The Sun Is Shining

Finally the sun is shining here in Pasadena.  Yesterday was beautiful and today looks the same. Hope and I ran some errands, we went clear into Burbank to return the Elvis costume (something more from the party, I'll tell you about later) and did some other errands here in Pasadena. Bob went to the auto auction with his son in law, Jerry (he's an auto wholesaler) yesterday.  He found a 31 foot travel trailer, he's considering buying. However, if he does....he'll have to put it in storage here, then after we got back to Washington, he'll have to take the camper off his big truck and drive back down here to get it.  It's too heavy to tow with the camper on the truck.  

Today, we're going to perhaps go to the new J P Getty museum in Los Angeles.  And I want to sign up for our off shore excursions offered for our cruise next week.  There's one rather inexpensive one in San Diego where they transport you to the San Diego Zoo for a whirlwind 5 hour tour.  I've never been there and I know we'd see more if we drove to San Diego and stayed for a few days and went on our own.....but he figures the gas to drive down there and back would be over $100 and then we'd have to pay for an R.V spot in a park, etc.  So doing it as an excursion is more cost effective for sure.  I'm not sure about Catalina Island, we may be able to see that on our own.  Then there is one in Ensenada, Mexico I'd like to do....they take you by bus, out to this area overlooking the ocean, after shopping in the local shops, you go to a restaurant and a chef helps you cook your own mid-day meal.  Real authentic Mexican food, I'm sure.    One thing I've learned is that when you take the excursions offered by the cruise line & something happens....say for instance the tour bus breaks down....the ship will wait for you.  But, if you venture off on your own & the tour bus breaks down, and it's departure time...the ship leaves without you.  So I think it's best, especially in Mexico for us to take an excursion offered by Royal Caribbean.

Well, I guess that's all for now.   I want to wish Jeannette and Andy a safe trip as they fly across the pond to Florida.  And I understand my friend Robin down there in Tampa is having a wonderful time entertaining her mom and dad who came from Arizona for her birthday last week.    I'm really missing reading everyone's journal, and maybe after I get home can catch up.  Meanwhile, you all could send me an email now & then to let me know you are doing.     Until next time.....Linda

P.S.  I got an email from Peyton's grandma....Peyton is over 8 pounds now and smiling.  It thrills my heart everytime I get an update on Peyton.  To think she came into this world very early, weighing just a little over 2 pounds.....God is good !!!

What A Party !!!

It was so much fun !!  For those of you who live in southern California, it was held at a restaurant called "The Patio" in Arcadia.  They feature middle eastern cuisine.  I tried most of it, but could not eat the lamb kabobs.  I've tried before and just can't eat it.  By the time everyone left and we took all the stuff to the car & Bob's truck, we didn't get back to Pasadena until 2:30am.  Needless to say, it's been a lazy day.  We did however watch the Academy Awards tonight.  I'll write all about it when I get home & include the pictures.   (P.S. there was a belly dancer).   Bob & I did drive over to Duarte to Wal Mart this afternoon.  It was so crowded, I got what I needed and we got out of there.  Usually, I like to roam around and "window shop" but not today.  That's all for now folks.......until later,  Linda

Who Says It Doesn't Rain In California???

We drove thru rain and wind and arrived at the home of Bob's daughter and family about 8:30pm Thursday evening.   His son in laws 50th birthday party is Saturday evening and his daughter is busy with the final preparations for that.  It's going to be at a restaurant in Arcadia, CA and about 80 people are expected. We've decided to take the camper over there, incase we start to fade before the party is over.  It doesn't start until 8pm, then there's going to be all kinds of other things, like a slide show, a couple games, dancing, etc.  I think I'll be in the camper & reading my book by 11pm.

Friday, Bob took me to Trader Joes to do a little shopping.  They have one type of cold cereal that I love and that was in the box that didn't get loaded into the camper.  Then we stopped by the Pasadena Goodwill and I found three more good books....does anyone know of a 12 Step program for people who constantly buy books?

It rained off & on all day and the temperature was right around 56 degrees.  Gosh...the weather is better up in Washington this week.  And these people here in souther California say it always rains up there.

Did I mention that we watched the lunar eclipse the other night in Las Vegas.  It was quite cloudy but were still able to get a good view of it.  And tonight we were all marveling over the beautiful full moon.

Well, that's all for now folks...it's very late, so I'm off to bed. 

Until next time..........Linda 

Hello From Las Vegas

Just a quick note to say we've been in Las Vegas since Sunday evening.  We are leaving here Thursday morning, heading for Pasadena, CA.  I've seen all of this town I'll ever want to see in a life time.  The only reason I'd ever come back is if I won free tickets & airfare to see the Bette Midler show. 

