Oh What A Beautiful Morning!!

November 30, 2009

Wow, this morning I went outside to get a couple of pictures of the sky at sunrise because it was just so awesome!! The weather forecast for today is cloudy, and then rain. Well, in the pictures, you can see the gray clouds coming in and pushing the bright stuff out. Have a lookee.

There is so much beauty all around us. We just have to open our eyes and have a look. And the great part is that it's all free!

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Miss Tootsie and I just got back from her appointment for more bloodwork. I tell you, I don't know if I would have the stamina that this little doggie has. I think I'd have wanted to throw in the towel quite a while ago if it were me. But it isn't me, and I can't really know.

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Last night, I worked some more on the January DD kit. I just have a little bit more to go, and it will be finished. Woo Hoo!! Sometimes it just takes me a while to get back into design mode. Would you like a peek at another QP that I made for that kit? It's going to be another "must have" kit.

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Also, have you noticed that I put up the preview slideshow for December? What an awesome kit this one is, and it starts tomorrow. Kyra thought up the title and created the logo for it. It's quite different from your ordinary Christmas kit, and quite beautiful. AND, as usual, there is an add-on just packed full of more goodies to go with this Daily Download kit, and it's on sale in the shop for only $1.50. You just cannot beat the price. Here's a preview of the add-on. There is so much in it that it couldn't all be shown in the preview.

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I also made a freebie for you, but I think I will save it for tomorrow. In the meantime, I will work on making some more for you. I have decided that I really like working on the freebies much better than working on kits to sell in the store. Something about self-gratification. Whatever!

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I stopped at a store this morning and picked up two more Christmas gifts. What a great feeling it is to be almost done. And the best part - it's all paid for too! Well, I'm off now to do a bit of wrapping and tagging. Y'all have a fantabulous day now.

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Hugs, Edna B.

Missing you, Mr. B.

November 29, 2009

It's been two years today, and I'm missing you Mr. B. Granted, it does get easier each day to go on by myself, but something is definitely missing. I guess mostly it's the companionship. I love Tootsie to bits, but she never argues with me, and she never ever tries to sweet talk me out of the remote control for the TV. The holidays aren't quite the same either. I tried showing Tootsie the different things I bought before I wrapped them, and she just rolled over and went to sleep. Good doggie!

Some of the dwarfs seem to think they see you now and then lurking in one of the hallways. It keeps them on their toes, because they think you are checking up on them. Did you know that another ghost has been seen here too? A little girl I think. I haven't seen her, but others have. I hope both your souls are at peace.

I dug out another fun memory picture of us to scrap. That's something else I miss, some of the fun places we went and the fun things we did together. These pictures that we had taken every year at the fair hold so many wonderful memories for me. If you set them all side by side, you can see us growing older. Every year, a few more wrinkles, a lot more gray hair, and even some with less hair. But always the same smiles.























Miss Tootsie must know that today I'm a bit melancholy, because she doesn't seem to leave my side for very long. She misses you too. Her favorite chair is still the big black leather recliner that you and her always sat in to watch television.
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I don't go by the softball field very often, but I do wonder how you like it there. Do you get many chances to help the younger pitchers out? Do they even realize that someone is there helping them? I suppose it doesn't matter though, as long as you are happy there. When the time comes, I think I would like for me and my doggies to be scattered in a field amongst a lot of wildflowers. I love flowers so I think that would be nice.
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Well, it's time for me to get Tootsie's meds and maybe make a cup of coffee. Be at rest, Sweetheart.
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Love, Mrs. B.

The Rain & Black Friday Have Both Gone

November 28, 2009

Well, we made it through Black Friday. Of course, we cheated a bit - we did it on-line. While I was at work yesterday, I put in a few bids on E-bay, and got me some nice gifts. On my way home, I stopped in at a local pharmacy, Walgreen's, and got me some handy dandy gift cards for things like tunes and games and such. Later after supper, I went back on E-bay and put in a few more bids. I won one, lost a couple, and left a "make an offer" bid. This morning, I found out my offer was accepted. Woo Hoo!!!

I think now I am down to maybe three or four gifts left to get and I can call it a day - after the wrapping of course! Oh oh, I forgot, I still have to get Miss Tootsie's gifts too. This weekend, I will try to finish up addressing all my cards, and then I can sit back and enjoy this marvelous time of year.

Today, the wind has been huffing and puffing up a storm outside my house. No rain, thank goodness, but very very windy. This is definitely a good day to stay inside and wrap presents.

Last night I tried out my new laptop bed table. If you have to stay in bed, this is the way to go. Even better if you have someone to bring you coffee and snacks whenever you ring your little cowbell. I know, I know, keep dreaming Edna. Well, you can't blame a girl for trying.

Throughout all this power shopping, Miss Tootsie has become quite weary. She is just not into shopping or computer puzzles. Hmmmmmmmm. Maybe Santa has a little doggie computer? We can always ask. Wouldn't that be something? You laugh, but I used to have a little toy poodle named Gizmo who would sit for hours in front of the PC and play with the virtual dog that lived in the computer. Somewhere I have a picture of her. I will go looking for it.

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Meanwhile, here's a picture of a very bored Tootsie. She can be so pathetic looking when she wants to. I have to admit though, it does work. It makes us feel guilty so she gets extra treats.

Now I must go and get started on a few things around here. Tonight is another work night. Y'all have a wonderful day now.

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Hugs, Edna B.

Happy Black Friday

November 27, 2009

Good morning. So here it is, Black Friday, as the retail world calls it. On my way to work this morning, I was thinking about that $3 coffee pot that Moo wanted to go shopping for this morning. I believe the store opened at either 4 or 5 a.m. Of course, all the fantastic deals would have been scooped up within a half hour. Amazing how so many people will wait in a long line at an ungodly hour for so few things. (We all know that there is probably only a dozen coffee pots per store, if that many!)

