Ouch! 2-6 over the weekend! You know, I stand by my picks tho, no matter how far off I may be. I wonder some things, tho: 1) are the Giants going to repeat their downward spiral of last year where they just couldn't seem to win at all? 2) is (was) Brad Childress the problem in Minnesota or is it starts with a "B" and rhymes with rett? 3) what is going on in Cincinnati?!? 4) do we have a clear favorite for the Super Bowl yet (my vote says "no!") 5) can you believe we're talking about Thanksgiving this week?!
Patriots @ Lions: Tough call *eyes roll*. Seriously, are the Lions already giving thanks for the fact that at least they can go home and eat a nice turkey dinner after the spanking they get from the Pats? Patriots by 17.
Saints @ Cowgirls: Did Jerry Jones wait a few weeks too long to fire Wade Phillips or did Tony Romo get hurt to late into the season... we may never know. But the 'Girls have won their last 2 games. Their 2-game winning streak will come to an abrupt halt with a loss at home to the "do it for Katrina" Saints. It could go to the wire, tho. Saints by 3.
Bengals @ Jets: 3... three... THREE games on Turkey Day?! It's a lot to be thankful for! A couple years ago, we were in Vegas on Thanksgiving Day and we stopped at various points of interest to watch football all day long and I remember thinking "This. Is. FANTASTIC!!" I want to try my hand at seeing into the future. Here it goes: The Bengals will go up by like 12 or 14 points. Maybe 17. It'll look like they're putting a "W" up for sure, but in the last quarter, the Jets will surge and win by like 10 or 12. Wait, maybe that's deja vu. It's happened to the Bengals a lot this season... probably will happen again. Jets by 10.
Titans @ Texans: New team against the old team. I'd like to say, Jeff Fisher, you are my hero. Don't take crap from any whiny, spoiled-brat player, no matter how much they complain. Vince Young, you embarrass yourself and your momma. Nice job. Texans have some very young talented players. They will be tough. But not enough. Depending on who the Titans can round up for a QB, they'll probably win this by 9.
Chargers @ Colts: Did you see Richard Seymour deck Big Ben in the Steelers vs. Raiders romp yesterday?! Ben is a big guy and he went down like a sack of potatoes! Now, who wishes that would've been Philip Rivers instead of Ben? Well, how 'bout a 2-fer? Any way... Peyton didn't look very good last week. I didn't get to see much of it as we were making lefsa that evening, so saw bits and pieces. They should be better this week and they are at home. Colts by 7.
49ers @ Cardinals: My '9ers are playing Monday night AGAIN?! Oh for the kick to the head they got from the Bucs. Please don't even consider Alex Smith for Monday, Mike Singletary... PLEASE! Your other Smith, Troy, needs another chance! Cards and '9ers are both 3-7 and it's a fight to see who lands the bottom of the NFC West pile and it'll be the Cards, duh! 49ers by 4.
I really hope everyone enjoys Thanksgiving and all the festivities around it. I am thankful for my family, friends, jobs, home, and God's daily blessings!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Friday, November 19, 2010
Time to play catch-up!
Ladies and Gentlemen! I am back! *Whew* and do I have some ground to cover! I'll start with the much earlier promised Halloween pix. Aria, as you can see, was Jessie from Toy Story. You can't really tell, but I tried to color her hair red also. It took more than a few washes to get it out and I would recommend not using face paint to color blond hair!:)
She was so excited to wear this costume... she wore it everyday the whole weekend!
And the verdict? Cute, but not quite carbon copies!
Hunting season is over for our family. We filled all of our tags this past weekend. As the picture below shows, I got a buck. It's a two-point, but it may be the biggest 2-point anyone I know has ever bagged. It was kinda fun hunting this year. It was fairly mild fall season. That made it harder to hunt as the deer weren't wandering around much. So that meant hiking thru coulees and wading thru chest-high CRP. It was a blast! I love that part of hunting: out in nature, spending time with family/friends, being productive and filling the freezer.
Without meaning to, we are apparently collecting vintage vehicles. The '51 Ford pickup isn't just any vehicle, tho. A few months back, Tony and I were driving thru Chester and Tony spotted this pickup in an alley. "That's my grandpa's old pickup!" So we drove back to get a closer look and sure enough it was. Tony told me he learned to drive in this pickup and his grandpa told Tony he would give it to him once he got his license. Well, he ended up trading it for a new water truck, so Tony never got it. Fast forward to this past summer and I got to thinking I should get that for Tony. I talked to the owner who was willing to work out a deal on it and, tah-dah! Christmas came early for Tony. I think this pickup is more than just a gift for him. Tony was especially close with his grandpa and this pickup represents his many memories of them together. It's probably priceless in Tony's book. The only thing is, how do I up the ante next year?
I am not loving this weather. I think when one has 70 degree weather one weekend then 10 above the next with blizzard like conditions, I have every right to complain. Not to mention it spoiled my weekend plan to visit my family in Billings. Somehow, tho, traveling with a 4 year old and 2 middle aged dogs on questionable roads for 4-5 (at least!) hours in subzero temps didn't sound like too good of an idea. But, my house is decorated for Christmas (it's amazing what one can accomplish in 3 hours of no power)!
Now on to the last item on my agenda: NFL week 11! I feel so bad for missing the last couple of weeks. Better late than never, so here we go!
