What a Wonderful, White Christmas

Christmas has come and gone in an absolute whirlwind. Christmas Eve, Doug, was supposed to arrive at noon but at 5:30 am he called to say all the planes inbound to Houston had been delayed and he wouldn't be making his connection to Calgary. We had planned to do a little extra shopping after picking him up. He didn't arrive until 4:30pm so those last minute gifts were not going to be under the tree. Unfortunately it was my present. But, that's OK! He made it in time! We made a speedy drive home and got here in time to do our traditional scripture reading and jammie opening. We were all glad not to miss out on our family time. Doug and I spent most of the night wrapping presents.

It was actually a good thing that Doug was late. We saved a lot of money on my gift. What was it? A 52" Samsung TV and a BluRay! I didn't realize how much I would enjoy these! I love watching movies now. We also got all of the Harry Potter movies on BluRay and have been having a marathon. What fun! The best thing though is that I am able to put all my photos on it. Soooo coool! It's going to be great to show my clients their photos on such a big screen. I think they will love it! I know I do!

For Reals???

I just heard the CRAZIEST story on the news this morning. A Japanese man who goes by the name Sal 9000 has married a video game character. No, I'm not kidding! Here's the link from CNN. They even went on a honeymoon!!! Here's this dude walking his sweetheart (read as Nintendo DS) around the resort. What a nutjob!!

I've never been a plant person. I usually kill anything green within my sight. It took me months to decide to purchase a plant that I have become truly enamoured with. I purchased a beautiful phalaenopsis orchid. Amazingly enough I've kept it alive for months!! I think it has to be the most beautiful plant I have ever seen. I feed it, water it, tend it with care. I've never been like this with any other plant but something about those tender yet hardy blooms brings out my inner gardener. I've seriously been considering buying more now that I've proven that I'm not an orchid murderer.
When I was in Argentina, the first time, I was taken out to a yard in a small town. They had small, almost miniature yellow orchid flowers blooming on the branches of the fruit trees. They were almost parasitic. I'd never seen anything like it before and probably won't ever again. But that was my first exposure to these amazing plants and I've been drawn to them ever since. It just seems to beautify whatever surroundings it is in. It provides an elegance that a regular bouquet or plant just doesn't seem to own. And right now these flowers are what keeps the brightness in a rather gloomy time of year.

Please turn off the snow machine!

It's been a literal blizzard here for more than 24hrs. We have gone from no snow to drifts more than 4ft high. What a mess. It's so bad out here that church has been cancelled for both stakes. Even the town wards are staying home. This is the worst snow we have had for years!!!

Help!! I am a Crackberry Addict!!!

My darling hubby bought me a new Blackberry Tour about 6 weeks ago. I love it!! I hate being out of touch and must get my email many times a day. This was the perfect solution!!! I live by the stupid thing.......too bad I lost it this weekend! I was sooooo tired when I left work this Saturday that I forgot to check the gas gauge. I ran out of gas with only 1.5 miles to go. I called my dad to come help and somewhere between the side of the road, the gas station and the house. Can I find it? Nope. Tried everything. Searched everywhere I can think of. I can't believe how attached I have become. I feel like I lost an appendage!

I like Free! How 'bout you?

Free photobook at Photoworks Coupon code is BONNIE and can be used on the 8x11.5 size book with 20 pages. Thanks, photoworks, for making Christmas even less expensive!!!

Christmas Gift Ideas!

I didn't really like dolls a lot while I was growing up but these may have changed my mind. These are so soft and cuddly and cute!!! If I had any little girls on my gift list this year I would definitely be giving gifts from blabla. Check out their line of finger puppets too. Soooooo adorable!

Have you heard of "The Pioneer Woman"?

Talk about a blogging success story!!! Ree Drummond has gone from blogger to successful published author! Her cookbook is fabulous with a combination of homespun humor, photography, recipes and folklore. It'll make you smile and fill your tummy at the same time! You have to check out her site Pioneer Woman

Why do you have a blog?

I was wondering about this the other day........what was my motivation to start this blog and why do I attempt to keep it up? I really didn't know a lot of bloggers at the time and I'm not the journaling or srapbooking type so a blog was not a natural transistion to make. I started last summer just before our annual vacation to the "Great White North". I knew that I wanted to document our adventures and I wanted a way for other members of my family to keep up with us. Instead this has turned into more of a journal than I anticipated. It's so easy to look back with a blog. I love it!!! I've even found a place that will print and bind your blog into a book. What a cute idea for a family Christmas gift a few years from now, don't ya think? I love both www.blurb.com and www.lulu.com. I plan to get this done every couple of years. I'd do it more often if I was a more prolific writer but.....I'm not!

The Actions of Others

I had the priviledge of speaking with a wonderful woman who is a married mom of six boys. We hadn't spoken since we were both teens and it was wonderful to feel that connection come back so quickly. As we talked she felt much more free to let me into some of the secrets of her life. I felt so priveleged to be able to hear her out and let her talk about things that were such trials in her life. Her husband had betrayed her 7 years ago and had been excommunicated from the church. They made the decision to stay together and work out their marriage. She is so full of faith and forgiveness. I don't know how she does it. It would have killed me! She described to me the feelings she and her husband had shared as they were sealed; a physical, life changing feeling that holds her and him up to this day. Not only that she has 3 sons who are mentally disabled and has to homeschool them because the school can't provide the programs they need. Yet almost all that she talked about was the love she had for all the men in her life. That included a brother who had cut himself off 20yrs ago, a husband who loses job after job and cheated on her, a father who was much less than he should have been and her wonderful boys. She kept talking about how she wanted to be a better model for them; to show them how forgiveness works. I looked at how she had reacted to all of these difficulties in her life and how she chose to react to them. She was able to put aside all the hurts that had been piled on her by others and see past them. Yet what I saw was the pile of actions against her. How much she had done to her and how it could have changed her for the worse but hadn't. Her heart was as pure as a newborn child. If only I could be like her!!!

Well that was a shocker!

