Stan, the girls and I are starting to discuss what we should plant this year. We want to plant some cherry trees. Which ones do you recommend?
Stan has recently begun thinking of making our own wine. I LOVE that idea! Can any of you give us some tips on growing your own grapes? Do Concord and pink grapes grow well here?
PLEASE give us any and all information that you can muster!!!
Thank you!
Happy Spring!!! VLE-B
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Memory Lane
Spring has sprung and area kids are beginning to make plans for summer! As I listen to my daughters' discussions on what they want to do, I take a memory walk. You can join me if you want!
As a child, I grew up believing that since we had 3 cherry trees and a grove of mulberry bushes in our backyard, that everyone else did also. Of course, I later realized that very few people have mulberry groves or even one cherry tree, for that matter. But, oh, how I savor those memories of yesteryore! No matter how Mama and Daddy tried to keep us away from the mulberry bushes, they failed miserably! Lori, Lona Sue and I spent practically all summer with purple hands! Those sweet little berries were just too good to avoid. Not only were our hands and mouths purple but the bottoms of our feet were also purple! Actually, there was so much PURPLE that our feet actually looked BLACK!!! Why, you ask...It was because our idea of summertime meant that we could retire our shoes for the entire season. Well, maybe not the whole season. Our 6 little feet trampelled all over the berries that had fallen onto the shady ground beneath the bushes which were probably 15 feet tall. Little did we know that with a bit of fine-tuning of our stomping and not so much dirt and actually using a clean bucket, we could have created our very own mulberry wine!
And, speaking of stomping, Lori called me the other day to discuss something interesting. She wanted to know if I could still remember Mama carting us off to the hospital an innumerable amount of times to remove rusty old nails (building, not toe) from our feet and how often we all seemed to have to get tetanus shots. When we got to talking about it, I also remembered that I have never had to take any of my three children to the hospital to have anything removed from their feet. Lori hasn't had to take her son their either. (I did have to take Abigayle in a few years ago to have Dr. Alpert remove an unpopped kernel of popcorn from her ear...) We just assumed that all kids were running around in yards filled with rusty nails!
Oh, mercy, how such vivid and great memories once again ran through our minds and hearts of times gone by that unfortunately can never be relived. (Of course, we could live without the nails being stuck in our feet!:)
Life seemed so innocent, pure and happy back then. The only care that we had in our heads at the time was how soon Daddy would be home for another of Mama's delicious meals!!! No one in Wichita County found it necessary to buy door or window locks for their homes. Shoot! We knew everyone and most importantly, everyone could be trusted here! (Of course, that changed on the evening of May 25th of 1976 when our police chief, Carl Simons, was struck down north of town. The next morning, people went crazy in Wichita County as they scoured the hardware stores looking to buy locks. The people who got to the stores too late, made trips out of town to buy locks. The death of so much of our individual trust came that historical night in Leoti. Leotians would never be the same again.)
Early in the spring, Mama would take us to Syracuse where our grandparents lived or to Garden City to buy our spring and summer wardrobe--shorts, sleeveless shirts and sandles. We would live in them for the entire warm days of summer. Sometimes, we even slept in them. By the end of summer, they were ready for the trashcan, which by the way, was constructed out of metal so that when there was a sufficient amount of trash, Daddy would strike matches and the rubble would be reduced to ashes. The girls and I awakened early, donned our "short sets" as Mama called them and charged outside for all kinds of adventures. Oh, and sometimes, we even bothered to put our sandles on! We rode bikes, swang on our swingset or crossed the street to the kindergarten playground to teeter-totter, etc. Of course, it was insane to believe that the three of us could just play with each other! Oh, no! We had to have practically every one of our fellow neighborhood kids over to socialize with, the Bowmans, Tripps, Glanvilles, Dyes, Phillips, Kerschens... Oh, so much fun was had by all of us!!! I actually think that our parents enjoyed our friends as much as we did. They were so happy that everyone came to our house to play! Mama usually gave out snacks and drinks for everyone in our yard. But when she was busy studying for one of her many college classes that she had to take during summer, I would sometimes sneak into the kitchen and create my very own delicacy for all to eat! Here's the receipe and directions: Roll butter, REAL butter, into small to medium-sized balls. Roll in lots and LOTS of granulated sugar! Wella! That's it! Easy, huh? And, oh so delicious!!! All of us LOVED my creations!!! LOL!!!!!
When the cherries FINALLY ripened to their perfect sweetness, we picked alot of them, however, we had to leave most of them on the trees for which Mama, Daddy and us picked for the best ever cherry pies that only Mama could bake! Her mulberry pies were savory also! I can still see her slaving away in our little kitchen with the pink stove and refrigerator! Oh, how I can still taste them in my memory...
Back then, most of us weren't allowed to watch as much TV as kids do today. A by-product of watching little tv is that kids weren't FAT back then the way that so many are today. Plus, kids were forced to use their own imaginations back then. One reason kids didn't stick to TV was because when TV-watchers had to depend on the good ol' antennae, the picture was blurry at the very best. Plus, most of us only had two or three channels back then. It was easy for kids to lose interest in watching soap operas, game shows and very few cartoons. However, many of us ran indoors just long enough in the afternoon to watch our hero, Major Astro!!!
On hot days, many kids went to the county swimming pool to cool off. We very seldom did that. Mama's older brother had drowned in a pond when she was very young. She never became comfortable with letting us do much swimming unless we did it in our little kiddy pool at home with her watchful eyes upon us. The girls and I still hold the trophy for the kids taking the most swimming lessons in Wichita County! We started swimming lessons when we were about 3 and finally graduated from lessons when we were 17! No, we weren't quite that old. LOL!!! Anyway, it was and is such a delight to realize just how much our parents appreciated and took care of us!
As I recall, we were probably the absolute dirtiest little girls in town! Our short sets were caked in dirt, mulberry and cherry juice. Our faces and hair were just nasty. And our bare feet were covered in mud that we had made up to build pies, houses, etc out of.
The lots that our parents had bought across the street from the grade school had once been home to an old hotel and little house. Daddy had torn down the hotel and stacked its wood in the back south corner of the yard. (Oh, boy! The girls and I had a blast playing in that woodpile. It seemed like there were always several little yellow kitties living in it so we had to find them!!!) The little house became a playhouse for us. As I remember our summers there, it seems as if it was our very own Eden. How fortunate we were to have grown up there with such loving and wonderful parents!
Aren't we so blessed to have our memories???
VLE-B
As a child, I grew up believing that since we had 3 cherry trees and a grove of mulberry bushes in our backyard, that everyone else did also. Of course, I later realized that very few people have mulberry groves or even one cherry tree, for that matter. But, oh, how I savor those memories of yesteryore! No matter how Mama and Daddy tried to keep us away from the mulberry bushes, they failed miserably! Lori, Lona Sue and I spent practically all summer with purple hands! Those sweet little berries were just too good to avoid. Not only were our hands and mouths purple but the bottoms of our feet were also purple! Actually, there was so much PURPLE that our feet actually looked BLACK!!! Why, you ask...It was because our idea of summertime meant that we could retire our shoes for the entire season. Well, maybe not the whole season. Our 6 little feet trampelled all over the berries that had fallen onto the shady ground beneath the bushes which were probably 15 feet tall. Little did we know that with a bit of fine-tuning of our stomping and not so much dirt and actually using a clean bucket, we could have created our very own mulberry wine!
And, speaking of stomping, Lori called me the other day to discuss something interesting. She wanted to know if I could still remember Mama carting us off to the hospital an innumerable amount of times to remove rusty old nails (building, not toe) from our feet and how often we all seemed to have to get tetanus shots. When we got to talking about it, I also remembered that I have never had to take any of my three children to the hospital to have anything removed from their feet. Lori hasn't had to take her son their either. (I did have to take Abigayle in a few years ago to have Dr. Alpert remove an unpopped kernel of popcorn from her ear...) We just assumed that all kids were running around in yards filled with rusty nails!
Oh, mercy, how such vivid and great memories once again ran through our minds and hearts of times gone by that unfortunately can never be relived. (Of course, we could live without the nails being stuck in our feet!:)
Life seemed so innocent, pure and happy back then. The only care that we had in our heads at the time was how soon Daddy would be home for another of Mama's delicious meals!!! No one in Wichita County found it necessary to buy door or window locks for their homes. Shoot! We knew everyone and most importantly, everyone could be trusted here! (Of course, that changed on the evening of May 25th of 1976 when our police chief, Carl Simons, was struck down north of town. The next morning, people went crazy in Wichita County as they scoured the hardware stores looking to buy locks. The people who got to the stores too late, made trips out of town to buy locks. The death of so much of our individual trust came that historical night in Leoti. Leotians would never be the same again.)
Early in the spring, Mama would take us to Syracuse where our grandparents lived or to Garden City to buy our spring and summer wardrobe--shorts, sleeveless shirts and sandles. We would live in them for the entire warm days of summer. Sometimes, we even slept in them. By the end of summer, they were ready for the trashcan, which by the way, was constructed out of metal so that when there was a sufficient amount of trash, Daddy would strike matches and the rubble would be reduced to ashes. The girls and I awakened early, donned our "short sets" as Mama called them and charged outside for all kinds of adventures. Oh, and sometimes, we even bothered to put our sandles on! We rode bikes, swang on our swingset or crossed the street to the kindergarten playground to teeter-totter, etc. Of course, it was insane to believe that the three of us could just play with each other! Oh, no! We had to have practically every one of our fellow neighborhood kids over to socialize with, the Bowmans, Tripps, Glanvilles, Dyes, Phillips, Kerschens... Oh, so much fun was had by all of us!!! I actually think that our parents enjoyed our friends as much as we did. They were so happy that everyone came to our house to play! Mama usually gave out snacks and drinks for everyone in our yard. But when she was busy studying for one of her many college classes that she had to take during summer, I would sometimes sneak into the kitchen and create my very own delicacy for all to eat! Here's the receipe and directions: Roll butter, REAL butter, into small to medium-sized balls. Roll in lots and LOTS of granulated sugar! Wella! That's it! Easy, huh? And, oh so delicious!!! All of us LOVED my creations!!! LOL!!!!!
When the cherries FINALLY ripened to their perfect sweetness, we picked alot of them, however, we had to leave most of them on the trees for which Mama, Daddy and us picked for the best ever cherry pies that only Mama could bake! Her mulberry pies were savory also! I can still see her slaving away in our little kitchen with the pink stove and refrigerator! Oh, how I can still taste them in my memory...
Back then, most of us weren't allowed to watch as much TV as kids do today. A by-product of watching little tv is that kids weren't FAT back then the way that so many are today. Plus, kids were forced to use their own imaginations back then. One reason kids didn't stick to TV was because when TV-watchers had to depend on the good ol' antennae, the picture was blurry at the very best. Plus, most of us only had two or three channels back then. It was easy for kids to lose interest in watching soap operas, game shows and very few cartoons. However, many of us ran indoors just long enough in the afternoon to watch our hero, Major Astro!!!
On hot days, many kids went to the county swimming pool to cool off. We very seldom did that. Mama's older brother had drowned in a pond when she was very young. She never became comfortable with letting us do much swimming unless we did it in our little kiddy pool at home with her watchful eyes upon us. The girls and I still hold the trophy for the kids taking the most swimming lessons in Wichita County! We started swimming lessons when we were about 3 and finally graduated from lessons when we were 17! No, we weren't quite that old. LOL!!! Anyway, it was and is such a delight to realize just how much our parents appreciated and took care of us!
As I recall, we were probably the absolute dirtiest little girls in town! Our short sets were caked in dirt, mulberry and cherry juice. Our faces and hair were just nasty. And our bare feet were covered in mud that we had made up to build pies, houses, etc out of.
The lots that our parents had bought across the street from the grade school had once been home to an old hotel and little house. Daddy had torn down the hotel and stacked its wood in the back south corner of the yard. (Oh, boy! The girls and I had a blast playing in that woodpile. It seemed like there were always several little yellow kitties living in it so we had to find them!!!) The little house became a playhouse for us. As I remember our summers there, it seems as if it was our very own Eden. How fortunate we were to have grown up there with such loving and wonderful parents!
Aren't we so blessed to have our memories???
VLE-B
Just another day at the Blaus house!
Since forever, our darling little Abigayle has been all but tramuatized by anything that deals with tornadoes. If the weather is looking like it may be capable of producing a tornado, we know that we have to start right out consoling her that God is taking care of us and that we will be just fine. This year, it was January before she was convinced that we were tornado-free for awhile.
But last week, someone in Leighlyn's class had commented that meteorologists had reported that the 2009 tornado season was a very mild one in our neck of the woods. However, those same meterologists are convinced that 2010 is going to be a very different critter. We should be prepared for MANY tornadoes.
Leighlyn knows just as much as we do that Abi is a T-total tornado-phobic. So, the day that she had heard of the 2010 season upon us, she thought that she should alert US--not Abigayle. In times like this, we have always spelled whatever scary word it was to each other so that Abigayle had no reason for concern. So, Leighlyn spelled out t-o-r-n-a-d-o-e-s to Stan and I. Even though Abi was in the other room, she ran in to us and yelled out "TORNADOES???" Hmmm, guess our sneaking around with just spelling words around our little first grader have come to a sharp end. LOL!!!
VLE-B
But last week, someone in Leighlyn's class had commented that meteorologists had reported that the 2009 tornado season was a very mild one in our neck of the woods. However, those same meterologists are convinced that 2010 is going to be a very different critter. We should be prepared for MANY tornadoes.
Leighlyn knows just as much as we do that Abi is a T-total tornado-phobic. So, the day that she had heard of the 2010 season upon us, she thought that she should alert US--not Abigayle. In times like this, we have always spelled whatever scary word it was to each other so that Abigayle had no reason for concern. So, Leighlyn spelled out t-o-r-n-a-d-o-e-s to Stan and I. Even though Abi was in the other room, she ran in to us and yelled out "TORNADOES???" Hmmm, guess our sneaking around with just spelling words around our little first grader have come to a sharp end. LOL!!!
VLE-B
Monday, March 29, 2010
Fire Watch
Due to much warmer temperatures than what we have had so far this year, low humidity and windy conditions, a fire watch has been posted for people in Eastern Colorado and Western Kansas for the next few days starting tomorrow, Tuesday, morning.
During that time period, it is imperative that no one lights fires outside as the wind will rapidly spread the fire around. Don't throw any cigarettes or cigars outside as this can also cause a very dangerous fire. This is a major problem.
Thank you!
VLE-B
During that time period, it is imperative that no one lights fires outside as the wind will rapidly spread the fire around. Don't throw any cigarettes or cigars outside as this can also cause a very dangerous fire. This is a major problem.
Thank you!
VLE-B
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Torta Al Finocchio
A great friend of mine just sent me this recipe that, in turn, I want to share with all of you. For YEARS, I have owned a springform cake pan set but have NEVER used it! Now, I am going to do that! LOL!!!
In Tuscany, Italy, rosemary, thyme and fennel are used to season cakes and breads. The fennel accent makes this cake particularly interesting.
Torta Al Finocchio (Fennel Cake)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup ground almonds
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon fennel seed
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9" springform pan with butter.
In mixing bowl, combine flour, almonds, sugar, and baking powder. Mix well. Gradually stir in milk and then mix in the fennel seed.
Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake the cake until golden. When a wooden toothpick comes out dry--about 1 hour, the cake is finished baking.
Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. Unclip the pan's sides and transfer to a serving platter. Serve at room temperature.
Serves 6.
Thank you, Chris and Peter!!!
VLE-B
In Tuscany, Italy, rosemary, thyme and fennel are used to season cakes and breads. The fennel accent makes this cake particularly interesting.
Torta Al Finocchio (Fennel Cake)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup ground almonds
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon fennel seed
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9" springform pan with butter.
In mixing bowl, combine flour, almonds, sugar, and baking powder. Mix well. Gradually stir in milk and then mix in the fennel seed.
Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake the cake until golden. When a wooden toothpick comes out dry--about 1 hour, the cake is finished baking.
Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. Unclip the pan's sides and transfer to a serving platter. Serve at room temperature.
Serves 6.
Thank you, Chris and Peter!!!
VLE-B
Gregory L. Barber--Scott City
Mr. Barber was born on September 17th of 1963 and passed on Saturday, March 27th at St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City. He was 46. He had been a Scott City resident since 1971.
Mr. Barber was a member of Immanuel Southern Baptist Church of Scott City.
He is survived by his mother, Sue Barber of Scott City, 2 sisters; Brenda and Craig Hughes of Scott City and Denise and Von Borell of Dighton, 3 nieces and 2 nephews and 5 great-nieces and nephews.
His funeral services will be held at Price and Sons Funeral Home in Scott City at 10:00 on Wednesday, March 31st.
Interment will be at Scott County Cemetery.
Memorials are suggested to The Queen of Hearts Foundation For Disabled Children or the Immanuel Southern Baptist Church in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.
Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.
VLE-B
Mr. Barber was a member of Immanuel Southern Baptist Church of Scott City.
He is survived by his mother, Sue Barber of Scott City, 2 sisters; Brenda and Craig Hughes of Scott City and Denise and Von Borell of Dighton, 3 nieces and 2 nephews and 5 great-nieces and nephews.
His funeral services will be held at Price and Sons Funeral Home in Scott City at 10:00 on Wednesday, March 31st.
Interment will be at Scott County Cemetery.
Memorials are suggested to The Queen of Hearts Foundation For Disabled Children or the Immanuel Southern Baptist Church in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.
Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.
VLE-B
Robert W. McCandless--Scott City
Mr. MacCandless was born on January 25 of 1927 and passed away on Friday, March 27th at the Scott County Hospital. He was 83.