Redskins @ Titans: I wonder what they were thinking when Washington extended Donovan's extension? His ability to throw the ball at the receivers feet is truly a gift! His accuracy is just getting better and better. He scrambles and rushes for unbelievable yardage *eyes rolling*... Vick is a welcome recipient on McNabb's exit for sure! Redskins started with some flare, but it's fizzling out. Titans by 10
Packers @ Vikings: Wow for the drama in Viking-land! Chili is on the hot seat, Brett is, well... Brett, Randy Moss came, saw, left and Vikings have nothing to show for all this drama but a pathetic 3-6 record. Packers are a much better team and will win by 12.
Seahawks @ Saints: Surprisingly, this may be a good game. The Seahawks have been under the radar, perhaps because of the division they're in (and yes, I know it's the same one as the '9ers!), but they have won some games recently rather decidedly. Saints are puzzling to me. They lost to the Browns?! It's hard to call, but I think the Seahawks will lose by a smidge in the Superdome. Saints by 4.
Colts @ Patriots: Remember when this was the game of the year?! Both teams are struggling (compared to typical seasons in the past), but will still probably match up well against each other and put on a show. I give Colts the edge by 1.
Giants @ Eagles: Now, the Giants have some 'splainin' to do after last week's embarrassment of a loss to the Cowgirls. What the...?! So much for dominate NFC team. I am really glad to see Michael Vick making the most of his second chance, however, I am not ready to give him the MVP award after one great game. He looked terrific, but Sunday night will prove if it was a fluke or not. And, he is playing against a much better (hopefully!) defense. I think the Giants will come out guns blazin' and win this on Eagles turf by 6.
Broncos @ Chargers: These two teams are keeping each other company at the bottom of the AFC West division. Should be a fun game to watch. I like the Broncos by 9.
Ok, I think I'm all caught up now! So have a good weekend and stay warm out there!
She was so excited to wear this costume... she wore it everyday the whole weekend!
And the verdict? Cute, but not quite carbon copies!
Hunting season is over for our family. We filled all of our tags this past weekend. As the picture below shows, I got a buck. It's a two-point, but it may be the biggest 2-point anyone I know has ever bagged. It was kinda fun hunting this year. It was fairly mild fall season. That made it harder to hunt as the deer weren't wandering around much. So that meant hiking thru coulees and wading thru chest-high CRP. It was a blast! I love that part of hunting: out in nature, spending time with family/friends, being productive and filling the freezer.
Without meaning to, we are apparently collecting vintage vehicles. The '51 Ford pickup isn't just any vehicle, tho. A few months back, Tony and I were driving thru Chester and Tony spotted this pickup in an alley. "That's my grandpa's old pickup!" So we drove back to get a closer look and sure enough it was. Tony told me he learned to drive in this pickup and his grandpa told Tony he would give it to him once he got his license. Well, he ended up trading it for a new water truck, so Tony never got it. Fast forward to this past summer and I got to thinking I should get that for Tony. I talked to the owner who was willing to work out a deal on it and, tah-dah! Christmas came early for Tony. I think this pickup is more than just a gift for him. Tony was especially close with his grandpa and this pickup represents his many memories of them together. It's probably priceless in Tony's book. The only thing is, how do I up the ante next year?
I am not loving this weather. I think when one has 70 degree weather one weekend then 10 above the next with blizzard like conditions, I have every right to complain. Not to mention it spoiled my weekend plan to visit my family in Billings. Somehow, tho, traveling with a 4 year old and 2 middle aged dogs on questionable roads for 4-5 (at least!) hours in subzero temps didn't sound like too good of an idea. But, my house is decorated for Christmas (it's amazing what one can accomplish in 3 hours of no power)!
Now on to the last item on my agenda: NFL week 11! I feel so bad for missing the last couple of weeks. Better late than never, so here we go!
Redskins @ Titans: I wonder what they were thinking when Washington extended Donovan's extension? His ability to throw the ball at the receivers feet is truly a gift! His accuracy is just getting better and better. He scrambles and rushes for unbelievable yardage *eyes rolling*... Vick is a welcome recipient on McNabb's exit for sure! Redskins started with some flare, but it's fizzling out. Titans by 10
Packers @ Vikings: Wow for the drama in Viking-land! Chili is on the hot seat, Brett is, well... Brett, Randy Moss came, saw, left and Vikings have nothing to show for all this drama but a pathetic 3-6 record. Packers are a much better team and will win by 12.
Seahawks @ Saints: Surprisingly, this may be a good game. The Seahawks have been under the radar, perhaps because of the division they're in (and yes, I know it's the same one as the '9ers!), but they have won some games recently rather decidedly. Saints are puzzling to me. They lost to the Browns?! It's hard to call, but I think the Seahawks will lose by a smidge in the Superdome. Saints by 4.
Colts @ Patriots: Remember when this was the game of the year?! Both teams are struggling (compared to typical seasons in the past), but will still probably match up well against each other and put on a show. I give Colts the edge by 1.
Giants @ Eagles: Now, the Giants have some 'splainin' to do after last week's embarrassment of a loss to the Cowgirls. What the...?! So much for dominate NFC team. I am really glad to see Michael Vick making the most of his second chance, however, I am not ready to give him the MVP award after one great game. He looked terrific, but Sunday night will prove if it was a fluke or not. And, he is playing against a much better (hopefully!) defense. I think the Giants will come out guns blazin' and win this on Eagles turf by 6.
