Yaya's Home

It's Time to Say Goodby, It's Time to Say Hello

2012-01-26T18:48:00.001-06:00

     This post comes after much deliberation, for it's time to say Goodbye and it's time to say Hello. So much of my heart has gone into this blog, as I've been introduced to the world outside my home and my own little dot on the map. When I started blogging, I never thought I would travel so far an' grow attached to so many of you.

     Recent changes make it necessary for me to move to a new home on the World Wide Web because trying to figure out summa' the strange new quirks about Blogger has kept me from being able to stay up-to-date with tasks that I used to find simple. I have learned much here, but in the process of learning, I've also come to realize that sometimes change is necessary for improvement.

     I'll be packing up soon an' carrying alla' my blogging paraphernalia to my big, new spacious home across the way. Please come with me an' join in the fun as I stretch my legs an' allow for even more growth. I have loved blogging. It has been... an' always will be a way for me to share summa' the high's an' low's 'bout life an' I'd love to finally get back to sharing it with you. After all, everything is more fun with friends an' I feel that you are my friends.

     In a couple 'uh weeks, I'll be closing the door on Blogger an' gettin' comfortable in my new 'Digs' over at Yaya's Home at WordPress. I do hope you will be there to help me feel as at home an' loved as you have made me feel here. Thank you all for the many ways you've contributed to my life an' my joy.

   Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Photo Credit: http://mrg.bz/XjpsoK Goodbye Birds By Elemenoperica at morguefile.com

Photo Credit: http://mrg.bz/PG5KqZ Goodbye World By AnitaPatterson at morguefile.com

I'm almost not ready for Christmas

2011-12-10T13:13:00.001-06:00

     Ho! Ho! Ho! Christmas is coming an' I am soooo ready for the fun. Oh... what? No, no; I'm not Santa Claus. Sorry; I didn't mean to confuse you. I'm just in a jolly holiday spirit an' thought I'd borrow Santa's famous line. Is my voice getting that deep? hahahaha. I guess you couldn't see me when I called out, "Ho! Ho! Ho!" I can un'erstan' how you might've gotten me mixed up with Ol' Saint Nick, but no... it's jus' me... Yaya.

     Are you ready for Christmas? Am I ready? Nah! Well, I guess I am an' I'm not. I'm as anxious as a kid an' pro'lly twice as annoying in my anticipation. But there are still so many things to take care of. We don't even have our tree up, yet. No decorations. Hardly any 'uh the shopping is done. I haven't been blogging as much as I'd like to. An' on top 'uh alla' that, I dunno' where to start in my efforts to get ready.

     Oh! My! Goodness! Lookie there. Your house looks so fine, all decorated up for the holidays. Don'tcha' wanna' come on over here an' give me some pointers? On the plus side, I do think we will be warm this winter. Last year, we hadda' deal with an Attitude from the forces of nature, so you might say we were climate-ally challenged. However, I married the right dude 'cause my good hubby-buddy has been a reg'lar 'Mr. Fix-it' an' I think Ol' Man Winter is gonna' have a hard time pushing snow into our house, this year. In fact, I think even the cold is gonna' have a hard time finding a path into our house, this year.

     Now, about that request for you to come on over an' help me decorate... how soon do ya' think I can expect you to be here? Shall I make us some hot cocoa an' store-bought homemade cookies? I'm really good at making those. At least, I know how to put 'em on my own plate or in my cookie jar. I tell the grandies they're homemade oreos. I'm not sure they still b'lieve me, but they've learned to keep it to themselves so as not to hurt my feelings.

     Now, as they say in that one commercial... I'll leave the light on for you.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Who is your best friend?

2011-12-06T23:20:00.001-06:00

     Who is your best friend? Do you have a best friend? I do. I used to think I was like the third thumb in most groups; never quite fit in with anyone else, ya' know? There were times when I felt so lonely 'cause I truly felt like a nut in a world full of hammers an' nails. Not much worth there.

     For awhile, I convinced myself that my best friend was my good hubby-buddy. An' he certainly is my dearest an' closest companion. I was even s'prised when I realized that he is not the very best friend I ever had. Now, you may be thinking that I'm gonna' go off on some kinda' preaching thing an' tell you that my best friend is Jesus, but you'd be wrong.

     Don't get me wrong. I am a Christian an' I do love my Heavenly Father an' Jesus very much. In fact, it was through that closeness with my Heavenly Father that I began to know the importance of knowing who your best friend is an' truly an' sincerely knowing your best friend's heart.

      I've learned in my long life that having a best friend begins at home. If you can't be friends with yourself an' appreciate your own fine qualities you'll find that all other friendships fall short of feeling complete. My personal feeling is that you must first make friends with yourself before you can truly embrace the love an' friendship that anyone else can offer. I really hope that we can all learn to love ourselves so's we can sincerely love each other.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Are you Following Dear Crissy?

2011-11-21T13:03:00.001-06:00

     Are you Following Dear Crissy? If not, you're missing out on a great opportunity. Check out Crissy's amazing giveaway. Have you entered? 'Course, I'm hoping jus' a little more strongly that I will win the free Kindle Fire from Dear Crissy than I am for you to win it. That's not to say I wouldn't be thrilled if you won, but you know... I'd sure love one 'uh those awesome Kindle Fires.

     Will you be entering to win the Kindle Fire? Leave a message an' lemme' know if one of us is gonna' win, k?

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya
Photo Credit: Amazon

How Embarrassing!

2011-11-03T14:50:00.000-05:00

     Well, that's embarrassing. I must've done this drawing wrong. Now, I'm gonna' hafta' go back an' see how I can do it better the next time. I'm sorry that I did not post properly so someone coulda' won the prize. Please bear with me. I haven't done so many contests, so I kinda' in foreign territory here.

     I'm not allowed to run another contest for awhile, but hopefully, I'll be able to learn a little more before the next time so's someone will actually win the prize.

     I hope you all are doing well. Are you ready for the holidays? No? Me, neither. We sure did enjoy walking around our small town for Halloween, though. I was amazed at how many kids were out an' about. I think there must have been at least 200 kids going from door to door.

   You may not think that is so many, if you live in a big city. But consider this; I live in a town of fewer than 200 people, according to the last census. If there were more than 200 kids, uhm... where do the adults live? Jus' wondering...

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Image Credit: Morguefile.com http://mrg.bz/HPCqaw

Is the world really getting smaller?

2011-10-18T21:45:00.000-05:00

     Do you blog? Do you Tweet? Facebook? Digg, etc? I'm realizing that life has become one round of learning an' keeping in touch. There's a saying that 'The world is getting smaller.' When I was a kid, I thought that meant that parts of the earth were disappearing an' maybe traveling to new an' exciting planets. When I studied 'bout the 'Dust Bowl' years I was even more convinced that the world was getting smaller... literally. After all, if that much dust was being relocated didn't that mean that it hadda' have someplace else to go? Surely, the state of South Dakota was not simply relocating to say, Kansas, right?

     Kids comprehend things differently, but I think I was especially vulnerable to getting comments like that confused. Since I traveled around so much, I seldom finished any school year within the same state. That much moving carries with it a whole set of circumstances that make learning very difficult. Today, we meet many more people than in the past an' we are able to stay in touch more easily. Or, so I'm told, anyway. At the same time, our lives have become more transparent because of the internet an' social networks.

     You may have noticed that I've been peeking my nose around corners in summa' the different places like Facebook an' Twitter. This is where you will get a glimpse of my 'Shy Attacks.' I like to think I am a very outgoing person, but in truth, I tend to be quite shy in crowds of more than, oh, say... three people. If you happen to see me peeking around a corner at some big function like Facebook or one 'uh those famous party places like Twitter, then please don't hesitate to come an' take my hand. I promise you I will be forever grateful for any ways you can show me around. An' in case you haven't guessed by now, I may be in the room on summa' those sites, but believe me... I have no clue what I'm doing there.

     So if you see a little red-haired girl in a Little Red Wagon who looks especially confused, please stop an' lemme' know if I'm among friends. Although the world is supposedly getting smaller, it's still a very big marble an' I have a habit of getting lost in small buildings. You can imagine how lost I am in this great big world.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya          Don't forget to enter the drawing for a free copy of MyMemoriesSuite.com. The rules are in the previous post.

Planet With Stars Photo Credit: xedos4 / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Shy Lady Looking Behind Card Photo Credit:

A Gift and a Giveaway

2011-09-29T07:30:00.000-05:00

Now, look at this

     I'm here! I'm here! An' look what I have. Here; lemme' set it down so's you can see inside the box. There! Whaddya' think of THAT?!? Wouldn't you like one of those? Well, guess what? I have one to give away an' you could be the lucky winner. First, though, I think I'd like to show it off a little on accounta' I'm really proud of what I've been doing.

     I dunno' if you realize it or not, but I have never tried using any of the software for making a scrapbook, before. That is, I've checked out summa' the things that s'posedly lemme' do pictures an' all, but I've never had much luck with any of 'em. It's been like trying to learn a foreign language, whenever I go into those programs, ya' know? My brain just wouldn't wrap around what needed to be done to make my pictures at least 'Keepable,' ya' know? To say the least, it has been very frustrating, beyond belief. An' jus' for the record, tears have no effect on making software programs listen to reason. Jus' thought you might like to know...

     Recently, I was invited to try a whole new kinda' scrapbook software to see if I would like it. An' ya' know what? I DO like it! I'm still playing with this amazing software, but I wanna' give the software away, too.

     In fact, I wanna' show you how much fun I've been having with it. Lookie here: First, take a look at me flying around in my Little Red Wagon. Don't I look like I'm having so much fun? I am!
      I'm not exactly sure how to use this new Blogger page. The nice thing is that even though Blogger is confusing to me, the My Memories digital scrapbooking software program was pretty easy to use, even for me. My pages turned out pretty nice, don'tcha' think? Up on the left, that's me, flying in my Little Red Wagon. Next is one 'uh the bats we hadda' evict. There in the center is my Foyer, my Dining Room an' my Living Room an' over to the right is another shot of my Living Room an' still another shot of my Foyer. Can you b'lieve it?!? We have a FOYER! I never in my whoooole life thought I would have a foyer.

I was able to write notes on or next to the pictures an' I re-sized an' moved the pictures all around the place before finally deciding to accept the arrangements I did. I really love this program.

This is my house an' it's hiding secrets. See the guy with the big, scary teeth? That's the kinda' secrets my house is hiding. I can tell you, I do not like secrets with teeth.

Now, here's how you can own your very own My Memory Suite software: The first thing you wanna' do is go to the MyMemories.com website an' check out all the awesome scrapbooking papers an' outstanding designers there. Next, come back here an', in an email to me (yayashome [at] gmail [dot] come), lemme' know which is your favorite designer. Just one more step an' you'll be entered to win your very own My Memories Suite 2 software program. In the comments to this post, lemme' know that you emailed me so's I can be sure to enter your name in the drawing.

Here are some more pictures of my house. I did this all by myself.

     Be sure to comment in this post that you sent an email to me. That way, if for some reason I did not get your email, I can let you know. I will be watching for your email an' hoping like EVERYTHING that you are the winner. Oh, yeah; I almost forgot to tell you when the drawing will be held. Guess when? HALLOWEEN ! ! ! How cool is that?

     Okay; just to be sure I said it right, here's the rules:
1)   Go to MyMemories.com an' check out the cool papers an' the amazing designers
2)   Send me an email at yayashome [at] gmail [dot] com to lemme' know who your favorite designer is
3)   Come back here an' in the comment section of this post, tell me that you emailed me. Do not post your favorites in the comments; only tell me that you emailed me an' if you'd like to say anything else.
4) Tell your friends, tell your family... tell EVERYBODY 'cause guess what? I also have a coupon for anyone who reads my blog. Wait a minute! Wait a minute! Here's exactly what you can have:
We want to reward you - This is the best part!

Asa special for all of my readers,you can have your very own Share the Memories code that provides a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbooksoftware and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - $20 value!) Use this coupon: STMMMS25902 code an' that's all there is to it. Be sure to check back often an' see how things are going. But always comment in this post for the MyMemories.com drawing. Okie-dokie?

Wait! Wait! One more thing! If you'd like to earn some extra entries for the drawing here's how you can:
1) Become a Follower on the My Memories Blog
2) Like My Memories Suite on Facebook
3) Follow My Memories Suite on Twitter
4) Check out my Halloween page an' +1 me on that page at the top of the page

In your email,tell me who your favorite designer is an' what else you did from this lastlist. Whilst you’re there, if you are anxious to get started with yourown My Memories Suite fun, grab this coupon for your Big discounts an’ startshopping: STMMMS25902

Untilthe next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

a

2011-09-10T01:09:00.001-05:00

An EARTHQUAKE in the midwest?!?

2011-08-10T14:40:00.000-05:00

"Ground's nervous. Got milk?'

If I were living in California, I could un'erstan' yesterday's news. I even 'Get It' that in the area of the New Madrid fault, tremors were felt in the recent past. The land shakes in places such as Japan an' it's not a real shocker. That's not to say I am lacking in compassion. I'm only stating that some areas tend to get what I sometimes call "Nervous Jitters" on a somewhat regular basis. Naturally, when reports of nervous jitters come from those a'ready jittery states an' countries, it does take a bit of the edge off the 'surprise factor,' .

I live in the Dakotas; an area where we've learned to trust the stability of things an' kinda' expect 'em to sit still an' remain calm. Nothing nervous around here... usually. Yesterday, that changed in the blink of an eye. No injuries or damage of any kind, but all at once, there was a loud 'BOOM!' Evidently, the ground became frightened because it began to tremble an' shake. Not for long, to be sure. Still, it makes a person a little uneasy to know that solid ground is showing signs of fear. It also makes me wonder what I'm s'posed to do with alla' this quivering that has begun in my tummy an' seems to be extending throughout my whole being. Any suggestions for making the land feel calm? I wonder if a nice glass of milk poured over the 'epicenter' would ease the tension?

