2008

Wishing you......

Christmas with the Grandkids!!

1. Megan
2. Josh (who doesn't like his new haircut)
3&4. Tobi
5&6. Brandon
7. Kyli
8&9 Tobi
10. Tobi and Josh
11. Tobi and Zac
12. Kyli and Megan
13. Brandon opening gifts
14. Dad and Tobi being silly
15. Boys with their new guitars (and Brandon's drums were in the bedroom)
16. The girls opening gifts

Now Scott isn't here because he has his very own BLOG (love you Scott). We had a great time...lots of kids....lots of presents......lots of noise, especially with the drums! But really, it wasn't bad, they are always so fun to listen to, especally when they are just chatting with each other. And so fun being with Tobi....too bad she is the spittin' image of ME!!!

Christmas in Texas with the Bartleys

I arrived home Sunday from the Burns gathering (below) and we left on Thursday to drive BACK to Texas to spend time with CB's family. Once again, we had a fabulous time. We even drove to Hillsboro to see CB's 2 Great Aunts. Sammye had all our favorite foods (red velvet cake...YUM) and it was great to see Debbie's family. The pictures above are from our TREE fun. It was sad to leave, but we had to get to Tobi's......

"THE FOUR" Burns Family Christmas

The Middle line is Larry, Honey and Joe Lee. Niece Jamie and great nephew Sully, Nephew Pat and Niece Maggie in the last line. I cannot blog any better than Clint did. He actually sent the following to Texas about 20 hours into the 4 day fun. After reading this the Council of Four looked for 'electronic bugs' in Honey's House!!

The Family,

Although Tobi and I miss you all dearly and we very much regret our absence from the “Gold and Red Burns Family Christmas Spectacular”… we feel we are there in spirit. In fact, we have a few comments to add.

Mom arrives at Honeys to greet the “The Four”
Which by the way – this is the signal for the true party to really begin.
Honey attempts to order around Joe Lee and Larry with much success, however it is just not the same until Mom arrives
There are the initial hugs and kisses and high pitched voices from the ladies
The gentleman wear a very cute smirk on their face signaling their pleasure of their final sisters arrival
The Four settle in
The remaining of Thursday and Friday
There is much reminiscing
Most of which is spurred by, once again Mom and Honey
The Four are happy as can be, say it often and in mid-story (keep in mind there will be numerous breaks to take medicine, go to the restroom, and/or allow sleeping members of the four to catch back up with the story)
The Four discuss all other members of the family since they are not present
Naturally, Tobi and I are discussed first since we will not be attending the weekend extravaganza.
The male half of the four focus on negative comments that would demoralize Tobi and I
Mostly kidding of course with a laugh
Honey immediately gravitates towards Scott and Kristin making sure Tobi and I are both happy
About 10 rounds of 20 Questions ensue directed toward Mom.
She enjoys every minute of it
May I remind you again – numerous breaks to refill drinks and empty bladders
THE Wedding is discussed with much delight
Franklin is discussed
Honey is displeased with his absence
The Four discuss playing poker, but decide their social time is more festive
Every possible subject is discussed within the confines of the Four
Most likely, tears will be shed
The Four state, multiple times, how much fun they are having and how nice it is to always get together
Although The Four love their family, they enjoy time in the ‘Council of Four’ and wish they had more alone time
As others arrive Friday and Saturday
More smiles, hugs, kisses, etc.
Many of the stories and recollections discussed in the previous section are discussed again with new attendees of the Burns Event
This will occur many times throughout the course of the weekend
Poker Begins
Since there are less in attendance this year, everyone who is anyone is allowed to play
The normal rules are spoken
No Kids at the table
You must eat, drink
Must not allow bodily functions
All rules are broken
Pat makes a joke, mom does NOT laugh
Honey and Mom play Booray each time it’s their turn
Joe Lee, Larry and Pat suggest games no one remembers how to play
Discussions take place over the rules of these games which confuses Mom even more, who is no longer even paying attention
Pat sticks his finger in someones food
Honey asks Virginia for more money
Virginia, sweet little Virginia, says “Well Honey! I thought you were good at Poker!”
A male at the table says, “This is not poker, it’s Booray.”
Honey gives them a look while Virginia gets more money.
Gift Exchange
Mom or Honey (or both depending on their feistiness and/or good mood) go over the new rules of the Gold and Red Burns Christmas Exchange
Each gift is inspected closely
Many fail the requirements established in Las Vegas which were put forth by the female half of the four
Comments are made about the high number of gift cards
Honey is displeased
Mom laughs at the joke that was made by Pat earlier during poker
It took her a while, but she got it now
The order is either oldest to youngest or youngest to oldest
Attention is lavished on the children since they are so excited to receive gifts, even if in small stature
Attention is lavished on the oldest since they are so excited to receive gifts, even if in small stature
Immediately following, perhaps even prior or during Gift Exchange, new rules are established for Burns Christmas Exchange 2008
No one but Honey and Mom care
At least two of the members of The Four must use the facilities, take medicine, so forth during this time
Poker continues
More drinking
More of Mom not paying attention
More of Honey getting upset at Pat due to off-color jokes or bodily functions
More of Pats jokes that usually only a few understand
The festivities die down and we return to chit-chat between The Four and whomever stays and the Honia Bed and Breakfast
As Mom prepares to depart on Sunday, smiles turn upside down
New vacations are discussed
THE wedding is discussed again (as it will be throughout the weekend) but with focus not on the actual wedding but the events surrounding the weekend
Mom inquires about everyones plans wanting answers regarding everyones plans, however no one (besides perhaps Honey) has any answers for her
Why? They are waiting on Mom to tell them their plans
With much sadness, the 2007 Burns Family Christmas closes