Broncos @ Chargers: These two teams are keeping each other company at the bottom of the AFC West division. Should be a fun game to watch. I like the Broncos by 9.
Ok, I think I'm all caught up now! So have a good weekend and stay warm out there!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
About me... if you're wondering
So, I have always loved getting the emails where you fill in the blank about yourself. I love reading other people responses and filling in my own. I also am sorta evaluating life as I've lived it and life as I should live, and in doing so, found that I set the bar a lot higher than I can obtain. But, it's good to know these things about one's self, no? I'm okay with that and so with those previous thoughts in minds, why not lay it all out there for everyone to gander at? Maybe it'll be fun and we'll learn something... and different is good, right?... sometimes.
~I am %100 sentimental. I still have every card that has been sent to me or my family since the day I graduated high school. I CAN NOT throw them out! I still have the majority of my favorite stuffed toys from childhood. While I hate crying in front of anyone, I cry quite easily... well, welling up would be the proper term. And if someone else is crying, it's like yawning; it's contagious!
~I am still very proud of my MVP award for basketball my junior year of high school. Other than graduating nursing school, having a wonderful and successful marriage, and my daughter, that MVP plaque is my greatest accomplishment; I remember wanting to earn/win that award even as a new-comer to basketball in 4th grade.
~I am a proud conservative Republican. I love listening to Rush Limbaugh, Mark Levin... and I thought George W. Bush was a decent president. I'm all about limited government, Taxed Enough Already, individual achievement and success, capitalism, life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The older I get, the more intolerant I grow of liberals. (Well, they're certainly intolerant of my views! And I'm tired of being made out to be the bad guy!)
~I am a born again, Bible believing Christian. I believe Jesus died for my sins. If I confess I'm a sinner, understand I can't live this life without a Savior and believe in what Jesus did on the Cross for me, then, yes, quite simply, I will live eternally and everyone can who believes that too. It's important to study the Word and have an active prayer life. I'm the first to admit that I'm not the greatest at those, but I'm forgiven and will keep trying my best. I don't put my faith out in people's faces (it's called free will), I'm not one to cram things down people's throats, but if asked, I'll tell you without a doubt what I believe and why. I really feel blessed to have such a strong faith that doesn't really waiver. I may have questions for and disagreements with God, but I don't doubt His existence for even a millisecond. I'm pretty sure my faith is what shapes a lot of my opinions and outlook on life.
~I love that my daughter is a little carbon copy of me: she's pretty literal, very soft hearted, love purple and horses, has a funny sense of humor, and we have the same chin and cheek dimple. Oh yes, and we think our dad's are the best in the world!
~I refuse my flu shot every year. I don't believe by getting it, I will decrease the amount someone will or won't get sick. It'll happen vaccine or not. And, I really question the long term affect it may have on people...
~My favorite comedians are Brian Regan, Eddie Izzard, Jim Gaffigan, Greg Hahn, Kathleen Madigan, and I think the Bob and Tom show is really funny. I can be quite serious, but I think I have a pretty good sense of humor.
~My favorite color is PURPLE!
~Painting, whether it's on a wall or on canvas (I'm really not that good) is relaxing and satisfying to me. If I could make a living at it, I'd paint people's rooms and love it! I could even do a mural on a wall for you (ask me about the one I did in my room in high school later).
~I don't really have a favorite song. I like a whole lot of different types of music and narrowing it down to one just isn't fair! I could maybe do it my CD: Tonic's Lemon Parade is a top 5, Live's Throwing Copper is a top 5, I like all of Stone Temple Pilots' and Coldplay's albums, I like old school Newsboys, Jars of Clay, and DC Talk (by old school, I mean 90's!), I love the Beatles, Elton John, Led Zepplin, Bad Company, Michael Jackson, Incubus, Tommy Emmanuel is amazing, I like the Chill channel on XM, and I lovelovelove Christmas music! Pretty much Classic Rock, Grunge/Alternative are safe bets... but if it has a great beat or riff, I'll probably like it. Another favorite that comes to mind is Feelin' Alright that Joe Cocker does live a Woodstock; it makes me happy every time I hear it. Music makes me happy and that's all that matters (and an awesome sub woofer in the trunk of my car!).
~That's right... I don't care if it's the typical 16 year old boy that has them, I love the bass a bumpin' and I hope I never get too fuddy-duddy to not love the sub woofer in my car!
~I don't like confrontation. Will avoid it whenever possible. Some recent events have caused me to "grow a pair" however, and tho my knees shook like an 80 year old with Parkinson's, I stood up for myself and found I have some courage after all (yay me and the cowardly lion!). This may come in handy in the future if I ever have to swoop in on Aria's behalf. Thanks, life lessons!
~I love the NFL and don't understand people who don't. I don't get people who love MLB or NBA or NHL. We just stare at each other with dumb looks. Football offers physical contact (buh-by NHLers), fast paced (mostly) action (take a seat NBAers), and isn't boring (would the real baseball fans please stand up and leave!).