Well, anyway! Back to that $3 coffee pot. Can you imagine standing in that wicked mob at 4 or 5 this morning in the POURING RAIN for a stupid coffee pot? You heard me correctly. It has been pouring rain for hours, and it is very raw outside. In the 40's. (that's Fahrenheit).

Somehow, that makes my cup of instant coffee sound really delicious!! Actually, I use the individual coffee bags (like tea bags). The coffee tastes good, and it's quick. Even if I had that $3 coffee pot, I couldn't drink a whole pot of coffee. And goodness knows, I can't drink the coffee that Moo makes because it is so strong it would put hair on my chest!!!

I just found out that "spell check" doesn't do a very good job. I misspelled a word -- I wrote "ling" instead of "line" and when I clicked on Spell Check, it said everything was correct. I guess maybe Microsoft needs to go back to elementary school and learn how to spell.

Did everyone have a big dinner yesterday? We had such a feast at our house, and most of the dwarfs were in attendance for dinner. And wow! What a dinner! Moo roasted a turkey, and cooked all sorts of veggies. One of my favorites is mashed potatoes and turnips. Ever tried it? It is just scrumptious!! Of course we had squash and carrots, stuffing and cranberry sauce, celery with cream cheese and olive stuffing, biscuits, pies, etc.

Miss Tootsie enjoyed her dinner tremendously. Roast turkey is one of her favorites, along with roast chicken, roast beef, and most other meats. (This is a very smart doggie! Why settle for dog food when you can have the good stuff?)

At Magickal Scraps forum, we had some marvelous news. One of our members, Maitri, gave birth to a beautiful baby boy a couple of days ago. Here is a picture of mom and Master Duncan Robert. Wow, isn't he gorgeous?

I made a Quick Page for Maitri to scrap one of Baby Duncan's new photos, but I will show that another day. I think Maitri should get first peek. I also started working on some holiday ornaments. When they are done, I shall post them here as freebies.
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Time for me to skedaddle now. The Mrs. will be waking soon, so I need to get her breakfast tray ready. Y'all have a fantabulous day now.
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Hugs, Edna B.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL

November 26, 2009

Good morning and Happy Thanksgiving to all of you, whether this is your holiday or not. Today is a day for giving thanks for all we have, and believe it or not - we all have a lot to be thankful for even if it's just a little.

Did you wake up this morning? See? There's the first thing to be thankful for. Did your pet give you a purr or a lick? How about a friend or family member saying "good morning" to you or giving you a hug? You see now? Your cup runneth over. Granted, some cups runneth over a whole lot more than others, but at least we have a cup, so to speak.

Do you all have your turkey in the oven yet? You do? Good!! Now you can get dressed and go out and do some POWER SHOPPING!! Moo and I looked over the "Early Bird Special" papers this morning. If you have the guts and the stamina, you can fight the mobs at Target and get in line for a 12 cup coffee maker for only $3.00. Wow!! For this price, get two!

You know, I did this one year. I was in line at Walmart at 4:45 a.m. for the Black Friday sale. There must have been about 800 people ahead of me, and talk about "Mob Crunch"!! Wow!! Those people in line are like a herd of angry cattle. They push, shove and stomp on anyone who tries to squeeze in close to them.

Getting through the doors once they have been opened is another horrific scene. If you are a store employee, you would do well to stay clear of the entryway. Otherwise, you may never see another sunrise. Oh, and the fights!! Have you ever watched two determined customers fighting over the same item? It's not a pretty sight!

Can I give you a little hint? Ever heard of E-Bay? Or on-line shopping? Go for it! It's better for your physical health, it saves on gas and wear and tear on the car, and you don't even have to change out of your jammies. You can sit at your PC, with a cup of delicious coffee, and shop to your heart's content.

Just don't fall asleep when you are bidding on an item on E-Bay that is running out of time. That's what I did last night, and now I have to go hunting for a couple of items all over again. So now I am off to do some more shopping on-line. Don't ask me why. Yesterday, Moo helped me take all my boxes to the Post Office for mailing. Not quite all the boxes. I still have four more to pack and send. But WOW!!!!! I nearly fell over when it came time to pay the clerk. Felt like handing over two arms and at least one leg!!! Even Moo turned a little bit green around the gills.

Before I start my shopping, I'm going to make another cup of coffee and get out a freebie for you. Today I have the "Blue Sapphire QP" for you. I hope you like it. Don't eat too much turkey now, and Y'all have a marvelous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

"Blue Sapphire QP"

And here is your download link for "Blue Sapphire QP"

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Heigh Ho, Heigh Ho, I'm Off To Mail My Boxes

November 25, 2009

Gosh! Here it is halfway through the morning, and I almost forgot to set for a while and post to my blog. Tootsie and I got up at 5 am, and have been busy wrapping gifts and packing and labeling holiday boxes so that some of them can be mailed out later today. You know I'm getting old when wrapping gifts becomes a chore. I used to love to decorate each package special for the recipient, now I'm doing good to get paper and a tag on them.

However, I do have two huge piles of boxes sitting on the washing machine waiting to be put in the car and taken to the post office. Also, my overseas cards are ready to go in the mail too. It takes a while for things to travel so far, so I'm trying to beat the holiday rush. Next Monday, all the rest of my cards should be ready for mailing. What a nice feeling it is to not be late with everything. (I'm finally sending out a birthday gift that is two weeks overdue!!)

