Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Adobe, I Don't Like You Anymore!

July 31, 2013

Well, it's almost noon time.  I've been so busy around here that by the end of the day I can't tell which part of the body hurts the most.  I just plop into the lounge chair and rest the whole body.  I do think that I will start slowing down again. 

The new little orange vacuum cleaner is working just fine.  I even packed one of those "air" storage bags and then Joe hooked up the vacuum hose and pulled the air out of the bag.  Boy oh boy, that bag sure did get heavy!  Sort of like a block of compressed coffee grounds, but much bigger. 

A little while ago, I sat down to read some of my email and got another fabulous surprise from my friend Kyra. There were three new scrapbook pages.  Woo Hoo!!!   Folks, I am going to have the best scrap book ever! 




Are these not beautiful?  I am so in awe of Kyra's creative talent.  Thank you Kyra.  You have given me huge smiles today.  I have another very creative person dear to me.  My SIL Edie also is very talented.  Later today, I will take a photo of the gift she made for me and post it here tomorrow.  I will even tell you how she made it. 

Well, remember I said that Wayne, my PC guru, was coming by last evening to try to install the Photoshop Cloud that I purchased?  Well he tried for an hour and a half, but had no success.  He even had to uninstall my Norton because there was no way to shut it off.  It cost me $30 to get it reinstalled and turned back on.  Add that to Wayne's fee, and this new Adobe Cloud  has been quite costly, corrupted and useless.

I finally had to cancel my subscription and ask for a refund.   So much for Photoshop and progress.  I don't have to tell you how very unhappy I am with Adobe.  Did you know that there is also NO WAY to call, talk or chat with anyone from the company?  You can leave a message in one of their forums, or speak to someone in India (I guess that's where he was, it was hard to understand him).  Adobe's customer service STINKS!

Let's not get me going off on another rant here.  I think I will meander out to the kitchen and rustle up some lunch for myself and Pogo.  Have I told you that he is getting more free with his doggie kisses?  I've been getting two or three of them a week lately.  I think he likes it.  I know I do! 

Okay, that's it for today.  Till tomorrow, be safe and Y'all have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Not So Happy With Adobe Today

July 30, 2013

Good morning.  The sun is shining and it's looking really nice outside.  Maybe if I can get a few things done around here today, Pogo and I can get outside for a while.   I set my clock so that I would not sleep late.  I tend to do housework slowly, so it's better to start early.

Yesterday I went to Walmart and bought a cute little Bissell vacuum cleaner with hose attachments.   Today, I will try out the space saver storage bags that I bought a while ago.   You put in a whole pile of blankets, suck the air out of the bag, and voila!  The bag is now only about as thick as one blanket.  Well, at least that's sort of how it works.  Today I'm going to try it out.

Well, I have just now taken a forty five minute break and assembled my new little orange vacuum cleaner.  The good thing is how little it weighs.   It's not a bad deal for $35 plus tax.


The theme this week in the Photography Plus forum is photos expressing feelings in either people or animals.  I dug out this cute photo of Pogo from last summer.  (He doesn't wear a collar anymore.  Instead he wears a harness.)   He was howling away and the expression on his face was priceless. 


I also have a couple of photos from my garden.  These are two of the hydrangea  blossoms.  One from the white bush and one from the blue bush.   There haven't been any pink blooms yet.  Hopefully, the weather will settle down, and all the plants will be back to blooming again. 



Lately, I've been so busy with other things  that I almost forgot about ordering my newest blog book.  This year I will break it into three books.   I tend to post a lot more photos now, so the books are getting quite thick.   Maybe I can get that done this afternoon. 

Last night, I finally made my decision to purchase the new Adobe Cloud so that I can continue to use my Photoshop.  You can't buy the product in a box anymore.  Instead, you have to purchase a one year contract (renewable each year)  and pay monthly payments to Adobe.   They say this is to make it easier to give us new updates to the program, but I say it is all about making more money. 

In any event, I purchased the product, but then could not download it to my laptop.   I tried several times with the help of their on line chat technicians, but it just would not download.  I tried calling Adobe Customer Support, but after being on hold for twenty minutes, I finally hung up the phone.

Tonight, hopefully Wayne will be able to come by and try to get the program installed for me.  If he cannot do this, I will be one very unhappy Adobe customer.  I just don't understand why it has to be such a hassle to use a product once you have purchased it. 