It's very windy and cool here today...we felt a few drops of rain, which was predicted.  

We're riding the Las Vegas monorail today~$9 each for an all day pass.

More later.....Linda

Happy Valentine's Day

I hope everyone had a Happy Valentine's Day.  We all went to the local Senior Center for lunch and a little party.  They served a wonderful lunch for $2.00 a piece.  We had breaded veal cutlets, mashed potatoes and gravy, steamed carrots & broccoli, tossed green salad, and cake for dessert.  Of course there was coffee, tea and milk available too.   They gave us each a raffle ticket as we entered....and I won something.  It was so cute...it was a bag of shampoos,lotions and soaps from the local hotels.  Obviously the Senior Center doesn't have a big budget for prizes.  After we left there, we did some thrift shop hopping.  I bought 5 more books to read.  I think I brought 4 from home, so I have plenty of reading material now.

The weather was sunny here in Carson City again today but cold.....about 48 degrees.   I think Bob and his one cousin are going to try and ski at Heavenly Ski Resort, up out of Carson City tomorrow.  They were going today, but his cousin called the resort and they told him the wind was blowing about 45 miles per hour up there (over 6,000 feet) so they decided that was not a good place to spend the day.  Too cold !!

I had to finally turn all my alerts off...had over 300 emails today.  So if you've got something to share with me, go ahead and send an email.  I'd love to hear from you.

Well,  that's all for now.  I'm going to go upstairs and help Bob's Aunt Helen get dinner on the table.     Until next time...Linda

Hello From Carson City, Nevada

Hello from Nevada.  We arrived at the home of Bob's 90 year old aunt & his two "boy" cousins yesterday afternoon.  We got to Reno Sunday evening after planning to stay in Lincoln, CA with my cousin.  When I called her, she informed me she was over in Reno skiing with a friend of hers and to come on over.  So we checked into the RV Park at the Sierra Grand and Monday morning headed up to Mt Rose Ski Resort.  It's at about 8,000 feet above Reno.  The hills all around Reno are covered with snow, the sky was blue and of course there was lots of snow on the mountain.  It was absolutely breath taking !!!  Yes, I took some pictures.  The three skiers wore each other out on the slopes, while I went back & forth between the camper and the outside deck of the lodge.  It was a very relaxing day.  And before we left the parking lot, my cousin Susie showed me how to "cast on" so I could begin knitting.  Although I have since gone to Wal Mart and bought some fatter needles and bigger yarn at her suggestion.  Bob & I headed back to the RV park and plugged in and watched TV for awhile, although he was exhausted, he's not used to skiing at that elevation in Washington.   Tuesday after we checked out we went to Sparks to the J.C. Penney Outlet store.  I got some really nice Reebok's for $22 and some other odds & end.  Then we headed south to Carson City, where we are now,
We have seen lots of snow all along the way  but the roads have been clear and dry.  The hills around this desert area are covered in snow, with the blue sky, behind...oh my gosh...just breath taking !
What happened Saturday evening, was we went as far as Canyonville, OR to the Seven Feathers Casino Resort.  Bob's brother & sister in law were caravaning with us (they were headed straight to Las Vegas) and they had a room reserved there and we just parked in the back of the parking lot for the night.  We all went into eat dinner and on the way out Bob was first in line to pay.  He handed the cashier his credit card and she asked for ID, so he gave her his driver's license and she processed his charge, had him sign the slip and handed him his receipt and card.  But apparently not his drivers license.  When we went in there  the  next morning for breakfast, he again handed her the credit card & the cashier asked for ID and he went thru his whole wallet and that's when he discovered his drivers license was missing.  We went to Security at the Casino and talked with them, they looked all thru their lost and found and nothing....they had him fill out a lost and found slip and said they would call if they found it but so far nothing!  He always drives carefully anyway when he's driving the big truck and camper, so is not concerned about getting stopped. But it's sort of un-nerving wondering if someone is out there using his license for something fraudulent.  He does know his drivers license number by heart, so we wrote it down on a piece of paper and put it with his insurance information and he also has his passport along for the cruise on March. So that's a good source of picture ID.
My cousin is still in the area and is coming pretty soon with her niece (my other cousin's daughter) and picking me up and we're going to lunch.  So while Bob and his "boy" cousins are solving the problems of the world, I'll be off with the girls for the afternoon. 
When I left home I had 42 emails, when I logged on here on Ian's computer, there were 257 emails.  So I may not get to all or any of your journals.  I hope everyone is well.....and I'll keep in touch as I can.  Have not found anyplace to use my laptop as yet, so have been suffering "internet withdrawals."    LOL    
Until next time.....Linda from Nevada        By the way I've put $10 into different slot machines with NO return, so I'm done with those things !