Ever had anybody say something to you that just shocks you to the very core of your view of yourself? I received a note today that blew my mind. My behavior was called into question. Not by the note writer but by their significant other. This is a very dear old friend; some one I have known since childhood and considered a constant support in my life. Now their new love interest is jealous of our friendship. We have to curtail talking to satisfy them. Argh! Talk about needy!! I am seriously frustrated and hurt. I know that a love is more important than friends but it was the way it was delivered. Of course they should come first but they want me to go away entirely. I guess I'm just some sort of bad influence or something.

I've been away

Ok maybe not physically but definitely mentally! LOL!! I've been busy starting a new job and finishing up the old one. I've had a few photoshoots and lots of editing as well and I guess I'm just not the type to be able to juggle everything and keep it up to date.

So, about the new job. I've left the Depot in the dust and work here in town instead of that long commute to the city. They pay me more and combined with the savings in gas I am making a killing.....kidding. The best part though is that I am here for my son more often. I've gotten 2 hours back in my day and no early morning shifts anymore!!!!! I've never been a morning person so I am particularly happy about working normal daytime hours.

I have a blog?? Really? Hmmmm Maybe I Should Write Something....

Image via Wikipedia

Ya but.... what? Well.....I'm stalling.....I'm stalling.....I'm...
Got it! So my ankle and foot are an amazing color of purplish blue. I seem to have an amazing talent for getting hurt. On Saturday the hubby, son and I were at West Ed enjoying the attractions. Hunter had to try the Segways. I thought they looked pretty cool and thought well what's the harm, right? HUH! I think I must be a magnet for injuries and accidents. I got to ride the all terrain one. It was BIG! I thought I had the hang of it. I could ride the track and up and down the little ramps. But then they threw in a large ramp and my skills weren't as proficient as I thought. As I got to the top it started to roll back. I stepped off and that was my mondo mistake. My foot caught on the edge of the ramp, and the Segway rolled back and snagged my ankle at twisting it the opposite way that my foot was going. Yowchy!! All this momentum through me down the ramp onto my elbow, shoulder and head. I didn't want to ruin our time together so I downplayed the whole thing. By the end of the day it was HUGE! So now I walk around with a limp, again. The folks at work think I'm some sort of freaky loser who can't be allowed around machinery and should live in a plexiglass box like a David Blaine stunt. Maybe I'll become a mime for my next gig. For now I respond to the name "Gimpy".

The Well is Dry and Must be Refilled

No not literally! We have fresh spring water in our taps anyway!

What I really mean is the emotional well. Wendy, my friend at work, has been having a rough time emotionally lately. I know, welcome to the club, right? Her husband has been snipey for the last few days and said something that still had her crying hours later. I asked what she was going to do about it. "Nothing". She was just going to let it go on his end but then let the emotions fester on hers. BAD BAD BAD! Now, I'm not advicating that she get even with her man but that she instead take care of herself! I made the bold suggestion that she take herself out for dinner, or a massage or even just go to a hotel for a night or two where she indulged in a good book and some chocolate. Normally I would want her to let her husband know how his words had stung but that suggestion was shot down like a clay pigeon. She has an old fashioned view of marriage and thinks that she shouldn't confront her husband. BAH! No confrontation needed. Just a quick "that hurt" or "please don't say things like that" will suffice.
Poor Wendy. She has never done these things for herself (She is also the mother of a very handicapped child). She was truly scared to get a hotel room alone or eat dinner by herself. She wanted to but just is too timid. I know her life is difficult and taking time for herself is hard to find but it is a must. Noone can give, give give, without recharging. Everyone will eventually run down to the gravelly bottom of the emotional well. So ladies, take meaningful time for you! Not just hiding in the bathroom for 2 minutes a day to be by yourself. Get out of the house! Take a walk, read a great book, eat a meal you didn't prepare and find a way to laugh!!!

I'LL SAY WHATEVER I WANT!!!!

I'm am so very angry!!!!! I will not apologize for any of my actions recently and I won't apologize for anything I am about to say or have said in the past. I refuse to accept you foisting your feelings of inadequacy on my shoulders. I don't care how insecure you feel about yourself; you do not get to take it out on me!!!! You are an emotional abuser and always have been. But then again that is a step up from the physical abuse you used to dole out. However, that is still not a reason to let you stay in my life. You chose to behave badly. You have no excuse to act that way.
I have worked my entire life to be acceptable to you. I have never, got that?, never! felt loved by you. I have never felt like who I am is good enough. I will not allow either of you to treat me differently than you treat the others. I will not accept leftovers any longer. I do not want conditional love. Oh wait I haven't even rated that yet. HA! You have acted toward me and my child in this manner for the last time. Is that clear?!?!?!?!?! THE LAST TIME! I won't be allowing you back into my life in any degree for the time being. You must get a lot of help. You cannot be around me. I refuse to let your toxic behavior ruin my life anymore. I don't care what happened to you in the past. I don't care what lame excuse you will lay like a sacrificial lamb at my feet. You no longer exist in my life. I don't care what the consequences are at this time because they cannot be worse than what has happened before. Just remember...you are the cause and the cure. Stay away from me and I'll do the same for you.

Do me a favor?? Please?

Would you mind checking out the work blog and giving your opinion for me, please? I'm a little unsure about these designs and could use some feed back. Thanks!!! Wild Rose Images Blog

Lots of excitement around here!!

This evening I saw SiSi's Facebook status and saw that the nut-job ex was had called her again. I was worried and contacted her immediately to make sure she was safe. She had done the right thing and hung up as soon as she realized who it was and then called the police to lodge another complaint. This guy is soooo stupid!!! The police have been to see him and inform him his contact is not wanted but he just won't give up. I think it is to the point now that he is about to be charged with harassment. Just as I was discussing the police and such another adventure began.....
Wowzer!! Mom was the victim of road rage tonight. Not just your average run of the mill honking, speeding, tailgating fool, but a bonafide nut case that followed her right to the house and came inside. YIKES!! I guess this lady's grandson crossed the highway on his bike (totally illegal) and mom didn't see him until almost too late. She didn't hit him or anything but this lady went bonkers! She pulled out and passed mom and then slowed down, sped up, signalled right then left, then even stopped in the middle of the highway with cars lining up behind them. Finally she pulled to the side and stopped so mom came on home only to find Crazy on her tail. Mom pulled into the garage because she didn't feel safe and before she could get into the house this woman was trying to poke her head under the garage door as it was closing. She then ran around to our front door and since the screen door was all that was closed Dad just waved her in. She then starts in on this tirade about "whoever just about killed my grandson". Mom came in then and was yelling for us to call the cops. My timid mommy ran to the front door and started to tell this lunatic off with both of them threatening to call the cops. Well, we followed through. I don't know what's going to happen now but whoa what a night!!!

