Happy Birthday, Dad

Happy Birthday, Dad!
From your three lineman punks.

The old Chevy

My lineman has had this old Chevy longer than I can remember. I love the old thing. He paid $100 for the old '49 truck at an auction up in northeastern Montana a few years before we were married. I have so many memories of that truck. Mostly trying to move it from place to place.



Years ago we needed to move the ol' gal to his uncle's farm and my lineman says to me "You drive the truck and pull me in the old '49". Oh, great. Hey, I don't mind helping out where I can but his uncle's farm I would be towing him to was 5 miles away. Not usually a big deal but there were some good hills from our place to his. Not a very big deal either..... except..... the ol' gal does NOT have brakes! "Don't worry" he says, "I'll give you hand signals and you just look back at me and you'll know what to do. And hey, don't worry Carin". Oh, this isn't going to be good.


Off we go on the dirt roads and it was going pretty good. Then we start going down a hill. I look in my mirror at him and he waves his hand from atop his nice 5-gallon bucket for a seat. I slow down. He waves again. So I speed up. Then he starts waving again like he's mad at me or something. I slow down again. And we are just getting jerked around something horrible. Then he really starts waving his hands at me. Hey, I usually do good at this kind of stuff. Why is he so mad anyway??? I gently speed up to get the trucks to work together and then he just goes wild with his arms! GOOD GRIEF. What does he want from me. Finally we get to the bottom and around a section corner and I have had enough of his non-verbal argument with me. I stop the truck and he gets his truck stopped. He comes flying out of that ol' '49 faster than I've seen him move.....


Turns out there were some bees in that ol truck that didn't want to go for a ride that day.

Enjoy Your Day

Hair Raising

I remember a trip my family took when I was a little girl. We drove to the Grand Canyon, my brother and I fighting the whole way I'm sure. I love him now (hopefully it's mutual) but back then we would sure get into it. I'll have to tell some stories sometime! Well, for traveling my big brother would stack books and whatever he could get his hands on to make a WALL. He put that wall right between us so I couldn't bug him. Hey, I was his little sister and I looked up to him. Ugh, that wall was like the Great Wall of China, The Berlin Wall. Okay, so it wasn't like either of those things at all, but it did serve it's purpose.



Okay, a little off track there. The Grand Canyon. Yes, that's where I was, the Grand Canyon. We were at the Grand Canyon and we were walking along a rim of some sorts. My cyclops dad says he wants to take my picture with my mom. Oh, my dad's not really a cyclops, we just think he is because you can only see one eye due to the fact that the other is firmly placed behind the lens of a camera - Okay, so that trait seems to be genetic. Continuing on.... My mom and I go out onto this ledge to have our picture taken. Oh, by the way, there is a MAJOR lightning storm in the area. We walk out to the edge and the cyclops, uh, I mean my dad is getting ready to take our picture. My mom is saying "hurry, please hurry dear". I don't know it was a long time ago, it might have been a bit different. All of the sudden my mom looks down at her arms and all the hair on her arms are standing STRAIGHT UP! I look at her and her hair starts standing straight up! She grits her teeth through her smile and says something about hurrying with the picture, but..........



Oh, we were fine. He got the picture taken but is sure was hair raising!



Yesterday afternoon I spent some time snapping pictures of a storm that rolled through. I didn't dare go outside so I propped the door open and stood in the door way. Yeah, as if that was going to keep me safe. Enjoy the pics.

Oh Give Me a Home

Oh give me a home, where the buffalo roam, and the deer and the antelope play.

We have all heard that song and if you're like me you probably haven't given it much thought.

The other day I was driving and I saw three antelope chasing a fox. I was so upset I didn't have a longer lens to capture it. At first I thought they were chasing it away because it was getting near the new fawns. That may be the case but on the other hand I am convinced the songwriter for that song knew that antelope "played". I was watching this doe play tag or chase with this bird. I watched and watched and the play continued for nearly 5 minutes.
The bird would turn one way and the antelope would turn to chase.
Back and forth this went. Sometime the doe would just trot along and other times she would turn up the speed. Talk about good entertainment watching these two play.
It was the bird who eventually quit the game. The antelope looked so dejected after he left. I guess that's why the song doesn't go "Oh give me a home, where the buffalo roam and the bird tease the antelope all day".

We grow 'em BIG

I tell you what, here in Wyoming we grow 'em big. Just take a look at this big' ol humming bird that keeps visiting my feeder. I tell you, they don't get any bigger than this! Okay, so he may not be a hummer but at least we know for sure he's got a sweet tooth!

Show Off

My little man is finally showing off some teeth. And I'm showing off my photography skills. What photography skills you are asking? You have no idea what it is like trying to get a "tooth" picture with this little guy. I'm telling you, we must be related to Michael Jordan. That tongue is always hangin' out. But alas, he isn't dunking a b-ball so he gave me a split second to catch this picture.

Oh Give Me a Home......