~I thoroughly enjoy hunting. It's a great bonding time with my husband, my dad, my brother, my family. And it's delicious meat in the freezer. (How can organic supporting hippies not eat this stuff?! It's more organic than anything you can buy in an organic grocery isle!) One gets to be out in nature, hike thru deep coulees, take in the Big Sky, see wildlife up close (shooting or no)... it's what environmentalists want, yet they want to see this way of life expunged. Hypocrisy!
~Speaking of environmentalists... I'm %100 prejudice against people who think the earth is their mother, that we are polluting the earth with our existence, and that we should return to our ape-like ways. You are a hippy and I don't like you. OH! and p.s.- we here in northern Montana didn't get the memo for global warming this year; I don't think it got over 100 degrees at all this summer!
~My family: Tony, Aria, Dad, Mom, Marcia, Daniel, Reagan, Paul, Amanda, Rick, Debbie, Dustin, Kim, Craig, Heidi, Elaine, Charlene, and Ginnie are the most important people in my life. They are supportive, fun, loving, and the reason I try/do my best at whatever I do. I want them to be proud of me. I know I'm proud of all of them.
~My dream job is to be a historical preservationist. You know, someone who saves old buildings and restores them to their original glory. History is fascinating to me. Architecture is amazing. Combine those and you have what I think the ideal job would be. Problem is, a select few ever get those job and get paid! Mostly it's archiving at the local museum or historical society. If my life would've been a bit different when I was 18-19 years old, who knows. But, I am happy being a nurse and helping people. Perhaps, one day, I will help to restore something; perhaps I'm channeling that restoration desire into vintage auto's (we own 2 now!)
~I do not like doing Christmas cards. I love getting them (remember: I can not and will not throw them out!), but I hate doing them. I feel awkward and silly writing a letter. Some of it stems from a lack of not knowing "where the line" is. Some extended relatives are down right horrible about sending cards at Christmas time my way. Is it cuz they are trying to send me a *hint, hint* stop contacting us (which is fine by the way, I can take a hint!) or because they are like me and hate doing them too, so they don't. When people receive my cards, do they roll their eyes and send out the obligatory card in return or do they happily accept and keep me on next year's list? Why do I freaking care?!
~I love my dogs, a LOT! I get really bothered when I see other people who don't seem to care for their dogs like I care for mine. I know, I know... it's their dog, leave it alone. I'm sorry, but if it's 30-some degrees and raining or snowing out, PUT YOUR DOG INSIDE!!! They could freeze! If you don't trust them indoors, perhaps you should have done a little bit more training with them and less leaving them outside all the damn time! We have one neighbor in particular, who no matter the weather, their dog is tied up outside, 24/7. It's so irritating. Don't own a dog if you can't love and care for it properly.
~My "bucket list" if you will, is fairly small: Own a Classic Mustang (check!), go to England, visit all 50 states (or 58 if you're Obama!), raise a respectable, honorable, loving kid(s), save enough $$ to retire before 65 and retire debt free, keep in touch with my family even if I have to initiate every contact, try bungee jumping or sky diving at least once.
~I lovelovelove Christmas... right after Halloween is very hard for me to not just start putting up the decorations. The smells, the decor, the good cheer, the music... it is the most wonderful time of the year; then January knocks one back into reality.
~I think my best character trait is my loyalty. Loyalty to my family and to my friends. Chances are pretty good that if you were/are a friend of mine, you get to stay that way with me for life. I may not see you or even talk to you in say 10 years, but if I were to see you somewhere, it would be like we just saw each other yesterday. My worst character trait is my jump to conclusions/judgment. I like having the facts, but sometimes my first impression button gets hit first and that is usually a bad thing.
~I'm very proud to have 2 family members in the military. It's an honor to say that too. My brother is serving in Iraq presently, and my brother-in-law is serving in Korea presently. They are great service men. Not a lot of people can say they have even 1 family member in the military and I can say I have 2! Now, there are times when I am really concerned for them, but I know that they want to serve. It's what they were called to do. It's not the easiest life, and many don't understand it, but they do it well and we should be very humbled by their sacrifice and service. Happy Veterans Day!
~I'm an Auntie to Reagan Danielle and she lives too darn far away! She and her momma need to live closer to me! My sister (Reagan's momma) is an amazing person and I respect and love her very much. I miss her tremedously, too.
~If it's ever possible, I will donate my height to those less fortunate. I have gotten a little more comfortable with my 6'1" frame, but to me, it's still a bit much! I am popular in Walmart to little old ladies, but other than that, I don't need all this height! I'd give it to a 5-foot-nothing person easy. I have, however, accepted that my body is not perfect and never will be so quite trying so hard to achieve what is unachievable!
~Aging hasn't yet bothered me. We ALL get old, some just get there before others, but your time will come, oh yes. So, enjoy your youth cuz it doesn't last forever. I am okay with this concept.
So, there's a little excerpt about me. Hope you had fun and if not, I'm not really too worried about it! You could've stopped reading minutes ago! :)
~I am %100 sentimental. I still have every card that has been sent to me or my family since the day I graduated high school. I CAN NOT throw them out! I still have the majority of my favorite stuffed toys from childhood. While I hate crying in front of anyone, I cry quite easily... well, welling up would be the proper term. And if someone else is crying, it's like yawning; it's contagious!