Well enough of my grumbling.  It's time to get busy here and try out that cute new vacuum cleaner.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Monday, July 29, 2013

Having Hairy Feet Can Be A Good Thing

July 29, 2013

Good morning.  So far, this morning is cloudy and comfy cool.  I was able to have the sun roof open part way on the way home this morning and it felt sooooo good!  I'm really enjoying Baby Blue Eyes.  I just need a few extra hours each day so that I can sit down and get familiar with the manual. 

I did learn one more new thing -- how to turn down the volume for the phone.   I was chatting with Deanne a couple of days ago and the volume was so loud.  I asked her how to adjust the volume, and she explained it to me.  Ahhh, so simple, really!!  Thanks Dee Dee.

This morning's TV fare is "Cat In The Hat".  It's actually quite interesting, and teaches lots of fun stuff.  Today we are learning how spiders are able to walk on  water.  Imagine!  Having lots of air bubbles underneath your hairy feet makes it possible to walk on top of the water!  I don't know about you, but I did not know this.  Of course, I don't have hairy feet, so this won't really help me to walk on water.

Today is Mandarin Orange Monday, and I have a couple of butterfly photos to share.   This past week was my week for lots of new bug photos. 



Yesterday, I mentioned that I wanted to learn a bit about "street photography".   Let me share what I have learned so far.  Basically, it's just photographing interesting things and people -- seeking out expressive faces, hands or postures that show an emotion and invoke a feeling in the viewer.  Look for interesting scenes that tell a story, or photograph someone in front of an interesting background. 

There is a world full of interesting subjects out there.  One just has to look around.  There's also a very interesting web site where you can learn more about this and other fun photography.  Check out "Picture Correct".  If you sign up, you can receive new photography tips in your email.

Here's a photo of one of the many orange tiger lilies growing in my yard.  They are double and ruffly, and quite gorgeous. 


Now I want to get busy here.  Maybe I can do a load of laundry or something before I succumb to nap time.  Later I want to go to Walmart and get me a new small vacuum with hoses.  I need them to suck the air out of the new storage bags.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Sunday, July 28, 2013

Did You Know That Dragonflies Are Fuzzy?

July 28, 2013

Good morning.  It's 5:45 a.m. and I'm still at work.  Pretty soon though, I can pack up and go home to Pogo.   He had an especially hard time about me leaving without him last evening.  His nerves start acting up and he gets the squirties all over the place.  

So, when I should have been getting into my car to leave, I was in the bathroom giving Pogo a bath.  I wrapped him in a bath towel, and gave him to Joe to dry him off.  Then I had to go back into my place and start cleaning up everywhere.   I barely made it to work on time.   God Bless that little guy of mine.  He surely does keep my life interesting.

My friend Donna asked to see a photo of the side yard now that it is looking better.  I took this photo yesterday.  A lot of the blooms are gone or knocked off from the rain, but there are lots of new buds on the bushes.  This is the front half of the side yard, and a closer shot of one of the butterfly bushes.   I'll have to take another photo when all the new buds start blossoming.



 There were several dragonflies in the garden, so I was able to get some photos of them too.  Here's one of them, and a close up to show you how fuzzy he is.


 
At the moment, it isn't raining, but it's supposed to be rainy today and tomorrow.   I still cannot find my favorite umbrella, and I forgot to bring a different one with me last night.  Well, that's understandable.  I had a lot on my mind when I left the house for work.  I will have to remember to put one in the car when I get home this morning. 
 
I recently read an article on "street photography" and I want to try it out.   It's mostly just different views and aspects of life on the street and around town, but between excessive heat and/or lots of rain, I haven't had a chance to get out and take some photos.  It sounds rather interesting, and I can't wait to try it.
 
Now it's time to check on the Mrs again.   About an hour, and I'll be on my way home.  Woo Hoo!  So, till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a fantabulous day.
 
Hugs, Edna B.

Saturday, July 27, 2013

Happy Birthday Stephen

July 27, 2013

It's a beautiful day, and I'm hoping that Pogo and I can go outside for a while to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine.   Have any of you noticed the date?  It's the 27th already, and July is fast becoming a bygone.  Where is it all going?

Today is also grandson Stephen's birthday.  I'm sure his day will be filled with all sorts of fun things and people.  Stevie, Pogo and I wish you a very Happy Birthday. 

