Thursday, February 28, 2013

Say Goodbye To February

February 28, 2013

Good afternoon.  As I speak, the sun has just come out.  It's been cloudy but nice up to now.  Pogo and I have been busy running errands all morning.  I somehow misplaced his travel papers so we had to go back to the hospital to get copies. 

After that, we stopped by the local repair garage to order a wiper blade for the back window on my car.  Next on the list was to stop by the Christmas Tree Shoppe to buy a flannel lined plastic table cloth.  This is to put in the rental car just in case Pogo forgets his manners. 

A couple days ago, we received the February newsletter from the Poodle Rescue Of New England (that's where I got Pogo).  What a nice surprise we got to find Pogo's photo on the "Holiday Scenes" page, along with photos of some other beautiful doggies.

Wayne will be stopping by tonight after work to check out my laptop and make sure everything is working okay.  It's been rather sluggish lately, so I'll feel better after he checks it out. 

Now I really should get busy again.  There's still lots to do before Sunday gets here.  I do have a couple of photos to share.  This first one is a new plant that the Mrs received for Valentine's Day, a yellow primrose.  The second photo was taken a few days ago of a Cardinal sitting on a branch while the wind ruffled his crest feathers.



  There aren't too many hours left in this month of February.  It's hard to believe that tomorrow is already the first of March.  Something tells me that it won't be long before I'm saying "Gosh, where has the summer gone?"  When I was a kid, days and weeks went on forever it seemed.  Summer was so long that we actually longed for school to start again. 

Ah well, it's time for me get started on my next task.  Till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

February Is Slip, Slip, Slipping Away!

February 27, 2013

Good morning.  Wow, February is slipping away so fast!  After tomorrow it will already be March, and Spring will only be three weeks away.  Woo Hoo!  I'm trying to be cheerful because it has been raining here all through the night and today.  It has melted a lot of the snow, but there is still plenty of it left. 

The weather forecast calls for rain ( or even snow - oh yuk!) straight through Friday.  I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it stays nice all weekend so that my flight won't be cancelled.  Pogo and I leave Sunday morning for sunny Florida.  Just think!  Two whole weeks to laze about in the warm sunshine.  We can go for walks every day and that will help me to get back into an exercise routine.  I hope.

Here's a photo I took the other day.  Do you know what it is?  Is it a cactus plant growing in a "sugar crystal" desert?


That's a good guess, but it's not a cactus plant.  It's a sprig of the hedge that is completely covered with snow.


My coffee isn't helping very much to keep me awake this morning.  Pretty soon I'm going to have to take a nap.  Janet will be here this afternoon.  Today is our day to share supper and have fun.  Hmmmm, I wonder what we'll have for supper?  Maybe a pizza?  That sounds pretty good to me.

Pogo and I just watched "Cat In The Hat" and now "Build A Word" is on (TV).  I know, I know.  It's sad to see a wise old mind being amused with children's cartoons.  But they are so fun!  Today all the animals are teaching Robot how to play baseball and are going to build the words  "ball" and "slide".  My mind can handle this!  lol.

I think maybe I shoud have my nap now.  So till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day. 

Hugs, Edna B. 

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

A Busy Day Ahead

February 26, 2013

Good morning on this fabulously warm and sunny morning.  Actually, it feels warm compared to last weeks temps, and it's a little after twelve noon.  I've been busy all morning, and still have a bit to do yet today. 

SIL Eddie came over to shovel a path to the oil fill (on the side of the house) so that the fuel oil delivery man will be able to fill the oil tank.  We still have a lot of snow in our yard that hasn't melted.  Hopefully, when I get back from vacation, all the snow will be gone. 

I have to go to the post office and the bank today, but first I have to wait for the oil man.  Gosh, there are so many things that need to be done before the end of the week.  But, I am not complaining.  Pogo and I are getting excited about going to Florida. 

The mail lady brought me a new "Doctors Foster and Smith" catalogue today.  In it, I found the suet balls that I have been looking for.   Kyra had given me a pretty round bird feeder that holds these suet balls, so now I'll be able to fill it and hang it outside.  They have a lot of other nice things for birds in the catalogue that I will have to take a longer look at.  Hmmmm. 

I'll have to cut the chatter short because the oil delivery man just showed up.  First I will post a couple of interesting phjotos from this past weekends' snowfall.  I used a flash on this first photo so that thr snow would show up better.


