Life in the McLeod Lane

We will miss you Ernie

2009-12-08T17:18:00.000-08:00

This past Monday, we sadly had to put our beloved Ernie to sleep. Over the course of the past couple weeks we noticed that he wasn't the same. Two weeks ago we were at the the emergency vet on a Saturday night. After numerous tests, they were not quite sure what was wrong with him. The following day we went to our vet and after another round of tests and x-rays, they discovered Big Ern was suffering from congestive heart failure and fluid on his lungs and heart. The vet gave us hope that he could make a comeback with numerous meds. We were on board to do whatever it takes. A few days later we realized they were not working and we tossed and turned about what we should do. We took him back in on Monday and after another round of x-rays, the fluid had spread and we realized he wasn't going to come out of this ok.

I remember the day I got him. After calling on an ad in the paper titled, "Free Kittens", my mom and I drove to a home in the country outside of Holland where I fell in love with the little guy. Actually, they told me he was a "she" and that she was the runt. I named her Bella and after my first vet visit they asked what his name was?!?! I quickly changed it to Ernie and 11 years later, 23 pounds later (so much for the runt), I am writing about this fur ball that I miss so dearly.

May he always know how much I loved him. He was my first buddy/pal when I moved to GR and we had a lot of great years.

I love you Ern!

Alger Heights 5K

2009-11-01T10:31:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was the 1st annual Alger Heights neighborhood 5k! My mom joined me and we walked, in the rain. When she showed up at 8:15 yesterday morning, it was pouring. She says, "You know, I wouldn't do this for just anyone!" Then she said it was to stop raining and we'd be fine. Sure enough, it did and we had a blast. I sure do have the greatest mom in the world! People dressed up in costumes and it was an overall great time. Looking forward to doing it again next year, although I'd like to run it. We finished in 50 minutes, not bad for walking. Jamey greeted us at the finish line and cheered us on through the finish line, it was so nice to see my hubby waiting for us at the end!

As for the rest of our Halloween, it was pretty typical. I've never been that big on Halloween itself. It was fun as a kid but now I'm just indifferent to the whole thing. We passed out candy and the classic trick or treater this year was a girl who came to the door, dressed up at least, but on her cell phone. She told ME to "hold on a sec" while she finished her story. I laughed and then she said trick or treat, I gave her a jolly rancher, yep, just one. Sorry folks, but that barely deserved that lil' ole piece of candy!

Here are a couple pictures from the 5K event yesterday!

Long lost love........

2009-09-29T15:55:00.000-07:00

We recently went camping with our dear friends and I was reconnected with an old friend. Awhile back my Mom gave me a french press and somehow it got pushed to the back of the cupboard after time and replaced by something that makes more in a lot less time. What I forgot though was what a great cup of coffee this bugger makes. Alison brought hers camping and I was supposed to bring mine too but forgot it (urggg). So, we made lots of coffee for all the adults with hers and it rekindled my love for this simple little contraption. In case you're not familiar with them, here is a picture of mine. It sits out on my counter now, no longer neglected so it can be used daily by me and my other half (who by the way loves it too). It certainly doesn't replace a BFF, but it's there when you need it, warm, tasty and full of flavor.

Hello, my love!

Our campsite (Nichols Lake in Brohman, MI)

Group shot with my peeps

(Jamey, Beth, Seth, Clune, Kristin (Alison's sister), Alison and Sladen

Weekend.......part one!

2009-08-16T04:45:00.001-07:00

This weekend Jamey's parents are in town with our niece, Taylor. So, yesterday we grabbed our other niece, Zoe and went to John Ball Park Zoo. I hadn't been there in awhile and was surprised at how much it had grown and all of the animals they had! Here are some pictures so you can pretend you were there with us from home! One last thing I'll say about the zoo!! It brought out one of my weird quirks.....(my thing with bad smells). Man, that place can curl a nose up....pure ripeness!!!

Walkin' in

Flamingos .......... the stinkiest of them all (I was a little worried when we walked in as this is the 1st exhibit...)

Spider Monkeys

Owl (whose eye turned out red in the picture). He didn't look too friendly.

Our nieces, Taylor and Zoe. It was nice they could re-connect since the wedding where they were flower girls together!

The girls with Uncle Jamey!

Bears just chillin' out in the water! "Can we get some snacks up in here?"