On February 6th of 1948, he married Treva Mallary in Emporia. She survives. Other survivors include 1 son, Mark and Suzanne of Scott City and 1 daughter, Kim and Barry Beard of Manitou Springs, Colorado, 5 granddaughters, 1 grandson, 3 great-grandchildren and 2 nephews.
His funeral will be held at the United Methodist Church in Scott City at 2:00 on Monday, March 29th.
Interment will be at Scott County Cemetery.
Memorials are suggested to Camp Lakeside or the Silent Angels Animal Rescue and Shelter in care of Price and Sons Funeral Homes.
Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.
VLE-B
On February 6th of 1948, he married Treva Mallary in Emporia. She survives. Other survivors include 1 son, Mark and Suzanne of Scott City and 1 daughter, Kim and Barry Beard of Manitou Springs, Colorado, 5 granddaughters, 1 grandson, 3 great-grandchildren and 2 nephews.
His funeral will be held at the United Methodist Church in Scott City at 2:00 on Monday, March 29th.
Interment will be at Scott County Cemetery.
Memorials are suggested to Camp Lakeside or the Silent Angels Animal Rescue and Shelter in care of Price and Sons Funeral Homes.
Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.
VLE-B
Alene M. Dearden--Scott City
Mrs. Dearden, 77, was born on November 7th of 1932 and passed away on Saturday, March 28th at Parklane Nursing Home in Scott City.
She was born in Rush County and was a lifetime resident of Scott County. She was a homemaker.
She was on the Lakeview FCE council for over 50 years, past Wheatland FCE Aux. #3124 and on the Scott County FCE Council.
On July 7th of 1950, she married Alva A. Dearden. He passed away on March 3rd of 2006 in Scott City.
Survivors include four sons: Lawrence D. of Scott City; Richard P. of Scott City; Alan B. of Scott City and Thad E. of Scott City. One daughter, Brenda Dearden of Garden City. One sister, Doris Reed of Scott City, 8 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at the United Methodist Church in Scott City at 2:00 on Wednesday, March 31st.
Memorials may be given to the Scott County Relay for Life in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.
Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.
VLE-B
She was born in Rush County and was a lifetime resident of Scott County. She was a homemaker.
She was on the Lakeview FCE council for over 50 years, past Wheatland FCE Aux. #3124 and on the Scott County FCE Council.
On July 7th of 1950, she married Alva A. Dearden. He passed away on March 3rd of 2006 in Scott City.
Survivors include four sons: Lawrence D. of Scott City; Richard P. of Scott City; Alan B. of Scott City and Thad E. of Scott City. One daughter, Brenda Dearden of Garden City. One sister, Doris Reed of Scott City, 8 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at the United Methodist Church in Scott City at 2:00 on Wednesday, March 31st.
Memorials may be given to the Scott County Relay for Life in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.
Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.
VLE-B
Mildren L. Corn--Scott City
Mildred L. Corn, 85, of Scott City passed away on March 25th of 2010 at Scott County Hospital in Scott City. She was born in Three Folks, Montana. Through her lifetime, she attended GCCC in 1942 and graduated from KSU in 1945 with a degree in Home Economics. She and her husband, Jack, owned Mr. Jack's Boutique.
On June 1st of 1948, she married Jack Corn in Garden City. He passed away in Garden City on January 26th of 1991.
She is survived by her friend and companion of 31 years--Jerry Crowel;2 sons--Don (and Linda) Corn of Denver, Colorado; Jack (and Beth) of Littleton, Colorado. 3 daughters--Kimberly (and Don) Reule of Garden City; Gloria (and Gaylen) Olmstead of Huntley, Montana, and Teresa Corn of Scott City, 10 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 1 great, great grandchild, 4 step grandchildren, 7 step great grandchildren.
Her funeral will be held at 10:30 on Monday, March 29th, at the Community Christian Church in Scott City. Graveside services will be held at 1:00 at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City.
Memorials can be given to the Scott County Hospital for the Nursing Department in care of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City or Scott City.
Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.
VLE-B
On June 1st of 1948, she married Jack Corn in Garden City. He passed away in Garden City on January 26th of 1991.
She is survived by her friend and companion of 31 years--Jerry Crowel;2 sons--Don (and Linda) Corn of Denver, Colorado; Jack (and Beth) of Littleton, Colorado. 3 daughters--Kimberly (and Don) Reule of Garden City; Gloria (and Gaylen) Olmstead of Huntley, Montana, and Teresa Corn of Scott City, 10 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 1 great, great grandchild, 4 step grandchildren, 7 step great grandchildren.
Her funeral will be held at 10:30 on Monday, March 29th, at the Community Christian Church in Scott City. Graveside services will be held at 1:00 at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City.
Memorials can be given to the Scott County Hospital for the Nursing Department in care of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City or Scott City.
Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.
VLE-B
Saturday, March 27, 2010
EASY CROCKPOT RECIPE
One of our best friends was here yesterday. While she was here, she gave me a great new recipe. I thought that I should pass it on to all of you. By the way, it has the same consistency as chili.
TACO SOUP
2 pounds hamburger, browned with one onion
2 cans pinto beans with water
2 cans kidney beans with water
2 cans corn with water
2 cans diced tomatoes in juice
2 cans tomato sauce
2 cans of diced green chilis
2 packages of taco seasoning
fritos or doritos (optional)
shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Place browned hamburger and onion into crock pot. Add all ingrdients. Don't drain the water off of the beans, tomatoes, etc. Everything goes into the crockpot. Cook on LOW all day.
Place fritos or doritos into bowl. Cover with soup. If desired, garnish soup with cheddar cheese.
VLE-B
TACO SOUP
2 pounds hamburger, browned with one onion
2 cans pinto beans with water
2 cans kidney beans with water
2 cans corn with water
2 cans diced tomatoes in juice
2 cans tomato sauce
2 cans of diced green chilis
2 packages of taco seasoning
fritos or doritos (optional)
shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Place browned hamburger and onion into crock pot. Add all ingrdients. Don't drain the water off of the beans, tomatoes, etc. Everything goes into the crockpot. Cook on LOW all day.
Place fritos or doritos into bowl. Cover with soup. If desired, garnish soup with cheddar cheese.
VLE-B
Shayden Geyer
I am pleased to inform all that Leoti's very own, Shayden Geyer, just took second place at Nationals in wrestling! Her parents are Lyle and Tammi (Eckert) Geyer. As many of you know, her daddy was a wrestling legend.
Shayden is a second grader at Leoti's RBSES.
Way to go, Shayden!
VLE-B
Shayden is a second grader at Leoti's RBSES.
Way to go, Shayden!
VLE-B
Friday, March 26, 2010
Inquiring minds want to know...
During the past few months, several people have asked me what is going on with the decorative City lights on the block from Mels to the Pool Hall. For quite awhile, no light has been produced from them. I understand that there is some sort of an electrical problem. Given the fact that I have noticed that some of them are now missing, I ASSUME that they may have been taken somewhere for repair.
I am hoping that they are returned to their previous locations soon. I, for one, really enjoy them in Leoti!!!
If you know more about the matter and want to share it, please leave your comment(s) and I will post them for others to read.
And, also, I just want to let people know that I really enjoy the benches and the brick flower garden beds on Main Street! The new trees, lights, benches and flowers really sharpen up the Leoti atmosphere for both people who live here and for those who are just traveling through town.
Thanks for asking!!!
VLE-B
I am hoping that they are returned to their previous locations soon. I, for one, really enjoy them in Leoti!!!
If you know more about the matter and want to share it, please leave your comment(s) and I will post them for others to read.
And, also, I just want to let people know that I really enjoy the benches and the brick flower garden beds on Main Street! The new trees, lights, benches and flowers really sharpen up the Leoti atmosphere for both people who live here and for those who are just traveling through town.
Thanks for asking!!!
VLE-B
Update on Leoti Business' Beautification
Earlier I discussed everything that local business people are doing to spruce up their businesses on Main Street. Lately, much more work has been done. People all over are talking about how nice everything is looking!
Recent work first started at John and Liz (Griem) Goulds' quonset building just to the north of Dollar General. Many years ago, it housed Vern Braun's trucking firm. Through the years, natural elements had caused a great deal of the outer shell to break down. The historical thunderstorm that rocked Leoti early last summer, did more than just a wee bit of damage also. Windows were broken out, the tin roof and walls had multiple hail dents, etc. At one time, it looked like the building was on it's last leg.
All of that changed in the past month or so. New metal was hung that covered the worn metal. It also covered up the broken windows which I am sure is a great deal! Not only will there no longer be any threat of additional broken windows, but the building should stay cooler longer on hot days and warmer longer on cold days.
For a short time, visible exterior work cut way back. However, the work is once again in full swing! The last couple of days, the carpenters doing the job have tackled the building's face. What a facelift this ol' gal is getting! One of the most noticeable changes that I have noticed is that there is now a nice wide door that faces towards the north about midway through the length of the building. (Actually, there has been quite a debate around Leoti. People are wondering if the door has always been there or if John and Liz decided to add it through their renovation.)
Anyway, you owe it to yourself to swing by and take a good long look at how this ugly duckling is turning into a beautiful swan!
Before I get off of the topic of John and Liz Gould, I also want to mention another MAJOR transformation that they have been a apart of. Have you had a chance to drive by their new homestead? It is located just to the south of the baseball fields in town. Originally, their house was set up many miles north of town. Driving back and forth every day was too cumbersome for the family. John and Liz both have thriving businesses in town plus their children are now in school. Along with school, other activities crop up quickly. It just made much more sense to move the home that they loved so dearly into Leoti. Over a year ago, their house made it's trek into town. It came to rest on some lots that they had previously purchased. The prior owners had planted some beautiful evergreen trees on the property. In addition to adding beauty, they also allowed for much protection from the north winds. Since they have been here, a new and GORGEOUS lawn has been planted complete with more trees and a pond in the back yard. To say that it looks like a park is a definite understatement. Thank you, John and Liz, for going above and beyond to make Leoti a beautiful place in which to live!!! (Maybe you should start ANOTHER business--landscaping.)
A few blocks south of the Gould building is Western Hardware. The Oldham family, Lee, Loy and Scott, owned this business for many a year. When they decided that it was time to slow down abit and just enjoy retirement, Wichita County was very fortunate that Russ and Cathy (Marcy) Wiegers purchased the business and carried on. Through the last few years, MUCH work was done there both inside and outside. Everything just looks great! The Wiegers have also brought in additional items that no one in Leoti had ever sold before. It is amazing to walk in and see what all has been done on the inside. Last summer, people actually parked in front of their building just to watch the exterior renovation as it progressed. A new sign was put up, etc.
The couple also bought the Oldhams' lumber yard. Since then, they have really dolled up it's exterior. They even added some pleasant landscaping in front. About a month ago, I had occassion to go into the lumberyard. OH, MY GOODNESS!!! They still sell the same items but the building looks like it never has before! Check it out!!!
Awhile back, the Wiegers purchased the lots between them and the Leoti Standard office. Many years ago, the historic Johnson's Grocery Store and home stood on this land. Very recently, a contractor came in, leveled out the ground and then poured a fairly large piece of concrete. I am ASSUMING that this concrete will hold the store's large array of rock, fertilizer, potting soil, etc. Today, we noticed that they are starting to set up a very attractive metal fence. I would guess that it is probably 6 feet tall and will be set up across the entire front and rear of the new lots. It is black and has large even spaces between poles which allow passersby to see what is available there but at the same time, provides much-needed security. Its sad to say, but as economic conditions continue to sag, theft continues to rise.
After all of this work began, equipment pulled up at Dave and Jenet Gardners NAPA Auto Parts Store. Earlier this winter, a vehicle got away from it's driver and caused a window or two to be broken. Since then, the Gardners have really updated their store front. It has really captured a lot of positiive attention! The equipment was used to remove the Northside sign which had originally stretched from one side of the building to the other. I have not noticed any changes in the last week or so there but I am sure that it will probably resume at any time. I am GUESSING that a new sign will be hoisted to take it's rightful place.
Lastly, I really want all of our area business people who have stepped up to the plate and spent a great deal of money to make our Main Street and Broadway sparkle once again! When Cafe 96 opened its doors, people opened the building and discovered out-of-this-world artwork on the walls! Karen Walk and others had located historic Leoti photographs and enlarged them. Oh, mercy! Leoti has really changed! Did you know that at one time, parking was also available right smack dap in the middle of the east to west Broadway Street and north to south Main Street? Yeppers. Traffic continued to flow on both sides of the major streets. Something else that was recently noticed by some Leotians looking through antique photographs is that there was a tremendous amount of daily foot traffic on the walkways on both sides of our business center. Oh, wouldn't it just been grand to have that kind of commerce available in Leoti again??? I also heard something else the other morning that I find to be really intriguing. I would actually LOVE to see a rebirth of the practice. Once upon a time, people from all over the county, would come to the Main Street/Broadway area on Saturday afternoons and evenings. They would park their vehicles. Some people chose to get out of the cars to walk around while others preferred to remain seated. Why??? Saturday afternoon and evening was a major social gathering day for all. People just gathered downtown so that they could visit their friends, family, neighbors, etc and get caught up on what was going on with everyone. This practice continued until the early 1960s. I imagine that the death of this ritual can be blamed on the popularity of the boob tube--television. It is too sad. I imagine that people enjoyed a much tighter relationship with one another...
Well, by now, you are probably snoozing so I should close.
VLE-B
Recent work first started at John and Liz (Griem) Goulds' quonset building just to the north of Dollar General. Many years ago, it housed Vern Braun's trucking firm. Through the years, natural elements had caused a great deal of the outer shell to break down. The historical thunderstorm that rocked Leoti early last summer, did more than just a wee bit of damage also. Windows were broken out, the tin roof and walls had multiple hail dents, etc. At one time, it looked like the building was on it's last leg.
All of that changed in the past month or so. New metal was hung that covered the worn metal. It also covered up the broken windows which I am sure is a great deal! Not only will there no longer be any threat of additional broken windows, but the building should stay cooler longer on hot days and warmer longer on cold days.
For a short time, visible exterior work cut way back. However, the work is once again in full swing! The last couple of days, the carpenters doing the job have tackled the building's face. What a facelift this ol' gal is getting! One of the most noticeable changes that I have noticed is that there is now a nice wide door that faces towards the north about midway through the length of the building. (Actually, there has been quite a debate around Leoti. People are wondering if the door has always been there or if John and Liz decided to add it through their renovation.)
Anyway, you owe it to yourself to swing by and take a good long look at how this ugly duckling is turning into a beautiful swan!
Before I get off of the topic of John and Liz Gould, I also want to mention another MAJOR transformation that they have been a apart of. Have you had a chance to drive by their new homestead? It is located just to the south of the baseball fields in town. Originally, their house was set up many miles north of town. Driving back and forth every day was too cumbersome for the family. John and Liz both have thriving businesses in town plus their children are now in school. Along with school, other activities crop up quickly. It just made much more sense to move the home that they loved so dearly into Leoti. Over a year ago, their house made it's trek into town. It came to rest on some lots that they had previously purchased. The prior owners had planted some beautiful evergreen trees on the property. In addition to adding beauty, they also allowed for much protection from the north winds. Since they have been here, a new and GORGEOUS lawn has been planted complete with more trees and a pond in the back yard. To say that it looks like a park is a definite understatement. Thank you, John and Liz, for going above and beyond to make Leoti a beautiful place in which to live!!! (Maybe you should start ANOTHER business--landscaping.)
A few blocks south of the Gould building is Western Hardware. The Oldham family, Lee, Loy and Scott, owned this business for many a year. When they decided that it was time to slow down abit and just enjoy retirement, Wichita County was very fortunate that Russ and Cathy (Marcy) Wiegers purchased the business and carried on. Through the last few years, MUCH work was done there both inside and outside. Everything just looks great! The Wiegers have also brought in additional items that no one in Leoti had ever sold before. It is amazing to walk in and see what all has been done on the inside. Last summer, people actually parked in front of their building just to watch the exterior renovation as it progressed. A new sign was put up, etc.
The couple also bought the Oldhams' lumber yard. Since then, they have really dolled up it's exterior. They even added some pleasant landscaping in front. About a month ago, I had occassion to go into the lumberyard. OH, MY GOODNESS!!! They still sell the same items but the building looks like it never has before! Check it out!!!
Awhile back, the Wiegers purchased the lots between them and the Leoti Standard office. Many years ago, the historic Johnson's Grocery Store and home stood on this land. Very recently, a contractor came in, leveled out the ground and then poured a fairly large piece of concrete. I am ASSUMING that this concrete will hold the store's large array of rock, fertilizer, potting soil, etc. Today, we noticed that they are starting to set up a very attractive metal fence. I would guess that it is probably 6 feet tall and will be set up across the entire front and rear of the new lots. It is black and has large even spaces between poles which allow passersby to see what is available there but at the same time, provides much-needed security. Its sad to say, but as economic conditions continue to sag, theft continues to rise.
After all of this work began, equipment pulled up at Dave and Jenet Gardners NAPA Auto Parts Store. Earlier this winter, a vehicle got away from it's driver and caused a window or two to be broken. Since then, the Gardners have really updated their store front. It has really captured a lot of positiive attention! The equipment was used to remove the Northside sign which had originally stretched from one side of the building to the other. I have not noticed any changes in the last week or so there but I am sure that it will probably resume at any time. I am GUESSING that a new sign will be hoisted to take it's rightful place.
