My Dad's Moon

NASCAR WEEK-END in PHOENIX

2009-11-13T10:38:00.004-07:00

LET'S GO RACIN' BOY'S AND GIRL'S! WOO HOO!!!

Sending good karma to Mark Martin for the race on Sunday. GO MARK!!!

Beat Jimmy Johnson!

Also - Go Kasey, Jr., Kevin, Jeff, Denny, Carl, Tony, Michael...

God Bless America

2009-11-11T14:21:00.003-07:00

Thank you to all of our Veterans for fighting to preserve our freedom!!!

I Was Born And Raised In The Boondocks!

2009-09-22T08:56:00.014-07:00

Little Big Town's song "Born and Raised in the Boondocks" (lyrics below this post), is a story about, well, it's a story about ME!!! This post proves it... Every time I hear that song I think of this place.

Labor day week-end, when I went home, to the ranch, to visit, me and the kids went out to Chevelon Canyon. This is a place where I spent a lot of time when I was growing up! It is about 20 miles, (on a dirt road), from the Ranch. There are a lot of places to play in the water. And just have some go old fashion fun!

So here we go... On our way. The girl's in my truck (me, Christen, Lena, Lily and Hemi) and the boys in Clint's truck (Clint, Jason and Porter). The boy's led, of course!

Pulled off the road, right before the bridge.

Walking to the bridge.

There it is... That old bridge.

"You get a line, I'll get a pole, We'll go fishin' in the crawfish hole"

I caught many a crawdads in this creek!

wait

Let me reword that...

I was with a lot of boys that caught a lot of crawdads in this creek! = )

I have been with many people over the years that have jumped. BUT NOT ME!!! I can't even hardly watch!!!

"I can feel that muddy water runnin' through my veins"

I was holding on to her so tight! It's pretty scary looking down off of that bridge!

Jason and Lily

Jason, Lily, Hemi, Lena and Me

My sweet Lena

The canyon...

Walkin' down to the water

Clint and Porter

Lena playin' in the dirt

Lily started it!!!!

Then Porter!

Lily and Porter had a blast playin' in that muddy water!

And playin'

And playin' some more!

Porter had more fun than anyone!

He kept getting out and then would run and jump back in.

He was so cute!

Not Hemi!!! She's my girly girl. She didn't want anything to do with that muddy water! She just watched!

And watched...

Lena was filthy and tired, when we got back to the truck!

The end...

P.S. I grew up hearing that lullaby of a midnight train, or any other train for that matter! My Dad taught me how to play poker while camping, (usually on Saturday night). And I defiantly went to Church on Sunday morning! We had honeysuckle growing near the back porch my whole life. I learned to work hard, I learned about living and about loving...

(Chorus:)

I feel no shame

I'm proud of where I came from

I was born and raised in the boondocks

One thing I know

No matter where I go

I keep my heart and soul in the boondocks

And I can feel

That muddy water running through my veins

And I can hear that lullaby of a midnight train

It sings to me and it sounds familiar

(Chorus)

And I can taste

That honeysuckle and it's still so sweet

When it grows wild

On the banks down at old camp creek

Yeah, and it calls to me like a warm wind blowing

(Chorus)

It's where I learned about living

It's where I learned about love

It's where I learned about working hard

And having a little was just enough

It's where I learned about Jesus

And knowing where I stand

You can take it or leave it, this is me

This is who I am

Give me a tin roof

A front porch and a gravel road

And that's home to me

It feels like home to me

(Chorus)

I keep my heart and soul in the boondocks

You get a line, I'll get a pole

We'll go fishing in the crawfish hole

Five-card poker on a Saturday night

Church on Sunday morning

(2x)

You get a line, I'll get a pole

We'll go fishing in the crawfish hole

(Down in the boondocks)

Five-card poker on a Saturday night

Church on Sunday morning

Rest In Peace Patrick Swayze

2009-09-15T10:11:00.002-07:00

I cried all morning, getting ready for work! They kept showing scenes from Ghost and Dirty Dancing, two of my favorite movies! Defiantly one of my all time favorite actors! He will be missed!

September 11, 2009

2009-09-11T13:49:00.003-07:00

One of our Techs got to work early this morning and did this with our boom truck. I thought it was so cool. As I was approaching the office I thought "WOW look what someone did, I wish we would have thought of doing that." Then as I got closer, I realized, it was us! Good job Ron Cole!

A Beautiful Reunion

2009-09-03T15:34:00.002-07:00

Project Runway

2009-08-26T15:40:00.001-07:00

FINALLY - Something I am looking forward to watch on TV! I love this show! Tomorrow night 2nd show, can't wait...

Cell Phone Pictures

2009-08-06T12:34:00.008-07:00

I can't believe it has been over a month since I last posted!!!

I owe Christen a HAPPY BIRTHDAY post. Her birthday was yesterday and she turned the BIG 3-0! WOW makes me feel old. But I'm not... or am I? Your not off the hook Christen, I will get to it and there will be pictures! ; - )

Oh well, for now, here are some random pictures from my cell phone just for the fun of it.

My wonderful son-in-law Clint, fixing my truck. He did such a GREAT job. Thank you again Clint. I love you!

Hemi and Lily doing a potty break on one of our trip's to the Ranch this winter. They don't get much of a chance to play in the snow!

On a trip home from the ranch! They usually don't both sleep at the same time but this was a long trip and they were tired.

This is Hemi on New Years 2009! She went with me to a party at my friend Meghan's house.

Kaden at Target with me.

Lena at her Granny Haddox's funeral. She is wearing a dress, Granny made for her out of Christen's wedding vail. She was really tired and didn't want her picture taken. She was actually telling me "NO".

