soiips

Feb 2012

2012-02-12T20:27:00.000-08:00

Had a great Birthday.

Went to Cody on the Senior bus, then in the evening we went to dinner at the ElkHorn with the Fendts, Griffins, and Rankines. Good dinner, good conversation, and just plain fun. Even had cake and ice cream.

Got lots of well wishes. Didn't see my shadow all day. However I have a sneaking suspicion winter isn't over yet.

Friday, the 10th, the Mtse Senior bus went to the Ten Sleep Senior Center for lunch. That was fun. It started snowing very lightly while we were eating, but some fellow had just come from Worland and said it wasn't snowing there. Thought we would run out of it then. Didn't happen. It was snowing more there than in TenSleep. In fact we got snowed on all the way back to Mtse, but it was very light and not blowing or anything nasty like that. Roads were wet, but not freezing. Later, after we got home, we did get quite a bit more snow. Figured we timed that trip right.

Anyway I had called Alice Beckley to let her know we were coming there and hoped she could have lunch with us. She did and even paid for me and Gma. Had a good visit with her and she introduced us to Myrna Bader. Baders used to work on Gooseberry and she remembered us, but her folks left there when she was 7 years old. Think they went to Ten Sleep then. Anyway I used to play with her when we were little. I remember that, but can't remember just where we played. Don't remember them coming to our house. Probably we played at card parties and the picnics.

Alice said she and her husband will be over for my 3/4 Century party. She couldn't believe I was 75. I should still be just a little kid. Alice was in my sister's class and they were 4 years older.

Virginia Foreman wasn't at lunch, so didn't see her. Alice had a dental appointment the day before so she didn't call her either. Maybe we will get to TenSleep again before party time.

The Museum found the story Elmer wrote about the old sheepherders around Mtse. They said they'd make a copy of it for me. I'm supposed to make them a copy of his story about the Sodbusters. Better get that done.

Then I visited with Clara Mae about the places on Gooseberry and she didn't remember them the same as I do, so we decided we have to take a trip there with my Mom. Something to shoot for this summer.

history lessons

2011-11-26T23:01:00.001-08:00

We had a good time on Thanksgiving. I got quite a bit of Mtse history while we visited. Some I had heard parts of at some time or other, but now the pieces fit.

Gpa bought Iron Creek from Bert Avery because he and Bert got along real good. Bert didn't want to leave his land to his kids as they would just fight over it so he sold all 2200 acres to Gpa for $5 per acre. Now I want to get Porters to take us back up in Iron Creek so I can see what I remember about the place. Not sure how far all those acres go. There used to be a couple of springs in the creek, but not sure where they were. One was along the fence line, but not sure just exactly where. There used to be three cabins up there. One was down when we went there as kids, but the chicken coop was still there. We lived in one and Gpa tore the other one down some time later. I remember that, but also remember it being there a long time. There was a garage under the hill a way from the house we lived in. I think all that stuff was torn down after they built this house.

There was a road that went through there and came out at Renner's somewhere. Don't know it its the one they call "Rooster Creek" road or if that's a different one. If its not the same one its close.

This flat area on the top of the hill was called Millenthaler Flat, which I remember hearing. Didn't know that Millenthalers had a house down along the road somewhere between where our house is now and the check station. Gpa sold that house right after he bought this place. He had no use for it so he got rid of it. The guy that bought it moved it to town and its the house that Scott Crosby has now. However it has been built onto a few times. Apparently some logs from a cabin in Grass Creek were used for part of it. I hadn't heard that story before.

People moved houses from place to place a lot years ago. When Marathon moved their people out of Grass Creek a lot of those houses were moved into Meeteetse and are still used. Mary Ann Farmer's was one of them. And Jean Mendenhall had one, but I think it got destroyed in the flood in the 60s. The one she lives in now isn't one of the Grass Creek ones.

The house that Emily lives in is the oldest house in Mtse. and it faces directly north and south. There are only a few houses in Mtse that are directly situated north and south. Most are at an angle.

Labor Day celebration used to be just one day. Lots of celebrating. When they had dances in the hall on the hill people had to walk down town to the bars to get a drink and were sobered up by they time they walked back up the hill. The rodeo grounds were on the other side of the road from where it is now. There were no bleachers, people sat in the back of their pickups or sat on the fences. The contestants were locals, no professionals. The stock came from locals so wasn't contracted out like now.

I'm going to have to start keeping track of all this stuff. Its interesting stuff and not quite the same as what you find in the museum. This is all from people's memories and not documented entirely. That's what make it more interesting. It's accurate information as far as anyone remembers.

Hardin

2011-09-03T21:21:00.000-07:00

Went back to Hdn to do usual monthly bill stuff. Which I did do.

Got a lot of house work done this trip. Vacuumed the whole house, walls, ceilings, floors, and basement. Even vacuumed cobwebs off the porch. Emptied the two garbage cans full of sticks and twigs and then filled them up again. Got the whole yard picked up. Watered, watered, watered. Really soaked up the whole yard and it looks a bit greener. Did my washing and dried it. Scanned Mtse Labor Day pics for the Museum. Shredded junk mail, read a few magazines and papers, emptied one plastic sack of misc stuff (most went in garbage). Did banking and bought some clothesline wire. Didn't get it up yet, though.

That was quite a bit for two days. Did dishes, watered plants, washed hair, swept floors, emptied garbage and it was time to head back to Mtse.

Next time I go I'll take truck so I can stand in it to reach the low hanging tree branches. Then they will fall right into the truck bed and I can take them to the dump.

Had to get back to Mtse as its party time here, Labor Day festivities.

Tuesday & Wednesday we might be going over Union Pass with Joe and Joy. Should be an interesting trip and we might have to stay overnight somewhere. Guess its 75 miles over the pass from Dubois to Pinedale and takes quite awhile as its a dirt road all the way, so can't go very fast.

Minnesota trip

2011-08-18T21:21:00.000-07:00

What an awesome trip!!!

We went to see Bonnie via I-94 into North Dakota. Stopped at the Teddy Roosevelt Nat'l Park which is badlands. We didn't go down into the badlands, just looked over the overlook where there is a visitor center. There was a storm brewing which gave the scenery a really pretty hue. There were people way down in there. We watched some dingbats take their picture by a sign that warned of a dangerous overhang on the cliff. You could see where it was cut away. We moved right along before tragedy struck. Fortunately it didn't happen, but it could very easily have.

Then we went down the Enchanted Highway just out of Dickinson. It's a 30 mile stretch from the Interstate to Regent, ND. There are now 7 metal sculptures along the route. Gma and I went there several years ago and there were 6 sculptures. We heard about them building a new one with fish and I wanted to see if it was finished. It was and is really neat. These sculptures are all made of scrap metal. Each one has a pull out and signs that give all the dimensions and what kind of metal are in them. Didn't get lunch there as the little cafe was closed. There was a bar where we could have eaten, but we decided to go on. Ate in Bismarck at a Perkins where Dad, Eddy and I ate when we were caught in Bismarck in a snowstorm one time. It was the only place where we could get food as they were open 24 hours at the time. The workers were stuck there as nothing was moving. People couldn't get home and others couldn't get to work to relieve them. We had to slog through lots of snow to get there. We had stayed at a motel right off the highway and the Perkins was roughly a block away. I digress.

We stayed in Jamestown. Pat and I had a night cap in the motel bar. Next day we got rained on most of the day. If the highway had been 50 feet farther over to the west we wouldn't have gotten wet. It just rained on the highway and to the east. It would rain really hard, then let up some, at times even sunshine, then just pour down again. About the time we got to heavier traffic near the cities we were out of the rain. Thank goodness. Got checked in our hotel right across the street from the Mall of America.

Took the Bleys out to supper at the Bonfire. Really good steak and cooked properly. Got a good visit with the guys as they were leaving the next morning.

Sunday we girls walked the Mall. Went through the Sea Life display. Wow what a lot of stuff in there. Ate lunch at the Rain Forest and took lots of pics. Wandered all over, tasted cheese in the Wisconsin Cheese place. Shopped in Nordstoms third floor store. That's the affordable one and the girls all got some nice blouses on the sales racks. Wandered all through the playground area. Legoland is always fun. Then we got to have our pictures taken with Sponge Bob and his friends. That was fun. I wanted to do that for Ed. After all that we were super tired that evening. Pat and Jen soaked in the hot tub at the hotel pool. I sat on the edge and soaked my feet as they were really, really tired. Felt good. Pat and I had a nightcap in the hotel bar.

Monday we went to Bonnie's and went to Stillwater, MN in her convertible. They have some steep stairs there to climb up a hill and get an overview of the city and the river. It's on the St Croix River. I told them if we were going to climb stairs we'd better do it first thing or we wouldn't get it done. We did and its a good thing. Was quite a climb, but absolutely gorgeous view. I met a lady on the way down that runs the stairs for her exercise, but she can't do them without resting halfway up. She can run laps on the flat and not break a sweat, but she can't do the stairs without a break and a water. She is 40 yrs old. After the stairs we took a break in a cute little restaurant, then wandered the town, stores, river. Ate at The Rafters. Interesting place.

When we got back we had margaritas and cheese and crackers at Bonnies. That was our nightcap even though it was early.

Tuesday we walked two zoos, the Minnesota Zoo and the Como Zoo. Minnesota is bigger and has more animals, the Como has different animals, but not as many as the other one. We went to the Dolphin Show in the Minnesota Zoo. We ate at Dooley's (I think) in Eagan between zoos. Had margaritas and crackers with cheese again at Bonnie's for our early nightcap. Said our goodbyes then as we were heading home early the next morning via I-90 this time.

Wednesday we stopped in Mitchell to check out the Corn Palace. Ate across the street from it. They have fixed it up quite nicely now. Its been years since I was there and there wasn't much then.

We stayed in Chamberlain that night. Next day we toured Wall Drug just for fun. That place has done some improving too. Decided to ride the Jackalope because I never have. We always went with kids before and the kids rode stuff. Figured this might be the only time I had such an opportune moment for such foolishness. Lots of other adult people had the same idea.

We had lunch in Gillette. Got caught in a fierce hail storm at Wyola. We had to pull over there as there was zero visibility for driving. Pat planned to take cover under the underpass, but it was full of pickups and bikes. We parked on the off ramp until it blew over. Didn't take long as the wind was really blowing it and the hail wasn't very big.

Friday, the 12th, I headed back to Meeteetse as the relatives were all there. Tom, Aileen, and Jenifer were all in Mtse before I left, but Jenifer had to go back to AZ the same day I left for Hdn. Tom and Aileen stayed the rest of the week and Aileen left on Wednesday, the 10th. John and Mary Jo came Thursday, the 11th, the Ed came on Friday, the 12th. Friday afternoon we had a salmon cookout at the Oasis. Joe and Joy came over for that. A fun day. Saturday, the 13th the guys all took the Kirwin tour and enjoyed themselves. Gma and I met MJ for lunch at the Outlaw. Then that night we took them all out for supper at the ElkHorn. They all left on Sunday, the 14th.

Tuesday, the 16th, Gma and I went to Anchor Dam. We had gone last year and couldn't get to the Dam because the road was closed after Labor Day. This time we did take the road around the reservoir to the picnic area. Its really quite a nice area, and the dooby house is very clean with cemented parking right by it. We talked to a cowboy who was gathering cattle there. Actually got to see the dam this time. We couldn't see it from the hill we were on last year as its around the corner of another hill. Coming back from the picnic spot it was very visible and is quite big. There was water in it this time.

This weekend the Meeteetse Trail Regulators are in town. We met two of the women Wednesday after coffee. Friday night, the 19th, is the Taste of Meeteetse so will see them then. Sat is the shootout at the rifle range so will go out to see some of that too.

Saturday the 27th I plan to go on the tour to the Medicine Lodge petroglyphs at Hyattville. Then the month is over.

Pat's 30th class reunion & YNP

2011-07-06T14:10:00.000-07:00

I got to go to Pat's 30 year class reunion last weekend. She went with me to my 30th 26 years ago. It was fun and they were all a good, jolly bunch. I took lots of pics for her and gave them all to her. Friday night was the "Meet and Greet" get together. Just visiting and they provided some snack goodies. You had to bring your own drink. I visited quite a bit with Tim Wagner (husband of one in the class). He's my heater man. One girl lives in Red Lodge, so I visited with her a bit about Bob Moran. Bob was one of my Library colleagues, who has since retired. Saw one of Bonnie's classmates there as she works at Mojoes where the get together was held. Then later another of Bonnie's classmates came with her husband who was in Pat's class. We stayed until 11:00ish.

Saturday night was the dinner at the Elk's Club, or Golf Course (not sure what they are calling it now). There were a few new ones that night. Cocktail hour was from 6 to 7 then the dinner (prime rib) at 7:00. Was good prime rib and they even got mine rare like it should be done. I was impressed. Had two drinks there with the meal, then switched to 7-up as I was the designated driver, after all.

They had a DJ who was the son of one of the classmates, so we had background music and a slide show of activities of the day before. After dinner there was dancing and some karaoke. One fellow worked real hard to make sure everyone was dancing and having a good time. They even got me on the dance floor a couple of times. The pictures didn't turn out too bad in the dim light with strobes blinking. It was fun to watch. I'm glad I was able to go. One fellow even said I should come back for their 50th. Hmmmm.

Saw the same two of Bonnie's classmates that night and one of Ed's classmates. None of Mary's. Went home about midnight that night.

Since the main purpose of my time in Hardin was to pay bills and do manual labor, I did get that done too. Raked up and dumped 5 garbage cans of sticks and twigs. The neighbor kid mowed the grass except for part of the back yard. Don't know if he ran out of gas, or didn't know where the property line was, or just flat didn't finish. But I did do that strip too. Was kinda stiff and sore for a couple of days as I'm really out of shape for manual labor. Was doing it in 84 degree heat too. Should have sweated off a couple of pounds. Went to the Library one day and took pics of the quilt show. That was a cool break.

Back to Meeteetse on Sunday. Monday Gma and I went through Yellowstone, did the lower loop and out the south entrance. Had our picnic lunch at the south entrance. Then over Togwotee to Dubois. Shortly after Crowheart we were detoured toward Lander as there was water over the road near Diversion Dam. Went to Ft. Washakie, north to Ethete and then back to Highway 26 at Kinnear. It was raining by then, just a nice rain, but not enough to wash the dust off my car. Did get some of the bird doo-doo off the top though.

It was a nice scenic drive and a pleasant day, not too hot, some cloud cover. Didn't get home until 7:30. Saw lots of buffalo, but only one buffalo jamb and a ranger was clearing that one. Lots of wildflowers and a possible "wolf" sighting. It was way over in some dead timber and was a four legged critter with a long tail, but was probably a coyote. Didn't look big enough to be a wolf, but then we were quite a way from it. By the time I got the binoculars out it was gone. There were a couple of other places where people were stopped, but we never could see anything and by the time we found a place to pull over whatever had been out there was gone. So is goes!

5 Generations - CA trip

2011-06-12T20:28:00.000-07:00

Its been awhile since I posted anything and lots has been happening. May just went through like a roller coaster. Celebrated Gma's 103rd B'Day at Lucille's with champagne coffee break. There were 52 people for that affair. Then the Limings took us out to lunch at the Cowboy for Mother's Day / B'day dinner. Went back to Blgs for final nose check up and it was doing really good. The docs were very pleased with its progress. Me too! Gma and I made several trips to Cody to get ready for our BIG trip, Gma's hair cut, toe nail clipping, last minute shopping. Attended Ginnie's 91st B'Day party, a museum program on black footed ferrets with a live one for show and tell, Church breakfast for Confirmants, had a couple of visits from the fox, and paid Hdn bills at the first of the month.

Memorial Day we went to Worland in a snow storm, turned to rain. Rained all the time we were there, but we got coffee and apple bread at Bains. Also got to visit Randi and Audie with little Maddy. She is so cute and quite a show off. Was just spitting snow in Worland when we left right after putting out the flowers. Thought we'd better get back before we got too much snow in the Mtse hills. The closer we got to Mtse the clearer the weather. Was rather nice when we got home.

Back to Hdn to pay June bills. Then get back in time to pack for our trip. We left on Monday, 6th which gave us time to go to the Church breakfast on Sun, 5th.

The trip was great and weather was good. We did get into some sort of foggy/dust cloud. There were a few rain drops which just made mud with the wipers, even when I used the window spray. Was very windy too. This was in Utah around Provo. After we got out of that the wind was horrendous. At one construction area it was blowing the road cones over. These were the big cones, Some guy was desperately trying to pick them up and direct traffic around them. Was like doing barrel racing or slalom skiing. Stayed in Cedar City first night. Next day the temp at Baker was only 77. That was the highest across the desert. When we got over the hill to the ocean side temp got up to 84.

Ed got to come for pics and showed up Tuesday night after he got off work. Wednesday we all went to San Diego for the pics. Did very well getting together. Paynes came too. Andrew couldn't make it. He had to work until 5 and then came out and found he had a flat tire. Pictures went very well and then we went to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner. It was a 45 minute wait for a table for 14. They don't take reservations there. We didn't all arrive at the same time, so the little people really only had to wait about 15 minutes which wasn't so bad. Food was really good though and we all had a good visit.

Thursday Gma and I slept in and Mary, Libby, & Charlie came to see where we were. We were at breakfast in the hotel by then, so they joined us. That evening we went to Gracie's pre-school graduation ceremony. She had a short piece to say and her class sang some songs. She did very well. She got a certificate for "imagination" Ed had to work Thurs so he left super early and we didn't get to see him again.

