5.555 miles.....

....on the treadmill.

That's 700 calories....count 'em, 700!!!

OOhhhh baby. Considering those calories, plus the chocolate I didn't eat, plus the low carb ice cream bar/s I didn't eat....I figure a net loss of 1000 calories.

That should just about make up for that meal at Arby's.

*wheeze*

It's hard to go that long on the treadmill unless you're watching TV.

It's also very hard to find something mildly amusing and SAFE, in case one of the little kids comes up to use the extra bathroom....

....especially when the small TV only gets two stations.

I've never seen "Office" before, but the last 10 minutes looked just quirky enough to be interesting :-)

After that, I was left with women's college basketball. The Iowa State Cyclones and the University of Iowa Hawkeyes. (or is it Hawks?....I can never remember)

My initial reaction was "BLEAH," but I was soon swept up in the excitement.

I decided to root for the Cyclones, since they were wearing pretty red uniforms and playing against a bigger school (I think). I got this from my dad, who always used to go for the underdogs :-)

Thrilling stuff, especially when your team wins. It almost made me wanna get out there and play basketball, myself..........

..........................

......."And now the ball is passed to Ma Hoyt....she dribbles behind her back, fakes to the right, fakes to the right a-gain, and shoots......SHE SCORES!!"

......"The ball is brought into play by the opposing team.....wait....Ma Hoyt has stolen the ball!......she drives to the basket.....she's goes for the lay-up.....one and a half twists with a dunk behind her back !! SHE----SCORES!!"

"Is there anything this woman can't do?? Wait....what's this?....she's going up into the stands.....she's....she's tying a little boy's shoe, and....what now? She's helping a highschooler with his trigonometry lesson!! What dedication to detail....what incredible multi-tasking!!"

"Just a minute.....just a minute, folks.....Ma Hoyt is answering her cell phone....she's taking a call.....no wait, she's taking a conference call from....Ahmadinejad.....Maliki.....AND Whitney Houston!!!!"

"People, it just---doesn't---get any better than this! There's no stopping Ma, now.....ut oh.....what's going on?......she seems to have come to a sudden halt.....I think.....yes, it looks like dust. Dust and clutter, with some dirty laundry thrown in for good measure....."

"THERE GOES THE BUZZER.....awww, what a shame......."

(the next game--against Rutgers--will be broadcast December 16th)
 

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Looking up

 

In the end, Derek did not have to go under the "paddles."

We got to the cath lab, and they hooked him up to a heart monitor and he was back in sinus rhythm!

When we got up this morning, I listened to him and he sounded "almost" normal, interspersed with some irregularity. I didn't feel comfortable calling off the game on the strength of my inexpertise, so we made the trip down to Iowa City.

But, he was showing a regular group of three fast beats, repeated over and over, and the doc decided to send him home with a Holter monitor. This read-out will be compared with the one he had approximately five years ago, when he was ten years old.

The good news is: (besides no need for the shock) NO IV! And, we only get charged for Holter monitor business, not the pre-zapping prep that had started.

Derek dodged the bullet. This time. His heart must have turned over during the night, since he still sounded odd last night, and Doctor H. confirmed he had been in a-fib from our event monitor transmission.

Some might say it was just a coincidence that Derek converted before the scheduled procedure, but I prefer to believe otherwise :-)

We are indeed thankful to God.
________________

Since we were out and about, it is only natural--nay, a wise use of one's time--to visit the SUPER Goodwill store in Waterloo on the return trip. (Super Goodwill is quite similar to Super Wal-Mart, except the clothes are retro and the food is pretty much non-existent)

Besides a pair of jeans for Derek, I came away with a couple bookish items....a three novel hardback by Michael Crichton, and "The Second Treatise of Government" by John Locke and "On Liberty" by John Stuart Mill--both paperbacks from The Library of Liberal Arts.

:-D

On the "I've-completely-blown-my-diet-today" front, we stopped for lunch at Arby's. Well, I mean, they didn't allow Derek anything to eat after midnight, so what's a poor mother to do?

All I have to do is go on the treadmill for about 4 hours and everything will be kosher.
 

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Later....

Derek and the Ma are heading on down to Iowa City, a scenic drive of just under two and a half hours.

It would be awfully nice if his heart converted on the way down, so we could make a call to the cath lab, turn around and drive back home.

Since this doesn't look likely, it is hoped the "shock de paddles" will coax him out of his atrial fibrillation.

We appreciate any prayers and will give a full report, later.
 

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The Ma Side

 
While the other sniffer bees were hard at work with terrorism training, Billy was known to buzz off to the local pollen pub for a quick one."
 

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Ma's Newsy Nuggets

A book stating the obvious.....women talk more than men! (the word "sex" is mentioned further down in the article, but it didn't strike me as inappropriate for "under 18-year-old reading." --just so's ya know)

What is most interesting is the politically incorrect conclusion in regards to gender.
_____________

Speaking of men and how weird they can be, here's a guy trying for a unique Guinness World Record....

*shudders*
_____________

Well, you know the "sport" of chess has come a long way when the need arises for anti-doping measures.

*is baffled*
_____________

And finally, an appropriate amusement for someone who's struggled with weight issues over the years....me :-)
 

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Today's Doin's

Nolan really got into his reading aloud today. I think it helps that we were up to the fairy tale section...you know, the one about the mother goat and the seven kids, and the little deer that outfoxes the tiger by claiming his horns were for forking tigers, and every spot denoted another tiger victim.

These are the kinds of stories that warm a little boy's heart, and quite possibly fire a sneaky imagination. You could practically hear Nolan taking mental notes as he read. It was the first time he volunteered to read two stories. Sometimes finishing one per day takes a bit of tricky negotiation.
________________

We have set up an appointment for Derek on Thursday morning, barring a change of his heart rhythm. He's not looking forward to getting an IV, but I've told him he certainly won't be awake for the shock.

I think a visit to Arby's on our way home might be in order.
________________

The weather (low 60's) was so nice, Loren decided the time was ripe for putting snow tires on two vehicles. Ethan and I did some of the grunt work--rolling tires about and such. Ethan is also a great gofer, since he's been shadowing Loren so long that he knows where all the tools are stored.

Loren and the impact wrench did most of the real work. (by the way, I learned not to pick that baby up while depressing the trigger....) My job was to lift the tires on to the hub (or whatever it's called) and occasionally ask, "Are you sure this isn't hurting your ribs?"

Anyway, another little chore is done. Only one more car to go.

Tomorrow comes colder weather, with rain and a little snow at the tail end of the system.

I guess this is the last we shall see of "spring."
 

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Look....birdies !

School in the living room came to a halt this morning, as real birds came to the feeder and nibbled on seeds and cracked corn.
 
There were several of this same kind. I don't know what they are, but I'm guessin' maybe a type of finch that is passing through.

I'm open to suggestions :-)


  
These aren't the greatest pictures, but maybe if I wash the windows....
 

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The Diet Report

This week's weigh-in: 1V9.0 pounds, a half-pound loss for this week, or 15.5 pounds lost over 12 weeks.

:-)

This may seem small, but it is a major achievement because:
-it was Thanksgiving week and this proves I can get through a holiday with a happy balance between deprivation and wild snarfing.
-I was sweating bullets two days ago when I got on the scale and was suddenly 2 pounds over this. Believe me, I was very careful and hardly indulged at all. I just decided to ignore the scale's report and keep goin' with what had worked in the past.

And frankly, I'll take any little victory I can these days.
 

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Short sightedness

 
Foggy it is.

Soupy it be.

Shut in a soft, dense cocoon, are we.
........

This socked-in feeling should dissipate with thunderstorms overnight.

