Get a clue from Cindy Lou

ReDo

2010-05-11T13:33:00.000-05:00

Now that I am back in Houston to take care of some business I have decided to re-write the beginning of The Missing Texas Star. Maybe it is being in the big city that brings out the devious mind in me. I’m not sure what it is, but I have been enjoying coming up with dead bodies. As I walk Meatball and Candy little glimpses of murder fills my head. Maybe it's from those little green bags that I carry to pick up the steamy hot dog turds. Who knows maybe it's something in the Houston air. I guess it makes no difference as long as the story keeps going. I have new characters entering the story and have taken it in a whole new direction. I just need to keep on task so it can be released this year.

And so it goes

2010-05-08T09:46:00.000-05:00

Since my school work is all done and submitted I have had no excuse. I closed my bedroom door then began working on book number 3. The Missing Texas Star will probably be the end of the hill country gang series. I can't make any promises on that though. I just sit down and write the story as it comes into my mind’s eye. I never know what direction it is headed. I had not even been at the keyboard for half an hour and a new character popped up. He seems like an okay fella' so he will play an important part of the story. Maybe instead of ending the series I will just do a whole series on the lead character Cindy. She does lead an interesting life.
Now back to the story...

Let Freedom Ring

2010-05-07T10:19:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I did it. I gave Wally World one last chance then relieved them of their position in my life. Without an income I just couldn't let the Sarge be responsible for my bills. In a week moment I told Kikki of my dilemma and within seconds Josh called and said he and Elizabeth would be out on Sunday to pick me up.
I think the hardest part was leaving that little piece of heaven at the ranch and that wonderful man that had crawled into my heart and took control.
Needless to say we were both hurt but I needed to move back to Houston so that I could actually make decent money. As much as I love Burnet there are no good paying jobs there. I have had it with retail.
I just finished my last assignments for this session at CTU so I am hitting the pavement come Monday and getting a great position with some lucky company. I have Josh and Elizabeth to encourage me and Justin, Sheena, Kikki, Booger and James are in Spring just an hour away.
It is the weirdest thing living with your grown son, his better half and two Boston Terriers. This is also my first experience of living right in the middle of a big city. I am amazed at everything that is in walking distance. The Galleria area is bustling so I am overwhelmed by the traffic. The funny thing is my old Houstonian driving skills have kicked back in. I just need to learn the streets and highways once again.
It is amazing how much you forget in two years.
The hardest part is I miss that crazy fisherman and that tender smile.

Gotta, Gotta, Gotta

2010-04-30T04:38:00.002-05:00

Gotta, Gotta, Gotta
There seems to never be enough time in the day to do everything that needs to be done. My appearances at Wal-mart have started to be longer periods. I had grown used to the short hours. When I come home there are too few hours to get things done before bed time. I guess this is the reason I made sure that I was unavailable for at least three days a week. The problem is every 5 weeks my classes change. With each new instructor I have to deal with issues of due dates. I don’t care how carefully you plan or prepare I end up freaking out because I don’t have enough time for an assignment.
I enjoy having the 4.0 GPA but there are times I just feel like throwing my hands up and quitting. We all know I won’t because of the simple fact that I am driven. I will just have to give up something somewhere to give me the extra time to get it all done.
I say stop wasting my days at Wal-mart!

Live Laugh Love

2010-04-28T08:46:00.001-05:00

Live Laugh Love

Between researching, writing papers and my duties I have tried to squeeze in a little living laughter and love. Love is the easy part I have two fur covered babies and a retired Marine that keep me smiling. Need I not forget three skin kids and grandkids that continually let me know that they are there.
I have been working on the transfer of property for several months. Sometimes I wonder why people lie to me but figure that is their way of dealing with life. I have learned to take a lot of what they say with a grain of salt.
Laughing I try to do every day. I laugh at some of the stupid things in life, I laugh at the antics of those fur covered babies and I laugh at the jokes and funny videos I get in my email every day. Now I laugh at those that say I can’t do something.
Here is a lesson for those doubters out there. Tell me I can’t do something because of age or circumstance and I will laugh at you and do it.
I am not stubborn… my way is just better!
Look here Bucko I am living my life my way!

Time to Re-Evaluate

2010-04-27T10:26:00.000-05:00

Sometimes we have to step back and evaluate where we have come from and where we are going. I guess it depends on how you look at the circumstances of life. Some believe that we are destined to do and be who we are. Some feel that we make our own destiny.
I guess I had felt that we do as we are destined to do. Then I read “The Secret” and began to just live. I learned you must ASK for what you want in your life. Then you must BELIEVE that it is already yours. Then you must be open to RECIEVE. By doing this I have traveled a long way and in the past two years experienced things I would not have experienced if I would have just sat there and waited for life to find me.
Some days I feel that I have fallen back into that old way of thinking. I go to Wally world and do my thing. I come home, do my school work, then go to bed. I feel like I am not living my life anymore. I am so busy trying to promote “Out of the Texas Mist” and “Dead Xs in Texas” that I haven’t even done anything on “The Missing Texas Star”. My college work and my time at Wally world have completely taken over my time.
The 2 year anniversary of my flight from everyone and everything I knew will be on Mother’s Day. I guess I need to start branching out. I will have my first degree in November. I will be leaving Wal-Mart soon and be on to much better and exciting things. I have asked… I truly believe… now I am ready to receive.
Look out world…here comes Cindy Lou!

Remembering to Remember

2010-04-26T16:01:00.000-05:00

I guess I have spent my whole life with a pet. It has just been a part of living. There were a few times that no furry creature lived in my heart but those were few and far between. I was having a conversation with a friend yesterday and she asked me if I thought animals went to heaven. I was shocked that she did not know the story of the Rainbow Bridge. I thought everyone knew about the Rainbow Bridge.
I sat back down not caring that my fifteen minute break was about to turn into twenty. I told her of the promise and offered to bring a printed version to her the next day I came in. She had lost a cat that had meant a lot to her a few years ago. I thought today would be a great day to repost that story for those that do not know of the promise.
I know that when it is my time to leave this world I will be reunited with those that have given me that perfect love. That is one promise I look forward to.

The Rainbow Bridge
inspired by a Norse legend
By the edge of a woods, at the foot of a hill,
Is a lush, green meadow where time stands still.
Where the friends of man and woman do run,
When their time on earth is over and done.
For here, between this world and the next,
Is a place where each beloved creature finds rest.
On this golden land, they wait and they play,
Till the Rainbow Bridge they cross over one day.
No more do they suffer, in pain or in sadness,
For here they are whole, their lives filled with gladness.
Their limbs are restored, their health renewed,
Their bodies have healed, with strength imbued.
They romp through the grass, without even a care,
Until one day they start, and sniff at the air.
All ears prick forward, eyes dart front and back,
Then all of a sudden, one breaks from the pack.
For just at that instant, their eyes have met;
Together again, both person and pet.
So they run to each other, these friends from long past,
The time of their parting is over at last.
The sadness they felt while they were apart,
Has turned into joy once more in each heart.
They embrace with a love that will last forever,
And then, side-by-side, they cross over… together.

There are many versions of the Rainbow Bridge. I suggest you type it into the search bar and find one that you love. Remember to have tissue handy because if you have a heart as tender as mine you will need them.

TGIMF Thank God It's My Friday

2010-04-25T17:13:00.000-05:00

The one thing you learn when you work in retail is there are very few times you get the weekend off. Since I am furthering my education I am limited to Thursday to Sunday. Since today is Sunday it is my Friday. I know that can seem confusing. As the associates chat in the lounge you can hear someone saying today is my Friday. That can be any day of the week. Sometimes you have your off days split then you end up with two Mondays. Confused? I guess you have to experience it to get it.
I was just so glad when 4pm hit today because now I have 3 days to work on my assignments, play with my girls, spend time with da sarge and go fishing. I also have to work on a pesky problem with a certain Tom that doesn't seem to understand that it takes necessary paperwork to complete a transaction. Needless to say those days fly by before I can bat an eye. The one thing positive I can say is there is no need for appearances at Wal-Mart for 3 days

As the wind blows

2010-04-24T04:40:00.000-05:00

After climbing into bed last night I fell asleep fairly fast. I figure it is because I was a little worn out from the long day. We tend to be early risers. Around 11pm the winds began to blow. I lay there listening to the crash of our tin Texas flag being forced into the fence by a strong gust. John jumped up to close the vent in the sitting area as a huge clatter and what sounded like glass breaking filled the air. "What the heck was that" I questioned. He shrugs his shoulders and replies "I think it was cat's bowl” I silently hoped cat had found a safe place from the storm. There wasn't a lot of rain mostly wind and thunder. We spent the rest of the night dozing off and on as one wave after another blew through.
We both slid out of bed around 3:30 am weary from the intermittent sleep. Hoping it had passed I switched on the computer only to be startled by the rumbling outside. I was looking forward to a hot shower. Now I will have to rush through because I hate showering when the sky is rumbling. I could imagine standing there naked with conditioner in my long hair and soap on my body as a sleek bolt of lightning slices through the little tin roof and cooks me right there. I remember as a child my mother would usher us into the hall and turn off all the lights every time it thundered. To her every thunderstorm was a hurricane. The news media doesn’t help any with their over sensationalized reports of hail, tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. I know they are only warning us of the possibilities of what may happen. The problem is when the storms turn out to be less than what they warn us of we slowly tune them out. I love to watch the radar at weather.com. At least I see what’s coming as it comes. Just let the wind blow.

The trail Beckonds

2010-04-23T08:49:00.000-05:00

When I first met Sgt John I was in the adventure mode. I wanted to explore the Hill Country then the rest of the world. He invited me on a great hike then was surprised I made it. I am not really built for rock climbing. Sometimes I feel like I am not even built to walk. Spending the majority of my day on my feet has caused problems with them. I do my stretches but the pain is still there. Most of the time it is bearable but there are times where I wish for a sedative.
The other day the Sarge reminded me of a goal he wanted to complete and had asked me to accompany him on. His goal is to hike the Appalachian Trail. This is no small feat. The Appalachian Trail begins in Georgia and ends in Maine. This skinny little man wants soft cushy Cindy Lou to walk from Georgia to Maine that is about 2175 miles.
I am up for adventure but for some reason bells and whistles began ringing in the back of my mind. “Warning Cindy Lou, Warning Cindy Lou” kept repeating over and over. There would be no warm shower in the morning, no soft mattress to lie on at night, no cushy chair to sit at as we ate our meal and no electricity to charge my cell phone.
Being the adventurous one I have started planning the trek. It will take two years to get myself in shape for this journey. Da Sarge plans on leaving for this trek in April 2012. The trek that he planned on taking 4 months to complete will now take him 6 months because he will have a cushy woman slowing him down. It will take time to take pictures and actually stop to smell the roses.
Now I have another plan to work on along with everything else I am working on. At least the journey will begin just after I graduate from College.
What a way to celebrate one accomplishment… by starting another… hey I smell a book here!

Happy Earth Day

2010-04-22T05:10:00.000-05:00

Happy Earth Day
I was just a babe in the 60’s and just missed the whole hippie movement. I am an old hippie at heart though. I remember loving to recycle when the facilities were close to home. The inhabitants of my home grew tired of me separating the paper, plastics and glass by color and number. I didn’t care what they thought I was helping the environment. I remember lamenting about those that bagged their lawn waste and placed it out for the garbage pickup. This was filling up our landfills with unnecessary clutter.
Today is earth day and I wonder if the changes we have made since the first earth day have helped. Do enough of us care about our mother earth?
I live in a rural area and there are no recycling places nearby. I feel guilty when I throw away magazines and papers because I know they could be recycled. When I am at wally world I make sure that my plastic water bottles go into the plastic recycling container. At least I recycle at work. I take my printer cartridges to Office Depot for recycling. What else can I do?
Dear Mother Earth I am Sorry for not doing more.

And the Days Do Fly

2010-04-21T09:28:00.000-05:00

When I decided to return to school to finish my college education I also decided to limit the time I am available for Wal-Mart. I wanted to escape the bakery and management was only willing to allow me to transfer to a part-time position. They have a goal of having 3/4 percent of their work force as part-time employees. I was transferred to Customer Service and designated a part time associate. I lost my life insurance and paid vacation but gained three days a week to devote to class work.
I admit this helps because I have a 4.0 GPA. The problem is those three days do fly. There is a draw back to being part time and limiting your availability. They tend to frown on the unavailable status. Several weeks went by when I was scheduled 4 hours a week. In the end I owed Wal-Mart for my health insurance. My hours have picked up and they have me scheduled 4 days a week. I miss all the extra days I had off. Today is Wednesday and I am scheduled to appear in the morning. In a way I cringe because I have so much I want to do. Those days do fly.

Break out the paints

2010-04-20T09:47:00.000-05:00

After the rush to get things ready for the Burnet Bluebonnet Festival I decided I would take the time out of my busy schedule and just paint a picture for myself today. I painted a green background on a small canvas but had not decided what I would paint over it.

Since this is Domino's month to be the background on my computer I found a great picture of him with a green background. I decided to set up my easel and break out the paints today and paint Domino on the canvas. The problem is once I paint one of the BT's in my life I want to keep it. That tends to be tough because I really don't have a place to display my work.
Last month I painted a cute little BT on a pink back ground that I named Kissy. I decided to send that painting to the Greater Houston Boston Terrier Rescue to auction off. They are such great people to save so many deserving Boston Terriers.

I look at the pictures of some of the rescues and my heart breaks. I cannot fathom how anyone can mistreat any animal let alone a Boston Terrier. I am trying to heal after losing Mickey, Domino and Mater in just under a year and a half. Adopting Candy was great but we all know how the female BT loves the men so Candy stole my boyfriend.

Someday I will see that little boy that needs me and I will open up these arms and let him in. Until then I just look at the sweet little faces as my eyes mist over.

Now I need to paint. That is the one therapy that helps me no matter what the problem is.

And Here We Go Again

2010-04-19T08:41:00.004-05:00

After attending the Hill Country Book Fair this past weekend I realized that I had stopped doing my blog and I had also stopped working on my third book altogether. I do not know if it was because of working and taking college courses or the fact that Marine that seemed to take over my life had my attention. Several of the other authors advised me to blog everyday and keep my writing in the forefront. I also learned that you must network.
Today I started working on my Press kit. I find it tough to write about yourself. What part do you include and what part do you keep a mystery? I am an open person but I do have those little secrets that I like to keep to myself. The one thing that I have learned is life is an adventure. Each and everyday you learn something new not only about yourself but also about the world.
Since I have written and published "Out of the Texas Mist" and "Dead Xs in Texas" I have learned everyone makes mistakes. I guess the measure of a person is how they handle those mistakes. Some try to place the blame on others and then those that actually learn from the mistakes own up to them and make an effort to not make the mistake again. I have tried to learn from my mistakes and those that others make.
I also have learned that the more people you talk with that have chosen the same path you have you gain experience.
Several of the authors I spoke with had several self published books on their table. I rather submit my work through a publisher but have respect and admiration for those that choose to be their own publisher. They are truly gamblers. I have talked to Ben Rehder a well known author that told me to steer away from the self publishing world. His advise was for me to find a publicist. My take on the conversation was for me to learn how to be my own publicist. By doing that I have had several book signings in the past two months. Kinky Friedman suggested I become my own publisher so I could be the one that makes the money. He did advise me from the beginning that you do not make money selling books. I guess when you are an author you have to be able to be aggressive with the attention getting. The more attention you get the more books you sell. Maybe I should throw a few public temper tantrums to get my name in the paper. Once I do that then I will be known as that nutsy local author. Once people know that I exist then they will wonder what I wrote. Once they read that first crazy tale then they are hooked and have to read the second. I already know this is how it works by all those that know me and have read the two books and drive me crazy asking about the third.
Starting today I will make it a habit to write at least a page or two to that third part of the tale. I will pester bookstores and book festivals to be included and submit my work everywhere I can. Look out world here comes Cindy Lou.... and here we go again.

BUSY BUSY BUSY

2009-12-10T10:28:00.005-06:00

I haven't posted in quite awhile. I guess with taking college classes, working and dealing with daily life I have been too busy to reflect. I decided to take a little break from the whirlwind and post today.
I have really enjoyed my American Government class this session. My Professor Samuel Downs is a great guy. He has been in the Military for over 24 years and is now in the Air Force Reserves. I guess his life experiences have enabled him to be the great professor that he is.
Well Dead X's in Texas was released officially on December 5Th. I celebrated by sharing a copy of it with Santa.
I was visiting Cousin Nancy's Blog the other day and was saddened to hear Kinky's dog Gooie had crossed the Rainbow Bridge. Gooie was a great dog. I know Kinky is very sad.
I was able to get some gifts for my family this years which made me feel good. I have not been able to give gifts during the holidays so this was really a boost for my moral.
I have also been able to arrange three book signings for the coming months. I will keep on a plugging until I get at least 3 more. You can check my web page to get a look at my upcoming events.
I have grown tired of the run around that Wal-Mart has given me about getting my books listed in their stores. They tell me it is Anderson Merchandising that is responsible and the representative for Anderson tells me that it is Wal-Marts fault. Well the way I see it they are both losing out.
Candy is growing and starting to learn a little more. Bridget is just as spoiled as ever. I still miss my Mater with every fiber of my being. That little guy took a huge part of me when he crossed the Rainbow Bridge.
I don't know what else to add so I will cut this one short. Happy Holidays to all and I hope you have a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and a Happy New Year.

