It seems that some of my blog readers would rather me tell you funny stories about my family rather than sentimental or serious stuff. Since serious is not really my thing, I don't have a problem with that.
Jesse said she was moving out yesterday. So we packed her room and took it to the new house. She and Lindsay spent their first night there last night. She said she will now tell people that her parents are moving in with her.
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Moving Mess
According to my mom, when I was a little girl I asked her if we were moving because the house was so dirty. That should be the question today. While Jesse and I moved boxes and furniture yesterday, we got a wake up call as to how dirty our house really was. The big mess is the barn. Things stored out there are not only covered in dirt, but also in spider webs and dirt-dobber clods. Critters live in the barn, and I am not just talking cats. Jesse went into another one of her accented antics - this time it was her Okie/hick accent, "Oh that, it is just some possum poop. Did you know possums poop where they eat. Don't step in it."
The new house has its own mess. There is the pile of construction material that will be burned. There is another pile to be hauled to the landfill. Then there are all of the tools and building supplies that seem to be everywhere. It is going to be a big job just getting it all organized.
Moving creates quite a mess and disorganization. I do see a light at the end of the tunnel, and when it is all done, it will be great.
I have to mention the ceiling fans. Our ceilings are not all that tall, therefore we tried to buy ceiling fans that would not chop someone's head off when they come to visit. Jesse took forever to choose her fan. She had her own vision of what would work in her room, and no mother's advice could sway her. I have to admit her fan is beautiful, but a bit large. Last night she turned it on for the first time. Putting it on high she stood in the doorway of her room and asked her dad to come look. As he walked into the room, she said, "Welcome aboard, Mr. President."
The new house has its own mess. There is the pile of construction material that will be burned. There is another pile to be hauled to the landfill. Then there are all of the tools and building supplies that seem to be everywhere. It is going to be a big job just getting it all organized.
Moving creates quite a mess and disorganization. I do see a light at the end of the tunnel, and when it is all done, it will be great.
I have to mention the ceiling fans. Our ceilings are not all that tall, therefore we tried to buy ceiling fans that would not chop someone's head off when they come to visit. Jesse took forever to choose her fan. She had her own vision of what would work in her room, and no mother's advice could sway her. I have to admit her fan is beautiful, but a bit large. Last night she turned it on for the first time. Putting it on high she stood in the doorway of her room and asked her dad to come look. As he walked into the room, she said, "Welcome aboard, Mr. President."
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Getting Closer
We have phone service, or at least that is what the phone man said. I have not actually tried it out yet, but that is on my todo list. We were suppose to have phone service by June 2. Since we were expecting to be in the house by then, I had called in the order sometime back in May. Of course, when you place your order for phone service, you could be talking to someone in Arizona or some place that has no idea where you live. I asked that the phone person come out and take a look at the home site and determine what would be needed for phone service (like getting a line dug from the phone box on the road all the way out to the house in the middle of a pasture). The phone man apparently came out and took a look at it and said, "No problem - we will have service June 2nd". June 2nd rolled around, and no phone man was seen again. So on June 8th, I called again. The order person said that someone had come out, but "the house was not ready yet". I'm not sure what that had to do with anything, but I asked them to try again. That is when the very interesting black lady in a phone van showed up and said, "I don't know how they gonna get a phone line out heah." I know I had that stupid look on my face with all sorts of thought going through my mind, but I refrained from saying them and was patient knowing that there is only one phone company around here. Sure enough, someone put in a phone line up to the house while we were in NM. Then I had to call again to get the phone folks back out to hook the line up to the box. Yesterday while waiting for the phone man to show up, I got a message on my cell phone that said, "We came by, but did not know if the house was ready yet." This time I nearly went bullistic. A few minutes later I saw the phone truck parked near our gate. So, I went looking for a fight. As it turns out, the man was very nice, and very soft spoken, and got the phone hooked up easlily. It was a good thing too, because I really wanted to fight.
Alex came by that afternoon to hook up the light switches and such. We went to dinner with him, his wife and daughter. It was a real treat for our anniversary. Later that evening Alex rushed off after a call from his wife who may be having there 2nd baby. I left the house early and went by to see my grand-baby who was very entertaining. When I got home about 10:00, Jesse had the house packed up. I think she is ready to move.
Alex came by that afternoon to hook up the light switches and such. We went to dinner with him, his wife and daughter. It was a real treat for our anniversary. Later that evening Alex rushed off after a call from his wife who may be having there 2nd baby. I left the house early and went by to see my grand-baby who was very entertaining. When I got home about 10:00, Jesse had the house packed up. I think she is ready to move.
