THIS IS HALLOWEEN

Monday, October 28, 2013

Overcast & drizzly.  I don't think it's going to get to the 80 degrees the weatherman says.  Jonathan took two jackets to Seminary, just in case, but only used one.  It's breezy, but really not that cold.  Grocery shopping today, I didn't even take a jacket and was in a t-shirt.  It'll take more than that to make me cold!

I do NOT recommend Church's Chicken in Altus.  Not a clean place, the guy at the counter was downright surly, and the place smelled...funky.  It did not add to my gourmet experience.  I'm not a big fried chicken person anyway.  I just thought I'd try something new.  They don't do health department grades here like in California.  I don't think this place would have rated very well.  At least I haven't gotten sick from the food.

Today was Chat-with-Sundry-People-at-Walmart Day.  People do.  All the time.  Walmart is the great meeting place, apparently.  A lady outside offered me her cart and proceeded to talk to me for fifteen more minutes.  Whoever I meet and talk with, it always starts with, "What church do you go to?" followed by "Are you Air Force?"  Inside the store, everyone is either a) chatting in the middle of the aisles (it is very hard to just shop there) or b) apologizing for almost smacking someone with their cart as they enter or go past an aisle and then striking up a conversation.   And I'm not immune it, either, not anymore since I actually know some people in town.  I bumped into my Altus homeschool friend's husband, George.  Actually, he saw me first.  But, since his wife & I share the same first name, he remembers mine easily.  I see him more than I do her, usually, because she works in the evenings and so he takes the kids to 4H.  To wrap it all up, I had at least half a dozen encounters shopping today...and the kids wonder why it takes me so long.

The weather wasn't too cold today...but the pool was!  Apparently the city park pool's heater wasn't working well.  Usually it's heated and, in the cold season, the room is kept warm for the swimmers.  Today, we had to work extra hard at our aerobics to keep from shivering.  At least our thyroid issue lady wasn't there today, poor thing.  She is cold in the pool on a good day - today would have been just awful.

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Listening to the radio is a different experience here.  There are at least five stations in town, though our favorite station is out of Snyder (30 mins. away).  All these stations have ads running from local businesses.  So you could hear an ad and drive by that place at the same time.  Some of the stations air local high school sports games on Fridays.   At least you know that events announced are within the vicinity.  And the all-important weather is VERY regionally specific.  I don't let Jonathan change stations if the weather is being broadcasted.

I made rolls today for tomorrow's event at the church, while Jonathan made chili for the cookoff.  They specifically said the cookoff was only for the men and Jonathan wanted to do it.  Actually, he's really good at seasoning things.  If I make salsa, I have him finish it for me.  His tinkering always makes it better!  He wanted to make it today so it would sit in the fridge overnight and the flavors blend better.  He's getting to be quite the cook!  Now, if I could get him to be quite the dishwasher, too!

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Today was another baking day for me.  This time, it's pumpkin cream-cheese muffins for the Seminary breakfast tomorrow.  Oh, and cutting up fruit for a fruit salad to go with it.  The muffins are a new recipe, but they look (and smell) really good!

Ken is flying back from Michigan today.  Whether he makes it in time for the ward party is unknown.  He had a layover in Atlanta, and the boarding was 30 minutes late.  We shall see.

We carved pumpkins today.  I mean we because, even though I was going to leave it up to the kids, Analiese had a small headache, so I had her lay down & I finished hers.  Actually, it turned out cute!  Jonathan's was very...interesting.  I can't even give it a name or description.  Just big eyes, really.  Going for the minimalist look.

We left to be at the church by 5:00, even though the party doesn't start until 6:00.  Jonathan has to set up for his game (which he put together at the last minute), and they wanted all the food there by 5:30.  I was impressed how well they judged and kept up with their timing.  Dinner was promptly at 6:00, costume-judging and carnival games were at 7:00, and trunk-or-treating was at 7:30, with everything to wrap up at 8:00 so kids could be up for school in the morning.  We were home by 8:15, no sweat.  

Ken really didn't make it.  What I mean is, yes, he was back in time, and drove straight to the church by 5:30.  He said hi, saw the kids' costumes (and mine - I was a Queen Bee!), and then said he'd go home quickly to unpack and be back.  Well, he never came back.  By the end of dinner I called him.  He'd fallen asleep.  I told him not to worry, go back to sleep.  We had it handled.  Still, he really likes Halloween, so it was a little sad.

Thursday, October 31, 2013

Seminary is SO early!  Especially since I had a hard time going to sleep last night.  I tossed and turned and then, at about 11:00, the lightning storm that was supposed to have come earlier came.  Lots of lightning, lots of thunder, lots of wind, pouring down rain.  I was the only one awake for it and I remembered - the rabbits weren't properly covered!  Could I go out there - was it safe in the lightning storm?  So I woke up Ken to ask him (sorry, he can go back to sleep easier than I).  He went out, checked on the bunnies, made sure they were covered and came in - SOAKED.  Drying off what he could, he crawled back in bed and started snoring.  Me, it was probably about another hour before I slept.  ARGH!

So, with Analiese in tow, Jonathan & I went over to the building so I could get things going in the kitchen.  Really, all I had to do was cut up bananas to go in the fruit salad and make the orange hot chocolate.  No, not orange flavored, orange colored.  It was basically white chocolate chips melted in warm milk, with a little vanilla and some orange food coloring.  I also had some pumpkin-spice marshmallows that added nicely to the flavor.    But it was all received well (yes, the muffins were good!).  Evidentally, they have a game day once a month (they play games to practice scripture mastery) and they ask the parents to take turns bringing in breakfast.  I won't have another turn until April.

Don't think I don't have baking today - I do!  I have a birthday cake to bake today in anticipation of tomorrow's party.  For a child who doesn't like fruit, she likes the strawberry-flavored cake.  Bake on!

With pumpkins carved and the house already decorated, there wasn't much to do today (beyond normal stuff) than wait.  Analiese had to wait for Ken to come home; he had promised to take her trick-or-treating.  We only had a handful of trick-or-treaters ourselves (maybe 6), and not any after 7:00 p.m.  Of course, it's not a big surprise.  Nearly all the churches in town had something going on, plus the community center had something and the police did a safety town.  For those who really want to trick-or-treat, they go to the north side of town where the nice homes are; better candy, I hear.  Probably, because I'm cheap and I don't buy anything that will tempt me - no chocolate!

