Goodbye Grandpa Joe

Michael's Grandpa Joe left his physical pains behind and entered into rest on Thursday December 20. I've known Grandpa Joe for about five years and didn't really get to know him very well. Despite that, I know he was a man who lived his life honorably and was deeply loved. We will be spending Christmas with Michael's family and will celebrate his life and cherrish memories of him. Each time we would spend time with Grandpa Joe, Michael would enjoy his stories of his adventures throughout life. We took the opportunity to see him one last time in October. Fortunately for us, they are living only four hours away, rather than 12. It was quite difficult witnessing his evident final goodbye to Michael as we all knew his days here on earth were dwindling to very few. We love you Grandpa Joe and will see you again some day!!

Sinus & Cold Relief

This year it seems I have been trying product after product in search for what works. Mostly it has been for my acne. However, with my cold this past week, by doctor recommended a product for me to relieve my airways. I looked at him crosseyed and with that "yeah right" look. I took the pamphlet and pondered it for a few hours, all-the-while it seemed my nose was getting more conjested. So, I found it at the store and gave it a whorl. You put salt water up your nose, with your head bent far forward of course. Then blow your nose and the most snot you have seen in your life makes it to your tissue and WOW can you breath! Of course your sinus cavity will fill back up as long as you have the cold or sinus conjestion, but it gives such relief.

My doc said there is no need to use the premixed solutions, just use warm saltwater. Anyhow...the product is an 8 oz bottle with nozzle. It is NeliMed Sinus Rinse. It can be found at most grocery and drug stores. Here is one website that also sells it www.allergysolution.com Yes, it is wierd and gross, but it feels so good to get that crap out! Just wanted to pass on info about a good product, especially since it is cold/allergy season.

P.S. Sorry Heather, I'm sure if Jason tries it he will probably want you to look at how much snot came out...just a guess :)

Bouford

Sometimes I wonder what Michael is doing in the Golf business. He got anxious and gave me a Christmas present a little early. He said people at work, where he made this, were eyeballing it so he had to bring it home sooner than he planned. Anyhow, isn't Bouford the Buzzard awsome?! Michael does some great work with metal. Bouford is the newest addition to our Cactus Garden...which still needs a lot of work. He sits high on the ledge with the bull skull.

Christmas Tree Hunting

Our friends Bear and Jennie met us in Williams and we went Christmas tree hunting on the "ranch". Michael and I use an artificial tree, and they usually buy a real tree. This year they wanted to find one to take home. It was very muddy, so we did our hunting from the road and a little hiking to find the tree they liked most. It was snowing, which was great! Caleb wanted to help cut the tree and say "timber". Aden was bundled in his little suit, this of course, will be his first Christmas. We all enjoyed yummy peppermint cocoa with marshmallows after finding and cutting the tree. I haven't been Christmas tree hunting for probably 18 years, it was fun!

Thanksgiving

Michael and I went to my parents' house for Thanksgiving. Michael took a self-portrait of himself. Micah, Weston, and I made silly faces. Friday my Dad, Jason, Michael, Lizard, Micah, Weston, and I went target shooting. It was Micah and Weston's first time, Lizard's second. Micah and Weston just wanted to watch, then became interested in trying it themselves when we told them police officers have to practice shooting (they both want to be police officers!) then they thought it was really fun when we shot the plastic bottles. (of course I forgot my camera!) The whole time was great spending with family.

Sleep Over

I took the week of Thanksgiving off and invited my nephews to come sleep over the night before Thanksgiving. When Jason and Heather dropped them off, Rylee was convinced she was going to sleep over also. Not sure how she would do, her mom and dad told her she needed to go home with them. Rylee chose to not necessarily argue with mom and dad, but rather she debated with them why she needed to stay the night. She even said "I will even sleep on the ground if I can just stay". She isn't even three yet!! They were all great and we made individual pizzas, place cards for Thanksgiving, and then they had a blast in the jet tub bubble bath. I haven't heard so much constant giggling for some time. It was fun having them over!

Lets get healthy!

My friend Tonya proposed this great idea. I am at my heaviest weight and know I need to be in better shape, for many reasons. It is hard to have someone to meet up with to work out and keep you accountable due to schedules. So, starting tomorrow, each day we will e-mail each other what we ate and what we did to be physically active. It is surely the accountability to someone else that keeps you doing what is best for your body. It is easier to eat that bowl of ice cream when no one is really keeping tabs on you. So, if anyone wants to join in on getting healthy, just e-mail me at my "teenie_reenie" account and I will start including you on my daily diet and exercise and you of course will need to send yours to me. Keeping track of calories isn't really necessary,mainly just what food is passing your lips!

Ahhh...the joy of critters!

Ok, I knew she would have to have some sort of quirk in order to fit in at our home. Jade is a clepto and loves to eat plants. I am missing a diamond stud earring, which I am sure she relocated. I have seen her carry off paper, barrets, and such. She also ate one of my plants to the root and used the pot as a bed. The latest...she ate the petals off of the sunflowers Michael gave me. What can I say...she fits in!