"Hmmmm; this doesn't seem to belong here ..."

Until the next calm, keep a hug on.
~ Yaya

Are You Blog-Busy?

2011-08-05T01:47:00.001-05:00

     Are you really busy with your blog? Believe it or not, even though you may not see me around, I have been so busy with my blog. That is to say, I've been researching ways to do a better job. In the process I'm learning so much about so many different things. P'rhaps you a'ready know 'bout things like Facebook an' Twitter an' such, but even though I've had a presence on those social sites, I haven't really known quite what I was s'posed to do with 'em until lately. No; I still dunno what I'm s'posed to do... not really. But if you happen to see me on Facebook or Twitter or something else I haven't pro'lly heard about yet, maybe you could reach a hand out for me an' offer a bit of assistance?

   I've had a little more activity on those two social sites than I've had in the past. To be sure, I'm confused. In fact, I used to think I was confused about a lotta' things. By comparison to my current state of mind, I'd say that any sense of frustration in the past was pretty much genius in disguise. If you squint an' look real hard you might even notice the sparkle in my eyes. That's pride. Yeah; I know... pride goes before a fall. However, I've been struggling to learn all I can. I will learn what I need to know. I know I will. As they say, "Good Lord willing and the creek don't rise... "

     Well, the creek did rise, but I know that Heavenly Father helps those who help themselves. Still, it sure wouln't hurt my feelings if you kept me in your prayers. In awhile, when I've begun to un'nerstan' a little more of what I'm trying to learn, I'll invite you in for a peek. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised... an' maybe even a little proud of my efforts, eh?

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

I Ain't Down, Yet!

2011-07-31T08:33:00.001-05:00

     It is unbelievably hazy, outside. The weather can't seem to decide whether to rain, shine or roll over an' die. To mention the humidity is basically to almost admit defeat, myself. However, since I don't easily give up, I can still peek through an' realize the sun is tryin' it's best to work it's way through the many barriers that would, otherwise, keep it from doin' it's job.

   I haven't quite re-established my new schedule, since finally acquiring my new... NEW computer. I am back, though, an' I WILL get my groove on. Don't give up on me 'cause I'll keep tryin' to get back to what I enjoy... blogging an' visiting with you all.

     Now, 'bout that hot, hazy, humid weather I mentioned ~ ~ ~ I LOVE me some beautiful days like today!

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Doin' the Two-Step 'Un-Dance'

2011-07-25T13:58:00.000-05:00

     If you are in the same category with me you may recall the days when you thought of a project an' set out to accomplish it... successfully. Lately, I've noticed that it only takes two steps to save time. Here's how it goes:

     Preparation: grow old.
     Step One: Think of a project. P'rhaps you jus' wanna' mail a letter.
     Step Two: Take two steps an' your project is effectively forgotten. The time you save is now available so you can think of a new project.

     If I were younger I might remember to finish my various tasks. I have heard it said that, after a while, a person goes into a second childhood. That is not quite correct. Actually, a person starts doin' the 'Two-Step Un-Dance' before the second childhood phase kicks in.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

I'm HOME!!! I'm finally an' really HOME!

2011-07-22T03:19:00.001-05:00

     How have you been? It's been so long since I last visited with you that I can't help wondering if you've forgotten what I look like. Or sound like. If you'll recall from our last visit I had finally received my new computer. At last word, I was trying to figure out all the ins an' outs an' what-fors about making it respond as I felt it should. Finally, I talked with my techie-dude an' the consensus was that I should return what essentially turned out to be not such a great deal, after all. I could go into a long, drawn-out story an' tell you all the nasties, the bads an' the uglies, but it wouldn't really do either of us any good to travel down that road, would it? Instead, lemme' jus' say I am glad to finally have acquired a new... an' working computer. It makes all the difference in the world to touch a key an' have it respond as it's s'posed to.

     I wanna' apologize to those of you whom I was writing to an' the correspondences jus' stopped all of a sudden. I really had no control an' I do hope you can unnerstan' an' forgive. I've thought about you all so much. Boy! One thing I have learned is that, having had a computer before, life without that kinda' access leaves a whole lot to the imagination. Unfortunately, everything has suffered, as a result. Well, not quite everything. I did have an extended visit from summa' my kids an' I was able to spend some great times with them. Remind me to tell you 'bout the awesome new vehicle my good hubby-buddy bought me. For now, I'm gonna' try an' catch up on alla' the 'puter-related stuff I've been missing out on. I am SO! happy to be back online!!! An' I surely hope that's you I see peeking around the door to see if I'm home 'cause I have missed you all soooooo much. Welcome back to my house.

      An' 'til the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Yaya Can't Blog ! ! !

2011-06-21T20:30:00.000-05:00

     Yaya comes sneaking in, dragging her new computer behind her. She wonders if anyone will notice her return, embarrassed that it has been so long since she last posted on her blog. She turns to make sure that her new computer is still following. There have been waaaaaaay too many pro'lems with computers, of late, so she isn't taking any chances that this one might get away. Yaya checks the chain and lock that hold the 'puter onto the Little Red Wagon; still secure. After placing the long-awaited 'puter on her desk, Yaya settles in to begin blogging.

     ::Tap. Tap. Tap.  Tap-tappity, tap::

     ::Undo::

     ::Tappity-tap.  Tap. Tap::

     ::Undo::

     Yaya looks long an' hard at her new toy an' wonders if this new computer was ever taught anything 'bout blogging. It seems apparent that either there was no training in the 'puter factory or, she has been away from Bloggy World for far too long an' may have forgotten all that she thought she knew 'bout posting on her blog.

     In a last-ditch effort, Yaya puts her arm up in the air an' waves an excited an' friendly greeting, on the off-chance that summa' her blogging friends might notice she has returned. Yaya hopes they all know how much she has missed being here.

     She sends a silent wish for everyone to Keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

PS ~ I haven't been able to figure out how to post pictures, yet. Sorry.

Trading On the Black Market

2011-04-15T17:50:00.000-05:00

Have you ever considered how the Black Market got started? It’s something that truly tickles the imagination. I’ve wondered. In fact, I’m curious about a good many things in life an’ when I’m curious I like to quell my fascination by researching until I’m satisfied that I know the why’s, wherefore’s an’ how’s come’s.

Quite surprisingly the Black Market has been around a lot longer than you may have thought. In fact, it goes alla’ way back to knights an’ castles an’ the pirates of the time. Oh,yeah; we’ve always had pirates. At least, that’s my opinion.

In the days of the Round Table an’ jousting they looked a little different than the image you might have grown to accept as normal Pirate attire; it’s true. For instance, I don’t believe your common scoundrel would have included an eye patch. In point of fact, all scoundrels don’t, even today, wear eye patches. But for the sake of argument let’s say those good ol’ boys from days of yore had decided to wear eye patches. Wanna’ know what they’d look like? Picture, if you can, a big burly guy in a tin suit with a target on his eye. Yup! That’s what I think the eye patch would act as; a target.

See? The Black Market started alla’ way back in Medieval Times, when nomadic mercenaries wandered the countryside to sell their services to the highest bidder. Okay; maybe you think I’m using literary license by calling ‘em pirates. Then again, you may change your mind as you read on. As they traversed from town to town an’ castle to castle these men developed some very hard an’ strict lifestyles, fighting when necessary an’ winning in whatever ways they could. Naturally, there weren’t many servants traveling with ‘em (p’rhaps none?), so some jobs were left for later as more prudent choices were made. Such was the case with suits of armor. When there was a choice between hunting for food or polishing the armor, it was common practice to opt for the hunting, over polishing. As a result, armor often developed a blackish hue an’ these knights soon came to be known as Black Knights.

Sometimes, these nomads would arrive where there was a festival taking place an’ would join in the fun. The locals were many times softened by their relatively easier lifestyles. When it was time for jousting matches the traveling knights could easily win the bout. The prize consisted of the winner being awarded the weapons an’ armor that belonged to the loser. There really was no good reason for a nomad knight to keep more than one set of armor, so immediately following the match, the knight in black armor would sell the owner his own armor back. The markets that followed jousting matches soon became known as Black Markets.

Now, I ask you… does that not sound like piracy to you?

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

A Tidbit of Curious Enlightenment

2011-04-12T14:34:00.001-05:00

Well, that went well, din't it? I believe I mentioned that I was gonna' try an' post on Sunday, Wednesday an' Friday, as my newly hoped-for schedule. If I remember correctly, I said that last Thursday. Unless you are seeing' somethin' here that I'm not, I promptly missed posting on Friday an' again, on Sunday. So here I am on Tuesday... off-schedule... an' begging your forgiveness for breaking my own new rule. Having messed up that schedule so thoroughly, I think it is time for another readjustment. I do hope you will unnerstan' that I am gonna' hafta' plan for posting on my blog on Fridays an' Mondays. Hopefully, I'll keep this schedule a little better than the last one. Please stand by for a tidbit of curious enlightenment, following this very sincere apology. Thank you all for visiting an' keeping me in your prayers. I so appreciate each an' every one of you.

Armored and Ready for Battle?

Despite his armor, the nine-banded armadillo has jousted with highway traffic… and lost… so many times that he’s earned the name Hillbilly Speed Bump.

I hope you enjoyed this tidbit of curious enlightenment. I surely like learning such interesting facts.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Am I Still Welcome Here?

2011-04-07T13:11:00.000-05:00

     Hello, my friends. I've been gone much longer than I ever thought I would be. Illness an' computer Attitude have been constant companions, I'm afraid. I was hoping to have a new computer, by now, but life has a way of taunting a person with such desires. So, I'm still working on getting that long-awaited computer, but I am feeling a little better than I was. After having some long-term an' very uncomfortable reactions of the Not Fun type, I'm at least down to where my discomfort is somethin' I can live with. 'Course, my good hubby-buddy might say otherwise... I think he's gettin' tired of all the whine without cheese. haha

     Thank you all for stopping by an' lending your support. Hopefully, I'm back to stay, although I'm beginning to realize that one is never truly in control. My new goal is to post on Sunday, Wednesday an' Friday. I'm so looking forward to bein' back. Thank you all, again, for your kind thoughts an' loving concern.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Six of One Thing or Half-A-Dozen of Another

2011-03-13T14:28:00.000-05:00

I'm sure you all must think that I've dropped off the end of the world. Unfortunately, illness continues an' I feel like a skeleto n in the blogging community. But worse than that is the fact that my computer croaked and I'm having to borrow any time I get on the computer. It seems that if it isn't six of one thing goin' wrong, it's half-a-dozen of another. If you will just bear with me a couple more weeks, I'm pretty sure I will be getting a new computer an' hopefully, I'll be well by then. I only have a few minutes on the computer, today. If you have commented or emailed me please understand that I am unable to reply until I can get my new computer. I value each an' every one of you an' hope you won't forget me whilst I cannot be around very much. I am, of course, also unable to read any blogs or comment, but I will be back soon. Don't forget me 'cause I sure have not forgotten you. Thanks for unnerstanding.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Eyeballs Frozen to the Snow Drifts

2011-03-08T00:05:00.000-06:00

Is it still Winter where you are? It is here. In fact, it is snowing, even as I type. This morning when I woke up the snow was coming down so hard that I was sure we would be buried by noon. Fortunately, I can still tip-toe an' reach my eyeballs just above the line of the toppest snow. Sorta'. Actually, if I'm not careful, my eyelashes rest on the top of the drifts an' I'm afraid they might freeze there. I don't want that to happen 'cause then, a car could come sliding down the driveway an' not see me an' my eyeballs an' I might wind up with tire tracks in my hair. Talk about a bad hair day!

So, I'm gonna' hide out here, in my office. If you want me jus' walk right across the top 'uh the snow an' tap on my second-floor window. I'm sure I'll be able to let you in... the window, that is. Who knows? Maybe it will keep snowing an' you will be trapped here with me. Then, we can have a grand party an' stay awake all night watching summa' my videos on accounta' I don't have TV piped in.

We can sit in front of the heater, downstairs, an' not be able to see out. It could almost be like sittin' in front of a fireplace - - - if we squint. Okie-dokie? We'll put our cookies an' milk on top of the heater an' chat all night an' laugh 'bout how the snow has pro'lly trapped lotsa' folks. When its all over we can go back to growing old an' plan on tellin' 'bout our adventure to our grandies. Are ya' in? I'll be watchin' for you.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

It's a Sick, Sick World!

2011-03-04T22:23:00.002-06:00

So, it turns out that I jus' kept gettin' sicker an' sicker until I din't even wanna' be around me, anymore. One morning, I woke up an' decided enough was enough. That's when I figured it was time to approach those persons of great medical knowledge again an' see if we could calculate the pro'lem. Naturally, I had a'ready taken my concerns to the Big Brains, but it turns out that I was havin' a challenge that had escaped their notice.

As it happens, my life has been a medical mystery at every turn. I am very thankful to say that the most recent mystery has been solved an' I am on the mend. A simple adjustment in my medication has done wonders to make things better. I'm feeling considerably better than I have been.

I'm so sorry for bein' gone from my blog for so long. I've missed you all very much. I'm glad to be back. An' I am so grateful for each an' every one of you. Your words of kindness an' best wishes have helped me more than you know. Thank you. Thank you. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you.

I'll be back in a couple of days to begin blogging anew. In the meantime, I need jus' a little more time to finish healing. I am better than I was, but not quite up to snuff. I do hope you unnerstan'.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

A Peek Into Absence

2011-02-17T23:54:00.000-06:00

Pardon my absence. Sickness is a funny thing; I thought I was all better, but it seems that whatever I've been fighting has a bit of a stronger fight in it than I have had. Tomorrow, I'll have a friendly little visit with a person of great medical knowledge. He will pro'lly tell me that I have perfected ten ways of lazy an' I can get back to life as we know it... whatever that is.

