For the three people who read about my life and maybe find it interesting I have more to document about our water pipe breaking from last September. Recapping: we had weird smells in the front room. Then found the carpet totally soaked, water was RUNNING down a crack near the west wall. We were without water for 6 weeks because the plumber we hired (family) had more jobs "in line in front of us" (bull just more lucrative) 90% water redo and a call to a contractor. He advised us to wait the winter out for "settling of the dust" so to speak.
I put it off for 2 months when it got warm. I just didn't want to hear that the insurance company was weaseling out of fixing things that were wrong. But I put on my big girl panties and got the ball rolling.
Contractor came back out and did a recap. FINALLY got in touch with the head insurance adjuster when I told him our front door wasn't shutting anymore. It would just bang on the frame and bounce open.
We replace the door, but it is still 20% unfixed. Like all projects around here.
The insurance company sent an engineer out yesterday. He spent 5 hours walking around our house and taking pictures. He kept asking me questions in a way that made me feel like he didn't believe that we have never had damage in the house before. We haven't. He finally left around 7 and the only piece of info that I could get out of him was that he has seen worse and they probably won't total out the house.
I don't know if I feel sad or relieved.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
A little Hard Work does a body good. Kid, you are NOT entitled to everything or most things.
I am quoting an article from Meridian Magazine , "A sense of entitlement (which is the polar opposite of a sense of responsibility) is endemic among children today.
It is fostered by our demanding, narcissistic society where wants are confused with needs and where everyone seems focused on the notion that he deserves what everyone else has. Gone are the days when kids expected to have to work for something, even for acclaim. Everyone gets a trophy now, everyone is recognized, and everyone is special.
Kids grow up in a reality-show world, thinking of themselves as the central character on the stage. They have a facebook page, they are famous in their own minds, they are like rock stars, and to them there is no room (and no need) for true emotional empathy, or self examination, or personal responsibility. Nor is there much incentive or motivation to learn to work.
And they think they are entitled not to have limits or boundaries or discipline."
Today we had an attitude adjustment. Scott came home and K's attitude was bad. Working outside helped it out. It was hard for me to watch: not that I am a softy by any means. In fact, the other day at the park I was called the "Meanest Lady He had EVER Met". Ya me. But Scott made sure the attitude adjustment was real. It had to push past a boundary. And that is what dad's are good for.
And, you know what? she didn't die, she was pleasant all day and she did get to go swimming after her hard work.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Good-bye Ferdinand, Hello hamburger
Yesterday we fed the steer for the last time. Ferdinand is our first calf. He was so lazy when we was born that if I hadn't fed him with a bottle for the first 48 hours, he wouldn't have lived. He just didn't have the oompa to get up and even eat. Later we tried to rope him, but he was the only steer who walked out of the box. Saunder out like a he was visiting the king. He has earned his name in every way.
For those of you who have seen Mickey Mouse cartoons he is just like the cartoon with Ferdinand the bull who would rather wear a wreath than bull fight.
As we drove through Concho, I see him sniffing the air and looking around. It was a little sad to know that his enjoyable ride would be his last. Then we pull into Pinetop to the butchers place. It was in a little subdivision off Porter Mtn. Road. Scott backed up to the pen, opened gate and Ferdinand jumped out.
He will be hung for about 10 days and then turned into all the good steaks in the world, roasts, and hamburger. Scott wanted the tongue, but ugghhh. I don't want that nasty thing in my freezer.
Today, I will be cleaning out the freezer waiting the arrival of Hamburger.
For those of you who have seen Mickey Mouse cartoons he is just like the cartoon with Ferdinand the bull who would rather wear a wreath than bull fight.
As we drove through Concho, I see him sniffing the air and looking around. It was a little sad to know that his enjoyable ride would be his last. Then we pull into Pinetop to the butchers place. It was in a little subdivision off Porter Mtn. Road. Scott backed up to the pen, opened gate and Ferdinand jumped out.
He will be hung for about 10 days and then turned into all the good steaks in the world, roasts, and hamburger. Scott wanted the tongue, but ugghhh. I don't want that nasty thing in my freezer.
Today, I will be cleaning out the freezer waiting the arrival of Hamburger.
Dreamed of Hawaii last night
Thursday, June 23, 2011
What it takes to lose the last 10 lbs.
You should really go and read trainer momma at the bottom of my page. I have been trying to loose a couple of inches if I get the last 10 or 15 lbs off i wouldn't complain.
I didn't like what she had to say because it was so hard hard hard. :(
It will test all that I have in me to do it, but I have been trying to get it off for 2 years so her suggestions are welcome.
I didn't like what she had to say because it was so hard hard hard. :(
It will test all that I have in me to do it, but I have been trying to get it off for 2 years so her suggestions are welcome.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Little League Dinner Success!