Dead X's in Texas set to be released

2009-10-20T14:38:00.004-05:00

The second book in my series will be released on December 5th. If you have already ordered it from Publish America then they will be shipping the early orders out now. I have a book Signing scheduled for Saturday February 6, 2010 from 2:00pm to 4:00 pm
I can't wait to tell Kinky.
Barnes & Noble

2701 Parker Rd.
Bldg. A., Ste. 700
Round Rock TX 78681

Candy Has Arrived

2009-10-15T09:09:00.004-05:00

So much has happened in such a short time. I choose to take time off from work to work through the loss of Mater. Who could have thought how much it would hurt to lose one green eyed little Boston Terrier. I guess it was hard because we had to watch him suffer through those last seizures. Then again maybe it was because he was my last little boy. John was beside himself hurting because of losing Mater plus having to watch me grieve so hard. I would walk out by Mater’s garden then stand by his grave and cry. I had felt so helpless. I think when Mickey crossed the Rainbow Bridge I was trying to hold it in and be brave because I knew if I let it take over I would just give up. Then when Domino was taken from me by that vicious attack I was mostly in shock. I guess I was so busy after that getting ready to move I held that back. Now that I am here at the ranch and I feel the security of someone that wants to be a contributing factor in my life I was able to actually grieve. John printed up pictures of Mickey, Domino and Mater then hung them on the wall in the Pea Pod so I could see them every day. It seemed everyone was encouraging me to find another BT to love to help me get through this. After awhile I started to look. I found several but as we talked to the people or discusses going to see them I would start crying again. Finally an ad jumped up in my face one day. A breeder near by had a Boston Terrier female she had acquired in a trade that she wanted to get rid of. I wanted a male not a female so I was about to exit out of the page when John looked up and exclaimed “Oh Cindy she’s pretty”
“John it’s a girl I want a little boy”
“But why it’s a BT isn’t that enough”
“John BT’s are fickle. The females tend to bond with men and males bond with females. I don’t want to lose another dog to you. Remember you already took Bridget away from me.”
“Bridget loves you too. Remember who she runs to when we get out of the car” he advised as he gave me that impatient look of his.
“John I don’t know” I admitted feeling myself giving in. I don’t know what it is about those green eyes and that damn mustache.
“At least give them a call. Look at her sad face she needs us.”
Giving in I called the number on the ad. The woman that answered the phone said she indeed had the dog and she was nearly 7 months old and cage trained. She said she bred Yorkies and honestly didn’t know a thing about Boston Terriers. All she knew was she had AKC papers and she wanted all the attention when she let her out of her cage.
Hearing that she was kept in a cage was the selling point for me. I had been told by a lot of people that Mater would want me to give someone else the love he got. Mater had left me for a reason because I was to touch another BT’s life to make it better. John and I met the lady at a church parking lot near her home. She pulled up with a frightened Boston Terrier in her front seat. John was the first to open the passenger door and snatch the little frightened dog out of the vehicle. I talked to the lady and she told me that she had gotten the dog in a trade and had no interest in Boston Terriers. I explained that for one she should not be bred. When she inquired why I explained.
“Well she is too tall, too long; her nose is too long, her ears too big and she is quite large for a 7 month old.”
“But she has AKC papers” she exclaimed.
“That doesn’t mean a thing. People are too anxious to breed and make money. They just throw two dogs together then register the litter. They don’t care about breed standard or the fact that there are a lot of dogs out there in the rescues that need homes.” I lectured.
“Well I don’t know about Boston Terriers. I figured since she was registered she would be a good dog” she replied in defense. I realized that it all had just went over her head so at that moment I realized I was taking a female home with me putting an end to any chance I had at having a little boy.
I leaned over then picked the gangly puppy up realizing she was quite heavy and smelled like she had indeed been in a cage. We took the folder from the lady then assured her the dog would have a good home. She said she had been calling her Gracie but she didn’t seem to like that name beside she really didn’t have her long enough for it to stick.
John had this big grin on his face as he drove off with me holding the big smelly puppy that was shaking from fright. I softly talked to her trying to give her the sense of security.
“I think she looks like a Sassy” John advised as he reached over and patted her on the head.
I didn’t say a word to him I just sat there giving the puppy reassurances as she trembled. When John pulled into the Dr. McBride’s parking lot I wondered what he was doing. The last time I had been there I had lost my Mater.
“I’ll be right back” he exclaimed as he jumped out of the car.
The little pup had quit shaking and started to look at me with her cocked eyes. I think she was looking at me or at least it seemed she was.
“Well since you didn’t like Gracie what do you think about Sassy?” I asked hoping for an answer. She just looked at me with a blank look.
“You need a name. Just in the past few minutes I can tell you are a sweet girl. “How about Candy,” I questioned as I looked at her right eye noticing it had a blue spot at the top of the pupil. Immediately she pressed he face up to mine and kissed me. I guess that’s it your name is Candy.
When John came out of the office he was beaming. He climbed in the car then handed me a slip of paper with Sassy October 1 written on it.
“What’s this” I asked
“She has an appointment to be spayed on the first” he informed as he started up the car.
“John she wants to be called Candy” I advised.
“I told them it was Sassy” he admitted with a look of defeat on his face.
“John I ask her and she didn’t react to Sassy but when I said Candy she kissed me” I admitted
“Then her name is Candy” he admitted.
Needless to say it took Candy a few days to get accustomed to not being in a cage. The lady said she was not housebroken but you could have fooled me. Since that first day Candy has made herself at home here. She loves to run and wrestle with Bridget. We are working to teach her manners and of course she has attached herself to both our hearts. She may not be the little Boston boy I so desire but she is a wonderful loving little girl that loves us both. Welcome to our lives Candy. I hope we can make you as happy as you make us.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3t5qc_i5Occ Candy on youtube.

One Step Closer

2009-10-04T06:52:00.002-05:00

Publish America sent me a copy of the cover for DEAD X'S IN TEXAS. This takes me just one step closer to the release of my second book. I will be posting the news as it happens. I haven't been posting since I lost Mater. We are still working through the loss. Since then we have adopted a little female Boston Terrier that we named Candy. She is a sweet little girl that has quickly moved into our hearts. She has spent the first six months of her life living in a cage. Now she has a huge yard to run in and that is exactly what she does.
I have been off work for about a month but will return in a couple weeks. This time was used to try to heal from the heartbreak of losing my little Mater. Life has its ups and downs and we are not promised happiness all the time. Sometimes we just have to find the happiness for outselves.

Sometimes We Cry

2009-08-06T06:09:00.005-05:00

Publish America sent my page proofs for Dead Exes in Texas then gave me two days to proof them. This was a difficult task considering I work full time. Then to add to to stress and unhappiness my precious Mater began having seizures on Sunday after John brought him to pick me up from work. The seizure took a great tole on my little BT baby and Monday morning he crossed the Rainbow Bridge to Join Mickey and Domino to wait for me. Mater was a great little guy. He was happy and loved everyone. Needless to say John, Bridget and I are heart broken. Yesterday when I came home from work John walked me over to Mater's grave then read a proclamation awarding him an Honorary Marine posthumously. We cried as he pinned the Marine emblem on Mater's Winnie the pooh teddy bear. I told John that I would make Mater a BT plaque to place on his grave then we could embed the emblem in that. Mater was too young to be leaving us. I am grateful for everyone giving us comfort with their words or at least trying. I miss my little baby and his hugs and kisses. It hurts and all I can do is cry.

MATER

OCTOBER 6, 2007

AUGUST 3, 2009

Had to Laugh

2009-07-25T17:52:00.001-05:00

This morning as John was driving me to work he spied a truck off to the side of the Wal-Mart parking lot. There a gentleman and a young girl had two BT's on their leashes. John pulled over then jumped out of the truck to go visit with the Bostons. I found this funny since he told me when we first met that he did not like little dogs.
After visiting with the man and the two fur kids we learned he was retired from Houston and lives near the Caverns. I also learned that he had recently lost two males to Rattlesnakes.
We said our goodbyes and I headed on into work. After punching the time clock I ran into John as I headed up to the bakery to start my day.
"Did you get the BT guys phone number?" he asked in excitement.
"No but he said he lived near the caverns" I responded wondering why I would get his phone number.
"I just thought maybe Mater should play with his own kind since he doesn't know any other BT's"
I couldn't help but smile at this guy and must say he tugged at my heart a little. I often see him just sitting with Mater in his lap hugging him and talking softly. He tells everyone that Bridget is his because he likes Labs but I know deep down in his heart he has a thing for Mater too.
He told me a few days ago that he just didn't like small dogs.
"Is it a macho thing?" I questioned wondering why he had brought the subject up. You know those Marines have big attitudes.
"No, It's just a preference" he replied as he held Mater in his arms while we sat side by side to watch the sunset.
Today he sent me two text. The first one said remember to drink lots of water. (something I have trouble remembering) and the second was I gave the kids bones and they are happy. I think that Mater and Bridget both have became a big part of his life and John yes you do like small dogs you just need to be a little more mach to admit it.

Remember to Remember

2009-07-19T19:52:00.004-05:00

Life takes us down different paths some rocky some narrow. I guess I spent most of my life looking out at the world from what seemed to be a dungeon. Those of you know that in the past two years I have made a few drastic changes in my life. Well I guess you can say that I have actually have a life now. After waking up disgusted with the way my life had turned out I started working my way out of the rut I felt I was in. The first thing I did was get my truck running so I could get a job. I wasn't picky I just took the first job I could get which was working in the Kroger Deli. I stayed there while I wrote my first book Out of the Texas Mist. Once that was in the works to get published I ended up moving over two hundred miles from everyone and everything I knew.
There was two people that gave me a roof over my head until I was able to get out on my own. I will always thank Don and Sharon for that. I was able to rent a little trailer from them until I met this guy who seemed to stir up all kinds of emotions in me. I have been gone from my family for more than a year and I do miss them dearly. I know I sit here silently and ponder where I am headed next and there are times I am so tired from work all I want to do is curl up in a ball and cry.
Yesterday John brought up the fact that I am not the same person he met a little more than six months ago. He said that I had become quiet and sullen. He said that he missed the Cindy that he had met and grown so fond of.
I didn't realize that I had fallen back into those deep dark caverns that I had struggled so hard to climb out of. Heck I still have some of the scars from the fight for freedom. I have problems trusting men and I refuse to believe that I am worthy of any ones love other than Mater and Bridget. I lay in bed last night listening to the night sounds and I realized that I had failed to change the channel when negative thoughts took me over. I had allowed others negativity to rub off on me. I had allowed the circus that most people know as Wal-Mart to suck me under into the dark abyss. This morning as I rode silently to work I made an oath to myself. I promised that I would REMEMBER TO REMEMBER. I had came a long way and I was not going to let a few set backs put an end to my journey. I still do not know where exactly I belong but I do know that a great family has taken me in and made me one of theirs. Jim and Lydia are angels in their own right. I have a place to lay my head and food to nourish my body. John has became a great friend and confidant. I could not think of anyone else I would like to go fishing with. Mater and Bridget are happy here on the ranch and we all feel safe. I need to remember to be grateful with each step I take. I need to be appreciative of all that I have. I need to count my blessings and thank those that I see everyday that add to my life. I have great friends and a great family both here and back in Spring. I will not let those little bumps in the road knock me off course. Back to being positive. Thank you John for bringing the back sliding to my attention. Sometimes it takes a little tough love. Now that I know I was coasting I think it is time I take control of my life once again. I will start by calling my publisher tomorrow to see what the hold up is on Dead X's in Texas. They sent out an email stating the books are on sale for a huge discount. I can start by telling everyone I know to go to http://publishamerica.com and type in my name at the search box to order a copy while it is cheap. Heck it is over a $20 savings from the list price. I will get my butt in gear and really push both books. If I am going to ever escape Wally World I have to be persistent and positive.
Tally Ho

Lazy day on the Llano

2009-07-06T16:36:00.016-05:00

Sunday July 5TH John and I got up before the crack of dawn then loaded up the vehicle with necessary fishing stuff along with the kids and the expensive Styrofoam cooler I bought at Wal-Mart. We headed out of the main gate at the ranch and hit the road long before the crack of dawn. John drove as the kids and I watched the beautiful scenery pass through the windows. We arrived at the low water crossing on the Llano just as the sun was peeking over the horizon. The first picture I took was of the beautiful sunrise.

Mater and Bridget was excited that we let them run free to explore and enjoy the riverbed. We figured it would be okay sine there was not another soul in sight. The first thing Bridget did was lay down in the water.

While John was busy fishing Mater and Bridget were giving him fishing tips. I thought John didn't need their tips so I took them exploring. They were like Lewis and Clark sniffing every square inch of the riverbed. Bridget had to lay in the water at every turn. Mater loved being able to roam on his own.

I was amazed at how brave Mater had become. I remember a time when I had taken him walking by a pretty lake and he had made a wide berth from the shore line. I remember having to actually carry his little brown and white butt just so we could get past the water and back to the truck. You would think he was born on the river. He walked out to the waters edge on every rock that led that way. He would look in the water at the little fish and at one time tried to catch a minnow or two. Bridget on the other hand only cared about wading through the shallow places. John called Mater across a wide spans of water that Bridget had swam across and I was so proud when Mater did the same.

Once people started to stir and come out and about the traffic picked up so did we. We had the kids jump in the SUV then we headed off to another low water crossing to try our luck at fishing and exploring. Mater and Bridget were sound asleep in the back. We stopped at the intersection of two country roads and I was thrilled to snap this picture of these beautiful butterflies.

Before the day was over I did get a great picture of Bridget and the love of her life John.

In the Wild

2009-06-30T07:01:00.005-05:00

Yesterday John and I had a great day. We went for a little drive then headed to HEB for supplies before stopping by the Post Office to grab my mail. Of course my mail was mostly junk mail but it was mail none the same. When we made it back to the ranch a mother deer and her fawn were congregating by the fence line. I lifted up the camera to snap a few pictures. I did get a few good ones but most of them were blurry. I was having trouble balancing the camera on the window. The mother deer saw us looking then ran off into the woods. The baby waddled on her wobbly legs over to a tree then lay down. we parked the truck then I snapped a few pictures of the fawn by the tree. John was concerned for the baby. I suggested we go in and give the momma a chance to come back. I assured him that if the fawn was still there in an hour or two we would rescue her and make sure she made it. We went inside and when we returned an hour later the fawn was gone. I just thing nature is wonderful.

And I'm Done for Now

2009-06-26T19:32:00.002-05:00

Well last night was the final night for Course One of the Wilton Cake Decorating Class. Now I must decide if I want to sign up for Course Two which will cover flowers. I really want to learn new flowers but I don't know if my schedule at Wal-MArt will interfere. Then there is the little thing with the cost of supplies. I liked my final cake but there was a few flaws but what the hey I am only human.

Good Company

2009-06-21T10:38:00.011-05:00

This was a fun weekend. Not only was it Fathers Day weekend but I was graced with a visit from my youngest Justin and his better half Sheena. We had a great visit and they enjoyed themselves here on the ranch. John and Justin bonded over Wii golf and bowling while Sheena and I chatted as I made Zucchini Bread. John and Justin then played a game of pool while I painted a picture for John's mothers Birthday. When we were through playing around John grilled some great steaks and we ate a great late lunch early dinner. A great time was had by all. I hated to see Justin and Sheena leave but I was glad that they took Kristan's stuff to her plus some stuff we had gathered for Boog. I hope he likes his new bed set and his Tonka truck. I am off today so I hope we have a quiet Fathers Day because it is off to work tomorrow. I got up then finished John's Mom's Birthday Cake and we plan on taking her out to eat. SO much for a relaxing day. For some reason I am always on the go.

Cake and Eat it Too

2009-06-18T22:03:00.006-05:00

Class 3 cake

practice roses

Ants on my melon cake

Today was a tough day for me. I had a bunch of orders plus more people came in expecting a cake today. I wish customers would be more considerate. We have a lot of orders and it is just so inconsiderate to walk in or call and expect us to make you a cake. I am all about customer service but come on people we are not miracle workers. There are days that we have so many orders we are literally rushing through the day to make sure all are done on time. Then there are days we start behind and never catch up. Today was one of those days. Then at the last minute someone called in and wanted a cake for 7am. Since Wal-Mart has cut our hours and I no longer go in at 7am I had to make the cake giving up my last break which I badly needed. I did manage to make one of my favorite cakes today. I love doing the Ants on My Melon Cake.

Then as I finished filling the case before leaving I realized that after a full day of icing cakes I had a cake class to go to. Well the class was great and my cake turned out pretty great.

I am enjoying taking the class and to make things better I now have a lot of neat tools to make cakes at home.

