December 31, 2011-Happy New Year!

I want to wish you all a very happy new year. I hope it's a happy and healthy one. I have been very lucky to have reached this far. I hope to get through this year also. Stay safe everyone, if you are going out to party tonight. Do NOT drive if you've been drinking!
It's warmer today and raining a bit today. I am thinking about getting out to go to Aubuchon Hardware to stock up on outdoor critter food. And to Walmart. I know I said I wouldn't be going out again for a while but I forgot about the critter food and I never want to run out. I can't get out when it's snowing and cold. And I think my car is having a hard time in the cold. It didn't start too good last time.
Tomorrow it's going to be warmer but the stores will be closed so I have to go today. I didn't want to. It might start snowing tomorrow night and into Monday. If it does then I might not get to Uncle Bill's wake. It's too hard for me to walk on snow. I am so , so afraid I'll fall. My legs are way too weak to attempt it these days. But I'm going to wait and see what the weather is like. It's going to be much colder and windier on Monday.
Take care everyone. Happy New Year's Eve!

Update: I did go out. I got to Aubuchon Hardware for my critter food. Then I went to Walmart. That place was so crowded. Never saw the parking lot that packed before. I did manage to get a parking spot not too far away and it was close to the cart bin so I was able to grab one.
I ran into my cousin, Diana, whose dad just passed. She said that he was in real bad shape the last couple days before he died and she was up a lot during the night with him. His lungs were so bad. She said she thinks he knew he was ready to go. I think most people do.
I told her I was going to go to the wake but early so I could get in and out. She said if I needed a wheelchair she'd bring her fathers but I don't want to be using one of those yet. I know they'd like me to come to the service at 4 pm and to the VFW afterwards but I just can't be in that kind of crowd and all the seats are too low there for me to sit in. And by Monday morning the snow and wind will be starting so I'm just going to wait and see how the weather is at 1 pm. If I don't want to drive then someone can pick me up. The funeral home will come and get people also.
I'll be back Monday night to tell you what I did or did not do.
R.I.P. Uncle Bill

December 28, 2011-Christmas Day And Uncle Bill Died

This is Gavin and Cortney with Xander, who is six months old now. This would have been my sister, Chris's, first Grandbaby if she had lived.

We all had a wonderful time at Jane and Savey's. Finally got to see their new kitchen. it's beautiful! All granite and new stainless appliances. My brother, Jim, did a great job of cutting a hole between the kitchen and living room. That counter is all granite also. She had three stools there so it was a nice place for me to sit for a while. I could take pictures from that vantage point, looking into the living room or in the kitchen.
Gavin came with his wife, Cortney and their six month old baby, Xander, that we hadn't seen yet. He's a real good baby. Never cried and laughed all the time. They brought their year old female husky dog with them too. She's a beautiful dog and Jane is an animal lover so she didn't mind it running around. Not my cup of tea though. Then of all things, I was sitting on the stool in the kitchen. Went to get off and it's a good thing I had both crutches all ready in place because my left foot slipped. I thought that was odd because I had non-slip slippers on. Well I looked down and there was this big puddle of dog puke and I had stepped right into it. No one saw the dog do it. It's a damn good thing I didn''t fall into it or I would have been so pissed. And not being able to get up I would have been one hell of a mess. When my foot started sliding I grabbed onto the stool too and then looked down. Jane thought it was no big deal. She and Savey wiped it up and Cortney just stood there not offering to help or anything. I couldn't believe that. She never said a word either. That was strange. Here I was so careful when I came to Jane's. I had washed the bottoms of my slippers real good so as not to get anything on Jane's floors. If that had been a human that puked she would have not liked it at all. Ha! But that wasn't the only incident even though it was the worst.
I went to use the small bathroom by the living room and I was waiting for Debby's granddaughter to come out. I didn't see a light under the door so thought she had but when I opened the door she was standing there and the toilet was running. I turned the light on and could tell that the toilet was going to overflow if it wasn't plunged right away so I told Savey and he came and did it. I did not use that one. I went to their other bathroom. She had used way too much toilet paper I guess. One year my brother, Mike, overflowed the other toilet and it ran all the way down the hall. Jane did have a fit about that of course and about Savey having to plunge the other one this time . When she called the next day she said there was a drop of blood on her floor near her office and she said it was Gavin's dog. She's in heat. Gavin has never had it fixed and they tie it outside where the neighborhood dogs can get at it. They said a beagle bit it's neck the other day. Jane said she'd pay to have it fixed but when they are in heat the vet can't do it for a couple months now.
My brother, Mike, was there and his two daughters came also. I haven't seen Mike in about four years and I haven't seen his daughters in six. They are beautiful girls. They live with their grandmother in Rome. That's because their parents are divorced and their mother started dating a jerk and moved him in the house then she married him. the girls hated him so went to live with their grandmother. It's really a sad situation. Now the guy is in prison for beating up a postman in Sherrill, NY. He got three years but that's because he's been in prison before for burglary I guess. Mike's wife was such a nice girl too and has a very good job with the state. That guy drained her and she sold the house and now she's living with HIS parents..
I didn't leave Jane's till ten pm that night. Never planned on staying that long but I wasn't feeling bad and everyone else was still there. My birds were quiet when I walked in. I covered them up and they went right back to sleep.
Debby is doing a lot better and walking a bit on that foot but keeps the boot and brace on it. Her daughter, Crystal came with her two daughters. They stayed over with Deb that night.
My daughter, Nina, couldn't come because she and Jessi got sick. She did drive over so Salena and Jordan could run in and say Hi and leave some stuff off for me. I've talked to her since and she is still sick. Jessi is a little better. The older two weren't sick but Salena said she thought she might be coming down with it. I was disappointed that they couldn't come and see everyone. Now Nina will have to wait till they all are feeling good before she can come over to my house to get the kid's gifts. The kids had wanted to leave mine that day in my car because they all got me chocolates and knew I'd want some..Ha! Ha!
This was the first Christmas in ages that we didn't have any snow on the ground. But today it is snowing and bitter cold and windy. We aren't getting much snow though. Maybe an inch.
I'm glad I went out yesterday. I knew the rest of the week would be cold. I went out around 1:30 pm and it started to rain and rained the rest of the day. At least it stayed warm into the night or we could have had a lot of snow.
My last original uncle has died. My Uncle Bill Paslak died yesterday morning. (27th) He was 81 and his daughter had just brought him home from the Folts Home, where he'd been for a couple months. I am so glad he got to spend one more Christmas with the family. I'm waiting to read the obit but it wasn't online yet this afternoon. He has a son in TX and one in CA that has to come home. The older daughter lived with them so she could watch over her father and mother. There is one more daughter who lives in Miller's Mills. They were a close family. They always went camping together and Uncle Bill wanted to go this year. Not sure if he ever did. Diana, the daughter that lives with them left her home in Florida to be here. She took them to Florida every year. They enjoyed that.
I went through all the pics I had of Uncle Bill and put them in an album on Facebook. Then I got some of Diana's off Webshots to make another album. Diana is probably making a slide show for the funeral. Unless the funeral home does that. Not sure.
Well, it's almost the new year! I hope I live through this year. I want to see if all the prophecies are true about this being the last year. All that talk about the Mayan Calendar and how the earth is going to change in the year 2012 scares people. Doesn't scare me of course. I'm living on borrowed time as it is. But then isn't everyone?? No one knows when their time is up.
Well. I guess that is all for now. I hate writing these days. Or should I say typing? Ha!
Take care everyone and I hope you all get through the new year's eve celebrations okay. I never stay up to watch the ball but maybe I will this year. If I can't sleep.
I'll be back when I can. Happy New Year!

This is my Uncle Bill and Aunt Betty with their 50th anniversary cake. This was in 2004.

Had A Great Christmas Day!

I'll write in here tomorrow. Too tired today but will leave a pic of us.

I and my siblings and family in 2005

December 22, 2011-Update On Debby

Debby had to have more x-rays on her foot and the Orthopedic doctors determined that she did not have a fracture but bad contusions. She doesn't have to wear a cast and they took the air cast off and told her to start walking on it as best she can. So that is good news. She will heal up much faster. She has to go to therapy also. But she's happy that she can drive. She hadn't tried yet but today she was supposed to.
It was in the 40's today and damp. More like a mist at times. I went out at 6 pm but only to Aubuchon Hardware to get critter food. Got gas for my car too. dumb me. I pulled up next to the pumps. Got my credit card in and got the nozzle off and it wouldn't fit in the hole. Then I looked at the pump and I was at the diesel pump! Ha! Ha! They all look alike. So I had to put the gas cap back on and cancel the transaction and move to another pump. I guess I am getting old..ha!
My oldest daughter, Ginny, called me this afternoon. She didn't talk long. just wanted to know how I was feeling. She said she's doing okay and everything is fine. But she still won't say where she's at. I did ask her if she's talked to Vanessa and she said no. When I wished her a Merry Christmas she didn't even want to say it herself and didn't. She gets so weird. So that was it. Not much said.
I guess I'm all ready for Christmas. I hope I have a top that fits me. I have bought some bigger tops. nothing fancy though. I'm so fat now that I don't have many clothes. I have to buy size 18 XXL now!! Yikes! I've never gone over a size 14 in my life. I guess I better get serious about this after the new year. Get back to eating good and not eating so many sweets like I have.
We are going to wake up to some snow on the ground I think. Not much. Christmas day will be near 40 so I guess what we do get will be all melted by then.
Merry Christmas everyone!!