Two of my children were born here in Wyoming. They were the 4th generation to be born in this great state. My other son was born in Montana, the other side of the family homesteaded in that beautiful state. Their Great Great Great Grandparents homesteaded in a wonderful home site in northern Wyoming that still remains where it began. Times were different back then. A slow pace, everyone was respectful of each other, agriculture was a way of life for all. Buffalo still roamed with the very last of a few wild herds. I was lucky enough to have these photos passed on from earlier generations.
How did they ever manage to get so close up to those Buffalo without being trampled to death? Maybe there was a large fence I, I mean, they stood behind. I went ahead and took the liberty of photoshopping out ear tags. I wasn't aware they had ear tags that many generations ago. None the less, how thankful I am to have these pictures of a simpler time in America.

Ewwwww

We took the back road home from up north over the weekend. In fifty miles the only thing we saw on the road was one car (what was it doing out there?) and this little fellow.

Awww, doesn't he just look so cute and cuddly? He was also just too friendly. Look how he is being so polite and saying hi. He even said "cheese" for the camera. We even thought about bringing him home for a pet. Of course that was not really possible after his date with a tire. Poor guy, we'll miss him so.

Prayers

I was not sure if I should post this or not. Then I thought that if the smallest thing that happens is prayer then that can turn into a big thing.

Angela Bird (Angie) is someone I know who is missing. She is the mother to 3 wonderful children. They attend the same school as my oldest son. I have been with the younger children in the classroom, I have played adult soccer with her and her husband . These truly are wonderful, wonderful people. I was shocked when a friend called this morning to tell me she is missing.

Please click on this link
http://www.wyomingnews.com/articles/2008/06/18/featured_story/01top_06-18-08.txt
to read the story, see her picture and know what her vehicle looks like. For those in this area we can keep our eyes open for her and we can all pray for them.

Four...Fast... Fearless

I can hardly believe how fearless he is. If he is the fast and fearless at four years old... what are we going to do when he gets older?

On the Fence

Ah, my two oldest boys. You know there is something about this "sitting on the fence". I know this all too well. Not actually sitting on the fence. More the decision making part. I cannot for the life of me make decisions. I would be like Pioneer Woman, asking for input and advice on details such as what flooring to choose. Yup, that's just like me. Can't make a decision without sitting on the fence about it for hours or days.

One thing I don't sit on the fence about.... taking pictures. Good thing too.

My advice to my boys: Don't sit on the fence when your older. Make a decision and go with it!

Eyelashes

I like eyelashes. I love eyelashes. Maybe you didn't know that about me. I don't wear makeup and the only jewelry I wear is on my left ring finger. It has been firmly in place there for more than 14 years now. But eyelashes, yes I love eyelashes. I don't know if this is a strange thing to love or not but I'm not concerned about what others think. If you like something, you like something. Nothing to be ashamed about. Well, I love them so much that sometimes I like to pick eyelashes. I do. Really. And I was thinking it would be really neat to pick a whole bunch of eyelashes and make something like an "eyelash bouquet". Now that would be neat. I could even pick eyelashes and make some form of art to hang on the wall. Oh the possibilities are endless.

Oh, you didn't think I was talking about human eyelashes did you? That would be just too weird. No, I like these. Blue Grama Grass. Boutelous Gracilis.

Some Silhouttes

More sillhoutte pictures from the challenge. I had fun with this one of our dog, Koda. I only took just a few because it was so cold. Hello, did anyone know it is June? Feels like February to me. So we only stood out there for a brief moment to get this picture. This silhoutte has the moon in the upper left hand corner.
A Tee Pee near us. I shot this out the window of my Suburban where the heater was keeping us toasty. Again, is it June or February?

The Old Windmill

Okay, I am taking a bit of the easy road here. These are the same pictures I used on the photo challenge friends blog. The challenge was on silhouettes. Hey, I'm a busy mom to three boys and the beautiful outdoors calls my name. I've got to make it easy where I can.

This windmill is in the valley just below us. It makes for a great photo opp.
I saw the clouds start to take on beautiful colors one evening so I threw the kids into the Suburban and drove down to the old windmill. I crawled under the barb wire fence and ran out into the pasture. Imagine my amazement when I see three antelope willing to stay in my picture. "Thank you, Antelope." They are in the right side of the picture.

A New Exercise Class

I have just invented a new exercise class. It is called "The Ladder". Results will be seen and felt immediately. The exercise is easy to learn as well, it just takes discipline and the desire to want to see changes. Of course it just happens that not all changes will take place on your body. The program consists of REPEATEDLY climbing up and down a ladder with siding, nail gun and or level in hand. This exercise also focuses on your core as you maneuver yourself on the ladder and maintain your balance. Disclaimer: The potential exists that your body will feel 10 or more years older when you complete the program.

If you would like to participate in this class please contact me, as you can see there is still time available to become involved in "The Ladder" Okay, seriously... We are getting closer to having this garage done. There is certainly an amount of satisfaction that goes with "doing it yourself". There is also a certain amount of soreness that goes with "doing it yourself". Also, I am sure you noticed the lack of doors. We have the doors nicely stacked inside the garage. There are several reasons they are not yet installed. First, each door takes approximately 9-10 hours to install. Second, although I really want them on I don't want to evict our house, I mean garage guests. We have several birds nesting inside and they have dreams of starting a family. Who are we to crush their dreams?

