Bluebonnet weekend!!!
Going with my daughters’ families to find patches that haven’t been squashed to death by other people’s fannies. A friend of the family is going to be our guide and photographer. She apparently has found great spots that aren’t located roadside. No having to dodge cars (& other people on the same mission) while trying to park and click. And it will be easier – and safer – to keep the kids in check.
I’m sure that the weather will be great. Not too hot. Not too sunny. Nothing ruins a picture more than everyone squinting in unison when everyone yells, “Cheese!!”
The wildflowers will only be “good” for another 2 weeks, so this is bluebonnet picture takin’ prime time.
Tomorrow you’ll find me in a little piece of Heaven (because I’m so sure that Heaven is blanketed with gorgeous wildflowers, but especially bluebonnets), chasing Gkids, holding hands with my sweetheart, teasing my daughters, laughing at my SIL’s jokes, posing, tickling and having the time of my life.
What could be better than that!?!
Friday, March 30, 2012
Thursday, March 29, 2012
March 29, 2012
I love my critters.
But they can be SO expensive.
Yesterday a trip to the vet for my 2 pups due to multiple ear infections, annual checkup, meds, treatments, cleanings, pokings & proddings. Translation: I’m officially broke. Not poor. Just broke. To the point that I have a new rule as far as my DH goes.
Under no circumstances is he allowed to pick them up from the vet. EVER. If he knew how much they cost he’d flip. And I even have insurance on them!!! Poor man tolerates my pets. But he loves me, so he puts up with them for my sake.
I’ve always had animals growing up. The standard dogs & cats. When we were 1st married and he went was sent to Germany he asked what I needed to make our house into a home. Oh, that was easy. Books, music and a cat. So, bless his heart (in a good way), when I arrived – there was Samantha. She had belonged to someone else who was shipped back home and he couldn’t take her with him. And when it was time for us to come back home, we shipped her. I wasn’t about to leave her there after we’d had her for almost 3 years. Thankfully, DH was all for it.
Since we’ve had kids we’ve had all sorts of animals. Snakes (that escaped). Ferrets (that escaped). Rats (that escaped). Hermit crabs (that I kept hoping would escape). Cats. Dogs. Dwarf hamster. I think we might have even had fish at one point. We even had exposure to bats (calm down. They are our friends. Trust me.).
We’ve had special dogs, needy cats and everything in between. But all were loved.
There was Boomer who helped save Oldest after he had had an eye injury. The treatment was drugs and isolation to prevent further injury to his eye. When he came home he was afraid to go to bed by himself. Noises scared him. He kept imagining things. Imagine a 3 yr. old with PTSD - that was him.
It was just his body/brain getting rid of all the meds. Trying to return to normal. So – as a last ditch effort – we got a rescue dog. And Boomer was exactly what Oldest needed. “Get in bed with the boy.” And he did. Every night. And they both survived the ordeal.
Youngest has a cat named Cleo that threw tantrums if he’d been away from the house too long. I’d have to call him and ask that he please return home to calm her down. She’d be tearing through the house but as soon as he walked in – she’d do her best “Why, whatever do you mean?” expression. And all he had to do was stroll in the house to help her regain her usual catly royal self.
And there was Hannah who dragged Youngest up & down the street while he was on his bike. But she got back at him by eating one of his textbooks. A fair trade-off.
She loved our kids. Neighborhood kids. Firemen that came to rescue our house (she’d drop a tennis ball at their feet and beg for someone – anyone – to toss it to her. She thought they were new friends come to entertain her. Let’s just say she wasn’t the best watch dog. She’d watch someone take stuff out of the house, but that was about it.). And she loved “her” babies. She let my Gkids crawl, poke, grab and pull on her. Not one growl. Not one curled lip. She just thumped her tail and stayed perfectly still while they had their way with her. She even helped them learn how to walk. Good dog she.
Dogs have been my kids’ running buddies. Exploring the world around them. And listened to many a story, I'm sure.
Cats stayed at home and waited until a lap was available – or if they needed fed. Whichever came 1st. They weren't as eager to go on adventures. Certainly not their role. They are much too regal for that. Why go explore when you can sulk around the house, scream for food, ignore the 2 legged creatures in the house, etc.
Proof that the old saying, "Dogs have owners. Cats have staff." If anyone questions that - just to my house any ol' time and you'll find proof.
DH keeps telling me that when this little motley group of mine is gone that we are not replacing them.
Ha! Says him.
Well, okay. We might just have to come to an "understanding" about that.
Bless his heart.
But they can be SO expensive.
