about why I love living here so much.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Tear It Up, Boy!
Dwayne got ticked off and decided to tear up the back porch.
*Snicker* Okay - I’m telling lies. Notice the trim now missing from the back door - one of two projects he hit at the same time.
He busted down all the trim around the back door - and took a look to see how much needed to be done correctly. Our suspicions were correct.
He had to make some adjustments to the actual insertion of the door - which fixed the cockeyed sliding screen door. He filled in around the door with expanding insulation.
Finally - he ripped the trim down to the proper width.
And then - he began the tedious process of spraying special stripper for log homes.
Next step was to power-wash. Amazing to see how much guck that stuff removes.
What a difference after letting it all dry.
Next comes - sealing. For some odd reason - thoughts of molasses - and - roofing tar come to mind.
As for my part - I continue my hunt for THE perfect porch lights we want to put on both - the front and back porches. All I know so far is - they have to be black wrought iron. And they need to hang down from their assembly - not above it. That's what we want!!
Sunday, September 12, 2010
At Least it Rained
The past week has been spent preparing for friends that came up to Tennessee for their vacation.
They rented a cabin in Wear’s Valley. We got to meet them up at The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge for lunch on Thursday. They left Saturday to stop at the Jack Daniels Distillery before heading on home.
We had 3 inches of rain register on our rain gauge yesterday evening.
So much for trying to help provide for the yellow finches. Not only did the dried sunflower stalk fall over - I can only hope we’re able to stand the Black Knight Butterfly bush up straight and keep it going.
It came in less than an hour. The wind and heavy rain was so fierce that the walls of the old barn even submitted to a thorough soaking. It was impossible to see our neighbors’ mobile home next door for a bit of time.
Yesterday marked 8 years that Dwayne and I have been married.
The mail carrier delivered our glass tea pitcher that we ordered - what was left of it - anyway.
Jennifer called to just say hello. Dwayne’s stepfather called to find out if we’d driven to LaFollette to look at a boat he’s interested in buying.
Beyond that…
They rented a cabin in Wear’s Valley. We got to meet them up at The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge for lunch on Thursday. They left Saturday to stop at the Jack Daniels Distillery before heading on home.
We had 3 inches of rain register on our rain gauge yesterday evening.
So much for trying to help provide for the yellow finches. Not only did the dried sunflower stalk fall over - I can only hope we’re able to stand the Black Knight Butterfly bush up straight and keep it going.
It came in less than an hour. The wind and heavy rain was so fierce that the walls of the old barn even submitted to a thorough soaking. It was impossible to see our neighbors’ mobile home next door for a bit of time.
Yesterday marked 8 years that Dwayne and I have been married.
The mail carrier delivered our glass tea pitcher that we ordered - what was left of it - anyway.
Jennifer called to just say hello. Dwayne’s stepfather called to find out if we’d driven to LaFollette to look at a boat he’s interested in buying.
Beyond that…
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Thursday, September 30, 2010
Time For Me to Fess Up
Ever since the beginning of this year - I just have not felt myself. I mean - literally - physically.
And it was no help with changing my feelings when out of the clear blue - I gained 26 pounds in the course of about 4 weeks during the middle of January and first half of February.
You’d think I had sat on my butt in front of this computer for 24 hours - literally - while pushing down piled plates of junk food.
The actual truth - if there must be a fault I carried differently at that time - I tried staying away from what I call ’ false foods ’ - which left me digging a hole to hide and suck down all the coffee I could make - every moment I was awake. I decided coffee was the lesser of the evils - next to the insane calories to be found in scratch baking with ’ real ’ butter.
At the same time - I would sit down in front of the computer after dinner with a full glass of ice water. The computer kept me preoccupied all the way to that one time when I’d pick the glass up to drink - and it would be empty.
I’ve never been a fan of water - beyond a body of water full of fish for me to catch.
All through the growing season this year - I noticed my physical ability was really going downhill.
Normally - my body would acclimate within a few weeks and I could do just about anything. I seemed to be going nowhere but further away from toning muscles and building strength this year.
At the same time - I began developing difficulty in breathing - reaching a point where I had to stop and stand for a few minutes - just to stop gasping for air. I found that not only downright aggravating - but outrageously strange - considering the fact that I had quit smoking in September of 2009.
Finally - I chose to find a different doctor - located closer to where we live - to have things checked out.
A couple weeks ago - my visit with my doctor resulted in her feeling almost positive that I was dealing with Fibromyalgia.