Has anybody figured out yet where this whole year has gone? Do you realize that tomorrow is Thanksgiving? This is mind-boggling, to see the years fly by me so fast. At this rate, I'll be 80 years old before my 75th birthday rolls around!!!!! Oh wow! Horrors!! Did I really say 80? How can this possibly be? I know it's ten years away, but nowadays ten years is only about two years long!! Gosh, I'm just not ready for that!

Last night I managed to work on the November chat project - Nut Cracker QP's. Somehow, I missed the whole chat. It was this past Friday, and I think I slept right through it. Boy, I am so bad some days! Nana suggested that maybe we could do the Nut Cracker QP's and use them for freebies next month. I think it's a great idea. Today I will give you a preview of one of my quick pages. Hope you like it.

On that note, I am going to have my first cup of coffee now, and give Miss Tootsie her meds. Y'all have a wonderful day now.

Hugs, Edna B.

Preview - "Nut Cracker QP - 02"

Yummy!! Orange Chicken, Chinese Style

November 24, 2009

Miss Tootsie and I have been up for a few hours now. I took a nap yesterday, and fell asleep early last evening while watching some TV, and that killed any sleep that I might gotten during the night. One of these days, I just might learn not to lie down while I watch television!!

I can't really say what the weather will be like today. So far, it's rather wet and gloomy looking outside my window. This is the kind of day where I like to stay indoors in my jammies all day. But Tootsie and I have to go out to her chemo appointments, so no jammies today.

Yesterday, we got in the car to go for her morning chemo appointment and Oh Boy! The car was making nasty whining noises, and there was a drip trail on the ground from the night before. So we immediately drove to the garage and left the car there for repairs. Thank goodness Moo was up because he came to get us and drove us to the hospital. Later in the afternoon, I picked up my car and handed over a big bunch of money. The power steering hoses had let go and had to be replaced. Yup! We need this!

Remember the laptop bed table I told you I bought? Well I took it out of the box to check it out, and what a nice surprise. The part of the table top where the laptop sits can be raised to several different heights. Very nice indeed. Naturally, I took a photo of it to share.

Wayne stopped by last night, just before supper to see if he could figure out why my internet connection was not working on the laptop. After an hour of fiddling with everything on the laptop and doing research online (on the PC), he finally managed to get it working. We're not quite sure what he did that made it work, but as long as it's working, I'm a happy little camper.

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After that, Moo ordered us some Chinese take out for supper. Mmmmmmmmmm!!!!! I had one of my favorites, Orange Chicken, along with some other good stuff. I tried, but I could not finish it all, so I will be having it for supper tonight too. I can dig it!! Of course, I took a photo of this marvelous meal to show you. Snowy, 00000h, yum, yum, yum!!! (I'll think of you tonight when I finish off the rest of this delightful meal.)

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Well, it is now the bewitching hour, when Miss Tootsie and I have to get dressed and leave for her appointment. Y'all have a marvelous day now.

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Hugs, Edna B.

Laptop Is Having A Bad Hair Day

November 23, 2009

Today we are in for some more rain. It's cloudy and gray, and the weatherman predicts some of that wet stuff for this afternoon. BUT! It's still fairly warm out. 50 degrees Fahrenheit. I just got home from work, and gave Miss Tootsie a bath. She has chemo this morning in just a little while.

So, needless to say, I won't be chatting too long this morning. I have to remember to call Wayne when we get back home. My new laptop is having problems connecting to the internet. I've tried everything that I know how, but it's not working.

Plus, later this morning, my daughter Dee is coming by for a visit. It will be nice to sit and chat with her for a bit. Her schedule is just so hectic with all the kids' after school activities, plus teaching and volunteering at their schools.

Last night, I finally got to do a bit of work on the January DD kit. I can't believe that I spent more than three hours working on just two QP's! I think I am just too picky. I go looking for flaws in what I create, and then I spend a lot of time trying to fix them. Next thing you know, the whole evening has passed and I am sitting with just one little page finished.

It's time to get out Tootsie's jacket, and head on out to the hospital. So I will leave you with a sneak peek at one of the QP's that I made for the January DD kit, and wish Y'all a fantabulous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Sausage And A Fried Egg Sandwich - YUM!

November 22, 2009

What a gorgeous morning we have today. The sun is shining and it is not very cold. It's so nice, that I stopped on my way home from work to do a bit of shopping. Even found myself a lovely new fragrance at a perfume counter. When I got home, I sprayed a bit on Moo's hand to see if he liked it, and well!!! Do I need to tell you about his YUKs! PHEW's! etc? Men! They just don't understand sometimes what's a nice smell and what isn't.

I even made breakfast for Tootsie and myself. I offered it to Moo, but he wasn't very hungry. Oh well, all the more for us. Sausage and a fried egg sandwich. Yum!! I can't do this every morning, but once in a while it does taste good.

While I was shopping, I also picked me up a laptop bed table. It's really quite neat - has a separate space to the side for the mouse and the mouse pad. Now I can diddle my time away on my laptop while I'm sitting up in my cozy little bed watching television. How's that for being lazy and spoiled? Yes'm, I sure do like it!

The house is bit quiet this morning. The dwarfs are a bit subdued. Seems there was a bit of a squabble earlier, but now it has passed by. What can I say? At times, men are really just little boys in big guy's bodies.

Before I left work this morning, I had to go out and start my car up so that the thin layer of ice on my windshield could melt. While I was out there, I took a few photos of a little pink rose bud that I thought was so pretty. It was covered with dew, and looked like it had sugar sprinkled all over it. What do you think?

Mary Ann, I want to thank you for that great advice on shooting photos of the rain. I appreciate all the help I can get. This week, I am going to see about getting me a rain bonnet for my camera, and then I'll just keep on trying.