~I am still very proud of my MVP award for basketball my junior year of high school. Other than graduating nursing school, having a wonderful and successful marriage, and my daughter, that MVP plaque is my greatest accomplishment; I remember wanting to earn/win that award even as a new-comer to basketball in 4th grade.
~I am a proud conservative Republican. I love listening to Rush Limbaugh, Mark Levin... and I thought George W. Bush was a decent president. I'm all about limited government, Taxed Enough Already, individual achievement and success, capitalism, life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The older I get, the more intolerant I grow of liberals. (Well, they're certainly intolerant of my views! And I'm tired of being made out to be the bad guy!)
~I am a born again, Bible believing Christian. I believe Jesus died for my sins. If I confess I'm a sinner, understand I can't live this life without a Savior and believe in what Jesus did on the Cross for me, then, yes, quite simply, I will live eternally and everyone can who believes that too. It's important to study the Word and have an active prayer life. I'm the first to admit that I'm not the greatest at those, but I'm forgiven and will keep trying my best. I don't put my faith out in people's faces (it's called free will), I'm not one to cram things down people's throats, but if asked, I'll tell you without a doubt what I believe and why. I really feel blessed to have such a strong faith that doesn't really waiver. I may have questions for and disagreements with God, but I don't doubt His existence for even a millisecond. I'm pretty sure my faith is what shapes a lot of my opinions and outlook on life.
~I love that my daughter is a little carbon copy of me: she's pretty literal, very soft hearted, love purple and horses, has a funny sense of humor, and we have the same chin and cheek dimple. Oh yes, and we think our dad's are the best in the world!
~I refuse my flu shot every year. I don't believe by getting it, I will decrease the amount someone will or won't get sick. It'll happen vaccine or not. And, I really question the long term affect it may have on people...
~My favorite comedians are Brian Regan, Eddie Izzard, Jim Gaffigan, Greg Hahn, Kathleen Madigan, and I think the Bob and Tom show is really funny. I can be quite serious, but I think I have a pretty good sense of humor.
~My favorite color is PURPLE!
~Painting, whether it's on a wall or on canvas (I'm really not that good) is relaxing and satisfying to me. If I could make a living at it, I'd paint people's rooms and love it! I could even do a mural on a wall for you (ask me about the one I did in my room in high school later).
~I don't really have a favorite song. I like a whole lot of different types of music and narrowing it down to one just isn't fair! I could maybe do it my CD: Tonic's Lemon Parade is a top 5, Live's Throwing Copper is a top 5, I like all of Stone Temple Pilots' and Coldplay's albums, I like old school Newsboys, Jars of Clay, and DC Talk (by old school, I mean 90's!), I love the Beatles, Elton John, Led Zepplin, Bad Company, Michael Jackson, Incubus, Tommy Emmanuel is amazing, I like the Chill channel on XM, and I lovelovelove Christmas music! Pretty much Classic Rock, Grunge/Alternative are safe bets... but if it has a great beat or riff, I'll probably like it. Another favorite that comes to mind is Feelin' Alright that Joe Cocker does live a Woodstock; it makes me happy every time I hear it. Music makes me happy and that's all that matters (and an awesome sub woofer in the trunk of my car!).
~That's right... I don't care if it's the typical 16 year old boy that has them, I love the bass a bumpin' and I hope I never get too fuddy-duddy to not love the sub woofer in my car!
~I don't like confrontation. Will avoid it whenever possible. Some recent events have caused me to "grow a pair" however, and tho my knees shook like an 80 year old with Parkinson's, I stood up for myself and found I have some courage after all (yay me and the cowardly lion!). This may come in handy in the future if I ever have to swoop in on Aria's behalf. Thanks, life lessons!
~I love the NFL and don't understand people who don't. I don't get people who love MLB or NBA or NHL. We just stare at each other with dumb looks. Football offers physical contact (buh-by NHLers), fast paced (mostly) action (take a seat NBAers), and isn't boring (would the real baseball fans please stand up and leave!).
~I thoroughly enjoy hunting. It's a great bonding time with my husband, my dad, my brother, my family. And it's delicious meat in the freezer. (How can organic supporting hippies not eat this stuff?! It's more organic than anything you can buy in an organic grocery isle!) One gets to be out in nature, hike thru deep coulees, take in the Big Sky, see wildlife up close (shooting or no)... it's what environmentalists want, yet they want to see this way of life expunged. Hypocrisy!
~Speaking of environmentalists... I'm %100 prejudice against people who think the earth is their mother, that we are polluting the earth with our existence, and that we should return to our ape-like ways. You are a hippy and I don't like you. OH! and p.s.- we here in northern Montana didn't get the memo for global warming this year; I don't think it got over 100 degrees at all this summer!
~My family: Tony, Aria, Dad, Mom, Marcia, Daniel, Reagan, Paul, Amanda, Rick, Debbie, Dustin, Kim, Craig, Heidi, Elaine, Charlene, and Ginnie are the most important people in my life. They are supportive, fun, loving, and the reason I try/do my best at whatever I do. I want them to be proud of me. I know I'm proud of all of them.