It Was On Like Capone

2009-06-15T09:55:00.004-05:00

This morning just before our bike ride John took Mater and Bridget next door to the big house to hang out with Lucy the Basset Hound and Coco the Pomeranian so they wouldn't be alone in the Pea Pod. When we were through with our ride John ran to the big house to grab something when he heard a huge ruckus. One of the Long Black haired house cats had started another ruckus but this time the dogs had her cornered in the Master Bath. It was like the US Military after Bin Laden. The Evil Do'er was up on the far edge of the huge garden tub tensed and in fighting stance. Mater the Boston Terrier (who must have been representing the Marines) was in the Garden Tub while the rest of the armed forces were at the tubs edge barking their heads off. Of course I am getting this all second hand. John said fur must have been flying because there was black fur everywhere. I headed over to the big house so I could start his mom's laundry and took a look for myself. Indeed there was black fur everywhere. There was only one cat in the window so possibly her twin sister had tired of the whole chase and went else where. It has been an ongoing battle between the black cats and the resident dogs. The cats will stand on the edge of the counter and hiss unmentionables at the dogs who in turn jump at them and bark back their own reply. Several times the cats have been chased through the house and out the pet door. I don't know what it is about these two particular cats. Mater and Bridget get along with the other felines that call the ranch home but for some reason the two long haired Evil Do'ers cause all the dogs to have conniption fits. Maybe it is something they say. I guess this morning the Evil Do'er didn't know that the four legged Military of the Big House were in the mood to go to war. I guess Lucy and Coco were representing the Army like their mom and dad. Mater and Bridget must have been representing the Marines. I wonder where the Navy and Air Force were during this skirmish?

I Can't Believe it has been that long

2009-06-14T19:36:00.002-05:00

Today marks the twentieth anniversary of my fathers death. I was a daddy's girl for most of my life. I would follow him around when he was at home. When we went shopping I would opt to hang around my dad not my mother. I would hang around him as he piddled around the garage and yard. I even helped work on the family vehicles. I learned a lot from my father. He used to tell me little things like "If you lose your temper you lose" or "Walk softly and carry a big stick" and tell me all sorts of tales about his life as a child and young adult. I never heard my father raise his voice or curse. He had large strong hands but a gentle touch. I remember sitting and watching his hands as he repaired the family station wagon. I remember long summer drives through Texas. My dad was a wonderful man and I am proud to say I am a lot like him. Maybe I am this way because of his guidance. It doesn't matter I am Keyloulou. The eldest daughter of James Gayhart. I love you Daddy and I miss you tremendously.

All in a Storm

2009-06-13T15:57:00.008-05:00

Thursday was my cake class and as we were decorating our cakes a storm ensued outside. When the class was over John and I discussed the tornado warning and the heavy rain. We decided to head to downtown Burnet so we could stop and get my mail. Well we didn't make it to the Post Office. Once we saw the tattered flag at the Auto Dealership and the rubble of what was once a Wrecking yard we decided to head back to the ranch to make sure all was well on the home front. The kids were happy to see us and shaken. The Green house was in tatters and limbs were down everywhere. Then as we were about to go to bed the news announced round 2. One thing bad about summers in Texas is the unpredictable bad weather.

Fishy sort of Day

2009-06-09T18:11:00.010-05:00

Sorry Mater but you can't go this time.

Today John took me fishing on Inks Lake. We usually go there and fish from the bank but since I am on vacation he decided to take me out in the boat. We got up at 4am then ate a light breakfast before making sure all was well in the animal kingdom at the big house. We had loaded the boat and truck up last night so we could get to the lake at sunrise.

Sunrise June 9, 2009 at Inks Lake

My job was to hold the Blue Skeeter's leash while John pulled the trailer out from under her. She slowly slid off the floated their patiently until John parked the truck the hurried back to climb in then hold her still so I could climb in too. Once we were in the boat he strapped my new yellow and black life jacket on me then put his Bass Pro Shop live vest on before he turned the key and started the motor. We idled out to the marker.

John The Captain oops I mean Sargent

So happy

John pushed the throttle and we were sailing on top of the water as he headed out to a few placed he wanted to fish. The first place we stopped I was anxious to fish so while John was figuring out which rod to use I cast out side ways then reeled in slowly. Suddenly there was a strike and my line was gone. "Oh crap" I exclaimed as I reeled in the first catch of the day. John was on his knees at the front of the boat and when he saw I had a fish he just shook his head then stuck it underwater. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to" I cried as he stuck his head under one more time and screamed. After a few throws he caught himself a pretty striped bass.

Having a great time

We went from one location to another and I was mesmerized by the beauty. My favorite place had to be the stairs that led up to nothing. I figured someone had a home there once but now it was over grown.

Stairs to Nowhere

All in all it was a great day. It was my first time to go fishing on a small boat. My first time to drive a boat and my first time to fall out of a boat. How did I fall out? We won't go there.

My turn to drive

I Dub thee Petunia

2009-06-08T06:47:00.006-05:00

Since I am not able to take long walks yet ( as per Dr. Krause) John and I did a little recon mission in the toy department at Wal-mart. After searching through the bikes hanging high above my head I had sticker shock. Didn't they have a bike that I liked that didn't cost half my pay. I have just a couple prerequisites. First it must be multi speed, then it had to be at least 27 inches, last but not least it had to be purple. I will not buy a bike that is any other color than purple. I was about to give up when we rounded the corner to look at the last isle of bikes. There above my head out of my reach was a purple and white 18 speed bike for less than a hundred bucks. That's the one I whispered to John. Being the Marine he is he muscled the bike down from it's lofty perch. I happily walked beside him as he pushed the bike to the front registers. He had threatened to ride it through the store but decided against it because it was my work place. Once the bike was paid for he rode it out of the store and through the parking lot to the truck. I was all smiles I had a new bike. When we arrived home I rode her around the long drive and the house and workshop. I loved her. Today is my first day of vacation so I plan on going for my first long ride around the area. I am starting my goal to be in good enough shape to trek the Appalachia Trail from Georgia to Maine. I have four years to get in shape for that huge undertaking.

Pulling his leg

2009-06-04T08:09:00.002-05:00

I must admit I love John. He is one of the most caring people I have known. He loves to go fishing which is one of my favorite past times. We had a chat the other day and I was touched at how he opened up to me so I decided to give him a little excitement. Yesterday I concocted a little scheme while he was taking a little power nap on the floor with Bridget. He had been making a card for someone and left his alphabet stamps by the computer. I reached over then grabbed a piece of paper from a legal pad and made a Ransom note. The note read

I have your fishing pole

do as I say or

you will never

see it again

I then hung it in the bathroom and waited patiently for him to find it. Just before we were to head over to the big house for dinner he found the note. HE yelled "Oh no you don't mess with a man's fishing pole" I just laughed an evil laugh then walked out the door. HE played the forlorn angler a bit but then we went on with the daily ritual of dinner, cleaning up then coming back to the pea pod for the evening. This morning he was busy getting the trash together at the big house and here so I made up a new note with my computer. it read

PROOF OF LIFE

Your fishing pole is safe for now

do as you are told and we will return her

she cried for you last night

When he came in the pea pod I asked him to please put the alcohol in the bathroom. When he opened the door he cried out "Oh no you didn't" I laughed as he ran out the door with note in hand then headed over to the big house. He came back then told me to make sure I was dressed the police were on the way. When he walked out again I printed up a fake fishing report saying that it was a record year for anglers and trophy size Bass were biting on anything you put in the water.

I think John is enjoying the little game. Now I need to think up a Ransom. Any suggestions?

to be continued......

Birthday Perfection

2009-06-03T07:29:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to thank everyone for the perfect birthday yesterday. Now that I am the big 50 I promise to blog more often so I don't forget. Memory goes first . Right?

Mater the Lawnboy

2009-06-03T06:43:00.003-05:00

Mater has learned a new bad habit. A few weeks ago John was mowing the grass in the fenced back yard on the riding mower. Mater, Bridget and I were back there picking up sticks and the scattered toys. John stopped the mower long enough for Mater to trot over and ask for a little attention. John picked him up then restarted the mower. Mater enjoyed helping mow the lawn so much he now thinks that when he hears the mower going he needs to be on board.
Usually Mater and Bridget stay around us and the Pea Pod when we are home. While I am icing cakes at Wal-Mart they stay with John but when the two of us are busy they stay in the fenced in back yard at the big house with the Coffman bunch. The Coffman bunch consist of a Basset Hound named Lucy, a Peke a weenie named Jada, a chihuahua named Dora, a Chihuahua named Barney, a BT wawwa named Benson and a who knows what named Molly plus a slew of cats. I must say my two fur kids get spoiled at home and in the big house. This is probably why Bridget gained so much weight.
Last week when John was working around the Pea Pod he had Mater and Bridget outside enjoying themselves. Since the whole ranch is fenced they are safe. Major Jim was on the riding mower cutting the front half of the ranch. John looked up and Mater was missing. He went on a recon mission to find the missing brown and white kid. Low and behold there he was in Major Jim's lap mowing the grass. He said he couldn't say much because he was with the Major. Later that day we found out that Mater has made a habit of insisting on riding on the mower. Maybe Mater was a Lawn boy in a previous life. He hates riding in the car but he loves the lawn mower.
Bridget was a problem at first but since she has gained so much weight she stays pretty close to the pea pod. Mater is now the one that we have to go searching for. If he is not hanging out with the Major he is by the fence visiting the neighbor's goats or harassing a cat or two. The other day John scolded Mater for trying to run off and mow the lawn. Mater came back like a good boy but was seen minutes later slinking like a cat in the high grass trying to sneak away. Maybe we should get Mater his own riding lawn mower then lease him out so we can make extra money with out breaking a sweat.
BT LAWN CARE
or
MATER MOWER

To Store or Not To Store

2009-05-13T06:14:00.014-05:00

Since most of my stuff sits in a storage facility John and I decided it would be cheaper to buy a storage building and place it by the Pea Pod. We started by building a platform to erect the building on. John had fun clowning around and keeping me laughing as the sweat poured off the two of us.

Once we screwed down the last piece of plywood I commented that John had built us a dance floor. He led me to the centred of the platform and said wait right here. He then ran into the pea pod and played an Elvis song. He ran back out so we could dance on our newly erected dance floor under that beautiful blue Texas sky.

Of course Mater had to get involved. After a full days work we went in to shower and rest up. On Saturday we started to erect the building by carefully following directions. Sometimes they didn't make sense on the order of things but we did not question the instructions.

After spending most of the day Saturday fighting with the tin and poor John getting one cut after another we were nearly through. John sat down to give Mater and Bridget some needed attention. We had to chase Mater away a few times because he kept bringing his golf ball over then dropping it on the wood floor. He would grin at the ker plunk then watch the ball roll.

We put the doors on the next day after much needed time away to run errands. With the building complete all that is left to do is position it where we want it on the platform and screw it down. We also decided to build a lean to of sorts on one side so we can store our fishing poles out of the weather. John commented on the fact I was not in any of the pictures. I replied I was the one behind the camera.

While we were busy doing this I found out that Publish America has went up on the prices of the books they Publish. I am now wondering if I should look for another publisher or possibly Self Publish. More about this later.

NOOO! NOT MY TRUCK

2009-05-06T13:51:00.005-05:00

I hate to say it but I will have to part with my beloved truck. I have been Ms. Responsible and I want to make sure that all my bills get paid. Being off work has been fine but I know I will continue to see Dr. Krause in order to get my poor aching feet back to where they need to be. I posted an ad on Craigs list and I am surprised at how many calls we have received. People want to come and see her but John and I have been bust the last couple of weeks so we have put them off.

Saturday will be the one year anniversary since I packed up and ran away from home. A lot has happened since then. My first book Out of the Texas Mist was released. I had a book signing and now my second book Dead X's in Texas will be out soon. I guess we all have to grow up sometime.

I met this sweet Marine that kind of took the bull by the horns and took over my whole life. I enjoy being around him and I don't complain when he tries to spoil me. I'm not used to being treated like that. Needless to say things are still changing well at least it is for the best.

And so it begins

2009-05-01T09:28:00.011-05:00

I just finished my Authors Questionnaire for Publish America. Once I send it to the publisher the process will begin. Yesterday as John and I went out for a few errands we stopped off at Double Horn Creek to wet our lines. There I saw a wildflower I had always loved so after a short conversation with it we decided it would be okay to transplant her the same way I was transplanted. She smiled as I uprooted her then packed her in wet paper towels for the journey to the ranch. When we arrived back at the pea pod I transplanted her in the corner of our little patio.

Transplanted

I have to admit that I love it here on the ranch where everything is peaceful. John is such a dear man and he knows just how to keep me happy. We sit out on the little patio at night watching the sunset and making plans for our future.

A new life forming

Mater and Bridget are happy here and it shows. They have made new friends but I am amazed at how well they get along with John's cat Emily Lou. She seems to tolerate the two of them and Mater can't seem to get enough of her. Sometimes he gets a bit carried away and she has to let him know that enough is enough.

Enjoying Family

A new friendship

father and daughter

Last week I had the pleasure of meeting John's daughter Nicole. She came down for vacation and needless to say John was ecstatic. They took off for a day leaving me to my own devises so I worked on the new book Dead X's in Texas. I had fun making a picture for the publisher to consider as the cover.

Possible Book cover

All in all my life is full of adventure and good times. I have a little Hill Country family and then I have my kids that live in a land far away. I talk to them on a daily basis but I'm glad that I made that move a year ago. It's amazing what changes can happen in one short year.

Happy on the Ranch

2009-04-28T20:04:00.001-05:00

Mater and Bridget are happy here at the ranch.

Nitrous charged

2009-04-28T19:47:00.003-05:00

Last week the hunky Dr. Krause fixed my aching left foot. He made an incision then injected Nitrous oxide into three locations thus putting the nerves to sleep so I can walk without pain. I have to admit it worked like a charm. Now we have to wait a week or two before he does the same thing to my right foot.You have to admit it is pretty cool having a nitrous injected foot. I wonder if I can go faster now that I'm nitrous charged.
I have to admit that I am enjoying my leave of absence from work. I am taking this time to figure out where I want to go next in my life. The publisher has my contract for Dead X's in Texas now so the publishing process is about to commence. I have John to help me with the publicity and book signings so hopefully I will do a little better with the second book. The important thing is I need to stay positive. I know this rest will do me good and I will be able to go hiking and fishing before I know it. John and i have plans to start riding bikes soon. That will be great because all this sitting down and resting is making me impatient and cranky.
Thank you John for being there for me and thank you for all you have done. I'm starting to like having the Sarge in charge.

Back in the Saddle

2009-04-24T17:30:00.004-05:00

Wonders cease to amaze. I am back in the saddle so to say. I finally have a computer and an internet connection. I must say I really missed blogging. A lot has happened in the past few months. I am now a kept woman since I now live with John in his little pea pod along with Mater and Bridget.My second book will be released soon and I have had my first book signing. The strangest thing is I am on a leave of absence from work because of foot problems. The Dr. just put nitros oxide in my arch to kill the pains I have been having thanks to standing on my feet for long hours.Now for the sad news. My pretty red truck is up for sale. Now that i have a little time on my hands I can blog more regurlarly. Wow it is good to be back.

Who Knew I Never Expected it to happen

2009-02-04T17:53:00.002-06:00

Well now that I am a single woman I did not expect this man to walk into my life and shake it all up. John has done just that. I love spending my time with him and must say Mater and Bridgett think he is now their daddy. The funny thing is I am so relaxed with him. He seems to know when something is bothering me and keeps me laughing. We take long drives, stop off at a moments notice just to go fishing and sometimes just sit for hours talking. I think the thing that touches me most is how he is such a loving father to his daughter. She may be miles away busy with her own life but he takes the time to send her imaginative surprises and little text and pictures.I wished my daughter Kikki had a father like that.
I have completed book number two which I ended up calling DEAD X'S IN TEXAS
Now I am just waiting for the publisher to send me the paper contract before the publishing process can take place. John has came up with a great idea for the cover so I am looking forward to seeing it. I have decided to include him in the next book. Just a few months ago I could not imagine having someone like him in my life. Who knew I never expect it to happen.

Over and Done

2009-01-11T13:11:00.001-06:00

Well as usual life is great. This past Tuesday I had a call from my son Justin to inform me that his dad had been to Court and I am now officially divorced. Let’s just say that made my year. Friday the 9th was my dad's birthday so I was a bit blue since I miss him so much but was able to finally complete the second book in my series. It was originally dubbed Case of the Dead Husband but upon the advice of John my new P.R. GUY the title had been changed to Twice Dead in Texas. He thought I should keep with the Texas theme and I agree. Bridgett is in love with him so she just gives me attention so I don't feel left out. I ended up staying out at his ranch for 8 days while he and Jim worked on my truck. They have done quite a bit work on it and I am flabbergasted that they have taken on the monumental task of keeping her going. John on the other hand has been busy working his way into my heart. I look into those pretty green eyes of his and get lost sometimes so I have to slap myself to keep my head straight.
Damn Marines.
I love spending time there at the ranch but I need to keep my head on my shoulders. John's sister Lydia is this great woman that never ceases to amaze me. She and Jim have accepted me into the family which leaves me speechless.
Now that I am completely through with the whole marriage and I am a free woman I guess it is time to move on and enjoy the life that I have ahead of me. Look out world Here I Come!

