ToyHelen

2012-02-13T18:40:00.001-06:00

SAD DAY AT THE BARTLEYS

2011-11-04T23:01:00.000-05:00

Such a sad day at the Bartleys. All Halloween decorations are down!! Sure love them! Gave out 150 candy bars and had to turn off the lights at 8:30 because we ran out. But on to the holidays.

Clint is coming tonight to spend the night, and the day tomorrow with us. Tobi, Maggie (my niece) and Honey are going to eat at Hibachi. CB has to work tomorrow, then he will join Clint and I as we Christmas shop. I am kinda panicing because really, I dont have many weekends to go shopping!! EEKKS!

We are doing fine. I miss my brother. CB is fine. I love my job. Clint is fine and so is Tobi and the fam. Oh yes, and little Angel is just precious.

Troy was in the hospital this week, but is home now and doing better.

Honey had bad news this week. One of her Yorkies is really pretty old and the vet told her she had 4 - 6 weeks to live. Honey has no children besides her doggies...

Happy November!

SO MANY THINGS TO SAY

2011-10-09T20:14:00.001-05:00

This is a picture of me and my brother Larry, who passed away a few weeks ago. As you can see, we are making fun of Honey because she had a little zit on her chin, so we all taped a peanut on our face so she wouldn't feel bad (yeah right)!

Anyway, this has been a long, very HOT summer. My brother fell August 6th. He broke his back and had an 11.5 hour surgery. We had many ups and done, but we never heard his voice again. He could whisper, but that was it. He had COPD and really his lungs were pretty much gone, wasn't even a candidate for a transplant. He wanted Honey and I with him a lot, he was scared. We had transferred him to a long care facility, but on Sunday night Sept, 18th Honey called me and advised me to get right down there, something was wrong. That was really the last night I got to talk to him, before they re-intubated him. As I met him at the ED at Harris, he had a tear rolling down his face, something I won't forget. Honey and I stayed with him that night, and went home Monday to sleep a few hours (so thankful I have a job that was supportive and understanding). But we knew Monday we were fighting a losing battle. Before Maggie, (Larry's daughter) got there Tuesday morning, the doctors told Honey and I that all we were doing was rearranging the furniture on the Titanic! So, we waited for Maggie's mom to get there, and then I was the one to tell them to stop life support. We all sat with him for 2.5 more hours holding his hand, patting him (although he was oozing blood everywhere), talking to him, laughing, crying, and then watched him take his last breathe. I miss him terribly!

Well then, 2 days later I was taking Pancakes and Angel to Sammye's so I could go with Maggie and Katy to the funeral home, and I fell. Now, most of you know, I find falling hilarious, whether it is me or not. But when I hit the cement, I did feel something in my rib. To make a long story short, 10 days later I found out I broke that rib!! GOOFY GIRL!! Anyway, I am doing fine.

The kids and grandkids are fine. CB changed jobs, he is now working for Smiles Brand dentistry. And of course, little Angel is fine too.

Again I say, I will write more often!!! *hopefully*

IT IS SO HOT IN TEXAS!!!!

2011-06-21T20:57:00.000-05:00

It is so HOT!! Over 100 degrees for over a week. And it is just JUNE!

Clint, Tobi and Scott came over Saturday night, and we cooked steaks and played cards! That Tobi is a night owl, and at 11:15, I had to send her and Scott home, we were ready for bed, and she was full of life! She has picked on us ever since!

What are my Springfield friends going to do for July 4th fireworks??? We have a display in downtown Ft. Worth, seems similar to Firefall from what I read. I have most of the family interested in going! But if it is 100 degrees, I dont think I can go sit in that. We will see. But I will miss all you we have spent years with at Firefall and I Love America!

Last weekend all my sibs were together. We had a blast, as usual.

I hope all of you are doing well

Happy Memorial Day 2011

2011-05-30T22:13:00.001-05:00

What a FABULOUS weekend. It was in the upper 90's but windy, so it didn't feel that hot.
FRIDAY - after work CB, Angel and I went to CB's parents to wait on Troy to get home from rehab. Then they watched Angel while we went to dinner at Outback (late, about 8:15 when we got there). Delicious!
SATURDAY - Got up and enjoyed coffee and reading the paper out on the patio. Then Sammye and I went to get a massage. I got a masseuse that knows how to do scoliosis massages! It was absolutely fabulous. Then CB and I went to Kincaid's and then we went and got Angel and headed to Honey's, about an hour drive. Angel and I slept. Angel played with her Yorkie cousins, and then Honey, CB and I left about 3:30 for the 6:00 Ranger game. We had some high priced tickets, which got us in the Cuervo Club, which was air conditioned. We were soon joined by Scott, Tobi and Brandon, then Larry and Maggie (brother and niece), and then Clint and Kim. We went to our seats a little after 6, and honestly it wasn't too hot at all. The wind was coming right at us. AND, the RANGERS hit THREE home runs in a row in the 2nd inning, with a total of 7 HRs, for a win of 10 to 1. A very fun night with the Burns family. CB and I went back to Honey's and spent the night.
SUNDAY - We had a late breakfast at a little strip mall place called Mom's, with wonderful biscuits and gravy. Clint came and had breakfast with us. Angel learned how to come in and out of the doggie
door at Honey's, and Honey and I planned our next gathering! Then we drove home, dropped Angel off and CB and I went to the store for stuff to cook at the in-laws for dinner. I took a little nap, and then we went to Sammye and Troy's, along with Debbie and David (CB's sister). We grilled steaks and had a wonderful dinner, and a good time with the Bartleys.
MONDAY - Got up and read the paper and had coffee, and then we went out and worked in the flower beds, pulling weeds, feeding and watering all the plants and flowers.We cooked breakfast and ate on the patio. Ran to Lowes and Michaels, and then home for my LOVELY 3 hour nap and Angel took a nap with me. I had done some pre-prep for dinner, BBQ pork chops, baked beans and cole slaw. So, CB cooked the chops and we again ate out in the patio.
So, as you can read, we had an absolutely wonderful weekend. And just a 4 day week ahead. Hope your weekend was just as special!

4 MONTHS

2011-05-19T21:22:00.000-05:00

Here is little Angel. She is 17 months old, and she loves her back yard!

I can't believe it has been FOUR MONTHS since I posted. I LOVE my job, but the hour to and hour from work does take away home time. There are days I don't even get on Facebook. I still love my house. We have done alot of work on the outside, putting in flowers beds and a patio cover. We had the 2 older grandkids' birthday party here with family, we had alot of fun.

Like I say everytime, I will try and write more often. My father in law has been really sick, and we just put him in a rehab facility today. SO glad we are in Texas. But, I DO miss my Missouri friends. I hope all is well for you!

THANKSGIVING 2010

2010-12-29T21:25:00.002-06:00

About 10 days before the Bartley Thanksgiving, Sammye pulled something in her back and she really was in severe pain. Good thing I hadn't started working. I took her to several store trips and spent the week preparing with her. We really had a great time. The food was great and spending time with family was even better.

On THANKSGIVING day, I had the Burns family and my family here. Problem was I was cooking, so no one took pictures. The grandkids were with their dad, so 2 weeks after Thanksgiving, we had ANOTHER Thanksgiving and Again, I was cooking so no pictures. It was all so fun.

MY 2010 CHRISTMAS HOUSE

2010-12-21T21:41:00.006-06:00

The next few posts will be out of order. I have a Thanksgiving one to do, but friends have asked that I post my 'Christmas' house! So......here it is!

The Bedrooms(sorry for the duplicate picture)......

The Living Room

The den......

Look at that little Angel

These are the outside pictures....

ONE MORE WEEK!

2010-12-05T17:57:00.005-06:00

Well, my drug test result did not make it to Children's Medical Center by Friday afternoon, so my start date has been pushed back one week!!! Angel sure is excited!

I did however, attend the office Christmas party Friday. I told the group of about 40 that CB had asked if I was nervous to go, and I told him, not at all, that I was going to meet my family! After all, I will spend more awake time with them in a week than with him!!! The party was a blast!

CHILDREN'S MEDICAL CENTER, DALLAS TEXAS

2010-11-22T10:04:00.002-06:00

Here is where I begin work Monday, December 6th. Actually, I am attending a managers' Retreat on Friday the 3rd of December. I am the Practice Manager for the ENT Clinic (ear, nose, throat). 9 doctors, 2 residents, 2 Mid levels, and 20 employees.

I am so excited. I am ready to go back to work. I will have a long drive every day to work (45 minutes to an hour) but the salary certainly covers that. I can also ride the train from downtown Fort Worth, and it stops right in front of the Children's Medical Center. So I will do that some also.

My house is all together. We will decorate this weekend for Christmas, and I hope to finish the majority, if not all, of my Christmas shopping before I go to work. Wouldn't that be grand?