My baby girl is a blogger tooo!

SiSi (Hunter's name for her) has started her own blog. It's really cute! Those of you who know her may want to check it out. Will Blog For Food. I think it's a great idea she has started here. If you have any tips for her please share!

The fun is done.....

Utah? Been there. Done that. My summer fun has come to an end. The oldest one is well ensconced in her new apartment. Her books are purchased and some work has been obtained to offset her parents costs. Thank goodness!!! She seems to like the new place so I'll just wait for the first phone call once classes have started to see how she really is. Leaving a child, no matter what their age is really difficult! I know it's not the first time but it's still really hard letting go.
I had a really nice surprise though. Doug flew in for the weekend!!! It was fan-freakin-tastic to get to spend time with the man. I have missed him lately like I never have before. We've always had years where we would spend about a month apart during the summers and that has been fine but now we've put a whole year under our belts and it's not so fine anymore. It's killing me to be precise. I've always been so independent and liked it but not anymore. Give me my man!!! We've decided to fast together this Thurs. to see if we can get some answers to put the family back together. I sure need your prayers if you can spare some. There has to be a way to make this work for all of us. We just can't see it yet. So, a little begging and pleading on our behalf would be more than appreciated.

We made it!!!

After a nice long drive, we finally found some warm weather. Summer showed up in Utah. Too bad it didn't make it as far north as Alberta this year. Hunter is sooooo happy to see Sierra. He has really missed her. It is funny to see them together again. Last time he was at least 6 inches smaller than he is now. She was so surprised that he was that big. LOL! She is about 6ft and he is almost as tall as me now. Won't be long before he towers over her. Last night at the hotel, while he was swimming, I just happened to notice how grown up he is looking. He has an adam's apple now and his shoulders are starting to get a little broader. He is getting that gangly teenager look about him but still wants to look ultra cool all the time. What a change that is! The gorgeous daughter informs me that she has been having a great time dating one particular young man. Thankfully he is leaving on a mission soon. I get to help her move into her apartment on Friday. She is living off campus this year. We'll be doing a lot of school shopping down here 'cause with their economy so crappy the deals are amazing. Great news for my pocket book.

This is SO cool!!

I live out in the boonies, right? And I'm cheap too. So that means I have peasant TV. Yup, three whole channels of nothing, but today I discovered the best online site ever!!! I can watch the good channels I've been missing right here with Online TV. Now I won't be missing out on anything cause it's free too!!! Hehehehe!! I feel like I've discovered a gold mine!! So cool!

Still here.....

I put off posting for a while in hopes that I would have some good news to tell you all about. Sorry, but the news isn't what I wanted. I applied for a Department Supervisor position at HD and thought I had a pretty good chance of getting it. Oooopps! Wrong again!!!! But what else is new? Anyway, I was told it was a very close competition but they went with a fellow associate of mine that had been working here longer than me. When I asked for feed back about the interview and what I could do to improve my chances for next time I was told that I needed to learn to put things more delicately. That I needed to learn to deliver things in a more positive way. Code for "you're too harsh". That's the one thing that was certain to bring me to tears. Yup I am sometimes loud, brash, over the top, and at times aggressive. Apparently not a good quality. It is the one part of my personality that I have the most insecurity about. Usually I am happy with who I am and what I do, except when someone points out that I am not all sunshine and light, or that I am not what they usually expect from big breasted blondes. I don't have that cheerleader smile and joy oozing from my pores. I'm not what the RS ladies would call a sweet spirit. I try! Really, I do!!! I want to be seen as a kind, good person and most of the time see myself as that but maybe I live in the land of denial and don't see the real me. I guess I'm more of a square peg who can't fit the round hole. Hmmmm....... lots to think about and re-assess. Is a personality makeover even possible?

Oh my aching Shoulders and Back!!

I must be getting old or something!!! I know I'm not in years but really my body has been dragging lately. The last week or so my back and shoulders have been so tense and sore. I needed a massage so badly but I honestly don't have the time to take out of my day. An hour at a massage therapists just isn't possible with my long work day and long commute. But those are the exact reasons I need one. So what to do? Check these out!!! Human Touch Massage Chairs You have to try these!! It's like a real person is working your body! I sat down in one and didn't want to get out again. I must have one of these! Seriously, they are amazing. This company has analyzed massage therapists and used the latest techniques in robotics to replicate the movements. The result? AMAZING! My favorite part is the calf massage. Ya, you heard me.... calf massage from a chair! I loved it!!!! My body felt just as good as it did after a massage from a well known spa. I know lots of you have tried other massage chairs that have those rolling things and claim to be realistic shiatsu massages. Ya, whatever! They don't even close to the Human Touch Massage Chair These have more than one dimension to the movements and that makes all the difference! Oh, Honey!! My birthday is coming up! Hint, hint.

Perfume Shopping

Image by Auntie P via Flickr

I was bored the other day while waiting to pick someone up at the airport and spent my time at the fragrance counter trying to pick out a new perfume. There are soooo many out there! I used to have a signature scent called Tuscany and just loved it. But I out grew it and need to find something more updated. I love scents that are a little bit floral with a touch of citrus and a light undertone of musk. That's a hard combo to find! However, I have found a great spot online to shop for perfumes! Online perfume! Tons of great perfumes there for both men and women. Old lines, new ones and lots in between. Should be able to find what I need there for sure! One thing I hate is being limited to one company at the counter. But I haven't felt limited at SCENT! Hopefully this site will help me find just what I am looking for.