Friday we left and Mary came by herself to have breakfast with us at the hotel. Weather was great again. Saw a bad semi truck accident near Barstow. Don't know what happened, but there was part of a Fed-Ex trailer across the median and into the far left lane of the east bound lane. Accident happened on the West bound side. Traffic just had to merge from 4 lanes into 3 on our side. Tractors were cleaning up the median which was really smashed. That was our excitement for the day. Was 91 at Baker this time and finally got up to 98 in the Virgin Gorge. After we got over the hill out of St. George it started cooling down again. Still not bad for desert temps. Stayed at Nephi. Going through Provo we had to wait for some police directed traffic stops as there was some sort of Marathon Race going on. They started at that dam in Provo Canyon. Got home Saturday about 4:45pm. Had a tail wind in Utah this time. Saw some rain clouds, but they were never where we were. Just missed them at Thermop. Nice drive.

Stitches out !! YAY!!!

2011-05-04T20:35:00.000-07:00

Got an appt to have my stitches taken out Apr 14th in Cody. That was a Thursday and they set it up at 10:15 a.m. so I could go on the Senior bus. Had a few things to pick up at WalMart so had time for that before the appt. John gave me his number so I could call when I was done and he'd come back and pick me up. Figured it would take about 45 minutes. We got to WalMart at 9:30 and I whipped down the aisles and got everything I needed in 15 minutes. John was done at same time so off we went to the clinic.

I got right in and the nurse gently took of the humongous bandage and hmmd about what I had on there. I explained it was a "drum" to keep the graft from collapsing and the Blgs docs said the nurses in Cody could take the stitches out. She called in another nurse and they both decided they weren't sure how to go about removing it. They had never seen one like that before. So she called the Blgs office and Wentzel was gone until May 2nd. Dr. Peters was also gone until May 2nd. I didn't know him, but he's in that same Blgs office. Then she called Dr Williams and he was out of his office but she left a message. Dr. Williams is the dermatologist that comes to Cody periodically from Billings. Didn't know him either. Anyway she said I might have to go home until they heard from Dr. Willams about how to go about this. I really didn't want to do that, because I had had that bandage on long enough and it wasn't going to stay put forever. Besides I was on the bus and wouldn't just be able to come back that same day. Hmmmm. They decided I definitely could not leave that on there until May 2nd. I told them Dr. Lund was the one that sewed it on and he was Dr. Wentzel's helper. So they tried Wentzel's office again for Lund and got him. YAY!!!! The nurse had a cell phone and Dr. Lund talked her through the procedure. Told her exactly which knot to look for and to cut. She did and it all came right off. She was impressed and said it was the easiest "bolster" she'd had to do. The stuffing up my nostril had a stitch around it as well, but by cutting the first knot it just came right out too. I could breathe!!!

Dr. Lund asked if she could e-mail him pictures from her phone and she could. I asked if she could e-mail them to me too. She did. After carefully and painstakingly taking out all the stitches she took the pics. Then she let me see in the mirror. Glad she did that or I would have thought I'd never be the same again after that bandage came off. She did put another rather large bandaid over the sore. I could change that one daily. Needed to clean it every day with peroxide and dry it, then put goopy salve on it until it quits scaling. It's an anti - bacterial salve.

This whole procedure took until 11:30. Just when I was going out of the nurse's room the receptionist came to tell me my ride was there. I hadn't called him yet. Figured they would be at lunch and I'd just wait for them to finish to come back and get me. But they all decided to wait for me. What a great bunch of people. John said he was afraid he'd be in the middle of lunch when I'd call, so they were really debating on how long to wait. Glad they did wait as I was starved.

After the first day I put on smaller bandaids, but they were still pretty big. Finally graduated to smaller ones mostly to keep from bumping it or itching it until it got some normal color back into it and really looks ever so much better. Took some time, but its looking good now, and feels better. I'm finally getting feeling back into the end of my nose. I can sort of blow it, but don't do it hard, just enough to loosen the stuff so I can wipe it out gently. I have sneezed a few times too, and it actually felt good to sneeze.

I go back to Billings for a check up on May 19th.

Visit to the Blgs docs

2011-04-06T20:21:00.000-07:00

Gma had a doctor appt in Blgs to have a little skin cancer taken off her eyelid. She thought she had a sty there and it popped one day. She told her eye doc about it at her last appt and he said it was a cancer growth. When she went to her regular physical check up doc she told him about it. He looked at it closely and thought it could be, but she should see a dermatologist or have the eye doc fix it. She called the eye doc and he set up this appt with the real pro in Blgs.

That was for Tuesday morning at 9:30, so we went to Hdn the day before. I'd rather drive an hour in the a.m. than two. And you never can tell about the weather. Besides they are doing massive road construction between Belfry and Bridger. I understand they are doing construction the other way as well (through Powell).

Anyway we did our thing and got to Blgs at the appointed time. The doc checked out her eyelid bump and took a bit off to analyze it. Came back as some sort of lesion that started with a C and is non cancerous. Its a hereditary thing. So I'll probably get one someday as well. Now I know what it is I can deal with that.

As the doc was explaining all this to Gma and making sure she was ok he looked at me and asked what I was doing with a ------ on my nose. So he got me in the chair for a better look and decided it was definitely a cancer thing and should come off. The sooner the better. How about now? Figured that was impossible and I'd have to go back and get a referral. OK. Come back at 2:00 p.m. He had the nurses set up an appointment for that time. We could get lunch, go shopping or whatever. That was ok with Gma. Wow! I wasn't planning on this, but........

Pat was in Blgs that day so I called her and we had time to meet for coffee before her dental appt. Were going to Appleby's , but they weren't open yet, so we went to IHOP. By then it was 11:00 so Gma and I had pancakes and eggs with our coffee. Pat had toast and coffee. But it was a good visit. After that Pat went her way and we took a scenic drive out King Ave to Shiloh Road and back on the frontage road. Decided we'd go ahead back to the clinic and people watch in their big lobby. We just had half an hour to kill, no time to do anything else.

At my appointed time I was there and they explained what they were doing which I kinda knew as Gma has had this procedure done before. So they took out the bump which actually looked kinda big. Then they had to run it through the lab to see if they got it all. If not they do it all again. Takes at least 45 minutes. So we waited. Came back that they got it all. Now they had to graft some skin from my neck behind my ear to fill the hole. It was a rather sizable hole. They showed it to me with a mirror. The skin grafting procedure took awhile as they had to numb my neck and measure the hole and stuff. Then they cut that part and had to re-numb my nose so they could sew it in. Then they sewed a plastic thingy over that to hold it up so it won't collapse. Also put a big gauze piece up my nostril to help keep pressure on and also helps hold all the other stuff in place. They didn't cover up my eyes so I could see some of what was going on. They said if the light bothered they could cover my eyes. I wanted to be able to see.

After all the stitching and bandaging they froze off three other little spots on my cheek that are pre-cancer sun spots. They said they could do those later if I wanted when I come back for a check up in May. I said "I'm here now, do it and be done with it all.". So they did.

Now I have instructions on how to behave. No heavy lifting, no rigorous exercise, can't bend down to pick up stuff or tie my shoes. Have to keep my head above my heart. Apparently I'm a bleeder so have to be careful and take it easy. I can do that. I can't sneeze or blow my nose either. That might be a problem. So far so good though. Get the stitches out in 10 days and can do that in Cody. They set up the appt. I can take the bandage off my neck Friday and then may not have to put a bandage back on it. Depends on whether it leaks or not.

So I guess I'm going to live. I was sort of broken and they fixed me. I really like this cancer doc. He's very good and has good bedside manner too. He did a great job on Gma. She likes him too.

Was surprised he'd take me on right then, since I didn't have an appt or referral. Anyway its done now. Don't have to wonder when I'm going to get around to doing something about it now.

Airline Adventures

2011-03-27T20:36:00.000-07:00

Originally I had quite a scenic route for my California trip. Went from Cody to Salt Lake to San Diego. That one is a Delta flight. I got to the Cody airport relatively early as the Governor was scheduled for a ribbon cutting for the new terminal. Found a nice parking spot close to the arrival door.

That one was ok although the Cody plane was half an hour late getting in. I had an hour and a half between planes so that one was cut down to just an hour, but not a problem. I decided to take everything I needed in a carry-on bag and didn't need to check luggage. The kids were right there to meet me and it all worked out very well.

My return trip was scheduled on a United flight which went from San Diego to Los Angeles, to Denver, to Cody. Was to arrive in Cody at 8:30 p.m. so could get back to Meeteetse before too late and Gma would still be up. Scenic route.

As it turned out I didn't get that scenic route, but I did have a bit of an adventure. Had to be at the airport two hours early, so we left Murrieta around ten-ish as my plane left at 1:00. Weren't sure exactly which terminal we needed, but took a chance on the commuter terminal. That was the right one. The line wasn't very long and other people there were on the same flight. Called Mary to let her know I was in the right place. She was headed to Katie's. There were two automatic machines there, but one was out of order and the other was slow. The first man was having trouble getting it to work right for his boarding pass. By the time an attendant came to help he got it. The next guy was getting impatient with the first one, who kept apologizing. When the second guy got his turn the machine wasn't cooperating with him and he really came unglued. The attendant came to help him and he ranted and raved some more, but finally got his boarding pass. The next lady was worried she'd miss her flight, but the attendant stayed to help her too. The machine was just slow and people got in a hurry and pushed the buttons too fast. Ended up having to start over. With the attendant there it worked better as she pushed the buttons and waited the appropriate time. She also helped the next lady. When it was my turn I asked her to " Please don't go away" . She helped me too. Called Mary again after I went through security and let her know I was definitely in the right place and set to go.

Wrong!! The 12noon plane was an hour late and the 1:00pm plane was also a little over an hour late. They called me to the ticket counter and told me I wasn't going to make my connection out of Los Angeles in time to get the Denver one to Cody. Hmmm. They could get me on a direct flight from San Diego to Salt Lake which would connect to Cody, but I wouldn't get there until 11:00 p.m. OK, I'll take it.

Was afraid if I asked to go the next day I'd have to pay extra for changing my schedule. This was their arrangement and it would get me where I needed to go. They gave me paperwork for that flight on Delta and gave me directions on how to get to that terminal. There is a shuttle bus outside every five minutes, go to the second stop. They were very kind about it and showing me where to go. Even the bus driver was helpful when it was my stop. The United guy said I might be able to get an earlier flight to Salt Lake, but would have to go stand-by.

When I went to the Delta ticket counter that man checked everything and I was all set. He did check out the earlier flight and said "oh no, that one is really full". I took that to mean they probably already had all the stand-bys they could handle. By this time it was 1:30 and this Delta flight didn't leave until 6:00.

Went through security and found my gate, then called Mary around 2:ish
(Me): Where are you?
(Mary): I'm in San Diego at Katie's. Where are you? In Los Angeles?
(Me): I'm in San Diego too.
(Mary): What!!!!!

So I explained it all to her and she offered to come and get me for awhile. Not a good idea. She had three little kids to strap in her car and by the time she got back to the airport and we found each other we'd just have time to circle the parking lot before I had to check in again. Have to check in two hours before take off. Besides I'd already gone through security and really didn't want to have to do it again.

I had a good book to read. Got some lunch at a MacDonalds there in the airport, read, wandered around the little shops, read. Actually wasn't all that bad and time passed relatively fast. They have nice rocking chairs there. Called Gma to tell her the change of plans, so all was well, just made a longer day than anticipated. Think next time I'll just skip the United thing and go with Delta. Then I can have breakfast or lunch with Katie too. Or else I'll go with Billings flights as they have bigger planes. These little "puddle jumpers" are propellers, not jets.

Cody only has two afternoon return flights, one at 8:30pm with United through Denver and one at 11:00pm with Delta through Salt Lake. Think there is one from Salt Lake on Delta that comes in at noon, but I would have had to leave San Diego at 6:00am. That means getting up at 2:00am to get ready to leave Mary's at 3:00am to get to the airport by 4:00am to do the two hours before flight time thing. That one is too ungodly to even think about.

Anyway I got home safely without any more problems. Gma did wait up for me although she napped in her rocking chair before I got there. Now I'm glad I didn't wait another day as it was snowing Tuesday. Might have been delayed longer somewhere along the line.

California trip - March 2011

2011-03-23T20:25:00.000-07:00

My trip to California was absolutely GREAT!!!

The immediate Schumachers were at the airport to meet me. I had to exit at the baggage claim area and asked for the terminal number before I called Mary to tell her where I was. She told me to go out and stand by the stop light. I barely got out the door and they were right there. Perfect.

We met Katie at a "South of the Border" place. Gracie was having a sleep over with Katie and had her bag all packed and in the trunk. Had a good dinner and then Gracie and Katie left and the rest of us went home. Libby had her choice of car seats and she chose to sit right behind me. She talked all the way to Murrieta. The strangest part was that I understood most of what she said. Yay!

Lexie and Charlie came over Sunday morning so I got quite a bit of snuggle time with Charlie. He's sure a cutie. Really gets around now. He isn't really crawling quite, but he does get his knees up and rocks, then scoots. He'll get it figured out one of these times.

Left for the reception around 1:00 and got there in good time. Got hugs from all the relatives and also from the husbands. Not sure the husbands know exactly how I fit in the family, but they have seen me enough to know I'm one of them. I invited them all to Wyoming.

The "Family Blessing" was a really neat thing. The actual wedding had been the night before, but at this ceremony they said some different vows and included the two boys. Rob's sister read a poem about fatherhood that was very poignant. There was a "sand ceremony" where each one had a small bottle of colored sand. Each one picked a color that meant something to them and they poured their sand together into another container with a lid to signify combining the family and sealing it. Very nice. Meghan read her version of Dr Seuss "Oh the Places You'll Go". It was suited just for their family. Very nice.

There were several games for the kids in the lobby, including bubble blowing (big time) outside, and a lemonade stand. Waiters came around with trays of popcorn and lemonade. The bar didn't open until after the "Blessing Ceremony". There were circus type performers milling about. Then the dining room was opened and we entered the "Big Top tent". The centerpieces on the tables were all different circus themes. Each food station had some circus animal performing picture. The food was geared for all ages. They had pizza, popcorn, french fries, cold cuts, cheeses and crackers, shrimp and clams or oysters in a shell, two different kinds of pasta, roast beef (prime rib, I think) and chicken on a stick, a couple of dessert stations, and a fruit station with a chocolate fountain to dip the fruit if you wanted. So the food covered all ages as well. The DJ was really good. He played music suitable for all generations and did a lot of interaction with the audience. Gracie got to be his partner right up on his stage for the macarena. The entertainers included jugglers, a unicyclist, a magician, balloon shaping.

When it was over it felt like it must be midnight or later, but it was only 5:30pm.

Between potty stops, saying our goodbyes and thanks, we lost Keith. Gracie said she'd find him and off she went. She went right in to the DJ and had him page Keith. Keith was already outside at the car. All rounded up we were off for home. Took a tour by the new house on the way home. Mary told me I don't need a map now because I've been there and can find it. What a dreamer she is. I need a map.

Monday Lexie and Charlie came over again. Mary was babysitting that day as Lexie went to work at 10:30am. We started out for the airport at 9:45 and got to Temecula when Mary discovered she didn't have her cell phone and she needed it. So we had to go back, but we had time. I needed to be there at 11:00 as my plane left at 1:00. It was 10: 00 when we started out again. Did well until we got to Escondido where we got slowed to nearly a stop for traffic jams. Then away we went again and got into a bit of hard rain, but it didn't last long. Got to my terminal at 11:15, not bad. As soon as I found out I was in the right place I called Mary so she could quit circling the parking lot. After I got through the check-in and through security I called her again. She and kids were off to Katie's. We made it!

We did a lot in just a day and an evening. And enjoyed every minute of it.

I'm behind

2011-03-14T20:52:00.000-07:00

Gosh, its the middle of March and I haven't written any updates since Jan. Good Grief!!!!

February is birthday month. My Hardin kids took me to lunch on my birthday, then our Mtse friends took me out for dinner at the Elkhorn and then a card fest, with cake and ice cream too.

Kevin, Katie, and Jen also have birthdays in Feb. What a good month this is.

The weather cooperated for me to go to Hdn the first of Feb, Stormed after I came back to Mtse, but that was ok. The Church people from Cody couldn't come down the first Sunday because weather was bad, but we had coffee and goodies anyway, The Cody lady had brought her goodies down the week before, just in case. So the local lady helping her put everything out.

We haven't had a great lot of snow this month, but it just keeps coming and coming. It melts and makes ice. I've used up one twenty five pound bag of salt since December. I had a bag from two years ago that I finally finished in Dec. Then bought this one and its gone already. Had to buy another one last week and I've used one vasefull of it. Doesn't melt the ice, but it pocks it so it isn't slick.

March came in sort of sheepish. I got back to Hdn the first part to pay bills and got my hair cut. Yay! I can see! Got back to Mtse before it stormed again. Those first three days were nice though. No wind, no snow, just cold.

The first Sunday in March kept the Cody church people home again, so no goodies. We got them (the goodies) last Sunday. Weather has been warm and melting all the snow. Get wind in the afternoons so the snow is really going. My back up space is nearly normal again. Today I chipped ice from in front of our backdoor ramps. Its really thick but the salt hollowed out part of it so made it easy to chop with the crow bar.

Sunday Gma and I went to the Cody airport to check on my flight schedule. I'm in their system so all is "good to go".

This is going to be a busy week. Monday and Wednesday are Senior lunches. Monday we had a motorcycle group join us for lunch and also had an entertainer who sang Irish songs during lunch,. Wednesday is the birthday lunch. Thursday the bus isn't running as the driver will be gone and the alternate driver is going to Lunch Bunch. That group has a program from a sort of local fellow that has been teaching in Uganda for 6 months and is back. He will have a short slide presentation and talk about what he was doing. Should be interesting. Then that evening we are going to Cody for dinner with our usual birthday friends. Friday the Senior bus will run. Then Saturday I fly out of Cody for my whirlwind trip to CA. Gma will need a rest by then. She'll be glad to get rid of me for a couple of days.

Its a short trip, but will be filled with fun things. I'm ready!!

End of Jan

2011-01-28T20:32:00.000-08:00

January is nearly over already. I haven't even gotten used to the idea this is a new year, although I have put the correct year on all my checks. That's a plus.