We had our Thanksgiving with the Bartleys Sunday. It was yummy and great to be with the family. My family's Thanksgiving festivities begin Wednesday night with dinner at Don Pablos, and then home to play Clue and Monopoly, a tradition on Wednesday night. Did it in Springfield too! Some of you attended!! Clint and his friend Justin (from Springfield) are attending the Dallas Game Thursday, which pushes our dinner back a bit to around 7p. My sister and 1 brother will be here too. Can't wait for the fun!

Well, there is the update thus far!

HOLIDAYS APPROACHING

2010-11-14T21:47:00.004-06:00

What a time we have had so far in Texas. Visits from friends (still waiting on the rest of you)! The Conovers and Comstocks visited. We had a birthday party for Sammye, and the next weekend my family all got together. The next was Halloween, and we had to turn off the lights at 8:00 because we ran out of candy. The next week, CB went to Boston for a conference, and I went to KC for Women of Faith. As always, sooooo much fun! Planning on going to OK City next year, the 2nd weekend in November.

Clint had surgery on his toe, and we took his dog back to him yesterday and had dinner with him. Tobi and the kids went with us to church today, and we of course went to lunch.

Sunday starts our families' Thanksgiving celebrations.

God has been SO good to us. Just waiting on a job.......

2125 ROCKMOOR DR. FORT WORTH, TEXAS

2010-10-08T09:47:00.002-05:00

FINALLY posting.....I have been so busy! The front yard doesn't have much grass, so Sammye Troy and I went and bought some grass squares. We will see if it lasts the winter! I have enjoyed hangin' out with the 'in laws'.

Let me catch you up real quick. Clint is fine, living in Dallas. Scott and Tobi and the kids are moving today about 3 miles from us. Scott is looking for work, Tobi is working at a Ford Dealership, and the kids are happy in their schools. ALL of us went to our home church, Hallmark, last week, it was wonderful.

CB is doing fine, getting more comfortable at his new job. He works a lot of hours. I am STILL interviewing at the place I first interviewed while still in Missouri. But, they have told me not to look for another job, that they want me to pick the clinic I want to work, between, Urology, General Surgery and GI. So, I have another interview next week, with more docs. I am still employed by St. John's, but that ends next week. I have enjoyed my time at home, but I know I will get bored quickly. Angel has LOVED me being here.

This weekend is our ANNUAL trip with the Mortons and Hendersons (and used to be Donovans). We will leave for Broken Arrow this afternoon. It will be so fun. John Paul Comstock is coming to stay at the house and watch Angel while we are away! As you can see, life has not slowed down for us, but we wouldn't have it any other way!

Continue to scroll down, to see the rest of the pictures of the house! Come and visit!!!

THE FRONT OF THE HOUSE

2010-10-08T09:30:00.005-05:00

This is my light post in the front yard! What fun I will have with that! And oh yes, my pumkin in the far window.My living room window
The front porch. Can you see little Angel's eyes at the door?
Angel watching her mommy

THE INSIDE

2010-10-08T09:22:00.002-05:00

The Living room, not much furniture in hereThe Fireplace, all 'spooked out'
The den
The dinning room
Keep scrolling down.....

AND WE CONTINUE....

2010-10-08T09:15:00.004-05:00

Guest room, come on down, this is for YOU!

My bath room
The back yard. A lot of yard work to be done in the spring
My little kitchen, which I love (except for the gas stove, I guess I will get used to it)
The office, with my fabulous iMAC
Keep scrolling down......

THE LAST PICTURES

2010-10-08T09:10:00.005-05:00

the master bath, shower and toilet to the left

this is our bedroom
This is where we sit each night, relaxing, watching TV, chatting, on the internet and playing with Angel!
We are VERY happy! We love our house! We continue to be busy every weekend, hence the reason you see no pictures on the walls. We will get to that eventually!

TEXAS vs OU WEEKEND!

2010-10-02T09:29:00.002-05:00

Sorry I have not blogged in so long! I have so much to say, it will have to be in sections!

As soon as I get me pictures hung, I will blog pics of my house! I LOVE my house.

The Conovers were here last weekend. Emma did not know where they were going until they drove up and I was standing outside! This weekend, the Comstocks are here!

I am still working for St. John's, but I am pretty sure I have a job at Children's Medical Center in Dallas. I hope I have some time off between jobs.

I will blog again soon!

SO MANY EMOTIONS.....

2010-08-25T20:29:00.002-05:00

Thursday, August 26, 2010 is my last day at St. John's. It is no surprise to anyone that I am very sad, kind of heartbroken, to be leaving such a great place to work, and such great people that I work with. I have made some lifelong friends, and have learned so much, even about myself. I really can't imagine how I will walk away tomorrow!

On the other hand, I miss that CB so much and can't wait to start our new adventure! I am so lucky to be going home, home to my family.

But, I have so many friends here that I love so very much. I can't name them all, but if you are reading this you can rest assured you are one of them.

My grandkids, I have missed so many things, school plays, sports, etc....I finally get to be a vital part of their life!

Well, I guess you can see, I am having ALOT of emotions! Sleep is my only escape! Think I will go to bed!!!

MY GOD IS SO AWESOME!!!!!!!!!

2010-08-17T06:58:00.003-05:00

My God has seen fit for us to have this house!!! Can you believe it? Well, of course we know my Best Friend can do anything.

After we terminated negotiations, the seller's realtor advised her to fix everything. To make a long story short, she not only agreed, but is actually doing MORE than we asked, including a new roof and new heater. The Comstocks even went over there and sent a phone picture of them standing at the door! So we are just waiting on all the repairs to be completed so we can close. We want the inside painted, new carpet in the bedrooms, and cleaned (she has been gone a year and it is really dirty). I am so very grateful.

CB is in Texas, started work Monday. He will be home for about 30 hours this weekend. I can't believe how much I miss him. But I am staying busy with work, and last night had dinner with Dana and then the Conovers brought us some FABULOUS homemade dessert (great job Joel).

Tobi has enrolled the grandkids in school just down the road from us......I feel so undeserving of so many blessings from my Lord, but I DO give him all the praise!

NEGOTIATIONS OVER

2010-08-09T06:44:00.002-05:00

Well. it is over. That house was just not meant to be. (Waaaahhhhhhhhh!!!) I know, my God is in charge!! There is another place, even better! This is CB's last week at work. He leaves Sunday for Texas. So this week is busy going through things, throwing away, discovering things we forgot we had.....I wish it wasn't so HOT! The heat drains me and I don't have the energy I usually have, and obviously, I need it!!!

NEGOTIATIONS

2010-08-08T10:35:00.002-05:00

That's all I can say.....and delays, of course. God is in control!

HELLO OUT THERE.....

2010-08-06T08:25:00.005-05:00

SO many months of not blogging!!!! Lots of things have been happening. Angel has been spade, by the same vets, and she is just great! She is such a good dog, and she is treated like a QUEEN....mostly from CB!
Well if you haven't heard. WE ARE MOVING TO TEXAS! CB and I are the only ones on BOTH sides of the family NOT in Texas (even our kids have moved back). We have great jobs here and we had agreed we couldn't move until God provided jobs! Within 10 days, CB had been interviewed and been presented with an offer....which he took, from Cook Children's Hospital in Ft. Worth! He starts August 16th. I will work here until the 26th, and CB has been given a week off to move the day after that.
Now for the picture! This is the house we are trying to get. We have hit some snags, but we are still hopeful. We are driving down today to look at it.
You know, we are all Texans, even Angel. She is a great little traveler, and likes to cuddle the whole way, which I love!
There you have it in a nutshell. I WILL try to get back to blogging, especially since I will be leaving such great friends in Missouri!!!

SPRING SPRING, WHERE ARE YOU?????

2010-03-12T06:58:00.002-06:00

What??? Snow flurries??? I enjoyed the snow, but I am ready for spring!! I bet you are too! The time change coming this weekend will help! But no higher than the 50s for the foreseeable future? Waaaaaaa! I have decorated for Easter, and I see my tulips peeking through the dirt! The battle of the changing seasons! But SPRING will win!

Ok, I just had to post my whiny thoughts! Whew! I feel better! Thanks for listening!

MY ANGEL!!!!! ANGEL PRISSILLA

2010-02-22T19:16:00.004-06:00

Here she is!! Oh my goodness, she is fabulous! The last picture is where she likes to nap, back behind my neck. She sleeps with us and can't seem to be able to get close enough to me (and CB sometimes). She is different from Prissy. Angel has such a sweet disposition and is very calm. And the whole house are TEXANS! She is a good traveler, she likes going to the Pet Stores (Prissy didn't) and she plays well with other dogs.
We leave next week to go to Texas to help my mother in law with her knee surgery. She will be a good girl, I know it. I will miss her while I am at the hospital, but she will be with CB.
I am so thankful for her!