Ken & Analiese went to the police safety-town, where they went from "house" to "house" getting goodies.  They did a few homes up north, but Analiese was tired and wanted to go home.  When they did, we popped some corn and watched some Studio C off of BYUtv (if you haven't seen it, it's silly and funny and clean!), which had a Halloween special.  At least we were all together.

Friday, November 1, 2013

A normal day today?  Not so, today is party day!  On top of lessons & laundry, I had a birthday party to get ready for.  It really wasn't too much work, I just had to decorate the cake (which if you know my kids, probably wasn't an easy task), make pizzas (pre-bought crust, no time to make all that pizza dough). and decorate the table, which Analiese willingly helped with.

And the cake wasn't as hard as I figured, probably easier than some of the things they've dreamed up for me to do in the past.  She wanted a golden snitch - like in Harry Potter - so I baked a small square and a small bowl (so it would be more globe-ish), cut the square into 2 triangles and put them on either side of the ball.  I frosted them all yellow, drew black gel-lines on the triangles to give the thought of feathers, and then spray-painted it gold.  YES...there is a gold food coloring spray and I used it.  It looked great!

It was 5 o'clock.  The cake was done.  The pizzas were hot out of the oven.  The house was fairly straightened.  The table was set with the party goods and the sodas were out and ready.  No girls.  In fact, nobody showed until 15 after.  I was getting a little nervous because you can imagine how Analiese was pacing.  But they came, four out of the seven invited, bouncy and loud and eager.

They invaded the storage room off of the garage to visit the bunnies first (we'd moved the rabbits there to keep them out of rain).  Oh, the ooohing and aaahing and "let me hold it," etc.  The rabbits are probably traumatized for a while, but the girls loved them!  In fact, they were begging to have baby bunnies if any come about.  Yeah, I can see that going over well with parents!

They ate and chattered, played games and chattered, opened gifts and chattered, had cake with ice cream and chattered.  I felt like I had let the squirrels in the house!  They kind of scampered around like them, too.  But, smartly, I only let the party going on for two hours (my nerves probably couldn't take more) and gladly ushered them out the door when parent came.

Whew!  Ken had asked earlier if I was going to do a sleepover.  Horrified, I had said, "NOOOO!!!!"  I can't imagine that horror!

Saturday, November 2, 2013

Despite having had a party the day before, I was up by 6:30 so I could go pick up my basket at 7:00.  They have moved the location to a place indoors.  Indoors for the produce, that is.  The line was still outside...in the alley.  I have to learn to dress warmer, especially layering.  I put on a sweatshirt...but not over anything.  And I had no hat or scarf or gloves.  And the morning was dark & crisp.  Brrr!

My basket was heavy to me today.  Somehow, I hurt my left shoulder hefting it.  A gentleman (truly!) took it to the van for me, but I still had to take it into the house.  I rubbed something on my shoulder and I hope the pain goes away.

The kids had an activity today - taking bags all over town to get food donations for Harvest for the Hungry.  Jonathan went with the Scouts, Analiese with Activity Days (their leaders are spouses, so they did it together, really).  That left me an hour of quiet to get some stuff done.  Not much, but some.  Ken was asleep in bed, so I wasn't really alone, but I was unbothered.  So, down came the Halloween stuff; but no, not up with the Christmas.  Get me through Thanksgiving first, please.

A fairly quiet day, really.  Jonathan went off with friends to a stake activity in Lawton, the elders came to dinner, I cleaned up.  Quiet Saturdays are quite nice!

Sunday, November 3, 2013

I didn't have anything extra to do in church today, just my SS President duties (intro, prayers) and piano for RS.  But that won't be the case for the next two months.  Our ward chorister is going to have surgery and will be out for about that long and asked me to lead music for her.  No biggie.  EXCEPT...now I get to figure out the Sunday before Christmas.  She told me some ideas she had, but nothing's solid.  Guess I'd better go have a little talk with the bishop.

And the afternoon at home was pleasant, too.  A small rain storm floated in, leaving us feeling cozy inside.  However, I did check to make sure the rabbits will be cared for if it rains harder.  I don't want my conscious keeping me up all night again!

ALLERGIES? OR COLD?

Monday, October 21, 2013

Oh, joy!  I got to put my van in the dealer - luckily it was a recall and I didn't have to pay for it.  I had pretty much ignored it in California (yes, I had it that long), but since it involved things not performing well in bad weather, I figured I ought to have it taken care of here.  Also luckily, there's a Ford dealer in town (unlike for Ken's Honda, which I had to take to Lawton)...and they gave me a ride home.

Unlucky part?  It's evidentially a big deal to fix whatever this thing is.  They have to take off the back of the van, go underneath and take out the back seat, do whatever, and weld, epoxy & paint.  And what I hoped would take just today, looks like will spill over into the middle of tomorrow.

I had Jonathan taken care of; a fellow classmate (and ward member) was going to transport him to and from school today and offered tomorrow.  But yoga tomorrow morning could be a problem, and after missing 3 water aerobics and two yoga sessions - I needed my workout!  Well, one of our nice things here in Altus is the Ward Relief Society Facebook group.  Announcements, requests, questions, photo-sharing, etc., all happen here.  So, I could go out into Altus RS FBland and ask for someone to give me a ride.  And I got a quick response, too!

Then I got a call at 3 p.m.   The Ford Dealer.  The van was done.  Oh, well, at least I had covered my options in case it wasn't.  C'est la vie!  Better to be prepared!

So when Ken got home, he took me over to the dealer.  Then he went shopping with me and we got a great deal on a generator from Sears.  Why a generator, you ask?  Because this place is notorious for ice storms in the winter which knock down power lines.  If you're lucky, it's back up in a couple of days.  I guess two years ago, it wiped out the whole town for nearly two weeks.  Hence, a generator.  Someone at church a couple weeks back had talked about preparing for winter and Ken's really taken it to heart (which means bugging me about it till it happens).

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Yoga!  I can't say how much I love it and how good I feel doing it.  Just glad I have people to do it with!

