I Did Not Believe It.

My brother called me yesterday morning and told me that
Art Phillips, from Evansville had passed away. No way.
was my reaction. We grew up in Evansville so we knew Art well.
I gave my brother a hard time for several
minutes. Telling him to knock it off. As most brothers do
they tend to pick on their little sisters. But after a minute
I knew he was not. He would not do that over something so
serious. I got off the phone in serious shock. When I was
growing up Art had just started at the e.p.d. . He was
always a warm, caring person. Always had a smile and
hello for everyone he met. He cared about people.
We will miss him. He was a great man.

Bon Fire

I finally had a big bbq and bonfire for everyone who
helped to fix my barn.
I have not had that much fun in a long time. It makes
me remember how the simple things are the best.
I had about 40 family and friends come and it went
all night. I was very tired the next day and Brian and
I spent the day cleaning up but it was great and it was
worth it. Thanks to all .

Rescues and Adoptions

I have been continuing to work with a rescue group
I find I am embracing it more and more. I actually
have a foster dog right now. A Bernese mountain dog.
He is the biggest baby. He get a long really well with
my dog so we are just one big happy family. I will
tell you though there are a lot of shady rescues out
there. I ask that you be careful when deciding to adopt
remember its a life time decision not just until you
get tired. I ask that you adopt locally. Do not adopt
from rescues that bring their dogs in from other states.
We continue to take in dogs and cats from people who
originally got there animals from one of these rescues.
These states where these dogs are coming from need
to take care of their own animals. I don't believe for one
minute they can not. Nor does anyone else.
If you are not looking for a pet right now as you don't want
the long term commitment, think about fostering. It's
getting the perks but knowing eventually the dog or cat
will go to a great home.

Well I back again

I had a very busy August. I spent over two weeks in
New York City. No complaints, just a lot longer than
what we had thought. The company that we work for
loved the presentation and over all project. We did
tweak parts of it though.

I did not get to see Katie Holmes Broadway debut, drats.
We did a lot of sight seeing and shopping as the co-worker
who went with me had only been to NYC once. It was a lot
of work but also a lot of fun. I am glad to be home.
Brian took great care of the critters .

First Trip

Well Brian and I are planning our first trip together. My
mom does not know what to make of this. I told her to
relax. It is just a short vacation to just get away for a
few days, and not to read anything into it.

We cannot decide if we should go visit friends in
Vermont, or visit friends in Arizona. It will have to
be one or another. We can't afford to go both
ways.

I would like to go to Vermont. I have not been there
in years. However we will see . Still in the early planning
stages.

Barn Dance?

Well my barn is done. Just a few cosmetic things to do.
But it is so much nicer. Looks great. ( I hope to post pictures
soon.) My dad thinks I should have a barn dance?????

He said back in the day that was quite common when a
barn was raised-built.

I don't plan on having a barn dance, but I will have a bbq
for all that helped. Maybe move the stereo out side and
people can dance if they like. There ya go, barn dance.

I just can not get over the difference. I will be moving the
horses in to the lower level this week.

I am excited about that as now I have to lead them
to the north field, and this leads to the north field and
its all fenced in.

Hope to post pictures soon.

Ghost Anyone?

Do you believe in ghosts? Would you try to contact one? Or several..

Everything except for the one building is old, old , old.. The house is
around 160 years old ..

And the buildings that are left are around the same age from what we
have been told.

Sometimes I think I see things. Or I hear things.

That leaves me going ' I am tired, I am going to bed. Because I did
not just see what I thought I saw.'

It does not happen often. I do know that when I get home late at
night I hurry from my vehicle to the house.

It can be kind of creepy, like I feel like someone or something is watching me.
I keep my dog inside when I am not at home, so I know its not him
making the noise.

I do believe there is something after death. I believe in ghosts, spirits.
My friend at work has been encouraging me to investigate the history
of the farm.

Which I think is an excellent idea, and maybe this fall and winter when
things slow down a little bit I will. I love history, and this farm definitely
has history.

Have you ever encountered a ghost or spirit?? What did you see
What was it like?

My boss at work brought up the fact that we have been doing a lot of
work on the place over the last 9 months or so maybe we disturbed
someone or something..

Now that just gave me chills...

Finally Getting It Done

Well I am finally getting it done. I guess I should not say I, as it has been
a lot of family , and friends and some of my boy friends , friends.

However we are getting the old barn in shape that sits on my farmette.
When I first moved here the only good shed was of course the
Cleary building. However it is only about five years old.

My horses reside in that building and the lawn mower and tiller.

The barn just seemed to be such a daunting task, but the history
in this barn, the things it must have 'seen'.

My dad and brother started with the roof about a month ago
and have been joined on the weekends by Brian and some of
his friends, and this weekend some friends and cousins are
coming out to help.

The roof is done, so they are going work on building up
the one side of the barn, and that will be the worst of it.

Over all its structurally sound or it we would have taken it down.
It has turned into an expensive project, but I knew it would. However
it's an investment in the over all property.

I love that barn, I go up in the hay mow every once in a while and
just sit and think. I think eventually I will put an office up there, as
well as the hay and supplys for the horses, which I will eventually
move into the lower barn. It has easier pasture access than, where
they are now.

I am grateful for all the help my family , Brian, and friends have given
and continue to give. It is quite the project.

