Plant Freak

Shut The Door!

2012-01-18T07:13:00.001-06:00

I can't believe I made it to 44! It really was an irrational fear that I would croak or get sriously ill at 43. The McBride side of the family (AKA my Mom and her Dad) did not do well at that age. Mom had her first heart attack, and apparently her Dad died of a heart attack at 43. Something like that will totally screw with a head case like me.

Had a good day though, even though I spent the day in Cedar Creek Tx. at the Goodwill in that area. That store is getting a new space and I think I turned ten shades of green with jealousy. The store that was in that space previously was a Western Store and they left all their displays. Interesting, no?

The powers that be at our Goodwill district have decided to go with all new displays that match the other stores that are getting renovated (Goodwill East Texas stores are getting facelifts). I totally get that sentiment. My store is not getting renovated yet...which means I drove my happy little ass down to Cedar Creek to plunder and scavenge. I put in my dibs and I'm waiting to hear an answer.

Mr. Plantfreak and I have been planting seeds to get ready for Spring. I'm so excited about that this year! I think we have a hance to make some real money this year! We are doing a ton of annual vines in addition to our regular crops. Last year we did about 100 pots of vines and sold them all in 2 days. I was totally flabbergasted at that!

The crew at work gave me a surprise lunch from my favorite little Italian lunch. They are really a good group. And I really love lasagna and the cheese tortellini soup they ordered. Sneaky employees...they learned that the way to my heart is through food!

Back To The 80's

2011-11-04T06:14:00.000-05:00

80's day at school. He looks a little like the guy in Loverboy...well, more like the guy in Dire Straits. I just can't get over that hair.

Homecoming Week

2011-11-01T08:02:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was pajama day.

Today is Cowboy and Indian day.

I might be a little biased, but I think he's very handsome!

Special Time of Year

2011-10-16T17:41:00.002-05:00

My favorite weekend of the year! Highway....80...Garage...Sale!!!

I got this Fab little shelf for $5!! The little elf on the bottom and the milk glass bowl also came from this weekend. I made the skull last year.

I could not resist these little boxes. Another $5

I did a little re-arranging and added some new finds.

I got more stuff but I haven't put it all out yet.

Welcome

2011-10-15T06:15:00.002-05:00

Two Goodwill Aniversaries

2011-10-14T07:34:00.001-05:00

The other day we had a luncheon for Chris and Andrea for their 14 year anniversay at Goodwill. 14 years! I don't think I've ever lived in one place for 14 years, much less worked somewhere that long.

I think they were truly surprised.

We had S'mores cake, it was surprisingly good!

Chris "Sargent" Largent, Andrea "Doodlebug" Gilbreath, and Jeanette "Cheeseball" Jones

Now Chris is "Admiral" Largent

Someone has a tiger in their pants! I wonder who?!

Gypsy Girls

2011-10-11T06:40:00.001-05:00

Last Saturday was the Gypsy Market festival and it was a blast! We had a Goodwill booth and it was surprising how many people would say "There is a Goodwill in Mineola?" OMG!!!!

We all dressed like Gypsies. This is LIZard. That's what I call her anyway.

We had some fabulously shabby chic stuff. This rooster sold in abouty 20 minutes of unpacking.

I'm having so much fun at Goodwill! I think LIZard did too, but she hates taking pictures.

This is Jeanette. Without her, I would have run screaming from this job in the first two weeks!

Everything on top of this cabinet sold right away. The cabinet is still at the store and I think I need it. Where I'll put it in the house is a whole 'nother story. Someone come in and buy it to save me from myself!

Real Thing

2011-10-03T06:49:00.000-05:00

Anyone that knows me knows that I have been addicted to Diet Coke for, Oh, about 25 years. I have also used artficial sweeteners for forever.

About two months ago I ran out of my sweetener and when we went to the store (WM of course), they were out...for weeks. So I used sugar. Then one day, one of my employees got regular Coke by accident, so I traded with her and lied about drinking reg. coke. It sat there for days and I drank it out of despaeration one day. I could swear it is the nectar of the gods!

I have now given up the sweeteners, diet coke, and ugghh, margarine. We only use the real thing now. Believe it or not, I have lost weight (lost sleep too, but that's another matter) I only allow myself one coke a day, and I'm very sparing with the sugar. Butter, is another story. Butter is awesome on everything!

Still Kicking

2011-09-25T09:33:00.000-05:00

Rumors of my demise are greatly exaggerated. I've been stinkin' busy! We are at the end of the quarter at Goodwill and it's looking fab for the Mineola store. Check out the Facebook page for Goodwill East Texas. We've posted a few pics on there.

Oldest child is off restriction...finally. He has been on the go ever since. He's running out of gas so he's been mooching rides. A group of them went yesterday to a concert and proceeded to get rear ended on the way. everyone was ok but I think it shocked the crap out of Cody. The airbag stopped about a millimeter from his handsome little face. They still went to the concert.

The plants in the greenhouse are starting to show signs of life now that the heat has subsided. The plants that actually survived that is. We're hoping to have a few plants to put in Canton next weekend.

Youngest child and I are headed to Tyler today so he can trade in video games in order to afford some new games. The Mommy money train has dried up.

Mr. Plantfreak is the same old fart as last time. Except that he has turned into an uber garage sale hound. It's like we exchanged places completely. He even went to Hobby Lobby without me while I was at work. HOBBY LOBBY for pete's sake. That's grounds for divorce in my world.

I have had Halloweenie time rolling around in my head for about a week now. We are going to decorate the store (YAY!) and most everyone is going to dress up. I'm hoping to get everyone to find their costumes at Goodwill. I think that would be cool.

I will try to post pics of the Halloween decorations next week. We put out all the Halloween stuff next Saturday and I can't wait!

Already

2011-08-15T06:44:00.002-05:00

Oldest child is grounded for a month.

A. He took his friend home at 10 pm, which is past the legal curfew for drivers under 18.

B. He decided to go to another friends house without telling me and didn't come home until 3am.

C. He didn't take his cell, and therefore, didn't get the twelve frantic calls and several texts from
me. Which sent me out at 2 am in case he had an accident.

And now, even though I'm dog tired...I get to go to work.

BTW, I survived the manager's meeting, and I survived work drama. I think I can survive this teenager.

Number 4

2011-08-11T05:25:00.002-05:00

What difference a month makes! My store has gone from No. 15 in sales to No. 4! I'm hoping to keep that trend. I keep pumping up the employees and they understand what needs to be done....I guess I'll just keep the cheerleader routine going.

Today is my first Manager's Meeting and I'm actually nervous. All of the other manager's have been there awhile or at least had actual training. I feel like I'm going in as the Goodwill Doofus.

I've managed to irritate the transportation manager to no end and I meet him today, yikes!

I'll update you when I get back!