Did some visiting teaching - finally.  I know we're supposed to have companions, but planning around three schedules (comp, sister, self) can be hairy.  The gal we saw today has a lovely home.  She also has two boys under three and is pregnant with a third!  And these two give her a run for her money!  Climbing on things, taking scissors to who-knows-what, strewing DVD's and toys around.  She's a sweet, amazing gal, but I think she's going to need a hand or two when baby #3 comes.

Jonathan had 4H air rifle/pistol shooting.  This time, he actually got to use a rifle and shoot lead pellets at a target.  And, he actually hit inside the target a couple of times (they only had 5 shots each).  The club leader says not to get frustrated, they're only beginning, and just getting it on the paper can be an accomplishment!  He's the oldest one in the beginners class, but he's also one of the few who can do pistol as well as rifle.  The kids aren't allowed to do pistol until age 12.

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Today was a baking day, I guess.  For history, since we've been studying about Afghanistan in the 1850's, Analiese and I made nan - a flatbread.  It used baking soda instead of yeast (the taste was much like a biscuit) and had to sit for 3 hours - I say sit, because it sure didn't rise!  They were okay, but mainly were just for the experience.  All reading, talking and paperwork is boring.  We try to do fun activities to go with our history from time to time.

Also, we have breakfast-for-dinner once a week, so I made my famous banana chocolate chip muffins.  This is one reason my kids let bananas go extra ripe - so I can make muffins.

This was my double-whammy exercise day, too.  I had water aerobics at 5, came home after 6 for a quick bite, and was back at the church to take Jonathan to Scouts at 7 and to have yoga at 7:30.  Lazily, I played a yoga video from a program off of BYUtv, but it was still a workout (and they titled it "Relaxation!").  This meant that, by the time I got home and had kids settled in bed, and did the dishes, it was late and I crashed.

Thursday, October 24, 2013

By the time I get to yoga on Thursday morning, I am so tired and ready for a break.  There was only one person there besides me, but we had a good stretch, warmed ourselves up, and woke up a little.   She'd started with a headache, but it was gone by the end...I think that's progress!

After taking Jonathan to aviation mechanics, I am lazily messing around at home.  I want a nap, know I have other things to do so I shouldn't, and generally don't want to do anything!  Plus, it's a breezy day, my throat's a little sore and I'm sneezing a bit.  Really, can't I have a nap and forget about it all?  SIGH.

Friday, October 25, 2013

Okay, it's a bonafide cold.  And then Ken texts me, "I have a rhinovirus."  So dramatic!  I've been dealing with these symptoms for a few days now, and he is "sick."  I have a hard time working up empathy for this.

Analiese & I made "dirt cups" for dessert for tomorrow night with the elders.  It will be our official "Halloween" meal.  Ken suggested chili dogs (guess who won't eat any?), and we'll have chips and veggies, all on my special tablecloth with placemats, plates, cups & napkins in Halloween decor.  Plus, dirt cups for dessert.  Halloween is Ken's favorite holiday, so we try to do special things for it.  Our dirt cups have chocolate & pumpkin spice pudding (yum) in layers in cups with crushed oreos on top.  Then we put suckers, gummy worms, and chocolate eyeballs on top.  They turned out cute!

I got in a nap.  No, I took one and to heck with all the stuff I had or wanted to do!  I even skipped water aerobics, I was too out of it.  And Ken came home a little early.  Yes, he has a "rhinovirus," and his cold sounds worse than mine.  So, humbly I sent him off to bed to sleep some before going to Walmart.  Because, yes, he was still going to go.

Saturday, October 26, 2013

Ken's in bed for the day, which is pretty usual since he worked all day at the prison and all night at Walmart.  But he's staying there and not going in to Walmart tonight.  He has to get over that cold before he flies out to Michigan tomorrow!

Analiese has been bugging me to help her get party invitations made, so we made up little scrolls inviting her friends from church and homeschool to her Harry Potter-themed birthday next Friday evening. Like the week won't be crazy enough!  But Ken will be home and awake and her little friends will be available then.

The kids were excited to decorate our table in it's Halloween splendor - tablecloth, placemats, cups, napkins & plates!  We only do this once a year, usually when we have company to dinner close to Halloween.  Ken wanted chili dogs, so that's what we had, plus raw veggies, chips & dip, soda, and those "dirt" cups!  It makes fun for the kids and I think the missionaries got a kick out of it, too!

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Ken's sounding better this morning.  Not perfect, but much improved.  I just hated the thought of him getting on that airplane feeling so crummy!  Analiese helped him pack last night (I don't know how much help she really was), so he's ready to go.  It's a 2 1/2 hour drive to OKC and his flight leaves at 5:30, so once we kissed him goodbye and left for church, that was the last to see him until he returns Wednesday!

Of course, Sunday can't go by without my teaching, or something.  Analiese's Primary teacher is out of town, so she asked me to sub her class.  Those girls are squirrely to start out with, but when Analiese began handing out birthday party invitations - things got crazy!  Teaching the lesson wasn't easy, I kept having to say, "Bunnies, come back to me!"  They would giggle at that.  I made them repeat back the lesson to me at the end, just to make sure they got it!

Well, rats!  I won't be able to do yoga at the church for a while.  My person with the key got released from her calling...so no key, no building.  Maybe when Geri is better enough from her hip surgery (she's in the RS presidency) to come we can start back again at the church.  In the meantime, we're all going to squish into my livingroom (actually, it's fairly spacious, I can fit four or five yoga ladies in there!)

BLUSTERY DAYS

Monday, October 14, 2013

I have a little advice for some of the people of Altus.  Your smokin' & chewin', poor dental hygiene, oddities of dress...those are your business (but don't be a bit surprised if I poke fun at it!).  That being said, I need to introduce you to two of my close friends: soap and deodorant.  Really, you reeking is a social biological hazard.  When I have to stand in line next to you at a store or eating establishment, I really don't want to have to suffer the danger of vomiting or passing out.  Think of it as a public service.  And it's not that expensive, you can get that stuff at Dollar Tree; I've seen it.  Besides, if you can afford cigarettes, chew, beer, and huge gallons of soda, it won't break the bank to buy some Dial and Secret.  Oh, and think about the hair once in a while.  Those greasy strands are really gross.