That is exactly what happened!!

SCOTT

As you can see, Scott is camera shy, but I managed to get a few pictures of him, to certainly make up for Thanksgiving! I love you Scott!! He IS a great husband and dad to Tobi's kids.

LIFEBUILDERS CHRISTMAS PARTY

What fun we had! We had a progressive dinner, beginning at our house with salad. We then went to Betty Comstock's for lasagna, green beans and garlic toast. Then on to the Arnolds for fabulous desserts and our annual Christmas gift exchange. As you can see those HO HO HO briefs showed back up AGAIN! I wonder if they will show up next year????? We had a great time...we have the best class EVER!

FINISHED.....

I am DONE with my Christmas shopping.......and here is my tree

Thanksgiving 2007 -minus Scott

I have been dragging my feet to blog this because once I began to download pictures from our Thanksgiving....I saw I had NO pictures of my Scott!! This is horrible I say, and I am beside myself about it. I LOVE YOU SCOTT!! But I apparently I did NOT take a picture of you!! I MUST make this up at Christmas!!!

Anyway, we DID have a fabulous time...all homemade pies, along with the best dressing ever, and all other food was fabulous too. Scott, Tobi and the kids got to our house Thanksgiving night around 6. We were ALL up and out of the house by 5AM on Friday shopping away and enjoying watching the people!. CB had to work. Scott's boys arrived Saturday, so we had quite the house full. It was a great time!

I LOVE YOU SCOTT!!!!! Even if we don't see you!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

I truly hope you have a fabulous Thanksgiving. I am truly lucky, I will have ALL my kids here this HOLIDAY, arriving late on Thursday (8:30 p.m.). We will eat our feast late, but that means I can sleep in the morning!! But don't worry, I will be up in time for the PARADE!!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

WOMEN OF FAITH!

It could NOT have been a worse week for me. And then trying to go out of town, all the way to Oklahoma City for Women of Faith. BUT BOY WAS IT WORTH IT!!! We left Thursday afternoon. Only bad thing....they have closed all Don Pablos in OK! I am shocked and appalled. However, I did survive, and we had quite the time. We even found time to shop at Garden Ridge. Been to one? They are fabulous! But, nothing compares to the conference. It was Kathy's first, and of course she is hooked. Next conference is June 13 and 14, 2008 in St. Louis. Wanna go? Click here to get just a glimpse of the goings on... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxT5NwQUtVM

A FEW HALLOWEEN PICS

1. Kristin and Clint

2. Franklin as a crab

3. Colby as a bee

4. Kyli, Megan and Brandon

5. A closeup

others are dupilcates

First Freeze

Brrrrr.....going to be in the 20s tonight! Woooo Whooooo!! And the Hospital is giving ALL employees FLU SHOTS today!!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Happy Halloween! This is my jack-o-lantern I carved ALL BY MYSELF!