December cometh and the weather be weird.
_______________

In other news, it's been an eventful weekend.

Loren had some real struggles on Sunday when his potassium levels went rather low, but he is doing better today. Without going into the gory details, when you take one little medication, it can cause an imbalance in one area, which you try to remedy with another medication, which throws something else out of whack, and then you end up fighting several ongoing battles, besides the minor detail of healing up some broken ribs.

*sigh*

Then there is Derek.

Derek has been in a-fib now for the past 35 hours. It started on the way to church, Sunday morning. When we returned home, I listened and it sounded quite reminiscent of the previous episode, so I slapped the handy event monitor on him and made a recording.

Then to wait for Monday when we could send it.

Monday was also the day when I could finally get a flu shot and Loren could go in for his monthly NebuPent therapy. (he only has to do this for.....let's see....oh yeah, the rest of his life)

Having accomplished that special bit of husband/wife togetherness, we came home where I expected to quickly send off Derek's recording over the phone to Iowa City.

I expected wrong. Nothing happened when I pressed the magic "send" button.

"Maybe you need new batteries," was the tech's suggestion.

Yes, and maybe I need to go shopping so I can GET the AAA batteries. (it's ok, really. I was going shopping today, anyway)

*goes shopping*

Popped the batteries in, and since Derek was still heart-whacko, I made another recording, just to be sure. Shortly thereafter, the wonderful nurse of Dr. H. called back and I got a chance to send the old and new recordings over the telephone receiver.

Much of it was garbled techno noise, but enough real rhythm strip came through to determine that yes, Derek is in atrial fibrillation.

The plan is to go down on Thursday for an electrical cardioversion, if his heart doesn't convert back on it's own by then.

Obviously, we would prefer the latter, from every standpoint possible.

My plans for a little vacation get-away have been put on hold. Probably for several decades.
___________________

On a more cheerful note, Sharon is calling from Argentina later this evening. I expect it's for the purpose of visiting as well as confirming flight details for next week.

That's right, a week from tomorrow we shall pick her up at the Des Moines INTERNATIONAL airport!

To say we are excited would be an understatement :-D

And more big news.....now....hold on to your hats......today, I did the laundry, and....get this.....I EVEN FOLDED SOME OF IT!

So, despite being submerged in fog, a couple of good things happened.
 

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Hot Doggies!

Ma is rather excited, having just booked our rooms for nephew David and Amy's wedding in Tulsa OK.

Plans are falling into place: Sharon will be home by then and Ardith will be traveling along with us. When we get to the rehearsal dinner we shall spy Jason, and then there will be a family reunion within a family reunion!

(by the way, Jason, you have to agree to let me give you a hug, or I will be ordering that "green pea-flavored" pop I mentioned in the last post)
____________________

The Loren Report: On the good side, Loren has been up and about, with occasional forays back to bed for rest. I bought a heating pad which has been put to good use.

Loren has gone on the treadmill for short periods these past three days. (don't worry, he goes fairly slow)

He drove himself into town for a haircut yesterday. The barber's chair wasn't terribly comfortable, but then, not much is. Loren has found the recliner to be tolerable, today.

His stomach still gives him trouble from time to time. If that would settle down the aching ribs would be more bearable.

Loren has been hard at work on my computer, which insists on crashing and burning. He wiped the hard drive clean (after saving things :-) reinstalled everything and still the specter of the awful blue screen appears.

Right now he is deeply involved with things like disk scanning, partitioning, and probably a little drywall. (don't take my word for this, since my actual computer knowledge would fit in a thimble)

I feel pretty bad that he has to work on this so long.....

In fact, I'm beginning to wonder if the thing isn't possessed.

*makes note to contact Pastor John about potential exorcism*
 

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Ma's Newsy Nuggets

Rare or odd is the topic of the day.

Despite a difference of one million votes, the Libertarian opponent of Richard Lugar wants a recount. Having lived in Indiana, Dick Lugar used to be our senator.
_____________

Cruising down to South America, the Mapuche Indians of Chile wish to take on Microsoft. (I'm staying out of this fight.....if I side with Microsoft, all the Microsoft haters--apparently most of the world--will be against me. If I root for the Mapuche, Bill Gates could leave me out of his will.
_____________

I like butterflies, so I'm throwing in a story just for me :-)
_____________

Green pea-flavored soft drinks.

What's not to love?
 

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Future Engineer

 
"Mommy...look at duh dump twuck I made!"

"Ooooo, neat."

"I made duh back wheels high-yoh, so duh dumpoh can go back futhoh."

*blinks*
  

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Vacation Daze

The kids are happy campers, thanks to the generosity of Ardith, who downloaded and installed Harvest Moon. They are quite busy building up and working their farms.
 

It's all gone according to plan.....
 
....while most of her younger siblings are deeply immersed in agrarian pursuits, Ardith is free to relax on a kid-free couch.

Farming is harder than you think...for instance, a chicken costs 500 gold pieces!
 
(Trevor, shouldn't you be out of your jammies by now?)

Ardith, again. (it counts as a new activity if you change positions while reading)
  
Providence smiles upon her, as evidenced by the holy light of blessing shining 'midst the parchment.
 

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Sunrise of Thanksgiving

  

Thanksgiving greetings to all :-)

Yesterday was Loren's first day without muscle spasms !

And Ardith decided to come up last night so we got to start that whole groovy family thing early.

:-D

The turkey's been stuffed and in the oven for over an hour, with the pies, apple butter and sweet potato casserole finished yesterday.

The kids are happy little campers since they persuaded Ardith to download a much wanted game, Harvest Moon, which they'd completely forgotten about for over a year but which SUDDENLY became rather imperative to acquire.

Now they are struggling a bit to figure out how it works, but are developing a nice sense of communal helpfulness. (I was going to suggest a little soft socialism first, but I'll just let them sort it out for themselves)

The nice thing about being a Ma is that you pretty much have dictatorial power in the kitchen.....which reminds me.....I should probably go back and throw a little weight around my kingdom and decree a few edicts, write a coupla writs or somthin'.
 

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Letter of Thanks

Dear Davis Vision,

Please allow me to extend my appreciation for the recent services you provided for my family.

In the first place, three weeks is not that long of a time to wait for new lenses to arrive. I mean, so what if the doctor's office said a week to ten days...the important thing is, you guys should not be rushed.

Just because my daughter has been having headaches associated with the need for corrective lenses is no reason in the WORLD to be upset that it took over twice as long for your services to be delivered.

And what a delivery! Both the lenses for my daughter AND my son did not fit their frames. Ha ha, what a bunch of kidders! You people are just the jolliest group of professionals we have ever met! Getting into the merry spirit of Christmas a bit early perhaps? Tipping back a couple of tall ones after a hard day making lenses not according to those pesky specs?

You deserve it! Really. Have one on me. And then, if it's not too much trouble, maybe we could get back to that "vision" thing? But only if you're in the mood.

Oh yes....Thanksgiving is coming up in two days. Now, I don't wish to press you, but....I was wondering if.....just maybe.....we could have the glasses by Christmas?

If not, Easter would probably be OK.

And another thing.....don't worry about the 45 minute drive--one way--to the eye doctor's office. It gave my son a chance to do his schoolwork while bouncing over gravel roads. He loves a challenge and as I always say, "Why try to do school in the quiet comfort of home, when one could attempt it in a bumpy vehicle, instead?"

Whatever you do, PLEASE don't let it concern you that I left my husband at home in bed with broken ribs. Did not a famous person once say, "Any job worth doing, is worth doing twice?" Oh sure, I will have to make another trip and use up two or more hours of my time--not to mention gas money--but when you are a homemaker, you get used to doing things without pay.