December 20, 2011-Happenings

To start off, I have to tell you that my sister, Debby, fractured her ankle at work in The Remington Arms on Sunday. She will be in a cast and on crutches for a while. It's going to be real hard for her. She won't be able to drive or get her own groceries or anything. I feel so bad for her. It was before 8 am that day and she was moving a heavy piece of equipment into an elevator. Instead of being behind it and pushing it, she was pulling it towards her and was in the elevator first. well the thing rolled and it pinned her against the wall and crushed her foot. She has to yell real loud for anyone to hear her. There aren't many people working on a Sunday. She got taken to the hospital ER in Little Falls. Jane picked her up and brought her home. I don't know any more yet.
Yesterday it was in the low 40's. I went out last evening to get some groceries and now I'm all set for Christmas. When I cam out of Walmart it was sprinkling a little. I'm glad I went because it got real cold overnight and today it wasn't very warm. I was lucky and got a parking spot right by the door in one of my usual spots. It didn't seem too crowded in there. The parking lot seemed worse..
My Granddaughter, Sarah, sent me a goody box from Whole Foods. Some nice snacks and some chocolates that I will enjoy! That was so nice of her. She's the one over near Afghanistan. She ordered my gifts from Amazon.com. I hope she gets the card I sent her. Not sure how long it takes to get over there.
Pam says she has to work from 2 till 10 on Christmas day so won't be at Jane's. Not sure if Gavin is coming. I haven't heard from him again. My brother, Mike, might be down from Vermont. Jane might have a full house this year. I've got to make sure my batteries are all charged up for my camera. I really should have bought another set. But I didn't think of it. I have three sets but they go dead fast when I'm taking video.
If I hear more about Deb I'll let you know. Take care everyone. Got to go. It's late. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!!

December 17, 2011-Catching Up

Yikes! The days are going by so fast. Seems I can't ever get caught up.
 I watched the girls Thursday night. We had a few snowflakes coming down this morning but nothing stuck. I love seeing the snow. Have to wait till next Wed. or Friday now to see some snow maybe.

My brother, Jim, called to chat on Thursday evening also. I'll be seeing them all at Jane's on Christmas.
Not much else going on. I'm just trying to get little things done.
That strange vibrating noise is louder again. It sure does seem like it's within this building. I stuck my head outside and I can't hear anything. It's driving me nuts today and it's bothering Jasper too. She's very agitated today. Poor thing. It hasn't been loud like this very often. And it was still there all summer and fall but not as loud as it is now. It's back to the level it was all last winter. I sure wish I knew what was causing it. It still seems to be coming from someone's apartment downstairs. But how the hell can they stand it? If I wasn't sick and weak I'd move out of here.
Oh well. I'm not going to dwell on it. I'm trying to be in a good mood. Have a nice weekend everyone.

The Magic Of Christmas Day-Celine Dion-Slide Show

One of my old slide shows that I made for the Christmas season. I bring them out every year now. But they are always on my Youtube site.

December 13, 2011-Went Out Last Night

I went out last night to get groceries. My knee was feeling okay but that damn foot had a pain in the Achilles tendon area on my left foot. Always something! But I only stayed in the grocery area and did not walk the whole length of the store this time. It was about 29 degrees and the windshield was a bit frosty so had to wait for a few minutes to clear it. I can really smell exhaust inside my car so I know something was not hooked up right when they changed that pipe. It hasn't been quiet since they did it. Unless I have a hole in something else that they didn't catch. I suppose I should get that checked out. It might be a good way to go if I start getting pain some day.. Ha! I have thought about doing that when the time gets so bad that I am in a lot of pain. I won't know till the time comes. And I could end up in a damn nursing home first. I'd be so pissed.
My Uncle Bill is finally going home from the Folts Home. He's been there for rehab a few months now. He still can't walk very well but I know he'd rather be at home. And my Aunt Betty will have company. She's not that good either. My cousin, Diana, has to live there and take care of them.
I just about got all the Christmas cards out. Just have to make two more I think. One for the maintenance man here and one for Sarah, my Granddaughter, who is overseas with the Air Force. She just gave me her address. And it doesn't matter if she gets it late. I want to send her letters or cards all the time so she will get mail. She said they all look forward to mail. At least her boyfriend is over there with her.
I don't think we will have any snow here for Christmas by the sounds of the weather man. But you never know. It makes it easier for me to walk outside when there is no snow but I like snow for Christmas. Makes everything look so much prettier.
Twelve more days till Christmas!! That song gets in my head sometimes and I can't get it out..
I am trying to get my bird to sing Jingle Bells but he won't. It would be so cute if he did. He has his certain sounds and whistles and that's it.
I have been awake since 5 am again. That's when that woman upstairs got up and started making noise. I heard she was in the laundry all day long. But right now she's trying to sleep so I keep making noise. I don't want her sleeping. She sure doesn't care if I don't.
Gavin said he might be coming to Jane's for Christmas. That will be nice. Then we can see the baby. He's growing fast. They just put some pictures of him with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus on Facebook.
I'm all done making Jibjab videos for everyone too. I spent about $60 on those since Thanksgiving. But everyone gets a laugh out of them. I've got to put Nina and the kid's onto a DVD for them. Then they will always have them. When Salena was here I opened up an account on there for her and showed her how to do it so she can make them now. But she has to be a paying member to make the good ones and to download them. Maybe after I'm gone her mom will let her do that. It costs $12 a year and $1.99 per download. Otherwise it's $4.99 per download. I have ordered 30 of those things since Thanksgiving..LOL
It wasn't a bad day but I could feel the dampness in the air. It was only in the low 20's this morning. Not sure if it got to 40 today or not. But the sun did come out for a while. Now it's real cloudy. Going to rain Thursday and be in the 40's.
Today I've had a back ache. That's from hauling groceries and walking Walmart probably.. I'll just pop another Ibuprofen before I go to bed.
Take care everyone. I'll be back soon.

Here's Gavin and Cortney's little boy, Xander. He's 6 months old now. This would have been my sister, Chris's grandchild.

December 10, 2011-Time is Sure Going fast

Wow! It's been a few days since I've been here but I really haven't had much to write about I guess. I've been staying inside, babying my knee so when it's time to go out again it might feel better. I got some of my cards mailed out today. Will mail the rest on Monday. I made some money holders for the kids. Got them all cut out. Just got to glue them now.
There was a Christmas party here at the building today but I didn't go. I can't stand being in that community room any more. I don't know half the people any more. And I'm just too uncomfortable. No chairs to sit in that I can get out of in there either. I don't want to be catching anyone's colds either. You never know this time of year.
I'm sure the food was delicious though. The lady on the hill next door did the catering. She's been through a lot this year also with breast cancer and chemo treatments. Radiation also. I'm really surprised she did it. I hope she doesn't volunteer for next year. But that's her business. I think it's way too much work for the little money she charges. She and her husband are real nice people. They have always gone out of their way to help people here.
The palm of my right hand has been peeling for the past two weeks. It's from all the pressure I put on it when I get up off my chair and I'm not sure how the skin started ripping. Tonight I was pulling on a piece of skin and I felt it sting and knew it had ripped too deep. That's a weird place because the skin is thick in that spot. Right near my wrist below my little finger. I think the arms on my glider chair did it. It feels like it's wearing out and might have rough spots on it. Maybe I should sand the arms down or put some covers on them. Hope this heals over fast. I have to use my hands way too much. And I will have to wear rubber gloves now so I don't get any germs in it.
I've been making these little Jibjab pictures for people. This is my daughter, Nina, with her kids and her boyfriend. I've made a lot of the Jibjab videos also for the family. They love them.
Well, I was hoping to see some snow this morning or today but it never came here. It was all up North. The sun was out here today but it was quite cold and is going down in the 20's tonight. And there's a full moon tonight. Not sure if I'll take any pictures of it. It's always behind trees till the wee hours.
I saw one fox out here tonight and I saw an opossum for the first time in two years I think. I was happy to see one. But I couldn't take a picture. I'd have to open the window and he ran away anyway after I shined the flashlight on him. Hopefully I'll get a pic one of these days. I like Opossums.
So that's about it for now. Take care everyone.