Until then, I do hope you will unnerstan' an' bear with me. Bein' lazy does have its advantages, I s'pose. I mean, on the one hand, I've spent a lotta' time catching up on lost sleep. However, I've fallen waaaaay behind on 'most everything that I shoulda' been doin', instead of sleeping.

Someone asked to see a picture of my stained-glass window, so I kept trying 'til I think I got a rather nice picture of it. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. As soon as I can, I'll be back to posting on a more regular basis. I've missed you all an' wish I could visit with each an' every one of you.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Orphans Without Borders

2011-02-10T19:36:00.000-06:00

When I was a kid we moved around so much that, in my mind, security became an issue. I was never sure if we would be in the same place, from one week to the next. That's not to say that security was lacking. Rather, it was jus' one child's perspective. I remember thinking, more than once, that if I wanted a friend in my new school, then I'd best speak up 'cause if I din't I may not get another chance. In fact, I did attend one school for exactly four days; a very memorable four days, in point of fact. But that's somethin' to be shared at another time.

As the only girl in a family with lotsa' boys, I always hoped there would be a girl my age in whichever area we were moving to. Strangely, girls my age or any other age seemed to be scarce, no matter where we lived. 'Course, that left me with only two choices; play alone or be a tomboy. If you've ever met me, I'm sure you won't hafta' ask which I chose. I've never been one to miss an opportunity to climb a tree, whether alone or with others.

Unfortunately, bein' the new kid also meant that I was met with my share of resistance from those who were a'ready established, so to speak. Naturally, I found new an' interesting methods to smooth the transition. I recall once in the fourth grade I actually carried a picture of myself around an' told other students that it was a picture of my twin who lived with an aunt. Curiously, that little stretch of the imagination was accepted without the least hesitation. Evidently, blacking out one tooth an' one eye being blackened in the picture was enough to make me look like my mini-me. Go figure.

I'm not sure if that incident was what sparked my curiosity about orphans, but I do find that my interest in a story is heightened when I learn that orphans are involved. Even more so, when the account is true. As a result, I have read extensively about orphans, orphanages an' children who rode Orphan Trains. I jus' never tire of reading 'bout children who reign triumphant over the most devastating of circumstances.

One 'uh my favorite stories from someone who actually was a rider on an Orphan Train tells about a small boy. He an' his companions were told that they would line-up on the platform an' families would choose which children they wanted to take home with 'em. Apparently, the orders were a little less than clear. The children did, in fact, line-up. Then, the word was given that families could step forward an' speak with the children. When the go-ahead was given, this little boy leaped from the platform an' headed straight to a farmer who happened to be there jus' for curiosity's sake. It had never occurred to the farmer that he might be goin' home that day with a small child. However, the little guy wrapped his tiny arms around the farmer's leg an' declared, "I choose you!"

That farmer later shared how surprised an' honored he felt that he had been chosen. He further shared his efforts at teaching the boy a bit of responsibility. Upon telling the child that a certain cow was his, to look after an' care for, the child promptly insisted upon bein' lifted up to ride the animal. From that day on an' for many more to come, wherever the farmer went, the child - - - an' the cow, tagged along, with the boy riding high on 'His' pet.

I think about the many circumstances that bring us to where we are an' can't help but wonder how some people ever survive. It makes me wanna' do the very best I can at whatever I do, since mine has been a life filled with opportunities an' blessings. I would feel nuthin' less than ashamed if I did not use the many good experiences in my life to achieve all that I could. Knowing how others have suffered an' struggled, I can only hope that I never take my good life for granted, but always feel grateful for what I have.

May life bring you all the good that can be had an' all the love to enjoy it.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

This is where I thrive

2011-02-03T01:07:00.001-06:00

I love my home.

Doesn't this look cozy? There is a Breakfast Nook hidden behind that counter.

This woodstove is a dream of mine. If we ever hafta' move, it will break my heart to leave this stove behind.

This is the wrong angle. That is tucked into a little corner section an' it is one 'uh my favorite places to sit an' chat with my good hubby-buddy. He gets to sit on the miniature church pew.

Studying is so peaceful at my English Double-Desk. It sets jus' below my stained glass window. Aaaaah! Ain't life grand?

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Streetwalker? Be Careful What You Say!

2011-01-29T19:55:00.002-06:00

I have made some incredible friends in Bloggy Land an' on the internet, in general. So many of you have found your own place in my heart. We have, as a world-wide neighborhood, built an alliance that rivals any I've ever heard about. An' to think, I could never have met most of you, without the invention of blogs. Thank you all for opening your worlds an' your hearts to me.

::A BIG ROUND OF APPLAUSE FROM ALL OF US TO WHOEVER INVENTED BLOGS::

::Hip! Hip! Hooray!!! Thank you, dear Blog Inventer::

Like you, I have been privy to closely-guarded thoughts an' feelings. With friendship comes an ever increasing sense of trust. It is amazing to me that this community can be so open an' loving. We are indeed blessed to have the camaraderie that we share.

Then, there is the dark-side of our world. Some people hide their private lives in the anonymity of lovely words. Until one day, those words are spoken that make both parties uncomfortable. P'rhaps it has to do with political views. Maybe religion steps up to drive a wedge of misunderstanding. Or one person's past might be considered less-than-acceptable to the other an' when the truth comes out, there is suddenly a sense of uneasiness or embarrassment. Without understanding between the two, this sense of uncertainty could eventually separate people who had previously developed such affection an' devotion for each other.

I always hope that I will never find myself in any of the aforementioned situations. If I do, however, I like to think that I have an open mind; that no one's history can plant the seed of judgement in my heart. Again, I like to think that my reaction would be one of love an' acceptance for someone else's political views, religious persuasions or professional preference. Prejudice is indeed a tough challenge for us all. Are you beginning to get a feel for where this conversation is going?

Naturally, we all hafta' face the demons of decision, eventually. I faced one of my demons jus' two days ago, when a dear friend announced in casual conversation that she had chosen a profession that din't necessarily meet with my endorsement.

   She said, "I was a street walker for over ten years, the little blue shorts and all that. My favorite job ever!!!"

     Talk about a Sucker-Punch! How do you respond to that? How would you? Would this friendship suddenly become unacceptable? Could you write back an' show real concern, while maintaining the close relationship that you have built-up, over time? Or, would the knowledge of your friend's past profession be the wedge to guide your thoughts? Would you read, delete an' walk away? As you can see, I had many choices; many uncomfortable choices. P'rhaps you would have felt differently, but I found myself swamped in thoughts of pure consternation; 'How do I react? What is my responsibility in this conversation? What if I choose to keep quiet? Would my lack of response cause hurt feelings? It was not an easy night for me.

     Highlighted below is a small part of our conversation, after the initial shocking declaration:
          [My words are highlighted in pink. Hers are in yellow].

   Remember, she jus' finished saying, "I was a street walker for over ten years, the little blue shorts and all that. My favorite job ever!!!"

"Now, THAT sounds like a job you could really enjoy. Not necessarily the healthiest job in the world or even, the safest. But there is definitely a certain degree of fun involved. Talk about loyalty to your job! Whoa! I only hope you don't tell [your hubby] that That was your favorite job. I can't even imagine how that would destroy a man's ego. Oh, vay!

     Being a street walker in the past is one thing, but that would definitely lose its appeal, over time, if you ask me. I mean, picture it: sixteen kids, dirty dishes, dirty clothes an' sixteen guys waiting to 'Please' you? Uuuuumm; thank you very much, but alla' my pleasures are running around, askin' for attention. haha. Nope! Nope! That would never work for me. Nope! I think I'll keep what I've got; thank you very much."

     "I am rolling!!!! I was a city letter carrier with the blue uniform for the postal service!!!!!!!!!!!! I do not think I would enjoy being an actual STREET WALKER!!! It was my favorite job with the postal service. To be outside and one on one with the customers. Many days, my lunch break was spent sweeping the snow off someone's porch or helping them weed their flowers, or just talking in the shade with a cold drink of water."
      "I can't believe that!!!   You really can roll with the punches, you picked up that ball and carried it for a touch down. I am still laughing!!!!!! You are very wrong, though, I do not think I would enjoy that job at all!!!! What would you do on your day off, stand up for a while???? Nope, don't think I could ever do that job!!!"

     My friend's next words let me know that I had failed neither her, nor myself. "You did very well with your response. Non-judgmental, supportive, and took it in stride as if I had told you I worked at Wal Mart. You are a true, loving person...you made God proud."

     Being the sports addict that you all know I am, I soon sent a reply. "I forgot to add that I don't think it can be considered a proper touchdown if I try to sink that football into the basket when I get it to the goal post. I am still rolling on the floor in laughter."

     Which game did you say we are watching? Football or basketball?

Note: I jus' received this update from my friend an' I'm passing it on to you: "Street walker is my name for it, it wasn't a widely used term. Someone asked me what I did one time, and I said I was a city carrier.   They asked, like Typhoid Mary? I laughed and told them I was a street walker, instead of doing the males, I did the mail."

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

I Brought the Sunshine!

2011-01-26T22:27:00.002-06:00

I need some sunshine. I thought you might enjoy some, too. So I'm sharing mine with you.

Home, Sweet Home

Furry Family

Waiting for the birds

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Dear Winter,

2011-01-20T07:42:00.000-06:00

It's so nice to see you again. Please leave. I was thrilled when you arrived an' I took special pleasure in the snow you brought so we could have a white Christmas. In fact, that was very considerate, on your part. In spite of the fact that my heart raced with joy when you arrived, I'm beginning to notice murmurings of discontent among the masses. I fear you may be reduced to tears, should your old, cold ears pick up the whisperings that might travel on the wind. No disrespect intended, of course, but it would not be a good idea to give in to such frozen showers, if my opinion counts for anything.

In case you haven't been keeping good tabs on just how busy you've been, may I remind you that evidence of your extended visit is virtually everywhere. Although I'm sure the farmers are thankful for the moisture so their crops will benefit, I rather think they would not like it if you should continue to shed tears and turn an already messy situation into an impossibly dangerous one by adding your icy personality. Keep in mind that 'Safety First' should always be your motto.

I've noticed that you seem to have forgotten to be safe in some of your ventures. Recently, when you arranged for my good hubby-buddy and I to spend time in a ditch, we did not feel that you were practicing 'Safety First.'

Rumor has it that Spring is impatient for her vacation here. We have enjoyed getting to know you soooooo well, this year. Now, its time to move on an' let Spring have her time with us. Yes, I realize that it may be a little early for such change, but I'm tired of being so cold. I'm looking forward to lilacs an' tulips. Two-lips is my kinda' season; not Blue-lips.

I have your bags all packed an', though you may be very comfortable where you are, please don't let the door hit you in the rear, as you leave.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

A Poetry-Perfect-Photo

2011-01-14T18:26:00.002-06:00

Have you ever done something an' felt really good about it? Then later, you see somethin' that reminds you of that proud moment? I did that. A long, long time ago, I was traveling either to or from North Dakota with my good hubby-buddy in the middle of winter. As we drove, we were struck with how beautiful the snow was over everything. At one point, I recall seeing fields an' fields of hay in huge round bales, each one covered with a sprinkling of snow. Without one instant of hesitation, I hadda' grab my notebook an' start scribbling 'cause a poem had leaped into my head an' demanded to be written whilst it was fresh in my thoughts.

Yesterday, while visiting a new neighbor on the web whom I had previously never met, I was surprised to see a picture that perfectly matched what I wanted to portray in that poem. Believe me, I was quick about emailing the owner of that blog an' askin' if I could use her photo. Imagine my excitement when she wrote back (about two minutes ago) an' said I could. Below is that beautiful photo, followed by the poem I enjoyed writing, such a long time ago. If you'd like to see some more amazing photos, be sure to go to Once Upon A Rose Haven's blog. You won't wanna' leave. I a'ready know you're gonna' love the picture an' I hope you enjoy the poem as much as I enjoyed writing it.

AFTER THE HARVEST

Look out across the wheat fields,

And, Oh! What a surprise!

The shredded wheat is blooming,

I see it with my own eyes!

Where's the sugar?

Pass the milk,

It's breakfast time, I'm sure,

When shredded wheat starts blooming,

That's all I'm wishing for.

So, farmer, build a table,

Build a chair,

And build a bowl,

'Cause shredded wheat is blooming,

And it makes my hunger grow!

Just Joany 2006

Thank you so much, Once Upon A Rose Haven, for letting me use your beautiful picture.

How about you? Do you like to take pictures or write poetry? What is your most memorable experience?

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Why the Cow Jumped Over the Moon

2011-01-11T06:41:00.000-06:00

You know, it happens every year about this time. I look around an' see the same things goin' on. Fields and fields of critters battling the elements, even whilst I enjoy the warmth inside my house or car. Some days, I see only one or two four-legged beasts, surrounded by nuthin' but fields of white; snow, snow an' more snow. Other times, I'm convinced there are thousands of animals, roaming miserably back an' forth. Around here, most of the population is either cattle or horses. In other areas where I've lived it might be sheep, goats or even those funny little creatures called llamas. The struggle is still the same, wherever life goes on. Rain, snow, hail or sleet; it can't be comfortable havin' to be out in it, twenty-four hours a day.

'Course, I could be judging this situation all wrong. Maybe alla' those critters actually enjoy the various changes in Mother Nature's moods. I certainly enjoy every seasonal change - - - watching from inside my house. But maybe horses an' cows look forward to the seasons the way some people look forward to a different kind of dinner. I dunno'; I s'pose it’s possible. I always imagine how I would feel if I hadda' stand out in the rain an' snow. Lemme' tell you; if I were a baby cow, I have a life-size image of how contented I would be, in the same situation.