More chillin'

Umm yeah! They were spray painting kids hair. These two couldn't resist!

"He looks really lonely and sad," said a little boy. I nodded my head, agreed and quickly walked away!

Here are a few of his other friends

In line for the Camel ride

Off they go!

Good times

End of the ride.....how fun!

After the zoo we went back to Jim, Jan and Taylor's hotel so the girls could go swimming!

When we got home a baby bear was on our couch! J/K, it's just Big Ern!

Stay tuned for part deux after today's excursion!

Summer Vacation

2009-06-22T16:54:00.001-07:00

We definitely started the summer out in style this year! The second week of June we spent our time in the Outer Banks, which is located in North Carolina. The following attendees were there; my Mom and Dad, Mark, Tash and Zoe, Jamey and I. We rented a house in Duck and had the most relaxing, fun filled time. The weather was great and although I spent the majority of my time in the pool, I managed to do a little sight seeing, fishing and shopping. And of course, we swam in the ocean, always a thrill. Here are some pictures of our trip!

The beautiful home we stayed in

The pool, oh the pool

More pool (If I had one I would never ask for anything ever again)!

Mark in the kitchen

A little hard to come home to after cooking and eating in this!

Little Miss Zoe in her new outfit (love the socks)!

Zoe and Tash on the swings

Dad in the top floor nook

Mark, Jamey and Dad visited the Wright Brother's memorial and museum

Jamey and Mark

Jamey with an Amber Jack (we opted not to keep these guys....they are kind of like carp)

Aww yeah, mahi mahi baby!

Dad and his mahi mahi

Jamey strapped in catching something

We came across hundreds of pilot whales, it was the coolest thing ever!

They were so amazing

A Navy tower in the middle of the Atlantic (approx. 30 miles offshore)

Mark and a massive Amber Jack

Mom's catch

Another for my Dad

Some pictures of our mahi mahi
Mom (who admitted the fishing trip was one of her most favorite experiences)

View from the front deck of the house

The walkway to the beach

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T18:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to the two most wonderful Mom's in the world!

Someone's been sleeping in my bed......

2009-04-29T15:53:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist snapping some photos this evening of the fellas. Here they are.....note that a certain feline has taken up residence in the spare bedroom (used frequently for naps by any and all with a heartbeat). What is there not to like? Pillows galore, fluffy down comforter, a great view of birds, squirrels, and all other fun creatures that cats love to watch.

Side note......it's a very peaceful place to "rest ones eyes" as well!

This is what I see as I enter the room........Ernie hasn't noticed me yet. Here I go paparazzi mama!

Busted......he sees me!

Mug shot

Back to what I was doing..........

And here is Farlie peeking out the window. Look at those back legs....too cute!

Glamour Shot!

Chicago

2009-03-29T18:53:00.000-07:00

This past weekend My mom and I traveled to Chicago for my dear friend Loretta's baby shower. She is due May 9th, and many of her good friends and family came from all over to share in her and her husband Chris' joy and excitement!

After the shower, my Mom and I decided we better see if there was some shopping that we just might possibly have any energy left to do. Despite the random wind/rain/snow storm that was just starting, we braved the weather and hit some fun stores and had a great time. We stopped for dinner at The Cheesecake Factory (YUM) and then headed back to our hotel. We then decided that the pool and hot tub were calling our names, so we swam and soaked for awhile and thoroughly enjoyed some well needed Mom/Daughter time. It was so much fun and such a relaxing,nice weekend. I even learned some new things about my mom, like for instance the fact that they didn't have a bathroom in their home until they moved when my Mom was 10 years old. Yes, they did the outhouse thing.....unbelievable. I think I will now stop complaining about my one bathroom in addition to the functional toilet in the corner of the basement.

So, as I digress, I just wanted to share in what fun we had and include a few pictures

Mom-to-be Loretta!Loretta, her husband Chris and her cool-as-heck sister Sonia!

(p.s. No....we're not on a tropical island...it's just the backdrop)!

Loretta and her "lil helper"

Snow everywhere!!!

Beautiful flowers that my Mom bought me at my favorite store, Trader Joe's

One of my favorite purchases......now I can seperate my fruit and veggies!

In Lieu of Going to Florida this year............

2009-03-09T09:21:00.000-07:00

I decided to make these yummy buggers full of nothing but goodness yesterday!