I'M COMING ANGEL!!!!!!

2010-02-12T06:57:00.002-06:00

Good beautiful morning! Yes, I am happy as a lark today. I am leaving (sometime) to go get our little baby girl yorkie! It has snowed 11" in Texas! Isn't that something? Texas also woke up Christmas morning with a white Christmas! All my family love it! Anyhow, our PLAN is to leave this afternoon, arriving at the Bartleys around 8. Have dinner, relax, hopefully watch the Olympics and go to bed early, as I am not sure how my sleeping will go the next few days. Go have a Kincaids burger on the way to go get Angel!! Spending the day with Angel, have an early dinner (hoping for Mexican) with the Bartleys and then off to Honey's to spend the night. Also, closer to home. We will leave early Sunday morning to drive back home. If the roads are bad today, we might wait until Saturday morning and pick Angel up on the way in to Ft. Worth. She lives right behind the Nascar Speedway. I should name her after some racer, but I am not a follower of Nascar (sorry folks). I am taking Monday off also (well, I will work from home) to try and help Angel get used to her home!! I am so excited (CB is too, he just wont admit it, although I think he thinks he is betraying Prissy).

Tuesday night we are having our class Valentine dinner. Actually, it is an "I Love My Sunday School Class" valentine dinner. Looks like we will have a good crowd. Going to Jimm's Steak House, the OLD Steak and Ale. And the food is just like Steak and Ale, including the salad bar.

Anyway, wanted to blog about my new baby. I will post pictures here and on Facebook next week.

GOOD TIMES

2010-02-08T20:19:00.004-06:00

It has been so long since I blogged. I don't know why, I love to blog. But really I have been busy (surprised?) We had our New Year's Eve party one week late, but was fun, none the less. All spent the night at our house too.

At work, it is budget time, so that always takes up time! We have been interviewing for another Mid Level, and YES!! We just hired one. She will start June 1st!

We had a GREAT time at the Arnolds for our annual Super Bowl Party!

Now for the picture! This is my Angel Prissilla! I am 75% sure we will get to go to Texas this weekend to get her. I can't wait. It has been so long since our Prissy pasted away! I will keep you posted on this big event (for me anyway).

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010

2009-12-31T09:45:00.004-06:00

HAPPY 2010 to you!!!! And Prissy's siblings should be born any dqy...praying there is a girl in that litter!

Merry Christmas 2009

2009-12-31T09:34:00.005-06:00

Despite the nasty weather, we had a GREAT time at Tobi's, as you can see. The kids had a great time, and we even played Yahtzee Christmas morning. Scott fixed us a big breakfast...delicious! And of course he graciously gave up his bed. Tobi's back hurt, so her dad slept on the couch so she could sleep in the bed. That is always fun sleeping with Tobi! And Logan loves PePaw!

BLIZZARD 2009

2009-12-31T09:24:00.005-06:00

I think many of you followed our "Winter Adventure" on Facebook. We left Christmas eve at noonish to go to Tobi's in Stillwater, OK for Christmas. We thought we would beat the snow. Well, we did until the last hour of the trip. Anyway, these were some of the BETTER pictures of that trip. So glad the Lord had a good hold of us and we arrived safely! We had gotten a hotel room so we wouldn't kick Scott and Tobi out of their bed. Well we couldn't even make it there. The highways were closed until mid day Christmas Day. Took us 7 hours to get BACK home, and the skies were clear. But the roads.......

Our Tree 2009

2009-12-31T09:16:00.004-06:00

We bought a new tree this year, not that we got to see it much......it is much smaller, and was really pretty

2009 Christmas with the Burns

2009-12-31T09:09:00.004-06:00

We left the Bartleys on Saturday morning and headed to Honey's. Joe Lee, the eldest, was unable to be with us this year (we are planning a sibling weekend to watch football in January). Tobi and her family were able to join us this year. As usual, Tobi and Clint had a fabulous time together. There were 4 yorkies there, made us miss Prissy so.... anyway, we had a blast with Honey, Viginia, Larry , Maggie, and Pat and his family! We headed home late Sunday afternoon. Leaving Texas gets harder and harder,,,,,,

2009 Christmas with the Bartleys

2009-12-31T08:57:00.004-06:00

We left Wednesday afternoon for our Christmases with the Texas families! Clint and Kristin went with us and we had a great time. The Texas bird bath and bench was Sammye's Christmas from all of us. She loved it (I would too). Sammye out did herself with all the delicious food. We also went to Hillsboro and saw family there. Makes us homesick...... anyway, a great time.

It's Beginning To Look Alot Like Christmas.....

2009-11-28T09:39:00.006-06:00

Our TWO Thanksgivings are over, house is clean, and Christmas is up! We finished our Christmas shopping the weekend BEFORE Thanksgiving (and paid cash). We had been shopping for a month, oh and I LOVE using the internet too! I am not done wrapping, but I am working on it, slowly. We bought a new prelit tree (not sure if I like them yet) because our old tree is very big and our living room is not.
Now to start the VERY busy holiday season. Tonight we have the Comstocks and Arnolds coming over for dinner and cards. Tuesday night going to Nakatos with Lisa and the girls. Thursday, getting more low lights in my hair, and Friday is Charles' office party at Highland Springs. And after THAT party, there is another party at one of his physicians' home. So it will be a long, partying night. I think we might be going to Silver $ City Saturday night, but that is not confirmed. Whew! That is just this coming week. But, I do love the Holidays!
We have had Colby and Pancakes since Tuesday night, since Clint and Kristin are with the McMurrys in New Mexico this week. They have been a joy!
Well, I will try and post more often! Oh, and did I say I miss Prissy? I sure do. We are still hopeful to get her sister around Valentine's Day. I am taking suggestions for a name.....you have any ideas??????

HAPPY HALLOWEEN 2009

2009-11-02T21:06:00.002-06:00

This year was a nice Halloween weekend! We went to a costume party (as you can see), went to our church festival, had trick or treaters and had the Comstocks and Arnolds over after that and we played cards! So very nice and relaxing!
Next weekend, we plan to do Christmas shopping. Also, going to the Veterans Parade and Dana and I are getting massages! And we are going to put up the Christmas lights outside, since it will be warm outside!!
HOPEFULLY getting Prissy's sister around Valentine's Day....if I can wait that long!

Bye Bye Precious Prissy!

2009-10-19T21:02:00.006-05:00

First, I do know there are more sad things that happen to people, I do not take that lightly. But, this is MY story...on my blog!
Last Thursday we were so very excited to have CB's parents driving here to see us. Prissy was scheduled to be spayed. I took her in at 8:15. She was as happy as could be as I handed her to the staff. They were to call me when she was awake. CB had just called me asking if I had heard from them (around 10:30) and they called just then, so I had him hold for a second. I was gone much longer as the doctor began by saying there was no easy way to tell me.........blah blah blah. She had a cardiac arrest as they were waking her up. All had been fine up to that point. They worked on her almost an hour trying to get her back, but they could not.
We only had her 2.5 months, but we were so attached to her. We miss her terribly. I was so glad CB's parents were here.
On Friday, I went to Petland and explained that my puppy had just died and they let me hold a yorkie puppy back in one of their offices. I held it and cried and cried and told Prissy goodbye. I needed to do that! They were very nice.
Now for a bright side. The breeder we got Prissy from found out and told my friend Tracy that there is a another litter due New Year's eve, and we can have one of Prissy's sisters. I am very hopeful, we both are.
I am so grateful for all the sweet Facebook notes, emails, texts, calls, plants, flowers, even a bear to hold. I am so lucky to have such great friends and family!

BYE BYE SUMMER!

2009-08-31T07:20:00.002-05:00

I can't believe we are approaching Labor Day Weekend, signaling the end of Summer 2009. It has truly been a great summer. The July 4th weekend was fabulous, went to Vegas with my family, got Prissy, went to Texas to see the Bartleys, and ending the summer going to see the grandkids! We have had many weekends of playing cards, and a few in front of the chiminea. Yes, see my little Prissy? She is so precious, and we both are crazy about her.
The high today is going to be 72 degrees! The last 2 weekends have been similar! FALL is on the way!!

INTRODUCING...........PRISSY!!!

2009-08-03T21:59:00.002-05:00

This is my new puppy, PRISSY! She is so cute, however I DO wish she would sleep more at night...but she will, she will!! The 3 of us are driving to Texas on Wednesday, that should be fun. But she loves to be held. Her little bladder is still very unpredictable.....but we sure are crazy about her....yes, even CB!

