Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Lots Of Party Photos To Share

April 30, 2013

Can you believe it?  Today is the last day of April!  The months are speeding by so fast, and leaving the plants behind.  Some things are growing, while others are just beginning.  Some of the flowering trees are in full bloom, and others are just now getting buds all over them.  Ah well, just a little patience and soon everything will be blooming.  This is my time of year.

Okay, okay, I know you'd rather see the photos from the party than listen to me babble.  Yesterday turned out to be a fun, and very interesting, day.  In the morning, Pogo and I went shopping for the balloons and party favors.  Because the balloons took up all the room in the backseat, Pogo had to sit in the front, thereby making it more difficult for him to look out the window.  Poor baby!




After the shopping, we headed back home so that I could get a little nap.  In the afternoon, we went outside and tied up the balloons all around the yard to make it more festive.  I smudged out the background here to show the balloons better.  There would have been twenty balloons, but one flew away when I was trying to tie it to something.


When Joe got home from work, he held Pogo up to inspect each bunch of balloons to make sure they were tied  okay. Pogo seemed pretty happy so I guess everything was okay.


Next it was time to call Sassy to find out what time she was coming over, and then I got started on the birthday cake.  This proved to be quite interesting.  I have never made a hamburger cake.  First I made the rice, and spread some on the cake plate.  Then I cooked the hamburgers.  I put one burger on top of the rice, put a layer of rice on top of the burger, and then placed the other buger on top of that.  Next I topped it off with some sliced American cheese and put it in the microwave for a few seconds to melt the rice a bit.    Voila!!  Here's a photo of Sassy and one of the hamburger cake.



I have to say that the cake was a HIT!!  I spread out a tablecloth on the floor, then placed the party favors and Pogo's present on it.  Next I brought the two plates of cake.  I almost got attacked putting these down.  They really wanted that cake!

However, as you can see here, Sassy was determined to eat both servings, while Pogo just sat by and watched rather dismally.  Sassy did leave a few crumbs on Pogo's plate though, so he did at least get a taste.  When they were done, I took Pogo aside and gave him some more of the cake, away from Sassy. 




All in all, the doggies had a good time.  I will say that Sassy got a bit homesick.  Especially when this morning came and she was still here.  I have to pick Jasmine up from Drama class later this afternoon, and I will take Sassy home then.

Ah well, it's time for things to get back to normal now.  There is laundry waiting to be done.  So, I think I'll have a cup of coffee and get busy here.  Till tomorrow, Y'all have an awesome day.

Hugs, Edna B.

P.S.  I just have to share this adorable birthday card that Pogo's friend Izzi sent to him.  It's just adorable.   Thank you Izzi. 

  http://HappyBirthdayDogs.com/to/Pogo

Monday, April 29, 2013

It's Party Day!!

April 29, 2013

Good morning.  Well, it's finally here.  Party Day!!  I stopped at the market last night on my way to work to buy the hamburg (to make the cake).   This morning Pogo and I will be going shopping to buy the balloons and party favor toys.   Yesterday was Pogo's seventh birthday, but because I had to work, we will celebrate later today. 

At the moment, it's looking a bit cloudy and drizzly wet outside, so I'm hoping that it clears up as the day goes on.  Parties are much more fun when the sun is shining.

Because it's Pogo's big day, we have a present for you too.  A quick page that I made from this month's collab kit.  I hope you can use it.

 
Here's your download link: 
 
Today is also Mandarin Orange Monday, and I have a photo of a really pretty little orange tulip from my garden at home.  What makes it so pretty is that it looks as though I painted it with water colors or something.  I assure you, this is how it looks straight from the camera.  I removed a couple of things from the background (white wire fence, mulch, etc.).
 
 
And, here's a shot of my lone little primrose (I think that's what it is).  It's only a few inches tall, but oh it is sooooo pretty!
 
 
Now I really must be getting busy here.  Soon it will be time to head for home and my little guy.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fantabulous day.
 
Hugs, Edna B.

Sunday, April 28, 2013

Oh, But The Moon Was Simply Gorgeous!