This next photo is what my beautiful tree looked like when I got home from work yesterday morning.  Isn't this pretty?


I know I  grumble a lot about the snow, but even I have to admit that there is so much beauty in it.  The fairy look that the snow gives to the trees doesn't last very long, but oh my, it truly does make your eyes smile.

Well, now I have to gather up Pogo and leave to do my errands.  Till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day. 

Hugs, Edna B.

Monday, February 25, 2013

Promises Of Spring

February 25, 2013

Well, it snowed most of yesterday and last night, but at least it did not amount to more than two or three inches.  Of course, it meant that I had to go out early this morning (I was at work) and clean the snow off my car.  This was a wet sticky snow, great for building snowmen if you so desired.

When I got to work last night, I took this photo of a Rhododendron bud covered with snow flakes.  I thought it was rather interesting.  It sort of looks like a little old lady with curly white hair and she's wearing her fuzzy white shawl.  (Honest, I'm only drinking coffee!)


I also have a photo of Pogo that I just have to share.  I took this a couple of days ago.  Pogo likes to sit on the sofa with me when I am playing on my laptop, so I brought his bowl of food up onto the sofa too.  He had his fill and then snuggled in to his blanket for a nap.  I just had to take this photo of him.  He is just  the sweetest little guy!


I have one more photo to share this morning.  I took this photo for the raindrops, but then I noticed the surprise.  Can you see it?


Did you notice the new sprout?  Oh yeah, Spring is definitely on its way!!  I know that the folks in Colorado won't agree with me.  Winter storm Rocky has been raising the dickens out there.  Also in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas, Rocky has been (and still is) dumping tons and tons of snow.

Gosh, I almost feel guilty telling you that the sun is shining here, and nothing is falling from the sky.  But it does feel good!!  Now if the snow can just hold off till after this weekend so that my flight does not get cancelled. 

This morning I have the last two parts of "A Rose Is A Rose Is A Rose".   I hope you can enjoy this kit because we certainly had fun making it. 


Here are your download links:

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Here's another peek at Su's preview.  Don't forget to stop by her blog later this morning and pick up her last two parts.  While you're there, take a moment to say hello. 


Wow, I'm watching the Weather Channel, and they are showing video of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, which is erupting.   I must say that it truly is a wondrous sight.  The colors are simply glorious, orange, yellow and red. 

 Well, I've probably chewed the corner of your ear off by now.  I think maybe I'll have me a little nap.  Later I have to go out and do a couple of errands.  So till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Creating New Art

February 24, 2013

Good morning.  Well, it started snowing yesterday afternoon.  Such great big flakes!  But it did not last too long.  There was just a light covering on my car.  During the night it began raining.  So now instead of snow piles we have puddles.  At the moment, it's not such a bad trade.

I took some photos of the snow while it was coming down.  I'm not sure why, but sometimes you get some very interesting photos.  Here's one of the better ones that I got.  It was late afternoon, and I used the flash.

 
I thought this might be a good photo to use for photo art.  I started with a gradient in shades of orange and yellow and was really quite pleased with the results I was getting.  Then I started to play with textures, and thoughts of making my new art a bit playful.

I got quite engrossed with my creation, and ended up playing with it for a few hours.  The strange thing about art and creativity is that no matter what you think you might want to create, the piece of art has a mind of its own.  You sometimes have no choice with what you end up with.

The other day was the eighth anniversary of my daughter's passing.  Needless to say, she has been on my mind a lot lately, and these thoughts crept into my new photo art.   I call this "The New Arrival", and will post it on Mandarin Orange Monday tomorrow.  I got the fairy art from Granny Art, and the clouds and stairway from R11.


 On my way home work this past Monday morning, I saw a young critter getting ready to come out of a yard.  When it saw my car, it turned and ran back into the yard.  I do hope the folks who live there don't let their small animals out alone.  The critter was a young fisher cat.  Here's a photo that I downloaded from Google to show you what I saw.  (photo author - Jeff Wendorff)


These really are beautiful critters even though they can be quite feisty.  You certainly do not want to try petting one of them.  I wonder what will happen to all our beautiful wildlife when man finishes using up all of their living spaces.  Such a sad thought.