~My dream job is to be a historical preservationist. You know, someone who saves old buildings and restores them to their original glory. History is fascinating to me. Architecture is amazing. Combine those and you have what I think the ideal job would be. Problem is, a select few ever get those job and get paid! Mostly it's archiving at the local museum or historical society. If my life would've been a bit different when I was 18-19 years old, who knows. But, I am happy being a nurse and helping people. Perhaps, one day, I will help to restore something; perhaps I'm channeling that restoration desire into vintage auto's (we own 2 now!)
~I do not like doing Christmas cards. I love getting them (remember: I can not and will not throw them out!), but I hate doing them. I feel awkward and silly writing a letter. Some of it stems from a lack of not knowing "where the line" is. Some extended relatives are down right horrible about sending cards at Christmas time my way. Is it cuz they are trying to send me a *hint, hint* stop contacting us (which is fine by the way, I can take a hint!) or because they are like me and hate doing them too, so they don't. When people receive my cards, do they roll their eyes and send out the obligatory card in return or do they happily accept and keep me on next year's list? Why do I freaking care?!
~I love my dogs, a LOT! I get really bothered when I see other people who don't seem to care for their dogs like I care for mine. I know, I know... it's their dog, leave it alone. I'm sorry, but if it's 30-some degrees and raining or snowing out, PUT YOUR DOG INSIDE!!! They could freeze! If you don't trust them indoors, perhaps you should have done a little bit more training with them and less leaving them outside all the damn time! We have one neighbor in particular, who no matter the weather, their dog is tied up outside, 24/7. It's so irritating. Don't own a dog if you can't love and care for it properly.
~My "bucket list" if you will, is fairly small: Own a Classic Mustang (check!), go to England, visit all 50 states (or 58 if you're Obama!), raise a respectable, honorable, loving kid(s), save enough $$ to retire before 65 and retire debt free, keep in touch with my family even if I have to initiate every contact, try bungee jumping or sky diving at least once.
~I lovelovelove Christmas... right after Halloween is very hard for me to not just start putting up the decorations. The smells, the decor, the good cheer, the music... it is the most wonderful time of the year; then January knocks one back into reality.
~I think my best character trait is my loyalty. Loyalty to my family and to my friends. Chances are pretty good that if you were/are a friend of mine, you get to stay that way with me for life. I may not see you or even talk to you in say 10 years, but if I were to see you somewhere, it would be like we just saw each other yesterday. My worst character trait is my jump to conclusions/judgment. I like having the facts, but sometimes my first impression button gets hit first and that is usually a bad thing.
~I'm very proud to have 2 family members in the military. It's an honor to say that too. My brother is serving in Iraq presently, and my brother-in-law is serving in Korea presently. They are great service men. Not a lot of people can say they have even 1 family member in the military and I can say I have 2! Now, there are times when I am really concerned for them, but I know that they want to serve. It's what they were called to do. It's not the easiest life, and many don't understand it, but they do it well and we should be very humbled by their sacrifice and service. Happy Veterans Day!
~I'm an Auntie to Reagan Danielle and she lives too darn far away! She and her momma need to live closer to me! My sister (Reagan's momma) is an amazing person and I respect and love her very much. I miss her tremedously, too.
~If it's ever possible, I will donate my height to those less fortunate. I have gotten a little more comfortable with my 6'1" frame, but to me, it's still a bit much! I am popular in Walmart to little old ladies, but other than that, I don't need all this height! I'd give it to a 5-foot-nothing person easy. I have, however, accepted that my body is not perfect and never will be so quite trying so hard to achieve what is unachievable!
~Aging hasn't yet bothered me. We ALL get old, some just get there before others, but your time will come, oh yes. So, enjoy your youth cuz it doesn't last forever. I am okay with this concept.
So, there's a little excerpt about me. Hope you had fun and if not, I'm not really too worried about it! You could've stopped reading minutes ago! :)
Monday, November 8, 2010
Lost in Space
I totally feel lost/incomplete... whatever, without our laptop! It still may be 5 days before it comes back. Turns out the hard drive decided to crap out on us - it's still under warranty, thank goodness. The interesting part was when they called today to update us on it, they said they had to order the new hard drive and it could take 3 weeks to arrive (no good, try again) or they had one in the store for $50 they could put in today. So when we called them back to put in the $50 one, and oops!, they didn't have that one there but they had one for $70! Right, of course! Why should we have to pay any amount when it's under warranty?! Well, we went for the $70 one just so I could get my brain back (;P) and hopefully it'll work for a while. I'm on the fence about buying these locally. While any problem that arises with these machines can be remedied quickly (and get 1st priority in their shop), we seem to be having to send this laptop to them a LOT! Oh well. Speaking of being on the fence...