April 28, 2013

Good morning.  The sun is shining, and it's going to be a fabulous day to be outdoors.  I'm having a bowl of Raisin Bran cereal with milk, and it tastes a lot like I'm chomping on dry clumps of grass with little lumps in it.  Of course, I know it's me because I really do like Raisin Bran. 

I've been neglecting my "moon shots" lately.  However, last night as I was closing the Mrs' drapes (around midnight), I couldn't help but notice how gorgeous the moon was and how it lit up the sky around it.  So I stepped outside  the door for a minute and shot me a couple of photos.  Isn't this pretty?


I also have a pretty photo of one of the Mrs' pink tulips.  She had a whole bouquet, but this one was standing tall in the middle of the other flowers.


Yesterday aftertoon, Pogo and I went to the park for a while and I got a lot of cute photos of some of the ducks playing in the water.  Tonight I'll try to get some of the photos cropped and re-sized and post them here tomorrow.   We were looking to see if there were any baby ducks and geese, but so far there aren't any.  At least, we did not see any.

This morning, I also took a couple of photos of the new seedlings and leaves bursting forth one of  the trees in Mrs' front yard.  This is the color of Spring.



Well, I think it's time now for my nap.  As much as I'd like to be outside playing, my nap is necessary so that I can be back at work tonight.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a beautiful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Saturday, April 27, 2013

I Think My Dog Might Be Getting A Bit Spoiled!

April 27, 2013

Good morning.  It's another pretty morning here in my little part of the world.  I have an appointment at the nail salon, and the rest of the day is just for relaxing.  Maybe Pogo and I will take a ride to the park to see if there are any babies yet.  You know, the kind with feathers! 

Yesterday afternoon, I wanted to go look at the yard furniture and hopefully buy some, but no one wanted to go with me.  I can't lift the boxes myself to put them in the wagon and the car, so I decided not to bother. Instead, Pogo and I went shopping for party supplies.  I'll wait until Monday morning to buy the balloons and make the cake. 

Well, my favorite TV program has finished for the season, and all that's left is a lot of re-runs to watch.  Well, at least I'm thankful for those re-runs.  I tend to watch the same few channels because I don't really like most of what is offered now on TV.  The amount of violence and sex on TV is escalating.  Most of the reality shows are just as bad.  And how can anyone enjoy watching a group of adults sitting in a circle and yelling at each other? 

I don't have any news for this morning, so I  think Mz Crabapple here should find some photos to share.  These are just some of the pretty blooms in the Mrs' garden.



Now I think I'll make myself another cup of coffee.  Pogo has already gone back to bed.  He has decided that dog food does not make for a fun breakfast.  I'm thinking that maybe he's starting to get spoiled.  Hmmmm.  Oh well, it's time to start a new day.  So till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day. 

Hugs, Edna B.

Friday, April 26, 2013

Spring Has Done Sprung!

April 26, 2013

Good morning.  It's a gorgeous day outside, but I'm indoors here with the Mrs.  Ah well, maybe we can get out in the yard for a bit later today when it warms up a bit more.  I think she might like that. 

I've been looking through the ad from The Christmas Tree Shops, and I think I've found some nice yard furniture that might be affordable this year.  They have a rather nice two seater bench with a table in between the seats and it comes with an umbrella.  I'm thinking that a couple of these might be nice for the yard on the other side of the house where it is all grassy and there is a privacy fence.

Maybe later this afternoon Joe will go with me to the store to look at these yard sets.  While we are there, we can have a look at this year's floral offerings.  I am just itching to get some new stuff growing in the yard. 

On my way to work this morning, I noticed that all the flowering trees and shrubs are finally blooming and looking simply gorgeous.  This is such a pretty time of year.  No wonder I love Spring time the best. 

I dug into my photos from last summer and found this pretty shot of some Sweet William.  At least that's what I think it is.  I have to do some close up work for a challenge, so the second photo is the close up I will use.



Now I must get busy here.  The Mrs is roaming around in her electric scooter and I need to keep an eye on her.  lol.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Spring Is Finally Getting Here

April 25, 2013

It's a beautiful morning, and it feels like Spring.  It's also a good day to do laundry.  lol.  Earlier in the week, I did the blankets, so today I'll do the clothes.  Later, I'll take Joe food shopping, and pick up my granddaughter Jasmine and her friend after Drama Club.