My next appointment with her was to be this coming October 11th. However - I ended up calling and having the appointment moved up sooner. I had reached a point where I could not even finish half a sandwich.
My breathing was becoming worse. But the ultimate concern was - for example - waking up in the morning and eating two pieces of 100% whole wheat toast with a little bit of margerine and preserves - water - coffee - Prylosec and Meloxicam that were prescribed by my doctor.
Within a few minutes after running through that list there - my stomach swells. By the time I try having some lunch - I cannot see my feet while standing. I look like I’m about 7 months pregnant.
I went in to see my doctor this past Monday. I had lost 2 pounds when I’d been to see her two weeks prior to this day.
But on this day - the scale informed us all that I had gained 11 pounds - within only 2 weeks. Yet - I’m doing more - but eating less - and only home-cooked meat and veggies.
My entire body stays bloated and swollen. I fight like hell to use a pen to write checks out for bills - or - sign my name.
It’s never worth getting blood outta me without fair warning and allowing me time to suck up about a gallon of water. I ended up going back the next day to give blood and urine. The chest x-ray came out just fine.
But I go for an ultrasound on October 7th.
My doctor suspects gallbladder - and I may be looking at surgery.
I can only hope that’s all that’s wrong.
And it was no help with changing my feelings when out of the clear blue - I gained 26 pounds in the course of about 4 weeks during the middle of January and first half of February.
You’d think I had sat on my butt in front of this computer for 24 hours - literally - while pushing down piled plates of junk food.
The actual truth - if there must be a fault I carried differently at that time - I tried staying away from what I call ’ false foods ’ - which left me digging a hole to hide and suck down all the coffee I could make - every moment I was awake. I decided coffee was the lesser of the evils - next to the insane calories to be found in scratch baking with ’ real ’ butter.
At the same time - I would sit down in front of the computer after dinner with a full glass of ice water. The computer kept me preoccupied all the way to that one time when I’d pick the glass up to drink - and it would be empty.
I’ve never been a fan of water - beyond a body of water full of fish for me to catch.
All through the growing season this year - I noticed my physical ability was really going downhill.
Normally - my body would acclimate within a few weeks and I could do just about anything. I seemed to be going nowhere but further away from toning muscles and building strength this year.
At the same time - I began developing difficulty in breathing - reaching a point where I had to stop and stand for a few minutes - just to stop gasping for air. I found that not only downright aggravating - but outrageously strange - considering the fact that I had quit smoking in September of 2009.
Finally - I chose to find a different doctor - located closer to where we live - to have things checked out.
A couple weeks ago - my visit with my doctor resulted in her feeling almost positive that I was dealing with Fibromyalgia.
My next appointment with her was to be this coming October 11th. However - I ended up calling and having the appointment moved up sooner. I had reached a point where I could not even finish half a sandwich.
My breathing was becoming worse. But the ultimate concern was - for example - waking up in the morning and eating two pieces of 100% whole wheat toast with a little bit of margerine and preserves - water - coffee - Prylosec and Meloxicam that were prescribed by my doctor.
Within a few minutes after running through that list there - my stomach swells. By the time I try having some lunch - I cannot see my feet while standing. I look like I’m about 7 months pregnant.
I went in to see my doctor this past Monday. I had lost 2 pounds when I’d been to see her two weeks prior to this day.
But on this day - the scale informed us all that I had gained 11 pounds - within only 2 weeks. Yet - I’m doing more - but eating less - and only home-cooked meat and veggies.
My entire body stays bloated and swollen. I fight like hell to use a pen to write checks out for bills - or - sign my name.
It’s never worth getting blood outta me without fair warning and allowing me time to suck up about a gallon of water. I ended up going back the next day to give blood and urine. The chest x-ray came out just fine.
But I go for an ultrasound on October 7th.
My doctor suspects gallbladder - and I may be looking at surgery.
I can only hope that’s all that’s wrong.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
That Honey-Do List in Pictures - Part 1
Over the past few weeks Dwayne and I have been feeling like our goal is so out of reach. Every time we attempt to build up a nest egg for one of the ‘biggies’ - some other crap happens - and it’s never a cheap fix.
But I think I’ve found the ultimate positive reason for taking photos of everyday life.
I began going through photos I’ve taken over this past year. Before I realized it - it became second nature to collect them all into a pile - ( alright - so it’s a virtual pile ) - for posting. I ended up with enough that it will take more than one posting.