At the beginning of our season Scott told his LL BB boys that we would have a BBQ at the end of the season. Tuesday was the night it was scheduled. Aaron and Tracy Sherwood graciously allowed us to use their new and improved backyard as the location. They should rent it out for events to re-coop the cost of all their up-grades and it seems a shame that everyone can't see how Tracey really worked her tail off. So beautiful.
The backyard was to die for. Tracy really has done a wonderful thing. It was just a piece of a fairy tale heaven. Loved it.
The kids had a blast. Scott was the master cook. We had tons of food, music, and a good time. We ate the typical BBQ eats. (But I was good and didn't pig out yea me)
After dinner we had awards ceremony. Each boy got a trophy for the year. Again- we had the Sherwoods to thank for that. You should have seen the smiles on each boy's face as his name was called. Each face would light up in happy anticipation and joy. It was priceless.
The Kings were our assistant coaches who did a bang up job. Life couldn't have happened with out them. They were so dedicated. I really loved getting to know them both. I wish them well and hope they will be with us again next year. I hope they like the gift we gave them. :)
The only sad thing about the night was the missing boys: Dallas, Jacob, Cannon, and Bubba. I wish their families would have joined us in the night of fun. It was typical for them to be missing: three of them had missed 1/2 their practices and 3 of their games. In fact, we had to forfeit the last two games because we didn't have enough players. I wanted them to be there because now I feel sorry for those missing boys for not getting a trophy- I am sure they were not the ones wanting to miss games and this dinner. We missed each one when they weren't at games- they were assets to our team. But you can't have it perfect, I guess. I just hope those boys and their families have successful baseball seasons next year with their new coach. One mother sure did struggle with having Scott as a coach. Hope she is happier next year.
I hope through the disappointments, tears, and struggles that they saw success as we did. I know that everyone has a different style and that those styles are not bad. Some of the boys got to learn that a loud gruff voice isn't angry :) and that having practice a lot means faster successes.
It wasn't perfect,and some of the parents were hard to work with-but it is still something that Scott said he probably would do next year. WOW good for us, I hope. We grew to appreciate and even love those boys over the season. It is so exciting to see the growth and potential that they have demonstrated as the season went by. I am most amazed at the ones who did't come to everything, but still grew as ball players; it was exciting to watch. We sure will miss them I can tell you.
May all those little boys have dreams of the Major leagues at night!
The backyard was to die for. Tracy really has done a wonderful thing. It was just a piece of a fairy tale heaven. Loved it.
The kids had a blast. Scott was the master cook. We had tons of food, music, and a good time. We ate the typical BBQ eats. (But I was good and didn't pig out yea me)
After dinner we had awards ceremony. Each boy got a trophy for the year. Again- we had the Sherwoods to thank for that. You should have seen the smiles on each boy's face as his name was called. Each face would light up in happy anticipation and joy. It was priceless.
The Kings were our assistant coaches who did a bang up job. Life couldn't have happened with out them. They were so dedicated. I really loved getting to know them both. I wish them well and hope they will be with us again next year. I hope they like the gift we gave them. :)
The only sad thing about the night was the missing boys: Dallas, Jacob, Cannon, and Bubba. I wish their families would have joined us in the night of fun. It was typical for them to be missing: three of them had missed 1/2 their practices and 3 of their games. In fact, we had to forfeit the last two games because we didn't have enough players. I wanted them to be there because now I feel sorry for those missing boys for not getting a trophy- I am sure they were not the ones wanting to miss games and this dinner. We missed each one when they weren't at games- they were assets to our team. But you can't have it perfect, I guess. I just hope those boys and their families have successful baseball seasons next year with their new coach. One mother sure did struggle with having Scott as a coach. Hope she is happier next year.
I hope through the disappointments, tears, and struggles that they saw success as we did. I know that everyone has a different style and that those styles are not bad. Some of the boys got to learn that a loud gruff voice isn't angry :) and that having practice a lot means faster successes.
It wasn't perfect,and some of the parents were hard to work with-but it is still something that Scott said he probably would do next year. WOW good for us, I hope. We grew to appreciate and even love those boys over the season. It is so exciting to see the growth and potential that they have demonstrated as the season went by. I am most amazed at the ones who did't come to everything, but still grew as ball players; it was exciting to watch. We sure will miss them I can tell you.
May all those little boys have dreams of the Major leagues at night!