WHAT FUN WE HAD! The Comstocks, Arnolds and Bartleys took off for KC around 2pm last Friday (after most of us had bad mornings at work, etc). But our trip made up for it. We went in the Comstock's new car (I can't believe I didn't get a picture of it). We had great rooms and played games all Friday night. Dana fell and we saw fireworks too (ALMOST made up for missing Firefall). All I am going to say about Saturday morning is.....Kathy and I lost the least amount.The boys played some, but mostly stood around watching us girls play. Had a blast there!! Then we went to the Plaza and shopped, and of course, ate at the Cheesecake Factory. Then back home. We had quite the fun with the satellite radio....we listened to 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s music, and even tuned in on football games!! Too bad we didn't laugh all weekend....OK, maybe we did!

Can you believe November starts this week?????

One Would Think I Don't Own A Camera...

My camera is collecting dust! I must remedy that right away! We even had a class activity and I forgot the camera once again!! I hope others might share their pics....(hint hint)

I wasn't home any night last week. I even FELL at a baby shower (with all of Springfield's Junior League watching me). No, I did not hurt myself, other than scrape my knee like a 1st grader!!

We had a DATE NIGHT with Clint and Kristin Friday night, and watched "Transformers" (brought back lots of memories), and we had a bonfire/weinner roast with our class Saturday night.

This week, I am off today taking a friend to an appointment. Tonight, my last birthday dinner. Friday around 1p, we leave with the Comstocks and Arnolds for Kansas City. Back late Saturday night. And I leave next Thursday (November 1st) for Women of Faith in Oklahoma City. What good times ahead!!!! And HALLOWEEN is in there too!!!! BOO!

It's been so long.......

It has been so long since I blogged. SO much has happened! First, watching the end of Big Brother is always bitter sweet. September was my birthday month and I had many celebrations (actually have one more with Lisa when she gets back from Florida). Then, I had eye surgery....yes, I had a cataract. My vision in my eye is now 20/15. But, I have to say, it was VERY traumatic for me. They did NOT put me out enough, I was awake during the WHOLE procedure....and it even stung on occasion. But, anyway, it is over and I am fine.

CB's parents have been here this weekend, we have had so much fun. I truly hate to see them go.

I am down 4 docs, and this makes doing the schedule VERY challenging. I want to keep the remaining docs happy, but, I have to fill ALL shifts, which means I have to overwork them!! And I am doing the holidays too. That is what I will spend my week doing.

CB is going to a BONES conference this coming weekend, and I look forward to having a quiet weekend. I think I am going to the movies Friday night with the Comstocks and Arnolds. I plan on starting my Christmas shopping Saturday. And of course, I bet I am still working on the docs' schedules.

Ok, just letting you know I am still alive!!!

BIG BROTHER winding down...

Well, Big Brother has 12 more days. We lost ALOT from our pool of people tonight with double eviction. There is $173 in the pot! Here is the list...
Kathy Ab. – Nick Daniele
Kathy Ar. – Dick
Ashley – Daniele
Danavee – Zach
Clint – Nick Jessica OUT
Kristin – Daniele
Charles – Daniele
Toy - Mike - Jessica OUT
Karen – Zach
Mandy – Nick Daniele
Bradley – Kail Jessica OUT
Dana – Kail Jen Eric OUT
Craig – Nick Jessica OUT
John Paul – Mike Daniele
Noah – Eric OUT
Honey – Mike Jen - Dick
Virginia – Eric OUT
Arlene – Zach
Joel – Mike Dustin Jessica OUT
Lisa – Kail Jameka
Adam – Dick
Heather – Nick Daniele
Sharon – Kail Jessica OUT
Lynn – Jameka
Tobi – Zach
Scott – Amber Dick
Diane – Mike – Eric OUT
Dana D. – Mike - OUT
Brandon – Daniele
Kyli – Amber OUT
Crystal – Daniele

Labor Day Weekend 2007

This weekend was one of the best we have had in along time! Reason being we are always so busy.
Friday night we went out to eat at Red Robin with the Comstocks and Arnolds, and back to the Arnolds for cards and sitting around the chimenea (sp). Thanks Mick for lighting it for me, and Kathy, your chocolate pie is to die for!!
Saturday we had our annual Emergency Physicians picnic out at the McMurrys. I DID get in trouble for not having my camera, because SOMEONE wanted me to blog about them. I won't say, but hey!! Here is a big HOWDY to my friend TAYLOR!!!!!! Howdy Taylor!!
Sunday was a great morning at church, I had a long nap, and the Comstocks came over,and we met the Arnolds for a late movie (Pirates of the Caribbean) and then back to our house to watch BIG BROTHER!!
Today, we slept in, ran a few errands and Clint, Kristin, Franklin and Colby came over for steaks and to play in the backyard.
So now, thoughts of getting back to work. I will be in almost solid meetings all week, mostly about EPIC, our new EHR. I will be back to regular blogging once BIG BROTHER is over! Been a great season, for those that don't watch......