I got to sleep till about 9 a.m. this morning, then Pogo woke me up so that I would let him out into the main house.  He knew that Joe was out there, and he wanted his morning bologna treat.  Joe says that Pogo rules the whole house, and I have to agree with him. 

When I opened my email, I got another wonderful surprise from my friend Kyra.  She made a beautiful scrap page of me and Pogo and Baby Blue Eyes.   Thank you so much Kyra, I just love it!!


Yesterday we had a bit of rain, which sometimes can be a great opportunity for some neat photos.  I took these photos of the branches from the rose bush right outside my door.   It's fun trying to photograph the rain drops.  These are my three favorite shots from yesterday.




This morning, Pogo and I are watching "Bad Dog" on the Animal Channel.   It's a fun and very interesting program.   Some of these pets are really wicked bad!   Some are so bad they are funny.  It's amazing to see what some of these animals do when they are left home alone.  

The one thing I don't see is any of the owners getting a baby sitter for their pets.  I must be really odd because I always get a sitter if I have to leave for more than an hour or two.   Sometimes I even get a sitter for just short times.   I think if I had just a "regular" dog, it might be okay to leave it at home while I'm at work.  Ah well, the good out-weights the bad.

Now it's time to finish washing the dishes and get out in the yard for a little while.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Friday, July 26, 2013

How About A Naked Romp Through The Jungle?

July 26, 2013

Good morning.  It's rather cool and wet here in New England.  The cool feels nice, and the grass and gardens enjoy the rain.  My bunny family isn't out running around in the yard, so I guess they are not so fond of the rain.  Joe saw at least three baby bunnies playing in the yard a few days ago.  As long they leave the tomatoes alone, they are welcome to stay.

The temps will be back up in the 80's beginning tomorrow, so pretty soon Joe and I can start picking fresh tomatoes from the garden.  Mmmm, mmm, mmm.  We didn't plant any veggies last year, and I missed them.  I'm hoping that next year, we can plant squash and cucumbers again.  It all depends on when the Spring weather begins.

My friend Kyra started my day off with another beautiful layout of my favorite little guy.  Gosh, I could look at his precious mug all day.   He definitely has me mesmerized!


I see from my emails that more and more of our fun forums are disappearing.  Sad to say, the folks who build a these forums don't seem to know why their forums are dying.  It all started when folks started posting their forums, scraps, challenges, etc. on Facebook.  Next, they also had everything posted on Twitter, followed every other new media place that came along. 

Soon, they were moving their forum scrap stores out of the forums and over to places like Etsy.  Freebies and challenges were being posted on all these outside media places instead of in the forum.  So now, technically, there is really no reason to visit the forum anymore.  And, if you are like me, you just don't have time to be funning from Facebook to Tweeter and everywhere else to find what you need or keep up with what is happening.  Hence, interest is lost and the forums die out.  Sad.

Do you like pigs?   My daughter Deanne finds some of the cutest photos of pigs on the internet.  Here's one that I think is adorable.  This little piggy is just loving his nap in the sun.


Does anyone follow all the new reality shows on TV?   I came across one quite by accident, and was really amazed that it was actually being allowed as entertainment on TV.  This one is called "Naked and Afraid" (or vice versa).  Two naked people, one male and one female strangers to each other, are dropped off at some god forsaken jungle somewhere in the world with no clothes, no food and no water.  The challenge is to stay alive for twenty one days. 

Of course, they are accompanied by a camera crew who are all fully clothed.   Now, if the contestants have to be naked, I don't think it's right that the camera crew gets to keep their clothes on.  Actually, I think that the TV stations are stooping pretty low into the garbage can to come up with new ideas for entertaining programs.   If you are interested though, it is on Discovery Channel.

I'm thinking that it's time for this old fuddy duddy to get busy and start another load of laundry.  Till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Thursday, July 25, 2013

The Cooler Air Feels Sooooooo Good!

July 25, 2013

Good morning.  At the moment, it is in the 60's here, and it feels super!  The royal baby has been given a name, HRH George Alexander Louis, and Pogo gave me a kiss this morning.  So I guess all is well with the world.

Pogo and I got up early this morning to pick up Jasmine and take her to school for her gymnastic classes.  We'll go back in a couple of hours to pick her up.  Then I think we'll spend the afternoon catching up on some sleep.  Last night the air was sticky and I did not get very much sleep. 