Monday, June 20, 2011
A Father's Day to Die For
I am not so good at doing the whole over the top recognition of events. Heck, I don't even recognize. (I once worked for a builder who thought it was a great moral builder to sing and have a company dance with a big yellow dancing chicken and pins and Crap... it was painful and I am glad I had the experience so that teaching was so much more appealing than that well paying job)
And so it was Father's day. I had bought Mr Darcy gifts- which we didn't give him because I thought that the shirts we now dumb and would be
A. mocked or B. not worn.
neither of the options I wanted to face. BTW- I am a crappy gift buyer/giver too. What a great combo in a wife and mom.
I did LET Mr D sleep in (he does what he wants).
I did make him his favorite breakfast- but I had to substitute sausage for bacon because I will not pay 6 $ at Wilbur's for bacon AND... we were out of potatoes so the hash browns were missing from the favorite breakfast. So, you could say, I didn't let him starve.
I warmed up his burrito from the night before and brought it to him to eat (which I would have normally done)
I did let him go to church and ditch out after sacrament. I didn't make him take the father's day gifts.
I did let him go to Home depot to buy the rest of the supplies for our door that due to the flood of '10, had stopped shutting and would blow open unless you put bricks behind it.
I did let him pick the restaurant to eat at and then suggest Native New Yorker and then be mad at the prices and the quality of food. (I was mad not him)
I did let him finish out the door he started the day before so that snakes wouldn't crawl in.
I did applaud him when he finished around 10.
It might be more of a day than I got.
I got to make my own Mother's day dinner, take the kids to church by myself while Hubs worked overtime. I feel bad about his day. I am a dud. :)
And so it was Father's day. I had bought Mr Darcy gifts- which we didn't give him because I thought that the shirts we now dumb and would be
A. mocked or B. not worn.
neither of the options I wanted to face. BTW- I am a crappy gift buyer/giver too. What a great combo in a wife and mom.
I did LET Mr D sleep in (he does what he wants).
I did make him his favorite breakfast- but I had to substitute sausage for bacon because I will not pay 6 $ at Wilbur's for bacon AND... we were out of potatoes so the hash browns were missing from the favorite breakfast. So, you could say, I didn't let him starve.
I warmed up his burrito from the night before and brought it to him to eat (which I would have normally done)
I did let him go to church and ditch out after sacrament. I didn't make him take the father's day gifts.
I did let him go to Home depot to buy the rest of the supplies for our door that due to the flood of '10, had stopped shutting and would blow open unless you put bricks behind it.
I did let him pick the restaurant to eat at and then suggest Native New Yorker and then be mad at the prices and the quality of food. (I was mad not him)
I did let him finish out the door he started the day before so that snakes wouldn't crawl in.
I did applaud him when he finished around 10.
It might be more of a day than I got.
I got to make my own Mother's day dinner, take the kids to church by myself while Hubs worked overtime. I feel bad about his day. I am a dud. :)
L to J Teaching ideas
Last year I was so pumped for L to J. Then the baby got a fever for exactly three days- the same number as the conference So bummed.
This year was the recap. I went even though I struggled with L to J and didn't relly do any of it right. I had to start. I am glad I went. I can do this. I now realize it is NOT a way to teach. It is a way to track the key concepts I am teaching. And not all the key concepts at a time.
So, I borrowed the English book on L to J. Going to read it all and then come up with a list of all the key terms I think a freshman should know. Then I am going to go teach like I do. Except I will add the L to J random test tracker element to see how well they did. Also, I am going to find the 8th grade Lit teacher to see what key terms are her favorite and what she hits hard- because I will not do those except as questions in review.
I gotta start somewhere. Then after I do all this, I will probably get moved to Seniors. Ha for me.
This year was the recap. I went even though I struggled with L to J and didn't relly do any of it right. I had to start. I am glad I went. I can do this. I now realize it is NOT a way to teach. It is a way to track the key concepts I am teaching. And not all the key concepts at a time.
So, I borrowed the English book on L to J. Going to read it all and then come up with a list of all the key terms I think a freshman should know. Then I am going to go teach like I do. Except I will add the L to J random test tracker element to see how well they did. Also, I am going to find the 8th grade Lit teacher to see what key terms are her favorite and what she hits hard- because I will not do those except as questions in review.
I gotta start somewhere. Then after I do all this, I will probably get moved to Seniors. Ha for me.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Rolls of little sausages
The evening of the early morning sock episode came to a head when my oldest child asked her dad "why do you have your church socks on?"
My faced did the scrunched up and then an eye roll. Oh, heavens, really? She had to ask. I cringed, as I walked casually to the couch where the socks and things to be rolled were left. I didn't even look his direction as I pretend not to hear their conversation. I wanted to appear that I was now ready to fold socks instead of the conversation spurring me to do so.
"Because I couldn't find any socks; your mom didn't do socks." he replied. And thank heavens for my kids, because they replied in a chorus, "Uhh Huuhhh, we found more when we were folding our clothes.'