LAS VEGAS 2009

2009-07-30T20:04:00.003-05:00

Left July 5th to go to Vegas with my siblings. We had so much fun! I WANTED TO WIN ENOUGH $ FOR MY PUPPY! I was up $175 on penny slots, so I decided I best move up to the higher $...and yes, I lost it. So, no puppy yet! But had a great time with the family. We laughed and laughed all week! We stayed at the Bellajio. It was beautiful.

JULY 4TH FUN!

2009-07-30T20:00:00.003-05:00

The best week I can remember....Friday, July 3rd, we attended I Love America, full of fun, food, and friends. It was actually very cool when the sun went down. Great fun with great friends. We also went to the Springfield Cardinals baseball game on July 4th, with fabulous fireworks again!

MORE WOMEN OF FAITH PHOTOS

2009-07-30T19:45:00.002-05:00

Still feeling the affects of this fabulous weekend. Already have people lined up to go with us next year!

WEATHER!

2009-07-17T07:12:00.002-05:00

In will post about my great vacation later, but I HAD to comment on the weather! First, last week we were in Vegas with temps over 100 everyday. It was STILL more bearable than here! No humidity (2%), but here it has been horrible. Anywho, it is going to be 80 today and tomorrow and down in the 50s at night!!!!! We can breathe!!!!!!!

WOMEN OF FAITH 2009

2009-06-30T19:45:00.007-05:00

One of the things we LOVE to do is eat these handmade crepes at the hotel we stay. The buffet is $20 and it is worth every penny (our husbands don't understand). These crepes are to die for!!!

Well, you know we are Women of Faith pros(or we THINK we are). I have been every year but 1 since they started in 1996. They have changed the convention center name several times in St. Louis, so when another name showed up on the instructions, I thought nothing of it. We buy are metrolink tickets and off we go to Union Station to eat and sit in the massage chairs. We left about 5:30 to walk to the Convention Center. It was so horribly hot, and we wondered where all the women were. As we arrived, Lisa tried to open the door and there was some rather grungy men at the door, and they said it was locked. We were very indignant and said oh no it isn't. They said we were at the wrong place! WELL!!!!!!!!! Being the group leader, I yanked out my paper and said no we aren't.....well, yes we were. They changed locations, and I hadn't noticed!!! The WWE (wrestling) was to be there that night! Those men offered to take us to the correct place for $10 a piece!!! We said no thanks, and caught a cab (ask Dana about that) and got there in plenty of time. It was actually the best Women of Faith ever.

Now comes my second favorite HOLIDAY of the year...JULY 4TH! I Love America Friday, Cardinal game Saturday...and Sunday? We leave for vacation with my brothers and sister.
We return on the 9th....and guess what starts THAT night?? BIG BROTHER 11!! YIPPPEE!

PRAISE THE LORD!

2009-06-22T21:31:00.002-05:00

Our Kristin is doing GREAT! Well, she is sick to her tummy and is in some pain, but all is well. The tumor scar tissue was NOT attached to anything, including, thank goodness, her heart! We saw a picture and it was 3 inches long. It was huge for her little chest. But we are so thankful it is out, and she didn't have to go to ICU, and was talking with us this afternoon. Instead of a week or two, she will get to go home in a few days! We know who to THANK!! And thank YOU for your prayers!

KRISTIN

2009-06-21T21:24:00.003-05:00

Please pray for our Kristin Monday, June 22. Her surgery is at 9a, she has to be at the hospital at 5a. They are removing scar tissue from her tumor, which is around her heart. They are not sure where it has attached itself........ We know God is in control! Also pray for Clint, and Ted and Jody, her parents. Thank you

PANCAKES IS A WOMAN!!!

2009-06-20T22:31:00.003-05:00

Clint and Kristin went on an anniversary trip last week, and guess what happened to little Pancakes? All I can say is, I hope I get one of her puppies the NEXT time she does this. Isn't she cute in her little foo foo panties? And Tobi got a boy yorkie puppy, sooooooooo.........well you get the picture!

The next two weekends are going to be FABULOUS! Next weekend is Women of Faith, and then the next is I LOVE AMERICA on July 3rd, the Springfield Cardinals game July 4th, complete with more Fireworks, and then we leave July 5th for Vegas with all my siblings from Texas!!

We had a great time this weekend playing cards and laughing and working at the Concession Stand. We spent tonight at home, with Panckaes and Colby, while Clint and Kristin were at the lake with the McMurrys. Please pray for Kristin, she has major surgery Monday at 1p to remove her tumor scar tissue around her heart.

CHARLES TURNS 50!!!! Married 30!!

2009-06-15T19:39:00.003-05:00

Regardless of his wishes, CB's 50th birthday came. Thanks to Kathy and Dana for filling the living room with shredded paper, forking our yard, and ATTEMPTING to fill his car with black balloons (he caught them doing this). Also, our Sunday School class wore black and we had breakfast (last pic).With the help of Dayla, his office staff wore black and had a potluck lunch for him. I had 2 manager friends, Katrina and Trudie, to decorate his office too! It was fun, well for me anyway. Now on to a busy summer!

Oh, today, June 16, 2009 is our 30th anniversary! And still happily married!

SOMEONE'S BIRTHDAY IS COMING!!!!!

2009-05-25T20:11:00.003-05:00

Poor CB. This was the second in what I am sure is a string of 'paybacks' from people! We came home from OK and found this in our yard! Last week, CB came home to find the living room and his chair covered in shredded paper! And his birthday is 12 days away! Poor CB.

We have had a GREAT weekend. CB was off all day Friday and I took half the day off and we went to OK to see the grandkids. It was a great visit. Sunday we went to the Arnolds with the Comstocks to eat and play games until almost midnight! And today!! Nothing! It is 8:15pm and I am still in my pjs!! Lazy girl!

SIX weeks until vacation! Going to Vegas with my siblings! This Saturday starts the weekly concession stand!

Hope your weekend was great. I am very mindful of the sacrifices many have made for our freedom. THANK YOU!

JUST A LITTLE UPDATE

2009-05-08T07:33:00.002-05:00

Remember me? My name is Toy Helen!! First let me make this clear...I still want a Yorkie Girl Puppy! CB bought me a car 2 weeks ago, and I said thank you I love it, but...............

I went to my annual MGMA conference at Tan Tara the first of this week. I leave Sunday to help Sammye (my mother in law). She is having a total knee replacement, so I will be staying with her at the hospital. So, I have (well, HAD) 3 days to do 2 weeks of work. Not working out too well for me! And as I type this, those big storms are about to hit the area, and I sure don't want to get my cute car out in it. It is a 2008 white Impala LTZ!

The Emergency Department is busier than ever! And yes, everyone thinks they have the swine flu.

I want to plant flowers this weekend, but I am not sure I can squeeze that in. With the Arnolds and Comstocks tonight and tomorrow night we have a birthday party to go to, and I fly out Sunday at 3:30.

So, there you have it. I love my life, I love my husband, I love my job and I love my Saviour!!

I WANT A TOY YORKIE GIRL PUPPY......

2009-04-05T18:13:00.005-05:00

....and when I told CB what I wanted, the above is what I got!! All in my chair! He is funny, isn't he? I have even named her....PRISSY! Not the pink puppy...my NEW puppy I'm gonna get someday! But she has to be little....and PRISSY!

NOT NEAR AS EXCITING.....

2009-03-31T07:03:00.004-05:00

My little blog here isn't near as exciting as the Guatemala folks. I can't wait to hear all about what they did and what they saw. But, I HAD to blog, since it has been so long.

As you can see, we grand-dog sat all week while the kids were in Florida. Colby (the weenie dog) just lays on my lap! Little Pancakes crawls under everything, she actually found a couple of things I have been missing, and generally tries to find trouble to get into. But she is so cute. Anyway they went home last night. My feet were not as warm, since Colby wasn't there!

Another great thing about having the dogs is we stayed home every night last week. THAT was nice (and rare). This week is very busy....
Tuesday - Going to St. John's Award Banquet - I am on a committee that won an award, so I have to be there.
Wednesday - church
Thursday - Dinner with friends from work, always good to visit with them
One night this weekend, we will be with the Arnolds and Comstocks.....gotta play games ya know.

I am ready to open my windows and let the warm air in, aren't you?

BEAUTIFUL SPRING!

2009-03-30T21:00:00.005-05:00

in the yard behind us...so pretty...a Bradford Pear

LOOK WHO IS 50.........

2009-03-30T19:05:00.006-05:00

We had a fabulous time at FLAME for Kathy's birthday dinner, as you can see. Then we went back to the Arnolds for a surprise gathering of a few friends. Always fun when we are together.

70'S/SNOW/ALMOST 80!!!!!