Lastly, I really want all of our area business people who have stepped up to the plate and spent a great deal of money to make our Main Street and Broadway sparkle once again! When Cafe 96 opened its doors, people opened the building and discovered out-of-this-world artwork on the walls! Karen Walk and others had located historic Leoti photographs and enlarged them. Oh, mercy! Leoti has really changed! Did you know that at one time, parking was also available right smack dap in the middle of the east to west Broadway Street and north to south Main Street? Yeppers. Traffic continued to flow on both sides of the major streets. Something else that was recently noticed by some Leotians looking through antique photographs is that there was a tremendous amount of daily foot traffic on the walkways on both sides of our business center. Oh, wouldn't it just been grand to have that kind of commerce available in Leoti again??? I also heard something else the other morning that I find to be really intriguing. I would actually LOVE to see a rebirth of the practice. Once upon a time, people from all over the county, would come to the Main Street/Broadway area on Saturday afternoons and evenings. They would park their vehicles. Some people chose to get out of the cars to walk around while others preferred to remain seated. Why??? Saturday afternoon and evening was a major social gathering day for all. People just gathered downtown so that they could visit their friends, family, neighbors, etc and get caught up on what was going on with everyone. This practice continued until the early 1960s. I imagine that the death of this ritual can be blamed on the popularity of the boob tube--television. It is too sad. I imagine that people enjoyed a much tighter relationship with one another...
Well, by now, you are probably snoozing so I should close.
VLE-B
Cortlandt Ingram
Just a reminder that the PRESLEY SHOW will be airing tomorrow, Saturday, March 26th, from 6:30-7:00 CST, on RFDTV which, in Leoti, is on channel 120. The special guest on the show this week will be the current CMA (County Music Association) instrumentalist of the year, Buck Trent.
Cortlandt Ingram, formerly of Tribune, is an absolutely amazing fiddle player on the show. Last week, the camera spent alot of time focused on him. He is just a wonderful showman!
His parents are Eddie Ingram of Tribune and Beverly Case-Wenger of Colorado. His grandparents include Dwain and Theoma Ingram of Tribune and the late Cloris Case of Leoti. Vic, Deb and Dwight Case of Leoti are his uncles and aunt. Dale and Lesa Nolan of Tribune are his paternal uncle and aunt.
Don't forget to set your DVR (digital video recorder) or Tivo to record this wonderful show which includes music and comedy that is totally fit for the entire family.
If you live in Western Kansas and subscribe to Pioneer Cable Communications, you can rent a DVR from them for around $10.00 a month. Then you can set any shows, cartoons, movies, sporting events, etc to be recorded whether or not you are at home when the show(s) was/were recorded. Then you can watch the performance whenever you have time! Two shows can be recorded at a time.
Enjoy!!!
VLE-B
Cortlandt Ingram, formerly of Tribune, is an absolutely amazing fiddle player on the show. Last week, the camera spent alot of time focused on him. He is just a wonderful showman!
His parents are Eddie Ingram of Tribune and Beverly Case-Wenger of Colorado. His grandparents include Dwain and Theoma Ingram of Tribune and the late Cloris Case of Leoti. Vic, Deb and Dwight Case of Leoti are his uncles and aunt. Dale and Lesa Nolan of Tribune are his paternal uncle and aunt.
Don't forget to set your DVR (digital video recorder) or Tivo to record this wonderful show which includes music and comedy that is totally fit for the entire family.
If you live in Western Kansas and subscribe to Pioneer Cable Communications, you can rent a DVR from them for around $10.00 a month. Then you can set any shows, cartoons, movies, sporting events, etc to be recorded whether or not you are at home when the show(s) was/were recorded. Then you can watch the performance whenever you have time! Two shows can be recorded at a time.
Enjoy!!!
VLE-B
Ann Kathleen Schumacher--Leoti
Ann Schumacher, 44, was born on February 4th of 1966 in Kansas City and passed away at her home on March 23, 2010.
She is survived by her mother, Kay Perry, and her father, Robert Perry and wife, Judy, of Kansas City, Mo., her children, Megan, Miranda and Matthew of Leoti, her sister, Lisa and brother-in-law, Dave Drum, two nephews, her loving friend, Eric Hoeme of Leoti, many uncles, aunts and cousins around the country.
Ann was a Leoti resident since 1989 after she received her bachelors degree in social work from KSU. In 1991, she received her masters degree from Denver. She was a licensed clinical social worker in the Scott City office of the department of Area Mental Health. Ann was also a member of the United Methodist Church in Leoti where she was a leader of God Squad, a youth organization that reaches out to any and all children from kindergarten through 5th grade in Wichita County.
Her funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., cst on Tuesday, March 30th, at the United Methodist Church in Leoti. Reverends Mike Howard and Rick Just will be officiating.
Private graveside services will be held later at Evergreen Cemetery in Red Oak, Iowa.
Friends may call from 1-8:00 on Sunday and from 10-8:00 on Monday with the family in attendance from 5-6:00 at Price and Sons Funeral Home in Leoti.
Memorials may be given to the Schumacher Children's Education Fund in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home of Leoti.
E-condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.priceandsons.com
Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.
VLE-B
She is survived by her mother, Kay Perry, and her father, Robert Perry and wife, Judy, of Kansas City, Mo., her children, Megan, Miranda and Matthew of Leoti, her sister, Lisa and brother-in-law, Dave Drum, two nephews, her loving friend, Eric Hoeme of Leoti, many uncles, aunts and cousins around the country.
Ann was a Leoti resident since 1989 after she received her bachelors degree in social work from KSU. In 1991, she received her masters degree from Denver. She was a licensed clinical social worker in the Scott City office of the department of Area Mental Health. Ann was also a member of the United Methodist Church in Leoti where she was a leader of God Squad, a youth organization that reaches out to any and all children from kindergarten through 5th grade in Wichita County.
Her funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., cst on Tuesday, March 30th, at the United Methodist Church in Leoti. Reverends Mike Howard and Rick Just will be officiating.
Private graveside services will be held later at Evergreen Cemetery in Red Oak, Iowa.
Friends may call from 1-8:00 on Sunday and from 10-8:00 on Monday with the family in attendance from 5-6:00 at Price and Sons Funeral Home in Leoti.
Memorials may be given to the Schumacher Children's Education Fund in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home of Leoti.
E-condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.priceandsons.com
Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.
VLE-B
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Good and bad news...
Dr. Robert Moser of Tribune just announced that he is leaving his practice in Tribune to start a new career in the Kansas University School of Medicine. He will be located in Wichita, Kansas.
With that news comes a wide array of emotions. Dr. Moser has just been an amazing doctor who we could always trust and believe in. He was Daddy's doctor for the entire four years of his struggle with cancer. Daddy trusted no one like he did Dr. Moser.
Many, MANY people in Western Kansas have thoroughly loved this man as both a physician and as a person. He will be GREATLY missed here...
I cannot think of anyone any better to go to work with KU Medicine. He is indeed a jewel.
VLE-B
With that news comes a wide array of emotions. Dr. Moser has just been an amazing doctor who we could always trust and believe in. He was Daddy's doctor for the entire four years of his struggle with cancer. Daddy trusted no one like he did Dr. Moser.
Many, MANY people in Western Kansas have thoroughly loved this man as both a physician and as a person. He will be GREATLY missed here...
I cannot think of anyone any better to go to work with KU Medicine. He is indeed a jewel.
VLE-B
Della Mae Lunn--Scott City
Della Mae Lunn, 83, passed away at the Scott County Hospital on Wednesday, March 24th. She was born on Sepember 26th. Mrs. Lunn was a homemaker.
She was a member of Edgewater, Colorado's United Methodist Church and the Indian Tree Golf Club in Arvada, Colorado.
On December 12th, 1944, she married James Lunn in Edgewater. He died on August 8th, 1987.
Survivors include two sons--Ted of Aurora, Colorado; and Jay of Scott City. She also had one daughter, Sherry Crowell, of Portage, Michigan. There are also four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Memorial services will not be held until Friday, May 21st, at the United Methodist Church in Scott City at 11:00. There will be no visitation.
Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.
VLE-B
She was a member of Edgewater, Colorado's United Methodist Church and the Indian Tree Golf Club in Arvada, Colorado.
On December 12th, 1944, she married James Lunn in Edgewater. He died on August 8th, 1987.
Survivors include two sons--Ted of Aurora, Colorado; and Jay of Scott City. She also had one daughter, Sherry Crowell, of Portage, Michigan. There are also four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Memorial services will not be held until Friday, May 21st, at the United Methodist Church in Scott City at 11:00. There will be no visitation.
Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.
VLE-B
Crockpot Ham and scalloped potatoes!!!
Few of us complain today of just having too much time in a 24-hour period. For the majority of us who feel that there just is NOT enough time to get everything done, it really helps to be able to throw a few things together of a morning and then toss them into a crockpot all day while we are busying ourselves with other details. Or, maybe you just want to be able to cook something on high that doesn't take several hours to cook. Either way, this recipe can be successful in both instances.
Regular recipe Double recipe
5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced or 10 medium potaotes
2 cups chopped ham or 4 cups of chopped ham
4 tablespoons butter or margarine or 8 tablespoons butter or margarine
3 tablespoons flour or 6 tablespoons flour
2-4 tablespoons of dried chopped onion (OPTIONAL) or you can use however much of the fresh onion that you want to. or 4-8 tablespoons
1 teaspoon salt or 2 teaspoons salt
1/2 -1 teaspoon black pepper 1-2 teaspoons black pepper
2 cups milk 4 cups of milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (You can also add extra cheese on top if you are interested.) 2 cups of shredded cheese
Place all potatoes in crockpot. Add the ham. Stir both of them together.
In a medium saucepot, melt the butter. Over medium heat, stir in flour, salt, onions (if using) and pepper. Stir as it thickens. When fairly thickened, add the 1 cup of cheese. Continue to thicken for just a few more minites.
Pour this mixture over ham and potatoes. If desired, garnish additional shredded cheddar cheese over everything.
Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 servings.
Now in our case, we have two growing girls so this recipe would probably not be enough so I double it. The crockpot that I use for this recipe is one of the large ones. Even with the doubled recipe, there is still about 4 or 5 inches worth of empty space at the top of the crockpot.
Enjoy!!!
VLE-B
Regular recipe Double recipe
5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced or 10 medium potaotes
2 cups chopped ham or 4 cups of chopped ham
4 tablespoons butter or margarine or 8 tablespoons butter or margarine
3 tablespoons flour or 6 tablespoons flour
2-4 tablespoons of dried chopped onion (OPTIONAL) or you can use however much of the fresh onion that you want to. or 4-8 tablespoons
1 teaspoon salt or 2 teaspoons salt
1/2 -1 teaspoon black pepper 1-2 teaspoons black pepper
2 cups milk 4 cups of milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (You can also add extra cheese on top if you are interested.) 2 cups of shredded cheese
Place all potatoes in crockpot. Add the ham. Stir both of them together.
In a medium saucepot, melt the butter. Over medium heat, stir in flour, salt, onions (if using) and pepper. Stir as it thickens. When fairly thickened, add the 1 cup of cheese. Continue to thicken for just a few more minites.
Pour this mixture over ham and potatoes. If desired, garnish additional shredded cheddar cheese over everything.
Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 servings.
Now in our case, we have two growing girls so this recipe would probably not be enough so I double it. The crockpot that I use for this recipe is one of the large ones. Even with the doubled recipe, there is still about 4 or 5 inches worth of empty space at the top of the crockpot.
Enjoy!!!
VLE-B
My observation...
I was running quite low on dishwasher detergent last Sunday when we went to Home Depot. As soon as we walked into the building, they had a large display set up of the latest Martha Stewart housekeeping chemicals. They are all made with natural ingredients and no fragrances to protect our world and it's inhabitants. Great idea! Right? Of course it is a wonderful idea that I believe we need to be taking advantage of whenever possible.
Well, so I bought that liquid detergent and their all-purpose cleaner. The detergent was about $10.00. I think that the spray cleaner was around $7 or 8.00. Brought them home and put them to work.
Unfortunately, we are very disappointed in the dishwasher detergent. I will not be using it anymore. The dishes came out NOT-clean. The ones that appeared to be clean had a nasty residue on them. For everyday use, we have those large square dinner and salad plates. They are dark brown and are very pretty--except for now. Our supposedly clear glasses are now heavily frosted. Yuk!!!
I know that it is not a result of our dishwasher itself. How do I know that? Well, our dishwasher is less than 6 months old plus I routinely use two super cleansers on the dishwasher to keep everything nice and clean. I had just uused it last Saturday. About every month or so, I fill the machine up with the hottest water possible plus I push the button on the super-hot water that is part of the machine. (Actually, I use that everyday.) The dishwasher is set for the longest cycle possible. As soon as the presoaker cycle is over and the dishwasher is filled with the new clean water, I add 1 cup of Lime Away to it. Lime Away cleans out the tubes, the bottom, the sides and the top of the interior unit which really makes a great difference! One thing that has really shocked me is all of the "HAIR" that the chemical pulls out of the propellers and leaves at the tips of them! I just reach in and pull it out. Easy!
Occassionaly, I purchase the chemical that is sold just for cleaning the dishwasher.
One important piece of information that you need here is to run either of these chemicals in an EMPTY machine!!! PLUS, never, ever mix these chemicals or anything else. The results can be extremely dangerous AND can possibly cause death.
As far as the all-purpose cleanser is concerned, it works fine. But when I read the ingredients on both of these items, I discovered that they consist of ordinary items usually found in homes. So my recommendation to you is to go online and see what you can find on homemade cleansers.
As far as we are concerned, we are going back to using our old faithfal Cascade!
VLE-B
Well, so I bought that liquid detergent and their all-purpose cleaner. The detergent was about $10.00. I think that the spray cleaner was around $7 or 8.00. Brought them home and put them to work.
Unfortunately, we are very disappointed in the dishwasher detergent. I will not be using it anymore. The dishes came out NOT-clean. The ones that appeared to be clean had a nasty residue on them. For everyday use, we have those large square dinner and salad plates. They are dark brown and are very pretty--except for now. Our supposedly clear glasses are now heavily frosted. Yuk!!!
I know that it is not a result of our dishwasher itself. How do I know that? Well, our dishwasher is less than 6 months old plus I routinely use two super cleansers on the dishwasher to keep everything nice and clean. I had just uused it last Saturday. About every month or so, I fill the machine up with the hottest water possible plus I push the button on the super-hot water that is part of the machine. (Actually, I use that everyday.) The dishwasher is set for the longest cycle possible. As soon as the presoaker cycle is over and the dishwasher is filled with the new clean water, I add 1 cup of Lime Away to it. Lime Away cleans out the tubes, the bottom, the sides and the top of the interior unit which really makes a great difference! One thing that has really shocked me is all of the "HAIR" that the chemical pulls out of the propellers and leaves at the tips of them! I just reach in and pull it out. Easy!
Occassionaly, I purchase the chemical that is sold just for cleaning the dishwasher.
One important piece of information that you need here is to run either of these chemicals in an EMPTY machine!!! PLUS, never, ever mix these chemicals or anything else. The results can be extremely dangerous AND can possibly cause death.
As far as the all-purpose cleanser is concerned, it works fine. But when I read the ingredients on both of these items, I discovered that they consist of ordinary items usually found in homes. So my recommendation to you is to go online and see what you can find on homemade cleansers.
As far as we are concerned, we are going back to using our old faithfal Cascade!
VLE-B
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Wichita County Schools
As you now, a murder took place in Leoti yesterday. The victim's children attend school in both , Leoti and Tribune. The victim was popular with many kids because she was a sponsor of God Squad which is a Christian based organization that meets at the Methodist Church every Wednesday. MANY kids throughout the community from kindergarten through fifth grade attend God Squad every week.
As I wrote last night, I was hoping that counseling would be available to kids today. I now know for sure that that is going to happen at least in grade school. A counseler will be available all day to guide the students through this. I am assuming that another counseler will be in the junior/senior high. Both schools are now integrated in the high school building as construction is underway to build new domes for the entire school district.
Children are having a very difficult time dealing with this issue. As parents, we must do our best to help our children get through this the absolute best that we can. Believe me, yesterday was a day that will be forever engraved in our children's minds and hearts. If you feel that you are unable to handle this or to give adequate support to them right now, you may want to call your child's school teacher or principal, Mrs. McKinney--375-2314 or Mr. Higgens--375-2213, or your minister or Area Mental Health in Scott City, 872-5338. Area children love and adore Kevin Larson at Christ Covenant Church. He is the only youth minister in Wichita County and he is totally AMAZING! Kevin is the leader of GAP in Leoti which is the Christian-based organization that welcomes kids from 6th through 12th grade every Wednesday evening. MANY people are going to be depending on him at this time. You DO NOT need to be a member of Christ Covenant Church to call on him! You can reach him at home, 375-2061 or at the church, 375-4228.
We need to be especially tuned in to local youth at this time. They went through another young man's suicide last Spring which took a major toll on them and now this.
Keep sending those much-needed and greatly answered prayers upwards!
In God we trust...
VLE-B
As I wrote last night, I was hoping that counseling would be available to kids today. I now know for sure that that is going to happen at least in grade school. A counseler will be available all day to guide the students through this. I am assuming that another counseler will be in the junior/senior high. Both schools are now integrated in the high school building as construction is underway to build new domes for the entire school district.
Children are having a very difficult time dealing with this issue. As parents, we must do our best to help our children get through this the absolute best that we can. Believe me, yesterday was a day that will be forever engraved in our children's minds and hearts. If you feel that you are unable to handle this or to give adequate support to them right now, you may want to call your child's school teacher or principal, Mrs. McKinney--375-2314 or Mr. Higgens--375-2213, or your minister or Area Mental Health in Scott City, 872-5338. Area children love and adore Kevin Larson at Christ Covenant Church. He is the only youth minister in Wichita County and he is totally AMAZING! Kevin is the leader of GAP in Leoti which is the Christian-based organization that welcomes kids from 6th through 12th grade every Wednesday evening. MANY people are going to be depending on him at this time. You DO NOT need to be a member of Christ Covenant Church to call on him! You can reach him at home, 375-2061 or at the church, 375-4228.