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Windy!  My pecan trees need pruning and I'm a little worried about branches coming down on the house or power lines.  It's also made a liar out of me.  I've been telling people that my allergies have been doing much better here.  Not today!  Sneezes and sinus headaches, oh my!

I taught Seminary yesterday and today and will again tomorrow, while the regular teacher is out of town.  The kids have "fall break" on Thursday and Friday, so I don't have to worry about that.  I am really out of the habit of getting up early, so I am very tired.  Today I had all four and one of them was about as awake as Jonathan, so it was a little livelier group.  

I did yoga today in my living room with two other sisters from the ward.  With the windy day, it was much cozier there!  We used a video from my yoga teacher back in California, Marilyn.  It felt good to stretch, and the video reminded me of some poses I hadn't tried in a while.  Thanks, Marilyn!

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

I think the summer heat is gone.  I'm not sure it got up to 70 today, and tonight is supposed to drop down into the low 40's.  The ceiling fans are turned off and the a/c hasn't gone on at all.  At least it's not as windy as yesterday.  I have some allergies going on, but not nearly what I suffered yesterday.

My last day teaching Seminary...the kids have the rest of the week off of school (Fall Break) and next week their regular teacher will be back.  For the most part, they were a little less zombie-ish.  They're a good group of kids.

It was a crack-up watching the rabbits running up and down the enclosed hallway today.  Two of them have gotten very close and they were running, jumping & binkying together.  I had to laugh because they would run through the hall, and careem into the bathroom, sliding on the tile.  I swear they did it on purpose - they like skating over the tiles!  Then one of them wanted the third rabbit to groom her, so she chased her around the bathroom and the hallway.  They'd go in circles, until the one was corned.  She would groom the other for a few moments, then run away and away they'd go again.  I've got to get these antics on tape...they are so funny!

Thursday, October 17, 2013

It's crystal-clear outside and a brisk 37 degrees.  Inside, it's a nice 57.  Brr!  Tomorrow, rain is expected on top of that.  More socks, less flip-flops, and no more short sleeves...at least not without a jacket!

Whereas Seminary has my son dragging himself out of bed, a campout, leaving nearly as early, has him jumping out of bed.  His troop is going on a 3-day camporee at an LDS ranch north of Tulsa to celebrate 100 years of Scouting in the Church.  And he woke me up a full half-hour before we had to leave for the church because he wanted to make sure I was "awake enough."

I think the stomach bug of last week is still around.  Analiese had a rough night of it last night and still isn't eager to eat or do much.  I'm a little better, but still have a tender tummy.  We were supposed to do Meals on Wheels, but I don't want to give these poor people anything I may have.

Since neither of us were feeling spectacular, Analiese and I spent the rest of the day being lazy.  Some of this time meant watching rabbits play around.  Well, we made a discovery.  Alice & Twilight were the ones yesterday who kept chasing each other.  I thought Alice was the chaser, but today I found out wrong.  Twilight was chasing her...and for a very important reason.  Twilight managed to get on top of her and I had a thought - oh no!  I pulled Twilight off and turned her over.  Come to find out Twilight is NOT a she...it's a boy!  How we (and Gary Strickland) missed that, I don't know.  Ken says rabbits are notoriously hard to sex.  I do not know if the other two rabbits are pregnant...it's possible.  But let's just say Twilight has a cage all to himself now and Alice has to live with a roombunny.  And Jonathan isn't even here to see it!  I can't wait to tell him!

Friday, October 18, 2013

While Analiese seems to be feeling better, my tummy is taking it's time.  I had another bad night, which leaves me so worn out and tired.  Also, it rained in the night and I have to take out the trash and I just do not want to go outside and do it.  Where's Jonathan when I need him?

We had 4H rabbit club tonight.  When we told Gary Strickland about Twilight (and Analiese's disgust), he just put back his head and laughed.  He said he remembered how hard that rabbit had been to sex (there's a lot of fur down there, too!) and the other one he thought was a girl, was also a boy!  The kids were quizzed a lot about rabbits (they had a game) and I guess the group is definitely going to try and do rabbit agility.  The rabbits (and kids) will probably enjoy that more than just showing.  Now if only I could figure how to get the harness on the rabbits!

Saturday, October 19, 2013

5:15 a.m. - I dragged myself out of bed to go to the Bountiful Baskets site to help unload the truck and set up baskets.  It was COLD - about 37 degrees!  I knew it would be, so I had wool sock, a warm hoodie, and gloves.  They say that next week they'll have an indoor location (though people will still have to unload outside).  I wondered about that.  

Working hard, I managed to stay fairly warm until we got it done.  Standing around directing people to their baskets...that was cold work!  I don't mind really, this is all done by volunteers, which is what keeps prices down.  And the gals in charge are nice and fun.  And I got two HUGE pumpkins for the kids to carve, about 45 inches around.   For $3.75 a piece, it was an amazing bargain, since at Walmart they have these wimpy ones for nearly five dollars!  Even Jonathan said "Whoa!" when he saw them.

Speaking of Jonathan...he came back from his campout tired, dirty, wet (it rained a lot), but I think he had a good time.  The leaders and the scouts all get along well together (the leaders are really big kids).  One leader is a champion dutch oven cook, I guess he made pumpin pie in it this trip.  He also brought along his smoker to smoke a brisket.  None of this hot dog stuff for these boys!

And, we sprung the bunny sex scandal on him.  I started by saying, "I think one of the bunnies may be pregnant."  His response?  No "That's impossible!" or "How" but "Which one?"  My response? "Definitely not yours!"  It was very funny.

Sunday, October 20, 2013

I had the opportunity to teach again, only this time in Sunday School.   Our topic was spiritual & temporal self-reliance, so I brought a few of my gardening books, my kerosene lantern, my 2-meter radio, and my ipad.  I was able to figure a way to play a video about fast offerings and the welfare program, thanks to help from a member of the bishopric.  I do have my struggles with technology!

But, and this is actually a miracle, I had no more requests for subbing or other assignments.  Which means, hopefully, next Sunday will be peaceful.

The cooler weather makes me feel cozy and more tired, like I want to nap.  So I did, today.  I had so many late nights & illness, I needed the extra rest.  Still, by the time I woke, things started getting darker.  Dorothy, we are not in California any more!