Marines and x's

2008-12-19T07:46:00.001-06:00

Life seems to love to bring you surprises. My X is now engaged and expecting a baby. I have this delightful Marine occupying my free time and the year is almost over. A couple weeks ago John took me on a little hike through a Double Horn Creek and I was amazed at how beautiful the creek was in the fall. I filled my eyes with the beautiful fall colors and loved hiking along and climbing on rocks as we were serenaded by the trickling of the water as it cascaded over the rocks in the creek. I believe John said it was a six mile hike all I know is I slept good that night. Now John has become a staple in my life from the frequent visits to say Hi at Wal-Mart to the time we spend together on my days off. I get teased a lot at work but I don’t care I like this guy and he keeps me laughing. Last night the X and his new baby’s momma drove up to bring me a few tubs of my stuff and I gave them the signed divorce papers to give the attorney. John and I met them at River City Grill and we had a nice dinner and visit before they left. Tom surprised me by asking if I was happy. I replied “Tommy I love it here and I am very happy” we said our good byes and Tom told John to take care of me I was a nice lady. John said I know that is why I’m with her. I wasn’t sure what to say so I was silent for a little while. I felt a huge weight lifted off my shoulders knowing that he has moved on and now I have a life of my own to live. I have realized that I am in a good place and I have lots of friends that are like my family. Now I have this romantic Marine that knows just how to make me smile and he seems to want to spend as much time with me as I want to spend with him. Life is good! Now all I need is a computer so I can finish editing Case of the Dead Husband and get it to the publisher.

Thanks and it was Great

2008-11-28T19:13:00.002-06:00

I have a lot to be thankful for. I have an interesting job that pays my bills, I have great friends, and I have great kids. I'm grateful for my truck, my intelligence and the two dogs that fill my life with love. My three children came to visit for the Thanksgiving Weekend and I had a chance to spend some time with my 8 month old grandson. Right when I didn't think that things could get any better I was asked out on a date.
Baby James is a cute little ball of energy that is into everything. There is no way you could get tired of him but the great thing about grand children is they have parents to hand them to when they cry or need changed. My daughter Kikki complains that Baby James is not a kisser but as we were standing in line at Wal-Mart waiting to pay for our purchases he looked at me sweetly then opened his mouth as he leaned in and kissed me right on the face. Kikki said "now what did you do to deserve that." I laughed then replied "I didn't have to do anything he knows his Baa Baa loves him" Mater and Bridgett thought Baby James was a puppy then followed him as he crawled around the house.
I guess I have to say I am thankfull for the full rich life i live and i am thankful that the X has decided to settle on the divorce which means when the papers come I get them signed then send them back. It will be over soon giving me more to be thankful for. Thank you so much I am grateful for it all.

Salute

2008-11-20T09:09:00.003-06:00

I have to admit that I enjoy my job most of the time. I have a few favorite customers that I see on a regular basis and one of those we have dubbed the cookie monster because he jokes with us about hiding the free samples when we know he is in the store. Last week I had a cake order to do for the Marines 233rd Birthday. Since I love a man in uniform and respect people that belong to the military I put a little extra love into decorating the cake. On my day off I went into the store to buy some food and after a little ribbing by a few fellow associates about not being able to stay away on my day off Nickey called me over to the counter. She informed me that the Cookie Monster came in and he wanted to know who did the cake for the Marines. I replied " What did I do wrong?"
"Cindy they loved it!" she exclaimed.
Friday when I returned to work Nickey said to go to the Customer Service Desk. "I just got here how can I be in trouble already?" I mumbled.
"It's good I promise" she replied as I removed my apron and walked out the swinging door.
The CSM handed me a file folder and said congratulations. When I opened the folder I found a certificate proclaiming me an Honorary Marine. I thought this is so cool so when I got off work I immediately bought a document frame for the certificate then hung it proudly on my wall. Monday while I was working by myself Cookie Monster walked up. I thanked him for the certificate and we had a nice chat. We stood there sharing pictures of our art on our phones and I told him about Out of the Texas Mist then handed him my card. He promised he was going to Serendipity Books to order a copy and wanted me to sign it. I was so happy that I had met someone else from the Houston Area that now calls the Hill Country home and possibly gained another reader.Before he left he exclaimed "Remember once a Marine always a Marine" I'm happy to be a Honorary Marine because I didn't have to do it the hard way and endure all those push ups.

Am I in Love?

2008-11-12T11:25:00.001-06:00

As I was sitting in the break room Sunday evening Alva from the Jewelry Department came in then hugged me real tight. I looked up then smiled at the sweet woman that had been reading Out of the Texas Mist.
“Cindy you have to tell me does Kinky know that you are in love with him? Has he read your book?”
Shocked at the question I replied “Well Alva I sent a copy before it was published and I gave him one that I had signed for him. He did say he read parts of it and he liked it so I hope he read the rest of it.”
“Does he know how you feel about him?” she demanded as she sat down across from me.
“Alva I don’t know how I feel so if he knows then maybe he should tell me” I joked trying to figure out why she was so excited that I was attracted to Kinky Friedman.
“What about that good looking Deputy Ben where did you meet him?” She inquired as she leaned across the table to whisper her question.
“Alva you do know the book is fiction and Ben is just a figment of my imagination right?”
“Yes I know it is fiction but I do know you have a thing for Kinky.” she admitted. Well that just blew my cover I guess it was obvious the Jewish Cowboy had caught my attention. After I sat there and explained that I had never been alone with Kinky and the most attention I had gotten were a few hugs she was still gun ho about the two of us hooking up. I then explained that Kinky was a playboy of sorts and had all types of women stashed here and there.
“Come on Cindy everyone knows you are taken” she offered as she stood up then left. Shocked I looked around the break room and realized several people were staring at me. Okay maybe I blew the discrete part of my little crush when I wrote the dedication to Kinky at the beginning of the book. I figured if Kinky didn’t know that I was attracted to him then maybe he needed a check up from the neck up. The funny thing about crushes is are they just an attraction or is there some real feelings there.
As more and more people read Out of the Texas Mist then approach me to ask if Kinky knows I am starting to wonder if maybe I need to get face to face with the Kinkster and see what he thinks.
I must admit I have a deep respect for the man and he is one great looking cowboy but am I really in love with him? Maybe that is why I haven’t met anyone.
I have been having so much fun writing these little fictional stories I have fallen in love fictionally and haven’t even noticed. So the big question is ....Am I in love with Kinky?

Hermits and Hismits

2008-11-05T18:13:00.003-06:00

After reading Kinky Friedman’s article in Texas Monthly I thought it was weird that he thought himself a hermit. I figured a hermit never came out of their cave or cabin. He told of a cute tale he was told when he was a child and a camper at his families summer camp Echo Hill. Then the end of the article he admits that he was the hermit of Echo Hill. Frankly I do not see him as a hermit but who am I to argue with the Kinkster.

When my sons and their women came to visit last weekend I learned that I was considered a hermit. I found this a strange thing to tell me considering I had just read the article a week before. It was Sheena that told me this in passing as we were eating out at Justin’s favorite restaurant The River City Grill. Sheena’s mom Sharon and her Grandfather Roger said that all I do is go to work then came home. I have been accused of never going out or visiting with neighbors. I found this funny coming from a man that calls me Wal-Mart. I don’t visit because by the time I get home I just want to relax and spend time with Mater and Bridgett. I do not date because well no one has asked. Feeling a bit hurt I just tried to shrug this off but it bothered me. Yesterday I talked to my daughter Kikki and I asked her if she thought I was a hermit. Her answer was “Mom you have always been kind of a loner and yes you are a hermit. If you could find a way to make money from home you would never go anywhere. Face it mom you are just the female version of Kinky. If he could sell his books with out doing book signings he would never leave his lodge.”
“No Kinky would still go to Vegas he likes to gamble” I replied in defense of my favorite cowboy.
I guess my daughter opened my eyes so now I will have to work on getting out more. Sharon and Donald have convinced me that I need to move back into their house though because they are afraid I will become to depressed then isolate myself.
I have had a few phone calls from my ex-husband’s new girlfriend and the divorce is being pushed through because the two of them want to get married. I am happy for the two of them but mostly I am happy that he is no longer holding on and I will finally be free. The kids on the other hand are pressuring me to move back to the area so I can be in their lives again. I love the Hill Country and I don’t want to leave but for some reason I feel the Marble Falls area is not where I truly need to be. I would love to be closer to The Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch so I can volunteer. The wonderful thing is all my options are open so I guess I will go where the wind blows me. I will be submitting Case of the Dead Husband to the publisher next month so I will be busy making last minute revisions up through the holidays then I can focus my mind onto Case of the Missing Texas Star Who Took My Kinky. Maybe being busy will make me a bigger hermit in those neighbors’ eyes. The funny thing is I like being who I am. I entertain my co-workers and customers at Wal-Mart while I am there then I come home and spend time with the two dogs that love me for who I am.

On the Road Again

2008-11-05T10:53:00.003-06:00

Well I can honestly say it sucks to be with out a vehicle. I had the day off Saturday Oct 25th and I loaded up Mater and Bridgett so we could head off on an adventure. Our destination was Fredericksburg. Just after we passed 71 my truck Firecracker made a weird sound then I lost compression making it hard to get over thirty five miles an hour. Heading back home I begged Firecracker to get us back safely. Well it just so happens that the electronic ignition system that I had put in Firecrackers distributor had worn out so had the distributor. Arranging a ride to work on Sunday I figured I would get the part on Thursday when I got paid. As I explained what had happened to my truck to Johnny in Produce on Sunday he offered to lend me the money to order the distributor so I could get my truck finished sooner. I was thrown that so many people were offering help in giving me rides. I must say my fellow associates at Wal-Mart are wonderful people. Finally with distributor in hand on Tuesday we attempted to stab it. Problem number three the rod that runs from the distributor into the oil pump had came undone. I was heart broken knowing I would have to drop my oil pan to try to fix the problem and I did not have the tools necessary to do so. Needless to say I was blue for a couple days then when Saturday rolled around and I realized that I had been without a vehicle for a week I spent my day in tears. I called Kinky Friedman to wish him a happy birthday while I was on break which did lift my spirits some but not even Kinky could pull me out of my depression. I did have a half of a smile for about a half hour.
Don went home then told Sharon that I had cried at work most of the day so she grabbed her phone then called my son Justin to tell on me. He called to see what my problem was. When I explained he told me he loved me and that they would come down next weekend to help me out. I was so happy that I would be seeing my boys soon which pulled me right out of my depression.
Sunday was a better day and as I walked around my yard waiting on my ride of the day to pick me up for work I picked up a little acorn, made a wish that my truck would be fixed real soon then placed it in my pocket. I spent most of the day feeling better. Josh called me around lunch asking me what I needed for my truck. I explained that we just needed to get that pin back in place. He reassured me that they would be there late Friday. I had a big smile on my face after I hung up then told all my friends there in the brake room that my boys were coming to my rescue. Later in the day as I was in the personnel office doing a necessary Computer Based Test over Hazardous materials in the work place when the door opened and Lupe from produce walked in and said some one was looking for me. I looked up and there stood Josh, Elizabeth, Justin and Sheena. I was flabbergasted. The foursome had driven four and a half hours just to come help me on the spur of the moment. Tears poured down my face as I rushed to finish my work so I could leave early. Needless to say josh had the pin in place, distributor stabbed and my truck purring within a half hour. The kids took me out to eat at River City Grill before leaving for the four and a half hour drive home. Now that is what you call love. I am so proud of my kids and the great adults they have become. I did learn one thing that weekend I found out that I am a hermit. I will tell you that tomorrow.

Grapes and Cheese please

2008-10-17T12:36:00.001-05:00

Last night my friend Sharon and I went to the Arts Gala at the Marble Falls Library. They were celebrating local artist and authors. I did learn that my book “Out of the Texas Mist” didn’t stay on the shelf. I found out that as soon as someone brought it back it was checked out again. Wow I am so happy that others are enjoying my book as much as I enjoyed writing it. Sharon and I enjoyed looking at the paintings and discussing what we felt with each one then we realized that the gala was mostly older people sitting around listening to music and eating grapes and cheeses while drinking wine. We stayed an hour then headed off to the local drug store chain to buy vitamins. I ended staying up late into the evening editing “Case of the Dead Husband” getting it ready for the publisher in December. I still haven’t purchased a computer so I will have to wait to finish typing what I wrote in that purple spiral which included the ending of the book.
On another note I gave Linda B. the store operator a copy of “Out of the Texas Mist “for her birthday. She read it in two days which she said was a record for her because she could not put it down. I laughed as she raved out loud to everyone in the break room about how much she loved my book. Sherri one of the sweepers heard her then went to the local book store to order the book. Now the Manager of the book store wants to work with me on a book signing. See how one good deed leads to great things happening.

Well needless to say I still haven’t connected with Kinky and he said for me to call him today so we could discuss “Case of the Missing Texas Star, Who took my Kinky?” It is tough when he is so busy but I’m patient and I know we will get our little chat. It will be a tough weekend for me because I will be working alone which means I will have to make all those cake orders all by myself. I did get some great news from my kids. It seems that the soon to be ex husband has moved his new girlfriend in and they plan on getting married when the divorce is final. Well good for him I am glad to see that he is moving forward with his life allowing me to move forward with mine. Look out world here I come.

Cruzin in the Escalade

2008-10-08T12:24:00.003-05:00

After spending the last week chasing and searching for Bridgett every time she escaped the yard I was about to hang myself from the shower rod. I tried putting her on a long leash just out side the back door so she could enjoy the yard with Mater but she pulled out of her collar then dug under the fence in a new spot and ran off. I had to search for her before work two days straight so I decided trying to put her harness on her. Either she is super smart or a little on the dumb side because she quickly wrapped herself around the trampoline then backed herself out of her harness. Again I spent valuable time before leaving for work to search for her. I had a long talk with her only to be ignored because ten minutes after letting her and Mater out to do their business she was gone again. This morning she figured out how to remove the obstacles that were placed by the back fence to escape once again. I love Bridgett dearly but I just do not know how to deal with a Houdini. Today we played out in the yard and had a great game of soccer before I snapped a few pictures of my kids. Sitting in the back by my porch is a long forgotten Power Wheels Escalade. I pushed it forward then ask the two of them to get in. The funny thing was they actually got in. I guess i spend too much time with fur people.

Bucket List

2008-10-04T08:49:00.002-05:00

I found this on Cousin Nancy's blog so I thought I would borrow it. This can be fun and I hope I get a lot of responses.

The Bucket List Instructions:
Hit forward and place an X by all the things you've done and remove the X from all the ones you have not. Send it to all your friends including me. This is for your entire life!

() Gone on a blind date -
(X) Skipped school - I was a rebel
() Watched someone die -
( ) Been to Canada - Never been out of Texas
(X) Been to Mexico - may have been forced over the border to shop with my mom and dad when I was a wee child. All I remember is ALTO signs and lots of flies on the food
() Been to Florida -
() Been on a plane -
(X) Been lost - my sense of adventure kicked in and I found my way home
() Been on the opposite side of the country -
( ) Gone to Washington, DC - no thank you
(X) Cried yourself to sleep - and looked like you know what in the morning!
(X ) Played cops and robbers - my brother had walkie talkies and my sister and I were always the bad guys
( x) Recently colored with crayons - one of my favorite things to do
( ) Sang Karaoke - yeah right
( ) Sang in front of a large audience (200 or more)
() Spoke in front of a large audience (200 or more)
(X) Paid for a meal with coins only - hasn't everyone
(X) Done something you told yourself you wouldn't - yes I had kids
(X) Made prank phone calls - Is your refrigetartor running?
(X) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out your nose -
() Caught a snowflake on your tongue. I'm a Texan we don't know what snow is.
(X) Danced in the rain -
(X) Written a letter to Santa Claus - I just send him a message he is one of my friends on MySpace

(X) Been kissed under the mistletoe - he he he I loved it.
(X) Watched the sunrise with someone you care about - many moons ago with my first and only love.
(X) Blown bubbles in your milk -
() Gone ice-skating -
(X) Wished upon a falling star - one of those wishes came true
( ) Swam with Dolphins or Stingrays- Does having a dolphin tatto and swimming count?
(X) Drove as fast as your car would go -again I was a rebel
(X) Laughed until you pee'd your pants..or sneezed, passed gas, puked, or fell down- Nearly did the other day when Nickie and I started laughing at work. She was on the floor and I had tears running down my face. Our supervisor Keith said quit having so much fun.

About you:
1. Any nickname? Yes, Honey,Keyloulou, honeybuns, and the dreaded Cindy Wendy and Windy Hill.
2. Mother's name? Wanda
3. Favorite drink? Water or an ice cold beer on a hot summer day
4. Tattoo? Boliver the blue dolphin, a heart in the center of the Hill Country and a weird star on my hand that is the result of being young and dumb.
5. Body piercing? Nope
6. How much do you love your job? It would be a delight with out the crap that comes with working retail.
7. Birthplace? Houston, Texas
8. Favorite vacation spot? I'll have to look that word up in the dictionary. I don't believe I have ever had one.
9. Ever been to Africa? If it's not in Texas I haven't been there. LOL
10. Ever eaten just cookies for dinner? sad to say but yes
11. Ever been on TV? Yes, I was on a talk show when my Mickey and Pookie renewed their vows. I looked and sounded like a dork
12. Ever steal any traffic signs? No, but my kids have brought them home. I made them get rid of them. It is against the law to have stolen property in your possesion.13. Ever been in a car accident? Yes, when I was in the sixth grade. My brother spilled his cherry icee on my pretty white fur coat and the paramedic's thought it was blood at first. The coat never came clean.
14. Drive a 2-door or 4-door vehicle? yes, I love my truck but I have driven cars.
15. Favorite hobby? Writing, painting, creating
16. Favorite pie? coconut meringue17. Favorite number? 5
18. Favorite movie? Men in Black, Lady and the Tramp, all of Mel Brooks movies
19. Favorite holiday? Thanksgiving
20. Favorite dessert? anything with sugar
21. Favorite food? Fruits and vegetables
22. Favorite day of the week? Wednesday
23. Favorite brand of body wash? Dove
24. Favorite toothpaste? Crest
25. Favorite smell? Magnolia blossoms
26. How do you relax? sitting on the back deck with a cold beer watching Mater and Bridgett play
27. How do you see yourself in 10 years? approaching 60 and taking the world by storm
28. Furthest place you will send this message? that depends on who reads it
29. Who will respond the fastest?