Yesterday a trip to the vet for my 2 pups due to multiple ear infections, annual checkup, meds, treatments, cleanings, pokings & proddings. Translation: I’m officially broke. Not poor. Just broke. To the point that I have a new rule as far as my DH goes.
Under no circumstances is he allowed to pick them up from the vet. EVER. If he knew how much they cost he’d flip. And I even have insurance on them!!! Poor man tolerates my pets. But he loves me, so he puts up with them for my sake.
I’ve always had animals growing up. The standard dogs & cats. When we were 1st married and he went was sent to Germany he asked what I needed to make our house into a home. Oh, that was easy. Books, music and a cat. So, bless his heart (in a good way), when I arrived – there was Samantha. She had belonged to someone else who was shipped back home and he couldn’t take her with him. And when it was time for us to come back home, we shipped her. I wasn’t about to leave her there after we’d had her for almost 3 years. Thankfully, DH was all for it.
Since we’ve had kids we’ve had all sorts of animals. Snakes (that escaped). Ferrets (that escaped). Rats (that escaped). Hermit crabs (that I kept hoping would escape). Cats. Dogs. Dwarf hamster. I think we might have even had fish at one point. We even had exposure to bats (calm down. They are our friends. Trust me.).
We’ve had special dogs, needy cats and everything in between. But all were loved.
There was Boomer who helped save Oldest after he had had an eye injury. The treatment was drugs and isolation to prevent further injury to his eye. When he came home he was afraid to go to bed by himself. Noises scared him. He kept imagining things. Imagine a 3 yr. old with PTSD - that was him.
It was just his body/brain getting rid of all the meds. Trying to return to normal. So – as a last ditch effort – we got a rescue dog. And Boomer was exactly what Oldest needed. “Get in bed with the boy.” And he did. Every night. And they both survived the ordeal.
Youngest has a cat named Cleo that threw tantrums if he’d been away from the house too long. I’d have to call him and ask that he please return home to calm her down. She’d be tearing through the house but as soon as he walked in – she’d do her best “Why, whatever do you mean?” expression. And all he had to do was stroll in the house to help her regain her usual catly royal self.
And there was Hannah who dragged Youngest up & down the street while he was on his bike. But she got back at him by eating one of his textbooks. A fair trade-off.
She loved our kids. Neighborhood kids. Firemen that came to rescue our house (she’d drop a tennis ball at their feet and beg for someone – anyone – to toss it to her. She thought they were new friends come to entertain her. Let’s just say she wasn’t the best watch dog. She’d watch someone take stuff out of the house, but that was about it.). And she loved “her” babies. She let my Gkids crawl, poke, grab and pull on her. Not one growl. Not one curled lip. She just thumped her tail and stayed perfectly still while they had their way with her. She even helped them learn how to walk. Good dog she.
Dogs have been my kids’ running buddies. Exploring the world around them. And listened to many a story, I'm sure.
Cats stayed at home and waited until a lap was available – or if they needed fed. Whichever came 1st. They weren't as eager to go on adventures. Certainly not their role. They are much too regal for that. Why go explore when you can sulk around the house, scream for food, ignore the 2 legged creatures in the house, etc.
Proof that the old saying, "Dogs have owners. Cats have staff." If anyone questions that - just to my house any ol' time and you'll find proof.
DH keeps telling me that when this little motley group of mine is gone that we are not replacing them.
Ha! Says him.
Well, okay. We might just have to come to an "understanding" about that.
Bless his heart.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
March 27, 2012
I'll be happy when our office moves this weekend!
Our office moves on Friday. FINALLY – after 8 months of planning and prep. Then I have to go in on Sunday afternoon to unpack my office. Then be at work @ 7:00 on Monday to participate in the meet & greet committee. This will my favorite assignment of this whole process. I get to tell people where to go. Literally. No fear though. I’ll be nice.
DH had applied for a position w/ the fire department months ago. He’s been waiting for a call to interview. He found out yesterday that the interview process started last week but he didn’t get a call. He’s depressed. He’s grateful for his job but he wants/needs/deserves something with a bit more “meat” on it. He loves a challenge - which is a problem in his current position. Those are few & far between. But everyone please keep praying for him. Hopefully they will call him. There were a lot of applicants so it may take some time for them to schedule everyone. Thinking positive here!
Bluebonnet pictures will be taken this weekend of the Texas branch of the Bratton clan. The boys & the Fiancée out in CA are on their own. I’ve tried to convince them to fly out for the weekend but no takers.
I’m thinking about flying out there at the end of May. Oldest+1 are travelling to Tempe to check out the area, look for apartments, etc. When I approached them with the idea they werw all in favor. Someone has to cat sit. Might as well be me!