Relocating

2011-08-05T06:33:00.002-05:00

It was One Hundred and freakin' Ten Degrees (officially) yesterday. Mr. Plantfreak, who has always claimed that he "would prefer to be hot rather than cold", now is ready to move somewhere that snows every winter...and a heat wave is maybe 90 degrees.

Vermont, Oregon, Maine...maybe even Fargo at this point! No offense Fargonians ;)

Monkey Crepe!

2011-08-02T06:17:00.002-05:00

Mr. Plantfreak and I went to Canton Trade Days this weekend to pay for our booth for next month. John the camo guy actually rents our space and we sublet from him. Since other people want to rent from him we decided it was better to pay every month and keep our spot than to chance someone else moving in. Although John is super nice and would probably hold the spot anyway.

I think it was literally hotter than Hell out there! I felt bad for the vendors, because it was a ghost town out there.

We were starving when we got there and decided to eat at the food court area. The Monkey Crepe Cafe was the choice for the day and it was a great one! I had a Greek gyro, and Mr. Plantfreak had a Club sandwich. He claims it is the perfect meal because you get everything stuffed in a sandwich. But the crepes...OMG the crepes! Strawberry crepes with bavarian cream and whipped cream. You just cannot imagine. Last time I had the Chocolate banana crepe, and it was just friggin' insane! And they are huge too! One person cannot eat the whole thing and feel good about themselves. So, if you get one, You must share with a friend! Just thinking about it makes me hungry for one!

Pray for Me

2011-07-26T16:17:00.001-05:00

My oldest child just got his drivers license. My hair is turning white as I write.

I'm going to my Happy Place right now...

Tide Rollers

2011-07-26T05:21:00.002-05:00

I was talking to one of my regular customers about the fact that I moved to Texas from Alabama, then we talked about tornadoes in Tuscaloosa, and on to University of Alabama.

We ended up with 3 other customers who either went to Alabama or had close family that went there or just loved the football team.

Tide Rollers, you just never know where you might find them.

Parched

2011-07-25T06:07:00.002-05:00

It is so hot and dry here that my grass is crunchy, we gave up on the veggie garden, and the lake is disappearing. It's sad that Mr. Plantfreak and I got really excited about the Tropical Disturbance out by Cuba.

And Oklahoma is getting drenched...dammit.

Let's Talk About...

2011-07-21T06:59:00.002-05:00

...donating to Goodwill.

When we get donations we sort through the items to see what is worth selling and what is not. Electronic items that don't work get sent to the mother ship (main branch in Tyler) to be broken down by special needs workers for recycling. Clothing that has stains, fuzzballs, tears, or pulled seams also get sent to the mothership for a special needs crew to box up for recycling. Shoes that are too worn and gross (and most of them are!) get paired up and sent to a company that recycles them, and, in case of disasters sends them out for people who need them. Also, the cardboard boxes that donations come in get sent to the mothership to be recycled. That my friends is a great thing!

Other items that are broken, overly dirty, stinky, or wet...get thrown away! You would not believe how many people dump "donations" that are really just garbage. Because they are too cheap to take it to the dump.

I don't get too upset with the unusable clothing, although stained underwear (really?!) makes me gag. My first day at work I sorted clothes and opened a bag of nasty shoes...those who know me, know that I don't like feet and I almost threw up when the smell hit my nose.

It breaks my heart to see what gets thrown out. Even though we recycle the majority of what gets rejected, we still have to have 2 large dumpsters emptied every other day. That's a lot of garbage that Goodwill pays to have hauled away.

I'm not complaining, it's a necessary part of running a Goodwill store, but I could do without the obvious garbage, dirty underwear, and disgustingly stinky shoes.

Still, everyday is a treasure hunt!

Christmas in July

2011-07-19T07:02:00.004-05:00

We met Grandpa Sute and Page in New Orleans this past Christmas and I just got a few more pics of the trip. These were taken in a restaurant called the Acme Oyster House...and no Wile E. Coyote wasn't there, but the oysters were awesome!

Cody doesn't believe me when I say he is going to look like Grandpa Sute when he gets older...except for the hair.

Not sure what this was all about.

Dad and Page make such a cute couple!

Aj has a beautiful smile.

Unfortunately, he's usually making faces like this!

Mr. Plantfreak might lose the mustache, but never the LSU hat!

We love the Big Easy.

It's Official

2011-07-13T06:02:00.001-05:00

I've finally gotten word that I'm the manager at my little Goodwill. Why do I feel like there is a bullseye firmly planted on my back?

Did I Mention?

2011-07-04T06:49:00.001-05:00

That the person who hit was an employee of the FBI?! I've already gotten a call from the Dallas office. I think this might be more painful than the wreck.

Goodbye My KIA

2011-06-30T06:42:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was a wild ride! I got rear-ended going to the bank. All the years I bitched and complained about the traffic and idiot drivers in Tyler, and I get in a wreck in little ol' Mineola.

I got my little KIA in 2001. It's been paid off for forever! I had 160,000 miles and was looking forward to the 200k turnover and going for the 300k turnover.

Unfortunately, the frame is bent and it would cost more than it's worth to fix. I really liked that little car. If everything goes ok with the insurance I will try get another KIA. Any KIA dealerships out there listening?

BTW, I'm ok. It felt like I was at the beginning of a really wild roller coaster.

I Must Be Doing Something Right!

2011-06-29T06:45:00.003-05:00

Because people are calling up left and right to complain about me. One person got mad because I wouldn't give him a deal. He called my boss to say that he saw me at an estate sale...so what. Did I mention that he owns an "antique" store (using the term loosely) and wanted his wife to work at Goodwill so she could buy stuff . That is considered a conflict of interest, not my addiction to garage sales and flea markets. I don't resell. He also accused me of hiding items so he couldn't buy them. Whatever. My working at Goodwill is Mr. Plantfreak's worst nightmare...a daily garage sale, so I tell myself it's just stuff . I have to wait 24 hours before I can buy an item anyway, and it usually sells before that. So there.

Now I have another person who says she is calling to complain that we have tripled our prices. And? Our job is to take donations and sell them at a price that is less than new but fair value for the condition of the item. Problem is, this particular store has a sketchy history, with sketchy employees. Some people were in on the hook ups and some were buying out the back door. Which is why we now have cameras everywhere. Those sketchy employees are looking for employment elsewhere.

At this rate, I figure I'll get promoted or fired. It's a toss-up.

Staying Inside

2011-06-20T06:41:00.002-05:00

Because we had a heat advisory yesterday and the temps reached 102 in my little world. All our yardwork and nursery work gets done at the crack of dawn! Old age has made me a sissy!

Please Explain

2011-06-19T09:06:00.002-05:00

Why someone would steal from Goodwill? Is that 99 cent item really that great?