Your little mishap is simply another affirmation of my life's calling.

And speaking of callings! This whole experience has been a defining moment in the life of my daughter in regards to her choice of a profession. Thanks to you, she is now seriously considering Braille Studies. I'm sure this would never have come about had you not neglected to cut the lenses correctly, as WELL as the delayed delivery.

Were it not for you, my sweet daughter would have been forced to pursue study in a more demeaning field, such as literature, computer science, or in the worst case scenario, neurosurgery.

But lest we forget, you DID deliver on my lenses. True, they were only replacements of the same prescription, but you managed to change something. I don't know what extra special touch you chose for me, but let me tell you, I appreciate your efforts. Not only are the cracked and scratched lenses replaced, but now I have that woozy, looking-into-the-glass-ornament effect and frankly, I----feel----special.

*sigh*

Just one more thing....it was particularly thoughtful of you to completely mess up on your own. See, we like our eye doctor and staff, so it is comforting to know they had no hand in this compilation of errors.

Well, that about covers it. Words fail at times such as these....one can only bid you

"Adieu, and thanks for all the carp."

Sincerely, Ma Hoyt
 

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Ma's Newsy Nuggets

It's all about education, stupid !

Alright....I'm not advocating that type of attitude, I've just always wanted to say it. And don't start hounding me about what I should have said....."It's all about morals" or "beliefs" or.....I wouldn't have put those with the moniker "stupid."

But somehow, it just seems so appropriate with the category of education.

So, am I forgiven?

Right. On to the news. This high school senior has to be classified as downright cool.
_______________

95 is not too old to graduate from college. Just ask Nola Ochs.
_______________

How many times have I had one the children say if they could only study whatever they want.....(doesn't that sound inviting, Derek?) I'm afraid it will never be feasible, from several standpoints.
_______________

On to my favorite topic, CHOCOLATE :-) Yet another study touting it's benefits; this time chocolate milk reigns supreme.

One of these days, we're just gonna have to declare a national chocolate holiday, or somethin'.
______________

Slightly less funny is our government's official change from the terminology "hungry" to "very low food security."

GIVE-----ME------A------BREAK !

This "business-speak" has gone so far as to redefine stupidity as, "neuron-challenged-but-hopefully-not-unredeemable-especially-if-we -use-big-sounding-important-words-to-impress-people-with-our-fancy
schmancy-degrees."

Or to put it more succinctly, BALONEY.

 

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The Loren Report

Loren is snoozing, since he didn't sleep the greatest last night.

Other than that, he is doing as well as can be expected. Pretty much sticking to bed, though he does get up to walk around the bedroom several times a day.

He was on his laptop for a while yesterday and was propped up in bed more than before.

The random muscle spasms aren't as frequent, but they still come with certain movements, and let's face it, with broken ribs, there is no way to move without hurting.

Speaking hurts him more than breathing, a distinction that is helpful in determining which of the two activities to pursue.

(those of you who know Loren, realize just how much this is killing him not to be able to talk)

When the family gathers for Thanksgiving--which pretty much involves Ardith driving up from Cedar Rapids--we'll have to make a point of not being overly funny. It could be tricky attaining just the right touch of mournful sobriety, but we shall try.
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The Diet Report

This week's weigh in: 1V9.5, a one pound loss for this week, making a total of 15 pounds lost over 11 weeks.

*cheers*

I would hasten to add that the "V" in the poundage report denotes a lower ten's place and NOT the Roman numeral "5." In other words, we went down from the algebraic substitution of "W" to "V." Remember, the method employed goes backward in the alphabet. (I started with "X") People should not be trying to determine my actual weight. Any attempts in that regard and....well.....I just can't be responsible for what might happen.

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The Acquisition Report

I have very nearly completed my takeover of Loren's computer.

Yesterday I downloaded Picasa to facilitate my picture-posting mania. Hey, he can always uninstall it, later.

I also moved in my computer chair and removed his to my recently (but we hope, temporarily) abandoned desk. Pulling out his center drawer seems to make a nice elbow rest for keyboarding, especially with the padded comfort of a hand towel.

Let's see.....I've gotten most of my Xanga blogs bookmarked (I need your daughter's, Thainamu--but I'm still searching your site) and today I hope to finish Blogger sites as well as "several" newsy places.

What I miss are my CD's, so that's next on the agenda.....

*fiddles with stuff*

AHHHHhhhhhh.....Vivaldi's Four Seasons. Civilization has returned! It also means I can control all sound in the computer room. The kids will OBVIOUSLY have to turn off their game volume if I am playing CD's.

And it is quite conceivable that I will be playing my music a lot.

The only things missing are my plants and pictures....but I suppose I can do without them for a while.

*looks around*

There does seem to be room for a low-fat snack bar, though....

 

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The Great Bird Feeder Project

Time for a little catchin' up.

Back when Ardith moved into her house--you know, the one that had been previously owned by confirmed bird lovers--she decided.....totally incomprehensible to me.....that she did NOT want to keep this rather huge, ornate bird feeder/avian seed procurement station.

Upon hearing of her disinterest, I glanced Loren's way with raised eyebrows and received a heartless laugh and something that might have sounded to the unexperienced wife to be the words, "No Way."

Of course, it's a well known fact that many times a man will SAY one ting and MEAN another.

Knowing what a boon it would be to Ardith, and realizing, "Hey, how many times are you going to have an ornate bird feeder/avian seed procurement station fall right into your hands, FREE ?" I might possibly have brought up the subject again....

*fixes look of extreme bird pity on face, mingled with "Why NOT?!?"*

Loren is a pretty reasonable guy, especially if he thinks he might hear about it for several decades to come.

So basically, Ardith no longer has it.

Flash forward to two weeks ago....

Now that fall had arrived, and the lawn had been mowed for the last time, Ma was determined to set up ye olde feedere. Besides, it was supposed to snow the next day.

First I had to remove the sod....
 
...pretty nice square, eh?

The ground was not level, so I did some scraping and the kids were happy to donate some of their play sand to anchor the blocks ("Quitcher whinin'....!...it's gonna be too cold to play in the sandbox, anyway....")
 

*waves to oldest daughter*

Next, the critical placement of base blocks (came with the feeder) and Ma's precise calculations....
 
....meaning, anything within an inch of the marks was level enough for me.

The large post is slightly bent, so we just face it against the hill and that old adage proves true...."Two slants make a level."

Now to fill the feeder! The kids took to smashing up some of their gleaned corn with hammers. Sometimes they even hit the corn kernals.
  
(I feel just like the bird lady on "Mary Poppins." We even dress alike)

The next day it did snow and we saw little birdie footprints around the base.

I think I just need a little more time to build up a clientèle.
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That was a couple of weeks ago. Tonight, we are preparing to eat our second turkey and mashed potato meal of the day. (well, the kids are....I am gong to partake of a humble bowl of low-cal soup.....and I sure hope someone's keeping track of these good behavior points I am wracking up....)

After this meal, all leftovers go into the freezer. I don't think we should be eating turkey before, during AND after Thanksgiving.
 

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Evening glory

 
(I am back in control) 
 

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Here is what the real picture looks like

I've tried to be nice....really, I have.
 

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Oh look.....

Ma's recently installed Irfanview has provided us with one part of the sky picture....

Why do people have to make things so complicated? I think I may have to install Picasa. It has it's limitations, but at least I know how to use it.....
 

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Good news

Loren kept his anti-rejection meds down last night and seems to be doing fairly well with the breakfast he's had. At the moment, he has many pillows and foam pads propping him up as he tries to get reacquainted with his laptop.

Thank you for your prayers.