Re-worked Website

Hey all! I just finished an update to my business website. Would you do me the honor of checking it out and giving me your opinion please? Wild Rose Images

Tacky Wedding Announcements / Invitations

This spring and summer we have been inundated with wedding invitations from very cute, adoring couples. They all contain lovely pictures, beautiful script and sweet messages of a happy future together. I love the creativeness of them but invitations get less formal every year. I've been shocked by some of the things I've read in ones sent to us, weddings I've worked and some winners posted online. Tucked inside you might find little notes that say things like:

"Please Donate to Our Dream Honeymoon Instead of Gifts", I'm sure there are nice resorts closer than a Safari through Kenya.
"Please Include Gift Receipts with Gifts", cause we might think it's cheap and ugly and want the cash more!
"Money Tree/Wishing Well at Guest Register", we're trying to be subtle but all we really want is your bank account!
"Help us buy the bride a piano! Sshhh! It's a surprise!", wow! that's a major money grab!
"No Boxed Gifts" (just cash...hint, hint),
"No Gifts Please. Envelopes Accepted", and they better be stuffed with the green, baby!
"Our House has Already Been Made Into a Home but the Bride Will Pass Her Boot Around After the Ceremony", No explanation necessary! But a boot?!?! Really?!?! On your wedding day???
"Target is Our Favorite Store. Gift Cards Appreciated", ya, we just don't trust your gift buying skills.....your taste stinks and we don't want it in our house!
"We are Dedicated to a Life of Simplicity and Therefore Request Gifts be Monetary to Help Pay Our Student Loan Debt". (honeymoon is in Hawaii and if you have to announce you live simply well then, Honey, you ain't doin' it)
"We've Found Each Other. Oh What Luck! There's a Family Dinner. Just Remember, it's POTLUCK!" If you need help with a wedding just ask your family and friends but not on the invitation itself. A little forethought is all we're asking.
and one lovely phrase I read today...
"No gifts. Minimum donation $100" apparently not an uncommon request in the northeastern states. (they threw a six figure wedding)

My all time favorite tacky behavior at weddings? The Dollar Dance!! Guests pay the Bride and Groom for a turn on the dance floor, tucking bills into hands, pockets and pinning to the gown. I don't know about you but I can't be hired as a private dancer for anybody! You could end up dancing with a major Creeper!

Come on people! Miss Manners must be gobsmacked when she hears of these. If you check any wedding etiquette book or website it will tell you that even including your registry information is viewed as extremely rude. This is just so TACKY!! A wedding is supposed to be an occasion celebrated with your loved ones not a pick pocket session. People want to give you gifts when you marry. Honestly we do. However a direct plea for money is truly unseemly. Let your mother or mother-in-law to-be and your bridesmaids quietly pass the word about your registry or what your monetary needs are. Your family and friends will almost certainly ask just because they love you and want to give what you desire. Don't make them feel like they have to pay a cover charge to offer their congratulations on your blissful union.

Oh Where, Oh Where have my little friends gone?

Image via Wikipedia

Summer vacations must be in full swing because the blog posting has dried up and withered to a stand still. Are you out there anywhere? I sure hope all y'all are having a bang up time whatever you are doing. I, on the other hand am not having a vacation this year. I get to spend my summer working but at least I am learning new skills and making some cash. Nothing wrong with that, eh? It looks like both of my supervisors are moving on so I might try for their positions and make even more moola. I think I might try to squeeze in a quick trip down to Utah to see the daughter and do some shopping so maybe that will count as a holiday.
In 2 weeks we are going to have an onslaught of visitors. For the first time in many years, my brothers and sisters and their children will be gathering together. I can't even remember the las time we had a full family event. Mom and Dad are really looking forward to this event and who can blame them? Seriously though, I think it has been at least 10 yrs.

Image by holisticgeek via Flickr

Wow! Time really flies doesn't it? Well, with this many people showing up, Mom and I are going to have to get some serious baking done and cassoroles in the freezer. I can't imagine where we will put everyone either. Hope the kids like tents cause this is a small house. LOL! I'm sure they will love it!

A SAD DAY FOR BIOGRAPHY ENTHUSIATS

Cover of Angela's Ashes

I learned this afternoon that one of my favorite authors had passed away after a fight with Melanoma and Meningitis. Frank McCourt was an amazing author!!! He authored 3 books about his life but the most famous was, "ANGELA'S ASHES". He grew up beyond dirt poor in desperate circumstances during the 1930's. He had an undeniable gift for story telling and used it well to describe his growing up years. Thanks Frank, for all the times I have reread your books and through my imagination lived in your world. I can't wait to talk to you on the other side. In the mean time have a good rest and think up some new stories to tell me when I get there.

What were you thinking??

Image via CrunchBase

We all have days when we hate our jobs and I'll fully acknowledge that mine gets the best of me on a regular basis. However, announcing to the world that you are quitting via Facebook may not be the best strategy. Today I noticed a fellow employee's Facebook status complaining about her poor treatment and declaring how the company would suffer without her now. Uhhh.... you haven't even turned in your resignation and yet you are boldly pitching this news into the world where not only your associates, but your boss can read it? Not what I would call strategic career planning. I know many of use use these social networking sites like a generation before used land lines to communicate. Unfortunately, there is no privacy online. If you post it be prepared for anyone in the world to know about it and be prepared for the consequences. Let's hope the places she seeks a post don't have the smarts to background check on Facebook 'cause she just placed a big ol' "UNRELIABLE" sign on her back. Future employers will just see a woman who is disloyal and indescrete. Complaining is one thing but hostile public announcements of resignation can be career enders.

Better do this while I'm still awake.........hardy har har

The clock on my dresser says it's past midnight again. I haven't been able to sleep properly in ages. All night long my mind races through things I should have done, things I wish I could do, why it should be different, how to be better as a mom, an employee, as a photographer. I have yet to find a way to shut off the gears that spin continuously. Work has been a complete island of stress. More and more gets dumped on my plate. The equipment I am supposed to work with is faulty causing me to often have to repeat work I have just done. I am frustrated beyond measure. I'm sure the lack of sleep is contributing to this but how do you make it stop when it just causes me to worry more and have less emotional reserve for the tough days?
I wanted to enter a photo for a gallery showing in August but haven't had the time or the creativity to complete it. I have to be honest.....I hate working for other people!!!! It drives me crazy to have to cow-tow to others demands. I am not used to being under someone's supervision. It really chafes!!! Last week I got sick and took a day off. While gone, the merchandizing manager worked the inventory ordering for the day. YIKES! What a mess he made!!!!! I had to spend half the next day calling vendors and cancelling orders for things we don't even carry. I was so irked with him that the instant I ran into him I gave him a good telling off. "Don't you ever touch my orders again"!! He was shocked but when I explained the mess he had made he agreed not to try to "help" anymore. Thank goodness. Today, the mobile computer that I use ran out of battery within an hour. By 10am I had gone through 4 uncharged carts. I was so disheartened. I am becoming embittered about my job. Hmmph! Anybody know where the money tree grows?