Trip To See The Grandkids!

As you can see, we went to Stillwater the last weekend in August to see the grandkids. Kyli was there, but was not posing for pictures. Megan is a little cheerleader, and she is so cute! And Brandon playes guard and did a fabulous job. We had a great time seeing Scott and Tobi too. They are all doing very well. What a change a year can make!

Big Brother 8

Want to know why I have not been blogging????? Too busy at work, and too busy watching Big Brother (AND the live feeds when I am at home). It is so much fun! We have 30 people in our 'pool'......And I am so ready for fall....and football...and cooler weather.......and HALLOWEEN!

Who Got A Promotion?

WOW! This has been some week. Yep, I got a promotion! I also took back the Hospitalists group, the one I gave up 2 years ago, which in fact, GAVE me the promotion. Anyway, I now have 51 providers!! FIFTY-ONE!! Holy Cow! But, I DO love my job....STILL!

This weekend is one of our 'free' weekends before Christmas. Next weekend, I work Friday evening and all day Saturday in the ER. We are going to see my grandkids the next weekend! I can't wait. It has been since May since we saw the kids! We will get to see Brandon play football, and Megan cheerleading. Clint will have lasik surgery the next week, and we have our annual Emergency Physicians picnic and swimming at the McMurry's Labor Day weekend.

Then......my BIRTHDAY month!

FAIR TIME

Well, I think alot of Springfield folks that read this blog will have the same or similar schedule I do for the next couple of weeks.....IT IS OZARKS EMPIRE FAIR TIME!!

I have completed my part of year end, AND got September schedule out (only to begin October!!). I have a Fair meeting today after church (for working the gates). Last night home is Monday night. Tues, I work all day, and then go out to the ER for the 5p to 1:30a shift. Praise Team rehearsal Wed, and then another Fair mtg Thur night (for Grand Stand [concerts] shifts). Fri night, work Grand Stand, Saturday, CB is helping with the Car Show at church, so I will work the Gate shift Sat night at the Fair. Work Grand Stand Monday, Gates Tuesday, Praise Team Wed, and Grand Stand Thur. Then Fri is my annual Fair night with some girlfriends from the ER. Sat, I work 1p to 7:30p in the ER.

Now, I also have to tell ya!! Have to have my cataract out!! It is very fast growing, so bad, I shouldn't be driving. Anyway, hope to get THAT taken care of the next weekend!!!

We spent Saturday checking our weekend schedules for various things, only to find, once again, most weekends are full from August to Christmas. Maybe 3 are open. We do count ourselves lucky to have a full life!

Anyhow, I have to go rest.......

Just a little update....

Not much going on.....HOT!! Ready for fall already! Finishing up year end at work, working alot of hours......and then, oh yeah BIG BROTHER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Love it!

July 4th

FINALLY!! Great Fireworks! I was determined to see some!! We had a great day with Karen, Channing, Lauren, Clint and Kristin for a lunch BBQ. Oh yes, and the dogs had a fabulous reunion...had not been together since the January Ice storm (see January posts). It was a great day. We then went to the Springfield Cardinals game with the McMurrys (thanks Ted and Jody), along with Clint and Kristin. It was a great time, and we saw some GREAT fireworks. I also took off the next day, and cooked dinner (which is rare) and watched BIG BROTHER!!!! Who else watches BIG BROTHER 8?

FIREFALL!!!!! HA!!!!!

Well, needless to say, I was VERY disappointed in our Firefall this year...missing all the fabulous fireworks! We did not miss all the fellowship. As you can see from the pictures, we stayed until we were just too drenched (finding out our tent was NOT waterproof....who KNEW???) We entered the Firefall area with tornado sirens going off....not a deterrent to us!!!! But, when we realized we were NOT going to be dry, ever......well......We all went home and showered, dried off, and went back to the Arnolds for cards, and all the food we had brought to Firefall. Everyone was so sweet, knew how sad I was about missing fireworks. And as always....fun times with our friends!

FIREFALL, HERE WE COME

Rain or shine, we are heading out to the Springfield Airport tomorrow around 2p for fun, food and friends.

