~ Dallas ~

Sooo a long time ago, before JLand days I was on the hockey message boards on AOL.  Hmmm actually it was when AOL blew them up that I moved over to JLand... lots of you made me stay.  :)   Hmmm 'til they blew them up too and we ended up here.  Landed here?  What is it we do here?  

Sooo here I am doing an entry on Dallas.  Long ago I lived in Arlington some of you knew that.  My son was born in Ft. Worth.... here nor there...  I naturally gravitated towards the Dallas Stars board..  met some folks.  Great folks.  Met some assholes too.  Just like every where. 

Needless to say this was even before the 'No Goal'... another entry if you aren't up to speed.  Of course since Buffalo played Dallas it became that much more fun.  Shortly after the Cup was given to Dallas.. I think the next season I went for visit...  staying at my girlfriend Billie's... we did a hockey game and well that's another story but I met Mike....Robert's brother.... Robert visited the boards... well Facebook brought us back together.  Facebook introduced me to the families. Let me tell you that family is a hoot!  Kinda reminds me of mine, but bigger.  Lots BIGGER.  But you know what they say...'everythings BIGGER in TX' 

So back I go for a visit.  Welcomed with open arms.  Felt like I was part of the family and no one missed a beat.  It was awesome.  I've not smiled, laughed, cried like that in a long time. 




In flight some place between Buffalo and Chicago on my way out.  It was early morning.  Obviously very cloudy.  It was as windy as all get out!  Got a little nervous but all was great.  Lonng flight but good.   Between Chicago and Kansas City the flight was full.  Very full!  Needless to say I got the chance to sit next to a really big guy.  A big, rude guy.  He sat with his elbow jabbing my rib.  If I moved he just stretched out more.   Ummm and he didn't smell great either.   It wasn't fun...  but he bugged the lady in front of him and she complained.   Ahhhh problem solved...  well 'cept for the stench! 




No brainer...  the BIG D on my way in.... 




Loved the way the clouds looked while I was in them.  Took me to a far away place. 

Friday was dinner.  Had an absolute blast.  Ate like a pig!  Mike and his daughter Brandy met Billie, her grand daughter, and I.  It was great to see them.. that was the first time I'd met Brandy... other then FB.  What a gem!!  Ahhh but her Daddy ain't so bad so there was no doubt!




Saturday morning it was a Birthday party for Robert's grandson.  He had turned 3 about a week earlier.  It was a blast!!!!

The Birthday Boy himself!!  That's him sitting on Billie's lap.  First time he met us, and he was right at home. 



Ahhh some of the clan.  Let me tell you, I loved being with them.  So much love... 





Ohhh Dylan... this baby is precious.  I kinda 'saw' him enter the world on FB.  Couldn't wait to hold him... and boy did I.  I wanted to take him home with me. 





Hmmm love this shot... a few generations... Robert, his son, and the grand son's.   Precious!



Saturday night...  the hockey game.  Dallas Stars vs Buffalo Sabres...   I loved it... but the boys didn't show up.  Miller didn't play in goal and only learned after I got home he was hurt.  Still hurt...  and a few rumors flying... time will tell.

Meeting of the mindless..... boys lost 4-0




What a crew, eh?  I love these people.  Words would never do it justice so I will leave it at that.  





And I lost a bet.  Brandy bet me and I lost... had to wear a Stars jersey out of the joint...  she caught me walking out the tunnel ... her Dad behind me.  Loved the expression on my face... and then to learn Mike was behind me...  ::giggle::

Trip was fabulous...  and I can't wait to get back there.  Thought maybe sooner then later...  ::sigh::

hugs
~d

~ This and That ~

 

Sooooooo just a little bit of this and that.  This is actually this evening.  I was trying to catch the fog roll in.   I'm in my backyard and shooting into the neighbors yard.  Didn't catch the full effect but you get the idea I'm sure.