A Micro Beer Fest , I will be there.

Oregon is having a micro-beer fest May 9th, 2009. Mark
Your calendars. Evidently I missed this years. I think this
sounds different and a lot of fun. I will try to get more info
closer to the actual date.

Oregon Kids Triathlon- Very Cool

yes I copied and pasted because I did not want to screw up the details.

The Oregon
Community
Swim Club's
3rd Annual
Oregon Kids
Triathlon will
be held on
August 9, 2008.
The event
format will be
pool swim, invillage
bike course, and on-trail run course. There will be
five age groups from 5 to 17 years old. We will have
participation awards, T-shirts, goody bags, and age-group
awards.
This is an opportunity for your young athlete to
participate in an enjoyable life-experience through
athletics. It is not structured as a highly competitive event.
Rather, the objective is to encourage self-confidence,
good health and community spirit through participation.
This year's event will be limited to the first 500 registrants.
The registration fee is $33. Registration is available online
at active.com. This option allows you to pay using your
credit card. Be sure to register early to ensure a spot!

I Added The Link

I added the link for What A Trip Travel Agency, this is their blog site.
This is new for them, so please let them know how they are doing.

I have heard just great comments from everyone who went to
my friend's wedding. Everything detail was taken care and everyone
had a great time. http://whatatriptravel.blogspot.com/

Hawthorns Opens

If anyone has eaten their. Let me know what you think.

I Love Bleoni's

I want to thank everyone who suggested places to eat
in Bleoni's . It is excellent.

It has become one of my favorite places.

Excellent Food.

What Do You Do When The Principal Is Arrested?

Arrested for D.W. I.??

How does he face his staff and students?

How do you preach, don't drink and drive to the kids?

Come On The Principal does it.

He is a responsible adult right?

Way To Go Oregon Marching Band!!!!!!

The Oregon Marching Band won the regional competition in Michigan.
This was the Mid-America Competing Band Directors Association.
This is their first undisputed win in 18 years. The band has won all
9 competitions that it entered this summer. Way To Go!!!!!

First Meeting

Since I have moved back I have wanted to
get to a city meeting, council..

I have the next one penciled in on my calendar.
I have no issues just curious to see how this city(Oregon)
works. To see what the issues are.

I will let you know how it goes.

Is It HOT Or What?

I made the mistake last week of saying to someone
last week, ' This summer has really not been that hot.'


I am so sorry to everyone.

Wow What A Trip!!!!

My friend from college just recently got back from her Wedding/Honeymoon
they and a dozen family and friends stayed at a Sandals Resort in the Bahamas'
said it could not have gone better had they planned it themselves.

Her travel agent and the Sandals resort did all the work.

They asked for certain details from Leslie and Brad and they(Sandals and her
travel agent did the rest.) The big plus to this is that the Wedding itself was
free, one of the perks of staying there.

Leslie said that it was absolutely beautiful, the resort was beautiful
and it is something she will never forget.

I am anxious to see the pictures.

She went through All Ways To Travel , travel agency and said she
highly recommends them.

At her request I am doing this pitch as she was so pleased with the
service she got from All Ways To Travel agency..

They have a blog, where they list weekly specials, articles on travel ,
and where you can request a quote on travel. Leslie is going to get
the link to me then I will post it.

So the next time you are thinking about traveling please keep them in
mind.

Their phone # is 877-783-3190 All Ways To Travel.

Looks Like It Was Fun..

Being I was gone over the fourth I missed Oregon's Summer Fest. I
talked to someone in town that said they do this every year and told
me about all the different things they do. It has always been quite
successful and a lot of fun.. Hopefully I will get there next year.

Maybe my family would be willing to camp at my place. Some
how I don't think so but its worth a try..

Excellent Weekend

We had an excellent weekend. The weather was beautiful.
How did all you do? It was really nice I got to see some
cousins I had not talked to in a long time.

I was so sad to hear about Dale Bryant from Evansville.
I knew Dale, he was a good guy. Loved his kids.

Chasin touches very nicely on this tragedy. I agree free
speech is one thing but you always have those ass holes
who think, especially on the blogs, they should be allowed
to say whatever they want.

Some people have no common sense at all. They come
off as very un- intelligent.

My prays go out to the Bryant family.

Happy Fourth!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Since I have a lot left to get done before we leave
tomorrow I want to wish you all a
Happy and Safe Fourth of July....

I have to go find my bathing suit
which my mother will ask me
where the rest of it is..

Love her dearly..

Going Camping After All..

My family really did not think we would be going
camping this year for the 4th.

But my sister in laws father has said we can
use his cabin in Door County. Hot Dog!!!!!!!!!!!

Better yet. I love Door County.

We will be cramped but we will all be
together.

Perfect time for my Mom to corner
Brian .. Poor guy..

I have so been slacking..

I have been so busy lately. With my friend dying.
This huge project at work. My new found love of
helping at the rescue, and trying to finish up projects
around the house. Time is just flying.

Work has been crazy. We have this major project
due for a pretty big client and everyone is just wound
and up tight.

A lot is riding on this. But I think we have it
nailed. They have liked all the parts of it so
far and we have weekly conference calls
and they have approved all the specs so far.

The one good thing about it is when its
all done a co-worker and I get to go
to N.Y. CITY to get everything in place.