Don't get me wrong...I'm not being all high and mighty, but really?

At Breedlove's AKA the former paying job, I dealt with mostly high end customers with money to burn. Now, I see those that are struggling from day to day. I see 25 year old women with no teeth, kids with dirty clothes, men in their 40's that are beat down from years of hard labor making them look 60, and I'm reminded on daily basis that I've got it pretty damn good. I may not be raking in the dough...but I've got all the necessities and more than a few luxuries. Happiness is relative. There are things that I "can't live without", but I know that I can...and still be happy.

The people that are stealing? They aren't the folks I mentioned before, those people work for what they get and are glad for it. I'm talking about the twitchy people, the ones that are on drugs. Then there are the people who steal for fun, they don't care what Goodwill is about they just want to get over on someone.

The money from sales at Goodwill goes to help people with special needs live a productive life, and to help those same twitchy people get back to a respectable life. Every time someone pulls up with a donation, I feel like it's a party! A) It gets us more product for the floor B) that's one step closer to our quota, and C) it helps keep people employed.

Now that I've gotten on my soap box, I've come to the realization that the very people I'm trying to stop from stealing won't even read this...they have already hocked their computers. Dammit!

New Direction

2011-06-16T09:08:00.002-05:00

Things have changed in the last month. I left my paying job at Breedlove Nursery for a job that provided insurance and was closer to home. I put in my 2 weeks notice...was starting to panic because nothing was happening...happened to drive by the Goodwill near my home and for some reason decided to go in and see what they had...what they had was a job.

I got an application and talked to the Assistant Mgr., a nice lady, and was told to come back the next day. I returned the next day and interviewed, went home, got a call back in about an hour to come back down. In the hour I was gone, the assistant manager was let go, and I was offered that position. Wow. Took it. Three weeks later, I went to lunch...came back and My manager was let go. I've been acting manager for the last week. I was just looking for a part time cashier job.

I interview for the manager's position next week. This will cut into my plant time, but Mr. Plantfreak is taking the reigns on the business so that I can still get my fix.

Yep, things have changed.

College Bound

2011-06-15T05:53:00.001-05:00

Do we really think he's ready for college next year?

But I'm Too Young

2011-06-14T07:49:00.002-05:00

To have a child that goes to Prom!

Apparently the style now is to look like a member of mob (the stereotype anyway). Check out the pink shoelaces...did you know that they make black patent leather converse tennis shoes for the well-dressed non-conformist? Now he looks like every other 17 year old non-conformist (note the irony in that phrase).

I think he looks awesome of course.

Plant Mania

2011-04-15T05:18:00.004-05:00

Ok, so we've actually had two Canton weekends since I last posted and we did well in March...and then we went in April and sold triple!!! I don't know if we can do that again in May but I have my fingers crossed. We've also been selling to local nurseries by the truckload and the greenhouses are looking bare! My favorite thing to see ;)

MIA

2011-03-04T05:17:00.000-06:00

Because we have been selling at Canton. Updates later!

Health Nut

2011-02-22T11:58:00.001-06:00

He uses the exercise equipment wa-a-ay more than we do!

What Happened?

2011-02-10T06:22:00.000-06:00

The snow never made it! Maybe this week I can actually go to work.

More Snow Pictures

2011-02-09T06:27:00.001-06:00

Well, there will be more snow pictures since another snowstorm is on the way. Yay. I'm delirious with joy. Ecstatic.

Who Knew?!

2011-02-05T09:06:00.004-06:00

I had no idea that all it took to get AJ outside was snow. He's been out running around the last two days playing in the snow and trekking through the woods. Maybe we should move farther north. Maybe not.

Guess what Happened Last night

2011-02-04T07:27:00.003-06:00

Last night 'Ol Man Winter blew by and left us with a ton of powdered sugar...but not the kind

you can use to cook In fact, the snow is still falling but I don't expect much more (I hope!).

The cats are not amused!

Devil Dog just tried to catch a snowball. HeeHee.

A word of advice...Don't eat the yellow snow!

Please Jack!...

2011-02-02T11:23:00.004-06:00

(Frost that is) don't freeze my babies! My tomato and eggplant seeds have sprouted and we are making a Herculean effort to keep the plant babies alive. It won't get above freezing for the next few days. Yikes!

This year we invested in propagation mats that give bottom heat to help the little guys grow faster. The heater in one of the greenhouses gave out so...Mr. Plantfreak being the redneck engineer that he is, rolled our barbecue grill up to the house and fired it up. Works beautifully!

The people at the paying job have opted not to grow any of their own perennials this year (crazy) so we are hoping for a sell out year! This might actually be the year I can work at The Garden Sage full time. Maybe. Possibly. Got my fingers crossed.

4 Days Of Desperation

2011-01-24T16:05:00.001-06:00

My computer crapped out and had to go to the computer shop. I just got it back and I literally kissed it! What can I say...it is my crack addiction.

Woe Is Me, I'm 43

2011-01-17T10:52:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was the big day and it was rainy, gloomy, and doomy...perfect weather for a birthday. Had a good one though, got presents, the kids remembered to wish me a Happy Birthday (miracle!), and went out to eat at a new Hibachi restaurant in town. It was excellent! I even went to Michael's and wandered around. I have some new crafties rolling around in my head that need to get out.

So...maybe not as much woe as I thought.

Sesame Street?

2011-01-15T05:19:00.001-06:00

One of these things is not like the other!

Can you guess which one it is?

Wow. I can really pick'em.

2011-01-13T13:13:00.002-06:00

This is the man I call the love of my life. Yeah.

Actually, he was making fun of a picture his mother took...that really doesn't make it better does it?

Post holiday

2011-01-09T13:17:00.009-06:00

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and all that stuff. As I'm watching the pancake sized snowflakes accumulate on the ground, I realize I still haven't posted the pics from Christmas. What else is new.

We had a great Christmas, in fact, we had a Big Easy Christmas. We met GrandPa Sute and Page in New Orleans. In spite of the fact that it was butt cold, it was a lot of fun!

The Boys On Bourbon Street...sounds like a song doesn't it.

Here is the view from the top of our hotel.

We went to the World War II museum and the boys had a ball! Here is Cody in the air raid shelter.

AJ looks even less enthused than Cody. Maybe he was trying to look serious. All I know is that I watched a middle aged woman try to squeeze in the opening and decided that my fat ass was NOT going to pose in there.

Cafe Du Monde was a must for the trip. The boys went years ago but they didn't remember. I sat between Grandpa Sute and Mr. Plantfreak...between the two fo them I looked like I had been in a snowstorm with all the powdered sugar they spilled.
It might look sunny but it was ff-freaking cold !