I never expected this

Our family reunion is coming up and we have to get the family campground ready. My dad and Uncle went up to the cabin to build a new outhouse. A new non-stinky, composting kind. They happened to forget to take the bedding up so I thought I would do the thoughtful thing and take it up for whoever wanted to use the cabin next. As I came down the hill to the campground I saw something that made me pull up short and start to hyperventilate. My uncle, the nasty, creepy molester kind, was there with my dad and other men working up there. I just stood there for a few minutes not knowing what to do. The old farm truck I had driven up had broken down and I had no real way to escape. This disgusting man has molested so many people it is hard to keep track. He spent 10 yrs in a prison in Arizona for what he did to a grandaughter. He is now not allowed within 100 metres of children. My dad finally saw me and called to me to come down and join them. My answer? NO!!!!!! I just couldn't go anywhere near that man. Talk about a panic! I went down to the creek to try and stay out of his way. Then I stayed as far away as I could for the next hour or so till I could get a ride out of there. I couldn't look at where he was. I definitely couldn't look at his face. What an afternoon. I never, ever wanted to see him again. Now, don't get me wrong here. I have no concrete memories of him molesting me and I purposely don't think about times with him so that if there are memories I won't have to know about it. What we do know is that he molested kids who were babysat at their house, and I was babysat there. We do know that as an 18 month old child I ran away from his house when he was babysitting me. The found me blocks away. Why would I run as a toddler? Well, I won't accuse him of anything but I panic whenever I even think about him getting near me. I avoid contact with him like the plague. Normally the family doesn't have contact with him at all. We never let him come to the reunions but they didn't think that anyone else would be coming up so they let his son bring him to get him out of the house. He is an old man and I guess they felt sorry for him. So now they know that they have to give me warning too before he is allowed up there again.

Ya I'd post but...........

I'm too lazy, too tired, too blah.

Stampede!!!

Image via Wikipedia

Can you believe that this is the first time in my life that I have gone to the Stampede?!?! I now know what a wasted experience the first 38.8 yrs have been. LOL! We had so much fun. Did so many things. Saw some amazing events and animals. But best of all, we did it as a family. One word of caution though..... it's wicked expensive. Also, be prepared for any kind of weather. We got caught in a rain storm and had to scramble and buy ponchos and hats in a hurry. But that's ok 'cause now I have a an awesome new black cowboy hat!
I got a little camera happy too and will post some pics on Wild Rose Images.

I was so suprised this afternoon to find out that I have another book cover!

The picture below the banner is mine. I am thrilled to death!!! I love being published and I love seeing the final result. The title is "Leaning on the Wind: Under the Spell of the Great Chinook" by Sid Marty. It's available on borders.com if you're interested. I also wanted to say to all of you, thank you! You've been so supportive of my photographic efforts. When I get discouraged and want to throw in the towel I get some wonderful comment from a kind friend with just enough oomph to move me on to the next project. I love you for it!!!!

Look what lives at my house!

MOMMA

BABIES

We've enjoyed that baby racoons, the baby owls and we also have a family of foxes in the field. They are so cute. The babies come out in the evening and play tag with each other. Sooo adorable that I wish I could catch one and make it a pet!!! The pictures are complete crap but at least you can see how cute they are.

Signed on the Dotted Line

Image via Wikipedia

Well, I've finally made the car purchase. (drum roooollllllll) A bright red Pontiac G6 sedan. I really wanted to go with an SUV but the gas usage on my comute would have been ridiculous. I shopped for days trying to convince myself to by a car. I couldn't find anything that made me say something more than, whatever! I was about to give up but decided one more dealership. I saw one I thought I would like but was dead wrong. So decide to try the cute red one. OOOO wait this is fun. Then I started up the engine. Wow!!! This one was so fun to drive! I loved all the gizmos and gadgets! Finally! A car I could like as much as the much covetted Ford Edge (which will be my next car). The deal is that in a year or so this one wil be Doug's and I will be able to buy whatever I want. Hehehe! I put in an offer and got it at a fabulous price. Lower than it blue booked in the States. Boy is the husband proud of me. I've signed all the paper work and will be picking it up Monday after work once I have insurance and registered the sucker. Yeah!!!! Freedom!!!!!!!

Families of Cuties

Some little cuties have shown up in our backyard. Five baby racoons and their momma live in a hollow tree. These pesky things crawl up and down that tree and yesterday ventured out to the front yard and beyond. Although they are super cute they are really mean. Watch for teeth and sharp claws. They'll try to use them.

Barb brought her family of cuties by to see our racoons. Who could resist faces like these? I had to grab my camera!!! These babies are some of the cutest we've had in the yard in a while. Ours have gotten too big to let me just shoot while they play. I'll post a few more of this family on my photoblog, Wild Rose Images.

Car Shopping (being stuck by a thousand needles)

Image via Wikipedia

You all know that I need a car. I still haven't replaced the totalled SUV from last winter. I've been gradually stopping by dealerships and trying out vehicles. I have to do it small steps because I feel so overwhelmed when salesmen approach me and ask what I am looking for. I DON"T KNOW!! It needs to drive me to work, get decent gas mileage, be reasonably priced, cute, if possible, and not make me feel like the average soccer mom. I found an add today that had the exact car I wanted for a steal of a price and exactly the color I wanted. A Dodge Journey! I loved my Durango before the husband sold it when I got cancer for a minivan with all the fancy features like buttons that close doors, so I wouldn't have to strain myself ie. get fatter. Unfortunately, by the time I could get over there after work they had sold it. So I spent much of the afternoon scoping out more cars. AAAHHHH! The salesmen were such slimey guys. Why can't they just give you a straight answer? I couldn't handle more than a couple of hours of the torture and had to give up. I think I'll do all my preliminaries online and then just show up with my best offer and they can take it or leave it. Back to the web to shop shop shop.