I Almost Forget

I was chatting with little Peyton's grandma last night and she said Peyton is up to 7 pounds 6 ounces !!!  That is such wonderful news.  For those of you who might be new to my journal you can read about Peyton's very early arrival at; http://journals.aol.com/lsfp1960/LindasWorld/entries/2007/10/28/a-baby-girl/2208

Peyton wasn't due until around the 6th of January but she decided she wanted to come early...very early.

Thanks again to all of you, you prayed for Peyton and the family thru those scary times. Linda

P.S. I have my Passport right where I know where it is.  Now if I could just find one of those missing memory cards for my camera.

He Found the Leak

He's asked me if I can be ready to leave by 10am Saturday morning?  (I think I can)  I do have Avon coming in the morning and have one to deliver and I need to get her check in the bank, so I can pay my bill when I order from where ever next Saturday.

The mountain passes here in Washington are continuing to be very dangerous.  It's on  going battle as this heavy, wet snow continues to fall. Several passes have closed and then re-opened , then closed again in the last 24 hours.  I'm glad we're heading south and not east out of here.

Tomorrow we will only go as far as Canyonville, Oregon and spend the night there so we can go thru the Siskiyous' during the daylight hours. Bob's brother & sister in law are heading to Arizonia tomorrow too and they have secured a room at the Seven Feather's Casino there in Canyonville for Saturday night.  We'll be in the parking lot. Our journal friend Joni and her husband spent some time there when they were trying to head south in January but both of them got sick and they turned around and came back home.

Anyway, I thought I'd share the links to the two main passes we will be traveling thru the next few days.  The Siskiyous are in southern Oregon and northern California and Donner Pass is in north eastern California.  The first ski resort we'll stay at is just after crossing Donner Pass.   I hope Margaret down there in Medford, Oregon is reading this entry...if so...how's the weather down there?   When I look at all these weather cams I see lots of white stuff everywhere.  I even looked at the Mono Lake area....hot in the summer but I see snow right now.  If you're interested in checking these weather cams, remember the time difference.  These are all in the  Pacific Standard Time zone.

Bob is a good driver and the skier that he is, he's had a lot of experience driving in winter conditions.  But your good thoughts and prayers are welcome as we take off Saturday morning.  I'll try and post an entry from time to time so you'll know how we're doing and where we are.   Take care....I'm going to miss the day to day posts from all of you.  Hugs..... Linda

Getting Closer to Leaving Town

Bob is still finishing up some last minute things on the camper.  Late this afternoon, he found a leak under the little kitchen type sink. He's got a bad cold and was totally burned out, so will tackle that on Friday.  It's so cold and windy out side and there's no warm place for him to pull the truck into and work on it.

I think I've finished up all my running around.  I should be able to stay home on Friday and get the stuff done here that needs to be done.  I went to Curves today and got a "travel pass" to use in Curves in the towns we travel thru.  I'm not sure how many work outs I'll get in, but wanted to have the travel pass just in case. 

A neighbor up the street is going to collect my mail for me and watch the house.  I talked with him today and he's such a sweet guy.  His dear wife has Alzeimers and everyday, he puts her in the truck and drives her thru the park 2 or 3 times.  He says she gets restless and asks to "go to town."  She's completely satisfied with just driving around the park.  Such a sad situation but what a loving husband to do that for her. My neighbor to the west of me will also be watching the house.  He stays up real late every night so will make the rounds late in the evening after the other neighbor is at home for the night.  They both have lists of emergency phone numbers that I printed out for them.

My grand daughter set up a live web cam in her room, so have had that up all day, so that when I had a minute to sit at the computer I could see my girl (Gabi.)  She slept on Meghanne's bed most of the day.  It's good too be able to see her but seeing her makes me want to hold & cuddle her.  She seems to be settled in over there.....will she know me when I get home?

I got on-line tonight and did my Online Check-In for the cruise.  I'll do Bob's when he digs out his Passport so I can get the numbers & expiration date off it.   I'm going to try and get him to agree to sign up for our off-shore excursions too.  That way, that will be taken care of and we'll be sure to get the ones we want before they fill up.

I'm sorry I haven't been around to your journals these last couple days.  Today, I spent my computer time gazing at Gabi.  I hope you are all well and have had a good week.  Until next time,   Linda

JLand Photo Shoot #128

         

From Krissy at; http://journals.aol.com/fisherkristina/SometimesIThink/

This week's JLand Photo Shoot will begin today (Monday) and will be due on Saturday, Feb. 9, at 11 PM EST.  That's Saturday, almost midnight, an hour before Sunday, for those of you who are getting confused. 