Been crazy weather here.  Actually today was the warmest in a long time, with a mid 60's range.  The skies have been dark and gloomy and it's been raining waaaaaaay too much.  Hoping this weekend is a bit nicer.  I don't care about the cold I just need blue sky!!!

 

I like this shot, just wish it was more like what it looked like 'live'.  Oh well. 

Had a Dr. appointment today.  Well not really Dr.  They did a stress test.  First one ever.  I survived.  LOL  I've been doing a whole of walking and it's so much better.  My ankle is still messed up, foot is still numb.  I just do better with it, and I don't get cocky.  I remember always I have issues there.  I do not need to fall again!   Anyway, I get on the treadmill and the girl asks, 'when is the last time you've been on one of these?'   Well, it's been a couple years.  The last time I was on one I cried.  I couldn't do it.   Some of you remember me telling about the old man that was freakin running on it.  GRRRRR I'm so glad those days are behind me.   Keep your fingers crossed the results are good.  I mean I feel great and I didn't have to stop or anything so lets hope I'm normal.....

Normal?  Me?  Ok so we all know better then that.   So the Bills suck and this weekends game probably won't be on.  YEAH!  I might be able to watch a decent game for a change.  LOL  Actually, it's suppose to be nice.  I might take a little ride to Niagara Falls to get some pictures. 

Sooooo the Bills suck and hockey starts on Friday.  Oh yeah I'm stoked.  Can't wait for the games to count :)    I hope everyone is doing good. 

hugs

~d

~ Brush Yourself Off ~

Yes, that is right.  Pick yourself up and brush yourself off, it's me yet again.  While recovering I've gone weeks if not months without a word.. barely a visit.  Now in the span of a couple days I've been here several times.  Ummm, no I am not trying to make up for the time I've missed.  It only looks that way.  I swear!  I have missed you all tons.  So many of you have sent me greetings, both on here and in the mail.  Thank you!  There is not a soul out there that could tell me on line friends aren't real and get away with it.  So many of you helped me through some of the darkest days.  That IS real!  Again, I want to thank you all.  The cards always came/come when I need them most.  Like you knew it and sent them. 

All is not perfect in my world.  I still have a long way to go and somethings I'm not sure will ever get better.  The doctors aren't sure either but I will not go down without a fight.  That you can count on!   I have to wear those oh so special compression socks (knee high).  Ever try to put them on?  Now think of me with an incision (that is healing) from the top of my sternum to my pubic bone.  You want me to what?  Pull those things on?  Oh thank God they at least come in colors now and not just white!  It's only a temporary thing.  Well, my doc says it is.  We are working on getting the swelling in my left foot to stay down.  Along with a water pill every day, it seems to be working.  That is except for the constant need to run to the potty.  He has seen me in my highs and lows and no doubt is not wanting to feel my wrath if I have to wear them forever.  Soooooooooo until further notice no pretty shoes.  LMAO ok so my Fred Flinstone feet never fit into pretty shoes, now I just have an excuse. 

 

Here are the remaining pictures from my drive today.  Ok, not all of them but a few more.  I found the modern windmill in this shot with the old barn to be interesting.  To the right of the one you see there are about 30 more. 

 

This was the old barn I wanted to actually use for the challenge. I just thought the extensive damage up against the blue sky added something.  Not sure what I thought it added but........... I decided not to use it because someone else used an old barn....

 

This fence lines the road not far from my house.  Had it not been so wet and yucky I would have walked down to it and took the shot length wise.  It appeared to go on forever and every few feet it had fallen down.  Maybe another day when I'm a bit more sure of my footing... or maybe I will have my son come with me so I can hang on to him.  Ohhhh... he'd surely be calling me a freak then, eh?  You do remember he has called me that in the past regarding my picture taking, right?