Yesterday afternoon, I went out to my garden to get some new photos.  Unfortunately, the stem of one of the tall new lilies had broken so I had to pick the flowers and put them in a vase.  (Actually, it is just one stem with three blossoms.)  What a beauty this lily is.  And the blossoms on it are really huge!   This stem has three blossoms.  The one near my hand is just ONE blossom.  They are so big and really beautiful.



In another part of the garden, Joe and I each have a tomato plant.  These plants are growing fabulously, and have lots of green tomatoes growing.  Oh boy, I feel a bumper crop coming on!


At work, there are a lot more butterflies this year than there were last year.  Also the dragonflies are more plentiful.  Thank goodness for that because it gives me more opportunities to get some great new photos.  Here is one of the butterflies from the Mrs' backyard a couple of days ago.


My butterfly bushes are sprouting lots of blooms now too, so I'm hoping that we get some of these big beautiful butterflies in my yard soon.  Now I have to go set out my clothes for work tonight, and do up a few breakfast dishes. 

 I have slacked off on getting my place cleared out because I haven't really been feeling so hot lately.  It takes me forever to do just a little bit.   I think once my stress level is back in check, things will get back to normal.  Well, at least I hope so.  Now I'm off to play in the kitchen sink.  Till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

A Fabulous Way To Start The Day

July 24, 2013

Good morning.  Early this morning when I looked at my  email, I found the most wonderful surprise.  Kyra has sent me another fabulous layout.  This one gave me giggles and smiles, and now that I'm home (from work) I'm still smiling.   Have a lookee and smile with me.


Is this not the cutest little guy?  I am ever so thankful that Pogo is in my life.  The joy that he brings me is priceless.  Kyra girl, Pogo and I thank you.  This is such a gorgeous scrap page. 

This morning, there was no one to sit with Pogo when Joe had to leave for work, so he put Pogo into my apartment to wait for me.  I had left the pantry light on so it would not be so dark.  When I got home a couple of hours later, my Pogo was so happy.  He ran around and danced and gave me kisses.  Boy oh boy, what a great way to start my day. 

So let's make this a Pogo day.  Here's another scrapbook page that Kyra has made, and a close up shot that I took of Pogo two days ago.  He really is ready for another hair cut.  His hair is getting thick and wavy and the short hair feels good in this heat.



By now, everyone has heard that the Royal Baby was born Monday afternoon,  and is already at home with his Mom and Dad.  I wish Prince William and Kate much happiness and many blessings with their new son.  I got this photo from the web.  This tiny new heir to the throne is adorable.


It must be an awesome feeling to know that the tiny son you have just given birth to will grow up to be King.  It boggles my mind.   Well, now I'm off to get started on this new day.  There's lots to do here.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

A New Future King Is Born

Good morning.  The wait is over.  Kate and Will have a baby boy.  Soon, I hope, they will announce the new baby's name.  I think this is so exciting.  I watched (on TV)  when Queen Elizabeth was crowned Queen,  when Prince Charles and Diana were married, as Prince William romped on the castle grounds as a small boy, as William and Kate were married, and now as a new future king is born  and soon to be presented to the world.   Awesome!

Another story in the news is about the medical college that is accepting undocumented students.  They showed a student (brought here from Mexico as a child) who says he just wants the same opportunities as everyone else.  He has been here most of his life enjoying the "good life" AND YET HE IS STILL NOT A CITIZEN!  He did not say he was going to become one, either.

All these years and he (and his family) couldn't find the time to become citizens.  WHY?  I think all children should have the opportunity to follow their dreams, but let's be fair.  In order to enjoy the privileges that Americans work hard for, I think immigrants should become citizens.  This young person is being given a seat in college that I'm sure could have been filled by an American Citizen.

The "officials" say that we have a shortage of qualified college students to fill the jobs that America needs filled.  WELL, HELLO!  Make college more affordable, and the country will be overrun with "qualified" young adults!!!!!   College tuitions have been priced right out of most of our children's hopes and dreams.  There is no need for this, and it should be unacceptable to all of us.

Okey dokey.  The decision makers are never going to ask for my opinion, so my rant is over.  How about some photos.  Yesterday (while at work) I noticed through the window what appeared to be a dragonfly on a branch, so I grabbed my camera and went out to get some photos.  Well, surprise, surprise.  It was not a dragonfly.  Instead, I got these photos.