Pogo is so full of vim and vinegar this morning.  He does this special half run/half hop thing, and then comes to bark at me.  He found some paper to chomp on so he is quite happy with himself.  Every now and then, he tries to jump up on to the recliner chair, but so far has not been able to do this.

Last night, Janet gave me a great idea for the birthday cake.  I can make it with hamburg, and frost it with rice.  It's tasty and it's fun.  Add to that some ice cream, balloons and toys and it should be a fun party.

There really isn't much news this morning, so let's get right to my photo.  I took this photo a year ago today on my way home from work.  This year, we are a little bit behind with the blossoms but these trees should be looking like this within a week or two.

 
Now it's time for me to get dressed.  The laundry will be finished drying soon, and I want to take Pogo outdoors for a while.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a beautiful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

We're Planning A Party

April 24, 2013

Good morning.  It's a bit cloudy, but the sun seems to be trying very hard to come out from behind the clouds.  Maybe Pogo and I can get out in the yard for a while later today.  Right now, we are watching Word World on TV.  This is such a delightful, fun program.  The creative imagination that went into making this program is simply awesome.

Well, we've decided on our birthday party plans, and sent an invitation to Sassy.  Pogo's birthday is next Sunday, but I have to work so we'll have the party and the sleep over on Monday.  So, now I'll have to pick up some balloons and doggie favors.  I also have to figure out what to do about a cake.  Hmmm, that will take a bit of thought. 

Next, I want to think about what to get Pogo for a birthday present.  That will take a while.  He has lots of toys, but isn't too sure about how to play with them.  He doesn't really need more shirts, and he has several fuzzy blankets.  Hmmm, one can never have too many fuzzy blankets.  Maybe I can get him a couple of small ones for his little house bed.

Now I'm switching the TV channel back to the Weather Channel.  There is a lot of severe flooding happening in the central part of the country.  Several rivers empty into the Mississippi River, which runs the North/South length of the country.  With all the heavy rains, these river banks cannot hold back the rising waters.

I am wishing a safe journey to my friends who are traveling back to Wisconsin.  And to all of you living in these flood zones, be safe.  Hopefully, the rain will be stopping soon and the waters will begin to recede.

I used to believe that the future would see topsy turvy changes in the weather.  Meaning that the winter weather would be going South, and the warmer weather would be coming North.  Now I'm thinking that maybe we will be losing the seasons all together.  Weather will be whatever each day brings.  I mean, think about it.  Right now, our temps can differ as much as thirty or more degrees from one day to the next. 

On a happier note, I took some photos yesterday of the rose bush outside my window.  It was raining, and the bush sparkled with what looked like hundreds of little diamonds.  Here are a couple of the photos.



Did I mention the outcome of Monday's doctor appointment?  One of the things I was worried about was one of my fingers that has been numb since last October.  After reading up on what may have been causing the numbness, I really did not want to hear any bad news.  You know, like losing my finger.  A trip to the doctor months ago could have set my mind at ease. 

I spend a lot of time sitting at the computer, and this is not good for my neck.  Somewhere between my neck and my hand, something is pinching on the nerves to the finger.  So now I have some new exercises to do whenever I am sitting.  Hopefully this will help and I won't have to go for more physical therapy.  I have a follow up appointment next month, so I will know more then.

Well that's all my news for this morning.  I think I'm going to chase a few dust bunnies around.  Lord knows I can use the exercise.  lol.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

History Can Be So Interesting

April 23, 2013

I am sitting here watching a program on the History Channel about Jefferson Davis.  It really is quite fascinating.  I wonder how more fun school would have been for a lot kids when I was in school, had we had TV programs such as this one.  It's such a great to learn.

Oh dear, I just went to have a sip of my coffee, and it is all gone!  Well, that won't do.  Just one minute folks while I make me another cup of coffee.

Mmmmmm, this hits the spot.  I use the single serving coffee bags.  They look like a large teabag.  You can make your coffee as strong or not so strong as you like.  I usually buy Folgers or Maxwell House, but whenever I shop at Market Basket, I buy their brand.  Mmm mmm, very tasty!!

I used to drink Duncan Donuts coffee whenever I was out, but now I get my coffee at McDonald's.  They use Paul Newman brand of coffee, and I personally think it tastes much better.  And it costs a lot less.