(Ahh.... So, grasshopper, the student has become the master?) Your kids are telling you to look better.
"You just didn't look hard enough, daddy." was another comment.
I just kept rolling socks and undies. I smiled while my back was turned to him. So, he didn't endure the sweaty foot-ed-ness for the day. AND he really didn't have to wear church socks.
I am not as lazy as some people think I am at 5:00 in the morning. Ha.
My faced did the scrunched up and then an eye roll. Oh, heavens, really? She had to ask. I cringed, as I walked casually to the couch where the socks and things to be rolled were left. I didn't even look his direction as I pretend not to hear their conversation. I wanted to appear that I was now ready to fold socks instead of the conversation spurring me to do so.
"Because I couldn't find any socks; your mom didn't do socks." he replied. And thank heavens for my kids, because they replied in a chorus, "Uhh Huuhhh, we found more when we were folding our clothes.'
(Ahh.... So, grasshopper, the student has become the master?) Your kids are telling you to look better.
"You just didn't look hard enough, daddy." was another comment.
I just kept rolling socks and undies. I smiled while my back was turned to him. So, he didn't endure the sweaty foot-ed-ness for the day. AND he really didn't have to wear church socks.
I am not as lazy as some people think I am at 5:00 in the morning. Ha.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
I am as fearless as a .... Chicken
Yesterday afternoon I went into the local drs office to get the second round of my back shots- Prolo-therapy. I was fearless. I had spoken to Tobi O earlier about the same shots and she said the more aggressive the shots are the better they work.
I am A- FRAID of shots, needles, and scary liquid that burns/hurts/feels weird. I think I am the only adult in SJ that has gotten kicked out of a blood drive for being a baby, but I was determined. After sitting in the waiting room for an hour ( even went home gave a kid a hair cut and came back) and waiting in the room for another 45 minutes. (Can we reschedule you? No, these are monthly shots, I can't wait) I saw the dr. I tried to be short and sweet because I had waited so long.
I was fearless.
Until the shots came.
I started sweating.
Why did they turn off the air? Was the room getting smaller? No? Just ME? Huh...
I began doubting my ferocity. As I lay on my back, I was thinking about the flab around the middle as my lower back and upper bum was exposed. Thinking about my flab kept my mind occupied until I jumped at the pin pricks. My mind swung back and forth from those two thoughts like Tarzan traveling on vines.
It really wasn't bad, I guess. The needle felt like sticking a sewing pin into your bum, hip, and back. The serum was weird like hitting your funny bone or knee cap. But once in a while they felt as if they were hitting a nerve-bad. But this time he found the root of my back pain and went for it.
I told him I changed my mind about the aggressive nature of the shots. He chuckled,and said he could do a third syringe If I wanted.
Ugghh. Nope, I am good. And with that, I was out of there at 5:19-two hours later from the time I first walked in.
I will see him next month. I will pretend to want the same level of aggressive, but this morning as my back and hip are sore from the 15 shots, I am not sure I can be fearless. It is more like the chicken who crossed the road. She did it to get away from the needles.
I am A- FRAID of shots, needles, and scary liquid that burns/hurts/feels weird. I think I am the only adult in SJ that has gotten kicked out of a blood drive for being a baby, but I was determined. After sitting in the waiting room for an hour ( even went home gave a kid a hair cut and came back) and waiting in the room for another 45 minutes. (Can we reschedule you? No, these are monthly shots, I can't wait) I saw the dr. I tried to be short and sweet because I had waited so long.
I was fearless.
Until the shots came.
I started sweating.
Why did they turn off the air? Was the room getting smaller? No? Just ME? Huh...
I began doubting my ferocity. As I lay on my back, I was thinking about the flab around the middle as my lower back and upper bum was exposed. Thinking about my flab kept my mind occupied until I jumped at the pin pricks. My mind swung back and forth from those two thoughts like Tarzan traveling on vines.
It really wasn't bad, I guess. The needle felt like sticking a sewing pin into your bum, hip, and back. The serum was weird like hitting your funny bone or knee cap. But once in a while they felt as if they were hitting a nerve-bad. But this time he found the root of my back pain and went for it.
I told him I changed my mind about the aggressive nature of the shots. He chuckled,and said he could do a third syringe If I wanted.
Ugghh. Nope, I am good. And with that, I was out of there at 5:19-two hours later from the time I first walked in.
I will see him next month. I will pretend to want the same level of aggressive, but this morning as my back and hip are sore from the 15 shots, I am not sure I can be fearless. It is more like the chicken who crossed the road. She did it to get away from the needles.
I don't want to Brag
When people ask me about my summer. I don't want to brag. It seems so mean to those who are still working during the summer. Many people would never teach school (especially when then find out the pay), but I think it is a wonderful trade off.