They’re moving there in July for him to attend Arizona State. DH is thrilled that it’s “only a 10 hour drive”. No thank you. Flying suits me just fine. I don’t have the patience for a drive through West Texas. Can you say “flat”?
Feeling older today. My 2nd Gson turns 14 today. He gets to go to his 1st stake dance next month. I asked if I could chaperone but Older tried to discourage me by telling me that I could not chaperone one person. Oh, why not? I promised to sit in my corner and keep quiet and would be discreet when taking pictures. She still said no. She can be such a kill joy at times.
Then my 1st Gdaughter turns 13 in June. Gad. I'll be the Mimi to 2 teenagers. But then I get another teenager in August. Woe is me. They're getting older. But then so am I.
I love being a Gparent. Actually I'm better that a grandmother. I'm The Mimi. Much more fun and much better than being a grandmother. I get to spoil 'em rotten. Teach them songs that make their mothers cringe. We get to go on adventures (which aren't as many as they used to be as their social calendars fill up rather quickly with un-grandparently type of things.). And when I've got them all riled up and feisty - back home they go.
I think one of the reasons that I get along so well with all of them is that I'm child-like at times. Not childish (though my Older would disagree). I still find such delight in the world. I try hard to be positive. I see things in the world with child-like wonder and awe. I hope I never lose that.
I remember a quote from when my kids were little - I brought them into this world. I might as well let them show it to me.
Kids see the world with wonder and awe. I am learning a lot from them. And hope to for the rest of my life.
Our kids were lucky. We had their Meemaw (DH's mother) in their lives till Oldest was in his early 20's. They loved her. She doted on them. It was a treat for them to have her in their lives. And it was good for her, too. I want to have the same type of presence in my Gkids lives. And hopefully I'll be around the be The Great Mimi when the time comes.
If you haven't done so lately, call your parent or grandparent ane tell them that you love them. Are grateful for them. And do the same for your kids and Gkids.
Smooches and squishes to everybody!
Now - go take on the day!
Our office moves on Friday. FINALLY – after 8 months of planning and prep. Then I have to go in on Sunday afternoon to unpack my office. Then be at work @ 7:00 on Monday to participate in the meet & greet committee. This will my favorite assignment of this whole process. I get to tell people where to go. Literally. No fear though. I’ll be nice.
DH had applied for a position w/ the fire department months ago. He’s been waiting for a call to interview. He found out yesterday that the interview process started last week but he didn’t get a call. He’s depressed. He’s grateful for his job but he wants/needs/deserves something with a bit more “meat” on it. He loves a challenge - which is a problem in his current position. Those are few & far between. But everyone please keep praying for him. Hopefully they will call him. There were a lot of applicants so it may take some time for them to schedule everyone. Thinking positive here!
Bluebonnet pictures will be taken this weekend of the Texas branch of the Bratton clan. The boys & the Fiancée out in CA are on their own. I’ve tried to convince them to fly out for the weekend but no takers.
I’m thinking about flying out there at the end of May. Oldest+1 are travelling to Tempe to check out the area, look for apartments, etc. When I approached them with the idea they werw all in favor. Someone has to cat sit. Might as well be me!
They’re moving there in July for him to attend Arizona State. DH is thrilled that it’s “only a 10 hour drive”. No thank you. Flying suits me just fine. I don’t have the patience for a drive through West Texas. Can you say “flat”?
Feeling older today. My 2nd Gson turns 14 today. He gets to go to his 1st stake dance next month. I asked if I could chaperone but Older tried to discourage me by telling me that I could not chaperone one person. Oh, why not? I promised to sit in my corner and keep quiet and would be discreet when taking pictures. She still said no. She can be such a kill joy at times.
Then my 1st Gdaughter turns 13 in June. Gad. I'll be the Mimi to 2 teenagers. But then I get another teenager in August. Woe is me. They're getting older. But then so am I.
I love being a Gparent. Actually I'm better that a grandmother. I'm The Mimi. Much more fun and much better than being a grandmother. I get to spoil 'em rotten. Teach them songs that make their mothers cringe. We get to go on adventures (which aren't as many as they used to be as their social calendars fill up rather quickly with un-grandparently type of things.). And when I've got them all riled up and feisty - back home they go.
I think one of the reasons that I get along so well with all of them is that I'm child-like at times. Not childish (though my Older would disagree). I still find such delight in the world. I try hard to be positive. I see things in the world with child-like wonder and awe. I hope I never lose that.
I remember a quote from when my kids were little - I brought them into this world. I might as well let them show it to me.
Kids see the world with wonder and awe. I am learning a lot from them. And hope to for the rest of my life.