But the awesome point in such an effort is - it helps both of us realize something.
Despite the insane work schedule that co-exists with our lives - despite the fact that an additional graveyard shift got thrown into this year - despite the fact that it came only a couple months after Dwayne had just gotten off of a 4-month round - despite the fact that this new graveyard shift came during harvesting and canning season - ( when I really needed his help most ) - despite the issues regarding my health that have come up…
We managed to get quite a bit of our list knocked out this year! And thank God - these photos are the best medicine for helping us - both - keep hope in being able to reach our goal!
We brought home a new addition to our family - a puppy for Zucker - to remove all his feelings of loneliness. Having only one child in a home is - absolutely - cruel.
We named her Carlie! And she went from this…
… to THIS - in no time at all! And she now has an extended nickname - “ Miss Sexy Feet Cow With No Legs Spicy Bitch! “ The latter part comes from the fact that - this goofy dog likes to steal jalapeno peppers from my buckets.
Dwayne constructed an arbor for our green Kay Gray grapevines - which we planted shortly afterward. He built 5 crosses. I know. We joked about it looking like we were prepping for a Crucifixion - and discussed what names to put on 'em.
He moved the front porch stair landing and staircase out away from the house - to the position where it should have been constructed in the first place.
We planted a Kwanzan Cherry tree in front of the porch - to honor Monica - a dear friend that had passed away just before last Thanksgiving.
I was shocked to see the blooms that appeared shortly after planting! It was almost as if Monica came to make it happen - a way of saying thanks.
We planted a Granny Smith Apple tree.
We drove down to Georgia to buy our tractor. Dwayne even turned that trip into a surprise weekend down in Savannah - a gift to me for Mother’s Day - which was absolutely wonderful!
And so far - Dwayne has replaced the seat - two rear tires - moved the exhaust stack to revamp the tractor for cutting hay - and a few other tasks to boot.
This spot became….
The home for our Chicken Hotel that my wonderful husband constructed so meticulously that you’d think some human was moving in to live there. And next - came the construction of the chicken tractor - for allowing them to range on the property.
Both - became the home to a mess of these little bobbles!
And just look at how much they’ve grown in only 3 months!
We had beautiful ‘ volunteer ‘ sunflowers sprout into tall beauties - from seed that hit the ground last year. Sadly - I only caught sight of three honeybees around our property this year. Plenty of the bumble bees and others. Not quite sure what to think of that.
Zucker became 3 years old this year. His whole demeanor seems to have changed - especially now that he has someone to play with at home!
We survived a bit of a dry spell that threatened everything.
But then we were compensated with a spell of longlasting showers for days that helped everything come back to life!
And it made good on the second cutting of hay for this year - even offering a possible promise of a third cut!
And we are now only into the very beginning of the Fall season. There’s no telling what lies in wait for us before the end of the year. I only pray that it’s all good.
But I think I’ve found the ultimate positive reason for taking photos of everyday life.
I began going through photos I’ve taken over this past year. Before I realized it - it became second nature to collect them all into a pile - ( alright - so it’s a virtual pile ) - for posting. I ended up with enough that it will take more than one posting.
But the awesome point in such an effort is - it helps both of us realize something.
Despite the insane work schedule that co-exists with our lives - despite the fact that an additional graveyard shift got thrown into this year - despite the fact that it came only a couple months after Dwayne had just gotten off of a 4-month round - despite the fact that this new graveyard shift came during harvesting and canning season - ( when I really needed his help most ) - despite the issues regarding my health that have come up…
We managed to get quite a bit of our list knocked out this year! And thank God - these photos are the best medicine for helping us - both - keep hope in being able to reach our goal!
We brought home a new addition to our family - a puppy for Zucker - to remove all his feelings of loneliness. Having only one child in a home is - absolutely - cruel.
We named her Carlie! And she went from this…
… to THIS - in no time at all! And she now has an extended nickname - “ Miss Sexy Feet Cow With No Legs Spicy Bitch! “ The latter part comes from the fact that - this goofy dog likes to steal jalapeno peppers from my buckets.
Dwayne constructed an arbor for our green Kay Gray grapevines - which we planted shortly afterward. He built 5 crosses. I know. We joked about it looking like we were prepping for a Crucifixion - and discussed what names to put on 'em.
He moved the front porch stair landing and staircase out away from the house - to the position where it should have been constructed in the first place.