Speaking of my son.  We went out for dinner this evening.  We went to a local place (one he use to work at) that is close by with yummy food.  I'm a bit limited on the menu items but it has a few things I can splurge on.  The grilled chicken sandwich I had was to die for!!  Not literally, I promise :)   He was thrilled to hear I'd been out taking pictures.  He was even more thrilled to hear I've been on the PC a bit more.  I know he's happy to see me moving on and not being on a constant crying jag.  Poor kid.  He's been through as much hell as I have been and he did nothing wrong.  I tell him I must have done something really good in my previous life to luck out and get such a good boy.  He blushes, but I know he knows I mean it.  I am blessed to have such a son!

 

::giggle:: I know a few rolled their eyes when they got the alert for yet another entry so I will end now.  Besides I feel like the above tractor (old) more and more and it's now time to put my feet up and rest my eyes.  LOL   Actually I'm off to watch more hockey.   They are playing for the holy grail you know.  My boys aren't in it....  :::heavy sigh::: once again their season ended after the regular season, but the off season is long and I need to get my fill.  You watching?  You care?  Who are your picks?  I know in years past I did entries with the teams and choices but I just wasn't up to it prior to the run actually starting.  Maybe the finals...  if you can stand me posting regularly now.

Thanks again for being you and being behind and/or next to me in my wild adventures of the past few months.  I can never thank you enough or show just how much it means to me.

Hugs

~d

~ It's Time ~

 

Yeap, it's time for the pretty flowers to peek out of the thawing gardens and show their beautiful colors to welcome spring, but that isn't what I'm talking about.  It's time for me to pull on my 'big girl' panties and move on.  I've been told over and over how strong and positive I've been through all this and I guess to a point I have been.  What everyone doesn't always see is the tears rolling down my cheeks.  The 'feel sorry' for myself as I lay on the couch being uncomfortable.  How I want my life back.  I want my hobbies to be interesting to me again.  I want to enjoy the next six months and not miss it like I have the last six.  I barely log on anymore.  Well, to clean out my mailbox but even then so much just gets deleted.  That is not me.  I miss everyone but have had no get up and go when I'm here.  It's not like I'm busy doing anything.  Hell, I've watched repeats of daytime TV.  How sad is that?  I use to be 'don't leave home without it', my camera that is.  Now?  I barely pick it up.. well until recently.   I've decided to move forward or change my interests but  sitting on my ass doing nothing is not for me.  I've been given a second chance and I need to embrace it!

It's also time for an update.  I know many of you have visited my sister for updates as well as welcome her to blogville.  She is so enjoying herself and I couldn't be happier that she is getting into this and I so appreciate you following her and taking her under your wing.

So me?  I'm really doing ok.  Much better.  I have another incision that starts from the bottom of the last one and goes right to my pubic bone.  I have two small ones on either leg, maybe 3-4 inches from the top of my thigh and into my groin area (or there abouts.)  Those are the ones that hurt the most, but are doing much better now.  I am now able to get into my jeans and the rubbing at my belly button and when I sit is minimal.  I've recently been cleared for more activity and I've been riding my stationary bike for about 20-30 minutes every day.  I'm not a speed demon by any stretch but I can do it with only leg power and I don't have to stop.  Walking is something I can do too.  My left foot is still numb and swells at times but the pain is mostly gone and I can walk for more then 1-2 minutes now.  That is a good thing!  We are not sure about the foot.  It could take 6 months to a year before we know if it will come back, or if it won't.  I have to learn to be happy with what I do have, but damn walking with a drop foot is not fun nor pretty.  Work?  I can go back May 5.  I'm excited, but then on the other hand wonder why.  LOL  I love my job and the people I work with but I'd love to be rich and not have to worry about it.  Ok, so we all think that way... it's just not the case with me right now :)

So these are new pictures.  They were taken Easter Sunday.  Ohhhhhhhhhhhh and I hope everyone had a good holiday.. whatever you celebrate.  Mine was good.  My sister cooked dinner this year.  Breakfast was put on hold because my Dad had knee surgery and was being moved from the hospital to the rehab center in the am and it was just easier for my Mom to do dinner with us.  He, by the way is doing good.  Great actually.  He is hoping to be home next week.  Time will tell.  I keep telling him and my Mom not to rush it. 