Our kids were lucky. We had their Meemaw (DH's mother) in their lives till Oldest was in his early 20's. They loved her. She doted on them. It was a treat for them to have her in their lives. And it was good for her, too. I want to have the same type of presence in my Gkids lives. And hopefully I'll be around the be The Great Mimi when the time comes.
If you haven't done so lately, call your parent or grandparent ane tell them that you love them. Are grateful for them. And do the same for your kids and Gkids.
Smooches and squishes to everybody!
Now - go take on the day!
Monday, March 26, 2012
March 26, 2012
I love technology – when it works.
And work yesterday it did. Well, sort of. But not at first.
I was working on Jim’s laptop trying to get into a very cool website that I learned about in Relief Society. www.createfan.com is a cool tool for genealogy work. Instead of all the info displayed in a form or on a tree, it’s on a fan. Extremely cool visual. Let’s you see in a very unique way how much of your genealogy has been done, who’s missing, etc.
Now I’m grateful that Jim has a laptop. But it is s-l-o-w. And my patience runs out way before I can get logged in, registered, etc. Kept getting kicked out. The site just would not let me in to play. At this point I’m thinking “ball peen hammer” when, out of the blue, ta da! Oldest and Our Girl are video calling me!
Of course I’m a dork where all things technical are concerned, so it took DH a bit to get me set up. I could hear/see them, but they could only hear me. Which I didn’t realize when I made the comment that if I had known they were calling I’d have put on a bra (do NOT insert mental picture here). Oldest told me that it was okay because he had his “bro” on. (Now you can insert your mental picture right here.) After that
DH did his magic. Then – through the miracle of science – I could both see and hear my kids! Had a wonderful conversation with the 2 of them.
I do love talking/seeing them in such a fashion, although I’m a firm believer in face-to-face meetings. But I will be happy with this – for now.
I will admit that my homesickness for the boys and OG has lessened quite a bit since DH installed this toy for me. He originally put it in so that he could visit w/ the Gkids in Grand Prairie. He gets Gkid hungry if he doesn’t get to see them (not just the ones in GP, but all of them) on a regular basis. Gets all kind of antsy. Has to get his Poppy fix in. But I’m the one who has benefited the most.
Now, if only Youngest will get on the ball and drop in at Oldest’s place from time to time so that he can call/see his dear old gray haired mother. (Hey – I pull any card I can to make him feel guilty.)
I do complain that I don’t hear from him near enough. But he’s busy getting all growed up. He has things to do. People to see. Places to go. He does miss us (I hope). And his nieces & nephews miss him terribly. And his sisters, too. But from time to time I do get an unexpected call from him. Makes my day. And my cheeks start to hurt because I’m grinning so BIG!
So – thanks be to the ones who are terribly clever, smart & creative to have come up with such wonderful means of communication. Whether it’s cell phone, texting, internet, blogging – thank you!!!
And speaking of blogs, here are the 3 that I follow on a daily basis:
http://theravelledsleave.blogspot.com/ (Wise, kind and funny words from my child bearing years BFF. Still one of my most fav people on earth.)
http://www.nieniedialogues.com/ (NOTE: there’s a great article on the author Stephanie in this week’s People magazine. Check it out!)
http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/ (NOTE: fabulous web site for all weight surgery patients or anyone who wants healthy recipes & tips)
Which blogs do you follow? Share your recommendations. The more the merrier.
I work for a chemical company so I get to throw out “Better living through science.” quite a bit.
These inventions are proof of that – “MUCH better living through science” so that I can keep in touch my kids, family & friends and learn more about the world I live in.
Huzzah!
And work yesterday it did. Well, sort of. But not at first.
I was working on Jim’s laptop trying to get into a very cool website that I learned about in Relief Society. www.createfan.com is a cool tool for genealogy work. Instead of all the info displayed in a form or on a tree, it’s on a fan. Extremely cool visual. Let’s you see in a very unique way how much of your genealogy has been done, who’s missing, etc.
Now I’m grateful that Jim has a laptop. But it is s-l-o-w. And my patience runs out way before I can get logged in, registered, etc. Kept getting kicked out. The site just would not let me in to play. At this point I’m thinking “ball peen hammer” when, out of the blue, ta da! Oldest and Our Girl are video calling me!
Of course I’m a dork where all things technical are concerned, so it took DH a bit to get me set up. I could hear/see them, but they could only hear me. Which I didn’t realize when I made the comment that if I had known they were calling I’d have put on a bra (do NOT insert mental picture here). Oldest told me that it was okay because he had his “bro” on. (Now you can insert your mental picture right here.) After that
DH did his magic. Then – through the miracle of science – I could both see and hear my kids! Had a wonderful conversation with the 2 of them.