Monday, June 27, 2005
Anniversary
Twenty-eight years ago today, Toby and I married in Red River, NM, at the Community House at 3:00 pm. My brother stood up for Toby as his best man, while my cousin stood with me as my bride's maid. John the Baptist officiated, and TZ Wright sang The Wedding Song. Two of my cousins and their wives helped with decorations and organization. After the "do ya, do ya" ceremony, everyone headed to the MotherLode for a reception to beat all receptions. Neil Young of Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young, happen to be in town and joined the band. It was a great wedding. Later, Toby and I drove to Santa Fe to stay at the La Fonda.
I have lots of funny stories that I could tell of the days leading up to the wedding, and stories of the wedding itself (like Toby saying "all my worlly goods instead of worldy goods). They are great memories, but the last twenty-eight years have been even better than the beginning. I won't tell you that there were not some rough spots, but through it all, love gets better.
Now, we are on the verge of moving into a new house on our own land. It will be a new phase another beginning. There are many new phases in life - like the birth and raising of our children. We have moved many times, had many jobs, and tried different things. It is important to enjoy each change, each new phase. Finding the "good" in things is also important (the Pollyanna attitude). The most important thing is to have God in your life. There is no need for marriage manuals or child rearing books if you have knowledge of God and His word. His ways are not man's ways, but they are the best ways. Thank you, freinds and family for being a part of our lives, and thank you, God.
I have lots of funny stories that I could tell of the days leading up to the wedding, and stories of the wedding itself (like Toby saying "all my worlly goods instead of worldy goods). They are great memories, but the last twenty-eight years have been even better than the beginning. I won't tell you that there were not some rough spots, but through it all, love gets better.
Now, we are on the verge of moving into a new house on our own land. It will be a new phase another beginning. There are many new phases in life - like the birth and raising of our children. We have moved many times, had many jobs, and tried different things. It is important to enjoy each change, each new phase. Finding the "good" in things is also important (the Pollyanna attitude). The most important thing is to have God in your life. There is no need for marriage manuals or child rearing books if you have knowledge of God and His word. His ways are not man's ways, but they are the best ways. Thank you, freinds and family for being a part of our lives, and thank you, God.
Friday, June 24, 2005
Dad's Day Late
Yesterday was my father-in-law's birthday. Had he lived, he would have been about 78. It is hard to ignore Hub's faults because he certainly had a few, but he has now been gone 23 years. It is much easier to forgive the faults and remember the positive. Thinking about him yesterday, I realized that one of the personality traits he past down was his teasing, pestering ways. He was always messing with someone. I think he liked to get a good rise out of people. My favorite story of Hub is how one day he had been out castrating calves. It being a messy job, he was covered in blood when he brought the calf fries to his wife to clean and cook. She was doing dishes in the kitchen, and he began waving the calf fries under her nose and teasing her. Normally, Mary is a quiet, dignified lady, but I am sure he made her good and mad. So she chased him out the back door of the house - she just happened to have the butcher knife in her hand. As they both ran out the back door, Hub with his blood covered clothes and Mary with the butcher knife, the preacher was coming up the back steps. You can imagine the scene before his eyes and how it looked. Mary was aghast, but Hub thought it was great fun and was laughing.
This ability to pester has been passed to Hub III and IV. Toby has always been able to get a rise out of me. I don't consider myself quiet or dignified. Having grown up with two brothers, I can pretty well hold my own. But it is really interesting to watch Hub IV with his wife. When he gets in a teasing mood, I can see The Hub in his eyes. Sara does well for a while, being the patient, sweet girl that she is, but eventually he pushes her buttons. So far, she has not chased him down, but she does get frustrated. It will be an interesting life together. Hub certainly made live interesting for Mary.
This ability to pester has been passed to Hub III and IV. Toby has always been able to get a rise out of me. I don't consider myself quiet or dignified. Having grown up with two brothers, I can pretty well hold my own. But it is really interesting to watch Hub IV with his wife. When he gets in a teasing mood, I can see The Hub in his eyes. Sara does well for a while, being the patient, sweet girl that she is, but eventually he pushes her buttons. So far, she has not chased him down, but she does get frustrated. It will be an interesting life together. Hub certainly made live interesting for Mary.
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Slave Girl
Yes, it is true. I did work the girl pretty hard her first day home. We did take a break and go to the doctor because it seems her ear is stopped up. She had mentioned a canoeing trip and diving off of a tower into a lake might have caused water in her ear. The doctor said it was just pressure build up from altitude change. I bought her lunch at Burger King before making her slave away the rest of the day.
We actually got most of the big room tiled yesterday. Toby bought a paddle to fit on the drill and make it easier to mix the mortar. Jesse killed the drill on the second batch of mortar. Although we worked on the electric cord of the drill, it was still dead. So I called Toby to let him know the drill was a gonner. He instisted on talking to Jesse to find out what happpened when the drill died. She told him it just died as if it had some sort of short - as it had done before. When she got off the phone, she launched into her best feminine southern voice, "I don't know how it broke. First there was this noise - like wrrr, wrrr. Then it got real hot, and flames shot out. After that it just quit." We both laughed at her antics, but we still had the problem of what to stir the mortar with. The little trowel was not big enough. The shovel was too big. I told Jess to look for the hoe - that it would be perfect. After searching for awhile, she said, "I can't find the hoe, but here is a golf club." Now you got to love a mind that works like that!