Picture it: I am a brand-new baby cow, born only moments ago, inside a nice toasty barn, with my mama cow to cuddle up to an' hay to keep me warm. Every meal is supplied at my behest; warm an' given with love. My daddy cow is standin' sentry at the door, so's nuthin' can hurt me. I am a happy, happy camper.

Life is good in my new home. I am well cared for. Mama an' daddy even incorporated help from a farmer to make sure that I am happy. All is going well, until the farmer gets an idea. He thinks that I should move outta' the barn an' into the pasture. WHAT?!? Does the good man know what's out there? Does he realize that somethin' funny is falling from the sky? Somethin' wet an' cold? Does he care? Yes, I know you ladies do your share, but let's give the men a well-deserved pat on the back.

Now, don't get me wrong. I happen to have it on good authority that farmers are amongst the most caring folks who chat with animals. In fact, I've seen my own good hubby-buddy go to great extremes to make those babies comfortable. True; he's not what you might call a traditional farmer, but I'm pretty sure he represents the general population of care-givers; whether that be in the human world or the animal kingdom. An' I'll tell you a little secret if you promise to keep it under your hat. There may have been a time or two when I've been compelled to throw a blanket on a cow an' a pillow nearby to rest her pretty head. 'Course, I realize that may not be ideal when you have more than a few to possibly thousands of head of livestock.

Which brings us

back to the subject of this discussion; why the proverbial cow jumped over the moon. As I said earlier, my own contentment ties in strongly with how comfortable I am. If I were a new baby cow, bein' cast to the elements as it were, I'm sure my sense of contentment would be greatly improved by the occasional pat on the head or a blanket to warm myself. An' I would definitely not be adverse to receiving a good, thick pillow for my head. Come to think of it, I've noticed that farmers an' ranchers do a lot to make sure their charges are comfortable. That's pro'lly why so many of those cows jumped over the moon; to get back home.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

A Homespun Memory

2011-01-07T09:59:00.000-06:00

Years ago, I wrote a poem that my mama liked very much. 'Course, bein' the recipient of pure love an' parent-pride, I never questioned whether she liked it for the poem or because I was her offspring. To me, the fact that she liked this particular poem touched a special chord in my heart. When mama passed away, I wanted to do somethin' to honor her. Finally, when it was time to buy a headstone, I felt that the best way I could honor her was to give somethin' of myself that she loved. The Poem.

Years later, I tentatively entered my poem in a contest that was open to all countries, certain that I would finally learn that Mama's appreciation was founded in her love for her child. To my great surprise, I won Honorable Mention. I dunno' if anything has ever surprised or pleased me more than that award because I finally felt that I truly had given my mama somethin' worthwhile. Naturally, she an' I shared a special moment that day. Whilst I visited her grave, I cried tears of loneliness that she was gone an' tears of joy that I had given a part of myself that she loved.

In case you have difficulty reading the words on the headstone, here is a copy of the poem:

Homespun

Homespun; fireplace; the smell of pitchy pine chips;

Burning; smouldering; dying.

The milk cow; milk; cream; butter;

Salted; churning, slowly churning.

Voices; Mama; Daddy; neighbors;

Children laughing, running, playing games.

Fields; plowed; planted; watered;

Yielding food for folks and critters,

To start again; Homespun.

By: Just Joany 1979

Thank you for sharing this memory with me. Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Thank Goodness For Global Warming!

2011-01-04T23:45:00.001-06:00

Well, it seems that more than a year has passed since I last wrote. Anyway, a whole new year has arrived, so I guess that proves it. I was beginning to enjoy the excellent weather we were havin'. Then all at once, winter pounced. Everywhere I look, the only color I see is white. Now, I have nuthin' against the color white, but there are some other shades that I enjoy, as well. Ah, well; I guess winter has to have her day, too.

I've always loved this time of year. I've lived from Washington to Florida an' Maine to California an' everywhere in-between. I've seen every possible mood that weather can offer, within the United States, an' I still love winter best. 'Course, with the onset of what some of our fine leaders have deemed as Global Warming, I may not get to enjoy too many more of these beautiful white winters. According to the Powers That Be, we could be in the process of warming ourselves right into oblivion. That is, if we don't all freeze to death, first.

Rumor has it that no one took the time to tell Ol' Mother Earth that she's warming up. I guess no one felt that she needed to be informed. I s'pose she'll figure it out in her own time, eh? In the meantime, I hear from friends in California that snow an' rain have sent lotsa' folks --- nowhere. Yup! That's what I said; nowhere. Between the rain an' snow, I hear tell that some people are virtually living on the freeways. At least, that's what I call it when people park their vehicles on the freeway for hours an' hours at a time. It just doesn't make any sense to get in your car an' sit still, otherwise; do you think? I sure don't.

Folks aren't doin' much better on the east coast, either. With record snowfall filling highways an' blocking passages from point A to point B, all over the country, I really think it would be in the best interest of everyone concerned to contact Mother Nature. It's jus' possible that she might be able to work somethin' out with the Powers That Be so's we could all relax an' be a little more comfortable.

I love winter, but even I think things are goin' a little haywire. If I din't know any better, I'd say that Mother Nature is trying to prove a point. Maybe she thinks that since man wasn't there to cause all the other fluctuations in weather for the past ever-how-many thousands of years, then man should keep his opinions to himself an' let her go about doing what she has been doing for all those thousands of years, without man's input. At least, that's what I'd be saying if I were Mother Nature. All I can say is thank goodness for Global Warming or we might all freeze to death!

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Canned Resolutions

2010-12-31T05:07:00.000-06:00

Have you ever noticed how much fun people have at the end of the year? Of course, there are parties an' visits an' alla' that, but I think the most fun is watching how involved someone gets in making a New Year's Resolution. It seems to cause a lotta' unnecessary stress an' anxiety, to my way of thinking. I once knew someone who stressed so much over her New Year's Resolutions that it interfered with the fun she shoulda' had for Christmas. Then, after spending so much time creating her list, my friend abandoned all efforts to keep those goals by January 3rd. It seems to be a pattern that is widespread. Naturally, after witnessing so many failed attempts, I long ago decided that making New Year's Resolutions was not for me. Why plan to fail, after all?

Well, this year I thought I'd do something a little different. Instead of planning to fail by writing goals that are impossible to keep, I was thinking that I should be more creative an' plan my actions for sure success. This year, I am sure to achieve every goal I write down. 'Course, my good hubby-buddy may not wanna' cooperate if he figures out my plan of action. But as long as you don't tell, I can hope that he will never be the wiser.

One 'uh the things that always seems to bother my good hubby-buddy involves his perception of how I handle money. He seems to think that I'm not so good at it. Silly b-u-o-y! But what does he know, right? So, in the coming year I resolve to be more adept in this particular area. In order to do so, I plan to carry the checkbook, instead of making Hubby-Buddy do all the spending. After all, if I have no money to handle, how can he expect me to be good at it? And if I handle it a little too much, well, I'll give him back his checkbook. Good plan, eh?

One thing I always regretted is that my gardening skills haven't yielded much in the way of a harvest. This year, I resolve to make certain that my fruit and vegetable trees yield generously. Therefore, I will incorporate help from the grocer and build fruit and vegetable trees out of cans from the store. In this way, I'll know that my trees will produce to my liking. Previous efforts have proven that garden variety foods have their own system for growing. (I'm talking to you, corn trees). In fact, I think I will only have one tree. That way, whenever I pick a can from my tree it will be something I know I will enjoy.

I thought of adding more resolutions, but growing a fruit an' vegetable tree out of cans from the grocery store an' trying to talk my good hubby buddy into letting me carry the checkbook sounds like a lotta' work to me. So I decided to start slow an' see how I do with this year's resolutions before attacking bigger projects.

Though I would never admit it to my good hubby-buddy, there are other areas of my life where I could pro'lly make improvements. However, I don't wanna' overload my brain by having to worry about perceived faults. I'll work on these challenges an' next year maybe I can come up with something else. First, I'll see how successful I am at getting to carry that checkbook. Who knows? Maybe next year, I'll try my hand at building a house. It could happen. I believe in miracles.

With this in mind, I resolve to share this information with my good hubby-buddy, but only if my goals cause problems. Naturally, if I do have problems, he will likely give me The Look, in which case I am sure that tears will betray my hurt feelings. Then, my good hubby-buddy can resolve to fix all problems an' I can go back to life as it should be. In the end, my good hubby-buddy will be so proud of me for keeping my resolutions that he won't even mind taking care of any unfortunate results. What a guy!

An' in the coming year I hope that all your hopes an' dreams come true. That every good desire of your heart is fulfilled an' that you will be surrounded by friends, family an' love.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Livin' In The Ditch

2010-12-16T05:50:00.000-06:00

I hope you survived our most recent blizzard. 'Course, if you're reading this, chances are, you survived. I think. We decided to travel to the far east over the weekend. That is, farther east than here. We made a judgment call; which was better; spending a frozen night in the car in a blizzard or staying the night in a nice, warm motel room? We were rescued by a sheriff's deputy who took us to a place called Freeman; not Jailman, not Prisonman, but Freeman. We were free to go if we wanted to, after all. We chose to stay. I'm sure you have it figured out which way the verdict went concerning the judgment call, right? Just for the record, we got caught in the worst white-out I've ever seen. 'Couln't even see past the window.

Although you prob'ly learned a long time ago that it's best not to travel in inclement weather, we're still studying that subject. One of our sons came home to see us. We hadda' take him to the airport a few hunnerd miles away so's he could get back home. When we started out, things were reasonably acceptable outside. We left early an' got our son to the airport just in time to catch his plane. Before leaving the airport, we checked to make sure his flight would actually be happenin' an' then, we headed home. Trouble is, the further west we went, the worse things seemed to be. Somewhere west of Turkey Ridge, we connected with somethin' an' wound up in a ditch (Ouch! Further updates pending). Thankfully, my good hubby-buddy had packed all kinds of STUFF, in case of an emergency. For the next three hours Sheriffs from two counties searched for us. We were finally discovered by a deputy who din't look old enough to be outta' school, much less rescuing blizzard-stranded old people.

Our child-hero soon whisked us away to safer surroundings, where we were forced to relax, recoup an' watch Christmas movies on actual television until noon on the following day. Since we don't have TV connection at our house, we din't really mind giving in to these demands. A little before noon, things started happenin' rather quickly --- until we got in the car. Then, we hadda' drive very slowly, all the way home. But we made it. We're here an' sooooo happy to be home. An' jus' for curiosity's sake, I'd like to know what it is about bein' stranded in a car, in a blizzard, that makes a person consider how useful certain facilities are?

Before I go, I'd like to apologize to ya'll. I've been tryin' to comment on some 'uh your blogs, tryin' to Follow others an' tryin' to respond to emails. Unfortunately, I can't seem to figure out what's goin' on with my computer. I keep getting messages that keep me from doin' any of those things, so I do hope you will be patient with me.

Both my good hubby-buddy an' I desperately need new computers, but we haven't figured out how to make that happen. If any of you know of a secret computer fairy who has a couple extras, we'd sure appreciate it if you'd send 'em our way.

In the meantime, please be patient an' know that I am tryin' my best to stay in touch with everyone. I am able to read some 'uh your blogs an' I enjoy 'em all so much. My computer won't lemme' go to other blogs, though. Bear with me an' hopefully, I'll be able to get a computer that likes me. Who knows? Maybe Santa will show me some computer love; I doubt it, but one can always hope, can't we?

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Hoppin' In the Little Red Wagon

2010-12-08T07:12:00.001-06:00

     I was strollin' through the many halls of Bloglandia this evening (I'm a night owl; it's actually 6:45 AM) an' I came across a whole new place to play. Well, to be really honest, I ventured over to the Scriptures 4 Kids site to have a look-see. I like goin' there. Look over there >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Yeah, there. See that picture with the kid readin' the Scriptures? That's where I ventured to. Wanna' know why? On accounta' I'm an editor on that site. Cool Beans, eh?

     Now, where was I? Oh, yeah; strollin' through the halls of Bloglandia. Anyway, when I checked in at the Scriptures 4 Kids site I saw several cool links, so I decided to check 'em out. One of 'em was Green. Jello With. Carrots. That's a cool site. An' guess what? They had links on their site, too. An' one 'uh the links was The Barrel. Also a very cool site. I was even able to figure out how to do a Blog Hop. How cool is that?

     What I was thinkin' is that if you all join me in this Blog Hop (we can fly together in the Little Red Wagon) we could help Lenny get 250 Followers by Christmas. If this is your first time here, maybe you haven't met Lenny. Lenny is eleven years old and a great blogger an' writer. He is also an awesome critique partner. He critiqued my picture book an' did such a great job on it that I wanna' help him get 250 Followers before Christmas day. I hope you will jump in an' stroll on over to Lenny's World. I know you'll enjoy it. Lenny is an amazing guy an' I'm glad Sharon from Random Thoughts introduced us. I hope you will all join in the Blog Hop an' also help Lenny.

     Squeeee! My first Blog Hop!

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Are You Following Lenny?

2010-12-05T23:06:00.002-06:00

P'rhaps you've met my friend, Lenny? Lenny is an amazing guy. For one thing, I love his writing voice. I'm not the only one, either. There are folks who would Follow him to the ends of the earth. I'm one of those folks. Lenny is cooool.

So, I read the post on Random Thoughts about the good job Lenny did critiquing Sharon Mayhew's book, A Cake I Will Bake. (HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SHARON!) In case you haven't read his critique, lemme' tell you... he did an outstanding job. Lenny has the true heart of a writer. His perception is Right-On an' his ability to spot flaws an' share the best ways to fix 'em is amazing. Lenny truly is a very talented young man. I'm so glad that Sharon introduced me to Lenny.