Key Lime Cupcakes!

I found this on one of my favorite cooking blogs, The Noble Pig. Check out the link, it's worth it!

http://noblepig.com/2009/03/01/retro-funk.aspx

Looks like she got the recipe from the Bon Appetit magazine. All I have to say is....whoever came up with this one deserves a prize. They are very tasty and according to my co-workers (the regular basis guinea pigs) with my recipes, they are a hit! So grab yourself some limes and get to work!

Looking forward to......

2009-02-26T05:34:00.000-08:00

I have Spring and Summer on the brain and it's all I can think about. It feels so close, I can smell it. The birds chirping, the dewey smell in the morning, the warm air coming our way....oooh oooh oooh, I am having a hard time being patient. Here are a few pictures of things that I'm looking forward to.

Flowers blooming and baby birds chirping

Thick plush grass growing in my yard (BTW...I actually like to mow the yard)!

Lilac Tree in the backyard....LOVE THE SMELL of these flowers!

Grilling.......mmmm burgers!

Gardening (I wish this was my yard)

Farmer's Market (support your local farmers)!

Camping!

Family vacation in June to the Outer Banks, NC!

Eyesore......

2008-12-31T14:17:00.001-08:00

After I got home from work today, I did my usual routine that involves picking up the kitchen, cleaning out the coffee pot from the morning drip, and whatever else I feel the need to tidy up. Yep, I admit it, I'm a bit OCD...but hey, we all have our issues.

So, I go to the bathroom and something caught my eye out the window. I look outside and much to my surprise the neighbor who lives behind me has so eloquently placed a big ole' Coca Cola metal sign behind his garage. In his eyes, it's outta the way. In mine, it's all I see when I look in the back yard! What an eyesore!

Guess it beats metal on cement blocks, right?

Yes.....winter is boring!

2008-12-28T17:33:00.000-08:00

I love taking pictures of my two cute cats. Their expressions and personalities are so much fun to watch each day and Jamey and I get a kick out of these two furballs just being cats. They have a rough life that involves napping, playing, eating, going to the bathroom (all the way downstairs), napping again and snacking. Here are some recent shots of them.

Cat toys (Christmas presents from my in-laws)!

Ernie and Farlie kicking the toys around

Ernie playing/resting

Farlie watching from the side lines

Isn't he a handsome fella?!?! SO CUTE!

Time for a break...gotta re-fuel (note how Ernie lays down to eat...no shame in his game)

QUIT taking my picture!

Yeah.....enough already.......
I surrender

This and That

2008-12-22T18:13:00.000-08:00

I know....I'm terrible at updating the blog. I feel as though every post is an apology to my few followers about my lack of recent postings! Well believe me, there hasn't been too much going on, so please don't hold it much against me. Here are a few shots (completely random) of the past month or so. Everyone likes pictures so here you go!

The recently painted bathroom!

We decorated the Christmas Tree!!

We celebrated Jamey's birthday on 12.19.08 (in the heated garage due to being snowed in) Here are a couple neighbors Krista, Beth and Anna

Our source of heat.....we love spending time outdoors as long as we have some warm gear and a Mr. Heater........what else could you ask for?!?!

Another of the neighbor ladies Krista and Anna

The birthday boy...my handsome husband Jamey!

Jeff, Steve and Jamey........something really funny must have been going on!

Beth and Anna

The Married Life

2008-10-29T07:49:00.000-07:00

OK, sorry for the delay in posting....we've been trying to come off the wedding high and it's just so hard! For starters let me just say that I LOVE married life so far. Being Jamey's wife and having him for a husband is amazing, I couldn't be happier. We're eagerly awaiting pictures, so hang tight as I'll be posting some as soon as they are in.

After the wedding we went up north and stayed at The Homestead Resort in Glen Arbor, it was the best. We went into Traverse City one day and did some shopping (Jamey even tried on clothes at the Gap outlet)! Another day we drove to Leelanau, Northport and Sutton's Bay. We even hit the casino and Jamey won us some $$$ (what's yours is mine I told him)! We also did some wine tasting at a winery and just enjoyed ourselves and had a fabulous time. The color tour was gorgeous, I don't think the trees get as bright as they do up north, it was breathtaking!