Lena playing on PaPa Brink's tractor.

Lena playing in my truck. One of her favorite things to do!!

A self picture of me and Kaden. This was last spring.

Sunflowers in my yard.

This is Tom and Tom. My friend's Kevin and Jim's pet turkey's. Yes, Kevin and Jim are gay. I don't know about the turkey's.

Good Ol Holbrook

2009-07-09T07:51:00.006-07:00

I'm just now getting around to posting my trip home for the 4th of July. Holbrook has a GREAT 4th of July celebration!!! The Holbrook Volunteer Fire Department has a barbecue every year (they have been doing this for like 50 years). It is the best barbecue you have ever tasted!!! They also do the fire work show and they really do a great job. We had a lot of fun!

Stopped for a potty break on the rim.

The Mongolian Rim is my favorite place in the world.
This is the apple tree in front of my Mom's house. Hundreds of pictures have been taken around this tree! Lena wanted to climb it and I was helping her.

She loves to lay in the grass!

Lena is a very lucky little girl to have two Great Grandma's who are great friends!

Playin' peek a boo with Grandma's

Me and Lena in front of Great Grandma's house talking about the flag and how much it means to us and how Pa Pa loved displaying it!

The best barbecue EVER!!!! I should have taken a picture of our food but I forgot and it was gone FAST!

Getting ready for fire works! We got there early and had front row seats!

A beautiful sunset

My moon!

Me and my best friend, (who also happens to be my daughter), Christen

Here is Lena and her Dad at the Park the next day. She sure did have fun!

My Sunflowers

2009-07-02T10:09:00.003-07:00

Hope everyone has a safe and happy 4th!!!

View from my kitchen window

Cancer Sucks!

2009-06-25T14:15:00.001-07:00

Farrah Fawcett lost her battle with cancer today! I'm sad. Rest in peace Farrah!

Kaden Likes the Pool Now

2009-06-22T14:06:00.002-07:00

Guess who spent the week-end with me?

Never mind the PINK floatie! We had to borrow Lena's.

I think the pool was too cold for him last time. We really had fun this time! He never cried once until it was time to get out! There's Lily in the back ground. She is in charge of the pool! Especially when people are swimming and even more when it's kids. She gets so nervous!

Grams loves her Kaden!!!

My Best Friend

2009-06-17T10:24:00.005-07:00

These pictures are of Christen's first garden! I am so proud of her! She is doing so well with it! They were taken two week-ends ago, when I was home to help paint my Mom's house.

I love my daughter so much. I guess that goes without saying but she is truly my best friend. She called me last night just to tell me she was missin' me! Made me feel so good. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful relationship with her.

Of course Lena likes to help her Mama.

That's my truck! I love my truck!

Bye Bye Barn Red

2009-06-10T10:28:00.012-07:00

We painted my Mom's house this last week-end. This is the house I grew up in. We moved in when I was 4 years old (I'm 47 now).

The house has been the same color for over 40 years. It was yellow with "barn red" trim. Although it had been painted several times through the years my Dad always went with the same colors.

My Dad loved barn red! He painted a lot of things barn red but that is another story for another post some day. We all loved my Dad so dearly and it wasn't that we didn't like the color of the house but it was time for a change.

The roof has been green for along time. We decided to paint the house white with green trim. This first picture is when I first arrived. Clint and Christen had already been hard at work and got a great deal of the white done. You can see a little of the dingy old yellow at the side of the house.

There's my Mom coming out to greet me. She was the boss of the project and I might add, she was good at it! ; - )

Hemi saying hi to Grandma

See the barn red flower box.

And the front porch, barn red trim.

Bye bye barn red

Bye!

Christen and Rance

Me and Rance painting the front porch trim.

This next picture is kinda embarrassing! These were the Christmas lights that were on my front porch all year long for many, many years!

Yeah, that's right. I'm a redneck woman!

Have you heard the song "Redneck Woman" by Gretchin Wilson? That's me! Rather I like it or not! That's me! Here is the chorus...

Cause I'm a redneck woman And I ain't no high class broad I'm just a product of my raisin' And I say "hey y'all" and "Yee Haw" And I keep my Christmas lights on, on my front porch all year long And I know all the words to every Charlie Daniels song So here's to all my sisters out there keepin' it country Let me get a big "Hell Yeah" from the redneck girls like me Hell Yeah Hell Yeah

And just in case your wonderin',,, we aren't going to put them back up!!!! Sorry Dad! Love ya!

Finished front porch! So pretty!!!

Hemi, Lena and Rance played a lot while we painted. Here are some highlights! Note Lena with that old soccer ball. She played with it all week-end!

Clint worked so hard! We could have never done it without him!

Rance did a lot of this! Don't get me wrong, he helped a lot too!

Lena Is My Drug Of Choice

2009-05-29T14:56:00.004-07:00

Lena and her Mom and Dad were here visiting me last week-end. We had so much fun as we always do!!! Thank you guys for coming I always love having you! Lena getting ready to go swimming. She LOVES the pool.

I bought her some dress up jewelry. She had fun with it. My little princess is a Tom Boy like her Grandma (Grams). She loves to play dress up and then go play on the ATV!!!

Eatin' tomatoes out of my garden. Her Mom said she wouldn't eat tomatoes before but she sure did love them out of the garden! She couldn't get enough!

Hemi with her favorite friend. They love to play together!

Lena and I went to the store together and her Dad put her in this cutest outfit to go with Grams. She is my little doll!