Congratulations!!

Miachael's sister Michele had her baby girl, Eden! Mom and baby are doing good. We can't wait to see them...congratulations Michele!

Family Fall Festival

This past weekend we made the trek to Anna's house and met with most of my family for a little fall festival at Snepf Farms. It was a lot of fun with face painting, pony rides, a corn maze, pedal cars, petting zoo with a ginormous steer, mini airplanes, and kettle corn. The boys made me and Jodi scarecrows for our homes. I am not sure if they had more fun painting the faces and stuffing them or tumbling around in the straw! I think the big boys, AKA Jason and Michael, had the most fun in the corn maze taking shortcuts and trying to scare us as they jumped out. It was great spending time with everyone.

A Morning Hike

This morning Tukir and I went for a hike with my friend Tonya and her new puppy. It wasn't really a hike, it was more like rock climbing. I had to push Tukir up a few passes and help lift him down the same passes on the way back. Tukir and I thought we would try a few accupuncture attempts with cactus needles. Tukir can be rather bipolar at times. He would play with the puppy and then snap at her. Tonya gave him treats and water, then he lunged at her. Oh my, what a morning. It was great to get out and hike, which I haven't done in a LONG time. I just need to remember I need to get in better shape and Tukir is not as young as he once was.

Thanks to Tonya, I will be hiking more and trying to get in better shape. It always helps to have a little friend support system. So even though I almost killed my dog today on a morning "hike", I enjoyed it and I think he did too (although I am sure both of us will be sore in the morning!)

Progress!

One more project done!! The entire old corral & barn are gone...on to the next project...

Jeff Dunham Show

Last weekend Michael and I went to Prescott to watch Jeff Dunham live. He is a hilarious ventriloquist! Check him out at jeffdunham.com, the "Walter for President" video clip is outstanding...good for a few (lots) laughs!

Michael is Paper

After my personality test revealed me as a "rock", we were interested to see what Michael tested as. His sister, Michele, is also a "rock", Michael turned out to be paper...

You Are Paper

Crafty and creative, you are able to adapt freely to almost any situation. People tend to underestimate you, unless they've truly seen what you are capable of. Deep down, you're always scheming and thinking up new plans. Your mind is constantly active. You are quite capable of anything you dream of. You can always figure out a way to get what you want. You can wrap a rock person up in your sheet of trickery. A scissor person can sneak up and cut you to pieces. When you fight: No one can anticipate your next move If someone makes you mad: You'll attack them mercilessly when they're unprepared

Are You Rock, Paper, or Scissors?

Paper, Rock, Scissor

Ok, I know it has been quite some time since I posted anything, so here goes. It is not because there is nothing going on...there is plenty of interesting and exciting things. Anyhow, I did this personality test. I thought it would be fun since Michael and I use the "Paper, Rock, Scissor" method to decide on things we don't already agree on. I am a Rock, while some of the things are true...don't believe all that you read. :)


Rock
Powerful and overbearing, you intimidate people with your presence.
People know they can't push you around, and they respect that.
Deep down, you are calm, confident, and unmovable.
You take everything pretty seriously, and you think deeply about all aspects of your life.

You tend to feel smothered by paper people.

You don't mind crushing the spirit of a scissors person.

When you fight, you: Use all of your strength

If someone makes you mad: You're likely to throw something at them

Are You Rock, Paper, or Scissors?

Welcome Jayde!

Michael and I braved a trip to the animal shelter today in search of a new friend for Pepper (and for us). The shelter was loaded with kitties all reaching out from their cages. "Princess", as her name was from the little girl who previously owned her, captured our hearts. We were wanting a kitten, and there were many, but she had been at the shelter for three months and has a great dispostion. So, we chose her. She is one year old, very friendly, and has beautiful (almost scary) golden eyes. She is still a little scared,but Pepper doesn't seem to mind her and I am sure they will be friends soon.

I wanted to name her a spice, as is becoming tradition with our cats. I thank those who voted on a name (Basil won), but as I get to know her today, Jayde is the name that seems to fit the best. Afterall, it is still a plant!

Weekend in Mexico!

Over the weekend our friends Lucas & Shelly invited us to go to Rocky Point, Mexico, for three full days on the beach! We had a blast...thank you!! We got to truly get away and relax, swim, shop, and enjoy time with our friends. The condo was awsome & so was the view. Friday we went for a spin on the jetskiis and it was so incredible when about five dolphins began swimming and jumping about fifty yards from us. What was even better was when one of them came right next to the jetski Michael and I were riding (about a foot from us) and swam with us for about 100 yards then turned his belly toward us and then swam back with the other dolphins. I will not forget the great weekend we had...except for the five hour wait to get back across the boarder (I am trying to forget that). Thanks again!!!!