We will only be gone for about 4 days,
but 4 days is 4 days. I have not been
to N.Y.C. in almost a year. Since
I left Calif and my job out there.

My former job I was flying to
N.Y.C. once a month.

I jokingly told my boyfriend
Brian he is coming in handy.

He stays at my place when I am
gone, tends to my dog, horses
and kittens. Check out the pictures
of the kittens. Are they not cute.

I have them inside know.
I am trying to tame them down
a little more before they go to
new homes. I am only keeping
one.

Crazy times, I am grateful.

Where To Camp??

Well our favorite place to camp through the years
is Devil's Lake State Park, and it's not in such
great shape right now.

Questionable if it will be ready for the Fourth in
two weeks.

Which means more than likely our family will not
be camping that weekend. A little late to get
reservations now.

To some place we want to go anyway.


Any ideas?? What is your favorite place
to camp in state?

My Friend.

Well I am back. Not that you knew I was gone.
My Friend Tom died on the 13th.

When I first heard they had only given him
weeks, I said No Way.

However he went so quickly.

It is best if that was his fate, he was in such pain.

I will remember him as a strong man with a great
sense of humor and an incredible laugh.

He was family to me.

I will miss him.

Everyone Make It Through The Weekend ?

I like storms, I do.

I will sit out on my porch and watch them come in.

However this weekend. I realized, I am really not as brave
as I thought I was.

When that storm came in on Saturday late afternoon, I was
running around trying to make sure everything was tied
down or shut.

I recently got two horses and they were freaking out
running around the outdoor pen, and I think that is
what really scared me, was they say animals sense
bad weather, and this was very different behavior
for them. So then I was scared.

However I got them into the barn (shed) that they share
with the mama kitty and kittens and into their
stalls my dad and brother helped me build.

They were very nervous .

Then the storms last night, there was rotation in that wind.
I have a lot of branches down, one tree came down but
I had been wanting to take it down because it was dead.


I just wonder is it better to leave the horses outside or in
when the weather is bad like that?

At the time I felt better with them in, but then as I was
getting ready for bed, I feared what if it came down
on them if there were straight line winds or a tornado.

The shed is in excellent shape, it's a cleary building and only
five years old.. So it would take quite a wind.

However I just worried.

Tough Kittys

O.K. these baby kittens that I have think they are tough stuff.

They barely have their eyes open and they hiss and spit at me.
How dare they. They have some nerve.

Who do they think makes sure they are o.k. and
makes sure there mommy has enough to eat?

Ungrateful brats.


Cute but ungrateful.

Nosey Neighbor..

We are having quite the discussion at work lately about a co-worker's
nosy neighbor.

This neighbor is driving Ann (my coworker) crazy. Ann has 2 kids, 13&18.
Ann has lived in her neighborhood for 15 years and has always enjoyed it.

However has come to realize over the last year, what a screw ball her neighbor
is. First she starts rumors about people.. She is always watching
what is going on around the neighborhood, which would be fine if it was
well intentioned but it is not.

She starts rumors about who is not paying there bills, whose house is
in foreclosure, how someone paid for something. Who is sleeping
with who.. Like she would know but evidently when this neighbor does not
know the entire story she makes it up.

She claimed the one neighbor put off getting a better job for years
because his wife would not 'let' him.

They know this couple and that was as far from the truth as one
could get.

How someone gets the money they have. Or the things they have.

She talks about her neighbors more particular to both sides of her.
Has told one neighbor the other neighbors house will have to be
gutted it they ever sell it.

Ann has been in the one neighbors house there is nothing wrong with it.

The neighbors have gotten so they all think, know she is a bit nutty.

She is a very negative person. I told Ann it's clear she has nothing
better to do . How sad.

We have told Ann just to keep her kids away from her, she obviously is not
fit to have children around her, as they don't need to here that kind
of stuff.

Other than just ignore her and don't have anything to do with her. She wills
either get the hint or move.

Real Estate License

Well I have decided to do it. I am going to take the course
and then hopefully pass the test. This will be something
that I will do on the side and hopefully have a lot of fun
along the way.

There are also several other things I can do after I
get my license besides sell real estate, so it opens
several doors and I think that is exciting.

A Place For All Creatures/Wisconsin Rescue's

I heard from Lisa and A place for all creatures/Wisconsin Rescues site is being
moved and combined with their website. Very Cool. When it is up and running
completely she said she would let us know. They are out and about quite
a bit this time of year checking out local rescues so they are very busy.

Nice lady she is the one who helped me live trap my mama kitty.

Baby Kitties

Well I now have baby kitties they
are so cute. They are almost a week
old. A couple calico's and gray and
white.

I will try to post pictures when they
are bigger.

A Few Thoughts On Contract Disputes.

Janesville, Milton, Stoughton have all had/are contract disputes.




I am really getting tired of teacher's thinking they should just
get certain benefits.

This is 2008.

Not 1960.

Times have changed and you are going to have to change with
them.

Why should you continue to get the same health benefits as 10 yrs
ago? Everyone is paying more these days. You have better than
most.

You have more perks in your job than most. My brother teaches
so I know what most get.

What I can't believe is all the professional days they get
oh my gosh. Where it's a nice day off for them
paid and maybe they attend a seminar maybe they don't.

I work between 50-60 hrs a week and I don't get summer's off.

I actually have to pay more than I want to for my health
insurance as well, just glad to have it.