Grams, Lena and the girls watchin' cartoons in Grams bed, Monday morning (Memorial Day), before they left to go home.

Lena is my drug of choice and after they left I had BAD withdrawels!!!!

My Lump Of Sugar (non fat)

2009-05-21T09:19:00.008-07:00

I got to watch Kaden again last week-end. I'm just now getting around to posting some pictures. We had so much fun!

Spending time with Lily.

Lily loves her some Kaden

Getting ready to go swimming in Grandma's pool.

He's even cute when he crys!

He hated the pool! It's amasing how kids are just like their parents. My daughter loved the water and so does Lena (her daughter). Jason didn't care for the water at all and neither does Kaden!!!

Ok, that's better!

He loves to be outside as long as we stay away from the pool!

Hemi posing! She wanted in on the pictures too!

Handsome!

That's my lump of sugar!

Losing Is So Much Fun

2009-05-19T07:53:00.004-07:00

I'm a happy girl this morning! Check out my weight loss ticker at the bottom of my page!!! I lost another 3.4 pounds this week! This brings my total weight loss to 28 lbs! I really have to say, I am proud of myself. I have stuck to this for 20 weeks and I'm not even thinking of giving up. I love Weight Watchers. I feel like I am losing this weight the healthy way and that I am going to keep it off for the rest of my life because I am learning new habits. Ok thats enough, I feel like a Weight Watcher commercial! Have a great day everyone!

Valerie Bertinelli

2009-05-07T10:34:00.011-07:00

My 48th birthday is November 16th, 2009. Below is my "long shot" goal to reach by that date. (My birthday present to MYSELF, if you will).

I stopped posting about my weight every week because I was up and down and pretty much staying within 4 pounds, THE SAME. At my last weigh in I actually lost 3.2 lbs. YEA!!! I am now down 25.2 and have 37.8 to go. Still not half way and I only have 6 months to go. HELP!!!!

I know, I know, IT'S TIME TO START AN EXERCISE PROGRAM!!!

My weight tracker is at the bottom of my page. It's been there for awhile but I haven't mentioned it because, well because honestly, does anyone really care??? NO (except my Mom). Thanks MOM - I LOVE YOU!!!

LOOK AT HER!!! WHAT A DOLL!!! I most likely won't be posting a picture of myself in a BIKINI (your welcome)!!!

I'll just post this picture again and say,,,, I look just like her now. Ha Ha.

April Showers Bring May Flowers!

2009-05-06T16:18:00.006-07:00

OK - So there were no April showers. There are still May flowers! My rose bush is going crazy and my cactus monster is starting to bloom!

This is a really special rose bush. The roses are really fragrant. I mean extra. When I bring them in the house it smells like I'm burning a rose candle!

I WANT ONE OF THESE PLEASE

2009-05-05T13:25:00.005-07:00

I haven't been IN LOVE for a very long time!!!

Check it out - 2010 Chevy Camero.

You can go here to build your own http://www.chevrolet.com/allnewcamaro/#camaro=build-your-own

I'll take the 2SS in imperial blue matallic. Starting at ONLY $34,225.

It goes 0-60 in 4.6 SECONDS...

I WANT IT SOOOOOOOOOO BAD!!!!!!

Playin' With the Rednecks! April 18th 2009

2009-04-29T09:30:00.010-07:00

I have been a NASCAR fan since 1988. When I went to my first race at Phoenix International Raceway (PIR), in November of 1989 we sat in wooden benches on turn 4. It was rather small back then. NASCAR has grown so much in the last 10 years, it’s crazy!

PIR used to just have one race a year, in November but they added the April race so now they have two. The April race was added about five years ago and I have attended every one of them. It is a night race, which I love.

This year I had decided I wasn’t going to go but my dear friend Peggy and her husband Jack from Virginia got tickets and came out for the race so of course I went. It was so much fun, as always. I don’t know why I had decided not to go. IT’S A BLAST TO GO PLAY WITH THE REDNECKS!!! Here are a few highlights…

Oh Mark Martin won. YEA Mark. I wish it would have been Dale Jr. but at least it wasn't 48 or one of the Busch boys! ; - )

My dear friend Peggy and her husband Jack. Peggy and I have been friends for over 20 years. Our daughters introduced us when they were in the 5th grade.

Dale Jr's trailer.

Jack, Peggy, me and Melissa (Peggy's daughter) in our seats at turn 4! My favorite place to sit.

This kinda shows where our seats were. Turn 4, where the old wooden benches used to be!

The starting pole.

Michael Waltrip during driver introductions.

Dale Jr. during driver introductions.

The fly over. It always brings tears to my eyes!

Pit action! We sat right across from Michael Waltrip's pit. I love Mikie! Except I'm kinda dissapointed that he started driving a Toyota...

Baby Lambs

2009-04-13T15:31:00.002-07:00

Easter is always so much fun at the Ranch. We almost always have new baby lambs and this year was no different.

More Horse Ranch Pictures

2009-04-08T10:51:00.010-07:00

These pictures give you an idea of how much Lena LOVED the horses!

Christen rode too!

This horse would grin when the trainer scratched his belly!

Lena was trying to kiss the horse

She was so tired at the end of the night!

Pedicures

2009-04-06T12:10:00.005-07:00

While Lena and her Mom were here visiting Grandma I had to take them to get pedicures. Lena loved having her toes painted. She kept pointing at her toes saying, "see" "pretty". What a little GIRL. It was so much fun.

New Favorite Picture

2009-04-03T15:22:00.002-07:00

This is so special to me. We took Lena to a horse ranch and I got to give my grand-daughter her first ride on a horse!!!! AND the best part... She fell in love with the horses. She was so excited and loved riding so much she cried when we took her off of the horse! I have more pictures I will post later but this one is priceless (to me at least)!!!!

