Today's farm chores felt very Monty Python-esque.
Yeah. Like that. No one's ever happy, no matter how much *&%? you get on your boots! Crabby cow, crabby chickens... I wonder what they'd do if I didn't show up?
Today will be lunch with the Grandmas, shopping, shopping, shopping, and Great-Grandma has an appointment with her doctor. I hope I can hire a good chef for tonight, otherwise it may be that Scottish place...
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
A Day in Court
If you want an education in civics, they say it's a good idea to sit around a court building for a day. I don't know about that. What it does for me is shatter any illusions I have in my 40s about our legal system and society.
Firstly, we're searched when we enter. I've always thought of courthouses as bastions of liberty and justice. How much justice can one expect when one is treated like a criminal upon entering a building? I know, I know, a few crazies have made this a necessary feature of our life. But, even when I cooperate, I don't have to like it, do I?
Next I walk through the halls, following signs and directions to the specific courtroom. I am joined by dozens of my fellow citizens. I wonder if you would be surprised by these people? "Red and yellow, black and white," young and old, varying degrees of ability. All are welcome to apply for redress, to appeal for relief, and that's a great thing about this country. But... I'm sorry, but first impressions count. I do not complain about the clothes people wear at church. If you show up for worship in a halter top and cutoffs, or a suit and tie, you belong, and I'm glad to see you. But, in a courthouse, well, there really isn't the grace of the house of God. Courthouses are about dignity. Did you really want to wear that jacket with "40 ozs to Paradise" emblazoned on the back? Did you really have nothing better that a UofI sweatshirt and grey sweat-capris in your closet? Dear pregnant lady, skin-tight leggings and sweater with a hot pink sweater/vest tied under your baby bump really weren't called for. And, you ma'am, you're an attorney, for crying out loud. Are you sure you should be wearing a miniskirt slit up the thigh and a tight angora sweater? Clothing makes a statement. The statement these people made was, "What difference does it make?" We are at a time in our history when that is a dangerous question to ask.
If you're going to have to spend time "sitting tight" (which I learned is the legal phrase for "wait here a little while") in the hallway outside the courtroom, it really isn't fair to call your friends and air your progress for all to hear. I mean ALL. C'mon, I was more than 200 yards away! And, if you are two attorneys discussing your clients, who are involved in a divorce, you should use a quieter voice when you discuss the Mrs. half. And, if she's your client, lowering your voice when you say, "Even *I* don't want to talk to her!" when it can be heard through the brick walls of the ladies' room would be wise.
Attorneys should not assume that all of their clients know all the details of the legal system. (Many of us do.) And, when your client asks questions...and asks them again, because you're using acronyms and technical jargon, loudly, in the middle of a hallway, attorneys should not lose their patience and stomp off. If they do, clients should fire them. On the spot.
Attorneys should also not joke with the guys at the courthouse coffee shop that their fees are based on how many bottles of bourbon it takes to get them through the case.
Judges should not have temper tantrums. If someone has asked for a judicial change, and it is possible, it should not be taken as a personal affront. Holding up court proceedings and making plaintiffs and respondents wait because you're having a snit is not dignified. Judges should always be dignified, even if their feelings are hurt.
But, when things turn out to be going "your way," our court system can be fine. Just fine.
Firstly, we're searched when we enter. I've always thought of courthouses as bastions of liberty and justice. How much justice can one expect when one is treated like a criminal upon entering a building? I know, I know, a few crazies have made this a necessary feature of our life. But, even when I cooperate, I don't have to like it, do I?
Next I walk through the halls, following signs and directions to the specific courtroom. I am joined by dozens of my fellow citizens. I wonder if you would be surprised by these people? "Red and yellow, black and white," young and old, varying degrees of ability. All are welcome to apply for redress, to appeal for relief, and that's a great thing about this country. But... I'm sorry, but first impressions count. I do not complain about the clothes people wear at church. If you show up for worship in a halter top and cutoffs, or a suit and tie, you belong, and I'm glad to see you. But, in a courthouse, well, there really isn't the grace of the house of God. Courthouses are about dignity. Did you really want to wear that jacket with "40 ozs to Paradise" emblazoned on the back? Did you really have nothing better that a UofI sweatshirt and grey sweat-capris in your closet? Dear pregnant lady, skin-tight leggings and sweater with a hot pink sweater/vest tied under your baby bump really weren't called for. And, you ma'am, you're an attorney, for crying out loud. Are you sure you should be wearing a miniskirt slit up the thigh and a tight angora sweater? Clothing makes a statement. The statement these people made was, "What difference does it make?" We are at a time in our history when that is a dangerous question to ask.
If you're going to have to spend time "sitting tight" (which I learned is the legal phrase for "wait here a little while") in the hallway outside the courtroom, it really isn't fair to call your friends and air your progress for all to hear. I mean ALL. C'mon, I was more than 200 yards away! And, if you are two attorneys discussing your clients, who are involved in a divorce, you should use a quieter voice when you discuss the Mrs. half. And, if she's your client, lowering your voice when you say, "Even *I* don't want to talk to her!" when it can be heard through the brick walls of the ladies' room would be wise.
Attorneys should not assume that all of their clients know all the details of the legal system. (Many of us do.) And, when your client asks questions...and asks them again, because you're using acronyms and technical jargon, loudly, in the middle of a hallway, attorneys should not lose their patience and stomp off. If they do, clients should fire them. On the spot.
Attorneys should also not joke with the guys at the courthouse coffee shop that their fees are based on how many bottles of bourbon it takes to get them through the case.
Judges should not have temper tantrums. If someone has asked for a judicial change, and it is possible, it should not be taken as a personal affront. Holding up court proceedings and making plaintiffs and respondents wait because you're having a snit is not dignified. Judges should always be dignified, even if their feelings are hurt.
But, when things turn out to be going "your way," our court system can be fine. Just fine.
Monday, April 28, 2008
An Anniversary Party
I'm having another one of those days where I feel like I can't turn around without another demand being made on me. I'll get through it.
Yesterday I attended the 50th anniversary of the Lutheran church I grew up in, Prince of Peace. My worldview has long since parted ways with that of this church and it's governing synod, but it was really good to see old friends and relive old memories.