I do love talking/seeing them in such a fashion, although I’m a firm believer in face-to-face meetings. But I will be happy with this – for now.
I will admit that my homesickness for the boys and OG has lessened quite a bit since DH installed this toy for me. He originally put it in so that he could visit w/ the Gkids in Grand Prairie. He gets Gkid hungry if he doesn’t get to see them (not just the ones in GP, but all of them) on a regular basis. Gets all kind of antsy. Has to get his Poppy fix in. But I’m the one who has benefited the most.
Now, if only Youngest will get on the ball and drop in at Oldest’s place from time to time so that he can call/see his dear old gray haired mother. (Hey – I pull any card I can to make him feel guilty.)
I do complain that I don’t hear from him near enough. But he’s busy getting all growed up. He has things to do. People to see. Places to go. He does miss us (I hope). And his nieces & nephews miss him terribly. And his sisters, too. But from time to time I do get an unexpected call from him. Makes my day. And my cheeks start to hurt because I’m grinning so BIG!
So – thanks be to the ones who are terribly clever, smart & creative to have come up with such wonderful means of communication. Whether it’s cell phone, texting, internet, blogging – thank you!!!
And speaking of blogs, here are the 3 that I follow on a daily basis:
http://theravelledsleave.blogspot.com/ (Wise, kind and funny words from my child bearing years BFF. Still one of my most fav people on earth.)
http://www.nieniedialogues.com/ (NOTE: there’s a great article on the author Stephanie in this week’s People magazine. Check it out!)
http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/ (NOTE: fabulous web site for all weight surgery patients or anyone who wants healthy recipes & tips)
Which blogs do you follow? Share your recommendations. The more the merrier.
I work for a chemical company so I get to throw out “Better living through science.” quite a bit.
These inventions are proof of that – “MUCH better living through science” so that I can keep in touch my kids, family & friends and learn more about the world I live in.
Huzzah!
Sunday, March 25, 2012
March 25, 2012
I love Thomas S. Monson, Prophet and Seer.
Ww had a spiritual feast today in our Fast & Testimony meeting. One of the members gave a fabulous testimony about "his" prophet Gordon Hinckley. The brother went to Pres. Hinckley's funeral to celebrate his life & mourn his passing. The brother felt bereft, worried about who was going to guide & lead him and be a light to the rest of the world. The prophet's chair sat empty and that made his sorrow worse.
He said a silent prayer asking the Lord for comfort. Shortly afterwards he looked at the faces of the general authorities and he received a prompting that Thomas S. Monson was the new prophet. From that point on he knew that "All is well."
The Lord loves us, knows us by name and the desires of our hearts. And His Church is a house of order. After His Church was restored, He promised that the Priesthood & the keys would not be taken from the earth again.
Which leads me back to Presidrent Monson. After watching the YW session I got to hear him speak. He's engaging, funny, personable, filled with love for the Lord, and adores the youth. I have a feeling that he has a real soft spot for the Young Women.
Even though I am far from being a Young Woman - or even the mother of one - I'm grateful that Thomas S. Monsoon is the President of the Church Christ of Latter Day Saints.
And that he's my prophet, too.
Ww had a spiritual feast today in our Fast & Testimony meeting. One of the members gave a fabulous testimony about "his" prophet Gordon Hinckley. The brother went to Pres. Hinckley's funeral to celebrate his life & mourn his passing. The brother felt bereft, worried about who was going to guide & lead him and be a light to the rest of the world. The prophet's chair sat empty and that made his sorrow worse.
He said a silent prayer asking the Lord for comfort. Shortly afterwards he looked at the faces of the general authorities and he received a prompting that Thomas S. Monson was the new prophet. From that point on he knew that "All is well."
The Lord loves us, knows us by name and the desires of our hearts. And His Church is a house of order. After His Church was restored, He promised that the Priesthood & the keys would not be taken from the earth again.
Which leads me back to Presidrent Monson. After watching the YW session I got to hear him speak. He's engaging, funny, personable, filled with love for the Lord, and adores the youth. I have a feeling that he has a real soft spot for the Young Women.
Even though I am far from being a Young Woman - or even the mother of one - I'm grateful that Thomas S. Monsoon is the President of the Church Christ of Latter Day Saints.
And that he's my prophet, too.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
March 22, 2012
I don’t like – being invisible.
Invisible? Yes!!!
I’ve discovered as I’m going through my “growing up stage” (AKA growing better not older), that the “more experienced” I’ve become – the less people see me.