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Now it's time for me to check out my email, and maybe do a few things around the house. Maybe just one or two things. I don't like to go crazy with housework. Y'all have a fantastic day now.

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Hugs, Edna B.

Dripping Wet And Beautiful

November 21, 209

Let me tell you, yesterday morning the rain came down fast and furious. Then by 11 o'clock, the rain had stopped and the sun was shining brightly. This is the kind of weather that New England is famous for. Very changeable at a moment's notice. The rest of the day was absolutely gorgeous. This morning, even though the sun is shining, is a bit chilly. I guess it's time to call for fuel again.

Yesterday, I did try to get some nice rain photos, but it was just not to be. One shot was pretty though. It was the flag with raindrops dripping from it. A bit colorful and interesting, and very beautiful.

Rain is not so easy to photograph. I did get some shots of the rain from the back of the house, but they were so drab and not interesting. Ah well, I keep trying. One of these days, I'll get it right.

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I did take all my envelopes and address lists with me so that I could get started on my holiday cards. At least I meant well. I sat down to start them and realized that I had the folder for the addresses, but not the addresses. So much for that great idea!! As my mother used to say, it's a good thing my head is screwed on tightly to my neck, or I would lose it!!

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On my way home, I did manage to remember to stop for shipping cartons. Now, at least, I can get my holiday boxes packed and ready for mailing. I would like to have most everything out by next week. At least, that's the plan.

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Now I think I will leave you and get started on those boxes. Before I go, let me share a couple of cute photos from yesterday afternoon. Once the sun came out, the birds were back to feed and bathe. Here's one little bird, (I believe this is a mockingbird) who had a delightful time in the birdbath. Enjoy, and Y'all have a fantastic day now.

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Hugs, Edna B.

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Another Wet, Gray Day

November 20, 2009

What a lovely, yet wet, morning. The temperature is about 60 degrees Fahrenheit. I could take this all winter. I'm at work now, waiting for the Mrs. to awaken and want her breakfast. A few minutes ago, I went outside to take a few photos. There are plants still producing new sprouts and buds. One is a hanging geranium plant whose leaves were all beginning to die off. Now, with a few warm days, there are lots of new leaves on it.

Not one of my best shots, but when it's raining, I tend to move quickly. I am just fascinated at how the plants do their best to bloom as long as possible. Something for me to work on. Maybe I should look into the rain hoods that they make for cameras. Hmmmmm.

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Yesterday, I had big plans to go out shopping and get my holiday boxes packed. Well, at least I had plans! However, as the day played out, I did none of these things. Instead, I did the mundane stuff like laundry and putting out the recycle trash. We have special barrels for everything. One for paper, one for plastic, and one for metal and glass. Then of course, we have the regular trash barrels. The regular trash has cut down tremendously since we started the recycling.

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Today I brought my address list with me so that I can maybe get some of my holiday cards started. I do this while the Mrs has her meals and her nap. Every little bit helps. Then on my way home later, I plan to go "box" shopping.

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In case anyone is wondering whether or not Moo has been willingly posing for the pictures I have been posting, the answer is yes. This way he has a photographic record of everything to keep with his medical files. Also because he wanted to show off his good fortune. Believe me, if it were my nose, I would shout it to the world "Look, look! it's new and it looks great!!"

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I would like to thank all of you for your thoughtful words and wishes for Moo. I know they helped to keep his spirits way up through all of this.

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Before I leave you, I have one more photo to share. I took this one this morning of the decorated mailbox out front here. It is such a joyful sight, and so typical of our country towns. Enjoy, and Y'all have a marvelous day.

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Hugs, Edna B.

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Ta Da!! It's A Keeper!!

November 19, 2009

Wow, did I sleep late today? I guess today was the day to get caught up on all lost sleep. Good thing it's not a work day. I was hoping to get out and do some shopping today, but now I will have to re-think my plans for today.

Moo was up bright and early though. He seems to have enough energy for both of us. His doctor appointment yesterday went quite well. The good doctor did a marvelous job on Moo's nose. We are all quite pleased with his handiwork. I know, I know, shut up Edna and show us a picture!! Ok, here is the layout that I made yesterday of Moo and his new nose.

Not bad, huh? There are still more stitches to be taken out, and the healing process still needs a bit of time, but it is looking good and we are all quite pleased.

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Last night, I did manage to get into design mode for a little while. At least long enough to make a few more pieces for the January DD kit. I think my problem is my concentration level, which is quite flighty lately. I seem to start something and then move on to another project before finishing anything. Maybe if I changed the brand of my spring water? No? Ah well, I was hoping.

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I think I will take my Christmas cards and my address list to work with me tomorrow. In between doing things, maybe I can get a lot of my cards addressed and ready for mailing. Maybe I can write a few for the Mrs, too. She might like that.

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Well, that's it for my babbling today. Time for me to get dressed and start my day, which by the way, looks to be quite nice outside my window. Y'all have a wonderful day now.

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Hugs, Edna B.

Purple Memories

November 18 , 2009

This morning the weather is still a bit on the gray side. Yesterday, about halfway through the morning, the day turned just lovely. Sunny and warmer. So there is still hope for today. I have just finished my coffee, and Moo has just left to keep his appointment with the doctor for the "unveiling." From the size of the bandaging, I cannot imagine what the doctor's magic looks like, but we shall soon see.

Crooknees, your comment about your purple engagement ring brought back some beautiful memories for me. Growing up, and well into adulthood, I had a very special friend. She was the mother of my very first love, and she always looked after me as though I were her daughter. I called her "My Mary" and "Dolly," and I loved her so. When life was not being nice to me, and I really needed some TLC, My Mary was there. I always told people she was my "adopted" Mother.