I had my first "God" experience there. I was 2, and had escaped from the nursery. Walking down the sanctuary aisle to find my mother, I saw God. He was standing in front of the people, wagging his finger, and looking very stern. I was pretty scared, but, then I found my mom. When I related this story to Pastor Paape many years later, he was horrified to think that I might have thought HE was God!
I went to Kindergarten at the school there, where I was the valedictorian and MC at the end of the year program. I got the job because I was the only one who could read!
I was confirmed and married in this congregation, and three of our children were baptized there. It was a wonderful, happy place, until... I won't go there. I got to see some of the people who made it such a wonderful place; the ones who caused the "until..." didn't show. That was OK.
So, Susan, Claudia, Jay, John, Diane, Marlene, Curt and the rest of you...it was a good party!
Yesterday I attended the 50th anniversary of the Lutheran church I grew up in, Prince of Peace. My worldview has long since parted ways with that of this church and it's governing synod, but it was really good to see old friends and relive old memories.
I had my first "God" experience there. I was 2, and had escaped from the nursery. Walking down the sanctuary aisle to find my mother, I saw God. He was standing in front of the people, wagging his finger, and looking very stern. I was pretty scared, but, then I found my mom. When I related this story to Pastor Paape many years later, he was horrified to think that I might have thought HE was God!
I went to Kindergarten at the school there, where I was the valedictorian and MC at the end of the year program. I got the job because I was the only one who could read!
I was confirmed and married in this congregation, and three of our children were baptized there. It was a wonderful, happy place, until... I won't go there. I got to see some of the people who made it such a wonderful place; the ones who caused the "until..." didn't show. That was OK.
So, Susan, Claudia, Jay, John, Diane, Marlene, Curt and the rest of you...it was a good party!
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Saturday Farm Update
What a day! Absolutely crummy weather; very windy, cold and grey. The FURNACE is back on! Today is supposed to be fencing (not the Olympic type!) and yard work. We shall see. It's REALLY nasty out there!
Last night we had some excitement. Returning home from our moving adventure, we found Grandma is a great deal of pain. So, about 11pm, we made a trip to the ER with her. She was admitted with a bowel obstruction. This morning, her doctor visited and pronounced that she shouldn't be in the hospital. (He REALLY doesn't like to put people in the hospital.) She may be out this afternoon, in time for JP4ling#3s 4th birthday party...or she may not.
This week I lost my farming license. I killed many of my little seedlings. They were suddenly infested with little flies, so I sprayed a soapy water solution on them. The only thing I can figure is that the soap solution was too concentrated. Two days later, they were droopy and spotty. I'm still hoping they'll come back, but my hope is not very strong. At least the broccoli and lettuce were in the greenhouse. These were the tomatoes, peppers and squash.
That's about it for the Saturday farm report. I hope where you are the sun is shining and the windows are open. This being northern Illinois, we'll probably be that way tomorrow!
Last night we had some excitement. Returning home from our moving adventure, we found Grandma is a great deal of pain. So, about 11pm, we made a trip to the ER with her. She was admitted with a bowel obstruction. This morning, her doctor visited and pronounced that she shouldn't be in the hospital. (He REALLY doesn't like to put people in the hospital.) She may be out this afternoon, in time for JP4ling#3s 4th birthday party...or she may not.
This week I lost my farming license. I killed many of my little seedlings. They were suddenly infested with little flies, so I sprayed a soapy water solution on them. The only thing I can figure is that the soap solution was too concentrated. Two days later, they were droopy and spotty. I'm still hoping they'll come back, but my hope is not very strong. At least the broccoli and lettuce were in the greenhouse. These were the tomatoes, peppers and squash.
That's about it for the Saturday farm report. I hope where you are the sun is shining and the windows are open. This being northern Illinois, we'll probably be that way tomorrow!
Friday, April 25, 2008
We Interrupt Our Blog for a Movie....
I'll be off helping friends move today. I will leave you with this fine film.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
A Mommy Question
At what point does our help and supervision become bothersome and unhelpful to our children? Let's discuss that, shall we?
When oldest son decided to get married, (actually, the pregnancy test decided for him; he was 17) he was determined, regardless of our opinion, to carry through with his plans. We met with his future wife and her parents, discussing the pros and cons and issues of their upcoming marriage. We talked to them about their youth, their lack of maturity (you KNOW those are two different things) and their lack of necessary (I'm talking a JOB, here) material things. We tried to advise and support.
Now the marriage is falling apart. He is visiting attorneys, arranging visitation, working with schools and churches and his soon-to-be-ex-wife to raise three children with some semblance of normalcy. Where do Mom and Dad step in here? What is considered advice and support BEFORE marriage is very different from what is considered advice and support AFTER. He has asked for some help, and we have butted in with some. (That seemed like a good compromise, no?) The complexities of the issues he faces are too overwhelming to face alone, and yet, at this time, he has no one with which to face them. Can anyone blame us if we try?
No one has, yet. I visited an attorney with him today (John insisted I go, if you must know,) and was welcomed and treated with the same respect and attention he was. But we anticipate a time when someone says, "And why are you here?"
So, how do I know when that point is, so I can avoid it happening? Mommies worry about such things.
When oldest son decided to get married, (actually, the pregnancy test decided for him; he was 17) he was determined, regardless of our opinion, to carry through with his plans. We met with his future wife and her parents, discussing the pros and cons and issues of their upcoming marriage. We talked to them about their youth, their lack of maturity (you KNOW those are two different things) and their lack of necessary (I'm talking a JOB, here) material things. We tried to advise and support.
Now the marriage is falling apart. He is visiting attorneys, arranging visitation, working with schools and churches and his soon-to-be-ex-wife to raise three children with some semblance of normalcy. Where do Mom and Dad step in here? What is considered advice and support BEFORE marriage is very different from what is considered advice and support AFTER. He has asked for some help, and we have butted in with some. (That seemed like a good compromise, no?) The complexities of the issues he faces are too overwhelming to face alone, and yet, at this time, he has no one with which to face them. Can anyone blame us if we try?