I don't get time at Easter or Christmas .

You get professional days, sick days, personal days.
When are you at school?

Yes I ran this argument past my brother. I got the look.

Many people are doing more at work and getting paid
less, glad to have a job.

So quit your whining, or find another job .

Good luck finding the perks you have .

http://www.channel3000.com/education/16283064/detail.html

A Place For All Creatures

I have been following A place for all creatures blog.
They were slow getting it up and going but its looking
good, some interesting things on there, helpful as well.

* I have a link to them over the right.

4.00 A Gallon By The Weekend?

That is what I have heard. Gas will be 4.00 a gallon
by the weekend.

I just can not imagine it. How high is it going to go?
This definitely changes how much I will do this summer.

I am a person that loves road trips. That is not
going to be happening.

I will just stay home and mow the grass.

Wait that takes gas, I may need goats.

When Will Hillary Drop?

I am sorry but I am so tired of Hillary Clinton.
Woman or not.

She is very stubborn.
But the the tune of being 20+ million in the hole?

Either I am not hearing much lately about John McCain
or just not paying any attention to anything that old
man is doing. He is probably taking a nap some where.

Why would she keep going on when she is not only
behind in delegates but now super delegates.

If she is looking for ways just to spend money she could send
some my way.

I Am Back.

Well I made it back. It was a sad
trip. I tried to prepare myself for
what ever condition he was going
to be in.

I was still surprised, and saddened
by how much he had changed.

The weight loss, looking very drawn.
But I got to see him and we had a
couple very nice visits.

Thank you to Karen for the very good
idea they loved it.

The last time I visited with him when
I got ready to leave I kept looking back
at him and saying I will call you soon.

You take care. Was I ought of my mind
or what saying - you take care. If only
he could.

new blog I would found. All about animals.

http://aplaceforallcreaturestocallhome.blogspot.com/

The Sad Trip

Well I am getting ready to make the saddest trip, I have ever
made. I am going out to California for a few days this week to
see my friend Tom who is dying from Liver cancer.

I thought about it a lot last weekend , knowing that if I wait
too long to go it will be to late.

I am not a person that deals with living with the ' what if'
in life. I like to know that I did all I could do. No regrets.

I went into work on Monday and asked very nicely for
sometime off explaining the situation. I was quite
surprised to be asked " How soon do you need to go."

I told them that I would like to go this next week.
As we are putting the finishing touches on a
project that was due and I needed to get that done
before I went.

I could have taken it with me, but that would have
just not worked out as well.

They had no problem with me going.

I am grateful.


I have been spending a good part of this week crying,
questioning a lot of things.

I am trying to pull myself together I don't want to
go out there to visit him and do nothing but
cry.

It does not seem fair, worked hard all his life.
Paid his bills, sent his kids to college, saved
his money so he could retire comfortably and now
his time is being cut short.

I don't understand.

I know it will be the last time I see him.

Mommy Kitty Update

Mommy Kitty Updates

I wanted to let people know I have
decided to keep the mommy kitty.

She is cute. So scared though.

The lady from the rescue came out and helped
me live trap her. I now, have her in my shed,
the good shed. She can't get out and I think
she is starting to like me.

She does not growl at me anymore like she
could scratch my eyes out given the chance.

She knows I am the one that feeds her.

She is safe, warm and dry. She does not
have to worry about food or other cats or
animals.

My dog who I was so worried about what he
would do, seems to careless.

After the kittens are born and old enough to
go to homes, I will get her fixed.

The lady from the rescue was right , I may want
a cat or two out here.

I will post pictures when there are kittens.

The Little Guy

Well Guam is voting today .

Four delegates at stake.

Obama is leading at this point.

Never over look the importance
of the little guy.

I Like This Blog

I found a real fun blog. Since I grew up in the 80's.
I, find I miss a lot of the music from the 80's as strange
as it was sometimes.

This is just a fun blog. Sharing things and music
information that a lot of people enjoy.



http://theexcellent80s.blogspot.com/search/label/38%20Special

My Friend.

I got some of the saddest news, this week. It's been weighing pretty heavy on
me. Now I am not going tell how old I am but I am not forty yet several years
younger than that.

When I worked in California the group of people I worked with
we were more like family than co-workers. We are very close.
I have kept in touch weekly, via emails phone .

This last week, my friend Sarah called to let me know that Tom
on of our co workers who just turned 60 was very sick this
week. He was in quite a bit of pain and went into the ER thinking
he must have some sort of obstruction somewhere.

A lot of abdominal pain.

Right away they did blood work. They ran a few tests.
When they came back they told him they were going to
admit him for more tests.

He was in quite a bit of pain and did not argue.

They got him admitted.

When they did finally come into talk with him. They
gave him devastating news.

Now I don't know what tests they ran and over
how long a time period this all went on.

However they informed him and his wife that he has
liver cancer. That the cancer had spread.

They have given him weeks to live.

Shocked. Devastated.

I keep thinking about how Tom is always talking
about when he retired. What he and his wife were
expecting to do.

I have called and talked with him twice this last week.
The one time it was very clear they had him very drugged.
The other time he said ' I just wanted to enjoy a year or
two as a retired person.' I always thought I would
retire.

It's funny and sad what it takes to make us all take a good
look at our lives and our priorities.