Thanks too, for the Thanksgiving meal goodies delivered by our church family last night. I know what we'll be eatin' today :-)

Oh...and one more thing, I just called Mayo, and while they commiserated with the situation, they said there is nothing much to do but rest up and start to be just a bit active when some of the immediate pain starts to subside.

I was glad to find out we hadn't done anything wrong. This will free up my mind for more important things, like carping about the dishwasher leaving stuff in the bottom of upside down water glasses, and figuring out a nice little free picture editing program to download to Loren's computer :-D

Ma will not be stifled.
 
 

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Pie, by Kendra

As in "Raisin Cream." Kendra thought the kids should have something nice to eat even though we had to stay home from the big church dinner, so she made us this delectable treat. YUM!
 

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The Hoyt Report

Well, we have made the very difficult decision to stay home from the church Thanksgiving Dinner this evening. It's a great disappointment for most of the kids, but I think they understand.

I had thought about an adult from a nearby church family riding along while Kendra drove (she has her permit but not her license) but after hearing that one of their kids threw up today, it seemed like a good thing to just stay at home. There are one or two of ours with sniffles, anyway.

We'll hunker down and hope for wellness around the time of our family Thanksgiving. It wouldn't do to go somewhere this evening and get sick for our own get-together. Who knows, Loren may celebrate by coming downstairs.

The kids will miss all that glorious food tonight, though. They also enjoy the special communion service and Thanksgiving sharing time.

As to Loren, he has had a real tough day. Both the medications he's been given can cause nausea if taken without food. They also cause other important processes to pretty much come to a standstill.

And not long ago, Loren made alternate use for one of the old ice cream buckets we keep around this place. I think it's safe to say his stomach is empty, now.

So, if you're supposed to take your pills with food, but you feel nauseous and not keen on eating, what's a person to do?

We're stopping the pain and muscle relaxant meds. They didn't do all that much, anyway. He still has pain and he still has the terrible muscle spasms.

The real question will be whether he can keep down his anti-rejection medicine later this evening. If he can't, I'm calling Mayo in the morning, if not sooner.

Just in case of "whatever," I ran into the local (expensive) grocery and stocked up on enough stuff for the kids to eat through Wednesday. I'm doing up all my laundry and I may just pack a couple bags for Loren and myself before I call Mayo. It doesn't hurt to be prepared.

We're hangin' in there, though. I mean, what choice do we have?
 

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The Patient Report

Loren got through the night with decent sleep. Let's hear it for the muscle relaxants and pain pills!

He is most uncomfortable though, and after stuffing pillows and arranging eggshell foam pads in an attempt to prop him up for lap-top perusal, he has come to the conclusion that there is no good way to facilitate this activity.

Loren is reduced to lying fairly flat and staring sorrowfully at a home improvement show on TV.

I've alerted our church people and given instructions "No Visitors," and sent an email to Loren's side of the family. I think my side knows, because most of them actually read this blog (heh, heh).

*waves to Mom*

Other than that, the main news is that I've now commandeered Loren's downstairs computer. I do miss some of my old bookmarks, but I'm sure he won't mind if I delete some of these uninteresting ones (car parts, computer sites, etc) and stick in a few dozen of my favorites: cartoons, blogs and weird/funny news sites.

Oh yes....I am also getting more exercise by running up and down the stairs. (it's good for me)

Now, if I get a move on I can finish cleaning the church with the help of my faithful sidekick, Carolyn, and get back before the next pain pill.

Ciao, baby.
 

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The Loren Report

Well, Ma has just settled her patient into his bed, if you can call lying down with a broken rib or two, "settled."

Yes, that's right....Loren took a tumble this afternoon.

*sigh*

For the sake of people that know the layout of the house, or more specifically, the breezeway, here's what happened:

In our breezeway (between the garage and addition) is a stairway. The bottom 4 or 5 steps had been taken out, to facilitate the installation of a sump pump.

The time seemed propitious to put a railing around the entrance to this stairway, as well as replace the missing steps.

In working on this railing, Loren was progressing backwards down the stairway and he only had TWO MORE SCREWS to put in, when forgetting he was already on the last step, he took another step back into nothingness.

It was a fall of about 4 feet, with dirt, boards and the sump pump pipe to greet him. He landed on the left side of his back, at the lower end of the rib cage.

Not having been called I proceeded with my merry church cleaning, came back, stuck some potatoes in the oven to bake, and beheld someone shuffling VERY slowly towards me, from the computer room.....(then they decided to tell me)

After some finagling around ("I think Mayo would want you to go and get checked out." "That takes so much time...") followed by my calling a nurse who works at the hospital, and then calling the hospital itself--interspersed with my tales of a fellow who got bumped sliding into homeplate and his wife made him go to the ER where they found a ruptured spleen--I convinced Loren to let me take him in.

The ER doc basically assumed one or more broken ribs and assured us that Loren did not have the typical signs of internal bleeding. That was a relief. The doc did not feel the need to do X-rays or scans, though he would have if we'd insisted. I almost insisted, but we decided to call Mayo and the transplant coordinator concurred with the doc.

SOOOOooooo, Loren was given a rather helpful shot of morphine, as well as a night's supply of pain reliever and muscle relaxant. (he is having tremendous pain from muscle spasms) I get to go in and fill these scripts in the morning.

More drugs. How we LOVE more drugs.

Loren is one sore cookie and bemoaning his lapse of breezeway positioning awareness, not to mention all the lost work during recuperation time.

I say, "Thank God you didn't land with your head on cement or a board!"

That's about it. Please pray that the muscle spasms will not last terribly long and that the ribs will heal without too much problem. (his bone loss contributes to his ease in breaking bones)

Sleeping tonight could be interesting.

In spite of this new predicament, there are things for which to be thankful. Not the least of which, Kendra kept the crew nicely in line during our absence and was entertaining them with a rousing game of musical chairs as we returned.

Of course, it's easy for me to say that....I'm not hurting every time I move or breathe.
 

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I used to like the color blue....

....but I've seen so much of it lately.

I refer to the screen that comes up, quite randomly, with the cheery message, "dumping memory."

This means the computer has crashed and it was never my fault.

However, this last time, I think it was my fault. And that's when the new blue screen popped up....

STOP!!! You've really done it now, you pathetic, incompetent numskull who shouldn't even be allowed to USE a computer....now your husband has every right to be ticked with you and shouldn't you be spending more time cleaning off the kitchen counters, anyway???

So, I've pretty much decided that I need a vacation.

Oh, I'll stick around for Thanksgiving and Christmas. (I doubt that anyone else wants to spend a couple hours wrapping all the gifts, not to mention writing up the annual Christmas letter and addressing and mailing it out to 80 some persons)

I'll even put in a decent effort to clean the house for the holidays, cart the decorations down from the attic and whatnot.

But after New Year's, I'm outta here.

Not for long, and probably not far, but I'm definitely taking a couple days off.

And I'm taking the camera, two batteries and two memory cards (one for the camera and one for me).

I can hardly wait.....
 

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The crash of Toadicus

As in computer crash.

It's all my fault and I am sorry.

He was trying to find that link I spoke of earlier, where the happy children of Clive, Iowa went outside and hugged their school building for National Education week.

He thought he'd found the video, but it kept causing his computer to crash.

Funny....it didn't cause my computer to crash. One would almost think that would beg the question, "Is Toad's hardware inferior to Ma's?" And anyway, I think they cut off the first part of the newscast that contained that particular video clip.

But since he and Molly are expecting, one feels compelled to offer some form of compensation. So here are the words to one of my favorite old time songs.

My Blue Heaven

When whip-poor-wills call,
And evening is nigh,
I hurry to my
Blue Heaven.

A turn to the right,
A little white light,
Will lead to my
Blue Heaven.