We have had a couple of visitors already. Fendts came one Sunday just to visit and show us the pictures of their time in Michigan. Their grandson was home on leave from the Navy, so they had some good family groupings.

Then the next weekend Clint, Sara, and Zeke came to visit. We've talked about it since shortly after Zeke was born. They were in Cody and just decided to take a chance that we'd be home. We were. Zeke is such a little cutie and was ever so good all afternoon. He sat in GGAunt Grace's lap for quite awhile. He even let me hold him. So curious.

The fish fairy came by last Thursday and left a dead fish hanging on our door. My car was gone so guess he thought no one was home. One nice little trout, just our size. It's in the freezer now waiting for some day when we want something different to eat.

I have finally finished scanning all the pictures in the cupboard under the phone. Now I can start on the ones on the shelves by the stove.

January

2011-01-10T20:17:00.000-08:00

Haven't been doing anything exciting in Jan. Just our usual stuff.

I did get to go to Hdn to pay bills and read all my Christmas cards. December was not conducive to traveling so hadn't been back since first part of November. It was time. I really needed my Hardin "fix". I had it all figured out to leave here Jan 1, as people would be sleeping in after the previous night out or watching a ball game. Perfect time to be on the road. Mother Nature didn't see it that way. It was slippery and windy. Just not worth being out in it. So I left on Monday the 3rd instead. That gave it an extra day to get the slick spots beat off. Was a beautiful day for me and the roads were good all the way. Got all my bills paid and visited with the P.O. people and the City Hall people.

Had coffee with Pat, but she had to go to Blgs and spend all day there. I had work to do, so we settled for early (8:00am) coffee.

I couldn't get in my driveway for awhile as the City had plowed the streets and there were three big ice chunks in front of my driveway. Too big to hit with my car. Then the snow in the driveway was rather deep. I could scoop the top layer of snow off that quite easily. It was real light and fluffy. Then I found a crow bar in the basement so whacked the ice junks with that and it worked well. They came apart and I scooped them out of the way with my trusty shovel. Took me a couple of hours (I took a couple of coffee breaks), but I was able to park off the street.

Wednesday (5th) I had all my projects done that I needed to do for this trip, so came back to Meeteetse. Thursday (6th) I went on the Senior bus to Cody. Friday (7th) Gma had an eye doctor appointment. Snowed over the weekend, but we didn't need to go anywhere anyway.

Nothing exciting, but we keep busy.

December

2010-12-15T15:24:00.000-08:00

We haven't done anything new and exciting this month. Just the usual stuff - coffee break, Senior lunches, Senior bus to Cody.

We did attend some of the activities for Christmas in Meeteetse. We had lunch at Lucille's for the chicken strip special, then went next door to the Elkhorn to hear a lady sing. That was our after dinner drink. If you wanted a special request there was a $3.00 donation as that is the price of a Senior meal and all the money she took in went to the Seniors. Then we went home for the rest of the afternoon and came back at 5:00 for the lighting of the tree. They reinstituted purchasing a string of lights in someone's memory to decorate a tree in Riverside Park. It was a brief ceremony and to the point. They read the names for the memorials and while one lady plugged in the tree lights the one from the Elkhorn sang "O Holy Night". Very appropriate. Then the names for the raffle items were drawn and the winners of the photo contest and house decorations were announced. After that there was soup and chili at the Senior Center and oyster stew and spaghetti dinner at the Community Church. So we did the Seniors first, then to the church for the rest. Lots of good food.

During the day they had a craft fair all day at the Senior Center, Santa was there from 2 - 4, and there were hay rides all afternoon. We didn't do any of that. I understand that it was all quite successful though. Santa had quite a lot of little kids and the hay ride wagon was nearly full for most of its runs around town. The ride lasted about 20 minutes, but I didn't find out where it went. The crafters seemed to do well.

It wasn't snowing that day, but was kinda cold and windy. There was also a basketball tournament going on. Guess the Museum was busy with people and kids waiting for their teams to play.

I have cleaned house so we can put up decorations. And we made some little fruit cakes one day. Still have to do some baking for our goodie plates, but can't do that until closer to time to give them out. Sunday is our Church Christmas dinner and we are bringing cheesey cauliflower.

We got our cards and letters out before the 10th, so we feel we are really organized this year.

We're Celebrities!!!

2010-11-15T20:10:00.000-08:00

The U S Capitol Christmas Tree came through Meeteetse on its way from Thermopolis to Cody on Sunday, Nov 14th. Local papers reported that it was to be in those two towns on its way to Washington DC. Those were the only two towns in the basin that had scheduled stops. We wondered why it was coming way up here when they cut it near Jackson. The Park is closed so it couldn't go that way and going all the way around and back up here seemed strange.

Well, as more news reports were unveiled we learned it was crisscrossing all across Wyoming. Since this is the first time in history that a tree has been chosen from Wyoming it was a big deal. Kids from all over the state have been making decorations to send with it, as well as other groups of people. The towns selected for the scheduled stops were all having special events in honor of the tree. Thermop was having Mr & Mrs Santa Claus there, the Jr Hi band to play, and many other events. Cody was having the Hi School Choir sing, stores open for the event, the first 500 people would have their picture taken with the tree wearing Buffalo Bill goatees and mustaches, plus other stuff too.

The paper published a web site for the tree tour and I bookmarked it. This really is a Big Deal! Its kinda exciting to follow it along. They even have links to facebook and twitter. There is a tracking link. It tells where it is, but doesn't give the highway numbers.

We figured if it went from Thermop to Cody it would have to go through Meeteetse. Thought if I parked in front of the Museum I should be able to get a picture as it went whipping down the hill through town. It should go through around 2:00 p.m. as it was to leave Thermop at 1:00pm and be in Cody by 3:00pm. I guess it could have gone through Worland, Basin & Greybull to Cody, but that would be a longer trip and they only had two hours to get from one to the other. It would take approximately one and a half hours to get there, or a little less. Its a big truck and probably wouldn't be whipping down the road terribly fast. There was also quite a caravan of vehicles as they had law enforcement and another semi full of decorations, plus forest service people.

So Gma and I went down about 1:45 and its a good thing we went a bit early as there was a crowd starting to gather. We got the choice parking spot. The Museum was open so people could go in there to warm up. Was 37 degrees. Ann said the Fire Department went out to meet them. Her husband works there. They reported the caravan left Thermop at 1:08pm, so it would be awhile. Pretty soon three State Trooper cars came. The caravan was about 10 minutes behind them. They talked to Ann and she told them about this 102 year old that came to see the tree. They said they couldn't actually stop here, but they would "pause" for a brief time and the officers would escort Gma across the street. Wow! Great!!

These guys were the advance group for crowd control. They stopped traffic at the top of the hill and at the bridge. Said we'd have about 5 minutes. When the truck rolled to a stop the officers were right there to get Gma's arm. They really visited with her and she met all the truck drivers. The publicity girl asked it they could get a picture and post it on their blog. I said "sure". So they did. I even got in one. I did get lots of pics of them escorting Gma and of the crowd. The 5 minutes turned into 15 or 20, but everyone got to look in the one opening to see a few branches on the tree. And lots of people signed the banner on the side of the truck. The Forest Service lady gave Gma a complimentary gift. The bag had several things in it and Gma thought she was just to pick one, but the whole bag and contents were for her.

We found out lots of info about the tree and how much fun the "Tree Team" was having just because the people were so enthusiastic. They would stop anywhere along the route where there were people out to greet them. The couldn't officially stop, but they would "pause". Worked for us. They did put Gma's pic on their blog and on their facebook. It really was a fun and exciting thing. Glad we were able to be part of it.

Senior bus to Cody

2010-10-10T20:45:00.000-07:00

What an adventure we had last Thursday. I wondered why I didn't see the little white rec bus anywhere and since it was getting late, I thought maybe I had missed it. I was quite surprised when a big yellow school bus picked me up at my parking spot. John said he'd sure be glad when we got our new bus. It's been ordered for over a year and is supposed to be delivered in Oct. This is Oct. Seems the little bus had a blow out when he came down the hill and he didn't have time to deal with it. Thought about calling all of us and cancelling, but then decided to take the ski bus. It's a big 30 passenger school bus, for 6 of us.

I didn't go all the way to the back row as I wouldn't have been able to visit or hear. He told us we could buy lots of stuff as we had plenty of room. Since this was such a bigger bus it was harder to maneuver around the parking lots. We took the wider street routes and the parking was farther away than usual. We got our exercise walking to the bus. He would have come and picked us up at the door, but everyone wanted to walk the extra miles. (Maybe not quite miles, but you get the idea)

The steps are much higher than we are used to, so one lady couldn't go with us as she just couldn't manage them. At the lunch place he parked by a curb so we didn't have to step so high for the first step. Didn't do much for steps 2 and 3. They were higher than the first one anyway. Besides by the time we finished lunch the parking lot was full and he would have had quite a time maneuvering that big monster around the parked cars. Not a lot of room.

On our way to Albertson's we just missed a bad accident at the intersection. It had just happened so we were stuck there until fire department, police, and ambulance arrived and took care of things before traffic could get moving again. By the time we finished our shopping the street was cleared, but there were still cop cars with their light flashing at the corner there. They must have been measuring and figuring out which one was at fault. Have to check the paper on this one.

Riding the Senior bus is always an adventure.

Castle Gardens & Murphy Draw

2010-10-06T20:25:00.000-07:00

Tuesday we went back to Ten Sleep to Castle Gardens. Went in my subaru this time so I could use air conditioning. Took our water jug too. Got more pics of the Gardens than the first time as we weren't in a hurry and knew where we were going this time. There was another car there looking around. Then we took the Two Mile Road as we heard there were more rock formations on around the hill. Well there weren't any of those kinds of rocks, but after about 6 miles we did run into some pretty bad lands with interesting formations and a bit of color. It was actually 10 miles from the Two Mile junction back to the highway. Don't know who names their roads.

Had lunch in Worland and I took pics of the big mammoth in front of the new Museum. He's quite impressive.

Then on our way back down Gooseberry, Gma asked if I wanted to go down Murphy Draw and come out at Little Buffalo Basin. Well, sure! She said she didn't know how the road would be as its been many many years since she was on it. But it looked good and it does get used quite a bit. So away we went. It was really pretty back in there. She told me about a reservoir that used to be out there somewhere and an old cabin. They went ice skating there one time and kept warm in the cabin. Had to chip the snow off before they could skate. Anyway we didn't see it because she didn't remember exactly where it was and its not there anymore anyway. ok. There were several junctions out there so I can see how one could get lost out in there, if you didn't know where you were going. There is oil activity out there and I suppose hunting too. The roads look well gravelled and we didn't have any trouble getting around. The pics are on picasa. There was traffic on that road too. We met one pickup.

It was kinda fun and looks like a place to do more exploring sometime. Probably in the truck though, and with someone who knows the area. Gma says those roads are longer than they used to be. She doesn't remember going on for such a long time before getting to the highway. I figured she probably didn't use the same road that is there now. They probably took off across country on a cow path or something. That would be shorter.

Tonight we went to Cody to have dinner with several friends in honor of Fendt's 59th anniversary. They go to Michigan in a couple of weeks.

Discovered I have a headlight out again. On the passenger side this time. Hope its just a loose connection again, as that's quick and easy to fix. Too many rough roads.

Tomorrow is bus day, so will stop in and get the light fixed after I get back.

Yes! Where did September go???

2010-10-03T13:45:00.000-07:00

Shortly after we came back from our 5 generation trip to CA we went to Mt to see hay bales. We do this nearly every year. Its always fun and interesting to see all the different things those clever people come up with year after year. That was Tuesday Sept 14th.

Wednesday the 15th was the Mtse Firemen's appreciation dinner at the fire hall, so we went to that. A yearly thing.

Thursday Sept 15 we had company from Iowa and Ten Sleep. Took them out to lunch and had a really good visit.

Friday the 17th Gma had a dr appt check up on her carpal tunnel. It is healing just great. Can't even tell where they did the surgery, but she still has some tingling in her fingers now and then. Guess it takes quit awhile for that all to go away as her nerve was pinched very tight..

Sunday the 19th we took a drive down the upper Gooseberry. Went up WoodRiver to a turn off that goes up Brackney Hill, then there is a fork in the road where the county quits maintaining. One direction goes to the head of Gooseberry and the Wall Rock. The other way goes past Renner's, Larsen's, and Dickey's LU sheep ranch. That's the way we went. When Gma went on that road before it was the only road that way. Now there are all kinds of roads branching off here and there (oil roads). But it was interesting. Bumpy, but interesting just the same. It comes out just east of the Gooseberry rest area and bridge.

Tuesday Sept 22 we went to Anchor Dam. Couldn't actually get to the dam part as they had gates across the road, but we got close. There is another road out there that I think goes to Grass Creek, but not sure. Will have to explore that one some other time. Had lunch at the Pumpernickel Cafe in Thermop and I ran into one of my classmates there, and her sister, who was in my sister's class, and their cousin, and a daughter of one of them. Then we went down Cottonwood. Another dirt road that I had never been on. Gma has, but it seemed much longer this time. She didn't remember these roads as going on so long.

Thursday, Sept 23 I took the bus to Cody since I hadn't done that for several weeks. That night we went to Senior Citizens supper.

Friday, Sept 24th we took a tour of the lower loop of Yellowstone. Couldn't get from Canyon to Roosevelt Lodge anyway as there was a fire that way. So we went from Canyon to Norris and over the new Gibbon River bridge. It wasn't quite finished and we had to wait for construction. They were putting the asphalt down, so was one way traffic for quite a way. Lots of cars being held up. While we waited for the pilot car to lead us we counted 113 vehicles that they had brought through. Couldn't tell how many in our line as I couldn't see how far they went beyond the curve. The road never did straighten out enough for me to see the end of our line in my mirror. We had our picnic lunch along the Firehole River. It was kinda cool out there with the breeze by the river. The temp wasn't all that cool though. Several other people that stopped went back to their cars for heavier jackets too.

Tuesday, Sept 28th we went to Ten Sleep to see Castle Gardens, then went into town for lunch with our Ten Sleep friends. Was a fun day, but got hot before we got home. We went in the pickup as we didn't know how the dirt road would be. Last time Gma went there it was quite rutty and we didn't want to straddle big ruts in my little subaru. It was very nicely graveled now. Will have to go back again before the weather gets bad as I lost all the pics I took. When I put my camera card in the computer I got a different kind of box and when I pushed the button it erased the card. Fortunately I had already put everything before that on the computer so just lost the ones I took that day. Grrrrrrr!!! Will have to get the lunch pics from one of the others.

Sept 29th I went to Hardin to pay bills and rake sticks. The sticks were already gone, so didn't have to do that. Went to therapy with Pat after her dental appt. Got a bunch of Spuddie pics scanned, and all the housework I intended to do is done for this trip.

Now its October already. Looking back it's no wonder Sept went so fast. We never slowed down.

California trip - 5 Generations - Whooee!!

2010-09-25T20:24:00.000-07:00

We missed all the Meeteetse Labor Day celebrations because I went to Hardin to pay bills and when I got back to Meeteetse it was time to head to CA. Gma said she didn't care about Labor Day as she'd seen all that stuff before anyway. OK. Works for me!

We left at 6:00 a.m., had lunch at Little America, and made it to St George, Utah. It was a long day, but we got there about 6:45 p.m. which wasn't bad. Usually we make it to Cedar City around 6:00 p.m. and St George is only about an hour farther. I liked St. George. It was easy off and easy on the Interstate. We stayed at a Motel 6 which was only half a block from a Denny's. Very convenient. There were at least three other motels on that same street. Will definitely stay there again. The motel guy even called after we got into our room to see if everything was working and in good order. It was. Another reason for getting as far south as we could was so that we could get an earlier start across the desert.

Left St George shortly before 7:00 a.m. Had called Ed to let him know where we were and when we might be going through Vegas. He was already on his way to Mary's. That was good. We had cloud cover for most of the day, so wasn't too hot. It did get up to 95 at Baker, but then we went over a hill and it dropped down to the high 80s. Got to Mary's fairly early, too early to check in the motel, so just visited and got to meet Charlie. What a little cutie!! Bonnie had sent a couple of packages so Lexie had a mini shower. Got lots of goodies for her and for Charlie, too.

Wednesday was dinking around day. Went to a park to play, visited, played with Charlie, ate, and before we knew it it was time to go the Pachenga for pictures. All parties arrived at pretty much the same time. Had fun taking lots and lots of pics. Even though we had a professional photographer everyone was snapping their own pics anyway.

Paynes met us there and were waiting in the lobby for dinner. It was good. Charlie slept through the whole thing (pics, being wrassled around, dinner, the whole bit). Gracie and Libby were very good. They got lots of running time while we were doing pics so they behaved at dinner very well. I was impressed. Had a good visit with the Paynes. Sure glad they could be there. We don't see enough of them.

Thursday was visiting and relaxing. I went to Gracie's school to tell one of my stories. Did the "Little Dove" one. Then I got my picture taken with the class. They were cute. Gracie introduced me and then she introduced me again after I was finished. That worked!

We got another full day with Charlie and Lexie too. Ed fixed biscuits and gravy for breakfast for us and then he made French Dips for lunch. Very good. He made is own brand of salsa, two batches. One was supposedly mild and the other hot. You could actually taste the mild before it started to burn. I didn't even attempt the other. I'm not real keen on lots of hot stuff anyway.

Said our goodbyes Thursday night as we were leaving early Friday morning. Ed called and said he'd meet us and caravan with us to Vegas. We could have lunch there. I suggested we meet him in Jean instead of Vegas. When I started through there, I wasn't stopping. So that's what we did. Called each other at potty stops to see if we were still together. Had a good lunch at Jean and then followed Ed the rest of the way into Vegas until he turned at his exit.