We actually got most of the big room tiled yesterday. Toby bought a paddle to fit on the drill and make it easier to mix the mortar. Jesse killed the drill on the second batch of mortar. Although we worked on the electric cord of the drill, it was still dead. So I called Toby to let him know the drill was a gonner. He instisted on talking to Jesse to find out what happpened when the drill died. She told him it just died as if it had some sort of short - as it had done before. When she got off the phone, she launched into her best feminine southern voice, "I don't know how it broke. First there was this noise - like wrrr, wrrr. Then it got real hot, and flames shot out. After that it just quit." We both laughed at her antics, but we still had the problem of what to stir the mortar with. The little trowel was not big enough. The shovel was too big. I told Jess to look for the hoe - that it would be perfect. After searching for awhile, she said, "I can't find the hoe, but here is a golf club." Now you got to love a mind that works like that!
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
She's Back
Jesse got home last night about 5:00. She had lots of tales to tell - it was a grand adventure. The pictures of her first rock climbing experience were awesome. Apparently, she loved it. Her last picture on the camera is of a rope across a full flowing river. She said they had to cross the river, but she was afraid to take her camera across it. It is almost like saying, "You don't want to know what we did next..." The other pictures in her camera were usually pretty silly. Maybe I can figure out how to post some on the blog.
Toby and I started putting down tile. Jess and I will continue today. I think she is refreshed and ready for work.
Toby and I started putting down tile. Jess and I will continue today. I think she is refreshed and ready for work.
Monday, June 20, 2005
Electricity Blip
My electricity just blipped off, and I lost everything I had written on my blog this morning. I also lost the will to retype it all. I had mentioned that Jess is coming home today, and I am so ready. I also mentioned that the house is ready to tile - that was the big news.
I had actually listed some statistics from Bobby's World blogsite. Bobby had reported that in 1976, 46% of military officers were listed as Independents and only 33% were Republicans. Then in 1996, 67% were listed as Repulicans and only 22% as Independents. I found this interesting after a conversation last week with a friend who is ex-military, a Desert Storm vet, and a Liberal. While listening to his views, I kept wondering how anyone in the military could be so liberal . How could you be so against Bush and therefore against the war in Iraq. I just don't understand how anyone can say, "I am against the war, but for the soldier." Does that make any sense? I understand that no one likes war, but there is a big difference in those who hate war and those who are against the war in Iraq. We are in a war - bottom line. Do they want the war to fail? Would that mean that the soldiers fail. Do they want terror to rein? It seems to me that we have taken the war to Iraq rather than here. Terrorist seem to be focused there - not here. I hate that young men and women die in war, but I think that the job they are doing is a good thing. I know they have a long way to go, but I think they are making progress. Maybe if we all got behind them with support rather than reporting and talking so negatively, they could do even better. When our mass media is so liberal that they report and twist things to their negative views, it hurts the military and aids the insurgents.
As you can see, I could rant and rave on this one, and I only briefly gave my opinion. I guess I just am amazed that anyone who was military and fought in a war could be against the American soldier.
I had actually listed some statistics from Bobby's World blogsite. Bobby had reported that in 1976, 46% of military officers were listed as Independents and only 33% were Republicans. Then in 1996, 67% were listed as Repulicans and only 22% as Independents. I found this interesting after a conversation last week with a friend who is ex-military, a Desert Storm vet, and a Liberal. While listening to his views, I kept wondering how anyone in the military could be so liberal . How could you be so against Bush and therefore against the war in Iraq. I just don't understand how anyone can say, "I am against the war, but for the soldier." Does that make any sense? I understand that no one likes war, but there is a big difference in those who hate war and those who are against the war in Iraq. We are in a war - bottom line. Do they want the war to fail? Would that mean that the soldiers fail. Do they want terror to rein? It seems to me that we have taken the war to Iraq rather than here. Terrorist seem to be focused there - not here. I hate that young men and women die in war, but I think that the job they are doing is a good thing. I know they have a long way to go, but I think they are making progress. Maybe if we all got behind them with support rather than reporting and talking so negatively, they could do even better. When our mass media is so liberal that they report and twist things to their negative views, it hurts the military and aids the insurgents.
As you can see, I could rant and rave on this one, and I only briefly gave my opinion. I guess I just am amazed that anyone who was military and fought in a war could be against the American soldier.
Saturday, June 18, 2005
The Big Whys of the World
In Hurl's Blog he says he does not know why some things happen. I think Hurl probably has a firm foundation, and a strong belief in God. Yesterday I mentioned the Book of Job. He also wondered "why", but he stayed strong in his faith and came through his problems. Hurl will do so also.