IT'S AUTUMN TIME

Monday, October 7, 2013

Ken has decided that every Monday evening is couple time (not FHE, because we have to do it after water aerobics & his tutoring, which could make it a little late) and the first Monday of every night is out-to-dinner couple time.  He lets me choose, which is difficult because a) I don't know the area well yet and b) he's so dang picky!  But I knew he expressed interest in a Chinese buffet that just opened (re-opened), so I decided tonight we'd go there.

It was okay, as Chinese goes.  They did have a lot of seafood choices.  Ken says he likes it better than the other one in town, but I'm not so sure.  To be honest, my stomach doesn't like either much.  Too much fried, greasy stuff, which Ken glories in.

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Yoga felt sooo good today!  I've had a stiff neck and shoulder on the left for a few days, and this just hit the spot.  Of course, since I'm teaching, I get to choose what we do, and I focused a bit on neck & shoulder-strengthening poses.  And it was such a relief afterwards!

Taking Jonathan to the airport, I could see the cotton fields bursting out in white.  I have to get close to one and take a picture!  I've revised the Dixieland song just a bit, "Oh, I wish I was in the land of cotton, old times there are not forgotten!  Look away, look away, look away, Altus-town!"  LOL

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Shaved the bear again today.  Buying those clippers was a great investment!  Cutting Jonathan's hair is rather like mowing a curved lawn - but I'm getting better at it.  He didn't have me go back this morning and fix anything!

Oh, but I'm bushed tonight!  For the first time in my life, I had two exercise sessions.  I did water aerobics from 5 to 6, came home to eat a small salad, and went back out to take Jonathan to Scouts and teach an evening yoga class from 7:30 to 8:30.  Let's just say I was ready for bed!

Thursday, October 10, 2013

Another first in my life: I subbed in Seminary this morning.  Ugh - I do not like to get up early, especially as tired as I was from the night before.  Still, it wasn't too bad.  And, yes, my son was my best student.  He's on time, helpful, and awake.  It was just me and him for the first five minutes of class until two others showed up (very small Seminary - 5 students, plus she has two home-study students).  The other two were very sleepy, and one was battling allergies or a head cold.  The other one had to leave early.  So it felt a little unsatisfying, but another gal who subs for Seminary sometimes says we should be glad and give them credit just for showing up.  With all that's on these kids' plates, it's a wonder they even come!

From there, I went home, got changed, had scripture study with my kids and got them started on their lessons, and headed back to the church for my Thursday morning yoga session.  When we had first started the classes, these ladies were saying that no way they could get on the floor.  Can I tell you? These ladies get on the floor!  They're finding more flexibility, less pain and more energy.  That is my reward - seeing how they improve!

I got my bench today!  Three months ago I ordered an old church bench from a local antique shop.  They were to cut it in half (I'll explain later) and paint it white for me.  I wanted it by my birthday, but at least now I have it!  It is an OLD church bench - tongue & groove workmanship - really nice.  I still have to figure out how to brace it up underneath and in the corner, but it's going to be my banquette bench in the kitchen corner.  And I got it for an amazing price!  Ken was more impressed with it than he thought he was going to be.  Now I need a round table and a chair or two to finish it off.

Relief Society Emergency Preparedness night was this evening.  One gal bravely brought her family's five 72-hour backpacks and went through them to tell us what she had, what she didn't and what needed updating.  She's been through a lot of natural disasters (do they follow her?  do I feel safer now or not? LOL), including Hurricane Katrina, so she knows what a family needs.  We also made emergency binders to fill with information to take with us if we needed to evacuate.  Oh, and we had treats made from food storage items.  I made pinto bean pecan pie, which turned out so-so (darn electric oven!  Should be outlawed!), but one sister made this wheat artisanal bread with all these seeds on it - so good!  I wanted to take some home & toast it!

Friday, October 11, 2013

In case you were wondering, I'm really dragging this morning.  I didn't have to teach Seminary today, thankfully, but Jonathan came home and at around 8 came in and asked me if I was all right.  I was fine, just really, really tired.

Thankfully, too, that I didn't have to pick up Jonathan from the airport.  Another classmate & ward member brought him home.

But I was such a slug, I didn't get pizza dough ready in time to bake it before my water aerobics class. Poor kids!  They had to wait for dinner after I gdt home.  Luckily, Jonathan was eager to put the stuff on the pizza, so I didn't have to do it all.  We were just able to have a nice, quiet evening.  Those have been pretty rare around here lately.

Saturday, October 12, 2013

Ugh!  I passed an awful night - sick to my stomach.  By three in the morning I was up ill and facing pain, misery...and a mess.  I was finally able to calm down by 5:30 to sleep a little more.

Because, of course, there were so many things to do.  The kids had 4H Robotics (Legos) and I had to do a little birthday shopping for my Mom.  I was going to mail it to her, too, but - rats! - the Post Office closed at 11:00.  Really?  Can you accomplish anything in two hours?  Argh!  So her birthday gift is going to be late.

I was sad to see, when picking up the kids from 4H, that the cotton fields around are being plowed under.  I guess the harvest wasn't going to be good, so they are going to do a fall planting of wheat.  Those poor farmers!  The drought has sure hit them hard.

Even though it was noon, and they hadn't eaten (which is usually a travesty in the stomach of my son!), we spent another hour after 4H talking with another homeschooling family - the Doshers - whose kids are friends with mine.  Afterward, I took them to where the high school band was selling hot dogs.  The only downside was that the wind had picked up (delightful, really, I'm so enjoying this weather), so they had a hard time holding on to napkins!

I got a small afternoon nap, and Ken & Jonathan helped me a lot with dinner and clean up.  Think I'll tuck in early (as I can) and try to re-coop my rest.

Sunday, October 13, 2013

I had a few stomach cramps last night, but nothing like Saturday, so I spent a fairly restful night.  The clouds have rolled in and it looks like rain (pretty please?).  Jonathan is outside covering the rabbit's cages with a tarp so they don't get wet if it rains while we're in church.