December 7, 2011

I watched Jessi Tuesday evening. She was real good without her sister here with her. Seems they argue a lot when together. It was more fun with just her. I printed off some pages for her to color. She was showing me her dances that she will be doing in the school play. I was taking videos of her.
Nina took Salena with her to her class. It was her last night to teach up there at the base. In the spring she will be teaching a class again. I will be watching both girls next Thursday while Nina and Jason go to a Christmas party. It's her college party for the faculty I think and is at Frencesca's in Ilion. From 4 till 7. So that won't be bad. But I'm figuring on another hour or so. As long as it's not too late or I'll be too tired.
I felt pretty good today. My knee wasn't hurting as much and my back ache was gone.
I've been trying to get a few things done on the computer. Had to make a few Christmas tags for the kids presents. And a few cards.
It rained all day today but no snow yet. I'm hoping there will be some on the ground tomorrow morning. It won't stay if there is. I just want things to look prettier.
Not much else going on. I'm sticking this pic of Jessi here from last evening. Take care everyone.

December 5, 2011-Went Out Today

It was in the low 50's today and partly sunny. I went out earlier than I usually do because it was supposed to rain. And the weather will be getting colder now. I had to go get some critter food at Aubuchon Hardware. Then I went to Walmart for a few items. And lots of candy in case I get snowed in..Ha! Ha! My knee was feeling a little better with help from the Ibuprofen so it wasn't too bad walking around. I was real careful though. Any little twist of that knee will start some real bad pain again..
I had to make another trip out to the car after dark to bring in the bags of bird chow. I don't dare leave it in the trunk now because it gets real damp in there in the winter and I didn't want the mouse to get into them. he can go elsewhere to eat now. I don't know if it's a mouse or a chipmunk really. Lots of chipmunks run under the cars out front. But of course most are in their dens now for the winter except for one lone little guy who is outside my window every day.
It was my sister, Jane's 58th birthday today. And my sister, Pam's was on the 3rd. She turned 50. Only Mike is under 50 now. He will be 50 in 2013. Amazing to think all the little kids, as I call them, are that age. Of course they don't look their ages like I do..ha!
I'm hoping I can get some sleep tonight. That damn woman upstairs was up at 5 am and flushed the toilet about six times in an hour and stomping around. I never got back to sleep. Yesterday morning she was vacuuming at 7:30 am. And she has the noisiest vacuum cleaner too. That pissed me off, even though I was awake. She left after all the noise and was gone all day. I'll never get used to the noise.
I'll be watching my youngest granddaughter tomorrow evening. Salena is going with her mom where she teaches in Rome. It's her last day up there till spring.
That's all for today I guess. Take care everyone.

December 4, 2011-Sunny Day Here

It is a beautiful day and in the low 40's, after being in the 20's overnight. It might be our last sunny day for a few. But I don't think we will get any snow. A few flurries are called for this week but then it's warming up to 50 again. What a weird December.
Yesterday my knee felt a little better but today it's back to hurting again. Even when I'm sitting I have to be careful how I have my leg. I can feel little pains shooting through the outside of it all the time. Sometimes it feels like the bones or ligaments are caught on each other. I have to bend it a few times before I can walk. What a pain this is going to be. When I start to feel good in other areas then this has to happen all the time, keeping me tied down so I can't do anything. But it could be worse. I could be laid up in a bed. Thank God I'm not yet.
I keep thinking I have so much to do but then I think to myself, why bother. I really don't have to be making any more picture Cd's or DVD's. I think I've did enough for the family these past few years, as far as getting pictures together so they will have memories.. I've got everything I need for the kid's Christmas. I might print out a couple 8x10's for my sisters but that's about it. I'm waiting for a couple items to come in the mail. it sure is a lot easier ordering things online. If I want to send a package I even do my own click and ship labels. I have to make it as convenient as possible when I can't get out to places like I used to. I'd never be able to even carry a package into the Post office now. Not when I have to use both crutches. So I do like shipping them from home.
I'm watching Christmas movies on TV when I see a good one. Trying to stay off my feet as much as possible but It's hard. I hate sitting for very long.
Have a nice Sunday everyone.

December 2, 2011-Bones Are Hurting Today

I can hardly walk today. My left leg and knee hurts real bad. I tried using the scooter around here but it's not too handy at getting at things and I have to keep getting up anyway. It's better to use the walker. And my legs don't sit on the scooter that well. They keep wanting to fall to the sides and that's not good. I might hit them on the door jam..
The reason why I'm hurting so bad is that I went out last night to get some groceries. I walked real slow but it did a job on my knee. I know I should use one of those riding carts and I guess soon I will have to. But they are a pain too. I'd have to keep getting up to get things and then when I got to the door I'd have to transfer everything into a regular cart to get it to the car. So what's the use? I guess when I can't walk any more I will just have to ask for help.
The pain in my upper back and belly area on the right side is still bothering me also. I'm always wondering how long I have. I have little goals now. To make it till Christmas first. Then to New Years. I'm not going to think too far ahead at this time.
My sister, Pam, turns 50 tomorrow. She's next to the last kid in the family. I can't believe all the little kids are all 50 years old now. Yikes! Just Mike is left and he will turn 50 on June 10th, 2003. That's the day our mother died. Sure doesn't seem that long ago.
I'm not buying any gifts for the kids. I just give them money and an ornament. I bought little bags to put them in so no wrapping either. I will just make special gift cards for each of them. I only give Nina's kids something. I can't afford the rest. I would give Ginny's small boys something but now she's in hiding again so I won't be making them any more DVD's. I haven't heard from her again. Only that one time for my birthday. So I have no idea where she is.
Heather drove to NY for Thanksgiving to be with her dad and brothers. She was supposed to come and visit me but she didn't. She wrote a note to me on Facebook and said she didn't have enough money to drive down. So I guess she never did see anyone down this way. But at least she got to her brothers and father. That's more important.
I haven't heard anything more from Sarah. I hope she's doing okay way over there in Kyrgyzstan. I know she will miss being home for Christmas. But at least she has Leo there too. That's her boyfriend. I made them a couple Jibjab movies. That will make them smile anyway..
It was a frosty morning and we might get a few flurries of snow but I haven't seen anything yet. just a cloudy day and cool. In the 30's.
So that's all for now. I'll be back soon. Have a nice day everyone.

November 29, 2011-Too Warm For November

I really don't like this warm weather. I'd rather see a little snow and have it in the 30's instead of in the 60's. Lots of people have colds around here. Not in this building that I know of but my cousins. I know that because of Facebook.
I took advantage of "Cyber Monday" and got a couple of discounts in Snapfish. The items were 50% off yesterday so I ordered a book for the Grandkids and some Christmas Cards and photo ornaments.
I don't send out many cards at Christmas time any more. Just to the older relatives or cousins that aren't online.
I am having more back problems. Yesterday was a difficult day for walking around. I took two Ibuprofen instead of the usual one a day that I take. I took one in the morning and one in the evening. I think it helped me sleep better. But then it could have been because the woman upstairs didn't get up and flush the toilet as often. I was still awake quite early this morning and was up before 7:00.
I sure can't do things like I used to. It's even tiring to hang something on the wall or put a few Christmas decorations up. I did throw away some of my decorations last year so I don't have many things now, which is good. This will be the first year without my little tree. I'm not going to buy a new one. Even though I could just buy a little one with lighting already on it. It's too much work putting them away. I'm happy with a little red around the apartment.
It's a cloudy day and we had a litte rain overnight but it's way too warm. I'll be watching the granddaughters later this afternoon I think. I haven't heard otherwise yet so I assume they will be here. I'm going to have them move a few things for me. Just little things that I want put underneath something to get them out of view for now. I really can't ask my daughter or Salena to do much because of their problems. Nina is still having a difficult time walking since she hurt her foot and Salena is still on crutches for her hip problem. What a crew we are..Ha!
Have a nice day everyone. I'll be back soon.

November 26, 2011-Decorating Blogs

As you can see I'm fooling around with Christmas decorations on these blogs. I'll be changing them and playing around with different photos till I get the one I like the best. I love my little fox pup in the Christmas bulb so I took it into my PSP and Animation program, that I haven't used in years, and added some blinkies. I was surprised that I remembered how to do it. Now I'll be playing around with that some more. I'll have to dig out some of my old animated pics if I can find them. It's been so many years. I think I'll try to make this little pup wink and if it comes out good I'll add it in place of the twinkling one. Before I can add them onto this blog I have to upload them to Photobucket to get the HTML code.
It's another warm, sunny day here. Where the heck is the snow?? Ha! The Chipmunks are confused. They don't know if they are supposed to stay in their dens or come out.
Have a nice day everyone.

November 25, 2011- Felt Better Today

I felt a lot better as far as that back pain goes. Sure was happy about that. It was a quiet day. Didn't hear from anyone. Vacuumed and yelled at my bird all day for being so noisy.Ha! Ha! Watched a few movies on TV. Now I'm just puttering around with these blogs. Changing the scenery again. I love changing things..I get bored if I leave the same background on all the time.
Not sure when I'll be back here. Guess when I have any news. Take care everyone.

November 24, 2011-Day Is Done-Now Time For Christmas!