After New Orleans we headed to Picayune to see my Mom-in-law. We ate tons of fabulous food and I got to go to one of my favorite places; Hudson's salvage, not the original but the store in Picayune. I miss that place. Talk about treasure hunting!

I'm still recuperating from all the food! We ate at a place called Cochon's down from the museum and it was awesome. They have some adventurous dishes! I, however, chicken out and played it safe. AJ had the fried boudin and loved it...and he's picky one! He also tried alligator at Ralph and Kacoo's and found a new fave dish. Another great place to try is Acme Oyster , if you go try the chargrilled oysters, but prepare to faint it's so good.

Running Low

2010-12-22T15:36:00.001-06:00

So when does the holiday fun start?

Next Birthday!

2010-12-20T05:06:00.005-06:00

So I had my kids a year and three days apart...call me crazy. Most people do. AJ's birthday was saturday and we went out to eat and did a little shopping. The boys got money from Grandpa Sute and Page and when the boys put that money together with what was earned from working for me at the greenhouse (AJ earned the lion's share), they were able to purchase the dreaded XBOX!

I gave AJ a video camera in hopes that it will get him outside. We'll see. We knew AJ was special at an early age. He's my giant manbaby. He talks strangely, he's a little overweight (we're working on that), is behind in learning (it is an absolute beating everyday to try to keep him focused on school), and has the most incredible imagination!

.Here is my little Lord Fauntleroy at his second Christmas.

Tub Time!

AJ at his first birthday

What was I thinking with that hat!

Love you Fruity Pie.

Cookie Dough Overload

2010-12-15T12:59:00.004-06:00

I have been up to my eyeballs in cookies! I delivered about 25 dozen on Tuesday and will deliver 30 dozen tomorrow. Whew! I'm actually trying to make caramels today. Hope they turn out.

Today is my eldest child, The Brilliant Idiot's 17th birthday. We usually go out to a birthday dinner at a restaurant of his choice but B. I. decided to pass. He's been such a pill I'm almost relieved. We gave him a laptop this year, which means this morning was the last time I'll ever see him again. Unless he needs money.

Here he is in sweeter days.

Just look at those beautiful brown eyes!

I miss that little boy.

More Coffee Please!

2010-11-19T05:48:00.002-06:00

It's cookie baking time again and I am up to my eyeballs in cookie dough! I'm delivering 15 dozen cookies today. My friend has a wedding shower this weekend and she bought beautiful copper trays that I have filled with heart shaped mocha cutouts to give. These cookie have instant espresso and kahlua to go along with the chocolate. I also dip one half of the heart into melted chocolate. Yum!

Can Ya Dig It?

2010-11-13T06:34:00.001-06:00

I've been playing in the dirt again at the paying job. Damn, I'm good!

Saga Of The Brilliant Idiot

2010-11-10T12:06:00.002-06:00

So the brilliant idiot is my oldest son. Amazingly smart and could already own the world if he wanted to, but most of the time his head is firmly planted up his own ass.

First, he got a letter to go on an exhcange program overseas...an opportunity that most kids never get. He passed the interview and was accepted. Except that he says he doesn't want to go. WTF! He has finally come to realize that he will in fact go, and it's useless to fight City Hall (by which I mean me). We are in the process of applying for a scholarship and (by which I mean me) and trying to think of ways to do fundraising for the trip (also me).

He just fights me every step of the way.

His school has a coffee shop (can you believe that?!) and I thought that he could sell muffins at the coffee shop to raise money. Supposedly he is going to talk to the teacher. Hmphh!

B.I. also got the opportunity to go to Stephen F. Austin on a field trip that is reserved for Seniors only. Want to know what impressed him the most? The freakin' cafeteria!

I honestly don't know how Gaga survived the three of us kids.

Fall and Fairy Time

2010-11-08T08:31:00.002-06:00

It's definitely Fall at the paying job. Pumpkins, crotons, and acorns abound!
The boss at the paying job got in a ton of these velvet pumpkins and I thought she was off her rocker...we've sold almost every single one.

Fall has my favorite favorite color palette. Believe it or not, brown is my favorite color.

Just look at these Mums! Fabulous!

I took it upon myself to re-work the fairy garden at the paying job. I think it looks pretty cute!

I like how this rosemary tree turned out. I think I should grow some to sell. Don't you?

Perfect Match

2010-11-06T06:30:00.001-05:00

I think Devil Dog has met her match!

Halloween- Grandkid Style

2010-11-04T05:34:00.002-05:00

Got pictures of the kidlets in full costume!

The girls went for sweet and cute and verrry girlie (Gianna left, Joselynn right). I get the distinct impression, however, that sugar and spice is not their forte.

Mister Gage went for scary. Freddy Krueger. Shudder. I saw Nightmare on Elm Street when I was in high school. It freaked me out so bad that I had my brother, who was about 10 at the time, sleep in my bedroom for a solid week. I think that was when it finally dawned on him that I went a little left of normal.

Matthew

2010-11-03T07:46:00.003-05:00

Matty is my 4 year old nephew. 'Fatboy' is his real name and chaos is his life mission. Fatboy stays with me on Mondays and Wednesdays while Dad is in school. As soon as the door shuts in the morning I hear "I'm hungry!" and is nonstop until the afternoon.

This is Fatboy eating some "pake", one of his favorite foods. "Wanwiches" are another favorite.

Uncle Plantfreak and I took Fatboy along with big brother and sister to the zoo for his birthday. It was a success!

Here are the kids feeding the birds in the zoo atrium. Can you see fatboy under my enormous purple booby? Uncle Plantfreak apparently did not notice...or maybe he did. Who knows what goes on in his demented brain.

Fatboy loves his "Aunt Timmy" most days. Something tells me today will not be one of them.

November?

2010-11-02T08:20:00.005-05:00

Is it November already?

Seems like it was just May...Oh wait, that was just the last time I bothered to blog.

I'm such an asshole.

OK, Cake update:

I re-did the cake, and it made it to the drop-off point, but I think that was as far as it got in one piece. Here it is in the first few minutes of completion:

And here it is at the party. The top of the hat already left the cake. Karen did say it at least tasted great.

Here are the two cakes I made for Karen back in April. I call them successes. The purse was chocolate cake with espresso filling, and the shoebox was lemon cake with white chocolate filling and fresh raspberries. Yum.

Bound To Happen

2010-05-14T22:04:00.002-05:00

I'm doing a cake for my friend Karen. I actually did 2 really fabulous cakes for her last month and if I EVER figure out how to get the picture from my cell to the 'puter I'll post it.

Now I'm doing a graduation cake for her daughter. When I left for work this morning it was looking pretty good...

but when I got home it had fallen over. I almost cried. I'm re-doing the cake now. If I pull this off I will be the queen of cake!

Let you know.

Take Me Out To The Ballgame!

2010-05-13T05:46:00.003-05:00

I have pictures that are so adorable you may go blind!