We had a super good time and Gma loved every minute of it. We stayed in Nephi, Utah Friday night, then home Saturday. Gma wasn't too tired and worn out after this trip. Probably because it wasn't too hot. It never got up to 90 on our way back. Only 89 at Baker. And this trip was Gma's idea and she really wanted to to this. She was calling the shots on this one. She kept telling people what a great time she had and Charlie was sooo cute. She said for a big baby he was sure little. She got a lot of cuddle time. He was such a good baby. So cooperative. But then look at his ancestors. How can he not be beautiful and perfect??

August Happenings

2010-09-12T21:15:00.000-07:00

Gosh, we've been busy for awhile. August was full of doing "stuff".

8-7-10 We went to Sheridan to see all the statues around the streets there. Pat had told us about them and had pics. Looked like something we'd want to see. Gma sat in the car where I managed to find shady spots to park. Then I ran around snapping pics for several blocks at a time. They had lots of statues.

8-12-10 One day we took a ride to Louis Lake. Went through Sinks Canyon out of Lander and over the mountain to the lake and came out on South Pass. So went to South Pass City and Atlantic City just because we could. Have been there before, but its been years ago. We didn't stop and look around there, but did drive through them to be sure they were still there. We had a picnic lunch at Louis Lake. I'd never been there before and its a beautiful area. All dirt and gravel roads, of course.

8-14-10 Pat called us one day and said the Patriot Guard would be bringing a flag through Cody that morning on the way to Jackson. Did we want to meet them in Cody for coffee break? Sure. Why not? So off we went and it turned out to be quite impressive to see them parade the flag down the street to the Harley place. Took pics then went to coffee at the Irma before they left on their way through the Park to Jackson. Got back in time for the Senior picnic in the park.

8-20,21,22-10 Two Steeles came for a visit and we took them all over the country in three days. Went to Joe and Joy's one day and had a scrumptious fish fry. Good visit, beautiful country, and just plain fun. Joe met us at the store and I rode with him in his "ol' truck". That wasn't a ride, it was an experience. Managed to get some decent pics of the route in spite of bouncing around.

The next day we took them down Gooseberry. That should have been a couple of hours trip, tops. Took six hours. We all got our history lessons and stopped every little whip stitch to take pics. Lots of fun. Stopped at Woody's but they weren't home. The guys checked out the back lot with all the junked cars and had a ball. Went into Worland for lunch and stopped by the cemetary where the Steele grandparents are buried. After we got back to Meeteetse I took John up to Kirwin. He really wanted to see that. We left here at 4:00pm and got up there at 6:00pm. Of course we had to take pics along the way while the light was good. Then he went into several of the buildings and a mine before the sun got too low behind the hills. Actually it was only about 45 minutes of exploring time. Got back down the hill before it got dark for which I was grateful. I really didn't want to have to be driving down that road in the dark. It's bad enough in the daytime. We made it. Then the guys and I went to the Cowboy for supper. That also happened to be the night that Craig Johnson was giving a talk about his newest book. Had forgotten about that and I wanted the book too. The Johnsons and sponsors came to the Cowboy too, so it all worked out. We got to buy his book and they even bought his first one, which he signed for them. Then photo op time. They also bought some of Big Jim's books and listened to some of Jim's stories. Great time!

Sunday they met us at Church, then lunch. After lunch Gma and I went to Griffin's 50th Anniversary. I was scheduled to take pictures for them. The Steeles went to Thermop for swimming and to see the dinosaur museum. Met them for supper at the ElkHorn, then they left early the next morning to catch their flights from Cody.

8-24-10 Went to LaBarge to eat in the New York Diner one day. Met Dawn there which was fun. She's such a good jolly person. The Diner is "Moondance" and was trucked there from New York as it was scheduled to be demolished there. These people in LaBarge heard about it and bought it to save it. Then brought it back here on a flatbed. Took over a year to get it fixed up and ready to open for business. On our way back we stopped at Fontenelle Dam, just because its there. Never been in there before. Now we have. On our way back down South Pass we took the dirt road that goes through Red Canyon there. Sure is pretty down there. Gives a whole different perspective on the red cliffs from down below.

8-26,27,28-10 The Meeteetse Trail Regulators were here for a few days. They spent a lot of time at the rifle range. We went out there for their final shoot out and watched. Took some pics, but we didn't shoot. This year their big dinner was scheduled at Trail Town in Cody with a tour and talk by Clay Gibbons. Gma didn't want to go for all that, it would have been too long a sitting for her. We did go to the Oasis for breakfast with them Saturday morning and visited. Good to see all of them every year.

Then August was over and its time to start on the September adventures.

Gma's cabin fever

2010-08-12T20:18:00.000-07:00

Gma has a case of cabin fever since I left her home by herself for 10 days.

We have been out to Seniors and for coffee after I got back. Wednesday the 4th we went to Cody to get her hair cut after Senior lunch. I need to do that too. Friday the 6th we went for her carpal tunnel check up with the doctor, this time. She is doing great. Her hand has healed nicely and she isn't hurting all the time now. Still has a bit of numbness in her little finger, but it will take awhile for everything to go away. Her nerve was pinched really tight. Saturday the 7th we went over the Big Horns via Highway 14A to Sheridan. Took pics of all the statues that Pat told us about. Then came back via Highway 14 through Shell Canyon. Really a nice day. Tuesday was another Cody trip to the foot doctor for toenail clipping. Thursday we went to McCue to have some skin cancers burned off her arm.

Tomorrow we might go to Lewis Lake and then South Pass and Atlantic City. Then again, that might be too much and we will skip the cities as we have been there before. I have never been to Lewis Lake. We will take the truck for this trip as its on a dirt road and has some big bumps. Probably not a good idea to take my little car. The Church people had been there a couple of weeks ago and said it was kinda rough, but not bad. Steeles will be here the 18th, but not sure how long. Joe and Joy want to come over when they are here. Then the bikers will be here, then it will be time for our CA trip for 5 generations. Yippee!!

Rest of the IDCA trip

2010-08-10T20:10:00.000-07:00

The Boomtown motel was kind of a neat place. They had a million dollar saddle on display there and a nice cowboy sculpture out front. Pat had fun gambling, but I was tired, so just had a night cap with her and went to bed. Left her on her own and she won then.

Tuesday we got to Napa in time for lunch with Spuddie's friends. Was sure good to see them again and get in a nice visit. Picked up the quarters and made our way down the coast to San Luis Opbispo. Had a bit of a mix up on the motel reservations there, but it all worked out ok. Met Roma and she took us to a nice eating place. Had a good visit with her and she showed us a couple of sites to see on our city map. Wednesday morning we toured the San Luis Obispo Mission. It is still an active Church and has a museum in the side. Nice courtyard with all kinds of flowers and cactus plants, but I have no idea what they are. Then we went downtown to see Bubble Gum Alley. Now there's an interesting place. Talk about "icky sticky goo". That's Ed's kind of place. After that we went on down the coast to Oxnard. Got instructions to Jason & Jeni's place which was really quite easy to find. Visited there until Aunt Susan got home then out to dinner at the Olive Garden. Visited there until the chairs got hard, then more visiting back at the apartment. Was dark when we went back to the motel and on one of the street corners there was a police road block. We drove across toward the policelady and she really got excited. But all we wanted was directions on how to get back to our motel. Their investigation was interfering with our easy route. She told us how to get back which was relatively easy except the main street we needed to be on didn't have a street name sign on it at that intersection. Going straight looked really dark and it was a main thoroughfare, so we took it and, sure enough, it was the street we needed to be on.

Thursday Mary and little girls came to visit too. We had been at the Ventura Mall so went back to motel to get them and went swimming at the apartment complex. Then wandered through a small outdoor mall and ate at BJs Restuarant and Brewery. Nice place. I went back to the motel with Mary and girls while Pat & Jen took the kids home. Said our goodbyes that night.

Friday we left Oxnard. Susan had given Pat instructions on which highways to take to best get back to I15. Worked very smoothly. Mary was on the same road, so we had fun passing each other. When we got to the 15 we went North and she went South. Traffic was wall to wall on both sides of the highway. Guess everyone in CA was going to Vegas and everyone in NV was going to the beaches. We got stopped just before Primm for a good half hour for an accident. Called Ed, but he was working so couldn't see him anyway. Called my friend, Sally, and told her we wouldn't have time to stop in Vegas after all. She wasn't home anyway. So we just kept going. Ended up staying in Parawan, UT as Cedar City was full.

Sat. had lunch with Robert on our way back, then went through Big Sky to Belgrade where we got back on I90 to home. Long drives, lots of CA/NV traffic. Salt Lake was the last big traffic area and it was peanuts compared to LA & Vegas traffic.

It was a fun time and we sure had a good time visiting. August calendar is getting filled up, so will be Sept before we get another big trip. That's the way we planned it anyway.

Home again - Idaho portion

2010-08-04T20:51:00.000-07:00

Had a really fun trip to Idaho and California to see two of my Grandsons.

Left Hardin Saturday and arrived in Idaho Falls around fourish. Met Robert and he drove us all around Idaho Falls. Nothing looked a bit familiar, but after all its been 40 years since I was there. The zoo is there, but its practically in the middle of town now. Think it was quite a way out before. We were in some older parts of town, but nothing I remembered. No landmarks or anything. Didn't even figure our where the road came into town that we used to take from Jackson. But it was fun to have a tour guide. Went around a round-about which was decorated with a beautiful sculpture of eagles and a mountain lion on rocks with a waterfall. Robert wouldn't go around the other direction so I could get pics. I was on the wrong side and he just grinned at me. He did pull over in a lot so we could get pics.

He had to work the next day so wouldn't go out with us. The bar in the motel was having karaoke. We went for a nightcap and one of the locals tried hitting on Jen. The waitress signaled us to see if he was being obnoxious. He wasn't at that point, but believe he would have gotten that way it we had stayed longer. We needed Ed there to liven the songs up a bit. They really weren't very good, but the locals were all having fun. We had our one drink and went to bed.

Robert was over at 8;30a.m. to go to the air show. The gates opened at 9:00, but the show didn't start until noon. We got a good parking spot by being early and there were quite a lot of people going then. We had plenty of time to check out all the planes and stuff along the display route. Went through a cargo plane and Pat got to sit in the pilot's chair. We had taken our own chairs and its a good thing as there was no bleachers or anything there. After all it is an airport.

At 11:00 they had a preliminary "fly by" with some World War II planes. At noon the Mayor gave a brief welcome and then the show got under way. It was very impressive. I enjoyed it. That precision formation stuff is awesome. We had sunscreen, sunglasses, hats so didn't get burned. Although I did sunburn my lips. Couldn't believe that!! Don't know what the temp was, but it must have been at least 90, however there was a nice breeze which helped. The show kept us busy so you didn't really notice the heat or the time. There were food and drink vendors all over. You weren't allowed to take coolers in. Show was over about 4:00, but by the time we got out it was after 5:00. Had to wait for traffic to clear in the parking lot quite awhile, but at least we had air conditioning there.

Went out for a nice dinner at Jaker's which was just across the street from the motel. Next morning we stopped by Robert's work place before leaving town.

Went through Twin Falls to Jackpot and then across Nevada to Boomtown.

Getting Ready, and set to GO

2010-07-20T21:06:00.000-07:00

Think we have most of the doctor visits over with now. Gma's carpal tunnel is healing quite nicely and all the medical people are impressed with her progress. She had her last therapist visit Monday. She could bend her wrist both directions as far as her other hand had done when they first tested. Her grip strength was 23 pounds. It had been 3o in her good hand. This one they did the surgery on was her left hand, which probably isn't as strong anyway. Still have to go back to the surgeon one last time when I get back from CA.

The painter came today to power wash the house. She will be back Thursday to paint. Actually its just stain on the logs, but it is painting just the same.

Got one load of clothes washed today and will do another one tomorrow. Then I'll be all set to go.
Go to Hardin Friday after lunch, then we leave early Sat morning. Have e-mailed Amy in CA and she is ready for us. Have her phone programmed in mine. Have e-mailed Roma and she is anxious to meet us. Also have her phone programmed into mine. Robert has tickets to a Naval Air Show for us. That sounds fun. Think Jason and Jeni are excited to see us too. Mary is booked in the hotel in Oxnard too. Wow! No plans after Oxnard as yet. At least none that I know about. Never know which route we might decide to take. There are lots of roads out there we've never traveled.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2010-07-06T20:15:00.000-07:00

Gma's carpal tunnel is healing. Went to the therapist and she got finger exercises instructions. They took off the big bandage and now she just uses a big bandaid. She still has to wear the brace though. Then I went to Hdn to pay bills. Just a quick trip, but I got done all that was necessary. Back to Mtse before the Bleys got here Friday afternoon.

They have been having a good trip. Ken had a stomach ache so he napped while we visited. Then a sandwich and salad supper. Ken and boys went back to motel, so BJ and I went through the jewels and then went to close up the Cowboy. Had quite a visit with Big Jim.

Sat. Ken wanted to go to Cody for medicine for his stomach, so I went with him to show him where to go. Ended up going to the ER and spending most of the afternoon. Limings came down Saturday and got a good visit with Bonnie, boys and Gma. Ken and I didn't get back til 4:00. Too late to go to Legend Rock. Were scheduled to go out to dinner at the Cowboy for ribs. Ken was supposed to be on a clear liquid diet for 10-12 hours. So he just ate a few ribs and took the rest home.

Uncle Gary gave the boys motorcycle rides. Kevin went twice, but once was enough for Sam. Their Mom had to go first though to make sure it was an ok ride.

When we went out later Ken had 7up for the first drink, then had vodka in it after that. Clear liquids. We had great fun at the Cowboy. They had a band and were celebrating all Big Jim's kids being together for first time in many, many years. Jim was ecstatic. So there was plenty of drinks and dancing. See my picasa site for the contest in which BJ and Pat participated. They didn't win. The big winners were Big Jim's granddaughter, one of the band member's wife, and another band member's daughter. Jim said he really tried to be fair. Hmmmm! Anyway all had fun and that's the main thing. Even Pam and I danced, but not in the contest. Pam is my bar "Mom". We were in a dinner theater Big Jim wrote one time and in that she was my "Mom". So we've been playing the parts ever since. Anyway we didn't quite close up the bar that night. There were still a couple of people there after us and the band was still playing.

Sunday Limings had to go back, so they didn't get to Legend Rock this time. It will still be there whenever they can get down again. I went with Bleys to Legend Rock after Church and lunch. We had to look kinda quick as a big thunder storm was coming over the hill. Maybe not all that big a cloud, but it had loud thunder in it. We got back to the car just as it started raining big drops. No hail though which was good. By the time we got back to the pavement it was over. However they did get to see all they wanted to see and BJ got lots of pics. The paper we had explaining things really helped.

After supper we had some fireworks in the yard. Set up a chair for Gma in the front door so she didn't have to go outside. She could see great. Then Sam decided to join her as it was too loud for him outside. They brought fireworks with them so we used half of them here so Gma could see. Took the rest up to Upper Sunshine after dark and also to see what other people were setting off over the lake. The band was playing there too. They sounded better out in the open. Lots of pretty stuff going off, and our ground ones really lit up after dark. Got home at 11:oo so they just dropped me off and went to the motel. They had to get up early as they had to be in Park City, Utah Monday night. They made it. We met them at Lucille's for breakfast and took our annual family portraits on the bench in front of the cafe.

Figured we'd take a couple of days to get back in our usual routine, but Gma decided she wanted to go somewhere. She was tired staying home. So Tuesday we got up early to go through Yellowstone. Fixed up a picnic lunch and left here at 6:38 a.m. Went over Dead Indian Hill and had coffee break at Silver Gate. Everything in Cooke City looked full. That was a really nice place and we just might have to go back there for a dinner sometime. Anyway we went in that entrance to Tower, then over Dunraven pass and out the East Gate to home. Got home at 4:00p.m. Not too shabby. Was a nice day and overcast most of the time, so was cool. Had our picnic at that Steamboat Point on the Lake. Saw lots of buffalo and a couple of bunches with babies. Saw a bear in Lamarr Valley. He was just sitting out there by a tree. Looked like something was harassing him, but couldn't make it out. Finally some antelope came running out and those unidentified things turned out to be antelope. One might have been some other kind of critter though as it was black and followed the bear. Maybe it was a cub. Too far away to tell, even with our binoculars. But I took pics anyway. That was entertaining.

Tomorrow is Senior Lunch, Thursday is bus day, Friday we go to the carpal tunnel doc for the two week follow up. Always something!

Phone calls

2010-06-23T20:16:00.000-07:00

Today was our day for phone calls. They were all good ones, just not from people we expected.

First Judy Steele called to let us know they got home ok and offer Gma a donut pillow for sitting since she hurt her tailbone when she tipped over as well as her vertebrae. That's better now so she really doesn't need it. Had a nice visit. They had a good trip and got to see lots of fun things.

Then Bonnie called to let us know she has her motel reserved for when they come. Glad she got it done as they have been full every night in both motels. They have road construction people and oil rig people (I think) and lots of tourists. This weekend the ones for the all class reunion will be here and some of those might stay over. Its just been busy, busy, busy. Anyway it was good to hear from Bonnie and to know she got a place. Thought she might be camping out in the front yard if she didn't get it done.

Then Robert called. He's doing good, working two jobs and keeping his nose to the grindstone. Wondered if we wanted to go to a Naval air show when we come to visit him. Sounded good to me, but he needed to check with his Mom first as she's the driver, I'm just the passenger taking pics. But I haven't been to an air show for years and years. He hasn't seen one since his school. Was sure good to hear from him.

Then Will called to get Gma's mailing address. They did get Charlie to the Dinosaur Museum. The rain chased them to Joe's, but they left their car in Crowheart and rode with Joe to his place. Good thing as it rained a lot the next day and they would have bogged down in mud a couple of times on the way out. Saw Mt Rushmore, but missed Crazy Horse as he was fogged in. Went to the Spam museum and even bought some spam. Rain followed them all the way to Chicago, but they were having fun anyway. They got to Kentucky when they were supposed to and got back to Portland just fine.

Sure was nice to get all these phone calls. I like days like this.