Easter was good.  Bug and Gage were there and enjoying themselves.  Bug offered me some of her candy and I told her no.  I had to explain why I couldn't eat sugar.  It was a good 15 minutes of back and forth conversations and when it was all said and done her response, 'sounds to me like you have a candy problem.'  Out of the mouths of babes!! 

So there you have it.  A little update.  I am going to try to be here and on facebook a little more.  I've been dabbling with tags and hope I'll have an offer and soon.  I do hope everyone is well.  I will be doing my best to get by soon.  I promise!  Love you all.

hugs

~d

~ 'Tis the Season ~

 

'Tis the season of crazy weather, busy days and nights, tons of food, and smiles all over the place.   My family must have been good this year.  We met up at my parents on Christmas Eve.  A ton of food to be shared, laughs, and hugs.  We were even visited by Santa.  We must have been good!!

 

Our own little 'bug' watching as Santa made his entry.  Not real sure what to make of it, but the glint in her eye and the smile on her face says it all.  Such innocence in a childs face.

 

She did eventually warm up to him and sat on his lap with her brother.  Not sure if her brother urged her more or if she realized this man in the red suit just brought her presents and it's the least she could do to say thank you. 

 

Me?  I had no problem sitting on Santa's lap.  I wanted to have him bring all the gifts I asked for to my house.  Ok, so I already got the best gift of all, so I wanted to thank him for that.  I think I might have that same glint that 'bug' had.

 

It wouldn't be right if Great Grandma didn't sit on his lap.  It is her house and we couldn't leave her out.  I'm not real sure what Santa said or did, but I'm not sure if that is the same glint, or what that smile is telling us.  LMAO  

 

The kids made out like bandits, opening one gift after another.  Bug made sure she put her new hat on and then went direct to the next gift.  She did stop long enough to smile and shout out a thank you to the giver, Gage did as well

.

 

Christmas morning my son and his girlfriend, along with my sister's boys came here.  We exchanged our gifts and had a huge breakfast.  My son got me a new printer and hooked it up.  I got a foot massager, clothes, and a couple new purses.  I needed something bigger so I could take my diabetes supplies if I need to.  No way no how the tester and insulin pen would fit in my current one.  

Our kids made out like bandits as well.  LOL  'Tis the season to spoil them a bit I suppose.  We had breakfast and dinner here and then went to my sisters for dessert and coffee.  Gage did get Wii and had a few new games so he brought them with him to his Grandma's.  Look at that smile as he plays one of the games.

All in all the two days have been great.  Lots of fun, smiles, good food, friends and family.  I've not gotten around to many journals as it's just been crazy.  I do hope everyone had a great Christmas (or whatever holiday you may celebrate).  It's hard to believe 2008 is ending and a new year is fast approaching. 

Hugs

~d

~ Beary Thankful ~

 

Oh yes.... beary thankful.  I am pretty sure I mentioned my bear in a previous entry.  It was given to me by the hospital to use for coughing, sneezing etc.  All I do is give it a hug and the pressure helps lessen the pain and discomfort in my chest.  I have been using it as a little security blanket when I'm out of the house.  You know... if I have it I don't need it but if I didn't have it..........    Well..  I've been needing it as I get a tickle in my throat and the cough is aggravating.  The tickle is a side effect of one of the meds. 

 

:::giggle::: my nephew, Mike.  He has a little bit of a different security blanket he likes to sleep with.  LMAO!!!  Oh, yeah it was a set up. 

 

My brother in law and niece.....   aren't they just too cute??

 

Hillbilly Jeff (my nephew) after a good meal.  My other niece hasn't let the eyelids close at this point....  but oh rest assured she did take a nap too!!

 

Guess who!?!  Ya don't think for one minute she was going to be left out do you?  That would be Mama that she is laying on. 