Ms. Joselyn is all about the Wildcats!

Let's play ball already!

Gage and an unnamed buddy mugging for the cameras.

I think they won.

Maybe Next Year...Not!

2010-05-11T06:28:00.002-05:00

Okay, so May Days was not a raging success. We sold a little, but the crowds were thin. In fact, we sold more in one day at Gypsy Market than in 3 days of MM.

We were, however, rich in drama! The second night, the pawpaw in the next booth had a heart attack. I felt so bad for him and his wife. We helped shut down the booth while they were on the way to the hospital. He is going to be okay though.

Next day, I'm talking to a couple pof ladies about plants when a vendor runs up screaming at the ladies and digging through their cart. Turns out they had stolen a bunch of merchandise. Man!

About an hour later my brother and his kids along with my friend Phyllis come walking up and Bubba was purple he was so pissed. Turns out one of the carnival people had pulled a fast one and got $60 from Bryant. Bryant was going to go back and beat his ass, but since I really don't have room to raise his children for 5 to 10...and the fact that I AM big sister, I marched off to complain. I found the person in charge of the carnival and we confronted the guy. He tried telling us that he told Bryant he had "four for one". My reply was "What the hell does that even mean! WE don't speak carnival!" Asshole. I got the money back.

And when I thought the drama was over....I look up to see the police escorting my oldest (the brilliant idiot) and his friend to me. Turns out they ran out of money and started panhandling (because it was too far apparently to come and ask me for more money). When that got boring
the friend started asking people if they wanted to buy drugs. On what planet does that sound harmless or funny?! One fo the kids turned out to be younger than they thought and his parents called the police. I would have done the same.

Cody doesn't think he should be punished becasue he didn't say it. But I'm pretty sure he egged it on. And I'm pretty sure he thought it was hilarious until the cops showed up. And I'm pretty sure he is going to be on lockdown for quite awhile!

I'm also pretty sure I'm skipping May Days next year.

Overheard

2010-05-07T05:37:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was the first day at May Days in Mineola. As we were waiting for customers, we overheard one of the workers in a golf cart drive by and say "They're selling plants? Every time I sell plants...I go to jail!"

Wow. Maybe you should change your product and marketing. Here's a tip: Cannabis=Illegal, Coreopsis = Success.

Long Weekend Past, Long Week Ahead

2010-05-03T05:40:00.002-05:00

It's been busy at the paying job. It's been busy at the non-paying job too. This coming week is going to be a booger! I have to work at the paying job Mon-Thurs, get off there Thursday evening and go sell my stuff at Mineola May Days. By the end of Saturday we should be good and pooped!

But hey, I'm the plantfreak and Spring is the most busy for the plant world.

I guess I better put it into 5th gear.

Last Ditch Attempt

2010-04-29T05:32:00.003-05:00

I'm going to attempt to post regularly...again. Otherwise, I may shut down the blog. I can't stand the guilt of knowing that I should be writing something but not getting to it.

It's Spring at the paying job and the crazies are out! Sometimes it's all we can do not to beat our heads against the wall. Since Phyllis left we are shorthanded and with it being the busy season the nursery has been in absolute chaos! I've been working more but it's taken a toll on the housekeeping that's for sure.

It's also busy season for The Garden Sage! We sold plants at the Gypsy Market Festival and has a fabulous time. Everyone wants to know where our shop is located! If only. Next up is the Mineola May Days and it's a three day event.

In other news, my brother and his family moved to Texas. It's good to have some family here...and they are as anti-social as we are so there is no crowding. Otherwise, Oregon would looking good roght now.

My stepdaughter Corynn is in town for an extended visit and she has been a big help! We put her to work in the greenhouse and she definitely gets the job done.

I made more cakes but I'm waiting on the pics from my friend so I can show you. One cake was a purse and the other was a shobox with a high heel on top.

My sister-in-law and I created some containers for the festivals and they turned out pretty cute!

Chat with ya'll soon...I hope.

Only In The Country...

2010-04-07T05:15:00.003-05:00

Can you walk into the post office and see a sign that says:

Found!

1 Goat found on 333 fm road 333

Call Richard or Debbie at

555-5555 or 555-5555

Goat wants to go home!

That my friends is hilarious.

Stir Crazy

2010-03-16T06:41:00.002-05:00

Our oldest daughter, Corynn, has been taking part in a study for NASA that evaluates the effects of weightlessness on the body. That's pretty cool.

She has to stay in a bed and prone for like 60 days. That's insane!

She has about 13 days left before she can get up and she is about to lose her mind! She can't even get up to go potty.

She did however, get to meet one of the female astronauts in Houston. I'm ashamed to say that I don't remember her name.

I hope you get your earth legs back soon!

Carter's Sunburst

2010-03-05T05:53:00.001-06:00

This is one of the camellias that we sell at the paying job. Gorgeous isn't it! The blooms are humongous!

Mini Cakes And The One Eyed Baker

2010-03-02T08:28:00.004-06:00

The 21st was my boss' birthday and I planned to make mini cakes for her birthday lunch.

I planned to start them Sunday afternoon to have ready by the following Thursday.

My plans didn't quite work out...I poked myself in the eye (like an idiot).

That sucker puffed up like a toad and started watering like a faucet. I couldn't see, had a horrible headache and looked like Quasimodo from The Hunchback of Notre Dame. By the time I could see again it was Wednesday and I ended up doing a rush job.

They look okay from far away...

but when you get close up it's not so great.

My chrysanthemum turned into a lazy water lily.

The roses are a little stubby but it was my first try. They may not have looked perfect but they tasted awesome! I did half in a lemon sour cream cake with a ginger cream cheese filling, and the other was crazy chocolate cake with espresso filling. YUM!

Are You Kidding?

2010-02-23T12:47:00.001-06:00

IT...IS...

SNOWING...

AGAIN!!

My tomato seedlings are croaking left and right because they are still in my house. Not happy right now.

And it's snowing again!

Dare I Hope?

2010-02-17T06:06:00.003-06:00

The other day when I picked up the mail, there was a letter to Cody from Loyola University. What's that about? I gave it to Cody, dying of curiosity. Finally, about 2 hours later I asked him about it and he says "Oh yeah, they sent me some emails too". I live with a brilliant idiot.

They are interested in Cody because of his standardized testing scores (if they saw his regular grades they would be wholly unimpressed). He has an opportunity to get college credit while still in high school....and he's going to do it (whether he realizes that or not)!

He got a brochure yesterday and got a little more interested. I think a visit to the campus might be in order...when it's warmer.

Who knows, Cody might actually see outside that 3 inch bubble he lives in...Dare I hope!