So I have changed my opinion, unfortunately a week too late, about the outfitter/land access initiative on the voting ballot. I was %100 against this and voted as such on November 2. But, after seeing what I saw over the weekend, I wish I had voted for it. I realize it still was voted for, but I didn't vote that way and here's why: I really believed that it would discourage out of state tourism during the hunting season and that would totally affect Montana's economy. Over the weekend, Tony, Dustin, and I (and Aria) were privileged to go with our neighbor, Jeb, who's family owns lots of land north of town here. He took us to a lot of great hunting spots and knows the land very well up there. It was really good real estate up there that both Dustin and Jeb filled their A tags with really nice 3x4 and 4x4 bucks. What was distressing about it all was the abuse of hunters on landowners property. While I walked one coulee on Saturday, I came across 2 gut piles that looked to be not more than a day or two old. Jeb and his family had given permission to no one but us to hunt there. And, of course, no animals at all in that said coulee. We ventured to another coulee later that day and actually discovered Oregon plates on a white pick up truck parked where we were going to hunt! They had no permission and the crazy part is, to get to where they and we were, you have to drive straight thru Jeb's yard! Ballsy, no?! I was really reminded of the importance of land owner permission and how people just think they can waltz in here and hunt where ever their little hearts desire. Another family friend with lots of land up north had stated to us we could hunt his land whenever we wanted as we were the only ones who ever asked for permission to hunt there. He told us on opening weekend, he had quite a few people drive thru his land and not even close gates behind them! This is why hunters will lose the ability to hunt. It has NOTHING to do with in state of out of state hunters. It all boils down to land owner respect. If we lose that, we lose the ability to hunt. Pure and simple. If a land owner decides it's more a headache to open his land to hunting than to post it and kick off any trespasser he wants, our ability to hunt and the all important "land access" means nothing. It's up to the owner who can and can't hunt. Until ALL hunter appreciate the fact that hunting is a privilege and respect land owners, we will eventually lose the ability to hunt, except on BLM land and those who hunt know what kind of prize country that is!
Finally, I completely spaced post my NFL picks for the week. I spent pretty much all day Friday and Saturday walking/hiking coulees and didn't even think of posting till about Sunday evening as I was watching the Cowgirls get pounded by the Packers! Cowgirls fans: UNITE AND WEAR YOUR PAPER BAGS WITH PRIDE!! How's that inevitable Super Bowl run workin' out for ya? For me, it's a dream! Granted, my '9ers are disappointing too, but no one guaranteed a Super Bowl trip like the Cowgirls did. And how about all those games going into OT? And what is up with the Patriots? And who else thinks that while Austin Collie had his bell rung pretty good, it really doesn't warrant a fine from the NFL "no defense is good defense" commish...
So, a bit random, but like I said, I am so lost right now... *sniff, sniff*
So I have changed my opinion, unfortunately a week too late, about the outfitter/land access initiative on the voting ballot. I was %100 against this and voted as such on November 2. But, after seeing what I saw over the weekend, I wish I had voted for it. I realize it still was voted for, but I didn't vote that way and here's why: I really believed that it would discourage out of state tourism during the hunting season and that would totally affect Montana's economy. Over the weekend, Tony, Dustin, and I (and Aria) were privileged to go with our neighbor, Jeb, who's family owns lots of land north of town here. He took us to a lot of great hunting spots and knows the land very well up there. It was really good real estate up there that both Dustin and Jeb filled their A tags with really nice 3x4 and 4x4 bucks. What was distressing about it all was the abuse of hunters on landowners property. While I walked one coulee on Saturday, I came across 2 gut piles that looked to be not more than a day or two old. Jeb and his family had given permission to no one but us to hunt there. And, of course, no animals at all in that said coulee. We ventured to another coulee later that day and actually discovered Oregon plates on a white pick up truck parked where we were going to hunt! They had no permission and the crazy part is, to get to where they and we were, you have to drive straight thru Jeb's yard! Ballsy, no?! I was really reminded of the importance of land owner permission and how people just think they can waltz in here and hunt where ever their little hearts desire. Another family friend with lots of land up north had stated to us we could hunt his land whenever we wanted as we were the only ones who ever asked for permission to hunt there. He told us on opening weekend, he had quite a few people drive thru his land and not even close gates behind them! This is why hunters will lose the ability to hunt. It has NOTHING to do with in state of out of state hunters. It all boils down to land owner respect. If we lose that, we lose the ability to hunt. Pure and simple. If a land owner decides it's more a headache to open his land to hunting than to post it and kick off any trespasser he wants, our ability to hunt and the all important "land access" means nothing. It's up to the owner who can and can't hunt. Until ALL hunter appreciate the fact that hunting is a privilege and respect land owners, we will eventually lose the ability to hunt, except on BLM land and those who hunt know what kind of prize country that is!
Finally, I completely spaced post my NFL picks for the week. I spent pretty much all day Friday and Saturday walking/hiking coulees and didn't even think of posting till about Sunday evening as I was watching the Cowgirls get pounded by the Packers! Cowgirls fans: UNITE AND WEAR YOUR PAPER BAGS WITH PRIDE!! How's that inevitable Super Bowl run workin' out for ya? For me, it's a dream! Granted, my '9ers are disappointing too, but no one guaranteed a Super Bowl trip like the Cowgirls did. And how about all those games going into OT? And what is up with the Patriots? And who else thinks that while Austin Collie had his bell rung pretty good, it really doesn't warrant a fine from the NFL "no defense is good defense" commish...