I am sad to report that this year there will be few to no pecans (so those of you expecting a box at Christmas...sorry!).  I've learned that not only the drought affected the production, but several late spring frosts that I was unaware of, being in California at the time.  I hope there's enough for the squirrels, at least!  You'd think four trees would produce enough!

HERE COMES OCTOBER

Monday, September 30, 2013

The weather has cooled down considerably and I love it!  The kids bundle up in the morning, but I revel in the crispness.  It still warms up in the afternoon, but it is not at all bad.  I could live with this weather all the time!

The bunnies are getting bolder now.  They know that they can get off the sofa now, so they take every opportunity to try and get off to explore.  If it weren't for the fact that they would chew on furniture and electrical cords and probably leave little "presents" everywhere (at least Twilight would, she's the least litter-trained), I might let them roam a little.  What we really need is a pen for them to run around in outside. 

They get so happy when they can run around (usually in the bathroom) that they jump and binky.  If we sit on the floor, we are less intimidating, so they'll come over, sniff at us, nuzzle us and then binky or shake their heads happily.  It's nice to know that they like us and the freedom they have.

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

It's October!  The weather is confiming the fall-ness of it!  I love it.  Analiese is busily making her Halloween/Birthday plans (she always combines the themes together).  The sight of pumpkins and decorations around is fun to see.

Got back to yoga this week.  The ladies mentioned how, without it, they noticed they were stiffer!  I'm glad they can see obvious benefits from it; that brings them back!  Me, too!  I was stiff the last few days and was eager for my stretch!

It's Homecoming week for the local high school.  Apparently, the school flower must be the mum, because the flower shops (all four that I've seen) are advertising mums for Homecoming.  They also said something about a "mum ring."  I wonder what that is.  I am curious enough to go into one of the shops and ask!

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

My daughter debuted on the radio today doing a spot for 4H month.  She had to write it herself and read it on a microphone at one of the local radio stations (there are at least 4 in Altus).  Apparently they were on air by this evening, because one of her friends in Activity Days heard her!

Yes, busy evening.  Activity Days for Analiese, Scouts for Jonathan, Yoga for me.  Luckily, they were all  at the church building at roughly the same time.  This was my first night class, and only one person showed up.  I was a little nervous, because she is very pregnant, but she's also very fit and does yoga on her own.  Basically, it ended up not being a class, but doing yoga side-by-side.  It was actually a good work out!

Thursday, October 3, 2013

Thursdays are supposed to be our Family Home Evenings (Monday I have water aerobics, so it makes us run too late).  But Ken had tutoring and then a one-on-one with our home teacher at Braum's (addictive ice cream place).  He's been a little antsy to have someone to talk with (who's not a child or is married to him, I guess).  He had a good time, though; he and Casey seem a lot alike.

Friday, October 4, 2013

I am exhausted, but it's been a good day.  Analiese & I went on a field trip to the Museum of the Great Plains in Lawton.  There were people in period costume talking and demonstrating things about frontier life.  Analiese liked the trading post; I thought the blacksmith was neat.  We met up with some homeschoolers from Altus and Analiese exchanged numbers with a girl from Duncan who is alike as peas in a pod to her!

After that was a trip to Hobby Lobby (if you're going for an hour drive, you have to get as much done as you can) for some Halloween stuff and then to Sam's for gas ($3.10 a gallon - read 'em & weep, California friends!), dinner, and a lot of shopping.  Both of us had very tired feet.

And...an hour to get home!  Analiese entertained herself by watching a large electrical storm to the north flash in the sky.  Me, I concentrated on the roads.  Not that it's hard...Lawton is a straight shot from Altus.  You leave Lawton, drive for about an hour, and get to Altus (there are side roads along the way that lead to other small communities, but this is in one town and out the other!).

The day's not done yet!  I have some cookies I have to finish (I had to get vanilla at Sam's) for tomorrow night's dinner with the elders.  And I need to put away laundry.  Neverending chore.

Saturday, October 5, 2013

I think Fall has finally hit.  Standing in line for my basket this morning, I was dancing around to keep warm (well, it was 7:00 in the morning).  Yes, I had at least my hoodie on.  But I think I am going to need something more for winter.  Brisk - At least you know I'm awake!

General Conference started today.  I am happy to say that, while my kids did draw a little in front of the television, they paid good attention.  They thought that the sessions went by fast, which is funny because when they were little, those sessions seemed endless!  But they could, and did, comment on the speakers and what they had heard and enjoyed.

In between sessions, we decorated the house for Halloween.  Last year we didn't do any decorating at all, so Analiese was excited to do so today.  Plus, I had purchased two Cinderella pumpkins with my food basket this week, and I put them on either side of the fireplace.  They are cooking, not carving, pumpkins, but until I get to them, they can function as decorations.

Appropriately for the weather, I made split pea soup for dinner with the elders.  I was a failure, though, because I bought rolls at Sam's yesterday instead of making them.  I kind of made up for that with my snickerdoodles.  Other than oreos, I really don't do store-bought cookies.  Besides being a Cookie Monster, I am a cookie snob.  Homemade is much better!

Sunday, October 6, 2013

It was nice and cozy, sitting in the livingroom and watching conference. The kids got a little squirrely during the first session, but that was because Analiese brought Alice into the livingroom. She jumped quickly off of Analiese's lap and spent some time hiding behind the sofa.  Jonathan finally wigged far enough under the sofa to grab her. But I firmly suggested that we have no rabbits for the afternoon session.

Some pretty red flower is growing in the side planter of my house. I think it may be monarda - bee balm, but I'm not sure.  It's a nice sight, though!

DRIVE ME CRAZY

Monday, September 23, 2013

For the record, I really don't like doing laundry.  Well, most of the process is no big deal.  But folding it is a drag!  Especially sheets.  Even with You Tube videos and Pinterest pins, I still can't fold them.  Call it a flaw...it could be worse.

No real exclamation points people at Walmart today, though I did see green bowler hat dude again.  He doesn't count; I already saw him before.

Tried a new dish out on the fam tonight.  I had yellow summer squash in my basket and I had to do something with it.  So I cut it fries-size, battered it in egg, flour, milk, sour cream, S&P, and rolled them in parmesan.  I baked them (I do not fry)...they tasted really good hot and fresh!  Ken didn't care for them, but that was because they were about an hour old when he got them.  Sorry, I had to cook them before I left for water aerobics.  The kids liked it, though.