I happen to have a pretty good boss who is very understanding about being a mom and going to plays and things for the kids. He also is really busy doing my thing, and I think he trusts me to do mine, so he doesn't lord over me every minute of my day.
I am the master of my domain - all square inch of my classroom and what I say goes.
But SUMMER oh how I love Summer. Summer is everything good from getting a tan, going to the pool, working in the yard getting dishes done on time and watching my kids fight. :) I don't think I could stay at home all the time, there is a lot of pressure in that job too, but just having a 2.5 month taste of it is glorious.
How is my summer going- it is awesome!
I happen to have a pretty good boss who is very understanding about being a mom and going to plays and things for the kids. He also is really busy doing my thing, and I think he trusts me to do mine, so he doesn't lord over me every minute of my day.
I am the master of my domain - all square inch of my classroom and what I say goes.
But SUMMER oh how I love Summer. Summer is everything good from getting a tan, going to the pool, working in the yard getting dishes done on time and watching my kids fight. :) I don't think I could stay at home all the time, there is a lot of pressure in that job too, but just having a 2.5 month taste of it is glorious.
How is my summer going- it is awesome!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
When you only have one sock it is going to be a bad day
Two days ago Mr Darcy ranted that I never do laundry. Never? really, I wonder then what are the piles of things that people have yet to dig through, fold or gotten rid of out of my Laundry Room. because frankly, they are taking up some serious space.
Today, he could only find one sock. One. I remembered that I didn't do whites on Monday like usual, but I did last week. How could the man with 3 weeks worth of socks only have one sock?
I don't know either and he left mad for work. I have yet to look through two couches of clean unfolded laundry to find the mate- an hour after he has gone to work. Just not worth saying I told you so to a sleeping house.
I am slightly curious if he has one one sock only to make a point or if he wore church socks to work. If I text him the results could be disastrous.
Today, he could only find one sock. One. I remembered that I didn't do whites on Monday like usual, but I did last week. How could the man with 3 weeks worth of socks only have one sock?
I don't know either and he left mad for work. I have yet to look through two couches of clean unfolded laundry to find the mate- an hour after he has gone to work. Just not worth saying I told you so to a sleeping house.
I am slightly curious if he has one one sock only to make a point or if he wore church socks to work. If I text him the results could be disastrous.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Contemplating the Universe and the Fire clouds
The wind picked up AGAIN around 11 yesterday which wasn't good for the fire containment. They were doing all they could to save houses in RV. A freind's dad's house became the lookout tower because it was tall and build into a mountain. It made the news. :) We drove back from the ball game around 7; the fire clouds burned a scarlet, brilliant red. It was depressing.
I have not been directly affected by the fire, but I still feel like a wrung out dishtowel. Yesterday in the afternoon, I couldn't shake it. It was still with me after the kids' ball game. I decided I needed to work and so I went to the barn to do the nightly chores myself. I cried a little, I prayed a lot and tried to get myself back straight again.
Because:
I feel I have 2 choices. A. not believe in God and this still will happen and I will not be able to make sense of it all alone. Not that smart.
or B. Trust in the Lord, remember the atonement wasn't just for sins but all pain, ask "What can I learn , what can I do and Help me have faith" instead of "Why me why us why this".
I am picking B.
The red in the clouds was magnificent and beautiful.
I have not been directly affected by the fire, but I still feel like a wrung out dishtowel. Yesterday in the afternoon, I couldn't shake it. It was still with me after the kids' ball game. I decided I needed to work and so I went to the barn to do the nightly chores myself. I cried a little, I prayed a lot and tried to get myself back straight again.
Because:
I feel I have 2 choices. A. not believe in God and this still will happen and I will not be able to make sense of it all alone. Not that smart.
or B. Trust in the Lord, remember the atonement wasn't just for sins but all pain, ask "What can I learn , what can I do and Help me have faith" instead of "Why me why us why this".
I am picking B.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
wesmcb.com
I am going to pass on this blog address listed above. It is a family blog turned great info source for the Wallow fire. It is ran by a volunteer cousin of mine, Wes McBride. He is an amazing computer techno wiz (yes you are) and has spent so much of his time, money and efforts in helping our White Mtn. family stay together. I love the spirit of helping and giving we have here. Love all you guys.
Some highlights that really should be called lowlights: Eagar is mandatory evac. I think it is only the south side, but really it should be all Round Valley. If you look at Wes' conversation with a fire expert, you will see that it so close. At the closest it is as far as Patterson's pond is from my house.
Later they had a town meeting and someone mentioned that the fire was a mile and a half from somewhere I couldn't understand. That is to the Oversons or the Wiltbanks from my house. WOW wow wow.