No one has, yet. I visited an attorney with him today (John insisted I go, if you must know,) and was welcomed and treated with the same respect and attention he was. But we anticipate a time when someone says, "And why are you here?"
So, how do I know when that point is, so I can avoid it happening? Mommies worry about such things.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Womens' History
Or should that be HER story?
Anyway...
Tonight was my last class. As I am auditing, I won't be going in next week to take the final. Interesting conversation tonight...
We covered womens' roles and major events in womens' history during the 40s, 50s and 60s. Of course, along the way, the subject of reproductive rights (aka abortion, reproductive choice, etc, ad nauseum) came up. I was pleasantly surprised...and yet, also worried.
This is a class of 7 women, including myself. (There was a man, but he gave up early!) I am the only one over 40; one is about 30, and the rest are just out of high school. They all knew that Roe v Wade allows for abortion through the third trimester. None knew that abortion is now allowed through the entire 9 months of pregnancy. They didn't like that. They didn't think mental health should be an issue; they didn't see that as life-threatening, as a reason to say, "Health of the mother!" in allowing abortion. They didn't want 14 year-olds having abortions, and they didn't want dads to be unaware of abortions happening to their children.
These things surprised me, in a pleasant way. This isn't a generation willing to march into clinics and end young lives. These women all spoke of personal responsibility, of educated choices, of not engaging in activity that could lead to consequences they might not like.
And yet...they didn't seem to realize that these things are happening. That 14 year-olds are having repeated abortions. That 21, 27, 30 year-old men can be impregnating these young girls and escaping consequences because of abortion clinics. They didn't know that a woman can say, "I'm afraid of having a baby," and someone will call that "threatened mental health," and take her to a clinic because "her life is in danger." How can people be so unaware?
And yet, they didn't like it. They weren't willing to stand for it, to participate in it, to just roll over and accept it. And that's what surprised me so pleasantly. Maybe the upcoming generations ARE OK, after all.
Anyway...
Tonight was my last class. As I am auditing, I won't be going in next week to take the final. Interesting conversation tonight...
We covered womens' roles and major events in womens' history during the 40s, 50s and 60s. Of course, along the way, the subject of reproductive rights (aka abortion, reproductive choice, etc, ad nauseum) came up. I was pleasantly surprised...and yet, also worried.
This is a class of 7 women, including myself. (There was a man, but he gave up early!) I am the only one over 40; one is about 30, and the rest are just out of high school. They all knew that Roe v Wade allows for abortion through the third trimester. None knew that abortion is now allowed through the entire 9 months of pregnancy. They didn't like that. They didn't think mental health should be an issue; they didn't see that as life-threatening, as a reason to say, "Health of the mother!" in allowing abortion. They didn't want 14 year-olds having abortions, and they didn't want dads to be unaware of abortions happening to their children.
These things surprised me, in a pleasant way. This isn't a generation willing to march into clinics and end young lives. These women all spoke of personal responsibility, of educated choices, of not engaging in activity that could lead to consequences they might not like.
And yet...they didn't seem to realize that these things are happening. That 14 year-olds are having repeated abortions. That 21, 27, 30 year-old men can be impregnating these young girls and escaping consequences because of abortion clinics. They didn't know that a woman can say, "I'm afraid of having a baby," and someone will call that "threatened mental health," and take her to a clinic because "her life is in danger." How can people be so unaware?
And yet, they didn't like it. They weren't willing to stand for it, to participate in it, to just roll over and accept it. And that's what surprised me so pleasantly. Maybe the upcoming generations ARE OK, after all.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Dizzy...
I'm so dizzy, my head is spinning...
I have been reading blogs by other people who have been reviewing Expelled, a new movie by Ben Stein. (Could I fit one more hyperlink in there? I think not.)
Waahhh...I feel so uneducated! My meager brain cells are blowing out lactic acid, trying to keep up. And you people visit my blog? -sigh- I should quit while I'm ahead!
WAS I ever ahead?
I AM looking forward to seeing this movie. I was edumacated in geology in the 70's and 80's, mostly unchurched, and easily fell for an Inherit The Wind-type of cosmology; why couldn't the Earth have been formed by God, using evolution? I remember sitting in a lecture during my Historical Geology class (no, this doesn't discuss geology in history, silly reader. This is about the geologic timeline and what was going on when. Go figure.) Our Kiwi professor challenged us to "learn this stuff; figure out how you're going to answer those Bible-thumpers when they come calling." Fast forward about 18 years, and I was sitting in a church auditorium, at the Illinois Christian Home Educators' Convention, and I heard the answer, spoken by God and relayed by Ken Ham. It was Romans 5:12, "Sin entered the world through one man, and death though sin..." Mr. Ham posed the question; how did we have millions and billions of years of natural selection and evolution if nothing died until Adam came along? Whoa. Talk about rocking my world. And it really did; John and I turned to each other and said, "We gotta hear more of what this guy is talking about." And we spent to rest of the convention learning NOT about homeschooling, but about Biblical creationism. An Ozzie helped me meet the challenge the Kiwi gave me. -smile-
So I want to go and see what this is all about. For me, as a student of science, evidence is an issue. So many of my college friends bought the scientific dating pie because it tasted good. I never got an answer to my question of my Sedimentology TA; where, if we say we know that Isotope A has a half life of 250M years, is the first reading of that isotope, to prove that, after 250M years, half of it's radioactivity has dissipated? The fact that there is no evidence, for either camp, is telling to me. It reminds me of that proverb, "Man plans, God laughs." Not that I believe God is in Heaven, laughing at our pitiful attempts to understand him. I wouldn't blame him, but I don't believe that. No, it's a question of control. By measuring radioactive isotopes and assuming we have a handle on them, we assume we have control over events. Don't we all know better? If I had control, I would not have a son in Iraq. If I had control, my lettuces would be burgeoning in my garden, not in the greenhouse, where they await dry weather. It's just childish to even consider the possibility that we can control anything in our lives. Plan, certainly. Manage, perhaps. Control. I don't think so.
So I'm looking forward to this movie. I want to see how people with no evidence can be pushed aside by people who also have no evidence, but say that the former's lack of evidence is somehow more of an excuse to push them aside.