While driving with my husband yesterday, I had a big "why". While scratching a mosquito bite behind my knee, I told my husband that someone should do some research on why when a bite itches so badly that it feels so good to scratch it, but then only for a short time. He looked at me with a serious face and said, "I think they should send chiggars to the moon." Then we both burst out laughing. With that he added, "Maybe they could put them in the men's space suits." Now I know what he meant to say, but I pictured little chiggars wearing space suits just like men. We both laughed even harder at the thought.
While driving with my husband yesterday, I had a big "why". While scratching a mosquito bite behind my knee, I told my husband that someone should do some research on why when a bite itches so badly that it feels so good to scratch it, but then only for a short time. He looked at me with a serious face and said, "I think they should send chiggars to the moon." Then we both burst out laughing. With that he added, "Maybe they could put them in the men's space suits." Now I know what he meant to say, but I pictured little chiggars wearing space suits just like men. We both laughed even harder at the thought.
Friday, June 17, 2005
Trials and Tribulation
Today I visted with a friend whose wife died of cancer a little over a year ago. We talked about Lynda's death and life. We also talked about the death of a young man who was killed in a stupid "boys will be boys" accident a year ago. His parents are still struggleing with his death. In the last few months, I have lost a good friend and a cousin to cancer. My father is hanging in there in his fight against cancer, but he is very frail and tired. If you read Major K's blog, you will know how upset he is at the loss of one of his men who did not die in battle in Iraq, but was murdered while home on leave. There seems to be lots of death and dieing. I don't understand the why's, but I do know there is a God and He is in control. I have to believe that.
In the book of Job in the Bible, Satan comes before God and asks to test Job, God's faithful servant. God allows Job to be tested. Job loses everything including all of his family, but he never curses God. He comes through the test even more righteous than before, and all is restored to him seven fold. This story tells me two things: First, God does allow us to go through trials and tribulation - He is in control. Second, He does this so that we may grow closer to Him, become stronger in our faith, and be purified (become righteous). I cannot explain why some people are tested more than others or some people's test seem more harsh. Only God knows those answers, but tested we are. Some people do not make it through the tests. They become angry with God and turn their back on Him. Some people do make through the test.
In my conversation with my friend, mentioned earlier, he told me of a preacher he had met when our young friend died so senselessly. The preacher told that his wife had died of cancer. Then several years later his mother and daughters were killed in an auto accident when a trash truck struck their vehicle. ( I remembered this accident because my husband worked for the trash company at the time of the accident). For a while the man was angry, useless, and out of control. Then one day he woke up and changed. He became a preacher with a ministry for helping others who have lost someone dear. This preacher has been a comfort to my friend and others. Who would have thought that something so special could come from such tragedy? God knew. He had a plan. We all have trials and tribulations, but how we come out on those tests is up to us. How we react to those deaths around us is a test. I pray that we pass the test.
A young boy from our church is in the hospital tonight with internal injuries from an accident. I pray for him and his parents that no matter the outcome, they will grow closer to God.
In the book of Job in the Bible, Satan comes before God and asks to test Job, God's faithful servant. God allows Job to be tested. Job loses everything including all of his family, but he never curses God. He comes through the test even more righteous than before, and all is restored to him seven fold. This story tells me two things: First, God does allow us to go through trials and tribulation - He is in control. Second, He does this so that we may grow closer to Him, become stronger in our faith, and be purified (become righteous). I cannot explain why some people are tested more than others or some people's test seem more harsh. Only God knows those answers, but tested we are. Some people do not make it through the tests. They become angry with God and turn their back on Him. Some people do make through the test.
In my conversation with my friend, mentioned earlier, he told me of a preacher he had met when our young friend died so senselessly. The preacher told that his wife had died of cancer. Then several years later his mother and daughters were killed in an auto accident when a trash truck struck their vehicle. ( I remembered this accident because my husband worked for the trash company at the time of the accident). For a while the man was angry, useless, and out of control. Then one day he woke up and changed. He became a preacher with a ministry for helping others who have lost someone dear. This preacher has been a comfort to my friend and others. Who would have thought that something so special could come from such tragedy? God knew. He had a plan. We all have trials and tribulations, but how we come out on those tests is up to us. How we react to those deaths around us is a test. I pray that we pass the test.
A young boy from our church is in the hospital tonight with internal injuries from an accident. I pray for him and his parents that no matter the outcome, they will grow closer to God.
Thursday, June 16, 2005
Empty Nest
My daughter is off on a road trip with her best friend in Colorado. Their plan is to visit family, friends, and have a grand adventure. A few years ago they went to CO for one very fun day. They are hoping to have the same fun multiplied by 7 more days. I am sure they will have a great time. The two of them can have fun just laying across the bed talking. There is always lots of laughter where ever they are.