Now I'm off to make a cup of coffee and maybe do a few things around here.  Tonight is a work night for me.  So, till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

p.s.  I will not be posting on Mandarin Orange Monday because her Dad passed away this week. 

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Ah, What Beautiful Memories!

February 23, 2013

Good morning.  Well, I guess we're looking at more rain and snow for this whole weekend.  I turned on the Weather Channel to see what next weekend looks like and was sad to see it's not expected to be sunny and dry.  I'm just hoping that it does not interfere with the plane leaving for Florida.

Well, yesterday I finally bagged up all of Tootsie's toys and clothes.  Each little dress, sweater, jacket or other piece of clothing brought back so many memories.  This time, it put a smile on my face.  I only hope another little dog will make as many good memories when it wears these clothes. 

Joe went with me to help drop everything off for Dee Dee to go through in case her little dog Sassy would like some of them.  Then Janet, my DIL, will take them to her brother who has recently adopted an adorable shelter dog.  After that, I will ask my friend, the groomer, who else could use them.  There's always a little dog somewhere looking for some new things.

Today I have some photos that I  took last Monday.  This is a little Junco who was busy scurrying around on the snow looking for food.   My favorite shot is the last one of him  trying to run in the snow.




I'm thinking that after I get back from vacation, I'm going to have to get serious about getting rid of a lot of things.  The clutter is finally getting to me, along with the realization that I don't even use a lot of this stuff anymore.  It's time for some serious bag and dump days.  This should keep me busy till it's time for next years vacation.  lol.

Now I think I'll make me another cup of coffee and see what sort of mischief Pogo and I can get into today.  Till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Friday, February 22, 2013

Have A Little Fun With The Rain

February 22, 2013

It's been a long night tonight.  It's four o'clock in the morning, the Mrs hasn't been feeling so good, and I'm tired.  I've tried to play with the new collab kit, but my brain is just not in the mood for design creativity. 

Parts of the country is being covered in snow, and other parts are getting lots of rain.  If you're stuck in the house because of the rain, try having some fun with it.  (You can do this with snow too.)  Get out your camera and take some photos.  In amongst all those raindrops, there are some fabulous photos. 



You don't even have to get wet.  Just open the window a bit or stand in the doorway with a cover over the top of your lens.  Try using the flash and then try the same shots without the flash.  Here's another branch that's just outside my door.


Now here it is layered with my texture 8043 and blended with "Hue" mode in Photoshop.


Seeing as how today is Photo Art Friday, I've layered the original photo with "Soft Reflections" texture from Bonnie at PDPA, and again used the "Hue" blending mode.


With all the different free textures available, you should be able to come up with some very pretty wall art.  While you're having fun with your photos, you'll forget for a while about the rain.

I think I've finally decided what to pack in my goodie box for Florida.  I'm going to pack a supply of Pogo's pee pads and a knitting project.  Between that, my laptop, my e-books and my camera I should have plenty to keep me busy.  So today I will finish packing up my box and have it ready for mailing tomorrow or Monday.

There really isn't much news for today, so I think I'll make myself a cup of coffee.  Mrs has been sleeping peacefully for several hours so hopefully she will feel better today.  Gosh, I can't believe how quickly the time has gone by.  I'm hoping that Spring will be ready to appear when I get back from Florida.  Wouldn't that be nice? 

On this note, I'll take my leave.  Till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Winter Storm Q Is Dumping Lots Of Snow And Ice

February 21, 2013

Good morning.  It seems as though all the bad Winter weather is now in full force in the central and mid western part of the country.  Gosh, they are getting snow, sleet and ice, and the snow is falling at two inches per hour.  This is all part of Winter Storm Q and it is definitely not fun.

 I feel bad for these folks.  It seems as though this whole section of the country has been getting hammered with all sorts of bad weather for quite a while now.  Is this climate change?   If it is, it is really raising havoc with all our weather patterns.

Well, yesterday's feisty little energy burst has already gone bye bye.  Today will be a bit of a lazy day.  I'm saving all my energy for work tonight.  I'm hoping to spend some time working on next month's collab kit after the Mrs is tucked in for the night.  It will be March before you know it.

There is an ad on TV that just drives me crazy.  It's the new Progressive Insurance commercial featuring a large basketball player acting like some sort of deranged caveman.  I have not been able to figure out what his nauseating behavior is trying to prove.  All I know is that he leaves me feeling disgusted with the insurance company and their advertising company.  I'm an intelligent adult, and they could talk to me in a more adult manner.