4-27-2008

I find that quite often I am getting a call from my niece's and nephews
asking 'Will you come to this ?' I almost always do. Unless there are
work issues with me traveling and not being home.

It gets to be a lot of softball games in the summer. Basketball in the
winter. However I love it all. Somewhat envy them because I was just
never that coordinated.

However what I really like seeing is my nieces and nephews
taking an interest in the arts. Music, Drama
My oldest niece, I don't think there is any instrument that
she has not tried playing. Very talented on the piano.
However she is limited to what is available.

Plays organ at church. However what she has done the
last three years has been very active in the school
and community theatre groups. She loves it.

She has not had any really big parts yet. However she
helps with costumes, props, and helps with the
music. It seems like so many towns, especially
small ones get way to caught up in the school's
sports teams. Which can be fun.

However I am more impressed when kids take
an interest in the arts. Playing sports is fun
but it will only take you so far.

Taking an interest in the arts will last a lifetime.

did you check out that sky?

After the storms went through last night. Did anyone notice how yellow
the sky seemed to be? It was like it seemed really bright out. It was
strange.

I did decide that since I live far enough from any one town I am
going to purchase a weather radio. I don't hear any sirens out
here. I like storms but I would like to know when they are
coming.

Mommy Cat & Kittens

since i moved here i have noticed that i have a guest.
i am sure she thinks i am the guest. but i have a
mommy cat living in my barn. there must be more
than one being she is a mommy. but my issue she is
wild. she looks scared to death when i call to her.
i do feed her as she looked very scrawny for a while.

but i am thinking about capturing her before she
has these kittens. i really don't know as though
i want and or need a bunch of wild cats. i am also
afraid of what my dog may do to the babies.

i called a local rescue and she is going to come out
and help me set a live trap. i am just afraid of
what we might trap before we get her.

i have thought about catching her and trying
to tame her and keeping her as a house cat.

afraid she will scratch me up one side and down
the other just based on how scared she looks.

i feel obligated to feed animals when i see them
so ignoring her is not a option.

just so you know.

when i write you will see i tend not to capitalize maybe
or edit like i should. but you know what this is for fun.

this is not a newspaper. when i read other blogs i don't
care if something is not right. who cares.

blogs, journals . they are for fun. to relax.

i have to behave at work and have everything just so.
this is to be fun.

so if you notice something not right, its intentional
i am having fun.

blogs should be fun.

I Bought It I Will Use It?

Don't laugh when I bought this place. I thought my own place
more room. I am going to start a exercise routine.
Every morning. When I get home from work.

I need to start exercising daily, get into some good
habits.

Well I bought a couple things . Treadmill, Bowflex.
There they sit. I have used them twice. But not
near like I thought I would.

In my own defense I have been very busy. With work
and remodeling and cleaning up the farm.

I will use it. Eventually.

i survived the contractor's

They may say they survived, me. I think that may be what
they were thinking. I am sorry my house, my money, I tend
to ask a lot of questions.

It did not go without a few kinks. Old house , old plumbing
old wiring and it ended up being more of a project
than what I originally thought. I should say hoped.
But its done.

My friend from work stopped by and said ' this place is
really starting to look good.'

I could have taken offense. I mean what we she saying
that it was a dump before?

I will say it was in need of much t.l.c. when I bought
it but the hard work is paying off. I can look at the
before pictures and smile and think looking good.


A lot left to do. However now its not so much that
anything has to be done its all things I want to do
and that's what makes it fun.

i love storms , this is my kind of day.

I love storms. I am fascinated by them. I watched the movie
Twister probably 20 times. Sad I know. I don't know if I
would ever chase one. But I like watching the storms coming
in. However I never want to see anyone hurt. My brother
always teases me and says ' I bet you would run like a cat
if you ever got near a actual tornado.' If it was just me
and I knew there was shelter near by, I think I would
watch at least for a minute. Anyone ever watched a
actual tornado before. Whats it like?

ok a bit over done

I am working at home for the next two days. I am having some
plumbing and electrical work done. So I will be baby sitting the
contractors I guess is one way to look at it.

I got up and went into my office this a.m. at 5:30 as there was
several things I had left on Friday I should have brought home.

I cut through Brooklyn and hook up with hwy 14 most days.
As I did today. I was shocked to see on hwy 14 past Oregon
5, count them xxxxx Dane County Sheriff's cars parked along
side the highway in the dark. All together. In a row.

Waiting so patiently for some one to please speed.

Like the cat waiting for the mouse to come out from where
it is hiding.

come walk with me (us)

One of the saddest things is the death of a child. Unfortunately my own family
has been touched by this tragedy. My brother's oldest was born 9 weeks pre-
mature. Lily battled day and night for 2 weeks before passing away from
numerous complications.

I have never in my life met anyone like her. That was almost four years ago.
Like yesterday.

Our entire family, (over 50) so far and many people from our places of work
will walk for baby's on May 3rd. Please consider walking with us or your own
team on May 3rd.

You can get more information at the March of Dimes website

http://www.marchforbabies.org/default.aspx?si=&u=

You can also find more information at wmtv channel 15. If you don't
have a team to walk with you can walk with them.

I hope you can join us on one team or another.

has anyone heard of Blue Marble dairy?

I grew up on a farm and we always just took the milk from the tank
to the house.

I would love to get whole milk again, straight from the cow.