With Jess gone, I have to do things by myself around here. Yesterday, I cleaned house before going over to the new house. I am really ready to have just one house. After doing all I could do at the new house, which was mostly texturing the walls, I came home to mow the lawn. Mowing is not my favorite pastime. Usually, I try to let Jesse do the mowing. Mowing is right up there with plowing - boring! Going round and round is not so bad, but the dust, grass, and bugs just about does me in. This place has all sorts of obstacles to avoid - trees that try to scrape you off the mower, rose bushes that grab you as you mow by, and all sorts of out buildings. I managed to avoid these things, but did get a little scraped up going under the trees. Only two spiders dropped on me, and that was enough to make me wish Jesse were her to take over. I've told my husband that I will do most any work around here, but I don't like spiders and snakes. This morning I will try to finish up my mowing although I mowed from 3:30 until 9:00 last night. There still needs to be a lot of weed-eating done too. The new house will have a very small yard. It will keep out the horses and keep in the grandchild, but require very little maintenance.
Toby had some help last night at the new house. Things are moving along well. This empty nest thing is pretty fun for the most part. We are having lunch together again today - just like newly weds. Although I enjoy time alone with my husband, I do miss Jess, and it is not just her ability to work. She just makes the work more fun.
With Jess gone, I have to do things by myself around here. Yesterday, I cleaned house before going over to the new house. I am really ready to have just one house. After doing all I could do at the new house, which was mostly texturing the walls, I came home to mow the lawn. Mowing is not my favorite pastime. Usually, I try to let Jesse do the mowing. Mowing is right up there with plowing - boring! Going round and round is not so bad, but the dust, grass, and bugs just about does me in. This place has all sorts of obstacles to avoid - trees that try to scrape you off the mower, rose bushes that grab you as you mow by, and all sorts of out buildings. I managed to avoid these things, but did get a little scraped up going under the trees. Only two spiders dropped on me, and that was enough to make me wish Jesse were her to take over. I've told my husband that I will do most any work around here, but I don't like spiders and snakes. This morning I will try to finish up my mowing although I mowed from 3:30 until 9:00 last night. There still needs to be a lot of weed-eating done too. The new house will have a very small yard. It will keep out the horses and keep in the grandchild, but require very little maintenance.
Toby had some help last night at the new house. Things are moving along well. This empty nest thing is pretty fun for the most part. We are having lunch together again today - just like newly weds. Although I enjoy time alone with my husband, I do miss Jess, and it is not just her ability to work. She just makes the work more fun.
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Fessin up
The last few days I have received several "thank yous" from different family members for my part in the family reunion. The truth is that I did not do very much. I just took suggestions and passed them on to others. Heating up an already cooked roast was not very difficult. Everyone cooked something to add to the meal. Everyone pitched in and made things easy. The margaritas were probably a big help in keeping everyone happy. I want to thank all of my family for doing such a great job and just having fun.
Also, in my last posting, I said that my grand-daughter would take the "cutest baby award" hands down. That was just a partial grandmother speaking. My cousin's three babies were very cute. People were fighting over who would hold the baby. Caleb was especially cute with his very serious face, but it was Hannah who stold the show. When her aunt gave her a little tutu and princess crown, you would have thought Hannah was a prima ballarina. It was highly entertaining to watch Nanny's great- great- grandchildren play together in the mountains.
Yesterday was back to business as usual. After doing a lot of laundry, a trip to Wal Mart, and a visit with my buddy, Patty, I headed out to the new house. It was still there, and it still needed lots of work. I better get busy this morning.
Also, in my last posting, I said that my grand-daughter would take the "cutest baby award" hands down. That was just a partial grandmother speaking. My cousin's three babies were very cute. People were fighting over who would hold the baby. Caleb was especially cute with his very serious face, but it was Hannah who stold the show. When her aunt gave her a little tutu and princess crown, you would have thought Hannah was a prima ballarina. It was highly entertaining to watch Nanny's great- great- grandchildren play together in the mountains.
Yesterday was back to business as usual. After doing a lot of laundry, a trip to Wal Mart, and a visit with my buddy, Patty, I headed out to the new house. It was still there, and it still needed lots of work. I better get busy this morning.
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Where to Begin
A wonderful time was had by all at the Barker Family Reunion. The town of Red River proclaimed June 11th as the Barker Family Day in honor of the love, laughter, and good times the Barkers (my parents in particular) have brought to RR. They gave us a little certificate signed by the mayor. The town folk constantly asked about my dad and talked about good times with him. It was all very wonderful, but a little sad too. Dad would love all of the attention.