     Now, here's why I'm telling you about Mr. Lenny Lee. He did such a fine job of critiquing Sharon's book that, after fighting a major Shy Attack, I finally worked up the nerve to ask him if he would consder critiquing my picture book, Tangles of Fun. Lemme' tell you, I fretted so much over what his reaction would be. You see, Lenny is among the greats. Knowing what an amazing writer he is, I was sure that he was too busy to help me. But I was wrong. In fact, Lenny was very gracious in accepting my request.

     Naturally, after sending him my story (am I the only one who feels that my baby has left the nest when it leaves my possession?), I again began to fret. When I received Lenny's reply, I had drug my trusty computer into the closet an' the 'puter an' I were sharing a moment, you might say. I do not handle stress an' fretting very well. *grin*

     I needn't have worried, though. Lenny was very thorough an' very kind in his critique. I won't include alla' Lenny's comments, but lemme' share with you summa' the things he said:

Tangles of Fun : critiqued for miss yaya by lenny lee

what i like

1. the title is real good and catchy.

2. its a really cute story – following (it) til you find whats at the other end is neat and exciting

2. repeating words for the search is good

3. including dad, the puppy and a the boy so its got more characters but not saying so much about them so finding what’s at the end of (it) is what keeps the story going.

4. this could be real cool for a rhyming poem to. it could be a little hard to do that

5. its real good for bright colored pictures

stuff i didnt like so much

1. it doesn’t read smooth.

2. its kinda choppy and a little hard for reading out loud

what i think could make it better

1. its got some words and phrases that could come out mostly at the start of sentences like “in the beginning” “so” “then” “finally” “suddenly” cause they sorta slow the story down

2. some of it could be pulled in together into just one sentence so it could be more smoother

3. i could like a little twist of words at the end

(I left summa' the critique out on accounta' it would give the story away)

(Here, Lenny wrote an example of how I could adjust the story, finishing with the following comment)

Read it out loud and you could see how taking out some stuff gets it reading lots more smooth

     I am working on my book, using Lenny's suggestions. He's right; trying to rhyme the words is very difficult. The thing is, the idea of rhyming it is a really good idea, so I'll keep working at it.

     Now, this is where you come in. If you're still reading, it's because you know what a great guy Lenny is. If I could, I would send Lenny buckets an' buckets of books an' fun things. As I'm sure alla' you unnerstan', though, many things contribute to my inability to shower Lenny with the gifts he so much deserves. So I'd like to ask your help.

     Today is December 5th. We have jus' 20 day's 'til Christmas. With your help, I think we can spread the word about what a great writer an' critique partner Lenny Lee is.  There are lotsa' people who haven't met Lenny, yet an' I'd like to introduce him to as many people in the blogging world as I can. Will you help me? If you think it would help, you are welcome to link to this post on your blog or in your comments. If you don't wanna' do that, please tell as many people as you can about Lenny's awesome blog.

I'd like to see Lenny reach 250 Followers by Christmas. I wouldn't be surprised if he gets more with your help. Every couple of days, from now 'til Christmas, I will make a comment about the progress on Lenny's blog. Please join me in spreading the word for Lenny. Let's use all the tools available to us (such as that forklift pictured above) to help Lenny reach 250 Followers. Thank you. I know you care for him as much as I do, so I feel sure you will help.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Inventory In December

2010-12-02T06:59:00.000-06:00

Have ya' noticed? It's coming fast; December is upon us. You know what happens in December, right? Yeah; me, too --- all kindsa' fun stuff. Except for the other eleven, the month of December is one 'uh my favorite months of the year. Well, depending on the time of year, that is.

How's come December is one 'uh my favorites? Well, jus' sit yourself down an I'll tell you summa' the things that make me look forward to this time of year. Alrighty; let's take inventory 'bout the tail-end of the year. First, of course, is the wonder of nature. Snow. I love snow. Shhhh; don't tell anyone what I jus' said on accounta' I've heard that snow isn't necessarily the favorite thing around these parts. Remember; keep it on the QT.

Naturally, there's a reason I like the white stuff. Wanna' know why? KIDS! As far back as I can remember, wherever there was snow, there was sure to be kids. 'Course, there don't seem to be quite as many kids as when I WAS one, but some of 'em still come drifting outta' the woodwork when the flakes start falling.

Next on my list of Can't Live Without It is that awesome feeling I get whenever I hear the sounds of Frosty, the Snowman or Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer. It's hard not to love a season that causes people to create whimsical characters; don't you agree?

Have you ever noticed how friendly an' happy people are during the last month of the year? Oh, don't get me wrong; I think most people are friendly an' happy most of the time. But in December, it's almost as if we are all bit by the same bug; the Cupid of the holiday season, you might say. The joy is so contagious, in fact, that it might almost be considered an epidemic. Let's hope no one with authority finds the time to wrap their minds around that thought or we might hafta' find new an' creative ways to express all that happiness.

So, by now, you're pro'lly wonderin' how I've managed to make it this far without a word about the big day. It wasn't easy, lemme' tell you. Christmas is absolutely my favorite, Favorite, FAVORITE day of the year. Nope! Nope! Not for the presents, but for what it represents. You see, it is at this time of year that funny things start happening. I like to think of it like a maple tree whose sap is spilling out at Sugaring Time.

Look around an' see if you don't agree. You just might catch your neighbor smiling even more than usual. Or, when you aren't lookin', someone might leave a prize on your doorstep; maybe hurry to help you during a difficult time. Could be, you'll find yourself inviting someone over for a cuppa' hot cocoa an' a chat. See what I mean? For the whole month of December an' maybe even a little longer, you're gonna' start seein' the love come pourin' outta' every person --- like a Maple Tree.

Now, here's what you wanna' do: act real nonchalant whenever someone is near. Then, when they think you're not lookin', jus' casually start noticing what's goin' on around you. Uh, huh! See there? Without them even knowing it, you're gonna' catch someone right in the act of bein' nice. Keep on your toes 'cause it's gonna' happen a lot more than you expect. I'd be embarrassed to have anyone mention it, but I sure hope I get caught in an unexpected act of kindness. An' you can be sure I'll be watchin' YOU. Oh, an' guess what I jus' noticed? Whilst I was writing, December jumped in.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

White Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T23:42:00.004-06:00

I used to live in South Carolina; Charleston, to be exact. Beautiful city. Summa' the homes have the taste of Old-World Southern Mansion to 'em. I really liked it there, but I've liked pretty much everywhere I've ever lived. We lived there 'bout a year; maybe a little longer. Until I moved to South Dakota, Charleston was the closest thing to feelin' like home, to me. Dunno' why.

I recall the year I was in seventh grade. From the get-go, there were surprises. I had lived previously in Maine, where snow was just a way of life; kinda' like the Dakotas. In Maine, the snow could be ten feet deep an' life went on like always. Stores opened, kids went to school, business din't really change all that much.

Things are different in South Carolina. In fact, I woke up one mornin', shortly before Thanksgiving an' was thrilled to see snow on the ground. I was a kid; that's what kids do. Everything was covered in that thin layer of white that, in some places, might almost seem like frost. The locals seemed to think it had snowed durin' the night. A full quarter-inch of snow had been recorded at the weather bureau.

7:00 in the mornin' an' there was a knock on the door. Our next door neighbor was wrapped tightly in her robe, hair still showin' pillow-friendly signs an' teeth chattering. Even before we could invite her in, Mrs. LeBeau was talkin' a mile a minute. The panic in her voice was unmistakable. She din't know what to do. Should she send her son to school or keep him home? It was snowing, after all.

I recall the difficulty that my mama had in keeping a straight face. She was a veteran driver in ALL circumstances. It took her awhile to realize that the locals were not used to driving on slippery roads. While she tried to calm our neighbor, she casually turned the radio on to listen to the weather report. Before long, we heard the news that would be the final word in calming Mrs. LeBeau; all schools would be closed until further notice, due to unsafe driving conditions. That was Monday, before Thanksgiving. It snowed again, that night an' the next. I sure wasn't complainin'; I was a kid an' school was out, unexpectedly.

We din't hafta' return to school until the Monday following Thanksgiving. Only time I ever recall havin' a full week off for Thanksgiving. Truth be told, it was a sorry time for a vacation; we din't even have enough snow to build a miniature snowman. Sure makes me glad that I live where I do; where snow falls for real.

Let's hope we all get a week's vacation for Thanksgiving, this year, but not for the same reason. Otherwise, we might never dig outta' the snow.

Have a great Thanksgiving!

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Squatter #2 Is On The Prowl

2010-11-22T00:22:00.000-06:00

I don't believe it! There is actually a second squatter in MY house. It's true; we caught the first one, but another has made his presence known. Not for long, though. We will get him/her/it. We will.

Picture it; there's a box in my good hubby-buddy's office. In that box are various memorbilia; treasures, if you will. Among those treasures there is a set of dice, of no particular value, except that I made them for my good hubby-buddy for our last anniversary. They're made of cardstock and have a poem, especially written for him. Like I said, nuthin' special to anyone else; just us. Now, those dice seem to be of particular interest to a certain mouse. Why? I couln't tell ya'. I seriously doubt that the critter wants to pass on my gift to his beloved wife; presuming the mouse is a HE an' supposing that he has a wife, that is. At any rate, he/she/it cannot HAVE that set of dice. So, there!

UPDATE! UPDATE! Good news; the second Squatter has been captured an' removed. Even whilst I've been writing, the critter came out in the open an' tried to capture one 'uh the die (aka, half a set of dice); Right in front of my good hubby-buddy, he did! Now, I ask you, "How smart was that?"

Naturally, my hero was ready for 'im an' the battle was on! BIFF! BOP! SOCK! POW! Next thing ya' know, one ornery mouse was offered to the first cat to appear. Little Orphan Annie, our little orphan cat, was the first to the door an', guess what? She grabbed that mouse an', even though alla' the other cats are twice her size, she din't let anybody take it from her. You go, Annie! Good girl. Now, let's hope we've seen the last of any mice in our house.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

We Have Squatters!

2010-11-20T17:08:00.001-06:00

Cats! Ya' gotta' love 'em. Here I am, with four beautiful cats; perfectly capable of livin' off the land, so to speak. Well, there is that one cat who lost her back foot in a mowing accident (lotsa' tractors where I live), so I guess I don't have four WHOLE cats, but they are still capable little critters. So, how's come I've got so many mice in the house, all of a sudden?

Oh, sure; I realize that the weather is takin' a turn for the Chilly an' I'm fully aware that mice do not have thick coats to protect 'em from the cold. Still, this is MY house an' I have NEVER invited mice to visit... much less, LIVE in MY house. Therefore, I consider 'em to be squatters. In the old days, or so I've heard, squatters were run off by the land owners. Okay, minor technicality; we don't own the land. We rent. I'm sure, though, that there must be some kinda' renter's clause that allows us to evict squatters. Anyway, whether there's a clause or not, I'm prepared to do damage to the intruders. Mice are definitely NOT summa' my favorite people. An' now, it's time to say Goodbye.

Aha! One 'uh those intruders has taken the bait. Haha! He's outa' here. Neener, neener. An' actually, guess what? I kinda' think he was the only squatter in the place. There seemed to be evidence that it was the same four-legged dude who was checkin' out the whole house. I think we've WON! No more squatters, no more little surprises, no more questions 'bout whether we have the right to evict intruders. That ol' boy is GONE! Haha!

Now, about that herd of cats who shoulda' kept the mouse away. I think it's time to give 'em the look of, "Let's get with the picture, a'ready. You're s'posed to be Mousers. So MOUSE!"

I think that should take care of it. I'll keep you posted on the mousing situation. In the meantime, I'm really glad to know that our biggest scoundrel is outta' commission. Life is back to... good. I'm a happy camper.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~Yaya

My Own Bed?!?

2010-11-16T20:25:00.000-06:00

When our children were small, we were much like many other young families; more month than money. Nevertheless, we were happy with our children an' we tried to enjoy every minute we could with them. Naturally, we also tried to find ways to stretch the paycheck.

One of the ways we managed to do that was by not buying furniture. That is to say, we did have some furniture, but we were very creative in building some of those pieces we couldn't buy. Take for instance, beds. Did you know you could build bunk beds with nuthin' more than a couple of closet doors an' cans of food? True story. Similarly, there are other ways to overcome the need for furniture. In fact, we devised ways to have a dining room table with a wrap-around bench (also from cans of food), a couch from a wooden box, chairs, night stands an' several other articles that were quite comfortable, as well as useful, under the circumstances.

Then came the day when we hit the jackpot. In California there is somethin' called Flea Markets. They are often set up at drive-in theaters an' basically, it's kinda' like a big garage sale, with many of the sellers working from the trunks of their cars or their pickup trucks. There are also stalls with tables, of course, but the overall effect is a rummage sale party.

We had brought our own arrangement of items to sell, including tools, crafts an' toys that the kids had outgrown. As sales tapered off, we took turns walking around with the kids, looking at what others had for sale. I discovered the perfect doll baby in a wooden cradle that I jus' knew my little girl would love (an' she did, for many years) an' my good hubby-buddy found a very nice set of bunk beds. The arrangement we had been using was for the boys to sleep on one of the makeshift bunks an' our daughter to sleep on the other one.

With the kind help of the sellers, we managed to get the beds home an' then set up, leaving the previous arrangement intact. That's when we got the greatest shock of our lives. At three, our youngest son suddenly exclaimed, "My OWN BED?!?"