Inspiration

2008-09-24T11:42:00.002-05:00

As I was busy at work yesterday making cupcake creatures to put in the cake case I saw a very tall bald man walk by. He glanced in my direction so I smiled and said hello. When he smiled back a cold shiver went up my spine. The guy was menacing at best. Instantly I had him as a character in my current project Case of the Missing Texas Star Who Took My Kinky? Then as I stood there creating the scenario that would bring him into the story I laughed at myself. Here I was working away and writing with out even realizing it. I love the creative process of writing fiction. Once I arrived home last night then let Mater and Bridgett out to play I made my famous Chicken Stir Fry (the secret ingredient is beer) I sat down and created this menacing fellow. The thing is should I make him a friend or foe? I guess he will have to wait for the finished story for that one. I have just one problem with this one. I really need a dose of Kinky to keep me inspired.

Love the Older Men

2008-09-20T07:49:00.004-05:00

Last night as I was on my late lunch break I sat there trying to write more of my continuing saga Case of the Missing Texas Star Who Took My Kinky? but for some reason Kinky was failing me(maybe because he has been kinkynapped). One of the older gentlemen that I love to chat with walked up and started asking questions about the writing process. I like Dan he is a sweet fellow with all sorts of interesting stories. Somehow the subject ended up on genealogy and Texas History and I learned he is a direct descendant from a Gillispe that has his name on the San Jacinto Monument. I was fascinated as he told me of other ties to more important people in American History along with Texas History. I am the first to admit that I love Texas and her rich history. I remember the first time I had a huge let down was when I was in the sixth grade and my mother couldn't help me prove that I was from more than two generations of native Texans. I wanted to be a member of the D.A.R. but my father was the first Texan in his family and My mom wasn't for sure if she was the first or second. Maybe now that I am an adult I can research this to see. Needless to say Dan has convinced me that I need to have even more conversations with him.

It's Ironic

2008-09-19T08:27:00.002-05:00

After getting a call from my youngest son Justin about their welfare after Hurricane Ike I felt a little better and less worried. The whole bunch of them fared well and the house is still standing. The sad thing was my beautiful peach tree that I lovingly named General Sam Houston, was blown over. Mickey and I had planted the tree years ago and I would talk to General Sam each and every time I would get in or out of my truck because I parked under him. Everyone laughed at me when I planted the little peach tree saying it would never bear fruit. I laughed in return when just a few months latter we had a bushel of peaches to enjoy. Each year General Sam grew more and gave me peaches to enjoy and share with the neighbors. Justin said Josh pulled it out of the ground which upset him terribly. Justin and Sheena struggled to get it back in the ground hoping to save it. He said that every time he saw that tree he was reminded of me. I replied Justin I moved I’m not dead.
Kikki called to tell me they were still without power but someone had ran an extension cord to their house so they had a refrigerator for the baby. Then she told me that my Texas fence blew down. The funny thing of that is I had painted all these pieces of tin with Texas Battle Flags and attached them to the back fence. When Ike came through he blew my fence into the Mexican families’ house behind us in bedding several flags into their siding. The Ironic thing is the people do not speak English so they didn’t complain when Tom and the boys went to retrieve the fence and flags well at least I hope the retrieved the flags. All this happened right around the time most people of Mexican decent are celebrating their independence from Spain. Viva Texas!
They say the area looks like a battle area with trees down everywhere and the power company is still trying to reset all the lines that are down. I can say I’m glad I do not live in Harris County anymore. To separate myself more I now have a Hill Country phone number thus being able to shut down my Harris county line.
The other day at work my Hill Country line rang and I answered it as I sat at one of the tables in the break room. As I talked on the dark pink Hill Country phone my light pink Harris County phone rang. I asked the person on the Hill Country phone to hold on while I answered the other line. Some one sitting at the table laughed as I talked on the two phones. Once I had closed both phones and placed them back in my pockets she replied “You must be important” I smiled real big and said” I am I’m important in two area codes 281 and 830 oh I’m sorry make that four I have my 713 phone at home but I gave my 832 to my x.”
We all had a great laugh on that one as I got up to finish my day at Wal-Mart.

p.s. Last night my son Justin called telling me that it didn't look good for the peach tree.Poor old General Sam just needed my gentle tough but I'm too far away to help. I guess that is just a sign that I am gone for good. My Harris County phone line now belongs to my daughter Kikki. I'm just severing ties that bind.

Painting Again

2008-09-11T09:18:00.006-05:00

Well I have been feeling a little blue so I decided that I would paint a picture to lift my spirits. I searched through the little box of pictures that I was able to bring with me when I escaped Hell. I felt let down because I had left a huge container behind with the many photos I had taken over the years. I finally found a good picture of Mickey and used that to paint an 11x16 canvas. I guess this is my tribute to my best friend. I have been working on Case of the Missing Texas Star Who Took My Kinky? Once I get another computer I will finish typing in the finished Case of the Dead Husband so I can submit it to the Publisher in December. I'm keeping busy so I don't realize that I'm lonely. Actually I'm not lonely because I have Mater and Bridget to love me unconditionally.

The Three Stooges

2008-09-11T09:09:00.005-05:00

Mater and Bridget have a new friend. Big Boy is a huge Pit Bull that thinks he is a kitten. He loves to give and receive love and climb into the unsuspecting lap. Lately he has been spending a lot of time in the back yard with mater and Bridget when they are out getting their exercise. After playing on the trampoline with Mater and Bridget yesterday I realized that they remind me of the Three Stooges. Mater thinks he is Moe of course and tries to tell Bridget (Larry) and Big Boy (Curly) what to do. The funniest thing is he jumps on the trampoline and barks at Big Boy as he walks under the trampoline to stay out of the sun. I have never really been on a trampoline before so I was not aware that when you are an older adult jumping on a trampoline makes you dizzy. I did however have a great time with Mater and Bridget on the trampoline as we sat there and hugged and wrestled. I guess you can say my day off was wonderful.

Moving On and The Check Was in the Mail

2008-09-10T10:54:00.003-05:00

Well last week I finally was served with the divorce papers. The Constable laughed because I was so excited. He said he had never seen anyone so thrilled to be served a summons. I told him I had been waiting for this for a long time. He said they had called him twice inquiring if he had served the papers or not. Once he left I went into Pro Se mode then worked on sending my answer to the District Clerks office. Once the papers were noterized and in the mail I took a deep breath because now I know the next step will take me closer to my freedom and peace of mind. My kids keep calling to tell me of this woman that their dad is dating and like I told them I am happy for him I just hope he treats her better than he treated me. I have a bright future. To make matters even better I opened the mail box to find my first Royalty check from the publisher. Wow I have actually been paid for a book that I had written. Life is great and it just keeps getting better.

Still Here

2008-08-28T08:59:00.003-05:00

Well I am still here taking it day by day. I hate being without a computer and I think I'm beginning to suffer from withdrawal symptoms. I really want to transfer the ending of The Case of the Dead Husband on to disk but I have to wait until I get a computer to do so. The soon to be X has hired an attorney to make sure he gets what he wants. I'm not sure what he expects but I have nothing to hide. I have left with what little I could carry and left the rest to him. He will not even help out our daughter who desperately needs help with the baby and his medicine. However he tells everyone that he is helping her but he refuses to even buy diapers. I don't understand how he can be the way he is. I have began to activly search for another job because at Wal-Mart I do not have the time or energy to promote my first book Out of the Texas Mist. I have however learned how to strike up a conversation with just about anyone and shamelessly tell them about Out of the Texas Mist as I hand them my card.The Temp to Perm Agency that I have applied at has already called to let me know they have forwarded my resume to a business here in Marble that needs a receptionist. Wooo Whoo I am on my way. At least I can say I am still being positive and doing things the right way. I am a good person and I will receive what is rightfully mine because that is what the universe and karma demands. Tom can do all he wants and believe what he wants but the truth will prevail in the end.

A Work of Love

2008-08-20T11:51:00.004-05:00

I have had a rough couple of weeks. Wal-Mart is wearing me down and I must admit it is wearing on my sunny disposition. I decided that I need to do something artistic to lift my spirits so I bought a 3 pack of canvas yesterday then came home to paint. I remembered finding a sweet picture of Domino and wanted to paint a tribute to my little monkey. I grabbed the picture, my pencils and paints then sat down on the sofa. The next thing I knew I felt better and had a finished 16x20 painting of the Bisguinator. I'm glad that I am off today and tomorrow and I think maybe i should paint some more but more importantly I think I may need to start looking for another job. When the one you have starts to make you unhappy then that means you do not belong there. Life is too short for unhappiness. Oh and i had some good news. The future X filed for divorce. I was planning on doing so when I saved the filing fee but he beat me to it because he thinks he will get a better deal. The secret is I win no matter what because he will never be able to hurt me again. I don't care he can have it all as long as I have my peace of mind I am the winner.

Haven't Been Kissed

2008-08-14T13:04:00.002-05:00

Sometimes when you spend too much time alone you end up reflecting on things in life that have affected you or passed you by. Last night as Mater gave me a real sloppy kiss I thought back to the past men in my life. The sad thing was I realized that I haven’t been kissed by a man since July 5, 2002. Now I must admit I did not decide to set this goal in life I guess it just happened because I allowed my self to stay in a bad situation for far too long. Now I guess my excuse is I have been just going it day by day and not actually caring about having someone in my life other than the two fur covered individuals that I choose to spend my time with. I go to work, associate with those that I enjoy then come home to two dogs. The question that I am forced to face is do I actually want to have a significant other in my life? Well yes I actually do but how do you go about finding that person? I guess since I am so busy writing about my fictitious life I have neglected my real life. I am so out of practice will I actually know what to do? I admit I have enjoyed the dream time love up to a point but I have to admit I miss being held and being touched. Now that I have relayed how pathetic I am maybe I will find the right person because I have stated that I am ready. So lets get to it Universe I’m ready, willing and able.

It Quacks me up

2008-08-13T13:33:00.002-05:00

I was taught a valuable lesson years ago but for some reason I choose to repeat it over and over again. The lesson is do not feed a stray because it then becomes your responsibility. I learned this lesson by feeding countless kittens, cats, dogs and pups. I also learned if you feed the squirrels and birds they come to expect it. I have met a number of squirrels that would come and look in the windows and storm door wondering where the food was. There has been a few that would even knock not caring that there were several Boston Terriers on the other side that would love to take a bite out of them. There even has been a tricky booger that learned I kept the squirrel food in the large plastic bucket on the front porch. It took her all of two days of watching me fill the feeders then she helped herself by eating a hole in the lid of the bucket.
Now after caring for animals for the majority of my life I screwed up once again. I was saying how having just the two dogs to care for was so easy to do until I screwed up and fed a gaggle of ducks that live somewhere near by. I know there is a large pit with water in it across the way but I don't know who the ducks belong to. Now when I go outside or come in from work the ducks race across the road to see me knowing I have a soft heart and will feed them bread or what ever I find. Now that I feel sorry for the skinny ducks I guess I will stop off at the local feed store and purchase some duck feed. I guess that is what I get for having a soft heart but I look at it this way I have about a dozen new friends.

Saturday August 9 ,2008 Hurry Up and Wait

2008-08-13T13:16:00.002-05:00

Since I have lost my computer thanks to a processor that has burned I will have to do my blog in my little spiral notebook then post when possible. Today's blog is for two days.

Saturday August, 9, 2008

Hurry Up and Wait

A wise woman told me that I was headed to the place I belonged. She told me to be patient and take one step at a time. I respect her advice because I know it came from her heart. I know my destiny is calling but i don't know the when, how or where. I know I'm close because I feel the pull. As I was writing a passage in my current novel Case of the Dead Husband I realized that I had touched on something so eerie it sent chill bumps up my arms. I don't know what my destiny is but I did know it was calling from the 830 area code. I know I belong here in the Texas Hill Country. The hard part is being patient. I feel at times like I'm just spinning my wheels. I'm growing tired of the hard crusty part and I am wanting to get to the soft sweet center and enjoy the life I'm meant to live. I know, I know you have to take it one step at a time in order to appreciate the end result. I know these little bumps in the road are there to keep me awake and concentrating on the lessons I need to learn. I know I need to face the challenges to make me the person I need to become but it is just a slow process and I am one of the hurry up generation. I guess I just need to learn how to hurry up and wait.

Taking Donations

2008-07-31T18:45:00.001-05:00

Well it has almost been three months since I moved here and the struggle continues. The future x loves to call and harass me but I take it in stride. I started filling out the paperwork for the divorce and the burden is on my shoulders to file. I found a great web site and for the low cost of $200 I can do all the paperwork online then head on over to the court house and pay the $300 filing fee. So for a mere $500 I can file for a divorce. That is 1/3 of what a lawyer wanted when I talked to him months ago. Wow a divorce on a discounted plan is just as good as one on a layaway plan. What next you buy your divorce papers at Wal-Mart? Hey then I think I would at least get an employee discount. It doesn’t matter I am trying to scrimp and save after paying rent and bills so I can be the free woman I want to be. I made sure I put in a clause that says that I get all rights and royalties to all my creative work meaning books, art work and ideas. He can keep the money he has hidden away I don't want it. I will at least have the comfort in knowing I did this the right way. He has been chasing after some woman who I personally feel sorry for. She doesn’t realize what she is in for. To each his own. I am happy here in my little trailer with my two sweet dogs with the life that I am carving out for myself here in the Texas Hill Country. I don’t want to sound bitter because I am not I am happy to be free from the abuses he put me through. It takes a big person to forgive and forget. I have forgiven but I don’t have to forget. I am happy and ready to move on. Woo Whoo Life is good!

Day at the Lake

2008-07-30T17:50:00.006-05:00

Today being my day off from the Salt Mine I call Wal-Mart I decided that I needed some sunshine and fresh air. I put Mater and Bridgett's harnesses on and tied on matching bandannas before throwing on an old pair of jeans that kept sliding off my hips so I grabbed a belt and tightened it up so I didn't show my underwear even though this is the fashion to some. Once we headed out the door Bridgett was excited to ride in my truck. She hopped right in but Mater still has a bit of a problem with riding in my truck. I don't know what his problem is with riding in the seat with me but he gets upset. Once Bridgett was in and ready to go Mater seemed to settle down and relax. "Well what do you know" I exclaimed as I looked over to see Mater sitting there next to Bridgett all happy and smiling. Since we don't live very far from the lake the drive was short but enjoyable. I had put my Rascal Flats CD in and was singing along to "Here" as I drove. Bridgett didn't seem to mind the sing along but Mater was looking at me like I had lost my mind. When we arrived at the Park we all jumped out of my little red truck and headed to the water. I warned them to hold off on the water until I got a couple of pictures. Mater started to get impatient because he had never seen a lake before and he wanted to feel the water on his toes. Bridgett was more interested on the cypress trees that lined the bank. Once pictures were over I let the kids explore and sniff around for awhile until it was time to leave. I wasn't sure which way to go when we left so I said "Let’s just let the road take up somewhere new." I followed the road as it twisted and turned went down and up and curved. I didn't know where I was but the scenery was beautiful and I had a tank of gas. I figured I would come out on a road that sounded familiar so I kept driving and following other cars as they turned in front of me. I was surprised that I wasn't lost when we finally hit 1431. I can say we had a great time and an adventure.

I have a new daughter

2008-07-24T09:22:00.005-05:00

I have a new daughter and her name is Bridgett Bardot. She is not a Boston Terrier she is much larger but she came into my life for a reason. I have this habit of visiting the Utopia Animal Rescue's web site and just looking at the pictures of the dogs that they have rescued. Last year I remember seeing one dog with the saddest eyes ever so I clicked on the picture to read Bridgett Bardot is back. It told that she was returned because she had torn up the seat on a four wheeler. I was so outraged that some one would return a dog for a stupid reason like that. I remember telling my daughter Kikki that I wanted to be Bridgett's mom. At the time I was still living in a bad place and Mickey and Domino was still there at my side so I guess it was more of a wish than a plan. I did say that once I was moved and had my own place that if Bridgett was still available I wanted to go to the Utopia Rescue Ranch and adopt her. Well as I have mentioned in my previous post I ended up escaping the bad situation I was in and moved closer to the rescue ranch. Not close enough to volunteer like I would love to do but still much closer than I was before. I moved into my own place on July 9th and two weeks later I drove up to the Rescue Ranch with my friend Sharon for a visit with Cousin Nancy and Tony. Before I left I had adopted Bridgett Bardot and had a new daughter. Bridgett is the sweetest thing and lays by my feet no matter where I am in the house. Mater is a little terror running wild from room to room and she is so laid back and quiet I'm wondering if she will ever play like Mater. I called my kids to tell them they had a new sister and my daughter was ecstatic. She said Mom I'm so glad you adopted Bridgett. That is one more thing that you said you were going to do that actually happened. I can't wait to meet her. Nancy gave me a signed copy of her book The Road to Utopia How Kinky, Tony and I saved more animals than Noah. I was estatic to receive a signed copy and laughed once I got home and saw that she had signed it to Cindy Windy after me telling her the story of how the x had called me that to irritate me. I love Nancy and Tony and all that they do at the rescue ranch. If you have the space for a needy life then go to Utopiarescue.com and look at those beautiful animals that need forever homes. You will never regret opening your heart and your home to a rescued pet.