Most of my time was spent on the family reunion rather than running around and seeing good friends, shopping, or doing typical mountain things. Two of my cousins and I decided to give out awards at the big meal on Saturday night. We gave out everything from "Traveling with Stinky Boys" award (which went to my sister-in-law) to the O. I. T. (Otto in Training) award which went to the oldest cousin. One cousin got the "Queen" award (she made me the Prime Minister) and my baby sister got the "Princess" award. WP got the jeep driver award for carting all of the young people all over the mountains in his jeep. TL got the "Best Fisherman" award after winning the fishing tournament between cousins (of course, he and Joe cheated). My big brother got the "Full of Bear Poop" award for coming up with a story about dancing with Julia Roberts in Taos - which never happened, but he sure had us going. Cousin Jim heads off to Iraq in a month so he got a t-shirt that said "RR, NM - as good as it gets!" to remind him of his family who love him. All of the newcomers to the mountains got an Indian doll which all little girls get when they come to the RR. My daughter-in-law's doll had a papoose attached. If there had been a "Cutest grandbaby" award, Lizzie would have taken that one hands down. She was highly entertaining. My cousin, Carrie took the "Good as Gold" award for having three children under the age of four at the reunion and her husband was sick in the cabin with strep throat. Joe got the award for driving all the way from West Virginia. He was a hoot, and should come more often. His wife should have received an award for the best margaritas. Of course, my partners in this awards ceremony and I had the best time of all because we got to plan the ceremony and find the awards.
The food worked out great. I had worried about the meals for nothing - everything fell in place perfectly. Maybe the margaritas were a help there. After a few of them, no one could complain about anything. We watched a video from the last big reunion in 1996. It was bitter sweet seeing how everyone had changed or grown up, but several are no longer with us which was sad. I don't think anyone had a video camera this time other than small digital cameras. It would have been nice to capture the "Ottotones" (Ted, Joe, and Craig) on Karioki(sp?) night at the bar singing "Stand By Your Man". We had planned on taking a group picture after the big meal, but we forgot (those margaritas!). All in all, a good time was had. For those of you who missed it, we will do it again in a few years. Things certainly change over the years, but it is great how the Barker cousins can come together after not seeing each other for years and have such a great time.
Most of my time was spent on the family reunion rather than running around and seeing good friends, shopping, or doing typical mountain things. Two of my cousins and I decided to give out awards at the big meal on Saturday night. We gave out everything from "Traveling with Stinky Boys" award (which went to my sister-in-law) to the O. I. T. (Otto in Training) award which went to the oldest cousin. One cousin got the "Queen" award (she made me the Prime Minister) and my baby sister got the "Princess" award. WP got the jeep driver award for carting all of the young people all over the mountains in his jeep. TL got the "Best Fisherman" award after winning the fishing tournament between cousins (of course, he and Joe cheated). My big brother got the "Full of Bear Poop" award for coming up with a story about dancing with Julia Roberts in Taos - which never happened, but he sure had us going. Cousin Jim heads off to Iraq in a month so he got a t-shirt that said "RR, NM - as good as it gets!" to remind him of his family who love him. All of the newcomers to the mountains got an Indian doll which all little girls get when they come to the RR. My daughter-in-law's doll had a papoose attached. If there had been a "Cutest grandbaby" award, Lizzie would have taken that one hands down. She was highly entertaining. My cousin, Carrie took the "Good as Gold" award for having three children under the age of four at the reunion and her husband was sick in the cabin with strep throat. Joe got the award for driving all the way from West Virginia. He was a hoot, and should come more often. His wife should have received an award for the best margaritas. Of course, my partners in this awards ceremony and I had the best time of all because we got to plan the ceremony and find the awards.
The food worked out great. I had worried about the meals for nothing - everything fell in place perfectly. Maybe the margaritas were a help there. After a few of them, no one could complain about anything. We watched a video from the last big reunion in 1996. It was bitter sweet seeing how everyone had changed or grown up, but several are no longer with us which was sad. I don't think anyone had a video camera this time other than small digital cameras. It would have been nice to capture the "Ottotones" (Ted, Joe, and Craig) on Karioki(sp?) night at the bar singing "Stand By Your Man". We had planned on taking a group picture after the big meal, but we forgot (those margaritas!). All in all, a good time was had. For those of you who missed it, we will do it again in a few years. Things certainly change over the years, but it is great how the Barker cousins can come together after not seeing each other for years and have such a great time.
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Day Off
We attended Caroylyn's funeral yesterday. It was very nice as funerals go. Seeing my family and being together was wonderful. This weekend we all head to the mountains for a family reunion. I am so excited I can hardly stand it. Of course, I am a little anxious because the family is looking to me to put things together once we get to RR. Once we get there, I just want to have fun. It's the mountains for goodness sake; if you can't have fun something is wrong with you. Everything does not have to be perfectly lined up; it will just all work out. Surely, we can find a place to eat together...or not. My attitude is to just enjoy life. I hope my cousins feel the same way.
I will be gone for the next few days, but I will blog when I get back. Thanks for reading my blog, John. It is good to know someone out there reads it. See you soon.