About a year before My Mary passed away, she gave me her favorite ring, saying that she wanted to make sure that I got it. She told me how, when she first met her husband Bob, he was so smitten that he had a special "friendship" ring made for her. The stone had to be purple, and the ring had to look "antique." This all took place back in the 1920's.

That beautiful little ring is still on my hand today. If I ever feel lonely, or in need of some mothering, I just look at it and think of My Mary. She was such a beautiful person, and I have missed her very much. Here is a photo that I just took to show you my lovely ring. I had to take it off to get a decent shot of it.

Now on to my designing woes. I think my brains have scrambled. Last night I sat down to make some scrap elements, and after just one hour I found myself doing a jigsaw puzzle. Even Miss Tootsie was in a lazy mood. She just sat beside me and snoozed. We make a great pair!!

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Today, I thought I would share a couple more photos that I took at our local park a couple of weeks ago. Nature, and birds and animals especially, fascinates me. I am always so pleased when a photo turns out quite nice. When photographing birds, I try to get them in motion. Look at the beauty and grace in these two photos. I really do have to start thinking of putting a lot of these into a book. A piece of me to leave behind for my family.

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Well, I think I shall try again now to do a bit of designing. I have some lovely new brushes that I want to play with, maybe make some more QP's for you. On that note, I shall take my leave here. Y'all have a wonderful day.

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Hugs, Edna B.

A New Department Coming At Walmart?

November 17, 2009

We're back to gray again this morning, but it's still early. However, I don't see any rain drops or big fat snowflakes falling, so I really can't complain. Right now, I'm searching everywhere for that burst of energy that I found the other night. It obviously doesn't want anything to do with me because it has disappeared into thin air!

Yesterday, I sat at my PC with the hopes of starting work on my portion of the new DD kits. All I managed to accomplish though was to clean up a few of my files and burn them to disk. I supposed that is a good thing, but not quite what I had in mind. Ah well, today is a new day.

Waiting for Wednesday is making Moo very antsy. I know I would be too if I were in his shoes. We are all anxiously awaiting the unveiling of the doctor's masterpiece. Now I'm wondering - what happens if Moo doesn't like his new nose? Can he take it back and exchange it? I mean, if the good doctor's office were at Walmart, then of course, one could exchange the new body part. That is what is so great about the Walmart policy. But something tells me that is not the good doctor's policy.

However, this does give us food for thought. Imagine what it would be like if Walmart put in a new department - "Dr. Good's Instant Body Works Department." Gosh! Now I could get excited about that! Just think, wrinkles removed, liposuction, face lifts and nose jobs done in a wink while you're shopping for new undies, winter jackets and dog food. Man, oh man, oh man!! Sounds pretty good to me.

By now, you're probably wondering if there is something funny in my coffee. Nope! Just plain old regular coffee. It's just that every now and then I get these fantastic brain storms and come up with some really neat ideas. (That is one way of looking at it!)

Now for some serious stuff. Today I will share another layout that I made with my new kit "Edna" from Kyra. I didn't even have to put a photo in it because it came with a really darling ornament that I put into a frame. Have a look, you'll see what I mean. And yes, I made a matching QP to share with you.

Kyra, thank you so much for these beautiful kits. As you can see, I have really been enjoying them. Folks, there are some people on this earth of ours that are just a bit extra special, and Miss Kyra is one of them. This is the month when we give thanks for our many blessings, and believe me, I have so many many blessings. I have been especially blessed since I took up digital scrapbooking, where I have met and made friends with some of the nicest people on this earth.

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Now, I have to skidaddle along. My son-in-law is here to fix an electrical problem. So I will leave you with your freebie, and wish Y'all a fantastic day.

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Hugs, Edna B.

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"Bday Kit QP 01"

And here is your download link for "Bday Kit QP 01"

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Oh, What A Gorgeous Morning!!!

November 16, 2009

Well, Good Morning, and a beautiful good morning it is! The sun is shining bright and it is warm. It feels like a gorgeous Indian Summer day. Miss Tootsie and I have just returned from the hospital. Today she had to have bloodwork done. No call later from her doctor means she is still on the right track.

Last night I had a burst of designing energy, and made some layouts using the beautiful kits that Kyra made for me. Not to fear, I also made matching QP's to give as freebies. Here is one of my new layouts that I made with Kyra's kit "Photography Addiction." It features Tootsie using her new bed for a pillow.

Now I just have to zip up the QP, and upload it to get a link for you. I am hoping that this new burst of energy will flow over onto my other projects that need work.

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Moo seems to be doing quite well. Just last night, he came in with a little flashlight, and saying "Look Ed. Look up my nose here, you can see what the doctor did!" Is he nuts???? Just what I always wanted to do. Look up his nose! He is such a gory kid. He really enjoys watching those television shows where they televise surgical procedures up close, guts and all! UGH!!!

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Twice a day, he has to put this ointment on his nose bandage. I guess the ointment seeps through the gauze, and keeps the skin beneath it soft. I'm just guessing. What I can see is that the bandage is now a shiny wet yucky mess! But I guess it works, so that is all that counts.

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Enough of the gory stuff. I think it's time for me to make a cup of coffee, and give Tootsie her meds. Enjoy your freebie, and Y'all have a fantabulous day.

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Hugs, Edna B.

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"Photography Addiction QP"

And here is your download link for "Photography Addiction QP."

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It's Raining, It's Pouring, The Old Man Is Snoring

November 15, 2009

It's another Good Morning from raw, gray, rainy New England. Do you remember that line from a child's poem? "It's raining, it's pouring, the old man is snoring." Cheer up, things could be worse. This all could have been snow, the winds could have been howling and raging, and it could have been very cold. But the temperature is normal for November and it is just wet out!