Gma is doing great since her carpal tunnel surgery. Her fingers were a bit puffy the first day, but no swelling now. She keeps it elevated on a pillow when napping and sitting in her chair. Her arm kinda aches where the numbness is coming out, but not too bad and she takes her tylenol now and then. She just got the barest amount of anesthesia so think that might be out of her system now as she isn't so dizzy anymore. Pretty much back to normal. However she didn't feel like going out today to coffee or Senior lunch. So I did and made my reports and brought home a lunch for us.

No rain today so maybe I can clip some of the grass around the edges tomorrow after the bus to Cody routine. Don't have to get anything, so I'll just go for lunch and to give Gma plenty of rest time. The other day a young man from the Cowboy's across the road came over and finished mowing the yard. That was really nice. He said he'd be back in a few days to do some weed eating, but I can clip the tall grass between the irises. Can't really weed eat there or it will do in the irises. There are quite a bunch of them this time.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2010-06-12T20:54:00.000-07:00

I went to the Legend Rock talk at the museum and the following week went on the tour to the site. It was great!!! This is the place near Hamilton Dome.

Last week one set of company came one day and left the next. We had a good time and ate out with them twice. The day they left the second set arrived. We had to hurry to get them fed as they got here at 8:30pm and everything closes at 9:00pm. We made it. The next day they went swimming in Thermop, but came back in time to eat at the Elkhorn. Came back to the house and we read maps so they could decide which Interstate they wanted to take to get to Chicago. Decided on I 90 so they could see Mt Rushmore and the Spam museum. Forgot to tell them about the SD badlands. Maybe they will figure it out. They left after breakfast at Lucilles to go to Crowheart. They were to stop at the Thermopolis dinosaur museum on the way. Never heard if they got there or not, but I'm sure they did or we would have heard something.

They are having such a good time on their excursion. The ultimate goal is Kentucky by June 15th.

Went to Ginnie's 90th birthday party. Lots of people, good conversation, good food, and just plain good time.

Haven't heard anymore about the trip to Hole-in-the-Wall, but it's still raining and the rivers are super high. Not flooding here yet, but close. Might not be able to do that one til July or August.

Next weekend is Father's Day and we've been invited to the annual Larsen breakfast. That's always fun, with super good breakfast items. Get in some good visits there and even entertainment most times.

Homeward bound

2010-05-11T20:54:00.000-07:00

The wild week is over. Sure had fun though. Didn't do quite all the things on the list, but got most of them done and even some other adventures that weren't on the list. We missed the Museum and the school playground, but we got the Lion's Park playground. Gracie and Uncle Ed went to pet the Game Warden's mules down at the check station. They were gone, so the went up the hill by way of the road and came back down the trail. Long way for Gracie, but didn't seem to phase her a bit. Ed went out picket pin hunting and got five of them. Then Gracie found a dead critter in the yard which she thought must have been a picket pin. It turned out to be a dead mouse, so Ed had the job of disposing of it. Gracie thinks I need to shovel all the deer poop out of my yard.

Sunday was Church day and the day of GGma's Birthday party at the Irma. That was very nice and the girls were really good. The waitress even commented on how good they were. After the party there they went shopping at Wal-Mart. Even Pat and Gary went. They all had a good time and Gracie talked Aunt Patty into some toys for her and Libby. What a soft touch.

Monday we went to Hardin in the rain. Not too bad though. I did get to the house a few minutes before them and had time to put up some little things not meant for little girls. Got Spuddie's pictures put away and three other boxes of breakables before they got there. Ed helped me get the rest of the stuff put in the basement. Was a really hurried clean up job, so will take awhile to find it all again.

Ed had his cookout with his friends and the rest of us went to Pat's. Jen's MacDonald's toys were a big hit with the little girls. Jen is now their best cousin ever. Tuesday Ed took Gracie on another adventure, walking downtown then to the Park before we met Pat and Jen for coffee at MacDonalds, where the girls talked someone into getting new mermaid dolls. Jen got to show off her cousins to her co-workers. Mary got to visit briefly with a couple of her classmates during our time in Hardin. We did get some of Spuddie's treasures packed up for Mary. Then I had to come back to Meeteetse. They leave bright and early tomorrow morning.

Party time

2010-05-07T20:58:00.000-07:00

My kids are here!!! They arrived safely tonight about 7:30 p.m. Now the fun begins. Champagne and chocolate coffee break in the morning, visit the museum, play in park and/or school grounds, pet the Game Warden's mules. They are shut up at the check station, so will have to walk down there. Bath time for the little girls as they have mermaid dolls that need to swim. Their tails wag too. The mermaids, that is. Ed fits into Dad's old Levi jacket that I have been using for yard work as it has batter acid holes in it and has little tear here and there.

Glad they had a good safe trip and took lots of pics along the way. Girls got to play in the snow on South Pass. They took an excursion to South Pass City and Atlantic City, which wasn't a real good idea. But they didn't get stuck in the mud or a snow bank, so all is well.

My Kids are Coming!

2010-05-03T20:18:00.000-07:00

My kids are coming! My kids are coming! Yippee!!!!

My Mother will celebrate her 102nd birthday on Mother's Day. Some Mtse people are having a dinner party for her in Cody, and three of her Grandchildren will be there as well as two Great Grandchildren and a Grandson-in-law. I am so excited you'd think it was my birthday. ( I guess I can claim the Mother's Day part.) There will also be a "champagne and chocolate" coffee break on Sat morning. We will have cake and ice cream somewhere in all this too. Two of her friends are making cakes for her. One is a decadent chocolate cake and one is a rum cake. MMMMMMMM!!!!!

What a great time we will all have. Life is good.

Tuesday afternoon drive

2010-04-20T20:34:00.000-07:00

Today we decided to just go for a drive. Went to Hamilton Dome. I've never been there, just passed the signs on the highway on the way to Thermop. So today we just decided to drive the loop. There used to be a town there and a school, now its just an oil field with some offices and, of course, the wells and storage tanks. We met some fellow at the Cody cowboy song thing, who was talking to Joe and told him he bought Hamilton Dome. Apparently he bought some acres there and it had the old school on the property he purchased. Coming back to one of the main roads there was a sign to Anchor Dam. I've never been there either. Gma says it goes quite a way back up in the hills along Owl Creek and ends up near the MBar. We decided to go there another day when we get an earlier start. On our way back we took the Grass Creek loop too. Haven't been on that road since we went to a Gooseberry picnic at Gilbreath's place. That was when you girls were just little and so were the Bain girls. There used to be a town there with a post office and store, but just old broken down buildings now, and the oil field with offices and storage tanks, and the wells.

Two places are off our list now, but we added two more. Want to go to Anchor Dam, and Gma said we could take the road that we took a short cut to Kirby one time and instead of going to Kirby we would take a jog somewhere and come out on the Gooseberry cutoff road somewhere. There are places there she knows about and hasn't been that way for years. I never have been there, so we will go.

These are just short day trips, in fact, just a few hours trips.

Sunday we drove up to the upper Sunshine to see where all the traffic was going. Apparently not there. There were three trucks with 9 county plates and three trucks with 15 county plates. The ice is just melting away from the bank, so the people were fishing from the shore. No way a boat could get out there yet. The ice is thin and you can see the big cracks in it, but its still there.

They are hauling pit run gravel from our hill for the road by the lower lake. They are widening the turn out there and fixing guard rails. Soon they will start the work on the highway between Meeteetse and Thermop. Guess they are getting the crusher set up for that this week. Too many trucks coming and going on our hill to walk the road. I've been raking weeds for my exercise. Need to get in shape for my Hardin yard. That will be coming up next week sometime.

After Easter

2010-04-10T20:46:00.000-07:00

Easter is over and so far we haven't had any more major snow storms. Just some flurries and a bit of rain here and there. I'm sure something will come along one of these days. Lots of wind though.

Just saw one of the rabbits for the first time in a couple of weeks. Will probably be seeing some baby bunnies soon. The deer go through in the middle of the night when I can't see them. They have been going around the yard in the daytime. Silly deer! I'm not getting my exercise chasing them.

Joe and Joy were here Friday on their way to the cowboy singing and poetry weekend in Cody. Joe played in the Friday concert and jam session after. Then again this morning. We missed his performances as we didn't get over to Cody until about 11:30. But we got in a good visit there anyway and Gma got her own private concert. It was fun and worth the trip.

Good Friday storm

2010-04-01T20:41:00.001-07:00

Its snowing and snowing and snowing. This is the Good Friday storm only its just Thursday, supposed to be sunny on Friday, then snow again Saturday. So far we have an inch or so and its still coming down. Didn't start sticking until 8:00p.m. The road out front was just wet and slushy, our driveway was clear. When I came home on the bus I parked in the garage as it was too wet to get the frost cover on the car. The red van is at the car shop, so the garage was clear. Hope I can get out in the morning. As long as it doesn't blow and drift I should be ok. Its pretty wet so may not blow anyway.

It was nice when we went to Cody in the morning, but was getting wetter and more snow by the time we came back. The road was getting really slushy and there was some snow pack on the rim. That was at 2:00p.m. By now it't probably pretty bad. We didn't go in to play cards tonight.

After coffee tomorrow we are supposed to go to the rec center and help stuff eggs. John ran out of candy so didn't get them finished last week. He re-stocked today. We can do that.....if I can get out of the garage.

We have our eggs and dye for this weekend. Will have lamb chops for Easter Sunday dinner.

Happy Easter!!!!

March happenings

2010-03-18T20:44:00.000-07:00

Nothing exciting. We drove up the North Fork one day for our nature drive. Saw a buffalo and some sheep. They posed very nicely for me.

Have just been doing our usual stuff and looking in the magazines to see where we might want to go this summer. Already we want to go to Oregon. Gma is now talking about going to CA for 5 generation pictures. Will just have to see when it gets closer to the time. We've also been looking for things for "The New Kid". We want to go to the sinks and over a dirt road to Louis Lake on top of South Pass, then tour South Pass City and Atlantic City. That's a day trip. Want to go to eastern Wyoming to some of those little towns over there that we've never seen. That might involve an over nighter.

Politics are getting interesting. The hospital wants to put a cap tax on the primary ballot and the dump wants to put a cap tax on the general election ballot. The letters to the editor are all against another cap tax for anything. Meeteetse school made the front page of the Cody paper for their drastic budget cuts. The locals are pretty upset about the changes. Glad I'm retired and don't have kids going to school. Doubt if Mtse will make national news with this like Hardin did with the detention center, but its interesting just the same.

Then the Senior Center got in trouble for having corned beef and cabbage on the menu for St. Patrick's Day. Although other Senior Centers in the basin advertised it in the newspapers for their centers. Don't know if they got in trouble too, or just us. Good grief!!

Is this full moon time or what? Maybe its just been a long winter and everyone is getting a little crazy.

To Hdn and back

2010-03-02T20:49:00.000-08:00

Had to go home to Hdn as its the end of the month and bill paying time. Lucky me.

It was also Jen's B'Day. After 22 years she is now officially 5 1/2 years old. Whooo hooo! No wonder they asked to see her ID when she ordered a drink at Applebys. That's where we went for her dinner. Pat & I had "Perfect Margueritas", Gary had beer, and Jen had a Strawberry Daquiri. Nice dinner and then back to Jen's for B'Day cake. It was an ice cream cake. Very good!!

Had to go to Blgs bright and early Monday for my car's big servicing where they flush out all the stuff and put in new fluids, check belts, rotate tires, change oil. All that good stuff. It was time for a new timing belt as well. Also got new wiper blades. And, Oh yeh, the "check engine light" is on all the time. Took all day to do all that good stuff. I was there from 9:00a.m to 3:10p.m. The "check enginge" problem was a faulty oxygen sensor which they fixed. No more orange light in my eye and the blinking cruise light. I can use cruise control again. This was an $8oo and some excursion, but I'm good to go again for the summer. It had been a year since I had all that servicing done, so was time.

Weather was good and is still being good. Snow is almost all melted. March is coming in like a lamb, so better be prepared for some more good stuff later. Anyway it was so nice in Blgs that I walked to the Mall only to find nothing is open until 10:00a.m. So I decided to go to Barnes & Noble for coffee. Wal-Mart was just over the hill and I could cut through a couple of parking lots and down the hill and avoid the street traffic. So I got a few pics processed and walked all over Wal-Mart for exercise. Visited with Etta K for a bit. Also saw Salyer there, but no visiting. Finally wandered back to Rimrock about 11:30. Didn't want cafeteria at Country kitchen so went into the little cafe at Barnes & Noble. They had half sandwiches and soup and lots of dessert goodies. They had chicken tortilla and chicken noodle soups. Had the chicken tortilla and it was really good. Also had a frappachino to go with it which it was all very filling. Killed another hour there, got back to Rimrock at 12:30. I had purchased a puzzle book so pulled up a table and did puzzles until they got finished with my car. It was really a nice day for walking. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Good exercise, but I was tired by 12:30. After I got back to Hdn I walked to post office to mail bills and to water department. Was too late to go to the bank. Did that this morning and paid off my house. Hip, hip, hooray!!!! My house is all mine now. I can put that amount in savings now for more trips.

Had lunch with Pat & Gary, then back to Mtse. Had to chase deer first thing. There were a whole bunch of them lazing around in our yard. They jumped the fence fast and were soon gone. Probably went behind the trailer where I couldn't see them. It's a game with them.

February - Good ol Groundhog predictions - Ha!

2010-02-19T20:14:00.000-08:00

Gosh February is almost over and it just got started.

I went home to Hdn for three days and had to shovel snow twice. Good grief!!! I've done a bit of shoveling here in Mtse since I came back. All the Spring storms are good for the ground, and I do get my exercise since I haven't been walking the highway in the snow and wet. However it's just going to make the grass come up nice and lush green which will attract the deer and I'll get more exercise chasing them out of the yard.

Limings took me out for my birthday which was fun. The night I got there I took Pat to the movie to see the one loosely based on the concept of small town Meeteetse. Really wasn't a good movie, but it was just nice to get out and eat buttered popcorn. The only thing that resembled Mtse was that they went through town so fast the guy asked where the rest of the town was and was told that was it. He then asked if they could go back because he'd missed it. Then when the bad guy checked out the map of WY the fictional town was located on highway 120. And they did fly into Cody and one woman went to Cody shopping. So Cody actually got mentioned, but that's as close as it gets.

The Game Warden had been to visit Gma one day when I was in Cody on the bus. He has his mules in here again. He was wondering if we'd ever sell the Game & Fish any more land. NOPE!
Actually I'd like to buy that acre back from them.

Last Thursday it had snowed a bunch (about 6 inches) when I went to town for the Senior bus. But it quit before we left and the bus really did go. Roads were really icy and slick on the way over, but all melted by the time we came back. When I got home our driveway had been scraped out. Even the place where we back up to turn around. Didn't know who did it as Gma didn't recognize the tractor or who was in it and he didn't come to the door. But it was really a nice job. Found out this morning at coffee that it was our neighbor on the hill. I like those people.

I had asked Fr. Dube if he would like me to take pictures of him in our little church sometime. So he could show his friends and family in Nigeria what sort of people he had to deal with here. He liked the idea so I said I could take them when he came down for Ash Wednesday as he was doing a Mass then too. I figured just a few snaps which would get the views of the altar and a little bit to show the size of the Church. He wanted pics snapped all the time. He kept gesturing for me to take some whenever he did something. So I did. He also wanted me to be sure to get one of him when he put ashes on Gma's forehead and when he gave her communion. I did. Then he got all the congregation up afterwards for a group pic. Was glad we had a lot of people there for a change. It came out pretty good.

Jan happenings

2010-01-29T21:24:00.000-08:00

Not a whole lot happening here, but we do manage to keep busy. Jan 16 we went to Worland to Clint & Sara's wedding. That was fun and everyone looked beautiful and happy. The rest of the pics are on my picasa site. Check them out.

We have just been doing our usual stuff. Seniors on Mondays and Wednesdays, Senior bus to Cody on Thursdays, card game at Griffins on Thursday evenings, coffee at Lucille's most mornings, and then back for lunch sometimes too. Now and then we eat at home.

Thursday, the 28th, celebrated my B'Day early at the Elk Horn as Fendt's were going south to visit relatives, and the others work when the weather is good. It's been good lately. This was the only time we could all get together until mid Feb. It was fun and I had a margarita because my Bday card said I could.

New Year happenings 2010

2010-01-04T20:49:00.000-08:00

We ushered in the New Year with a card fest at Griffins. Although when the ball dropped in New York at 10:00 our time. We called it a night. I was disappointed in the view we got on tv as it didn't show the ball up close and I really wanted to see it. It had Waterford Crystal pieces in it and we were there. Anyway after it started down the pole it went behind a big Toshiba sign and that was that.

New Year's Day the Longs came by for a New Year's toast with our new Maker's Mark (the Kentucky whiskey).

Pat came down the 2nd for a visit and to get her Gma fix. We had a good time. Went out for dinner at the Elk Horn where Alice bought our drinks for the New Year. That was really nice. Sunday we went to Church at 9:00, then out to coffee/breakfast with the Cody Church people. That was fun. Got finished with that at 11:25, so hurried home for a potty stop and then back to Lucille's for lunch. Shrimp dinner was the special. After that Pat headed home.

She brought my bills and Christmas cards so I don't need to go back until next week when I have to get my driver's license renewed. Paid the bills this morning and half are dated 2009, but they were already sealed in the envelopes, so ....... I'm sure they get lots with the wrong year for January every year. Think I only did four of them wrong. Caught the rest of them. Not too shabby for me.

Christmas activities

2009-12-29T20:15:00.000-08:00

GGma and I didn't really go anywhere this year, as usual. Gave all my kids strict instructions to stay at their own homes or go to their in-laws. Don't come here. I don't want to have to worry about you in a snowstorm or some such.

Christmas Eve we went to the Oasis for some Christmas cheer with the Longs and took a couple of pics. That was in the afternoon. That evening we were invited up on the hill to the Porters for some Christmas snacks and cheer. It was really good food and they serve wine or champagne. Was a fun evening and good food. More pics there. Check my picasa site.