Our subject this week is:

My Pet  

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Anyone who has read my journal for any length of time knows about my one and only pet. Gabi Lin~an Exotic Shorthair .

Gabi (in Hebrew means "God Is My Strength) came to live with me on October 4, 2005.   She had been picked up in August of that year on the streets of Seattle.  She was in such bad shape that, after an initial exam at the shelter, she was taken to a lady who breeds and fosters Persians and Exotics.  I understand when she was found, she was badly mal-nourished, her fur wasdirty and matted, she was flea infested...a real mess.

The foster mom cleaned her up, took her to the vet for shot updates, etc. and nursed her back to health. The vet figured she was about 2 years old when found.  She has a small frame but weighed less than 4 pounds at that time.  She now weighs 4 pounds 8 ounces and it's not because she's not feed. My vet would like to see her at about 5-1/2 pounds but that hasn't happened. She has dry food in two places in my house (at all times), loves her afternoon snacks and gets moist food twice a day.

I was working with a lady who had lost her male Exotic due to natural old age causes.  She had a female Exotic (Hana) at that time that was about a year old but likes to have two cats because they are good company for each other.  So the end of September 2005, she was calling around to different breeders looking for an Exotic kitten ready to go to a new home.  When she called this particular foster mom, the lady didn't have any kittens but she told my friend about this little stray that she'd been caring for.  Stating that she was ready to be adopted. Pictures were emailed to my friend and when I saw them, I immediately said "if you don't want her, I do."  

My co-worker decided to take her.  But she came to me and we went thru names and both picked Gabi.  When she "took delivery" of Gabi, the foster mom gave her some feeding instructions.  The vet that had been caring for Gabi wanted her to have dry food available at all times, and moist food at least twice a day.  Well, my friend only feeds dry food.  So when she took Gabi home, she had to feed her the moist food and try to keep Hana away, so Gabi could get the nourishment she needed to put on some weight.  Well, after a few days...she came to work, totally frustrated and said "you know Linda, this just isn't working.  Would you like to have Gabi ?"  YES! YES! YES!  I took an extra 30 minutes at lunch, went to Petsmart, got a carrier, some cat food, litter (I had a pan left from when I babysat ny son's cat) and came back to work.  I was working until 5pm that day, so about 3pm my friend went home with my carrier, got Gabi and came back and sat her on my desk.  That was October 4, 2005 and she's been with me every since.  And that is the day I've given to her for her birthday...so in 2007 on October 4th she was 4 years old (as far as we're concerned) My friend later found a 9 week old female Exotic that has since become sister to Hana.

I wish Gabi could tell me how she got out on the streets of Seattle, she's a pure bred and not cheap if someone bought her....she has some fears.  She freaks out if she's picked up.  She absolutely does not like her feet touched. She has no interest in playing with cat toys and cat nip does nothing for her. So I've learned to adapt to what she wants.  I feel she's had a rough time and anything she wants is ok.

She's got a sweet personality and one thingabout smooch faced cats is... that they kind of squeak rather than meow. So there's not a lot of noise coming out of that sweet, flat, little face. But believe me...she can make her wants known.  She has her ways.....

I feel blessed to have her, she has been a source of joy and comfort to me that I've never felt with other cats.  I've had lots of them over the years, they were all sweet tempered and I loved them all but this little gal is special.

Note; this afternoon, I gathered up her blankets, food, litter, bowls and took her to my daughter and son-in-laws house, where she will be in the care of my grand daughter while I'm away.  As I drove away from the house, I couldn't help but shed some tears...I hope she doesn't think I abandoned her.  However, my grand daughter has called and Gabi is doing fine.  When their 15 pound cat, Madeline, came snooping...Gabi hissed at her and away she went.  Then Gabi proceeded into the bathroom was eating Madeline's food.  I took my baby gate, so my grand daughter can keep them separated and out of each other's food.  

I'm going to miss her while I'm away..........I already do !

No !!!!! We've Had Enough !!

The Weather Service has issued a WIND ADVISORY for the following

Washington counties today February 6, 2008.

Clallam, Grays Harbor, Island, Jefferson, King, Kitsap, Lewis, Mason, Pierce, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston, Whatcom

These bulletins are currently in effect for your area:

 

Washington counties that will be effected;

Clallam

WIND ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

Clark

SNOW ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

Columbia

WINTER STORM WARNING

Cowlitz

SNOW ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

Grays Harbor

WIND ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

Island

WIND ADVISORY

Jefferson

WIND ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

King

WIND ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

Kitsap

WIND ADVISORY

Lewis

WIND ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

Mason

WIND ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

Pacific

SNOW ADVISORY

Pierce

WIND ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

San Juan

WIND ADVISORY

Skagit

WIND ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

Skamania

SNOW ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

Snohomish

WIND ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

Thurston

WIND ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

Wahkiakum

SNOW ADVISORY

Walla Walla

WINTER STORM WARNING

Whatcom

WIND ADVISORY

WINTER STORM WARNING

"27 Dresses"