To everyone who supported us through the engagement and wedding, thank you so very much. We are very lucky to have so many wonderful friends and such an amazing family, it puts smiles on our faces everyday.

Jamey observing the salmon at the Carp River Dam

Me at the dam

Good ole Al's Tavern

Where I spent the majority of my time!

25 Days and counting!!!!!!

2008-09-22T16:52:00.000-07:00

Today when I logged into theknot.com website, the first thing I saw was Welcome Back Elizabeth and James, 26 days until your wedding. I swallowed deeply and realized it is really here, almost! I used that website as a reference here and there but never really followed their timeline and to do list, as I like to figure those things out my own way. Needless to say when I clicked on the to do list, I had about 200+ things past due. It didn't bother me since I never checked the completed things in the first place. What hit me the most was realizing that in 26 days, I will experience probably the happiest day of my life. A time that I waitied so long for. As a little girl I always wondered who I would marry. Not only am I marrying the love of my life, my best friend, my soulmate, but I couldn't be more excited about it. I even caught him saying the same thing the other day. Overjoyed is a good word to describe how I feel.

There are still plenty of little things to do, but I have thoroughly enjoyed the wedding planning process. Don't get me wrong, there have been some hectic times, a few tears and maybe a stomp of the foot, but in the long run those times that have seemed heavy will be forgotten. I am so grateful for all of the support that has been given to Jamey and I. From both of our parents, to a great great man named Dave Deur who will be marrying us, to our families and friends. We are embarking on this new beginning and couldn't be happier.

Looking forward to the continuation of the countdown and seeing everyone at the wedding!!! Until then................................

Engagement Photos

2008-08-28T17:58:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of our engagement session downtown lovely Rockford. Thanks Lewis for doing such a great job, you made it fun!

Flying on a Sunday afternoon!

2008-08-24T18:54:00.000-07:00

Today my Dad took me flying in the new Zodiac plane he gets to use on a pretty regular basis. He got his pilot's license almost a year ago and today was my first solo trip with him. I grilled him the whole ride to the airport with the typical "first timers" types of questions. "How many times/hours do you have under your belt?" "Has anything weird or unusual ever happened prior to or in flight, and if so, what were they?" "Should I bring my purse?" That should have been a given if I had known the size of this thing we were about to take an adventure in. I don't think we had room for much else besides our selves. Besides that, what the heck would I need my purse for......in case we found a place to stop and get a drink or snack...in the high up altitude. So anyway, we got there, took off and had the greatest time. I even got to steer a little bit, although I was more at ease just snapping pics and talking on the headset microphone with Dad. I had the lingo all down, 10-4, Roger that...you know.....I was smooth like that! I had to laugh as I started quoting one liners from the old movie Airplane like, "What's your vector, Victor!" Here are some pics of the plane and Dad and I. What an experience, I am game to go again anytime I get the chance to. Thanks again Dad.....you're a fantastic pilot!!!!!!

No more carpet!

2008-07-27T07:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we decided to take up the living room carpet. Low and behold the beautiful hardwood floors underneath. They are in great condition and need only a little bit of work. The room looks so much bigger now and I feel like I have a new house! Getting rid of that enormous entertainment center was key to making this room a better place. We put in in the front yard with a couple for sale signs and after no one showed any interest, we dropped the price to FREE (a.k.a. PLEASE TAKE IT)! We left it in the front yard while we went to a birthday party and prayed for someone to just come get it. When we got home, it was still there. Had to get my sales pitch on and go work the neighborhood....it worked! One of our neighbors ended up claiming it and I hope they find great use out of it. The new TV stand is an old tack box that my Dad made me back in my horse days. I would take it with me to horse shows filled with all my stuff, it's great that I found another use out of it years later...thanks for making such a quality piece Dad!!

Just for the hal-i-but!

2008-07-27T07:43:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture of a gourmet meal that Jamey concocted! It starts with fresh Halibut (compliments from his parents on their most recent Alaska trip), wrapped in prosciutto and placed on skewers between slices of fresh andouille sausage. Talk about a meaty meal, but it was very good. Made us feel like we were royalty for a moment.

How does your garden grow?

2008-07-10T18:39:00.000-07:00

Mine is doing alright so far. I give myself an A for effort but I'm definitely a novice at this. Here are some pictures of the variety of flowers I've planted this year. I love how people walk by and go, "Oooh, now that's a cute house" and then they point at the pretty flowers. It's not only enjoyable for me to look at but for others too! I'm all for keeping the neighborhood lookin' good!