Christmas morning Gma and I opened our gifts and went to 9:00 Mass. Fr. Daley was the celebrant. He has been cleared by his doctor and the Bishop to come back and do Masses.

Went to the Irma in Cody with the Griffins for dinner at 11:30. Saw the Fendts there but weren't seated anywhere near them. Did get a bit of a visit though when we went to the buffet. Were home early and took naps, then had our happy hour and ate some of our goodies. We have lots.

It was a very nice peaceful day and the weather was decent.

Fr. Daley was back for a 9:00 a.m. Mass on Sunday and said he will be back for New Years day and the Sunday after. Fr. Dube has gone back to Nigeria for a month. He is scheduled to be back the end of January sometime. Might be interesting to see what happens then. He likes coming to Meeteetse too. Fr. Daley will probably be here every Sunday as long as his health allows. But it is kinda iffy. His determination will no doubt see him through his pain.

Went to Cody today as the bus isn't going to run New Year's Eve. John would take us if it was really a necessity, but no one had anything that couldn't wait. He told me going for lunch didn't constitute a necessity. Darn!! So Gma and I went this morning and had lunch at Our Place. Got enought stuff to last her when I go back to Hardin. That depends on weather. So far its looking good for the first of the month.

Sunny Southern California

2009-12-11T20:59:00.000-08:00

I'm back from a trip to Sunny Southern California. Went to my cousin's wedding and it was beautiful. Check out the pics on picasa. The bride was glowing and so were all her family. The reception was great. Gracie got to dance a lot with several different people. She and "her brother" were doing quite well on the dance floor. Libby had fun too with the baby sitters. At least I think she must have. Her mother got away without any crying. She played awhile then slept.

When I arrived in California Gracie, Libby, Lexie, and Mary picked me up at the airport and we went to Seaport Village for supper. Wandered around for awhile looking at the lights and decorations before eating at the Pier Cafe. It was kinda cool after the sun went down, but I was fine. Lexie borrowed my heavy sweater and she really liked it. It did look good on her too. She was hoping I would forget she had it on, but I reminded her when we dropped her off at her house. I needed it in Salt Lake and Billings.

Friday we went shopping and the little girls got to see Santa. Libby didn't care much for that, but Gracie did. I ended up getting a new dress, a skirt and blouse, plus some other stuff. It was fun. Haven't done anything so rash for years.

Saturday was the wedding, Sunday we just rested. That evening we met the Dwyers for dinner at the Yard House. They serve Bailey's Coffee there and have Guinness too. I had Bailey's. Not as good as in Ireland, but there wasn't that Irish atmosphere.

Monday we were to go to Disneyland, but it was cold and rainy all day. In fact it was cold enough I had to wear my heavy winter sweater in Sunny Southern California. Can you believe that???? We thought about going to a fish museum and then driving up the coast for lunch, but it was just too miserable to go anywhere. However we did go to the movie in Murrieta. Saw "The Fantastic Mr. Fox". It was cute. Mary and I liked it, but Libby only lasted halfway through before she wanted to explore. Of course that distracted Gracie and she got bored with the movie too. She seemed to be enjoying it though until she got more interested in what Libby was doing.

Tuesday I left. It was -10 in Billings when we landed. Pat brought my tennis shoes and my scarf which was good. I needed those.

Got the oil changed in my car Wednesday and bought a toner cartridge for my printer. Thursday the weather was above zero and the sun was shining. Wind died down and roads were clear so I came back to Meeteetse while the getting was good. Now I'm back in business. I can print and I remembered to bring my cord for the computer so I don't run out of battery. My cell phone works, but I don't get a lot of calls. Hmmmm.

Men of Worth

2009-11-12T20:57:00.000-08:00

Gma and I went to a concert tonight at the school cafeteria. These two guys were really good. One is from Scotland and one from Ireland. They play celtic music on different instruments. There were two guitars, a banjo, a Toys R Us remade banjo type guitar and a mandolin, plus two goat skin drums. It was a most enjoyable evening of music and storytelling. They just told a few funny stories. But they did give some history of the area they were singing about, or where the songs were written. They weren't the usual tunes you hear all the time, but were definitely Celtic. They even sang some in Celtic. Don't think I've ever heard Celtic sung.

It was a 2 1/2 hour program and we went a 1/2 hour early to get a good parking spot and good seats. That was a long time for Gma to sit. She was pretty stiff when we got up, even though we stood up at the break time. They had a 10 minute break and sold CDs and had info on tours to Ireland and Scotland. These tours go more into the music parts of the countries. I didn't pick one up. Not ready to go back yet. I haven't digested our last trip.

Went to Cody on the bus today and our waitress in Sunset House said she wanted to go the Meeteetse to hear these guys if it wasn't snowing. She was there, so I guess it didn't snow. There were quite a few people from Cody there. Sure was cloudy and dark today. Maybe I'll have to shovel my way to the house in the morning.

scanner

2009-10-28T19:54:00.000-07:00

I fixed my scanner all by myself. Guess I just needed a good night's sleep to calm down and follow directions. It said I needed to unlock the device and replug it in. I couldn't find an unlock place yesterday and pushed all buttons I could find. Today I found the unlock button on the bottom of the scanner which I thought was a place for batteries or some such. But there is a little unlock symbol on it. Did that, replugged it in, and it works just like always. So I've been busy scanning the old portraits. Don't know most of the people but they are interesting looking. Have also been taking pictures of all the treasures I brought home. Will get those up one of these days. I'm not done with the dishes yet.

Home again. Home again. Jiggety Jog!

2009-10-13T14:04:00.000-07:00

I'm back in Mtse again.

My computer wouldn't connect to the internet. Had to call TCT and was talked through several things which didn't work. Today they sent a guy out to the house and he couldn't make it work either. He had to call for extra instructions and they finally reconfigured the isp or something like that and it works. So I'm back in business. Hooray!!

Gma and I got back from Napa in between snow storms. It was good weather the day we came home and the roads were dry until we got to five mile hill. There was more slush on that one than on South Pass. Was just wet and slushy, but not bad. It was icy on our road out of Mtse, but again, not too bad. And we were home!!!

Its been cold ever since, but hasn't really snowed any more. We did have a few flakes now and then, and a slight dusting on Sunday morning. Its supposed to warm up some now.

Got the car unloaded into the trailer. Today I picked up the three big heavy boxes I mailed and brought them to the trailer. Will have to go through all that stuff and repack it according to which kid will inherit what. I'll take some pics and post them for you so you can choose some of it.

We got everything done that we could do. Cleaned out the house, attic, and 3 sheds. However one shed was rat infested so we just left everything in that one and let the shed man haul that. He was to come and haul off all the sheds and whatever was left in them. I did look in the rat shed and there were probably some treasures there, but they would be ruined anyway. There were a couple of shelves of books and old 78 records. I couldn't read the titles from the doorway, but they were no good anyway.

Went through the other two sheds and there were lots of crafty stuff that Spuddie made Christmas decorations with and stuff like that. Lots of old fancy jars and bottles that went to Goodwill. The ladies made two trips to the thrift shop and Goodwill with stuff. There was still a load to go when we left. I got everything I could in the car and the rest just had to stay there. Gave Susan a couple of boxes of glasses because they sort of matched the ones she had already taken. She doesn't know she's getting them. I think there are quite a few Payne pictures in all the picture and letter stuff, so will send it to her after I scan it.

The train set will go with the tool sale. We boxed up all the loose pieces, but left the track and attached buildings in the attic.

So, my dear children, when you come to visit next summer leave space in your vehicle to take back some stuff.

More later.

We're back!

2009-09-14T23:08:00.000-07:00

WOW!!!! What a trip! Had a super good time and saw lots and lots of stuff. Want to go back again to see what we missed.

Got back in Hardin around 12:15 a.m. We left Dublin at 11:40 a.m., but had to get up that morning at 6:oo in order to get to the airport 3 hours before take off. The shuttle to the airport from the hotel went at 7:30, 9:30, and 11:30. That's actually the time they arrived at the airport. They left the hotel 45 minutes before that. Had to board the bus at 6:45. I suppose we could have gone on the 9:30 bus, but that didn't give us the 3 hours our instruction book said and we didn't want to take a chance on missing anything. It took quite awhile to go through all the stuff one has to do to get into the boarding gate area. Actually we only had about an hour wait before boarding. When you don't know where to go and how to decipher their signs it does take some time. But we did fine and really didn't have any hassle. The lines were long but moved fast. Some others from our tour came on the 9:30 bus and they made it just fine. Dublin to Atlanta was our super long flight. Had two hours between Atlanta and the Salt Lake flight. Took one of the hours to get through customs and recheck our baggage. I did have a couple of cat naps on that flight. Not on the one from Salt Lake to Billings though. That one was too short and had a few rough spots. Gary said it was really lightning when he came to pick us up. No wonder it was rough. I got in the house, after using all the wrong keys in the keyhole, and emptied the contents of my big suitcase all over the floor. The bag got dampish on the way home as it was raining. Then I crashed and didn't get up til 10:30a.m.

Got lots of stuff done today so I can head back to Meeteetse in the morning. Gma is anxiously waiting to hear the stories and see pictures. Good thing I didn't spend all my money in Ireland. Its going to cost a small fortune to get all the pics printed that I want. Also have to get an album for them.

More on all the activities later. I have to sort it all out yet.

Ready ! Set !

2009-08-31T13:40:00.000-07:00

Is it time yet? Are we there yet? Can you tell I'm getting anxious for this trip to luxurious Ireland?

I'm headed for Hardin tomorrow after lunch. I'll bring Gma home and them I'm gone!
Have my Hardin stuff packed and ready to go. I'll be in Hardin Tuesday night and write out all the bills. Wed. I pay bills, vote, pack, and sleep. Thurs. we are outa here.

Saturday we took a drive up to the Jack Creek campground. Beautiful scenery and I got quite a local history lesson. Just hope I can remember it. I'm going to have to take you kids back up in there. Don't understand why anyone in their right mind would want to pull campers and horse trailers over those rocky roads and steep hills, but I'm not an outfitter or hunting guide. And I'm not a hunter either. Except with a camera. We need to go in a high clearance vehicle, and with 4wheel drive, not in my subaru.

Now I want to go to some of the other places that I've heard about for years, but never been there.

Will let you know all about the trip when we get back

Fun visitors

2009-08-21T20:04:00.000-07:00

We've been busy. The relatives arrived really late Tuesday, actually Wednesday a.m. as in 2:00a.m. When Gma and I went for coffee Wednesday we were greeted at the door by the relatives. WOW!! So we had coffee while they finished up their breakfast. Then we said we'd meet them at the Senior Center for lunch at noon. Told them at the Center we'd be having several extra guests and we set them up at the middle table. We waited and waited and waited. Finished our lunch and three of them showed up. So they got to eat after all and we visited some more. The rest had gone back after breakfast and taken naps . Originally we were expecting three of them, Tom, John, Will. There were seven, Tom, John, Will, Brandon, Mary Jo, Sam, Shannon. Anyway Tom, Will, Brandon were the ones that ate at Seniors. Then they got extra stuff to take home with them for later. They are growing boys, they need food. The boys went walking and Tom came to the house with us. Wasn't long before all the rest came out.

We took them for a drive up to Sunshine and they had a great time up there just looking around. The boys found a bunch of good dried driftwood on the lake shore that they loaded in their van for their camping excursion. They wanted to spend at least one night camping up Wood River. That evening we had really good sausages for supper at their cabin at the Oasis. They get the sausages at a certain place in Oregon that just sells it one day. They have some sort of celebration that day and make lots of sausage for the celebration. The extra is sold to whoever gets there first. So you have to be sure you are there super early to get your place in line.

Thursday we met them all at Lucille's for their breakfast, then we went to Joe and Joy's house. Mary Jo had gotten fresh salmon and had it vacuum sealed so they could bring it out here. That's what we took to Joe & Joy's. Joy had fresh garden salad, some chili she made, and brownies with fresh raspberries & cool whip. The garden stuff was from her garden, the chili was their own beef, and the raspberries were from her tree in the yard. After we ate Will and Joe played and sang for us. Joe fixed his guitar so he can sit and play it with a dobro (sp). He can't hold his guitar over his shoulder and pick like he did. His fingers don't bend as far as they should and he doesn't have full use of his thumb either. But they are getting better. Then Will played the dobro and picked it up quickly. Joe said he learned in five minutes what it took Joe three months to learn. Then Joe took them around his place and they had great fun looking in old barns and sheds and a cabin. Lots of machinery to see too.

This morning we met them at Lucille's again. Some wanted to go to Thermop swimming. The girls wanted to go shopping in Cody. So John went to Cody really early to see about renting a plane to take Gma for a ride. He came back before the rest were up for breakfast. Gma and I said we'd go for a ride. He had to go back to Cody to do the paperwork and then had to go up with an instructor for their and his safety and insurance purposes. Standard procedure. The girls went with him so they could shop. Tom and the boys dinked around town for awhile and then came to our house for lunch. We fed them lamb burgers from Bill Bain. They loved it. By that time the girls came back so they could go swimming. John was still doing plane stuff so Mary Jo had to go back to pick him up. Tom spent the afternoon at our house.

We planned to take them out to supper at the Cowboy tonight as Tom flies out of Cody at 6:00a.m. The boys were going the WoodRiver campground after supper. So that's what we did. Four of us had ribs and everyone else ordered off the menu. They all loved their food. Raved about it. They said they have to come to Wyoming to get really good meals. Everything they have eaten here was wonderful. Glad they like it. Maybe they will make this an annual trek.

Sometime tomorrow they will all leave. Probably after lunch. Gma and I will meet John at the Oasis at 7:30 as our plane ride is scheduled for 8:30a.m. John wants to fly over Joe's house to see if he got his hay cut yet. He has the plane for two hours. That will be fun.

Then Gma got a call from some friends of hers from Wisconsin and they will be in Cody next week and would really like to see her. They will call again with more particulars. We can do that.

Gma said she'd be glad when I go to Ireland so she can get some rest. Hmmm.

new pics

2009-08-16T23:56:00.000-07:00

I put some different pics on flickr and a new album on picasa. These are of Gma and the Regulators. There are also 4 of two of the bands that played at the Cowboy Sat night.

MTR - Regulators

2009-08-15T21:12:00.000-07:00

The Regulators were here this weekend. We were sure busy.

We didn't see them on Thursday, but they started arriving that day. Friday after Limings came we went out to the rifle range to watch them shoot, but by the time we got there they were through for the day. When we drove up Gma said "I don't know any of those guys" . Well they sure knew her and all came to the car to greet her. They were just waiting for their ride back to town, so we visited a bit then came back home.

We thought the "Taste of Meeteetse" started at 4:30, but it was pouring rain about that time so we wondered if they would have to cancel. Anyway we went into town about 5:00 and no one was out.
Checked in the Chocolatier and found out it wasn't to start until 6:00. Went to the Cowboy for awhile until they started. Then we got all our "tastes". There was shrimp, fry bread, and cheese cake at one booth. They had drunken duck and vodka slushes at the other booth. The drunken ducks were pieces of chicken cooked in rum wine and whiskey. Sure made a good flavor. The red slushes had vodka, the blue slushes were non-alcohol.

Gma got hugs from the Regulators all the way down the street. They were all glad to see her. She is their favorite Meeteetse person.

After tasting we went in the Cowboy for supper. The Elkhorn was packed and there was no way to get anything to eat for quite awhile. The Cowboy was almost as packed but not quite. We had a better chance of getting served faster there. Both places were full of Regulators so there was no point in getting to the bonfire at the Oasis until they were done eating anyway. All worked out just fine. We visited at the campfire until 9:30.

Limings were leaving Sat morning to go to Cody to ride with the Patriot Guard for the dedication of the new World War II memorial. The Governor was to speak and the whole bit. They had to be there to line up by 9:00, so we went to Lucille's shortly after 7:00 when they first opened. The place was full. Guess the people were lined up outside waiting for them to open at 7:00
we did get the one table that was left, but it would be too long for breakfast so just had coffee and they left. Gma and I ordered breakfast after they were gone. We got out food at 8:30 so the kids wouldn't have had time to eat anyway.

The people in there were going on the Kirwin tour which left the museum about 8:30. After our breakfast we came back home to regroup. Had my Saturday morning coffee break with my daughter before we went to the rifle range to watch the final shoot out.

They had a pistol ready for Gma. She was 100% better than last year. Last year she hit the target once. This year she hit it twice. Pistols are not her strong point.

After lunch we went to the museum to hear David Stalcup talk about his motorcycle adventures when he went around the world. Tomorrow there is a reception for him as it is the last day of his exhibit. He's quite interesting. Sounded like he had lots of fun on his travels. Not something I would want to do. 50 years ago I might have thought about it, but probably wouldn't have actually done it.

Then we went to the Oasis for the award ceremony. The group was all going out to Wagner's for the barbecue, entertainment, and trip to Arland with the story of "The Lady in Blue" by Clay Gibbons. So we wouldn't see them again for this year.

Tonight we went to the Cowboy to hear the bands. There were three of them. The first two only played for half hour to 45 minutes each. The third band was Wes Hogg's group. He has improved over the years. The first two were rather good too. Give them a couple more years and they might make names for themselves. The first group didn't look old enough to even be in the bar, but I guess I'm just getting old. The second group looked a tad older. Reminded me of Rocky Hert's group. The music was different, not such hard rock, sort of a bluegrass rock. Anyway it was interesting. Lots of locals in the bar. Almost like a Labor Day crowd.

Was a fun weekend. Monday we tour the new Lodge up WoodRiver. Tuesday we should have relatives arrive. No time to think about Ireland trip yet. But I'm ready.

Mules miss Gracie

2009-08-11T20:15:00.000-07:00

Nothing exciting has been going on. Just our usual routine. The Game Warden's mules really miss Gracie. They hang around by our fence quite a bit and wait for us to come out. When we drive off for coffee break they go back to the check station or up the hill. Today one of the white ones has really been braying. Think he must be calling Gracie.