What was I thinking??!?!

I've been hobbling around for a week now. My legs below my knees have been sheer agony! On Tuesday I finally went to a Dr. about the excrutiating pain. The diagnosis? Looks like stress fractures of the tibia. Nice! I'm on Percocet, Toradol, and a topical anti-inflamitory as well. They still hurt like nothing I have ever experienced. I've been put on sedentary duties at work for a week. I feel so lazy. I can't do anything really. Yesterday I had to take Hunter to Calgary for his Nexxus card interview (which they couldn't finish due to a computer glitch) and it involved a little walking. Hah! We stopped at a mall to get him some new shoes and it was all I could do to get that done and get back in the car to drive home. What a wimp I am!! My bones haven't been the same since cancer took my hormone goodies and I should have taken that into consideration in my training schedule. These lame old bones needed to be built up to withstand my pounding on pavement. So what's my treatment? Rest. HAHAHAHA!!! When is that going to happen?

I did it!!!

Yup, that's right. I finished my first 10k. I thought it would never end but eventually it did. I can't say I had a great finishing time but, well.... it will get better as I train more. My very painful shins (shin splints, stress factures?????) didn't make it easy but I committed to 10k and I was doing the whole thing. We looked utterly ridiculous in our underwear get ups but so did the rest of the participants. I've never seen so much skin and weirdness in one place. I may even post a link to pics once it is available.

Speed Racer!

Hunter made Divisionals for the 400m race! He he is starting out his heat!!! I am so proud of him. He, like most autistic people, is not very coordinated. So for him to even place in a race is a miracle to me. When he showed me the list of events last night and his name was on it I was thrilled. He tried his best and didn't place this time, but that's OK with me. We are just so very proud of him for even trying something that doesn't come naturally to him. Go, HUNTER!!!!!

Sitting at the Airport!

The bags have been packed, the extra fees to check one onto the plane with me have been paid, and I am officially on my way to see the Husband! Yeah!!! I will be gone for almost a week. I can't wait to get a back rub! He does such good massages, and no I won't loan him out! He's all mine! LOL!
While down there I am shooting a wedding (big surprise, right?) but my camera is still in Ontario being repaired. I went to McBain Camera in Lethbridge where I do most of my urgent camera shopping and they were kind enough to loan me a camera again. Unfortunately, (ya right!) they didn't have my exact model on hand. Hmmmm what to do........? OH ya, let's just let her use the most fabulous DSLR to come out in the last year, the Canon 5D MkII. Seriously! I get to use it all week. It's going to be miserable to give back. It is 23 mega pixels and sharp as can be! Paired with my new L glass, it will be killer. This week should be a blast! Picture overload!!! More like harddrive overload. May have to pick up another pocket external! LoL. Anyway, got to go catch my flight to Hotlanta!

Oh the Jiggling and the Jostling

As most of you know by know, I am running my first race in the UNDERWEAR AFFAIR. It's coming up in two weeks."PLEASE DONATE!!! Running isn't something I've done since my diagnosis of cancer. I kind of gave up on the whole fitness and sensible eating route. With finally finding a way to support Uterine Cancer I'm back on the band wagon. So today while I was out for the jog, I made some discoveries. First, if I relax my body and let it do it's thing instead of trying to protect my back, knees and ankles which obviously was causing me to unintentionally tighten those muscles, running feels better. It's not the total drudge I've been thinking. Also if I don't force the pace and think I have to be so fast I accomplish a lot more. I don't burn out. I've learned to set small goals like getting to that big tree down the road. LOL! If I think of it in smaller parcels I don't psych myself out by thinking I'll never get there.
Now, I must be one of those very annoying people who ask everyone and their dog for money to support their pet causes. But, this one means the world to me and I have to do what I can. So please, please, please, find it in your heart to help me raise $1000 in the next 10 days. If $5 is all you can do that's great! I'll take it! Please, DONATE.

I'm still here, really I am!

I was tempted to go back into hibernation this week when the snow showed up again. I wasn't sure I could handle more winter. Honestly, I was about prepared to brave the H1N1 flu virus and move to Cabo. But what do ya know, the sun showed up this weekend. Nice enough out that I'm thinking about breaking the horses. LOL! That should be a challenge. Let's have a picnic too!!! I think it will be fun to perfect a knew recipe over a fire, don't you? MMMM S'mores! Cheezy smokies and mustard! Smelling like a campfire. Attractive, no? So...want to come with? You're invited. Just join me at the Beazer crossroads on Monday at 10. I'll see you there!!


UPDATE!! Ok, scratch that last date and time. Leaving NOW!!! CYA!

New Pics!!

Posted new pics on the photo blog. Take a look if you want too. Wild Rose Images

New Internet!!

We just got a new satellite connection set up this morning! Yay!! It is soooo much faster than what we used to have. I am actually able to upload pictures again. Maybe now I will be able to keep up with my business blog. LOL hmmm maybe that would help to drum up some more business. Anyway, I was able to upload a lot of the pics from the last 2 weddings onto facebook and that should get my name out a bit more. Lets hope anyway.

Also, I have had a bit more interest in my fund raising efforts for my race in the Underwear Affair. I am so thrilled! I've even been running. How's that for a shocker. Haven't done much of that for 4 years. But, this has given me the motivation. That and my new cute, cute Nikes.

What a week!!!

I am so worn out! Mentally and physically! Monday my external hard drive jumped down onto the floor and broke. I lost so much including the latest wedding I was working on. I was just logging on to upload it to my storage and viewing site when it took it's fatal dive. I have been working like an insane woman all week trying desperately to recover enough material to present to the bride and groom. 4 hrs of sleep a night and a full days work plus commute then home to pick at my computers memory some more. I have recovered over a hundred photos but not as many as I promised the bride. I am missing some key photos like the bride and her grandparents but I don't know what else to do. I have reached the limit of my knowledge and my abilities. I guess I'll have to try and offer them a refund and beg their forgiveness or maybe a free album, professionally designed by their loser photographer, me.
Along with that fiasco, my work environment has been very challenging this week. I've had it with the grumpy old men club. Those crabs in the plumbing and electric departments need to be put out to pasture. What jerks!!! I am so tired of them griping everytime I give them their packdown assignments for the day. I am sick of them dropping papers loaded with numbers at me without explaining what they are. I am done with being blamed when the central office doesn't send the items they are in charge of and I have no control over. I am not having it anymore. I am not being the whipping girl for those crabby old prunes. I will stand up to them from now on. No more Mrs. Nice Girl. Pass the chocolate!!