Now that Thanksgiving is over we can all start thinking of Christmas. My favorite time of the year. I love all the pretty lights and colors at this time of year.
I don't have many Christmas decorations any more. Last year I threw away my little tree because I didn't think I'd be around. Not sure if I'll bother buying a new one. It would just be one more thing I'd have to get rid of eventually. Christmas is a whole month off and I'm just hoping I'll make it. I've had some bad pains on that right side and today was quite bad again.. I took two Ibuprofen but it doesn't seem to touch that kind of pain. I still made myself a small dinner. I made some stuffing and sweet potatoes. I baked chicken breasts with the stuffing and it tasted better than turkey. I had cranberry sauce also and some pumpkin pie later. I think stuffing and cranberry sauce are my favorite..
It was a quiet day. I didn't talk to anyone at all. Later in the afternoon I did a couple loads of laundry. I figured it would be the best time since everyone was gone from this building or busy. It's hard for me to bend over with this back pain. Especially to get everything out of the dryer. I hope it eases up by tomorrow. I'm sure not looking forward to pain when this cancer starts eating away at me.
My Granddaughter, Heather, drove to NY to see her Dad and brothers for Thanksgiving and she will be stopping to visit me before she goes back. She had sent me a note on Facebook. She was driving up Wednesday and she was telling everyone how she pulled off the road and fell to sleep at 6 am yesterday.(Wed.) She had a noise coming from her wheel but found out it was just the mud flap dragging on the tire so she cut it off with a knife. I haven't heard anything since and she hasn't called me yet so I'm hoping she made it up to Pulaski okay. She wants to visit her Aunts before she goes back also. That would be my daughter, Nina, and Nina's half sisters. Maybe Heather will know more about my daughter, Ginny and the boys. I haven't heard any more from her.
I thought the chipmunks were in their dens for the winter but yesterday and today there were two of them outside. This weather has been too warm for them to stay in I guess. But now I have to worry about them getting into left over rat poison that I put out last week. I'm not going to put any more out. It's too dangerous. I hadn't seen any foxes either till yesterday when two of the young ones were right down under my window. Now I'm afraid they will eat one of the poisoned rats or Voles or mice around here. I will have to try and use traps from now on. Guess I will buy a live trap. I don't want a chipmunk getting caught in the other ones. Darn little chipmunks anyway. They've been gone for two weeks so I thought they'd be staying in the nests for the winter. Now it's going to be in the 50's the next two days.
I was trying to think where the rats came from and I remembered that the neighbor used to throw garbage bags in the woods. But since the new guy has lived there I think he's cleaned it up. Maybe they came from there and had to find a new source of food and discovered my nuts out there. With all the trees being cut down and the water we had maybe they got scared out of their old homes. Now someone has put the old pumpkins from out front up there in the woods. I don't know if rats like that stuff but the squirrels do so that will be good for them. I quit throwing food out for the foxes two weeks ago. But I still feed the birds but they have to come down below my window to get it. I can watch for any rats that way too. That's how I know if they are still alive or not. It's time to stop feeding the birds too I guess. Too bad. After 15 years I now have to have this problem.
Guess I'll get to bed and try to get some sleep. Sure haven't been getting much lately. Hope my pain subsides so I can do some ironing tomorrow.
Take care everyone.

November 23, 2011

I went out Monday night to get a few groceries. I walked very slow so I wouldn't injure my knee too much. It's been very painful. That pain in my back and side comes and goes but seems to be coming more often now. It hurts right behind my shoulder blade area and just below it and goes around to the front. Maybe it's my Gall Stones again. I haven't had a gall bladder attack for two years so have been doing good with that. I make sure I have Olive Oil with everything that I eat so that bile duct opens. I learned that online when I had that attack. I've never done the flush though. Don't think I could handle drinking a whole cup of olive oil. Yuck. But they say it really works. You can mix it with lemon juice. Fresh squeezed. I will just continue the way I am. I think the biggest problem is getting some of this weight off again. I over did it with the eating this past year.

I didn't watch my granddaughters last night. Nina didn't have to teach. She took Salena to her basketball practice at six and then stopped by here with Jessi to pick up the spinach balls I had just made and the DVD for them. The girls were going to help make the spinach balls. But they were happy to get some. Salena told her mom not to eat them all before she gets out of basketball..Ha! Ha! Salena still can't practice because she's on crutches but she still wants to be there every week to support her team. I sure hope she heals so she can play when they start their games in January. She loves playing.
It's been raining all night but thank heavens it's warm enough not to freeze. Still raining this morning and about 39 degrees.
Hope everyone has a nice Thanksgiving! I'll be back when I can.
PS. The header was made a few years ago in Scrapblog. All I did this year was add my squirrel to it.

November 18, 2011-Pain In Back

After all my excitement about my blood results, today I had pain in my right side and in my back area behind the lung. It was there all day and is still there. Not sure if I just pulled a muscle or it;s from my crooked spine. I do always have a lump in the back near the kidney area. Been there for a few years now. I think that is my spine causing it. I have a real bad curvature now. Just hope it's not the liver.
We only got a dusting of snow here this morning but to the West they got a few inches. It all melted away by the afternoon.
I was so pissed this morning. That woman upstairs was up at 6 am. and by 6:30 she had flushed that toilet about ten times. And walking like an elephant. I had to get up because I could never get back to sleep. Then she goes into her living room and bangs that recliner. After a while she left I think because it was quiet all afternoon. Unless she was sleeping. I only heard her again around 7 pm. Then she sat in that chair again and I don't hear her now. I never get much sleep because of the noise. Ear plugs don't work. I tried. It's bad when someone irritates you like that. Especially when you don't care for her. That makes it even worse.
So I'm hoping I get some sleep tonight.
Have a nice weekend everyone.

November 17, 2011-Time Sure Flies

Wow! It's been five days since I've written anything?? Time sure does fly by! I can't remember anything now..Ha! Ha!
I did watch the girls on Tuesday but only for a couple hours. Salena had to go to basktball practice, even though she can't play. She's on crutches and can't play till her hip heals up. Not sure what she did to it but I think she tore something. It's been that way for a few weeks now and she was not using the crutches. The doctor told her she HAD to or she'd never be able to play sports. She thinks she can hobble around without them. So I hope she continues to use them so she will heal up the right way. I'd hate to see her crippled for life just because she wouldn't follow the doctor's orders. And her father doesn't help. He told her to NOT use the crutches. Stupid ass!
Jason, Nina's boyfriend, picked the girls up to take them to the YMCA at 6 pm. He will be doing that every Tuesday so I will only have the girls for a couple hours each time.
We made some Molasses cookies though and they took some home.
Yesterday (Wednesday) I had a doctor's appointment with my Primary Dr. in Herkimer. Just for blood work mostly, at my request, just to see where I'm at these days. She was surprised that I looked so healthy even though I've gained 50 lbs. since I was last there. And we do have to go at Least once a year for Medicare. So I'm glad I went. I am not going up to Oneida to the surgeon's office though. I don't need to. Dr. Aranda says he will write the scripts for my Ostomy supplies from now on. Then I won't have to keep calling up to Oneida. She also wrote me out a script for some new Forearm Crutches. Mine are 15 years old and quite worn out.
Today they called me to tell me the results of some of the blood tests but will be sending them to me in the mail also. My Cholesterol is still high of course. I knew that and won't take any of the drugs for it. I've already told her that. I don't need side effects from that crap. My legs are weak enough. My Iron count is good so no anemia any more. But I don't bleed so wasn't worried about that, but you never know. The one test that I wanted done was the CEA levels for cancer. They said they are in normal range!! That was the best news. But you can't count on them too much. The cancer can still be there but just not spreading. But last year they were high. And since Dr. Delpino said the cancer had spread to my liver and that I'd probably not be around another year, I was happy to hear they are normal. For now anyway. That can change very rapidly. But at least I'm still here! Guess I fooled that doctor didn't I??? I'll send him a Christmas card.
My liver enzymes are slightly elevated also but they always were. For the past 15 years. So I'm glad about that also.
So I'm happy! I did not tell her about my knee because I don't want to be going to Utica to any orthopedic doctors during the winter. If it gets worse over the winter and I'm still here then I will go. I might need braces on that leg.
I did go back out last evening for some groceries because the weather is going to be colder. In fact we are supposed to get some snow overnight. I will like seeing some snow on the ground. Then I can see the animals better. Photos are much prettier with snow.
My car hasn't been washed in over a year so I took it through the car wash yesterday. Even though it's all rusty along the bottom it still looks a lot better now. I still have to clean all the door jams and silicone them and the locks before it gets too cold. And wash the inside windows.
Not sure how long that car will last. It still makes a lot of noise. I think there's still a hole somewhere under there. When I went through the car wash I could smell exhaust real bad inside. I tried not to breathe too deep till I was out of there and could open the window.
That's all I can think of for now. Not sure when I'll be back again.
Take care everyone.