Ahhhh, it is such a cute movie.  Barbara and I went to see it today.  Gals, if you haven't seen it grab a girl friend, your sister or your mom and make arrangements to see this film. Don't expect the man in your life to enjoy it, because he won't.   Katherine Heigl plays Jane, a hopeless romantic who has been a bridesmaid 27 times.  At the begining of the movie, she is actually in two weddings in one evening, racing back and forth between the two...changing dresses during the cab rides.   It's a fun, romantic movie and you might want to have a few tissues along, just in case.

The weather is so ugly here today, wind, rain, wind and more rain. It's almost 40 degrees, so there's no chance of snow unless the temperature drops suddenly.  But, I bet it's snowing in the mountains....

Well, folks have a nice evening, until next time.....Linda

I Got A Ballot In The Mail

This evening I opened up my mail-in ballot.  On February 19th, the state of Washington is having what they call a "Presidential Preference Primary."   They sent two ballots...one with a blue banner for the Democratic party and the other with a red banner for the Republican party.  Then inside the cover of the return envelope you have to mark the box of the party you wish to be identified with, sign your name & date it.  Then you take the voting card you want to use, the one for the party you've chosen and mark next to the candidates name you would vote for. 

They claim that candidates belonging to other political parties and independents will appear on the ballot in November (the main election).

Somehow, I don't think this is right.  Why can't we just vote for who we want & not have to declare which party we wish to be affiliated with ?  I think the day will come (in the U.S. anyway) where no one will want to vote for anyone.  They start their bashing T.V. ads a year before the elections, I'm even sick of hearing the members of the same parties bashing each other.  I've been sick of the whole thing since before Christmas. 

For those of you in the United States, do you think we should have to declare which party we wish to be affilated with? 

Monday Morning Question

     

From Krissy at http://journals.aol.com/fisherkristina/SometimesIThink/entries/2008/02/04/monday-morning-question/1528

What have you learned in the past month?

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I was out looking at my many pots full of bulbs and I see the tops of daffodils and tulips poking thru the dirt.   It reminds me that January can be a month of re-growth for us too.  A month, the first one of each new year, to start over with a clean slate.  The month, the "new" us can poke our heads thru the dirt of the past and "bloom" anew. 

 

A New Week

Happy Monday....this is going to be a busy week.  Today I have an appointment to get my taxes done and a quick doctor's appointment to get new prescriptions for the year.  I've been going thru my summer type clothes & have some out, hanging on a rack to load into the camper later in the week. Of course there's sweat shirts, and cold weather clothes too.   Also setting out other things I don't want to forget, like sunscreen, my decaf coffee bags, tea bags ( a lot of places don't have the teas I drink) oh the list goes on and on.  We have to take a carry-on or something small along with the garment bag for the 4 night cruise, the first of March.  So we're actually planning & packing for two different adventures.  (Note to self~don't forget your Passport)

In looking at the weather around the country in this morning's paper I see it's supposed to be 59 degrees in the Los Angeles area  today and 37 degrees around Reno.  We'll be just north of Reno in Carson City, so I think it's going to be cold there,too. So as you can see, I'm taking cold & hot weather clothes.  I did go get a couple more pair of jeans the other day...so I should be ok.

I'm going to have to start turning off alerts as the week progresses. I will have my lap top with me, but will only be able to use it where there is wireless capability.  Last year there was a cafe at the Northstar Ski Resort where I could use it...but at that point my laptop wasn't working.  I have a new battery in it and am hoping that will do the trick.  (Note to self~plug in laptop to charge battery).   I have two memory cards for my camera that are MIA.  There's one in the camera now but can't remember where I put the other two.  I don't want to have to go buy another one but I may have to.  Anyway, I hope you all understand, my visits to your journals may be limited this week.

No special reason for the picture I posted toady, except when I saw it I remembered someone in JLand recently complaining about her husband leaving the seat up, all of a sudden, when normally he always remembered to put it down.

Well...that's all for now, I hope everyone is having a good day, Linda

 

Sorry All You Patriots Fans

The underdog Giants have won Super Bowl XLII....... 17-14.  I don't really keep up with professional sports but I know enough to know the Patriots were favored big time.  I hope nobody out there lost a big bunch of money on this one !!!!!  

Nice Matters

I'm not sure where this started, but I've been seeing it traveling thru AOL Journal Land the last week or so.