Happy, Happy Grandma Part 2

2009-04-03T11:33:00.025-07:00

Lena and her Mom are here visiting Grandma!

Bed time story for Lena and Lily

Christen decided to roll Lena's hair!

Trying to keep her busy so she would sit still for this!

The finished product. Could this be concidered Child Abuse?!

It Was WATER!

2009-03-31T08:20:00.005-07:00

First I would like to thank my family, friends and co-workers for putting up with me wining about my weight for the last two weeks! I have threatened to quit and just be FAT forever so many times and everyone has been so good about encourging me!

I LOST 4.4 lbs. That's 22.4 and I have 37.6 to go.

Thanks everyone!

Happy Grandma

2009-03-30T10:58:00.007-07:00

I got to babysit Kaden this week-end. He's getting so big. He's almost 5 month old now.

Watchin' the dogs. He loved being outside.

Of course Hemi had to have her picture taken too!

Very Happy after sleeping all night for Grandma

I Gained AGAIN

2009-03-24T08:47:00.007-07:00

I'm so mad! Sad. Depressed. Bitchy. I feel sorry for people who have to be around me today. I have been so discipline when it comes to what I am eating. I really have been good. Counting all my points and doing what I am supposed to do (except exercise)! I know, I know, I know - I need to exercise!!!

I might as well just spit it out.

I GAINED 2.2 pounds this week! That is 3 pounds in two weeks, that I have GAINED. For the life of me I don't understand WHY! I am so determined to get this weight off and get back in shape but today I feel like a failure! I'm not going to stop trying but it is hard not to just give up.

As I'm typing this, my song just came on the radio "Cowgirls Don't Cry"!

News flash...

Cowgirls cry sometimes...

Happy Birthday Jason

2009-03-21T15:37:00.024-07:00

Dear Jason, You are 24 years old today. I love you so deeply my Son. You are also the greatest challenge in my life! I’m sorry you seem to have to learn all your lessons the hardest way possible. You have a heart of gold, a great sole and you are strong. I have no doubt that you will make something out of your life and you will shine. Happy Birthday Son.

Six months

With your Sissy

The next two pictures are because I have the opportunity to embarrass you and I am taking advantage! ; - )

With your Grandma, up on the Rim

Riding the tractor with PaPa

Look at those cowboy boots!!!

Fishin with Pa Pa

Mountain climbing in Colorado

NASCAR!!!

You love your DOGS!

AND

The LOVE OF YOUR LIFE KADEN JAMES.

Therapy

2009-03-20T09:57:00.020-07:00

I have been working in my yard, doing some gardening, planting flowers and a few vegetables. I wanted to post some pictures and plan to show progress throughout the spring and summer. With everything that has been going on in my life, gardening is such good therapy for me. Once I start digging in the dirt I am able to forget about all the bad stuff for awhile.

This is just the beginning, I NEED A LOT OF THERAPY…

The dogs love me being outside (especially Hemi). Lily will play outside by herself but Hemi stay’s by my side no matter where I am. She makes me feel really guilty for sitting on the couch watching TV. She just looks so board and looks at me wishing so bad I would just get my lazy butt up and go outside to play with her. She is so good for me.

NOTE: I feel bad for not having any pictures of Lily. She is always outside playing with us but she's not a camera ham like Hemi... Next time I will make sure she gets in a few of the pictures.
Lily's favorite game is KEEP AWAY (from Hemi when we are playing Frisbee).

These daisy's grew wild from last year.

Tomato plants plus I planted some lettuce seeds. There are also some chili plants but you can't see them in this picture.

Also planted a few marigolds (to help with pests)

One of my rose bushes and some other flowers in pots.

Hemi says "here's my FRISBEE, lets play please"!!!

I planted some sunflowers in this bed and I think I will plant some sweet peas as well.

This cactus came with my house / garden!!! It is huge. Sometimes I wish it wasn't there but when it blooms it is beautiful.

I cut my rose bushes way back. I hope I didn't cut them too much!

Here is a picture of one of my rose bushes last year along with some cactus blooms.

Boo Hoo

2009-03-17T11:29:00.004-07:00

I didn't loose any weight this week. So sad. In fact I gained .8!!! I don't know why I gained but I did,,, I'm upset!

Weight Watcher people are so nice. They say things like.

"You probably just lost inches" What the hell does that mean???
or
"That's OK, you can't expect to loose every week" YES I CAN!!!
or
"At least you didn't gain a whole pound". YEAH, but I didn't lose!!!
One lady said
"Muscle weighs more than fat." So show me on my body where you see muscle????

Next week is another week. I will do better! It's hard not to get discouraged though!

Welcome To Our Home Loki

2009-03-16T09:10:00.012-07:00

Loki and I go way back. She is about ten years old. My daughter, Christen, got her when we lived in Colorado. This was back when life was good for Miss L. Good because there were NO DOGS in her life. In fact, she didn't even know what a dog was for the first few years of her life!!! Oh yes, life was good!

Loki has had to move a few times since her perfect life. We moved back to Arizona then Christen got married and moved into a house where there was a DOG, a man, a boy, then came a baby, other cats etc...

Well, Loki has come to live with me again because her ma ma just moved into a house where she can't keep her.

Let it be known that LOKI HATES DOGS!!!! I thought she would probably end up hiding for the rest of her life but she has decided to put up with these worthless creatures (Loki's words)! I had to post some pictures just to show Christen that she really is doing good. You see,,, Loki has been training the dogs and they are now aware that Loki is the BOSS of them!