We planted a Kwanzan Cherry tree in front of the porch - to honor Monica - a dear friend that had passed away just before last Thanksgiving.
I was shocked to see the blooms that appeared shortly after planting! It was almost as if Monica came to make it happen - a way of saying thanks.
We planted a Granny Smith Apple tree.
We drove down to Georgia to buy our tractor. Dwayne even turned that trip into a surprise weekend down in Savannah - a gift to me for Mother’s Day - which was absolutely wonderful!
And so far - Dwayne has replaced the seat - two rear tires - moved the exhaust stack to revamp the tractor for cutting hay - and a few other tasks to boot.
This spot became….
The home for our Chicken Hotel that my wonderful husband constructed so meticulously that you’d think some human was moving in to live there. And next - came the construction of the chicken tractor - for allowing them to range on the property.
Both - became the home to a mess of these little bobbles!
And just look at how much they’ve grown in only 3 months!
We had beautiful ‘ volunteer ‘ sunflowers sprout into tall beauties - from seed that hit the ground last year. Sadly - I only caught sight of three honeybees around our property this year. Plenty of the bumble bees and others. Not quite sure what to think of that.
Zucker became 3 years old this year. His whole demeanor seems to have changed - especially now that he has someone to play with at home!
We survived a bit of a dry spell that threatened everything.
But then we were compensated with a spell of longlasting showers for days that helped everything come back to life!
And it made good on the second cutting of hay for this year - even offering a possible promise of a third cut!
And we are now only into the very beginning of the Fall season. There’s no telling what lies in wait for us before the end of the year. I only pray that it’s all good.
Friday, September 24, 2010
He-Roo' Ain't No Hero...
Confiscating recliners has become - a disease - in this house.
Our babies are getting big. And I have a confession.
My mindset has reclaimed taking form as - mother of infants - all over again.
These photos were taken during the second day of fun - ever - out in the garden - working on cleaning up the mess.
They just don’t know that.
The mother in me was an absolute wreck during their first day. Fear of - ‘something getting them’ - drove me plum nuts.
I didn’t get much accomplished inside the house that day.
But things relaxed more during the second day - including my nerves. And the whole bunch felt gutsy enough to spread out all over the entire area of the garden - to discover - and pig out!
This guy - we go round and round. He seemed to step up to the plate after my buddy passed away from the Cocci.
However - we go at it over his bullying and trying to keep others from eating out of both feeders.
I think it’s safe to say chalk him up as a Roo’.
He may be gorgeous. He may enjoy sitting up in my arms and expecting me to hold him all the time.
But as you can see - He has not been given a name - yet. And if He doesn’t square up and figure out the order of things at this house…
He won’t need a name.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Little Pods and Sailing Morons
“ Whaaaaat - in the world - do you want? “
“ It’s all mine! I went through Hell getting up here. I deserve this recliner. I earned it. You lose! “
Miss ' Cow With No Legs ' has confiscated my recliner - permanently. Next time anyone hears Dwayne mention the amount of time I spend at the computer..... ahem.
We had a bout of weather during this past round of time off that just screamed for us to drop everything and try a day of fishing. The previous cooling temps - especially during nights now - have done favor for the water temps enough to wake the fish a little more.
This time we decided to try docking off in Loudon - which turned out to be a pretty good idea! Except - the fishing was so good that I forgot all about taking out the camera!
That is - until we came across this MORON and a few of his pals following behind - all in desperate need of Boater’s Safety classes. If you have brains and education - You never plow past other boats when they are sitting still with human beings fishing aboard. And having way too much money and too much of a toy for two people does not exempt you and count you special. Well - not in the way you - obviously - consider yourself to be special.
My first thought was to drop my drawers and moon the jerks.
But then - my second thought was - “ Why become one with the Idjits? “
Anyway - back to the Redbud pods.
I’d noticed seed pods abound - hanging from almost every Redbud tree around both banks of the river. We have not one single Redbud tree on our property.
Despite mentioning wishes to snatch a few before we ended our day and headed back to the dock - we forgot - as goes with those signs of aging we have been experiencing.
But - my husband loves me.
No. I mean - he really loves me.
In fact - he’s probably the only one that truly loves me. And I have this as evidence to testify on behalf of my proud claim…
I woke up yesterday morning to find a surprise sitting on my desk.
No. They are - indeed - that grainy. These are Redbud pods.
I discovered getting my hands in the middle of Mother Nature’s job requires a very particular process for success in sprouting these seeds.