I want to thank Lisa (http://journals.aol.com/wwfbison/life-on-a-bison-farm/) for graciously passing this award on to me. Now my job is to pass it on to others.  I read so many wonderful journals and many of them have already received this award (and rightly so). 

So here are my choices;

1. Ally, who lives in the U.K.  She's such a sweet lady and there have been times when I was up late here in Washington, I would see Ally on line (early morning for her)  and I would send her and Instant Message and we'd chat back and forth.  http://journals.aol.co.uk/ally123130585918/Lifewithally

2. Lori, lives in Alberta, Canada.  She is fairly new to AOL Journals, but after emails back and forth...have discovered she's a great lady.  Semi-retired and looking forward to meeting and making new friends in JLand.  http://journals.aol.co.uk/abicequeen/loris-letter-box/

3. Joni, lives in the Seattle area and just began journaling last year. She retired last August after working for aver 20 years in book stores.  She and her husband travel the northwest to be present at their older grand children's swim meets.  Before Christmas they were blessed with two new grand children...little girls born to two of their sons.  I went to grade school and high school with Joni so have known for a long time, about her sweet, caring nature.  http://journals.aol.com/jonibooks1991/jonis-life-now/

4. Kathy down in sunny California is so sweet.  Her journal continues to be an inspiritation to me and others.  http://journals.aol.com/kaydeejay5449/a-little-left-of-center-ii/

5. Linda is married and has a darling grand daughter named Jocelyn.  She loves to have Jocelyn over and they spend time doing fun things that little girls like to do.   I only recently began reading this journal but really enjoy it.  My grand daughter is almost 16, so I don't get to do "little girl" things with her anymore.  Enjoy, these precious times with Jocelyn, Linda and keep sharing them with the rest of us.  http://journals.aol.com/swmpgrly/Lostinmyownthoughts/

6. Barbara in Texas is one special lady.  I'll never forget in January 2007, she sang to me on her singing web site on my birthday.  I've been reading her journal for some time.  We've all shared sad times and happy times with Barbara. She's always there to encourage and uplift when she hears about someone going thru a rough time.   http://journals.aol.com/mastersblynn/ConfessionsOfAnAngelWaitress/

7. Jae lives here in Washington and I've also been reading her journal for sometime, too.  She recently shared with us an incident that will cause us all to guard our debit and credit cards more carefully.  Thank you Jae for the warning. http://journals.aol.com/yakima127/the-gag-order/

8. Maria lives just north of me in Seattle.  I love her pictures and tales of adventures in the big city.  http://journals.aol.com/gotomaria/TheLittleThings/

9. Leigh in South Wales is only 18 years old but he writes a fanstastic journal, documenting his school events and life in general.  To me he sounds like a young man who loves his family and life in general. http://journals.aol.co.uk/edwardssoapy/LeighsWorld/

10. Mary Loiuse always cracks me up with her entries. I can so relate to many of her entires.  Thank you for making me laugh; http://journals.aol.com/mlrhjeh/gettingoldaintforsissiesandother/

I'm sorry if I exceeded the limit; I couldn't help myself.     :(

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I want to add my own Honorable Mention List.  These people have already have already officially received their "Nice Matters" award but I want you to know how special you are to me.

Sandra in the U.K. the first journal I ever read. http://journals.aol.com/labdancer51/SandrasScribbles/

Jeannette also in the U.K. http://journals.aol.co.uk/jeanno43/JeannettesJottings/

Monica lives here in the same town as I do.  We actually both worked at the same hospital for awhile.  Thank you Monica for your support to those of us fighting the weight loss battle and for your beautiful pictures. http://journals.aol.com/monicasmemoirs/midnight-conversations/

Jeannette in the U.K. with a Private Journal

Krissy an inspiration to us all. http://journals.aol.com/fisherkristina/SometimesIThink/

Robin, an Air Force wife who continues to maintain her sense of humor with each transfer despite packing up, moves across the country and living in a travel trailer with her husband, daughter and the family pooch...Princess while waiting for housing. http://journals.aol.com/robinngabster/Talesofatrailerparkprincess/ and here's her photo journal  http://journals.aol.com/robinngabster/TheWorldthruMyEyes/

Val, Krissy's sister.  Always so uplifting and encouraging.  Val took over Krissy's Photo Shoot when Krissy was busy caring for John.  Val you're the greatest sister, ever!  Krissy is blessed to have have in her family. http://journals.aol.com/valphish/ThereisaSeason/

Marie another journaler in the U.K.  Marie is a professional chef and always shares a tempting recipe and inspiritional thoughts on a daily basis. http://journals.aol.co.uk/mariealicejoan/MariesMuses/

Greg in North Carolina, always willing to answer questions and give advice about taking great pictures.  http://journals.aol.com/radar446/PhotoTrek/