Case in point – went to a make-up store. Was wandering the aisles looking for a specific product. Now this place is crawling with staff, going from display to merchandise racks, stopping to ask customers if they were finding everything they need, etc. Except for me. The first time it happened I was between 2 other but younger women. The staff members addressed them – but ignored me. I didn’t think too much about but this happened 2 more times while I was in the store. Hmmm. Apparently their business is booming – if one is in the right age category.
I should have asked for a manager. I usually do in a case like this but I was in a hurry to get to my next stop so I decided to just leave. And took my cold hard cash with me. Oh, okay. It wasn’t cash. It was a lukewarm debit card, but you know what I mean. And this happens a lot more than I realized.
A few days later I was with my daughter taking care of some business at a local store. I wasn’t invisible there. But apparently my name is now “Dear”. Really? REALLY?!? This is the 2nd time in 2 weeks that this has happened. The 1st time this happened was when I was in a shop where I was addressed as “Dear”. The guy beind the counter was quite a bit younger than me. I don’t know him. He doesn’t know me. And I addressed that real quick. “You do not know me. I have no relationship with you other than your taking my money. You may not call me ‘Dear’. You may call me ma’am or Mrs. Bratton. But I don’t know you well enough to call me that.” Amazing. He took my payment right quick after that. The 2nd time was from someone close to my age. She just laughed it off. Okay. The debit card goes back in the wallet and I go back out the door.
Not only am I becoming invisible, my age bracket is now the stuff of jokes and lame scenes that are supposed to be funny. Listen here! I may be older, not as quick as I used to be (physically that is) but my brain, my personality, etc. are doing just fine. And I will admit that I thought these things were funny, too, until they got to be too close to home. Or was it too close to my age?
I’m a fun and funny person. I’m kind. My Gkids adore me. My kids put up with me. My dear sweet husband – well, let’s just say he’s gotten used to me and my weird ways. And all the critters in my house follow me adoringly. How can this be? They all love me!
But I’m not invisible. I’m here. $$ in hand. Do not ignore me. I don’t bite (very hard). And I’ve had all my shots, so I’m not really dangerous. Listen here! I've got an attitude and I know how to use it!
And if I continue to get these type of reactions when I go shopping, I’ll just have the last word(s).
Bless your heart.
And if you’re from Texas or the South, you KNOW what that means!
Invisible? Yes!!!
I’ve discovered as I’m going through my “growing up stage” (AKA growing better not older), that the “more experienced” I’ve become – the less people see me.
Case in point – went to a make-up store. Was wandering the aisles looking for a specific product. Now this place is crawling with staff, going from display to merchandise racks, stopping to ask customers if they were finding everything they need, etc. Except for me. The first time it happened I was between 2 other but younger women. The staff members addressed them – but ignored me. I didn’t think too much about but this happened 2 more times while I was in the store. Hmmm. Apparently their business is booming – if one is in the right age category.
I should have asked for a manager. I usually do in a case like this but I was in a hurry to get to my next stop so I decided to just leave. And took my cold hard cash with me. Oh, okay. It wasn’t cash. It was a lukewarm debit card, but you know what I mean. And this happens a lot more than I realized.
A few days later I was with my daughter taking care of some business at a local store. I wasn’t invisible there. But apparently my name is now “Dear”. Really? REALLY?!? This is the 2nd time in 2 weeks that this has happened. The 1st time this happened was when I was in a shop where I was addressed as “Dear”. The guy beind the counter was quite a bit younger than me. I don’t know him. He doesn’t know me. And I addressed that real quick. “You do not know me. I have no relationship with you other than your taking my money. You may not call me ‘Dear’. You may call me ma’am or Mrs. Bratton. But I don’t know you well enough to call me that.” Amazing. He took my payment right quick after that. The 2nd time was from someone close to my age. She just laughed it off. Okay. The debit card goes back in the wallet and I go back out the door.
Not only am I becoming invisible, my age bracket is now the stuff of jokes and lame scenes that are supposed to be funny. Listen here! I may be older, not as quick as I used to be (physically that is) but my brain, my personality, etc. are doing just fine. And I will admit that I thought these things were funny, too, until they got to be too close to home. Or was it too close to my age?
I’m a fun and funny person. I’m kind. My Gkids adore me. My kids put up with me. My dear sweet husband – well, let’s just say he’s gotten used to me and my weird ways. And all the critters in my house follow me adoringly. How can this be? They all love me!
But I’m not invisible. I’m here. $$ in hand. Do not ignore me. I don’t bite (very hard). And I’ve had all my shots, so I’m not really dangerous. Listen here! I've got an attitude and I know how to use it!
And if I continue to get these type of reactions when I go shopping, I’ll just have the last word(s).