Is your head spinning yet? I'm going to go lie down.
I have been reading blogs by other people who have been reviewing Expelled, a new movie by Ben Stein. (Could I fit one more hyperlink in there? I think not.)
Waahhh...I feel so uneducated! My meager brain cells are blowing out lactic acid, trying to keep up. And you people visit my blog? -sigh- I should quit while I'm ahead!
WAS I ever ahead?
I AM looking forward to seeing this movie. I was edumacated in geology in the 70's and 80's, mostly unchurched, and easily fell for an Inherit The Wind-type of cosmology; why couldn't the Earth have been formed by God, using evolution? I remember sitting in a lecture during my Historical Geology class (no, this doesn't discuss geology in history, silly reader. This is about the geologic timeline and what was going on when. Go figure.) Our Kiwi professor challenged us to "learn this stuff; figure out how you're going to answer those Bible-thumpers when they come calling." Fast forward about 18 years, and I was sitting in a church auditorium, at the Illinois Christian Home Educators' Convention, and I heard the answer, spoken by God and relayed by Ken Ham. It was Romans 5:12, "Sin entered the world through one man, and death though sin..." Mr. Ham posed the question; how did we have millions and billions of years of natural selection and evolution if nothing died until Adam came along? Whoa. Talk about rocking my world. And it really did; John and I turned to each other and said, "We gotta hear more of what this guy is talking about." And we spent to rest of the convention learning NOT about homeschooling, but about Biblical creationism. An Ozzie helped me meet the challenge the Kiwi gave me. -smile-
So I want to go and see what this is all about. For me, as a student of science, evidence is an issue. So many of my college friends bought the scientific dating pie because it tasted good. I never got an answer to my question of my Sedimentology TA; where, if we say we know that Isotope A has a half life of 250M years, is the first reading of that isotope, to prove that, after 250M years, half of it's radioactivity has dissipated? The fact that there is no evidence, for either camp, is telling to me. It reminds me of that proverb, "Man plans, God laughs." Not that I believe God is in Heaven, laughing at our pitiful attempts to understand him. I wouldn't blame him, but I don't believe that. No, it's a question of control. By measuring radioactive isotopes and assuming we have a handle on them, we assume we have control over events. Don't we all know better? If I had control, I would not have a son in Iraq. If I had control, my lettuces would be burgeoning in my garden, not in the greenhouse, where they await dry weather. It's just childish to even consider the possibility that we can control anything in our lives. Plan, certainly. Manage, perhaps. Control. I don't think so.
So I'm looking forward to this movie. I want to see how people with no evidence can be pushed aside by people who also have no evidence, but say that the former's lack of evidence is somehow more of an excuse to push them aside.
Is your head spinning yet? I'm going to go lie down.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Pooped
I worked out today. I canned. I trimmed the shrubs on one of our acres. I schooled MSP, and a visitor. I visited an attorney. I shopped. I drove. Enough already.
That's just an elaborate excuse to not blog tonight. Instead, I will share a meaningful tribute to an exciting film and talented young actor.
Did you catch my sarcasm?
Actually, this is my current favorite;
OK. I'm off to veg in front of a video now. Which one? I'll let you guess...You never will!
That's just an elaborate excuse to not blog tonight. Instead, I will share a meaningful tribute to an exciting film and talented young actor.
Did you catch my sarcasm?
Actually, this is my current favorite;
OK. I'm off to veg in front of a video now. Which one? I'll let you guess...You never will!
Saturday, April 19, 2008
No Farm Report Today!
Because I'm not on the farm!
But, seriously, how could I not? Still swampy, still wet, but, ta-dah-dah-dah-dah!! Bill has left the building! Bill was moved to his home farm yesterday. He spent Thursday and Friday playing Houdini, escaping from the cowpen. It honestly wasn't too difficult; he just waked over. Bess, either too well-behaved or too stupid (I did NOT say that!) wouldn't follow. She just stayed there and bellowed for him to come back. Good thing we're not home; she'd be getting on my nerves about now!
Chickens are growing like weeds. They won't need heatlamps when we get home; fully feathered, they'd sweat to death! Young Mister Matthew, a friend of EP, is manning the farm this weekend. I'm thankful for him.
EP himself, as well as JP4, are "drilling" this weekend. EP is at Great Lakes with CAP, and JP4 is at an undisclosed location. His unit is preparing for deployment later this summer. Prayers would be appreciated for them.
That's about it. I really am being antisocial, so I'd best get back to the family gathering. Happy Saturday, and remember, worship tomorrow!
But, seriously, how could I not? Still swampy, still wet, but, ta-dah-dah-dah-dah!! Bill has left the building! Bill was moved to his home farm yesterday. He spent Thursday and Friday playing Houdini, escaping from the cowpen. It honestly wasn't too difficult; he just waked over. Bess, either too well-behaved or too stupid (I did NOT say that!) wouldn't follow. She just stayed there and bellowed for him to come back. Good thing we're not home; she'd be getting on my nerves about now!
Chickens are growing like weeds. They won't need heatlamps when we get home; fully feathered, they'd sweat to death! Young Mister Matthew, a friend of EP, is manning the farm this weekend. I'm thankful for him.
EP himself, as well as JP4, are "drilling" this weekend. EP is at Great Lakes with CAP, and JP4 is at an undisclosed location. His unit is preparing for deployment later this summer. Prayers would be appreciated for them.
That's about it. I really am being antisocial, so I'd best get back to the family gathering. Happy Saturday, and remember, worship tomorrow!
Friday, April 18, 2008
On The Road Again...
16 pints of broth canned. 11 more in the canner. Another pot of broth on the stove. I need to get this done by 2 so we can go to my in-laws' 50th wedding anniversary party. (Hey, Ohioans; I'll be in Archbold this weekend!) The house is steamy and hot and it smells wonderful! Wonderfully? Anyway...
We'll be traveling to Sauder Village, one of my in-laws "happy places," for a family get-together and dinner, which will happen tomorrow. So I'll be remote-blogging, as they say (IF they say.) Happy Friday!