So, a bit random, but like I said, I am so lost right now... *sniff, sniff*
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
A little update
Sooo... once again, our main computer is ill. What is up with anti-virus software?! What a scam! My ability to upload any Halloween pix is limited as all of those pix are on the hard drive of previously mentioned computer (hopefully they're not lost for good!). Aria was Jesse this year and do you think it was easy to keep her from wearing it 24-7? She did pretty well in the candy department, too. And no candy hangovers like last year!;)
Tony filled 1 of 3 tags for deer this year (1 general, 2 B tags) and it was a buck... biggest one I think we've ever gotten. Lots of meat for the freezer! I attempted hunting, but nothing worthy of tagging... yet. I was so sad to learn of all the hunting accidents on opening weekend of deer/elk. It sounds like both deaths were completely accidental and unfortunately gun user mistakes. One thing hunter's safety harped on was to always point your muzzle in a safe direction. A sad reminder that this needs to be emphasized on again and again. I totally am a %100 supporter of gun use and of youth having the privilege of hunting, but it begs the question: if we can't get a driver's license till we're 16, why not wait till then to operate a gun? These accidents are very isolated and since the implimentation of hunter's safety, amount of death from hunting related accidents have declined sharply. Perhaps the kids were careless just that one time, but that's all it takes. Is immaturity to blame? We all are guilty of being careless at times tho, we were lucky enought to live to tell about it tho. What, if any, changes may come from these tragic losses will be seen, but I really believe every kid should take hunter's safety whether or not they plan to hunt and that it's up to parents to continue to teach and reaffirm what is taught in those classes.
Elections are over. *Whew!* I certainly am glad about the Republican wins, but time will tell if they really got the message or not about less government, less spending, more listen to the people gig. Locally, I'm a bit disappointed in some of the ballot issues... we have no business telling a privately owned company how much interest they can charge, ever ever ever! But, apparently, what do I know. The outfitters/hunting issue I was really on the fence on, but when it came down to it, would it really effect me if it was voted for? NO! I think local and state sportsmen are kidding themselves if they think this will improve access for them. I am afraid my dad is right and hunting will eventually be a rich man's sport only. All this bill did and will do is kill many towns local economy during hunting season. Good job, "keep jobs and make money" crowd. So much for that idea. I understand the wanting to take it to Cabela's, tho. But, overall, this is really not good for Montana. Our local hospital mill levy passed... good or bad, it just means we get to keep paying taxes and you know how I feel about that. Congratulations to our new JP Holly Frederickson. I strongly supported Neal Eveland, for numerous reasons; most important was loyalty to a long time family friend. I remember as a kid, my dad, my sister, me, Neal and his kids would go to the bakery across the street every week to have a donut and chocolate milk! It's memories like that and the fact that Neal has been doing that job for years that made me want to see him continue. He's a very patient, level-headed guy who really wanted to give people a chance to succeed. I'm sorry he didn't win, I don't know what will be next for him or his family. I hope Holly is ready for the job; in my mind, Neal leaves big shoes to fill.
Hopefully, our computer won't be in the hospital for long (or the bill too high, just what we need: ANOTHER damn bill!) and I can post some pix sooner than later!
Tony filled 1 of 3 tags for deer this year (1 general, 2 B tags) and it was a buck... biggest one I think we've ever gotten. Lots of meat for the freezer! I attempted hunting, but nothing worthy of tagging... yet. I was so sad to learn of all the hunting accidents on opening weekend of deer/elk. It sounds like both deaths were completely accidental and unfortunately gun user mistakes. One thing hunter's safety harped on was to always point your muzzle in a safe direction. A sad reminder that this needs to be emphasized on again and again. I totally am a %100 supporter of gun use and of youth having the privilege of hunting, but it begs the question: if we can't get a driver's license till we're 16, why not wait till then to operate a gun? These accidents are very isolated and since the implimentation of hunter's safety, amount of death from hunting related accidents have declined sharply. Perhaps the kids were careless just that one time, but that's all it takes. Is immaturity to blame? We all are guilty of being careless at times tho, we were lucky enought to live to tell about it tho. What, if any, changes may come from these tragic losses will be seen, but I really believe every kid should take hunter's safety whether or not they plan to hunt and that it's up to parents to continue to teach and reaffirm what is taught in those classes.
Elections are over. *Whew!* I certainly am glad about the Republican wins, but time will tell if they really got the message or not about less government, less spending, more listen to the people gig. Locally, I'm a bit disappointed in some of the ballot issues... we have no business telling a privately owned company how much interest they can charge, ever ever ever! But, apparently, what do I know. The outfitters/hunting issue I was really on the fence on, but when it came down to it, would it really effect me if it was voted for? NO! I think local and state sportsmen are kidding themselves if they think this will improve access for them. I am afraid my dad is right and hunting will eventually be a rich man's sport only. All this bill did and will do is kill many towns local economy during hunting season. Good job, "keep jobs and make money" crowd. So much for that idea. I understand the wanting to take it to Cabela's, tho. But, overall, this is really not good for Montana. Our local hospital mill levy passed... good or bad, it just means we get to keep paying taxes and you know how I feel about that. Congratulations to our new JP Holly Frederickson. I strongly supported Neal Eveland, for numerous reasons; most important was loyalty to a long time family friend. I remember as a kid, my dad, my sister, me, Neal and his kids would go to the bakery across the street every week to have a donut and chocolate milk! It's memories like that and the fact that Neal has been doing that job for years that made me want to see him continue. He's a very patient, level-headed guy who really wanted to give people a chance to succeed. I'm sorry he didn't win, I don't know what will be next for him or his family. I hope Holly is ready for the job; in my mind, Neal leaves big shoes to fill.
Hopefully, our computer won't be in the hospital for long (or the bill too high, just what we need: ANOTHER damn bill!) and I can post some pix sooner than later!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)