2009-03-03T06:32:00.005-06:00

These pictures are right outside my back door!!!! Last Thursday, it was 70 and gorgeous! We woke up Saturday to THIS!!! But......as luck would have it, we should be approaching 80 (well in the 70s anyway) this Thursday. Most of the snow is gone, except on the north side of buildings and under trees. But I hear birds every morning. And DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME will be here this weekend. I hate to lose the hour, it seems like weeks before I feel recovered, but I LOVE more sun in the day!! Again I say....COME ON SPRING!! We impatiently wait.....

BLOGGING VS FACEBOOK

2009-02-26T06:14:00.002-06:00

I have SO neglected blogging. One reason is, my camera is put away since the holidays are long over, so I forget to get it out. And, I am on Facebook all the time when I am at home. But, that is just 'snipits' of what is going on in people's lives. Some people are really hurting.....

Another weekend with friends. (5th or 6th in a row I think) The Arnolds will be gone next weekend to see that beautifull granddaughter!

Have any of you been to Houlahans? We all went February 13th and it was fabulous! We are going again tomorrow night. Then cards and SEQUENCE!

We REALLY need to clean house Saturday.....wonder if we will get to it!! The Wii calls us every chance we get.

Today is Kristin's birthday! Happy Birthday sweetie!!!!! Make Clint treat you like a Queen. Never mind, he should be doing that anyway!

CB is kinda sick. Sore throat, cough. He isn't in bed or anything, but I hear him coughing now.

The Emergency Dept is still so busy. 4 to 9 hour waits almost continuous, and we have a hard time ever clearing out the waiting room these days! Enough said.....

Well, there you have it. LOST and 24 are the best TV shows of 2009!

TORNADOS!!!

2009-02-12T07:00:00.002-06:00

YES!! February the 10th, of all times, but Springfield had an F1 tornado go through Tuesday night. We didn't know it, no sirens, it snuck up on everyone and we were fast asleep, but when I got up the next morning, I heard it hit at Lark and Republic Rd (HEY!!!! That is where Clint and Kristin live). They are fine, and did not hear anything. Then, when I got to work, I saw that several businesses directly across the street from the Emergency Dept had damage! One is a floral shop (poor things, bad timing). Anyway, no reports of injuries, just roofs gone and windows blown in.

WHO LOVES "LOST"? Goodness it is so good and intriguing!!

EPIC PICTURES

2009-02-09T07:00:00.005-06:00

These pictures were all taken as we were going LIVE about 5:00a.m. on January 11, 2009. The first picture is Lane hugging goodbye to the T-Sheets (the paper charts we used up until this point). Actually this night went fine, we weren't very busy, but then...the week came!! But as you can see, we HAVE made it, with a few bruises and scraps, and we have more obstacles to conquer. But we will, one at a time! Anyway, an exciting time in the history of Mercy St. John's!

EARLY JANUARY AND TOBI'S VISIT

2009-02-08T22:05:00.002-06:00

This is a combo of our late Christmas with Clint, Kristin, Colby and Pancakes. Clint's surgery was responsible for delay in our celebration! And a couple of weekends after that, Tobi and the kids came for a quick visit. We had a lot of fun then too. The girls and I went and had manicures and I introduced then to Cashew Chicken after that. After some protest, they went and LOVED it! They wanted it again the next day for lunch.

Sad football is over.....not a basketball fan.....

January 2009 was VERY busy!

A NEW WEEK.......

2009-01-19T07:03:00.002-06:00

I am not foolish enough to think the EPIC GO LIVE activities are over. We still have a doc who has not worked yet. We have some that are getting it, and some that are still struggling. I will sure do what I can to help those......BUT

I HAVE to work in my office. I am so far behind on things, especially March schedule. That is what I HAVE to do this week.

I did rest quite a bit this weekend. I slept 3 hours yesterday, and yes, I went to bed at normal time and went right to sleep.

Clint and Kristin are fine. They cut hours for Kristin, and Clint is working ALOT due to EPIC. He worked all weekend.

Scott is working like crazy, and Tobi had a tooth pulled and it still is bothering her, which bugs me. She is calling the dentist today.

CB is fine, cute as ever........ He is glad I will be home at normal times (hopefully) this week. ME TOO

NEVER BEEN........

2009-01-15T08:12:00.002-06:00

I cannot recall when I have EVER been this tired, this long!!! WAAAAHHHHHHH! Poor me huh? I am sleeping when I can, and resting when I can....surely it isn't that I am too old for this kind of schedule I am keeping? Not sure how long I will work today, and tomorrow I will work from 3p-12a. I HOPE to be off this weekend. Saturday is busy with "fun" stuff.

THINGS I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO IN 2009

2009-01-11T20:27:00.004-06:00

* One good snow (NO ICE) before spring

* EPIC newness to wear off

* American Idol, 24, LOST, Big Brother

* Seeing family throughout the year

* Women of Faith in June

* I Love America July 4th

* Las Vegas Trip July 5th with my family

* Playing cards with friends every weekend possible

That's just the first half of the year! Who knows what the last half will bring!!

ANNUAL NEW YEAR'S EVE P.J. PARTY 2008

2009-01-07T22:45:00.002-06:00

Here we are!! We got in our pjs as soon as everyone got to our house and got settled. CB cooked steaks and we had a fabulous dinner. Then on to Hand and Foot, a very long game, which we didn't finish. Kathy was not feeling well, and I still was 'under the weather', so we actually were all in bed by 1:30am. We got up at 8 and cooked breakfast and everyone went their own ways to complete the holiday. We spent the rest of the day taking down decorations while watching football.

WHEW!! I think I am caught up blogging!!

This weekend St. John's goes live on our new electronic medical record (EPIC)! Last weekend we had 8 hour waits in the ED!! Uh, I can't imagine what it will be like THIS weekend, but all I can say is I will be there!! Pray for us!!!

ANNA'S ADOPTION

2009-01-07T22:33:00.003-06:00

On New Year's Eve, I went to the doctor, then to get my nails done (most important), and then I picked up Clint and we went to Hinodes for lunch. Then picked up CB and we went to Anna's adoption. I think there were about 25 of us there! It was very heartwarming to watch, I never had witnessed anything like that before. And we were honored to be a part.

Went home after the proceedings and took a long nap, to prepare for our annual party....next blog

BARTLEY'S CHRISTMAS

2009-01-06T22:39:00.003-06:00

We left Sunday morning from Tobi's to Texas and Sammye had a delicious turkey and dressing lunch waiting on us. Monday we drove to Hillsboro to see the family there. We had very nice visits. We had a wonderful time (other than me still being sick) and our time in Texas came to an end too quickly. We miss Texas......anyway, before I left I called and made a doctors appointment for the next day (New Years Eve). I am finally feeling better!

CHRISTMAS AT TOBI'S

2009-01-06T06:21:00.005-06:00

I am a pitiful Grandma! I got only one picture of the kids, but then again, they were never together in one room after this picture. That is Zac, Brandon (left) and Kyli, Josh, and Megan (right). We had dinner and went back to Scott and Tobi's and opened presents. The second picture is of their new Boxer puppy, Rocky. He is the cutest thing, and I held him as much as I could. He is a sweetie. I was pretty sick, so we went to bed at midnight (Tobi is a night owl and can stay up MUCH later). We had a great day Saturday, it was cold and rainy, and we were in the living room playing Wii and the front door opens, and Tobi stares what seemed like a full minute, and then she screamed "this is the best Christmas present ever", as who was standing there? Clint, Kristin, Pancakes and Colby. They surprised us and drove down for a few hours to be with us. It WAS a great surprise and we had a blast. So, we had, 6 adults, 5 kids, and 3 dogs!! It was fun and all behaved very well, yes, even Pancakes! We left there on Sunday, back to Texas with CB's family. ...next blog!

CRAZY HOLIDAY SEASON!

2009-01-05T07:08:00.003-06:00

Boy this was the busiest Holiday Season ever! I must plan differently or something next year! I have alot to blog, but, I also didn't have my camera at all parties! Anyway, our FIRST trip to Texas was to celebrate Christmas with my family. It was also Tobi's birthday, and she and Scott also came. Clint and Kristin were taking finals and working. We had so much fun, even sat up until 3am on Saturday night chatting (helloooooo! We are old now sibs!! We probably need our sleep!!) Anyway, I knew I could sleep all the way home. And yes we played poker, and guess who was the big winner!! ME!!!! We had so much fun!

PARTIES, MORE PARTIES! SIX!

2008-12-16T22:24:00.003-06:00

We had a great time in Texas with my family, but more about that in another blog. We got back 15 minutes before the rain and freezing rain hit.