Until that moment, we hadn't realized how important it was to him to have his own bed. I don't think I have ever appreciated a piece of furniture as much as I did at that moment. And the memory has brought me many hours of delight.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

A Crafter's Dream

2010-11-13T03:19:00.001-06:00

Have you noticed how the weather seems to be changing? Gettin' kinda' chilly? Seems Ol' Man Winter is waitin' in the sidelines, jus' so's we get to experience another one 'uh those lovely seasonal thingys. Personally, although Winter is my favorite time of the year, I was okay with havin' really awesome weather, ya' know? I mean, the 50 an' 60 degree days were actually workin' in with alla' the different things I wanted to accomplish.

We went to see summa' our kids an' brought back a whole lotta' shelves an' furniture an' stuff they were gettin' rid of an' I am so thrilled. See, with alla' those shelves an' such, I'm gonna' actually be able to have an absolutely AMAZING crafting area in the garage. I can hardly wait. 'Course, if there's snow an cold an' alla' that other fun stuff, I might not be as willing to go out an' actually USE my new crafting area. Somethin' tells me that I'm gonna' be very willing to stay indoors an' hold the fort down. Besides, if we're warming the house, it seems silly for me to let alla' that warmth jus' sit inside, all alone. Right? There's nuthin' quite so lonely as an empty office that's all warmed up an' left on it's own. No, I think I'm gonna' needa' stay inside an' keep the warm air company. Sounds reasonable, don'tcha' think? LOL

So, do any of you have some great suggestions for how best to arrange my, mostly shelves, craft area? I have a clean slate, here an' I'd like to make it awesome. Aside from the fact that it's gonna' be cold out there (I can actually live with that, I think), I'm hoping to have a little corner of the world that is mine. Oh, yeah; an' my good hubby-buddy says you shouln't even bother suggesting I get rid of any of HIS stuff. Silly b-u-o-y. Any ideas for makin' it workable would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, heaps.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

The Cat Food Calamity

2010-11-11T06:22:00.001-06:00

You've heard the term, "Plop! Plop! Fizz, fizz," haven't you? Well, that's about how I felt on the morning of my last blog post. Remember? That was the day I told you that I was not fond of the taste of cat food. As a matter of fact an' after much consideration, I can truly say that I hope I never hafta' eat anything that tastes that bad, ever again. Bleh!

Picture, if you can, my cheerful demeanor as I stepped from my kitchen door onto the porch. Snow had fallen the night before; the first snow of the season. It was beautiful. So clean an' pure. It actually took my breath away… about one second before my feet flew up an' I did a full Body-Slam, with my face buried in cat food.

I waited, knowing that my good hubby-buddy was watching for me to return. As I lay on my stomach, I was certain that my hero would rescue me. Any day, now. This week, or next. I was patient… more or less. That is, until my next thought.

"What if he came outside, too, an' we both wound up in the cat food? Would we even be able to stand up? I doubted it. I began putting more effort into liberating myself from my predicament. Believe me, it was not easy. Between the slippery snow an' a reluctant body, jus' gettin' to my knees was a challenge. Never mind, actually standing upright.

So, there I was, with the latest version of 'Egg On My Face' (Yuck!) an' my arms wrapped around the railing of the porch… TRAPPED! Whilst I huffed an' I puffed to gain an upright position, my good hubby-buddy remained indoors, oblivious to any of the current events. As happy as I was that he din't know what was goin' on, part of me wanted to {{{{{ S M A C K }}}}} him!

Finally, I made it to my feet an' worked my way to the door. Curiously, with ice an' snow all over my hands an' me unable to get the sliding door open, I was forced to tap on the glass to get Hubby-buddy's attention.

Ya' know that comment about smacking him? Well, he took one look at my face an' his laughter instantly reinforced that emotion. Sort of. Actually, we both got a good laugh out of it, but in my mind, he was not getting' off so easy.

For the record, I dunno' who develops the flavors in pet foods, but I have a greater respect for my cats an' their preference for eating dead things, rather than the food I put out for 'em. What bothers me most is the fact that we have bought many different kinds of food for our feline family, but they still seem to prefer the dead things.

What about your pets? Do they also choose to eat somethin' other than the famous brands of cuisine, found in the pet food aisles? If so, I think you should stick to your regular diet of human fare.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

I Do Not Like Cat Food

2010-10-28T05:40:00.000-05:00

Cat food does not taste as good as you might think. I'm sure that cat's love it, but it is definitely not my first choice for a meal. I speak from first-hand knowledge about this. You see, when you are face-down in the cat dish, lying in several inches of snow, it gives you time to realize jus' how unappealing that dish happens to be.

I don't want the cat food!

I wish I could tell you more, now, but I will be gone from my computer for awhile. We are tryin' to get many important things accomplished an' I will be up to my eyeballs in Stuff. When I am next able to get on my computer, I will tell you the very untasty story of how I came to know that cat food is not somethin' I ever hope to taste again. In the meantime, please know that I will be thinkin' 'bout you all an' missin' you. I hope you will come back to hear it all.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Life At the Top

2010-10-26T12:44:00.000-05:00

This post is a tribute to my brother, whom I love.

Gone, but not forgotten.

Have you ever lived in an attic? I did. I used to live near Spokane, Washington, in a little town named Opportunity. I thought that was appropriate, since it was when I first moved out on my own, feelin' the unbridled power that First-Adulthood can bring to those who've never felt the responsibility of supporting themselves.

There I was, earnin' my own way, holdin' down my first full-time job an' preparin' to spend my first night on my own. I had found an apartment, conveniently situated near the center of town an' things were goin' well. Considerin' that I had never even had a room of my own, that first apartment was H-U-G-E. Besides, livin' downtown, above one of the businesses was gonna' make everything so convenient. I thought.

That is, until it got dark an' I spent my first night alone. That was the same night I thought I was gonna' die in an earthquake; after movin' from the Great Quake Capital of America, California. But that's another story.

After survivin' my night of many firsts, life settled into a certain pattern; rise early, catch the bus to Spokane to go to work, come home exhausted an' struggle to pay all the bills when I got my paycheck. Perhaps you've heard of this way of life? Easy club to join, but they never want a person to drop out.

Eventually, I realized that I would need to cut corners, but where? I had learned that my $35- per month rent payment was non-negotiable an' I'd been livin' on a gallon of milk, a loaf of bread an' a dozen eggs per week for the last two months, so I couldn't really cut back on my food bill. Since I din't buy clothes or other extras, there weren't a lotta' choices. Finally, I decided that I would hafta' move closer to my job an' save the bus fare.

About the time I was makin' this very important decision, my older brother an' his wife paid a visit to her family, who lived about thirty miles away. They also visited ME in that first apartment.

Y'ever notice how big brothers like to take care of their younger siblings? An' thank goodness my brother did. In the first place, because they had a car, they helped me to find a new place, taking alla' my challenges into consideration; no car, proximity to work, the issue of safety an' my limited earning ability. Soon, we found a beautiful old three-story home with the most awesome woodwork you can imagine. Above the third floor was an attic that had been divided into two parts. A stairwell separated the two parts.

After agreeing to pay $20- a month in rent (yay! That was a savings of $15- each month), I was ready to begin movin' in. Not so, big brother. He took me shopping, using his own money. The first thing we bought was a lock; but not jus' any lock. This was a device that worked like a chain-lock, but could be controlled from the outside with a key.

Next, he stocked my bookshelf with all kindsa' stuff I could cook in one aluminum popcorn popper. In that small rented room I had no cooking facilities, so the electric popper came in very handy.

I was finally Brother-Certified to move into my new attic-home. I was so thrilled the day everything was in place. My brother an' his wife returned to California an' I began a new life.

Maybe someday you'd like to hear how my hands froze to the wall of that same attic-home? That was definitely an unexpected surprise.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Look What I Can Do!

2010-10-24T22:32:00.000-05:00

Hey, Lookie! Did you see what I did? I have all kindsa' new things goin' on. Look up there. No, no; not there. Over there, on the left. See it? Jus' under my photo; the one of me in the Little Red Wagon. See it, now? It looks like this:

Orphans and Other Stars

Home

ME! ME! All about ME!!!

Games

Hmmmm; that din't turn out just right. Those are the right words, but up above, they're all on the same line an' without the dots. Maybe you can find 'em if you look for alla' those words on the same line an' pretend the dots aren't there, ya' think? Are ya' lookin'?

Heh-heh; the dots don't show up on the Preview Page, so they might not show up on the finished page. That's okay. If they don't show up, you won't hafta' pretend they aren't there, right?

YES! You found it! Now, jus' click on each of those words or groups of words an' you can start to find some more Yaya places. How cool is that? I am excited that I was finally able to make those extra pages work correctly. It sure wasn't easy, but my friend, Nicole, over at My Mad World helped me get it figured out. My friend, Gramma' Lowe, also helped me. You might wanna' check out their homes on the web. I am so thankful for nice people who are helpful.

I'll be adding some more pages as soon as I can. I hope you like the new pages I've added. I was able to put pictures an' all kindsa' stuff on my new pages. Check 'em out.

Thanks for stoppin by an' 'til the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

66 Love Letters

2010-10-22T02:11:00.000-05:00

     Sometime back, I was given the opportunity to review an awesome book, 66 Love Letters. It has taken me awhile to read it because my eyes have been giving me trouble. However, I must say, this is one of the best books I've found for getting into the Bible.

     Dr. Larry Crabb has taken each book in the Bible and broken it down so each book is as it should be; a love letter from our Heavenly Father. I was really surprised at the sense of personal touch I felt while reading this book. Yes, I have read the Bible, many times and I love the messages and the stories. However, in his book, 66 Love Letters, Dr. Crabb explains in clear and simple language how completely involved our Father is in our lives. It's a book I have returned to several times to remind me that the Bible really is a love letter from my Heavenly Father.

     66 Love Letters, read in conjunction with the Bible, brings a very personal and deep sense of why we have the Bible and how we can let it be a guide in our lives. I strongly recommend this book as a help in understanding our Father's great love. I hope you will pick it up and find out for yourself what an awesome message is waiting, just for you.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LENNY!!!

2010-10-20T00:42:00.001-05:00

Lenny, you bring us so much joy. Happy Birthday! Have fun on your special day.

Hugs from Yaya.

Treadle-Neck of the Great Depression

2010-10-06T02:05:00.000-05:00

     Whenever I was around my gramma' I loved hearing the stories of when she was younger. It din't seem to matter whether she was telling about when she was eighteen or sixty-eight, her stories held worlds of wonder for me. Her ability to breathe life into a tale was nuthin' less than magical. How I did love her stories.

     Have I ever told you that my gramma' was a tailor? True story! In fact, she used to carry a tablet with her an' whenever she saw a clothing design she liked, she'd pull out her tablet an' quickly sketch her favorite parts. Back at home, she would figure out how to create her own pattern so she could include that idea in one of the designs she developed on her own. 'Course, she wasn't always a tailor. The story of how she learned to sew is one I've always loved.

     Gramma' hadn't been married very long when she decided she'd like to learn to sew. Knowing that her mama had a nice treadle sewing machine, she asked to use it. Her mama apparently was not the kinda' person who shared with her children, as she told her daughter that she could use the machine for the mere sum of $5 per day; an enormous amount of money during the depression.

     At this point, my grampa' decided to take matters into his own hands. He told my gramma' to wait outside an' he'd be out in a minute. Here, Gramma' always added that she never did learn what was said in those few minutes, but they did not use her mama's sewing machine.

     Instead, they went to a nearby town an' bought a brand-new treadle sewing machine for the grand total of… are you ready for this? $5. That's right; for $5 they were able to get a brand-new sewing machine. They also bought a bolt of material. When they returned home, Grampa' told Gramma' that borrowin' would not be something they would consider doin' in the future. Then Gramma' took her new treasure an' the bolt of material an' proceeded to learn how to sew.

     Using one of Grampa's farm shirts as a pattern, Gramma' carefully took the shirt apart an' cut copies of each piece, then sewed 'em all together. When she was done sewing, Gramma' was very proud of the shirt she had made. She had Grampa' try it on for size an' that's when the error was discovered. Evidently, Gramma' had wanted to be absolutely certain that the neck wasn't gonna' be too tight, so each time she measured it, she allowed juuuuuuust a little extra to be added.

     When Grampa' tried it on, everything fit perfectly… except the neck. Grampa' took a handful of the neck area an' pulled it about two feet in front of him, saying, "Well, Baby; ya' dun real good. But the next time, you might wanna' make the neck just a little smaller."

     The next time Gramma' used a pattern, she was much more careful in her measurements an' she kept improving until her skills were such that she could make any item she set her mind to. She could make the patterns for an' sew dresses, pants, shirts, jackets, wedding dresses, suits, winter coats an' anything else she thought up. I'd say that's not too bad for someone who had almost no formal education of any kind an' who taught herself to sew; wouln't you?

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Gimme' That Ol' Time Stitchin'

2010-09-28T16:12:00.000-05:00

Around where I live, there are lotsa' people who go to auctions.

Just last month, there was a nearly-new van sold for only a few hunnerd dollars. Lemme' tell you, that was one happy group who bid on that one. I like goin' to auctions on accounta' I sometimes get some pretty good deals. I also like goin' to find the types of things I can't find in your average, run-of-the-mill shopping center; things like little collections that remind me of my gramma'.

Years ago, when I went to my first auction, it was quite a shock to my system to realize how many treasures could be had an' how many people wanted to take my new-found treasures from me. One of the first things my good hubby-buddy ever bought for me at auction was a treadle sewing machine. My, how I did love that machine. In fact, I used to sit at that machine for hours, with my babies at my knees. I would be happily sewin' up some fun item, whilst they sat on the treadle an' rocked it back an' forth for me.

I finally wore that ol' sewing machine out, after years an' years of havin' yards an' yards of material fun. It was kinda' sad when my machine quit. I've never found another one that I could work quite as well as I was able to work that one. I sometimes wish that companies would go back into the business of manufacturing summa' those really nice treadle sewing machines, again. Seems like there are lotsa' people who would prefer to use summa' those easy-to-use, no-gadgets-to-mess-up tools from long ago. *sigh*

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Are You Ready For Thanksgiving?