I will be gone for the next few days, but I will blog when I get back. Thanks for reading my blog, John. It is good to know someone out there reads it. See you soon.
Monday, June 06, 2005
Hard Day
Yesterday was a particularly hard day, but it was not work as usual. After my mom called Saturday night to tell me my cousin, Carolyn, was being put in the hospital, we decided to head to WF on Sunday morning. Carolyn had been diagnosed with cancer a few months back. Because she has been a diabetic all her life, and had a kidney transplant things were going to be a little difficult for her. Having dealt with this cancer stuff with my father, I knew things were not going to be easy for her. A month or so ago, I went by to see her and her husband. She was already so frail, but determined to fight the cancer. She was not worried about herself, but worried about her husband having to go through the terrrible illness of a loved one again. His mother died of cancer when he was barely college age. I knew Ted would be strong because he loves his wife and because he is a Barker. I also knew that they were in for a hard fight and it would be tough on them and that they probably would not win.
So we headed to WF yesterday morning. Before we got there, my mom called again to say they were taking Carolyn off of life support. We got to the hospital about the time they took her off. We went into the ICU room and said goodbye. I can't tell you how hard that was. After sitting in the waiting room with family and friends for about an hour, Carolyn died. It was another hard moment, but I think it was also a relief for all who loved her. It was especially hard watching their sixteen year old daughter. Life will certainly be different for her now.
The rest of the day was spent going about normal life - doing the things you have to do, but reflecting constantly on your own life. It makes you stop and think how grateful you are for your husband and your family. You tell each other how much you love them. You constantly pray for Ted and Taryn knowing that the hard part is not over. You call other family members with the news. You are grateful to have those loved ones around you. I am grateful for my church family also - knowing they would step in with anything needed especially love. Thank you all.
So we headed to WF yesterday morning. Before we got there, my mom called again to say they were taking Carolyn off of life support. We got to the hospital about the time they took her off. We went into the ICU room and said goodbye. I can't tell you how hard that was. After sitting in the waiting room with family and friends for about an hour, Carolyn died. It was another hard moment, but I think it was also a relief for all who loved her. It was especially hard watching their sixteen year old daughter. Life will certainly be different for her now.
The rest of the day was spent going about normal life - doing the things you have to do, but reflecting constantly on your own life. It makes you stop and think how grateful you are for your husband and your family. You tell each other how much you love them. You constantly pray for Ted and Taryn knowing that the hard part is not over. You call other family members with the news. You are grateful to have those loved ones around you. I am grateful for my church family also - knowing they would step in with anything needed especially love. Thank you all.
Saturday, June 04, 2005
Memories
Today is Jesse's 23 birthday. I just took her morning coffee to her in bed and wished her a happy birthday. That may be all the special treatment she gets today since we are so busy. Since her brother's birthday is next week, maybe we can celebrate more later. In fact, they both use to think that their birthday started with Jesse's, lasted all week, and ended with Bo's. Bo was always confused - since he was the oldest why wasn't his birthday first.
All moms keep special memories of the birth of their children. Jesse came after a long labor, and I was very tired ( as I was with Bo also). I remember saying that Jesse couldn't be mine because she was just so beautiful. Her hair was dark, her eyes were dark, and she had perfect pink skin with a pretty shaped head. My first words to my husband after Bo was born was, "He is so ugly, and he looks just like you." As I said, I was very tired. I remember everyone being so amazed that I had had a girl. Only Hub (Toby's dad) and I thought she would be a girl. He told me I would have his dark hair, dark eyed granddaughter. Although I thought jesse would be a girl, I argued with Hub about the dark hair and eyes, but he was right. It is too bad that he did not live to see her. They would have been special buddies.
The strongest memory of Jesse's birth day was when Toby brought Bo up to see me in the hospital. I watched from the window as they walked across the parking lot up to the hospital. In typical man fashion, Toby did not hold Bo's hand. Bo, who would be three in a few days, was walking beside Toby taking big strides to keep up - such a little man. I realized then that Bo was not a baby anymore. The thought took me by surprise. He was pretty proud of his little sister - right up until his cousins showed up. Then he had no time for girl stuff. Later that day, he fell and skinned his knee while playing with the cousins. I have this great picture of him sitting in Toby's lap with his little leg extended due to the hurt knee, but holding Jesse who made everything good again. She still makes things good and brings us great joy and Bo is still my little man.
All moms keep special memories of the birth of their children. Jesse came after a long labor, and I was very tired ( as I was with Bo also). I remember saying that Jesse couldn't be mine because she was just so beautiful. Her hair was dark, her eyes were dark, and she had perfect pink skin with a pretty shaped head. My first words to my husband after Bo was born was, "He is so ugly, and he looks just like you." As I said, I was very tired. I remember everyone being so amazed that I had had a girl. Only Hub (Toby's dad) and I thought she would be a girl. He told me I would have his dark hair, dark eyed granddaughter. Although I thought jesse would be a girl, I argued with Hub about the dark hair and eyes, but he was right. It is too bad that he did not live to see her. They would have been special buddies.