Happy Birthday Tash!

2008-07-01T07:07:00.001-07:00

Hip Hip Hoo-ray, it's Tasha's birthday today! For those of you who don't know her, she is my beautiful, lovely sister in law, Mark's wife. Hope it's a great one. Love you!!!!!!!

Tasty!

2008-06-06T19:03:00.001-07:00

Tonight we went to the Bonefish Grill for dinner. It was amazing, the food was so yummy! My parents took Jamey and I, my brother Mark and his wife Natasha out for a special treat. We had such a nice time, I am still in "food coma mode" and am having fun reminiscing our great conversation and fun evening. Thanks Mom and Dad for a wonderful time...it meant a lot!

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-26T17:03:00.000-07:00

Here of some pictures of the Belfast crew (neighbors) having some fun and enjoying the beautiful weather on Sunday!

Jeff and Jamey

Jill and her son Ian and Kyle

The guys playing a washer game

John and Becky

Anna being lured by "Free Candy" being offered. No really, this man was cruising the neighborhood for appliances out by the curb. It was a little weird.

Abby (Jeff & Anna's dog)

Kyle (Jeff & Anna's son)

Anna & Rachel

Brickwork

2008-05-26T16:44:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in awhile, so let me attempt to get back into the blogging thing. To be quite honest, I have bookmarked so many other people's blogs as favorites that I spend more of my time catching up on everyone else's life, vs. capturing the great moments of my own. So, I am going to make an honest attempt to make a blogger comeback, if there is such a thing!

The latest update at the home front has been some landscaping. While I transplanted lavender bushes and hosta plants, Jamey layed brick on either side of the steps at the side door. It looks

amazing and is so much better than the mess that was there in which inevitably turned into a mud pit whenever it rained. It looks amazing, he spent a lot of time working on it. Here's a picture of the work! The job isn't finished yet. We're going to extend the brick and make a nice brick patio and walkway into the backyard. I can't wait, it'll be such a nice relaxing place to chill out!

The Date Has Been Set

2008-04-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

The planning has begun, and we've set a wedding date, Saturday, October 18, 2008. These past two weeks have involved a lot but I'm having so much fun with all of the planning. This past weekend my Mom, good friend Stacey and I hit the bridal shops and I swear I tried on about 40 dresses. Wow, is all I can say. It was an experience in its own, but I loved every stinking minute of it. Now I have to narrow down my top picks. It was a riot, everything from the 40 hook push up bras they provided (can I get some help with this thing please?), to getting lost in the dress while trying to get it off and get the next one on, to coming out for a "what do you think of this one" as we laughed our butts off at some not so pretty moments. At one point I realized I was working up quite the sweat when I decided to utilize the complimentary body spray in the dressing room on my underarms. The pure stinging sensation I proceeded to have for about the next 10 minutes was just another addition to the crazy day it was. We broke for lunch and fueled up for the next shop. All in all it was a great day and now I must make a decision and pick the dress I will look so forward to wear for the next 6 and 1/2 months on the most special day. Oh yeah, I just realized that the 18th of Oct. is Sweetest Day too....awwwww!!!!!!

In addition to the dress, we have been so blessed with some of the connections we have been able to utilize. The church, reception site, suggested photographers and florists, just to name a few. It's one thing to get a good recommendation on something but another when things just seem to fall into place. A big shout out to my fam for all of their help and support so far.

I'll keep you posted on the going ons and hope that this finds everyone well.

YES!!!!

2008-03-18T18:22:00.000-07:00

I know it's been awhile since I've posted but I have the best news.........Jamey and I are engaged!!! It's such a happy time and we're ecstatic about it. The proposal was beautiful and I'm literally on cloud ten if there is one. We're working on a date and will keep everyone posted.

Knowing that I'm going to marry the love of my life and best friend is just the most amazing feeling. Beyond this state of pure joy I realize there is so much to do but for now I am just going to cherish this state of bliss. I'm posting a picture of my new *bling* too, since a girl has to show that off!

Life in a cardboard box!

2008-02-23T06:04:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it's just the smallest things that end up being the biggest present. People pay big money on expensive toys for their kids and pets and it seems like it's always the free stuff you dig up in the home that gets used and enjoyed the most.