And on an unrelated note: the baby jumped off the the tramp and landed on her back . She is ok... just stunned. Nothing an ice pack or medicine can't fix.
Some highlights that really should be called lowlights: Eagar is mandatory evac. I think it is only the south side, but really it should be all Round Valley. If you look at Wes' conversation with a fire expert, you will see that it so close. At the closest it is as far as Patterson's pond is from my house.
Later they had a town meeting and someone mentioned that the fire was a mile and a half from somewhere I couldn't understand. That is to the Oversons or the Wiltbanks from my house. WOW wow wow.
And on an unrelated note: the baby jumped off the the tramp and landed on her back . She is ok... just stunned. Nothing an ice pack or medicine can't fix.
24 hours shifts, extra horses, and blue skies
A quick note of random happenings: the horrid wind died down around dusk last night and as I was feeding animals in the dark at 9 there were stars in the sky-even when I looked back towards Round Valley. We had extra horses from friends who had dropped them off during Wes' ball game. I thought they would come back to stay with us, but never did.
Scott finally was home around 12. He will have to go back and be there by 6. Many guys from RV are taking off to save what they can- they estimated at last night's meeting that there was a 48 hour window to evac before the fire got to town and even though the others will be paid, they are still sacrificing time, family, sleep and etc. The most I can do as a good wife is support my hubs as he supports the job and co-workers. So no getting naggy at bad behavior until things get right.
At 5 this morning skies are blue and the only clouds are along the eastern horizon below our back yard tree line. I walked out to the end of our drive and peered through the snaggle of elms to see the smoke line. It is still tinged yellow/red and is most concentrated where RV would be. I don't smell the sick dead fire smoke smell and even the birds are cooing in the morning.
Good signs but I know things can turn on a dime and someone said we will probably be battling this fire until the monsoons when we will begin to battle the mudslide aftermath.
*sigh*
Scott finally was home around 12. He will have to go back and be there by 6. Many guys from RV are taking off to save what they can- they estimated at last night's meeting that there was a 48 hour window to evac before the fire got to town and even though the others will be paid, they are still sacrificing time, family, sleep and etc. The most I can do as a good wife is support my hubs as he supports the job and co-workers. So no getting naggy at bad behavior until things get right.
At 5 this morning skies are blue and the only clouds are along the eastern horizon below our back yard tree line. I walked out to the end of our drive and peered through the snaggle of elms to see the smoke line. It is still tinged yellow/red and is most concentrated where RV would be. I don't smell the sick dead fire smoke smell and even the birds are cooing in the morning.
Good signs but I know things can turn on a dime and someone said we will probably be battling this fire until the monsoons when we will begin to battle the mudslide aftermath.
*sigh*
Monday, June 6, 2011
Lorax, Theeds and the Once-ler
Somewhere in the 70's progress met environmentalism. Environmentalism won and so we did less and less controlled burns, roads to get to "nowhere" and population regulation. Everyone cheered about the forests going back to nature and how that awful man was not being allowed to ruin the forests.
What we allowed (were forced) to happen was the opposite of what the Once-ler did. Maybe it is all Dr. Seuss' fault for putting the vision of the dying forests in my generation's heads. For now instead of lowly little BarBarloots in their Barbaloot suits leaving their ruined forest in a sad endless trail downtrodden masses, we have our downtrodden masses of homeless families slowly leaving their smoke filled homes. http://youtu.be/lzYRkGIQpOs
The Lorax mentality of "I SPEAK FOR THE TREES" has done this to us. All the mismanaged, red-tape antihunting, anti-touching the forest mentality has outlawed roads, cutting permits and logging in the name of some "real" BarBarloots (like Mexican grey wolves). I even saw an article this week reporting on how the fires were affect the wolves. WOW. Yea, they ARE the real victims here. They have no where else to go poor things.
The real answer is moderation in all things. Man isn't the enemy and today is totally a victim. I wish all those who voted for less management would lose what we have lost this week.
What we allowed (were forced) to happen was the opposite of what the Once-ler did. Maybe it is all Dr. Seuss' fault for putting the vision of the dying forests in my generation's heads. For now instead of lowly little BarBarloots in their Barbaloot suits leaving their ruined forest in a sad endless trail downtrodden masses, we have our downtrodden masses of homeless families slowly leaving their smoke filled homes. http://youtu.be/lzYRkGIQpOs
The Lorax mentality of "I SPEAK FOR THE TREES" has done this to us. All the mismanaged, red-tape antihunting, anti-touching the forest mentality has outlawed roads, cutting permits and logging in the name of some "real" BarBarloots (like Mexican grey wolves). I even saw an article this week reporting on how the fires were affect the wolves. WOW. Yea, they ARE the real victims here. They have no where else to go poor things.