Best time to collect the pods is after they turn brown on the trees in the fall. I’ll let them dry out for about a week - before shelling the seeds. Come 8 weeks before the official day of Spring - I’ll drop the seeds into boiling water for 1 minute - and store them in our refrigerator - (small paper bag kept in the veggie drawer).
I will celebrate the first day of spring for 2011 - God willing - by planting these seeds into small pots - about ¼” deep.
My wonderful husband was thinking of me while he was at work. And somewhere in time - before driving back home - he remembered that we had forgotten to snatch those Redbud pods the other day. And he got lucky!
THIS is a perfect example of how my husband loves me in the best of ways! To bring home some seed pods appears to be somewhat trifling - until - you know all those small details behind the effort.
These little things - are the nourishment that feeds my constantly growing love for this man.
Friday, September 17, 2010
A Not-So-Ready For Fall Day
I shot these photos a few days ago - after a storm that came through and dumped 3-inches of water on us - within only 1 hour.
This is a great time to post them. Somehow - they render some sort of - compensation - for the disappointing and frustrating growing season we’ve had here this year.
I can remember this day so well. It felt very odd. My mind was struggling with - “ But… it’s almost Fall. “
Yet - my skin and eyes stood hand in hand - bound by a blanket of absolute awe - staring at and feeling the beauty of what seemed like - a perfect Spring day.
Our best days here at our place happen after storms. Especially while everything is mostly green and the sun is shining.
The air is clean and clear - enough that we can enjoy the view of the Great Smoky Mountains from our front porch - one of the reminders about why I love living here so much.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Tear It Up, Boy!
Dwayne got ticked off and decided to tear up the back porch.
*Snicker* Okay - I’m telling lies. Notice the trim now missing from the back door - one of two projects he hit at the same time.
He busted down all the trim around the back door - and took a look to see how much needed to be done correctly. Our suspicions were correct.
He had to make some adjustments to the actual insertion of the door - which fixed the cockeyed sliding screen door. He filled in around the door with expanding insulation.
Finally - he ripped the trim down to the proper width.
And then - he began the tedious process of spraying special stripper for log homes.
Next step was to power-wash. Amazing to see how much guck that stuff removes.
What a difference after letting it all dry.
Next comes - sealing. For some odd reason - thoughts of molasses - and - roofing tar come to mind.
As for my part - I continue my hunt for THE perfect porch lights we want to put on both - the front and back porches. All I know so far is - they have to be black wrought iron. And they need to hang down from their assembly - not above it. That's what we want!!
Sunday, September 12, 2010
At Least it Rained
The past week has been spent preparing for friends that came up to Tennessee for their vacation.
They rented a cabin in Wear’s Valley. We got to meet them up at The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge for lunch on Thursday. They left Saturday to stop at the Jack Daniels Distillery before heading on home.
We had 3 inches of rain register on our rain gauge yesterday evening.
So much for trying to help provide for the yellow finches. Not only did the dried sunflower stalk fall over - I can only hope we’re able to stand the Black Knight Butterfly bush up straight and keep it going.
It came in less than an hour. The wind and heavy rain was so fierce that the walls of the old barn even submitted to a thorough soaking. It was impossible to see our neighbors’ mobile home next door for a bit of time.
Yesterday marked 8 years that Dwayne and I have been married.
The mail carrier delivered our glass tea pitcher that we ordered - what was left of it - anyway.
Jennifer called to just say hello. Dwayne’s stepfather called to find out if we’d driven to LaFollette to look at a boat he’s interested in buying.
Beyond that…
They rented a cabin in Wear’s Valley. We got to meet them up at The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge for lunch on Thursday. They left Saturday to stop at the Jack Daniels Distillery before heading on home.
We had 3 inches of rain register on our rain gauge yesterday evening.
So much for trying to help provide for the yellow finches. Not only did the dried sunflower stalk fall over - I can only hope we’re able to stand the Black Knight Butterfly bush up straight and keep it going.
It came in less than an hour. The wind and heavy rain was so fierce that the walls of the old barn even submitted to a thorough soaking. It was impossible to see our neighbors’ mobile home next door for a bit of time.
Yesterday marked 8 years that Dwayne and I have been married.
The mail carrier delivered our glass tea pitcher that we ordered - what was left of it - anyway.
Jennifer called to just say hello. Dwayne’s stepfather called to find out if we’d driven to LaFollette to look at a boat he’s interested in buying.
Beyond that…
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