We'll be traveling to Sauder Village, one of my in-laws "happy places," for a family get-together and dinner, which will happen tomorrow. So I'll be remote-blogging, as they say (IF they say.) Happy Friday!
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Finally.
It looks as though spring has finally arrived here in northern IL. The grass is green and it's warm enough that today, when I walk, I'll be wearing yoga pants instead of my sweats. I'll probably still need a sweatshirt, though.
There is still mud, and our property still looks more like a wetland than a farmyard. But that may be gone by the end of the month. The 10-day forecast (for what that's worth in this part of the country) calls for high 50s-low 70s, with a rain likely tomorrow. Not so much after that.
The birds outside my window are in a frenzy of territorial and mating calls. You do know that's what birdsong is all about, don't you? They're not about entertaining us with exquisite poetry; no, it's all about defending territory and enticing the ladies. Sorry.
It's so good to see green grass. The only bad thing about this is that it reminds me that I never got to pruning the fruit trees while they were still dormant, and I never sprayed dormant oil spray. Well, better late than never, I guess.
And, as much as I like the warm weather, it is complicating things a little today. I have quarts and quarts of beef broth to can (thanks to the beef I mentioned Tuesday,) and I'm not looking forward to the heat in my kitchen. But I have windows open and fresh spring air pouring in. What AM I complaining about?
There is still mud, and our property still looks more like a wetland than a farmyard. But that may be gone by the end of the month. The 10-day forecast (for what that's worth in this part of the country) calls for high 50s-low 70s, with a rain likely tomorrow. Not so much after that.
The birds outside my window are in a frenzy of territorial and mating calls. You do know that's what birdsong is all about, don't you? They're not about entertaining us with exquisite poetry; no, it's all about defending territory and enticing the ladies. Sorry.
It's so good to see green grass. The only bad thing about this is that it reminds me that I never got to pruning the fruit trees while they were still dormant, and I never sprayed dormant oil spray. Well, better late than never, I guess.
And, as much as I like the warm weather, it is complicating things a little today. I have quarts and quarts of beef broth to can (thanks to the beef I mentioned Tuesday,) and I'm not looking forward to the heat in my kitchen. But I have windows open and fresh spring air pouring in. What AM I complaining about?
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
What Would You Do?
MAP just sent me a message via Facebook that says, among other things, "The Iraqis still can't aim."
Should I be upset that he's had a chance to find out?
Or happy that they can't?
Should I be upset that he's had a chance to find out?
Or happy that they can't?
I Missed It!
MAP called yesterday, and I was out to lunch. I rarely do such a thing by myself, but I did, and, just as I drove out the driveway, the phone rang. He talked to Great-Grandma for a few minutes, and then said, "I gotta go to bed." I'm sad.
JP4 has challenges these days. Please pray for peace and justice.
Round, Unvarnish'd Tale has posted the very pictures I had planned to post of our Chicago adventure...if I ever had time to get those photos off of my camera and into my computer! (OK, RUT, I would have posted the picture I took OF the ferris wheel, not the one our daughters took FROM the ferris wheel. But let's not get nitpicky.) Head over there if that is the kind of thing you like to do.
By the way, I won't ride the ferris wheel. I am not looney. If God made it, and it's tall, I'll trust it. But if some human did.....no way.
More cleaning today. Yowza. And picking up the beef from the butcher. No, not Bess. This is one whose acquaintance we have not yet made. Hope he's tasty!
JP4 has challenges these days. Please pray for peace and justice.
Round, Unvarnish'd Tale has posted the very pictures I had planned to post of our Chicago adventure...if I ever had time to get those photos off of my camera and into my computer! (OK, RUT, I would have posted the picture I took OF the ferris wheel, not the one our daughters took FROM the ferris wheel. But let's not get nitpicky.) Head over there if that is the kind of thing you like to do.
By the way, I won't ride the ferris wheel. I am not looney. If God made it, and it's tall, I'll trust it. But if some human did.....no way.
More cleaning today. Yowza. And picking up the beef from the butcher. No, not Bess. This is one whose acquaintance we have not yet made. Hope he's tasty!
Monday, April 14, 2008
Call me Old-Fashioned,
but I am not getting this mortgage crisis thing. Please let me first post a disclaimer. Although I earned a B in my college Economics class, it is one of those subjects that makes my eyes glaze over. Start talking about cows, or organic produce, and I'm right there. Mention supply and demand, and I'm off to Jamaica or somewhere else. That's probably why I haven't started an organic business yet, but that's another post!
My understanding of this crisis is that people took out adjustable rate mortgages on their homes. Now rates are going up, and they can't make payments. They're losing the American Dream, and they want someone to help them keep it.
OK. Here's where I turn into Mr Hammond from Jurassic Park. You know, this guy in white;
Over the years, John and I have purchased three homes. Each time, we were offered an adjustable rate mortgage. We turned it down, because--and here's the important part--we could never tell if we could afford the payments when the rates would go up. Notice I say WHEN, not IF; nothing gets cheaper, does it? Anyway, because we did not have a crystal ball to predict our future house payment or our future income, we passed on the ARM. We were told, "But you could buy this bigger, nicer house if you did take the mortgage," but we passed anyway and took the smaller, but still nice, home.
Now, here's where the Mr. Hammond analogy comes in. In between the oohs and the ahhs of the beginning of Jurassic Park, and the running and screaming near the end, Mr Hammond says to computer-geek-saboteur Dennis Nedry, "I don't judge people by their mistakes, but I do expect them to pay for them." More to the point, I don't judge people either, but I don't want them asking ME to pay for their mistake of taking the ARM. And you know I will have to, as the government is going to come looking for me and mine to pay the monies necessary to save the American Dream for these people.
But, wait. The American Dream is about working and saving and THEN buying a house. We probably shouldn't even have the mortgage we have, except that we can afford to pay it. No one is keeping the American Dream from those affected by the mortgage crisis; we're just expecting that they work through what was told would happen to them if they couldn't pay. Nowhere does the American Dream say anything about handing it to someone if it doesn't work out in the end that they can't afford it. And, hey, is a Dream ever guaranteed, anyway?
Can someone clear this up for me? Tell me what I'm not getting, and where I'm unAmerican. Please.