Some one told me there is a Blue Marble dairy in the state. It's
as close as I am probably going to get . I am curious if anyone else
has tried their milk. And/Or how do I get a hold of them.

There milk is not straight from the milk tank but close.

Should I ?

I have been thinking a lot lately about getting my
real estate license. It would be a crazy time to do
such a thing. Being the market what it is.

But first of all I would not be doing it for immediate
income or a job change. I have always been
fascinated with old houses, buildings etc.
Case and point my very old farm house.

I love history. If I were to do this it would be first
and fore most for the experience. It would true
be another avenue of income. But I have no
intention of leaving the job I currently have.

I make a very nice living and I get to travel.

This would be more as a hobby, and would
be only a part time venture. I have thought
about this for a long time.

I am going to continue to give it some more
thought. There really is nothing to lose by
doing this. I would like to hear from anyone
who does this for a living or has done this
at some point in their lives.

Blogs

I have finally added my blog link. I really did mean to do it
sooner. As I run across others I will add them if I feel they
are worth of taking a look at.

Make no mistake I have looked at many other's that I just
don't think they are worth people's time. Trashy. Is a
kind word to describe some local blogs that are out there.

They know who they are.

I do want to say I added the Whitewater blog just because
I can not believe how stupid the Whitewater officials are
being. At taxpayer expense.

Check out some of the blogs if you would like to suggest one
please do. Does not mean I will add it. But I always like
seeing whats new .

What Is Proper And Not.

I quite often go on line and check out the Janesville Gazette.
There was a day when the editor talked about the difference
between a blog and their newspaper. Explaining how they
are different from a blog.

The point someone made regarding the on line version of
the Gazette is you can leave comments for articles in the
newspaper part and on their blog section. So how is one
really different from the other? When you can comment
on it all.

I have checked out many blogs in the area since I have
been back. Some are just simply silly and for fun. Some
are serious and tend to cover local news. I encourage
everyone to at least check out the Evansville Observer
because he covers a lot of news issues for the area. He
has done a nice job. I like the fact his comments are
moderated.

I think as the Janesville Gazette has found they really
have to watch the comments people leave. Sometimes
removing them because some people tend to talk
out of their ass. Or one would think.

It brings me to the Evansville Review. Every year
I find that paper much less credible and more of
a tabloid. What the hell is the deal with the
editorial they printed this last week? It would seem
as though they accepted and printed a bogus letter
to the editor. What happened with calling and
verifying information from your editorials? No
excuse for what happened very unprofessional.

Just call them the Evansville Enquirer. That is
why blogs need to be moderated. Because some people
like to post under other people's names . They
think they are being funny but it is actually forgery.

Blog, paper or not.

Much like land phones any thing these days can be
traced, isp, cell phones, letters, even the
disposable throw away cell phones can be traced.

Opinions are great but if you don't have the balls
to put your real name down you must be ball-less.
If you feel strongly about something you should have
no shame in posting your name.

So Evansville area folks if you are looking for a
credible news source . I highly recommend the
Evansville Observer. He tends to keep it just to
the news. Once in a while lending a opinion but
for the most part just reporting on city news . He
basically is running a on line newspaper. Very
good reporting and factual.

Getting Reacquainted

I have been trying to make a effort to shop locally since I have been back.
I can not wait for the farmer's market to get going again, or has it?
I have to say I am so what disappointed by the lack of restaurants in Oregon.
They now have pizza hut, which is just that . Pizza Hut.
They have a nasty Mexican restaurant. It actually got sick from eating there.
But I have been shopping in town. I like Bill's grocery. Of course Walgreen's.
I have gotten quite a few supply's from the local hardware store.
Let's not forget the library, which I love and spend a lot of time there. I know
I am not shopping , even spending money. But it's a really nice library.

Oregon is only about 15 minutes from my house so it's all convenient.
So tell me about where you live and what your favorite thing is about where
you live and why.

How Many People Work For Them Selves?? OR At The Very Least Have A Expense Account.

With both company's that I worked and currently work for I had/have
a expense account. Long ago I figured out a system for saving receipts.

I also have a company credit card, however our receipts much match
the charge on the statement so I still have to save receipts. It has never
been a issue for me but we are expected to spend within reason.

I take clients to nice restaurants but not the most expensive.

They either want your business or they don't . Right it should not
matter what they are being treated to. Yeah I know. anyway.

But I have a friend who is a C.P.A. for the state of Wisconsin and
she is responsible for going over travel and account expenses for
quite a few different departments.

She is quite irritated that the state of WISCONSIN does not require
them to keep RECEIPTS. They are allowed so much per meal,
per hotel room, allowed so much money for calls home, etc...

No receipts required.. She said the other day that she knows there
are a couple of people who ALWAYS claim the max on their expense
report every time for everything. Never waivers with these few.

Heck if I can't provide a receipt I am not reimbursed or they charge
the amount on the credit card statement back to me. NO receipt ,
I pay..

So now Wisconsin has set up this ' fraud' line. So they must know that
there are issues and the tax payers are the ones paying for it.

I would make all employees state or not provide receipts.

The other issue that drives her nuts it the 5.00 allowed for phone
calls. She said that is a OLD part of the things allowed and thinks
it should be disallowed as everyone on these accounts has a
cell phone. They are not paying extra for phone calls. Just
claiming it.