We need to be especially tuned in to local youth at this time. They went through another young man's suicide last Spring which took a major toll on them and now this.
Keep sending those much-needed and greatly answered prayers upwards!
In God we trust...
VLE-B
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
A numbing day in Wichita County
Without going in to many details, I need to clarify something here. Anyone who lives in Wichita County or has FACEBOOK with Leoti connections, knows that a dreadful murder took place in Leoti this morning at about 8:00. It is the first local murder since 2000.
Word traveled like wildfire through town. The involved people were very well liked and respected by local folk. Out of respect for the family concerned, I will not mention names here. I would beg of you to please remember this family in your prayers. When praying to God, it is not necessary to mention names to Him. He already knows who you are talking about.
I sincerely hope that our local school system will have counseling available for the students who just received this stunning news after school today. I do NOT know that anything like that is being planned. I just hope that it is. We have an incredible school superintendant, principals and teachers. I am sure that they will do the right thing, whatever it may be!
I have just heard from a 5th grader who contacted me about this matter. His/her heart is totally broken in many pieces. I spoke with him/her until it was time for me to get my little angels to bed. I gave her advice. I also told him/her that if he/she feels inclined to do so, he/she should talk to her trusted teachers about this tomorrow. This whole thing is too much for adults to handle and understand. Why would we expect our children to be able to do so? I advised him/her to go to God Squad or GAP tomorrow night. God Squad and GAP are Christian organizations that are held every Wednesday at the Methodist Church for kids from Kindergarten through 5th grade. Kids from 6th grade through Seniors meet at Christ Covenant. I am positive that the churches will be planning a major session to help these kids deal with all of this.
God bless!
VLE-B
Word traveled like wildfire through town. The involved people were very well liked and respected by local folk. Out of respect for the family concerned, I will not mention names here. I would beg of you to please remember this family in your prayers. When praying to God, it is not necessary to mention names to Him. He already knows who you are talking about.
I sincerely hope that our local school system will have counseling available for the students who just received this stunning news after school today. I do NOT know that anything like that is being planned. I just hope that it is. We have an incredible school superintendant, principals and teachers. I am sure that they will do the right thing, whatever it may be!
I have just heard from a 5th grader who contacted me about this matter. His/her heart is totally broken in many pieces. I spoke with him/her until it was time for me to get my little angels to bed. I gave her advice. I also told him/her that if he/she feels inclined to do so, he/she should talk to her trusted teachers about this tomorrow. This whole thing is too much for adults to handle and understand. Why would we expect our children to be able to do so? I advised him/her to go to God Squad or GAP tomorrow night. God Squad and GAP are Christian organizations that are held every Wednesday at the Methodist Church for kids from Kindergarten through 5th grade. Kids from 6th grade through Seniors meet at Christ Covenant. I am positive that the churches will be planning a major session to help these kids deal with all of this.
God bless!
VLE-B
Another great gardening tip!
A reader mentioned to me that they raised tomatoes and jalepeno peppers in 2 gallon buckets that they had drilled a 1" hole in the bottom (for drainage). Then they hung them on those shepherd hooks that you can buy at stores such as Wal-Mart, hardware stores, gardening stores, etc. Having the plants out of the ground would be easier to reach and should cut down if not eliminate weeding completely!
Thank you for the comment!
For others out there, I just LOVE hearing from you!!! Please send me your comments and advice on anything, PLEASE!
VLE-B
Thank you for the comment!
For others out there, I just LOVE hearing from you!!! Please send me your comments and advice on anything, PLEASE!
VLE-B
Monday, March 22, 2010
Need some help?
Spring has sprung! People are really enjoying being able to get out and work around in their yards, etc. People are oftimes too busy to do everything that they need and want to do. If that is your situation, please call Adam at 620-874-8216. He does an excellent job of landscaping and digging and setting up water ponds. He has pictures of ponds that he has put together that he is proud to show you.
He also does construction and concrete jobs. He cuts and/or removes unwanted or dead trees and bushes from property.
If you have something that needs to be done that I have not mentioned here, just give him a call and he will tell you whether he can do the task or not.
Adam lives in Scott City but does not mind traveling to get to jobs.
VLE-B
He also does construction and concrete jobs. He cuts and/or removes unwanted or dead trees and bushes from property.
If you have something that needs to be done that I have not mentioned here, just give him a call and he will tell you whether he can do the task or not.
Adam lives in Scott City but does not mind traveling to get to jobs.
VLE-B
Want-to-Buy
For the past couple of years, the WII game hit the public running. Shopping frenzies to buy one seemed to last and last. Now, it is difficult to find any of these games to buy ANYWHERE.
One such family is the Masons of Leoti. They have combed through all of the game stores, Wal-Mart, Pamida and Game Stop but haven't even been able to locate a used one for sale. I've been told that the company that produces WII games is cutting production so that their next frenzy-maker can hit the market.
If you have a WII that you would like to sell, please call the Masons at 620-375-2133. We purchased our WII a bit over a year ago. It is just great! It was designed to actually be a fun game to play that also works on your physical body. Seriously, people have lost inches and weight just by playing these amazing games which include such things as fishing, golf, racing cars, bike-riding, bowling, etc.
Please call them at 375-2133. If they are not at home, please leave a message for them.
Thank you!!!
VLE-B
One such family is the Masons of Leoti. They have combed through all of the game stores, Wal-Mart, Pamida and Game Stop but haven't even been able to locate a used one for sale. I've been told that the company that produces WII games is cutting production so that their next frenzy-maker can hit the market.
If you have a WII that you would like to sell, please call the Masons at 620-375-2133. We purchased our WII a bit over a year ago. It is just great! It was designed to actually be a fun game to play that also works on your physical body. Seriously, people have lost inches and weight just by playing these amazing games which include such things as fishing, golf, racing cars, bike-riding, bowling, etc.
Please call them at 375-2133. If they are not at home, please leave a message for them.
Thank you!!!
VLE-B
Did you know about this?
Last summer, I noticed that A LOT of people around this part of the country were purchasing those tomato plants that grew upside down from an apparatus that hung on chains, ropes, etc. It was great because holes did not need to be dug in dirt. There was no weeding involved. Basically, all that you did have to do was water them. People who I know who tried these out were very impressed with the tomatoes from this new concept in gardening! This was such a great idea for senior citizens and other busy people who didn't have much time to spend in gardening.
Over the weekend, we were at Home Depot in Garden City. In addition to the tomatoes, they are also selling strawberries and peppers that are grown the same way as the tomatoes.
Anyway, just thought that you might be interested in trying some of these...
VLE-B
Over the weekend, we were at Home Depot in Garden City. In addition to the tomatoes, they are also selling strawberries and peppers that are grown the same way as the tomatoes.
Anyway, just thought that you might be interested in trying some of these...
VLE-B
To-Give-Away
Our son and daughter-in-law have ONLY NINE adorable puppies that are ready to move on to their forever homes. The puppies are FREE! Adam and Mel will be more than happy to let you come to their Scott City home or will bring it/them to you in the Leoti area.
If you want more information, please call Adam at 620-874-8216.
Thank you!!!
VLE-B
If you want more information, please call Adam at 620-874-8216.
Thank you!!!
VLE-B
For Sale
Are you in need of some good used garage doors? If you are, please call Jeanette at 620-214-0386.
Thank you!
VLE-B
Thank you!
VLE-B
Interested in buying
Justin and Tammy Mason are interested in purchasing a used camper or pop-up. It does NOT need to be in great shape. If the price is right, they would be more than happy to do the necessary repairs, etc.
Please call them at 620-375-2133 or call Tammy at the school board office, 620-375-4677.
Thank you!
VLE-B
Please call them at 620-375-2133 or call Tammy at the school board office, 620-375-4677.
Thank you!
VLE-B
Want-to-Buy
Friends of ours, Justin and Tammy Mason, are interested in purchasing a used set of golf clubs. If you have a set that you want to sell, please call them at 620-375-2133 or call Tammy at her work number, 620-375-4677.
Thank you!
VLE-B
Thank you!
VLE-B
Sunday, March 21, 2010
If you hear loud screaming--COME QUICK!!!
Oh, mercy. Where do I begin?
Stan and I both are fully aware of the fact that we both need to lose a considerable amount of weight and to become as fit as we possibly can be at this time in our lives. Back in my younger days, I rode bikes a lot and really had not much of a problem with being overweight. After I grew up, I drove more and rode bikes less causing the food that I ate to stay fastened onto my stomach, hips, derriere, etc.
So this year, we decided that we should all buy new bikes so that we could ride together of an envening, etc. Today, we drove to Garden City, found and bought the bikes that we wanted. We absolutely had a lovely day! The weather was great but the company was even better! On our way home, we decided that before we unloaded the van of groceries, etc., we would pull the new bikes out and head out for wonderful new adventures that laid out in front of us...
My adventure didn't last for very long. As Daddy had promised me many-a-year ago, once you know how to ride a bike, the information of doing so is engraved in your brain for the rest of your lifetime. That's about all that went well for me today.
We live on gravel roads. Lately with all of the snow and rain that God has blessed us with so abundantly, so appear the many potholes. To maintain the roads, the City has brought in sand. As long as the sand is not too deep, bikes do just fine on it.
Well...hitting the deep holes in the road was just HORRIBLE for me to endure! Even worse were the large series of ruts that I found myself in regularly. Ouch! Ouch! OUCH!!! My bike did great! It stayed together. No tires went flying. Only one little portion of my bike proved to be problematic for little old me--the dog-gone seat!!! Oh, mercy me! My rear-end just engulfed the little tiny thing that was between my legs. From the pain that I felt every time I hit a stretch of road with the many bumps, holes, etc., I was convinced that that little black seat would never be seen again. Every time I pedalled the bike, my seat was pushed deeper towards my chest area.
With all of the pain that I was going through, I could not understand why anyone would even come close to wanting to ride a bicycle. I would ride a few feet, stop and let my butt recover just enough for me to re-mount and try to do it all over again. At one point, I got locked into a LLOONNGG and VERY deep truck rut. OH MY GOODNESS, I just know that every neighbor of ours heard me scream out in pain!!! As soon as I managed to dig myself out of it, I stopped pedalling. By this time, the rest of the family came to my rescue. I asked them all how their rear ends were feeling. They all told me that they felt just fine. Stan moved my seat upwards. Pain was still present. He moved it downwards. No difference. I was still in agony. Soon, we knew that there was only one thing that could fix my problem...I need a larger--much larger seat. I am thinking that I should be able to get by with a seat no larger than a tractor seat. Oh, and did I mention that I will need A LOT of cushioning? You'd think that with the overabundance of blubber that I own, there would be no need for any additional softness...WRONG!!!
So if you happen to own a tractor seat that you don't use anymore, could I please borrow it??? If I don't find a much larger and softer seat soon, my bike won't be racking up much mileage this year. But, PLEASE, if you hear someone screaming out in agony, COME OUT. iT JUST MIGHT BE ME!!! lol!!!
vle-b
Stan and I both are fully aware of the fact that we both need to lose a considerable amount of weight and to become as fit as we possibly can be at this time in our lives. Back in my younger days, I rode bikes a lot and really had not much of a problem with being overweight. After I grew up, I drove more and rode bikes less causing the food that I ate to stay fastened onto my stomach, hips, derriere, etc.
So this year, we decided that we should all buy new bikes so that we could ride together of an envening, etc. Today, we drove to Garden City, found and bought the bikes that we wanted. We absolutely had a lovely day! The weather was great but the company was even better! On our way home, we decided that before we unloaded the van of groceries, etc., we would pull the new bikes out and head out for wonderful new adventures that laid out in front of us...
My adventure didn't last for very long. As Daddy had promised me many-a-year ago, once you know how to ride a bike, the information of doing so is engraved in your brain for the rest of your lifetime. That's about all that went well for me today.
We live on gravel roads. Lately with all of the snow and rain that God has blessed us with so abundantly, so appear the many potholes. To maintain the roads, the City has brought in sand. As long as the sand is not too deep, bikes do just fine on it.
Well...hitting the deep holes in the road was just HORRIBLE for me to endure! Even worse were the large series of ruts that I found myself in regularly. Ouch! Ouch! OUCH!!! My bike did great! It stayed together. No tires went flying. Only one little portion of my bike proved to be problematic for little old me--the dog-gone seat!!! Oh, mercy me! My rear-end just engulfed the little tiny thing that was between my legs. From the pain that I felt every time I hit a stretch of road with the many bumps, holes, etc., I was convinced that that little black seat would never be seen again. Every time I pedalled the bike, my seat was pushed deeper towards my chest area.
With all of the pain that I was going through, I could not understand why anyone would even come close to wanting to ride a bicycle. I would ride a few feet, stop and let my butt recover just enough for me to re-mount and try to do it all over again. At one point, I got locked into a LLOONNGG and VERY deep truck rut. OH MY GOODNESS, I just know that every neighbor of ours heard me scream out in pain!!! As soon as I managed to dig myself out of it, I stopped pedalling. By this time, the rest of the family came to my rescue. I asked them all how their rear ends were feeling. They all told me that they felt just fine. Stan moved my seat upwards. Pain was still present. He moved it downwards. No difference. I was still in agony. Soon, we knew that there was only one thing that could fix my problem...I need a larger--much larger seat. I am thinking that I should be able to get by with a seat no larger than a tractor seat. Oh, and did I mention that I will need A LOT of cushioning? You'd think that with the overabundance of blubber that I own, there would be no need for any additional softness...WRONG!!!
So if you happen to own a tractor seat that you don't use anymore, could I please borrow it??? If I don't find a much larger and softer seat soon, my bike won't be racking up much mileage this year. But, PLEASE, if you hear someone screaming out in agony, COME OUT. iT JUST MIGHT BE ME!!! lol!!!
vle-b
A new project
Last night, I updated all of you on what all we have managed to complete. As of this morning, Stan has finished everything except for wiping on sealer which will just take a very few minutes and hooking up the other set of under cabinet lights on the second set of cabinets. Walla! He will be completely finished except for building the pots and pans cabinets which he is putting off until April. He definitely needs and deserves a break!!!
As for me, I still have to apply another layer of polyurethane to all of the cabinets. Plus, currently our kitchen and dining room are painted in a soft green which we have REALLY enjoyed. Originally, we thought that it would look great with the new tile. We were mistaken on that one. As soon as we started hanging the tile on the backsplashes, we began seeing A LOT of reds in it. Now, with it all hung, it is very easy to see that it does not coordinate at all with the new tile. So...today, we are going to Garden City to purchase the three bikess. While we are there, we are picking up a couple of gallons of a real soft golden yellow paint. Ordinarily, I love pairing greens and reds in the same room. Our dining room had the green walls and vivid red curtains. (They are opposite of each other on the color wheel which means that they highlight each other.) So what went wrong in this case? The reds in the tile are very dark and the green is very light so they just do not mix.
Years ago, when I began my love affair with paint, I started collecting the stores' paint chips so that I would have them on hand whenever we needed one or when our family and friends needed it. Stan is a MARVEL at choosing the perfect colors! As soon as he landed on this color, I was in total agreement with his choice!
Anyway, by tomorrow evening, all will be finished and put back together! What a wonderful feeling!!!
VLE-B
As for me, I still have to apply another layer of polyurethane to all of the cabinets. Plus, currently our kitchen and dining room are painted in a soft green which we have REALLY enjoyed. Originally, we thought that it would look great with the new tile. We were mistaken on that one. As soon as we started hanging the tile on the backsplashes, we began seeing A LOT of reds in it. Now, with it all hung, it is very easy to see that it does not coordinate at all with the new tile. So...today, we are going to Garden City to purchase the three bikess. While we are there, we are picking up a couple of gallons of a real soft golden yellow paint. Ordinarily, I love pairing greens and reds in the same room. Our dining room had the green walls and vivid red curtains. (They are opposite of each other on the color wheel which means that they highlight each other.) So what went wrong in this case? The reds in the tile are very dark and the green is very light so they just do not mix.
Years ago, when I began my love affair with paint, I started collecting the stores' paint chips so that I would have them on hand whenever we needed one or when our family and friends needed it. Stan is a MARVEL at choosing the perfect colors! As soon as he landed on this color, I was in total agreement with his choice!
Anyway, by tomorrow evening, all will be finished and put back together! What a wonderful feeling!!!
VLE-B
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Update on kitchen renovation
I am soooooooooo happy to report that our kitchen renovation is almost complete now! The last tiles have been laid, all kitchen cabinet doors are hung in place and the first of three coats of polyurethane has been completed on the cabinets.
The next step will be for me to finely sand this coat of poly before rolling the second coat on. Stan still has to do just a little more grouting on one of the backsplashes. He cannot do that until the adhesive on the last tiles laid is dryer--tomorrow morning.
He also hung the undercabinet lights on one of the countertops this afternoon. Hopefully, he will string the last set above the second counter this evening.
Once all is finished and the decor is just as we want it, we will take pictures and post them right here!
VLE-B
The next step will be for me to finely sand this coat of poly before rolling the second coat on. Stan still has to do just a little more grouting on one of the backsplashes. He cannot do that until the adhesive on the last tiles laid is dryer--tomorrow morning.
He also hung the undercabinet lights on one of the countertops this afternoon. Hopefully, he will string the last set above the second counter this evening.