The real answer is moderation in all things. Man isn't the enemy and today is totally a victim. I wish all those who voted for less management would lose what we have lost this week.
Life marches on.
Even though the smoke is the worst yet, life still happens and faith grows and we just ... do. What else to do but keep busy.
I was going to throw the thing she has nested on away: I will wait
closer shot. Nature is still busy recreating life
I wanted to see how many time I could take her picture and how close
baby bird left after the mom flew away
crazy sun
same shot but pulled the lens back a little
Hanging In there 6.6.11 Worst smoke morning yet
6 am 6.6.11 in my back yard
I went outside in the early morning: my favorite time and was hit with a wave of old stink and this view. My neighbors orchird is 1/4 mile from my barn. I can't see them.
sunrise red
pink glow above a red small cold sun
Saturday, June 4, 2011
6/4 about 3 PM Wallow Fire Smoke in SJ
I drove down the road and took some pics again. The smoke has changed for the 3rd time today.
at different times of the day, the smoke was being blown into town and at others it was being blown towards Sanders.
Saturday Jun 4th St. Johns: A day of faith, A day of heartache
I heard the fire was 5 miles from Springerville. My family in RV is packed and ready to evac if needed. I am so sad for the loss of our mountains. It has really hit me hard this morning about the loss. I know most people will be ok and we will recover. I pray that we all are praying for divine intervention of rain or something good to come from this all.
Lord protect us from ourselves. I keep reminding myself that the Lord has a plan.
Lord protect us from ourselves. I keep reminding myself that the Lord has a plan.
Around 8 AM outside our back porch: the sun was barely orange
A view from a parking lot: for you SJ-ers, this is the backside of the Padilla/Crosby places. No visibility past the road. Can't see the Davis place or anything in the horizon. The smoke smell was strong, eye-burning.
SJ High School District office and Tennis Courts. As you can see (not see) past the tree-line going to the JR high.
Another SJ photo: the Issacsons' hill and can't see beyond about 1/2 a mile as the crow flies. I was on the corner of 24th and 15 for these photos about 8:45.
Down N24th West street about 9:30 AM 6/4. Again, on the corner of 24th and 15th.
In Round Valley visibility is about 3 houses. They have not been evac'ed yet, but waiting. Check out inciweb.com for more information and horrific beauty in the photos.
**later** the wind picked up and blew some of the smoke out toward Sanders. I can see blue sky where in the pictures above 2 hours earlier, I couldn't. This is a mixed blessing. Windy days means more acres burned. It also means less smoke in the low lying areas.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Fire and Faith
It would be nice to just be angry and the thoughtless ones who began the fire journey.
It is especially tempting when we have family and friends and associates who are even more worried than I am- living 35 more miles away from the scene of fear. I can't imagine what families in Alpine, Nutri, and Round Valley are experiencing. I see the clouds billowing up over the mountain tops and wonder how many acres it is burning right now and why it can't be contained and why the Lord is allowing this to happen.
At times like these that threaten my life with gut wrenching fear and worry, I have to listen to the still small voice of reason and faith to stay afloat, alive, and functioning. I have never had fire threaten my home, but I do face my own raging fires from time to time. I don't handle them well. I let them so preoccupy me and my physical self that I don't hear the spiritual self getting answers to my desperate pleas.
In calm times I can remind myself that fire helps regrowth even if you can't see it for a while. Fire helps grasses grow and there are certain types of trees that can't drop their seeds without fire. This fire is awful, but there is symbolism in it that I have been thinking about for the last few days.
Just like in our lives when we have a fire that seems to destroy everything we cherish, what can it help regrow? I follow NeiNei dialogues and I see the effects of fire in their lives and faith. It is awful and yet in her almost 30 year-old-life she has some amazing things too. I have seen such faith, out pouring of love and insights into the human mind that it helps me. I haven't had a big "fire" in my life for a while, just day to day stuff that can wear me down and make me forget what I am trying to accomplish. I hope I am not due for another rager burning through my life like 50,00 destroyed acres. I hope my little fires can push me along to that refiners fire as well. I seem to be able to handle the need to be ever watchful day to day more so than I can long bouts of evergreen and then a burn out.
And so we live by faith. What else can I do when it gets so bad I don't know how to fix it? One of our goals in life is personal growth and and attainment. I found some peace and faith in what Elder Richard G Scott was inspired to say on the subject.