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

A trip to Lawton I just did not want to make happened today.  Ken's been having trouble with his car: steering noises and not wanting to start.  There's no Honda dealer in town and nobody here wanted to handle it - "Take it to a dealer."  The nearest one is in Lawton.  Hence, the trip.

Problem #1 - Jonathan getting to Aviation Mechanics Class.  Solved: Friend from ward who takes class too drove him both ways.

Problem #2 - Analiese.  Solved: Homeschool friends took her for the day.  She had a great time (they are in 4H Rabbit Club, too, so she had more rabbits to play with.)

Problem #3 - Time & Distance.  What if it takes more than one day?  Lawton is over 50 miles away.  Would I rent a car?  Would I rent a hotel room?  Instead, on the urging of a ward sister, I asked if anyone was going to Lawton and could take me home today or take me back there Wednesday (or whenever the car was ready).  Solved: My VT (RS Pres., too) picked me up and, as we were running errands, the dealer called & said all was well, fixed and ready.  So I got to pick it up and take it home today.

Problem #4 - Money.  Solved: The cost of a new battery, some steering fluid, and labor.  Not bad.

Final Assessment: Very Blessed.

By the way, Jonathan got to taxi in an airplane today for class.  His instructor was impressed with how well he handled it.  So far, his best day in class ever.

I was told today by someone to quit complaining about the distance to go to do things.  "Everyone around here doesn't think it's far." (Meaning OKC, which is 2 1/2 hours away).  Since to go anywhere involves distances around here, I suppose so.  Still, I am not a road trip person and 2 1/2 hours means a day-long trip as far as I'm concerned.

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Today we decided rabbit cages needed cleaning.  I had stopped yesterday by Tractor Supply in Lawton to get the cage parts I needed for one of them, so we could place them side-by-side.  In the meantime, the rabbits went into the bathroom while we scrubbed at the cages and Jonathan figured out the framing.  By the way, bunny poop isn't so bad; it's the pee that's noxious.

These rabbits are funny to watch together.  They really like running around the bathroom.  When a bunny is really happy, they do this thing called "binkying" which looks like a hop and an epileptic seizure at the same time.  Jonathan's Twilight is a very happy bunny, so she binkys all the time.  Today, though, every time she did, Fluffernutter followed her and did the same!  It was cute and funny. I even caught calm Alice doing a binky today.  Must have been a good day for rabbits.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Church carpet was still drying this morning from yesterday's cleaning, so no yoga this week again.  Rats.  No wonder I am feeling stiff.  Still, there's lots of requests for doing a night class and I think this next Wednesday we'll try.

It's funny how my kids love history.  Analiese just finished one history book and was excited to see the next one come in the mail.  Jonathan had to pour over it, too, going "ooo" at the things we'd be studying and the projects we'd work on.  

Lots of chirpy birds out today, especially blue jays.  They are so distinctive and pretty-looking, but very noisy.  I remember how the jays used to compete with the squirrels at my grandparent's home there in Lake Arrowhead.  It makes me wonder if it's any different here.  Do jays eat pecans?  Because that's the squirrels' first love, here.  We saw a baby squirrel on our neighbor's roof.  Such a tiny tail!

Had a small blackout this evening; lasted all of 45 minutes.  Still, it's a worry because I can't open up most windows in the house.  Oh, well, it's over, but I wonder what would happen if we had a longer one.  Even the fans wouldn't work then!

Friday, September 27, 2013

Birds were noisily chirping again and the squirrels were running around trees and over fences.  To be honest, I enjoy all their chatter and bustle.  It's nicer than motorcycles revving and delivery trucks backing up, beep-beep-beep!  I feel a part of the outdoor world when the animals are all busy doing their things around me.

Though I am not appreciating a return of the mosquitos, which once again are proceeding to bite me and my family.  They itch terribly here!  And, I don't know why, but we keep finding wasps in the house.  At least five now, around one or two a day!  I've looked all around the outside of the house and can't find a nest.  I hope they're not up the chimney!  That could be bad.  Maybe I should just spray bug killer up in there and hope for the best? I'm rather scared of the idea.

A breeze picked up this afternoon; supposedly a big storm is rolling in.  I hope it means some rain.  More than that I could do without.

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Ever had one of those days where everything you had planned turned upside-down?  Even though I had things planned to the minute, things just worked out differently, which made me run around crazily trying to get things done on time.  I don't like that!

First, Analiese & I were supposed to man a concession stand for the 4H club at a local sports event.  Only, when we got there, no one was there!  It was probably cancelled on account of the weather last night, but still!  It would have been nice to know!

Then...trying to make two banana cream pies for dessert with the missionaries tonight.  I am not the most apt pie-maker, and pie crust is a hurdle!  I had done it once in my food processor and it had turned out splendidly, but I couldn't find my recipe today and had to try another one.  This one shrunk while baking!  And I found out I didn't have enough eggs...so go to United and get some.  Then, I didn't have enough milk...send Jonathan to United to get some (luckily it's just across the road).  And the eggs didn't blend well into the custard and I had to pull out strands of cooked egg!  They weren't the prettiest of pies by far, but at least they tasted good!

I had to hurry and finish the pies in order to go get my veggie basket. Only, when I got there, just in time, the truck had only just arrived.  Which meant waiting to unload it and then to sort and organize baskets!  That took an hour out of my day that I did not have!

Sunday, September 29, 2013

Do you sometimes wonder why you are where you are in life?  While I've had those times, often, right now I feel fairly confident that we are supposed to be here.  All the things that have happened, and all the opportunities I see here for growth, make me feel that this is our place, right here, right now.

For example, yesterday I met another local homeschooler who is a part of a group here.  Guess what? Her name is Michelle!  Considering this is the SECOND homeschooler named Michelle here, I am feeling like this is a direction I'm being pointed to.  We are going to participate in a couple of their activities soon and hopefully, we can make good friends in the process.