Wow, talk about being in the right place at the right time.   You just never know what sort of opportunity will pop up.   I really do not like bugs, but they always seem to present me with some very interesting photos.

Well, now it's time to see what's for lunch, and maybe do another load of laundry.  I need to call Big Brother, Big Sister and apologize for not putting their bag of donated goods outside this morning.  I had the bad ready, but forget to put it out.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a marvelous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Monday, July 22, 2013

"Operation Smile"

July 22, 2013

Good morning.  Well, I'm back at work again.  There was a death in my friend's family, so I am covering for her today, tomorrow night and Thursday night.  Today, I had to bring Pogo with me.  Of course, he is not complaining.  In fact, he's quite happy to be here with me. 

Like the rest of the world, I have the news station on to hear any news about the royal baby's birth.  It's such an exciting day.  Princess Diana would have been so proud.  The newscaster is forecasting that the baby will be a girl, and will be named Victoria.  Hmmmm, we'll just have to wait and see.

Very early this morning, I watched an infomercial on TV about "Operation Smile".  It's a group of volunteer doctors and other medical personnel who volunteer their time and expertise to help children around the globe who are born with cleft lip and/or cleft palate. 

The cost for these operations is $240 per child, and the key words are "around the globe".  I think this is a wonderful thing for these medical people to be doing.  However, isn't our country part of this globe too?  And how come this country is not listed on their Medical Mission Schedule?  (Their schedule lists Central America, South America, Africa, Asia and the Middle East.)   Aren't there children born in this country with this same medical problem?  And how come our children can't have the same medical care for the same $240 per child?

If our children could have this same medical care for this same price, I'll bet that most folks would gladly give enough money to  help them all.  If we all could give the $240, there would be no sick children left in our country.  Alas, this will never happen because this same care is only afforded to our children at astronomical costs, which of course, most of us cannot afford.  Sad, sad, sad.

It was nice and cool earlier this morning, but now it is getting warmer and muggier.  Pogo doesn't seem to care though.  I just took him outside for a little bit, and he is itching to get back outside again.  Well, he will have to wait a while. 

I did not have a chance to work on an orange photo for today, but I do have a couple of nice ones to share with you.  This first is one of my roses, and the second one is part of a new fairy village in my yard. 



The Royal Baby has not been born yet, and I must get back to work here.  The Mrs will be wanting her lunch soon.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Sunday, July 21, 2013

Woo Hoo! The Internet Is Back!

July 21, 2013

Good morning.  Today the weatherman is promising us a welcoming break in the heat.  That means that I will have a chance to play with the sun roof on my car on the way home this morning.  By the way, I've decided to change her name to "Baby Blue Eyes".   Every time I look out the side window, the color blue looking back at me is the same beautiful color as many of my loved one's eyes. 

I'm actually one of the few in the family who did not get the baby blue eyes.  Mine are hazel, and depending on what colors I wear, my eyes can be green, gold or hazel.  These eyes have been passed on to two of my children. 

Yesterday I was feeling quite crappy.  The tension has been high in the house all week, and I have been tired from all the work.  Most of the dwarfs have been very good, but a few have been like unruly children. 

However, when I opened my email yesterday, I found a wonderful gift that really brightened my day.  Kyra had made me another gorgeous scrapbook layout.  This one features Mr Blue Eyes himself.  My friend, I thank you so much.


I also have a photo to share that I took at our local park.  This is one of the tiny little islands that is scattered on the pond.  It looks so peaceful, with just enough room on it to set up a tent and a little clothes line.  Doesn't this look like a great place to spend a vacation?



As you can see, the internet is back on at work.  Thank goodness!  WiFi withdrawal is no fun at all.   Now it's time to check on the Mrs again before I pack up my things and head on home.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Saturday, July 20, 2013

Sometimes Bugs Are More Fun Than People

July 20, 2013

Good morning.  Yup, it's still on the warm side here.  Today the temperature is supposed to drop down a few degrees, but with the heat index it will still feel like it's almost one hundred.  Tomorrow, it should be a few degrees cooler, and stay that way all week.  Now let's hope that the accompanying thunder storms won't be too bad.  It will be really nice for a while.