You'll see a smiling face
A fire place, a cozy room,
A little nest that's where the
Roses bloom.

Just Mollie and me,
And baby makes three,
We're happy in my
Blue Heaven.

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You have to start early.........

 
.....to learn the fine points of shopping.
 

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National Education Week

Hey, Iowa made the national news this morning!

Yes, Ma witnessed it with her very own eyes while she was working out on the Total Gym 1500. There it was, on the Today Show, reported in the NATIONAL NEWS segment by Ann Curry...."and in Clive, Iowa, children of the elementary school went outside, joined hands and gave their school building a hug, in honor of National Education Week." (or words to that effect)

*appropriate warm smile from Ann*

*gagging sound from Ma*

I tried and tried to find this blurb to link to for y'alls edification and morning merriment. I could not. So, if anyone can find and send me the link, more power to ya! I will reward you with a gift appropriate to your individual cultural tastes.

In the meantime, do you think our little homeschool will let ourselves be outdone by the larger public school which is funded by our tax dollars?

NO WAY!

I marched our kiddos right outside, telling them we had a wonderful opportunity for a photo op and incidentally, there would be no evening dessert for any....um....deserters.

I had 100 percent compliance, in part, because I chose not to ask Kendra or Derek.

So here they are, making a mighty effort to ring their school building....
 
....and finding themselves daunted by the bay window.

Instead, they opt to surround the bird feeder....
  
....where it is rumored several sparrows actually ate some of the cracked corn.

Our intrepid school newspaper reporter interviewed several of the students to get their reaction to this mighty display of school spirit and love of education:

Melinda: "I'm only doing this because Mommy made us....I was just getting ready to go on the treadmill."
Ethan: "I'm all for ANYTHING that postpones my schoolwork. We should do this every day!"
Carolyn: "Why are we out here again? Are you going to embarrass us, Mommy?"
Nolan (who is too lazy to put on long pants to go outside for 5 minutes): *runs around like a crazy person, grinning wildly*
Trevor: "Dis is willwy wee-ohd...but Ow-woh do anyfing day say."
_______________

In other Iowa news, it seems Panbanisha the crafty Bonobo has learned how to operate the fire alarm. That's the bad news.

The GOOD news is, she has promised not to do it again.

Sounds like somebody needs a hug...
 

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Yo......Joe

How goes the revolution?

Oh, by the way.....one of the kids found a mouse in a trap out in the addition.

He looked rather peaceful.

And I've noticed some of the bait blocks have been nibbled on too, so.....yeah, everything's going according to plan.

Did you say you were staying in the basement, Joe? 'Cause that reminds me.....I forgot to put bait blocks down there.

(Sianara, baby)
 

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Ma's Newsy Nuggets

Speaking of nuggets, check out this advertisement for Kentucky Fried Chicken :-D

I don't know why, but for some reason I'm reminded of Nikita Khrushchev's supposed plan to paint the moon red.
____________

We've ALL heard the benefits of chocolate touted (especially dark chocolate), but yet another study has come out in favor of this exotic elixir of good health...(hey, if you melted it, it would be liquid)

Yes, I'll just keep preachin' 'til everyone sees the light.
____________

Time to update your dictionaries. "Carbon neutral" is the newest, coolest logos of the annum, according to The New Oxford American Dictionary.

"Carbon neutral"......I think it has something to do with only eating fries that have been cooked in green oil.

(I guess they don't want to know that I get rid of the trash by burning it out-of-doors. The styrofoam cups from the church make nice, dark smoke...but if that's a problem, I could just burn it after dark, from now on.....)

____________

Exciting news on the homefront: We are now officially going to our nephew's wedding in Tulsa this December! David is a graduate of LeTourneau and the oldest son of Loren's late brother, Galen, who died suddenly of a heart attack back in 2003.

We haven't worked out where we're staying, yet, but that will come. The important thing is being there for David and Amy and seeing lots of family! (which incidentally, includes meeting up with Jason and taking him back home with us)

*happy sigh*

And, I am most pleased to have gotten Kendra's high school transcript finished and safely in the mail. Kendra might be a little relieved, also.

Derek has finished the last of four testing days at the high school, and I think it's safe to say that he too, is relieved.

So basically, we are all relieved.

I'm pretty sure this means I deserve a nap.
 

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Another transcript be done!

This was taken over a year ago, but Kendra still looks the same. I'll look sorta like that after I lose 10 more pounds :-D

(possibly, one should add a few wrinkles)

Seems like I was just working on a high school transcript not long ago....

....oh, that's right, I WAS.

Jason's. And now Kendra's is complete. And this is the last time I will have to do this two years in a row!

Kendra has her application in to Grace College in Winona Lake, IN., and tomorrow the official mailing of the transcript in the official brown mailer envelope will officially happen.

I started working after lunch and amazingly got finished this evening.

You know, I've found it goes a lot faster if you just flip a coin instead of looking through all those pesky math and science papers....

....JUST KIDDING!

We were hoping to have Kendra's SAT score by now but no such luck. Undoubtedly it is something simple, like an essay grader spilling a low fat latte on the test, or something.

Anyway, another milestone :-)
 

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Kid Talk

Filed under Pecuniary Preoccupation.

This morning....
Nolan (7): "I wish I had 20 dollars."

Ma (48): "What would you do with 20 dollars?"

Nolan: "It would make a difference."

Ma: "How would it make a difference?"

Nolan: "Oh, I don't know."
__________

Yesterday afternoon, on the drive going shopping.....

Trevor (4): "I'm going to buy a motohcycoh."

Nolan: "You can't. It costs too much money. It probably costs 2000 dollars, or maybe even 299 cents."

Trevor: "Welw, I don't cawoh."

Nolan: "We don't have the MONEY."

Trevor: "I don't cawoh eithoh."
 

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The Diet Report

This week's weigh-in: 1W0.5, a three pound loss for this week and a 14 pound loss over the past 10 weeks!

:-D :-D

That old saying, "It'll all come out in the wash" has some merit, after all.

Approaching another major milestone, that of hitting a lower ten's place. Always gives us pound impaired people a morale boost.

I hope to lose five more by Christmas, though I'd be happy to get by with three. And with the holidays approaching, I'd be content to just stay even at the moment.

I'm so happy I almost don't care that my computer crashed again overnight...
 

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I is rich

A family which we know is whittling a few books from their *cough* ex-ten-sive collection and Kendra and I were allowed to rummage through two boxes yesterday.

We felt like we'd been let into the vault at Fort Knox.

Works by Shakespeare, Milton, Tennyson.

We already have Shakespeare's complete works, but Kendra snatched up several plays to add to her own collection.

I came away with "Best Known Works of Voltaire," and "B.K.W.of Ibson."

Also a couple of books by some guy called Mark Twain.

Oh yes...and "The Short Stories of De Maupassant." (not real familiar with this author but judging by the name, he was some cool French dude)

That was yesterday.

TODAY I stopped at the library and prostrated myself before the head librarian, renewed my books and was charged nada :-) (I think it helps that we haven't destroyed anything recently. "Oh, your children are so well behaved!" "Well...hmmmm.....*cough*.....not always, you know....."

There was a small number of used books for sale and for $1.25 I picked up:

-"1812: The War That Forged A Nation" by Walter R. Borneman (hardback)
(included in this volume is the bonus of a lime green sticky note which says, "Frank~Dave chose this book for you before he left. Betsy." There is no telling the significance and value this adds to the book, though apparently, not for Frank....)

-"The First World War: A Complete History" by Martin Gilbert (hardback)

-"A Treasury of Deception" by Michael Farquhar (paperback)

Don't know if these are worthy volumes but I could be persuaded to part with some, provided a decent amount of groveling occurred.