Fat Tuesday

2010-02-16T16:13:00.002-06:00

Laissez les bon temps rouler! (I hope I spelled that right)

I just found out that I have Mardi Gras royalty in my family! Grandpa Sute sent me a picture.

Apparently Miss Hannah loves to be admired by her adoring subjects! Long live the queen!

The Rest Of The Snow Day

2010-02-13T06:43:00.004-06:00

We had the most fun out in the snow! Tipper had enough when he developed pom-poms on his legs.

Cody tried to make a snow angel but the dogs refused to let that happen.

Mr. Plantfreak took this gorgeous shot of the lake.

Cody finally finished his snowman. The dogs kept "helping" him by knocking it down.

Even AJ joined in on the fun. ...and didn't get pissed when he got smacked with a snowball or two. I just wish he had put on a jacket!

He rolled around in the snow and loved every second of it. The boys stayed out there for hours! Mr. Plantfreak went in early and made breakfast for us. I made snow ice cream , and it tasted like really cold powdered sugar. At first. The school finally came to their senses and cancelled classes for the day.

Yep, we enjoyed our little bit winter!

Snow Day

2010-02-12T07:32:00.003-06:00

I was severely chastised yesterday for not blogging....sorry Vicki. It's been pretty hectic here at Plantfreak Acres. We've been trying to gear up for Spring, which is pretty hard considering we got about 6 inches of snow last night!

That may not sound like much for some people but I'm from the south ya'll! I don't think I've ever seen this much snow since Dad took me to Switzerland. Even then I just saw it but we didn't get in it. This is something! Cody just geared up to go and build a snowman. School isn't out, just delayed (the crackheads).

The animals are enjoying the heck out of this too!

Digger is so short that he gets covered!

Jade and Devil Dog are just going bonkers out here!

I can't tell what is what!

Ohmigoodness!

I'm going to get pics of Cody...be back later!

Labor Of Love

2010-01-22T06:12:00.003-06:00

Well, not really labor, more like playtime. My friend Phyllis had a birthday so I made her a cake. Phyllis is my fairy loving cowgirl, so I made a fairy cake with a cowgirl fairy. Phyllis' fairy name is Fidget; hence the name on the cake.

Mr. Plantfreak built a base for me.

I covered with green fondant and tin foil.

I made a little troll. We all think it looks like a Vulcan George Bush. Heh. Heh Heh.

That's Phyllis/Fidget on top!

Phyllis was completely blown away!

She didn't want to cut it! But there was Chocolate involved so we made her.

What a Doozy!

2010-01-21T05:20:00.002-06:00

Last night had some serious storms in our area. We had pea- sized hail...we had marble-sized hail...we had ping pong -sized hail...and we even got a few tennis-ball sized hail!

Devil dog went running outside, got about 15 feet out the door, got hit by hail, cocked her head and looked up (blinking real hard), turned tail and ran back inside. Jade the Psycho Puppy sat on the couch shivering in terror. Someone had to sit and comfort her so she wouldn't have a heart attack.

Some tornados were sighted but none got near Golden. We were very lucky!

Bakery Delacious!

2010-01-11T19:45:00.002-06:00

That's the name of my fantasy bakery. My friend Karen picked it out for me. If only.

In cake related news though, my friend Little Miss G asked me to do a cake for her son (his birthday is the 12th). He is an avid duck hunter so I made a duck hunting cake.

The ducks are flying everywhere!

Little Miss G works for Aflac, therefore, there was a need for the Aflac duck on the cake.

Can you see the gun coming out of the duck blind?

Man, there's a lot going on with this cake.

I hope he likes it!

2010-01-02T07:51:00.002-06:00

I hope everyone had a fabulous Christmas and New year! We decided to do Christmas in Natchez, Ms this year. We stayed at a great hotel, The Natchez Grand.

What a Motley Crew!
We're standing by the Missippi River

Dad wanted to try the barbecue at the Pig Out Inn.

I have to say the ribs were awesome!
Phyllis! The pig is wearing cowboy boots!

Cody won the present jackpot this year! Grandpa Sute and Page bought him a car! Cody has been beside himself ever since, and has been bugging the snot out of me to drive everywhere.

That's about as much emotion as you'll ever get from the Cody Monster.

AJ got an awesome laptop from Grandpa Sute and Page, and I got cookbooks, cookie cutters and fairy fun, Oh my! Page definitely has my number! We had a great time, just not long enough to toodle around Natchez. We might have to go back for a weekend...when it's warmer...without kids...with spending money. Oh yeah.

Fashionista

2009-12-22T06:08:00.002-06:00

My oldest elected to get new clothes for Christmas this year. I never thought I would see that day. Only one little hang-up, he didn't want to get clothes from Tyler. So, off we went in search of malls in the main direction of Dallas. Mind you, we were searching for shopping malls, not shopping centers. Let the hilarity ensue...

We get to Terrell and used directions from Mr. Plantfreak to go to the mall. The outlet mall. That just won't do. So, off we go to Rockwall. They have to have a shopping mall, right? No. I had things to get at Michael's and asked a lady for suggestions. She was very nice and gave me completely off the wall directions. Even with two sets of eyes we never found the streets she said to use.

I had an idea to call Mr. Plantfreak. I didn't say it was a good idea though. He told me I was going in the wrong direction and to turn around. He would be wrong. Several strangers later, we made it to the mall and Cody was in skater clothes heaven.

As we were driving home- we ran into another shopping mall. Really, now we're just finding them by accident. It was 8 o'clock when we got home-we left at nine that morning. But hey, Cody is stylin' and that's all that matters.

2009-12-20T07:05:00.002-06:00

Well, since it seems I'm only doing monthly posts...let me give you a rundown on all my doings.

Since November I have sold 59 dozen cookies (I've made way more). It just kind of snowballed and I love it when people have happy tummies.

Cody turned 16 this past Tuesday. It's killing me, I want that cute little toddler that loved getting hugs from Mommy and looked at everything with curiosity and wonder.

AJ turned 15 on Friday. We went out to eat and it was actually enjoyable!

I'm still scrambling to get presents in the mail, get outfits for our out of town trip, clean house, blah,blah,blah!

I worked at the paying job and let me tell you the crazies are out! I had a lady trying to read me bible verses on the phone (she called looking for a pomegranite tree).

I had two different people come in and want to buy pieces of a plant, not the whole thing, just a piece. That's called pinching and you do it when no one is looking. Jeesh.

But really, the cookies are what have done me in. Mark says I'm in the wrong business. Maybe I can open a bakery, hmmmm....

What A Crock!

2009-12-04T05:42:00.002-06:00

It does absolutely NO good to get up at 6am and put a roast in the crockpot if you don't plug the #&^#*#!$#$& thing into the wall!!!!!! Hmmph!

Taco Bell anyone?