Saying Goodbye

Saturday (8-25-07) I had to make the difficult decision to let Sayge go after twelve years. Sayge couldn't walk more than one step without falling and had other medical issues which robbed her of her quality of life regardless of medications. I had a very emotional day after making the decsion and waiting for the vet to make a house call (which made it so much easier on Sayge to not go for a car ride). She was a wonderful companion! I love you Sayge!

Happy Birthday

Michael invited my family over for a BBQ for my birthday. It was a lot of fun to see everyone and enjoy their company. Micah and Weston played yard checkers. Michael played "GO-Fish" and "Cooties" with Micah, Weston, and Rylee. My parents, Anna, Jason, and Heather also made it down. Thanks to everyone for coming!

Fresh Peach Ice Cream

I just tried this recipe and loved it! Just freeze it an hour or so after churning in the ice cream machine.

Ingredients:
4 ripe peaches
1 1/4 cups canned sweetened condensed milk
juice of 1 lemon
1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream
(toasted almond slivers for topping)

Cut peaches, remove pits and peel skins. Coarsely chop peaches. Put the chopped peaches, milk, and lemon juice in a blender and process to form a puree. Whip the cream until it holds its shape. Fold whipped cream into peach mixture and churn in an ice cream machine according to manufacturer's instructions.

Personality Test

I took a personality test for fun, (and so I could add something to my blog). Here are the results. It is kind of scary how accurate it is :)
You Are An ENTJ

The Executive, You are a natural leader - with confidence and strength that inspires others.Driven to succeed, you are always looking for ways to gain, power, knowledge, and expertise.Sometimes you aren't the most considerate person, especially to those who are a bit slow.You are not easily intimidated - and you have a commanding, awe-inspiring presence.

In love, you hold high standards... for yourself, for your relationship, and for your significant other.While it's easy for you to impress others, it's hard for you to find someone who impresses you.

At work, you are organized and good at delegating. You understand how to achieve goals.You would make a great CEO, entrepreneur, or consultant.

How you see yourself: Rational, calm, and objective

When other people don't get you, they see you as: Inflexible, controlling, and overbearing

San Diego

San Diego Vacation

Michael and I had a short vacation to San Diego. We invited my brother, Jason, and his family to join us. We went to the beach, Sea World, on a Pirate Ship, and Michael and I saw the Dead Sea Scroll exhibit at the museum. Although it was short, it was fun. Rylie, Micah, and Weston loved the beach and the ocean!! I hadn't seen the ocean in 11 years. Although it was a long day, we all had fun at Sea World. We fed the sea lions and the dolphins, held starfish, saw some shows and exhibits. ...back to work I go...

Dolphins

Dolphins

Michael and I went into the water for a little one-on-one with a dolphin. We got to play tag with the dolphin, toss fish to her, splash fight with her, dance with her, and give her the good ol' hand under the armpit fart signal and she would make a fart sound with her blowhole. It was an increadable experience!

The Barn

T-Bone and Nugget got to move into their new barn a week ago. They love it! We got them moved in about five minutes before it down-poured. They are still getting the hang of waiting in their stall for breakfast or dinner. It took a long time and a lot of hard work to get this project done, we could not have done it without the help of a lot of friends. Thanks to: Dad (Mike), Chris, Tiffany, Lloyd, Marlayne, Tiana, Sierra, Daryl, Shawn, and Barry!! One big project down, several more to go....

My First Blog Entry!

I am following my sister-in-law's lead and have become a blogger, thanks Heather...it looked like lots of fun!

Michael and I have been married for four wonderful years now (almost). He not only is my husband, he is my best friend! We have lots of work left to do on our one little acre "funny farm" or "looney bin", whatever you want to call it. We have a cat who is allergic to dogs, we have dogs who are afraid of the cat, the cats are afraid of the bird, the bird barks like a dog, and the horses think they are dogs. Not to mention all of their little quirks from three legs to extra toes. We have had a lot of help from friends: thanks, Dad (Mike), Lloyd, Marlayne, Sierra, Tiana, Daryl, and Shawn. We could not have made as much progress as we have without everyone's help!

In May, Michael's sister Carrie graduated from Witchita County High School in Leoti Kansas. It was good to see all of his family. Little Miss Koebe is going to really miss Aunt Carrie when she leaves for college.

I also had my ten year high school reunion. There weren't that many people there, but it was good to see those who were there. Pictured are Brandi, me, and Chris (I'm sure glad they showed up!).

On New Years Day this year, Michael and I were invited by our friend Emily to go on a hot air balloon ride! I did not care that we were up at 4 am on a freezing morning...I was going to get to ride in a hot air balloon!! It was so much fun! Thank you Emily!!

In June, I was awarded the School Resource Officer of the Year for the Arizona School Resource Officer's Association. I was shocked and very honored. The Chief was quoted in the newspaper as calling me a "Department Jewel". Little does he know how I have yet to live that "nickname" down.