Old Trucks and Cloudy Skies

I sure have enjoyed my Nikon, it was my birthday present to myself in February. Since then I have taken photos. Lots and lots of photos. Most of the ones that I call 'keepers' I have not put on my blog. I think now it is time to start putting these puppies up so I can get some feedback as to how others like or don't like them. So please, give me your comments and feedback.

These next two were taken on consecutive evenings. We have had storms roll through for at least two weeks now. What a great opportunity to take pictures.

My question is this: Which photo do you like best? They both have rainbow's but the 2nd one is more faint than the first. But in the first photo our old Chevy is wet and doesn't show the rust and aging the old girl has seen.

Leave me a comment and let me know which is your favorite. Thanks!

My Baby....

Well, he was my first baby. My first boy. My first boy to go to school. Today is his last day of 1st Grade! Congratulations!

We pose in this area for the first day of school and now I will make it our tradition to pose here on the last day of school.

Looky there. I see a spring in his step.

Oh yes, that is most certainly a spring in his step. Of course he is my happy and joyful son so that is no surprise to me. But today I know the reason for that spring in his step.

The last school bus ride for this 1st Grader. His bus driver, Don, is fantastic. We are really hoping Don has this route next year. What bus driver wouldn't want this route out in the country. Look at how empty the bus is! He only picks up a few kids out here.

Well, congratulations Bridger, you are on to 2nd Grade!

And They're Off!

The field racing today is filled with fierce competitors. It should be a fantastic race here at the Cheyenne Derby. The weather should be conducive to both the jockeys and the steeds as they prepare for the first leg in the Triple Crown. And now entering the gate is Big Blue on his tall, strong steed.

And next into the starting gate is Overcoming Odds. There has been a lot of speculation as to whether or not such a large jockey should be riding a small steed. With accidents in the past all eyes will be on these jockeys as they vie for the winning positions. --AND THEY'RE OFF!!

Just as suspected it looks like Big Blue is off to take the lead. Overcoming Odds brings up the rear of the field but we'll keep on eye on him throughout the race.

Big Blue is nearly 10 lengths in front of Overcoming Odds. All Big Blue needs to do now is run a clean race and we'll see him in Victory Lane.

Oh, no. Big Blue has strayed from the course. This is just the opportunity Overcoming Odds needs. Overcoming Odds senses the urgency and is taking advantage of the mistake by Big Blue.

Big Blue is really going to have to make up some time after letting his ride get away from him. Oh, but look now, Overcoming Odds is having trouble with his large size. His knees are causing problems, they are all the way up in the handle bars - it looks like that may be slowing him down.

Big Blue has taken advantage and is now handlebar and handlebar with Overcoming Odds.

Big Blue seizes the moment and takes the lead while Overcoming Odds is forced to dismount his steed.

UNBELIEVABLE! Overcoming Odds has taken the lead back! Big blue turned to see his opponent and lost focus and momentum with his steed.

And the winner is... Overcoming Odds by a wheel. Well raced boys!

That was fun...

I have had such a blast the last couple of days, thus the reason for no recent post. You see I was thoroughly enjoying myself. Basking in the sun, you ask? No. Camping in the mountains? No. Hiking the countryside in Italy? No. To Yellowstone to enjoy natures glory? No.

You see all of those are so much fun and I would have enjoyed those as well. However, I was here at home, knee deep in a complete PC restore. Ah, come on you know how much fun those can be. Who would want to do anything else? Not me. Nope, just give me my messed up computer, the need for a complete PC restore and beautiful weather. You bet. I would not have wanted to be outside working on mowing, planting, playing ball with the kids, working on our projects around here.

Now that the restore is complete and I have the majority of my software installed that means I have more time for boring things. Things like taking a walk when the sun is setting with it's gorgeous colors. Reading to our children. Taking pictures of the goldfinches. Throwing the ball with my punks. I will also have time for unnecessary things like cooking, cleaning, getting the kids ready for bed.

Yep, that sure was a fun time restoring my computer. I will cherish it deep in my memories for years to come.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

That is the question we ask our boys every so often. They both always give the same answer: The oldest used to say he wanted to be an ambulance man, now his answer has progressed to a paramedic. The middle punk has always said he wants to be a power line man, just like his Dad. Not a lineman, but a Power Line Man... emphasis on the man. It is so cute to listen to him. Every time we drive by a substation he always yells out "That's where Dad works". I have taken our boys to see their Dad at work lots of times. They have even seen helicopters at work with the linemen.

Well, enough about that. All this thinking about my middle punk being a lineman, oh sorry, a Power Line Man has got me thinking about this video on YouTube. Strange how this is something that would have us screeming in our nightmares and yet for these guys it's second nature. The sound is a little quiet so you'll need to turn your sound up a bit probably.

Bird on a Wire