When she questioned some of these people there dept supervisor
actually stood up for them saying they actually pay much more
than what they are allowed. She asked this supervisor.. EACH
and every time is more than a little questionable don't you think.

If you are going to screw the state tell them to at least mix the
numbers up every once and a while. Clearly letting it be known
she did not believe them.

What do you think should they have to save receipts?? Private
companies can't be run like this. If you are self employed you
have to save each and every receipt.

But not the State of Wisconsin?

Coupons From Bucky Book

I got this book basically for only a few different coupons that
when I used them it did pay for getting the book. But I have
many fast food coupons that I will not use. Just contact me
if there are any you can use and I will mail them to you.
Taco Bell, Subway are just if you are looking for something
in particular just ask.

What Happened To Ebay, Paypal Sucks..

I have a ebay or should I said HAD. I had not used it in probably
over a year. I only occasionally sell or buy . So I went to
list something on there this last weekend and they are making
me take payment through paypal? What a bunch of crap.
It evidently is a new policy? Because I have had ' limited' use?
I hate paypal. They are the biggest rip off. Charge way to much.

I do some occasional freelance work for a firm out of Milwaukee
and they are talking about using paypal for independent
contractors such as myself, not a regular employee with them.

paypal is nothing more than a scam..

So I listed my item on craigs list and have had several
requests for more information and it will sell I have
no doubt about that. I was just surprised about the
changes at ebay.

Truancy Is A School Issue And City Issue.

I have taken from the Evansville Observer some information on the truancy
issue.

May 2008 Public Safety Committee to consider ordinance revision to fine school attendence officer

Under the current Evansville municipal ordinance for truancy, as I understand it, our municipal court can fine school age offenders of truancy laws, but there is no provision at the present time for fines to be levied against the school personnel if the proper legal procedures are not followed.

In preparation for the presentation of an amendment to the current ordinance at Common Council in May 2008 to remedy this situation, the Public Safety Committee on May 7, 2008 will consider the matter. Parents, students, School board members, and interested parties are expected to be present for the discussion. The Evansville Observer will be providing full audio and video coverage.

Now the comments:

Brodhead,sends out daily truancy notices

Oregon who has more than twice the students that Evansville has makes daily truancy calls to parents..they also send out bi-wkly attendance reports to parents who kids have recently been truant.

Parkview makes daily truancy calls..

New Glarus makes daily truancy calls..

Stoughton makes contact for daily truancy issues.

Is it not funny that Evansville can not manage to do the same.

Even Madison makes daily contact for truancy. Madison thousands

more students than Evansville.

1:45 PM

Anonymous said...

Are you saying the municipalities are making these calls or the school districts. This is the city sticking its nose in school business.

The school and city are connected through the municpal court. If the school wants

to be able to continue to use the municpal court they have to follow certain procedures

they can not just do what they want. It most certainly does involve the city. If the school

did not involve the court and police dept then they could do as they please.

5:30 PM

Anonymous said...

Seems like the Mayor wants to 'protect' the school. I don't know why the court would ask for this unless Judge Tom thought it was the right thing. He ought to know. Ms. Mayor should support him.

Totally Agree.

3:29 AM

Anonymous said...

My family and I fully support what Judge Alisankus is asking for. The city and the school are tied together regardless of what some people think. This is city business because the school sends students the the Evansville court system, many a month..So Judge Alisankus, The city of Evansville have every right to ask that they follow certain procedures. Which at this time the school does not.

By the way if I am not mistaken there is a state statue that spells out clearly that school officials can be fined for not following truancy policy's..

This really is a no brainer. The school has to follow certain procedures.

Is that not what they ask of the students??

This school district seems to be full of double standards.

Anonymous said...

Is it posted somewhere that this is coming from the Judge? Shouldn't parents be fined? Maybe they should add something to get the parents attention as well. It's not the schools fault that students aren't coming. Parents should be held more responsible than the school.

Yes if the parents know and allow their kids to continue to be truant,

yes fine them. But you have to be able to prove the parent knew.

Not just assume.

Anonymous said...

If the school does not tell them, which alot of times they don't. How would the parents know?? Its one thing to fine the parents if they know.

But the school does not follow the policy of sending out daily truancy notices like they are suppose to , so how would the parents know?

Every city has truancy ordinances Evansville seems to be the only one in

the area where the school does not follow the laws. They want to

write their own rules . However if they are going to continue to

want the police dept to issue truancy tickets and the Judge to not

just dismiss them they have to follow procedures in terms of giving daily

truancy notices and not waiting for a child to become habitually truant. Before

informing the parents.

9:30 AM

Anonymous said...

Sounds like a school board issue.

Sorry it is a district and city issue. Unless they stop using the

court system.

My brother teaches at Madison Memorial and can't not believe
how loosely Evansville's school districts truancy policy is worded.

kind of like ' well we should do this, and we might do that.' In
other words we will do as we please and have real no rhyme or
reason in how we handle issues.

Really this is a pretty minor issue and the answer is simple
if the school wants to continue to send students through the
court system then they need to do what is asked of them.

They are using city services.

The Shed.

With the weather we had this weekend my dad and I, my brother and my
'friend' Brian did alot of work outside this weekend on my house and out
buildings .

I want to clarify that I am dating Brian but don't tell my mom.
She will scare him with the talk of my needing to get married
before she dies, yes I am serious.