Monday night Kristin Bartley had a cookie exchange party, so we went to that. Lots of fun!Tonight we went to our Pastor's house, he had all the adult Sunday School teachers over for dinner. Good fellowship with people we never see as they are in their own classes. Tomorrow night, Praise Team rehearsal. Thursday, I have an office party with the Hospitalists at noon. From 3:00-4:30 the Medical Specialties managers party, some place downtown. From 4:00 to 5:30 the Primary Care managers have a party at Mr. Yens. Then, the last of this week's festivities will be a party at one of my Hospitalists' house for the Hospitalists group Saturday night.

Now besides all that, Clint is having surgery on his shoulder Friday at noon. Kristin has to work Friday and Saturday, so I will take off and be with him. Saturday, we will be with him alot, but I DO have to try and finish Christmas shopping.

So there you have it....I need a NAP!!!!!!!

NOW THAT WAS A WEEKEND!!!

2008-12-08T06:34:00.004-06:00

WHEW! That was a crazy weekend. I believe I am getting old! Not sure I could do that often. But, it really was alot of fun! Only thing, I forgot my camera ALL WEEKEND!!!!!

Friday night we went to Highland Springs for the St. John's OB/GYN Christmas Party. The food was fabulous, as was the entertainment. It was alot of fun. Afterward, one of CB's docs had an "after party" at his home in Highland Springs. We went and it was most interesting and fun. There were alot of folks there that were not at Highland Springs, the large house was FULL! We stayed about 45 minutes.

Saturday, we slept late, cooked a late breakfast and then off to the next party. It was our Sunday School class party. If you remember in years past, we have this pair of HO HO HO boxers that we 're-gift'! Guess who got them this year? YEP! CB did! We had a great turn out and alot of fun! Then off to our next party in Marshfield to one of MY docs. Another full house, great food, great friends. The attached picture was taken there. Ty (Kristin's brother), Kristin, Clint, me and CB!

So.....I took a looooooong nap yesterday and ready to start this week. Only working 4 days, we leave Friday for Texas to celebrate Christmas with my family. I will try and remember my camera!!!!!!!!

THE START OF A BUSY HOLIDAY SEASON...

2008-12-01T06:05:00.002-06:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...... it has been snowing, well, flurries mostly, all day. The ground is warm, so all we have is a dusting, but it has been in the low 30s all day! All our decorations are up and this week will be the only full week of work for me for the whole month of Decemeber. But here is my week...
Monday - I'm home after work, but I need to bake
Tuesday - First Christmas Party with the ladies I lunch with monthly, husbands included!
Wednesday - Never home on Wednesday night - Praise Team rehearsal
Thursday - Actually it is mine and Lisa Miller Conover's BIRTHDAY dinner at Nakatos (we are
running behind)
Friday - CB's department Christmas Party at Highland Springs
Saturday - TWO Christmas Parties - First will be our Sunday School class party in the afternoon.
Then on to Daryl and Taylor's (Daryl is one of my Emergency docs) for another fun
party.
Sunday - Christmas Choir Sunday!
The next weekend, off to Texas for Christmas with my side of the family....

COLBY

2008-11-30T20:56:00.005-06:00

Isn't that funny?? Now this was Thanksgiving afternoon and Colby got a few small pieces of turkey, so we both were stuffed and ready for a nap. He is so lovable!

THANKSGIVING!

2008-11-27T10:35:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

FUN, RELAXING WEEKEND!

2008-11-24T07:01:00.002-06:00

It was coooold this weekend, but it sure was nice. Friday night we ate dinner at Lone Star with a $10 coupon. Then we went to Walmart and bought ALL the groceries for Thanksgiving. It was not busy at all and we were glad we chose that time to do it. We slept in Saturday, and we cooked breakfast early so I could get to my noon nail appointment. Then we ran errands, bought a few more Christmas presents. I would say we are about 70% done!. Came home and took a nap, and when I got up, we went outside and put the Christmas lights in the bushes. Then, we met the Arnolds and Comstocks at Cracker Barrel for dinner and went back to the Arnolds and watched football. (I LOVE football)!! Church on Sunday and had lunch with the McMurrys and Clint and Kristin, since the McMurrys are leaving Wednesday to see their folks. Took a short nap because we had to be at church at 4:00 for Choir rehearsal. Then, we went with the Arnolds and Comstocks to La Hacienda for yummy Mexican food, all to hurry and be home by 7:00 to watch 24. And it did NOT disappoint!

Now a short work week. Hope to only work half a day on Wednesday, and off Thursday and Friday! We will be decorating for Christmas this weekend!

NEWEST MEMBER......PANCAKES

2008-11-18T06:58:00.003-06:00

Well, here she is!!!! Pancakes! You can see the reason Clint and Kristin got her so early after we lost little Franklin. Colby needed a sibling! She cares nothing about anyone but Colby! She is 10 weeks old, and Clint has not experienced training a 'puppy'! Won't that be fun for him? Colby is once again himself. They will ALL be here for Thanksgiving. It will be an experience for ALL of us to have a puppy here! She is cute, isn't she?

FABULOUS WEEKEND

2008-11-16T21:53:00.003-06:00

We had a fabulous weekend! CB and I both took off Friday, and we slept in. We met the Comstocks at 1:00 and headed to Kansas City to meet the Arnolds. They were attending a Missouri State Teachers convention. Our rooms were close together. We went to dinner and a little shopping at Crown Center before going back to our room and playing cards and yes, eating the snacks we brought. We had great rooms and comfortable beds too. We went to the Plaza on Saturday, but it was too cold to do much shopping there, but we certainly managed to eat at the Cheesecake Factory. Then we had a nice ride home, girls in one car and boys in the other. The girls were the head car and we just HAD to stop at the Dollar Store and Target before we got on the road home. We told the boys they could go on, but they stayed right with us! So relaxing and fun fun fun!!!

HO HUM

2008-11-06T06:31:00.005-06:00

I am trying to make myself blog. It has been a week since Franklin ran in front of a car. I am still so sad. I know, I know, he was a dog and not mine, but I still feel responsible. Clint and Kristin actually have got a new puppy, she is cute and I am sure I will love her too, but she isn't Franklin....

Anyway, lets see...all Halloween decorations are down and Thanksgiving is up. Tobi and fam cannot come for Thanksgiving. I pulled my annual Thanksgiving grocery list (good idea, huh, keeping the list for every year) and trying to get excited about that.

Work....in EPIC (elctronic medical record) training. Work has been challenging and stressful.

Lots of Holiday parties on the calendar.

CB is good and has been such a support. I love you sweetheart!

Well, that's all I can blog for now.......ho hum!

MISS YOU LITTLE FRANKLIN

2008-11-01T23:05:00.002-05:00

I am so sad, my heart is broken. Franklin got out of our back yard and ran straight to the street and was hit by a car. Clint and Kristin were on the way home from St. Louis and we had to make that horrible call. Little Frank was the apple of Clint's eye. I know as the days go by it will get better. My heart hurts for Clint (and Kristin too). Their other dog, Colby, cried all night, missing his buddy.

THE BARTLEYS VISIT

2008-10-21T07:05:00.003-05:00

We had a FABULOUS time with CB's parents this weekend! I took off Friday and the 3 of us had a fun day. We babysat the dogs on Saturday (Clint worked and Kristin was with her family), and they were very good. As you can see they loved CB's lap, but not as much as the back yard. Anyway, the dogs left Sunday, and the Bartleys left Monday. I was sad....

Cold weather is coming!!! And the Spooky Corn Maze this weekend!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JODY!

2008-10-15T06:34:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday today Jody! We had a SURPRISE PARTY for Jody last Saturday, with family and friends. If you don't know, Jody is Clint's wife's mom. But, Jody was NOT the camera hog!! But Mr Landon Reinhard (one of my docs' son) certainly was! He sure is a doll, as are his 3 sisters!

TOY'S SPOOK HOUSE!

2008-10-10T21:31:00.002-05:00

Here it is my Spooky House. I LOVE Halloween!!! Can you tell? It comes from my Mom, who also loved Halloween. In Texas as a kid, Halloweens are some of my fondest memories. Anyway, I have several spook houses, one that has thunder, a couple of rugs that when you step on it, one screams and one is a ghost moaning. Poor CB tolerates it. I love all holidays, but this is my favorite. TRICK OR TREAT!!!

WEDDING WEEKEND

2008-10-06T07:10:00.003-05:00

What a fun fun weekend! The wedding was so lovely. I took off Friday to be of help and we met at the church at 9:30 to start setting up. It was truly an honor to help. We both love Mandy and Bradley. And Saturday was so beautiful. The wedding was short and sweet, and the reception was so beautiful and fun. And it sure was great to see Clint and Kristin. We rarely see them because of schedules.

Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Tucker!