My understanding of this crisis is that people took out adjustable rate mortgages on their homes. Now rates are going up, and they can't make payments. They're losing the American Dream, and they want someone to help them keep it.
OK. Here's where I turn into Mr Hammond from Jurassic Park. You know, this guy in white;
Over the years, John and I have purchased three homes. Each time, we were offered an adjustable rate mortgage. We turned it down, because--and here's the important part--we could never tell if we could afford the payments when the rates would go up. Notice I say WHEN, not IF; nothing gets cheaper, does it? Anyway, because we did not have a crystal ball to predict our future house payment or our future income, we passed on the ARM. We were told, "But you could buy this bigger, nicer house if you did take the mortgage," but we passed anyway and took the smaller, but still nice, home.
Now, here's where the Mr. Hammond analogy comes in. In between the oohs and the ahhs of the beginning of Jurassic Park, and the running and screaming near the end, Mr Hammond says to computer-geek-saboteur Dennis Nedry, "I don't judge people by their mistakes, but I do expect them to pay for them." More to the point, I don't judge people either, but I don't want them asking ME to pay for their mistake of taking the ARM. And you know I will have to, as the government is going to come looking for me and mine to pay the monies necessary to save the American Dream for these people.
But, wait. The American Dream is about working and saving and THEN buying a house. We probably shouldn't even have the mortgage we have, except that we can afford to pay it. No one is keeping the American Dream from those affected by the mortgage crisis; we're just expecting that they work through what was told would happen to them if they couldn't pay. Nowhere does the American Dream say anything about handing it to someone if it doesn't work out in the end that they can't afford it. And, hey, is a Dream ever guaranteed, anyway?
Can someone clear this up for me? Tell me what I'm not getting, and where I'm unAmerican. Please.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Back in the Saddle Again...
It seems cleaning took over my blogging time; what up with that? But, I'm back!
Not that there's much to tell...It's been grey, rainy, and cold one day, warm the next here. The next couple of days are supposed to be frigid. I even brought in my portable greenhouse, because snow was flying this morning. Long story short; not much is getting done outside, and we're so bogged down by "grey weather blues" that not much is getting done inside, either.
Today the tax forms were mailed. Since we fell into the "rich" category last year, thanks (?) to the severance, we paid a boatload of taxes this year. It really hurt, but, what are ya gonna do? Yeah; jobless, but we get no refund. In fact, I mailed a check with the forms; what was withheld wasn't enough. Enough of that.
Today is cleaning, feeding animals, and making pizza for supper. MSP and I may take in The Scarlet Pimpernel, having just discussed the French Revolution in history. Tonight there will be some fluff on for movie night; Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow. Doncha just wish YOU lived this hot, exciting life?
Not that there's much to tell...It's been grey, rainy, and cold one day, warm the next here. The next couple of days are supposed to be frigid. I even brought in my portable greenhouse, because snow was flying this morning. Long story short; not much is getting done outside, and we're so bogged down by "grey weather blues" that not much is getting done inside, either.
Today the tax forms were mailed. Since we fell into the "rich" category last year, thanks (?) to the severance, we paid a boatload of taxes this year. It really hurt, but, what are ya gonna do? Yeah; jobless, but we get no refund. In fact, I mailed a check with the forms; what was withheld wasn't enough. Enough of that.
Today is cleaning, feeding animals, and making pizza for supper. MSP and I may take in The Scarlet Pimpernel, having just discussed the French Revolution in history. Tonight there will be some fluff on for movie night; Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow. Doncha just wish YOU lived this hot, exciting life?
Monday, April 7, 2008
Hungover
Not really! One whole glass of merlot wouldn't do that to me!
It was tough, though, to get back into the routine today. We slept in a little, and are doing less today. The weekend's adventures were wonderful!
The Chicago adventure should have been better planned. We wandered around for a bit before deciding what we really wanted to do, and then didn't get it all done. But two bookstores were visited and the girls rode the Navy Pier ferris wheel, so all was not lost.
Sunday after church we dined at "Ship-oat-lee," as the youngest RUTling would say. Then it was off for some shopping...and what shopping we found! One shop was just a "look in here visit," only to find that, when we did, everything was 40% off. Which of us walked out without a bag? None of us walked out without a bag! We're such GOOD little consumers.
Back at the ranch, er, farm, the guys pulled out all the old fencing that needed pulling. New stakes were installed for a new line of fencing. A trip was made to Best Buy for computer supplies, not that those were needed for fencing, but the testosterone was flying by then, and computer stuff needed to be bought. It looks very different around here, but we're far from finished.
EP had another drill weekend. This one was actually served at a CAP event; seems he was allowed to substitute.
All in all, a good weekend, if not too flashy. Hope you enjoyed yours!
It was tough, though, to get back into the routine today. We slept in a little, and are doing less today. The weekend's adventures were wonderful!
The Chicago adventure should have been better planned. We wandered around for a bit before deciding what we really wanted to do, and then didn't get it all done. But two bookstores were visited and the girls rode the Navy Pier ferris wheel, so all was not lost.
Sunday after church we dined at "Ship-oat-lee," as the youngest RUTling would say. Then it was off for some shopping...and what shopping we found! One shop was just a "look in here visit," only to find that, when we did, everything was 40% off. Which of us walked out without a bag? None of us walked out without a bag! We're such GOOD little consumers.
Back at the ranch, er, farm, the guys pulled out all the old fencing that needed pulling. New stakes were installed for a new line of fencing. A trip was made to Best Buy for computer supplies, not that those were needed for fencing, but the testosterone was flying by then, and computer stuff needed to be bought. It looks very different around here, but we're far from finished.
EP had another drill weekend. This one was actually served at a CAP event; seems he was allowed to substitute.
All in all, a good weekend, if not too flashy. Hope you enjoyed yours!
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Sunny Saturday
After a week like I just had, what I really need is to sleep and sleep. But...I'm up, fully caffeinated and discussing Lutheran doctrine and good food with good friends. I'm at Round, Unvarnish'd Tale's house, preparing for our excellent Chicago adventure.