Yesterday, I got started on my work project around here very early, but then had to stop.  I spent most of the day babysitting some very sneaky and uncooperative dwarfs.  You know, some times I get so angry and disgusted with people.  This whole pest problem was caused by just a couple of tenants, and yet they have been the uncooperative ones throughout this whole process. 

Today, I will slack off a bit.  I have an appointment at noon at the nail salon, and I will do a load of laundry.  Then I will try to nap for a little while because tonight I'm back to work.  Today, I will check out the lights and windshield wipers in Baby Girl.  I don't want to get caught in the rain later,and have to figure out the wipers. 

This morning I'm watching the Weather Channel.  I really do think that I will find their website and leave a comment about the slutty way that the women are dressed.  They are all dressed alike so you know that the station is picking out their clothes.  Unfortunately, the women all look they were poured into their dresses, while the men are dressed in comfortable looking clothes.  I know, I'm being really picky, but as a crabby old lady I am entitled to my opinion. 

How about some bug photos?  I'm not sure if this first bug is a fly or a bee, but his colors are quite interesting.  The second photo is a tiny little butterfly (or moth), and the last is a dragonfly.  These shots were all taken recently in the Mrs' garden at work.  To be honest, it is  easier to photograph bugs than to babysit bad-mannered adults.  Let's hear if for the bugs!!!



 
Now I want to try brushing some of the kink out of my hair.  Ouch, ouch!  It's always like this when I wash it.  Is this maybe why so many guys shave all their hair off?  No, I'm not going to do that.  I'll just keep on brushing and ouching.
 
That's about all my rants for the day.  I want to make sure Pogo has a bit of lunch before we go out for my appointment.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a fabulous day.
 
Hugs, Edna B.

Friday, July 19, 2013

I Love My Built In GPS

July 19, 2013

Good morning.  It's only 9:40 a.m., and it's already been a very busy morning.  As I sit here typing, there are rivulets of water running down my body.  The temps are already in the 90'sF, and it is sticky, sticky, sticky.

The pest control man is here doing his thing around the house, and of course, there are some grumpy dwarfs.  Well, too bad Harry!  Everyone was advised that this day was coming, and they had plenty of time to make plans to be elsewhere for a few hours.  The chemicals smell nasty, and it's not good to be breathing them in.  The dwarfs have been told to leave the premises for a few hours, but they don't seem to want to comply.  What else is new?

Today the temps will be kissing 100, so tempers are not always the best.  I am not looking forward to keeping these unhappy dwarfs in line until the air in and around the house is breathable again later.

On a happier note, here's a couple of photos of a rather lovely and useful weed, Milkweed.  These are growing in the Mrs' garden at work.  The colors on each tiny flowerlet are white, yellow and lavender.



I took these photos a couple of weeks ago, and now there are lots of pods forming on the plants.  It's such an unusual looking plant, and I thought quite interesting.

Yesterday, Pogo had his doctor appointment, and got his 3 year rabies and distemper shots along with a blood test for heartworm    When we left the hospital, I decided to take a ride and go visit my sister in law, Edie.  I haven't seen her in such a long time, and she is just the sweetest SIL any girl could have.  I used the built in GPS in Baby Girl, and we got there just fine. 

We had a fabulous visit, and on the way home, I made one wrong turn.  So I pulled over to the side of the road and turned on the GPS.  That got us back on the right road.  All in all, it was a very pleasant afternoon and evening.

Last night, my favorite program "Project Runway" started its new season.  What a perfect way to end a long day.  Now it's time to stop my rambling and get busy.  I  still have lots of things to go through here.  Till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Happy Birthday, Guys

July 18, 2013

Good morning.  For so many years, today has been a very special day.  My brother and my Michael (hubby) shared the same birthday.  Every year, I would cook them a scrumptious lobster birthday dinner.  They would each get two lobsters, corn on the cob, salad and cool refreshing drinks.  After the meal and their dessert, it would be time to open presents.  Yes, I had a grand time spoiling my two guys on their birthday.  I miss them both dearly.

Yesterday, the car dealership called me to say that my new registration and sticker were ready to be picked up, so Pogo and I took Baby Girl out for a ride to pick these things up.  While we were there, I had the saleslady show me how to work the sun/moon roof.  She also showed me how to work the "auto mirror dim". 