November 12, 2011-Not Much Happening

It's been cold and damp the past couple days. I haven't done much but work on some photo projects and do a slide show for a friend. The sun did come out today for a time. I saw one of my fox this evening. Didn't see anything yesterday because of the rain. I haven't seen any deer in almost two weeks now.
Did I mention that the woman upstairs is back after being gone for two weeks to Florida? Yep. The noise has started all over again. Her banging the floor as she gets out of her recliner and flushing the toilet at all hours of the night. I was sleeping much better when she was gone. Now I'm not. Why do people have to be so noisy and inconsiderate when they live up over someone. I'd be so afraid of making noise if I lived upstairs. Every time she gets up out of that chair it makes me jump. I hate it!
I made a few Jibjab funnies for the kids and downloaded them so I could keep them. They are for Thanksgiving. Soon I'll be making the Christmas ones.
The girls will be coming again on Tuesday. Salena asked me if I ever made Spinach Balls any more so I'm going to make some before Tuesday. They love those things....and at least they are healthy. Maybe I'll bake some cookies also. Haven't done that in ages. I think I'll make some Molasses ones. They are my favorite. I should bake some kind of cookie while the girls are here so they can help. They'd like that.
This month is flying by so fast it seems. I don't do anything for Thanksgiving. I used to but I don't even cook these days unless I feel like it. I usually buy a Pumpkin pie though. I might make one this year with a frozen crust and the canned pie filling. I want to try something new and put some chocolate through it. Whip cream too of course..Ha!
I just looked out the window and saw a skunk. The first one I've seen in a long time. Last week there was one down the street around noon and some guys shot it and bagged it up. Haven't heard anything about what was wrong with it yet. The people upstairs said it was in a ball and just sitting there. I think it got into some poison. Don't think it was Rabid. Guess we'll never find out. No one seems to know just who shot it either.
Jane and Savey have gone to Myrtle Beach for a couple weeks and will be back after Thanksgiving.
I haven't heard from Nina so don't know if she got the new vehicle or had her old one fixed. I'll find out when she comes Tuesday.
I think Steve is supposed to go down to Asheville for Thanksgiving. That's what Jane told me a few weeks back. His girlfriend is driving down. That will be good for him.
Haven't heard about anyone else so I guess things are okay.
That's it for a few more days. I'm not going to write on here every day unless something important happens. It's too boring..Ha!
Take care everyone.

November 9, 2011-Watched The Girls

I watched Salena and Jessi last evening while their mom had to go to Utica to pick up her boyfriend from work and go check on her vehicle. She's trying to buy a new one but I'm not sure if the bank will go along with it. She doesn't want to keep putting money into the other one. It had an ignition computer problem and will cost about $800 to fix. It's still at Carbone's where she had it towed to on Monday morning. She had to miss a class at the college and cancel her class last night. It's very stressful when you don't have a vehicle. At least Jason has a car and Nina could drive him to Utica in the mornings. Just very inconvenient for her. So I hope she hears one way or another today about the new one. The warranty ran out on her 2008 one so that is why she wants to trade it in.
It was nice having the girls here last night. Salena had some homework to do first. Then we watch a movie and then I showed them all the Jibjab videos on my computer. I have got to download them yet so they can have them on a DVD. I showed Salena how to do it in case she ever wants to make one.
Nina and Jason got back here around 7:30. I'll be watching the girls next Tuesday also.
Their school pictures came out real nice this year. Too bad Jordan is always in the middle of Football and won't cut his hair till the season is over because he thinks it's good luck for him. He has since cut his hair.
What a beautiful day it is today!! Going up into the 70's!! And the sun is shining bright! This will be the last warm day. Rain moving in for tomorrow and maybe even some mix of sleet and rain by Friday morning. But it sure has been a nice November so far. I'm going out this evening to get groceries and other items. When the bad weather starts I don't want to be going out very often. maybe once every two weeks. I will have to go out next Wednesday though for that doctor's appointment.
I added the girl's Soccer pics also. They came out real nice. They are magnets that I have on my refrigerator.

November 5, 2011-Kid's Visit

Nina came by today with the two girls and her friend, Jason. They brought me some beautiful flowers and some chocolate candy. They also brought a pizza with them and a birthday cake! The pizza was so good. I haven't had any fresh pizza in years. Jordan didn't come because he was with his father hunting. Nina said that Jordan has gotten a few inches taller just since August. Another growth spurt. He's playing football now. The girls just got done with their soccer games.

Nina is teaching on Tuesday nights up at the base. The girls have been going to their Grandfather's but from now on they will be coming over here. Karen, Nina's Step Mother doesn't really like watching them anyway and I'd rather not have them there with him. Never know what he might do. i don't trust him at all. The girls are happy to be coming here.
We had a nice visit. They left around 6:30 but when Nina tried to start her vehicle it wouldn't start. She thought maybe it was the battery in her wireless keys so they borrowed my car to go get a battery and to go get Jason's car. It still wouldn't start so she has a problem which might be a computer or ignition problem. She had to elave her car on the street here overnight. She will call her father and get Tripple A to come tow it.
Nina's boyfriend, Jason, seems like a nice guy. The kids like him. Hope it all works out for the good for Nina. She never has good luck with men. Neither did I..ha! He doesn't have any kids but does have a wife that he has to divorce yet. Always some hangup. The older we get, the more baggage we have. I don't know how he can deal with having kids around if he never had any but he seems mellow enough and seems to be handling it okay.
I'm just putting one picture up here of me and the kids.

Sunday, November 6, 2011
It's another beautiful day here, but cold. I'm not sure what time Nina will be getting her car towed. She will call me later. Meanwhile I'm just going to relax. Maybe there will be a good movie on TV this afternoon.
Take care everyone. Enjoy your Sunday!

November 3, 2011-The Sunny Days Are Nice

We've had some real nice weather the past few days. looks like nice weather for the next few days also except it will be colder.
I went out last evening to get a few groceries and it was so nice to breathe that fresh air. The moon was bright also.
My oldest daughter, Ginny, called me today to wish me a happy birthday. I was surprised. She wouldn't tell me where she was though and I didn't tell her I knew she was in PA. She said she didn't want to stay with Vanessa mostly because of Vanessa's boyfriend. guess she don't like him much. She said they are doing good where they are and she's feeling much better now also. She's been taking all kinds of herbs I guess. She hasn't need her walking stick since I saw her at Rich's.
I feel bad for the boys. They will never get an education it seems. And now she's in hiding again, away from everyone. But that's her choice. If I knew where she was I'd be calling the Child Protective Services.
She was calling with a cell phone that Vanessa got for her. It probably could be tracked. Not sure though. She was at someones house because I could hear the kids and she said she was cooking. And she says it's nice and warm. I'm not going to worry about her any more. Nothing I can do now. I heard that Dave, the father of the boys, said she stole a lot of his money that he always kept hidden in the cellar. So that is where she got her money from. But he's not paying child support so she probably thought she deserved it. I have no idea what went on in that home out there in MN or in TN. Better off not knowing I guess.
Nina will be coming to visit on Saturday so I'm looking forward to that. I'll be meeting her live in boyfriend for the first time also.
I've got more than one rat out there in the rock wall now. There's a younger one or maybe two out there along with the bigger female one. I've got to kill them real soon or I'll have a whole group of them. I'm waiting for the chipmunks to go to their dens for the winter before I do it. I don't want to kill them too. I make peanut butter balls laced with the poison pellets and then put them inside the rock wall. I know where they run now. I do worry about a fox eating them after they die though. Years past they always died inside the wall. hopefully they will do that this time. If a few mice or Voles die also I can't help it. I know I'd never be able to live trap a rat. They are way too smart to go inside one of those.
I wish I hadn't thrown all my big flannel shirts in the Salvation Army last year. Now I need to buy some. I have to buy 2XL's so they are big enough. I'm getting so fat..LOL I bought size 16 pants for the first time in my life! Yikes! But hey! I'm alive!
So that's all for now. Take care everyone.

November 1, 2011-My 65th Birthday!

I made it! I am now 65 years old. The fear of dying at 64 has now gone. Thank God!

I made this in Jibjab. Just for fun because I'm so happy that I made it to my 65th birthday! When the doctor told me last year that I wouldn't last another year I thought for sure I'd be gone by now.

My daughter didn't come over because she had to teach up in Rome. She is coming over on Saturday. I'm going to meet her boyfriend for the first time also. Rich called as he was on his way to the base. He's been busy putting in a furnace at one of his apartments and a new radiator system in his cottage. He's only heated with his fireplace before so there had to be cold spots. He must have used electric heaters and that's expensive. Everyone is getting prepared for winter.
We've had some beautiful days here!

October 31, 2011-The End Of Another Month!

Can't believe how fast October flew by! Yesterday and today were beautiful. Sunny, blue skies all day. Jeanne stopped by yesterday to give me a birthday card. I can't believe that I made it to 65. I shouldn't say that yet since it's not my birthday till tomorrow on Nov. 1st. And I have to wait till 6:30 pm for it to be official since that's the time I was born..Ha! I never thought I would, especially after what the doctor said last year. He said I probably would not last another year. I can't wait to send him a Christmas card this year..Ha!
Jane stopped by this afternoon to give me card. She won't have her car tomorrow. She had to take it in for some minor body work that was on it when she bought it and they didn't tell her. She's pissed off at Carbones Auto. She never wanted to buy a car from them but Savey talked her out of driving to NY to buy one. I think she's better off getting one close to home also. Most local dealers will at least talk to you if you need something done and you bought it from them. All car dealers are alike no matter where you go.
I finally got some laundry done last night. Now I feel better. I hate having dirty laundry around. I changed all my bedding yesterday too. It took me two hours because I get too tired doing it. I'd have to sit down for a while then go back. It's my hips that are so weak. It's hard to do things any more. But I was vaccuming the mattress and cleaning more than usual and I had to get into the closet and move things around. It's hard for me to hang my clothes too. My right arm still won't go up too high since I broke my wrist that year.
I tried not to do too much today so my body could heal. I want to be rested tomorrow in case Nina stops by with the kids.