This week at Pine Ridge farm, we fed baby chickens, who poop FAR more than they eat. We've never been able to figure that out... They're really cute, but they won't stay that way. When we got our first batch of "meat birds," I was really worried. As we took them out of the box and put them into the hutch, I thought "What are my kids going to do when we take these out of the hutch to go to the butcher?" There they were, cooing and awwww-ing over the cute little fuzzballs. How could I shatter their happy little world? Fast forward 9 weeks, as they were preparing to GO to the butcher. The kids are saying, "These things stink. And they're AWFUL. And they have to stay here ANOTHER WEEK?" I guess I needn't have worried...
And we seeded the pasture. It's been getting a little thin over the years, and it was time for a little oomph-ing. EP and I spent a late afternoon flinging seed and getting in each other's way. Oh--and I got to see him jump over our fence. Sorry, sweetie; Bessie does it with more grace!
Bill will probably be going home this weekend. I won't be there to help. Darn.
John will be working on a fence this weekend...I hope. We're dividing said pasture so we can rotate the critters through and let the grasses recover a bit from bein' eaten. (That was country alliteration. Say it aloud; you'll hear it!)
Hopefully, though I'll be drinking Austrian coffee and enjoying my girl time. Hopefully? Nah--it's a given!
This week at Pine Ridge farm, we fed baby chickens, who poop FAR more than they eat. We've never been able to figure that out... They're really cute, but they won't stay that way. When we got our first batch of "meat birds," I was really worried. As we took them out of the box and put them into the hutch, I thought "What are my kids going to do when we take these out of the hutch to go to the butcher?" There they were, cooing and awwww-ing over the cute little fuzzballs. How could I shatter their happy little world? Fast forward 9 weeks, as they were preparing to GO to the butcher. The kids are saying, "These things stink. And they're AWFUL. And they have to stay here ANOTHER WEEK?" I guess I needn't have worried...
And we seeded the pasture. It's been getting a little thin over the years, and it was time for a little oomph-ing. EP and I spent a late afternoon flinging seed and getting in each other's way. Oh--and I got to see him jump over our fence. Sorry, sweetie; Bessie does it with more grace!
Bill will probably be going home this weekend. I won't be there to help. Darn.
John will be working on a fence this weekend...I hope. We're dividing said pasture so we can rotate the critters through and let the grasses recover a bit from bein' eaten. (That was country alliteration. Say it aloud; you'll hear it!)
Hopefully, though I'll be drinking Austrian coffee and enjoying my girl time. Hopefully? Nah--it's a given!
Friday, April 4, 2008
-whew-
What a week!
JP4 started a new job this week, in the family business; driving a school bus. His grandmother is retired from that illustrious career, and his aunt is still drivin'. He starts at 6am, so we have had the JP4lings here for a few nights this week. I realize another reason why I homeschool. There is just something WRONG about waking sleepy little heads at 6:45am to get them ready to go off and learn. The weeping and wailing about getting out of bed and getting dressed with the chickens; and that's just me! (ba-dum-ching!)
John is settling into the new job. That's been another schedule change. Mr. "I'll go to bed when I feel like it" is now feeling like it at 9pm instead of 1am! But that's coming along, too.
And I've been working on a new workout routine. I'm doing well; getting stronger, losing weight.
I hope I don't blow it this weekend. Round Unvarnish'd Tale, The Elephant's Child and I will be heading into the big city to have a little girl time. I, for one, hope we end up here. But I'm willing to try something less familiar, too!
JP4 started a new job this week, in the family business; driving a school bus. His grandmother is retired from that illustrious career, and his aunt is still drivin'. He starts at 6am, so we have had the JP4lings here for a few nights this week. I realize another reason why I homeschool. There is just something WRONG about waking sleepy little heads at 6:45am to get them ready to go off and learn. The weeping and wailing about getting out of bed and getting dressed with the chickens; and that's just me! (ba-dum-ching!)
John is settling into the new job. That's been another schedule change. Mr. "I'll go to bed when I feel like it" is now feeling like it at 9pm instead of 1am! But that's coming along, too.
And I've been working on a new workout routine. I'm doing well; getting stronger, losing weight.
I hope I don't blow it this weekend. Round Unvarnish'd Tale, The Elephant's Child and I will be heading into the big city to have a little girl time. I, for one, hope we end up here. But I'm willing to try something less familiar, too!
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
The More Things Change...
Today was lunch out with the grandmas. My kids have been blessed through the years to know 2 grandmas and 3 great-grandmas. It's very unusual, mostly because all are from first marriages. There's not a step among them. Now my grandchildren know 2 grandmas, 4 great-grandmas, and 2 (?) great-great-grandmas. They, also, are blessed. Once a week we get together with my mom and grandma, and my aunt, who is also a grandma. It gets a little hectic when a small voice says, "Grandma?"
Today's conversation turned, as it often does, to homeschooling. "I couldn't do it, and I don't think very many people should. You at least have an educational background. Lots of these parents don't care if their kids get educated. And, since you homeschool, how are they going to learn to get up early when they have a job someday?"
It's the same conversation. I even heard, "I could be doing it in 5 years, but I don't think so. I don't think it's something I could do."
-sigh- Don't my own relatives read my blog?
Fast forward to a few hours later. After my class in Women in American History (more on that some other time) I stop at the local WalMart for some things. Among them were new sheets for MAP, who has been using the same ones for a while and tells me, "I can't get the sand out anymore." (I managed to find a soft set in "sandy;" isn't that an appropriate color?) As I was checking out, I told the checker that I was tickled to find such a color. While my son won't notice--what man would?--I thought it was cute. As I left she said, "Well, good luck to you. I know I couldn't send my kid off to the Army."
Oh for pity's sake. I'm so tired of the same conversations about different subjects!
Today's conversation turned, as it often does, to homeschooling. "I couldn't do it, and I don't think very many people should. You at least have an educational background. Lots of these parents don't care if their kids get educated. And, since you homeschool, how are they going to learn to get up early when they have a job someday?"
It's the same conversation. I even heard, "I could be doing it in 5 years, but I don't think so. I don't think it's something I could do."
-sigh- Don't my own relatives read my blog?