These new features on my car are so much fun.  I especially love the rear view camera.  As soon as I put the car in reverse, my radio area becomes a picture screen showing me everything that is behind my car.  This is so wonderful.  I also had to practice a bit to learn how to lock and unlock the doors.  Keyless entry is so different.  Needless to say, I have been having fun with Baby Girl.

This morning's email brought more beautiful gifts from my friend Kyra.  Gosh, she makes the prettiest scrap pages!  Let me share today's with you.  These purples roses look like they were just picked from the garden, and the gull could be flying right off the page.  I just love them.  Kyra, thank you so much.



Yesterday, Eddie and I cleaned off a bookshelf filled with my books from when I took the course on web design.  (At least ten years ago)  Wowee, have you ever seen a "two story" dust bunny building?  These little dust bunnies had built themselves a whole town, including hotels on the very top shelf.   My goodness! 

Sometimes being very short has its rewards.  I can't see (or reach) the tops of things, so the dust bunnies can raise their families in peace without worrying about me disturbing them.  However, yesterday, we kicked them all out.  Poor bunnies!

Ah well, now it's time for me to get dressed and start my day's work here.   Till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

This Heat Is Making Me Crabby!

July 17, 2013

Good morning. The layout here on blogger is different this morning, and I can't figure out how to make any changes. The type is much smaller, and rather hard for me to see. Add to that, the editing tools are all missing.  

Phew!  This heat is getting to me.  My fuse is getting shorter and shorter.  I think I need a day outside to play and re-adjust my attitude.  I just clicked on another tab here, and voila!  All my editing tools are back.  I definitely need a cool drink of water and a break from housework.

Some days I am just so bad, with absolutely no patience.  This is one of those days.  It's in the low 80's already, and headed for the low to mid 90's.  Pogo and I are staying pretty comfortable indoors.  Baby Girl is sitting in the driveway feeling quite neglected. (One of the birds has already left a gift on the front of her hood.  Nice!)   Maybe in the late afternoon, we can take her out for a ride.  I have to get used to driving this new car before the weekend.

How about  a couple of photos of the Mrs' gorgeous hydrangeas.  They are such a beautiful shade of blue.  Aren't these pretty?



Last night, I had so much work that I wanted to finish up, but this old body had other ideas.  Instead, Pogo and I went to bed early.  In a little while, I will get dressed and back to work here.  I still have to toss a lot of things.  Deciding what to keep and what to toss is the big problem.  I suppose when you get this old, everything around you has some sort of sentimental value. 

I have to give credit to all the folks who are able to accomplish a project like this.  My kids have a better way of doing things.  If they haven't used something in the past year or so, they toss it.  My way is "if I haven't used it in a few years I might still need it tomorrow"  or "so and so gave that to me and I can't part with it", etc. 

In the evening, when I turn in, I sometimes do some "word find" puzzles to unwind and rest my brain.  In doing so, I have discovered something interesting.  Dyslexia can sometimes have its good points.  When I am searching for words, I can read them backwards or forwards.  Sometimes a certain part of a word will be real easy to find, and all of this makes it easier to solve the word puzzle.  Hmmm, definitely an interesting thought.

Okay, enough babbling.  I really need to get back to work here.  Till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day.  (I promise not to be so crabby tomorrow)

Hugs, Edna B.

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

She's Big, She's Beautiful. Meet "Baby Girl"

July 16, 2013

Good afternoon.  I'm late posting, but it's been a long busy day so far.  Eddie has been here helping me all day, same as yesterday.  Out in the main house, Joe has been a godsend.  He spent the last few days scrubbing and scouring everything in the common areas.   There is definitely a light peeking through at the end of the tunnel. 

In between all of this there is some good news.  I got a phone call yesterday letting me know that "Baby Girl" was ready for me to pick up and bring home.   Who is "Baby Girl"?  Well let me show you.


 
I traded my car in two weeks ago, but could not bring the new one home because I could not find the title.  So I had to file for a new title, which arrived at the dealership yesterday. Isn't she pretty?  Sometimes she looks off-white, light gray or silver, but she is really a pale baby blue metallic.
 
I upgraded because I wanted the navigator (GPS) that is built into the dash.  Also, I wanted the sun roof.  Well, this beauty has every option they could possible put on her.  Now I will be busy for the next few months trying to learn what and where everything is and how to use it.
 