We got a lot done. My dad has been great. My brother told me
that dad has made the comment several times he is glad that
I am independent , self supporting, and don't rely on some' man.'

So different than my mom. My mom means well. But I am the
only one of five kids not married and in no hurry to do so.

We took down this shed that my dad referred to as the 'woodshed'.
You would swear with the wind we have had it would have
fallen over for the way it looked, but it was alot sturdier than
it looked. I found a couple of neat things in the shed before
we destroyed it. A antique dresser that needs some work, but
it is salvageable. A couple of old, old, milk cans. I was
excited.

This place of mine has one really good building that I am happy
with a cleary's building, only five years old. I want to get some
horses some time this summer and this will be perfect for them.

Then there is the old barn, it is usable but needs work.

So things are going well. I am very pleased. There is something
about knocking down a building that makes me go yes
I can do this. All is good.

A Little Bit About Me..

A little bit about me. I am from Evansville originally. I lived in Evansville for almost
twenty years. I graduated from the U.W. almost seven years ago. I majored in
communications and dabbled in art.

My parents hounded me night and day for 6 months not to major in
communications.. not that its a bad field, there are jobs you just
have to like what you are doing..

So after graduating I moved to California. It always sounds like
such ' a great place' to live. Guess what it gets cold. Not like
our Wisconsin, but I just thought it would be sunny all the time.

I lived in California for several years, I got a job in advertising and
found I love it. I am good at it, I enjoy it.

I met a guy out there within 3 months of moving out there and
dated him up until 6 months before I moved back to Wisconsin.
It was just one of those situations where I think we both realized
neither one us wanted the same things, or to get married. But
we were both going in very different directions.

I like aiming high and reaching goals, he was content with the
same old thing, did not much care if ever achieved anything or
not. A nice guy, a good friend. He is one of my best friends
and probably always will be.

This of course broke my Mom's heart because she thought
we would get married and have kids. Some times I think
she likes him more than me. I told her ' Mom he is single go
for it. ' She was not amused.

So when I moved back here I did alot of research of where
I wanted to live.. I bought a small farmette between
oregon and brooklyn. I over paid and it needs work but
I love it. It's mine.

Shortly after moving back I adopted ' Hooch' that eventually
I am sure I will post his picture. I adopted from a shelter
he is my baby , he is a rott.

I knew I would live in the country as I knew I wanted a dog,
a big one and I don't like seeing big dogs having to live in town,
one or two maybe. Big dogs need to be able to run.
Hooch is a house dog, and lets me share 'his' bed.

My favorite sports team is
The GreenBay Packer's . I will always love Brett Favre.
I always watch the Badgers, of course.


In my spare time I love to hike. I plan on taking
hooch on many hikes though out the state.
More recently I have been working on my house with
the help of my dad.

I love to read. Many different interests when it comes
to reading.

I go to church occasionally.. O.K. its when my mom calls
and says ' you are going to church' right.

I do believe in God. I just don't think you have to be in
a church to worship.

My siblings all live around here, madison, Evansville, Albany.
I love and spoil my nieces and nephews.

I vote strictly democrat. My niece was quite upset with me
when she found out I was not voting for Hillary, ' girl power'
as she put it. Hillary has done nothing but embarrass her
self as of late. I feel embarrassed for her.

My pet peeves

* obnoxious, know it all people
* nosy people, ( notice the country home, no neighbors within a mile.
* Motorcyclists or bicyclists who do not where helmets. No it is not
your right to splatter your brains all over the road for someone else
to have to clean up. Where your helmet. Save what brains you may
have.

* People who smoke, and sit there and blow the smoke right at you.
People who think its their right to pass their second hand smoke on
to others.

Thats it for now, I am sure I will think of more later.

I Am Very Honored...

I am very honored. My first postee was Karen Aikman from Evansville.
I have not ever met her, but have read about her. I know she has been
on the council, and ran for Mayor.. I have heard quite a few nice things
about her in the short amount of time that I have been back.

Thank you Karen for the nice comment.

Well I Have Come Home.. Just Not All The Way.

I can't believe I am back in Wisconsin. I grew up in Evansville, Wis.
Lived there for over twenty years.. thought I should get out and see
the world after graduating from the U.W., and moved to California.

It's not all its cracked up to be. I enjoyed it for a while, but just way
to busy. I noticed that you don't really know your neighbors.

So I moved back to southern Wisconsin and I currently work in
Madison in advertising. I enjoy small town life, I like knowing
my neighbors.

Some Local Blogs Of Interest To Check Out..

I still in the process of really seeing who is doing what blog
wise but I have found these blogs and have really enjoyed
what they offer.
http://www.evansvilleobserver.blogspot.com/
http://www.happycircumstance.blogspot.com/
http://www.chasinthenews.blogspot.com/

I will add blogs to this list as I find them. I will only
ad ones that meet certain criteria. I don't like them
all. So I won't add them all.

About Posting..

I feel very strongly if some one believes in what they say
they won't hide behind a anon. tag. So sorry to those many
who like to post anon. I want to know about the people who
post.

I also noticed on several other area blogs , the ones who
allow anon posts that are not moderated tend to have
people leaving posts that you swear came right out of
their you know where...

I want people to leave their intelligent, opinionated comments.
Not what ever happens to fly...