Fast forward to a few hours later. After my class in Women in American History (more on that some other time) I stop at the local WalMart for some things. Among them were new sheets for MAP, who has been using the same ones for a while and tells me, "I can't get the sand out anymore." (I managed to find a soft set in "sandy;" isn't that an appropriate color?) As I was checking out, I told the checker that I was tickled to find such a color. While my son won't notice--what man would?--I thought it was cute. As I left she said, "Well, good luck to you. I know I couldn't send my kid off to the Army."
Oh for pity's sake. I'm so tired of the same conversations about different subjects!
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Rodeo Time!
The dogs needed to go to the vet this morning for their annual shots. Until we moved to the country, I didn't realize that ordinary people can do their own immunizations on their animals. (I also got educated about homeschooling here in the country. It's all that pioneer spirit!) Now, in IL, this doesn't apply to rabies; that still has to be done by a bona fide professional. But distemper, parvo, etc, can be done by yours truly. You can do it, too; if you have any kind of farm supply near you, they carry the shots. If not, there are many places online that sell them. Then you pick up a roll of skin and put that needle just under it. The pros call it subcutaneous; I call it in the gap between skin and muscle. I'm kinda digressing.
So I rolled out of bed at two early, put the pups in the back of the truck and headed out for old Doc Iverson's. Doc Iverson is quite the guy. He's semi-retired, but still caring for critters. You have to be willing to show up before 8am. You also have to catch him in town; he has hunting property in Montana, and is gone much of the year. And if you catch him in town, be sure to ask about his ram. He got a beautiful Bighorn ram, and now has it, as a three-quarter mount, standing in his living room. I'm digressing again.
He did heartworm testing on all three dogs, and vaccinated our Corgi for distemper, parvo and bordatella. I wouldn't normally mess with that one, but MSP is starting 4H dog obedience classes with him this week. Doc Iverson and I got into a long discussion (we always solve one of the world's problems while I'm there) about the cost of vet medicine. He charged me $105; that included the tests, shots, and heartworm medicine for 6 months for three dogs. Ask your local vet what he would charge. I have never paid more than $200 to Doc Iverson; and that was for all three dogs to get heartworm testing (and medicine) and all their shots, including rabies. He went on for a while about the cost of veterinary clinics. "They used to cost $500,000. Than a million. Now they're THREE million. Why on earth do they need $3M in buildings and equipment to take care of critters? That's insane." I'm digressing again!
When we pulled into the driveway, (The dogs and I; none of my kids was available to come along. Grumbling AND digressing...) I looked toward the barn and noticed something disturbing. I opened the front door, found EP, and said,"Why do you suppose Bill and Bess are wandering through the barn?" "Well, Mom, I guess they needed to take a walk." And so, we headed out for the semi-weekly rodeo. We were able to shut the barn door and trap Bill right away. We fixed the gate they had flattened (Bill REALLY needs to go home...) and got them back in. Bess, however, romped through our very wet yard. We will have cow divots until the big rains in the fall, I expect. It was funny, though, to see her out visiting the chickens. She sniffed noses with a few, probably hoping they'd share some grain. I called over, "Bess, come on," and, silly me, whistled as if for a dog. SHE CAME! She looked over, and bounded right up to me like Henry or Woody would. In fact, she wasn't stopping...and wasn't stopping...I was ready to jump and run as she barreled down on me. About 10 feet away, I am not kidding, her eyes got HUGE, as if she realized, "I'm gonna trample the one who brings me grain," and she swerved. I still got splattered with mud, and it was a good 10 minutes before we had them both safe in their pen, but calm has again settled down on our farm. Everybody seems to be where they're supposed to be...except MSP. She should be out of bed. Better go. I'm digressing again...
So I rolled out of bed at two early, put the pups in the back of the truck and headed out for old Doc Iverson's. Doc Iverson is quite the guy. He's semi-retired, but still caring for critters. You have to be willing to show up before 8am. You also have to catch him in town; he has hunting property in Montana, and is gone much of the year. And if you catch him in town, be sure to ask about his ram. He got a beautiful Bighorn ram, and now has it, as a three-quarter mount, standing in his living room. I'm digressing again.
He did heartworm testing on all three dogs, and vaccinated our Corgi for distemper, parvo and bordatella. I wouldn't normally mess with that one, but MSP is starting 4H dog obedience classes with him this week. Doc Iverson and I got into a long discussion (we always solve one of the world's problems while I'm there) about the cost of vet medicine. He charged me $105; that included the tests, shots, and heartworm medicine for 6 months for three dogs. Ask your local vet what he would charge. I have never paid more than $200 to Doc Iverson; and that was for all three dogs to get heartworm testing (and medicine) and all their shots, including rabies. He went on for a while about the cost of veterinary clinics. "They used to cost $500,000. Than a million. Now they're THREE million. Why on earth do they need $3M in buildings and equipment to take care of critters? That's insane." I'm digressing again!
When we pulled into the driveway, (The dogs and I; none of my kids was available to come along. Grumbling AND digressing...) I looked toward the barn and noticed something disturbing. I opened the front door, found EP, and said,"Why do you suppose Bill and Bess are wandering through the barn?" "Well, Mom, I guess they needed to take a walk." And so, we headed out for the semi-weekly rodeo. We were able to shut the barn door and trap Bill right away. We fixed the gate they had flattened (Bill REALLY needs to go home...) and got them back in. Bess, however, romped through our very wet yard. We will have cow divots until the big rains in the fall, I expect. It was funny, though, to see her out visiting the chickens. She sniffed noses with a few, probably hoping they'd share some grain. I called over, "Bess, come on," and, silly me, whistled as if for a dog. SHE CAME! She looked over, and bounded right up to me like Henry or Woody would. In fact, she wasn't stopping...and wasn't stopping...I was ready to jump and run as she barreled down on me. About 10 feet away, I am not kidding, her eyes got HUGE, as if she realized, "I'm gonna trample the one who brings me grain," and she swerved. I still got splattered with mud, and it was a good 10 minutes before we had them both safe in their pen, but calm has again settled down on our farm. Everybody seems to be where they're supposed to be...except MSP. She should be out of bed. Better go. I'm digressing again...
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