Once all is finished and the decor is just as we want it, we will take pictures and post them right here!
VLE-B
Need some laughter in your life?
We just purchased a DVD of OLD DOGS starring John Travolta and Robin Williams. It is HILARIOUS, to say the very least. Makers of the hit movie, WILD HOGS, are responsible for this latest movie. To top everything, it is a Walt Disney movie which translates to being good for the whole family to watch!
Be prepared for long sequences of laughter!
VLE-B
Be prepared for long sequences of laughter!
VLE-B
Friday, March 19, 2010
Cortlandt Ingram
A friend of mine just sent this information to me. I could hardly wait to get it posted here!
Cortlandt Ingram, son of Eddie Ingram and Beverly Case-Wenger, can be seen on Channel 120, tomorrow, Saturday, March 20th, at 6:30 CST. He will be a regular performer on Branson's Presleys'Country Jubilee Show. For more information, please go through my blog. I wrote a previous posting about this awhile back.
Set your DVRs to record this and the future programs of this wonderfully popular group!
Cortlandt's grandparents include Dwain and Theoma Ingram of Tribune and the late Cloris Case of Leoti. Wichita County relatives include Vic and Deb Case and Dwight Case.
VLE-B
Cortlandt Ingram, son of Eddie Ingram and Beverly Case-Wenger, can be seen on Channel 120, tomorrow, Saturday, March 20th, at 6:30 CST. He will be a regular performer on Branson's Presleys'Country Jubilee Show. For more information, please go through my blog. I wrote a previous posting about this awhile back.
Set your DVRs to record this and the future programs of this wonderfully popular group!
Cortlandt's grandparents include Dwain and Theoma Ingram of Tribune and the late Cloris Case of Leoti. Wichita County relatives include Vic and Deb Case and Dwight Case.
VLE-B
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Feeling a little sluggish or downright plugged up???
No, I am not referring to your bowels. LOL! I am talking about your indoor plumbing. About 9 years ago, Stan completely gutted our main bathroom and installed a GLORIOUS soaking tub for us girls. It is just so luxurious! Water and bubbles just surround you so very nicely.
For most of those years, we have had a steady problem of a v--e--r--y slow drain. Since the tub holds more water than most bathtubs, it takes an extra long time to dump all of the water out of it. During the past week or two, the problem was worse than ever.
This morning, I told Stan that we needed to just break down and buy some drain cleaner. After lunch, we made our trip to Western Hardware to buy several other things so while we were there, I asked one of my favorites where the drain cleaners were located. He immediately pulled out a white plastic bottle that is wrapped in a clear plastic bag (for personal safety purposes). He told me that it is the best that he knows of. We paid just a bit over $10.00 for it and brought it home.
Stan poured 6 ounces of it into the bathtub. After it had been in the drain for the suggested amount of time, 4 minutes, he ran COLD water into the tub for several more minutes as suggested. The water drained better but was nothing to brag about so he decided to do it again. Shortly after the cleaner got into the drain, smoke appeared in the run-off attachment. As soon as the four minutes were up again, he once again ran the cold water through it for the alloted time. OH, MY GOODNESS!!! I cannot believe how quickly the water is draining out of the tub now. I DEFINITELY recommend it to you now!!!
Here is the information that you will need in order to purchase it for yourselves:
It is Mark 55 Heavy Duty Drain Cleaner for sinks, bathtubs, grease traps and floor drains. It eats through rags, paper, soap deposits, sanitary napkins, coffee grounds, food scraps, etc.
It is poisonous so PLEASE follow all of the directions and safety information.
VLE-B
For most of those years, we have had a steady problem of a v--e--r--y slow drain. Since the tub holds more water than most bathtubs, it takes an extra long time to dump all of the water out of it. During the past week or two, the problem was worse than ever.
This morning, I told Stan that we needed to just break down and buy some drain cleaner. After lunch, we made our trip to Western Hardware to buy several other things so while we were there, I asked one of my favorites where the drain cleaners were located. He immediately pulled out a white plastic bottle that is wrapped in a clear plastic bag (for personal safety purposes). He told me that it is the best that he knows of. We paid just a bit over $10.00 for it and brought it home.
Stan poured 6 ounces of it into the bathtub. After it had been in the drain for the suggested amount of time, 4 minutes, he ran COLD water into the tub for several more minutes as suggested. The water drained better but was nothing to brag about so he decided to do it again. Shortly after the cleaner got into the drain, smoke appeared in the run-off attachment. As soon as the four minutes were up again, he once again ran the cold water through it for the alloted time. OH, MY GOODNESS!!! I cannot believe how quickly the water is draining out of the tub now. I DEFINITELY recommend it to you now!!!
Here is the information that you will need in order to purchase it for yourselves:
It is Mark 55 Heavy Duty Drain Cleaner for sinks, bathtubs, grease traps and floor drains. It eats through rags, paper, soap deposits, sanitary napkins, coffee grounds, food scraps, etc.
It is poisonous so PLEASE follow all of the directions and safety information.
VLE-B
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Best EVER Apple Pie
This is by far, the absolute greatest apple pie we have ever eaten! I think that you might find it to be your greatest ever also. Give it a try! My mom makes the greatest and flakiest pie crust! Here is her recipe:
Pie Crust
2 cups flour (This is enough only for the bottom and sides of a 9" pie plate.)
1/4 tsp. salt
2/3 cup butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup ICE water
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 1 tablespoon of the ice water at a time until the mixture forms a ball.
Roll dough out on a floured surface to fit a 9" pie plate.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom and sides of the pie plate. Now your crust is ready for your filling. Do NOT bake until the fruit has been placed into the pie crust.
Apple Pie Mixture
6 large apples (use 2 or 3 different kinds of apples. That is what makes this so good!)
1/2 cup granulated (white) sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons flour
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon allspice
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, cut into bits
1 tablespoon grated lemon peel (optional)
1. Peel, core and thinly slice apples. Put into a bowl.
2. In a different bowl, combine sugars, flour and spices. Sprinkle 1/3rd of this mixture into the raw pie crust.
3. Toss apples with 1/2 of the remaining sugar mixture.
4. Mound apple mixture into crust.
5. Sprinkle this with the remaining sugar mixture and dot with butter bits.
A frozen pie crust can be used but using the homemade crust is better.
6. Cut 4 or 5 slits through the upper crust (made from another batch of the same pie crust recipe.)
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven or until crust is golden and apples are tender.
Let cool on a rack before slicing.
Enjoy!!!
VLE-B
Pie Crust
2 cups flour (This is enough only for the bottom and sides of a 9" pie plate.)
1/4 tsp. salt
2/3 cup butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup ICE water
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 1 tablespoon of the ice water at a time until the mixture forms a ball.
Roll dough out on a floured surface to fit a 9" pie plate.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom and sides of the pie plate. Now your crust is ready for your filling. Do NOT bake until the fruit has been placed into the pie crust.
Apple Pie Mixture
6 large apples (use 2 or 3 different kinds of apples. That is what makes this so good!)
1/2 cup granulated (white) sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons flour
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon allspice
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, cut into bits
1 tablespoon grated lemon peel (optional)
1. Peel, core and thinly slice apples. Put into a bowl.
2. In a different bowl, combine sugars, flour and spices. Sprinkle 1/3rd of this mixture into the raw pie crust.
3. Toss apples with 1/2 of the remaining sugar mixture.
4. Mound apple mixture into crust.
5. Sprinkle this with the remaining sugar mixture and dot with butter bits.
A frozen pie crust can be used but using the homemade crust is better.
6. Cut 4 or 5 slits through the upper crust (made from another batch of the same pie crust recipe.)
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven or until crust is golden and apples are tender.
Let cool on a rack before slicing.
Enjoy!!!
VLE-B
Feel like easy Mexican today???
Our daughter, Leighlyn, LOVES chili rellenos! Problem is that I am not much of an authentic Mexican cook. Tacos, enchiladas and chili is about as authentic as I get. Here's a great recipe that is easy and the results are DELICIOUS!
Chili Relleno Puff
2-- 7 ounce cans whole green chilies
8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
8 ounces shredded Cheddar Cheese
6 eggs
1 tablespoon flour
1 small can of evaporated milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a square baking pan.
1. Beat eggs, milk, flour, baking powder and garlic salt.
2. Pour less than 1/4 of this into the baking pan.
3. Layer the chilis into this batter in pan.
4. Cover this with 1/2 of the cheeses
5. Pour the rest of the batter onto the chilis.
6. Top with the remainder of cheese.
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
Serves 4.
VLE-B
Chili Relleno Puff
2-- 7 ounce cans whole green chilies
8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
8 ounces shredded Cheddar Cheese
6 eggs
1 tablespoon flour
1 small can of evaporated milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a square baking pan.
1. Beat eggs, milk, flour, baking powder and garlic salt.
2. Pour less than 1/4 of this into the baking pan.
3. Layer the chilis into this batter in pan.
4. Cover this with 1/2 of the cheeses
5. Pour the rest of the batter onto the chilis.
6. Top with the remainder of cheese.
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
Serves 4.
VLE-B
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Tribune--Movie--of--the--Weekend
This weekend's movie is AVATAR. It will be played in Tribune again by popular demand. It will be playing at 7:00 CST on Saturday and Sunday, March 20th and 21st.
The following weekend, March 27th and 28th, PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS: THE LIGHTENING THIEF will be debuting at the Star Theatre in Tribune at 7:00 CST each evening. This movie is classified as Children's Fantasy/Mythological Fantasy/Fantasy. It is rated PG because of action violence, some scary images, peril, mild language and suggestive material. Cast includes Logan Lennan, Brandan T. Jackson, Pierce Brosnan, etc.
Synopsis: Trouble-prone teen, Percy Jackson, is about to be kicked out of school--but thats the least of his problems. The gods of Mount Olympus and assorted monsters seem to have walked out of the pages of Percy's Greek mythology texts and into his life...
Tickets cost $5.00 for people 12 and over. Everyone else pays $4.00. Refreshments are also priced very fairly.
VLE-B
The following weekend, March 27th and 28th, PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS: THE LIGHTENING THIEF will be debuting at the Star Theatre in Tribune at 7:00 CST each evening. This movie is classified as Children's Fantasy/Mythological Fantasy/Fantasy. It is rated PG because of action violence, some scary images, peril, mild language and suggestive material. Cast includes Logan Lennan, Brandan T. Jackson, Pierce Brosnan, etc.
Synopsis: Trouble-prone teen, Percy Jackson, is about to be kicked out of school--but thats the least of his problems. The gods of Mount Olympus and assorted monsters seem to have walked out of the pages of Percy's Greek mythology texts and into his life...
Tickets cost $5.00 for people 12 and over. Everyone else pays $4.00. Refreshments are also priced very fairly.
VLE-B
Work continues at quicker pace
Since last week, we have really picked up momentum on our kitchen! Two countertops are now tiled and grouted. The kitchen sink and the dishwasher are now reconnected and working well! Stan connected our new faucet last night. It is just totally unbelievable! Never before, have I seen a faucet as a work of art until this one came along.
Tonight, we laid the bullnose tile on the finished countertops. Stan's vacation began tonight. Since then, he cut tile until it became too dark to do it safely. (Our wet saw is on the back deck.) He was able to lay out the tile on the last countertop.
Tomorrow, we plan on laying it permanently and getting a start on the electrical outlets before we place the backsplash. At this time, it looks like we should finish before the weekend! Ah, that sounds so wonderful!!! Soon, our house will be back in order and we will be able to cook in our kitchen.
VLE-B
Tonight, we laid the bullnose tile on the finished countertops. Stan's vacation began tonight. Since then, he cut tile until it became too dark to do it safely. (Our wet saw is on the back deck.) He was able to lay out the tile on the last countertop.
Tomorrow, we plan on laying it permanently and getting a start on the electrical outlets before we place the backsplash. At this time, it looks like we should finish before the weekend! Ah, that sounds so wonderful!!! Soon, our house will be back in order and we will be able to cook in our kitchen.
VLE-B
Lost!!!
Last night, our much loved pomerainian disappeared. She is small, orange and answers to the name of "Angel". If you happen to find her, please call us at 375-4584 or 376-8922. She actually belongs to Abigayle and she is just heartbroken.
Thank you sooooooo very much!!!
VLE-B
Thank you sooooooo very much!!!
VLE-B
Monday, March 15, 2010
Bit of advice
If you are like many others, you believe automatically that Home Depot ALWAYS charges less money for their products than our local hardware and lumber stores. Through the years, I have discovered that that is a faulty conclusion to make. For instance, yesterday, we ran out of ceramic tile adhesive that we needed for the last counter. We could have driven to HD in Garden City, paid the $16.00 for the same adhesive in the same amount PLUS we would have had to pay for our gasoline and any other items along the way. Instead, today, we went to Western Hardware here in Leoti, bought the same amount, same brand, etc for $12.00. Just the purchase of the adhesive here was $4.00 less.
So, do yourself a favor and check out your local hardware first. Plus, Daddy always said this. If we go out of town to purchase necessary groceries, etc., our local businesses will have to close down and soon, we will be driving to Garden City just to buy a gallon of milk and a loaf of bread. Wise words to remember the next time you consider buying non-locally.
VLE-B
So, do yourself a favor and check out your local hardware first. Plus, Daddy always said this. If we go out of town to purchase necessary groceries, etc., our local businesses will have to close down and soon, we will be driving to Garden City just to buy a gallon of milk and a loaf of bread. Wise words to remember the next time you consider buying non-locally.
VLE-B
Coyotes
Yesterday, I reported here that I was worried about all of the dead coyotes, seven that we saw, just between Leoti and Scott City which is a 24-mile long distance. I asked for people to help me learn more about this subject. One of you told me that he/she understands that local coyotes are being plagued by mange. I did some research to learn more about this subject. I am passing my findings on to you. I still would like to know why and who is shooting these animals. Mange is not a disease that just causes it's victims to drop dead next to the roads. I am ASSUMING that they MIGHT be getting shot to relieve them of their condition. According to my research, this is NOT necessary!!! Read more:
Mange is caused by mites on the animal's body. It can effect dogs, cats, COYOTES, foxes, wolves, etc. When the number of the mites inhabiting the hair follicles and skin of the animal becomes exorbitant, it can lead to skin lesions, genetic disorders, problems with the immune system and hair loss. The severity of symptoms depend on the type of the mite inhabiting the animal.
If the mange is just in some places of the animal,localized, the problems will be healed naturally. That happens in 90% of the cases! For severe cases, generalized, the mange is located basically everywhere on the body. long-term medications may be necessary. That would include lime-sulphur dips. Of course, that is something that tame animals such as dogs and cats could have. I doubt that anyone would dare to try that with a wild animal unless it was already living in a tame admosphere such as in a zoo, etc.
Of course, the healthier the animal, the better the results will be. During mange outbreaks in the animal, breeding should not be allowed to take place as the mange is likely to be passed to offspring.
From what I am understanding about this description, no animal should need to be destroyed unless it is a VERY severe case. Sooo, if someone is shooting them because they think that that is the humane thing to do, they need to be informed of this. Unfortunately, my gut is telling me that mange has nothing to do with why they are being shot. I don't know if area coyotes are being suspected in a large number of killings of domesticated animals such as cows, horses, chickens, dogs, etc or just what. I sincerely hope that they are not being slaughtered in the name of sports, especially that close to road traffic.
VLE-B
Mange is caused by mites on the animal's body. It can effect dogs, cats, COYOTES, foxes, wolves, etc. When the number of the mites inhabiting the hair follicles and skin of the animal becomes exorbitant, it can lead to skin lesions, genetic disorders, problems with the immune system and hair loss. The severity of symptoms depend on the type of the mite inhabiting the animal.
If the mange is just in some places of the animal,localized, the problems will be healed naturally. That happens in 90% of the cases! For severe cases, generalized, the mange is located basically everywhere on the body. long-term medications may be necessary. That would include lime-sulphur dips. Of course, that is something that tame animals such as dogs and cats could have. I doubt that anyone would dare to try that with a wild animal unless it was already living in a tame admosphere such as in a zoo, etc.
Of course, the healthier the animal, the better the results will be. During mange outbreaks in the animal, breeding should not be allowed to take place as the mange is likely to be passed to offspring.
From what I am understanding about this description, no animal should need to be destroyed unless it is a VERY severe case. Sooo, if someone is shooting them because they think that that is the humane thing to do, they need to be informed of this. Unfortunately, my gut is telling me that mange has nothing to do with why they are being shot. I don't know if area coyotes are being suspected in a large number of killings of domesticated animals such as cows, horses, chickens, dogs, etc or just what. I sincerely hope that they are not being slaughtered in the name of sports, especially that close to road traffic.
VLE-B
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Prayers requested
Wichita County missionairies just left home late last week to go to Mexico. As many of us already now, violence was reported in Mexico and several Americans were murdered in cold blood. President Obama has ordered American dignitaries to return to the U.S. IMMEDIATELY. Please keep our friends in your prayers. Kevin and Jill Larson, youth pastor and his wife of Christ Covenant Church are part of the missionary group.
Thank you!!!!!!!!!!
VLE-B
Thank you!!!!!!!!!!
VLE-B
Additional kitchen progress at the Blaus house
Well, today, we have managed to make quite abit of progress with our kitchen renovation! It really feels good!!!
Stan and I stayed up into the early hours of morning. We busied ourselves with leveling out the counters, removing the sink and faucet.
When I awakened early this morning, Stan was already up and going at it! Of course, I jumped up to help him. Well...um...maybe JUMPED is a little too much for me. LOL! I kinda lifted myself up slowly, let the blood get to everywhere it needed to be and THEN I got up.