After a trip to Costco last weekend, I ended up with this box and it occurred to me how much Ernie and Farlie love boxes and paper bags, anything they can crawl into just to get away from it all (because you know they have such a rough life). Well it didn't surprise me that Farlie absolutely loves his new little box. So much that he's pretty much taken up residence in it full time. We put a little pillow in there and he's happier than can be. Ernie's pushing it for fitting in there, he likes to sit on the couch to keep watch on all that's going on. I'm posting a couple pictures of the two fellas.

Farlie's new home

Ernie "keepin' watch"

The big blob o' cats

Good deed gone bad!

2008-02-23T05:44:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I gave blood as my work invited the Michigan Community Blood Center bus to our work site. Everything was going along fine until the two phlebotomists started conversing saying, "Yeah....we better stop hers, that isn't good!" So I asked to be filled in on the going ons and after they tried wiggling the needle around some more in my arm, I said, "That'll do, I'm done." I'm not too up on the phlebotomy lingo, but I do know they either/and or hit a valve and stripped the vein. They had already drawn too much to start over on the other arm but not enough for a full bag.....bummer it had to go to waste! I've never had any problems in the past so hopefully it was a one time deal. Too bad I don't have any ace bandages....ha ha, that was for you Mom and Dad! Here's a picture of the damage.

Happy Birthday Dad & Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-14T16:19:00.000-08:00

My dad (on right) fishing this past summer

They smell so good!

Delicious!

I know a lot of people consider today just another Hallmark holiday, but it really is a sweet day. It's special to me as it's my Dad's birthday! I called him this morning and he sounded so happy. He was getting ready to take my Mom out for breakfast and he was telling me about this heart necklace he bought her for Valentine's Day. After 37 years of marriage and he continues to shower my Mom.....how lovely is that! How many people do you know that answer the phone, "Good Morning!" Well my Dad does, every day. He has such an amazing outlook on life, it's not only refreshing but so admirable. I have always thought so darn highly of him, it brings tears to my eyes just talking about the guy. So.....here's to my wonderful Dad.....Happy Birthday!

As for the other man in my life, that would be Jamey, the love of my life. He surprised me with a dozen beautiful roses this morning at work in person. What a guy.....do they get much better than this?

Tonight we made shrimp pizza for dinner and it was so good. When we were in Florida, Jamey's mom Jan made this one night. Just take a frozen cheese pizza and doctor it up. I put mushrooms, black olives and shrimp on it. Posting a picture to show you the yumm-ness!

Home Sweet Home!

2008-02-10T12:27:00.000-08:00

Got home from vacation late last night and although it's good to be home, this weather isn't so welcoming. Yesterday I was in flip flops and at one point I thought to myself, I am so stinkin' hot right now I don't think I'll ever be cold again in my life. Darting inside for a little A/C was all I could do to get cool and now I'm cranking the heat up! We had such a great time, Jamey's parents were the most gracious hosts and I am so thankful for their generosity. Here are some pictures of the trip.

Here's a couple pictures of an Atlantic Moonfish I landed. It's in the same family as the Jacks/Pompanos.

Jamey and I at Bajia Honda State Park

The docks and marina at Hawk's Cay

A reef shark Jamey hooked into on the charter boat we went on

Jamey and I after a couple days there....we were quite sunburned, OUCH!

This picture had to be taken! It's of this crazy tan man in a string thong speedo! He was so odd and this was way too funny not to get a picture. I had to pretend like I was taking pictures of the water and beach, I think he knew! Rumor has it he has a twin and they compete at local beaches for the ladies! YIKES.....any lady I know would be runnin' the other way! Jamey thinks it would make a good Will Farrell - Ben Stiller movie.

Here's a 3 foot iguana the Jamey got pretty close to!

More pics of Bajia Honda...it was so beatuiful there, except for the stink once in awhile. The mangroves and vegetation get ripe when the tide is low. Smells like a sulfer factory.

Bon Voyage

2008-01-29T18:17:00.000-08:00

Banana tree....this year I'm going to pick one!

One of the best times I've ever had offshore fishing.....here's a barracuda Jamey landed.

Entrance bridge to Duck Key

I plan on spending some serious time here!

Ernie packing himself!