Please pray for Tobi. She has a slipped disk and can't get in to see an Ortho until July 12th. And she starts a new job the 9th.

Limo Ride

We started our evening at Cracker Barrel, where the Limo came and picked us up, causing a little ruckus, and off we went. Craig won the limo ride by guessing the song "She Works Hard For Her Money" after one note!! And they were nice enough to share. We had pop and water and snacks, and rode around for 2 hours. Oh yes, and laughed and laughed!

Guess what is this weekend? FIREFALL!!! Can't wait! You coming???

The Proposal!

1. Clint is beginning his speech

2. Kristin is emotional....but she has no idea!

3. Until now.....

4-5. She LEAPED into his arms

6-7. Now they are composed enough for pictures

8. Erin and Jody (Kristin's sister and Mom)

9. Clint and Ty (Kristin's brother)

10. Jody and Ted (bride to be parents)

11. All 4 kids Kristin, Clint, Ty and Erin

12-13. Not good pictures of that ring...but it is gorgeous

14. Showing off that ring (as she should)

15. The Happy Couple

16. The REALLY Happy Couple

OK...now for the story! This was a dinner with the Bartley family and the McMurry family. Father's day celebration, anniversary, and CB's birthday. We all knew what was going to happen, except Kristin. She thought Clint was going to honor his dad. "Flame" knew what we were doing and gave us a nice location for the proposal. I had the rings in my purse and had to get it to Clint after they arrived, which ended up being quite easy. After we ordered, and chatted a minute, Clint stood up and began his speech. He did address his dad, telling him how proud he was of him and how much he had taught him, especially about how to treat a woman ( I actually have the written speech if you want to read it). Anyway, he then said he often wondered how he would know when he had met the right person, until he DID meet her.....(she still did not expect at this point). Only when Clint reached in his pocket for the box, did she realize....and of course when he dropped to his knee. Then when he actually asked, she leaped into his arms. For the mom of the groom to be, the most precious part was....the first person to his feet and hugging Clint was.....Ted, the bride to be's dad. I was the last to hug Kristin, and she was still shivering.

It was a fabulous evening and I am so thankful we were all there to share in this occasion. Oh yes, I also have a CD of the whole event, so if you want to watch...just let me know!

Oh yes, wedding date is June 7, 2008 (06.07.08). Now a fun year of watching the wedding take shape! And here is the wedding link http://weddings.theknot.com/pwp/view/co_main.aspx?coupleid=099685942975356&MsdVisit=1

Concession Stand!

Here is the cute little Concession Stand we are running this summer! Dana and I LOVE it.....Craig and CB tolerate it! We have hamburgers, hot dogs, popcorn, snowcones, and other snacks! Chick-fil-a brings us 50 sandwiches at 11a, and we sell those too! We have great workers, so we are not there ALL the time, every Saturday. We open at 8, close at 4!

Happy 50th Bartleys!

Last weekend, we went to Texas to celebrate Sammye and Troy's 50th anniversary. Above are pictures of the parties!

28 YEARS

Yep! That's right! Charles and I have been married 28 YEARS tomorrow, June 16. AND! We still like each other.....now there's something right there! It is our turn at the concession stand tomorrow, and we are going out to dinner with Dr. and Mrs. McMurry to Flame tomorrow night, to celebrate CB's birthday, our anniversary and Father's Day!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY CB

Burns Family Las Vegas Part II

1. Cute Maggie, sunburned

2. Pat and Jamie

3. Joe Lee being cool

4. CB and Toy

5 & 6. All of us SQUEEZED in that limo

7 & 8. The sibs

9 & 10. Clint and Tobi having fun, as usual

11. Oh, that CB

12. Tobi and Scott at MGM

13. a sign....????

14 & 15. the sibs

16. Toy Helen, still playing those nickel machines..

Burns Family Las Vegas May 2007

1 & 2. Kristin being 'searched' in Springfield

3. On the plane

4. Scott and Tobi about 1a the night we arrived

5. Clint and Kristin " " " "

6. Flowers at our hotel

7. The Beatles Lounge at our hotel (Mirage)

8 & 9. The younger COUSINS Tobi, Clint and Maggie

10. Honey and Toy

11. Mom and Tobi

12. CB and Honey

13. Kristin and Clint...again

14. CB just being cool

15. CB being silly

16. Tobi and Clint being MORE silly

The Burns Siblings

Honey (youngest), Joe Lee (oldest), Larry and Toy.