I thought we were done buying heating fuel for the season, but I was wrong.  Yesterday we had to have another delivery.  The only redeeming factor is that the price per gallon went down a bit.  About 27 cents per gallon.  At least that helped. 

I recently joined a photography group, "Photography Plus The Art Of Photography" in order to learn more about taking great photos.  Here, whatever you want to learn is just a question away.  There are lots of challenges to give you inspiration for your photos.  Folks, if you want to learn to take better photos, do stop by and have a look around.

One of the challenges is for macro or close-up photos.  For this one, I photographed my Christmas Cactus up close.  Then I zoomed in on the center of one flower and changed it to black and white.  It may not be the best, but it surely was fun.  Here are my photos.



That's about all my news for this morning.  It's supposed to rain today and through the night, so I guess that makes it a good day to be doing laundry.  Maybe even give the vacuum cleaner a bit of exercise.  Not a lot, I don't want to overwhelm it.  lol.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Monday, April 22, 2013

Parts 5 & 6 of "Spring Is In The Air"

April 22, 2013

Good morning.  I'm at work and in a little while it will be time to head for home.  I'll only be there long enough to drink a cup of coffee and play a bit with Pogo.  Then it's off to an appointment with my orthopedic doctor. 

This morning I will post the last two parts of "Spring Is In The Air".   Sadly, this will be the last of the "collab" kits.  Su will not be able to do the kits anymore.  She will still be posting tutotials and other informative items on her blog.  You can also follow her at Digital Whisper where she teaches Photo Manipulation and writes tutorials on Photoshop.

So here is my preview along with the last two links.


Expired

Don't forget to stop by Su's blog and pick up her last two parts of the kit.  While you're there, take a moment to say hello and thank you.  We do so appreciate all your comments.  Here is Su's preview.


When I got to work last night, there were some deer grazing way in the back of the field across the street.  Of course I took a few photos.  I love watching the deer.  They are such beautiful animals.  As you can see, they were quite aware that I was looking at them.


Today is Mandarin Orange Monday, so let me show you what I worked on last night after the Mrs went to bed.  Basically, I took a couple of gulls from one photo and added them to this photo.  Then I added some colored layers and tried a few blending modes and brushes, and came up with this. 


Now I must go in to check on the Mrs, and then pack up my things.  Time flies by when I am having fun.  lol.  I will still be posting freebies for you.  They may not always be kits, but I will try to have something nice every week.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Sunday, April 21, 2013

Will Winter Ever End?

April 21, 2013

Good morning.   Don't look at your calendar, but April is quickly coming to a close.  How is this possible?  The months from Spring to Fall have built in wings.  They seem to just fly by, and only the Winter months linger. 

I will say though, that this morning the sun is shining and the temperature is a bit on the cool side.  Actually, the cool temps will be here for at least a week.  Old Man Winter is having a tough time leaving us this year.  I am not really complaining though.  Some folks are still buried in several feet of snow, while others are flooded because of so much rain.

I know I have said this before, but why can't the folks with all the snow pile it on to railroad cars (or big trucks) and send it to the drier states to the West?  I really feel for them when all this snow starts to melt.

Tomorrow is Earth Day.  What can you do to help save our earth?  Did you know that by turning your thermostat down two degrees in Winter, and your air conditioner up two degrees in Summer, you save about 2000 pounds of CO2 from getting into the atmosphere.  And, you save money.   Watch the Weather Channel or check on Google to find other ways to go green.

Let's all say a prayer for the folks in the Central part of our country who are having to cope with massive flooding and more precipitation on the way.  Do you suppose if we all sent a letter or made a call to our Congress members asking for water pipelines to be built that it could help to avoid other water catastrophes such as the current flooding?  It's certainly worth a thought folks.

Also join me in a prayer for the all the people in West, Texas.  The explosion this week killed at least 14 people and injured more than 200 others.  Many of those killed were First Responders.  The cost of the devastation and damages is over 100 million dollars.   

My photos today were taken last week at the park.  The first photo is a couple of ducks playing, and the second photo is interesting because of the shape of the gull's tail feathers. 