Guido who lives way up north on a Scottish island.  Always there to "Call for support" when someone is hurting, always ready with weather information and so willing to share beautiful pictures of his beautiful island. http://journals.aol.co.uk/pharmolo/NorthernTrip/

Jeanie who also lives in the U.K. is always supportive and leaves such nice comments.  http://journals.aol.co.uk/kirkbyj05/DaytoDayLifeintheLakes/

Linda in California who writes of Sons 1, 2 & 3.  Shares beautiful pictures and recently shared the loss of their dear family cat, Kirby. http://journals.aol.com/fasttrack58/FootprintsintheSand/

Betty in southern California recently returned to Journal Land with an encouraging, spiritual journal.  Betty, I mised you while you were away, so glad you're back.  http://journals.aol.com/lv2trnscrb/kodas-corgi-tales/

Donna who makes great tags for all you request them.  I haven't got any because I haven't figured out how to use them as yet.  http://journals.aol.com/nightmaremom/Thisandthatandhockey/

Please forgive me if I missed anyone.  I read so many journals and you are all special in your own unique way.  I treasure you and wish always the best for you in your lives.  Linda

An Alternative to the Superbowl Game

This is a public service announcement;

I know there are some out there who will not be watching the Superbowl on Sunday afternoon.  And if you are watching it and the kids aren't interested....there is an alternative.

Sunday afternoon on Animal Planet is Puppy Bowl IV.  It's on for either 2or 3 hours and would be great for those non-Superbowl fans (me) and to keep the kids happy in another room.  I believe it comes on at 3pm but check your local listings to be sure of the exact time.

YA~HOO !!!!!!!!!!!

I went out to get the mail and low & behold there they were !!!!!!!!  The cruise documents.  I knew we couldn't leave town until these came, so the envelope from Royal Caribbean has been added to the big bin waiting to be loaded into the camper next week.  Now....please don't let me forget my Passport.  Remind me~ok ??

This evening, I'll pour over the booklet...checking out the off-shore excursions offered on this particular cruise.  I know I want to see the zoo in San Diego but we haven't decided if we'll do it as a shore excursion or drive there on our own from Pasadena.  The one from the ship is only a 5 hour tour...not long enough to see the whole thing.  For $40 each we can get a two day pass and really see something, but we'll have to find a nearby RV park to park the truck and camper. 

For those that don't know...the icky colored green tags are for our luggage.  They have our cabin number and other information on them.  When you get to the ship, your luggage (with these tags) goes one way....you go thru the check in process and usually by the time that's completed and you get on board and get to your cabin...your luggage is waiting for you.  Good deal, huh !!!

 

A Few Thoughts

Thanks to my friend Debra for sending this my way~feel free to snag and send on to those in your address book.

1. The nicest thing about the future is that it always starts tomorrow. 

2. Money will buy a fine dog, but only kindness will make him wag his tail.

3. If you don't have a sense of humor, you probably don't have any sense at all.

4. Seat belts are not as confining as wheelchairs.

5. A good time to keep your mouth shut is when you're in deep water.

6. How come it takes so little time for a child who is afraid of the dark to become a teenager who wants to stay out all night?

7. Business conventions are important because they demonstrate how many people a company can operate without.

8. Why is it that at class reunions you feel younger than everyone else looks?

9. Scratch a dog and you'll find a permanent job.

10. No one has more driving ambition than the boy who wants to buy a car.

11. There are no new sins; the old ones just get more publicity.

12. There are worse things than getting a call for a wrong number at 4 AM. It could be a right number.

13. Think about this .. No one ever says "It's only a game" when his team is winning.

14. I've reached the age where the happy hour is a nap.

15. Be careful reading the fine print. There's no way you're going to like it.

16. The trouble with bucket seats is that not everybody has the same size bucket.

17. Do you realize that in about 40 years, we'll have thousands of OLD LADIES running around with tattoos? (And RAP music will be the Golden Oldies!).

18. Money can't buy happiness -- but somehow it's more comfortable to cry in a Corvette than in a Yugo.

19. If you can't change your mind, are you sure YOU have one!!??

20. After a certain age, if you don't wake up aching in every joint, you are probably dead. 

Ain't it the truth!

 

 

 

 

 

AOL Community Challenge~Love

AOL Community Challenge-LOVE

With Valentine's day upon us this month, our next challenge was suggested by Betty.
Of course, this can be of anything that represents love.  There are many forms of love, so this should be an easy challenge. 
Love is all around us......so find it, capture it, or just use a photo from the past, that says it!

*REMEMBER that you may enter as many photos on one entry, but the first photo(the top photo) will be the one judged.

Please follow the guidelines.

Deadline is Friday Feb. 8th.