She does have to remind them about her space from time to time.

Hemi just wants to give her some kisses!!!

WELCOME LOKI - We all love you!
Carolyn, Hemi, Lily and Harley

21 Pounds Gone

2009-03-10T11:41:00.004-07:00

OK - I realize my weight loss posts really don't interest anyone but I'm doing this for me! I intend to post other stuff. I've just been soooo distracted lately. I will though, soon, (hopefully).

So - I lost another 1.8 lbs this week. That brings my total weight loss to, 21 lbs.

Mexican Meat Loaf

2009-03-04T08:39:00.004-07:00

I had to share this recipe for Mexican Meat Loaf. It is a Weight Watchers recipe. It is delicious! AND only 3 points per serving!!

Makes 6 servings

Cooking spray
1/2 lb extra lean ground beef
1/2 lb lean ground turkey breast
2 large egg whites
2 oz cornbread stuffing dry mix (about 1 cup)
1 chopped onion
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp ground cumin
Salt & pepper to taste
4 oz canned green chili peppers, diced (I like to use the Ortega hot ones)
8 oz canned enchilada sauce

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Coat a broiler pan with cooking spray (I use a bread pan). In a large bowl, mix beef, turkey, egg whites, stuffing mix, onion, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, chilies, and half of the enchilada sauce together. Shape into an oval with your hands and place on / in prepared pan. Cook for 1 hour, top with remaining enchilada sauce and bake for 5 minutes more. Slice into 6 pieces and serve.

WOO HOO

2009-03-03T08:31:00.004-07:00

I lost 2 more pounds! YEA! I've now lost 19.8. ONLY 40.8 to go!!!!

FIGHT FAT

2009-02-27T16:05:00.001-07:00

I have been fighting fat my whole life, or so it seems. I guess I didn't really start having weight problems until after I had my first child but it seems like my whole life. Every New Years like many other people, my resolution is, to LOSE WEIGHT. As I posted about my intentions back in November, I started Weight Watchers at the first of January. I have been on the plan for 8 weeks and I have lost 17.2 lbs! I need to lose 60!!! So only 42.8 lbs to go!!! It seems impossible but I am DETERMINED. I have decided to dedicate 2009 to loosing the weight and then 2010 will be dedicated to tone up. By the time I turn 50 I could be a HOT Grandma. Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha. NOT. But at least I will be healthy. My Weight Watchers meetings are every Monday and I weigh in and attend a 30 minute meeting. I'm going to try to post my progress on Tuesday's. I'm hoping this will help me to keep going. I also want to post a before picture and will definatley be posting an after picture (can't wait for that one). This is the only picture I can find right now for a before picture. (Me and my sweet Mother). LOOK AT THAT ROLL of mine!!! My Mom is so cute! Hemi too...

Cowgirl's Don't Cry!

2009-02-24T08:18:00.005-07:00

I wish my Dad was still here so bad... This song (lyrics below) by Brooks and Dunn really hit's home with me right now. Every word fits. My Dad gave me my first pony and taught me how to ride. He also made me get back on when I fell off (and I didn't want to). Married life didn't turn out the way I wanted it to either but he was there to make me hold my head up and keep going...

Life has dished out some pretty hard blows these last few months and it makes me want my Daddy soooooooo bad! Dad didn't put up with too much cryin'. He'd say, "Well what are ya gonna do,,, cry about it?" "What's that gonna do for ya?" He was tough but he loved and made me feel loved even though he was rough and tough.

Sometimes I wonder what he would tell me now, but then I know. He'd tell me to get back up and ride. Hold my head up high and keep goin'. He'd also tell me to get on my knee's and pray. Then he'd grab me and hold me and tell me that he loves me. Then he would tell me to "knock off that cryin' bull shit"...

Cowgirls Don't Cry by Brooks and Dunn

Her daddy gave her, her first pony
Then taught her to ride
She climbed high in that saddle
Fell I don't know how many times
Taught her a lesson that she learned
Maybe a little too well
Cowgirls don't cry
Ride, baby, ride lessons in life are going to show you in time soon enough your gonna know why it's gonna hurt every now and then if you fall get back on again
Cowgirls don't cry
She grew up
She got married
Never was quite right
She wanted a house, a home and babies
He started coming home late at night
She didn't let him see it break her heart
She didn't let him see her fall apart'cause
Cowgirls don't cry
Ride, baby, ride lessons in life are goinna' show you in time soon enough your gonna know why it's gonna hurt every now and then if you fall get back on again
Cowgirls don't cry
Phone rang early one morning
Her momma's voice, she'd been crying
Said it's your daddy, you need to come home
This is it, I think he's dying
She laid the phone down by his head
The last words that he said
Cowgirl don't cry
Ride, baby, ride
Lessons in life show us all in time
Too soon God lets you know why
If you fall get right back on
Good Lord calls everybody home
Cowgirl don't cry

25 Random Things About Me

2009-02-18T12:39:00.004-07:00

My friend Julie at 47 and Starting Over is famous for this list. Seriously, she and her son were in the newspaper in Columbus Ohio, here because of this list. She tagged all her readers to do their own list, so here is mine Julie! Note: I'm doing this one instead of the sex one,,, cuz, oh just cuz...