Heather's Wedding

Adam and Heather got married the weekend after Tobi. It was also the weekend my gallbladder decided to 'test my patience'. Anyway, we were with them Friday night and most of Saturday. It was a beautiful wedding. Even Lucy (their dog) enjoyed it. As you can see, CB officiated the ceremony.

Heather has worked with me at St. John's for the past 2 years.

More of Tobi's Wedding

More pictures of the wedding, including Tobi dancing with Scott, her dad, and her brother

Tobi's Wedding

b 1-4. Megan and Kyli respectively, getting hair done for the wedding.
5. Brandon is ready!
6. All the girls (and Clint) in Tobi's room getting ready. Tobi wanted her brother in there!
7.Scott waiting....
8. Brandon And Kyli walking down the isle.
9. Megan walking down the isle (she burst into tears right after this
10. CB walking his daughter down the isle (he had double duty)
11. CB telling Scott he still had time to jump off the dock
12. Ceremony
13. The boys..
14, The girls
15. Dad trying to hold it together
16. The VERY happy couple, Scott and Tobi Case

The Gall

So, the green thingy is a gall bladder, to which I no longer have. I am amazed at how many people do not have one any longer. This last Thursday, I was rolled out of my room at 9:00 am and was being rolled out of my room at 11:00 to go home! I was even in the Concession Stand a few hours Saturday. I did great, mainly because anesthesia does not make me sick. Anyway, I was totally released yesterday! I worked about 6 hours yesterday.

I had been aching (no pain) on my right side for months, but Mother's Day weekend it got somewhat worse. No vomiting, no fever, no real pain, just aching. But, I called one of my ER docs, and decided we could get the ball rolling quicker if I went in the ER, so I did. The ultrasound there was negative (no stones), so another test was ordered, which was positive, hence the surgery. The surgeon actually said I was very close to a big problem with it, so I am thankful I pushed it through. My MAIN goal was to be done and healed by this Sunday........leaving for Vegas with 12 other Burns family for vacation! YIIIIPPPPPEEEEEEE!

Mom and Dad

These lovely people are my parents. Weren't they cute? Mom passed away in 1984 (the worst year of my life) and dad passed away in 1989. You think I look like either of them?

A side note, mom and dad divorced after my oldest brother, Joe Lee was born, dad went off to WWII, and when he came back, they remarried and had the rest of us. My brother Larry was born 9 months after he returned! I came along 7 years later, and Honey 22 months after me! Too bad I am the cutest sibling!!!!! :-)

HAVE I MENTIONED? The above mentioned siblings are ALL going to Vegas Memorial Day?

My Kids

This is a picture of my kids! Tobi is happier than I have seen her in YEARS! My grandkids seem happy too. As soon as I can, I will upload all the wedding pics.

I have been using Clint's desk for my desktop computer, and he needed it for school. I am NOT going to get on the floor and download pics, so as soon as I buy or borrow a desk, I will get busy! Until then, you must wait....

We have yet another wedding this weekend...in Branson. CB is presiding, so we have to go Friday AND Saturday. And gas is over $3 a gallon?? What the heck!!??

We spent the evening last night with the Comstocks cleaning the Concession Stand. It opens NEXT weekend. But, even that was fun times together. We will put finishing touches next week!

Well, gotta get to work, because I need off early to go to Branson for the wedding rehearsal! OH! and almost 2 weeks before VACATION!!!!!!

MAY 2007

So glad warmer weather is here! But, this is such a busy month! We leave Friday for Stillwater for Tobi's wedding. I REALLY like Scott, her husband to be. And I will be so glad to see Brandon, Kyli and Megan. I will post pics when I return. Her wedding is at 8pm Saturday, and then we will stay a bit and head back. I have to be at Tan Tara at lake of the Ozarks by 9a on Sunday for our annual Missouri MGMA (Medical Group Management Association) conference, to which I am a Board member. So, I am part of the 'hosting' of this conference also. I should be back by dinnertime on Tuesday. Wednesday is church, and then Thursday, we HAVE to clean that concession stand. Friday, we have a rehearsal dinner, and then Saturday is the wedding of my secretary. The wedding is in Branson, and CB is officiating.

Oh, and did I tell you my family is taking their vacation together the last week in May? Well, we are, all my siblings and alot of their children (both my chillins' are going). And YIPPPEEEEE!! It is in Vegas. But, more on that later.