Take care everyone. Got to get to bed now.

October 28, 2011-Got Out This Evening

My knee was hurting during the night last night. I was afraid I wouldn't be able to get out for a few groceries but by tonight and after taking a couple Ibuprofen it felt better. I went out after it got dark but was home just before nine pm. Not sure if we are going to get snow tomorrow or not. To the East they will be getting a lot I guess. It's too early for snow. We had big flakes yesterday and over the hill they got a few inches. It was 24 degrees here this morning. The frost was covering everything. It looked pretty as the sun was coming up through the woods.
I didn't get much sleep last night and the woman upstairs was up flushing the toilet at 4 am and 5:30. That's when she got up and was makiong a lot of noise. I think she left to go somewhere with her daughter. She isn't home tonight so maybe I'll get some sleep for a change.. I hate to complain but she is so noisy.
I'm going to bed now. Too tired to write tonight. take care everyone and have a nice weekend.

October 27, 2011-Rained All Day

It was a real gloomy, rainy day today. And at 5 pm it was snowing. Great big flakes. Nothing stayed on the ground in my area but up over the hill it did. Our first snow of the season!
I decided it was time to take the air conditioner hose out of the window and clean the whole thing. I have a portable so it's easy to handle. I had to drain it and clean all the compresser unit from dust. Had to unscrew the back to get at it good. Got it all covered and put away in the closet till next summer. Not sure if I'll be around for another summer but at least someone will have a nice portable air conditioner if they need one. Had to move a few things around in the bedroom. Now I have more room. I'm tired out tonight from doing all that.
I'm hoping my knee will cooperate so I can get out tomorrow. It's been a whole week. It is still painful at times so I will have to be very careful that I don't over do the walking. I know I should use one of those electric carts but I don't want to yet..
I called my primary doctor today so they could send me a note to give to the landlord for my recertification. I knew she'd want me to come in for a check up so I have an appointment for Nov. 16th at 10:45 in the morning. I won't let her check everything but maybe I'll just get some blood work done to see where I'm at right now. I won't take any medications for high Cholesterol or anything else. And she knows it.. The only time I'll need anything is when the cancer starts being painful. Then I'll take pain pills. At least if I see her I won't have to go all the way to Oneida for a check up. I told her I'd only come if it isn't snowing..as I am not going to try and walk in snow.
I didn't see any foxes today. Just squirrels were out in the rain. That Sharp-Shinned hawk is flying around a lot. My bird sees it more than I do and he goes screaming into the kitchen. One of these days he'll break his neck. He crashes into the wall all the time. He scares my parakeet and she goes flying too. Sometimes she falls to the floor. Poor thing. She flies back up okay though but I'm afraid she might hit the wall too hard too. I made her stay in the cage more today. I'm starting to lock Ricky in earlier also. He gets too paranoid in the late afternoons. Better for him to be safe in the cage and mad at me than for him to hurt himself.
So that's about all for today. Take care everyone.

October 25, 2011-Staying In

My knees are slowly recovering but not quite there yet. So I'm taking it easy for a few more days before I venture out.
Today starts hunting and trapping for the fur bearing animals around here. I heard a gunshot way up over the hill this afternoon. I didn't see any of my foxes today. But yesterday I did see the Doe with her twins. I got a lot of pics of them. The twins are a boy and a girl. The mom seems to pay more attention to the male. The female likes to dart off on her own a lot but then runs back to her mom. They are fun to watch.
I've been trying to get all my paperwork together for my recertification here at the building. All I have to do now is get a note from my doctor saying I need the stuff that I buy over the counter. I figure my rent will be going up about $30 this coming year. At least we are getting a slight increase in our SS in January. That will cover part of it. I'll only be getting $25 more. Every little bit helps.
A website has got an article about my wildlife photograhy on it this week. A girl contacted me and asked if they could feature me on their site. Why not. More people can enjoy the photos now!
Click here to get there.

Take care everyone.

October 23, 2011-Knees feeling A Bit Better Today

My knees are still hurting but not as much as yesterday. So if I take it easy I should be okay in a few days. I wouldn't dare try to go out yet. Especially when my right knee almost buckled on me in Walmart the other night. That was scary.
Today wasn't a bad day. Sun and clouds and about 50 degrees. Nothing to talk about though. It was just a peaceful day. I watched TV all day. Mostly horror movies and then a couple nice ones on the Hallmark channel.
Last night a skunk sprayed outside while I was watching TV. It was real strong. This morning I'm looking at my living room window and wondering what the heck was splattered all over it. Thought it was bird poop at first but then realized it was skunk spray. It was that close! No wonder it stunk. I tried to wash my window and it still has these little spots. No wonder the animals that get sprayed have such a hard time when it gets on them. That stuff is hard to get off ! I sure wouldn't want it on me!! Yikes!
That woman upstairs must have gotten herself a recliner last week because all I hear now is her getting out of it. She puts the foot rest up and when she puts it down it makes one hell of a boom on the ceiling. It's scaring me and the birds. Poor Ricky jumps and gets scared every time she does it. I think she's sleeping in it sometimes because she will get up in the middle of the night now and make that terrible noise. It's pissing me off. I'm sorry to say it but I don't like her. Not many do in this building I guess from what I hear.
There is a new woman living here now. Her name is Betty Frank and they say she's from Mohawk. Wanda says she's nice. I haven't seen her yet. But then I don't see anyone. I never go out there and mingle. Just don't feel like it. Did I ever mention that we have a black guy living upstairs now also?? He came all the way from Long Island and doesn't drive and doesn't have any relatives at all up here. Real odd it seems. I guess he's a bit slow but I haven't heard him talk yet so don't really know. The other "slow" guy that is living upstairs has taken the black guy shopping I guess. So that is good. Maybe they will be friends.
I've got laundry to do one of these days. I hate doing laundry here. I have to wipe down everything with bleach water to kill all the germs and mop the floor in case any of my clothes drop to the floor. And I have to wait till there's no one using it. I sure miss having my own machines. It was so nice when I did.
Got to go now. Take care everyone.

October 22, 2011-Can't Walk Very Well Today

I went out last evening to Aubuchon Hardware and Walmart. When I go into Aubuchon I grab a cart outside the door and use it to balance myself. I got three bags of Bird Chow off the shelf and noticed a pantry moth larvae on the outside of one. I told the kid at the register and asked him if a new shipment had come in. I was afraid those bags might be loaded with the larvae again.. He went out back and brought me three different bags. So another kid took my cart and put the other bags back on the shelf. Meanwhile I got my transaction completed and that kid carried the bags out on his shoulder to my car. But the cart was gone and had been put back outside. So I had to walk the best I could to my car without the cart or anything to balance me. I made it okay and then went to Walmart. But I noticed my knees were hurting real bad. And today I can hardly walk. Both knees are very painful. Just walking with no support did it. I'll never do that again. Now it's going to take a week for my knees to start feeling better again. I am so scared of not being able to walk someday. When that happens I'll end up in a nursing home for sure. I sure don't want that happening. I want to die first.
It's been gloomy and rainy for the past two days. Not much rain but enough to make the mildew smell bad again.
Jane called yesterday. She's having pain in one of her hands. She's going to get x-rays taken soon I guess. She's not sure what it is. She and Savey are going to Lake Placid for their anniversary this coming weekend. Their 18th anniversary is the 30th. I've got to remember to ask her for the tape from their wedding. I've never seen it and would like to. It would be fun watching that again.
Steve's daughter sprained on ankle and twisted the other at the same time. Guess she's on crutches right now. She's still living up in NH. She's happy and has a boyfriend. Loves her job.
That's about it for now. Take care everyone.