Today I have a couple photos of a cute little Nuthatch.  These were some of the photos that I took through the Mrs' patio doors.  This little guy sat on the branch for a couple of minutes so I was able to take quite a few photos.  Isn't he just a cutie?



Today I have to get serious about packing my goodie box for Florida if I ever want it to be there waiting for me.  Up to now, I've just been thinking about what to pack.  Now it's time  to actually get the box packed.  I just need to give myself a little boot in the patootie to get going.

First I'm going to the kitchen to see what I can rustle up for breakfast.  I bought a green pepper, so I'm thinking that scrambled eggs and green pepper sounds pretty good.  Mmmmm.  Pogo has already turned his nose up at the dog food, so maybe he'll eat the eggs.  Ah well, I'm off.  Till tomorrow, Y'all stay safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Buzzing Around With Lots Of Energy.

February 20, 2013

Good afternoon!  Pogo and I slept a bit late this morning.  I must say it did feel good.  Then, instead of starting with the laptop first, I decided to get a few things done around here instead. First, I started the sauce for tonight's supper.  Next I put in a couple loads of wash.  (Scatter rugs - I found where Pogo decided to pee while I was at work on Monday.) 

I'm not sure where my little flash of energy came from, but it surely is welcome.  Of course, it might be the fact that Pogo and I only have eleven more days till vacation.  Yup, I think that must be it!  Yesterday, I managed to finally go through a lot of Tootsie's clothes and toys.  It's time to part with them.  Putting the clothes in a box was rather difficult because each item had so many memories attached to it.

Last night, Joe and I went food shopping.  We love the Birds Eye "Voila" frozen bags (meal in a bag).  We found a new one which looked so delicious, so I bought me one and cooked it for supper.  Oh my word!  Such a nasty dinner!!  It was "Chicken & Pasta in a Parmesan Sauce", and it was simply horrible!  The chicken was mushy, and the pasta was over cooked.  Simply nasty!

Today I have a couple of photos of a cardinal that I took Monday.  The photo was taken through the patio doors for extra texture.  (I try to be optimistic whenever I can) 



As you can see, the wind was blowing and ruffling his feathers.  I got another cute shot of this cardinal with his head crest all mussy from the wind but I will have to dig it out and crop it.  Now I have to go check on the laundry.

I'd like to get a few more things done here before Janet gets here.  Today is Wednesday, and I look forward to her visits.  Folks, everyone should have a daughter in law like her.  She's top of the line "A-1".

Now I need to get busy here again.  The vacuum cleaner is in the corner waving to me.  lol.  So till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Dancing Snow Whirlies

February 19, 2013

Good morning on this rather chilly Winter morning.  It's 28F degrees but the weather man says it will get up to 47 later today.  That will really be nice.  There is still so much snow everywhere that it will take quite a while before it is all gone.  Oh dear, the weatherman just said that tonight we can expect rain changing over to snow.  Just what we need!!

So, you say what in the world are Snow Whirlies?  Well, that's when the wind keeps blowing big gusts and carries the top layers of the snow along with it, dancing in the air.  Yeah, I know.  Sometimes my imagination gets a bit carried away.  All this is on one cup of coffee.  Imagine what I could come up with on a couple of high balls! 

Well, anyway, here are some of the snow whirlies that were dancing all day yesterday.



Poor Pogo was not a happy camper yesterday.  He does not like it when I work extra long shifts.  Joe took him outside several times but Pogo would not do anything outside.  He would not use his potty patch or the big scatter rug either.  But as soon as I got home and opened the door, Pogo ran inside and proceeded to anoint whatever he could.  That will show me! 
 
I guess he still needs to be reassured that his new home is still his even if I go away for a while.  I can relate to that.  People have those same feelings some times.  Our furry kids are just like us.
 
Time is skedaddling on by, and now it's time for me to pack my goodie box that I send on ahead to myself in Florida.  This will be craft stuff and extra pee pads that won't fit in my suitcase.  When I get to my condo in Florida, my box will be there waiting for me. 
 