(I am going to read that last book, though. It's got the Piltdown Man in there, among other things....)

I almost feel vindicated for missing the organ concert.

Almost.
 

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The perks of janitorial work

(apologies for the bad picture, but after determining Picasa may be responsible for several computer crashes, I'm temporarily ceasing its use. Today, a lame picture post courtesy of Blogger)


This is the church down the road from our house, where I clean. During one of my "spiff-up" trips last week, I came upon a construction crew frantically at work before rain and snow was scheduled to hit the following day.

I asked the crew boss if he cared that I took a few pics of the work and he said that would be great.

Whereupon he stepped outside and cautioned his men, "Some lady is going to take pictures, so everybody pull up his pants...."

(hee, hee :-)

Oh come on, I thought it was funny :-p
 

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Some days are great right from the start

You wake up and the sun is shining.

The last 1/3 gallon of milk that you've carefully saved for breakfast is more than enough for everyone's cereal.

Not only does everyone have clean underwear, but you actually get to the morning church service before it starts.

On the drive home, you stop at the quick mart to pick up more milk, and grab the last 2 cartons of eggs in the joint.

It seems like yet another providential sign that all is well.

The family is fed and you even find time for a wee nap before the evening festivities....

....as in ORGAN CONCERT! Yes, right here in lil' ol' Iowa, a real live pipe organ, in a real live church, played by a real live professional organist.

How many times is that gonna happen, eh?

(not many)

You search for the church, hoping the directions you've been given are correct. They are! You congratulate yourself for arriving 30 minutes early, to get a good seat for the 7:00 concert.

Cars are crowded in the streets, and you see a sign that says the evening service is for 6:30....*gasp*.....once again you congratulate yourself for having the foresight to arrive early! But wait.....could this be the wrong church after all?

You go in and ask a nice lady sitting in the back...."Oh yes, the concert was last night, and it was VERY good!"

"Oh."

Well. The given directions were right, if not the date....

The two older children you've brought along for the enriching cultural experience are very good sports.

You turn on the radio to salvage some shred of sanity and hear, "...Put on a happy fa..."......*click*......you are not amused and switch to NPR.

You come home and realize that despite setting the timer for the kids' snack to come out of the oven, you didn't start it, the snack is now "extra crispy" and just for good measure, all the library books were due yesterday and you forgot to renew them.

But at least the day started out pretty good.

MORAL of this story: A mind is a terrible thing to lose.
 

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Thoughts on Gravy

Sundays and crockpots just go together somehow.

Shortly before The Red Green Show comes on Saturday night, take a cheap roast (oxymoron) out of the freezer and plunk it in the pot.

Actually, don't plunk it. I did that once and managed to break a slightly cracked crock into two seperate pieces. It was very sad.

Anyway, put a little water in the crockpot, GENTLY place the roast in and set her on low overnight. Even if you have one of those longish chuck roasts, just tilt the lid and let her settle in as she warms up.

This is preferable to taking the butcher knife and hacking through a frozen roast, so it will fit into a round crockpot.....which I have done, but don't necessarily recommend.

When you awaken on Sunday morning, toss in two beef bullion cubes, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Cut up a large onion and then empty one of those bags of baby carrots into the mix.

Oh yes, always remember to put the lid back on....for some reason, this just works better.

By the time you come home from church, you dinner will be practically ready. All you'll have to do is cook the rice, which is about how long it will take for little boys to change out of their good clothes after getting distracted by their computers, first.

Really competent cooks will have prepared the rice before church, but those kind of people are already overachievers and I don't think we ought to encourage them. (besides, I used to do that, until I forgot to turn off the burner before going out the door, and ended up with a pretty disgusting mix of white, tan, brown and black granules)

And no matter if you've stuck potatoes in the crockpot, or have gone the rice route, YOU ARE DEFINITELY GOING TO NEED GRAVY! (this will become obvious the second time your husband asks, "Is there anything to go on this?")

Now, it is time to kill one of those urban myths about gravy:

Throwing ice cubes into the broth will NOT attract the fat. Oh, I know we've been told that the fat will congeal around the cold cubes, allowing you to pluck them out, along with a gazillion calories, but take it from me....this is not true.

Indeed, what happens is a rather astounding phenomenon: : the hot liquid melts the cold ice cubes! And since you are fast acquiring more liquid than previously desired, you quickly fish the cubes--now half their original size--and plop them into a nearby glass.

Time for the ol' tried-and-true method of ladling out the fat by hand. As you dump each dipper of fat into the handy nearby glass--which incidentally still contains the ice cubes--you will notice the fat forming a thick shell around each cold cube.

PAY NO ATTENTION TO THIS! The cubes are just trying to make you mad.

In order to make a less fatty gravy than your usual flour/butter mixture, you should turn to the cornstarch box and take out two glopfulls of stuff and mix with cold water. (one glopfull equals a heaping, HEAPING tablespoon. and no one ever tells you why it has to be cold water....)

Having turned your crockpot up to "high," you now mix the pearly white concoction into the broth with a wire whisk, stirring briskly. (this stirring will be all the more brisk if you have taken out the meat and veggies, first....what? I have to tell you everything ?)

So there you are stirring, and it seems a little thicker, but not quite thick enough. You will then be tempted to put another glop of cornstarch into the mix.

RESIST THIS TEMPTATION!

If you give in, you will soon find the gravy achieving a rather charismatic texture, fully capable of standing up and hollaring "Glory, Halle-lu-jah, which is thought to be somewhat intimidating to both humans and rice.

Not to worry. If you've given way to gravy exuberance, simply throw in some milk until the appropriate pouring properties are achieved.

And, it's just----that----easy.

(but not as easy as one of those packaged gravy mixes from the store)
 

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(this is a much prettier blue than....say.....the blue that comes up on one's computer screen, accompanied by those magic words, "Dumping memory to disk.....")

NOOOOOOOOOOOOO......
  

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The Ma Side

 
Lars the Happy Snowman was feeling pretty good about his place in the world, until he glanced to his left....and....and suddenly.....he regretted not going with term life insurance.
  

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Ma's Newsy Nuggets

This has since come out in the national news, but TRUST ME, I heard it first from my nephew Matthew. I wonder how LOTR would look, in txt....
________________

Wilson tells me he's finally found a website made for guys like him. Sadly, Wilson has discontinued blogging, making life more dull for ma's like me.
_______________

From our very own state, a democratic candidate for president. I'm not supporting Governor Vilsack, just reporting the news. But I do hear he's been endorsed by a famous yogurt company out in New Hampshire....I just can't remember their name.

Judging by his links to facebook and myspace, Governor Vilsack is a real happenin' kinda guy, though I would suggest he might want to peruse the aforementioned website.
________________

If you're like me, you weren't even aware of the ongoing "is a burrito a sandwich?" controversy....but now we have the answer.

I'm sure we'll all sleep better tonight.
 

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Kid stuff

Not having the rigorous academic demands of their older siblings, the youngest two pull out other means of amusement.

Trevor and Nolan are still learning some of the rules of chess, so Ethan takes the opportunity to point out that Nolan's queen is in a vulnerable position in relation to Trevor's knight....
 

"Nowan, I am taking yoh queen. Hee, hee!" "Aw rats...."
 
Notice Trevor's unique-looking King? One die atop five checkers.....I think that's called Substitutionary Athronement.....*Ma Guffaw*....Nolan also has four checkers acting as pawns. They could just look under the couch, but I guess they take after their mother.

That was yesterday morning.

Later that night Carolyn comes up to me, "Mommy, I made up a joke! Wanna hear it?"

"Sure."