2010-09-27T18:31:00.002-05:00

I am so excited 'bout this year's holiday season. Unlike previous years, I have so many ways to prepare and every single one of 'em is somethin' I can hardly wait to get started on. Are you ready for Thanksgiving? Don't you jus' love bein' able to gather with friends an' family? With food as the central topic, you can play games an' enjoy the holiday even more, this year.

Are you a teacher? Have you been wondering how to share knowledge in a way that will hold your students' interest? Python Thanksgiving Party Games is definitely the answer to your quest. Print all the copies you want an' keep those thirsty minds askin' for more. Python Printable Games are the perfect addition to your teaching agenda because everyone loves to play games an' your kids will learn while they play.

Do you like working crossword puzzles or word searches? Surprise! You can get both with these packets. In fact, there are quizzes an' poems, match games an' scavenger hunts; so many different kinds of games that I can't list 'em all. Your kids will look forward to Thanksgiving, this year an' every year, because you will have enough variety to create different games for each year. Hurry over there an' check out the wunnerful games that Python Printable Games has. You'll be glad you did.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

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Quarentined! They Got Me!

2010-09-23T02:05:00.001-05:00

Ack! Ack! Cough! Oh, hi. Sorry 'bout that. Seems I have picked up some kinda' flu bug 'er sumpin'. I don't usually catch colds or struggle with flu. I've been very fortunate like that. I can't imagine where I might've caught it from. I don't really go anywhere, to speak of. I'm perfectly content to stay in my own little house an' enjoy bein' somethin' of a recluse. 'Course, it doesn't bother me to go out. Or to have anyone visit, for that matter. I'm jus' very comfortable bein' home, ya' know?

I was gonna' do so many things, today; write the great American novel, sew a new wardrobe, make gifts for all my grandies for Christmas. I had the whole day planned out. Unfortunately, in the middle of the night, the flu bug changed my mind. Now, I'll pro'lly hafta' reschedule alla' that fun stuff for another day. Ungh! Life can be sooooo haaaaaard.

Be careful whilst reading this post. You don't wanna' get too close. I really wouln't want you to catch whatever it is that caught me. This is NOT fun. This is not fun, a LOT! So, be sure you drink your juices, eat all your veggies an' don't forget to take your vitamin C. An' above all, stay healthy an' well, k?

Until the next time, keep a... Healthy... hug on.

~ Yaya

A Treasured Gift From A Child

2010-09-22T04:44:00.002-05:00

One of my grandies has developed his own standards for enjoying the greatest happiness in life. At six years old, there are several areas of Do's and Don'ts, as far as he's concerned. For instance, sitting still is a definite No-No, but if he wants cake an' milk for breakfast, his talent for debate is quickly displayed.

One practice he developed seems to have arrived at the time he was born. This particular conviction has been somethin' of a problem because there could be some very long-term negative repercussions to his decision.

Fortunately for Grandie Boy, his daddy loves a good debate. It's interesting to watch as the two banter back an' forth, each seemingly a master with words. I love it that their battle of words can be so convincing, yet never lose the sense of love an' caring. Both my son (Grandie Boy's daddy) an' Grandie Boy treat such events as just another game.

I'm sure by now, you must be wondering what it is that can cause so much discussion. Vegetables. That's what Grandie Boy fights so hard against. According to him, there are no edible vegetables. Well, unless you count French Fries. To him, the thought of allowing somethin' so vile to touch his tongue is nuthin' short of certain death. Naturally, Daddy constantly seeks new ways to include veggies as a delicious an' appealing food.

Enter, Asparagus! According to Grandie Boy, only cows eat grass an' he ain't a cow. Since asparagus looks so much like Cow-Food (Grandie Boy's own pet name), he has developed many discussions against this particular food.

Until last week, that is. At long last, Daddy found the ideal way to prepare this most despised food. Now, before I tell you how it was cooked, you need to remember that some lessons are learned by means of small steps. Admittedly, the preparation was not the most healthful way to eat a vegetable, but since it was the first time that Grandie Boy was willing to try asparagus, perhaps the preparation can be overlooked this time.

As expected, when one bite of this new food was placed on Grandie Boy's plate, his natural reaction was suspicion. However, since it had been rolled in flour an' looked like a French Fry, he allowed it to stay. Daddy told him he din't hafta' like it, but he did hafta' try it. With more interest than he had ever shown before, Grandie Boy lifted the spear of fried asparagus between two fingers an' slipped the whole thing into his mouth. Daddy waited for the reaction an' when there was none, he placed another section of fried asparagus on the plate.

Grandie Boy picked it up an' took a bite. It was at this point that the child stated his true feelings; words every parent wants to hear. "You know, Daddy, I think I could learn to like vegetables."

As gifts go, those words were among the best offering ever presented by a child to his parent.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

I Am A Grasshopper

2010-09-20T14:39:00.004-05:00

Don't you jus' lov it when you have one 'uh those days where everything falls right into place an' works out even better than anything your imagination could come up with? Yeah, me too. That's the kinda' day I had on Sunday; perfect.

Friday... not so much. I'll spare you the gory details, but suffice it to say that Friday will not go down in history as one 'uh my favorites. I have learned that movin' furniture an' regroupin' an entire room, startin' at 10:30 at night is p'rhaps not the wisest thing to do when you know that Saturday is gonna' be filled with deadlines.

Alla' that was said so's I could tell you that I am grasshopper. On Sunday, I gave a talk in church an' it explained completely why I now realize that I am a grasshopper. I know that most of you are ants an' I am okay with that, but it is nice to finally know that I have found my place an' even grasshoppers are important in our society.

If you'd like to have a deeper unnerstandin' of the difference between ants an' grasshoppers, please read this article by Louise Plummer. She is also a grasshopper. The short version involves Aesop's Fable, The Grasshopper and the Ants. Basically, the ants are very much in control of each area of their lives, whilst the grasshoppers are more spur-of-the moment. I think you would really enjoy Louise Plummer's article an' I hope you'll click on the link to read it. For myself, I am finally comfortable with who I am. It has been shown to me that, in spite of the fact that I do things differently than the ants of the world, my kind of personality is still as necessary as those who are organized an' plan their lives well.

So, what are you? A grasshopper or an ant? Whichever you are, I'm sincerely thankful that you have chosen to be a part of my life.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

1-2-3-DESTROY!

2010-09-18T04:17:00.000-05:00

     Lookie here. Can you see in here? See what I've been doin'? Yeah; it's a mess, alright. That's what always happens when I start shufflin' things around. I get THE. BIGGEST. MESS. you ever saw. I simply cannot seem to make one. tiny. little. improvement without first destroyin' everything in my path. Tonight, my office was the unwilling victim. An' several rooms in the surrounding vicinity. I can't seem to help it; that's what I do. I'm a mess.

     Are you like that? No? I kinda' din't think so. You seem to be far more in control of things. Whenever I sneak over an' have a peek at your blog, everything is so nice an' tidy. Why anybody can see how easy it is for you to make yer life run smoothly. I'll bet you've never had a crisis or an unexpected event in your whole life, have you? No, I din't think so. See? I could tell on accounta' whenever I look in on you, there you are, jus' movin' around an' takin' control, like you might have the world by the tail.

     Well, here's the thing; I was thinkin' you could move in with me. That way, when I start scatterin' things around an' lookin' to make some irreparable kinda' destruction, you can pull out the Logic Card an' set me back on track. That way, I won't be so quick to lose control an' you can take a few minutes to point me in a more user-friendly direction than one that's gonna' take three days to recover from. Don't you think that's a slick little plan? Me, too. So, whenever you're ready, you come on down an' we can start settin' my life to rights, k? K, then.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

More Than I Expected

2010-09-15T04:12:00.002-05:00

     Remember when you were young; what holidays were like in school? I recall doin' a lot of coloring for each new holiday that rolled around. For the New Year, we colored banners with messages to usher out the old an' welcome in the new. For Valentine's Day, we colored an' cut hearts, hearts an' more hearts. Nearly all of the decorations were created by the kids, for the kids. Those decorations that weren't provided by the kids were few an' expensive. Remember that? I'm not a teacher, but I've known many teachers who spent much more than they could afford on classroom decorations an' supplies.

     Wouln't it be nice if there were an inexpensive way to get new decorations each year, instead of havin' all those expensive decorations wind up in a box with so many other supplies, that the edges are curling or the pages are gettin' creased? Hold onto your horses 'cause I have news for you!
     Python Games gave me the chance to try out their Halloween Printables so's I could tell you all about 'em. To be really honest, I din't expect a whole lot, as I had not previously known about Python Printables. However, when I clicked on the link to download the games, I was completely shocked at the quality an' attention to detail that was involved. At every click of the mouse, I was more thrilled by all that was included.

     'Course, you know how much I love puzzles. There are numerous puzzles, in shapes to compliment the holiday. Here's one:

You can make as many copies as you wanna' an' really decorate your classroom, office, party hall or wherever you feel like celebratin' the fun.

      All opinions are strictly my own. I was given a complimentary packet of printables to review, but other than that, I was not compensated in any way. Tomoson.com is a place where bloggers can apply for any promotions you like for free. I so appreciate Tomoson.com an' Python Printables for sharing this opportunity with me. I am sold on both companies. You will be, too.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on. ~ Yaya

This Product Was a Free Giveaway

A Single-File Memory

2010-09-13T02:20:00.000-05:00

     Once upon a time, many long years ago, we owned a few acres in the country. We considered these few acres our paradise an' enjoyed every minute we spent there. Well, except for when the sow ate several of the babies.

     One day, we bought a Great Pyrenees puppy an' she quickly became an important member of our family. Lightning was a beautiful dog; white, with long, curly hair an' a long, curled tail. When one of the cows died, giving birth to a little calf, Lightning decided that the calf needed a mama. Just as soon as she had made the decision that the calf needed a mama, she also filled the position. If you've never seen the dedication that a Great Pyrenees can show in mothering a young calf, you have missed out on a beautiful experience.

     My son used to take Thank You, the calf, for long walks on the dirt road that ran in front of our land. Naturally, Lightning wasn't about to let her baby go out alone, so she followed them on their walk. We had another dog, Stranger, who didn't let our son go anywhere without taggin' along. So, there you would see them; our son, Thank You, Lightning, Stranger, cats, ducks, chickens, geese, lambs, turkeys, cows, piglets and an occasional stray animal who just joined in to see what was goin'-on, all walking single-file down the long dirt road.

     We moved away from there, eventually. Whenever I long to revisit the ol' place, my thoughts return to the image of all those animals, following along behind my young son an' I'm thankful that we are, once again, trying to find a home in the country. I know some peopole enjoy livin' in the city. In truth, I have also enjoyed livin' in the city, at times. Given the choice, though, I'd choose country life over any other kind. Country Life; a place where a person can sit an' enjoy a long procession of animals, following one boy who loves 'em all.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Ho! Ho! Ho! Is it Summer?

2010-09-09T22:00:00.000-05:00

     When I was a child, I noticed that seasons never seemed to follow any particular pattern. Of course, that might have had something to do with the fact that I never stayed in one place for very long. Christmas in Florida, for instance, feels nothing like Christmas in Maine. In Maine, there's snow and lots of trees, smelling like Santa Claus is just climbing into his sleigh. Florida, on the other hand, has Palm Trees and beaches. Nothing wrong with either place, mind you, but to a child such a difference is significant at an important time of the year.

     The same holds true when preparing to spend the day at the beach. Go to any beach in America, south of say, the Mason-Dixon line and you know why you're there. The day is hot, the sun is comfortable and the water is pleasantly cool for the heat of the day. Head north and you may be in for a surprise. At least, that's the way it always struck me. The day was generally cool, the sun pleasant and the water {{{{{ c~o~o~o~o~l~l~l~d~d }}}}}.

     There are other telltale signs of seasons being individual, depending on what part of the country you are in, as well. Have you ever witnessed Fall in someplace like Oregon? The leaves change colors and really begin to show-off. Each tree fills with more variety than the next and every leaf tries to out-do all the others. Counter that with the changing of the seasons where Palm Trees grow. Although exceptional in her own way, the announcement of season's change is not as pronounced.

     I'm glad for everywhere I ever lived. I love the Palm Trees and the Pines. The Oak and the Redwood. And every single variety I have been fortunate enough to witness. There is no spot on this Earth that I don't think of as beautiful. In fact, I consider every creation from here to outer-space to be a mark of glory. I'm especially grateful that I have finally moved to a place where I can be reasonably certain that one season follows another. And the nice thing is, each season seems to be very much like the last one of the same name. That's somehow very comforting. How long did it take you to recognize the difference in the seasons.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

     This is a re-post, with a few minor adjustments, except I messed up the original when I was tryin' to re-post. hmmmmm

Bread Magic

2010-09-07T04:37:00.001-05:00

     We live in a world of contradictions. Take for instance the term Homemade Bread. Yes, it is made at home and yes, it is usually delicious. Curiously though, it often lacks many similarities to one's initial image of Homemade Bread. Today, it seems that most people I know who make bread at home, do so with the aid of a breadmaking machine. Still very tasty, but it's difficult for me to form magical memories of baking bread around the ol' breadmaking machine.

     I can remember when my gramma' used to bake bread in the oven of a woodstove. My job was to be ready with the butter brush an' make sure that I spread plenty of butter... real butter, not margarine, on the top of the loaf after it was removed from the oven. Then, of course, my job was to take that first delectable bite of hot buttered bread, smeared with honey, an' give my opinion. I don't ever recall giving a poor grade to my gramma's fresh, homemade bread. In fact, I wouldn't mind havin' some of her homemade bread, right now.