Remember to visit all the entries & try to leave a comment. 

***********************************************************

I looked back thru the pictures I've taken this last year and decided to use the picture of Bob's youngest daughter, June, getting her first look at her baby daughter Marin Rose on June 21, 2007. A mother's love.....

Those Who Live Or Have Lived In California Will Understand

I had a vision this afternoon as I was driving around running some errands.  A vision of going over the Siskiyous in northern California, hopefully catching a view of the very beautiful Mt. Shasta and then eventually pulling into Redding, California.

Redding happens to be the most northern location in California one can get a tasty In-N-Out burger. 

Sorry Robin, I had to mention it.  But don't worry, I will have one in your honor !  Do you want a picture or not ?   LOL

A Year Ago Today.......

............ I walked in and later out of the office for the last time.  I can't believe a year has gone by already.  And I've completed very few tasks, I planned on doing immediately after retirement.  That's the worst part.

 But, I've had a lot of fun and have lots of good memories of this last year. I guess after working almost all the time since 1960 I guess a few good times are in order.

Some interesting things happened in the months after I retired.  One of my co-workers, Susan, had to resign so she could continue her Lymphoma treatment without having to worry if she'd be well enough to get to work the day after treatment.  She's had a rough time since then but she's hanging in there and we've been able to have some visits and even go to lunch during the past 12 months.  Her treatments will start again soon, so she's still not able to work.  And the other Linda we worked with, was told during the summer that the job was going to be out-sourced and she would be loosing her job sometime during the fall.  She was actually able to work until December 6th.  So if I hadn't retired...I wouldn't have a job anyway.  So it was a good decision on my part. 

Yes the money is tight at times but you know what?  I haven't been sick or stressed out like I was while I was working.  I feel like a new person, really.  I sleep so well at night, I actually dream.  I hadn't dreamed in years.  What does that tell you?  I can stay up late and sleep late if I want to.  No more getting up at 4:30am to get ready for a stressful day at work.  It's truly wonderful.

On February 9th we're heading out for another road trip.  Bob wants to ski at Northstar out of Truckee, CA.  Then we'll go to Carson City, NV to the home of his aunt & cousins. The boys (his 90 year old aunt calls her sons & Bob the boys~they are all in their 60's) will ski at Heavenly out of Carson City.  Then we'll meander down and across to southern California to Pasadena.  Bobs son in law is turning 50 on February 22nd and there's a big (80 people have RSVP 'd so far) party for him at a restaurant on Saturday night the 23rd.  We will also be visiting relatives  and friends in San Diego and of course our 4 night cruise leaves from L.A. on March 3rd.  After a few more days in Pasadena, we'll head north....taking our time (depending on the weather of course). 

 Now how could I do all that and work too? Impossible !!   So there are some good points to being retired. 

What about Gabi?  Well, last night I spoke to my grand daughter and Gabi is going to go stay with her.  They have a cat (Madeline) but I'll take the baby gate and Meghanne can keep Gabi in her end of the house until the cats make friends.  I'll be happy to know Gabi is somewhere where she'll be with people 24 hours a day.  Last year, when my son was just stopping by to feed her,  I came home to a really messed up cat.  She was just frantic, being here by herself all day and night.    I will miss her terribly but knowing she's with the grand kids will help. Meghanne says she's going to take lots of pictures and videos of her while she's there to put on her MySpace site.

Interstate 90 is still closed...the snow continues to come down.  There has been over 80 inches of snow up there the last 6 days. The Department of Transportation is up there planting dynamite trying to induce avalanches to clear the hillsides of this very deep snow.  In one area there was a 300 foot slide of snow and it came down over the four lane highway and is 6-8 feet deep.  Of course that all has to be cleared before it can be open to traffic.  It doesn't look like the pass will be open anytime soon. Down here at sea level at noon, it's just barely over 40 degrees and alternating between rain and sun.

We will be traveling over the Siskiyous in northern California in just a little over a week. It can be treacherous this time of the year too.  We will stay north of there and go over that pass in during the daylight hours.  From there we'll turn east on head for Donner Pass over the Sierra Nevada's.  My cousin doesn't live too far from there, so I may call her and see if we can spend the night with her, so we can go over that pass during the day too.  Once we reach Truckee, CA...we'll head for Northstar Ski Resort so Bob can get in a few days of skiing.

But now I'm going out to do some shopping.  I especially have to load up on Gabi's cat food and litter so they have enough for her while I'm away.

Well that's all for now...I'm off to brave the weather, do some shopping and then off to Curves.   Linda

P.S. the picture is the only one in existence of me at my last & I hope final job. Should I ever have to go to work part time, I can guarantee I will never again have a job that includes wearing a headset !! And that's the truth.......