Michael and I started doing this years ago because it's easier than carrying an extra suitcase.  I just have to decide what sort of crafty things I want to pack.  Audrey enjoys making jewelry, so maybe I will pack some of my beads and tools.  Hmmm, we'll see.
 
Now it's time to get a few things done around here.  So till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day.
 
Hugs, Edna B.

Monday, February 18, 2013

Yeah! It's Not Snowing And The Wind Has Died Down!

February18, 2013

Good morning.  It's not quite daylight here and the Mrs is still asleep, so I thought I would pop in while I could.  It's not snowing this morning.  Yesterday however, it was, and I went out to the door to take a photo.   I used a flash to make the photo a bit brighter.  Actually, I think it's a rather pretty picture.


Driving home yesterday morning was really scary.  The roads were slippery, with ice hidden beneath the snow, and the visibility was pretty bad.  I drove all the way home at 20 miles per hour.   Coming back to work last night was just as scary in it's own way.  Aside from the slippery roads, the wind was blowing up a storm.  At times, it would blow the snow sideways across the windshield of the car, and then you couldn't see anything at all.  Add that to the car doing a slip and slide dance, I was pretty happy to arrive at my job all in one piece.

Su and I got to sit and have a really nice chat (on Skype), and the Mrs was in a good mood, so it was a pretty good night.   I even came up with a theme and colors for next month's collab kit.  And no, I'm not giving out any hints. 

Su sent me her preview for "A Rose Is A Rose Is A Rose" and my oh my, this really is such a pretty kit if I must say so myself.  This one made us both quite happy, and I hope it does the same for you.  Here's my preview:


And here are your download links:

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Later this morning, do stop in at Su's site and say "Hello" while you pick up her two parts.  Here is a peek at her preview.


Just eight and a half more hours till it's time to go home.  I'm missing Pogo.  That's the hard part of doing the longer shifts.  I miss my little guy, and I know that he is going to listen all day for every car until he hears my car pull into the yard.  Ah well, now I'm babbling.  It's time for me to get busy here.  Till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Sunday, February 17, 2013

Oh Yuk! More Snow!

February 17, 2013

Good morning.  It's 6 a.m. and I'm at work.  The Mrs is sleeping peacefully, and in an hour I can go home to my little guy.  Remember several weeks ago I said that I ordered him a new house/bed?  Well, it never got here.  I've contacted the seller, and hopefully it will come soon.

At the moment, it is cold (20F) and snowing.  It snowed lightly yesterday, with more falling all through the night.  Today we are expecting another 3 to 5 inches and more tonight.  We'll have to wait and see what we really end up with.  This is New England so anything can happen.

I didn't accomplish much yesterday, but I did get a lot of rest.  Today I will need to have a nap because tonight I have another 20 hour shift.  In a way this is good because it gives me most of next weekend off.  While I'm napping, I'll make another backup of my laptop files.

Today I have a fun photo to share that Deanne took yesterday.  It's a brown shaggy cow in a snowy wooded area.   I'll have to ask her where she was when she took the photo because I haven't seen any of the cows around here outdoors lately.


Pogo and I did not get out to do much of anything yesterday because of the snow.  But pretty soon we'll be headed for sunny Florida where we can go walking every day.  The doctor gave me some calming medicine for him so that the plane ride in his carrier won't be so traumatic.  Pogo hates cages of any kind. 

Tonight after the Mrs goes to bed, I will get started on the March collab kit.  I have no idea what the theme will be, so if anyone wants something special do let me know.   Now it's time to put the laptop away and go outside and clean off my car.  So till tomorrow, Y'all have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Saturday, February 16, 2013

Only Two Weeks Till Vacation!

February 16, 2013

Good morning.  My little rant yesterday over the immigration article brought forth some interesting comments and views.  I agree with everything you folks said.  My issue is not with the immigrant, it is with the "supposed logic" behind the article.

I agree that we need some form of immigration reform, but I want to hear truthful statements explaining the "whys".  I think that the congressmen who will be making these decisions should speak to us, the public, in an honest adult manner.  Tell us how making illegals legal or citizens is going to improve America's future.  Explain to me how this will create badly needed jobs. 

I could keep on, but I won't.  Tonight it's back to work so I want to have a bit of fun today with Pogo.  We did not get to go food shopping yesterday, but there is enough food in the house for a while.  Maybe we can go out today for a while, maybe take a ride through the park.  Hmmm,  I'll have to think on it.