"God has given us the capacity to exercise faith, that we may find peace, joy, and purpose in life. However, to employ its power, faith must be founded on something...God uses your faith to mold your character...character is the manifestation of what you are becoming. Strong moral character results from consistent correct choices in the trials and testing of life. Your faith can guide you to those correct choices. Clearly, it is what you do and what you think about that determine what you are and what you will become...Faith will forge strength of character available to you in times of urgent need. Such character is not developed in moments of great challenge or temptation. That is when it is used...Why worry about future calamities or uncertainties over which you have no control? ...When challenges and testing do come, your faith will lead you to solutions. Your peace of mind, your assurance of answers to vexing problems, your ultimate joy depend upon your trust in Heavenly Father and His Son, "
He said it so well. May I be the answer to someone's needs during this time of crisis.
It is especially tempting when we have family and friends and associates who are even more worried than I am- living 35 more miles away from the scene of fear. I can't imagine what families in Alpine, Nutri, and Round Valley are experiencing. I see the clouds billowing up over the mountain tops and wonder how many acres it is burning right now and why it can't be contained and why the Lord is allowing this to happen.
At times like these that threaten my life with gut wrenching fear and worry, I have to listen to the still small voice of reason and faith to stay afloat, alive, and functioning. I have never had fire threaten my home, but I do face my own raging fires from time to time. I don't handle them well. I let them so preoccupy me and my physical self that I don't hear the spiritual self getting answers to my desperate pleas.
In calm times I can remind myself that fire helps regrowth even if you can't see it for a while. Fire helps grasses grow and there are certain types of trees that can't drop their seeds without fire. This fire is awful, but there is symbolism in it that I have been thinking about for the last few days.
Just like in our lives when we have a fire that seems to destroy everything we cherish, what can it help regrow? I follow NeiNei dialogues and I see the effects of fire in their lives and faith. It is awful and yet in her almost 30 year-old-life she has some amazing things too. I have seen such faith, out pouring of love and insights into the human mind that it helps me. I haven't had a big "fire" in my life for a while, just day to day stuff that can wear me down and make me forget what I am trying to accomplish. I hope I am not due for another rager burning through my life like 50,00 destroyed acres. I hope my little fires can push me along to that refiners fire as well. I seem to be able to handle the need to be ever watchful day to day more so than I can long bouts of evergreen and then a burn out.
And so we live by faith. What else can I do when it gets so bad I don't know how to fix it? One of our goals in life is personal growth and and attainment. I found some peace and faith in what Elder Richard G Scott was inspired to say on the subject.
"God has given us the capacity to exercise faith, that we may find peace, joy, and purpose in life. However, to employ its power, faith must be founded on something...God uses your faith to mold your character...character is the manifestation of what you are becoming. Strong moral character results from consistent correct choices in the trials and testing of life. Your faith can guide you to those correct choices. Clearly, it is what you do and what you think about that determine what you are and what you will become...Faith will forge strength of character available to you in times of urgent need. Such character is not developed in moments of great challenge or temptation. That is when it is used...Why worry about future calamities or uncertainties over which you have no control? ...When challenges and testing do come, your faith will lead you to solutions. Your peace of mind, your assurance of answers to vexing problems, your ultimate joy depend upon your trust in Heavenly Father and His Son, "
He said it so well. May I be the answer to someone's needs during this time of crisis.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
A run that was almost fun
Personal best mile for me 9:37. Found a groove and ran the whole time. I almost don't hate running.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
A gift that cost me money
Awhile ago my darling Mr Darcy ( and usually he is so so Mr Darcy for me) went hunting and used the truck I usually drive as his huntin truck. I guess I didn't clean it out well enough because when he came back with a deer, empty Vienna weenie cans and pop tart boxes, I found also ONE blue denim high heeled shoe.
ONE.
Mr Darcy kept quiet about said shoe and let me look and wonder where I put IT.
Somehow later he or his friend said the mate got ran over one day, but they didn't know about it until the next day when they were back at the same place, saw a ruined heel and though "HUMM" really? they knew.
So I said he owed me two pair of heels to make up for the loss. One pair to replace the shoes and one for the "lie".
And so one day in May Mr Darcy showed me shoes all beautiful and bought me two pair so quickly that my head spun. Love them. But I wonder how much I really love them now.
Because the bill was on my statement this month and not his.
Tricky, very tricky.
I will show him how tricky I can be at getting my money back out of him.
ONE.
Mr Darcy kept quiet about said shoe and let me look and wonder where I put IT.
Somehow later he or his friend said the mate got ran over one day, but they didn't know about it until the next day when they were back at the same place, saw a ruined heel and though "HUMM" really? they knew.
So I said he owed me two pair of heels to make up for the loss. One pair to replace the shoes and one for the "lie".
And so one day in May Mr Darcy showed me shoes all beautiful and bought me two pair so quickly that my head spun. Love them. But I wonder how much I really love them now.
Because the bill was on my statement this month and not his.
Tricky, very tricky.
I will show him how tricky I can be at getting my money back out of him.
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