The Rest Of The Story

2009-11-30T12:12:00.002-06:00

I feel I should add to my Thanksgiving tale. I focused on all the ironic, Murphy-esque happenings and forgot to tell the good parts.

I got to spend the day with Sheila and her family and I truly enjoyed it.

Mark got to watch football for most of the day while we were there.

One of the families that came in (not needy but in need of Thanksgiving food) had a budding magician in the midst and he got up and entertained everyone. He was pretty dang good too.

We got to see a new area of Tyler and a new lunch spot.

It all evened out.

No Good Deed Goes Unpunished"

2009-11-29T06:46:00.003-06:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! We (meaning me) decided to help out serving the needy this year. Everyone else in the house was simply overjoyed at the thought-sniff,sniff, does anyone else smell sarcasm?

My friend Sheila's son has a restaurant in Tyler and he thought it would be a good idea to open the doors to those who might not otherwise celebrate. I thought that was pretty selfless. It's a cute little place, and I've heard nothing but good about the food since it opened.

We arrived promptly at 10:30 and met Sheila's family, looked around, and waited for the doors to open. The news crew arrived and Hank (the owner) was tickled to death about that. Since it was early and no one had shown up yet, the news crew did interviews. They interviewed Hank, myself, and Cody.

That night on the news they showed the "interviews". Our 2 minute interviews were cut down to a 5 second sound bite. I was made to look like one of the needy, and Cody's only statement was "I love stuffing".

Lovely.

Not many people showed up, the boys were bored to tears and AJ pouted about there not being any food he liked until Hank made him a burger. Yep. WE all learned valuable lessons. Aj learned that pouting to strangers works, Cody learned that comments to news crews like " this was all my Mom's idea, it it was up to me I would at home playing X-box" mortifies his mother. I myself learned to run like hell when camers show up! Lest I resemble the homeless again.

In fact, the only person to improve was Mr. Plantfreak...he called his mother and his oldest daughter on the same day without my nagging. I don't think that has ever happened before.

Like I said, "No good deed..."

Say Hi To Logan

2009-11-24T05:23:00.003-06:00

Mr. Logan was born on Monday and weighs 7lbs, 13 oz. He is Little Miss G's grandson number two and she is over the moon! Wouldn't you be?

The Cuteness Can Not Be Contained

2009-11-23T07:00:00.001-06:00

That should give you visions of sugarplums dancing in your head!

Heaven Help Me....

2009-11-18T17:40:00.002-06:00

...my oldest just got his learner's permit to drive! He'll be 16 next month but he has to wait until next May to get his license. I couldn't wait to get my permit and then license. Half his friends have waited too, so I guess it's not that big a deal around here.

Any tips on how to survive?!

Feeding My Obsession

2009-11-17T14:56:00.002-06:00

I was trolling Ebay (another bad habit), and I bought a book to feed my ongoing cake obsession. Colette's Birthday Cakes is the name of my book, and it is awesome! Colette Peters is a pretty big name in the cake world and she's earned it.

I cannot wait to dig in and try some of the techniques in here!

Funny Story

2009-11-11T12:04:00.002-06:00

The other day I told my friend Little Miss G about the poop girl story. You know the one. Anyway, it's so much funnier when I re-enact and after LMG finished laughing hysterically she told me an even funnier and much less disgusting story.

When her niece was little she had an upset stomach, and after going to the bathroom she started yelling for Grandma. "Grandma, I have the ballerinas again!" OMG! That's hilarious! Even Mr. Plantfreak calls it the ballerinas now.

Hiya Stranger!

2009-11-10T09:40:00.002-06:00

I have been so dang busy these days! I had cookies to makes (about 20 dozen), I helped a friend get her yard ready for a baby shower (I should really take pics), plant orders to get out, and then there was the paying job.

I have started Christmas shopping though, sort of. I had to hammer out some details with an artist. I don't mean to be so vague but that person reads the blog. Now if the money for all that will just sprout on one of my trees!

Behold...

2009-10-29T06:02:00.003-05:00

the most beautiful grandchildren ever! I did restrain myself and only posted 1/2 the pics. It's hard because they are just so adorable!

Oh my goodness, that hair!

Joselyn

Gage

Gage, I mean Blade

The queen Gianna

Ariel, aka: Joselyn

pumpkin Gianna

supermodel Joselyn

future major league star!

Are you awestruck? You should be!

Makin' Cake

2009-10-24T07:23:00.003-05:00

I've been boring my friends to death about cake decorating. My latest project is a SpongBob cake for my friend's 4 year old. I was freaking out because the proportions were wrong and I had tons of boo-boo's, and I ran out of ingredients several times...but in the end I think I can be pleased with it.

SpongeBob is pretty wonky though. Maybe it's his cousin SpongeBillyBob.

Patrick turned out the best. Of Course I melted the first one and dropped the second one, so third time is the charm!

I hope they like it. Mr. Plantfreak slammed the box into the car seat when he was loading it (par for the course), and I'm afraid to look at it. Cross your fingers it makes it to Dallas today!

Halloweenie!

2009-10-22T22:11:00.000-05:00

Click on this for a little Halloweenie fun!

http://cms.oriental-trading.com/a/hBKxClAAdAtd7B7upZIAL8Lll.AdAtd737/movie?MOVIE_ID=5bd20b

My Oldest

2009-10-20T10:49:00.002-05:00

I took my oldest clothes shopping the other day. ...and the stuff he picked was surprising. I guess in rebellion to my predilection for earth tones, he has gone in the opposite direction. He bought a belt that was black and stark red. Not something I would expect my son to pick (maybe my daughter). Cody is also into hoodies. The ones he really liked were $100 +. We settled on a $70 one and I gulped really hard at the checkout. What does it look like? Well, it's reversible with one side being black with white graffiti (not too bad), and the other side being black with bluish purple stripes. Hmm.

This is it but in red.

I just hope he doesn't end up looking like this.

Oh. Might be too late.

Playing At Work

2009-10-14T05:59:00.003-05:00

Here is a little fairy garden I put together at work.
The planter itself is about $300 so you won't see me doing this at home.

By the time I finished...it turned into a $500 fairy garden!

Those are my little pumpkins that I made from polymer clay.

BTW, Karma has bitten me in the butt for making fun of the poop girl. I have gotten a particularly nasty intestinal condition and I've been absolutley miserable for days! Sorry Karma.

Did I Hear That Right?

2009-10-12T11:40:00.003-05:00

I was on the way to work this morning and had to stop and get gas. As I was waiting in line a girl came in talking on the cellphone...loud enough for everyone to hear.

"Girl, I pooped last night and it was turrible!"

Surely I heard that wrong...

"I lost at least 2 pounds"

Ewwww, no I didn't. The 20 other people in the gas station heard it too.

And then she tried to give the two young guys in line the "Hey Hey" look. Girl,...don't do that.