Our snow has been steadily melting, but tonight and tomorrow we have more snow coming.  Hopefully, this will be the end of it till next Winter.  Ha ha, I can dream can't I?  I just don't want any bad weather to interfere with our flights to and from Florida.  Just 15 more days, but who's counting.

I don't have any new photos so I dug into my archives from last April.  The first photo is a  yellow finch in the Mrs' backyard, and the second is a resident swan at our local park.  These are just to remind us that Spring will soon be here.



I don't really have any news for today, so I think I'll have me a cup of coffee, get dressed and take Pogo for a ride while it is still nice outside.  So till tomorrow, Y'all have a fabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Friday, February 15, 2013

Confused About Immigration Reform

February 15, 2013

It's a gorgeous sunny morning here in my little part of the world.  Yes, it's a bit chilly, but then it is Winter time.

I got a late start this morning. For some reason,  Pogo and I both woke up around 4 a.m.  We did the potty thing and had a drink of water, then it was back to bed for a good sleep.  After we got up, I took my coffee and Pogo's breakfast and went out to sit and visit with one of the dwarfs.  This was so nice. 

Yesterday was busy, but my last appointment was changed to today, so we were able to catch a short nap in the afternoon.  This afternoon things will get busy again.  First I will have my appointment at the nail salon, then I will take one or two of the dwarfs to the super market and we can all do a bit of food shopping.

I have been reading the editorials in the newspaper lately, and I'm really getting rattled by them.  They have been about immigration reform and how it is supposed to improve America's future.  The article says:

* There are 11 million people who don't exist - they are the meat packer, construction worker, landscape worker, house cleaner and child care worker.   If we make them a citizen, they won't have to be paid under the table or use fake documents.

*  The roads will be safer as people who aren't legally eligible to drive get licenses and insurance.  More license fees mean more money for strapped public services.

*  Neighborhoods will become more stable as people who couldn't get bank loans or credit cards or Social Security numbers are eligible to buy instead of rent.

*  People not forced underground can play more active roles in their children's schools.

*  New jobs will be created and filled, new patents will be granted and employers will be better able to fill medical, engineering, computer and other high-tech jobs for which there is a skills shortage.  This will allow U.S. companies to stay productive.

There is a lot more babble in the editorial, but the above statements are the bulk of the article.

At no point is there a distinction of whether the author is talking about legal or illegal immigrants.  I think the problem with the illegals far outweighs any problems we may have with the legals.  I believe that if eleven million people are holding down all those jobs listed above are being paid under the table (no taxes) or are using fake ID's, then this suggests that they are illegally here and should be sent home.  Or at least, they should be mandated to become citizens and earn their way here.

They have no business driving on our roads without licenses.  I don't see where giving them a bank loan and a credit card is going to make our neighborhoods more stable.  If you are legal, get a job, and save your money, you will be able to buy a home.  If you pass the registry tests, you can get a license to drive a car.

At no point do I see how new jobs will be created, or how employers will be able to better fill high-tech jobs by granting citizenship to a lot of illegal immigrants.  There are so many Americans and legal immigrants out of work.  Give them the education and skills that they need and put them back to work.

Maybe some immigration reform is needed, I don't know, but I do think that the people responsible for making these changes should take a better look at the real problems not just what will make them sound righteous and important. (Making lots of money from license fees by giving illegals a license to drive).

This country was built on immigration.  But let's be fair.  There is a right and a wrong way to do things.  I do not believe we will solve anything by granting instant citizenship to the illegals.

Well, that's my bandbox for the day.  I can be totally wrong, so if I have misread these statements do let me know.  (I copied the *starred facts from the newspaper).

I have another Valentine QP for you today.  I hope you can use it.  After this, I will start working on Spring things. 


Here is your download link:
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It's getting close to lunch time now, so I think I'll mosey on over to the refrigerator to see what Pogo and I can have for lunch.  Until tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Thursday, February 14, 2013

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

February 14, 2013

Good morning, and Happy Valentine's Day to everyone.  It's sunny and a bit cool (30 F) at the moment, but the weather man says it will get up to 40F later today.  Gosh I hope so.  Pogo and I have a full day of appointments.

In an hour, we leave for Pogo's doctor appointment.  Today he will get his traveling papers so that he can fly to Florida with me.  From there, we have an appointment to get my taxes done.  Then we'll be off to the salon to get my nails done.  Phew! 