Today's highlights included cutting and laying all of the tile on two countertops. Then...we ran out of the much-needed adhesive! Stan actually "buttered" everything thicker than he needed to. Oh, well, this way our tiles should stay in place. They better anyway! LOL! I am so proud of Stan! With all of the tiles that he cut, he never made any mistakes which would equal ruined tiles.
While Stan was doing all of this, the girls and I managed to "melt" the last of the old Formica off of the last countertop. We used a heat gun to help us. It helped a lot! It was definitely a good feeling when we saw the last of that!!!
I would love to be able to say that we also got everything grouted and the new faucet, dishsoap and lotion pumps installed, however, we just learned that this particular adhesive needs to set up for a minimum of 24 hours before grouting can be done. So, we should be able to grout and seal tomorrow evening. After which, we can reconnect the sink and water to the kitchen. Right now, our refrigerator is all that is connected to the water line so we have really great filtered water and ice! Unfortunately, until the sink is reconnected, the dishwasher is useless to us. In other words, cooking a meal in our home is practically un-do-able.
Oh, well, soon everything will be completed and we will be living in a more beautiful and better organized kitchen than ever!
As soon as all is finished, I will be posting pictures here for all to see!
Have a great week!
VLE-B
Stan and I stayed up into the early hours of morning. We busied ourselves with leveling out the counters, removing the sink and faucet.
When I awakened early this morning, Stan was already up and going at it! Of course, I jumped up to help him. Well...um...maybe JUMPED is a little too much for me. LOL! I kinda lifted myself up slowly, let the blood get to everywhere it needed to be and THEN I got up.
Today's highlights included cutting and laying all of the tile on two countertops. Then...we ran out of the much-needed adhesive! Stan actually "buttered" everything thicker than he needed to. Oh, well, this way our tiles should stay in place. They better anyway! LOL! I am so proud of Stan! With all of the tiles that he cut, he never made any mistakes which would equal ruined tiles.
While Stan was doing all of this, the girls and I managed to "melt" the last of the old Formica off of the last countertop. We used a heat gun to help us. It helped a lot! It was definitely a good feeling when we saw the last of that!!!
I would love to be able to say that we also got everything grouted and the new faucet, dishsoap and lotion pumps installed, however, we just learned that this particular adhesive needs to set up for a minimum of 24 hours before grouting can be done. So, we should be able to grout and seal tomorrow evening. After which, we can reconnect the sink and water to the kitchen. Right now, our refrigerator is all that is connected to the water line so we have really great filtered water and ice! Unfortunately, until the sink is reconnected, the dishwasher is useless to us. In other words, cooking a meal in our home is practically un-do-able.
Oh, well, soon everything will be completed and we will be living in a more beautiful and better organized kitchen than ever!
As soon as all is finished, I will be posting pictures here for all to see!
Have a great week!
VLE-B
Troublesome issue
Last weekend, we noticed that there were two dead coyotes right together just west of Scott City. A bit further west, there was another one. Of course, I just assumed that the lone wolf was hit by a vehicle. I am not so sure of that right now. Last week, I spoke about the dead coyotes with a man from Scott City. He told me that he suspected that the two that were together were probably shot. He couldn't say anything about the single one.
Today, the girls and I had to run over to Scott City again to pick up some stuff that we needed. This time, we counted SEVEN (7) dead coyotes. Four of them were in the same field just to the south of the highway. I seriously have my doubts that they were all struck by vehicles.
Does anyone have any ideas about why these animals are being slaughtered like that? Of course, I am well-aware of the fact that coyotes are wild animals, not pets. They eat chickens, rabbits, rodents, baby animals, etc. Have they gotten to the population level where they need to be "weeded" out? As far as I know, they have not.
When I was still a youngster, Daddy hunted coyotes with his greyhounds. He did it in times when there were too many around here. After the dogs had killed them, he picked up the carcass, brought it home, hung it up and skinned it to be sold for coats, etc. He definitely did not leave it in some farmer's field for the farmer to deal with.
I really do want you to comment on this so that I know why this is being done.
VLE-B
Today, the girls and I had to run over to Scott City again to pick up some stuff that we needed. This time, we counted SEVEN (7) dead coyotes. Four of them were in the same field just to the south of the highway. I seriously have my doubts that they were all struck by vehicles.
Does anyone have any ideas about why these animals are being slaughtered like that? Of course, I am well-aware of the fact that coyotes are wild animals, not pets. They eat chickens, rabbits, rodents, baby animals, etc. Have they gotten to the population level where they need to be "weeded" out? As far as I know, they have not.
When I was still a youngster, Daddy hunted coyotes with his greyhounds. He did it in times when there were too many around here. After the dogs had killed them, he picked up the carcass, brought it home, hung it up and skinned it to be sold for coats, etc. He definitely did not leave it in some farmer's field for the farmer to deal with.
I really do want you to comment on this so that I know why this is being done.
VLE-B
We're recruiting!!!
Well, work is well underway again in the Blau kitchen. Problem is that I am the supposed partner in this operation. Hmmm...that is a bad thing for Stan. Seems Daddy's carpentry skills didn't pass on to me through blood.
Stan was trying to level one of our counters tonight so that he can start tiling it. He gave me the instructions to tell him when the little bubble moved to the center. I kept telling him it is not there yet. It is not there yet. You get the point.
In exasperation,(spelling) he pulled himself out from underneath the counter to take a look. Hmmm...it seems that he was talking about a different bubble in the level than the one I was looking at. To say that he was a bit disgusted with me, is definitely an understatement. LOL!!!
I feel so sorry for Stan! Sometimes the elevator just misses a few floors to get to the top. LOL!!!
If you have experience in reading levels, you may want to apply for the carpenter's assistant position. Doesn't pay much but you'll get free meals. LOL!!!
VLE-B
Stan was trying to level one of our counters tonight so that he can start tiling it. He gave me the instructions to tell him when the little bubble moved to the center. I kept telling him it is not there yet. It is not there yet. You get the point.
In exasperation,(spelling) he pulled himself out from underneath the counter to take a look. Hmmm...it seems that he was talking about a different bubble in the level than the one I was looking at. To say that he was a bit disgusted with me, is definitely an understatement. LOL!!!
I feel so sorry for Stan! Sometimes the elevator just misses a few floors to get to the top. LOL!!!
If you have experience in reading levels, you may want to apply for the carpenter's assistant position. Doesn't pay much but you'll get free meals. LOL!!!
VLE-B
Saturday, March 13, 2010
I need to complain--just a leetle bit...
At 5:15 p.m., it is still 55 degrees outside. It is a bright sunny day with just a nice breeze. In other words, it is simply a beautiful day!
It just seemed ridiculous to spend a day like this, indoors. Stan was having to work but the girls and I decided that we needed some fresh air and sunshine so we decided to work in the yard.
Keep in mind, that the last time that I had been able to do much work in the yard was last Fall. Since then, winds have blown and snimals have brought all kinds of trash into our little piece of the world. That is why I need to sound off. I don't know how many paper towels, pieces of toilet paper, paper plates, styrofoam cups, beer cans, pop and water bottles, cigarette packages, foil and plastic bags we picked up. Evidentally, our neighborhood keeps Dollar General alive and well in Leoti! I cannot tell you how much I DETEST their yellow bags!!! I yanked them out from under our hedge, in our lilac bushes, on our patio, in our pond... That was just the GOOD stuff! I haven't even told you about the poopy diapers, sanitary napkins and used tampons and tampon applicators we found! Of course, I absolutely refuse to let my daughters pick up anything like that. I do it. Then, of course, we had a nice array of animal parts around the area.
Why is it that my family and I are able to get ALL of our trash, wonderful or not, into the trash dumpsters so that no one has to look at it again except for the City trashmen and the County junkyard personnel??? It really ticks me off that others cannot do that as well. I took the liberty of calling City Hall a couple of months ago to complain about all of the animal bones, jaws with teeth still attached, spinal columns, ribs, leg bones, SKULLS that we find regularly in our yard. Their response? Well, there is not anything that they can do about it. I did not expect them to send people over to clean them out of our yard. I just wanted to know if they could make it clear to people who live within the city limits, that butchering any kind of animals in town is illegal. I later learned that my complaint became the fabric for much laughter in their office. They also advised me to drive around the neighborhood and make sure that I had my camera with me at all times so that I could FILM neighbors in the act of killing or cutting up animals. Yeah, right. Can't you just see me out there in the middle of the street, camera in hand, taking pictures of the activities??? I can definitely tell you that I did NOT appreciate my problem being turned into the town joke!!!
Those bones did not just fly and land in our yard. They were brought here by neighborhood dogs including one of our own. I am happy to say that as of today, our dogs' pen is FIXED again!!! There should be no reason now for any of our dogs to be roaming the streets of Leoti.
Yesterday, I received a non-expected phone call that resulted in a heated exchange of words. A neighbor of ours called me and yelled at me because two of our dogs had "fought" with her 2 dogs. After the phone call, I went out to seek more information on the fight. Come to find out, there were two eye witnesses. Our little pomerainian was in her own yard when the neighbor's two dogs came over and rolled her. Our dog who is a terrier cross intervened. He managed to chase the other two dogs back into the street. Neither of our dogs even came close to biting the other two dogs.
I take full responsibility for our dogs not being in the house or in the fenced in backyard. If they had not been in the front yard, there would have been no problem.
Now, the neighbors who made the phone call have a real problem with just bagging up their household trash and putting it out on the front porch. This is a daily activity for them. Then, along come all of the area dogs, cats, raccoons and possoms to scatter it around the neighborhood. (Yes, we do have raccoons and possoms in our neighborhood. Last summer, I accidentally left a window in our Buick open one night. The next morning, I went to the car and found the headliner destroyed. Fortunately, the rest of the upholstery was undamaged. The evidence that the police and body people produced proved to be either a possum or raccoom had done it because of the distance between the fingernail of the culprit. Originally, I had thought that a person had shredded our headliner. I was glad to hear that it was a wild animal. LOL!!!)
Anyway, thanks for letting me cry on your shoulder again!
Have a great weekend!!!
VLE-B
It just seemed ridiculous to spend a day like this, indoors. Stan was having to work but the girls and I decided that we needed some fresh air and sunshine so we decided to work in the yard.
Keep in mind, that the last time that I had been able to do much work in the yard was last Fall. Since then, winds have blown and snimals have brought all kinds of trash into our little piece of the world. That is why I need to sound off. I don't know how many paper towels, pieces of toilet paper, paper plates, styrofoam cups, beer cans, pop and water bottles, cigarette packages, foil and plastic bags we picked up. Evidentally, our neighborhood keeps Dollar General alive and well in Leoti! I cannot tell you how much I DETEST their yellow bags!!! I yanked them out from under our hedge, in our lilac bushes, on our patio, in our pond... That was just the GOOD stuff! I haven't even told you about the poopy diapers, sanitary napkins and used tampons and tampon applicators we found! Of course, I absolutely refuse to let my daughters pick up anything like that. I do it. Then, of course, we had a nice array of animal parts around the area.
Why is it that my family and I are able to get ALL of our trash, wonderful or not, into the trash dumpsters so that no one has to look at it again except for the City trashmen and the County junkyard personnel??? It really ticks me off that others cannot do that as well. I took the liberty of calling City Hall a couple of months ago to complain about all of the animal bones, jaws with teeth still attached, spinal columns, ribs, leg bones, SKULLS that we find regularly in our yard. Their response? Well, there is not anything that they can do about it. I did not expect them to send people over to clean them out of our yard. I just wanted to know if they could make it clear to people who live within the city limits, that butchering any kind of animals in town is illegal. I later learned that my complaint became the fabric for much laughter in their office. They also advised me to drive around the neighborhood and make sure that I had my camera with me at all times so that I could FILM neighbors in the act of killing or cutting up animals. Yeah, right. Can't you just see me out there in the middle of the street, camera in hand, taking pictures of the activities??? I can definitely tell you that I did NOT appreciate my problem being turned into the town joke!!!
Those bones did not just fly and land in our yard. They were brought here by neighborhood dogs including one of our own. I am happy to say that as of today, our dogs' pen is FIXED again!!! There should be no reason now for any of our dogs to be roaming the streets of Leoti.
Yesterday, I received a non-expected phone call that resulted in a heated exchange of words. A neighbor of ours called me and yelled at me because two of our dogs had "fought" with her 2 dogs. After the phone call, I went out to seek more information on the fight. Come to find out, there were two eye witnesses. Our little pomerainian was in her own yard when the neighbor's two dogs came over and rolled her. Our dog who is a terrier cross intervened. He managed to chase the other two dogs back into the street. Neither of our dogs even came close to biting the other two dogs.
I take full responsibility for our dogs not being in the house or in the fenced in backyard. If they had not been in the front yard, there would have been no problem.
Now, the neighbors who made the phone call have a real problem with just bagging up their household trash and putting it out on the front porch. This is a daily activity for them. Then, along come all of the area dogs, cats, raccoons and possoms to scatter it around the neighborhood. (Yes, we do have raccoons and possoms in our neighborhood. Last summer, I accidentally left a window in our Buick open one night. The next morning, I went to the car and found the headliner destroyed. Fortunately, the rest of the upholstery was undamaged. The evidence that the police and body people produced proved to be either a possum or raccoom had done it because of the distance between the fingernail of the culprit. Originally, I had thought that a person had shredded our headliner. I was glad to hear that it was a wild animal. LOL!!!)
Anyway, thanks for letting me cry on your shoulder again!
Have a great weekend!!!
VLE-B
Good news!
Just thought that I needed to let you know that I did NOT take flight yesterday. As promised, I did not wear my moo moo outdoors.
More good news, now at 8:45 a.m. on Saturday, there is NO wind--not even a breeze. It is just WONDERFUL!!!
VLE-B
More good news, now at 8:45 a.m. on Saturday, there is NO wind--not even a breeze. It is just WONDERFUL!!!
VLE-B
To-Give-Away
Our son and daughter-in-law have a bunch of terrior-mix puppies that will be ready for their forever homes in just a short amount of time. If you are interested in any of them, please call Adam at 620-874-8216.
Thank you!
VLE-B
Thank you!
VLE-B
Here at the Blaus House
I keep forgetting that many of my readers do not live in Wichita County so I need to write about environmental and natural goings ons here. This past week, we received rain off and on throughout 2 days. I am pleased that according to our rainguage, we received an inch of moisture. Great!
Grass is beginning to green up and leaf buds are beginning to emerge on tree branches. Of course, I have also seen fresh growth to something else that is not welcome around here--new weeds.
This upcoming week, I plan on giving the yard a good ol'cleaning! For some reason, during the winter months, wind and animals seem to bring a lot of trash into our yard. UGH!!! With my health concerns, I am not able to be outside much during the winter months to clean the yard.
Another thing that I plan on doing next week is cleaning out our pond and refilling it. Birds and neighborhood animals love to come over here and grab themselves a drink or two.
Also, a bit later on, I will be thinning out our irises. They're the old fashioned ones that only bloom once a year. If you're interested in any of them, please let me know. I have many colors. I also have morning glories that you can have. They are blue, pink and purple. By the way, if you have any plants or bulbs that you may wish to share, please let me know.
Spring, here we come!!!
VLE-B
Grass is beginning to green up and leaf buds are beginning to emerge on tree branches. Of course, I have also seen fresh growth to something else that is not welcome around here--new weeds.
This upcoming week, I plan on giving the yard a good ol'cleaning! For some reason, during the winter months, wind and animals seem to bring a lot of trash into our yard. UGH!!! With my health concerns, I am not able to be outside much during the winter months to clean the yard.
Another thing that I plan on doing next week is cleaning out our pond and refilling it. Birds and neighborhood animals love to come over here and grab themselves a drink or two.
Also, a bit later on, I will be thinning out our irises. They're the old fashioned ones that only bloom once a year. If you're interested in any of them, please let me know. I have many colors. I also have morning glories that you can have. They are blue, pink and purple. By the way, if you have any plants or bulbs that you may wish to share, please let me know.
Spring, here we come!!!
VLE-B
Friday, March 12, 2010
Thank you!!!!!!!!!!
The girls and I are busily cleaning house and doing laundry today. When it was time for lunch, we decided to order it from the Dairy King. No problem. We went to the D.K., ordered and waited patiently in the car for our signal that our goodies were ready.
Ordinarily, I would have left the car turned on because I am so very cold-blooded (most of the time). For some unknown reason, I turned it off as soon as we had parked. As soon as Leighlyn brought our lunch back to the driver's side of the car, I attempted to roll the window down. The window went halfway down and then stopped. I attempted to roll it down further. Nothing doing. Come to find out, our battery was as dead as a doorknob.
Now what? I pulled my phone out of my bra-cket and called my dear brother-in-law, Leif. As he drove his pick-up to the point where he could boost the car, Vic Case pulled in next to us. Both, Leif and Vic, were just great! They boosted the car which started practically immediately.
Anyway, I want to thank Leif and Vic for helping us in our time of need!!!
I admit that it would be nice sometimes to live in a town the size of Garden City because of the additional shopping areas and more entertainment possibilities. But Leoti is outstanding. One of the many reasons for it to be so is because of people like Leif and Vic who go above and beyond to help their fellowmen!!!
VLE-B
Ordinarily, I would have left the car turned on because I am so very cold-blooded (most of the time). For some unknown reason, I turned it off as soon as we had parked. As soon as Leighlyn brought our lunch back to the driver's side of the car, I attempted to roll the window down. The window went halfway down and then stopped. I attempted to roll it down further. Nothing doing. Come to find out, our battery was as dead as a doorknob.