25 Random Things About ME

1. I’m a country girl. I was born and raised on a small ranch in Northern Arizona
2. I am the proud mother of two. I love my kids more than life. One daughter and one son.
3. I am a Grandma! My daughter has a daughter and my son has a son!
4. I am a Daddy’s girl. My Dad died three years ago and I miss him more than words can say.
5. My precious Mother still lives on the same ranch where I was raised. She is 85 years old and is healthy and active. (Last week she had to go to traffic school because she got her FIRST speeding ticket).
6. I have two tattoos and my Dad never knew. He would have killed me!
7. My belly button is pierced. I had it done in my thirties and I love it. My Dad did know about my pierced belly, he thought it was funny. NOTE: I don't show it off cuz I'm old! It's just for me!
8. I was born and raised in the LDS Church. Yes, I’m a Mormon. I love the church but I’m not always a very good example (see 6 & 7). I’m working on being better. I just started going back to church again.
9. I love fast cars!
10. I love big pick up trucks with big tires!
11. I have a half brother and two half sisters but I was raised an only Child. I am my Mom’s only child.
12. My Mom and Dad we’re happily married and stayed that way until my Dad passed away. They were married over 40 years.
13. I’ve always wanted to live in Payson Az. Still do.
14. I need to loose 60 lbs. I’m working on it. I’ve already lost 16.
15. I used to be a 911 Dispatcher.
16. When I was younger, I wanted to be a Cop.
17. My favorite color is green.
18. I HATE talking on the phone.
19. I used to talk crap about Pit Bulls and their owners, now I own one!!! Long story.
20. I am an animal LOVER. I especially adore my Australian Shepard, Hemi. I love Lily too (the Pit Bull).
21. I’ve been a NASCAR fan since 1989!
22. I have lived in four different states. AZ, NM, TX, CO, but I’m back in Arizona to stay.
23. I’ve been divorced for ten years.
24. I’ve never been to Hawaii. Someday (I hope).
25. I feel my blog is very inadequate compared to all the one’s I read but that’s ok.

Bella & Tara

2009-02-12T16:24:00.002-07:00

This sweet story is for animal lovers. Warning it will bring tears to your eyes but it is well worth watching! Even if your not an animal lover.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFz-FMj-9Ps

Life Has Been Kicking My Butt Latley!!!

2009-02-12T11:13:00.005-07:00

WOW, life really kicked my butt latley. I'm back. I will hopefully be posting and commenting soon.

Monday Smile

2008-12-15T08:47:00.001-07:00

Mustang Ranch

2008-12-12T12:54:00.005-07:00

Someone sent me this e-mail this morning! Really gives you something to think about!!!

Subject: Mustang Ranch Brothel

The Mustang Ranch and the $750 billion bail-out..... Back in 1990, the Government seized the Mustang Ranch brothel in Nevada for tax evasion and, as required by law, tried to run it. They failed and it closed. Now, we are trusting the economy of our country and trillions of dollars to a pack of nit-wits who couldn't make money running a whore house and selling booze. Now if that doesn't make you nervous, what does???

Drug Testing

2008-12-10T10:25:00.001-07:00

Like many Americans, I have a job. I work, they pay me. I pay my taxes and the government distributes my taxes as it sees fit. In order to get that paycheck, I am required to pass a random drug test, with which I have no problem.

What I do have a problem with is the distribution of my taxes to people who don’t have to pass a drug test. Shouldn’t one have to pass a drug test to get a welfare check because I have to pass one to earn it for them???

Please understand I have no problem with helping people get back on their feet. I do on the other hand have a problem with helping someone sit on their ass and / or do drugs. Could you imagine how much money each state would save if people had to pass a drug test to get a public assistance check?

My Heart Just Melted

2008-12-05T16:16:00.002-07:00

My son just called me and melted my heart. This was the conversation;

Me: Hey Jason

Jason: Mom, your never going to believe this, Kaden is talking.

Me: Yeah Right Jason

Jason: No Mom, I’m serious. Kaden is talking. I didn’t believe it either. Lana just came out of the bedroom and told me to come in there because Kaden is talking. I went in there and sure as hell, Kaden said, “Dad I miss my Grandma and I want to see her tonight!” "I want my Grandma to come and spend the night with us tonight."

Guess where I’m going tonight! YEA…

P.S. I love my son!

A Few Funny Pictures From My Cell Phone

2008-12-02T14:42:00.017-07:00

Lana sent me this picture about a week before Kaden was born. She was so tired of being pregnant!!!

Christen sent me this picture of Lena's first fat lip, (she fell on a toy)!!! Poor Christen, she cried more than Lena!

My best friend, Kevin, sent me this picture of his pet "Tom" (yes, I said pet). Yes, Kevin is gay!

This one!!!! Well, I cut my toe with a spoon! Yes, I said a spoon. Who cut's their toe with a spoon? I do. I dropped a spoon on my toe and it cut it!!! I had to send this picture to my daughter to prove it!

Lana sent me this picture!!! What can I say! Silly kids!

Thankful for Family

2008-11-25T14:38:00.017-07:00

I had a house full this last week-end (week-end before Thanksgiving). Jason, Lana and Kaden, Clint, Christen, Rance and Lena. LOVE YOU ALL!!! It was great to have you! See you for Thanksgiving!

Lena meets her new cousin Kaden

Aunt Christen and Uncle Clint

Hemi the Poser

2008-11-18T15:14:00.011-07:00

The below pictures show what a poser Hemi has become! She gets her picture taken so much she has learned, as soon as I get the camera out, to sit, stay, look at me and smile (yes, she smiles)... She is so funny! Even when I'm not taking her picture, if I have the camera in hand, she poses, ya know, just in case!