People are just weird.

Someone Has Been Fluffing Again!

2009-10-11T15:21:00.004-05:00

The boss at the paying job has been fluffing again. We have gone crazy for these head planters! This is a new style that we just got in.

Everytime we get a new plant in the store we have to stick them in the heads to see what it looks like.

Of course, we have a gnome-ey, faux bois, and mushroom display.

It's time for the annual fall display.

Where Have I Been!!!

2009-10-10T06:40:00.002-05:00

Nowhere.

I've had stories to tell, but I haven't.

In my defense, AJ (my youngest), has a new school program. This means he lays claim to the computer all day long for schoolwork. The only time for me to blog is in the wee hours of the morning and I just have not been coherent enough for that task. Aha! But today is saturday and AJ is still snoozing.

I've been playing with my clay again. Making flowers for my fairy garden. You know, for when nothing is blooming. I rather like them.

So...what's going on with you?

Dream On

2009-09-29T22:14:00.002-05:00

The other day on the way to school my oldest bestowed upon me a little nugget of knowledge. This little nugget was that his two top picks for cars (he'll be 16 in December) ...

are you ready?....

a '69 Camaro (vintage blue with white stripes), or a purple Ferrari!

Really.

Dream on Little Man, Dream On.

Vintage Baby Shower

2009-09-26T06:33:00.003-05:00

There is a customer at the paying job that I absolutely adore! Little Miss G loves her bling, anything french, and vintage! She is throwing a shower for her daughter-in-law in November and is decorating house, yard, everything! The theme is vintage baby. She has made this tower and is in the process of stacking it with vintage baby items.

Click on the picture to see the details. It's pretty cool. I'm going to help her set things up in November for the shower so I'll post tons of pics. It should be one awesome shindig!

Oh So Wrong...

2009-09-23T06:13:00.003-05:00

but oh so funny! I know it's not right to make fun of other people, but when they are begging for it...it has to happen.

Mr. Plantfreak found this website called People of Walmart. It's where people have taken pics of other outrageous people and have posted them. It has always amazed me what people will wear in public. I mean, I know I'm not a glamour queen, but I am at least presentable and covered up when I go out.

Just take a peek. You will be shocked, amazed, dumbstruck, and on occasion, grossed out. Mr. Plantfreak and I plan to go on Photo Safari at our walmart and see if there are any characters that deserve to be posted. If you look at the locations of all the crazies, you will see that most of them are in Texas!

Gotta, Gotta, Gotta!

2009-09-15T11:37:00.002-05:00

Need to blog...Gotta wash clothes...
Kid sick...other kid sick...
kids better but hubby sick...
I'm sick...gotta go to work....
Need to blog...Gotta cook dinner...

That seems to be my week! Add to that Phyllis had her last day at the paying job. No more Phyllis! I'm so sad I can't stand it. We talk every day so I'm sure I'll muddle through.

I was supposed to work at Mr. C's ranch to plant his Fall veggies but with over 4 inches of rain that is not going to happen. Maybe next week.

Gotta clean kitchen...Gotta wash clothes...it never ends!

Roll Tide Roll!

2009-09-07T16:39:00.002-05:00

Grandpa Sute is an Alabama alumni and fan (actually all my family are rabid Bama fans), and he sent me pics of his decorations for last night's game. He has a treehouse complete with bar and flat screen tv for football. I gave him a topiary monkey to hang outside the treehouse and the monkey got into the spirit as well.

Roll Tide Roll!

In The Zone

2009-09-05T06:13:00.002-05:00

Ok, now I'm really scared!

I called AJ from the paying job and asked him to water plants. "I already did. And I weeded some of the plants."

Oh.

"I also did some dishes in the kitchen"

Now I'm wondering what happened to that grunting neanderthal that gets angry when I tell him to do a chore. I asked him what he wanted because I suspected an ulterior motive.

"I don't want anything, I just felt like doing chores"

I hear the soundtrack from Twilight Zone and now I'm REALLY scared!

End Of The World

2009-09-03T05:15:00.002-05:00

I think the world is going to end...Cody has done his homework 2 nights in a row.

Maybe he actually listened to me over the summer...nah!

I hope I didn't jinx it by mentioning it!!!

Quick somebody knock on wood!

Have You Missed Devil Dog?

2009-08-31T09:52:00.004-05:00

I know I haven't posted lately about Devil Dog, but trust me...she has been busy!
Let's start with her ball playing! Notice the baseball? My boys don't play baseball (but the neighbor's boy does).

Now let's move on to the craters she dug all over the yard. To be fair though, the other dogs have helped quite a bit.

Remember Devil Dog and the greenhouse? Well, she moved on to the irrigation system that Mr. Plantfreak set up. We had to remove the entire thing!

This is our kitten Jasper I found in the woods with DD covered in slobber and mud. He took three days to recuperate. DD said she was just playing. Hmph!

Here is the first shoe DD brought home. I don't even know where there is a little girl around here. DD is such a dang thief!

And yet another one! Not to mention the men's sandal that I found down the driveway. My friend Priscilla says I should put out a lost and found box at the end of the driveway. Good idea but then they will know who took their stuff. DD just might get herself shot one of these days!

Guilty Pleasures

2009-08-28T05:17:00.002-05:00

My guilty pleasures are E Online for celebrity gossip, and two reality shows... Design Star and Project Runway. I absoluely love watching other peoples creativity!

Last night was the second night of Project Runway and the talent is amazing! Even the people they sent home were really good, just a little bizarre. Last night, the designers had to design a maternity outfit for a celebrity (Rebecca Romjin). Malvin, who was sent home, took the concept of fertility to the avian route. He designed a top that alluded to a mother hen and resulting egg. Sorry, I couldn't find a picture. Poor Malvin, the golden rule is "Never make a pregnant woman feel like a chicken with an egg!"

Needless to say the egg idea did not go over well with a panel of all women judges, and Malvin seemed stunned to be eliminated. Too bad, I would like to see what else he can do.

First Day Of School

2009-08-25T07:22:00.002-05:00

Hooray! Another year of aggravation! Cody started early this year too. I bought basic supplies for him weeks ago to get ahead of the game, only to have him inform me he did not want the fancy binder I bought him. He refused to take it to school, and instead went with no paper, just a pen. So he rode the bus home instead of me picking him up. He could have told me he didn't like the binder 3 weeks ago, instead he waits until the day of school. Turns out he needed a ton of other things for each teacher...I hate school supply lists!

Down At The River

2009-08-18T06:50:00.002-05:00

Grandpa Sute sent me these pictures before the big computer crash.
It's Hannah, Rudy, and Abbey fetching a stick at the river.

I'm surprised that they can all fit on there.

Can't tell who is who in this picture.

It sure seems to me that Abbey has become one of the family! Look at her smile!