Down South where part of my family is, there have been flooding rains and heavy winds. My daughter tells me that a few coastal houses fell into the ocean. In England where some of my friends are, the weather has been extremely nasty. Floods and heavy winds with some stone walls and chimneys toppling over. It all sounds very much like some of the hurricanes that I remember from years gone by. I pray you all stay safe.

Last night was a good night at work. The Mrs. was in a very good mood and slept well through the night. I did not have much of a chance to chat with Snowy on MSN. It took me a while to get my MSN working properly, and Snowy's internet kept cutting out. Maybe tonight it will work out better. Seems we are both doing the overnight hours this weekend.

I did not do much last night in the way of designing. Mostly, I just looked through some of my latest photos to find some good ones to share, and I worked on a couple of puzzles. I find the puzzles extremely relaxing. Plus, I am learning my way around the new laptop. Pretty soon, I will try installing another program into it, plus some music for my listening enjoyment. I think I like this new laptop.

Moo must be feeling chipper this morning. He just came out to say hello and get a cup of coffee, and seems to be back to his normal grumpy self. We'll have to find some happy pills for him. Just three more days, then we get to see his new nose. I think we should have a welcome party for the new nose. Get some ice cream and bake a cake. Sound good? I think it's a marvelous idea.

This morning I have a couple of interesting photos to share. These were taken last weekend at the park. The first photo shows two gulls going after the same french fry, and the second photo shows the happy winner. Note the french fry in the first photo.

I got so many interesting photos that day, but I'll save some of them for another day. Now I think I'll go make a cup of coffee and catch up on my email. Y'all have a wonderful and SAFE day.

Hugs, Edna B.

Frozen Peas Instead of Ice Packs

November 14, 2009

This morning is off to a gray, damp start. Of course, it's early yet. However, the rain and wind is coming -- oops I think I spoke too soon. I can hear the raindrops hitting the house now. Ah, well, it was bound to get here sooner or later. Everybody else around the country has already gotten a good soaking. So I guess now it's our turn.

Last night, I finally got in the mood to do a bit of work on my PC. My files are in bad need of organization, so that's what I started to do. This will take me a while. I have so much scrap stuff scattered all about. As I have been going along, I really did try to keep things organized, but somewhere along the way, things took a wrong turn. However, this is a good way to find things that have been hiding and forgotten for so long.

I have put my DD projects on a thumbdrive to take to work with me. Once the Mrs. goes to bed, I can work on these. Do you use these thumbdrives? I think they are awesome. I remember when they first came out on the market. I spotted them in Best Buy, and just had to have one. The biggest one they had held 64 MB's. WOW!!! Right away, I bought one for me and for Audrey.

That was just a few years ago, and now all my thumbdrives are 4GB and 8GB. I just got a nifty 16GB thumbdrive for my birthday. I think back to the 64MB drive, and I can't imagine what I could possibly put on it now. My scrap kits are bigger than that!! That's progress for you.

Today, I would like to curl up on the sofa, with a nice book and the fireplace going. What a great way to escape the rain blahs. But! It is not to be. Earlier this week I made an appointment at the nail salon for this morning. So, as long a I am going to be out there getting wet, I will probably do a bit of food shopping too. Then, if I'm lucky, I can take a bit of a nap this afternoon before getting ready for work tonight.

I do have a freebie for you today. I thought I would start giving you the Gemstone QP's. Today your freebie is the Amethyst QP. Amethyst comes in several beautiful colors, but purple and green are two of the favorites, I think. I hope you like it.

Now I am off to start my day. Moo has just come out to say Good Morning to Tootsie. His face is a bit swollen. I think he has been trying to do too much. Hopefully, he will take it easy today, and spend more time lying down with the bag of frozen peas on his face. You heard me, frozen peas! They make a fantastic ice pack. That's all for this morning. Y'all have a marvelous day.

Hugs, Edna B.

"Amethyst QP"

And here is your download link for "Amethyst QP"

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A New Day, A New Nose

November 13, 2009

Oh Happy Day!! Moo came home yesterday with his new nose, under bandage wraps of course. He seems quite happy now that it is just about over. Next week he will go back to have the bandages taken off and the remaining stitches taken out. Right now, he is off, taking a walk to show off his beautiful new nose to everyone.

Everyone here pitched in to make things easier and quieter for Moo these past two days. A couple of the dwarfs helped me with Howie, and made sure the place was fairly quiet. Sometimes it's good to have so many dwarfs around. We can all help each other.

I took a couple of photos so that I could make a new layout of Moo. So far, we are very pleased with the outcome of his surgeries. Even with the bandages, he manages to look handsome. (I need to be careful about saying things like that - his head will swell up!)

I think tonight, I may even work on some new designs. My mood is lighter now, so that should help to get the design juices flowing again. I need to finish wrapping and packing holiday boxes too. Before you know it, December will be here, and I will be left behind sitting in the dust again. I do try. But somehow, I get in my own way, and slow myself down. Maybe I will try an energy drink.

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Tootsie has been so good through all of this. She knows that something is different about her Moo, and she hasn't been quite so snarly with him when they play. However, she must sense that he is getting better because her snarliness is getting back to normal. If you were to watch these two together, you would think that she does not like him, but it is actually a game that they play. And, she only plays it with him.

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Well, I think I shall maybe start some laundry. Tomorrow night is back to work and clean clothes would be nice. Plus, I think I will have me another cup of coffee. Y'all have a fantabulous day now.

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Hugs, Edna B.