I don't have much time to chat this morning, but I did want to post a Valentine freebie for you.  It's another Valentine QP.  I hope you can use it. 


Here is your download link:
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I will have one more freebie for you tomorrow so do stop by.  Now I really must get busy here.  Till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a fabulous Valentine's Day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Sky Artistry

February 13, 2013

Good morning everybody.  The sun is shining and a lot of the snow has gone.  This is amazing.  Almost three quarters of the snow has just melted away.  In a way, this is not so good because when it melts this fast it has to go somewhere.  Like in our basements. 

When Joe gets home later today, I'll have to ask him to check out the basement.  Plus, he needs to check the oil tank.  With the colder temps, we use a lot more oil to heat the house.  Groan, groan.

It's Wednesday, so DIL Janet will be here later and stay for supper.  Joe is cooking our meal tonight.  He will be making chicken and stuffing, and I will contribute mashed potato and green beans.  Janet usually brings the dessert.  It's a collaborative meal, and very tasty!

I got into a standoff yesterday with the dust bunnies.  I told them to move out, and they refused to leave.  They even threatened to sabotage my vacuum cleaner.  Those little devils!  Although I must say, it will be hard for them to find new housing in this cold weather.  So I agreed to give them a few more days to pack up and leave.  (I know, I'm too easy!)

Today I have some photos that show "sky artistry".  These photos were all taken on the same morning within a few minutes of each other.  It just goes to show that you miss a lot when you don't look upwards to the sky.




This morning, I am taping the Project Runway All Stars Season Two for Audrey.  They do not get cable out in the corn fields of Virginia.  Such a shame.  I remember several years ago, Congress allocating large sums of money so that cable could be brought in to these farming areas.  Makes we wonder what the money got spent on.  Hmmmm.

Now I think I'll make another cup of coffee, and start some laundry.  This chore always goes well and starts my day off good.  So till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs,  Edna B.

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Life Can Be So Good Some Days!

February 12, 2013

It's a beautiful morning here in my little part of the world.  The sun is shining, and it's about 40 degrees F,   I just can't believe how much of the snow has already melted.  Almost half of it is gone!  However, there are lots and lots of puddles.  We are still expecting more snow in a couple of days, and then again this weekend.  I suppose though, once you get two or three feet all at once, you can handle all the other smaller amounts.

You know how I've said that simple things make me smile?  Well I was looking through the new issue of Woman's Day magazine, and I came across an adorable ad by Geico.  It had me giggling for a few minutes.  It said:  " Knock, knock.  Who's there?  Woo.  Woo who?  That's the sound of millions of people saving money with Geico."  

I just love Knock Knock jokes.  I giggle like a little kid over elephant jokes too!   How do you know if there's an elephant in bed with you?  She has a big "E" on her pajama pocket!"   I cannot blame this on old age because I've been like this my whole life.

You know how I love the stories in the newspaper about our very active elders?  Well, in last night's paper, there was a column titled  "3 stories of those who inspire us to be better"

The first story read:  No. 1:  Lucy Loud of South Boston.  Ms Loud, 84 years young travels 22 miles round trip twice a week to volunteer at a center for the visually impaired.  She goes there to socialize with the members. While there, she prepares coffee and tea for them to go with the pastries that she brings each week.  In her spare time, she knits or crochets an afghan every week, and donates it to one of various organizations.  Lucy says that she does this because it makes her feel good.

I immediately went looking for a Boston phone book to see if I could find a phone number for Lucy so that I could call and congratulate her.  The very first number that I called was answered by a rather elderly lady's voice.  I said "Hi, I'm looking for Lucy Loud.  My name is Edna Loud (maiden name) and I...."  Immediately the lady responded with "Oh my goodness, Edna?  Is this you?" 

Yup, you guessed.  This was my Auntie Lucy.  I've seen her once since back in the mid 1940's, and that was in the mid 1980's.   We had a really nice chat, and will be getting together soon over lunch.  Life  can be very good some days.

Yesterday, at work, I took a few photos  (through the patio doors) of the birds at Mrs' feeder.  Every now and then a Carolina Wren shows up, but yesterday we had two of them at the feeder.  There was also an assortment of Sparrows, Juncos, Cardinals and a Blue Jay.