Shaw Butte - Happy Birthday to Me

2008-11-17T09:24:00.006-07:00

Yesterday was my 47th birthday! Wow I'm getting old! I know I'm not the only 47 year old that says this but,,, I just can't believe I'm pushing 50!!! I feel like I should be, oh, 25 maybe 30! However my kids are closer to 25 and 30 than I am (23 & 29).

I have decided I need to set some goals... I want and NEED to lose 40 lbs by the time I turn 48. (I went to the Dr. last week and found out, I have high blood pressure). So needless to say,,, my new goals are diet AND EXERCISE yuck. To get myself started, me and Hemi hiked SHAW BUTTE yesterday. We didn't get very far because I'm FAT and out of shape but it's a start! When I got home it felt like my legs were going to fall off! Hemi was ready to go again!

I will be posting more about my efforts to diet and exercise as I go. I'm hoping by making my efforts public it will help me to stay on track. I'm going to do my best over the holidays and then really get started come January 1st. I'm not going to post my weight until then, hopefully that will give me incentive to loose as much as I can by January so when I do post my weight it won't be as humiliating as it would be if I posted it today!!!!! Wish me luck! Thanks!

Welcome - Kaden James

2008-11-12T09:30:00.018-07:00

Kaden James, born November 11, 2008 @ 1:08 p.m. 7 lbs 9 oz, (21 inches)

MY SON HAS A SON!!!

First Bath

Waiting for Kaden

2008-11-11T09:56:00.006-07:00

Waiting, waiting and more waiting…

My Jason is going to be a father!!! I’m going to be a Grandma AGAIN!!! Number 2. I am going to have a Grandson! Lana, is in the hospital being induced today. They admitted her last night and started the process. Now all we can do is wait. Hopefully next time I post it will be pictures of our new baby…

She is going to kill me for this one... They made her walk and walk and walk last night at the hospital...

Here is a funny picture of the parents to be earlier this year...

I VOTED

2008-11-04T14:32:00.002-07:00

I waited in line 5 minutes!!! It took me longer to vote than it did to wait in line. I wasn't expecting that. I heard horror stories from other parts of the Valley. I'm proud that I voted.

John Wayne for President

2008-11-03T15:45:00.004-07:00

I wish I would have voted early!!! I'm going to be standing in line tomorrow with all the other's who didn't vote early!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2008-10-31T08:10:00.002-07:00

Friday Funny - Border Patrol

2008-10-24T13:20:00.006-07:00

I don't know about you but I NEED TO SLOW DOWN

2008-10-22T11:04:00.003-07:00

New DPS photo radar camera locations

by Nicole McGregor - Oct. 14, 2008 09:51 AM
12 News Today
“Drive slow or you'll pay!”

DPS has rolled out mobile cameras throughout the state, and they're now starting to put up stationary cameras too. When finished, there will be a total of 60 stationary cameras and 40 mobile ones throughout Arizona.
If you get a ticket for going 10 miles over the speed limit, you'll pay $181.

Bear in mind that your trusty radar detector does not work on permanently installed speed cameras; they aren’t radar: the sensors are embedded in the roadway and physically pace you. Your detector will work and give warning of the roadside vans which use actual radar.

Here’s where to be careful – but of course, like me, you’re always careful!

Interstate 10
**Eastbound, I-10, 287th Ave.
**Eastbound, I-10, Miller
**Eastbound, I-10, Watson
Westbound, I-10, 91st Ave
East & West, I-10, 75th Ave
East & West, I-10, 59th Ave
Eastbound, I-10, 35th Ave
Eastbound, I-10, 43rd Ave
Eastbound, I-10, 27th Ave
East & West, I-10, 15th Ave
Eastbound, I-10, 16th Street
Westbound, I-10, Buckeye
Westbound, I-10, 24th Street
Westbound, I-10, 40th Street

US 60
Westbound, US-60, Alma School
Westbound, US-60, Mesa Drive
Westbound, US-60, Gilbert Road

Interstate - 17
Southbound, I-17, 15th Ave
Southbound, I-17, 12th Street
Northbound, I-17, Thunderbird
Northbound, I-17, Bell Road

State Route - 51
Southbound, SR-51, Thomas Road
Southbound, SR-51, Highland Pkwy.
Southbound, SR-51, Bethany Home Rd.

State Route - 101
**Southbound, SR-101, McDowell Rd
**Southbound, SR-101, Indian School
**Southbound, SR-101, Bethany Home
North & South, SR-101, Glendale Ave.
Southbound, SR-101, Olive
** Eastbound, SR-101, 75th Ave
** Eastbound, SR-101, 59th Ave
** Eastbound, SR-101, 35th Ave

** Locations will be taking pictures starting between October 17th and 22nd

Lena is ONE (September 27th)

2008-10-02T16:30:00.018-07:00

Christen getting Lena ready for her big day.

Almost ready!

READY!
Lot's of new stuff!Hemi brought a present too!

Playin' in her new play house

A play cell phone was one of her favorite's!

Two Great-Grandma's

Dear Mr. Obama

2008-10-01T20:09:00.005-07:00

Please click on this link...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TG4fe9GlWS8

New Slide Show of Lena!

2008-07-18T12:49:00.002-07:00

Answered Prayer's!

2008-07-09T15:39:00.003-07:00

My Mom is cancer FREE!!!!!!!

She went to the Doctor yesterday and they said the cancer is GONE!!!!

Emma Hale Smith

2008-07-07T15:44:00.010-07:00

I had the pleasure of taking my Mom and Aunt Fern to this movie on Saturday. Emma Smith, My Story is an absolutely beautiful movie!!! I was sad that the movie ended. It left me wanting to know more about Emma. I will get and read every book I possibly can. Vonda if you read this - the actor that plays Joseph Smith reminded us of Bill! Aunt Lorana, Aunt Fern and my Mom.