On Living Alone

2008-07-18T07:27:00.008-05:00

Now that I am finally moved into my own place I truly feel independent. To me this is a big accomplishment. I know that I have been an independent person for a long time and had been sole provider for my family for a few years. I was the person that made sure we had a roof over our heads and food in the kids stomachs but for some reason it did not make me feel complete because Tom was always there telling me I was useless. I cannot tell you how good it feels to look around and realize that you are doing it on your own. It is like the first time you realize that you are riding your bike solo and no one is holding on to the seat to make sure you don't fall. Life is meant to be lived to its fullest and I am going to make sure that I live mine. Mater is a little lonely for the Poms that we lived with but hopefully when we go to the Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch next week I will bring him home a brother or sister to keep him company while I am at work or busy cleaning house. I have a lot of unpacking to do and I wonder where I will put my collectibles and craft stuff but I will figure it out the same way I will figure out what to do about not having appliances. As long as I have the mini refrigerator to keep my milk and yogurt in and a microwave to cook soup in I am okay. Last night I chatted on the phone with my old neighbor and friend Alice Branton. She was happy to hear my voice and told me she had called the 1-800-wal-mart number to request they carry Out of the Texas Mist but ended up getting someones voice mail. She said she left a message and was planning on calling again today. You see it is people like her that keep me chugging through life. The people that love and support you because you are their friend. I have been there for her on a number of occasions and now she is there for me. All she ask is I make her a character in my next book. I laughed and said no problem I will need a sidekick to help me find Kinky. Oops I don't want to give away any story details but Kinky will be missing in the third book. Since Case of the Dead Husband is nearly through I have ended up coming up with the third book Case of the Missing Texas Star Who took my Kinky?
I am hoping that the Kinkster will help me on the third book unless he wants to put his two cents into Case of the Dead Husband I guess I can ask him this next week when I go to the Ranch to deliver his copy of Out of the Texas Mist I planned on taking Cousin Nancy a copy too because she has been such a great friend mentioning my book and myself in her blog and encouraging me every time we talk. She said she was excited that I was coming up to find a brother or sister for Mater. I am excited to see her and Tony again and of course I am excited to see Kinky again. I don't think he knows what an influence he has been on me. He is that big bright star in the field of blue on the state flag. Okay he would probably say "don't put me up on a pedestal." My reply would be "but you look so damn good up there on that pedestal." LOL
I just want to thank the Universe for pushing me in the right direction and bringing the right people in my life to make sure that I have the right influence I need to go as far as I can and accomplish all I need to accomplish in this lifetime. I am so grateful.
Now it is time to head off to work and enjoy another day of smearing icing on cakes and hoping they look pretty enough to satisfy the customers. Then I will come home to a sweet little dog that is happy to see me and chew on my arm because I left him alone in an empty house to have to play alone and snooze all day. I will continue to unpack and clean until I feel it is done. If there are boxes left then oh well they will stay packed.

I NEED YOUR HELP!!!

2008-07-14T18:08:00.001-05:00

I have been trying to get Wal-Mart to carry my new book Out of the Texas Mist so I can do a book signing at the store I work at. Well I have hit a wall with the Regional Manager. The Vendor that is in charge of buying the books can not do so with out Regional permission. Since the book features Kinky Friedman the Vendor wants to carry the book because it feels that it will be a good seller not just Regionally but possibly State Wide if not throughout the country. They have asked me to get the word out and ask everyone I know to call 1-800-wal-mart or 1800-925-6278 and request that Wal-Mart carry the book. I was told the squeaky wheel gets the grease so lets all ask our family, our friends, our neighbors, our co-workers,associates and any one else that will to call the hot line at Wal-Mart and request the book be carried by the store. I would appreciate all the help I can get. I don't care if you are calling from Timbuck Two there is a Wal-Mart near by so it doesn't matter where the friends or family lives. I know with the book in such a large chain more people will get the chance to read my crazy tale. I think that is what it is all about not so much selling the book but knowing that my little story is being enjoyed by people everywhere. Okay people they think I can't do it so lets show them it can be done. I want that book signing at my store because I have lots of excited associates just waiting to buy the book at work. Here are the particulars you need to know to request the book.
Title: Out of the Texas Mist
Author: Cindy Lou Ruffino
Publisher: Publish America
ISBN: 1-60563-916-8

Thank you for your support
Cindy Lou Ruffino

Murder in a Literal Sense

2008-07-03T15:27:00.001-05:00

Murder in a literal sense
Sharon and I were discussing my current project Case of the Dead Husband when she advised me that I need to kill Tom to cleanse my id so I could heal from the years of heartache and abuse. I agreed but I told her that I didn’t want my character to be a bad person because she had at least two more stories to be the heroine and I wanted her to be a fair and decent person except for the lusting after Kinky Friedman thing that seems to work its way into every story. Maybe I need to seek psychiatric help on that avenue. It does make for a funny twist to the two characters friendship though. I’m not sure how the real Kinky Friedman feels about this because he hasn’t voiced any concerns. Maybe he finds it funny too or just realizes that it is a work of fiction. I have already prepared the speech incase he does ask me why my character insist on lusting after his character. “Kinky it is a work of fiction” I advise smiling as I add a wink in for good measure. I am positive this will throw him off and he will change the subject. Regardless the abusive ass of a husband must die in the story so I can rid myself of him in a literal sense. Then hopefully the bad dreams I have been having with him in my life will stop and I can get a good nights sleep. I like the dreams of Kinky better they are fun and full of adventure and I don’t mind missing a little sleep for the Kinkster.

Okay I'm not too old to blush

2008-07-02T18:03:00.002-05:00

The crazy great woman I work with named Nicki is a blast to work with. She is teaching me all kinds of things about Cake Decorating. We spend most of our day laughing and she likes to pick on me about a certain man that has caught my eye. Today she and Sharon ganged up on me in Wal-Mart as Sharon and I were shopping and they plan on outing me on the whole attraction thing. I feel sorry for the guy now that I have these two encouraging me. The other day Nickie and I were talking about a certain sexual exploit that I had with a certain sweet fireman back when I was 20 and our supervisor Darrel walked up. The both of us burst out laughing and we turned red. He said "You two were talking dirty wern't you" I blushed immediately then he asked "Cindy why are you blushing?" I couldn't answer I just went back to icing the cake that I was working on. Today as Nickie and Sharon was planning on how to out me I started to blush and Nickie asked why I was turning red. I said because that is what I do. They think I'm ready to move on but I'm just afraid to unleash that crazy woman that has been locked away for nearly 30 years.

Gotta Go Big

2008-06-30T19:02:00.003-05:00

After talking to the Book Buyer for Wal-Mart I learned Out of the Texas Mist must be bought Regionally. This is fine by me because the region starts at San Antonio and ends in Waco and Austin. That is a lot of Wal-Marts. I guess what I need is to have friends to call or go by their local Wal-Mart and request that they stock Out of the Texas Mist so the fact that it is wanted will get back to corporate and they will allow the buyer to purchase the books for the store. My manager Darrel was given numbers to the Regional buyer so he could request they stock the book so I can do a book signing. My fellow co-workers have been clamoring to have the book carried in the store so they can buy it at a cheaper price than what is offered online. I agree if Wal-Mart decides to carry Out of the Texas Mist the price will be at a discount thus giving more people the chance to read my little tale. Your help is needed so lets call our local Wal-Marts and request Out of the Texas Mist by Cindy Lou Ruffino be carried so more people can afford to buy.

My first Book signing ?

2008-06-22T19:51:00.002-05:00

Today I talked to the Manager of the Wal-Mart that I work at and he said he would be happy to do a book signing for me for Out of the Texas Mist and gave me the name of the guy to talk to that will order the book for the store. He said once we get the books ordered and in the store we can set up the book signing. I am excited. My first book signing at Wal-Mart. WOOO WHOOO!!
When he took my card he looked at me and said I have never met an author before. I replied and see you have been talking to one all along and didn't even know it. Thank you Darrel and thank you Niki for giving me the heads up.

Out of the Texas Mist is ready

2008-06-16T20:57:00.005-05:00

I am flabbergasted. I went to my publishers web site just to see if there was a release date only to see that you can buy my book now. Okay here is what else I found out. You can go to your local book store and order it from them or you can go online and order it through Barnes and Nobel or Amazon. Just type in the book title in the search box.
I am so excited. Thank you Kinky for being so understanding because with out your blessing and encouragement for me to submit that little manuscript that flowed from a dream I wouldn't be here now. You are truly my hero. Thank you Nancy for helping me get the word out and most of all thank you to everyone that picks up my little mystery and reads it. It was such a joy to write I hope you enjoy it as much as I did writing it.

Out of the Texas Mist
by Cindy Lou Ruffino
ISBN 1-60563-916-8
http://publishamerica.com
http://barnesandnoble.com

Publish America sent out my Press Releases today

2008-06-16T18:08:00.002-05:00

The publisher sent out press releases today. Just one more step wooo whooo

For Immediate Release Contact: Shawn Street – Public Relations pr@publishamerica.com pr@publishamerica.com
http://www.publishamerica.com www.publishamerica.com
PublishAmerica Presents Out of the Texas Mist by Cindy Lou Ruffino
Frederick, MD June 16, 2008
-- PublishAmerica is proud to present Out of the Texas Mist by Cindy Lou Ruffino of Granite Shoals, Texas.

After waking up in a strange vehicle, Cindy realizes that she is in danger. Using her head, she escapes then runs for her life through the dark woods. Waking the next morning in a mist-covered field, she ends up on the doorstep of a familiar-looking man with no idea who she is or where she is at.With the help of this nice cowboy she finds out who she is, then finds out that she landed at the doorstep of her favorite author, Kinky Friedman. Together they try to find her kidnapper to clear her name once her cell phone is found in the hand of a badly mutilated woman. Once they discover the mutilated woman is just one of several, they begin to discover body after body as they get closer to finding the killer.

Cindy Lou Ruffino grew up in Houston, Texas. Out of the Texas Mist, which started from a dream, was written on a spiral notebook before work and during breaks at her neighborhood Kroger, where she worked in the deli.

Cindy lives with her Boston Terrier in the Texas Hill Country.

PublishAmerica is the home of 30,000 talented authors. PublishAmerica is a traditional publishing company whose primary goal is to encourage and promote the works of new, previously undiscovered writers. Like more mainstream publishers, PublishAmerica pays its authors advances and royalties, makes its books available in both the United States and Europe through all bookstores, and never charges any fees for its services. PublishAmerica offers a distinctly personal, supportive alternative to vanity presses and less accessible publishers.END

Memories of a great man

2008-06-15T07:13:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was not just flag day to me it was the anniversary of my fathers death. It's hard to believe that he has been gone for 19 years. I have written before how I was a daddy's girl and how he was a great influence on me and my life. I miss him dearly but I know he is watching me and he is proud of the progress in my life. I just wish he was here beside me as my book is about to be released. I just want to see the pride in his eyes as I tell him how excited I am. The publishers asked me for my Media Contacts so this says the big day is nearly here. I remember all the advice my father gave me over the years and I have to admit that I am the person I am because of his gentle voice and his patience. He instilled in me this thirst for knowledge by telling me stories from his life. Both my parents insisted that my siblings and I be respectful to everyone which I feel is an important trait to have. Not everyone is as polite and respectful as they should be. My father was a very patient man and I feel that is where I get my patience from. He was laid back as am I and I even look like him. I just wanted to make this blog a tribute to the man that most influenced my life; James Gayheart Rodd. My father was a stationary engineer and worked in the bowels of the skyscrapers that made the Houston Skyline. I remember once as we drove through the Hill Country him commenting on how much he loved the area and would love to live there. I asked "Daddy why don't we move here?" His answer was "There are no jobs for me here" Well I can say now Daddy I am living in the place we both thought was so beautiful. I am living our dream. I felt I had often let my father down but now I see that he loved me regardless. It's Fathers Day and I want to say Happy Fathers Day to the greatest father a girl could ever want. I love you daddy and I miss you. I am so excited about all the good things to come to me in the future. I wanted to say thanks for giving me the best things about you and because of that I will soar. I love you.
Keyloulou

Good Buddies Mater and Stewie

2008-06-10T19:59:00.002-05:00

When I moved here to stay with Sharon and Donald until I was able to get my own place I had one fear, how would Mater get along with Stewie. Well I guess I was worrying for nothing because one picture tells the whole story. The two of them are friends I guess you can say and Stewie is actually playing with Mater and he competes for my attention. They both stand in front of me while I am on the computer and fuss at me. I am so happy the two of them are getting along.

Out of theTexas Mist

2008-06-06T16:49:00.005-05:00

Today the publisher sent me my cover art for Out of the Texas Mist. I am excited to see what the cover of my book will look like. Now I have to start pushing my book and myself to the local book stores. I am so excited but still no release date. I was told it could be anywhere from six to eight weeks so I am looking at mid July early August. I can't wait to tell Kinky and Cousin Nancy. Just one more step. Thank you Publish America. Thank you Kinky you're my hero.

A Funny for My Birthday (A must read)

2008-06-02T19:58:00.003-05:00

Since today is my Birthday I have had well wishes from all sorts of people along with family and friends. I have enjoyed the evening as Stuart Little has become a puppy once again and started playing with Mater. Then a friend of mine from one of my Boston Terrier sites sent me this cute story. I laughed so hard I had to reprint it here to share with everyone.

This will be hard to appreciate if you haven't had one.

Dave Barry's Colonoscopy Journal

I called my friend Andy Sable, a gastroenterologist, to make anappointment for a colonoscopy. A few days later, in his office, Andy showed me a color diagram of the colon, a lengthy organ that appears to go allover the place, at one point passing briefly through Minneapolis . Then Andy explained the colonoscopy procedure to me in a thorough, reassuring and patient manner. I nodded thoughtfully, but I didn't really hear anything he said, because my brain was shrieking, quote, "HE'S GOING TO STICK A TUBE 17,000 FEET UP YOUR BEHIND!"

I left Andy's office with some written instructions, and a prescription for a product called "MoviPrep," which comes in a box large enough to hold a microwave oven. I will discuss MoviPrep in detail later; for now suffice it to say that we must never allow it to fall into the hands of America's enemies. I spent the next several days productively sitting around being nervous.Then, on the day before my colonoscopy, I began my preparation. In accordance with my instructions, I didn't eat any solid food that day;all I had was chicken broth, which is basically water, only with less flavor .
Then, in the evening, I took the MoviPrep. You mix two packets of powder together in a one-liter plastic jug, then you fill it with luke warm water. (For those unfamiliar with the metric system, a liter is about 32 gallons.)Then you have to drink the whole jug. This takes about an hour, because MoviPrep tastes - and here I am being kind - like a mixture of goat spit and urinal cleanser, with just a hint of lemon.
The instructions for MoviPrep, clearly written by somebody with a great sense of humor, state that after you drink it, "a loose watery bowel movement may result." This is kind of like saying that after you jump off your roof, you may experience contact with the ground.MoviPrep is a nuclear laxative. I don't want to be too graphic, here,but: Have you ever seen a space-shuttle launch? This is pretty much the MoviPrep experience, with you as the shuttle. There are times when you wish the commode had a seat belt. You spend several hours pretty much confined to the bathroom, spurting violently. You eliminate everything. And then, when you figure you must be totally empty, you have to drink another liter of MoviPrep, at which point, as far as I can tell, your bowels travel into the future and start eliminating food that you have not even eaten yet.After an action-packed evening, I finally got to sleep. The next morning my wife drove me to the clinic. I was very nervous. Not only was I worried about the procedure, but I had been experiencing occasional return bouts of MoviPrep spurtage. I was thinking, "What if I spurt on Andy?" How do you apologize to a friend for something like that? Flowers would not be enough.
At the clinic I had to sign many forms acknowledging that I understood and totally agreed with whatever the heck the forms said. Then they led me to a room full of other colonoscopy people, where I went inside a little curtained space and took off my clothes and put on one of those hospital garments designed by sadist perverts, the kind that, when you put it on, makes you feel even more naked than when you are actually naked.Then a nurse named Eddie put a little needle in a vein in my left hand.Ordinarily I would have fainted, but Eddie was very good, and I was already lying down.
Eddie also told me that some people put vodka in their MoviPrep. Atfirst I was ticked off that I hadn't thought of this, but then I pondered what would happen if you got yourself too tipsy to make it to the bathroom, so you were staggering around in full Fire Hose Mode. You would have no choice but to burn your house.
When everything was ready, Eddie wheeled me into the procedure room,where Andy was waiting with a nurse and an anesthesiologist. I did not see the 17,000-foot tube, but I knew Andy had it hidden around there somewhere.I was seriously nervous at this point. Andy had me roll over on my left side, and the anesthesiologist began hooking something up to the needle in my hand. There was music playing in the room, and I realized that the song was "Dancing Queen" by Abba. I remarked to Andy that, of all the songs that could be playing during this particular procedure, "Dancing Queen" has to be the least appropriate.
"You want me to turn it up?" said Andy, from somewhere behind me. "Ha ha," I said.
And then it was time, the moment I had been dreading for more than a decade. If you are squeamish, prepare yourself, because I am going to tell you, in explicit detail, exactly what it was like.
I have no idea. Really. I slept through it. One moment, Abba was shrieking"Dancing Queen! Feel the beat from the tambourine ..." . . . and the next moment,I was back in the other room, waking up in a very mellow mood. Andy was looking down at me and asking me how I felt. I felt excellent. I felt even more excellent when Andy told me that it was all over, and that my colon had passed with flying colors. I have never been prouder of an internal organ.