Now what? I pulled my phone out of my bra-cket and called my dear brother-in-law, Leif. As he drove his pick-up to the point where he could boost the car, Vic Case pulled in next to us. Both, Leif and Vic, were just great! They boosted the car which started practically immediately.
Anyway, I want to thank Leif and Vic for helping us in our time of need!!!
I admit that it would be nice sometimes to live in a town the size of Garden City because of the additional shopping areas and more entertainment possibilities. But Leoti is outstanding. One of the many reasons for it to be so is because of people like Leif and Vic who go above and beyond to help their fellowmen!!!
VLE-B
The morning after...
If you read my posting on yesterday's struggle to re-capture my handicapped plaquard and read my update on FACEBOOK last night where I detailed the fact that the wind picked me and my moo moo up at the mailbox yesterday and took us for a ride, you'll understand this post. This morning, I opened the door to let the herd out to potty. I discovered that the wind is even worse than it was yesterday. Be assured that I learned something from yesterday's blunders! Today, whatever I decide to wear, the fabric is going to be connected to each other at the crotch. LOL!!! No more unplanned flights for me!!!
VLE-B
VLE-B
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Need a laugh???
Today, the Western Kansas wind was even worse than normal. On my trip from home to the Seaboard Mill, I noticed tumbleweeds and trash flying through the air with the greatest of ease. Little did I know what the winds had in store for me as soon as I tried to exit our Buick at the mill.
There are four parking spaces right next to the front entrance of the mill offices. That is usually where I park when I go out to clean. Fortunately, when I arrived at the property, one space remained for me to park so I gladly took it. Now, something else that I need to tell you is that our "herd" needed some fresh air so all seven of them boarded the car with me. The two babies, a long-haired chihuahua and a Chinese crested, both think that whenever Mommy leaves the vehicle, they should also. Of course, when I am going to be working, they have to stay in the car and wait patiently. No big deal. I am usually in and out in an hour's time.
Today, Tilla and Chloe were more determined than ever to go to work with me. So, while they were trying to get out of the car, I was hurriedly trying to get out and get the dog gone door shut--quickly. Well, the wind blasted through the car door and lifted my handicapped parking plaquard right out of the side pocket, took it above and over the pick-up next to me. Of course, I tried to catch it. Just as soon as I came close to catching it again, the winds picked it up and moved it about 20 feet away. As before, just when I was ready to pick it up, it was moved further south. By this point, the plaquard was now almost to the second row of railroad tracks.
Lets get on to my clothing attire for the day. From the time that I got up this morning until it was time to go to Seaboard, 3:00, I wore my floral moo moo. Now, if you are of the slender body build type, you probably have absolutely no idea what a moo moo is. Well, moo moos were created for those of us who are built more like a cow or pig than anything else. They are made to cover everything from your neck to the floor below your feet. A considerable amount of fabric is used to construct moo moos so that us robust people can just kinda disappear somewhere beneath the cloth. At no point, is anyone supposed to be able to see your body's form. Works great! Some people choose to wear them around the house very regularly. Several days ago, I read that some state governments are trying to set guidelines as what can and cannot be worn in public places. One picture that was shown was of a lady who was wearing her pink moo moo at a grocery store. People were in an uproar about how this lady's clothing had offended them. People, PLEASE. Would you have preferred to have seen her extra large body squeezed into a tight tee shirt and shorts or a pair of jeans where she was bursting out of the seams???
Well, anyway. I am glad that I had not worn my moo moo to Seaboard today. If I had, I would probably be landing right about now in Oklahoma City. You see, whenever strong gusts of wind blow up inside of the trendy moo moo, the moo moo bursts upwards just like a hot-air balloon. Oh, mercy!!! I am not one who likes to fly especially when there is no steward on board to bring me my regular doses of coca cola... (Earlier today, I had worn my moo moo to the mailbox to retrieve our mail. The winds lifted my fashion statement clothing way higher than I felt comfortable with. LOL!)
So, instead, I wore a baggy pair of sweatpants and a fairly baggy tee shirt. I was feeling too tough (stupid) to wear a coat or even a jacket. Believe me, I paid for that blunder!
So, anyway, the wind has blown my plaquard to the second set of rairoad tracks. Come hell or high water, by golly, I am going to get it back!!! Through the process, I lose my footing when running down one of the rocky slopes attached to the rr tracks. I fell to the ground, picked myself up and continued in my trek to rescue the plaquard. Walla! I threw myself on to it. I reminded myself of a very short and heavy football player throwing himself on top of the football. I had to chuckle just a wee bit. With my fingers clinched tightly on the oblong piece of blue and white plastic, I headed back towards the mill, the winds slapping me in the face all the way. I suppose that they were punishing me for re-capturing my plaquard before the winds had sent it into the alcohol plants smelly ponds. (Believe me, if it had been deposited in one of the ponds, I would have left it there. LOL!)
Of course, I had to go mountain climbing again so that I could get past the railroad tracks. Though climbing downward on these large pointed rocks is tough, I learned that climbing upwards on them is nothing joyous either. Halfway up the hill, I lost my footing again and fell flat on my butt!!! Instead of wearing hiking boots, I was wearing my signature backless clogs.
By this time, I was FREEZING. My hands were tingling and my lips were numb. With the thought of me finding heat in the offices, I forged forward with everything I had in me.
Now, my days of being fit are well behind me. I have never been known for my coordination and agility. My extra poundage has eaten away at what little coordination I once had. Plus, this extra assertion was causing me some major problems. First of all, since my heart surgery, set heat and cold limitations have been set for me. Today's temperature with the extreme winds factored in was below my lowest temperature for outdoor activities. By the time I arrived in the mill's foyer, I was out of breath and my heart was doing everything that it could to exit my body. I found the closest seat and sat down for about 15 minutes until I felt much better. I am fine again now. I did learn something today. It is time that I start excercising more and drinking less coke.
Just another of my comical moments...
VLE-B
There are four parking spaces right next to the front entrance of the mill offices. That is usually where I park when I go out to clean. Fortunately, when I arrived at the property, one space remained for me to park so I gladly took it. Now, something else that I need to tell you is that our "herd" needed some fresh air so all seven of them boarded the car with me. The two babies, a long-haired chihuahua and a Chinese crested, both think that whenever Mommy leaves the vehicle, they should also. Of course, when I am going to be working, they have to stay in the car and wait patiently. No big deal. I am usually in and out in an hour's time.
Today, Tilla and Chloe were more determined than ever to go to work with me. So, while they were trying to get out of the car, I was hurriedly trying to get out and get the dog gone door shut--quickly. Well, the wind blasted through the car door and lifted my handicapped parking plaquard right out of the side pocket, took it above and over the pick-up next to me. Of course, I tried to catch it. Just as soon as I came close to catching it again, the winds picked it up and moved it about 20 feet away. As before, just when I was ready to pick it up, it was moved further south. By this point, the plaquard was now almost to the second row of railroad tracks.
Lets get on to my clothing attire for the day. From the time that I got up this morning until it was time to go to Seaboard, 3:00, I wore my floral moo moo. Now, if you are of the slender body build type, you probably have absolutely no idea what a moo moo is. Well, moo moos were created for those of us who are built more like a cow or pig than anything else. They are made to cover everything from your neck to the floor below your feet. A considerable amount of fabric is used to construct moo moos so that us robust people can just kinda disappear somewhere beneath the cloth. At no point, is anyone supposed to be able to see your body's form. Works great! Some people choose to wear them around the house very regularly. Several days ago, I read that some state governments are trying to set guidelines as what can and cannot be worn in public places. One picture that was shown was of a lady who was wearing her pink moo moo at a grocery store. People were in an uproar about how this lady's clothing had offended them. People, PLEASE. Would you have preferred to have seen her extra large body squeezed into a tight tee shirt and shorts or a pair of jeans where she was bursting out of the seams???
Well, anyway. I am glad that I had not worn my moo moo to Seaboard today. If I had, I would probably be landing right about now in Oklahoma City. You see, whenever strong gusts of wind blow up inside of the trendy moo moo, the moo moo bursts upwards just like a hot-air balloon. Oh, mercy!!! I am not one who likes to fly especially when there is no steward on board to bring me my regular doses of coca cola... (Earlier today, I had worn my moo moo to the mailbox to retrieve our mail. The winds lifted my fashion statement clothing way higher than I felt comfortable with. LOL!)
So, instead, I wore a baggy pair of sweatpants and a fairly baggy tee shirt. I was feeling too tough (stupid) to wear a coat or even a jacket. Believe me, I paid for that blunder!
So, anyway, the wind has blown my plaquard to the second set of rairoad tracks. Come hell or high water, by golly, I am going to get it back!!! Through the process, I lose my footing when running down one of the rocky slopes attached to the rr tracks. I fell to the ground, picked myself up and continued in my trek to rescue the plaquard. Walla! I threw myself on to it. I reminded myself of a very short and heavy football player throwing himself on top of the football. I had to chuckle just a wee bit. With my fingers clinched tightly on the oblong piece of blue and white plastic, I headed back towards the mill, the winds slapping me in the face all the way. I suppose that they were punishing me for re-capturing my plaquard before the winds had sent it into the alcohol plants smelly ponds. (Believe me, if it had been deposited in one of the ponds, I would have left it there. LOL!)
Of course, I had to go mountain climbing again so that I could get past the railroad tracks. Though climbing downward on these large pointed rocks is tough, I learned that climbing upwards on them is nothing joyous either. Halfway up the hill, I lost my footing again and fell flat on my butt!!! Instead of wearing hiking boots, I was wearing my signature backless clogs.
By this time, I was FREEZING. My hands were tingling and my lips were numb. With the thought of me finding heat in the offices, I forged forward with everything I had in me.
Now, my days of being fit are well behind me. I have never been known for my coordination and agility. My extra poundage has eaten away at what little coordination I once had. Plus, this extra assertion was causing me some major problems. First of all, since my heart surgery, set heat and cold limitations have been set for me. Today's temperature with the extreme winds factored in was below my lowest temperature for outdoor activities. By the time I arrived in the mill's foyer, I was out of breath and my heart was doing everything that it could to exit my body. I found the closest seat and sat down for about 15 minutes until I felt much better. I am fine again now. I did learn something today. It is time that I start excercising more and drinking less coke.
Just another of my comical moments...
VLE-B
Can you PLEASE lend me some???
I've always known that I have very little--if any--patience. Now that our kitchen renovation is moving inch by inch, I could sure use some patience to get me by. LOL!!! If you have any to spare, could you please send it to me???
VLE-B
VLE-B
Before you ask...
THE LEAOTI STANDARD came out again yesterday, Wednesday, in Leoti. I want and need to clarify something right away.
First of all, I have a sister and friends on the current City Council. I have friends who work in our City of Leoti Department. So, with whatever friction there is, I am caught right where most of us do not savor being--right in the middle.
I have been asked which side I favor. I have told them just what I am telling you now. I honestly do not have any opinion on the matter. Now, you are probably asking "why not". Here is my explanation:
First of all, for most of the time, each and every one of us is invited to attend the regular City Council meetings. In my case, I have attended one about 2 or 3 years ago when I found that I was no longer able to keep my mouth shut about the poorly conditioned roads in the northern portion of town where my family and I live. I greatly recommend that anytime you feel inclined to attend these meetings, DO IT! That is one of our rights as American citizens.
Secondly, at one time, I had been asked to run for City Council. I ran. I lost. Today, I am very thankful that I lost by a few votes. There is absolutely NO way that I could handle all of the strife that goes along with any politics.
Thirdly, I have been asked what my sister has told me about the current situation. It is easy to sum up that information in just one small 4-lettered word, NONE. That is right. Lori has shared none of that information, good or bad, with me or anyone else in our family. As soon as a person is elected to City Council, he/she takes an oath not to discuss the private information with anyone. I am very proud of Lori for keeping all of this under her hat.
I have heard various stuff that some of the employees have said around town. I guess that they have that right. The result is that at least one person has taken much issue with it, has gone to a City Council meeting to voice his concerns and has printed his beliefs on the matter on practically a full page of the THE STANDARD. Of course, that is also a right.
I learned a major lesson awhile back when I gave my opinions on a public intety here. I will not do it this time. Too many people were hurt when I did give my opinion and allow others to state their opinions. I won't do it again.
My advice to you is to use your heads on this one before you speak. Please try to see both sides of the story. Politics are a no win situation to be in. At no time, does everyone agree with you. My all-time favorite politician is and always will be, Abraham Lincoln. Throughout his political career, he made some poor decisions. But, for the most part, he was outstanding. His major contribution in his political life was everything that he did to put a total and forever stop to the slavehood in the United States. Because of that, he gave the supreme sacrifice--his life.
VLE-B
First of all, I have a sister and friends on the current City Council. I have friends who work in our City of Leoti Department. So, with whatever friction there is, I am caught right where most of us do not savor being--right in the middle.
I have been asked which side I favor. I have told them just what I am telling you now. I honestly do not have any opinion on the matter. Now, you are probably asking "why not". Here is my explanation:
First of all, for most of the time, each and every one of us is invited to attend the regular City Council meetings. In my case, I have attended one about 2 or 3 years ago when I found that I was no longer able to keep my mouth shut about the poorly conditioned roads in the northern portion of town where my family and I live. I greatly recommend that anytime you feel inclined to attend these meetings, DO IT! That is one of our rights as American citizens.
Secondly, at one time, I had been asked to run for City Council. I ran. I lost. Today, I am very thankful that I lost by a few votes. There is absolutely NO way that I could handle all of the strife that goes along with any politics.
Thirdly, I have been asked what my sister has told me about the current situation. It is easy to sum up that information in just one small 4-lettered word, NONE. That is right. Lori has shared none of that information, good or bad, with me or anyone else in our family. As soon as a person is elected to City Council, he/she takes an oath not to discuss the private information with anyone. I am very proud of Lori for keeping all of this under her hat.
I have heard various stuff that some of the employees have said around town. I guess that they have that right. The result is that at least one person has taken much issue with it, has gone to a City Council meeting to voice his concerns and has printed his beliefs on the matter on practically a full page of the THE STANDARD. Of course, that is also a right.
I learned a major lesson awhile back when I gave my opinions on a public intety here. I will not do it this time. Too many people were hurt when I did give my opinion and allow others to state their opinions. I won't do it again.
My advice to you is to use your heads on this one before you speak. Please try to see both sides of the story. Politics are a no win situation to be in. At no time, does everyone agree with you. My all-time favorite politician is and always will be, Abraham Lincoln. Throughout his political career, he made some poor decisions. But, for the most part, he was outstanding. His major contribution in his political life was everything that he did to put a total and forever stop to the slavehood in the United States. Because of that, he gave the supreme sacrifice--his life.
VLE-B
I have a problem with this.
I am not going to say that I am one of those people who cannot get through a day without tuning in THE DR. PHIL SHOW but I do enjoy watching it from time to time (especially when the show is spotlighting the so-called Dr. Phil Family, a family who is plagued with one emotional problem after another). But, yesterday's topic was "What is Wrong With People". I found it to be quite interesting.
The show centered on several current issues that are hovering in the USA, One issue involved a lady with a PHD in Biology that she had received from Harvard and who just recently had been a long-term professor in a college and who has had quite a run in her adult life, and possibly in her childhood also. (That information is not to be shared with the rest of the world.) Anyway, in the 1980s, she "accidentally" shot her younger brother in the chest. The wound was fatal. Her family swore up and down that it was a very unfortunate accident and did not want any more pain by going through a long drawn-out court trial. So, charges were never filed against her.
Later, there was an incident involving her at a local IHOP. She became enbroiled in a disagreement with another woman over a child booster seat. She eventually began beating up her opponent. Police arrested her. When her case was heard by the judge, he gave her 6 months worth of probation and "recommended" that she may want to seek out some anger management classes. He did NOT order that she do so, so she never bothered to take the classes.
MANY of her students had made complaint after complaint of her irrational behavior, etc. The school never checked into any of the allegations.
Later, a pipe bomb was sent out which authorities believed she had sent but could never prove.
From what I understood on the show yesterday, tenure is hard to come by at the college level. Many professors try to get it. Many professers are shot down and kept on a year-to-year employment basis. After teaching at the same college(not Harvard) for several years, she had just been told AGAIN that she was being turned down for tenure. She did the next best thing in her opinion. As soon as a normal everyday coference was scheduled for all of the professors, she made sure that she was sitting in a chair closest to the door of the room. As soon as all of the professors were sitting down, she stood up and pulled out a gun. She shot 7 of the professors which resulted in 3 deaths. When her gun failed to shoot the eighth person, she fled the conference room.
She then called her husband and very calmly told him that she was ready for him to take her home. The poor husband was totally shocked when he arrived at the college just to see police putting her into a police car and ambulances everywhere. He was and still is totally in shock.
The other "article" that really captured my attention was that of a child abuse case. As a parent, that is an issue that really bothers me.
Let me back up just a little, in our nation, doctors and teachers are court mandated to report any and all possible child abuse cases to local authorities immediately. In the state of Kansas, these need to be turned into SRS, Social Rehabilitation Services. Of course, it is only to be expected that some of these cases that are turned in, end up being faulty. Still, if someone suspects that children are being injured physically, sexually, mentally or emotionally, he/she needs to report what they believe they have seen or understood. Unfortunately, family members, neighbors, friends, etc are not legally bound to report anything. For them, this is only a moral issue.
On Dr. Phil's show yesterday, he brought up a case in which a young girl had been caught by her parents taking food to eat out of the family's refrigerator. Wow! It happens at our house each and every day. In their family, this was a major crime. The girl was beaten and then placed in a small closet where she would spend each waking and sleeping moment except for the time that she was in school for the next two years. During those two years, she failed to grow at the same rate as the other students in her class. Eventually, her size was the same as children 2 or 3 years younger than herself. Why? Because she was only allowed to eat at school and was only given small amounts of food when she was at home. Somehow, no one seemed to notice.