That's it for my news this morning.  Pogo has been dancing around his dish of doggy food.  This is his "I'm hungry for real food, not this mess" dance.  This week I tried the "Blue" brand, but he won't eat that either.  I guess maybe I'll have to cook up some hamburgers.  Oh, the things we do to please our guys.  Even the furry ones.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Saturday, April 20, 2013

A Surprise In My Flower Garden

April 20, 2013

Good morning.  I do believe we are in for a bit of rain today.  Yesterday's rain amounted to about a couple of teeny weeny wet specks of mist.  Today we should get a few light downpours, at least this morning.  On this day, many many years ago, my Daddy was born.  Happy Birthday to everyone born on this day.

I'm watching videos of the severe flooding in the Mid West (on TV), and it is just awful.  There's talk of more rain headed their way.  When will all this extreme weather end and get back to normal?  Or is this our new normal?  Food for thought.

I'm not going to re-hash the drama of the recent bombings except to say that I am glad the second suspect has been captured.  Hopefully, life in Boston and the surrounding towns and cities can begin to get back to normal.

Yesterday afternoon I took some new photos of my daffodils, and got a lovely surprise.  Here is the first photo of a group of pretty blooms.


And here's a close up of the second flower.  Is this not special?  The color from the center has run all the way to the edge of the petal.  I don't think I've ever seen this before.


And here is one of the other pretty daffodils growing in with these white ones.  This one has an apricot center.


Last year, my daughter in law, Janet, gave me a pretty Christmas Cactus.  Unfortunately, every time it grew a tiny pink bud, the bud would die and fall off.  However, in the past few weeks, new buds have grown and actually lived.  I showed you a photo of one of the buds a few days ago.  Now look at how beautiful it is.  Wow.  So pretty.


This is the first plant that I have had in a very long time that has actually managed to live and bloom.  Who knows?  If my luck continues with this plant, maybe I'll get another one.

Have you all been to Su's blog yesterday?  She has posted a special for anyone wanting to join up at Digital Whisper.  If you want to learn more about digital art, photography, and Photoshop, this is a great place to join.  Do check it out.  (Yes, I'm a member there too.)

I think now it's time to make a cup of coffee and decide what sort of mischief Pogo and I can get into today.  I'm off work tonight, so we can do whatever we want.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all stay dry and have a great day. 

Hugs, Edna B.

Friday, April 19, 2013

The Manhunt Is Still On

April 19, 2013

The news is grim this morning.  During the night, the two bombing suspects robbed a convenience store, set off more explosives, stole a car and held a hostage for a while, shot and killed one police office, and shot and critically wounded another officer.  One of the suspects has been shot and killed, but the other one is still on the loose.

All public transportation to and from Boston has been shut down, colleges have been closed and school activities have been cancelled.  Some people have been evacuated from their homes for safety reasons.  A lot of Boston is shut down, and people are being asked to stay away.  Residents are being told not to answer their doors unless they see a properly identified uniformed police officer. 

The two terrorists are brothers from Russia, near Chechnya, who have been living in this country for a while, and attended Boston schools.   A news alert has just been announced that all taxi cab service is shut down for the day, and the Federal Court House is closed.  Another neighborhood in crime scene area is now being evacuated, and businesses in the area are being closed.

Gosh, when does it end?  Where does all this hate come from?  Why do some folks leave their homeland and come here to live and attend our schools, and then turn around and kill us?  If they hate us so much, why don't they just stay where they came from? 

There is really no way to turn this blog post into a cheery chat, so I will just post a photo of one of my daffodils and call it a day.  If you haven't already been to Su's blog to pick up her two parts of the collab kit, please do stop by. 


That's it for this morning.  God bless us all, and let's hope that the other suspect is caught and taken into custody soon.  Till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

An Afternoon Shopping With Pogo

April 18, 2013

Good morning.  It's looking pretty outside my window this morning.  It's sunny and the temperature should be about 60 F today.   I'm keeping my fingers crossed that maybe Spring is trying to move in to our area.

Well, let me tell you about Pogo's shopping trip yesterday.  First, don't ever take your pet shopping with you, and whatever you do, do not let them use your credit card.  First, we had to walk all around the store to meet all the other doggies that were shopping.  On the way, we had to leave a tiny drop or two of "odor de Pogo".