Well, enjoy the weather.

EXHAUSTED

I just HATE it when you wake up Monday morning, and you are already exhausted. Just a busy weekend, and I haven't fully recouped. Friday, as you know from my previous post was a VERY LONG day, but the events were a success. And it was TOTALLY relaxing at the Arnolds Saturday night. I have a few pics to post later. Sunday is always a great day, but it is NOT restful, that is for sure.

Going to the Cardinals game tonight, thanks to one of my docs. Tomorrow night we should be home....YIPPPPEEEEE!

Well, have a great week.

Moon Dance

What is a MOON DANCE you ask? Oh, let me explain. Back in 2000, on the Friday after Thanksgiving, Dr. Tom Steele came to work, worked his whole shift, not breathing well, and when he finished his shift, they took xrays, and there it was! His lungs were filled with cancer. As I have said before, I have the best docs ever...soooo many of them work when they don't feel good, they will even come in early to get IV fluids before a shift when they are under the weather! Anyhow, Dr Steel's prognosis was grim. So in February, we had a surprise party for him. He played in a blues band, and he thought his band had a gig...well, they did, but it was for him. It was great...and we called that evening the first annual Moon Dance. He passed away in April of that year. To honor him, our Emergency Department has a symposium. This is our fifth year. Of course it is call the Tom Steele Symposium. This year it is all about peds, like one talk is "The First 60 Seconds" and another is what to look for in a baby who presents as "won't quit crying" (and yes, we get alot of that!). Also one talk on "The Ouchless IV", and yes, we will all get to experience that! Starts at 6:30 Friday morning, and goes until 5. THEN...we will have our SIXTH Annual Moon Dance at Bass Pro. This year it is a Luau. So, I will go directly from the symposium to Bass Pro to decorate. I hope to be gone by midnight! It is a lot of fun, but very busy. We even will have karaoke (I sing karaoke EVERY Sunday).

Saturday, resting and chillin' at the Arnolds Saturday night.

We got Karen home from the hospital yesterday. They are still watching her closely!

Oh, and who is turning 40???????? DANA COMSTOCK!! On Sunday. So be sure to talk a little louder to her....she is OOOOOLLLLLLLLDDDDDDDDD!!!

Are you kidding me????

I just heard AGAIN!! SNOW!! Helloooooooo...it is April the 12th!! I am already sad to see the lilacs gone, the redbuds and dogwoods lose color....and now, they say snow Saturday! Good thing I will be at church for the Authentic Women's Conference! I am so looking forward to a great time of worship!

My friend Karen's physician put her in the hospital yesterday. She has been sick for some time, and they are trying to find out the cause. I stayed with her last night until about 9:30, then CB and I went and got her car, and took it to her house and tended to Rosie. I hope we know something today.

I work all day tomorrow, and then go out to the ER to work from 5p until about 1230a. And SNOW Saturday....ARE YOU KIDDING ME??????? ok, enough whinning

BBRRRRRRR!!!!

I cannot believe it! The weather has been so beautiful, almost HOT at times....and now, they are saying the word SNOW for tomorrow! Only in the 40's for a high! HEY!! I put my winter clothes away! Am I the only foolish one?

Well, I just THOUGHT that our holiday season was busy! HA to that! From now to July 1, we are BUSY! Anyhow, budget season is over and approved at work, that is always an accomplishment, and I am working on the docs' summer schedules. I have gotten approval to hire a FT secretary, and I am sure happy about that!

EASTER weekend coming. CB's parents will be here with us. Always such a sweet time at church. I was at rehearsal last night and heard ALL about Sunday's service (and I am not telling), but don't miss it! And isn't the choir sounding fabulous???

Well, enough chatting for now......

Thanking God!

After our HORRID Ice Storm of 2007, and seeing all the damage, especially the trees, I thought... we will not have a very pretty spring, much less fall (my favorite season). I am sure God just laughed at me! It was pouring rain as I went to work yesterday, but as I drove home, the beauty took my breath away. The Bradford Pears are already blooming but, the REDBUDS were NOT yesterday morning!! But they sure were at 4:oo yesterday afternoon. Isn't God just amazing? And, as I gazed at the beauty of it all, it dawned on me......I BARELY see tree damage! And then I heard that wee small voice "oh. yea of little faith!!" I smiled and thanked Him for yet another lesson.