     Another curious contradiction in today's world is stamps. Once when our oldest granddaughter, who at that time was three, was helping my good hubby-buddy in his office, she very clearly brought to our attention how things have changed since we were her age. My good hubby-buddy let her put the stamps onto each of the envelopes after he sealed them. Then, the three of us went for a drive to mail the letters. Sis wanted to hold the letters while she rode an' that seemed like a reasonable request, so we let her.

     My good hubby-buddy happened to glance into the rear-view mirror an' saw our little grandie carefully removing the stamps that she had supposed were like alla' her other stickers. Yup! It's a changing world. Just when you think things are gonna' get easier, someone shows you how wrong your perception might be.

     'Course, both these changes are good. Breadmaking Machines let us have homemade bread, without the drudgery of working over a hot stove, like my gramma' hadda' do. Especially in the summer, this is a true blessing. An' who can deny the pleasure of mailing a letter without the aftertaste of licking a stamp? So what if an occasional stamp is mistaken for a child's sticker? I guess there could be worse things in life; like havin' to wait months for a horse an' rider to deliver the mail, for instance. Besides, I enjoy using stickers on many of my own projects. Contradictions aside, progress is still a good thing.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

The Great Cat House Caper

2010-09-02T23:52:00.001-05:00

My Pirate Cats have been havin' a grand ol' time on our front porch. Mama Kitty, as Capt' an' regulator of the crew, makes sure that we keep her little ones fed an' happy. 'Course, it sure would be nice if we could pet one of the Pirate Cats. As I mentioned once before, we have five cats; three of 'em are Pirate Cats; all off-spring to Mama Kitty. The other two cats are Mama Kitty an' Li'l Orphan Annie. Annie is the only one that looks anything like Mama Kitty, even though she's the orphan in the bunch. The others are all black, with one white diamond at the throat.

I told you how three of 'em came to be Pirate Cats in this post. Well, we still can't walk up an' pet any of the PC's, but we have been lucky a couple of times an' petted 'em whilst they weren't paying attention on accounta' they had their faces in the dish of food. As soon as they realized my good hubby-buddy or I were touching 'em, though... Whoooooosh!!! They're gone.

With Winter just around the corner, all the cats have taken to stayin' more an' more on our front porch. That's fine; I kinda' enjoy lookin' out an' watchin' 'em play. Well, we had some logs left on the porch from last year when we were usin' the woodstove, so my good hubby-buddy pushed 'em all into a sort of stack. All those cats quickly took over the stack an' began to call it Home.

Pretty soon, the stack of wood was scattered all around again, so we fixed it back up. Each time we fixed it, the cats created a big mess an' slept in the middle of it. One day, I got the bright idea of gettin' a couple of cinder-blocks an' usin' them as a kind of base for arranging the logs on. Well! Din't our family of cats think they were the Cat's Meow, with their own little house?

One thing led to another an' the cats kept knockin' the logs down, but they really seemed to like the idea of havin' a home, ya' know? So today, I fixed that house so's they can't tear it apart. Well, I started it, anyway. It only took a minute for me to call out for help, though, an' my good hubby-buddy... yes, my hero... was right there with a hammer an' nails to put that Cat House together the way it should be. Now, we're all happy.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Now, I ask you, don't you think that Li'l Orphan Annie looks more like Mama Kitty than her black Pirate? The other two Pirate Cats wouldn't come up on the porch so's I could get their picture. mmmmmmm

Pistol Packin' Mama

2010-08-30T23:37:00.000-05:00

Some of you have asked to see pictures of me, but as I'm sure you realize I am the shy, quiet type... well, I've been reluctant to post pictures. However, today my good hubby-buddy brought me a picture that I thought you might like to see. Before I show it, though, I want to share a little history about this picture. So, here goes:

Waaaaaaay back in the day... when we were a small family, we lived in a one-room house. There were four of us an' both my babies were in diapers. When we wanted a bath, we had to either hope the water in our barrel on the roof was filled with rain water an' warmed by the sun or, we had to haul water from afar an' heat it on the stove. Neither way was particularly easy.

We had a garden, but we had to dig trenches next to each row of plants so the rain could be trapped long enough to water our plants. That's because the ground was very hard, like concrete. We raised thousands of worms an' sold them in little plastic tubs to fishermen. We did not have a vehicle an' we lived 84 miles from town, so we had to be very creative in working for our food because we did not have a job.

In this picture, you will see a silhouette of me against the backdrop of a setting sun. Sometimes, we went hunting for rabbits because mostly, we could only raise vegetables. Surprisingly, you cannot plant an animal in the ground and expect it to sprout like plants. For a long time, we didn't have any animals. So, we went hunting. My good hubby-buddy and I took turns at hunting. This night, it was my turn.

     I remember that I wore a long dress an' a jacket 'cause the evening air was a little chilly. We were living in High Desert an' it cooled down at night. If you look closely, you might be able to tell that I was wearing my hair in a ponytail on either side of my head an' in my right hand, I carried a rifle.

     I don't recall if we ate rabbit that night or not. Sometimes, we did an' sometimes we must have had faulty bullets 'cause they didn't shoot straight. Oh, well. On those nights, we usually had oyster stew. mmmmmm; gooood. I hope you enjoy the picture. Now, you know exactly what I look like, right?

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Broken Memories

2010-08-30T01:32:00.003-05:00

When I was a kid, I was surrounded by talent. In many of the places where we lived, my dad was the director in the local Little Theater Group. My mama an' all my brothers filled parts in the many different plays that each group put on. I used to wish I could play a part in one of those plays, but I never got to. I've often thought about that an' wondered how it was that I never got to be in any of the plays. Interestingly, I can't recall a single play that had a part for a little girl. I think that just may have been the reason I was never in one of those plays.

Nana, my dad's mother an' Grampa', his step-dad, were also very talented. They had both been in Vaudeville. Grampa' started as a very small child, skating an' dancing. He could do the sideways splits on the backs of chairs, on roller skates, when he was only five years old. At one point, Grampa' was apparently one of the best dancers in the world, although I did not find this out until very recently and many years after he departed this life. If you've ever heard of my grampa', Billy Rolls, I'd sure like to hear from you.

Nana was an aerial artiste`, hanging by her teeth from many feet above the ground and spinning. I dunno' if you've ever seen this done, but its quite impressive. I wish both of them had shared some of their stories with me before they passed away. I've been trying to find out whatever I can to add to my Family History an' genealogy records. Recently, I had a break-through when I received some pictures of my grampa'. There he was, big as life; doing the sideways splits on the backs of two chairs. The picture showed him as an adult an' he was wearing Tap-Dancing Shoes, rather than roller-skates, but it was almost as though he was reaching through the veil an' sharing his moment of glory.

All of the people in the generation before me have passed away. That leaves me an' my brothers as the next in line. I never thought I would be the next generation. Now, I'm trying to make sure that my children an' my grandies have records of things their ancestors did. It's not easy, when there's no one to ask about the details.

Are you writing about your experiences? I keep a shoe box with notes an' tid-bits of information. As I go through my day, I often think of things that happened to me or someone I love and I write a quick note; maybe two or three sentences an' pop it in the shoe box. If I din't have those notes, I don't think my posts would have half the recollections that I've shared. I do hope you will consider keeping notes about your life. Just think what a treasure that would be to someone who cares about you.

Maybe you have a family member such as one of my grandies, who has a unique method for climbing the stairs; doing somersaults all the way UP the stairs. How sad it would be if I were to forget such an endearing act. Is there something that one of your family members does that you'd like to remember? Today is the day to make a note. Then someday, when you have a few extra minutes, write a little more detail about your memory. Someday, whether you realize it or not, someone will thank you, even if all you have is a shoe box full of scribbled memories. At least, it will be something.

Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

A Tried and True Remedy

2010-08-29T01:42:00.001-05:00

     Have you ever heard of Ichthammol Ointment? It's a healing salve that's been around for at least sixty years that I know of. How do I know this? I've had personal experiences that have caused me to always wanna' keep Ichthammol Ointment in my medicine cabinet and never, ever, EVER run out.

     When I was still young; less than ten years old... I somehow managed to get a very large sliver imbedded in my knee-cap. No amount of poking an' prodding seemed to be enough to work the wood out of the bone an' it was extremely painful.

     Finally, after a couple of weeks of listening to me whine an' complain, my mama took me to the doctor. Once again, poking an' prodding was incorporated, much to my consternation. I cannot begin to tell you how much fun it was to be the victim of various "Let's see if this will work" experiments. I cringe at the memory.

     Well, to make a long story shorter, the final concensus was that my knee must be operated on to remove the sliver. An xray revealed that it had gone a full inch into the bone and it was almost a quarter-inch wide. Interestingly, I could not be admitted into the hospital for at least three weeks.

     Three WEEKS?!? Whatever happened to emergency care?

     Enter: Ichthammol Ointment. My mama put it on my knee every day, changing the bandage twice a day, until I was to go into the hospital. That day, I was all dressed an' suffering from the agony of nerves an' pain. Having never been in a hospital, I was terrified of what to expect. I'm sure I don't hafta' explain the pain to you.

     My dress hung at the perfect length to keep rubbing on my knee an' I was mastering the fine art of whining. Finally, Mama told me to sit down an' she took the bandage off in order to get a better look at my wound. Very gently, she placed her thumbs on either side of the area and pulled, only slightly.

     That's when it happened! That piece of wood shaving leaped from my knee like it couldn't wait to escape an' landed several feet away. The xrays had been correct; the sliver was longer than an inch an' almost a quarter-inch wide. How it got into my knee without me being aware until later is a mystery that I will always wonder about.

      Ever since that time, I have made sure that Ichthammol Ointment was a staple in our home medical supplies. To buy it, I have to ask the pharmacist for Black Salve, but it isn't expensive ($1.12, the last time I bought it, about a year ago) and it goes a long way. I strongly recommend keeping some handy for any kind of wound that has or could develop infection. In my opinion, there's absolutely nothing better for healing a wound.

     Disclaimer: I recently heard that some people have allergic reactions to Ichthammol, although I had never heard that before. Please be sure to read instructions, as well as the ingredients, before using. It would also be a good idea to talk to your pharmacist or doctor about the pros and cons of using this product.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Ironing Board Dinner

2010-08-25T17:35:00.000-05:00

     There are many situations that could cause a person to think outside the box an' try another method for accomplishing what you set out to do. Such was the case, recently, when we had invited friends to our home for an afternoon meal. How were we to know that the weather was gonna' take such a drastic change in attitude?

     Picture it; on Sunday we invited two young men to our home for dinner on Wednesday.   They arrived in their normal Sunday attire, suits an' ties. Sunday had been a reasonably cool an' pleasant day, but by Wedsnesday, the weather had developed an ATTITUDE. Nuthin' about the day could really be described as pleasant or cool. In fact, I was wearing short sleeves an' gauchos, yet the heat was almost unbearable. How those dedicated young men were able to survive, wearing suit coats, is beyond my comprehension. Since we don't have air conditioning downstairs, you can imagine how much those boys were sufferin'.

     That's when I got my brilliant idea; let's eat in my office! See, my good hubby-buddy installed a window a/c about a month ago because it was so hot. With a walk-through closet to my office (I think my office was originally a baby's nursery, so it's quite small, but it works), we leave the closet open an' close the doors to the bedroom where the a/c is installed an' my office so's we can capture the cool. Those two rooms are basically our survival in this horrible heat.

     Well, we all trumped up the stairs to my office to take advantage of a couple of degrees of cool. Sadly, my office is mostly bookshelves an' a very large table, which I use to work on; too crowded for more than one to sit down. Hmmmm. What to do? What to do?

     Aha! Let's move the meal into the bedroom! So, we did. An, guess what convenient piece of furniture we keep set up in our bedroom? You're right; the ironing board! I grabbed an oversized bath towel an' spread it over the top. Then we proceeded to seat ourselves around the newly-created table an' enjoy a very pleasant an' cool dinner.

    I keep wonderin' what those young men thought about that situation. They certainly looked more comfortable with the cool air surrounding us. An' think of the story they'll be able to tell their future grandies.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

Will You Take The Oath?

2010-08-25T01:34:00.000-05:00

     Have you met Lenny? Lenny has such a charming writing style that I jus' wanna' keep on reading. I jus' met Lenny tonight. Thank you, Sharon, for showing me the way to Lenny's Blog.

     As it happens, Lenny took The Writer's Oath today an' I am gonna' do the same.

     For some unknown reason, I am havin' trouble gettin' the picture posted. I'll keep tryin', though. I do hope you will check out Lenny's Blog an' if you're a writer, take the oath with us.

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya

The Night-Stalker

2010-08-21T12:24:00.000-05:00

     It was a dark an' stormy night...

     ::Yaya runs frantically up the stairs, stumbling as she goes::

     ::Searching. Searching. Ah! There it is. Yaya grabs the baseball bat an' raises it high above her head; ready to do battle::

     ::Cautiously, she tip-toes closer to the stairs an' stretches her neck to see if the intruder has begun his assent to her place of safety. No signs of stair-action, thank goodness::

     ::Yaya listens; good hubby-buddy has his own methods for doing combat. Yaya tries to detect any sounds of struggle, but hears none::

     ::Just when she thinks its safe to relax her grip on the bat... BAM! Shuffle. Shuffle. Door opens. Door closes::

     ::Before long, good hubby-buddy returns, a CONQUEROR::

     ::From the bottom of the stairs, good hubby-buddy wields his own weapon an' shares the news that Yaya has been hoping for::

     ::We don't have a flying mouse, anymore::

     ::Then, he shows Yaya how he ended the bat's territorial invasion; he raises his fly-swatter in victory::

     Until the next time, keep a hug on.

~ Yaya