This morning we went to Cody for a haircut for Gma. She also stopped to get her glasses adjusted and they are going to fix one lens so hopefully she can see out of it better. Things are just too blurry for her and she really has trouble reading the newspaper. Said she can't tell the difference between the horses and cows across the road. The old ones were blurry, but at least she could distinguish stuff better. The lady said she had to tweak the left one.

Then we went for groceries and to Our Place for lunch. Then home for a nap. Also picked up pics that I had ordered the night before. Sure like the way that works.

Had a call from the Willises and they will be here for a visit tomorrow. Invited them to lunch at the Seniors. Then they will be off to the dinosaur museum in Thermop.

Kids are gone

2009-08-07T20:51:00.001-07:00

Some of my kids were here for a couple of days. They got here early and came in to the Senior Citizens for lunch. I wasn't expecting them until 1:30 or 2:00. So they got polish sausage and sauerkraut for lunch. Gracie age three sausages. They made a big hit with the Seniors. Later I met them at the Chocolatier's for dessert. Libby had a chocolate covered pretzel. The rest of us had ice cream. Yummmmm!!

Sandy chased around the yard, but she didn't rout any bunnies, picket pins, or chipmunks. However they were kind of scarce for a couple of days. Gracie and Libby got to pet and feed grass stems to the Game Warden's mules. Both girls played with the trucks. Gracie also found GGma's two round rocks. They race down the ramp as well as the race cars.

Thursday we toured the Museum, visited Em and crew at Lucilles, pics in jail. Later in the afternoon we went to the two school playgrounds, then down to the Lion's Park playground. Lots of slides and tunnels and stuff to crawl through and slide on. Swings too. Check out new picasa pics.

Keith visited with Big Jim about Jimmy Wooten and then wrote a song about him. Thurs night he performed it at the Cowboy. Jim liked the song, but not Keith's singing. Hmph! He doesn't appreciate the finer things in life.

This morning they left bright and early, after breakfast, at 10:30. Were headed through Yellowstone. Wonder if they got into any rain. We had a few sprinkles.

This afternoon Gma and I had a pinochle date at the Oasis. Tomorrow we go to a Museum program.

Almost ready to go

2009-07-29T14:01:00.000-07:00

I have my stuff done, almost. Got all the washing done and things sorted for my Ireland packing. We went to Blgs Monday and got the proper sized carry-on bags. They are sure little, but will hold quit a bit. More than it looks. Even got a paperback book to read in the airports and a puzzle book for variation. They fit in the little bag. Can also get camera stuff in it.

Raked the sticks out of the back yard yesterday. Now I have to do the side. Used my handy dandy push mower to knock down the cottonwood tree sprouts. The grass didn't need mowed, just these tall little hummers and a couple of taller weeds. Now I can rake again. That will be my physical labor for this trip. Vacuumed some cobwebs in the basement and window sills.

I looked up addresses online from Spuddie's address book. Sent notices to all those that matched. Quite a few didn't match up so they don't get one.

Made the picture cds for Ed and got those in the mail too. I called him and he's still at the same address. Have called Gma everyday and she's anxious for me to get back. She doesn't actually say that but drops subtle hints that I should be there no later than Friday. Since I got so much work actually accomplished I really don't have a good excuse to stay longer. All the bills arrived and have been paid except one insurance one.

Hope you have all the pics off my flickr site that you want as I'll change them when I get back to Mtse. It works faster on wireless. Whooeee!!

Hyattville Parade

2009-07-25T21:42:00.000-07:00

Gma got to ride in the parade on the Old Timer's float. Thought there would be several people on it and they said there would be ice water on the float too. Didn't happen. Gma was the first one there to be on it. Had to ask a couple of different people where to get the ice water. Finally got some. We got there about 3:17. They were to start lining up at 3:30. Didn't know exactly where to go and they had one street blocked so had to detour around that block. The instructions said "south of town at the fork in the road". Asked someone on the street and she said just go around this block and head out of town. It was by the logging road, you'd see a bunch of cars there. ok. That wasn't a problem. Just like she said. Couldn't see which float was the one she was to be on and didn't see any other old timers out there. One official said just pull up on the other side of the sheep wagon and the float was there. They had steps for them to get on. Since we were sort of early we opted to stay in the air conditioned car until closer to the time to start. I was instructed to leave before the flag bearers started or I wouldn't be able to get out. ok. Finally they said Gma could sit in the truck pulling the sheep wagon until they started. No other old timers had shown up. So I left her in strangers' hands. The wagon driver said he'd let her off wherever I wanted uptown. I didn't know where I would be because people were parked all along the road in town. He said he'd drop her off at the second bridge or wherever I was standing. He'd see me. ok. I did get a really good parking spot by the second bridge. Then I went closer to town to watch and see what else was in the little town. Saw Eddie, Ginny, and Curtis sitting on the corner. They were supposed to be on the float. They had been told to wait on that corner and the wagon would pick them up. On that corner the parade would have been nearly over. They asked where Gma was and I said she was on the float. Where was it? Way out on that road out of town. By the time they decided maybe they should try to find the float the parade was at the first bridge. We got some officials to hold them up there while Ginny loaded the two guys into her car and whipped around the block to the line up. At first they said just stay at the corner and they'd get picked up. ok. Then the lady lining people up said let them through. ok. One of the flag bearers said that was who they had been waiting for. He said "Do you know who that was. They probably were in the bar and were late." I didn't bother to correct them, they wouldn't have believed me anyway. So I went back to a corner which wasn't crowded and I could hear the announcers. Got pics of the first of the parade. Two of my sister's classmates (one in real estate, the other a politician) were in it and Mike Enzi (politician). This isn't an election year either. When the Old Timers came by I had to hurry to my car, because the guy was going to drop Gma off there. They started to let her off and she decided to ride around the loop with them and go back through town. I'm not going to argue with a 101 year old. They did a loop further up the road and came back. Then she was ready to get off right at my car. The fellows were to get dropped off at the bar. Don't know what ever happened to Ginny. Gma said she did get turned around in the parade line up and was supposed to meet the guys at the bar. We just got in my car and left. Gma was pretty well done in. Really hot. It was 91. She had been given a bottle of cold water. Someone asked the wagon driver if they all wanted a drink. Said they'd get him a beer and Gma a Tequila Sunrise. She never got that but the driver did get his beer. He gave her some which was nice and cool for her. She just had a sip. Said if she had any more they'd be picking her up off the wagon bed. She'd never have made the whole trip.

I think they were all having fun, but those three from Meeteetse were the only old timers on the float. Too bad we couldn't have stayed for some of the later stuff. Hub Whitt was playing later on in the evening. Think they had other entertainment too, but that was way too long for Gma. We didn't go to the picnic either as it was at noon and the parade wasn't until 4:00.

We decided we will have to go back the Hyattville some time and eat at the little cafe. Gma says they had good food there. It was closed today as the 4H kids were selling food and stuff. The picnic grounds are out where there is an archealogical spot with petroglyphs. Will have to check that out sometime too. The map shows a gravel road from Shell to Hyattville and another gravel road from Hyattville to Ten Sleep with little marks that indicate a scenic drive. Will have to go on those roads. Gma has been on them with Fendts and Griffins, but I haven't.

We got milk shakes in Worland on the way home. Gma got her nap from 7:00 to 8:30, then to bed at 9:00. I put the parade pics on picasa.

mail box saga

2009-07-21T20:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday when we went for coffee we noticed a big post propped against our fence (on the inside). Hmmmm. Where could that have come from? Oh!! Our mail box is gone. There it is down the road on a funny looking metal post along with the Cowboys' mail box. What's going on here? Who moved the boxes and why, and when? I didn't notice that when we came in Sunday. Must have been done by the construction guys. We drove to it and Gma opened it to see if she could reach it ok. She could but it sure wobbled on the skinny metal post. Looks kinda flimsy to me.

Called the Post Office to see if there was a reasonable and logical reason for moving the boxes. The post mistress had no idea about what I was talking. They have no regulations for where you place your box or what you put it on. The box does have to meet some standards and has to be far enough off the highway for the carrier to be off the road when putting the mail in the box. She suggested I call the Highway Dept. I did, but no one answered. Good luck with getting them to move it back.

Gma didn't say much about it and said she'd ask Dan to move it back. I thought those who moved it in the first place should put it back. They didn't bother to ask if we wanted it moved. It's quite a bit farther for a 101 year old woman to have to walk to get her mail if she ever has to when I'm gone. Although Arlene always brings it to her door when I'm gone. Actually it wouldn't hurt me to walk further for it. However, that's not the point. The point is they moved our possession without asking and for no apparent reason, at least not to us.

This morning at coffee Gma asked Edward if he had a post hole digger on a tractor. He does and would move the boxes back whenever she gives him the ok. She told him "those idiots moved it". She also said she'd ask Dan what he knew about it before we did anything. When I went into the post office I stopped in the office and Arlene was there. She told me she knew why they moved it. Apparently the highway dept has a regulation that there has to be a 10 foot approach to the box and a 10 foot exit space. The boxes are then placed in the middle. They are on the metal post because it has more give if someone runs into it, and it is less likely for the box to come off and go through a windshield. The post will break away. Also when the snow plows are working the snow bounces off the metal and doesn't make a drift. So it isn't a postal federal regulation, but it is a highway federal regulation. Probably based on some politician's idea of safety and convenience that has never used a rural mail box or even been anywhere near one, or lived in a rural area. But I guess it is sort of logical and possibly reasonable. Depending on your point of view. I can accept the explanation, but I don't have to like it. Gma said it might be logical, but it wasn't reasonable. They could have started the approach sooner so the boxes would have been in the middle where they were instead of moving them. Arlene said we could probably call Rick and he might have them moved back to across from our driveway, but then her approach wouldn't be 10 feet, but she would have room to be completely off the road. She didn't mind where it was or even if there were two separate boxes. The way they have it now both our box and the Cowboys' box are on the same post. The highway moved all the boxes on the route. On another of her routes they moved all the boxes to the right side of the road. So we aren't the only ones being rousted. It's a highway thing. Great! And they never tell anyone they are going to do it, not even the mail carriers or the post offices.

The box has been in that particular spot for 40 some years and not been a problem, now all of sudden its a safety hazard. Somebody did back into it last year and squashed them, but that's the only incident in over 40 years. The snow plows have never run into it in all that time. The construction guys poured asphalt on the road and along the approaches to all driveways and along those mail box pull outs without hitting any of them. They had some pretty big machinery too. The boxes were moved after all that was finished.

I guess it's Gma's call now. She can get someone to move it back or not. I have an explanation for who and why. I kinda feel if we move it back and some dingbat hits it we will get sued because it isn't "regulation". Someone will hit it just because they can and it will be our fault. I can just see that one coming.

Does everyone in the country have to have a mail box problem? Is this the "in" thing for 2009?
Good Grief!!!

Mtse home again

2009-07-20T19:06:00.000-07:00

We are back from our quick road trip to Napa. It was not a "fun" trip, but we did manage to have a bit of fun on the road.
We left here Tuesday a.m and had lunch in Evanston. Stopped at the Salt Flats for a potty break and stretch legs. Stayed in Elko at a motel where they had restaurants and gambling. Pat won some money, but I didn't play. We didn't have a night cap because the bar had machines at each place. There was no place to sit your drink and just visit. Figured I'd just spill mine by sitting it in the middle of the machine or something. Anyway we got a good night's sleep and thought we were on the road by 8:00 when actually it was 9:00. Pat forgot her phone automatically changes at the time zones so she subtracted an hour thinking we were on Mt time. Had lunch that day in Truckee. That's a neat looking little town. We decided we need to go back there and just stay a couple of days to look around and visit all the historic stuff. Lots of history in the Sierras. Lots of road construction too. However, road construction is good, the roads really need it. Got to Napa around 7:00 and found all the turns we needed and went right to the house. Called everyone to let them know we were there safely.
We left Saturday morning loaded to the gills. I asked Pat if she was sure her front tires were still on the ground. We had breakfast at the "Black Bear" which had lots of really cute carved bears in front and inside as well. Got on the road around 9:00, not as early as we would have liked, but it was ok. Made good time and stayed the night in Wendover. Had a good parking lot that was down under the hill and had a high fence. Would not have been easily accessed from the street, and was well lighted. They had a "Rain Forest" buffet where we had supper. We played the poker machines until Pat lost all her winnings from Tuesday and I lost $10. That was our Nevada donations. Their bar also had machines at each place, but they did have some round tables where we could sit and visit with our drinks. Had marguaritas for our night cap, but they weren't "perfect". They were just ok. We had "perfect" ones at Applebee's Thursday night. Will have to check out the Applebees in Blgs to see if the serve "perfect" ones.
Anyway we had a good night's sleep there and got breakfast in their " Over the Rainbow" cafe. We were on the road by 8:00 Sunday a.m. Got to Mtse at 5:00p.m. and unloaded part of the stuff, then Gma and I took Pat to supper at the Elkhorn and she went on home. We took two cars to supper. Pat said her car was really a lot lighter after we took some out here. We did average 30 miles per gallon on the whole trip, even loaded like we were.
Today Gma and I went to coffee and Seniors. Now I have to get caught up on the newspapers and then I will be ready to see what I actually brought home with me. Have lots of pics to scan and some genealogy to copy.
Echo called today and invited us to the Hyattville Old Timers picnic and parade Saturday, July 25th. The parade isn't until 4:00p.m. so maybe we will skip the picnic part and just go for the parade as she said there will be a float for the "old timers". Gma will be in good company on the float as they have several from the basin to ride it. Curtis and Eddie will be on it too. She didn't mention Clarence. Anyway Gma should know some of the people and there will probably be some of the Ten Sleep friends there as well. Echo said she thought it would be really neat to have Gma there as she had so much to do with starting the "Old Timers" picnics in Meeteetse some years ago.

playing with computer again

2009-07-11T22:16:00.000-07:00

I just did some different flickr pics and they went on really fast. Used the updated portion where you can choose more than 6. I only did 12 at a time and it only took a couple of minutes. WOW!! Guess I have a modem and a router. One is hooked up to the phone jack and he put in a double jack or something so I can do computer and not interfere with the phone. We can talk on it while I'm on the net. It doesn't ring or anything like the Hardin one. I just turn on the puter and go right on line. Unless, of course, I switch the power cord off. Here's pics of the little gadgets.

it's me!!

2009-07-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

Wireless works in the trailer. They installed a modem and a router. Works fine, so far.

I put a bunch of pic on picasa this afternoon. Put on files with over 100 and it only took less than 10 minutes each. The small files just took a couple of minutes (the ones with 40 some). They took an hour before. This works really snazzy. Anyway you can check out all the CA trip pics and a few others. Thought Kev would like the construction ones. Ride to the Wall ones were just taken today.

Now I have to try out the flickr pics and see if they load faster. Hope you got all the ones you wanted off for this time. They are Gpa's trip to Sweden.

Mtse connection to wireless for me

2009-07-10T12:36:00.000-07:00

The TCT West man just left after hooking up the wireless connection. The phone works and my computer works. We ran a speed test to Chicago and it was really good, he said. I signed the paper and they will send me a bill. Works for me.

He said he could hook up to any phone jack wherever we wanted, but we only had one which was behind a cupboard. Had to move the chest of drawers and the cupboard with all the photo albums in it to get to the jack. Not that big of a deal really, but sure was dusty down there. So I did a quick sweep up job while he was outside. He had to put on a new jack with two outlets. Then I had to find an adapter for the three prong power strip and he grounded that as well. Apparently the outside box needed replaced because it wasn't up to code anymore. He said they quit making that model about 40 years ago. I said it was probably "state of the art" when it was put in. Gma said they got the phone in 1979. That's when the line was put in out here. Before that she had to run to town and use McLean's phone. Anyway it took a little less than an hour and everything seems to be working just fine.

The road construction is working on the approaches today and they did ours shortly after we got home from coffee. Good thing we got home when we did and didn't want to go out for lunch. I got pics which I will share later.

summer time

2009-06-30T15:23:00.000-07:00

It's hotter here than it was in CA. Had 96 or so yesterday and its up to 98 on my porch thermometer. Don't know what the official temp is, but I don't really need to know. Not too bad in the house if I don't do anything physical. Have the fans going and a nice big glass of iced tea. Ahhh!

When I got here yesterday I had a note on my door that the MDU guys had been here changing the gas meter and needed to get in to relight my gas appliances. After I called necessary people to let them know I arrived here safely, I was in the process of calling the 800 number when the MDU guy came back. He had just been 3 houses away and decided to see if anyone was home yet. I was so he came in and lit the water heater. My furnace would relight itself (which it did - I tried it out early this morning while it was still cool - had to turn it up to 75 to get it to come on and when it did I turned it back down as far as it goes). Everything else is electric. He had done the meter at 3:30 and I got here at 4:30, so timing was good for this trip. I never did get anyone on the 800 number, I was still waiting when he came back.

Our CA trip was great! The weather was beautiful. Was only 79 at Baker when we crossed the desert. Was 103 on the way back, but it didn't last long. Ed was in front with me so Gma couldn't see what we were doing with the air conditioning. She was real surprised to find out how hot it was, sure didn't feel that hot. We stopped at Peggy's Diner for a break. We always pass it and think we should stop there sometime. This time we did. It's strictly a tourist trap, but has lots of 50s era stuff. I liked it. There were a couple of Betty Boop things there so I got picks for our Senior Citizen cook. She's a Betty Boop collector.

We got Ed home just fine. He drove to Vegas from Jean and showed me how to get out from his house. It was really easy and his directions were just right. No problems. We were in all the correct lanes for all routes. Just like I really knew where I was going.