The strongest memory of Jesse's birth day was when Toby brought Bo up to see me in the hospital. I watched from the window as they walked across the parking lot up to the hospital. In typical man fashion, Toby did not hold Bo's hand. Bo, who would be three in a few days, was walking beside Toby taking big strides to keep up - such a little man. I realized then that Bo was not a baby anymore. The thought took me by surprise. He was pretty proud of his little sister - right up until his cousins showed up. Then he had no time for girl stuff. Later that day, he fell and skinned his knee while playing with the cousins. I have this great picture of him sitting in Toby's lap with his little leg extended due to the hurt knee, but holding Jesse who made everything good again. She still makes things good and brings us great joy and Bo is still my little man.
Friday, June 03, 2005
The Push
Yesterday I told Jesse that I was feeling like I was about to the end of my rope. Not only is my body tired, my brain is tired. I have been making lots of little mistakes - like forgetting to take Toby's work clothes to the house, or driving off in the wrong vehicle for what is needed that day. It is nothing major, but just little things. After lunch yesterday, we stopped at a friend's house to just say hi. After sitting for a few minutes, I asked if I could just take a short nap before returning to work. That nap was so needed. Yet, I feel like we are so close to being finished with the house. We need to really make the big push here to get it done. I have always been a bit of a donkey just plodding on - no matter what. It is time to put your head down and just push right on through. I will reach down inside and pull out the strength to get it done. Just thinking about the final push makes things much more exciting. A little excitement is what I need right now. Encouragement would be good too.
Tomorrow is Jesse's birthday. She could use some encouragement too.
Tomorrow is Jesse's birthday. She could use some encouragement too.
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Family Fun
We worked hard over the long weekend and got lots done. My son took off work and helped us, and my brother, Pete, came to help on Saturday. This made the work easier and much more fun. Marty came to run the back-hoe and help put in the septic tank. He is always a hoot to work with, and he is a hard worker to boot (don't tell anybody about the hard worker part; it would ruin is reputation). Joseph, a young man from our fellowship, came one evening to help, and Aaron, another young man from church, came one day. We certainly are blessed with good friends.
We have been having a small problem with tools. No one ever seems to put them back where they go. Then there is the constant shuffleing of tools from the shed to the house. Something is always missing. Our electrician accidentally ran off with one of our two utility knives. So I bought another one. Then the electrician came again and brought back the knife. I was happy to now have three knives so that we did not have to fight over them. But the insullation man accidentally ran off with one thinking it was his - so we were back to two knives on Friday when we started sheetrocking. By Friday afternoon, we were down to one knife and accusing each other of losing the other knife. We searched everywhere for the mis-placed knife. I figured it probably fell out of Toby's pocket at some point. That evening when Jesse was getting undressed, she hollered, "I was framed! I didn't do it" She came in carrying the lost knife which had been found in the back pocket of her overalls. It turns out that Toby walked by her at some point during the day, stuck the knife in her back pocket without her knowing it, and then forgot about it. We all got a good laugh, and we were back to two knives.
Speaking of sharp objects, on Saturday Bo asked Jesse for the keyhole saw (long narrow blade used for sheetrocking). As Jesse handed it to him she said, "Do you want it in your gullet?" Bo took the saw, and as he turned he said, "You need to read more modern novels." There is always such comments flying around when you work with a bunch of smarties. It certainly makes things fun.
We have been having a small problem with tools. No one ever seems to put them back where they go. Then there is the constant shuffleing of tools from the shed to the house. Something is always missing. Our electrician accidentally ran off with one of our two utility knives. So I bought another one. Then the electrician came again and brought back the knife. I was happy to now have three knives so that we did not have to fight over them. But the insullation man accidentally ran off with one thinking it was his - so we were back to two knives on Friday when we started sheetrocking. By Friday afternoon, we were down to one knife and accusing each other of losing the other knife. We searched everywhere for the mis-placed knife. I figured it probably fell out of Toby's pocket at some point. That evening when Jesse was getting undressed, she hollered, "I was framed! I didn't do it" She came in carrying the lost knife which had been found in the back pocket of her overalls. It turns out that Toby walked by her at some point during the day, stuck the knife in her back pocket without her knowing it, and then forgot about it. We all got a good laugh, and we were back to two knives.
Speaking of sharp objects, on Saturday Bo asked Jesse for the keyhole saw (long narrow blade used for sheetrocking). As Jesse handed it to him she said, "Do you want it in your gullet?" Bo took the saw, and as he turned he said, "You need to read more modern novels." There is always such comments flying around when you work with a bunch of smarties. It certainly makes things fun.
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