LAST COUPLE OF WEEKENDS

2008-09-30T07:15:00.000-05:00

Weekend before last, I worked Friday night in the ER. It was so busy, we went on divert, but then, so did Cox, which forces us to go on "Force Open". It was crazy! After work we went to the Arnolds and Dana, Kathy and I sat out by the chiminea all evening. So relaxing. Sunday, we got a one day surprise by having the Donovans at church. We hurried and made plans and they, along with the Comstocks came over for steaks and some cards. Boy, we miss them, and so enjoyed our time together. First picture is Kristin, Dana, spider, and I.

Last weekend was our annual trip with the (used to be Donovans), the Mortons from Texas, and the Hendersons from Oklahoma. Gary's mom passed away and the Mortons were not able to make it. So, CB and I took off for Tulsa on Friday. Buddy and Barbara joined us, and we had a weekend of fun, food and plenty of cards....oh, and MEXICAN FOOD!! Second picture is Ruthetta and Barbara at one Mexican restaurant.

This weekend is another very busy weekend. Our Mandy Britton is gettin' married!! I am sure there will be TONS of posts next week about THAT!

Oh, and WELCOME OCTOBER and cooler weather!

MY DECORATED OFFICE

2008-09-23T07:11:00.003-05:00

One of my docs came in to my office on Sunday and decorated my office for my birthday! I was unable to capture all the balloons on the floor. It was certainly alot of HOOPLA, which I LOVE!! Thanks Daryl, Taylor and Keegan!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

2008-09-16T07:16:00.001-05:00

Here are 3 of my favorite birthday presents. My lantern, I saw back this summer at a Texas Cracker Barrel, but it didn't arrive at our Cracker Barrel until this week (I have been looking). Kathy found it for me. Miss Sharon made me my Halloween blanket, which makes it even more special. Dana bought my purse for me in July (and I got it in July too). I had been looking at them for several months. I LOVE it. Also, Craig Comstock wrote me this poem for my birthday!

Happy Birthday!!!!!! Here is your birthday poem.

The year was 1953
There were some parents excited as can be
They couldn't wait for the arrival of their new baby boy
Low and behold a boy was not to be
Out popped a girl they named Toy

The years have flown by as you can see
Through slips and falls and spills and chills
Toy managed to raise a great family with a guy named CB

Now today September 15, 2008
Toy is 55 and doing great
She is still married to that guy named CB
And she is an outstanding member of AARP

Happy Birthday. See you tonight

Dana, Craig and I all had hair appointments with Kendra yesterday, we were all 3 there at the same time. Now THAT was fun! So afterward the 4 of us went to dinner. One of my docs 'decorated' my office, I will blog that later!!! I did have a GREAT birthday, and I was overwhelmed at all the birthday wishes on Facebook. Thanks to everyone!

LABOR DAY POST

2008-09-13T22:45:00.002-05:00

Would you look at how Franklin and Clint look at each other? Is that so cute? And speaking of cute, look at my daughter in law!! And Colby on CB's lap!! Too cute.

HELLO SEPTEMBER

2008-09-02T06:03:00.002-05:00

So glad summer (mainly weather) is over! Now, you teachers and students out there....I know it is so different for you. I truly am sorry your life is now changed, but I don't have any of those kind of ties. Anyway, I AM sad it is getting dark earlier.

We went to see Tobi, Scott and the grandkids this weekend. They are all doing well. Church was great Sunday, and we went to the Comstocks for mexican food and games Sunday night. SO fun. Monday, Clint, Kristin and the dogs came over and we played a few games and had dinner. Very nice, relaxing weekend.

Now, back to work! Lots of issues there, plus trying to carve out some time to finish the holiday schedules! NOT so fun there at the present time.....

FABULOUS WEEKEND!

2008-08-17T22:35:00.003-05:00

We had a fabulous weekend! The weather was wonderful too. Friday night we went to Cracker Barrell and back to the Arnolds with the Comstocks for an evening of fun and LOTS of laughter. Saturday, we cleaned house all day (boy did it need it!), and went to Dr. Kurz birthday party. Sunday was great and it was my Sunday to rock babies....love that and had lunch at Hinodes...YUM! Then to the "VOLLES" (Volunteer Award Banquet) at church Sunday evening. It was fun and very well done. They had it set up like the emmys, with lots and I mean LOTS of cameras flashing. Too fun!!

Another busy week at work.....Plan to finish the October schedule, then on to the HOLIDAYS schedule! Can you believe it is that time already???

Next weekend, we have a party Friday night with the Praise Team and Praise Band. Saturday we are dog sitting!

Oh, and still lovin' the Olympics!

WEATHER!

2008-08-10T07:15:00.003-05:00

Mercy! The weather was FABULOUS this weekend. I didn't even mind the rain. You don't hear much about rain in August. It was only 80 yesterday, and I don't think we are suppose to HIT 80 today. And only 80s next week. I bet we have another HOT spell, but one can only hope not.

School starts soon....doesn't affect my house, but sorry to those it does. I am always glad to have the college kids back in town. Springfield is so different in the summer....

That's what's on my mind this morning!! Oh, and WHO LOVES THE OLYMPICS?????? I DO!

2008-07-31T22:01:00.002-05:00

I don't know how to put an actual YouTube on here like Mark does, but here are a couple of videos we shot at the Burns portion of our Texas vacation

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wz255VOufuA

http://www.youtube.com/user/GinTren

We left for Texas last Tuesday and had a relaxing trip. Arrived at the Bartleys around 5pm. We had a wondeful time, and enjoyed our trip to Hillsboro too. Then we spent Friday and Saturday at Honey's. We had fun there playing poker, and caught a few folks sleeping!

Had a nice trip back (yes, I slept most of the way home). It gets harder to leave everytime we go to Texas.....

Worked at the OzarkFair Monday through Wednesday nights. Weird Al was there Monday night to a sold out crowd (REALLY????) Yes, I saw them.....Tuesday night was Mark Chapman and Candy Colburn (no I don't know them either) thank goodness their familes came to see them. MAYBE 150 people there. Last night was Ricky Skaggs....who likes bluegrass??? Nope not me. But, I had a good time working with friends and chatting and watching the fair people! Another year of that is over.

Having a nice HOT weekend. Going to Flame tomorrow night, and errands, and I have to work some this weekend, but in my cool chair at home.

I hope to get some pictures to post from the snoring eldest brother!

TIRED AND EXCITED

2008-07-21T06:52:00.002-05:00

I had a busy week at work. Completed ALL year end data and financials, AND completed and put out SEPTEMBER for the Mid Levels and the Docs. I can now go to Texas without any work pressure.

So we finished up 10TH INNING KIDS on Saturday ( worked in the ER until 1:30 a.m. on Friday night), even though it drizzled most of the day. We also cooked, prepared and sold 40 hamburgers. Thats all we had, and we were turning folks away. WHO KNEW? We did not "close down" the stand, we had to get home as we were babysitting the dogs. Always fun, but WHEW! Glad we don't have them all the time.

Last night we went to Mandy and Bradley's engagement party at the Wilsons. Lots of fun, and caught up with some folks we don't see often. Busy time for them, since the wedding is the first of October.

OH!!! And I got my first BIRTHDAY PRESENT!! A fabulous handbag from Dana. I LOVE it! I haven't had time to take a picture of it. We are getting ready to leave for Texas tomorrow. Working today, getting my nails done, and house chores and packing, oh and my Avon order is due tonight also. SO......I am looking forward to some rest and sleep in the car on the way tomorrow. Although, I am worried what the car ride will do to my hip. It is some better after my injection, but still flares up from time to time.

Well, I will blog upon our return.

END OF JULY POTPOURRI

2008-07-14T22:09:00.005-05:00

Well, let's see! It is year end at work, but I am almost done. Then trying to get September schedule out (you know, my BIRTHDAY MONTH). And of course BIG BROTHER 10! So far enjoying it. We have 39 people in our POT.

Going to Texas next week. Visiting the Bartleys 2 days and my family 2 days, and of course 2 days of travel. Getting excited about that. And then THE OZARK EMPIRE FAIR!!

Clint will be 27 on Wednesday. Happy Birthday SONNY! That's all I got for now........

JULY 4TH FESTIVITIES.....BLOGGED!

2008-07-07T07:02:00.002-05:00

SO much fun. One of the best Fourths in a long time. We started off with:

1. decorations at Kathy's and a delicious BBQ meal
2-6. And then the cards began. We played Hand and Foot, which we haven't played in so long. And then we played rummy. We stayed out until 1230!! Much to John Paul's disgust! He wanted to know just what we were doing that long. I told Dana to record that, she'll need it very soon...

I neglected to take pictures, but Clint, Kristin and the dogs came over July 4th AM for breakfast, and cards.

7-10. We went to the McMurry's (Kristin's parents) for burgers and swiming around 5p. Had great burgers and a great time. The Reinhards (minus Kevin, SOMEONE had him working!!!) were there with us. Great time!