The wedding was very nice and Katie was beautiful. Andrew was at his handsomest (hmm, wonder if that is a real word). The bridesmaids were in mermaid colored dresses and shoes. The groomsmen had tuxes, but their vests were the same color as the girls's dresses. Even Gracie was at her best. Libby never squawked, at least not loud enough for anyone but her mother to hear. The ceremony was short and to the point, the reception was fun with really good food. Some of us stayed at Pachenga for the wedding and the accomodations were great. We got in some good visiting too. My kids all had to try out the gaming machines and I think they all won a little, but don't know how much they spent to win something.

Graduation was impressive. Lex didn't like getting her picture taken, but she was resigned to it and did cooperate quite nicely. We got lots of pics. There were 725 graduates or something in that neighborhood. She even had a small cheering section in front of us. We didn't know who they were, but they knew Lex was the one with the pretty eyes. The graduation reception was on Sunday with lots of the SD relatives. Was good to get to see them all again. It's been many years since I've seen any of them. Most of them was at K&M's wedding over 20 years ago.

It was a long 10 days for Gma, but she did well. She's just super tired now. After we got home we were busy. Went to the Larsen annual Father's Day barbecue the next day, then Mon & Wed we were in town for coffee and Senior lunch. Tues we had to make a quick trip to Cody to the highway dept. There were 9 campers on our hill and our contract says "no camping". We no sooner got back than the foreman was at our door to see if we'd reconsider if they offered to pay. But Gma said "NO! No camping means no camping". She felt someone should have read the contract. Not sure if they have all moved yet or not, but I do know where 6 of them relocated. The road construction is really coming along fast. They are repaving from the main street to the Wood River bridge. Its 6 miles out of town and that one main street. Its moving right along. Who knows, they might be done by the time I get back. Then another company comes for the final overcoat and chip sealing (I think).

While we were in CA the Game Warden mowed the rest of the lawn that I didn't get done before we left. That was a relief because it was getting really tall. The front part that I had done was as high when we got home as it was when I did it the first time. I did get one little piece done again. Maybe the Game Warden will come back again while I'm in Hdn.

Sometime while we were in sunny CA there was a cloudburst and hail storm in Mtse. It flooded a bunch of the little gullies and the barrow pit and culverts couldn't handle all the water, so some flooded almost up to our house. Didn't quite make it to the house, but here was debris all over the yard. I did get some of it picked out of the fence along the highway and out of one side of the yard. Had to mow some to find were the gunk is so I can rake it up. We heard that the house up by where the big rock with the crack in it is located had water in their house. If they opened up their back door and front door it would have run right on out. There were a couple of places where it was over both sides of the highway and a couple of lanes had to be fixed, but don't know which ones. Glad we missed that storm.

I did get another album on picasa, but it took 3 hours. I went to the library to see if it would work faster on their wireless connection, but couldn't get it to work at all. Must not be doing something right. I'll keep working on it. Have to go back to the library tomorrow and take pics of all the quilts.

Sunny Southern California

2009-06-15T19:39:00.000-07:00

Gma and I had a good trip. We stayed in Cedar City and left after breakfast at the motel. When we crossed the desert it was only in the high 70s all the way. What a pleasant surprise. We had lunch in Baker and it said 83 on their big thermometer, but my car one said 79. It did get up to 83 after that for a short while, then we went over a hill and it cooled off again and never go to 80 again the whole trip. Sure a difference from June two years ago. It's been real pleasant here too as its been overcast every day. Have met lots of family members we met years ago and haven't seen since and some new ones too. It's been fun. Graduation was nice and got lots of pics. Sunday we had the grad party and it was fun. Went to a farmer's market one morning and bought lots of fruit and veggies. Then Gracie got to ride on a tractor which she didn't ever get the hang of, so the guy gave us back the ticket and suggested we take her on the canoes instead. So we did and she loved that. Even told the attendant that she was a flower girl. Saturday she got her hair cut and her nails done. WOW!! Nail polish was almost off before we ever got home. Couldn't wash her hair again either, at least not the top of her head because she had sparkles in it on top. This evening we had the mini-wedding shower. The kids were thrilled with all the "stuff". And they knew what everything was. I"m impressed. It's been busy every day, but everyone is surviving just fine.

Hi All

2009-05-29T18:15:00.000-07:00

I haven't done this for awhile so guess I'd better get on the ball.

I'm back in Hardin for bill paying time. Have all the washing done and the bills paid so don't want to start any more big projects as I'm going back to Mtse Sunday. Went to lunch with the wolfpak Thurs & Fri. Will have coffee with them Sat. morning, then maybe I'll put more pics on the flickr site since I have more room. I did change them and have Gpa's trip to Sweden in 1978. They are kinda interesting. Will have to take a trip there sometime. Anybody want to go with me?

Gma had a cute B'day card which was very fitting for her.

Today was Pete's last day at the library and they had cake and punch for his retirement. Had to go and have my pic taken with him since he had his taken with me when I retired. His wife also retired from Heritage Acres. Her party was last Wednesday. It was fun to visit with some I haven't seen for a long time..

New Outfit

2009-04-27T20:07:00.000-07:00

You girls can get off your sister's back now. We took my car for servicing and went shopping. Got me a new pant suit. Its dressy, but casual, and can be worn for numerous occasions. The pants are gray and the blouse is multicolored (reds, greens, pinks) soft colors and springy. It has a white shift under the blouse, so can be buttoned or not. Depends on the temperature. And it's age appropriate. I did try on a dress and couldn't get it over my shoulders, let alone the rest of me. That was really an exercise in futility. The dresses really weren't "me". They don't make them for people with a waist like a sumo wrestler and a top like the wimp in the Charles Atlas ads. However my 20 year old red dress does cover up all those faults and I think it still looks good. And everyone else won't have one like it.

My car is already for a long trip. I told the service man that I wanted it made good and safe for a long trip and a few short ones, too. They did all the fluids and flushed out numerous things, changed oil, rotated tires, checked belts, washed it, did safety inspection, etc. Took it in at 9:30 and it wasn't finished until 1:30.

We had time for lots of shopping and lunch too. We had a good time.

Then later I went out to do some more raking. All that's left is the rose bush in the back yard corner. It is really full of leaves and garbage that has blown in over the years. That is always the last thing to get done and it usually gets put off until it is too bushy to get under it. The neighbor guy trimmed it for me last fall. He really trimmed a lot, so I can get under it now. Got two sacks full in a very short time. Then I broke the rake (not intentionally). I think I can fix it with a screw, but don't think I can drill a hole through the little metal piece that holds the rake to the handle. I'll take it back with me for some of Gma's helpers to do. Think I have another rake here somewhere. Seems like I used to have two of them when the boys helped me with my yard. I sure miss them at times like this. Oh well, I'll get it done eventually. I'm not getting stiff and sore which is a good thing. Maybe I'm in better shape than I thought. Must have been all the times I chased the deer out of the yard. I'm getting in practice for our Ireland trip.

Picasa download

2009-04-25T17:38:00.000-07:00

The #1 Wolf came over this afternoon and we downloaded Picasa3 twice. It never did anything. Said it was done, but I never got the instructions to do anything. One little tab said it was still downloading, but none of the little round things were going like it was working. We looked for the file in the programs but it wasn't there. Went into the "computer drive c" thingy and it wasn't there either. Did a search for it but couldn't find it. All the little notices said it wasn't there. So I shut down and started over. Downloaded it again for the third time and now it says "one active download (unknown time remaining). It stayed that way while I went out and raked up another sack and a half of grass and leaves. So I shut everything down again while I finished the yard work and took the sacks to the garbage in the trusty little red wagon. Gave it an hour rest and now that I'm back on it still says its downloading with unknown time remaining. That's in the corner of the bottom bar. However it doesn't seem to be stopping me from getting into other programs. None of the little round things are going like its working. Don't know how to make it go away. I might just wait until we come to visit you. Oops! A little notice just came out the side that said all files were downloaded and the "download" stuff is gone off the bar.

When you go to my picasa site can you see the doll museum file as well as the wildlife one?

Thanks for all the info. I'll print it for reference. Will just have to see if I can put more pics on faster or something, or not.

Hardin Home

2009-04-20T19:39:00.001-07:00

I'm back in Hardin again. Will be here for two weeks this time as I need to do some manual labor and get my yard in shape. Also have to do some sorting in the basement, and, of course, pay bills.

Got my windshield chip sealed this afternoon. It had a pretty big chip in it that looked like a quarter circle on the bottom. Now you can't even tell where it was. It was in the middle so wasn't interfering with my vision, but with all this warmer weather it would no doubt have spread. Anyway that's done.

Have to work on new pics on flickr too.

Sure can tell Spring is here. The bluebirds have been fighting over the nest building. Silly birds. The picket pins are out in full force, but so far are staying across the fence. Although one was in the pipe the other day and I got close enough I could have stepped on him, but he ducked in the pipe too quick. Another one sat by the pipe on the sidewalk until Gma got her gun out. Think he must have heard her getting it ready because he hasn't been back since. Haven't seen much of the rabbits, but there are a couple of them out once in a while. Haven't seen the baby bunny since I got his pic.

I'm Back!!

2009-03-18T07:19:00.000-07:00

WOW!!! What a trip. Lots of things to do in a very short time, but we got it all in. Even got in a place we hadn't planned. As soon as I arrived everyone was hungry so we went to Seaport Village. Neat little place to wander. The little girls even got to ride the carousel. Gracie rode a horse and Lib rode the elephant. Gracie had to try out the elephant and a camel when we stopped. While eating a big bird came right on our table and stole Gracie's hamburger. It was really quick, but it got quite a scolding from G. The trucks drove all around the railing and didn't fall off into the ocean.

Sat. we went to San Juan Capistrano and wandered there for 2 hours. Lots to see and the little girls loved it. Gracie got to play hoops on the grass and even got to dance with the people from Lincoln's era. However, when she found out there were instructions and rules she decided she didn't want to dance. Got back home in time to get ready for the other party in San Diego. The was just M & Me. We had a fabulous dinner and even did some dancing.

Sunday we stayed home and celebrated with the Birthday Girl.

Monday we went to Disneyland all day. Got there about 11:00a.m. and left at 9:30p.m. The little girls had a great time. The big people did too. Gracie got to see her princesses. That was an hour and a half wait, but well worth it to see her with them. Even Libby got to sit with them. We rode the paddle wheel, cars, Buzz Lightyear, It's a Small World, went through the Tiki Hut, and did a lot of walking. I'm getting in practice for Ireland, and I really need to do more walking. We were all absolutely exhausted when we got home. It was such fun.

Then Tuesday it was time for me to fly home. My seat mates were chatters and I loved that part. Made the trip go so fast. The weather was good the whole time.

Now its time to figure out the next trip.

Off to Sunny Southern California

2009-03-11T21:47:00.000-07:00

I'm off again!! This time to Sunny Southern California for two parties. I get to go to my granddaughter's' 3rd birthday party and also to a wedding reception for my cousin in San Diego. I get two parties for the price of one this time. We might also go to San Juan Capistrano one day and have plans to take in a day at Disneyland before I come back. I've got my bags all packed. Gma has everyone looking out for her while I'm gone. She said if she called on everyone that offered she'd have to make a long list. She probably gets better looking after when I'm gone than when I'm there. Made sure her vehicles are running and full of gas, but she probably won't go out except to Church and Seniors. One of the Seniors said she & Gma were going out and "tear up the town" , just like the old days. Hmmmm!

I did get back to Hardin for Jen's B'day. That was fun. Interesting ice cream cake. Now I've got three grandchildren that are old enough to walk in the front door of the Cowboy. Wow, I'm aging.

Gma and I had bad head colds for over a week. Mine got better quicker than her's , but she ended up just being weak. No energy. After she started eating real food again, she recuperated much faster. Then when we finally went out to the doc for her regular check up and found out she is healthy, that made her feel lots better. We were out Saturday night with the Tae Kwan Do team, then Sunday for Church, Monday for Seniors dinner, Tuesday for coffee, then Seniors again today. She's better. Time for me to go away for a few days. When I took off after lunch today I got almost to the top of the Meeteetse Rim when I remembered the battery charger for my camera. I had to recharge a battery and it was still plugged in at Gma's, so I turned around and went back for it. I might really need that as I plan to take lots of pics. I always have one battery in the camera and a spare ready to go. Good Grief! I almost left without a spare. That would not have been good. Luckily I hadn't gotten so far I couldn't go back. With the new time I still got here in plenty of daylight. My walk has been shovelled too. Hardin got more snow than Meeteetse. However the roads were dry all the way and no wind. Great travelling weather.

Back to Mtse

2009-02-04T22:09:00.000-08:00

I have my work done for this trip. Paid all the bills, did washing, picked sticks out of yard, watered plants, and other regular household chores. Put different pics on flickr. No time to start any other projects so I'll just go back to Meeteetse. Saturday is the open house for the opening of the doll display at the Museum, library stuff on Feb 13th and 18th, open house for the new highway department building on the 10th. All the fun stuff. Probably have to sweep snow this weekend, then again, maybe not. One never knows about these groundhogs. Tricky little fellows.

Groundhog's Day

2009-02-02T20:21:00.000-08:00

February 2 is a big day for groundhogs. Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, as you can see in the pic, and ran back in his hole. I saw my shadow too when Gma took me out for breakfast. Then it got cloudy and overcast so didn't see it again all day. It's rather pleasant now, but in a few days we will get weather again. Be prepared.

Saturday night the Mtse gang took me out to dinner at Kirby (between Worland & Thermop). It was fun. Arlene brought a cherry cheesecake for dessert and I had a candle on it and the waitresses sang Happy Birthday to me. It was a different version than the usual, but was real cute. Then they took my pic with my piece of cheesecake. I'll have to get the pics off my camera and post them to flickr. We took a new route to Kirby. It's really an old way, but I've never been on that road before, so will have to show it to you sometime. Its a gravel road most of the way, but kind of interesting scenery. Will have to go over it again sometime in the summer when I can take pics of the sand rock formations. It was the Cottonwood Creek road, I think.

My Darling Daughter took me out to the movie tonight. Was a Clint Eastwood vehicle, Gran Torino. Not what I was expecting, but was good anyway. Good entertaining way to finish up the birthday.

I'll be here until Thursday so will have time for new pics.

I'm still here

2009-01-28T08:19:00.000-08:00

Just to let everyone know I haven't fallen off the edge of the world yet. It's been cold and snowy here, so we aren't going anywhere except to town for coffee breaks and to Senior lunches. Went on the bus to Cody last week and it was nice that day. Maybe tomorrow we will both go as Gma has to get her new handicap sticker and we don't seem to be able to get there on any other day because of the weather.

I did get to go to school last week and do my story for the 1st and 2nd graders. I did "Where the Wild Things Are" and was a bit concerned about how I was going to get up and down off the floor when we had to get in and out of the boat, but I did fine. I had been doing a few minor exercises for a few days so I was in sort of shape. I really need to do some walking, but the weather is not cooperating. Don't want to be walking on the side of the road when its slick and if its wet the big trucks splash on me. If there is dry snow then they blow it all over me. It's too deep and crusty to walk inside the fence to the check station. Even the deer haven't been around to make paths. The bunny paths are just on top of the crust and I sink so that doesn't work. I'll just walk around Wal-Mart when we go on the bus tomorrow. Won't have to tell another story until my hair gets long enough to make a bit of a ponytail. Don't have to get on the floor for that one.

on way to Mtse

2009-01-16T06:43:00.000-08:00

No more white fluffy stuff today. Roads are all clear where I want to go, so I'm off. Got enough physical exercise for this week. I think I'm in good enough shape to tell "Where the Wild Things Are". It's the one I have to get in the boat on the floor and row. Have to be able to get down and the floor and then get up again. Wouldn't do if the first and second graders had to pick me up off the floor. Gma will be glad to see me 'cause she's had to get all her own stuff for a whole week now. Someone did come and plow all her snow so she could get to the garage without any trouble, but they didn't get all the snow we did here. I couldn't find my pics of when Santa was out flying around in this area. I remember he came three or four years, but don't remember which years they were. I only got pics the first year. I remember the little wolves watching out their big picture window. I have seen the pics sometime when I have been scanning, but don't think I scanned them because he was so far away it was hard to tell what he was. But I know. I was telling the neighbors on the hill that I had actually seen Santa and his sleigh flying and had pictures to prove it. Now I can't find them. Oh Bother!!!!

Wow! I can do this again

2009-01-15T07:48:00.000-08:00

Took me awhile to figure out how to post a second blog. Good Grief!!!

Anyway I have been doing exercises in futility. Went out to shovel in the snow yesterday afternoon. Seemed quite deep and I figured if I didn't do some of it I wouldn't be able to do any of it tomorrow. Was so light a fluffy I could just push it along. The man next door was out blowing his snow. He said after watching me shovel he thought it might be easier to shovel than blow when it was so deep. Then he was concerned about my shoes. I don't have boots, my Nikes are my boots. Told him I take my shovel with me to make a path and then I don't have to worry about snow in my shoes. Last time I was here and shoveling the guy across the street was concerned about my lack of boots too. These people must come from warm climates without snow and don't know what I usually wear for shoes. Tenny runners are quite "booty" for me. Besides we haven't had deep enough snow for boots for so many years there has been no need for them. Who knows when it will snow enough for them again. In Meeteetse I can use Gpa's rubber boots over my shoes if necessary.

Went out already this morning and shoveled again. Didn't take long. My coffee didn't even have a chance to cool off before I was finished. I did measure the snow on my car as I haven't swept it off since the snow started. There is 6 inches on the hood and the roof. Was consistent so I guess that's all there was. However it looked like I shoveled more than that when I was out there. When I was out at 7:30 this morning there were three other guys out blowing snow (one was using a shovel). Now that I have finished I see a guy with a big tractor across the street. I can hear more blowers nearby too.

Looks like there might be a few more flakes to come down, but its clearing up. Will probably be going back the Mtse tomorrow.

I made a blog

2009-01-14T12:45:00.000-08:00

I decided to join the crowd and create my own blog spot. Don't really know what I'm doing, but I'm going to do it anyway. Will take me awhile to figure out stuff. I can't figure out which font to use. Can't see any difference in the fonts.