Next we had to check out the "sale" items.  All the winter sweaters and jackets were on sale for $3 or $4 each, and Pogo just had to have one of everything.  Honestly!  I had to put a few things back when he wasn't looking.  Then it was on to the Spring shirts.  He was a little pickier here, and only picked out half a dozen shirts. 

On the way to the checkout counter, he spotted the Red Sox jerseys.  Oh boy, I was hoping that he did not see these as they are a bit more expensive.  But there was no leaving that area without his very own shirt.  So be it.  Needless to say, my Pogo was a very happy little camper after his shopping trip.  Here he is showing off one of his new shirts.


And these are the other new shirts that he bought.





I guess Pogo's busy day shopping wore him out because later he curled up in his bed with a little pink poodle to dream of all his new goodies.


God bless my little guy, he did good today.  Of course, at this rate I won't be retiring any time soon.  But that's okay.  At least Pogo is one happy little fellow.

Tonight, it's back to work for Mama, but then I will be off until Sunday night.   The next few days are supposed to be sunny and warm, so hopefully Pogo and I will be able to go out looking for photo ops.  That would be really nice.  Now it's time for me to get a few things done around here.  Till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

A Bit Of Spring In The Air Today

April      17, 2013

Good morning.  Today is starting out rather nicely.  It's already 55 degrees F, and the sun is shining.  Unless life pops up with something else, Pogo and I are planning on taking a ride to a Petco this morning.  They have been having a pretty good sale, and we are hoping to find some new shirts for Pogo.

Yesterday I discovered that I had a doctor appointment.  Somehow, I had put it on the wrong date on the calendar.  This was not my happiest doctor appointment.  It seems that my lungs are not as good as they were last year.  I had some blood work done, and I will go back next month for a follow up.

My doctor also changed my asthma medicine back to Advair.  A year ago, the insurance company decided that I did not need the Advair and changed my medication to another Brand.  The new brand did not work so good, and over the last few months, my breathing has been getting much worse.  So now we will see if they will let me have my Advair back.

On a happier note, my Christmas Cactus plant is finally going to bloom.  Actually, it already has.  I have to take some new photos because this morning I noticed that the biggest blossom has already opened.  But here is yesterday's photo.


I also took some photos of my Easter Lily.  I didn't do much to this photo other than crop it, but I wanted to share it because it is just so pretty.  It looks rather soft and vintagy.  (That's a new word that I just made up.)


This morning I am watching a program about space tourism.  Smaller space planes (I guess that's what they are called) are being built, and folks will be able to travel in them to outer space for just under $100,000.  My gut tells me that this is not such a good idea.

I really don't think it's good for the atmosphere to be having all these vehicles floating about in outer space.  And what about the rocket fuel and what the blast off does to the atmosphere?  Do you suppose all this stuff we've been throwing up into outer space has played a big part in the big change in our weather patterns?  Do you suppose this is a good part of the increase in tornadoes and hail storms?

It's time to change the channel.  QVC is featuring some very pretty dinnerware and the accessory pieces to match.  No, I'm not buying it, but it sure is pretty to look at.  I think my next big purchase might be a new bed.  Daughter in law (Janet) recently got a new bed.  The top and bottom move up and down, and I believe the mattress is the new memory foam or gel. I think it would ease breathing problems, especially when one has a cold.

So that is one of the things I want to look into soon.  I also want to find some new places to go to take photos.   My goodness, while I'm sitting here typing, I can see out of the corner or my eye that Pogo is actually eating some of his dog food.  Wow, will wonders never cease!!!

I'm thinking I'll have me another cup of coffee, then get dressed.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

The Boston Marathon Attack

April 16, 2013

I just don't know what to say this morning.  It's a gorgeous sunny morning here in my little part of the world.  For this, I am very grateful.  But for others, it's the morning after a most horrific day. Two bombs were set off not far from the finish line at the Boston Marathon.

 Three people were killed, including an eight year old boy.  At last count, the number of people injured was up to 176, and more are expected to filter in to area hospitals over the next day or two.  Many of the injured suffered shrapnel wounds, burns, lost limbs, and ruptured eardrums.  At the area hospitals, there were many surgeries, and at least ten amputations.