October 19, 2011-Time Sure Is Flying

Had a little rain yesterday and just a few sprinkles so far today. A bit windy too. Haven't gone anywhere. I saw the Mama deer yesterday outside my window. Didn't see her kids. They might have been in the woods. It's hard to spot them among all the leaves. The fox blend in well with the leaves also. That's a good thing.
I can't believe how fast this month is going. But I am still here and have to get my recertification stuff ready so they can determine how much rent I'll be paying this year. It will be going up quite a bit because I don't have as many medical expenses as I did last year. Even though the Government is giving us a raise in our Social Security, I won't be seeing any of it. But at least if I'm lucky I might still get to keep almost as much a month as I did all year. I haven't figured it out yet. I always do all the paperwork before I hand in everything so I will already know what I'll be paying.
I ordered a new pair of sneakers and they just came tonight. UPS delivers late. It was almost 7:00 when he came. Hope this new pair fit me. If not I'll send them back. It's free shipping anyway. I only have one pair and needed another. I really should make an appointment with my primary doctor so she can refer me to a foot doctor. Then I can get orthotic shoes paid by Medicare. But I hate running to doctors. The Orthotics I had made years ago never fit me right so I gave up. I always find that good fitting sneakers are more comfortable for me.
I let Jasper out yesterday and she walked around the apartment for a while and then took a nap under the couch before she came back out in the evening and I put her back in the water. She drags her back foot around yet. She does move it a little but it looks like it's always going to be like that now. Today she surprised me and got up on her log. I was happy about that. She hasn't climbed up that in two months. So maybe she's feeling a bit better and stronger. Poor thing. I gave her a good bath and scrubbed her shell real good. She's starting to shed her skin. That's not good. They really aren't supposed to shed like that. It comes from the water not being at a consistent temperature. That's what I read online. But she's been shedding every year since I had her. That's almost 17 years.
Haven't heard from anyone this week. Just Jeanne on Sunday. She wasn't feeling too well. Her daughter, Jessica and husband are buying his Grandfather's home from the estate. It's way out in the country and I guess they will be moving in the next couple months. They have already sold their home in Herkimer. Jeanne will miss having them close by. It was much easier for her to go see the kids or babysit for them.
Guess that's all for now. Take care everyone.

October 16, 2011-Rainy And Cooler-Visitors

It's been a rainy couple days here and breezy. Lots of leaves fell and the trees are just about bare in some spots.
On Friday my cousins and Aunt stopped by to visit. Aunt Mary, Gloria and Jack. Jack is doing good since his stroke. He's numb on his right side. Thank God it wasn't worse. He can still walk and talk good. Hope he gets stronger as time goes by. He'll be going back home on the 25th to CA. I hadn't seen him in a couple years.
Today it's a mix of sun and clouds. Early this morning it was real nice with the blue skies but now the clouds are moving in. They say more rain later. Darn it.
I am happy about something though! One of the adult foxes came to see me yesterday afternoon. It wasn't Granny but one of her daughters from a year or more ago. A pretty girl. She came right down below my window and never ran. I am so happy to know that she is still alive. I miss Granny. Maybe something chased them all far away and they will all come back around someday. That would be nice. At least I'd know they were still alive. But I can't worry about it. I'll take whatever God brings me right now.
I never did see that little squirrel after the 10th. There are lots of young ones around but a bit older. More squirrels seem to be coming around now also. Guess all the nuts are gone off the trees and now they need mine..Ha!
Not much else going on. Haven't heard from Nina since Rich's party. I never know anything about her these days. She must be preoccupied with her teaching and the kid's school activities and most of all that guy she sees. Not sure what is going on there.
This is a picture of me with my cousins and their mom.
Take care everyone.

October 12, 2011-Lunch With Girls Today

Barb and Gloria and me sitting. I had a tough time getting up from that chair. No arms on it. Good thing the table was strong..the way I have to push up from it and the chair.

Carol and Barb and Gloria. That was nice of that lady to take our pictures for us. She had to take some with Barb's camera and Carol's Cell Phone also..

I picked Gloria up at 11:20 this morning. Barb called and her sister's boyfriend was going to drop them off so I didn't have to pick them up. Had a nice lunch and fun talking about the old days with Barb and her sister Carol. A lady that was sitting in there took our pictures for us. We left around 1:15. Carol had a doctor's appointment to go to in Utica. I dropped she and Barb off at their mom's house and then dropped Gloria off. The rain held off all day. Still isn't raining yet but it's going to tonight and for the next few days. Everything was drying up nicely out here for a change. Now I'll be smelling mildew again.
I haven't seen the baby squirrel so I guess he got killed. Better off I guess. He never would have survived anyway when it started getting cold.
It was a good day!
Take care everyone.

Last Day Of Sunny Weather-10-11-2011

It was another beautiful day but that's it for a while. Rain moving in tomorrow and for the next five days according to the weather channel. Hope everyone around these parts enjoyed these past few days.
I'm sad today. I did not see that tiny squirrel at all. So sad to know that he probably met his fate. Either by the big cat that has been hanging aorund here or one of the foxes. I'm trying to think positive and hope he made it to the woods safely last night.
I'm picking my cousin, Gloria, up tomorrow morning and then picking up Barb and her sister, Carol. I can't get in and out of smaller cars so I'm doing the driving. Just hope my old car makes it. The lifters are starting to make noise now. I had to go out tonight and wash the back seat off. No one has been in my car for years. I will get gas tomorrow before I pick Gloria up. They decided on the Night Spot in Frankfort. Not my choice. It's not that roomy and we can't linger around as long and talk. But that's okay. It's cheaper than Denny's probably. I've only been in that place once and that was quite a few years ago. Lots of older people seem to like it. Gloria's mom goes there a lot with Angie, her Granddaughter.
I'll let you know how it went.
Time for bed. I'll be back tomorrow night. Take care everyone.

October 10, 2011-Beautiful Fall Weather-Baby Squirrel

The past couple days have been so beautiful. A little too warm for me but the sky was blue and the leaves are all turning. I did go out Sunday afternoon to get critter food. Was going to go to Walmart but it was too crowded so I came back home and went back out around 7 pm. Got home at 8:30 and I was so tired. Today I feel sore and tired. My legs were killing me this morning when I got up and my bones in my arms and shoulders hurt. My spine was hurting too. It got better as the day wore on and after I took an Ibuprofen.
Barb Paschke is in town and I am going to meet her and Gloria for lunch on Wednesday somewhere. Haven't decided where yet. I have to call Gloria tomorrow. I like to go to Denny's because it's easy to get into. But it might be too expensive for the others. So maybe Donna's Diner in East Herkimer. Barb said around 11:30. That would be good. Get there before the lunch crowd.
I have a tiny baby squirrel hanging around outside for the past few days and I'm so worried about it. It's way too small to be away from it's mom already. Not sure if it has a mom. There was a female squirrel out there by him today but she wasn't paying any attention to it. The poor thing. He was crying for his mom too. The foxes will probably get him. He'll never make it through the winter. He's way too small. And with no mom to keep him warm he will freeze to death. I wish I could somehow get hold of him but I know he would run away so I guess it's up to nature. I would take him to a rehabber if I caught him. They keep them for 6 months before releasing them. And in the wild they stay with their mom's for three months before they are even allowed to wander on their own. This one is about 7 weeks old I'd say. He looks healthy and was eating a nut yesterday. Poor little thing.
I'm always afraid to feel my right side but tonight I did and it is sore inside. I don't notice it in my normal everyday routine stuff. Just when I push in a little with my hand. Not sure if it's my intestines or my liver. I'm not going to touch it again. I don't want to know.. I just want to live each day as best I can. I know it's inevitable and the pain will come. But for now I don't want to think about it. At least I've lived to see another fall.
I got the Alexander-Jones book ordered. This one will be a larger, hard cover one. Jeanne has the smaller, soft cover one. Rich wanted one so I think I'll give this one to him. And anyone that wants to order one will be able to on the Blurb site. But I had to order one first so it would stay up there. The other books I've had printed are there also. I'll be putting the link on Facebook and I probably should add it here also for the future if anyone wants one.
It's going to be nice tomorrow again but then rain coming in on Wednesday and cooler weather.

October 6, 2011-Nice Days Ahead-I'm A Winner!

My winning picture in the Kim Komando summer photo contest. One of the weekly winners. I think there were three winners a week for about 7 weeks and then a Grand Prize winner. I'm happy!! First contest I've ever entered.

Haven't done much the past few days. Did go out one night to get a few things at Walmart. Still going through things. Some woman came down from Utica today to buy something from me that I had listed on Craigslist. She was a bit goofy and a bit too nosey. First thing she wanted was to use the bathroom. I told her there was a public one right out there in the hall so she used that. Then she walks in my apartment and walks right into the living room area and looking at everything. She's just quirky that way I guess. I had already checked out her Facebook page before she came. I always check people out if their names come through on e-mails. She was probably in her late 50's. Now she wants to buy a few more bottles and other items that I have but she has to wait till she gets more money. I think she buys stuff and then resells it. I don't care. As long as I get rid of the stuff. She comes down this way often because she has a son in Ilion.
I have to give the girl in the office a wedding shower gift on the 15th. So I'm glad I sell an item now and then.
I got my prizes from Kim Komando in the mail today. Did I mention that I won one of her weekly prizes in the photo contest?? First contest I ever entered. It was one of my fox pup pics of course. The $100 gift card is a regular Visa card that I can use anywhere so I was happy about that. I thought at first I'd have to buy things off her web site. She does have a lot of cool gadgets on there though. I'm not going to activate the Carbonite stuff though. I'm trying to find someone that uses it already. They can save a year which is worth $59 I think for home back up.
I tried to activate the credit card online but it wouldn't go through and then I tried to call the number but they kept saying to call back that all their lines were busy. Everytime I tried I got a busy signal. Maybe I'll never get to use it. If I can't get it activated I'll send Kim Komando a note. She'll straighten it out. I'll use that for Christmas.
My legs are killing me today. Was standing up too much. My arms get weak too. Every time I try to hang something up it's hard to get the hanger on the rail. I used to be so strong in my arms. This has all happened since I broke my wrist. Can't lift my right arm up very high. I get very tired fast too. That's to be expected I guess. Earlier in the week I had pains in my liver area all night. Thank heavens they went away by morning. Maybe it was something in my intestines.
It's going to be a beautiful weekend here.It's going to be near 80 degrees on Sat. and Sun. good thing I still have my air conditioner in the window. I had it on today even though it was only in the 50's. I get warm fast. I love the cool mornings. The woods are getting bare. Lots of leaves falling. The trees aren't pretty here though. Maybe they are in other places.
That's all for now. Take care everyone. Enjoy this fall weather.