Bless your heart.
And if you’re from Texas or the South, you KNOW what that means!
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
March 21, 2012
I like singing to the moon.
No, not howling. That's a topic for another day.
We have a "family song". I learned it in junior high (you can tell my age because now it would be called middle school). It was our warm-up song in choir.
I see the moon. The moon sees me
Down through the leaves of the old oak tree.
Please let the light that shines on me shine on the one I love.
Over the mountains, over the seas.
Back where my heart is longing to be.
Please let the light that shines on me shine on the one I love.
I've sung that to all my babies. And my grandbabies. And other people's babies. And grandbabies.
It's been sung in Germany, in Texas and in California. And hopefully other places in between by my kids and Gkids.
But my favorite place was the River Walk in San Antonio.
Down there for spring break several years ago. Long hot fun filled days, but welcomed wandering around downtown and ending up at the River Walk for dinner. (This was a mandatory rest stop for any/all family members or visitors per my grandmother.)
After dinner I took the Gkids that were w/ us to help relieve little jitters in little bodies. They have always had excellent manners but sometimes it's just so hard to sit. Still. For any length of time.
We wandered down the canal until we got to a bridge. And if you stop under the bridge, in just the right place at just the time and look up with just the right angle - you can see the moon shining down thru the branches & leaves of the trees. Talk about timing!
So I gathered my Gbabies and we sang to the moon. And our accompanists were a mariachi band and someone on the bridge playing a bagpipe. All with different tunes but we were all in the same key. Moments like this don't come around very often.
So today, thanks to Younger, I have a beautiful painting on my wall that we collaborated on while she was in high school. She did the painting & I did the scripting. My whole living room revolves (or will someday) around her artwork. From the colors of the walls to the couches to the other goodies hanging on the walls.
I thought at one time to let her have it so she could have it hanging in her living room. But someone wiser than I reminded me that this was truly a gift from the artist. And that I should be the keeper. She'll get it later, just not right now.
DH knows that there is a "list" of stuff that gets grabbed when/if the house ever catches on fire.
1. Open the front door and yell at the critters to run.
2. Grab scrapbooks, the tree painting, and me.
3. Hopefully insurance will cover the rest.
Do you have a family song? When was the last time you gathered your babies (big or small, short or tall) and sang a song to their heart? If not, you should.
Turn around and they're two.
Turn around and they're four.
Turn around and they're a young one
Heading out of the door.
Grab a kid. Grab a hug. Plant a few smoochies and squishes on them.
Sing to the moon.
You'll thank me later.
No, not howling. That's a topic for another day.
We have a "family song". I learned it in junior high (you can tell my age because now it would be called middle school). It was our warm-up song in choir.
I see the moon. The moon sees me
Down through the leaves of the old oak tree.
Please let the light that shines on me shine on the one I love.
Over the mountains, over the seas.
Back where my heart is longing to be.
Please let the light that shines on me shine on the one I love.
I've sung that to all my babies. And my grandbabies. And other people's babies. And grandbabies.
It's been sung in Germany, in Texas and in California. And hopefully other places in between by my kids and Gkids.
But my favorite place was the River Walk in San Antonio.
Down there for spring break several years ago. Long hot fun filled days, but welcomed wandering around downtown and ending up at the River Walk for dinner. (This was a mandatory rest stop for any/all family members or visitors per my grandmother.)
After dinner I took the Gkids that were w/ us to help relieve little jitters in little bodies. They have always had excellent manners but sometimes it's just so hard to sit. Still. For any length of time.
We wandered down the canal until we got to a bridge. And if you stop under the bridge, in just the right place at just the time and look up with just the right angle - you can see the moon shining down thru the branches & leaves of the trees. Talk about timing!
So I gathered my Gbabies and we sang to the moon. And our accompanists were a mariachi band and someone on the bridge playing a bagpipe. All with different tunes but we were all in the same key. Moments like this don't come around very often.
So today, thanks to Younger, I have a beautiful painting on my wall that we collaborated on while she was in high school. She did the painting & I did the scripting. My whole living room revolves (or will someday) around her artwork. From the colors of the walls to the couches to the other goodies hanging on the walls.
I thought at one time to let her have it so she could have it hanging in her living room. But someone wiser than I reminded me that this was truly a gift from the artist. And that I should be the keeper. She'll get it later, just not right now.
DH knows that there is a "list" of stuff that gets grabbed when/if the house ever catches on fire.
1. Open the front door and yell at the critters to run.
2. Grab scrapbooks, the tree painting, and me.
3. Hopefully insurance will cover the rest.
Do you have a family song? When was the last time you gathered your babies (big or small, short or tall) and sang a song to their heart? If not, you should.