Now it's time to get dressed and push a few dust bunnies around.  Pretty soon it will be time to start packing my goodie box that I mail on ahead to myself in Florida.  Woo Who!!  Now I'm getting silly again so I'll be gone.  Till tomorrow, Y'all be safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Monday, February 11, 2013

A Rose Is A Rose Is A Rose

February 11, 2013

Good morning.  I'm still at work, so I won't chat very long.  Mrs. will be waking soon and wanting her breakfast.  This morning we are expecting some snow and rain changing to all rain.  This will make for some pretty slippery driving and lots of ice.  Next weekend, we are expecting more snow for Saturday and Sunday.  Hmmm, we'll have to wait and see what that turns into.

Mississippi is being hit by one tornado after another, causing humongous damage.  Let's pray that the people come through okay.  It's a beautiful part of the country, but I could not live there and keep watching over my shoulder for the next tornado. 

Today, I have some photos to share that show Joe saving our yellow rose tree.  The weight of all the snow bent the tree over and flattened it up against the house.  Now that it is upright again, we're hoping it will be okay come Springtime.




Normally, when we get a lot of snow, my beautiful Red Japanese Maple tree gets weighted down to the ground with all the snow and we have to go out and shake the branches to rescue it.   This time, there was hardly a bit of snow anywhere on the tree.  Everything else got buried, but our beautiful tree was standing there snow free.  I'm thinking that we had a lot of help from our angels to save our tree.

Now for some previews of our February collab kit "A Rose Is A Rose Is A Rose".  Here is my preview and download link.



Download here:

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Here is Su's preview.  You'll want to hop on over to her site to pick up her parts.  While you're there, do take a moment to say Hello and Thank you.  It is so much appreciated.


Now I really must get back to work here.  Till tomorrow, Y'all stay safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Sunday, February 10, 2013

Sunshine, Blue Sky And Cold

February 10, 2013

Good morning.  Woo Hoo!  The snow has stopped and the wind is down to a whisper.  On the other hand, it's cold, cold, cold.  It's good that it's over, but the rain coming tomorrow worries me more.  We were so lucky, considering how worse off lots of other folks are.  We got tons of snow, and as long as it melts slowly, we won't get too much water in the basement.

Folks living closer to the shore also had to deal with the water flooding the streets and for some, it came into their homes.  I heard on the news that one family was using their fireplace for warmth, and a blanket caught fire and the house burned down. 

While us New Englanders have been dealing with Nemo, other folks are having to live with the devastation of tornadoes.  God bless them.  I  don't think I could deal with that.  I can be very strong when I have to be, but that kind of total devastation might just do me in.  I am definitely counting my blessings.

I took a few photos to share.  Our plow guy came in during the night (Fri/Sat) and cleared a lot of the snow from the middle of the parking area.  He came back yesterday mid morning, and cleared as much as he could.  There was just so much snow and it was very heavy.  He was only able to remove about three quarters of the snow, plus we ran out of room to move it to.  We're very thankful for what he was able to do.  This shows the front end of the yard. 


Do you remember the large mounds of snow that were the dwarfs' cars?  Here's what it looks like after being plowed.



Joe shoveled by my door, and made a place to put my car.  Folks, I don't know what I would do without this guy.  He and a couple other of the dwarfs look out for me. 


The next two photos show all the snow along the side of the house, and one of the other dwarfs cleaning off the porch.



In this last photo, you can see Joe (in back on the right side) shoveling more of the snow away to widen my parking area. 


Dee Dee and Eddie lost their electricity on Friday and got it back yesterday mid-afternoon.  Thank goodness for that.  I am leaving the generator set up because the rain that is coming tomorrow may create a lot of ice and power outages. 

Last night I did wrap up and upload the first two parts of the new February collab kit.  It's a pretty one, but you'll have to wait till tomorrow to see it.  Now I need to do a few things here because it's back to work tonight and probably all day tomorrow. 

My friend worked her shift Thursday night, and did my Friday shift.  And she has been snowed in there ever since.  She will be so happy to go home tonight, and that's why I said I would do her day shift tomorrow.  I hope my bosses really appreciate this wonderful gal. 

That's the news for today.  Till tomorrow, Y'all stay safe and have a wonderful day.

Hugs, Edna B.