A Flash Back To Olden Days

November 12, 2009

Good Morning. Yesterday, Moo came through his surgery with flying colors. The bad news - they had to take a bit more nose than we had hoped for; the good news - the doctor says she got all the cancer. Moo's spirits are up, but this morning is a toughie. He has to be at the hospital very early this morning for the re-constructive surgery. He says "A cup of coffee would be nice."

Here is a layout that I made last night of Moo before yesterday's surgery, and after. Even with the bandage, he's still handsome, and has a good sense of humor. I'll have some coffee waiting for you when you get home today, Moo. We'll put a straw in it, and you'll be good to go.

Well, the car just pulled out, and he is in greater hands now. This feeling I have is a huge helplessness. It is just awful when you cannot do something to help a loved one who is hurting. but we are fighters in this family, and this is just one more hurdle we will get over.

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I have another picture to share today. We have a little sign hanging in our kitchen that helps to keep a bit of order around the house. Dwarfs do squabble and pout every now and then, but this little reminder keeps most of them on their best behaviour. I think Moo found the little sign one summer at a yard sale.

I have not been able to get into a designing mood these past two weeks. Mostly, I have just been relaxing and getting acquainted with my laptop. But I must make the effort real soon because the ladies in the forum have been designing up a storm. Already, they have most of the January Daily Download kit done, and some of the challenges.

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I did make a surprise picture for the young lady (Tram) who owns the nail salon where I go. There is a gorgeous very large, hand painted fan hanging up high on one of the walls at the shop. I took a photo of it the last time I was there, and I took a couple of photos of Tram. With the help of Photoshop, I was able to use the fan as a background, and I think the finished picture came out quite nice. I will give it to her this weekend.

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I think I will go make myself another cup of coffee. This morning I am rather nervous, and will be until my brother is back home. Gosh, I just thought of a very old memory that I can share. When we were just little kids, we were out playing one afternoon and must have been squabbling about something. Back then, we had fire boxes on the electric poles.

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My brother got so frustrated with me that he picked up a stone and threw it at me. I moved and the stone hit the fire box and set off the alarm. Next thing, all hell broke loose. The fire trucks showed up, but of course, there was no fire. When they all left, our mother got out the paddle, and the fire on our little bottoms heated up. Next day, the newspaper headline read "Little Brother Throws Rock, Big Sister Ducks."

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This time, I'm really off to make some coffee. Y'all have a fantastic day now.

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Hugs, Edna B.

Large Airy Nest For Rent - Cheap!

November 10, 2009

Good Morning, even though it is a bit gray at the moment, You're here and I'm here so it's definitely a good morning. Oh boy, I am learning to love my new laptop. At least so far. Even though I have the big black monster PC sitting on my desk, I go into laptop withdrawal when it is not working. I guess a lot of us are in that same boat, huh?

Do any of you have this problem with your pets? When Miss Tootsie is nervous, upset, anxious or in pain she chews on one of her front legs. Lately she has been doing this a lot and her little leg is quite messy. Last night, Moo went to the drugstore and bought us some of that gauze bandaging that sticks to itself. I put that on Tootsie's leg, and so far it has been working pretty good. Now I just have to figure out the reason behind why she has been doing this.

Yesterday while at work, I had a chance to try out my zoom lens. Way off in the backyard, at the very top of some trees, there is a large nest. It is empty, and with the all the leaves falling, it is easy to see. I tried to get a good photo of it (from indoors - through the window) but the wind was blowing and the trees kept swaying.

I picked out the photo that was the least bit blurry, and cropped it to share with you. I will also show you the original photo so that you can see where the nest is. Know any birds looking for a seasonal home to rent? From now till Spring, and it's cheap!!

This photo was taken "hand held" and would obviously be much better had I used a tripod. However, I don't carry a tripod around with me while I am at work. BUT!!! That is next on my list - to get me a new tripod. I do have one, but it is not sturdy enough for my camera. After that, I will attempt to make a nature photo book.

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I also tried to take a little movie with my new camera. It was just a minute long, but not so easy to play on the computer because of the mov. format. I just have to figure out how to convert it to avi. format. Or maybe I don't, I will have to study up on this. I ordered me a book to help me understand this particular camera better.

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I also ordered two books on learning Windows 7. Vista may have beaten me up pretty bad, but Windows 7 won't get the chance. They have these wonderful books called "Simplified" and "Teach Yourself Visually" for just about everything. I am a "show and learn" person, so these books are fantastic.

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Enough babble for today! I have a freebie mini kit for you called "September Rain." This was made for the September color challenge. I hope you can use it. Now it's time for me to make another cup of coffee and start the day. Y'all have a wonderful day now.

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Hugs, Edna B.

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"September Rain"

And here are your download links for "September Rain"

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For Joy! My Laptop Works!! So Far!

November 9, 2009

It's a bit cool, but sunny this morning. I'm at work and the Mrs is sleeping, so I get to play on my new laptop for a bit. So far, we have managed to get Photoshop installed and working, and last night I managed to install my puzzles. Oh for joy, I do miss those puzzles when I don't have them. Later today, I will see about installing my Hoyle's Card games.

Miss Audrey got back to Virginia before 1p.m, and Hubby and Miss Bea took her out to dinner to celebrate her being back home. For those of you who do not know Miss Bea, she is a lovely lady that Audrey met many many moons ago. Miss Bea needed a friend and lots of TLC, so Audrey took her home and she has been a part of the family ever since. Care-giving seems to run in my family. But that is a good thing to be proud of.

The ladies in the forum have been naughty again. They posted a picture of Snow White and her seven Dwarfs, and then asked how many dwarfs I had living at my house, and what were their names. First, I had to fix one of the dwarfs to match my guys, and then I had to add another dwarf for my brother. Here is our Dwarf Family. The poem was written by our very own Kyra.