Fantastic Parenting

My uncle Hugh is a riot. You have to read this article about his latest parenting choice. Parenting with the Geneva Conventions

Dropping Everything!!! Including my drawers!

Most of you who are regular readers of my blog know that I am a 4 yr survivor of Endometrial Cancer. For those years I have been searching for a way to bring awareness to a taboo cancer. Even celebrities who've had it don't talk about it much (Fran Drescher). Cancer of any kind is devistating but one that takes away all the bits that make you a woman is particularly emotionally damaging.
Yesterday a co-worker began to talk about a cancer fundraiser she was participating in. I immediately assumed it was for one of the more well represented cancers and kind of tuned her out. Bad me!!! I finally asked what cancer it supported and was shocked yet thrilled to find out it was for cancers below the waist. I immediately announced I wanted in and was invited to join their team, Saving 3rd Base . We'll be running through the streets of Calgary in our UNDERWEAR!! No, not really. Actually we will be costumed in a pair of fushia and black striped boy shorts, White with black striped, thigh high, socks, and white and black baseball T's that say Saving 3rd Base. Can you picture it? LOL!! Anyway, I'm looking for support boys and girls!!!! Donations will be more than appreciated! I can't do this on my own and besides what could be funnier than me and my prow of a ship physique running in that get-up? I may even wear a pink wig just to top it off.

Guess what I saw......

So, on the way home from work the other day, I happened to glance over to the east side of the road. I mean, come on, that drive can get pretty boring and just watching the highway is DULLSVILLE!! Anyway as I was admiring the roll of the prairie stubble I noticed an animal about 100yards back from the road just standing watching the cars pass. I noticed it from quite a ways back so was able to watch what it was doing. And just guess what it was........ a WOLF!!!

Stunned!

I was speaking with an aquaintance recently and she related the most shocking story to me. They moved to Leth a few years ago into a very upscale area. The ward in that section of town is full of trophy wives and too much money. Think of it as the House Wives of Orange County on a smaller scale and Canadian, Mormon style. Gettin' the picture? Anyway......the women have treated her abominally. They were disgusted with her career choice (not high class enough) and have basically shunned her entirely. That's not the shocking part, though. She had a teenage daughter at the time they moved in. The reigning "teen queen" of the ward told her daughter, "Look, this is how it works here. We do anything and everything. Then, when we want to get married in the Temple we just repent". WHAT?????? Yet, I knew this was accurate. I have known kids in that area who were like that. I just didn't know it was the general state of behavior. Now don't get me wrong. I'm not trying to be judgemental here. My problem with this is the hypocracy. I don't care what you believe or how you choose to live as long as you are genuine and honest. If those girls want to be that way, fine. Just don't fake it each Sunday, pretending to be a perfect, pretty, princess who lives her YW values. Ya know, these girls may end up having wonderful lives in the end but what about the girls they influenced with their behavior? Remember the movie "Mean Girls"? Think of it with a Mormon twist. Disgusting!!

Have you heard the latest?

Pres. Obama visited Canada last week. Not new news, I know but, today NORAD released information regarding an incident that happened earlier that same day. Apparently a Russian bomber flew well into Canadian airspace. Two fighter jets were sent from Cold Lake, Alberta to intercept. The Russian military claimed it was a routine patrol. So why were they in our air space? Well, here is my interpretation.......Lately there has been an international dispute about Canada's claim to the Artic islands that we have claimed for more than 100 years without issue. Now all sorts of countries want to raise the flag on these far northern barren lands because there is a good chance they are full of minerals and most likely oil and gas. Unbelievable!!! How about Canada just lays claim to Florida since so many of us journey down there for months at a time? Sounds fair, right? Or maybe we'll just claim the Hawaiian Islands. They'd be a fair trade for those northern islands, don't ya think?

Forgive Me?

I have been a terribly neglectful blogger. I confess that I have been just too busy to get on the computer much. My shift starts at 6 am and since I am not a morning person this has taken some getting used to. However, I am not about to complain. I LOVE working at HD. Most of the people I work with are fantastic! I've, for the most part, learned the computer system I use to control the ordering for my departments and feel quite competent in my position now. There's more to learn this week and I'm excited to do it.

Poor little Stink has been so very sick this week. Sicker than he has been in years. I've experienced for the first time the guilt of leaving a sick child because of my work responsibilities. Thank goodness for Mom. She took care of the little guy and he is making a good recovery.

I've also got 2 weddings booked here in Alberta. Yay!!!!! Let's hope for lots more! I'll post some of the engagement pics I took this week on the other blog soon.

Colour Me Orange

I've joined the ranks of the Home Depot team. Picture me in an orange apron. Nevermind! Picturing me is not a good idea. Working at The Big Orange is like living in a candy store. I love it!!!! I spend my breaks wondering the aisles planning my next rennovation. So much for that pay check LOL!

Oh yeah! Check out the pics on http://www.wildroseimages.blogspot.com

The Kindness of Strangers

I had to make a run into Leth yesterday to see the Dr. It was a last minute thing and we took the car even though we knew it needed some work on the muffler. At least that's what we thought the problem was. On the way home, about 5 miles out of the city we heard a horrible noise like a loud crash and then grating, screaching metal on asphalt. Oh crap! I pulled over as fast as I could and jumped out to see what was wrong. The entire exhaust system from the manifold (by the engine) almost to the muffler was on the ground. Not kidding! The only piece still attached was the tail end of the muffler. AWWW! I called my dad 'cause he had AAA and I figured a tow truck was in order. You know my luck. His AAA membership is only good if he is in the car not for the car itself. Hmmmm. Cars whizzed past as I desperately tried to push the muffler out of its connection so that I could just toss the exhaust system aside and get on my way home. No good. Finally a very kind man stopped to lend a hand. He had tools and a tarp and was willing to get down on the ground with me to do the work. What a guy! He helped get the pipes out from where they were stuck under the frame and then jerry rigged a set up with a small chain with hooks was wrapped around the exhaust pipes and then a tow rope was lowered down through the engine compartment to snag the hook. I yanked the rope up and lifted the exhaust system up. We took the end of the tow rope, passed it up as close to the windshield as we could so it wouldn't burn off and then pinched it into the passenger side window. Mom got the fun job of holding onto the rope all the way back home. This wonderful gentleman wouldn't even tell me his name so that I could thank him properly or return his belongings. He just told me his first name was Dick, he lives in Magrath and I could drop off his rope and such at a local business. So, Dick, THANK YOU!!! I can't express my appreciation enough. You are the best!!!!!!