11. Then off to High Street to watch the "I Love America" fireworks with the Arnolds. We could hear Music. Clint and I decided we will go to ILA instead of FireFall next year (What's wrong with both???) {I MIGHT get CB to respond to THAT one}

12-16. Sunday night we went to the Prosch's annual 4th party, along with about 50 others. It was a great time of food and fellowship. We saw folks we never see, or never run into at church. Always a great time! Thank you Roy and Joyce!

Well, there you have it! Oh!! I left out Saturday. CB and I had a great time running errands. I slept until 10, and I might have slept longer but I got a leg cramp that woke me. We met Craig and Dana at Marias for dinner, and then the plan was to go to the movie at 930. We decided to go to the $ Store and get some candy (and we went to the Pet Store next door too). Then we were off to the movie.....except. CB and I hopped in our car and!!! DEAD! So after a couple of hours messing with that (and missing the movie time) we all went back to our house and had chocolate cake and played cards! Still a great time (CB would disagreee, as car trouble REALLY bugs men, doesn't it???). And Sunday at church, after Sunday school, I was asked to work in the newborn nursery. DARN! Kidding, I LOVE rocking babies all morning.

So as I said before, a really FABULOUS weekend. Now, back to work, as it is year-end!

HAPPY JULY 4TH

2008-07-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

Happy 4th of July to everyone! We have lots of plans these next few days. Tonight we are going to the Arnolds with the Comstocks for a BBQ and cards! If it doesn't rain we will sit by the chiminea! Clint and Kristin are coming for breakfast July 4th and maybe a game of croquet. Karen may be coming over in the afternoon and we will grill burgers. If she doesn't make it, we have an invitation to a 4th party a few blocks away. And then of course, we will go and watch fireworks at 9:00p.m. Saturday we have errands and plan to catch a movie. Sunday am is church, and then another 4th party Sunday evening. Fun Fun!

2 weeks of work and then we get to go to Texas for almost a week. And when we come back it is FAIR TIME!!

FIREFALL 2008.....FINALLY

2008-07-01T06:40:00.005-05:00

Springfield has had over 42 inches of rain thus far this year! And alot of it fell on.....FIREFALL day. I got up and continued my chicken 'cookin' because I just KNEW it was going to stop. Remember LAST year it rained on Firefall day, and we did not get to go. Anyway, after resolving that we were not having FireFall, and making alternative plans for the evening, I went for a nap. CB came in and woke me saying I got my wish, they had postponed FireFall to SUNDAY! Got to have lunch with Clint and Kristin, had a nice nap AND went to FireFall. Couldn't be a better day. We sat in the sun and never even sweat, it didn't get out of the 70s, and we all covered up in blankets during the fireworks display! I do not know how we find the smokers, but we always seem to get surrounded by them.

It was such a fun evening, and the fireworks were wonderful. Also, we got interviewed by the Springfield Newsleader. And who is quoted on the FRONT PAGE of the paper on Monday....ME! Also, later on in the article, Carole Miller is quoted about coming for someone's fabulous chicken!! That's mine (thanks Vicki Whitfield for the recipe several years ago). Anyway, click below

http://www.news-leader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080630/NEWS01/806300385/1007

HIP BURSITIS

2008-06-25T06:48:00.003-05:00

Well, I finally went to the doctor yesterday about my dang right hip that has been hurting for months (it is hard to admit that SOMEONE is getting OLD). Anyway, after getting the diagnosis, and finding out what is going on, and getting an injection in the ole right hip, I sat down and just cried (from relief). I couldn't understand why stairs and long walks were so painful......

What is hip bursitis and what symptoms does it cause?
There are two major bursae of the hip, which can both be associated with stiffness and pain around the hip joint. The trochanteric bursa is located on the side of the hip. It is separated significantly from the actual hip joint by tissue and bone. Trochanteric bursitis frequently causes tenderness of the outer hip, making it difficult for patients to lie on the involved side, frequently making sleep difficult. It also causes a dull, burning pain on the outer hip that is often made worse with excessive walking or stair climbing. The ischial bursa is located in the upper buttock area. It can cause dull pain in this area that is most noticeable climbing up hill.

I requested pool therapy, as I will win this battle, now that I know what I am battling!

TORNADOS IN MISSOURI

2008-06-22T21:13:00.002-05:00

Being from Texas, tornados are pretty common...but this has been the MISSOURI TORNADO YEAR 2008! We had one right by the church on Thursday around 3:30p.m. Clint was even calling around being sure his parents were safe. CB was at his clinic, and I was in Clinic Adminstration in meetings, so we were safe. The tornado was spotted right by the park by our house! We did not have any damage. As you can see our 10th Inning fields were damaged...BUT NOT THE CONCESSION STAND!

But lets talk about the concesssion stand. Since the season began Memorial weekend, we have opened the stand ONE Saturday, and at that, we closed early due to storms in the area. We did not open this Saturday, as there was too much tornado damage to the fields, as I said earlier.

Now, let me whine just a little. We have had almost 12 inches of rain this month, and the record is 13 inches. They forcast rain EVERY DAY this week, including Saturday. Must I remind you of what Saturday is?????? FIREFALL!!!!! My second favorite day of the year (first is Halloween, of course). FIREFALL was rained out LAST year....I am praying that mother nature will behave and let us enjoy a fun filled day with friends and fabulous fireworks!!!!!!

Thanks Mark for letting me use your tornado pics!

WOMEN OF FAITH 2008

2008-06-18T06:39:00.005-05:00

OH MY GOODNESS! I cannot even explain the blessing we received attending this year's conference. It is simply unbelievable. Kathy, Lisa, Dana and myself headed out Thursday for a fabulous weekend. We were quite put out because at the fancy hotel we were staying, the breakfast buffet was $20!! Seriously??? Well, we went Friday morning cuz we were hungry, and we were introduced to the best made to order crepes we have EVER had. Saturday morning we got up at 5:30 to spend that $20 again!!!

The 2nd picture is a group of St John's managers who also attended Women of Faith, 3 for the first time, but, they ALL said not the last! Once you go, you will move heaven and earth to attend again. We got a special treat, as Natalie Grant was NOT scheduled to be there, but she was......oh my!!!!! Nicole C Mullin was fabulous all on her own, but she had some kids with her...well, they ROCKED! The WORSHIP TEAM was phenomenal, and the speakers out did themselves. Well, I could go on and on...

Next year, it will be in KC, March 13 and 14....

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY CHARLES & TOY

2008-06-15T21:47:00.003-05:00

29 YEARS

We have been married 29 years today!

THE WEDDING AND RECEPTION JUNE 7, 2008

2008-06-11T06:54:00.003-05:00

We spent 2.5 hours taking pictures before the wedding. And Kristin looked as beautiful at the end of all that as she did at the beginning. We had so much fun, and then the reception was also a blast. It was warm in the ballroom, but it didn't stop the fun. The last picture is Clint and his sister, Tobi. Where they are, there is ALWAYS a party, and lots of laughing. My batteries went out before I could get pictures of my eldest brother, who I think, aside from the bride and groom, danced the most.

The happy couple are on their honeymoon in Mexico finally, after having their flights canceled due to weather on Monday. We are babysitting the dogs, and they are behaving, but also reminding me I do not want an animal. I will borrow theirs occassionally.

To our annual Women Of Faith conference tomorrow in St. Louis! Can't wait. All total, I think there is about 20 of us going, alot of managers from St. John's attending. And then....FIREFALL!

PREPARATION BEFORE THE WEDDING

2008-06-10T05:28:00.003-05:00

1. Tobi's family
2. Justin and Channing...we are waiting on the Bride.
3. Clint, Robert and Ty deep in rehearsal, as you can see, very serious
4. My family met for breakfast on the wedding morning, and then the wedding party is off to the salon
5. Kristin is getting her hair done and reading a letter we brought her from Clint
6. Tobi getting all dolled up
7. Finishing touches on our bride
8. The wedding party waiting on the mothers to get beautiful
9. What fun we all had there....

And then off to the church by 1:00.....Clint and Kristin were to see each other around 1:30 so they could start all the picture taking. Another post later

MR.AND MRS. CLINT BARTLEY

2008-06-09T07:11:00.001-05:00

Here they are. We had a wonderful time at the wedding and I will blog more later, but wanted to post a picture of them.

THE DAY HAS ARRIVED!

2008-06-06T23:33:00.002-05:00

The day is here! The rehearsal went well, and the rehearsal dinner was great. Thanks to Dana and Kathy for taking care of things. A good time was had by all, and it is so wonderful to have all our family around! The wedding is at 5:30, and we have to be at the beauty shop at 10:30, and then straight to the church. It will be a long day, but a fun one too. We are lucky to have Clint marrying into a good family. I will post pics when I can!! HAPPY WEDDING!