Thursday morning Jamey and I leave for the Florida Keys. The forecast looks great and I am so excited for some warm weather and R&R. I'm posting a couple pictures from our trip last year. The fellas know that something is going on and they are not happy about it. In fact Ernie has invited himself along. He must have heard talk about mega fish we're going to catch, he loves himself some fresh catch!

Thankful for my family!

2008-01-27T08:40:00.000-08:00

Mark, Tash & Zoe (sorry....had to steal this pic,
the most recent one I could find was one from San Diego)

Zoe (my niece).....this pic is a year old or so but I think its so sweet. She turns 6 in March!!!

Mom & Dad

Just a few pics of my family! They are the greatest, and I love them dearly. This month marks 4 years since my Dad had open heart surgery. He's been feeling and looking great since and I'm extra thankful for that.

No more ducking!!

2008-01-25T18:00:00.000-08:00

"The Monitor" -Ernie-

Duct work all tucked away

New cold air return

Re-routed ducts

This is where you used to have to duck when you came down the stairs

I'm posting some pictures of some primo work that Jamey did (on his day off) in the basement. He re-routed some low hanging duct work that was originally done when the new furnace was put in by the old owner. He claims the original work was a "budget job" and all of the ducts were run under rafters and hung just above your head. Now they run parallel to the rafters and you don't have to duck and watch your head when you walk under them. He also re-routed the cold air return as its new placement will be more efficient. I knew this guy was talented but there really seems to be no end to the work he can do, it's quite impressive! I'm also posting a picture of the "monitor" who was able to stand by for security measures as the work was being done.

Sweet find!!!

2008-01-19T14:06:00.001-08:00

I met my Mom at the mall this morning and we went all out! We went to quite a few stores and had a great time. I had to drag her into all of the stores I like and she pulled me into just about every shoe store as well. She found a great deal on some cute flats and I found some cool stuff too. After we left the mall I hit Marshalls where I hit the jackpot. Picked up some sweet Smith sunglasses for $19.99. Mind you they are north of $100.00 at any place I've ever seen them. Also found some pants that of course didn't have a tag. I held up the line for a price check and the check out girl was tired of waiting for someone to get back with her so she rang them up @ $7.99...woo-hoo!!!! I'm posting a picture of both Jamey and I wearing the sunglasses. I told him he looks like a pimp with them on and he mentioned he's been on the lookout for a gold tooth! If they were only pink, I wouldn't have any worries about them disappearing!

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

2008-01-19T13:50:00.000-08:00

Today is the coldest day of the winter so far. I am posting a picture of the forecast from the local TV station. It actually reads 4 degrees outside right now, but says it feels like -6. That is pretty darn cold! Jamey built a nice fire so I'm posting a picture of it as well. I am so thankful for the fireplace in this house, it's so nice to use especially on days like this!

Feeding Frenzy!

2008-01-16T16:57:00.000-08:00

With all the changes in the basement, I moved the fellas feeding trough into the dining room. As you can see, they have hardly been affected by the trauma!

Thankful for the Dome!

2008-01-16T16:49:00.000-08:00

Today I bought a new litter box. It's not just your average litter box, it's a dome! Ernie and Farlie always have had two budget litter boxes. We're talking the K-Mart special, not so special plastic box. One of their boxes is quite small, and it just isn't a pretty sight seeing them try to squeeze in there. It would be like us using a potty training toilet, 'nuff said! So.......I went to Pet Supplies Plus and bought the big guy! As I got it all set up, I had four little eyes peering at me, wondering what the heck I was doing. My point of this post is that it's good to update things once in awhile and I wanted to share with my latest addition. So, here's to the dome! Hopefully it'll help keep the litter in the box too!

Work in progress

2008-01-16T16:33:00.001-08:00

After 3 years in this house, a new project besides a paint job is in order. Although the completion date is far down the road, operation "new basement" has begun. Jamey rolled up his sleeves and tore down all the plywood walls that used to stand dividing my basement in sections. He did an amazing job, it looks great. Luckily my neighbors had rented a dumpster for a week and offered me a chance to unload anything I wanted! After a few trips over there with junk I no longer needed, I thought that was it. Low and behold demolition started and it was a good thing we had a place for all the trash! Anyway, here are some pictures of the wide open basement. Next step will be putting up studs for insulation and drywall.