I spent last night looking through the manuals, but to be honest they are written for college professors and not for common folks like me.   After a lot of trial and error, I was able to figure out how to lock the car doors.  Before the weekend gets here, I will have to learn how to do the headlights, windshield wipers, rear view camera, radio, AC, heat, sun roof and phone.  That's just the beginning.
 
I have finally got it down pat how to start and stop the car's engine.  No, I'm not dumb, but I've never had a keyless car before.  This is definitely going to be some adventure.  Pogo is happy.  His car seat is high enough that he can see outside just great.  That's him looking out the window in the second photo. 
 
I've just had my late lunch break, and now it's time to get back to work here.  Till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a fantabulous day.
 
Hugs, Edna B.

Monday, July 15, 2013

"Draggy Lady", That's Me!

July 15, 2013

Good morning.  Well, the heat is back and the stickies have made themselves quite at home here.  It's 83F degrees already, heading for the low to mid 90'sF.  Super temps if you want to do a bit of sweating.  If the sauna heat helps one to lose weight, why aren't we all super thin after one of these heat waves?  I don't understand.  My clothes seem to fit tighter!

Well, other than having no internet at work, the night was pleasant enough.  Gosh, I hope the neighbors get their internet back soon.  I feel so cut off from things when I can't access the internet.  Such a big difference from when we got our very first computer.  It was years before I would touch the darn thing.

I guess the new technology scared me, but my hubby was loving it.  By "97" I got my first computer.  For the first two months after it arrived, I would proudly show it off to everyone.  I even showed them how I turned it on and off.  DUH!   After that I realized that I wasn't being so smart at all.  For $2000, I needed to learn how to do more than that with this marvelous new machine.  And I did.

If only I could attack housework with the same vigor I learn about my computer and my camera.  In my younger days, I seemed to accomplish things like a wonder woman.  Nowadays, my wonder woman has turned into "draggy lady". 

Deanne sent me a photo from her phone to share here with you.  It's a bit fuzzy, but it's such a wonderful photo thought.  I love this person's attitude!  Way to go!


It's also Mandarin Orange Monday, so I thought I would share a photo of some of my gorgeous tiger lilies.  They are the most beautiful shades of orange, and they are all over my yard.  I just love it!

 
Here's a shot of a tree top across the street from work.  In the mornings, birds perch way up on the top limbs to call around for their family and friends.  At least, that's what I think they're doing up there.  I just think it makes such a pretty photo.


Now I really must get started on my housework.  If I sit here much longer, I won't be getting very much work done at all.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Sunday, July 14, 2013

It's Poopy Time!

July 14, 2013

Good morning.  Thank goodness it is cloudy outside this morning.  It's already warm,  74F degrees on its way to 90F.  But the stickies!!  The humidity is 94%.  Once you are outside for a few minutes, you can wring the water out of your hair. 

The work here on the house is coming along.  Everyone has been fairly cooperative about helping to clean up around the house, attic and basement.   We should know by Tuesday when the house will be treated.  My part of the house will be done shortly after that.  I still have a lot of things to go through and get rid of.  I will be so glad when all of this is done.

I'm having to put my plans for the yard on hold for a while until I have decided what I can afford to do out there.  At least there is new yard furniture for the dwarfs to enjoy.  When it is not so hot, they can sit out and enjoy a breeze in the evening. 

I'm watching all the flooding everywhere (on the Weather Channel on TV).  I just don't understand why one of our smart leaders hasn't figured out about putting in water pipe lines yet.  There is no reason for all this flooding and all the fires if only we could avert the overflow of water to areas in need of more water.  If we can build oil pipelines, we can build water pipe lines!

Today I have photos of a Tragopogon plant, otherwise known as a Western Salsify or Goatbeard.  It starts out with a pretty yellow daisy-like flower on a tall stem, and then turns into a huge seed ball, like a dandelion seed ball.  These are growing in the Mrs' yard at work.



Here's an ad that I came across while searching for something online.  This delightful new product is eco-friendly Earth Rated Poop Bags.  It's poopy time folks, and these wonderful little bags are on sale for up to 20% off at www.Chewy.com.  The little bag holder is so adorable, and will clip right on to your belt loop or key ring.  It's just what we need for when we take our doggies out for a stroll.


Okay, enough babble.  I need to get busy and do a few things here.  Before you know it, it will be nap time and then back to work.  I've taken the next couple of  Fridays off from work to give myself a little more time to get some work done around here.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all be safe, and have a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.