 

My nephew and  nieces...   a bit after the naps.  LOL  I think this might have been during dessert.  Sugar rush anyone???

 

Bug... again....  she was posing with my nephews girlfriend, Joan.  Gotta love the tights!

 

Joan and my nephew Eric.  Loving this shot!  Has to be one of the best pictures I've gotten of Eric.  He's a joker and most times the shots of him are silly.  Maybe he just ate to much to be silly.............

 

Wake up you sleepy head, rub your eyes, get out of bed....    Anyone know what song that is from?

 

Bug and I...  she was so gentle with me.   So concerned.  She waited on me a ton and always made sure I had my bear handy.  LOL

 

Yeap........ me and my boy...   I'm thinking I don't look half bad 3 weeks after having a triple bypass......  no make up or anything but....

below he is with his girlfriend.  So damn proud of this guy!

 

In case you can't tell my holiday was marvelous.  Way too much food but such great company.   I lasted much longer then I thought I would but it was well worth it.  My family teased as I took the pictures stating they'd be posted by midnight.....   well....   they are...  LMAO just the wrong day.   

Hope everyone had a great holiday and enjoyed themselves.  No Black Friday shopping for me....  not even sure when I will get my shopping done at this point.  And know what... it doesn't matter.  

Hugs

~d

~ Hump Day? ~

Wow!  It's Wednesday already?  What the hell happened to the rest of the week?  Sunday?  Monday?  Tuesday?  All a blur.   I think I slept walked (is that right?) through all those days.   I do want to say thank you to all those that commented on my pictures.  I will admit I am very proud of them and met my nieces today with the chip from my camera so they could print some out.  Seventy of them to be exact.  LOL  They both stopped by here and read all your comments and I know you made them smile, so thank you. 

Today I checked google reader once again and I had over 400 entries.  I did make it by a few journals, but I had to mark read and start over.  Forgive me.  I tried to catch up but there was no way I could.  For each one I read it seemed 5 more appeared.  It started overwhelming me and I just didn't have it in me.  I will be by tho, you know it :)

The picture is one from the garden that the wedding shots were taken at.  Looking across the pond to the bench.  I thought having the loving couple pose over there, but the rains started and it just wasn't going to happen.  Didn't stop me from just taking the picture tho :)  What a peaceful spot, eh?  Had to make that water move too.  I have no idea what type of bush/tree that is, but I find the red stunning!

Today was the day journals were going to be manually migrated over.  I inquired because I had read a few went and I had heard nothing.  The response...  'they are doing easy ones first.'   WTF!?!   Now I'm not trying to say I'm more important, but I was one of the first ones to have issues and state I was having issues.  I tried a good ten times in the first 2-3 days and let them know it wasn't working.  I got put off and put off.  Now they say they have an alternate method and I'm still being put off.  Friday they disappear and I am no way being given the time to remove entries and try again on my own.  I guess I kiss it good bye on Friday.

Lights out!   To say I am pissed would be an understatement!!

I'm still getting several folks requesting tags and not leaving an email.  I've tried to hunt some down, but that is old and very time consuming.  I don't mean to sound like a bitch, but before each offer there is a note in red stating I need an email address.  I will no longer go looking.  I will delete the comment and move on.  I respect everyone's time and I don't think asking for the same consideration in return is asking to much.  You can make it easy on yourself as well.  Put an email in your google profile and allow it to be visible.  Same for regular comments, if you ask a question and expect an answer I need an email address. 

When I started writing I had a ton to say, now?  LOL  I'm drawing a blank.  I think I'm still running on fumes.  I do hope everyone is doing well.  I want to say if I've missed something important let me know, but every entry is important....

Thanks again for your loving comments regarding the wedding and the pictures.

Hugs

~d

~ Exhausted ~

 

 

My day was fabulous.  Full of laughs, good chat, and wonderful views.  I'm absolutely exhausted but thought I post a few pictures.  More later.............

Hope everyone is good

hugs

~d