"One guy comes up to another guy and says, "Hey, guess what I got for my birthday?"

"I don't know. What did you get?"

"A 45 automatic!"
  

*blinks*

Personally, I blame her brothers. But I'm sure there's nothing to worry about.

Really.
 

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Snow Capers

Trevor explores alternative techniques of snow removal
 

The first snowman of the season!
 
Sculpted by Carolyn

Ethan making certain the van will not be drifted in
 
(hey, you can never be too careful)

Snow angel
 
 

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Raggedy Ann and assorted curios enjoying snow

 
 

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The Battle for Ma's Mind

(huh, it's still dark....why did I wake up so early?)

Notice anything....?.....a pain behind your left eye?

(oh man...not a migraine....)

*makes mental note to add "fuzzy head" and extreme weather change to Official List of Migraine Precursors*

You'd better go right downstairs and pop a couple Excedrin Migraine pills. I'm just sayin'.

(but, it's so nice and warm under the covers...)

You'll be sor---ry....

(possibly. but if I move it might hurt more)

Your capacity for for excuse-making is limitless.

(heh, heh)

Feeling nauseous, yet?

(well, maybe a little....)

*sound of sleet hitting window, followed by the procurement of meds*

*sound of glasses falling off book-laden nightstand*

(good thing the trash is overflowing....nice cushion for the falling specs)

You are such a slob.

(yeah, if life were different, I'd be a guy and have a wife to clean up this stuff)

Riggghhhht. Your own husband doesn't have that....

(the im-portant question here, is how am I going to find my glasses when I can't see?)

*sound of pawing through trash with flashlight in hand*

(i'm gonna lose more brain cells, I just know it....)

For every migraine, you need to compensate by reading 3 books or completing 15 crossword puzzles. In your case, it wouldn't hurt to do both.

*snort*

(i wonder if having a migraine burns more calories.....)

Only if you get out of bed.

*sigh*

And don't think you're getting any sympathy from me.

(right....*sigh*....)
 

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Melinda's 14th birthday

I wasn't sure if the candles would survive Melinda's birthday dessert, Magic Chocolate Mud Pudding, served hot from the oven....

....so I did something really lame, and stuck them in a piece of toast.

A Glue Gun :-)

(at the "g" word, all boys' ears immediately come to attention)

"She got a what....?" (it's for crafts, you guys...and maybe to put up your hair if you're running late for church)

Ohhhhh....prepared microscope slides!

(Ma shrugs modestly and drops a comment about crafty bidding on Ebay)

Suddenly, Ma remembers to put on the flash! (I am SUCH an idiot)

An origami calendar. Each day's page has folding directions on the back.

That means......365 paper animals!

And Trevor is starting to realize this means the chances of trucks or tractors to borrow are practically nil. Life is indeed cruel.

A book about scientists.....

.....which elicits an immediate response from Carolyn, "What so special about that ?"

(probably why you received horse books, my dear :-)

Fourteen years old.

One more year and we'll have five teenagers in the family. For two months, anyway.

*sigh*
 

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My computer is back!

Loren has been hard at work on ye olde laptope/main computer for Ma.

Hard at work as in starting last night and continuing until this evening. (I did let him take a break for sleep)

It began with changing the CPU (or something) and then things got "complicated."

Let's just say....when you hear the harpish strains of Windows booting up, closely followed by, "Rats, RATS, RATS....!" you know something is amiss.

Surprisingly, I got along just fine. Walked outside for the last time (tomorrow bodes snow) and even sat down to play the piano. (once a year, whether I need to or not)

But everything seems to function. He installed the latest version of Firefox and I even have a working spell check for the blog, now!

Mucho occurrences to report, but they must wait.....thanking the husband comes first.

THANKS, LOREN :-D

(does this mean I'm not getting anything for Christmas?)
 

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Two Year Anniversary

(I'm on another computer, without a spell-check...)

Kendra and I were recalling how this is the two year anniversary of Loren receiving his heart transplant.

Two years and....*looks at clock*....4 hours, to be approximate. The nurse sorta forgot to tell me when they actually started, but I'm fairly certain they had Loren's chest open and waiting when Pastor John and I heard the helicopter land at St. Mary's around 5:30.

We went from extreme lows the night before, to extreme highs all through the 8th of November, 2006.

Somewhere, another family was going through just the opposite chain of emotions.

Sitting in the waiting room, I got a case of the shakes....just nervous pent up energy, fears and thrills. The only other times I have experienced that kind of shaking was about an hour after each of the kids was born.

I don't know if Loren would care to remember what he first felt like upon waking, but he sure looked weird, with all manner of tubes coming out of his neck, his chest and goodness knows where else. It took two nurses just to get him out of bed, which amazingly enough, they start to do rather quickly!

I literally couldn't believe it when I came back at supper and found him eating turkey and sweet potatoes. I might have asked, "Are you sure he should be eating that stuff?" (I think they are rather used to dumb questions :-)

Those nurses are simply incredible.

___________________

Then Kendra and I started reminiscing about less joyous times....like when Jason--then 15--walked into the computer room and found his dad face down on the floor. By the time I got to him, he was turning purple. I just knew the defibrillator would kick in, but I'd never seen him blue before. Then the shocks started.....one...........two...................three. (it takes longer to charge after each shock) Finally he came around, groggy, weak, dazed and once again prone, with people standing around staring at him.

Or the time I was coming back with Sharon after year 2 of college. I pulled into the drive and Derek came running out, "Jason says somethings wrong with Daddy!" (poor Jason, he often seemed to be on shock-watch) So we ran in and found Loren lying in the recliner, "I'm gonna get shocked....I'm gonna get shocked".........*wham*......and we're just standing around waiting and there's nothing you can do.
___________________

That might be enough recapping for now. (probably just as well I didn't know about blogging back then) Sometimes it's good to remember where we've been, but not to wallow in past horrors over-long.

God's been very good to us, though there have been times I wondered if He was even listening. At all.

But any given time of desperation is securely nestled between great acts of God's grace. The assurance of past protection can lead us through more current trials.

And that brings us up to today. You can pray for Loren in these next weeks.

He has had his Prednisone gradually decreased over the past two years, which up till now has caused him no problem. But the latest change is a bit different. The twice daily pills have been combined to one morning dosage. You wouldn't think this would be a big deal, but it is. The goal is to kick-start the adrenal glands into working again. They've been in hibernation during this time, post-transplant, and apparently they like it that way. They're not going to start up again without a fight.

I don't know how long this process is supposed to take, but Loren is extremely tired, weak and well-nigh exhausted.

Maybe the turning point is just around the corner, or maybe he'll have to slog it out a bit.

One thing's for sure....it's a good thing he's retired! Ain't no way he could work outside the home, feeling as he does.

Mercy me, how I do ramble on. (Kendra thinks this might be why Ethan likes to talk so much :-)

Well, we all have our methods of survival.

Some put a smile on their face and pretend everything's super....some whine and bring everyone down with them.....some quote Bible verses, as if they're a magic potion.....some keep busy and ignore the distress.....

....and some people blog.

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The Ma Side

 
In addition to "Sauerkraut Days," Ackley Iowa's fall presentation of "The Great Corn Pyramids" is a cultural event unrivaled in scope and content.
 

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I'm sorry....

.....but I just can't get that angsty over the election results.

I was a little disappointed last night, but I woke up this morning and walked out to get the mail. It was sunny and gorgeous. I even heard a bird singing. And it's supposed to get up to 71 today.

Apparently, the world has not come to an end, just because Democrats have a majority in the house. (at this point the senate is still in contention) And Ma says,

"Let's not have any sulking."

I mean, what's more important? Turnover of house leadership? Or me getting on the scales this morning and finding I'm two pounds lighter than yesterday?