My Treat

2008-05-30T19:13:00.000-05:00

My treat
Since this will be my first birthday alone I decided to treat myself to a nice hot meal tonight. I came home from work tired but I made sure I grabbed a thing of ground beef, some chicken livers, green onions and a box of Tony Chachere Dirty rice mix. Once I cooked it all up the house had a wonderful aroma. My mouth was watering and now I have enough left over to last me for lunch and dinner tomorrow. Yummy! Now I have to figure out what to do Sunday night and my Birthday because I will of course be working. Hey it's Wal-Mart you work holidays and birthdays it's expected.

Six pack

2008-05-29T16:40:00.007-05:00

There are two giant babies that I will be responsible for until I guess mid June. Cayden and Calyse are two of the biggest Pits that I have ever met. They are not only big in stature they are the biggest babies you could ever meet. I know I can handle taking care of the house and the two little Poms but the two giants in the back yard will be a challenge for me. For one thing they are a lot to hug. I make sure when I go out there that they get hugs and petting so they do not miss Jeremy and Alexis while they are gone for their wedding and a well deserved vacation. Cayden is a giant puppy that loves to play in the water and attack the hose as you are filling his water bucket and pool. He just goes berserk when you hug him so it is like hugging a wiggling 150 pound kid. I don't know what he weights but I bet it is triple digits. Calyse is a beautiful big loving girl that loves to be hugged. The two of them must be a lot of fun together but I do not want to chance letting them out of their runs because they are not mine and I don't know if I can actually handle the strength they must have for their size. Last night Stewie decided he missed his mom so he climbed in bed with me. It was weird to reach over and put your hand on a fuzz ball when you are half awake. I don't think Mater minded sharing me because Stewart stayed near my head on one side while mater stayed near my middle on the other. Isabell just lays where she wants and she is not really social unless you have snacks or she wants to go outside. I spent the most of my day off working on my book so lets just say it has been a lazy day. I thought it was funny that with the dogs and myself we are a six pack. Three females and three males. I may not be a canine but hey I still count.

Isabell and Stewart

Snake in the grass

2008-05-28T12:14:00.003-05:00

Today was my first official day alone. I was lucky to have it also be my first day off. After working six days straight I came home and cleaned up the kitchen. I didn't bother to eat for the second day in a roll. Oh well I will eat today. Well I got up early for a day off, 8am then my cute little pink cell phone rang and it was my baby son Justin. He rarely calls so I was surprised. He just wanted to tell me about everything he has done to his Mustang and how he is happy that Sheena has helped him so much. It is only fair that the Mustang is in her name now. When he asked what I would be doing today I told him mowing the grass. He laughed and said have fun because this is one thing Justin does not do is labor. Once he hung up I dressed and took the dogs out to potty then grabbed the gas can and lawn mower then began mowing the lawn. One thing I have discovered about this part of the Hill Country is the ground is very rocky. Of course we are just down the road from Granite Mountain which supplied the granite to build the State Capital. I guess thus the name Granite Shoals. When the front yard was done I realized that I had to cut the yard next door because this also belongs to Donald and Sharon. That was a breeze and the temp started to rise. When I pulled the lawn mower into the adjoining back yard I was amazed that the grass was almost knee deep in some place. Regardless I worked my way through the high grass one section at a time. The thin grass in the front was no comparison to the thick tall grass in the back. After moving the trampoline I tackled the thickest patch of them all and nearly had a fit when a fat snake slithered out of the tall grass right across my feet followed by two smaller ones just a few feet ahead of me. I tell you they were well fed on bugs and such because they were fat. Once the snake parade passed I completed the job then headed into the house where I sat on my bed and let Mater and Stewie lick me to cool me down. I think
I will shower and relax the rest of my day off now that I have ruined the snakes happy hunting grounds.

As Dictated by the pet

2008-05-28T12:10:00.001-05:00

This made me think of Mickey and Domino and then I cried. They gave me their love and devotion I hope I returned it enough for them to have understood they were my life.
Cindy

As dictated by the pet.
~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~
1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you
Is likely to be painful.
2. Give me time to understand
What you want of me.
3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial
For my well-being.
4. Don't be angry with me for
Long and don't lock me up as punishment.
You have your work,
Your friends, your entertainments. But, I have only you.
5. Talk to me. Even if I don't
Understand your words,
I do understand your voice
When speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however you treat me,
I will never forget it.
7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, Remember that I have teeth
That could easily crush the bones in Your hand, and yet I choose not to bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being
Lazy or uncooperative, Ask yourself if something might
Be bothering me.
Perhaps I'm not getting the right food,
Or I have been in the sun too long,
Or my heart might be getting old or weak.
9. Please take care of me when I grow old.
You too will grow old.
10. On that difficult journey,
On that ultimate difficult journey,
Go with me please.

Never say you can't bear to watch.
Don't make me face this alone.
Everything is easier for me if you are there.
Because I love you so.Take a moment today to th! ank God for your pets.Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller,
Less joyful thing without God'scritters.Please pass this on to other pet owners. We do not have to wait for heaven
To be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness.

It is here now, and it has 4 feet....

Just Icing on the cake

2008-05-25T18:47:00.002-05:00

Well with the new life in the Hill Country I ended up with a new job. Okay it is not really a new job but it is a new position. I left Wal-Mart in March because I needed to spend some time with my daughter and grandson. Well I thought I was through with Wal-Mart but I guess I wasn't. My past position there was a cashier but the Assistant Manager decided I would be a great Cake Decorator even though I have no training or work experience. I accepted the position since the pay was the same as I was getting as a cashier. Friday was my first day in the Bakery and lets just say it was a doozie. I am learning how to pipe and decorate and I actually enjoy creating messed up looking cakes. Today I airbrushed a few and they were flying off the shelf. I guess people liked my lake and hillside scenes. Maybe it was because it looked like the lake area here or just the Memorial Day weekend and people wanted a summer look on their cake. Today a customer threw a fit about a cake the cake decorator hadn't started before she had left for lunch thus getting all the Customer Service Managers and the Assistant managers all to come to the bakery and help me disassemble cakes because the cake she wanted didn't exist. Well at least I can say they know who I am now and they speak to me as they pass because they know Cindy Lou just does as she is told. One of the Managers sat and chatted with me as I took my last break a half hour before time for me to leave. He thought it was funny that I was so busy getting all my work done that I lost time. We talked about the last few people that tried Cake Decorating and quit because of the stress. I laughed and said "Well it is actually fun and I'm enjoying it" He said "I'm glad we hope you decided to stay" That made me laugh. Then one of the Managers walked up to me in the break room and ask "Who are you and where do you work?" I said "I'm Cindy Lou and I'm in the bakery" She then walked over to the smoking lounge opened the door and announced "She is Cindy Lou and she works in the bakery." I wasn't sure how to take that but thought okay they know I'm here.
Maybe this Wal-Mart is a crazy place or just all Wal-Marts are crazy places. Needless to say here I go again a Wal-Mart associate and again I am learning a new skill and I am enjoying myself. The problem with working at Wal-Mart is when you get home all you want to do is get undressed and go to bed. That means the only clothes you see when you do laundry is you Wal-Mart uniform and your pajamas. I can say this I have seen so many cakes come and go I am not interested in eating cake.

New Surroundings

2008-05-18T14:02:00.005-05:00

Okay I am used to living in the same area for most of my life. I know the Houston area fairly well and have lived in the northern part or just out of the northern part since I married in 1980. When the husband and I separated in 2002 I moved a short distance away but ended up back in the same house. Well I did something totally out of my normal way of doing things I moved 216 miles away to stay with some friends until I get on my feet and get my own place. I don't know the area so I don't venture out much. I will be starting work soon and have learned the way to Wal-Mart and back with out a problem. The funny thing is I love this adventure. I now live in a beautiful area with great scenic views. Sharon took me out the other day for a short drive so we could both get away from the computers for awhile. She had been spending most of her days preparing the agenda and updating the address data base for her Post Polio group the Branson Goers and I had been busily going over the proof sheets the publisher had sent me on my book Out of the Texas Mist. She decided that I needed to see the area before she and her husband Donald left for their three week trip leaving me here alone with the three Poms and my BT Mater. I think she realized that I am a big home body. I grabbed my cameras and we headed out for a short drive so she could test out her newly fixed van before the big trip.

Now I have found out that I will have my own place a lot sooner than I thought. Their son Jeremy and his soon to be new wife Alexis have bought them selves their own place in Kingsland so when they get back from their wedding on June 6Th they will start moving into their new home. Sharon and Donald offered to rent me Jeremy and Alexis's old place next door. I am so excited. I have been independent in thinking and in action for nearly six years but now I will actually be independent. I will have my own place. WOOO WHOOO!

On another note I must say that Mater is loving his new home here and has fun playing or trying to play with the Poms. The funniest thing is he has actually convinced Stuart to play with him. For those that do not know Stuart he is the little Pom that Kinky Friedman rescued with the help of a friend then was unable to keep him because of jealousy issues between him and his dog Mr. Magoo. Stewie as we lovingly call him is a bossy old man whom wants things his way. He is also a ladies man and gets in your lap then demands attention and talks and rambles as you pet him. Mater was a little worried about Stewie getting his attention at first but once he saw that he was the one snuggling up next to me and night and no one else he realized that his place at my side was secure. However Stewie has now started coming into my bedroom and jumping up on the bed with me and Mater wanting a snack because he knows that Mater has goodies in the room. It is heart warming to see the old Pom chasing Mater across the living room and then coming into my room to fuss at him so he will let him chase him. Chocco and Mater play chase once in awhile but so far the 7 month old Mater has more energy than all the poms combined. I just hope Mater adjust to me being gone for work everyday and he may be stuck in his kennel because I am not sure what else to do with a hyper Boston Terrier puppy when you are at work for 9 or more hours. I guess he will be going on a lot of long walks along with the 3 Poms once Donald and Sharon are gone on their trip. How else will I be able to make up for the fact that they will be secluded to small areas while the people are at work or away. It will only be for three weeks so we will all survive.

Well now that the proofs have been sent back to the publisher I am happy to say all that is left now is to design the cover for my book. I am excited about being a published author and look forward to the days to come when I see it actually in print and I start working on getting those important contacts with book stores so I can get them on the shelves and get some book signings set up. All I have to say is LIFE IS GREAT!!!

Always Remember This

2008-05-15T10:59:00.002-05:00

Sharon handed me a piece of paper to read this morning and I thought it had such a great point I decided to put it in my blog.

Always Remember This

Somebody is very proud of you.

Somebody is thinking of you.

Somebody is caring about you.

Somebody misses you.

Somebody wants to talk to you.

Somebody wants to be with you.

Somebody hopes you are not in trouble.

Somebody hopes everything turns out all right.

Somebody wants you to be happy.

Somebody can't wait to see you.

Somebody loves you for who you are.

Somebody is glad that you are their friend.

Somebody wants you to know they are there for you.

Somebody needs your support.

Somebody will cry when they read this.

Somebody needs you to have faith in them.

Somebody Trust you.

Somebody hears a song that reminds them of you.

At Peace in the Texas Hill Country

2008-05-14T10:55:00.003-05:00

Ready to hit the road

Mater in his nest

Friday May 9th was the big day. When I jumped out of bed I showered then dressed before heading over to the U-Haul store to pick up my truck and auto transport. When I arrived back to the house I began loading up the boxes I had packed. Tom decided to help me load the truck which threw me off a bit. Needless to say I continued to load the truck as he stopped for numerous smoke breaks and complained of the heat. I wanted to be loaded by 1pm but wasn't fully loaded until 2:30. I drove my truck up onto the transport and I was ready to go. Tom and Justin made sure my pretty red truck was strapped down before I pulled out. Placing a comforter in between the two seats in the u-haul truck and throwing in a few toys I made Mater a little nest to ride in. I went inside and bathed Mater then put his harness and leash on him for the long drive. We stopped by Kikki's house on the way out so I could hug my daughter and grandson plus say goodbye to Tulu my grand fur baby. Kikki had made a bag of goodies for Mater and kissed him goodbye. I finally hit the highway at 3:11pm. As I drove down the road I cheered Tally Ho I'm off to my new life. Once I realized that pulling a vehicle behind a big truck it not such a big deal I was enjoying the whole ride. With my driving directions in hand I enjoyed the drive with Mater sleeping most of the way. He did wake up for a little while to stand with his front paws on my leg as he watched me drive then he just curled back up in his nest and went to sleep. I stopped off in Giddings to fuel up and put a whopping $60 in the tank of the U-haul and when I tried to get Mater to come out and take a break he refused. The noise of all the vehicles at the gas station upset him so I climbed back up in the truck, put my straw cowboy hat on and hit the highway again. As I got closer to Austin I remarked out loud to myself that the scenery was beautiful. Mater looked up at me and sighed. Once I was in Austin I noticed the directions did not make a lot of sense so I called Justin and Sheena because I knew they knew the way. Once Sheena told me what to look for I was on the right road and at Hwy 281 before I knew it. That was when the scenery became breath taking. I have to say I feel the Hill Country is the most beautiful place in Texas. When my cell phone rang I answered it and it was Sharon worried about my progress. She was afraid I would have problems since I was a woman alone on a 200 plus mile trip hauling a vehicle.

"Where are you at Cindy?" she asked in a worried tone.

"I'm just coming up near Willie's" I answered as I realized that I was almost there.

"Willie Nelson? she questioned.

"Yep so I'm almost there."
"Well we have some bad weather coming so be careful."

"Yeah I see the lightning off in the distance. Don't worry I'm tough I can handle anything right now I'm on a quest."

"We will keep our eyes out for you."

"See ya soon Sharon bye"

Once I hit Marble Falls and crossed the bridge over the lake it started to sprinkle a bit. Once I found my turn that would take me to Granite Shoals I was nearly there. The sprinkling became a light rain. Making my turn onto the country road at the entrance of their neighborhood the rain became steady. When I found their road and made my turn I let out a long breath because I was almost there. When their home came in sight all hell broke lose. Tree limbs started flying at me followed by a wall of water. I could not see a thing. When I was able to see I pulled up and parked in front of their house and called to let them know I was there but stuck in the truck because it had began to hail. I had arrived at my destination right along with a straight line wind and a storm that blew past fairly fast. Once the rain had left there were four strong men to help me unload. I drove my truck off the transport and parked it in the driveway and we were done for the night. I was tired and so was Mater so we slept very well on an airbed that folded us up like a taco. Saturday morning I had to be at Wal-Mart for my interview. By the end of the day I had a job, a futon bed and a new life opening up for me. I am excited to say that I am here in the beautiful Texas Hill Country and I am happy and at peace. Oh and Mater loves it too.

Mater needs a Moon Pie

2008-05-07T09:40:00.002-05:00

With the move getting closer I have been watching Mater play with his brother Noodle. They have a great time but after awhile one gets cranky and a fight ensues. I have decided that Mater being my only baby may be a good thing but what about him being alone once I get my own place and am off at work. I decided that I would get him a playmate from a rescue but I'm not sure if I should get another male or a female. Last night I had a dream that I had went to Utopia and picked up a rescue and her name was Moon Pie. I thought that was so cute of a name that when I do find him a playmate I want to name him or her Moon Pie. Here I am making plans and I haven't even finished packing. The move had to be changed from today to tomorrow because I have to wait for my last paycheck so I can get the uhaul and car toter. That is okay now I just have one more day to pack up more useless junk that I will need once I get my own place. Wow I am so excited about the whole getting my life straight thing and starting my new life in the Hill Country. Now I just need to learn to stay away from the men or at least not get attached.

Where did this stuff come from?