I am priviledged to have my picture taken with
these precious women!!

After the movie we went to Gordon and Nan's
for lunch. This is the view from Aunt Lorena
and Uncle Micky's livingroom!

This is the porch!!!

I had to drive Aunt Fern's Lexis!!!
Poor me!!!

Not Today

2008-07-02T16:51:00.004-07:00

I need to go back on my diet!!!

Maybe tomorrow??? or not!!! Maybe after the 4th!

Lena Visiting Grandma Brink

2008-06-27T16:23:00.003-07:00

Lena and Christen are visiting Grandma Brink today.

Christen just sent me this picture of Mom and

Lena. I wish Mom was looking up but it's

still a sweet picture.

My Little Garden

2008-06-25T14:32:00.006-07:00

Sun Flowers (Dah)! ; - )
Chili's, Tomatoes, Onions

Tomatoe's and Cucumber's

Egg plant (don't ask me why I planted it cuz,
I don't know) and a cherry tomatoe plant.

My Slide Show!

2008-06-19T10:46:00.003-07:00

Blooming Cactus

2008-06-19T08:59:00.005-07:00

The cactus in my back yard along with my

rose bushes.
Bee's were busy

Happy Father's Day - I miss my Dad

2008-06-16T10:54:00.006-07:00

My Dad in his Posse jacket.

He was a member of the Navajo

County Sheriff's Posse for 50 years.

Dad's Boot Shop in Holbrook Az

Dad when he was about 18 years old

Mom and Dad and Grandpa Randall
February 13th 1960

Mom and Dad on the Rim

She Think's My Tractor's Sexy (Jason's Theme Song)

2008-06-11T16:17:00.002-07:00

There is a funny story about these pictures (below)

Jason in his tractor

So when they move the tractors from one job

site to another, a company truck has to follow

the tractor, (hense the white truck).

Well, Christen and I were behind the white

truck taking these pictures.

We found out later that the guy in

the white truck called Jason and said, "Dude

there are some chicks behind us that must have

never seen a tractor before!" "One of them

is hanging out of the window taking pictures"!!!

Jason replied, "Dude, that's my mom"!!!

The right to keep and bear arms should not be infringed!

2008-06-05T16:25:00.001-07:00

The Second Amendment is one of our most cherished. The right to keep and bear arms is what keeps government subservient to its citizenry. Without the right to bear arms, we would have anarchy in the streets, the criminals would still have guns, and violent crime would escalate.

Lena - Pig Tails

2008-06-04T16:12:00.002-07:00

Lena (my angel) with her first pig tails.

Company for Hemi - Dog Sitting

2008-05-07T09:13:00.011-07:00

Hemi had company last week-end.

She got to baby sit a Boston Terrior

named Sophie.

She taught her how to go around and around!

She tried to teach her how to "get in" but
Sophie didn't want to! Hemi did not
understand WHY!

They played ball.

They just hung out.

They played frisbee.

They played rope.

Hemi still trying to talk her into getting in!

Fight Fat (Part 2)

2008-04-29T16:36:00.005-07:00

Ok - Well I gained .6 (point 6)! Last week I lost .6, so I guess

you could say, I'm doing a really good job at maintaining my

weight! The problem is I need to loose 20 more lbs!!!

To be continued.....

Weight Watchers meeting tonight!

Our Baby Lena

2008-04-28T10:50:00.015-07:00

Lena Evelyn Haddox

Born Septmeber 27th 2007

to Clint and Christen Haddox.

Named after her Great-Great-Grandma

Lena Randall and her Great-Grandma

Evelyn Cooley.
First picture - Lena and her MomLena and her Great-Grandma Brink

With her Mom at Christmas time.

(there is a picture of her Great-Great-Grandma,

Lena Randall in the back ground).

Our Christmas baby, (3 months old).

Her Mom handing her, her first Barbie!

She learned how to sit up by herself (5 months old)

She insists on holding her own bottle!!!

(5 months old)

Little NASCAR fan!

Bath time...

With her Grandma Carolyn.

A Day In The Life of Hemi

2008-04-23T13:54:00.010-07:00

#1 favorite, playing in the water!!!

Playing frisbee (another favorite)!

Gardening (fun)

Playing in the pool area (it's a big deal)!!!

We do it everyday. She runs around and around,

she doesn't know that she is going to get

swimming lessons, very soon...

Playing with her bff Lily (Jason's Pit Bull), who comes to visit us a lot.

Sometimes she spends the night and she is always welcome!

Playing catch with her ball (another favorite)

Sad because Carolyn is getting ready for work!

Having a new bone makes her feel a little better!

Point 6

2008-04-22T20:10:00.016-07:00

I DIDN'T gain weight! I lost .6 (that's point 6)!!! Hey, I didn't gain ok!

Really, all I want is to be healthy and happy and for me to be happy I can't be FAT!!!

Weight Watchers is a great program. It teaches you how to eat healthy and still enjoy food and loose weight!

(sloooooowly)

I hear this all the time: "THEY" say,,, "if you loose it slow,,, ,,, you'll keep it off"

Crap, it's hard sometimes!

FIGHT FAT

2008-04-22T16:55:00.002-07:00

Tonight is my Weight Watchers meeting. I think I might have gained weight this week and I'm not happy about it. I have been going for 12 weeks now and have lost a total of 21 lbs...

Girl Power - Danica

2008-04-22T16:12:00.006-07:00

Congradulations on your win Danica
You are my IDOL!!!

Danica Patrick - Ultimate GIRL POWER