Even after all of this was taking place, her father continued to beat the child with belts and steel rods. Neighbors and landlords mentioned later that they had heard child screams coming out of the house on many occassions. Still, no one cared enough to call the authorities.
Finally, one of the girl's three brothers went to a teacher and relayed the information that he was concerned that his sister might die at the hands of the parents. At that point, the teacher became VERY involved in the situation. The authorities and police went to the home and discovered that this girl had been "imprisoned" in her own home for this entire time.
Once they began their investigation, they soon discovered that authorities had been sent to the family home in a different state FIFTEEN times. The parents had once conducted an EXCORISM on one of the children. The horrific story went on and on.
Why is it that our very own American countrymen are so gutless or want to be totally uninvolved, that they will allow children to live and in some cases, die, in a living hell???
VLE-B
The show centered on several current issues that are hovering in the USA, One issue involved a lady with a PHD in Biology that she had received from Harvard and who just recently had been a long-term professor in a college and who has had quite a run in her adult life, and possibly in her childhood also. (That information is not to be shared with the rest of the world.) Anyway, in the 1980s, she "accidentally" shot her younger brother in the chest. The wound was fatal. Her family swore up and down that it was a very unfortunate accident and did not want any more pain by going through a long drawn-out court trial. So, charges were never filed against her.
Later, there was an incident involving her at a local IHOP. She became enbroiled in a disagreement with another woman over a child booster seat. She eventually began beating up her opponent. Police arrested her. When her case was heard by the judge, he gave her 6 months worth of probation and "recommended" that she may want to seek out some anger management classes. He did NOT order that she do so, so she never bothered to take the classes.
MANY of her students had made complaint after complaint of her irrational behavior, etc. The school never checked into any of the allegations.
Later, a pipe bomb was sent out which authorities believed she had sent but could never prove.
From what I understood on the show yesterday, tenure is hard to come by at the college level. Many professors try to get it. Many professers are shot down and kept on a year-to-year employment basis. After teaching at the same college(not Harvard) for several years, she had just been told AGAIN that she was being turned down for tenure. She did the next best thing in her opinion. As soon as a normal everyday coference was scheduled for all of the professors, she made sure that she was sitting in a chair closest to the door of the room. As soon as all of the professors were sitting down, she stood up and pulled out a gun. She shot 7 of the professors which resulted in 3 deaths. When her gun failed to shoot the eighth person, she fled the conference room.
She then called her husband and very calmly told him that she was ready for him to take her home. The poor husband was totally shocked when he arrived at the college just to see police putting her into a police car and ambulances everywhere. He was and still is totally in shock.
The other "article" that really captured my attention was that of a child abuse case. As a parent, that is an issue that really bothers me.
Let me back up just a little, in our nation, doctors and teachers are court mandated to report any and all possible child abuse cases to local authorities immediately. In the state of Kansas, these need to be turned into SRS, Social Rehabilitation Services. Of course, it is only to be expected that some of these cases that are turned in, end up being faulty. Still, if someone suspects that children are being injured physically, sexually, mentally or emotionally, he/she needs to report what they believe they have seen or understood. Unfortunately, family members, neighbors, friends, etc are not legally bound to report anything. For them, this is only a moral issue.
On Dr. Phil's show yesterday, he brought up a case in which a young girl had been caught by her parents taking food to eat out of the family's refrigerator. Wow! It happens at our house each and every day. In their family, this was a major crime. The girl was beaten and then placed in a small closet where she would spend each waking and sleeping moment except for the time that she was in school for the next two years. During those two years, she failed to grow at the same rate as the other students in her class. Eventually, her size was the same as children 2 or 3 years younger than herself. Why? Because she was only allowed to eat at school and was only given small amounts of food when she was at home. Somehow, no one seemed to notice.
Even after all of this was taking place, her father continued to beat the child with belts and steel rods. Neighbors and landlords mentioned later that they had heard child screams coming out of the house on many occassions. Still, no one cared enough to call the authorities.
Finally, one of the girl's three brothers went to a teacher and relayed the information that he was concerned that his sister might die at the hands of the parents. At that point, the teacher became VERY involved in the situation. The authorities and police went to the home and discovered that this girl had been "imprisoned" in her own home for this entire time.
Once they began their investigation, they soon discovered that authorities had been sent to the family home in a different state FIFTEEN times. The parents had once conducted an EXCORISM on one of the children. The horrific story went on and on.
Why is it that our very own American countrymen are so gutless or want to be totally uninvolved, that they will allow children to live and in some cases, die, in a living hell???
VLE-B
Spring Vacation! Yay!!!
I am one parent who is very excited that Wichita County's spring vacation begins after school tonight! School will not resume for 10 whole days!!! Stan will be off for the last 5 of those days!!!
VLE-B
VLE-B
This REALLY ticks me off!!!
A friend of mine just sent out the federal government's new remedy of ridding Americans of excess weight. They're thinking of making us pay extra taxes for soda pop, fried foods, ice cream, etc. Next step will be to make those items and others a crime to purchase and eat. Remember the days of prohibition??? Looks like we may be headed back in that direction...
Let each and every adult be responsible for what he or she puts into his/her body. Of course, I am not including illegal drugs with that statement.
More and more, I am more agitated with what our current government is trying to put on us. I think that it should be more involved in fighting REAL crime such as child molestors, murderers, child and spouse abusers...
Another of my opinions, like it or not.
VLE-B
Let each and every adult be responsible for what he or she puts into his/her body. Of course, I am not including illegal drugs with that statement.
More and more, I am more agitated with what our current government is trying to put on us. I think that it should be more involved in fighting REAL crime such as child molestors, murderers, child and spouse abusers...
Another of my opinions, like it or not.
VLE-B
Monday, March 8, 2010
Almost done!
As of late this afternoon, each and every kitchen cabinet and door has been painted! Tonight, Stan and I hung all but 9 of the doors. I'll take a real close look at them tomorrow. If I see something that I do not like, I will re-do it. Once everything is just like I want it, I will do the final step--applying a few coats of polyurethane. After that, the knobs and drawer pulls will be put into place.
I am at that point that I hate--the point where I become painfully aware that I have absolutely NO patience--NONE!!! I feel so sorry for Stan when that happens! Why is it that when I watch my shows on HGTV that it only takes 30 minutes to re-do a kitchen, 2 bathrooms and a bedroom??? If they can do it, why can't we??? Ha! Ha!
One week ago this morning, Monday, I began my 7-day adventure of "Tuscanizing" our kitchen cabinets. For the most part, I am very pleased with the results. The bad result of all of the work that I did was the fact that I neglected laundry and other cleaning around home. That is par for the course of renovating at our home. I always promise myself and everyone else that this time will be different. Alas, everyone knows that I will get absorbed by whatever project I am working on and forget everything else. That is one of my many faults. I would like to find someone else to pin this responsibility on but no one taught me this behavior.
My parents were never people who could only concentrate on one thing at a time. They were both able to work on a variety of things at the same time and all turned out well. Shoot! Mama could teach full-time, take weekend educational workshops and still managed to take care of her family.
My sister, Lori, is a stay-at-home mom who home schools her son, is on the Leoti City Council, serves on two major state and national mental health boards and donates time to helping animals find forever homes in a local association. Wow!!! Wish I could do things like that instead of having tunnel vision! LOL!!!
Oh, well... This is the way that I have always been and probably always will be. I just need to learn to accept me for who I am and to really, REALLY practice a little bit of patience here and there...
VLE-B
I am at that point that I hate--the point where I become painfully aware that I have absolutely NO patience--NONE!!! I feel so sorry for Stan when that happens! Why is it that when I watch my shows on HGTV that it only takes 30 minutes to re-do a kitchen, 2 bathrooms and a bedroom??? If they can do it, why can't we??? Ha! Ha!
One week ago this morning, Monday, I began my 7-day adventure of "Tuscanizing" our kitchen cabinets. For the most part, I am very pleased with the results. The bad result of all of the work that I did was the fact that I neglected laundry and other cleaning around home. That is par for the course of renovating at our home. I always promise myself and everyone else that this time will be different. Alas, everyone knows that I will get absorbed by whatever project I am working on and forget everything else. That is one of my many faults. I would like to find someone else to pin this responsibility on but no one taught me this behavior.
My parents were never people who could only concentrate on one thing at a time. They were both able to work on a variety of things at the same time and all turned out well. Shoot! Mama could teach full-time, take weekend educational workshops and still managed to take care of her family.
My sister, Lori, is a stay-at-home mom who home schools her son, is on the Leoti City Council, serves on two major state and national mental health boards and donates time to helping animals find forever homes in a local association. Wow!!! Wish I could do things like that instead of having tunnel vision! LOL!!!
Oh, well... This is the way that I have always been and probably always will be. I just need to learn to accept me for who I am and to really, REALLY practice a little bit of patience here and there...
VLE-B
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Just an update...
As you know, I have not been on here much lately for a week since we began our amazing kitchen renovation. Just wanted to let you know that the work continues and that we are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Unfortunately, there is just a glimmer of light. It'll be great when it fills the entire kitchen! LOL!
I have managed to do 3/4 of the work on about 3/4 of the cabinets. Today, I will tackle the other 1/4. There are 4 steps that must be done with this particular technique.
1. After the cabinet doors are removed, sanding needs to be done to ready the wood for everything. So far, this project has killed my original electric sander. It was working well until I lifted the sander up one evening when I was sanding. All of a sudden, parts started flying EVERYWHERE! Even after Stan worked on it, it never returned to normal. So...I had to buy another sander. It is working well.
2. After the sanding, two coats of light colored paint must be applied. In our case, a light yellow had to be used to look good with our new countertop tile which looks like a gorgeous stone. When they are throughly dried, you're ready for step 3.
3. This is where the fun really begins! A cocoa shade of brown was chosen. Some of it was mixed with equal amounts of glaze. I was taught to use a very CHEAP paintbrush, the kind that has a wooden handle and bristles that are not the same length. It is used to apply very light amounts of this mixture onto the solidly painted surface. The same brush is then dipped in the can of uncolored glaze. It is then used to spread the cocoa-colored paint around until it looks like wood. With the paint colors that we chose, the wood looks like a beautiful oak. Since we are going for an old Tuscan look, nothing is supposed to look perfect. For instance around the edges where fingers would come into contact with the cabinet door and around where the door knob will be, extra cocoa paint needs to be applied so that it looks like hand oil, dirt, etc has been there.
4. This is the final step. Several coats of polyurethane must be applied to protect the doors from any kind of damage. It is up to the homeowners to decide whether they want to use satin or gloss finish. In our case, we went with the satin because these cabinets are supposed to look antiquish.
Yesterday, I did these steps on the portions of the cabinets where the doors are hung.
That is the work that I have been doing. Stan has definitely been doing his fair share of work also! He has had the un-fun job of removing the old formica from the countertops and the old backsplashes. I am very happy to say that he is now ready to attach the tiles to the countertops! As soon as the countertops are in place, he will put the new backsplash on. For me, this is the EXCITING part!
Last night, we had to finish our shopping for the kitchen re-do. New undercabinet lights were purchased along with more cabinet and drawer knobs and pulls. Many interior decorators consider the knobs and pulls to be the jewelry of the cabinets and drawers. I now see why! They really perk the room up! We chose products that look nothing like the ones that we had before. By the way, there is nothing wrong with our fomer ones so if you are interested in having them, just let me know. They just didn't have the style that we needed to look Tuscan. They're yours free-of-charge. I hate to throw anything away if someone else can use them. You know...one man's junk is another mon's treasure.
When we're finished, the only things that will look original is the ceramic tile floor that Stan and I added about 9-years-ago and the refrigerator, dishwasher, stove and overhead microwave oven. All of them were added in the past year. So, it'll basically be like a brand new kitchen!
When everything is completed, I will try to post some pictures of it here so that you can all look at them if you want to. Or, give me a call and you can come and take a look at the kitchen in person!!!
Well, more work is beckoning to me so I'll close for now.
VLE-B
I have managed to do 3/4 of the work on about 3/4 of the cabinets. Today, I will tackle the other 1/4. There are 4 steps that must be done with this particular technique.
1. After the cabinet doors are removed, sanding needs to be done to ready the wood for everything. So far, this project has killed my original electric sander. It was working well until I lifted the sander up one evening when I was sanding. All of a sudden, parts started flying EVERYWHERE! Even after Stan worked on it, it never returned to normal. So...I had to buy another sander. It is working well.
2. After the sanding, two coats of light colored paint must be applied. In our case, a light yellow had to be used to look good with our new countertop tile which looks like a gorgeous stone. When they are throughly dried, you're ready for step 3.
3. This is where the fun really begins! A cocoa shade of brown was chosen. Some of it was mixed with equal amounts of glaze. I was taught to use a very CHEAP paintbrush, the kind that has a wooden handle and bristles that are not the same length. It is used to apply very light amounts of this mixture onto the solidly painted surface. The same brush is then dipped in the can of uncolored glaze. It is then used to spread the cocoa-colored paint around until it looks like wood. With the paint colors that we chose, the wood looks like a beautiful oak. Since we are going for an old Tuscan look, nothing is supposed to look perfect. For instance around the edges where fingers would come into contact with the cabinet door and around where the door knob will be, extra cocoa paint needs to be applied so that it looks like hand oil, dirt, etc has been there.
4. This is the final step. Several coats of polyurethane must be applied to protect the doors from any kind of damage. It is up to the homeowners to decide whether they want to use satin or gloss finish. In our case, we went with the satin because these cabinets are supposed to look antiquish.
Yesterday, I did these steps on the portions of the cabinets where the doors are hung.
That is the work that I have been doing. Stan has definitely been doing his fair share of work also! He has had the un-fun job of removing the old formica from the countertops and the old backsplashes. I am very happy to say that he is now ready to attach the tiles to the countertops! As soon as the countertops are in place, he will put the new backsplash on. For me, this is the EXCITING part!
Last night, we had to finish our shopping for the kitchen re-do. New undercabinet lights were purchased along with more cabinet and drawer knobs and pulls. Many interior decorators consider the knobs and pulls to be the jewelry of the cabinets and drawers. I now see why! They really perk the room up! We chose products that look nothing like the ones that we had before. By the way, there is nothing wrong with our fomer ones so if you are interested in having them, just let me know. They just didn't have the style that we needed to look Tuscan. They're yours free-of-charge. I hate to throw anything away if someone else can use them. You know...one man's junk is another mon's treasure.
When we're finished, the only things that will look original is the ceramic tile floor that Stan and I added about 9-years-ago and the refrigerator, dishwasher, stove and overhead microwave oven. All of them were added in the past year. So, it'll basically be like a brand new kitchen!
When everything is completed, I will try to post some pictures of it here so that you can all look at them if you want to. Or, give me a call and you can come and take a look at the kitchen in person!!!
Well, more work is beckoning to me so I'll close for now.
VLE-B
Thursday, March 4, 2010
First Wichita County dome school is erected
Yesterday, Thursday, the first dome school was inflated. It really looks good! It is located just barely north of the Wichita County High School gym. Go by and take a look at it!
VLE-B
VLE-B
City of Leoti Website (NEW)
The Leoti City Council has decided that it is time to start their own website. I am very proud to say that Council Woman, Lori Elder-Christensen, my younger sister, is currently getting it set up!
Please go to http://leotikansas.org/ to check it out!
Earlier this week, test results showed an unhealthy increase in nitrates in our local water. Parents with small children were advised NOT to let their children drink our water. Today, it was discovered that a mistake was made in the compilation of the nitrates. Now, the City has been told that the nitrates are well within allowable SAFE limits. Our water can be drunk by young and old alike.
The City apologizes for any problems that this may have caused anyone.
VLE-B
Please go to http://leotikansas.org/ to check it out!
Earlier this week, test results showed an unhealthy increase in nitrates in our local water. Parents with small children were advised NOT to let their children drink our water. Today, it was discovered that a mistake was made in the compilation of the nitrates. Now, the City has been told that the nitrates are well within allowable SAFE limits. Our water can be drunk by young and old alike.
The City apologizes for any problems that this may have caused anyone.
VLE-B
A cute observation
The census workers are now at work in the Leoti area. Today, we saw something that really gave us a good ol'chuckle!
We live across the street from a small trailer park in town. A year or so ago, one of the mobile homes was moved about a block away.
Today, while we were watching WHEEL OF FORTUNE, Stan and Leighlyn watched a stranger walk up to the abandoned tool storage building just behind where the mobile home once stood. The man knocked on the door. When no one answered the door, he tacked census paperwork to the one and only door. He then walked across the street to our house to give us paperwork to fill out.
The man asked Stan how many people live in the "house" across the street. Stan couldn't help but laugh a little when he told the man that the building is only for storage of such things as lawn mowers.
The man was embarrassed, walked back across the street and retrieved the paperwork from the door.
Too cute not to pass along...
VLE-B
We live across the street from a small trailer park in town. A year or so ago, one of the mobile homes was moved about a block away.
Today, while we were watching WHEEL OF FORTUNE, Stan and Leighlyn watched a stranger walk up to the abandoned tool storage building just behind where the mobile home once stood. The man knocked on the door. When no one answered the door, he tacked census paperwork to the one and only door. He then walked across the street to our house to give us paperwork to fill out.
The man asked Stan how many people live in the "house" across the street. Stan couldn't help but laugh a little when he told the man that the building is only for storage of such things as lawn mowers.
The man was embarrassed, walked back across the street and retrieved the paperwork from the door.
Too cute not to pass along...
VLE-B
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