Today, besides teaching in Gospel Doctrine, I got to really use my Spanish.  A sister in our ward from Honduras just had her 18-year-old daughter move from that country here and the missionaries are teaching the girl.  Mom had to work today, so we brought the girl and her younger sister (who's in Analiese's class & Activity Days, but speaks perfect English) to church with us.  During the 3rd hour, when Relief Society was combined with Priesthood, I sat next to her and quasi-translated (I had help, one of the missionaries had a Spanish church magazine with the talk in it that the bishop was referring to).  My Spanish is really rusty, but I did fairly well and could answer her questions.

Just the missionary opportunities my whole family has had since we moved here have been uplifting.  Even if we wanted to, we can't really hide and claim we don't know anyone!  We're more involved in our community than ever before!

BIRTHDAY TIME!

Monday, September 16, 2013

I did not sleep well last night; I just couldn't get to sleep. Finally, around midnight I got up to watch a lightning storm & then read some of a boring do-it-yourself manually to get me sleepy.  It must of worked, because I crawled into bed a few minutes later and was out.  But it means that today, my beginning of the week, lots of stuff to do day, is dragging. I want a nap; there's no time for one.

Several banks & pharmacies in town electronically post time, date & temperature along with other stuff on their boards.  It's funny, driving through town, because all of them post different temperatures.  One is really off, like 3-5 degrees higher than everyone else.  I just take all the numbers and average them and figure I'm pretty much in the ballpark for the temperature.

Monday is Ken & my date night.  Since it's close to my birthday, he took me out to dinner.  We drove 1/2 an hour to Mangum to a Mexican restaurant that one of his co-workers suggested.  It was okay, but my chicken flautas weren't very flavorful and the refritos were salty.  Ken had steak (he doesn't like Mexican & luckily they served more than that) and french fries.  We took home cream cheese flautas to share with the kids for dessert - very rich!

We had a rainstorm going up to Mangum and back.  We need the rain desperately, but the strength of the storm was a little scary on the road going.  Also, I'd straightened my hair and bought a new top for the occasion (don't like looking like a slob on a date), so I was worried about going Poof! - poodle hair!

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Nice yoga class this morning - 7 people (8, if you count me).  Trying to figure out Sun Salutations in a chair so those who can't or don't want to get on the floor can do them.  Funny thing, we all ended on the floor today!  But that meant I could do some good stuff to twist my body - pretzel-like.  Now, what they thought of it...I'm not sure.

More rain today.  Jonathan's right, it will bring more ants (they bury deep in the heat and come out when the rains come).  It'll bring the mosquitos back, too, unfortunately.  But the rain is needed so badly.  The local lakes and reservoirs here are recording elevating waters...good!  But the temps still stay warm, so it's unbelievably muggy, like trying to breathe water.

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Jonathan's alarm didn't go off this morning, so I got an early wake-up call to take him to Seminary.  Ugh!  I was really sleeping, too.

We've tracked in so much dried grass, leaves & mud (it's red around here, one day I'll post a picture.) because of the rain. I have rugs and such, but they have a saturation point.  So, today I'll be a vacuumy-sweepy-moppy kind of person.  

Oh!  And I get to make my birthday cake today - Almond Joy Cake (Wendy, jealous yet?).  Ken said he'd do it, but he's so tired & busy. Besides, I'd rather he cleaned up the bathroom after the bunnies tonight.  Wah-ha-ha!  Diabolical!

Thursday, September 19, 2013

It's my birthday!  La-la-la-la-la!  Jonathan made orange cinnamon rolls for breakfast (from a can, but still good).  I had my yoga class this morning and stretched them out a bit more with some warrior poses.

I was SUPPOSED to have a 90-minute deep tissue massage today.  My special birthday present.  But, no!  The gal was late and I waited 30 minutes before I figured she just wasn't coming.  I was very disgruntled, because it was going to be the highlight of my day.  No massage left everything else feeling anticlimactic.

I had to make my birthday dinner, too.  Ken felt sad about that, but he's working too hard to have time for that.  The kids were supposed to help, but I wasn't going to yell & bug them on my birthday.

We also had rabbit 4H tonight; this was our FHE.  We took Alice to show them, since we've been worried about her not eating and being too skinny.  Come to find out, Himalyan rabbits don't eat much and are supposed to be boney.  But she does feel lonely in her cage by herself, so we've been putting her with the other two at night.  She's been much more responsive.  Jonathan & I are trying to figure a way to merge the two cages together so there's more room, but they're together.

Friday, September 20, 2013

The sky is gray and it's quite windy outside.  The weather actually feels cooler - the Weather Channel says it's 78 degrees.  There's a big storm over southern OK & northern TX, but will we get rain?  As one meteorologist says, it's feast or famine for OK.  Some areas get almost 3 inches, others, like Altus, can expect maybe .17 inches.  I'd sure like to see more.

Saturday, September 21, 2013

Today I was a yo-yo.  Go here, for Bountiful Baskets.  Go there, take Jonathan to 4H.  Go back, and pick him up (and wait for another hour and a half, because they weren't done).  Go to the store for water & ice.  Take Jonathan to the missionaries' apartment.  

Too, I had so many things scheduled.  The elders came to dinner, and asked us to host (tonight!) a Spanish-speaking part-member family they were teaching.  They needed the help with the Spanish, and for Analiese to play with the young daughter to keep her from disturbing us.  Luckily, our three rabbits are real attention-getters.

Actually, it was a nice discussion.  Hna. Maldonado's 18-yo daughter just moved here from Honduras, but isn't a member of the church and doesn't speak a lick of English.  Only one of the elders speak any Spanish, and that sketchily.  So Ken was helpful (enthusiastic, I told him to let Elder Vance do most of the talking) and I tried to do my part, though my Spanish is rusty.  The girl is cute, though, and we had a nice talk.

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Normal Sunday...sort of.  Our regular chorister didn't show up, so another sister led the opening and sacrament hymns.  Unfortunately, her husband is the organist, so no one was with their little ones and the youngest proceeded to take marker and draw all over himself.  After the sacrament, I went over and whispered that I'd take care of the rest hymn and closing.  Ken was on our bench and my kids are old enough to know better.

Then, after Sunday School, I got asked to sub for next week's lesson.  On top of that, the bishop has asked me to be the Sunday School president and get people to say prayers and open the meeting.  OK.

But tonight, no meetings, no appointments.  Maybe I can do "normal" stuff.  If I can figure out what that it.