Turn around and they're two.
Turn around and they're four.
Turn around and they're a young one
Heading out of the door.
Grab a kid. Grab a hug. Plant a few smoochies and squishes on them.
Sing to the moon.
You'll thank me later.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
March 20, 2012
I love sleep. When I can get some that is.
My doc prescribes good stuff that works 75% of the time. I am now experiencing the other 25%. As much as I will suffer later in the day, pity my poor coworkers. They put up with a lot of my "stuff" but today I'll be a lot more me then usual.
I think I will head to couch. See if I can grab at least a few more winks before Jimy wakes me up at 6:00. I will definitely be begging for "5 more minutes".
People, you've been warned. Slowly approach with lots of sympathy and a low carb Monster in hand. I won't growl at you but I may chatter uncontrollably. And probably won't make a lick of sense.
So what else is new?
My doc prescribes good stuff that works 75% of the time. I am now experiencing the other 25%. As much as I will suffer later in the day, pity my poor coworkers. They put up with a lot of my "stuff" but today I'll be a lot more me then usual.
I think I will head to couch. See if I can grab at least a few more winks before Jimy wakes me up at 6:00. I will definitely be begging for "5 more minutes".
People, you've been warned. Slowly approach with lots of sympathy and a low carb Monster in hand. I won't growl at you but I may chatter uncontrollably. And probably won't make a lick of sense.
So what else is new?
Monday, March 19, 2012
Welcome to My World
I love to write. And I am supposed to be keeping a journal, so here I go. Finally ready to let my thoughts, feelings and ideas wander out there in cyberspace. Hopefully to entertain, enlighten & just have some fun at my expense.
First off - thanks to my childbirthing BFF for her inspiration (find her blog Ms Ravelled. I would rattle off the exact name but I have her listed in my favorites so that my browser goes to her blog every morning for lofty thoughts and snickers. A great combination!!) And to nieniedialouges. The most profound and loving blog anywhere out there.
Ready? Set! And here I go!!
Happily married for 40+ years to the world's most patient man. Four kids, six Gkids, and lots of critters later - here I am. 2nd generation LDS (Mormon). 4th generation Native Texan, ready to start doing my genealogy and take a stab at joining the Daughters of the Republic of Texas. Not that I have blue hair or even close to it. But I do know how to gracefully, effectively sush people when necessary. One of my many talents.
I love my little corner of the world - Texas. My favorite place is San Fransisco (yes, I did leave my heart there, thank you very much. Well, at least a small part of it.) It is hot here but bluebonnets in the spring and Friday night lights in the fall more than make up for it. Plus I got here on earth just in time for central air conditioning to be the norm. Thankfully!!!
I probably won't be addressing any deep philosophical topics. I feel, at times, that my spiritual journey has just begun. And at other times I feel like an old soul, overflowing with great spiritual knowledge. I'd be happy with a balance of the two.
And the name for my blog? I know that I have SO much to learn but I do realize that I am probably one of the least humble of my Heavenly Father's daughters. Hard headed but certainly not hard hearted. Hopefully that's a point in my favor.
Let the writing begin!!!
First off - thanks to my childbirthing BFF for her inspiration (find her blog Ms Ravelled. I would rattle off the exact name but I have her listed in my favorites so that my browser goes to her blog every morning for lofty thoughts and snickers. A great combination!!) And to nieniedialouges. The most profound and loving blog anywhere out there.
Ready? Set! And here I go!!
Happily married for 40+ years to the world's most patient man. Four kids, six Gkids, and lots of critters later - here I am. 2nd generation LDS (Mormon). 4th generation Native Texan, ready to start doing my genealogy and take a stab at joining the Daughters of the Republic of Texas. Not that I have blue hair or even close to it. But I do know how to gracefully, effectively sush people when necessary. One of my many talents.
I love my little corner of the world - Texas. My favorite place is San Fransisco (yes, I did leave my heart there, thank you very much. Well, at least a small part of it.) It is hot here but bluebonnets in the spring and Friday night lights in the fall more than make up for it. Plus I got here on earth just in time for central air conditioning to be the norm. Thankfully!!!
I probably won't be addressing any deep philosophical topics. I feel, at times, that my spiritual journey has just begun. And at other times I feel like an old soul, overflowing with great spiritual knowledge. I'd be happy with a balance of the two.
And the name for my blog? I know that I have SO much to learn but I do realize that I am probably one of the least humble of my Heavenly Father's daughters. Hard headed but certainly not hard hearted. Hopefully that's a point in my favor.
Let the writing begin!!!
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