October 2, 2011-Rainy Days

Yesterday was gloomy and wet and so is today. It looks like it might clear up a bit today though. I can see some blue up there in the sky. Jane and Savey have a golf benefit today so I hope it clears enough for that. It's a benefit for a tiny little girl that has cancer. She's only about 15 months old and has a rare form of cancer. Tumors all through her little body. Doesn't look good. They have her on a new form of Chemo right now. She's been on Chemo for some time and they thought the tumors were gone but they came back three weeks later with a vengence. Poor little thing.
I did not go to Mark Hoover's benefit yesterday. I woke up with pains in my back and couldn't walk well. I just wasn't up to it. I will send them a check. I haven't heard how it turned out yet. Every time I do laundry I hurt the next day. My neck has been hurting for the past few days also. Seems like all my bones are starting to hurt lately. But I'm still alive and can get up out of bed. Besides, my critters need me..
It's one of those days where I feel like sleeping but of course I never do after I get up in the mornings. I will watch movies and sometimes start to doze off but as soon as my body goes limp I wake up. It's just a lazy day.
Hope you all have a nice Sunday.

Last Day Of September-Nice Too!

It turned out to be a nice day today! Lots of sun early in the day then it clouded up.It was about 69 degrees. I had to go out to Agway to get more critter food. I got some pantry moth traps also just in case I start getting moths around. I think I got all those larvae but not sure. So if any hatch I hope to catch them. I have to be real careful with these new bags I just got. It's from the same batch. When I got home I only brought one bag inside and just cut the corner and poured some out into two air tight gallon jars. Then I put the bag into a big black plastic bag and tied it up tight. I haven't seen any worms yet in the jars but I know that some were in that bag because of the webs I saw. Just small area. But that means there were larvae trying to make caccoons. The ones that were in the last bag looked like they were half dead so I'm hoping they are all dead in this bag. I didn't see any moths fly out.
I did a couple loads of laundry later this afternoon. And that's about all I did for today.

Mark Hoover's benefit is tomorrow. If I feel up to it I might drive over just to buy a ticket and say hi to everyone. I'll wait and see how I feel tomorrow. It runs from 1 pm till 7 so I will have plenty of time. I haven't heard from Jeanne or Debby so don't know if they are going or not. Steve is going with his girlfriend. Jane said she will probably stop for a few minutes but she has two other benefits to go to. She said eveytime she turns around she's handing money out for something. I sure wouldn't be able to. I will for this one and then I have a wedding shower here at the building for the girl that works in the office. There goes more money.
Have a nice weekend everyone. It's going to be a rainy and cold day tomorrow here.

September 29, 2011-Rainy Days

We are getting some rain now. And it's starting to cool down a lot. I like that. I went out last evening to get some groceries. It was still humid, as it is today. We had a thunderstorm at 4:30 this morning. I got up to unplug my computer just in case. I sure don't want anything happening to it.
Right now at 4 pm it's getting real dark. We are going to get another storm soon so I will have to shut this thing off for a while.
Not much going on to report anyway. Take care everyone.

September 26, 2011-A Bit Too Warm Past Two Days

I don't like this heat and humidity that has returned. It's in the low 80's. Won't be lasting long. By Wednesday it will be raining and by Thursday it will be back in the 50's. And I'll be happy. Ha!
I haven't gone out at all. Been going through more papers and getting rid of more stuff. It seems the more I go through things the more I find. It's a long process, this cleaning out. I sold another item on Craigslist so now I have some money to send to the Hoover's. I don't plan on going to the benefit this Saturday so will mail them a check instead. Hopefully I'll sell something else so I will have some money for the office girl's wedding shower on the 15th. A few bucks here and there helps. I've got some nice blazers I should try and sell on there also. And a couple of winter jackets. It's better than giving them to the Salvation Army. I now think of all the stuff I gave away that I could have sold. But never thought about it before.
There's a woman here at the building that takes anything she can get for free and then gives it to her sisters to sell in garage sales. I used to wonder why she wanted everyone else's stuff when they died. Ha!
Early this morning the deer were right outside my window but I didn't get any photos. As soon as I saw them they saw me too and ran. The Doe and one of her fawns. A couple of the fox pups have been around today. They seem to be here every day now. One of them has the cutest face and eyes. Looks like my old Granny. I miss her.
I better get back to the living room. My birds are calling me.
Take care everyone.

September 23, 2011-Lagging Behind

The past few days have been uneventful really. Been staying in. I did go out on Wed. night to get some groceries. Nothing much going on. My legs and foot aren't feeling that great so trying to stay off them as much as I can. Having arm and shoulder pain more too. Not sure why. Could be just from doing different things around here. Just pushing myself up from chairs all the time makes them hurt more. Maybe those muscles are just getting worn out also. Otherwise I'm feeling okay. No pains that are that noticable in my liver area yet. Minor ones now and then.

I got that moth larvae problem under control. Haven't seen any in a few days now. I did call Agway to tell them about the bag that was full of them critters. Nothing much they can do either since it came from the factory that way. I used all the nuts that were in the bag though. Put them in air tight comtainers. The larvae would crawl up onto the screw top lid and I'd just kill them. Some got thrown out with the nuts of course. I opened another bag but that has a different code date and there's nothing in that one. But the one that I was worried about is still in the trunk of my car and the mice have gotten into it. So maybe I will open that trunk and see moths flying around..LOL I will get moth traps next time I go to Agway. I'll put one in my closet here and one in the trunk just in case. I won't be bringing that bag inside though. I will take my containers out and fill them as needed.
The benefit for Mark Hoover, my cousin's husband, is coming up on October 1st. I don't think I'll be going though. It's too hard to walk around with my crutches and with all the people I'd be afraid I'd get bumped into. And they usually have those folding chairs at those things that I can't get up off of. Then there's the parking. I'd never get close enough. I just can't do it any more. If I had a wheelchair to use it would be much easier but I don't.
Mark has stage four lung cancer now. He was in remission for his throat or esophagus cancer and I guess it spread to his lungs. That's bad. It's probably elsewhere in his body also. It doesn't sound good for him. Poor guy. He's doing the Chemo. I'm not sure if he's still taking the treatments or not. I will have to ask one of my cousins.
It's a bit damp today. Raining on and off.
I saw the deer the other night. They were all right outside where I could see them good. The mom and her two fawns. Of course the fawns are growing up now and most of their spots are gone. They hung around the area for about an hour. It was fun watching them.
I saw three of the fox pups the other day also. Glad to know they are still alive and well. Not sure about the fourth one or the parents. I never see any of the adults any more.
Some guys are working on the roof today so no animals are around.
So that's all for now. Not sure when I'll get back here. Got to upload some of the deer videos to my Youtube sight today.
Take care everyone. Have a nice weekend.

September 19, 2011-Two Beautiful Days!

Yesterday, Sunday, was a perfect fall day! It was in the 60's. Bright blue skies. My brother, Jim, called me in the morning to thank me for his birthday card and to ask me to come out to dinner with them but I told him I couldn't. But I did tell him I might drive over and when they come out after dinner I would take their pictures. And that's what I did. I drove over to the canal area where the Waterfront Grill is and waited in the parking lot thinking they'd be coming out but it got to be 7 pm and they still didn't come and the sun was going down so I decided to heck with it and came home. I did get some pictures of the seagulls in the water and flying around that area. Never got a picture of the sunset because I left too late. Drove up over Putts Hill but it was already gone. Oh well. There will be another time I hope.
I think the kids probably were having a few drinks after dinner. I did not want to walk inside. I was having a lot of pain in my leg all day yesterday.
Today is another beautiful day and a bit warmer. I got some acheness going on in my left arm this afternoon. I better be careful. Might be having a heart attack. It's running from my neck down my arm. I always wanted to die from a heart attack. It's a lot better than suffering through cancer pains at the end.
One of the fox pups were just down close outside my living room window. He came close because I hadn't thrown any food up over the rock wall yet. It was nice to see him up close.
It's supposed to rain tonight or tomorrow.
That's all for now. I've got to keep moving. Can't sit here long. Take care everyone.