Anyway, CB is going to mow today...and I am itching to plant something. In the upper 70s today! And I smell LILACS!! Oh, happy day!

Have We Lost Our Minds??

Yes, I believe we have lost our mind. We being Charles and Toy, and Craig and Dana. We have agreed to run the 10th Inning 2007 Baseball Season.......CONCESSION STAND!! Like any of us NEED something more to do. But!! We committed, so there ya go. Season begins May 19th and ends the middle of July. It is only on Saturdays, and we really have what appears a GREAT group of volunteers. AND!! Mark Hillenblog PROMISED to take the weekend of FIREFALL! We CANNOT miss Firefall!! And, no games Memorial weekend. So see?? Already 2 down!! Actually, it should be loads of fun, and we don't plan on working it every weekend anyway! Still, did we get drugged or something??

Happy Birthday Dad!

Yep! Today would have been my dad's birthday. He would have been 90! But he has been gone since 1989! Miss you daddy!

Anyone wanna hear my day? Going to work at 8:30. Try to clear my desk by 10:30. At that time, going to a system celebration. St. John's, Springfield was named the #1 Integrated System in the NATION! Pretty impressive, if you ask me. Then going to lunch (which is worthy of blogging this, as I usually eat at my desk, or don't have lunch at all). Should be back by 1:00, at which time I will work on my operational budget until 4:30 (someone shoot me!). Clean up my desk, and scurry right out to the Emergency Department. Working as Unit Secretary until 1:30 a.m. It is fun, and different from my day job, so I enjoy doing that occasionally. CB will bring me some dinner at some point during the evening. Maybe I will have fun stories from that shift!

Hope to go see "Wild Hogs" Saturday. And I am ready to 'spring' up my house. Anyone else done that yet?

Enough chatter this am!

Valentine Party

Well, they (whoever THEY are) made me sign in to this new blogger. I am nervous, because the last time I did this, I lost everything. And I cannot log in to this new blogger thing with my desktop. But I am SURE Hillenblog will come over and help me!!! Especially since he talked us into MANAGING the concession stand this year for 10th Inning Kids!

Anyway, the above is pics from our Sunday School class party. We had such a good time.

Franklin

Is this the cutest dog? He loves his dad, Clint!

A Busy Weekend

It was such a busy weekend, I didn't even talk to any family in Texas or Oklahoma! Now THAT is busy!

Worked Friday night until 7:30, then went to dinner with friends and then home. We caught up on the Thursday TV shows I taped because we went to Stained Glass Theater Thursday night, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Saturday we spent the day preparing for our class Valentine's Party at the church. It was good times. I will post pictures later, but you can visit Rachel Burch's blog (please reference "Old People's Class"). I know, it is painful to read that!! We had a great time, even played the newlywed game. We left that party and went to one of my docs' Tacky birthday party (that is what she named it...you had to wear something tacky) at Millwood Country Club. We just stayed long enough for CB to eat, of course.

And Sundaywas full of church, lunch, nap and church. Other than my monthly Emergency Dept meeting this week, it is a pretty light week. Only to prepare for the following 2, which are crammed full. And looking ahead? Starting in April, every weekend has activities until the end of June! Crazy!

I will blog pictures of our banquet soon....I know you can't wait!

THANK GOODNESS FOR THESE BLOGS

With the holidays, the Ice Storm, and several church cancellations, I am so glad for blogs! And I am working in the ER Sunday, so I will miss seeing everyone and catching up this Sunday (SuperBowl Sunday) too. But thanks to most of you, I won't miss too much. Who thought blogs up anyway? I will miss seeing Oliver the most, so I guess I will just have to make a special trip over there!

What is going on with me? Work, work work! Capital Budget was completed this week, only to begin Operational budget next week. I will be requesting a full time secretary to relieve some workload. But have I said lately that I LOVE my job? Cuz I sure do!

Oh!!! And GOOD GRIEF!!!! I have a cataract! How can this be? For one thing, cataract equals OLD!!!!! And I am not old (or am I?). My kids are already checking out nursing homes. I told them to put me in a room right next to the activity area, as I do not want to miss a thing!!

Enough rambling from me this AM.

Ice to tree ratio

Pictures of the ice storm

These pictures do not tell the real story, you cannot see the real devastation of the trees here. I believe everyone in Sprinfield has power, but some of the outlying towns still do not. These are just a few pictures I took on the way to work. All ice is gone now.