Is this not a lovely family picture? I agree it is a bit unusual, but it works for us. I also want to share a photo of the lovely floral basket that my friends, Rhoda & Marshal sent to me. Hey guys, thank you so much. The flowers are just beautiful, and in all my favorite colors.

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While we were at the park Saturday, I was able to get some nice photos of the swans. They are so beautiful and graceful. I am always in awe of how so many different species of birds can live in one pond, and get along so well. Us human folks need to stop and take some lessons from Nature.

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This first photo is of a pair of swans, and the second is a really nice close-up - my favorite kind of photo. Mary Ann, I know you will ask, so I will tell you that the lens is a Canon EFS 17-85mm IS. It was my first lens purchase after I bought my Rebel XT. That camera has gone to it's new owner who is absolutely thrilled to bits. Now for my swans.

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That's it for this morning. The Mrs will be waking soon now and wanting her breakfast. Heigh Ho, Heigh Ho, it's off to work I go. Y'all have a marvelous day now.

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Hugs, Edna B.

Have A Safe Trip Home, Audrey

November 8, 2009

I'm a little sad, yet happy this morning. Sad because Audrey is on her way home, yet happy because we had a really nice week together. It's amazing how quickly time flies by when you are having fun. Ah, but we made some new memories. Even Tootsie is mopey, missing her Auntie Audrey.

This week I need to buckle down and start getting caught up with my layouts and challenges. I know that I have been lax about them lately, but family is always my top priority. I will try starting the color challenge later on my new laptop. Wayne is bringing it back to me in about an hour. Woo Hoo!!! Can't wait to play on it!!

Yesterday afternoon, Audrey, Janet and I went to the park for a photo shoot, armed with a large bag of McDonald's french fries. We were determined to get us some good pictures. And did we ever!! We even had some of the birds and geese eating right out of our hand. Here is one photo of Audrey holding up a french fry for some lucky bird.

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Here is a beautiful close up of one hungry gull yelling "Stay away!! That one is mine!!"

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And here is another great picture of one bird taking the french fry from Janet's hand.

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Of course, I don't want to forget this one particular goose, who stood patiently by waiting for a french fry. This beautiful goose just stood and waited quietly until Janet called it over and handed it a french fry. The goose was not grabby and did not bite like the others do. Gosh!!! What a beautiful sight.

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I have lots more great photos, but I will save them for another day. This week I will work on getting some freebies out to you. I know it's been a while, but I will see about making up for it. Now I must see to the laundry. Tonight will be a 20 hour shift so that I can have Friday off. Till tomorrow, Y'all have a marvelous day.

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Hugs, Edna B.

A New Award

November 07, 2009

The weatherman promised us a gorgeous morning today, and he was right. It is simply grand outdoors this morning. Hopefully, we can get out today to shoot a few pictures. Today is my last day of this wonderful visit with my oldest child, so a photo shoot would be a nice way to spend some time together.

This morning, Audrey has been in the kitchen making breakfast for all of us. Biscuits and sausage gravy!!! Mmmmmmm!! The dwarfs really do enjoy this extra bit of spoiling and attention. Needless to say, they just love her to pieces.

Sad to say, this week I have really neglected my projects on the computer. I also haven't really had much time to spend chatting on MSN. But I promise to do better real soon. Also sad to say, this week has really flown by too quickly.

This morning I opened my email to find a lovely surprise. A new award from my friend Mary Ann. This is the first blog award she has made and I think she has done a marvelous job with it. Thank you so much, Mary Ann. Being a friend to you is so easy and such a pleasure.

I also have a couple of beautiful photos to share with you today. I am always telling Audrey to take advantage of all the beautiful photo opportunities that her part of the country has to offer. The scenery in Virginia is just beautiful, and the sunsets and sunrises are just gorgeous. Of course, maybe I am just biased. I haven't traveled to all of the states, and I'm sure they are all equally beautiful. Today's photos are ones that Audrey took of a gorgeous Virginia sunrise. Nice work Rummage Baby!!!

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Want an update on my new laptop? Well, Thursday afternoon I dropped it off at Staples for the new upgrade install. They must have really wanted me out of their hair in a hurry because yesterday morning they called to say that it was ready to be picked up. When I got there in the afternoon, the gentleman behind the counter pointed to a laptop on another counter and asked "Is that your laptop?" I answered "I don't know, I cannot see it." He looked a bit disgusted with me, but brought the laptop over to the counter we were at.

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After opening it and turning it on so that I could see that it WOULD turn on, he handed me a piece of paper with a lot of things checked off and asked me to sign it. The things that were checked off were different things that they were supposed to have done to the laptop. I put MY check mark next to the only one that I could see might have been done, and signed the paper. It was the only way to get my laptop back.

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Then we had a DISCUSSION OF SORTS about why they did not re-install the two months of Norton Anti Virus program that I had paid for along with the price of the laptop. Needless to say, this was not a win-able argument, but I just had to spout off and let him know how unhappy I was at the store policy that is so unfair to the customers. Then I took my laptop and went home.

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Wayne came by and picked up the laptop and a couple of my programs. Before any of the programs can be used, he still has to go online and download two more programs before Windows 7 Pro will allow any of my programs to work. Microsoft is making billions on this operating system. It doesn't work with anything until the customer spends a lot more money on upgrades and other things. It's nice to be BIG!! Huh, Microsoft??????

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Before I leave you, I want to thank you, Crooknees, for your lovely comments about my family. I have a large family, and I'm quite proud of them all. Between us, my husband and I had eight children, seven of whom married. Then along came 20 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren. Whew!! Talk about bunnies!!! All this from just two people!!

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I'm off now, and I wish Y'all a magnificent day.

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Hugs, Edna B.