Store fronts were blown out, and buildings evacuated.  Two more explosive devices and dismantled.  A plane that landed at Boston from Philadelphia is being investigated.  Also a couple of search warrants have been issued for an undisclosed address.  All of the investigative agencies are working together to find out who is responsible for this attack.

Throughout this whole horrible time, the people of Boston rallied around to help all those in need of help.  Be it clothing, food, showers or a place to live, people came out to help their fellow people.  Today, people are turning over their photos and videos from yesterday in case there is information in them that will help the police find the person or persons responsible for the bombing.

For the life of me, I just don't know why someone would want to be setting off bombs with the intent to maim and kill people.  People from all around the world come to Boston to run in the marathon.  So it was not just Americans that would be targeted.

Yesterday afternoon, Joe called me to bring my camera outside to photograph a small group of turkeys who were strolling through my yard.  By the time I got out there, they were already headed on to the next yard.  I was only able to get photos of the one turkey who decided that it was easier to walk on the sidewalk.



While I was outside taking these photos, I heard a plane overhead, and aimed my camera skyward.  It was a helicopter.  No doubt, it was part of the investigative teams that were brought in because of the bombings.  I was shooting into the sun, but still the photo is pretty good.  You can see that the side door of the plane is open, but I cannot make out any people.


I want to thank my blogger friends for their concern about my safety.  Boston is not very far from here, but I was thankfully too tired to be going anywhere.  Pogo and I are quite safe, and so thankful to have such wonderfully caring friends.

Now I think I will enjoy another cup of coffee, get dressed and maybe go outdoors and enjoy this beautiful weather.  Till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Monday, April 15, 2013

Last Day For Taxes

April 15, 2013

Good morning.  Well, it's here.  Today is your last chance to get your taxes filed on time.  You have until midnight tonight to get them postmarked and in the mail.  Or sent by email.  Whatever your pleasure.

This looks like it should be a pretty good week weather wise.  Temps are supposed to be in the high 50's to mid 60's F all week.  I can definitely dig it! 

Well I made it through my long shift.  To be honest, it wasn't so bad.  I set up my laptop and showed the Mrs lots of photos.  After that, we blog hopped for a while.   She said she just "can't get over how people all over the world can chat with just a little laptop".  She stayed in a pretty good mood for the rest of the day and evening.

When I got home this morning, my little guy was so happy to see me.  Wow!  What a great way to start the day.  It's a great feeling having Pogo squirming and wriggling in my arms and rubbing his little face all over mine.  You just can't beat fur baby lovin'.

Right now, I'm watching all the bad winter weather updates on TV for other parts of the country.  Gosh, winter just does not want to quit!  Some folks are being buried in tons of snow.  The newest winter storm, Yogi, is already dumping more snow in places that already have more snow than they know what to do with.  

In North Dakota, they are worried about the flooding when all the snow starts to melt.  I have an idea.  Why not load the snow on to railroad cars and send it to the dry areas of the country.  Can this be any more expensive than repairing all the damage from severe flooding?  I tend to think it would be the cheaper way out.  Oh well, just a thought.

This morning, I have Parts 3 and 4 of "Spring Is In The Air" for you.  I can't give you better weather, but I sure can help you make cheery scrap pages.  Here is my preview, followed by your download links.


Your download links:

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Don't forget to stop by Su's blog later this morning, and pick up her two parts.  While you're there, don't forget to take a moment to say hello and thank you.  This is so much appreciated.

Today is also Mandarin Orange Monday.  I took a photo of a beautiful new vase that came with some of the Mrs' Easter flowers.  I just love the shape and colors on this little vase.  However, I really need it to be orange so I blended it with a layer of orange, using the "Difference" blending mode in Photoshop.  I was happy with the results, so I stopped playing right there.


This morning, I picked up breakfast at McDonalds.  Sausage, scrambled eggs, biscuit and coffee.  I shared the sausage and eggs with Pogo, and right now he is curled up next to me.  His little belly is full and he is a happy little camper.  He and I make a good pair.  It doesn't take much to make either of us happy.

The daffodils are blooming outside my door, so I'm headed on out to take a few photos.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a gorgeous day.

Hugs, Edna B.