Pics!

Posted on the other blog! http://www.wildroseimages.blogspot.com/

Fantastic read!

I just finished the latest by Maeve Binchy. She is one of the authors I really enjoy! Her most recent work is called Heart and Soul. Ms. Binchy has a very realistic way of describing real life situations and emotions. I have yet to pick up a book of hers that hasn't totally engrossed me. I recommend this author to everyone!

What do you say when some one you love is dying?

Thurs. night we got a phone call letting us know that Grandpa Q was doing very poorly. His oxygen sat rate was 74 and his blood pressure was down to 60/40. He was almost comatose as well. To say the least we were extremely worried. He apparently hadn't been eating or drinking in days and was finally hooked up to an IV to see if that would help.
The weather has been sooooo bad though we were having a hard time deciding whether or not to head into Leth. to be with him. Mom kept telling us that he wouldn't want us putting ourselves in danger no matter how bad he was. We weighed the options and after no improvement for 12 hrs, dug the cars out of the drifts, shovelled out the lane and left en masse. Yes, the roads were unreal but we were worried he was dying so the risk was worth it. Who knew what we would find when we got there.
I guess just the motion of the most of the family toward his hospital room must have had some positive effect. By the time we walked next to his bed he was able to wake and speak to us. We knew he would be OK when he was embarrassed that I had seen him without his teeth in. Grandpa always looks put together and keeping up appearances is important to him. The Dr. arrived about the same time we did and checked his vital signs. Everything was back to normal. Grandpa was still exhausted and went in and out of sleep. He ended up being in a dream state at times and would tell us all sorts of things but he was happy to have us all there. He was really confused though that we had all shown up. He kept telling me to get the casket ready. I thought we almost had him convinced he was doing alright now until we were about to leave. He called Jamie over to him in a whisper and said, "So I really almost could've died?" He got teary eyed as we left and it broke my heart. I know he won't be with us much longer. In the last 5 months he has gone from my bright, aware, upright, card-playing, big Grandpa to a shrunken old man in a hospital bed. He knows he is going down hill and this was one of the few times in a couple of years he has had this many family members in the same room. You could see he was so happy just to have us all there. I wish that for one last time, just once more, we could all go "Up in The Hills" (our family ranch) with Grandma and Grandpa sitting at the cabin table playing Rook, with Grandma making pancakes and chokecherry syrup. I want Grandpa to yell at me for loosing his hammer building tree forts. I want to do the chores for Grandpa and drive the hay truck as they stack the bales. I want Grandpa sitting in his chair looking out the big picture window watching the farm and the cars go down the road. I miss my Grandpa who would always try to steal my ice cream and the Grandma that made popcorn every Sunday while we watched the Wonderful World of Disney movie of the week. I miss Grandma's bread!!! It's so hard to watch the big strong people in your life; the people that were your barriers to rough world; the people you looked to as the anchors of the family shrink down and gradually fade away.

Weird Quirks

I recently read a fascinating autobiography, Born on a Blue Day, written by a young man, Daniel Tammet, with Asperger Syndrome (higher functioning autism, basically). A must read!! In it he described a strange phenomenon he also has called synesthesia. He experiences numbers and words just as we do with letters and symbols but also as shapes, colors, textures and motions. I found this so interesting. What is it that formed these connections in his brain? Then I realized that I also have a wierd "thingy" in how I perceive the months of the year. Whenever I think of the months as a whole year I see them in my brain as a sort of "Z" shape something like this
DEC NOV OCT SEPT
...................AUGUST
............JULY
.............JUNE
............MAY
..................APRIL MARCH FEB JAN

Bizzare, right?
Ya know, I think we're all a little quirky though. Please nod your head and agree with me here.LOL! I have more quirks too. Did you know that I am a sectoral heterochromiac? One of my eyes is about 1/4 brown. Apparently, this is even more unusual than have two eyes of different color. Then right below the inner corner of my eyes along the tear ducts the outer skin is not completely closed. It functions fully. Just the outer skin hasn't quite closed. Strange, eh?

How to keep those Resolutions!

I've never been one to set resolutions for the New Year. I guess I'm not really a band wagon jumper. However, this year is different. I have set a specific goal and want to be sure to reach it. The last thing I want to do is be the typical "january joiner" and flunk out before the first month of the year is out. So what to do?

1. Make sure you set realistic goals. For example, don't decide that you will lose 50lbs by February 14th for your special Valentine. This is plain old ridiculous no matter what those celebrity magazines tell you.

2. Chop up that goal into smaller steps. Say your goal is to run a marathon in October. You aren't going to just pick up those running shoes and make 26 miles next Saturday. Do a little research about training schedules and then choose a weekly and monthly target. Run 1 mile a day the first 5 days and then 3 on Saturday. Up it from there. No, don't quote me. I'm not a runner. Call Rita! She knows.

3. Eliminate black and white thinking. You know what I mean, especially if you have ever been on a diet. You've been white knuckling it through the first few days avoiding all sugar, white flour and fat, eating only fruit and veg. Then you go to a party and someone serves chocolate cake. It just calls your name and you dive off the deep end and devour. There goes the diet, right? WRONG!!! Stop! Don't continue to pig out with that "failure" sign you put over your head blinking away. It's just food for heaven's sake. Stop thinking that it's all or nothing. Progress is always two steps forward and one step back. Nobody is perfect and we will all fall off the wagon at some point. Just move on. No recriminations necessary.

Hopefully, these steps along with good old fashioned gumption can get us on our way. Resolutions can be a great way to continually improve yourself but don't beat yourself up if it takes a couple of New Years to finally climb that proverbial mountain.