As Tip O'Neil once said,

"All weighty politics is local"

Oh....and one more thing....MANY OF THE NEWSCASTERS REALLY NEED TO GET SOME NEW MATERIAL. We are tired of the same old clichés and overused quotes.

Remember: It's not over till it's over, with every cloud comes a silver lining, and hey....I never promised you a rose garden.

So let's all just take a step back, pop some medicinal chocolate and chill out.....

....something this guy should have done.
 

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This day's happenings

Voted.

Discovered Jason is registered, after all :-)
___________

Bought LAST presents for the whole quadruple whammy birthday/Christmas scenario. (I really mean it this time, Loren)

After much searching on the Internet, I finally found the piece of music I'd been hungering for after hearing it on NPR while traveling to prayer meeting last Wednesday. (:-D) I forgot to write down the composer, but I figured it all out. It involved mucho clickos, and a name association I'd made with a character from "Everbody Loves Raymond."

That's all I'm sayin'.
___________

The son in college informed me he has turned in his 18 page Exegesis paper.

Who knew he could find that many words? I am positively stunned.
___________

Carolyn's heart shot up to 180 beats per minute, but there's something about a drink of water that always brings it back down.
___________

The far side of the lawn is now mowed. Oh sure, cows would be easier, but then we couldn't go barefoot.
___________

Got a call from Rudy. Rudy Giuliani. I was snoozing at the time, but I figure this---is----the----LAST----DAY
___________

I'm thinking of incorporating all these themes into a country music hit song for which I will be paid vast sums of money, rise to star status and yet, remain utterly humble.
 

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The Diet Report

Today's weigh-in: 1W3.5. That makes this week's weight loss.....uh, wait a minute.....that makes this week's weight gain 1 pound, or a total weight loss of 11 pounds over 9 weeks.

BUMMER!

Oh well. I was somewhat ticked this morning, but I've determined to up the exercise ante and we'll see what happens by next week. Only one more birthday to get through, followed by four days of recovery before the next weigh-in.

Not that I'm obsessed, or anything.

The weather is becoming warmer and calls me to fire up the mower. I shall take out my frustrations on the grass.

And if the mower doesn't start, I just may be able to find something or someone else to take out my frustrations upon.
 

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The Ma Side

 
After performing their civic duty, Tigger and Curious George sat down to discuss their latest find from Goodwill.
 

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Open letter to Joe Mouse

Well, we haven't heard from you in a while, Joe, despite the fact you've gotten your own blog. I wonder why that is, Joe....hmmm?

Scared, perhaps? Too scared to even publish my comment on your third post, eh?

Well, just to show you that I am a Ma of principles, I'm giving you fair warning of a new addition to my arsenal of weaponry.

Behold.....
 
.....Bait Blocks!

Nice, aren't they. Such a pretty shade of turquoise. And just the right shape for gnawing on.

You like to gnaw, don't you, Joe? Of course, "you cain't hep it." It's those intolerable incisors of yours. If you didn't gnaw, those front toothies would reach past your toes....after they curled around your head a couple of times.

We're talkin' Howard Hughes fingernails, Joe....and Ma ain't jokin'.

And I almost forgot....when I came home from shopping, I found another dead cousin in the middle of the floor.

Really, Joe, you guys should be more careful. You're starting to freak out the kids, just stumbling around and dying willy-nilly amongst the toys.

MOST unprofessional.

I carefully and respectfully tossed it outside. (which might explain that stray cat hangin' around)

This lack of attention to detail, plus your horrible spelling, lead me to believe you did not attend college.

Now Joe, you know what they say...."you'd better study hard and stay in college, or you might end up on the front lines somewheres." (or words to that effect) I have that from a very reliable source, Joe. I only pass it along for your own good.

And another thing, have you considered the precariousness of your position? Your undying trust (metaphorically speaking) in a certain person who has "egged you on," (again, total metaphorics) could very well be displaced.

Did not this same person actually KILL a mouse on his own premises? Oh sure, he blames his wife (a very sensible and intelligent female personage, if I may say so...), but the fact of the matter is.....HE KILLED THE MOUSE!

Methinks your "mentor" may not have your best interests in mind. Perhaps he is only thinking of his own cheese, my friend.

I know this information may cause you mental pain, Joe, but someone has to do the noble thing. SOME-one has to tell you what you need to know, and not just what you want to hear.

The honest truth is....we only kill the smallest amount of rodents necessary. Just like the Plains Indians in their quest for buffalo, we only take of which we need. We even say a little prayer before we slay you guys, asking forgiveness and all that....or at least we would, if we thought about it while we were screaming.

It's not our fault that we keep needing and needing more mouse-pelts. Have you every tried to clothe ten children, Joe? Have you?

I didn't think so.

So, there you have it. I don't wish to alarm you, Joe.....just want to be sporting and all that.

*high fives the kids*

For your own safety, don't come up this-a-way. It's nothing personal Joe, other than the desire to avoid pestilence, chewed up possessions and really bad smells.

But other than that, it's not personal.

And besides, Joe....it's a scientific fact that mice who stay cool will live longer. See? If you just stick to the out-of-doors, there won't be any problems.

p.s. Is there anyone I should notify in case of your....er.....demise?
 

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"Diss wood is not my home....

....Ahm jiss a passin' fwough."

"My tweazhoors ow waid up,
Somewhewh beyond da bwoo."

"Dee--angelws beckon me
Fwom heaven's open doowh,

En I cain't feelw at home, in diss wood eny-moowh."

(chowus)
"Oh Woahwd, you know, ah have no-won but you."

"If heaven's not my home,
den Woahwd what wiwl I do. Deeee-
Angelws beckon me
Fwom heaven' open doowh,

En I cain't feelw at home, in diss wood eny-moowh."

--by Trevoh (4)--
 

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Birthday Bash

The moon rose in fullness on the evening of Carolyn's 12th birthday.
 
OK, her REAL birthday isn't until Tuesday, but Melinda's is Thursday, and there's no need to have that much expense, calories and hoopla situated so close together.

First, the candle blowout. Twelve candles arranged in the shape of a 12.
 
(There is just no end to Ma's creativity)

Carolyn is clearly overwhelmed by a gift from one of her male siblings....
  
...a pencil around which two chicken bullion wrappers have been carefully scotch taped.

If this were a modern art gallery, we would be talkin' "Deceptively simple, this work of art is emblematic of man's disdain for tree and fowl."

But in real life, it's just another totally incomprehensible and strangely amusing gag gift from Ethan. With brothers like that, who needs enemies?

Wow! Wonder of wonders, it's a Bible cover!
 
(traditional 12th birthday gift)

You've got to be KIDDING....a Bible to go in the Bible cover....! (another traditional 12th birthday gift)
 
Trevor can't help but wonder why there aren't more cars and trucks.

Finally, something unexpected....the first 5 volumes of Adventures of the Northwoods.
  
Trevor is still hoping she will get some toys he can borrow....

Afterwards, we all retired to the living room to enjoy Carolyn's birthday movie, Sound of Music.

Even though we've seen it many times, CERTAIN PEOPLE cannot refrain from bursting out with comments until the threat of muzzlement.

I make a mental note of changing the words to My Favorite Things, and put down the Mother Abbess as the part I would most like to play after Aunt Eller of Oklahoma. Aunt Eller has a more developed character, but it sure would be crazy fun to sing faux-opera on Climb Every Mountain. The potential for embarrassing the kids would be utterly stupendous.

I'll just have to add that to my "list of things to do some day," along with "grow up."
 

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Relevant Cartoon

My thoughts, exactly.
 

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Grace in Meadow

 
 

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