2008-05-05T12:13:00.002-05:00

I have set the tentative moving day for Wednesday. This morning I went to Wal-Mart early in the rain and grabbed as many boxes as I could but I had to be careful because of the fear of them getting wet. The nice associates told me the best time to come was at 3 am so that is what I will do tonight. I have been going through the kitchen stuff and dividing everything equally because Tom said take everything you want because the rest will be thrown away. I did not realize that we had so much Tupperware. Since I will not need the kitchen stuff for the first month or so I have packaged it and labeled it for the storage space I will have to lease. Well at least I will not have to start from scratch. I am a bit leery about the whole nice future x deal so I am glad that he works everyday until the weekend. I hate to say it but it's scaring me. I'm not sure how trust worthy he is.
One thing I have learned from this whole packing deal Mater gets frightened as I pull the tape onto the boxes. The sound of the tape being pulled off the roll scares him and he hides. I have to stop what I'm doing to go find him and soothe his fragile nerves. I noticed his brother Noodle jumps too. They are both afraid of cars too. This is strange since they have lived a sheltered life here with us since birth. Maybe it is the whole big change thing that is bothering them. Mater will have to get used to this because there will be a lot of change in his life for the next few months. Heck there will be a lot of change in my life for the next few months. The great thing is I am excited because I know I have a great future and I am finally taking those first steps. WooooWHooo.

One week down one to go

2008-05-02T18:03:00.002-05:00

This week went by fairly fast but not fast enough because I just want to be gone. I have to admit I had forgotten how tiring it is to work at Kroger especially in the Deli. My back hurt so much today I was taking pain pills every two hours and they really didn't stop the pain. I enjoy meeting new people and the other associates are a blast. I have chatted with them all I believe and they mostly know everything about me because Tom works there in the produce department so they were told about me before I even started. What he failed to tell them is we are separated and I will be moving soon. This doesn't matter because I am already gone. I spent a few hours the last couple days packing more boxes until I ran out of packing tape. You never realize how much junk you have until you try to figure out what you can take and fill a small room with and what needs to be left behind. The part that kills me is I will have to leave most of my sewing and craft stuff behind. Tom promised it would be here when I came back for it but this is from a man that does not know how to tell the truth.
As I was sitting down for my break today he came by to tell me he was off work and heading home. When my cell phone rang and it was one of my old friends from the other Kroger he got pissed off as I chatted with her. When he heard me tell her I was moving in a week he came unglued. I was told I was being stupid and he was the only reason I had a job. I explained no Kroger will hire any warm body to do the work that was probably why he had a job.
He left then came back up a half hour before I was to get off and he was as nice as can be. I didn't know what to think but just said hey what are you into. He was shopping for himself and he wanted me to see that. Heck he could have shopped at the store close to our house but no he went ten miles out of his way so I could see him shop. I guess he thought that mattered.
I still treat him with respect even though there are time I feel like strangling him. I am a good person and I deserve some happiness and if moving 200 plus miles makes me happy then that is what I will do.

SDF seeking adventure

2008-04-27T18:50:00.000-05:00

Now that I realize that there is nothing holding me here I have planned to move to Marble Falls in May. I wish I could just pack up and leave now but I will need to work a couple weeks to make the money to rent the truck and car hauler go. Sharon and Donald have been so nice to ask me to stay with them until I get on my feet and get my own place. I really love them for their kindness. Today Sharon called and asked me to accompany them to Branson in May for the Polio Survivor Reunion they attend every year then up to Pa. for their son’s wedding in June. I have never been out of Texas and I admit this would be a blast for me. I just hate that I would be putting off the job search for three weeks. This would mean three adults and four fur covered creatures will be making a long drive and sharing a hotel room.

Okay I must admit this does sound like a lot of fun and a chance for me to pull out the old cameras and have a ball taking pictures for my portfolio. The more I think about it the more excited I am getting. Then I begin to worry about the publishers possibly sending me the page proofs right when we leave and me not having the way to access the internet and check my email. They will only give me two weeks to review the pages and accept them or send in my changes. I just need to come up with a lap top within the next couple of weeks because I know for a fact most hotels have wireless service. Now that I have that solved I guess I just need to figure out what to take with me on my new adventure.
I just love how my life has taken a drastic change. I am hurt for the loss of my beloved Mickey and Domino but maybe that was what the Tower card stood for in my Tarot reading. The loss of my babies was the terrible event that was to shake me to my core causing me to make a drastic change in my life. I admit I am well over due and it is time that I stepped out of that comfort zone that has kept me a prisoner in my own life. It is time that I opened my eyes and looked at the world around me then see that there is a life after a long hard road. There is a life after a bad marriage and there is a life once you accept your past as a past and look forward to a brighter future. My lessons have been learned and I accept the path that I am on and look forward to each day as a new adventure.

LOOK OUT WORLD HERE I COME!

I stood Beside your Bed Last night

2008-04-25T10:43:00.002-05:00

A tribute to Mickey, Domino and all those we have lost.

"I STOOD BESIDE YOUR BED LAST NIGHT" --Author unknown

I stood beside your bed last night, I came to have a peep.
I could see that you were crying, You found it hard to sleep. I whined to you so softly as you brushed away a tear,
"It's me, I haven't left you, I'm well, I'm fine, I'm here."
I was close to you at breakfast, I watched you pour the tea,
You were thinking of the many times your hands reached down to me.
I was with you at the shops today, Your arms were getting sore.
I longed to take your parcels, I wish I could do more.
I was with you at my grave today, You tend it with such care.
I want to reassure you, that I'm not lying there.
I walked with you towards the house, as you fumbled for your key.
I gently put my paw on you, I smiled and said "It's me."
You looked so very tired, and sank into a chair. I
tried so hard to let you know, that I was standing there.
It's possible for me to be so near you everyday
To say to you with certainty, "I never went away."
You sat there very quietly, then smiled, I think you knew ...
In the stillness of that evening, I was very close to you.
The day is over... I smile and watch you yawning And say "goodnight,
God bless, I'll see you in the morning." And when the time is right for you to cross the brief divide,
I'll rush across to greet you and we'll stand, side by side.
I have so many things to show you, there is so much for you to see.
Be patient, live your journey out ... then come home to be with me

Big Project day 3 Sunday

2008-04-21T14:20:00.002-05:00

Day three started out with us heading over to Ace Hardware to buy nuts, bolts and washers so we could put the front clip back on. I also bought some window weather stripping to put on the body where the fenders bolt on because the body rubber was about gone. When we arrived back home we began putting the truck back together using our Texas engineered parts where needed. While Josh and little Justin were putting the front clip on I was busy pouring the transmission fluid in.
When Josh and Justin figured they had everything back in place and the hoses and wires connected Josh jumped in the cab to fire her up. Once the engine turned over we saw a geyser of oil coming off the back of the engine. Josh had failed to connect the oil sensor. With that mistake fixed we cleaned up the oil and started all over again. This time it was my turn to start her up. Climbing in behind the wheel I turned the key and instantly she fired up. I was so happy I was grinning from ear to ear. Josh said put her in gear and lets load test her. Reaching down I went to slip her in gear and I cracked they had not connected the shifter to the transmission.
At this point Josh had to leave so he could go look at a truck for his father so I was left to clean up the mess and put away the tools. Needless to say the project was not totally done but my part was through. I had to wait for Josh to get back to put the hood on and connect the transmission.
Once it got dark out I figured we were done for the day so I showered and went to bed. Around midnight Josh came in the room to wake me and let me know that my truck was done but it now had an exhaust leak on the drivers side.
That is okay because I had planned to get a pair of chrome stacks to put on her anyway.

Man I love my truck!

Big project day two Saturday

2008-04-20T11:25:00.005-05:00

Once we gathered the gaskets and needed supplies it was time to take the engine apart and repair the leaks. While Josh and Justin busied themselves with unbolting the oil pan and valve covers I got busy painting the engine compartment. I decided to paint her a flat black so it would look cleaner. After the third can I was getting high from the fumes so I took a break. Then it was time to clean the oil pan and valve covers. Sitting in the grass I chatted with some of our teen neighbors and cleaned away. My daughter Kikki came down with the new grandbaby and chatted with Elizabeth and me while I did my part of the project. The yard was a bee hive of activity. When we took the valve covers off we were able to see the freshly rebuilt engine that had been put in my truck just before I bought her. She is in great shape mechanically. Then it was time to start putting her back together and fill her with oil. We checked for leaks and saw none but when Josh put the engine at an extreme incline we saw a drip from the rear main seal. I felt like crying because that was one job Josh refused to tackle. He explained that the drip was because of the extreme angle and once she was level it would be okay. I trust him but plan on having the rear main seal replaced in the future. Then as we started to put the engine back in place the ancient engine hoist decided to not want to work. Josh, Justin and Trey worked their hearts out as I was behind the wheel steering the stuck as she scooted forward sliding the engine back into place. This sounds easy but it’s not because the engine, transmission and exhaust were all connected giving them problems hitting here and there as the truck inched forward. Finally the engine was back in place and ready to be bolted in. Once the tired were chocked I was able to get out of the truck and help. I must admit the engine looked great in the freshly painted compartment. Then as we were ready to reassemble the front end and put the radiator back in we found out the radiator support bushings and bolts were shot. Josh tried calling around but no one carries them. Before we knew it the sun had set and there was nothing we could do. That was when ingenuity set in. I wanted to cut up a tire and use that rubber but Josh had an old arm boot with a thick sole that was flapping so he pulled it off and used the heal and my hole cutting bit to make a bushing. It was too late to go out and try it so now as day two grew to a close our two day job grew into a three day job.

One Big Project but very little time Day One

2008-04-20T00:28:00.016-05:00

I am moving soon and getting my life in order. It took losing my two best friends and a little advice from Kinky Friedman to realize that I was procrastinating. This weekend my son Josh, his friend Justin and I started the daunting task of trying to get my truck ready for the 216 mile move. I was offered the chance to move to Marble Falls and stay with some friends but felt like I was invading their privacy. I have this thing about not wanting to bother people so I don't call or visit anyone. Sharon wanted me to move in and be there for companionship and her husband Donald agreed. I enjoy spending time with them and I love their three Poms. I was concerned that Domino would get out up there so I had planned to only let him out when he was on his lead. Before I could even tell Sharon that I had decided to move Domino was killed. Now I have to try and find the comfort I need and move on. Friday we started the project in the afternoon. In order to fix the leaking oil pan the whole engine needed to be lifted. My son decided to make it easier we would remove the engine and transmission all in one piece. Okay that sounds easy but in reality it is a major job. Once we removed the hood we started to remove the grill, front clip, and the fenders. One by one I placed the parts all around the yard. I must admit my flowerbeds looked funny with red fenders sitting in them. When the front end was open we started to assemble the engine hoist only to find out that it didn't work. All the fluid had leaked out of the cylinder. Thank goodness our neighbor Trey came across the street to see what we were doing. I handed him the money and he ran to Wal-Mart to get some hydraulic fluid. Somehow he ended up helping pull the engine. When the engine was out I got busy scrapping off the old oil and dirt from the engine compartment and scrubbing down the engine. Trey called his uncle and he and Josh were off in his jeep to borrow a pressure washer. When they got back I cleaned the engine compartment while they watched. Then Josh sprayed down the engine. Once we saw that it was late we picked up the tools and called it a night. Then I showered and called it a night so we could get an early start Saturday morning.

BT Crew Memorial

2008-04-18T13:00:00.011-05:00

This is my favorite spot of my yard. Mickey, Domino and I spent many hours in the shade of this magnolia tree. It was our place to sit and enjoy one anothers company. It was where I would sit and paint. Now it holds three graves. The first was Bonquetta two years ago just after her tenth birthday. Now Mickey and Domino lay side by side on the North side of the tree. The other two sides are reserved for Twinkie and Pookie. I hate I will be leaving them here but until the place is sold their markers will remain. Once I buy my own place I will get their markers and take them there. Right now they rest in the shadiest part of the yard. I love you boys you were my life. We miss you Bonquetta you were truly a light in all our lives. Thank you Mickey and Domino for being my boys. Thank you for the love we shared and most of all thank you for your devotion. You will remain in my heart forever.

No Hard Feelings

2008-04-17T22:15:00.001-05:00

No hard feelings
I just wanted to post that I do not have any hard feelings against Pit Bulls. Some of the sweetest dogs I have met have been giant pits full of love. Haze just became a different dog after he turned a year. It started with him killing my daughters rabbits not once but twice. I blame his owner for not taking good care of him and letting him roam the neighborhood. I believe he was just doing what dogs do. This past Halloween he came in our yard and attacked Domino. If it had not been for my daughter snatching Domino up and getting bit in the ass Haze would have killed Domino then. I told his owner then that he needed to do something with Haze that he had changed from that sweet lovable dog that we all knew to a mean dog. The way he decided to handle the problem was to chain him up. I am so against chaining a dog I feel it is inhumane and the owner should be forced to wear a chain. Pit Bulls are not bad dogs if they are raised properly. As a matter of fact any breed of dog is capable of becoming mean and killing. I was just hurt and lashed out. I should not have written that a pit bull killed Domino I should have just said a neighbors dog. If Haze's owner had not insisted on teaching Haze to attack then I believe he would still be the sweet lovable dog that would come and jump in the back of my truck and sit with me, Mickey and Domino. For some reason the young men in my neighborhood think that it is cool to get these dogs and make them mean. They are the ones I want to slap the shit out of and you know who you are. Pets are not meant to be weapons. I may be a peace loving hippie but I will not hesitate to stop and tell these young stupid men what a problem they cause for such a fine breed of dog. Just hope I am in a good mood or I may cold cock them in the memory of Domino.

Domino's Memorial Page from BRU

2008-04-16T10:34:00.004-05:00

Everywhere By: Dave Crowther

I know that you feel my time here was short,
Tears show how much you care.
When your heart grows heavy and sorrow
consumes you,
Know that I’m everywhere.
I’m the air that you breathe, a flower in bloom,
I’m the warmth on a calm summer day.
I’m the gentle breeze that caresses your hair,
I’m the light when you can’t find your way.
Please don’t cry, for I’m still here,
Your life, I’ll forever be a part.
My body is gone but my spirit’s alive,
With my love surrounding your heart

Thank you BRU

http://www.geocities.com/rainbowbridgememorial/Domino.html

Today I lost my sweet little Monkey In Memory of Domino

2008-04-15T16:11:00.005-05:00

DOMINO BISQUE

November 4, 2002 to April 15, 2008

Domino was my last link to Mickey he was trying his best to become my best friend now that Mickey had crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. This morning I woke to him snuggled up next to me. I pulled him up then kissed him on his little head and told him I loved him. My daughter called and asked me to come and watch the baby while she showered then ask me to take her to Wal-Mart. I guess once I left Domino found a way out of the yard. The big dog that lives down the street had just been given a new link of chain because his owners did not pay their water bill and did not want the utility company to take their water meter. Domino did not know that Haze's chain was now longer and as he went down the trail he always took to the woods Haze grabbed him and killed him. I know Domino was wrong for getting out of his yard but that was no way to die he deserved better. Now I sit here crying my eyes out because I have lost both my boys so close together. I don't know what I'm going to do. I had just started sleeping again now what will I do with no fur covered body to keep me warm at night. Domino was one of the most loving dogs I had ever known. He knew no stranger and loved everyone. Now there is nothing holding me here.

Mickey D Memorial Page

2008-04-06T11:38:00.005-05:00

Good Night, Loyal Friend You rest now, old friend,

We have had to let you go;

But we will forever remember

The loyalty you always showed.

You exuberantly filled our home

Like an overflowing cup

With so much playful fun and joy

From the time you were just a pup.

You were faithful companion,

Watchdog, foot warmer, brat.

What we would gladly give now

To still have any of that.

Never a day went by

When you were strong and well

That we didn't look on you with love

And feel our hearts swell...

With such deep sorrow,

We watched you grow old

We watched your body become weak

where it had once been bold.

So, you rest now, old friend,

We have had to let you go.

We will forever cherish your memory

And we will always miss you so.

I belong to several online message boards that are frequented by Boston Terrier people one of which is MSN Bostons R US. When Mickey crossed the Rainbow Bridge I had posted a message saying I had lost my best friend and everyone there sent me sweet words of comfort. The manager of the message board made Mickey a Memorial page and I wanted to share it with everyone. I know my sweet Mickey is gone but his love still lingers in my heart. You can view his memorial page at http://www.geocities.com/rainbowbridgememorial/MickeyD.html

DOG FOOD

2008-04-03T10:00:00.001-05:00

I'm sorry but Sheena sent me this joke in an email so I had to share.

*I have 4 dogs & I was buying a large bag of Purina at Wal-Mart and was in line to check out.A woman behind me asked if I had a dog. On impulse, I told her that no,I was starting The Purina Diet again, although I probably shouldn't because I'd ended up in the hospital last time, but that I'd lost 50pounds before I awakened in an intensive care ward with tubes coming out of most of my orifices and IVs in both arms.I told her that it was essentially a perfect diet and that the way that it works is to load your pants pockets with Purina nuggets and simply eat one or two every time you feel hungry & that the food is nutritionally complete so I was going to try it again.I have to mention here that practically everyone in the line was by now enthralled with my story, particularly a guy who was behind her.Horrified, she asked if I'd ended up in the hospital in that condition because I had been poisoned. I told her no; it was because I'd been sitting in the street licking my ass and a car hit me.I thought one guy was going to have a heart attack he was laughing so hard as he staggered out the door.Stupid lady...why else would I buy dog food??

Do You?

2008-04-03T09:52:00.001-05:00

Do you ever feel like you are lost and do not know where you belong?
Do you ever feel lonely in a room full of people?
Do you ever feel like you don’t really have a home?
Do you ever wonder if you actually have a soul mate?
Do you ever look at people going through their daily lives and wonder if they feel the same way you do at night when they turn out the lights?
Do you?
I do.